Coupling system and coupling device for mechanically synchronizing transport devices arranged next to each other, and vending machine and method for configuring a coupling system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a coupling system (1) for the mechanical synchronization of adjacent transport devices (2), in particular for or in a vending machine (3): comprising a plurality of adjacent transport devices (2), each having a rotatable roller (4) extending along a common axis of rotation (X); and comprising at least one coupling device (5) configured to establish a releasable positive-locking connection between two adjacent rotatable rollers (4) of the plurality of adjacent transport devices (2) in a predetermined end position, such that the plurality of transport devices (2) can be driven in a mechanically synchronized manner. The present invention further relates to a vending machine, a coupling device, and a method for configuring a coupling system.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a coupling device for the mechanical synchronization of adjacent transport devices for or in a vending machine. The present invention further relates to a coupling system, a vending machine with such a coupling system, and a method for configuring such a coupling system. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] Increasingly, vending machines are offering products beyond cold drinks and snacks, such as pasta or barbecue meat. This allows vending machine operators and / or producers, such as local butchers, bakers, farmers, or similar businesses, to sell their products, including regional specialties, outside of regular store hours, essentially at any time. Typical products include eggs (in egg cartons), shrink-wrapped barbecue meat or sausages, pasta, or canned sausages. The wide variety of products and their varying sizes present new challenges for vending machines, particularly regarding product storage and dispensing. Changing product offerings, influenced by seasonal availability or other factors, further redefine the requirements for vending machines.Existing storage and dispensing technologies, such as a spiral or a slide for conveying goods, may reach their limits here, as they can only accommodate certain product sizes and would require extensive retooling to implement a product change within the vending machine or the product compartment.

[0003] For example, when the colder months approach and offering barbecue meat in the vending machine no longer makes much sense, the operator needs to be able to replace it with, for instance, canned meat or sausage. One problem is that the spiral dispensers typically used for barbecue meat are not suitable for dispensing canned sausage. With current technology, the machine or its compartment would either require extensive modifications, or switching to canned sausage would simply be technically impossible. Similarly, the operator would have to modify the compartments if they wanted to sell a product, such as a baguette, that has a particular size or unusual shape. In this case, the standard compartments operated by spirals or sliders are not large enough.

[0004] GB 1082150 A, for example, describes a goods conveyor system for universal vending machines with multiple selection and replenishment options, in which the goods are arranged to slide on horizontal stationary support plates. WO 2012 / 107943 A1, for example, describes a device for dispensing products, such as edible or durable goods of various kinds, in a vending machine.

[0005] Furthermore, JP 2004 164214 A describes a vending machine with a plurality of product columns and, in particular, a product transport device to transport the products taken from a product column forward and to feed them to a product outlet.

[0006] Furthermore, US 2014 / 116853 A1 describes modular conveyor belts and chains, in particular an active control roller upper conveyor module and a modular conveyor system comprising at least one of the conveyor modules.

[0007] EP 0 591 578 A1 discloses a coupling system for the mechanical synchronization of transport devices arranged side by side, in particular for a vending machine. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Against this background, the present invention aims to provide an improved coupling device for transport devices.

[0009] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a coupling device with the features of claim 1, by a coupling system with the features of claim 3, by a vending machine with the features of claim 10 and / or by a method with the features of claim 11.

[0010] The underlying idea of ​​the present invention is to provide a storage and dispensing technology, i.e., a goods handling unit, within a vending machine that can store and dispense a wide variety of products / goods and is easily and flexibly adjustable and adaptable in size to accommodate a wide range of goods. A goods handling unit or transport device is characterized by the fact that goods / products can be stored and moved using the transport device. Thus, several transport devices in standard designs can be combined side by side as desired, and mechanically coupled by the coupling device to adapt variably to changing product formats.

[0011] The base body of the coupling device can be mounted on the first rotatable roller. Furthermore, the first positive-locking element of the first rotatable roller can be inserted into the first recess on the first end face of the base body. Similarly, the second positive-locking element of the second rotatable roller can be inserted into the second recess on the second end face of the base body. In the predetermined end position, the first and / or second rotatable roller can thus be driven by the releasable positive-locking connection. In a mechanically synchronized state, the coupled transport devices exhibit essentially the same conveying speed.

[0012] The manipulation of at least one coupling device of the coupling system can be applied manually, automatically, or semi-automatically.

[0013] During the initial start-up of the coupled rotating rollers in their predetermined end position, a slight relative rotation between the coupled rotating rollers may occur due to play in the detachable positive-locking connection. This slight relative rotation between two adjacent rotating rollers is at most 10°. This relative rotation has no or only a negligible effect on the synchronized conveying process.

[0014] Advantageous designs and further developments result from the further sub-claims as well as from the description with reference to the figures in the drawing.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the coupling system, the multiple transport devices arranged side by side share a common conveying direction and a common conveying plane. The conveying direction includes, for example, forward or backward conveying of the goods. For instance, the conveying direction can extend perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotating roller, but is not limited to this. Alternatively, the conveying direction can also extend at any angle to the axis of rotation, particularly along the axis of rotation if the rotating roller is coupled to a slide or similar device for conveying the goods via a gearbox or similar mechanism.

[0016] The shared conveyor level has the advantage that rigid goods, in particular, are stored more or less uniformly across the numerous transport devices. Furthermore, this allows for an increased variety of goods to be conveyed.

[0017] According to another embodiment of the coupling system, the coupling device connects the rotatable rollers of the multiple transport devices axially and circumferentially in a releasable, positive-locking manner in the predetermined end position. This axially releasable, positive-locking connection ensures that the axial position of the coupling device is reliably fixed, so that the positive-locking connection can be maintained even while the coupling system is being driven. Thus, the positive-locking connection can be both releasable and yet reliably maintained. The axially releasable, positive-locking connection can be achieved, in particular, by an undercut in the coupling device viewed in the direction of the axis of rotation.The releasable positive locking in the circumferential direction can also save on other drive transmission elements, since the drive torque between the rotatable roller and the coupling device can be transmitted via the releasable positive locking in the circumferential direction.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the coupling system, the opposing end regions of the rotatable rollers each have a positive locking element. The positive locking element can thus be designed according to requirements for mechanical load-bearing capacity and / or manufacturing conditions. For example, the positive locking element can be pin-shaped, spherical, angular, or a combination thereof. When the positive locking elements are arranged in the opposing end regions, the dimensions of the coupling device can advantageously be compact, i.e., as small as possible, since the coupling device has to bridge a smaller distance between the adjacent rotatable rollers.

[0019] Optionally, the positive locking element can be reversibly attached to the rotating roller. This increases the versatility of the rotating roller and / or allows for the retrofitting of an existing rotating roller.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, the coupling device can have a positive locking element. Consequently, each of the rotatable rollers can have a recess corresponding to the positive locking element, which extends into the rotatable rollers in such a way that the positive locking element can engage in the recess of the rotatable roller. The recess can be designed to receive the positive locking element. The positive locking element can, for example, be pin-shaped, spherical, angular, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, this positive locking element can be reversibly attached to the coupling device.

[0021] According to a further development of the coupling system, the positive locking element projects from a cylindrical surface of the rotating roller. This provides a greater lever arm for the positive locking element designed to transmit the drive torque. The positive locking element can, for example, include one or more sections projecting from the cylindrical surface. This increases the maximum drive torque that can be transmitted via the positive locking element. In particular, the positive locking element can include two projecting sections located on opposite sides of the cylindrical surface. When two adjacent rotating rollers are coupled, the respective positive locking elements can project from the cylindrical surface in the same orientation, so that the positive locking elements of the adjacent rotating rollers are aligned with each other.Alternatively or additionally, the positive locking element can be aligned at an angle compared to the positive locking element of the coupled, adjacent rotatable roller.

[0022] According to a further development of the coupling system, the coupling device is hollow and cylindrical and has a recess corresponding to the positive locking element. This recess extends into the coupling device in such a way that the positive locking element can engage in the recess. For example, the coupling device has a recess for the positive locking element on each of its two end faces. The recess is designed such that the positive locking element can be received within it.

[0023] The recesses on both sides of the coupling device can be, for example, offset by approximately 90°, oppositely offset by approximately 180°, or oriented in the same way. Preferably, the recesses on both sides can be arranged in a mirror image within the coupling device so that, by rotating the coupling device, the positive locking elements of the two adjacent rotatable rollers are engaged simultaneously.

[0024] According to the invention, the coupling device is mounted on the rotatable roller so as to be slidable along the common axis of rotation and rotatable about the common axis of rotation. In particular, if the coupling device is not positioned in the predetermined end position, it can be mounted so as to be slidable along the common axis of rotation and rotatable about the common axis of rotation. At least one of these positions, i.e., slidable along the common axis of rotation or rotatable about the common axis of rotation, is always possible. Thus, the coupling device can be handled easily and, in particular, without the need for tools in its mounted state.

[0025] According to another embodiment of the coupling system, the coupling device can be driven by a motor. Preferably, the motor is an electric motor, in particular a servo motor, stepper motor, DC motor, or the like. However, the type of drive is not limited to this; for example, a magnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic drive can also be used. Optionally, the motor can also include a gearbox. The motor can be coupled to the coupling device for driving either directly or via the gearbox. It is irrelevant how many coupling devices of the coupled coupling system can be driven, as long as at least one coupling device is driven.

[0026] Optionally, the motorized drive can be integrated into a retrieval unit. The coupled transport devices then form a goods compartment. The retrieval unit is variably movable and can therefore be moved to any front of the goods compartment. This is achieved via a variably movable transport device to which the retrieval unit is attached. This transport device can, for example, include guide rails on which the retrieval unit can move. In this way, the motorized drive powers both the retrieval unit and the transport devices, by driving the transport device in front of which the retrieval unit is positioned.

[0027] This allows all storage compartments or transport devices to be driven by a single motor. Consequently, travel distances can be saved because the picking device moves to the most conveniently positioned coupling device.

[0028] According to a further embodiment of the coupling system, at least one of the rotatable rollers can be driven by a motor or a motor-driven conveyor belt. The goods are transported, for example, via a conveyor belt, a pusher, transport rollers, transport cylinders, or a spiral. Preferably, the motor is an electric motor, in particular a servo motor, a stepper motor, a DC motor, or the like. However, the type of drive is not limited to this; for example, a magnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic drive can also be used. Optionally, the motor can also include a gearbox. The motor can be coupled to the rotatable roller for driving either directly or via the gearbox. It is irrelevant how many rotatable rollers of the coupled coupling system can be driven, as long as at least one rotatable roller is driven.

[0029] For many goods, and especially for many slim bottles and cans, a motor-driven conveyor belt is better suited for transport due to its stability. This is because these goods are transported more stably on a driven conveyor belt and are therefore less likely to tip over. The driven conveyor belt is preferably tensioned over a front rotating roller and a rear rotating roller. The driven rotating roller is preferably the front one, but can also be the rear one. The motor-driven conveyor belt can be designed similarly to the motor drive.

[0030] According to a further development of the coupling system, the motor drive is designed as a gear drive, a friction wheel drive, or a belt drive. To transmit the drive torque from the motor drive to the coupling device or to the rotatable roller, the motor drive can utilize a gear, a friction wheel, or a belt.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the coupling device, the base body is cylindrical and has a plurality of teeth on its outer surface for driving the coupling device by means of a gear drive. In this way, the coupling device can integrate an additional function and save installation space.

[0032] Optionally, the base body can have a ridge within the recess to secure the positive locking element behind it. This means that when manipulating the coupling device, a predefined torque is required to push the positive locking element past the ridge within the recess. Consequently, the ridge can transmit a torque up to the predefined amount via the positive locking element. This prevents, for example, the coupling device from rotating relative to the rotating roller during braking. Furthermore, it generally prevents unintentional rotation of the coupling device relative to the rotating roller against the direction of drive. However, the releasable positive locking connection can be released if the predefined torque is exceeded during intended rotation to push the positive locking element past the ridge.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the method, the manipulation further comprises rotating the coupling device from a predetermined starting position, in which the coupling device establishes a releasable positive-locking connection to the rotatable roller for transmitting a drive torque, relative to the rotatable roller about the common axis of rotation, wherein the releasable positive-locking connection to the rotatable roller is released in the direction of the common axis of rotation. The predetermined starting position specifically designates the position in which the coupling device for transmitting the drive torque to exactly one rotatable roller is arranged. That is, in the predetermined starting position, the coupling device is releasably positively connected to exactly one rotatable roller.When the coupling device is rotated, this releasable, positive-locking connection is released, at least in the axial direction, so that the coupling device can be displaced along the axis of rotation relative to the rotatable roller. Thus, the coupling device can also be used to drive the rotatable roller in its uncoupled state.

[0034] According to a further embodiment of the method, the end region of each of the two adjacent rotatable rollers has a positive locking element. These positive locking elements project from a lateral surface of the rotatable rollers and are aligned with each other in a predetermined orientation when the coupling device is axially displaced. Advantageously, the positive locking elements are aligned in the predetermined orientation. Thus, the coupling device can be displaced axially from one rotatable roller to the adjacent rotatable roller, and the positive locking element of the adjacent rotatable roller can be received in the recess. Preferably, the coupling device is displaced axially until it surrounds the two end regions of the adjacent rotatable rollers approximately at their midpoints, with both positive locking elements engaging in their respective recesses.

[0035] According to a further development of the method, when the coupling device is rotated, one of the two adjacent rotatable rollers is aligned relative to the other adjacent rotatable roller and relative to the coupling device such that the positive locking elements engage with the coupling device in a predetermined direction of drive torque transmission, ensuring a virtually backlash-free start-up of the coupling system. This means that the positive locking elements are brought into contact with an inner surface of the coupling device in such a way that the drive torque is transmitted via this contact. Thus, all coupled transport devices start simultaneously, minimizing slippage of any one of the coupled transport devices.

[0036] In particular, if at least three transport devices are coupled, with only one coupling device being driven, the drive torque is transmitted from the rotatable roller connected to the driven coupling device to the non-driven coupling device and further to the rotatable roller connected to it. In this case, the direction of the drive torque between the coupling device and the driving rotatable roller is reversed. Thus, the coupling device is advantageously rotated relative to the driving rotatable roller in contact with the inside of the coupling device, through which the drive torque is transmitted in the predetermined direction.

[0037] According to a further embodiment of the method, a step is provided for the simultaneous driving of the plurality of transport devices, which are mechanically synchronized by means of at least one coupling device. In this way, the coupled transport devices convey the goods at the same speed, thus facilitating the dispensing of the goods. Furthermore, the synchronization means that only one motor drive is required to drive the coupled transport devices simultaneously. This saves energy.

[0038] The above embodiments and further developments can be combined with one another as appropriate. In particular, all features of the coupling system or coupling device can be transferred to the associated method for configuring the coupling system, and vice versa.

[0039] Further possible embodiments, developments, and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention described previously or subsequently with regard to exemplary embodiments, even if not explicitly mentioned. In particular, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention. CONTENT OF THE DRAWING

[0040] The present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the schematic figures of the drawings. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic front view of a coupling system according to one embodiment; Fig. 2 an isometric perspective view of a coupling system according to another embodiment with two coupled, adjacent transport devices; Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a coupling device according to one embodiment in various side views; Fig. 4 a schematic front view of a vending machine according to one embodiment with a coupling system according to another embodiment; Fig. 5 a flowchart of a method for configuring a coupling system.

[0041] The accompanying drawings are intended to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain the principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the advantages mentioned will become apparent with reference to the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale.

[0042] In the figures of the drawing, identical, functionally equivalent and similarly acting elements, features and components - unless otherwise stated - are each provided with the same reference symbols. DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF EXECUTION

[0043] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic front view of a coupling system 1 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] The coupling system 1 is designed for the mechanical synchronization of transport devices 2 arranged side by side. In particular, the coupling system is intended for use in or on a vending machine 3.

[0045] The coupling system 1 comprises two transport devices 2 arranged side by side, each with a rotatable roller 4, and two coupling devices 5. The two rotatable rollers 4 extend along a common axis of rotation X.

[0046] For example, the rotatable rollers 4 each have a positive locking element 6 in one end region. The positive locking element 6 projects radially from the outer surface of the rotatable roller 4. Preferably, the positive locking element 6 is shaped like a pin, but this does not necessarily exclude other shapes. As shown in Fig. 1 As shown, the end region of the rotatable roller 4 can, for example, have a reduced outer diameter, in particular a reduced outer diameter, than a central region of the rotatable roller 4.

[0047] The coupling device 5 shown in the center illustrates its position in a predetermined end position, in which the two rotatable rollers 4 are detachably positively connected to one another. The coupling device 5, by way of example, encloses the mutually facing end regions of the two adjacent rotatable rollers 4 as well as the respective forming element 6.

[0048] The coupling device 5 shown on the left only encloses the end region of a rotatable roller 4, whereby the positive locking element 6 can also engage in the coupling device 5 in this case. In this way, the coupling system shown as an example can be configured according to Fig. 1 The coupling device 5 shown on the left, the coupling device 5 shown in the middle, or one of the two rotatable rollers 4 can be driven by a motor. Regardless of the drive side selected, the two coupling devices 5 and the two rotatable rollers 4 are always driven simultaneously, as they are mechanically synchronized.

[0049] For example, the central coupling device 5 can be driven by a motor drive (not shown). Due to the positive locking connection, the central coupling device 5 drives the two rotatable rollers 4 simultaneously. Furthermore, the rotatable roller 4 driven by the central coupling device 5 drives the left coupling device 5, which is also positively connected to it.

[0050] Fig. 2 shows an isometric perspective view of a coupling system 1 according to a further embodiment with two coupled, adjacent transport devices 2.

[0051] The coupling system 1 in the Fig. 2 The illustrated further embodiment essentially corresponds to the coupling system according to Fig. 1 The coupling system 1 differs in that the transport devices 2 each have two rotatable rollers 4 and a conveyor belt 8, which is stretched around the two rotatable rollers 4. These two rotatable rollers 4 of the individual transport device 2 do not, of course, share a common axis of rotation X, but are arranged parallel to each other. For the sake of simplicity, these two rotatable rollers 4 are referred to as the front rotatable roller and the rear rotatable roller, respectively.

[0052] Furthermore, the cutaway view clearly illustrates that the detachable positive-locking connection between the coupling device 5 and the rotatable roller 4 or the positive-locking element 6 is present both circumferentially for the transmission of a drive torque and axially along the axis of rotation X for securing against axial slippage.

[0053] According to the embodiment in Fig. 2 The front swivel casters 4 are connected to each other by the coupling device 5. Alternatively or additionally, the rear swivel casters 4 can be connected to each other.

[0054] For example, if one of the coupling devices 5 is driven, the rotary motion is transferred to the rotatable roller 4 by means of a positive locking element 6, and this in turn sets the conveyor belt 8 in motion and the goods located on the conveyor belt 8 can be conveyed in the direction of an output.

[0055] Fig. 3 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a coupling device 5 according to an exemplary embodiment in various side views. In particular, a front side, a first end face 13A and a second end face 13B of the coupling device 5 or its base body 13 are shown.

[0056] The coupling device 5 of the in the Fig. 3 The further embodiment shown corresponds functionally essentially to the coupling device according to Fig. 1 The coupling device 5 differs, for example, in that a lateral surface of the base body 13 has a plurality of teeth 15. The plurality of teeth 15 can, for example, be coupled to a gear drive or other drive for transmitting the drive torque, the other drive engaging with the plurality of teeth 15 by means of a gear transmission. Additionally, the gear drive can also have a transmission.

[0057] Furthermore, the base body 13 contains a through-hole 14. The through-hole 14 extends, by way of example, along the axis of rotation X from the first end face 13A to the second end face 13B. The diameter of the through-hole 14 corresponds essentially to the outer diameter of the end region of the rotatable roller 4 on which the coupling device 5 can be mounted.

[0058] Furthermore, the base body 13 includes a first recess 7A and a second recess 7B. The first and second recesses 7A, 7B are each designed to insert, i.e., engage, a first and second positive locking element 6 of the first and second rotatable roller 4, respectively, at the first and second end faces 13A, 13B. In particular, the positive locking element can have two projecting sections arranged on opposite sides of the cylindrical surface. Consequently, the first and second recesses 7A, 7B also contain, for example, two sections to accommodate the two sections of the positive locking element 6.

[0059] As an example, the first recess 7A and the second recess 7B are designed as mirror images. That is, while the first recess 7A extends counterclockwise from a reference position in the circumferential direction, the second recess 7B extends clockwise from the reference position in the circumferential direction. Thus, a lug 9 can be formed within or between the first and second recesses 7A, 7B in the base body 13. The lug 9 can be an undercut that axially secures the coupling device 5 when the positive locking element 6 rests against the lug 9. The exemplary embodiment in Fig. 3 Each section of the first or second recess 7A, 7B has a nose 9. Optionally, a section of the first or second recess 7A, 7B can also have a second nose 9. Thus, for example, the undercut can be provided both clockwise and counterclockwise when the coupling device 5 is rotated.

[0060] Fig. 4 shows a schematic front view of a vending machine 3 according to one embodiment with a coupling system 1 according to another embodiment.

[0061] The vending machine 3 comprises a housing 10, an interior 11 and the coupling system 1. In particular, the coupling system 1 is an embodiment according to Fig. 1, Fig. 2 , Fig. 3 or combinations thereof.

[0062] The vending machine 3 can further include a front door, which is typically hinged to the housing 10. The front door and the housing 10 together form the interior 11, which houses the merchandise 12 to be sold, the control and cooling functions of the vending machine 3, and other vending machine functions. For example, the front door can have a transparent glass or clear plastic pane which, when the front door is closed, provides a clear view into the interior 11 of the vending machine 3 and thus of the merchandise 12 stored therein, which are arranged in compartments within the interior 11 of the vending machine 3. A suitable control panel can be provided in the area of ​​the front door or, alternatively, in the housing 10. This panel includes product selection input devices and money and credit processing devices, as well as a coin return device, which are generally known.The vending machine 3 may also have an optical and / or acoustic signaling device.

[0063] Furthermore, a locking mechanism may be provided that allows the front door to be opened and closed safely for purposes of maintenance, refilling the vending machine 3, and the like. The vending machine 3 may also include a dispensing opening from which a purchased product 12 can be removed by a buyer.

[0064] For example, vending machine 3 has a large number of product compartments arranged in an array within its interior (11 compartments). Fig. 4 The arrangement of three product compartments in the interior 11 of the vending machine 3 is shown as an example. The three product compartments are shown in the same conveyor level, but additional compartments can be arranged in other conveyor levels, i.e., above or below. The conveyor level shown includes five transport devices 2, with the three leftmost transport devices 2 forming a coupling system 1. To the right of these are two further transport devices 2', configured independently of the coupling system 1 for separate operation. The two transport devices 2' are essentially identical to the transport devices 2 of the coupling system 1 and can be incorporated into the coupling system 1 if required, provided that the coupling device 5 is detachably positively connected to the rotatable roller 4 of the adjacent transport device 2.In this way, the width of the goods compartments can be variably adjusted, with the coupling system 1 or each individual transport device 2' being assigned to a goods compartment and conveying the goods 12 stored therein.

[0065] In particular, all the transport devices 2, 2' are essentially identical. In the illustrated embodiment with five transport devices 2, 2', five, four, three, two, or one goods compartment can thus be formed. Accordingly, the five transport devices 2' can, for example, be driven independently of one another, i.e., not coupled. Optionally, two transport devices 2 of a coupling system 1 can be coupled together and assigned to a goods compartment. Furthermore, optionally, the five transport devices 2 can be coupled to form a coupling system 1. The individual goods compartments can each have a different size, although this is not mandatory. Advantageously, the goods compartments can be variably adjustable in width and height. In the case that the transport device 2, 2' is connected to a conveyor belt 8, as in Fig. 2 As shown, the upper horizontal area of ​​the conveyor belt 8 forms the floor area of ​​the goods compartment.

[0066] Fig. 5 shows a flowchart of a procedure V for configuring a coupling system 1.

[0067] The method V for configuring the coupling system 1 includes, by way of example, the steps of individually driving V1 a transport device 2', rotating V2 a coupling device 5, axially displacing V3 the coupling device 5, rotating V4 the coupling device 5 and jointly driving V5 the plurality of coupled transport devices 2. In particular, it is a method for configuring the coupling system 1 for or in a vending machine 3.

[0068] Steps V1-V4 are illustrated graphically as examples and serve to illustrate the respective process step.

[0069] The individual drive V1 includes a detachable positive-locking connection between the coupling device 5 and the first rotatable roller 4A. The first positive-locking element 6A of the first rotatable roller 4A can, for example, engage in the second recess 7B of the coupling device 5. Thus, the coupling device 5 is not connected to the second rotatable roller 4B and only drives the first rotatable roller 4A. The lug 9 prevents, in particular, the coupling device 5 from slipping axially towards the adjacent second rotatable roller 4B. Furthermore, this ensures the predetermined end position in which the coupling device 5 establishes the detachable positive-locking connection to the first rotatable roller 4A for the transmission of a drive torque.

[0070] When the coupling device 5 is rotated V2 from its predetermined starting position, it is rotated relative to the first rotatable roller 4A about the common axis of rotation X. This releases the releasable positive-locking connection along the common axis of rotation X between the coupling device 5 and the first rotatable roller 4A. That is, the coupling device 5 is rotated relative to the first rotatable roller 4A until the first positive-locking element 6A is no longer restricted in its axial degree of freedom by the nose. Consequently, after rotation V2, the coupling device 5 can be displaced axially relative to the first rotatable roller 4A.

[0071] When the coupling device 5 is axially displaced V3 relative to the first rotatable roller 4A, the coupling device 5 is guided to the adjacent second rotatable roller 4B. In this process, the first positive locking element 6A can, for example, move from the second recess 7B to the first recess 7A, with the first and second recesses 7A, 7B merging into one another. In particular, the coupling device 5 is axially displaced V3 such that it surrounds one end region of each of the adjacent first and second rotatable rollers 4A, 4B. Preferably, the first positive locking element 6A engages with the first recess 7A, and the second positive locking element 6B engages with the second recess 7B. Thus, during the axial displacement V3, in addition to the positive locking connection in the circumferential direction between the coupling device 5 and the first rotatable roller 4A or positive locking element 6A, the second rotatable roller 4B is also engaged.the second positive locking element 6B is positively connected in the circumferential direction to the coupling device 5.

[0072] Optionally, the positive locking elements 6A, 6B of the adjacent rotatable rollers 4A, 4B can be aligned in a straight line to each other during axial displacement V3, for example.

[0073] Furthermore, a subsequent step involves rotating V4 of the coupling device 5 relative to the two adjacent rotatable rollers 4, i.e., the first and second rotatable rollers 4A, 4B, about the common axis of rotation X into the predetermined end position. The predetermined end position is comparable to the end position described above in relation to step V1, whereby the coupling device 5 here establishes the releasable positive-locking connection to the first rotatable roller 4A and to the second rotatable roller 4B for transmitting the drive torque. The lug 9 is thus displaced between the positive-locking elements 6A, 6B and, in particular, prevents the coupling device 5 from slipping axially.

[0074] Optionally, when rotating V4, for example, the second rotatable roller 4B can be aligned relative to the first rotatable roller 4A and relative to the coupling device 5 in such a way that the second positive locking element 6B engages in the coupling device 5 depending on a predetermined transmission direction of the drive torque, so that an essentially backlash-free start-up process of the coupling system 1 is provided.

[0075] The joint drive V5 of the coupled transport devices 2 includes, for example, the transmission of the drive torque by means of a motor drive. Optionally, only one coupling device 5 can be driven, or several coupling devices 5. Since all rotatable rollers 4 of the coupling system 1 are mechanically synchronized, all transport devices 2 of the coupling system 1 are moved at the same conveying speed.

[0076] In particular, the procedure V can be applied both forwards and backwards to couple or uncouple the rotatable rollers 4. The procedure V can also be applied only partially in reverse order. Reference symbol list

[0077] 1 Coupling system 2,2' Transport device 3 Vending machine 4 Rotating roller 5 Coupling device 6 Positive locking element 7 First recess 7 Second recess 8 Conveyor belt 9 Nose 10 Housing 11 Interior 12 Goods 13 Base body 13 First end face 13 Second end face 14 Through hole 15 Teeth X rotation axis V1 single drive V2 rotation V3 axial displacement V4 rotation V5 common drive

Claims

1. Coupling device (5) for the mechanical synchronization of transport devices (2) that are arranged next to one another, in particular for or in a vending machine (3), having a base body (13); having a through bore (14) along an axis of rotation (X) of the base body (13), wherein the through bore (14) is embodied so as to displaceably and rotatably mount the base body (13) on a first rotatable roller that extends along the axis of rotation (X); having a first recess (7A) for inserting a first positive-locking element of the first rotatable roller on a first end face (13A) of the base body (13), wherein the first recess (7A) adjoins the through bore (14) and extends in sections in the circumferential direction of the base body (13), so that the first positive-locking element can be guided along the first recess (7A) into a predetermined end position in which a releasable positive-locking connection for driving the first rotatable roller is produced; and having a second recess (7B) for inserting a second positive-locking element of a second roller that can be rotated about the axis of rotation (X) on a second end face (13B) of the base body (13), wherein the second recess (7B) adjoins the through bore (14) and extends in sections in the circumferential direction, so that the second positive-locking element can be guided along the second recess (7B) into a predetermined end position in which a releasable positive-locking connection for driving the second rotatable roller is produced.

2. Coupling device according to claim 1, characterised in that the base body (13) is embodied as cylindrical and a shell surface of the base body (13) comprises a plurality of teeth (15) for driving the coupling device (5) by means of a gear drive.

3. Coupling system (1), having a plurality of transport devices (2) that are arranged next to one another and that each comprise a rotatable roller (4) that extends along a common axis of rotation (X); and having at least one coupling device (5) according to one of claims 1 or 2, which is embodied so as to produce, in a predetermined end position, a releasable positive-locking connection between two adjacent rotatable rollers (4) of the plurality of transport devices (2) that are arranged next to one another, so that the plurality of transport devices (2) can be driven in a mechanically synchronized manner, wherein the coupling device (5) is mounted on the rotatable roller (4) so as to be displaceable along the common axis of rotation (X) and so as to be rotatable about the common axis of rotation (X).

4. Coupling system according to claim 3, characterised in that the plurality of transport devices (2) that are arranged next to one another comprise a common conveying direction and plane.

5. Coupling system according to claim 3 or 4, characterised in that the coupling device (5), in the predetermined end position, releasably connects the rotatable rollers (4) of the plurality of transport devices (2) in a positive-locking manner in both the axial and circumferential directions.

6. Coupling system according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterised in that the mutually facing end regions of the rotatable rollers (4) each comprise a positive-locking element (6), wherein the positive-locking element (6) projects in particular from a shell surface of the rotatable roller (4).

7. Coupling system according to claim 6, characterised in that the coupling device (5) is embodied as hollow-cylindrical and comprises a recess (7A; 7B) that corresponds to the positive-locking element (6) and extends in the coupling device in such a way that the positive-locking element (6) can engage in the recess (7A; 7B) of the coupling device (5).

8. Coupling system according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterised in that the coupling device (5) can be driven via a motor drive, and / or at least one of the rotatable rollers (4) can be driven via a motor drive or a motor-driven conveyor belt (8).

9. Coupling system according to claim 8, characterised in that the motor drive is embodied as a gear drive, as a friction wheel drive or as a belt drive.

10. Vending machine (3), having a housing (10) that comprises a lockable door for filling the vending machine (3); having an interior (11); and having a coupling system (1) according to one of claims 3 to 9, which is provided in the interior (11) for transporting goods (12) having varying external dimensions.

11. Method (V) for configuring a coupling system according to one of claims 3 to 9, comprising: manipulating at least one coupling device (5) of the coupling system (1) that is displaceably and rotatably mounted on a respective rotatable roller (4) of the plurality of transport devices (2) that are arranged next to one another, wherein the manipulation comprises: axially displacing (V3) the coupling device (5) relative to the rotatable roller (4) along an axis of rotation (X) of the rotatable roller (4), wherein the coupling device (5) is guided to the adjacent rotatable roller (4) so that the coupling device (5) at least partially surrounds an end region of each of the two adjacent rotatable rollers (4); and rotating (V4) the coupling device (5) relative to the two adjacent rotatable rollers (4) about the common axis of rotation (X) into a predetermined end position, wherein, in the predetermined end position, the coupling device (5) produces a releasable positive-locking connection between the two adjacent rotatable rollers (4) for transmitting a drive torque.

12. Method according to claim 11 characterised in that the manipulation additionally comprises: rotating (V2) the coupling device (5) from a predetermined starting position, in which the coupling device (5) produces a releasable positive-locking connection to the rotatable roller (4) for transmitting a drive torque, relative to the rotatable roller (4) about the common axis of rotation (X), wherein the releasable positive-locking connection to the rotatable roller (4) is released in the direction of the common axis of rotation (X).

13. Method according to claim 11 or 12, characterised in that the end region of the two adjacent rotatable rollers (4) each comprises a positive-locking element (6), wherein the positive-locking elements (6) protrude from a shell surface of the rotatable rollers (4) and, during axial displacement (V3) of the coupling device (5), are oriented with respect to one another in a predetermined orientation, wherein, during rotation (V4) of the coupling device (5), one of the two adjacent rotatable rollers (4) is oriented relative to the other adjacent rotatable roller (4) and relative to the coupling device (5), in particular in such a way that the positive-locking elements (6) engage in the coupling device (5) in dependence upon a predetermined direction of transmission of the drive torque in such a way that an essentially clearance-free starting process of the coupling system (1) is provided.

14. Method according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterised by jointly driving (V5) the plurality of transport devices (2) that are mechanically synchronized by means of the at least one coupling device (5).

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