Connecting device and conveying assembly having a connecting device

Abstract

The invention relates to a connecting device (18) for connecting a receiving body (16) for conveyed goods to a base body (12) that can be excited into movement, comprising: a bearing device with at least one support element (64) arranged on the base body (12) and at least one corresponding bearing element (66) arranged on the receiving body (16), wherein, in a state of use, the receiving body (16) rests on the at least one support element (64) of the base body (12) via the at least one bearing element (66); a locking device with a first locking element (56) arranged on the base body (12) and rotatable about an axis of rotation (22) relative thereto, and a second locking element (58) fixed to the receiving body (16); and an actuating device (62) which is operatively connected to the first locking element (56), wherein, by means of the actuating device (62), by rotation about the axis of rotation (22), the first locking element (56) can be transferred from a release position, in which the locking elements (56, 58) are disengaged, into a locking position in which the locking elements (56, 58) are in clamping engagement with one another, the first locking element (56) being guided through a through-opening (38) of the base body (12) and the connecting device (18) comprises a sealing element (100) for sealing the through-opening (38). The invention further relates to a conveying assembly (10) having a connecting device (18).

Description

[0001] CONNECTING DEVICE AND CONVEYING ARRANGEMENT WITH A CONNECTING DEVICE

[0002] The present invention relates to a connecting device for connecting a receiving body for conveyed material to a base body which can be excited to move.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a conveyor arrangement comprising a receiving body for conveyed material, a base body, a drive device for the base body and a connecting device.

[0004] Such a conveyor arrangement is used, for example, in a machine for processing pharmaceutical packaging. The material to be conveyed, for example, closure elements in the form of plugs for closing pharmaceutical containers, is accommodated in the receiving body, which may be configured, for example, as a conveyor pot. The drive device can be used to excite the base body, in particular, to perform an oscillating movement. Via a connecting device between the base body and the receiving body, the oscillation is transmitted to the receiving body to move the material to be conveyed, which is conveyed out of the receiving body, for example, via a conveyor track in the form of a helix.

[0005] It is known to detachably connect the receiving body to the base body. This offers, for example, the possibility of using different types of receiving bodies together with the same base body as needed. Connecting devices designed as clamping devices are known, for example, from DE 42 34 170 02, DE 10 2009 018 932 B4, and DE 101 26 758 B4. Connecting devices using vacuum technology or electromagnets are also known.

[0006] Conventional conveyor assemblies with connecting devices have the problem that connecting devices have complicated designs that often include a large number of components. These components can become lost, leading to malfunctions and contamination, and dirt can also accumulate on the components. Furthermore, conventional connecting devices are known in which moving components are moved from a non-sterile area to a sterile area, which poses a risk of contamination when the connecting devices are used in a pharmaceutical environment. Another disadvantage of the prior art is that connecting devices can have openings, undercuts, or concealed areas into which substances can penetrate, for example, when cleaning the conveyor assemblies.This complicates cleaning, as the connecting devices must be covered or, alternatively, disassembled to remove any contamination and / or cleaning residues. Failure to do so promotes the introduction of germs, which carries the risk that batches of pharmaceutical products must be completely or partially discarded if contaminated.

[0007] When processing pharmaceuticals containing toxic substances, vacuum-operated connecting devices are unsuitable because toxic substances could be sucked in. The use of electromagnetic connecting devices poses the problem that preferred pharmaceutical-grade materials (e.g., 316L stainless steel) cannot be used. Eddy currents also lead to undesirable high heating of the connecting device.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a connecting device for connecting a receiving body to a base body and a conveying arrangement with a connecting device which allows less dirt to enter than with conventional connecting devices and conveying arrangements and preferably has better cleaning properties.

[0009] This object is achieved by a connecting device according to the invention for connecting a receiving body for conveyed material to a base body which can be excited to move, comprising: a support device with at least one support element arranged on the base body and at least one corresponding support element arranged on the receiving body, wherein the receiving body in a use state rests on the at least one support element of the base body via the at least one support element, a locking device with a first locking element arranged on the base body and rotatable relative thereto about a rotation axis and a second locking element fixed to the receiving body, and an actuating device which is operatively connected to the first locking element, wherein the first locking element can be moved by means of the actuating device by rotating about the rotation axis from a release position,in which the locking elements are disengaged, can be transferred into a locking position in which the locking elements are in clamping engagement with one another, wherein the first locking element is guided through a through-opening of the base body and the connecting device comprises a sealing element for sealing the through-opening.

[0010] In the connecting device according to the invention, the base body and the receiving body can be brought into contact with one another in a preferably defined desired position during intended use. The at least one support element can rest on the at least one support element so that a movement can be transmitted from the base body to the receiving body. The locking elements can be brought into engagement with one another in the locking position such that the first locking element is held in a clamping manner by the second locking element. This offers the possibility, in particular, of applying a clamping force directed towards the base body to the second locking element and thus to the receiving body. In this way, the receiving body can be reliably clamped relative to the base body and held thereon. The connecting device accordingly forms, in particular, a tensioning device.In terms of construction, the first locking element can be transferred from the release position into the locking position by rotating about the axis of rotation. Preferably, no further movement is required and / or provided for this, in particular no translational movement. The actuating device, which can be operated manually, for example, is provided for moving the first locking element. The first locking element is advantageously guided through a through-opening on the base body that is sealed by the sealing element. This prevents the entry of contaminants from, for example, a non-sterile area on the side of the base body facing away from the receiving body. Conversely, the entry of substances from a sterile area into the non-sterile area is preferably avoided.

[0011] According to the above, the connecting device according to the invention is particularly suitable for use with pharmaceutical packaging materials and, in this environment, particularly for WIP (washing in place) cleaning of the conveyor arrangement and / or when filling toxic substances.

[0012] It is understood that the locking elements can be released from one another in the release position in particular in order to release the receiving body from the base body.

[0013] It is advantageous if the first locking element is free from a lifting movement relative to the base body for transferring from the release position to the locking position and / or vice versa. In this case, this can be understood in particular to mean that preferably no translational movement is provided, for example, along the rotation axis. By eliminating the lifting movement, the introduction of contaminants, for example, from the non-sterile area into the sterile area, can be prevented.

[0014] It is advantageous if the end face of the base body facing the receiving body is designed to be planar. This improves the cleaning properties of the base body and reduces the likelihood of contaminants adhering.

[0015] It may be advantageous if the end face of the base body facing the receiving body is designed free of through-openings, recesses, and / or depressions. This reduces the likelihood of contaminants accumulating on the end face and, for example, in the case of through-openings, of contaminants passing from the non-sterile area into the sterile area. The cleanability of the base body is preferably improved by avoiding through-openings, recesses, and / or depressions.

[0016] The base body is, for example, plate-shaped in sections and comprises, on the radially outer side with respect to the rotational axis, a circumferential edge pointing away from the receiving body. The edge protrudes, for example, from a plate-shaped section facing the receiving body. The edge, for example, encloses a receiving space formed on the base body on the side facing away from the receiving body. The receiving space can accommodate, for example, the actuating device and / or a gear device via which the actuating device is coupled to the first locking element.

[0017] It may be advantageous if the locking elements can be engaged with one another by means of an axial insertion movement followed by a rotational movement around the rotation axis. For example, the locking elements can be engaged with one another in the manner of a bayonet connection.

[0018] For example, it can be provided that a recess is arranged on one locking element, into which the respective other locking element engages, particularly in a defined desired position of the receiving body relative to the base body. It can be provided that the locking element can only engage in the recess when the release position is assumed, so that it can be transferred into the locking position. The locking element engaging in the recess engages behind the respective other locking element in the locking position of the first locking element, for example, and rests against it.

[0019] The recess is arranged, for example, on the second locking element and the first locking element engages in the recess, whereby a reverse construction can also be provided.

[0020] The first locking element and / or the second locking element can, for example, comprise an inclined surface aligned at an angle to the axis of rotation in the sense of a "starting slope" and can be coupled to one another via this until one locking element clampingly engages behind the other locking element for further actuation of the actuating device.

[0021] The aforementioned recess can, for example, be a through-opening on the locking element, through which the other locking element preferably engages in a form-fitting manner. For example, the through-opening is arranged on the second locking element, and the first locking element engages through the through-opening.

[0022] When the receiving body is placed on the base body, the first locking element, for example, is guided into the recess and through the through opening, and assumes the release position. The locking element can be moved into the locking position by means of the actuating device.

[0023] One of the locking elements, in particular the first locking element, is configured, for example, in an L-shaped or T-shaped manner with one or two locking sections and an axially aligned shaft section that is mounted on the base body for rotation about the rotation axis, either indirectly or directly. The at least one locking section can engage behind the other locking element in the locked position and bear against it. A rotatable mounting on the base body exists indirectly or directly via the shaft section.

[0024] A T-shaped locking element, for example, has a central shaft section and radially extending locking sections in an axial plan view. The locking sections can be widened relative to the shaft section to form a comparatively large contact surface for the additional locking element. In plan view, the locking element can, for example, have the shape of a bow tie (a piece of clothing), wherein the locking sections can be rounded radially on the outside.

[0025] It is advantageous if the connecting device includes or forms an alignment device for aligning the receiving body relative to the base body in a defined desired position. This facilitates handling of the connecting device and the conveyor assembly.

[0026] In particular, it is advantageous if the alignment device is designed in such a way that only one clear desired position of the receiving body relative to the base body is possible, with a view to particularly simple handling and reliable function.

[0027] Preferably, the support device can comprise or form the alignment device, wherein the at least one support element rests in a defined position on the at least one support element in the use state. Additional alignment elements can thus be avoided and the design of the connecting device can be kept simple.

[0028] The at least one support element can, for example, comprise or form a recess that centers the at least one support element, or vice versa. This allows, for example, self-centering of the support element and support element relative to each other, for easier handling of the connecting device. The recess is, for example, groove-shaped and tapers, so that a strip-shaped element (e.g., the support element) can be centered in the groove.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the support device comprises two or more support elements and support elements. For example, three or more support elements and / or support elements can be provided, which are arranged, in particular, at the corners of an imaginary polygon relative to an axial viewing direction. The three support elements define, for example, a plane that coincides with a plane of the support elements. The support elements and the support elements can, for example, be arranged radially outwardly with respect to the axis of rotation in order to enable support at a distance from the axis of rotation.

[0030] Particularly in the last-mentioned advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the first locking element is positioned centrally in the imaginary polygon. In this case, the axis of rotation can, in particular, run through the (geometric) center of the polygon.

[0031] It can be provided if the at least one support element protrudes beyond a front side of the base body facing the receiving body, in particular a planar front side, in the direction of the receiving body.

[0032] The at least one support element can, for example, be formed separately from the base body and connected thereto, wherein a sealing element is preferably arranged between the base body and the at least one support element. With regard to the cleanability of the connecting device, an accumulation of contaminants between the support element and the base body is preferably prevented by the sealing element. For example, the support element is connected to the base body by screwing, covering a through-opening in the base body, and the sealing element is positioned between the support element and the base body to also seal the through-opening.

[0033] In another advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one support element is formed together with the base body, for example in one piece.

[0034] For a structurally simple design, it is advantageous if the at least one support element, in particular the two or more support elements, are preferably connected integrally to the second locking element. A connecting part formed in this way, comprising the locking element and at least one support element, can be fixed or fixable, for example, to a bottom wall of the receiving body.

[0035] In an advantageous embodiment, the second locking element has, for example, a through-opening for the first locking element, at the edge of which contact sections for locking sections of the first locking element are arranged. The support elements can protrude radially from the locking element and are designed, for example, in the shape of strips. The actuating device can be manually operated, for example. It can be advantageous if the actuating device comprises a handle element arranged outside the base body for an operator. In this way, the operator can easily access the handle element.

[0036] Alternatively or in addition to the manual operation of the actuating device, an actuating device with an electric drive and / or with a pneumatic drive can be provided.

[0037] The handle element is preferably coupled to a shaft element which is mounted in the base body so as to be rotatable about a shaft axis and which in turn is operatively connected to the first locking element.

[0038] For example, the shaft element can be eccentrically aligned with respect to the rotation axis. Alternatively or additionally, the shaft element can be arranged in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis. A skewed alignment of the rotation axis and the shaft axis is conceivable, for example.

[0039] It may prove advantageous if the connecting device comprises a gear device via which the actuating device is operatively connected to the first locking element.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the transmission device is or comprises a worm gear. The worm gear preferably comprises a gear wheel connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the first locking element and a worm element on the actuating device that engages with the gear wheel. For example, the worm element is arranged on the aforementioned shaft element and, when the shaft element rotates, meshes with the gear wheel that is rotatably mounted on the base body. The worm gear allows for a relatively compact design of the connecting device and the conveyor arrangement. The locking elements can be reliably clamped together with minimal force from the operator.For the purpose of a compact design and / or for protection, the gear device can be arranged, for example, on a side of the base body facing away from the receiving body and can be enclosed in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation by an edge of the base body facing away from the receiving body.

[0041] It is understood that bearing elements are preferably provided for supporting movable components. These are preferably plain bearing elements for the first locking element, the gear mechanism or its components, and / or the actuating device on the base body.

[0042] It is advantageous if the connecting device comprises or forms a torque limiting device for limiting the torque exerted or exercisable on the first locking element by means of the actuating device. In this way, excessive force between the locking elements can be avoided and the connecting device can be protected from damage. At the same time, a defined clamping force is possible with a view to reliably securing the receiving body to the base body.

[0043] For example, the actuating device includes the torque limiting device.

[0044] The torque limiting device can be interchangeable so that different maximum torques can be set, with a view to a versatile use of the connecting device.

[0045] In a preferred structural embodiment, the handle element and the shaft element are connected to one another via the torque limiting device, which is arranged, for example, axially relative to the shaft axis between the shaft element and the handle element.

[0046] It can be provided that a stop element is provided on the base body and a corresponding stop element is provided on the first locking element, or in a rotationally fixed connection with the first locking element, via which a range of movement of the first locking element during rotation relative to the base body is predetermined. For example, the stop elements couple with one another in a first position when the first locking element assumes the release position. This allows the user to determine that the receiving body is released and can be lifted from the base body. A second stop is provided, for example, as an end stop for the rotation of the first locking element. The first locking element assumes the locking position, for example, before reaching the end stop. The angle of rotation about the axis of rotation, before reaching the end stop, is determined, for example, by the torque limiting device.

[0047] The stop elements can be designed simply, for example, by means of a receptacle and a projection engaging with it. The receptacle, for example, in a groove-shaped form, can be located on the base body and the projection on the gear mechanism, or vice versa.

[0048] Preferably, the connecting device is designed free of vacuum actuation, magnetic and / or electrical fixation.

[0049] As mentioned at the beginning, the present invention also relates to a conveyor arrangement.

[0050] A conveyor arrangement according to the invention for conveying material to be conveyed, which achieves the object mentioned at the outset, comprises a receiving body for the material to be conveyed, a base body having a through-opening, a drive device for exciting an oscillating movement and / or translational movement of the base body and a connecting device of the type described above, via which the receiving body can preferably be detachably connected to the base body.

[0051] The advantages already mentioned in connection with the explanation of the connecting device according to the invention can also be achieved with the conveyor arrangement. Reference can be made to the above explanations in this regard. Advantageous embodiments of the conveyor arrangement according to the invention result from advantageous embodiments of the connecting device according to the invention. Reference is made to the above explanations in this regard.

[0052] The drive device can, for example, be functionally designed electromagnetically in a conventional manner to excite vibrations in the base body. A restoring force can be exerted on the base body, for example, by means of conventional spring elements. As mentioned above, the use of a worm gear for the transmission device is advantageous in order to achieve a compact design in the axial direction. For example, the drive device and / or the spring elements can be positioned laterally next to the centrally arranged worm gear in the axial direction.

[0053] The receiving body is, for example, a conveyor pot with a bottom wall and a casing, on the inside of which a spiral conveyor for the material to be conveyed is arranged.

[0054] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, taken in conjunction with the drawings, serves to explain the invention in more detail. They show:

[0055] Figure 1: a perspective view, partially in section, of a conveyor arrangement according to the invention with a connecting device according to the invention in an exploded view;

[0056] Figure 2: a partial view of the conveyor arrangement with the connecting device according to Figure 1 with some components hidden;

[0057] Figure 3: a plan view in the axial direction along the arrow "3" in Figure 2 with a view of the connecting device and a base body of the conveyor arrangement;

[0058] Figure 4: a sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Figure 3 with an axially displaced locking element of the connecting device; and Figure 5: a representation corresponding to Figure 4, the sectional view taken along line 5-5 in Figure 3.

[0059] Figure 1 shows a perspective exploded view, partially in section, of an advantageous embodiment of the conveyor assembly according to the invention, designated overall by reference numeral 10. The conveyor assembly 10 comprises a base body 12, a drive device 14 for driving the base body 12, and a receiving body 16.

[0060] For connecting the receiving body 16 to the base body 12, a preferred embodiment of the connecting device 18 according to the invention is provided, the components of which are arranged on the base body 12 and on the receiving body 16 as explained below.

[0061] In the present example, the base body 12 is disk-shaped with a substantially circular contour in plan view (Figure 3). The base body 12 defines an axis 22, hereinafter referred to as the axis of rotation 22. The base body 12 comprises a plate-shaped section 24 with an end face 26 facing the receiving body 16 during the intended use of the conveyor assembly 10.

[0062] An edge 28 extends from the plate-shaped section 24 in the direction away from the receiving body 16 in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis 22. The edge 28 encloses a receiving space 30, which is delimited at the top, facing the receiving body 16, by the plate-shaped section 24. Centrally in the receiving space 30, a receiving section projects from the plate-shaped section 24 with an edge 34 and a bearing area 36, ​​which will be discussed below.

[0063] A through opening 38 is formed centrally on the base body 12.

[0064] In addition, at least one further through-opening 40 is formed on the base body 12, for example. Figures 1, 2, and 5 each show a through-opening 40 for passing a connecting element through this through-opening in order to fix a support element to the base body 12, as explained below.

[0065] Apart from the through-openings 38, 40, the base body 12 has no further through-openings in the direction of the receiving body 16. At the end face 26, the plate-shaped section 24 is planar and, furthermore, free of depressions or recesses.

[0066] The drive device 14 serves to excite the base body 12 to a movement, in this case in particular an oscillating movement. For this purpose, the drive device 14 is functionally configured, for example, as follows.

[0067] The drive device 14 comprises at least one electromagnetic actuator 42, shown schematically in the drawing, with a magnet 421 and an armature 422 for exerting a force that causes the base body 12 to oscillate. 423 denotes a base body that serves as an inert mass acting against the excitation.

[0068] At least one restoring element is preferably provided, which applies a corresponding restoring force and is designed in the present case as a spring element 44, for example as a leaf spring.

[0069] The drive device 14 is arranged on the side facing away from the receiving body 16 and positioned within the contour defined by the edge 28. A housing (not shown in the drawing) may be provided, which covers the drive device 14 in the circumferential direction of the rotational axis 22 and at the bottom. The housing is, for example, pot-shaped and comprises a casing that is preferably sealingly connected to the base body 12, for example, at the edge 28.

[0070] The receiving body 16 is configured here as a conveyor pot 46 and serves to receive a conveyed material not shown in the drawing. For example, the conveyor assembly 10 is used in a machine for processing pharmaceutical packaging, with closure elements such as plugs for closing pharmaceutical containers being stored as the conveyed material.

[0071] For this purpose, the conveyor assembly 10 can, in particular, form a so-called "vibration conveyor." The base body can, in particular, form a so-called "vibration plate."

[0072] The conveyor bowl 46 comprises a bottom wall 48 and a circumferential casing 50, which forms the side wall of the conveyor bowl 46. The material to be conveyed is accommodated in a receiving space 52 enclosed by the casing 50 and the bottom wall 48. A rising spiral 54 is arranged on the inside of the casing 50.

[0073] As a result of the vibration of the base body 12, the receiving body 16, connected via the connecting device 18, also vibrates. The material is conveyed upward via the rising spiral 54 and fed to the intended processing stage.

[0074] It is understood that position and orientation specifications such as "top," "bottom," "above," "below," or the like are to be understood as referring to the intended use of the conveyor assembly 10. In the use state, the receiving body 16 is placed on the base body 12 from above, relative to the direction of gravity.

[0075] Orientation or direction specifications such as "axial" or "radial" are, unless otherwise stated, referred to the axis of rotation 22.

[0076] The connecting device 18 comprises a first locking element 56, a second locking element 58, a gear device 60, an actuating device 62, at least one support element, in this case three support elements 64, and at least one support element in a corresponding number to the at least one support element 64, in this case three support elements 66.

[0077] The second locking element 58 is secured to the receiving body 16, for example, by screwing. For this purpose, a projection 68 is provided on the receiving body 16, which is arranged on the bottom wall 48 and projects in the direction of the base body 12.

[0078] In the presently preferred embodiment, the connecting device 18 has a connecting part 70, which comprises the second locking element 58 and the support elements 66. The connecting part 70 is preferably formed in one piece, so that, in particular, a one-piece connection of the support elements 66 to the second locking element 58 is provided.

[0079] It is understood that the support elements 66 could be formed separately from the second locking element 58.

[0080] As can be seen particularly from Figures 1 to 3, the locking element 58 in the present example has a ring section 72 that is preferably aligned coaxially with the rotation axis 22. Two contact sections 74 protrude radially inward from the ring section 72 and each form the edge of a recess 76. The recess 76 is designed here as a through-opening 78 of the locking element 58, the contour of which is highlighted in Figure 3 with a thicker knitting thickness.

[0081] In axial plan view, the through-opening 78 is centrally of a substantially circular contour with a constriction, from which the recess 76 widens on opposite sides, so that the through-opening 78 in plan view has the contour similar to a bow tie (piece of clothing).

[0082] In this case, the support elements 66 are strip-shaped. The support elements 66 protrude radially from the ring section 72.

[0083] As in the present exemplary embodiment, it is advantageous if the angular distances between the support elements 66 differ from one another. In the present case, the support elements are arranged at corner regions of an imaginary polygon, namely an imaginary triangle with respect to the axial viewing direction, wherein this triangle is isosceles. Reference numeral 80 in Figure 3 schematically represents the contour of the triangle. Two of the support elements 66 have an angular distance with respect to the axis of rotation 22 of essentially 100 degrees (the two support elements 66 shown on the left in Figure 3). The respective angular distance to the third support element 66 (shown on the right in Figure 3) is essentially 130 degrees.

[0084] The support elements 64 are positioned corresponding to the support elements 66, with each support element 64 interacting with a support element 66. As can be seen in particular from Figures 1 to 3, three support elements 64 are arranged at corner regions of the polygon (triangle) conceived in an axial plan view. In this case, too, different angular distances relative to the rotation axis 22 are provided, with two support elements 64 being spaced from each other at an angular distance of essentially 100 degrees, and the angular distance to the third support element 64 being essentially 130 degrees.

[0085] It is understood that different angular distances and / or a different number of support elements 64 and / or bearing elements 66 could be provided.

[0086] The support elements 64 protrude from the end face 26 toward the receiving body 16. In the present case, the support elements 64 are formed separately from the base body 12, with the connection being made, for example, by screwing through the through-openings 40 (Figure 5).

[0087] A sealing element, not shown separately in the drawing, is arranged between the base body 12 at its end face 26 and the respective support element 64 to achieve a seal in this area and, in particular, also in the through-opening 40. This prevents the ingress of contaminants between the support element 64 and the base body 12.

[0088] In a different embodiment, a one-piece production of the base body 12 with the support element(s) can be provided. In the use state, the receiving body 16 can rest on the support elements 64 via the support elements 66 and thus on the base body 12. In this case, the receiving body 16 and the base body 12 assume a defined desired position. In particular, a clear relative orientation of the receiving body 16 and the base body 12 is ensured.

[0089] In the defined desired position, the receiving body 16 and the second locking element 58 are aligned coaxially with the base body 12 and the first locking element 56, the design of which will be discussed below.

[0090] In the present example, the first locking element 56 is essentially T-shaped and comprises a central, axially extending shaft portion 82. At least one locking portion 84 protrudes radially from the shaft portion 82. In the present case, two locking portions 84 are provided, located opposite one another with respect to the shaft portion 82. The locking portions 84 are arranged at the ends of the shaft portion 82, facing the second locking element 58.

[0091] In axial plan view, the first locking element 56 has a substantially circular contour on the shaft portion 82. The locking portions 84 follow a constriction and widen in the radial direction, and are rounded radially on the outside.

[0092] The shape of the first locking element 56 with the shaft portion 82 and the locking portions 84 corresponds to the contour of the through-opening 78 on the second locking element 58. In particular, the locking element 58 can be guided through the through-opening 78 in a form-fitting manner.

[0093] The actuating device 62 is operatively connected to the first locking element 56 and serves to transfer it from a release position to a locking position and vice versa. In the release position, the receiving body 16 can be detached from the base body 12. In the locking position, the locking elements 56, 58 are in clamping engagement with one another. The coupling of the actuating device 62 to the first locking element 56 is achieved in this case via the gear mechanism 60.

[0094] The locking element 56 is, as can be seen in particular from Figures 1, 2, and 4, rotationally fixedly connected to a gear wheel 86 of the transmission device 60. In this case, the gear wheel 86 is a gear of a worm gear 88, as the transmission device 60 is configured.

[0095] The gear wheel 86 is mounted axially and radially on the base body 12 via a bearing device. For this purpose, the bearing device comprises a bearing element 90 that surrounds the shaft portion 82 and bears against the gear wheel 86. The bearing element 90 bears against a shoulder 92 of the base body 12 (Figure 4).

[0096] A further bearing element 94 is arranged axially on the opposite side, which surrounds the gear wheel 86 and supports it axially and radially relative to a connecting part 96. The connecting part 96 is connected to the downwardly projecting edge 34 of the base body 12 and, in the present example, serves as a counterholder for a support part 98, by means of which, in the present example, the shaft section 82 is supported on the underside and held, for example, by screwing (Figure 4).

[0097] The bearing elements 90, 94 are in particular plain bearing elements.

[0098] A sealing element 100 surrounds the shaft portion 82 and is arranged in the through opening 38 in order to seal it.

[0099] The sealing element 100 ensures that no contaminants from the non-sterile area below the base body 12, when used in a pharmaceutical environment, enter the sterile area located outside. Conversely, the entry of contaminants from above through the through-opening 38 is prevented. Therefore, the connecting device 18 according to the invention and the conveying arrangement 10 according to the invention are particularly suitable for WIP applications and / or for use in processing machines for toxic substances. This is all the more so since no freely accessible openings are provided on the base body 12.

[0100] The actuating device 62 is manually operable in this case. It comprises a grip element 102 arranged outside the base body 12 for an operator, which, for example, comprises or forms a toggle 104.

[0101] Alternatively or in addition to the manual operation of the actuating device, an actuating device with an electric drive and / or with a pneumatic drive can be provided.

[0102] The handle element 102 is connected to a shaft element 108 of the actuating device 62 defining a shaft axis 106.

[0103] A worm element 110 of the worm gear 88 is arranged on the shaft element 108. The worm element 110 meshes with the gear wheel 86, so that when the handle element 102 rotates about the shaft axis 106, the first locking element 56 rotates about the rotation axis 22.

[0104] The shaft element 108 is rotatably mounted on a support part 114 via bearing elements 112, which in this case are designed as plain bearings, which is connected to the base body 12 at the bearing area 36 (Figure 5).

[0105] In this case, the shaft axis 106 is arranged eccentrically with respect to the rotation axis 22 and, in particular, lies in a plane oriented perpendicular to the rotation axis 22. The rotation axis 22 and the shaft axis 106 are positioned skew relative to each other.

[0106] The handle element 102 extends through a through-opening 116 at the edge 28. At least one sealing element 118 seals directly or indirectly between the through-opening 116 and the handle element 102. In this case, the sealing element 118 is annular and seals the handle element 102 relative to a sleeve 120 surrounding the handle element, which is inserted into the through-opening 116 and serves as a guide sleeve. The sealing element 118 thus also seals the base body 12 in the area of ​​the actuating device 62, so that the conveyor arrangement is preferably sealed on all sides.

[0107] O-rings 121 surround the handle element 102 and serve to guide and / or seal relative to the sleeve 120 and relative to the edge of the through opening 116.

[0108] The connecting device 18 further comprises a torque limiting device 122 for limiting the torque exerted on the first locking element 56 via the handle element 102. In the present case, the torque limiting device 122 is formed by a torque adapter 124 arranged between the handle element 102 and the shaft element 108. In addition to limiting the torque, it also ensures that a suitable torque is applied to ensure a reliable connection of the locking elements 56, 58.

[0109] The range of movement of the first locking element 56 relative to the base body 12 is predetermined in the present case by corresponding stop elements 126, 128 (Figure 3). The stop element 126 is a projection 130, for example in the form of a pin, on the gear wheel 86. The stop element 128 is a groove-shaped track 132 on the base body 12, for example, with end limits, into which track 132 the projection 130 engages.

[0110] The track 132 extends over an angular range of substantially 100 degrees relative to the rotation axis 22. Accordingly, the first locking element 56 can be rotated over a maximum angular range of substantially 100 degrees. The clamping engagement between the locking elements 56, 58 begins with the locking position, in particular before, for example, after 90°. This preferably allows a maximum overlap between the contact sections 74 and the locking sections 84 to be achieved. During the intended use of the conveyor assembly 10, the following procedure can be followed, for example:

[0111] Using the handle element 102, the operator rotates the locking element 56, if not already in the release position. This is made easier for the operator by the projection 130 abutting against the end of the track 132. In the release position, the first locking element 56 assumes the position shown in Figures 1, 2, 4, and 5.

[0112] The receiving body 16 is placed on the base body 12. The precise position is ensured by the support elements 66 and the support elements 64.

[0113] Only in the defined target position and when the first locking element 56 assumes the release position can it be passed through the through opening 78.

[0114] By rotating the handle element 102 about the shaft axis 106, the first locking element 56 is rotated about the rotation axis 22 and transferred into the locking position shown in Figure 3.

[0115] In the locking position, the locking sections 84 rest against the contact sections 74. At the same time, the second locking element 58 is thus subjected to a clamping force acting in the direction of the base body 12.

[0116] The rotation of the first locking element 56 is facilitated by the fact that the contact sections 74 have inclined surfaces 134 as a "starting slope" relative to the rotation axis 22 (Figure 4).

[0117] In the locking position, the first locking element 56 engages behind the second locking element 58 and is arranged in the region of a stepped recess 136 formed between the projection 68 and the contact sections 74. The clamping force with which the locking elements 56, 58 interact can be limited by means of the torque adapter 124.

[0118] During operation, the vibration transmitted from the actuator 42 to the base body 12 is transmitted to the receiving body 16, in particular via the support elements 64 and the bearing elements 66.

[0119] To release the receiving body 16 from the base body 12, the procedure can be reversed. By rotating the handle element 102 in the opposite direction, the locking elements 56, 58 are disengaged by rotating the locking element 56 about the rotation axis 22 and moving it from the locked position to the release position. In the release position, the locking element 56 is aligned with the through opening 78, so that the receiving body 16 can be lifted from the base body 12.

[0120] List of reference symbols

[0121] 10 Conveyor arrangement

[0122] 12 basic bodies

[0123] 14 Drive device

[0124] 16 receiving bodies

[0125] 18 Connecting device

[0126] 22 axis of rotation

[0127] 24 plate-shaped section

[0128] 26 Front side

[0129] 28 Rand

[0130] 30 recording room

[0131] 34 rand

[0132] 36 Storage area

[0133] 38 passage opening

[0134] 40 passage opening

[0135] 42 Actuator

[0136] 421 Magnet

[0137] 422 anchors

[0138] 423 basic body

[0139] 44 spring element

[0140] 46 funding pot

[0141] 48 floor wall

[0142] 50 coat

[0143] 52 Recording Room

[0144] 54 Steigwendei

[0145] 56 first locking element

[0146] 58 second locking element

[0147] 60 Gearbox

[0148] 62 Actuating device

[0149] 64 Support element

[0150] 66 support element

[0151] 68 lead

[0152] 70 connecting part

[0153] 72 ring section plant section

[0154] recess

[0155] passage opening

[0156] contour

[0157] Shaft section

[0158] Locking section

[0159] gear wheel

[0160] Worm gear

[0161] Bearing element

[0162] Paragraph

[0163] Bearing element

[0164] connecting part

[0165] Support part

[0166] Sealing element

[0167] Handle element

[0168] Gag

[0169] Shaft axis

[0170] Shaft element

[0171] screw element

[0172] Bearing element

[0173] Support part

[0174] passage opening

[0175] Sealing element

[0176] sleeve

[0177] 0-R.ing

[0178] Torque limiting device

[0179] Torque adapter

[0180] Stop element

[0181] Stop element

[0182] projection

[0183] Train

[0184] inclined surface

[0185] recess

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS Connecting device (18) for connecting a receiving body (16) for conveyed material to a base body (12) capable of being excited to movement, comprising: a support device with at least one support element (64) arranged on the base body (12) and at least one corresponding support element (66) arranged on the receiving body (16), wherein the receiving body (16) rests in a state of use on the at least one support element (64) of the base body (12) via the at least one support element (66), a locking device with a first locking element (56) arranged on the base body (12) and rotatable relative to it about an axis of rotation (22) and a second locking element (58) fixed on the receiving body (16), and an actuating device (62) which is operatively connected with the first locking element (56),wherein the first locking element (56) can be moved by means of the actuating device (62) by rotating it about the axis of rotation (22) from a release position in which the locking elements (56, 58) are disengaged to a locking position in which the locking elements (56, 58) are in clamping engagement with each other, wherein the first locking element (56) is guided through a through-opening (38) of the base body (12) and the connecting device (18) comprises a sealing element (100) for sealing the through-opening (38). Connecting device (18) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first locking element (56) is free from a stroke relative to the base body (12) when moving from the release position to the locking position and / or vice versa. Connecting device (18) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that an end face (26) facing the receiving body (16), The base body (12) is designed to be planar and / or free of through-openings, recesses (76) and / or depressions. A connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (12) is designed in a plate-like shape and comprises a circumferential rim (28, 34) extending away from the receiving body (16) on its radial outer side with respect to the axis of rotation (22). A connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking elements (56, 58) can be brought into engagement with one another by means of an axial insertion movement and subsequent rotational movement about the axis of rotation (22).A connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a recess (76) is arranged on a locking element (56, 58), into which the other locking element (56, 58) engages, particularly in a defined target position of the receiving body (16) relative to the base body (12). A connecting device (18) according to claim 6, characterized in that the locking element (56, 58) engaging in the recess (76) engages behind and rests against the other locking element (56, 58) in the locked position. A connecting device (18) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the recess (76) is a through-opening (78) on the locking element (56, 58), through which the other locking element (56, 58) preferably engages in a form-fitting manner.Connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the locking elements (56, 58), in particular the first locking element (56), is L-shaped or T-shaped with one or two locking section(s) (84) and. an axially aligned shaft section (82) which is rotatably mounted on the base body (12) indirectly or directly about the axis of rotation (22). Connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting device (18) comprises or forms an alignment device for aligning the receiving body (16) relative to the base body (12) in a defined target position, in particular that the alignment device is designed such that only one target position of the receiving body (16) relative to the base body (12) is possible, wherein preferably the support device comprises or forms the alignment device, wherein the at least one support element (66) rests on the at least one support element (64) in a defined position in the operating state.A connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support device comprises two or more support elements (66) and support elements (64), preferably three or more support elements (64) and / or support elements (66), which, with respect to an axial viewing direction, are arranged, in particular, at corner regions of an imaginary polygon that are arranged radially outside the axis of rotation (22). A connecting device (18) according to claim 11, characterized in that the first locking element (56) is positioned centrally in the imaginary polygon, in particular that the axis of rotation (22) passes through the center of the polygon.Connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one support element (64) projects beyond a planar end face (26) of the base body (12) facing the receiving body (16) in the direction of the receiving body (16) and / or that the at least one support element (64) is formed separately from the base body (12) and is connected to it, wherein preferably a sealing element is arranged between the base body (12) and the at least one support element (64). Connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one support element (66), in particular the two or more support elements (66), are preferably integrally connected to the second locking element (58). Connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating device (62) is manually operable with a handle element for an operator arranged outside the base body (12), which is preferably coupled to a shaft element (108) rotatably mounted in the base body (12) about a shaft axis (106). Connecting device (18) according to claim 15, characterized in that the shaft element (108) is oriented eccentrically with respect to the axis of rotation (22) and / or is arranged in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation (22).Connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting device (18) comprises a gear unit (60) via which the actuating device (62) is operatively connected to the first locking element (56). Connecting device (18) according to claim 17, characterized in that the gear unit (60) is or comprises a worm gear (88) which preferably comprises a gear wheel (86) rotationally fixed to the first locking element (56) and a worm element (110) on the actuating device (62) engaging with it. Connecting device (18) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the gear unit (60) is arranged on a side of the base body (12) facing away from the receiving body (16) and is enclosed in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation (22) by an edge (28, 34) of the base body (12) extending away from the receiving body (16). Connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting device (18) comprises or forms a torque limiting device (122) for limiting a torque exerted or exertable on the first locking element (56) by means of the actuating device (62). Connecting device (18) according to claim 20 in conjunction with claim 15, characterized in that the handle element (102) and the shaft element (108) are connected to each other via the torque limiting device (122).Connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a stop element (126, 128) and a corresponding stop element (126, 128) are provided on the base body (12) on the first locking element (56) or with the first locking element (56) in a rotationally fixed connection, by means of which a range of movement of the first locking element (56) when rotating relative to the base body (12) is defined. Conveying arrangement (10) for conveying material, comprising: a receiving body (16) for conveyed material, a base body (12) having a through-opening (38), a drive device (14) for exciting a vibrational movement and / or translational movement of the base body (12) and a connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims, by means of which the receiving body (16) can preferably be detachably connected to the base body (12).Conveying arrangement (10) according to claim 23, characterized in that the receiving body (16) is a conveying pot (46) with a bottom wall (48) and a shell (50) on which a rising spiral (54) for the conveyed material is arranged on the inside.

Images