IMPLEMENTATION DEVICE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a transfer device for a feeding device.

[0002] Such a transfer device is known from WO 2014 / 006014 A1 and DE 20 2012 102 447 U1. The transfer device is intended for a feed device with differently inclined guideways and a mobile component carrier for a component that can be connected to the guideways. The transfer device has a manually operated lifting device with an upright lifting axis and a track section of the guideways that can be connected in alignment with the guideways.

[0003] DE 20 2013 101 531 U1 shows a transfer device for a feeding device with differently inclined guideways and a mobile rolling component carrier for a component that can be connected to the guideways, wherein the transfer device has a manually operated lifting device with an upright linear lifting axis and with a track section that can be connected in alignment with the guideways, wherein the lifting device has a base with a lifting element arranged thereon that is height-adjustable, wherein the track section is pivotally mounted on the lifting element, wherein the transfer device has a position checker connected to the base and interacting with the lifting element, wherein a pneumatic system actuates the movement of a stopper arranged on the guideway when the position checker is activated.

[0004] The object of the present invention is to demonstrate an improved transfer and feeding technology.

[0005] The invention solves this problem with the features in the main claim.

[0006] The claimed transfer technology, ie the transfer device and the feeding device equipped with it, have various advantages.

[0007] The claimed transfer technology can be retrofitted or converted to existing feeding systems and can also be integrated into new feeding systems. The transfer technology does not require any external drive energy, particularly electrical current or fluid pressure. It has low construction and control costs. The potential elimination of motor or fluid drives allows for low safety requirements, simplifying and reducing the cost of the design.

[0008] The transfer device, especially its lifting device, can be operated manually. A rechargeable passive energy storage device, especially with a counterweight, can provide support. This provides particularly good ergonomic conditions for the operator when operating and loading the transfer device. Furthermore, the transfer device, especially its lifting device, can be used for component carriers of different dimensions without major modifications.

[0009] The linear lifting device with an upright, particularly vertical, lifting axis requires little space, is easier and more convenient to retrofit and convert, offers good accessibility, and facilitates manual operation. The upright arrangement also accommodates inclines with a significantly predominant vertical direction component.

[0010] The transfer device comprises a lifting device with a base on which a frame-like lifting beam is arranged, height-adjustable, and aligned transversely or diagonally to the upright, linear lifting axis. The frame-like lifting beam can be designed as a lifting platform. It has a pivoting device by means of which a track section is pivotally mounted on the lifting beam. The lifting beam can support the pivoting device and the track section and move them up and down. The lifting beam can be raised and lowered between an upper and a lower lifting position or end position. At each of these lifting positions, it connects to a feed track.

[0011] The lifting support can have further advantageous functions for the preferably automatic inclination adjustment of the track section to at least one of the differently inclined guideways, for connection to a passive energy storage device, and for positioning and locking to the guideways. The lifting support is preferably arranged on an upright lifting support, which is guided at the base along a linear lifting axis for height adjustment.

[0012] The transfer device has a control platform connected to the base and cooperating with the lifting support, which can be arranged on a guideway. This is preferably the guideway, in particular the feed track, extending downwards from the transfer device or the control platform.

[0013] The control platform can have various functions for automatic or manual inclination adjustment of the track section, for the arrangement and function of the energy storage device, for the control of the component carrier movement, etc.

[0014] In one variant, the swivel device can be operated by the weight of the track section and the component carrier, as well as by stops. The swivel device can automatically adjust the inclination of the track section to the inclination of the respective guideway. In another variant, the swivel device can be operated by the weight of the track section and the component carrier, as well as by a handle, in particular a swivel handle. Using the handle, the track section can be manually swiveled and adjusted to the inclination of the respective guideway.

[0015] In both variants, very little construction effort is required, and the supply of external energy, e.g., electrical current, fluid pressure, or the like, is unnecessary for operating the swivel mechanism. The swivel mechanism can be driven by its own weight and the lifting movement of the lifting beam, or even manually if necessary.

[0016] The stops can be arranged on the lifting beam and on the control platform. An off-center pivot axis of the pivoting device, together with stops, enables the inclination of the track section to be adjusted when a component carrier is driven onto it and due to its own weight. The pivoting position of the track section can be secured by a controllable locking device, preferably a pivot support. The track section and the loaded component carrier thus retain their inclination during the lifting movement of the lifting beam.

[0017] In one variant, a stationary actuator, preferably located on the control platform, can release the locking mechanism in the area of ​​the other guideway, and the change in the pivot position or the adjustment of the inclination to the other guideway can be achieved using stationary stops, preferably on the control platform. After the component carrier has been released, the other pivot position can then be automatically restored along the stroke path and / or on one guideway.

[0018] In another variant, the track section can initially retain its incline during the lifting movement and at the control platform. This incline is adapted, for example, to the incline of the other feed track, especially the return track. The maintained incline can also be determined by the dead weight of the track section and, if applicable, the loaded component carrier.

[0019] This inclination has various advantages. Maintaining the inclination is beneficial for the kinematics of the lifting movement and for the optimal utilization of energy and force during this movement. If automatic inclination adjustment is omitted, the force dissipations required for this are unnecessary. This inclination is beneficial for loading components onto a component carrier located on the track section. It is particularly advantageous for ergonomics during manual loading. Furthermore, this inclination secures the component carrier on the track section against unintentional rolling away. The track section can then be pivoted manually or by other means on the control platform and adjusted to the inclination of the adjacent guideway. This allows the loaded component carrier, for example, to roll onto the guideway. This can occur under its own weight and, if necessary, after releasing the controllable stopper.

[0020] A passive energy storage device can support the lifting carrier during its upward and downward lifting movements. For this purpose, it can be connected to the lifting carrier directly or indirectly by means of a transmission and a drive medium, e.g. a belt or a chain. The passive energy storage device does not require an external energy supply, in particular without the supply of electrical current or fluid pressure. The passive energy storage device can store the potential energy of the lifting carrier loaded with a component carrier during the lifting movement in one direction and, after the component carrier has been released, can then at least provide supportive power to the empty lifting carrier during the lifting movement in the other direction. The passive energy storage device can cause and drive this lifting movement on its own. Alternatively, the operator can cause the lifting movement manually, with the passive energy storage device providing support and relieving the operator.

[0021] In the preferred embodiment, the energy storage device is adapted to the weight of the component carrier. The supporting force of the passive energy storage device corresponds, for example, to the weight of the lifting carrier and a portion, e.g., half, of the weight of the component carrier. With such a design, the passive energy storage device can drive the lifting movement alone and without any effort from the operator. The passive energy storage device can be designed in any suitable manner, in particular with a counterweight.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the feed track intended for the forward movement of the loaded component carriers is arranged below the guide track intended for the return movement of the empty component carriers. With an appropriate design of the passive energy storage device, the lifting carrier can move downwards with the loaded component carrier, thereby charging the energy storage device. After the component carrier has been delivered to the lower feed track, the energy storage device can automatically raise the lifting carrier back up to the feed track intended for the return movement.

[0023] These lifting movements can occur automatically and without the application of force by a worker or operator. Furthermore, a component carrier can be loaded with one or more components in either the upper or lower lifting position. The lifting movement of the lifting carrier can be braked or dampened if required using a damping device. This is particularly advantageous if the component carrier is loaded in the upper lifting position and a higher weight is then exerted during the lifting movement than with an empty component carrier. The damping device can have a suitable design, e.g. as a fluidic damper, eddy current brake or similar. The damping device can be adjustable to accommodate different weights and lifting speeds. It can, for example, adapt automatically to different weights and lifting speeds.

[0024] The damping device can act directly on the lifting beam or the lifting support and be coupled to it. The damping device can additionally or alternatively act on the passive energy storage device, e.g., its propellant and / or its transmission, and be coupled to it.

[0025] The damping device can also support the lifting movement, particularly in a desired direction. A fluidic damping device with a possibly adjustable throttle arrangement is suitable for this purpose. The throttle arrangement can be adjusted differently in different lifting directions, for example, to achieve different damping effects depending on the direction. In particular, the throttle effect can be smaller for a lifting movement of the empty lifting carrier than for a lifting movement of the lifting carrier loaded with a component carrier. This can also be achieved with other types of damping devices.

[0026] A damping device, particularly a fluidic damping device, can also generate a resulting pressure force. It can be designed and act as a force support for the passive energy storage device. The force support can be adjustable, e.g., by adjusting the installation position of a cylinder.

[0027] A positioning device and a locking device can automatically and independently position and secure the lifting carrier in the upper and lower lifting positions on the guideways. The positioning device can influence the positioning and securing of the component carrier on the track section using a positioning device. This can secure the position of the component carrier on the track section during the lifting movement. The positioning device and the locking device can act independently at the upper and lower lifting positions. The operator can ensure release as needed using a suitable operating device.

[0028] A control device is provided for the movements of the component carrier. This can include a separating device on the return feed track, which separates incoming component carriers for loading at the track section, stopping the next component carrier. Furthermore, the control device includes a controllable stopper located on the control platform, which releases a component carrier loaded with components fully automatically and / or manually only after a safety check has been completed.

[0029] The claimed transfer technology is particularly advantageous for use at a loading station, where a worker manually loads a component carrier with one or more components. Such loading can alternatively or additionally be carried out semi-automatically or fully automatically by a handling device, in particular a robot. Alternatively, the transfer device can also be used at an unloading station, where loaded component carriers are unloaded manually, semi-automatically, or fully automatically.

[0030] The claimed transfer technology is particularly suitable for the claimed feed device and its configuration with rolling component carriers. For picking up and unloading the component carriers onto and from the track section, it is advantageous if stationary and preferably rail-like guide means are arranged on the track section and on the feed tracks, and the component carrier has rolling elements, in particular wheels, as a sliding means.

[0031] Thanks to a mutually adapted, uneven contour of the sliding and guiding elements, a component carrier can move onto and off the track section with particular safety and precision. It can also assume a defined and safe position during loading. For the independent, gravity-driven movement of the component carrier up and down, it is also advantageous if the feed device has a regenerative braking system for at least one roller or wheel. The movement up and down occurs at a low speed and can be largely resistance-free. The regenerative braking only becomes effective when the travel speed along the feed tracks increases, specifically deploying the desired braking function.

[0032] The claimed processing station has the advantage that the feeding device with the claimed transfer technology can be optimally used for the secure feeding of components into an inner station area shielded by a protective device. The transfer technology ensures that the component carriers are picked up precisely and accurately from the return feed track and transferred to the infeed guide track, allowing them to pass the protective device with their components in the correct position and with the desired level of safety.

[0033] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

[0034] The invention is illustrated schematically and by way of example in the drawings. In detail: Figure 1: a processing station with a feeding device and a transfer device for component carriers in a side view, Figures 2 and 3: the transfer device of Figure 1 in a first variant and in a lower lifting position in different perspective views, Figure 4: the transfer device of Figure 3 in an upper lifting position, Figures 5 and 6: Side view of the transfer device in the upper and lower lifting position, Figures 7 and 8: Detailed views of Figure 5 and 6 , Figure 9: a broken-off side view of a separating device for a component carrier, Figure 10: a side view of a locking device and an operating device according to arrow X of Figure 4 , Figure 11: a top view of a guideway, a lifting carrier with a component section, Figure 12: a perspective view of a lifting carrier with a component section and a control platform, Figure 13: the transfer device of Figure 1in a second variant in perspective view, Figure 14: the transfer device of Figure 13 in a side view, Figure 15: the transfer device of Figure 13 in a perspective top view Figures 16 and 17: the transfer device of Figure 13 with a housing in perspective views, Figures 18 and 19: the transfer device of Figure 13 in a lower and upper stroke position, Figures 20 and 21: a damping device with a fluidic cylinder in two designs.

[0035] The invention relates to a transfer device (14) for component carriers (4) on a feed device (1). The invention further relates to a feed device (1) equipped with a transfer device (14) and to a processing station (2) comprising such a feed device (1) and a transfer device (14).

[0036] The transfer device (14) is used to transfer component carriers (4) between differently inclined guideways (6, 7) of a feed device (1). The transfer device (14) is a technically and economically independent device. It can be retrofitted or converted to an existing feed device (1). It can also be an integral part of the feed device (1).

[0037] The transfer device (14) can be designed in different ways. Figures 2 to 12 is a first variant and in Figures 13 to 19 a second variant of the transfer device (14) is shown.

[0038] Figure 1shows a schematic side view of a feeding device (1) at a processing station (2). This is surrounded by a protective device (9), e.g., a fence, for accident prevention reasons. The feeding device (1) serves to safely feed components (3) from outside into the processing station (2) and to the processing device (13) and extends through a correspondingly contoured opening in the protective device (9). The loading point (10) is located outside, and the unloading point (11) is located inside the protective device (9).

[0039] The feeding device (1) has at least one guide track (6) for loaded component carriers (4), which extends from a loading point (10) to an unloading point (11) and which has an obliquely downward inclination. Figure 2 and 4show such a guide track (6) in a fragmentary and perspective view. The guide track (6) is arranged on a frame (8) and its inclination can be adjusted. It has a finite length and preferably a straight extension. The track end at the loading point (10) is higher than the track end at the unloading point (11). The guide track (6) functions as a feed track or inlet track for loaded component carriers (4).

[0040] In the Figure 1In the embodiment shown, a further guide track (7) is also present, which is arranged at a vertical distance above the feed track (6) and which extends at an opposite incline from the unloading point (11) to the loading point (10). It serves as a return track (7) for the return transport of empty component carriers (4) to the loading point (10) and is also arranged on the frame (8). The height arrangement can also be reversed, with the feed track (6) being arranged above the return track (7).

[0041] The return track (7) is preferably constructed in the same way as the feed track (6). The guide tracks (6, 7) can also be provided in multiples. Figure 1Arrows (V, R) indicate the forward and return directions. In such a feed device (1) with feed and return track(s) (6, 7), the component carriers (4) move in a circuit, being transferred from one guide track to the other at the loading and unloading points (10, 11). At the unloading point (11), this can be automated, e.g., by the robot (13) with the gripping device shown in outline. Alternatively, a separate transfer device can be provided.

[0042] For component transport, one or more mobile component carriers (4) are provided. These are detachably connected to the guideways (6, 7) and move along them by gravity and their own weight, as well as the weight of the component. The component carrier(s) (4) can be part of the feed device (1).

[0043] The component carriers (4) have one or more fixed or, if necessary, interchangeable component holders (5) for one or more components (3) each. These are preferably body components for vehicle bodies in white, in particular sheet metal parts. The components (3) can be of any type and size. They can be the same or different from one another. The components (3) are loaded onto the component carrier(s) (4) by a worker (12) at the loading point (10). At the unloading point (11), a preferably automated unloading takes place by means of a processing device (13), which, for example, Figure 1 shown multi-axis robot with a gripping device.

[0044] The component carrier(s) (4) and the guide track (6) have interacting sliding and guiding means (61, 62). The sliding means (61) are designed as rolling elements, in particular as wheels, and the guiding means (62) as rails. The sliding means (61) or rolling elements are located, for example, on the component carrier(s) (4), with the guiding means (62), in particular rails arranged in pairs, being arranged on the guide tracks (6, 7). Alternatively, the arrangement can be reversed, with the guide tracks (6, 7) being designed as roller tracks. In a further variant, the component carrier(s) (4) and the guide tracks (6, 7) can have both sliding means (61) and guiding means (62), each with mutual engagement.

[0045] The guide track (6) can have a positioning device at its end region located toward the unloading point (11), with which the incoming component carriers (4) can be stopped and positioned for unloading. Furthermore, in the event of a possible buildup of multiple component carriers (4), a separation with the aforementioned subsequent positioning can take place at the positioning device.

[0046] At the loading point (10), the feed device (1) has a transfer device (14) that can be manually operated by the worker (12) for transferring a preferably individual component carrier (4) from one guide track (6, 7) to the other, preferably from the return track (7) to the feed track (6).

[0047] In both variants, the transfer device (14) has a lifting device (16) with which an end-side track section (15) of the guideways (6, 7), together with a component carrier (4) possibly arranged on the track section (15), is raised and lowered along an upright lifting axis (H). The lifting axis (H) is vertically aligned, although an inclined position with a predominantly vertical directional component is also possible. The lifting axis (H) is preferably linear. During the lifting and lowering movement along the lifting axis (H), the track section (15) is moved between an upper and a lower lifting position, wherein in these lifting positions it can be aligned with the incline of the guideway (6, 7) there. The track section (15) is preferably an end section of the guideways (6, 7) and is designed in the same way as these.

[0048] In the transfer device (14), the track section (15) in the upper lifting position picks up an empty component carrier (4) from the return track (7) and moves it downwards to the lower lifting position on the feed track (6), to which the component carrier (4) can then be transferred again. The operator (12) can load the component carrier (4) with one or more components (3) in one of the two lifting positions or end positions, or in an intermediate position along the lifting path. Figure 3 and 4 and 5 and 6 show the two stroke positions or end positions for the first variant. In the second variant, the two stroke positions or end positions are in Figures 18 and 19 shown.

[0049] In both variants, the lifting device (16) comprises a base (26) with a height-adjustable lifting support (23) attached thereto. The base comprises, for example, a foot and an upright stand (27). The lifting support (23) is designed like a frame. Preferably, it is in the form of a lifting platform. This can be Figure 4 , 11 and 12 the first variant and Figure 15 and 16 The second variant has a plate-like or frame-like shape. The lifting support (23) is aligned transversely or diagonally to the lifting axis (H).

[0050] The track section (15) has two parallel guide means (62), in particular rails. These each project laterally beyond the adjacent edge of the lifting beam (23). The two guide means (62) can be arranged according to Figure 11 and 12 as well as Figure 13 be cross-connected to one another by a connecting means (67), e.g. webs or a frame.

[0051] The lifting support (23) can be mounted directly or indirectly on the base (26), in particular on its support (27), and can be guided in a height-adjustable manner by means of a guide device (25). The guide device (25) is smooth-running and is designed, for example, as a roller bearing guide, in particular as a recirculating ball guide.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiments, the lifting support (23) is arranged on an upright lifting support (24). For example, it is placed and secured on the upper head end of the support. The upright, preferably vertical, lifting support (24) is guided along the lifting axis (H) on the base (26), in particular on its upright (27) or on a damping device (33), so that its height can be adjusted. The lifting support (24) can be designed as a grooved, metallic hollow profile. It is connected to the lifting support (23) in a suitable manner at its central region.

[0053] In both variants, the lifting device (16) has a pivoting device (19) for the track section (15). By means of this pivoting device (19), the track section (15) is pivotally mounted on the lifting support (23). Most parts of the pivoting device (19) are arranged on the lifting support (23).

[0054] The transfer device (14) further comprises a control platform (28) which is connected to the base (26) and cooperates with the lifting support (23). The control platform (28) is arranged in the region of a guide track (6, 7), preferably on the feed track (6). In the illustrated embodiment, the control platform (28) is arranged and mounted in a stationary manner on the upper side of the base (26), in particular on its stand (27). The control platform (28) is also aligned transversely or obliquely to the lifting axis (H). It has a fork-shaped end region which allows the lifting support (24) to pass through.

[0055] In the first variant, the pivoting device (19) is actuated by the dead weight of the component carrier (4) and by one or more mobile stops (42) on the lifting carrier (23) as well as by one or more stationary stops (43, 44) on the control platform (28). The stops (42, 43, 44) can be adjustable. For example, according to Figure 5 and 11 A single mobile stop (42) is arranged between the lifting beam (23) and the connecting means (67). Four stationary stops (43, 44) are arranged in a square on the control platform (28) in such a way that they can reach past the sides of the lifting beam (23) and contact the guide means (62) of the track section (15).

[0056] The swivel device (19) automatically adjusts the inclination of the track section (15) in the respective stroke position or end position to the inclination of the guide track (6,7) there.

[0057] The swivel device (19) has according to Figure 5 , 6 and 11a pivot axis (41) for the track section (15), which is arranged eccentrically in the central region of the track section (15) and preferably in the longitudinal direction of the guide means (62). The lying, in particular horizontal, pivot axis (41) is arranged closer to the end of the track section (15) pointing towards the guide tracks (6, 7). A component carrier (4) running along the return track (7) automatically presses the eccentrically mounted track section (15) downwards with the rear end facing away from the guide track (7) until it comes into contact with a mobile stop (42) there. The track section (15) thereby assumes an inclined position in which it Figure 10 aligned with the return track (7) and its inclined position.

[0058] The pivoting device (19) further comprises a controllable locking mechanism (45) for this pivoting position of the track section (15). It supports the track section (15) and its guide means (62) at the front end facing the guide track (7). The locking mechanism (45) can be released again in the other, lower lifting position or end position to enable a different pivoting position of the track section (15) there, aligned with the guide track (6). The locking mechanism (45) can also be used to adjust the aforementioned pivoting position at the upper lifting position.

[0059] The locking device (45) can be designed in different ways. In the first embodiment shown according to Figure 5 and 6 as well as the detailed representations of Figures 7 and 8The controllable locking device (45) has a swivel support (46) with a restoring spring (47) and a stationary actuator (48) for adjusting its swivel positions. The swivel support (46) has two arms aligned approximately at right angles to each other. It is pivotally mounted on the lifting beam (23) about a central pivot axis at the arm transition. The spring (47) presses the swivel support (46) into the Figure 5 and 7 The pivoting and supporting position shown in FIG. 1 is shown, in which the support arm, which is flattened at one end, engages beneath and supports the track section (15), in particular its connecting means (67). An end stop can secure this pivoting and supporting position. The pivoting and supporting position can be assumed by spring force during the lifting movement and / or in the upper lifting position.

[0060] In the lower lifting position, the locking device (45) is released by turning the swivel support (46) to the other position, Figure 6 and 8The pivoting position shown is released. For this purpose, an actuator (48) is arranged on the control platform (28), which presses against the other, transversely projecting arm of the pivot support (46) and rotates it into the released position. The actuator (48 is designed and arranged, for example, as a raised pin on the control platform (28).

[0061] In the first variant and with the locking device (45) released, the stationary stops (43, 44) can become effective in the lower stroke position, rotating the track section (15) into another pivoting position in which the guide means (62) of the track section (15) and the guide track (6) preferably have the same inclination and are aligned with one another. Figure 3 and 6 clarify this position in which the Figure 3 indicated component carrier (4) can move down under its own weight.

[0062] The transfer device (14), in particular the lifting device (16), has a passive energy storage device (17) that supports the lifting beam (23) as needed during its lifting movements. The energy storage device (17) stores the potential energy during the lowering movement of the lifting beam (23) and releases it again to support the lifting movement.

[0063] In the embodiments shown, the passive energy storage device (17) has a storage element in the form of a counterweight (29) that is guided in a height-adjustable manner on the base (26), in particular on its support (27). The counterweight (29) is connected to the lifting support (23) via a drive means (31) and a transmission (30).

[0064] A deflection element (32) can be provided for the propellant (31). This allows the flexible propellant (31) to be bent once or multiple times along its length, forming multiple strand sections. A transmission element (30) can be formed by means of the deflection element (32), for example, based on the pulley principle. A deflection element (32) can be formed, for example, by one or more freely rotating rollers.

[0065] The energy storage device (17), in particular the counterweight (29), is matched to the weight of a component carrier (4) held on the track section (15). The match is such that the lifting carrier (23) loaded with a component carrier (4) has a greater weight than the counterweight (29) acting via the transmission (30). As a result, the lifting carrier (23) lowers automatically, with the counterweight (29) being raised via the drive means (31) and the transmission (30). On the other hand, the dead weight of the lifting carrier (23) and the lifting support (24) is less than the transmitted counterweight (29), so that after the component carrier (4) has been released, the downwardly moving counterweight (29) lifts the lifting carrier (23) and moves it into the upper lifting position. The aforementioned weight adjustments can refer to the dead weight of an empty component carrier (4) or to the weight of a component carrier (4) loaded with one or more components (3).

[0066] The drive means (31) can be designed in any suitable manner, e.g., as a chain or a drive belt with a smooth or toothed surface. The transmission ratio (30), for example, has the aforementioned effect of a pulley system and allows for size and path optimization of the balancing system or energy storage device (17). The transmission ratio deviates from 1 and can be, for example, 1:2 or even 2:1.

[0067] The deflection (32) has, for example, two deflection pulleys, one of which is mobile and arranged on the counterweight (29), the other being stationary on the control platform (28), in particular on its underside, or on the base (26). Alternatively, the number of pulleys can be greater. The free ends of the drive means (31) can be connected to the lifting support (24) and to the control platform (28) or the base (26). In a further modification, a deflection pulley can be arranged on the movable lifting support (24).

[0068] The lifting device (16) may have a damping device (33) for the lifting beam movements. The damping device (33) is in Figure 1 and 5 indicated schematically. It can be designed and arranged in different ways.

[0069] In one variant, a design as an eddy current brake and an arrangement on the guide device (25) and / or on the deflection (32), e.g. on the upper deflection pulley arranged on the control platform (28) is possible. In another variant, the damping device (33) can be designed as a throttleable pneumatic cylinder which is connected to the lifting carrier (23) or the lifting support (24). The working chambers of the cylinder arranged on both sides of the piston can each be connected to the outside environment via a throttle valve. During the lifting movement into the upper lifting position, the throttling effect can be lower than during the lowering movement into the lower lifting position. This is particularly advantageous when the component carrier (4) is loaded with one or more components (3) in the upper lifting position or in an intermediate position. The following, with reference to Figures 20 and 21 various embodiments are described.

[0070] The transfer device (14) has a positioning device (18) for the lifting carrier (23) and / or for the component carrier (4). The positioning device (18) can, on the one hand, have a positioning means (34) for positioning the lifting carrier (23) on the guide tracks (6, 7) or, if appropriate, also in an intermediate position (not shown). Alternatively or additionally, the positioning device (18) can have a positioning means (35) for positioning and fixing the component carrier (4) on the track section (15). The positioning means (34, 35) can be adjustable.

[0071] There are various options for the design and arrangement of the positioning device (18). In the illustrated embodiments, the positioning means (34) for the lifting device can have height positioning devices (36, 37) for the desired and predetermined lifting position on the guideways (6, 7). The positioning means (34) can also have a lateral positioning device (38) for the lateral alignment of the lifting support (23) and the track section (15) at the lifting positions and possibly at an intermediate position.

[0072] An upper height positioning (36) can be achieved, for example, in the first variant according to Figure 12 a stop on the top side of the lifting support (23) which, in the upper lifting position, strikes the underside of the guideway (7) or the frame (8). A lower height positioning (37) can, for example, be carried out by a Figure 9A positioning stop arranged on the underside of the lifting support (23) can be formed, which interacts with the control platform (28). A lateral positioning (38) can be formed as an index guide with conical pins and corresponding receiving openings on the control platform (28), on the lifting support (23), and on the upper guide track (7).

[0073] The positioning means (35) for the component carrier (4) can have one or more components and functions. It can have a stop plate (39) at the rear end of the track section (15) facing away from the guideways (6, 7). The stop plate (39) limits the upward movement of the component carrier (4). Furthermore, a fixation (40) for the component carrier (4) can be provided. This is shown, for example, in Figure 11 and 12schematically indicated and consists of a spring-loaded latch arranged on the lifting carrier (23) or on the track section (15) and which holds the raised component carrier (4) in the stop position on the stop plate (39) and secures it during loading and during the lifting movements. The spring-loaded latch can, for example, engage the component carrier (4) from below.

[0074] The transfer device (14) has a locking device (20), which can preferably automatically fix the position of the lifting support (23) on the guideways (6, 7) as well as in the upper and lower lifting position. The locking device (20) can also be designed and arranged in different ways. In the embodiments shown, it has upper and lower stationary locking elements (49, 50) and a mobile locking element (52) on the lifting support (23). The stationary locking elements (49, 50) are each designed as a retainer with a laterally projecting locking nose (51). They are arranged on the guideway (7) or on the frame (8) and on the control platform (28). The mobile locking element (52) is arranged on the lifting support (23) and is designed, for example, as a snap. The mobile locking element (52) is, for example, according to Figure 12 guided by means of a bearing (53) and a spring (54) on the lifting support (23) and subjected to an actuating force in the locking position.

[0075] The locking element (52) and the locking lug (51) interact via a wedge guide (55). When approaching the lifting position, the mobile locking element (52) slides with its inclined stop surface against the correspondingly inclined end face of the upper or lower locking lug (51), retreats against the force of the spring (54), and then snaps behind the locking lug (51). In this positive locking position, the upper lifting position can be secured when a component carrier (4) is moved up, and the lower lifting position can be secured when a component carrier (4) is moved down.

[0076] The transfer device (14) has an operating device (21). This is preferably arranged on the lifting support (23). The operating device (21) acts on the positioning device (18) and / or the locking device (20). The operating device (21) can be designed in various ways for this purpose.

[0077] It comprises, for example, an operating means (56) for the locking device (20), with which the locking position can be released and the mobile locking element (52) can be disengaged. The operating means (56) is designed, for example, as a handle and is arranged at the rear end of the lifting support (23). This allows the locking element (52) to be retracted against the force of the spring (54).

[0078] Another operating means (57) can be provided for the positioning means (35) of the component carrier (4). It is designed, for example, as a handle that interacts with the fixation (40) and disengages it from the component carrier (4) against the restoring force of a spring. This can be used to release the component carrier (4) in the lower stroke position.

[0079] The transfer device (14) has a control device (22) for the movements of a component carrier (4). The control device (22) can be designed and arranged differently and can also have different functions.

[0080] On the one hand, the control device (22) can have a separating device (58) for a component carrier (4) on a guide track (6, 7), in particular on the return track. Figure 9 and 11 As can be seen from the drawing, the separating device (58) has a pivoting lever arranged at the end of the guide track (7) and rotatable about a central transverse axis, with a slotted link actuation (58') and retainers (58") at both lever ends. In one pivoting position according to Figure 3the lowered rear retainer (58") releases the component carrier (4) located at the end of the guideway (7) so that it can drive onto the track section (15). At the same time, the raised front retainer (58") acts as a stopper for the next component carrier (4) on the guideway (7). In the other pivoting position according to Figure 2 the front retainer (58") is lowered and releases the initially stopped component carrier (4), which can move to the end of the guideway (7) and is stopped there at the raised rear retainer (58").

[0081] The gate actuator (58'), which controls the pivoting movements of the lever arm of the separating device (58), is in Figure 9 It interacts with the mobile locking element (52) on the lifting beam (23). The gate actuator (58') is actuated by the lifting and lowering movement of the lifting beam (23) and the operating device (21).

[0082] The gate actuator (58') has a lever attachment arranged at the rear end of the lever with an inclined and angled gate track, into which a pin protruding laterally from the mobile locking element (52) engages in a form-fitting manner. This pin of the gate actuator (58') is in Figure 12visible. When the lifting carrier (23) moves to the upper lifting position and the locking action described above occurs, the said pin engages the guide track and presses the lever attachment downwards. As a result, the guide actuation (58') effects one of the rotary or pivoting movements of the lever of the separating device (58), lowering the rear retainer (58") and raising the front retainer (58"). When leaving the upper lifting position, the guide actuation (58) functions in the opposite direction. The adjusting pin emerging from the guide track enables the other, opposite pivoting movement of the lever of the separating device (58), which releases the initially stopped, next component carrier (4) and causes it to stop again at the rear retainer (58"). One of the pivoting positions, in particular the last one, can be secured by spring force.

[0083] The control device (22) further comprises a controllable stopper (59) on the control platform (28). This stopper (59) can be manually actuated by the operator (12) or by a control system of the feed device (1), the processing station (2), or the like. It causes a stop and a controllable release of a loaded component carrier (4) at the lower lifting position and its rolling onto the guide track (6).

[0084] The control device (22) can also have a detection device (60) that can interact with the controllable stopper (59) or its control. The detection device (60) can, for example, use one or more suitable sensors to detect the correct position of the component carrier (4) on the track section (15) and / or the correct loading of the component carrier (4) with one or more components (3). If the detection result is positive, the stopper (59) is triggered for release. Otherwise, an alarm is triggered. The stopper (59) can, for example, be designed as an extendable cylinder, an adjusting bolt, a magnetic holder, or the like.

[0085] The Figures 13 to 19The second variant of the transfer device (14) shown differs from the first variant in several respects. The differences relate in particular to the arrangement of the track section (15), the positioning device (18), the pivoting device (19), the locking device (20), the operating device (21), the control device (22), and the damping device (33). The differences explained below can also be used individually or in any combination in the first variant.

[0086] In the second variant, the pivot axis (41) for the track section (15) is located at its front end region, which faces the guideways (6, 7). Due to this highly eccentric mounting, the freely pivoting track section (15) assumes an inclined position due to its own weight, which can also be adapted to the inclination of a guideway, in particular the upper return track (7). As in the first variant, the inclined position can be defined and adjusted as required by a rear mobile stop (42). In the second variant, the mobile stop (42) is not shown.

[0087] In this design of the swivel device (19) with the highly eccentric arrangement of the swivel axis (41), the swivel support (46) and the locking device (45) of the first variant can be omitted. Due to the inclination of the track section (15), which slopes backwards and downwards from the feed track (6, 7), the loaded component carrier (4) cannot roll off on its own. In the second variant, the positioning device (18) for the loaded component carrier (4) also has a rear stop plate (39). This can also be Figure 15 be present in multiple locations and / or adjustable.

[0088] A further modification of the pivoting device (19) relates to the adaptation of the inclination of the track section (15) to the other guide track, in particular the feed track (6). In the second variant, this inclination adjustment can be effected by manual operation by the operator. The automatic inclination adjustment of the first variant can be omitted. The operator can lift the track section (15) using a handle (68) at the rear end and pivot it about the pivot axis (41) while adapting it to the track inclination. A limiter (45') on the track section (15) can limit the pivoting movement and can, for example, strike the underside of the control platform (28). Figure 14 and 18 show this manual pivoting and inclination adjustment of the track section (15) in a dashed representation.

[0089] In the second variant, the control platform (28) can also be modified. The lifting beam (23) can be attached to the control platform and rest directly there. The stops (43, 44) of the first variant, which interact with the track section (15) and automatically change its inclination, can be omitted.

[0090] In the second variant, for example, according to Figure 14 and 18the component carrier (4) (not shown here) can be loaded in the lower lifting position of the lifting support (24), for example. The track section (15) and the component carrier (4) assume an ergonomically favorable inclined position due to their backward inclination. After loading, the operator can pivot the track section (15) with the loaded component carrier (4) upwards about the axis (41) and bring it into alignment with the track inclination of the feed track (6) or pivot it slightly beyond. The component carrier (4) can then roll under its own weight and leave the track section (15).

[0091] In the second variant, the control device (22) also contains a controllable stopper (59). The control device (22) can further comprise a separating device (58). The control device (22) of the second variant can also contain additional components, in particular the detection device (60), as in the first variant.

[0092] The positioning device (18) for the lifting support (24) and the separating device (58) can be modified in the second variant. They can be connected to form a single structural unit (81). Figure 16 and 17 illustrate the design of the structural unit (81) and its components (18,58).

[0093] The assembly (81) has a support (82) which can be mounted on the front end of a guideway, in particular the return track (7). Figure 13 and 14 show this arrangement. Components of the positioning device (18) and the separating device (58) are mounted on the carrier (82).

[0094] The positioning device (18) for the lifting support (24) in the second variant also has a positioning means (34). The positioning means (34) includes a height positioning (36) and a lateral positioning (38) arranged at the front of the lifting support (23). The height positioning (36) can be designed as a positioning stop on the top side of the lifting support (23). Furthermore, according to Figure 19 a height positioning (37) must be present on the underside.

[0095] The height positioning (36) and the lateral positioning (38) can be combined in the second variant and, for example, be designed as a prism stop, which offers multi-sided guidance. A downwardly open prism holder is arranged on the support (82), and a projecting prism base is arranged on the lifting support (23). In the drawings, in particular Figure 16 and 17For clarity, the prism base is shown engaged with the prism holder and detached from the lifting support (23). The prism base is not shown in the views of the lifting support (23).

[0096] In the second variant, the positioning means (34) can have a longitudinal positioning means (38'). This means comprises, for example, two positioning arms arranged at the front of the lifting beam (23), wherein they are located on the lateral edges of the beam and project forward in the direction of the guideways (6, 7). The positioning arms each have an angled shape with a front-facing, upward-facing flange. In the upper lifting position, this flange can, for example, engage behind a pin (88) on the rear of the beam (82). The longitudinal positioning means (38') can act in the longitudinal direction of said guideway (6, 7) and absorb shocks when the component carrier (4) travels onto the track section (15). The positioning arms can also each engage on the outside of the adjacent guide means (62) of the guideway (6, 7) and provide a certain amount of guidance transverse to said longitudinal direction.

[0097] The separating device (58) has a pivot arm (83) that is rotatably mounted on the front of the support (82) by means of a bearing (84). The bearing (84) is located in the central region of the pivot arm (83). The bearing axis is aligned in the longitudinal direction of the guide track, in particular the return track (7). The pivot arm (83) is designed, for example, as a flat component, in particular a sheet metal part.

[0098] At the lower end of the pivot arm (83) there is an undercut receiving opening (86) which is open at the bottom. This opening can accommodate a roller (89) arranged on the front of the lifting support (23) during the upward movement of the lifting support (24). The receiving opening (86) has an angled shape and extends over a driver (87), which is designed, for example, as a projecting support arm, while forming the undercut. The roller (89) takes the pivot arm (83) with it in its upward movement and rotates it about the bearing (84). As a result of this pivoting movement, the roller (89) moves into the undercut of the receiving opening (86) and is gripped by the driver (87) in the end position.

[0099] The pivoting movement of the pivot arm (83) is limited by a stop on the support (82). A curved slotted guide (85) can be provided on the support (82) for this purpose. The locking device (20) can fix the lifting support or the lifting support (24) in this position, e.g., the upper lifting position.

[0100] The swivel arm (83) has a retainer (58") at the other and upper arm end. This can be designed and function as a stopper for the adjacent component carrier (4) on the said guideway, in particular return track (7). The retainer (58") can be designed according to Figure 16 when the swivel arm (83) rotates, they enter an upwardly open slot on the upper edge of the support (82).

[0101] The positioning device (18) and the separating device (58) or the assembly (81) can be actuated via the upward and downward lifting movement of the lifting carrier (23) or the lifting support (24).

[0102] The vertical and lateral positioning devices (37, 38), particularly the prism stop, engage in a preferably self-centering manner at the end of the stroke movement. They limit the stroke movement of the lifting beam (23). Together with the longitudinal positioning device (38'), which also engages, they guide the lifting beam (23) in three different directions in the end position, ensuring that the beam is precisely positioned and fixed in the connecting position to the guide track (7).

[0103] At the Figure 16 and 17In the initial position of the swivel arm (83) shown, during the upward lifting movement, the roller (89) dips into the receiving opening (86) and rotates the swivel arm (83) in the manner described above. This releases the component carrier (4) waiting on the guide track (7) and initially blocked by the separating device (58). During the swivel movement of the swivel arm (83), the retainer (58") dips downwards and no longer blocks the waiting component carrier (4). The latter can then drive onto the waiting track section (15) under its own weight.

[0104] During the downward lifting movement after releasing the lock (20), the lifting carrier (23) or the lifting support (24) moves downwards automatically due to its own weight and the additional weight of the component carrier (4) that has been moved up. The roller (89) presses against the driver (87) and thereby rotates the swivel arm (83) in the opposite direction until the previously described starting position is reached again and the roller (89) can extend downwards from the receiving opening (86). During this rotating movement of the swivel arm (83), the retainer (58") is simultaneously moved upwards again and into a stop position in front of the next component carrier (4) waiting on the guideway (7). By appropriately gearing the swivel arm (83), this can be achieved in good time before the lifting carrier (23) is significantly removed from the guideway (7). This starting position can be secured in a suitable manner, e.g.by a suitable weight distribution on the swivel arm (83) or in another way.

[0105] The locking device (20) in the second variant can be designed similarly to the first variant. It can have upper and lower stationary locking elements (49, 50) into which a mobile locking element (52) on the lifting support (24) can positively engage in the respective end-of-stroke position. The mobile locking element (52) is arranged on the lifting support (23) and can be actuated by an operating means (56). The locking element (52) can be designed, for example, as a rod-like and spring-loaded snap catch, the head piece of which engages with the stationary locking elements (49, 50). The operating means (56), designed, for example, as a handle, is arranged at the rear end of the lifting support (23) and is mounted on the rear end of the rod-like mobile locking element (52). As in the first variant, the locking elements (49, 50, 52) can have a locking nose (51) and a wedge guide (55) or another adjusting means.

[0106] Figure 16 and 17also illustrate that the transfer device (14) can have a protective housing (69). This can laterally surround the base (26) or the stand (27) and, if necessary, also the damping device (33) and, for example, also cover it at least partially at the top. This can also house the passive energy storage device (17). In the second variant, this can be designed in the same way as in the previously described first variant.

[0107] In the second variant, the base (26) can be modified compared to the first variant. The stand (27), for example, is slim and supported on the floor by its own support foot. In addition, the base (26) can be Figure 13 and 14 shown struts, which connect the support foot to the frame (8) of the feeding device (1).

[0108] In Figures 13 to 15In the second variant, the arrangement and design of a damping device (33) is shown by way of example. This is designed, for example, as an upright cylinder (70) with a throttle arrangement (77) and a line arrangement (76). The cylinder (70) can be arranged on the base (26), in particular on the stand (27). It can also be connected to the guide device (25). The cylinder has a piston (71) and a piston rod (72), which protrudes, for example, from the upper end of the cylinder (70) and is connected to the lifting support (23) or another part of the lifting support (24) by means of a connection (73), e.g. a bearing eye. The damping device (33) shown thus acts directly on the lifting movements of the lifting support (24) and dampens them. The damping device (33) can be adjustable. In particular, it can be adjusted as required to different types and weights of component supports (4).

[0109] Figures 20 and 21schematically illustrate the design and circuitry of the cylinder (70). This has a working chamber (74) above the piston (71) and a working chamber (75) below the piston (71). The working chambers (74, 75) are connected to a line arrangement (76) and a throttle arrangement (77). These are shown in Figures 20 and 21 differently trained.

[0110] In the variant of Figure 20 The working chambers (74, 75) are interconnected by this line arrangement (76) located outside the cylinder (70). In this case, the line arrangement (76) comprises a single connecting line.

[0111] The throttle assembly (77) is arranged in the line assembly (76) or the individual connecting line. It has two throttle valves (78) and two check valves (79) that throttle the pumped fluid, particularly air, in a direction-dependent manner. For this purpose, the check valves (79) are directed in opposite directions. The throttle valves (78) can be designed differently. They can also be adjustable. This allows different throttling and damping effects to be generated for the upward and downward stroke movements or piston rod movements.

[0112] The line arrangement (76) can also be connected to a vent (80). This can be located, for example, at the upper line section and above the throttle arrangement (77). The vent (80) can be manually operated using a spring-loaded button. Alternatively, it can be controlled automatically.

[0113] The vent (80) can have different functions, which differ depending on the piston position. If the piston (71) is vented in the upper position, the volume of the piston rod (72) in the reduced upper working chamber (74) plays no significant role. This allows pressure equalization throughout the entire cylinder (70). When the vent (80) is actuated in the Figure 20 In the lower position of the piston (71) shown, a negative pressure can be generated in the lower working chamber (75) during the subsequent stroke movement due to the aforementioned rod volume. Due to the rod volume, the gas volume pumped from the upper working chamber (74) is smaller than the enlargement of the lower working chamber (75) resulting from the piston movement.

[0114] In the piston orientation shown, with the piston rod (72) emerging upwards from the upright cylinder (70), a support effect for the lifting movement can also arise. Due to the aforementioned rod volume, the effective piston area on the top side of the piston (71) is smaller than on the bottom. At the same pressure in the working chambers (74, 75), this ensures a force resulting from the pressure that is greater on the underside of the piston than on the top side of the piston. This supports the extension movement of the piston rod (72) and the upward lifting movement of the lifting carrier (24). This resultant force acts in addition to the force applied by the passive energy storage device (17).

[0115] If the pressures in the working chambers (74,75) are different, e.g. depending on the type of ventilation actuation, the generation and effect of the resulting pressure force acting on the piston (71) may be different.

[0116] Figure 21shows another variant of a throttled cylinder (70), as mentioned above. The working chambers (74, 75) are connected to the external environment and the ambient air via the line arrangement (76). The line arrangement (76) has a separate line for each of the working chambers (74, 75).

[0117] Depending on the direction of movement of the piston (71), the fluid, in particular air, is blown out into the environment with throttling from one working chamber (74, 75), and at the same time a fluid, in particular air, is sucked in from the environment into the other working chamber (75, 74). Suction can also be throttled. The throttling effects during blowing out and suction in can be set differently. When the piston movement is reversed, the flow and pumping directions are also reversed accordingly. The throttling assemblies (77) arranged in the individual lines, which also each consist of two pairs of throttle valve (78) and check valve (79), can be set to have different throttling and damping effects for the upward and downward stroke movements of the piston rod (72) and the stroke support (24).

[0118] In the examples of Figures 20 and 21The orientation of the cylinder (70) can also be selected differently. In particular, it can be reversed, with the piston rod (72) extending downwards. This allows for other types of force support and damping effects to be created.

[0119] Figure 2 shows, by way of example, in a transparent representation, the design of a component carrier (4). This comprises, for example, a body (65) which is designed as a cuboid-shaped, bevelled and thin-walled sheet metal housing, which is open at the bottom and has a mounting surface on the top for one or more of the Figure 1 shown component holders (5), possibly with grid-like connection points.

[0120] The body (65) has one or more buffers on at least one end face, e.g., the front side, which absorb shocks and can also ensure axial spacing of successive component carriers (4). This is advantageous for the separating device (58). The body (65) can have different lengths. The components of the transfer device (14) can be designed accordingly.

[0121] The rolling elements or wheels (61) are mounted on the corner areas of the body (65) and on the bevelled side walls and rotate about an axis (63) directed transversely to the respective running direction (V, R).

[0122] According to Figure 2On one or both long sides of the body (65), the wheels (61) can have an uneven circumferential contour adapted to a likewise uneven guide means (62), which is designed, for example, as a rounded circumferential groove (64). The guide means (62) can have a support profile with a rounded, in particular round-bar-shaped, rail on the upper side, which engages positively with the groove (64). On the other side of the body, the wheels (61) can have a cylindrical running surface which does not have to have a positive connection with the guide means (62), which here can also be designed as a rounded and embedded rail. Alternatively, the wheels (61) can have a guide collar on the edge.

[0123] The rolling elements (61) can be freely rotatable. Alternatively, one or more rolling elements (61) can be assigned a braking device (66), in particular a generator-driven brake, which can be adjusted or controlled depending on the running direction and direction of rotation and can also be adapted to different angles of inclination of the guideways (6, 7). A generator-driven brake can be formed, for example, by a generator driven by the rolling element, preferably a direct current generator, and a load circuit with one or more power pickups, e.g., ohmic resistors, in a switchable arrangement if necessary. Figure 2 shows this arrangement.

[0124] Modifications to the embodiments shown and described are possible in various ways. The aforementioned components of the transfer device (14), in particular the lifting device (16), and the feed device (1), can be structurally modified. Furthermore, it is possible to combine the above-described features of the exemplary embodiments and the mentioned variants with one another as desired, and even to interchange them if necessary.

[0125] The passive energy storage device (17) can have a different storage element, e.g., a spring, in particular a gas spring. The arrangement of the guideways (6, 7) and the kinematics of the transfer device (14) can be interchanged. A component carrier (4) arriving at the lower return track (7) can be picked up by the track section (15) in the lower lifting position and then lifted into the upper lifting position for delivery to the feed track (6). Components can be loaded at one of the two lifting positions or end positions, or at an intermediate position. The passive energy storage device (17) can provide support during the lifting movement. During the lowering movement, it can possibly be loaded with additional manual force and by pressing down the lifting carrier (23). The aforementioned intermediate position can be present in the various embodiments at one or more selectable points along the lifting path. It can be defined in a suitable manner, e.g.,by means of a spring-loaded locking position on the guide device (25).

[0126] Furthermore, the transfer device (14) and the transfer method can also be used for unloading loaded component carriers (4) at the unloading point (11). In a further modification, loading and unloading can be performed mechanically, e.g., by a handling robot. A loading and unloading process can also be omitted under certain circumstances. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0127] 1Feeding device 2Processing station 3Component 4Component carrier, transport carriage 5Component holder 6Guide track, feed track 7Guide track, return track 8Frame 9Protective device, fence 10Loading point 11Unloading point 12Worker 13Processing device, robot 14Transfer device 15Track section, end section 16Lifting device 17Energy storage device 18Positioning device 19Pivoting device 20Locking device 21Operating device 22Control device 23Lifting carrier, lifting platform 24Lifting support 25Guide device 26Base 27Stand 28Control platform 29Counterweight 30Transmission 31Drive means, belt 32Deflection 33Damping device 34Positioning device, lifting device 35Positioning device, component carrier 36Height positioning, top positioning stop 37Height positioning, Positioning stop below 38Lateral positioning, index 38'Longitudinal positioning 39Starting plate 40Fixation 41Pivoting axis 42Mobile stop 43Stationary stop, front 44Stationary stop,Rear 45Locking device 45Limiter 46Pivoting support 47Spring 48Adjuster 49Stationary locking element, top retainer 50Stationary locking element, bottom retainer 51Locking nose 52Mobile locking element, snapper 53Bearing 54Spring 55Adjusting device, wedge guide 56Operating device for locking device, handle 57Operating device for locking, handle 58Separating device 58Sliding gate actuation 58Retainer 59Stopper, controllable 60Detection device 61Sliding device, rolling element, wheel 62Guide means, rail 63Axle 64Groove 65Body 66Generator-driven braking device 67Connecting element, web, frame 68Handle, pivoting handle 69Housing 70Cylinder 71Piston 72Piston rod 73Connection 74Working space above 75Working space below 76Line arrangement 77Throttle arrangement 78Throttle valve 79Check valve 80Ventilation 81Assembly unit 82Support 83Pivot arm 84Bearing 85Elongated hole guide 86Receiving opening 87Carrier 88Pin 89Roller , HLifting axis VMovement direction forward RMovement direction backward

Claims

1. Transfer device for a feed device (1) with differently inclined guide tracks (6, 7) and a mobile rolling component carrier (4), which can be connected to the guide tracks (6, 7), for a component (3), wherein the transfer device (14) comprises a manually operable lifting device (16) with an upright linear lifting axis (H) and with a track portion (15) which can be connected to the guide tracks (6, 7) in an aligned manner, wherein the lifting device (16) has a base (26) with a frame-like lifting carrier (23) which is arranged thereon in a height-adjustable manner and has a pivoting device (19), wherein the lifting carrier (23) is oriented transversely or obliquely with respect to the lifting axis (H), and the track portion (15) is mounted pivotably on the lifting carrier (23) by means of the pivoting device (19), wherein the transfer device (14) has a control platform (28) which is connected to the base (26), interacts with the lifting carrier (23), and can be guided on a guide track (6, 7), wherein the transfer device (14) has a control device (22) for the movements of a component carrier (4), and the control device (22) has a controllable stopper (59) on the control platform (28).

2. Transfer device according to Claim 1, characterized in that stationary guide means (62) are arranged on the track portion (15) for receiving and discharging the component carriers (4) onto and from the track portion (15).

3. Transfer device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the lifting carrier (23) is arranged on an upright lifting support (24) which is guided on the base (26) in a height-adjustable manner along the linear lifting axis (H).

4. Transfer device according to Claim 3, characterized in that the control platform (28) can be arranged on the guide track, in particular feed track (6), which extends from the transfer device and is directed downwards, and is arranged and mounted in a stationary manner on the upper side of the base (26), wherein the control platform (28) is oriented transversely or obliquely with respect to the lifting axis (H) and has a fork-shaped end region which allows the lifting support (24) to pass through.

5. Transfer device according to Claims 2 and 4, characterized in that the pivoting device (19) can be actuated by the dead weight of the component carrier (4) and by one or more mobile stops (42) on the lifting carrier (23) and by a plurality of stationary stops (43, 44) on the control platform (28), wherein four stationary stops (43, 44) are arranged on the control platform (28) in a quadrilateral in such a way that they can engage laterally past the lifting carrier (23) and can make contact with the guide means (62) of the track portion (15).

6. Transfer device according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the control device (22) has a separating device (58) for a component carrier (4) on a guide track (7).

7. Transfer device according to Claim 6, characterized in that the separating device (58) and a positioning device (18), in particular a positioning means (34), for positioning the lifting carrier (23) on at least one of the guide tracks (6, 7), are connected to form one structural unit (81).

8. Transfer device according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the controllable stopper (59) releases a component carrier loaded with components fully automatically and / or by manual operation only after running through a safety check.

9. Feed device for components (3) with differently inclined guide tracks (6, 7) and at least one mobile rolling component carrier (4), connectable to the guide tracks (6, 7), for a component (3), wherein the feed device (1) has a loading point (10) with a transfer device (14) for loading and transferring a component carrier (4) between the guide tracks (6, 7), characterized in that the transfer device (14) is designed according to at least one of Claims 1 to 8.

10. Feed device according to Claim 9, characterized in that the component carrier or carriers (4) and the guide track (6) have interacting sliding and guide means (61, 62), wherein the sliding means (61) are formed as wheels and the guide means (62) are formed as rails.

11. Processing station having a feed device (1) for components (3), which feed device extends through an opening in a protective device (9) surrounding the processing station (2), wherein the feed device (1) has differently inclined guide tracks (6, 7) and at least one mobile rolling component carrier (4), which can be connected to the guide tracks (6, 7), for a component (3), and a loading point (10) with a transfer device (14) for loading and transferring a component carrier (4) between the guide tracks (6, 7), characterized in that the feed device (1) is designed according to at least one of Claims 9 to 10.