STORAGE EQUIPMENT, STORAGE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HANDLING PLATE-SHAPED WORKPIECES

Description

Technical field

[0001] The disclosure relates to a storage facility and a storage system, as well as their use. The disclosure further relates to a method for handling plate-shaped workpieces. State of the art

[0002] For example, it is known from WO 2019 / 020595 A1 that sheet-shaped semi-finished products can be stored in a storage facility before a machining operation is carried out. Such a storage facility can, for example, serve the purpose of the orderly storage of the semi-finished products.

[0003] In the storage system disclosed in WO 2019 / 020595 A1, the workpieces stored therein are arranged essentially in parallel, with each workpiece assigned a storage position. This can offer advantages, particularly for plate-shaped workpieces, in terms of efficient space utilization. However, the large number of storage positions in WO 2019 / 020595 A1 is also associated with a large number of different retrieval positions. If retrieval and / or loading of the storage system is automated, several retrieval positions must consequently be stored in the corresponding handling robot. This, in turn, entails a comparatively high setup effort for the retrieval and / or loading device. Furthermore, workpieces must be transported over different distances during retrieval and / or loading, resulting in varying retrieval times.In particular, it may be necessary for the cycle time of a subsequent processing unit to be coordinated with a specific removal cycle time (e.g., the longest possible removal time). This, in turn, results in a comparatively long overall production time and correspondingly high production costs. In addition to the storage systems described above, dynamic storage systems are also known. These are designed, for example, to transfer semi-finished products stored within them to a specific removal position. For instance, DD 274602 A1 discloses a feeding device for wood-based panels with storage locations, where the storage locations are movable.

[0004] Further examples of previously known storage devices can be found in DE 195 25 515 A1, US 2014 / 021253 A1, which forms the basis for the two-part version of independent device claim 1, JP S54 71610 A, JP S54 140368 A.

[0005] However, it has been shown that such a storage facility is associated with a comparatively inefficient use of space and / or a comparatively high space requirement. This, in turn, has a negative impact on manufacturing costs. Description of the invention

[0006] The present disclosure is based on the objective of solving at least one of the problems described above and providing an efficient means of storing and / or handling plate-shaped workpieces.

[0007] This problem is solved by a storage device according to claim 1, a storage system according to claim 14, a use according to claim 16 and / or a method according to claim 17. Dependent claims relate to specific embodiments.

[0008] The storage device according to the invention is suitable for storing workpieces, in particular plate-shaped workpieces, which preferably consist at least partially of wood, wood-containing material, composite material, plastic, aluminum, or the like, and which each have a length, a width, and a thickness. The storage device has at least one storage area which is rotatable at least partially with respect to an axis of rotation. The storage area of ​​the storage device is configured to accommodate a plurality of workpieces, in particular plate-shaped workpieces, such that the lateral or longitudinal directions of the workpieces are oriented substantially radially with respect to the axis of rotation, and that the other lateral or longitudinal directions of the workpieces are oriented substantially parallel to the axis of rotation.Alternatively or additionally, the storage area of ​​the storage facility can be set up to accommodate a plurality of workpieces, in particular a plurality of plate-shaped workpieces, in such a way that the thickness directions of the workpieces are oriented essentially in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation.

[0009] The storage device according to the invention further comprises a plurality of first guide means. The first guide means are arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation such that a gap is formed between each pair of first guide means, which is suitable for inserting a workpiece radially with respect to the axis of rotation into the storage area of ​​the storage device.

[0010] In this way, it is possible to assign workpieces to a precise position in the circumferential direction (with respect to the axis of rotation), thereby promoting a standardized removal process. The gap between any two first guide elements can, for example, be at least 5 mm and no more than 41 mm. Preferably, the gap between any two first guide elements is at least 17 mm and no more than 21 mm. Furthermore, spatially separating individual workpieces in the storage system with the first guide elements reduces the risk of (mutual) damage to individual workpieces.

[0011] The storage device according to the invention further comprises a plurality of first stop elements. The first stop elements are configured to prevent movement of stored (plate-shaped) workpieces in a direction radial to the axis of rotation. The first stop elements are also arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation and spaced apart from one another circumferentially. The distance between the first stop elements and the axis of rotation is greater than the distance between a first stop device, which is configured to prevent movement of stored workpieces in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, and the axis of rotation.

[0012] The first lifting devices described above allow for a further improvement in space utilization (with regard to the storage system). Especially when a large number of (plate-shaped) workpieces are arranged in a star-shaped pattern around a rotational axis, gaps may exist between the workpieces. The width of these gaps can increase with increasing distance from the rotational axis. The first lifting devices (particularly their positioning) make it possible to also use these gaps for storing workpieces (which may have a smaller width and / or length).

[0013] According to the invention, at least two adjacent first lifting elements simultaneously serve as guides. Specifically, the first lifting elements are configured to guide workpieces that are pushed radially between the at least two adjacent first lifting elements with respect to the axis of rotation.

[0014] Such multiple use of the initial lifting equipment allows for the provision of a cost-effective storage facility that still offers at least some of the advantages and / or effects described above.

[0015] The storage system described above also makes it possible to move several workpieces held by the storage system (sequentially) to the same or a similar removal position. This can be achieved simply and efficiently, in particular, by the rotatability of the storage unit with respect to the axis of rotation. If several workpieces are assigned the same or a similar removal position, a substantially identical (and correspondingly short) removal cycle time can be achieved for all workpieces. This, in turn, can lead to reduced manufacturing costs.

[0016] A further cost advantage can be achieved through the space utilization made possible by the arrangement of the workpieces in the storage system as described above. In particular, this allows for a smaller footprint for the storage system, thereby saving on secondary costs.

[0017] Furthermore, a storage facility as described above can be advantageously suited for the simultaneous storage of different workpieces (e.g. workpieces with different dimensions).

[0018] The term "plate-shaped workpiece" essentially describes a workpiece that has a smaller dimension in a first spatial direction than in a second and third spatial direction. The first, second, and third spatial directions can be orthogonal to each other. The spatial direction in which the workpiece has the smallest dimension (e.g., the first spatial direction) can be called the thickness direction. One of the second and third spatial directions can be called the longitudinal direction. The other of the second and third spatial directions can be called the width direction. For example, the greatest dimension of a plate-shaped workpiece can be called the longitudinal direction.

[0019] A plate-shaped workpiece preferably has a constant thickness. However, a plate-shaped workpiece can also have a variable thickness. A plate-shaped workpiece can be rectangular, for example, but it is not limited to this shape. The outer contour (with respect to a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction) can also be any shape (e.g., a circular contour, an oval contour, a trapezoidal contour, etc.). Furthermore, the outer contour can be sharp-edged, rounded, or have any cross-section.

[0020] A workpiece mentioned at the outset can also be strip-shaped. The term "strip-shaped workpiece" essentially describes a workpiece that has a smaller dimension with respect to a first spatial direction and equally with respect to a second spatial direction than with respect to a third spatial direction. The first spatial direction can be referred to, for example, as the thickness direction. The second spatial direction can be referred to, for example, as the width direction. The third spatial direction can be referred to, for example, as the longitudinal direction. When strip-shaped workpieces are held in the storage device described above, the longitudinal directions are preferably oriented radially with respect to the axis of rotation.

[0021] To enable the storage area to rotate, it can be connected to a base unit via a bearing mechanism. The base unit can be designed to be connected to a mounting location (e.g., bolted on). The storage system can be configured such that the storage area has one rotational degree of freedom relative to the base unit, or that the storage area has only one rotational degree of freedom relative to the base unit.

[0022] The term "rotatable, at least in sections" encompasses both rotation limited by the angle of rotation and rotation unlimited by the angle of rotation. Examples include rotation up to 45°, up to 60°, up to 180°, up to 270°, up to 360°, or even continuous rotation. The rotation can be limited to a single direction or encompass multiple directions (e.g., forward and backward).

[0023] The first stop device is preferably a substantially flat surface, in particular a flat surface rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis of rotation. Most preferably, the first stop device, designed as a flat surface, is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The first stop device can, in particular, be the floor of a storage area.

[0024] With the first stop device described above, a simple and efficient method for securing workpieces against falling out can be provided. The first stop device can thus also serve to protect the workpieces from damage. Furthermore, particularly with workpieces of varying dimensions, an area can be identified (e.g., an area near the first stop device) in which at least one section of all stored workpieces is located. This allows for the definition of a reproducible gripping position for a removal device.

[0025] The storage device according to the invention can further comprise a plurality of first stop devices, each arranged at a distance from one another with respect to the direction of the axis of rotation. In this way, it is possible to arrange a plurality of workpieces side by side (i.e., one above the other, provided the axis of rotation is oriented parallel to the direction of gravity) with respect to the direction of the axis of rotation. In particular, a varying number of second stop devices can be provided with respect to the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation.

[0026] In this way, it is possible to further increase the flexibility of a corresponding storage facility.

[0027] The storage device according to the invention can further comprise a second stop device configured to prevent movement of stored workpieces in a direction radial to the axis of rotation. The second stop device can, for example, have a substantially cylindrical surface, in particular a cylindrical surface rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis of rotation. Alternatively or additionally, the second stop device can have a substantially conical surface, in particular a cylindrical surface rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis of rotation. Alternatively or additionally, the second stop device can have a plurality of second stop elements arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation.The second stop device can, for example, be selectively adjustable so that different second stops have different distances from the axis of rotation. This makes it possible to stop workpieces of different dimensions in such a way that the radially outer edges of the workpieces have the same distance from the axis of rotation. In this way, a standardized removal process can be promoted even with workpieces of different dimensions.

[0028] The storage device according to the invention, comprising first guide means, can further comprise a plurality of second guide means. The second guide means can be arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation, and a gap can be formed between each pair of second guide means, which is suitable for radially inserting a (plate-shaped) workpiece with respect to the axis of rotation into the storage area of ​​the storage device. The distance between the second guide means and the axis of rotation can be less than the distance between the first guide means and the axis of rotation. If second guide means are provided in addition to the first guide means, the positional accuracy of the workpieces stored in the storage device can be improved.Furthermore, it can be simplified to fix (plate-shaped) workpieces of varying dimensions (especially workpieces with comparatively small dimensions) in the storage device and, for example, to secure them against slipping.

[0029] In the storage device according to the invention, the second stop device, the first stop means, the second stop means, the first guide means, and / or the second guide means can be formed exclusively in a first end section of the storage area with respect to the axis of rotation, or they can extend substantially over the entire storage area of ​​the storage device with respect to the axial direction of the axis of rotation. The first end section is preferably an end section in which the first stop device is formed. If one or more of the aforementioned means and / or devices extend over the entire storage area with respect to the axial direction of the axis of rotation, secure positioning can be promoted, particularly for workpieces with complex boundary contours.However, if the relevant resources and / or facilities are only provided in one end section, this can have a positive effect on the manufacturing costs of the storage system. Furthermore, a storage system with a low mass can be provided, which in turn can result in lower energy consumption during acceleration and braking.

[0030] In the bearing device according to the invention, the first stop device, the second stop device, the first stop means, the second stop means, the first guide means, and / or the second guide means can have a brush structure. This makes it possible to counteract damage to workpieces (in particular: workpiece edges) by the bearing device.

[0031] The storage device according to the invention can further be configured to fix workpieces received in the storage area. In particular, the storage device can be configured to fix workpieces temporarily, and preferably also selectively. In this way, it is possible to secure the workpieces against any process forces (e.g., centrifugal forces during a rotational movement of the storage area of ​​the storage device), while at the same time enabling efficient removal of workpieces. Fixing can be achieved, for example, by clamping, vacuum, or positive locking.

[0032] In the bearing arrangement according to the invention, the position of the first stop device can be adjusted, at least section by section, in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation. Furthermore, the position of at least one of the first stop elements, at least one of the second stop elements, at least one of the first guide elements, and / or at least one of the second guide elements with respect to the axis of rotation can be adjusted circumferentially and / or radially. The adjustability of the first guide elements can be automated, for example, using actuators. Examples of actuators include, in particular, electrically operated actuators, hydraulically operated actuators, pneumatically operated actuators, and / or magnetically operated actuators. In this way, it is possible to flexibly adapt the bearing arrangement to different workpiece geometries.

[0033] The storage device according to the invention can further comprise an actuator, in particular an electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically operated actuator, which is configured to rotate the storage area of ​​the storage device in a circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation. This makes it possible to move several workpieces held by the storage device automatically, for example, without operator intervention, to the same or a similar removal position. Thus, the advantages of the storage device can be enhanced by the actuator described above.

[0034] The storage device described above can further be configured such that the storage area, with respect to the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation, can reproducibly assume any position from a predetermined number of distinct positions. The predetermined number preferably corresponds to the sum of the number of first lifting devices and the number of second lifting devices. In particular, the storage device can be designed to move each workpiece to the same position, at least with respect to the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation, thereby standardizing a retrieval routine and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0035] Furthermore, the storage system can include means for measuring and / or outputting the rotational position of the storage area. Examples of such means include rotary encoders, position encoders, reed relays, RFID chips, or optical systems such as QR codes. By measuring the rotational position, any positional errors can be detected early, thus preventing processing errors. Similarly, a potentially incorrect or inaccurate position of the storage area can be corrected, thereby promoting greater positional accuracy.

[0036] The storage system according to the invention comprises one or more storage devices according to the invention, as well as at least one industrial robot. Preferably, the industrial robot is an industrial robot with six-axis kinematics. The industrial robot has a robot gripper configured to hold a workpiece in the region of one of its narrow sides. The storage system preferably also comprises at least one conveying device, in particular a conveyor belt and / or a roller conveyor.

[0037] The storage system described above provides a simple and efficient way to remove various workpieces from a storage facility and supply them to a machining facility with an essentially constant cycle time.

[0038] The storage system according to the invention can further comprise a control unit configured to control a position with respect to the circumferential direction of the rotation axis of the storage area of ​​at least one storage device. In particular, the control unit can be configured to control positions with respect to the circumferential directions of the rotation axes of the storage areas of several storage devices independently of one another. Furthermore, the control unit can be configured to control a traverse movement of the industrial robot, and preferably also at least one parameter of the conveying device, in particular an operation and / or a speed of the conveying device.

[0039] A control unit as described above can advantageously coordinate various components of the storage system. In particular, a control unit can coordinate the cycle times of different components. This makes it possible to parallelize handling processes and minimize production times.

[0040] In the use of a storage device or storage system as described above, according to the invention, the axis of rotation is oriented essentially parallel to the direction of gravity. Preferably, the first stop device is also formed in a lower end section of the storage area. This enables particularly simple and efficient workpiece removal. For example, workpieces can be removed (or gripped) for removal from the area of ​​an outer circumferential section (with respect to the axis of rotation) of the storage area.

[0041] Furthermore, a method for handling workpieces, in particular plate-shaped workpieces, is disclosed. The workpieces preferably consist at least partially of wood, wood-containing material, composite material, plastic, aluminum, or the like, and each have a length, a width, and a thickness. In carrying out the method, a storage device or one of the storage systems described above is used. The method according to the invention comprises at least the following steps: Removing a workpiece from a storage area of ​​a storage device, wherein the storage area of ​​the storage device is rotatably mounted with respect to a rotation axis oriented substantially parallel to the direction of gravity, and wherein the workpiece is oriented in the storage area of ​​the storage device before removal such that the width direction or the length direction of the workpiece is oriented substantially radially with respect to the rotation axis, and that the other width or length direction of the workpiece is oriented substantially parallel to the rotation axis; rotating the storage area of ​​the storage device about the rotation axis.

[0042] Preferably, prior to the removal step, a plurality of workpieces are arranged in the storage area of ​​the storage device in such a way that the width directions or the length directions of all workpieces are oriented substantially radially with respect to the axis of rotation, and that the other width or length directions of all workpieces are oriented substantially parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0043] The method according to the invention can be attributed comparable or similar advantages and effects to the storage facilities and / or storage systems described above.

[0044] In the method according to the invention, the workpieces can furthermore be arranged alternately in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation such that any two adjacent workpieces have different dimensions in the radial direction of the axis of rotation. This can be achieved, for example, using first and second support elements, as described above with regard to the storage device. The alternating arrangement described above can further improve space utilization (with regard to the storage device).

[0045] Preferably, the narrow sides of all workpieces located on the outer edge of the radial direction of the rotation axis (before the removal step) have essentially the same distance from the rotation axis. This makes it possible to provide the same or similar removal positions for several workpieces (even those with different geometries), thereby further increasing the efficiency of the removal process.

[0046] Furthermore, in the inventive method, the removal step can be carried out at least partially with an industrial robot, preferably an industrial robot with six-axis kinematics. The industrial robot can have a gripper. The removal step can include gripping the workpiece in the region of a narrow side of the workpiece located radially outside the axis of rotation. The use of an industrial robot as described above can be associated with high accuracy and speed with regard to the removal process. Moreover, such industrial robots are suitable for handling workpieces of widely varying sizes and masses, thereby improving the flexibility of the removal process.

[0047] The method according to the invention can include a feeding step of the removed workpiece into a conveying device. In particular, the feeding step can involve placing the removed workpiece onto a conveyor belt. This makes it possible to efficiently cover potentially long distances between a storage device or storage system and a processing device. Furthermore, a conveying device can be attributed a certain buffering effect, thus making it possible to compensate for (unforeseen) fluctuations in the processing time of a processing device.

[0048] The method according to the invention can further include a step of feeding the removed workpiece into a machine tool, in particular placing the workpiece onto a machining table of a machine tool. Preferably, the method further comprises the execution of at least one machining operation by the machine tool. Particularly preferably, the storage device, the industrial robot, the conveyor device, and / or the machine tool have a common control unit. Alternatively, the storage device, the industrial robot, the conveyor device, and / or the machine tool can each have their own control unit, wherein all of the respective control units are configured to exchange signals with each other of the respective control units.

[0049] In the method described above, synchronization of cycle times of individual process steps can be promoted simply and efficiently.

[0050] In the method according to the invention, a plurality of storage devices can be provided. Preferably, all storage devices (in particular the axes of rotation of all storage devices) are arranged at substantially equal distances from the industrial robot. Particularly preferably, during the removal of a workpiece from a first storage device of the plurality of storage devices, a storage area of ​​a second storage device of the plurality of storage devices is rotated about an axis of rotation of the second storage device. The rotation of a second storage device during the removal of a workpiece from a first storage device can be considered a parallelization of process steps. Such parallelization can make it possible to reduce production times and improve process efficiency. Brief description of the drawings

[0051] Further features and advantages of the device, use, and / or method according to the invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings show: Fig. 1a a perspective view of an embodiment of the bearing device according to the invention; Fig. 1a a top view of various embodiments of the bearing device according to the invention; Fig. 2a an enlarged view of detail X from Fig. 1b ; Fig. 2 leg enlarged view of detail Y from Fig. 1b ; Fig. 3a a perspective view of an embodiment of the bearing system according to the invention; Fig. 3b a top view of an embodiment of the bearing system according to the invention. Description of embodiments

[0052] The embodiments described below are merely examples and are not to be considered limiting. Identical reference numerals appearing in different figures denote identical, corresponding, or functionally similar elements.

[0053] Fig. 1aFigure 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a storage device 1 according to the invention for storing plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c. The storage device 1 has a storage area that is rotatable with respect to an axis of rotation 5. In the illustrated case, the storage area is a section of the storage device 1 in which the plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c are arranged in a substantially star-shaped pattern. A plurality of plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c are held in the storage area of ​​the storage device 1 such that their lateral directions are oriented substantially radially with respect to the axis of rotation 5. Furthermore, the plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c are arranged in the storage area such that their longitudinal directions are oriented substantially parallel to the axis of rotation 5.The depicted plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c are essentially rectangular and have essentially the same lengths, widths, and thicknesses. The thickness directions of the plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c are oriented circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation 5. The storage device 1 (in particular: the storage area of ​​the storage device 1) has a first stop device 3. This first stop device is configured to prevent movement of the stored plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 5. Such movement could, for example, be caused by a gravitational force. In the [reference to figure] . Fig. 1aIn the case shown, the first stop device 3 is a substantially planar surface that is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis of rotation 5. Furthermore, the first stop device 3 is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation 5. In the case shown in Fig. 1a In the case shown, the first stop device 3 can also be referred to as a base plate (in particular as a circular base plate).

[0054] Fig. 1b Figure 1 shows various embodiments of the bearing device according to the invention, each as a fractured view of a top view. In particular, a left area is shown in Figure 2. Fig. 1b A fractured view of a top view of a first embodiment of the bearing device according to the invention. A right-hand area in Fig. 1b shows a fractured view of a top view of a second embodiment of the bearing device according to the invention. Fig. 2a shows an enlarged view of detail X from the first embodiment in Fig. 1b . Fig. 2b shows an enlarged view of detail Y of the second embodiment Fig. 1b .

[0055] The first embodiment (see left area in Fig. 1b , as well as Fig. 2a ) the bearing device according to the invention essentially corresponds to the one described in Fig. 1ain the illustrated embodiment. However, the first embodiment of the storage device further comprises a second stop device 9. The second stop device 9 is designed to prevent movement of stored plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c in a direction radial to the axis of rotation 5. In particular, the second stop device 9 is designed such that plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c, which are to be placed in the storage area of ​​the storage device, can only penetrate radially (with respect to the axis of rotation) into the storage device up to a predetermined location. The second stop device 9 has a substantially cylindrical surface that is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis of rotation. The second stop device 9 can also be considered an inner wall that is formed substantially parallel to the axis of rotation 5.In a section of the second stop device 9 that is radially inward with respect to the axis of rotation 5, a bearing element (for example, a rolling bearing and / or a plain bearing, or a group of rolling bearings and / or plain bearings) can be provided. The illustrated configuration of the second stop device 9 can therefore also be considered advantageous insofar as it can protect the bearing element from contamination. For this purpose, the second stop device 9 is preferably designed as a closed surface.

[0056] The storage device 1 according to the invention further comprises a plurality of first guide means 11a, 11b, which are arranged substantially circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation 5. A gap is formed between each pair of first guide means 11a, 11b, which is suitable for radially inserting (with respect to the axis of rotation 5) plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c into the storage area of ​​the storage device 1. The width of the gap corresponds at least to the thickness of the workpieces to be stored. Preferably, the gap width deviates from the thickness of the workpieces to be stored by no more than 20%, and particularly preferably by no more than 10%.

[0057] The storage device 1 according to the invention further comprises a plurality of first lifting means 15a, 15b.

[0058] In the illustrated state, the first lifting elements primarily perform a guiding and stabilizing function (in particular, a radial guiding function with respect to the axis of rotation 5, and a stabilizing function oriented circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation 5), similar to the first guiding elements 11a, 11b. The first lifting elements 15a, 15b are furthermore arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation 5, such that the distance between each of the first lifting elements 15a, 15b and the axis of rotation 5 is greater than the distance between the first stopping device 9 and the axis of rotation 5. The first lifting elements 15a, 15b are also arranged circumferentially spaced apart from one another, such that a gap is formed between each pair of the first lifting elements 15a, 15b, which is suitable for inserting a plate-shaped workpiece between them.For the gap between each pair of first lifting devices 15a, 15b, similar conditions can apply as already described above with regard to the first guiding devices 11a, 11b.

[0059] The storage device 1 according to the first embodiment further comprises a plurality of second guide means 13a, 13b, 17a, 17b. The second guide means 13a, 13b, 17a, 17b are arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation 5, with a gap formed between each pair of second guide means 13a, 13b, 17a, 17b, which is suitable for radially inserting a plate-shaped workpiece 7a, 7b, 7c with respect to the axis of rotation 5 into the storage area of ​​the storage device 1. The distance between the second guide means 13a, 13b, 17a, 17b and the axis of rotation 5 is less than the distance between the first guide means 11a, 11b and the axis of rotation. Furthermore, the distance between the outer second guide means 13a, 13b and the axis of rotation 5 is less than the distance between the inner second guide means 17a, 17b and the axis of rotation.

[0060] The first guide elements 11a, 11b and the first lifting elements 15a, 15b can extend over the entire height (direction parallel to the axis of rotation 5). The second guide elements 13a, 13b, 17a, 17b can, for example, be provided exclusively in the upper and / or lower end sections (with respect to the axis of rotation 5) of the storage area.

[0061] A storage device 1 of the first embodiment can be assigned a predetermined number n of storage locations (with respect to plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c). In the case of the first embodiment, the number of first guide elements 11a, 11b can be at least or exactly 2n. Furthermore, the number of outer second guide elements 13a, 13b can be at least or exactly 2n. Likewise, the number of inner second guide elements 17a, 17b can be at least or exactly 2n. The number of first stop elements 15a, 15b can be at least or exactly n.

[0062] The second embodiment of the bearing device 1 according to the invention (see right-hand section in Fig. 1b , as well as Fig. 2b The second embodiment essentially corresponds to the first embodiment, except that the internal second guide means 17a, 17b are omitted. Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, additional plate-shaped workpieces 7'a, 7'b, 7'c, each with a smaller width, are arranged in the storage device 1. The first stop means 15a, 15b (which in the first embodiment primarily provide guidance for the plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c) also act as radial stops for the plate-shaped workpieces 7'a, 7'b, 7'c in the second embodiment. As shown, for example, in Fig. 2bAs can be seen, the narrow sides of all plate-shaped workpieces 7a, 7b, 7c, 7'a, 7'b, 7'c which are on the outside with respect to the radial direction of the axis of rotation have essentially the same distance to the axis of rotation 5.

[0063] Fig. 3a shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a bearing system 100 according to the invention.

[0064] Fig. 3b shows a top view of an embodiment of a bearing system 100 according to the invention. The embodiment from Fig. 3b can the embodiment Fig. 3a are equivalent to.

[0065] The in Fig. 3a and 3bThe illustrated storage systems 100 comprise eight storage devices 1 according to the invention, an industrial robot 10, and a conveyor 20. Each of the storage devices 1 is configured to rotate a storage area 1 about a rotational axis 5. Possible directions of rotation are indicated by the reference numeral R. The illustrated industrial robot 10 is a six-axis robot, but another type can also be used, for example, a linear robot or a gantry robot. The industrial robot 10 has at least one robot gripper configured to hold a plate-shaped workpiece in the region of one of its narrow sides. The conveyor 20 is designed as a conveyor belt or a roller conveyor. The industrial robot 10 is arranged (with respect to a direction of gravity) above the conveyor 20 such that the conveyor 20 can convey workpieces below the industrial robot 10.The axes 5 of all storage devices 1 are spaced at essentially equal distances from a mounting platform of the industrial robot 10.

[0066] In Fig. 3b A processing machine 40 is shown schematically, which is connected to the conveying device 20 in terms of conveying technology and / or control technology.

[0067] Although the embodiments described above are illustrated by way of example using plate-shaped workpieces, the plate-shaped workpieces can also be replaced by other types of workpieces, for example strip-shaped workpieces or a combination of plate-shaped and strip-shaped workpieces, without deviating from the concept of the present disclosure.

[0068] Without reference to a specific figure, an embodiment of the storage device according to the invention is also conceivable which has several storage areas. These several storage areas can, for example, be moved rotationally about a first axis of rotation, then translationally, then rotationally about a second axis, and then translationally again, comparable to the path of a conveyor belt.

[0069] Although various embodiments of devices and methods according to the present disclosure are described above by way of example, it should be understood that these are merely non-limiting examples. It is clearly apparent to the person skilled in the art that variations with respect to geometries and other details can be made without departing from the concept of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A storage apparatus (1) for stocking workpieces (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7'a, 7'b, 7'c), in particular plate-shaped workpieces, which preferably consist at least partially of wood, wood-containing material, composite material, plastic, aluminium or the like, and which each have a length, a width and a thickness, wherein the storage apparatus (1) has at least one stocking area which is configured to be rotatable at least sectionwise with respect to an axis of rotation (5), the stocking area of the storage apparatus (1) is configured such to accommodate a plurality of workpieces (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7'a, 7'b, 7'c), in particular a plurality of plate-shaped workpieces, in such a manner that the width directions or the length directions of the workpieces (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7'a, 7'b, 7'c) are oriented substantially radially with respect to the axis of rotation (5), and that the respective other width or length directions of the workpieces (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7'a, 7'b, 7'c) are oriented substantially parallel to the axis of rotation (5), the storage apparatus (1) further: has a first abutment apparatus (3) which is configured to prevent a movement of stocked workpieces (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7'a, 7'b, 7'c) in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation (5), and which has a plurality of first guide means (11, 11a, 11b), which are arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation (5), wherein a gap is formed between each of two first guide means (11, 11a, 11b) which is suitable for radially inserting a workpiece (7, 7a, 7b, 7c) with respect to the axis of rotation (5) into the stocking area of the storage apparatus (1), and characterized in that the storage apparatus (1) has a plurality of first abutment means (15, 15a, 15b) which are configured to prevent a movement of stocked workpieces (7'a, 7'b, 7'c) in a direction radial to the axis of rotation (5), wherein the first abutment means (15, 15a, 15b) are arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation (5), and circumferentially spaced apart from each other, wherein the distance between the first abutment means (15, 15a, 15b) and the axis of rotation (5) is greater than the distance between a first abutment apparatus (3) and the axis of rotation (5), and wherein at least two adjacent, but preferably all, first abutment means (15, 15a, 15b) are arranged such to guide workpieces (7, 7a, 7b, 7c) which are pushed radially between the at least two adjacent first abutment means (15, 15a, 15b) with respect to the axis of rotation (5).

2. The storage apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first abutment apparatus (3) has a substantially flat surface, in particular a flat surface rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis of rotation (5), which is particularly preferably substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation (5).

3. The storage apparatus (1) according to claim 1 or 2, having a second abutment apparatus (9), configured to prevent a movement of stocked workpieces (7, 7a, 7b, 7c) in a direction radial to the axis of rotation (5), wherein the second abutment apparatus (9) preferably has a substantially cylindrical or conical surface, in particular a cylindrical or conical surface that is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis of rotation.

4. The storage apparatus (1) according to claim 3, wherein the second abutment apparatus has a plurality of second abutment means which are arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation (5).

5. The storage apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, which further comprises a plurality of second guide means (13, 13a, 13b, 13c, 11, 11a, 17b) which are arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation (5), wherein a gap is formed between each of two second guide means (13, 13a, 13b, 13c, 17, 11a, 17b) which is suitable for radially inserting a workpiece (7, 7a, 7b, 7c) into the stocking area of the storage apparatus (1) with respect to the axis of rotation (5), and wherein the distance between the second guide means (13, 13a, 13b, 13c, 17, 11a, 17b) and the axis of rotation (5) is less than the distance between the first guide means (11, 11a, 11b) and the axis of rotation.

6. The storage apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the second abutment apparatus (9), the first abutment means (15, 15a, 15b), the second abutment means, the first guide means (11, 11a, 11b) and / or the second guide means (13, 13a, 13b, 13c, 17, 11a, 17b) are formed exclusively in a first end section of the stocking area with respect to the axis of rotation (5), or extend substantially over the entire stocking area of the storage apparatus (1) with respect to the axial direction of the axis of rotation (5), wherein the first end section is preferably an end section in which the first abutment apparatus (3) is formed.

7. The storage apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the first abutment apparatus (3), the second abutment apparatus, the first abutment means (15, 15a, 15b), the second abutment means, the first guide means (11, 11a, 11b), and / or the second guide means (13, 13a, 13b, 17, 11a, 17b) have a brush structure.

8. The storage apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, which is further configured such to fix workpieces (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7'a, 7'b, 7'c) received in the stocking area, in particular to fix temporarily, and preferably to fix selectively.

9. The storage apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the position of the first abutment apparatus (3) is adjustable at least sectionwise in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation (5).

10. The storage apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 9, wherein the position of at least one first abutment means (15, 15a, 15b), at least one second abutment means, at least one first guide means (11, 11a, 11b) and / or at least one second guide means (13, 13a, 13b, 13c, 17, 11a, 17b) is adjustable with respect to the axis of rotation (5) in the circumferential direction and / or in the radial direction.

11. The storage apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, which further has an actuator, in particular an electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically operated actuator, which is configured such to rotate the stocking area of the storage apparatus (1) in a circumferential direction of the axis of rotation (5).

12. The storage apparatus according to claim 11, which is arranged in such a manner that the stocking area with respect to the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation (5) can reproducibly assume any position from a predetermined number of different positions, wherein the predetermined number preferably corresponds to the sum of the number of the first abutment means (15, 15a, 15b) and the second abutment means.

13. The storage apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, which further comprises means for measuring and / or outputting a rotational position of the stocking area.

14. A storage system (100) with: one or more storage apparatuses (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; an industrial robot (10), in particular an industrial robot with six-axis kinematics, wherein the industrial robot has a robot gripper, configured to hold a workpiece (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7'a, 7'b, 7'c) in the area of a narrow side thereof, wherein the storage system preferably further comprises at least one conveying apparatus (20), in particular a conveyor belt and / or a roller belt.

15. The storage system according to claim 14, which further has a control unit, that is configured such to control a position with respect to the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation (5) of the stocking area of the at least one storage apparatus (1), wherein the control unit is in particular configured such to control positions with respect to the circumferential directions of the rotation axes (5) of the stocking areas of several storage apparatuses (1) independently of one another, wherein the control unit is further configured such to control a traversing movement of the industrial robot (10), and preferably also a parameter of the conveying apparatus (20), in particular an operation and / or a speed of the conveying apparatus (20).

16. A use of a storage apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15 or a storage system according to any one of claims 14 or 15, wherein the axis of rotation (5) is oriented substantially parallel to the direction of gravity, and wherein the first abutment apparatus (3) is preferably formed in a lower end section of the stocking area.

17. A method for handling workpieces, in particular plate-shaped workpieces (7, 7a, 7b, 7c), which preferably consist at least partially of wood, wood-containing material, composite material, plastic, aluminium or the like, each having a length, a width and a thickness, wherein the method is carried out using a storage unit according to any one of claims 1 to 13 and / or a storage system according to any one of claims 14 or 15, and wherein the method has at least the following steps: - removing a workpiece, in particular a plate-shaped workpiece, from the stocking area of the storage apparatus (1); - rotating the stocking area of the storage apparatus (1) about the axis of rotation (2).

18. The method according to claim 17, in which, prior to the step of removing, a plurality of workpieces are arranged in the stocking area of the storage apparatus in such a manner that the width directions or the length directions of all workpieces with respect to the axis of rotation (5) are essentially radially oriented, and that the other width or length directions of all workpieces (7, 7a, 7b, 7c) are essentially parallel to the axis of rotation (5).

19. The method according to claim 18, in which the plate-shaped workpieces are arranged in such a manner alternately in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation (5) that each pair of adjacent workpieces has a different extent in the radial direction of the axis of rotation (5).

20. The method according to claim 19, in which, prior to the step of removing, the outer narrow sides of all workpieces with respect to the radial direction of the axis of rotation have substantially the same distance to the axis of rotation (5).

21. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 20, in which the step of removing is carried out at least partially with an industrial robot (10), preferably an industrial robot with a six-axis kinematics, wherein the industrial robot has a gripper, and wherein the step of removing includes gripping the workpiece in the region of a narrow side of the workpiece, located outside in the radial direction of the axis of rotation (5).

22. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 21, further with the step: feeding the removed workpiece into a conveying apparatus, in particular, placing the removed workpiece onto a conveyor belt.

23. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 22, further with the step: feeding the removed workpiece into a processing machine, in particular, placing the workpiece on a processing table of a processing machine.

24. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 23, in which a plurality of storage apparatuses (1) are provided, which are preferably arranged at substantially equal intervals from the industrial robot (10), wherein, during removing a workpiece from a first storage apparatus of the plurality of storage apparatuses, a stocking area of a second storage apparatus of the plurality of storage apparatuses is rotated about an axis of rotation (5) of the second storage apparatus.