STORAGE ARRANGEMENT FOR MATERIAL CONVEYING DEVICES

Description

1. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a bearing arrangement for a tube roll, such as for a tube roll of a roll feeder. A force acts essentially in a radial direction to create a rotationally fixed connection between a bearing shaft of the bearing arrangement and a tube roll of a roll feeder.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a roller feed, comprising at least one corresponding bearing arrangement. 2. State of the art

[0003] Material handling devices, especially roller feeders and gripper feeders, are used, for example, for conveying and advancing, particularly for the timed advancing of workpieces such as strip or ribbon material. Roller feeders are used, for instance, in stamping applications. Here, the workpiece is advanced at a timed interval, with the feed rate synchronized with a stamping tool.

[0004] Roller feeders are also known from other fields of application. For example, a roller feeder can have a profiled roller and, as the workpiece is advanced, imprint or stamp the corresponding profile into the workpiece.

[0005] The principle of roller feeding is fundamentally based on at least two rollers, with at least one first roller positioned on one side (e.g., above) of the workpiece being conveyed and a second roller on the opposite side (e.g., below). When the roller feeding system comprises two rollers, these are typically arranged opposite each other. Other arrangements are also possible. For example, a roller feeding system can include three rollers (or any other number of rollers), with the rollers arranged offset from one another so that the workpiece is conveyed through the rollers in a wave-like motion.

[0006] At least one of the rollers is a driven roller. To feed / convey the workpiece, it is inserted into a gap formed between the rollers. The workpiece is then advanced / conveyed by the synchronous rotation of the rollers. The rotational speed of the rollers determines the conveying / feed speed.

[0007] In material handling systems, especially roller feeders, the rollers must be supported. The requirements for these supports include, among other things, reliability and ease of assembly / disassembly. In particular, rollers may become damaged during their service life and need to be replaced. Furthermore, a roller with a different profile, such as a different profile, may be installed. The replacement / installation process should be simplified and require minimal personnel. Additionally, the support itself should be resistant to damage, especially under overload conditions, such as high torque.

[0008] Conventional rollers typically consist of a roller body to which bearing shafts are fixed on both sides. These bearing shafts support the roller, transmit output torque, and / or receive input torque. Each roller is typically supported separately. An input shaft from a motor or gearbox, which transmits input torque to the roller, or an output shaft, which receives output torque from the roller, must also be supported. Therefore, a roller assembly typically requires at least four bearing points.

[0009] A further development of this aforementioned type of bearing is, for example, the prior art disclosed in EP 3 974 079 A1 of the present applicant. This discloses a tube roll with a rolling surface having a hollow interior. Furthermore, the tube roll has a first and a second bearing surface. The diameter of the second bearing surface is smaller than the diameter of the first bearing surface. The bearing surfaces are integrally formed with the tube roll. This allows for simplified installation of the tube roll in a roll feeder. For example, the tube roll can be inserted into or removed from the roll feeder in the axial direction with the smaller bearing diameter of the second bearing surface leading.

[0010] The prior art according to DE 20 2022 001624 U1 of the present applicant proposes a further solution for the bearing arrangement. It discloses a roller feed unit comprising a base body, a tube roller, and a bearing shaft. The bearing shaft and the tube roller are designed to be detachably connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner. The detachable connection between the bearing shaft and the tube roller is provided by a driver. The tube roller can be easily separated from the bearing shaft and axially inserted into and removed from the base body and / or from the roller feed unit (cf. Fig. 1 ).

[0011] DE 39 08 010 A1 shows another bearing device for a pipe roller with an actuating device and a coupling element.

[0012] The proposals made in the prior art for the bearing of rotating bodies, especially for rollers in roller feeders, in recent years have already shown considerable progress in terms of flexibility, reliability, and applicability. However, there is still a need for improvement.

[0013] One object of the present invention is therefore to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, the present invention addresses the problem of providing a bearing arrangement for tube rolls of roll feeders that enables a flexible and secure connection between the tube roll and the base body. The bearing arrangement is intended to meet the aforementioned requirements. Furthermore, the bearing arrangement is intended to facilitate simplified installation and removal of a roll in the roll feeder. Generally, it is an object of the invention to provide a bearing arrangement that is structurally simple and cost-effective. In addition, a roll feeder is to be provided that incorporates the advantages of the bearing arrangement and enables simplified installation or easy replacement of the tube roll(s). 3. Summary of the invention

[0014] The above problems, as well as further problems arising from the following description, are solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims, and the person skilled in the art will find references to other suitable embodiments of the present invention in the disclosure of the present application.

[0015] The aims and objectives of the present invention are achieved, among other things, by a bearing arrangement for a pipe roll and a corresponding roll feed. The technical characteristics, advantages, and improvements over the prior art of the bearing arrangement, as described below, apply equally to the roll feed. Bearing arrangement for a pipe roller

[0016] One 1.An embodiment of the invention relates to a bearing arrangement for a pipe roll, such as for a pipe roll of a roll feed, the bearing arrangement comprising: a bearing shaft configured to engage with the pipe roll and with a base body of the roll feed; a central clamping device extending at least partially axially through the bearing shaft and configured to convert the bearing arrangement into an assembled state, in which the bearing shaft is rotationally fixed to the pipe roll, and into a disassembled state; wherein the bearing shaft has a through-opening in which the central clamping device is at least partially received; wherein the central clamping device is configured such that, in the assembled state of the bearing arrangement, a force acts substantially in a radial direction between the bearing shaft and the pipe roll to connect the bearing shaft to the pipe roll in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0017] The bearing arrangement according to the invention enables flexible and secure mounting of the tube roll of the roll feed and a simplified connection between the bearing arrangement and the tube roll. In particular, this connection can be easily disconnected. Thus, simplified removal of the tube roll from the roll feed is possible. Advantageously, extensive disassembly of the roll feed is not necessary. The central clamping device, for example, allows the bearing shaft of the bearing arrangement to remain in the roll feed during disassembly. When reinstalling the tube roll or a different tube roll, the tube roll can be connected to the bearing arrangement without significant personnel effort.

[0018] The bearing shaft is designed to engage with the tube roll and with a base body of the roll feed. This can be understood as the bearing shaft being supported within the base body. For example, the bearing shaft can have one or more bearing surfaces that can interact with one or more bearings (rotational bearings such as plain bearings or roller bearings). The one or more bearings can be enclosed by the feed and interact with bearing surfaces of the base body. Therefore, the bearing shaft can be rotatably mounted about a corresponding axis of rotation.

[0019] The base body can be a component of the roll feed. In particular, the base body can be a supporting element of the roll feed. The base body can be made up of multiple parts and, for example, include a housing.

[0020] The base body can be designed such that the pipe roll can be removed from it axially. The axial direction can be essentially parallel to the axis of rotation of the pipe roll. Preferably, the axial direction coincides essentially with the axis of rotation of the pipe roll. The pipe roll can preferably be removed from a side of the base body on which there are essentially no drive elements for transmitting movements to or from the pipe roll.

[0021] For axial removal of the pipe roll, the base body can, for example, have an installation opening through which the pipe roll can be inserted or removed axially. The installation opening can be closed with a cap, in particular a centered cap.

[0022] The central clamping device serves to generate forces between components. The central clamping device can comprise one, preferably several, separate components that are detachably connected to each other.

[0023] The term "central" means that the clamping device is located, for example, in a radially central area of ​​the bearing arrangement. The clamping device can also occupy areas radially outside the axis of rotation of the bearing shaft. For example, the central clamping device can be located on the axis of rotation of the bearing shaft and have a dimension, such as a diameter, such that there are areas of the central clamping device that are not located on the axis of rotation.

[0024] The "assembled state" of the bearing arrangement is usually present during operation of the roll feed and / or the tube roll.

[0025] "Rotationally fixed" here means that a rotation of the bearing shaft causes a rotation of the pipe roller and / or vice versa.

[0026] The "disassembled state" can occur during the assembly / disassembly of the pipe roller (this can also be understood as the installation / removal of the pipe roller).

[0027] Due to its assembled and disassembled states, the connection between the bearing shaft and the pipe roll can also be described as a detachable connection. This means that the bearing shaft can be provided separately from the pipe roll. Furthermore, the bearing shaft can be connected to the pipe roll in such a way that, during operation of the roll feed, the bearing shaft and the pipe roll rotate as a single unit around the axis of rotation of the pipe roll (rotationally fixed).

[0028] When installing or removing the first tube roll, the connection can be released, allowing the first tube roll to be removed, preferably without having to remove other components such as the bearing shaft. Advantageously, only axial removal of the first tube roll is required for release. Thus, the bearing arrangement offers the advantage that at least one side of the tube roll is independently supported, and the bearing shaft of the bearing arrangement can remain essentially unchanged in the roll feed during installation or removal. Overall, the bearing arrangement enables efficient and economical operation of the roll feed.

[0029] The "through opening" can encompass a relatively large volume, thus saving material. Furthermore, the central clamping device can be positioned and / or arranged more easily in this way.

[0030] The central clamping device is designed so that, in the assembled state of the bearing arrangement, a force acts essentially in the radial direction between the bearing shaft and the pipe roll, thus connecting the bearing shaft to the pipe roll in a rotationally fixed manner. "Essentially in the radial direction" means that a large proportion of the force acts radially. The force may also have one or more components that point in other spatial directions. In one example, the force has a negligible contribution in the circumferential direction of the pipe roll.

[0031] It is understood that a normal force acting on a surface with roughness can generate forces opposing the direction of motion of the surface (frictional forces). These forces can then act essentially parallel to the surface. However, in this case, the "force essentially in a radial direction" does not refer to such forces caused by the roughness.

[0032] One or more additional components may also be arranged between the bearing shaft and the pipe roller. In such a case, the force is transmitted via these one or more additional components to the pipe roller and, correspondingly, in the opposite direction to the bearing shaft.

[0033] The rotationally fixed connection between the bearing shaft and the pipe roller can be understood as essentially a force-fit connection. This can mean that the connection is essentially not based on a form-fit connection.

[0034] One2. The embodiment relates to the previous embodiment, wherein the bearing shaft is conically shaped at an axial end region, wherein the axial end region, in the assembled state, at least partially overlaps the pipe roller in order to exert the force on the pipe roller.

[0035] Conical can mean that the bearing shaft is shaped like a cone at the corresponding end. For example, the end can be tapered to a point or narrowed. Furthermore, the end can be shaped like a truncated cone.

[0036] The end region can extend over a relatively large axial length of the bearing shaft. For example, the end region can extend over 5% to 50% of the axial length of the bearing shaft.

[0037] The overlap can be understood as the bearing shaft overlapping the pipe roller from the outside or the inside. This can mean that the bearing shaft partially encloses the pipe roller or the pipe roller partially encloses the bearing shaft. Preferably, the bearing shaft overlaps the pipe roller from the inside. This embodiment has the advantage that the connection between the bearing shaft and the pipe roller is simplified. In particular, the force in the radial direction can be influenced by axially displacing the bearing shaft.

[0038] One 3.This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the clamping device comprises a first clamping element and a second clamping element configured to interlock, at least partially. Dividing the clamping device into a first and a second clamping element offers the advantage that the elements are designed separately and allow for flexible assembly. The interlocking can mean that the first and second elements can be screwed together, at least partially.

[0039] One 4.This embodiment relates to the previous embodiment, wherein the first clamping element and the second clamping element are rotatably arranged relative to each other in the disassembled state and / or in the transition from the disassembled state to the assembled state, wherein a rotational movement of the first clamping element causes a translational movement of the bearing shaft relative to the second clamping element in order to reduce an axial distance from the bearing shaft to the pipe roller.

[0040] This embodiment offers the advantage of a simplified design and the ability to adjust the axial distance using a predefined mechanism. Thus, the axial overlap of the bearing shaft and the pipe roller can be changed by a rotary movement. During the transition to the assembled state, the axial overlap is increased. This can result in a greater radial force, making the connection more secure in the assembled state.

[0041] This embodiment can also mean that the first clamping element moves translationally towards the second clamping element due to its rotational movement.

[0042] The axial distance can be determined, for example, by measuring the distance from the first or the opposite second axial end of the bearing shaft to the first or second end of the pipe roll. Alternatively, the axial distance could be determined using the centers of mass of the pipe roll and the bearing shaft.

[0043] One 5. The embodiment relates to one of the preceding embodiments 3 or 4, wherein the first clamping element and the second clamping element are engaged via a screw contact, in particular a thread.

[0044] This facilitates the provision of a connection of the type described herein.

[0045] One 6.This embodiment relates to one of the preceding embodiments 3 to 5, wherein the second clamping element comprises a substantially cylindrical body and a rod element which are detachably connected to one another, preferably by a screw connection, the cylindrical body being configured to be shrunk onto the pipe roll, preferably from the inside. Alternatively or additionally, the cylindrical body can be configured to be welded or glued into the pipe roll.

[0046] The cylindrical body is then adapted to the shape of the pipe roll. Shrinking can be achieved, for example, by changing the temperature of the components involved. "From the inside" means viewed from the cavity of the pipe roll. Shrinking is typically carried out in such a way that even when disassembled, the cylindrical body is shrunk onto the pipe roll and is essentially firmly connected.

[0047] The detachable connection of this embodiment can, in particular, comprise a screw. The cylindrical body and the rod element can then be manufactured and assembled separately. This has the advantage that the second clamping element does not need to be manufactured as an integral component. Therefore, a large volume of material can be removed according to the invention, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0048] One 7. The embodiment relates to the previous embodiment, wherein the substantially cylindrical body has an inner circumferential surface congruent to the conical end region of the bearing shaft in order to exert the force in the assembled state.

[0049] The congruent inner circumferential surface is compatible with the conical end region. This facilitates axial sliding. The force required for a rotationally fixed connection between the bearing shaft and the pipe roller can also be provided in this way.

[0050] One 8. The embodiment relates to one of the preceding embodiments 6 or 7, wherein the rod element projects substantially perpendicularly from the cylindrical body and preferably has a length of at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, most preferably at least 35% of the axial length of the bearing shaft, and / or has a length of at most 60%, more preferably at most 55%, more preferably at most 50%, even more preferably at most 45%, most preferably at most 40% of the axial length of the bearing shaft.

[0051] This offers the advantage that the rod element extends as far as possible through the through-hole. The first clamping element can then be easily inserted into the through-hole from an axially opposite side, thus enabling the connection with the rod element.

[0052] The rod element should have a sufficient minimum length to allow connection with the first clamping element. Furthermore, the rod element should not be too long, as otherwise the bending moment at the connection point between the rod element and the cylindrical body could be too great. According to the invention, an optimal compromise is thus achieved.

[0053] One 9.The embodiment relates to one of the preceding embodiments 6 to 8, wherein the cylindrical body has an axial end face at a first axial end and is substantially hollow towards the opposite second end, the end face having several openings arranged in a ring shape.

[0054] The two ends of the cylindrical body can be axial ends. The hollow design at the opposite end offers the advantage that only the necessary amount of material needs to be provided. Furthermore, this design allows the conical end section to be accommodated during the transition from the disassembled to the assembled state.

[0055] The axial end face can also be understood as a counter bearing. This can facilitate the clamping of the components of the clamping device.

[0056] The ring-shaped openings offer the advantage that the through-hole of the bearing assembly remains visible even when assembled. Furthermore, this allows for material savings, thereby reducing the moment of inertia of the components rotating during the roller feed operation.

[0057] One 10. The embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the through-opening comprises a first hollow section and a second hollow section, the first hollow section having a smaller diameter than the second hollow section.

[0058] The smaller diameter of the first hollow section offers the advantage of improved guidance for the first clamping element. The diameter of the second hollow section is larger to facilitate assembly. Furthermore, this design allows for a thinner wall thickness while simultaneously achieving a large outer diameter for the bearing shaft in the axial region of the second hollow section. Advantageously, this outer diameter can be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the tube roll. This reduces any forces exerted by bearings mounted on the outer surface of the axial region of the bearing shaft in the second hollow section, thereby minimizing the mechanical stress on the bearing shaft.

[0059] One 11.This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the bearing shaft has a first bearing surface configured to interact with a first bearing of a roller feed, and optionally has a second bearing surface configured to interact with a second bearing of the roller feed.

[0060] The first bearing surface can interact with a rotary bearing, such as a plain bearing, a rolling bearing, or the like. If the first bearing surface interacts with a plain bearing, for example, it can have a suitable surface finish to allow it to rotate radially within a plain bearing bushing. If the first bearing surface is intended to interact with a rolling bearing (e.g., a cylindrical roller bearing or a ball bearing), it can accommodate a bearing ring of the rolling bearing (e.g., positively or frictionally). According to this embodiment, the first bearing surface can be integrally formed with the bearing shaft. For example, the first bearing surface can be machined onto the bearing shaft. The first bearing surface can also be manufactured using other processes (e.g., machining or grinding).

[0061] The above description for the first storage area and the first warehouse also applies to the second storage area and the second warehouse.

[0062] One 12. This embodiment relates to the previous embodiment, wherein the first bearing surface and optionally the second bearing surface are arranged on an outer surface of the bearing shaft of the second hollow section.

[0063] This offers the advantage that the first bearing surface has a large diameter. This is particularly noticeable in comparison to conventional tube roller bearings, which often have a small diameter. Therefore, this design minimizes the risk of damage and / or overload failure of the bearing shaft.

[0064] The above description for the first storage area and the first warehouse also applies to the second storage area and the second warehouse.

[0065] One 13.This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein, in the disassembled state, the bearing shaft is essentially not rotationally fixed to the pipe roller.

[0066] In the disassembled state, in one example, the connection between the bearing shaft and the tube roller may be at least partially disconnected. Similarly, in a second example, the tube roller may be completely removed from the feed mechanism. A multitude of other intermediate states between these two previously mentioned examples are encompassed by the term "disassembled state."

[0067] One 14. This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the transition from the assembled state to the disassembled state and / or vice versa is essentially non-destructive.

[0068] This offers the advantage that assembly / disassembly can be repeated many times without causing material wear.

[0069] One15. The embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the through-opening extends from a first axial end to the opposite second axial end of the bearing shaft.

[0070] This arrangement offers a simplified assembly option. In particular, the central clamping device can be inserted into the through-hole from either axial end to be received within it.

[0071] One 16. This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first hollow section has a diameter that is at least 101%, preferably at least 102%, more preferably at least 103%, most preferably at least 105%, and / or that is at most 110%, preferably at most 108%, more preferably at most 106%, most preferably at most 105% of the diameter of the part of the clamping device that is arranged in the first hollow section in the assembled state.

[0072] The part of the central clamping device that is located in the first hollow section when assembled can in particular be the first clamping element.

[0073] The inventors succeeded in determining an optimal value for the diameter ratios. This is because the first clamping element should be accommodated in the first hollow section in the simplest possible way. An excessively large diameter of the first hollow section can result in too much space between the wall of the first hollow section and the first clamping element. An excessively small diameter prevents the first clamping element from being inserted into the through-opening. The diameter ratios described herein result from these opposing requirements.

[0074] One 17.This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first hollow section has a diameter that is at least 8%, preferably at least 10%, more preferably at least 12%, most preferably at least 15%, and / or that is at most 60%, preferably at most 40%, more preferably at most 20%, most preferably at most 15% of the diameter of the second hollow section.

[0075] This embodiment allows for an optimal diameter ratio between the first and second hollow sections. This results from the requirements of simplified assembly and material savings.

[0076] One 18.This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the bearing shaft has an outer diameter at the first hollow section which is at least 20%, preferably at least 25%, more preferably at least 30%, most preferably at least 35%, and / or which is at most 55%, preferably at most 50%, more preferably at most 45%, most preferably at most 40% of the outer diameter of the bearing shaft at the second hollow section.

[0077] This embodiment allows for an optimal ratio of the outer diameters of the bearing shaft at the first and second hollow sections. This results from the requirements of simplified assembly and material savings. Furthermore, the bearing diameter at the second hollow section can be made correspondingly larger.

[0078] One 19.This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first hollow section has a length of at least 10 mm, preferably at least 30 mm, more preferably at least 40 mm, most preferably at least 50 mm, and / or a length of at most 100 mm, preferably at most 80 mm, more preferably at most 70 mm, most preferably at most 60 mm.

[0079] This embodiment allows for an optimal length of the first hollow section. Firstly, the first hollow section can be adapted to the design of the base body. Secondly, the first hollow section can be long enough to be properly accommodated within the base body. Thirdly, the length is kept as short as possible to avoid unnecessary material waste. The values ​​described herein result from these conflicting requirements.

[0080] In a particularly preferred example, the first hollow section may have a length of 56 mm.

[0081] One 20. This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the second hollow section has a length of at least 40 mm, preferably at least 60 mm, more preferably at least 80 mm, most preferably at least 90 mm, and / or a length of at most 150 mm, preferably at most 120 mm, more preferably at most 100 mm, most preferably at most 90 mm.

[0082] This embodiment allows for an optimal length for the second hollow section. Firstly, the second hollow section can be adapted to the design of the base body and have sufficient length to be properly accommodated within the base body. Furthermore, a greater length allows for a large distance between two bearings on the second hollow section, which offers advantages in terms of bearing forces. Secondly, the length should be kept as short as possible to avoid unnecessary material stress. The values ​​described herein result from these conflicting requirements.

[0083] In a particularly preferred example, the second hollow section can have a length of 90 mm.

[0084] One 21.This embodiment relates to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first hollow section has an axial length of at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, most preferably at least 35% of the axial length of the bearing shaft; and / or of at most 60%, preferably at most 55%, more preferably at most 50%, even more preferably at most 45%, most preferably at most 40% of the axial length of the bearing shaft.

[0085] This embodiment allows for an optimal length of the first hollow section. Firstly, the first hollow section can be adapted to the design of the base body and have a sufficient length to be properly accommodated within the base body. Secondly, the length is kept as short as possible to avoid unnecessary material usage. The values ​​described herein result from these conflicting requirements. Roller feed

[0086] It is understood that essentially the same advantages, features, and technical characteristics mentioned in relation to the bearing arrangement apply equally to the roller feed. Furthermore, these advantages, features, and technical characteristics can also be combined and / or applied interchangeably.

[0087] One 22. An embodiment of the invention relates to a roller feed, comprising: a bearing arrangement according to one of the embodiments described herein; a first tube roller with a rolling surface; wherein, optionally, the bearing shaft of the bearing arrangement is connected to the first tube roller in a rotationally non-rotatable manner, preferably by frictional connection, wherein the bearing arrangement is preferably arranged at an axial gear-side end region of the first tube roller.

[0088] This simplifies the design of the roll feed and reduces its complexity. The first tube roll can be inserted axially into the roll feed (during installation) or removed axially (during removal). This is made possible by the bearing arrangement. If the first tube roll becomes worn, it can then be easily removed without having to completely disassemble the roll feed. Furthermore, it is advantageous to avoid completely disassembling the roll feed when installing a roll with a different profile, such as a different profile. Consequently, replacing the first tube roll can be done quickly and with minimal personnel.

[0089] The gearbox-side end region is defined as the area where a gear arrangement for the roller feed is located. Typically, the gearbox-side end region is axially opposite the motor-side axial end region.

[0090] One 23. This embodiment relates to the previous embodiment of the roll feed, wherein the roll feed comprises a base body that receives the first pipe roll by means of the bearing arrangement; wherein the base body has a first bearing surface that is associated with a first bearing surface of the bearing shaft via a first bearing of the roll feed and optionally has a second bearing surface that is associated with a second bearing surface of the bearing shaft via a second bearing of the roll feed in order to rotatably mount the first pipe roll in the base body.

[0091] The technical properties and advantages already mentioned in connection with the storage arrangement apply.

[0092] In one example, the base body can include a cap and an installation opening. The cap can be a mechanical component for closing the installation opening of the base body. The first pipe roll can be axially inserted or removed through the installation opening.

[0093] One 24. The embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments of the roll feed, wherein the roll feed comprises an electric motor which can be coupled to the first pipe roll in order to drive the first pipe roll, wherein the roll feed preferably has a coupling device comprising a connecting element which is arranged at least partially within a motor-side axial end region of the first pipe roll, wherein the coupling device is configured to transmit a torque from the electric motor to the first pipe roll.

[0094] The electric motor can be part of the roll feed system or coupled to it to drive the first pipe roll. The roll feed system can also be configured to include additional pipe rolls, which are driven by the electric motor either exclusively or in addition to the electric motor.

[0095] One 25. The embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments of the roll feed, wherein the roll feed, preferably the base body, is designed such that the first tube roll can be removed from the roll feed, preferably base body, in an axial direction, wherein the axial direction is preferably substantially parallel to an axis of rotation of the first tube roll.

[0096] Preferably, the axial direction essentially coincides with the axis of rotation of the first tube roll. The first tube roll can preferably be removed from a side of the base body on which there are essentially no gear elements for transmitting movements to or from the first tube roll.

[0097] One 26. The embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments of the roller feed, wherein the roller feed comprises a second tube roller with a rolling surface, wherein the first and the second tube roller are arranged such that they are configured to convey a workpiece.

[0098] One 27.The embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments of the roll feed, wherein the roll feed comprises a gear arrangement, and wherein a first gear element is assigned to the first pipe roll and a second gear element to the second pipe roll, and wherein a rotary motion of the first pipe roll is transmitted via the first gear element to the second gear element and then to the second pipe roll.

[0099] The transmission elements can, for example, include gears. Furthermore, the first transmission element can be non-rotatably connected to the bearing shaft of the bearing assembly. A rotary motion of the first pipe roller is then transmitted to the first transmission element via the bearing shaft of the bearing assembly.

[0100] One 28.This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments of the roller feed, wherein the first and / or the second tube roller has a rolling surface with an outer diameter in the range of 20 mm to 200 mm, preferably in the range of 30 mm to 150 mm, more preferably in the range of 50 mm to 120 mm and most preferably in the range of 60 mm to 100 mm.

[0101] One 29. This embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments of the roll feed, wherein the first and / or the second tube roll has a rolling surface with an axial length in the range of 20 mm to 1000 mm, preferably in the range of 40 mm to 800 mm, more preferably in the range of 60 mm to 600 mm and most preferably in the range of 80 mm to 320 mm.

[0102] Optimal results could be achieved with embodiments 28 and 29. This results from different requirements arising from the conveyor belt material, wear resistance, and higher cycle rates.

[0103] A 30th embodiment relates to one of the previous embodiments of the bearing arrangement, wherein the rotationally fixed connection between the bearing shaft and the pipe roller in the assembled state is essentially achieved by contacting cylindrical or conical surfaces of the bearing shaft, the central clamping device and the pipe roller, preferably without contacting any surface of the pipe roller that is essentially perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the pipe roller.

[0104] The bearing arrangement described herein allows the pipe roll to be manufactured with a thinner wall. This has a beneficial effect on the moment of inertia of the rotating components. Consequently, less energy is required to operate the roll feed. In particular, according to the invention, any bearing surfaces on the pipe roll itself (e.g., by machined bearing surfaces) can be reduced and / or eliminated. Such machined bearing surfaces would necessitate an increase in the wall thickness of the pipe roll for stability reasons, which would result in an increase in the moment of inertia. 4. Brief description of the characters

[0105] The attached figures are briefly described below. Fig. 1 shows a roller feed with a bearing arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention in the assembled state of the bearing arrangement. Fig. 2 shows the embodiment Fig. 1in an enlarged detail view of the disassembled storage arrangement. Fig. 3 shows the embodiment Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 in an enlarged detail view from the perspective of the assembled storage arrangement. Fig. 4 shows an enlarged detail view of a storage arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention in a perspective view. Fig. 5 shows the embodiment Fig. 1 in a further enlarged detail view of the disassembled storage arrangement. Fig. 6 shows the embodiment Fig. 1 in another enlarged detail view of the disassembled storage arrangement. 5. Detailed description of the figures

[0106] Only a few possible embodiments of the invention are described in detail below. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and a multitude of other embodiments are applicable without deviating from the scope of the invention. The presented embodiments can be modified and combined with one another in numerous ways, provided they are compatible, and certain features can be omitted where they appear unnecessary. In particular, the disclosed embodiments can be modified by combining certain features of one embodiment with one or more features of another embodiment.

[0107] Throughout the figures and descriptions presented here, the same reference symbols refer to the same elements. The figures may not be to scale, and the relative size, proportions, and representation of elements in the figures may be exaggerated for clarity, illustration, and convenience.

[0108] Fig. 1 shows a roller feed 2 with a bearing arrangement 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention in the assembled state of the bearing arrangement 10.

[0109] The bearing arrangement 10 includes a bearing shaft 20 (preferably in Fig. 2(as can be seen, also applicable to reference numerals 12, 13 and 25), which is designed to engage with the tube roll 350 and with a base body 30 of the roll feed 2. The bearing arrangement 10 also includes a central clamping device 11 (which may comprise a first clamping element 12 and a second clamping element 13) which extends at least partially axially through the bearing shaft 20. It can be seen that the clamping device 11 extends to the right side in Fig. 1 The bearing shaft 20 is almost flush with the bearing shaft 20 and projects axially beyond the bearing shaft 20 to the left. The central clamping device 11 is designed to clamp the bearing arrangement 10 into an assembled state ( Fig. 1 , 3 ), in which the bearing shaft 20 is non-rotatably connected to the pipe roller 350, and is transferred to a disassembled state ( Fig. 2 , 4 , 6). In the disassembled state, the bearing shaft 20 is essentially not rotationally fixed to the pipe roller 350.

[0110] The bearing shaft 20 has a through-opening 25 (formed from 26 and 27, as best shown in Fig. 4 (as can be seen) in which the central clamping device 11 is at least partially accommodated. The central clamping device 11 is further configured to exert a force, essentially in a radial direction, between the bearing shaft 20 and the pipe roller 350 when the bearing arrangement 10 is assembled, in order to connect the bearing shaft 20 to the pipe roller 350 in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0111] The base body 30 has a first bearing surface that is associated with a first bearing surface of the bearing shaft 20 via a first bearing 250a of the roll feed 2. Furthermore, the base body 30 has a second bearing surface that is associated with a second bearing surface of the bearing shaft 20 via a second bearing 250b of the roll feed 2. Thus, the tube roll 350 can be rotatably mounted in the base body 30 by means of the bearing arrangement 10. The tube roll 350 also has a rolling surface 352.

[0112] It can be seen that the bearing arrangement 20 is located at an axial gear-side end region of the tube roller 350.

[0113] An electric motor 70 is provided at the opposite end of the pipe roll 350, on the motor side, which can be coupled to the pipe roll 350 to drive it. Furthermore, the roll feed 2 has a coupling device 60 comprising a connecting element 61. The connecting element 61 (e.g., a conical clamping element) is located at least partially within the axial end of the pipe roll 350 on the motor side. The coupling device 60 is configured to transmit torque from the electric motor 70 to the pipe roll 350.

[0114] The roller feed 2 further comprises a second tube roller 300 with a rolling surface, wherein the first 350 and the second 300 tube rollers are arranged such that they can convey a workpiece. The roller feed 2 also comprises a gear arrangement, wherein a first gear element 41 is assigned to the first tube roller 350 and a second gear element 42 to the second tube roller 300. A rotary motion of the first tube roller 350 is transmitted via the first gear element 41 to the second gear element 42 and then to the second tube roller 300.

[0115] Fig. 2 shows the embodiment Fig. 1 in an enlarged detail view of the disassembled storage arrangement 10.

[0116] The bearing shaft 20 is located at an axial end region (in Fig. 2 to the left side) conical 28 ( Fig. 3) formed, wherein the axial end region, in the assembled state, at least partially overlaps the pipe roller 350 axially in order to exert the force on the pipe roller. In particular, the axial end region of the bearing shaft 20 overlaps the pipe roller 350 such that the bearing shaft 20 is located within the pipe roller in the overlap region.

[0117] The central clamping device 11 comprises a first clamping element 12, for example a connecting screw, and a second clamping element 13, which are designed to engage at least partially with each other.

[0118] The first clamping element 12 and the second clamping element 13 are rotatably arranged relative to each other in the disassembled state and / or during the transition from the disassembled to the assembled state. In particular, a rotational movement of the first clamping element 12 causes an axial translational movement of the bearing shaft 20 relative to the second clamping element 13. In this way, the axial distance between the bearing shaft 20 and the pipe roll 350 can be reduced. This promotes a force-fit connection between the bearing arrangement 10 and the pipe roll 350 in the assembled state. In particular, the through-opening 25 (especially the first hollow section 26) has a [missing information] on the right side. Fig. 2A shoulder 21 is provided on which the first clamping element 12 can axially support itself in order to reduce the distance from the bearing shaft 20 to the tube roller 350 during a rotational movement of the first clamping element 12. The first clamping element 12 and the second clamping element 13 are engaged via a screw contact.

[0119] The diameter D1 of the first hollow section 26 (also in Fig. 4 (marked) can be between 5 and 15 mm. In this embodiment, D1 is 6.4 mm.

[0120] The diameter D2 of the second hollow section 27 (also in Fig. 4 (marked) can be between 20 and 60 mm. In this embodiment, D2 is 42 mm.

[0121] The first hollow section 26 has a length L1 of at least 10 mm and / or at most 100 mm. In this embodiment, L1 is 56 mm.

[0122] The second hollow section 27 has a length L2 of at least 40 mm and / or at most 150 mm. In this embodiment, L2 is 90 mm.

[0123] Fig. 3 shows the embodiment Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 in an enlarged detail view from the perspective in the assembled state of the storage arrangement 10.

[0124] The second clamping element 13 comprises a substantially cylindrical body 14 and a rod element 15, which are detachably connected to each other via a screw connection. The cylindrical body 14 is designed to be shrunk onto the inside of the tube roll 350. Alternatively, the cylindrical body 14 can be welded, bonded, or screwed into the tube roll 350. The substantially cylindrical body 14 has an inner circumferential surface 17 congruent with the conical end region 28 of the bearing shaft 20 in order to exert the force in the assembled state.

[0125] The rod element 15 projects essentially perpendicularly from the cylindrical body 14 and has a length of at least 10% and at most 60% of the axial length of the bearing shaft 20.

[0126] The cylindrical body 14 has an axial end face at a first end (in Fig. 3 to the left side) and is essentially hollow towards the opposite end. The end face has several openings 18 arranged in a ring. In the sectional drawing in Fig. 3 Two openings 18 and one half opening 18 are shown.

[0127] Fig. 4 shows an enlarged detail view of a storage arrangement 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention in a perspective view.

[0128] The through-opening 25 is shown and has a first hollow section 26 and a second hollow section 27, wherein the first hollow section 26 has a smaller diameter than the second hollow section 27.

[0129] The bearing shaft 20 has a first bearing surface configured to interact with a first bearing 250a of the roll feed 2. Furthermore, the bearing shaft 20 has a second bearing surface configured to interact with a second bearing 250b of the roll feed. The first and second bearing surfaces are located on an outer surface of the bearing shaft 20 of the second hollow section 27.

[0130] Fig. 5 shows the embodiment Fig. 1In a further enlarged detail view, the bearing assembly 10 is shown in its disassembled state. It can be seen that the connecting element 61 at the motor-side end of the tube roller 350 is loosened. The tube roller 350 can be removed axially to the left without damage.

[0131] Fig. 6 shows the embodiment Fig. 1 In another enlarged detail view, the bearing arrangement 10 is shown in its disassembled state. It can be seen that the tube roller 350 has already been partially removed axially from the roller feed 2. The roller feed 2 can also have a bearing 250c, which is arranged at the motor-side axial end region of the tube roller 300.

[0132] In one example, the removal of the pipe roller 300, 350 can be done to the left (into the Figs. 1 to 6 ) essentially in a similar manner by means of a cap and an installation opening.

[0133] The scope of protection is determined by the claims and is not limited by the exemplary embodiments and / or figures. 6. List of reference symbols

[0134] 2 Roller feed 10 Bearing arrangement 11 Central clamping device 12 First clamping element 13 Second clamping element 14 Cylindrical body 15 Rod element 16 Screw connection 17 Inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical body 18 Openings of the axial end face of the cylindrical body 20 Bearing shaft 21 Shoulder 25 Through opening 26 First hollow section 27 Second hollow section 28 Conical end region 30 Base body 41 First gear element 42 Second gear element 60 Coupling device 61 Connecting element 70 Motor 250a, 250b, 250c bearings 300 Second pipe roller 350 First pipe roller 352 Rolling surface of the first pipe roller A Assembly direction (installation) B Disassembly direction (removal) L1 Length of first hollow section L2 Length of second hollow section D1 Diameter of the first hollow section D2 Diameter of the second hollow section

Claims

1. A bearing arrangement (10) for a tube roll, such as for a tube roll (350) of a roll feed (2), the bearing arrangement comprising: a bearing shaft (20), which is configured to engage with the tube roll (350) and with a base body of the roll feed (2); a central clamping device (11), which extends at least partially axially through the bearing shaft (20) and is configured to transfer the bearing arrangement into an assembled state, in which the bearing shaft (20) is connected to the tube roll (350) in a rotationally fixed manner, and into a disassembled state; wherein the bearing shaft (20) has a through-opening (25), in which the central clamping device (11) is at least partially received; wherein the central clamping device (11) is configured such that, in the assembled state of the bearing arrangement (10), a force acts substantially in the radial direction between the bearing shaft (20) and the tube roll (350) in order to connect the bearing shaft (20) to the tube roll (350) in a rotationally fixed manner.

2. The bearing arrangement (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the bearing shaft (20) is formed in a conical manner at an axial end region, wherein the axial end region at least partially overlaps the tube roll (350) in the assembled state in order to bring about the force on the tube roll (350).

3. The bearing arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping device (11) comprises a first clamping element (12) and a second clamping element (13), which are configured to engage at least partially in one another.

4. The bearing arrangement (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first clamping element (12) and the second clamping element (13), in the disassembled state and / or in the transition from the disassembled state into the assembled state: are configured to be rotatable with respect to one another, wherein a rotational movement of the first clamping element (12) brings about a translational movement of the bearing shaft (20) relative to the second clamping element (13) in order to reduce an axial distance from the bearing shaft (20) to the tube roll (350).

5. The bearing arrangement (10) according to one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the second clamping element (13) comprises a substantially cylindrical body (14) and a rod element (15), which are releasably connected to one another, preferably via a screw connection, wherein the cylindrical body (14) is configured to be shrunk onto the tube roll (350), preferably from the inside.

6. The bearing arrangement (10) according to the preceding claim insofar as dependent on claim 2, wherein the substantially cylindrical body (14) has an inner circumferential surface (17), which is congruent to the conical end region of the bearing shaft (20), in order to bring about the force in the assembled state.

7. The bearing arrangement (10) according to one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the rod element (15) protrudes substantially perpendicularly from the cylindrical body (14), and preferably has a length of at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, further preferably at least 30%, most preferably at least 35% of the axial length of the bearing shaft (20), and / or has at most 60%, preferably at most 55%, further preferably at most 50%, even further preferably at most 45%, most preferably at most 40% of the axial length of the bearing shaft (20).

8. The bearing arrangement (10) according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the cylindrical body (14) has an axial end face at a first end and is formed substantially hollow towards the opposite second end, wherein the end face has a plurality of openings (18) which are arranged in an annular manner.

9. The bearing arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bearing shaft (20) has a first bearing surface, which is configured to interact with a first bearing (250a) of a roll feed, and optionally has a second bearing surface, which is configured to interact with a second bearing (250b) of the roll feed.

10. The bearing arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the disassembled state, the bearing shaft (20) is connected to the tube roll (350) in a substantially non-rotationally fixed manner.

11. The bearing arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the through opening (25) comprises a first hollow portion (26) and a second hollow portion (27), wherein the first hollow portion (26) has a smaller diameter than the second hollow portion (27).

12. The bearing arrangement (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first hollow portion (26) has a diameter D1 which is at least 8%, preferably at least 10%, further preferably at least 12%, most preferably at least 15%, and / or which has at most 60%, preferably at most 40%, further preferably at most 20%, most preferably at most 15% of the diameter D2 of the second hollow portion (27).

13. The bearing arrangement (10) according to one of claims 11 or 12, wherein the bearing shaft (20) has an outer diameter at the first hollow portion (26) which is at least 20%, preferably at least 25%, further preferably at least 30%, most preferably at least 35%, and / or which has at most 55%, preferably at most 50%, further preferably at most 45%, most preferably at most 40% of the outer diameter of the bearing shaft (20) at the second hollow portion (27).

14. The bearing arrangement (10) according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the second hollow portion (27) has a length L2 of at least 40 mm, preferably at least 60 mm, further preferably at least 80 mm, most preferably at least 90 mm, and / or has at most 150 mm, preferably at most 120 mm, further preferably at most 100 mm, most preferably at most 90 mm.

15. A roll feed (2), comprising: a bearing arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims; a first tube roll (350) with a rolling surface (352); wherein, optionally, the bearing shaft (20) of the bearing arrangement (10) is connected to the first tube roll (350) in a rotationally fixed manner, preferably in a force-fitting manner, wherein the bearing arrangement (10) is preferably arranged at an axial gear-side end region of the first tube roll (350).