Device and method for separating parts

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a device (1) for separating parts (2), for example rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms, the device comprising: a transport apparatus (10) by means of which the parts (2) to be conveyed can be conveyed to, through, and out of the device (1) along a transport path (16) in a transport direction (11), the transport apparatus (10) having at least one transport means (12) for transporting the parts (2) in one row and an accumulation section (13); and a blocking assembly (20) comprising at least one blocking element (20.1; 20.2) which is in the form of a rocker and the length of which extends in the transport direction (11), which blocking element defines a range of action W for the parts (2). The device (1) also comprises an actuator (30). The actuator (30) is designed to pivot the at least one blocking element (20.1; 20.2) into a first position in which a part (2.1) advancing into the range of action W is held back, and to pivot said at least one blocking element from the first position into a second position in which the advancing part (2.1) can be received within the range of action W.

Description

[0001] Device and method for separating parts

[0002] Technical field of the invention

[0003] The invention relates to a device and a method for separating parts, in particular rotationally symmetrical closures, containers, and / or preforms. The separating device is particularly associated with a testing device for the optical and / or electrical testing of rotationally symmetrical test pieces.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] It is known that mass-produced test specimens are continuously subjected to testing for quality assurance purposes in order to detect properties and / or defects in the test specimens. The test specimens can be container closures, containers or bottles, or so-called preforms, produced in large quantities. These are generally fed to an optical inspection device via a buffer zone using a conveyor system while lying next to one another. Detectable defects can be, for example, dimensional errors, material defects and color defects, with the optical inspection preferably being carried out on individual test specimens. Accordingly, a separation device can be provided between the buffer zone and the optical inspection device so that an image can be taken of the individual test specimens that can be evaluated by a processing device in order to detect defective test specimens.

[0006] However, separation of parts may also be necessary in other respects, as they are transported adjacent to one another by conveyors along a transport direction. For example, subsequent processing of the parts, such as printing, may require the parts to be conveyed into a processing zone with a certain distance between them.

[0007] Devices for separating parts are already known. For example, the use of a star wheel with multiple fingers that engage open-topped objects is known. By adjusting the rotational speed of the star wheel relative to the feed speed of a conveyor belt, it is possible to create a gap of adjustable size between the objects behind the star wheel, i.e., to separate the objects. Alternatively, pocket wheels arranged on either side of the transport direction with pockets arranged along the circumference are known, which can be brought into engagement with the test objects. The pocket wheels are rotated synchronously in opposite directions, with the circumferential speed being lower than the speed of the conveyor, so that the test objects can be transported further in individual sections.

[0008] Another principle for separating, conveying, and buffering adjacent parts is known from CH 704 843. Here, objects are separated by means of a plurality of rocker-like, pivoting locking elements arranged in series along a conveyor path. The objects conveyed by frictional engagement cause a rocking motion of the locking elements, meaning the locking elements are moved passively and thus without drive. Upon leaving the locking element, an object deflects the locking element in such a way that a subsequent object is stopped. Once the preceding object has left the effective range of the locking element, the locking element executes a countermovement, thus canceling the stop.

[0009] Summary of the invention

[0010] It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for separating parts, in particular rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms, whereby buffering and positioning of the parts before, during and / or after separation can be improved and in particular adjustable. Thus, the device for separating can also be combined with a testing of the parts. Based on an adjustable and possibly controllable separation of the parts by means of the separating device, an optical and / or electrical test for detecting defective parts can be carried out simply and reliably in the periphery of this device. However, errors during conveying can also be detected and resolved and / or the number of separated parts can be recorded by means of the separating device. Furthermore, a method for separating parts is described.

[0011] According to the invention, these objects are achieved in particular by the subject matter of the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments are also apparent from the dependent claims and the description.

[0012] The objectives of the present invention are achieved by a device for separating parts, for example, rotationally symmetrical closures, containers, and / or preforms, comprising a transport device by means of which the parts to be conveyed can be conveyed to, through, and out of the device along a transport path in a transport direction. The transport device comprises at least one transport means for transporting the parts in a single row and a buffer zone, a locking arrangement with at least one rocker-like locking member, which extends with a length along the transport direction and defines an effective area for the parts. The device further comprises an actuator.The actuator is configured to pivot the at least one locking member into a first position, in which a part advancing into the effective range is retained, and to pivot it from the first position into a second position, in which the advancing part can be received in the effective range. In the first position, also referred to as the locking position, the locking member projects with an end region into the transport path, against which the advancing part strikes and is stopped. The at least one locking member is therefore deflected in the first position. In the second position, a release position, the advancing part is in the effective range and is released for further transport by pivoting the locking member again into a third position, a release position, which largely corresponds to the first position.

[0013] The rocker-like and pivotable locking member of the locking arrangement can be designed as a lever arm with a certain length, which can be pivoted about a pivot axis by means of a joint. The pivot axis is perpendicular to the transport direction, resulting in a rocking movement of the locking member into and out of the transport path. The two ends of the locking member each perform the opposite movement to each other in accordance with the pivoting movement. A stop can be formed on one side of the locking member, which interacts with an actuator (or another component) arranged laterally facing the locking member. The movement range of the locking member, i.e. the deflection range, can also be limited in this case.

[0014] In order to switch the actuator in a predeterminable defined cycle, a control unit can be provided.

[0015] In contrast to known devices for separating parts, in which the pivoting movement is injected by the conveyed part itself, i.e., passively, the device according to the invention uses an actuator to pivot the at least one rocker-like locking element between the positions. Accordingly, the device is further developed based on the prior art such that the passive execution of the rocking movement of at least one locking element according to the invention can be actively performed by the actuator. Preferably, the device can further comprise a control unit configured to activate or control the actuator at a definable cycle.

[0016] In known passive designs, the object conveyed by a transport means presses on one end of the rocker-like locking element, which deflects the locking element in such a way that a subsequent object is stopped. Only when the first object leaves the effective range of the rocker-like locking element can the subsequent object push the locking element in the opposite direction, thus canceling the stop. Controlling the distance between successive objects is only possible via the conveying speed of the transport means. Several locking elements are arranged along the transport path for this purpose in order to repeatedly stop the objects. This passive design proves to be disadvantageous and, in particular, prone to failure, as well as being structurally inflexible.

[0017] In contrast, with the device according to the invention, not only can parts be safely separated and the holding time of stationary parts freely selected using the actuator or its controlled circuit, but the distance between consecutive parts can also be easily adjusted and adjusted. Accordingly, the actuator is designed and / or arranged as an activation element for the rocker-like locking element in order to selectively transfer it between a locking and a release configuration. Furthermore, separation using a rocker-like locking element proves to be more gentle on the parts, since the force is only applied via the less sensitive surface of the round parts.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the invention, the locking arrangement comprises rocker-like locking members arranged on both sides of the transport path, i.e. a first locking member and an oppositely arranged second locking member, which can be actuated synchronously by means of one or more actuators. The first locking member and the second locking member act like a pair of pliers, which in the first position is more or less closed for a following part, so that the part pushing or advancing between the locking members is held back. This position of the locking members is referred to below as the first position or locking position and, according to one embodiment, can be actively switched and in particular released by the actuator. In a holding position defined as the second position, the advancing part is located in the effective ranges of the locking members.The holding time of these positions is definable and adjustable via the actuator's circuitry in the control unit. If the locking elements are pivoted into a third position, i.e., a release position, through interaction with the actuator, the part located within the effective range is released. The locking elements assume the same position in the third position as in the first position.

[0019] In principle, it is conceivable that certain positions of the at least one locking element are not actively switched by the actuator, but that the locking element or elements are pushed into the position by subsequent parts.

[0020] Alternatively, the actuator can also be designed and / or arranged such that a blocking position is present in its deactivated state. A subsequent part can either advance into the effective range of the at least one blocking element due to the dynamic pressure in a subsequent phase, which then assumes the second position. According to one embodiment, the path for the subsequent part is opened by the activated actuator and held or stopped in this position by the position of the at least one blocking element.

[0021] Active execution of the pivoting movement by the actuator(s) allows the pivoting movement to be switched independently of the prevailing pressure of the accumulated parts. This means that homogeneous separation of the parts to be conveyed is possible, which also tolerates gaps and / or disruptions in the accumulation section. When parts are conveyed in bulk, disruptions to the part flow can occur, particularly upstream of the separation device, e.g. due to parts that do not conform to specifications. This can be detected, for example, using sensors. Active control of the pivoting movement of the locking element by the switchable actuator allows possible blockages to be released. In addition, a jam in the device or in the inlet area of ​​the device can be cleared by actively pivoting the at least one locking element into an open position or the second position until the jam has cleared.

[0022] To detect problems, particularly in the congestion section, a sensor can be provided, particularly an optoelectric sensor that can monitor this area. If an improper congestion or gaps occur in this area, a control signal can be transmitted to the downstream actuator to correct the problem by appropriately switching the blocking element.

[0023] In a further embodiment of the device for separating parts, in which the locking arrangement comprises a first locking member and a second locking member opposite it, an opening width between the two opposing rocker-like locking members is variable; in particular, the opening width can be adapted to the diameter of rotationally symmetrical parts. This adjustability allows easy adaptation of the separating device to different parts without having to replace the locking members. In a preferred embodiment of the device for separating parts, the actuator is configured to magnetically cause pivoting of the at least one rocker-like locking member.For this purpose, the actuator can be designed as a switchable electromagnet or have one which, when switched on, interacts with an end region of the rocker-like locking member. This can be achieved, for example, by means of an appropriately arranged magnetic means. The electromagnet can be supplied with alternating voltage, rectified alternating voltage, or pulses generated from direct voltage, thus exerting a periodically changing force on the means. The at least one rocker-like locking member is pivoted accordingly. The locking member is movable by the laterally arranged switchable electromagnet, wherein the at least one rocker-like and pivotable locking member is pivoted into the first or third position or into the second position. When the electromagnet is switched off or de-energized, the locking member pivots in the opposite pivoting direction.

[0024] Alternatively, the actuator can also be designed as a mechanical actuator. This can include a movable plunger that can be moved toward the locking member. Thus, in this embodiment, one end of the locking member can rest against the movable plunger and be moved with it such that it can be adjusted to the first or third position and the second position.

[0025] Furthermore, the actuator can be designed to cause the pivot axis of the at least one locking member of the locking arrangement to pivot via an activated rotation. One conceivable variant for such an actuator is an electric motor.

[0026] The actuator can be controlled by a controller and a control process with adaptive functions in a closed control loop or an open control path, and can be moved to intermediate and / or end positions. Using a controllable actuator circuit, e.g., the electromagnet, not only can the position of the rocker-like locking element be actively determined, but the separation can also be timed and / or the distance between separated parts adjusted via the circuit's cycle.

[0027] Advantageously, the locking member can be damped when striking the actuator. For this purpose, in one embodiment, a magnetic field can be set in such a way that the movement of the locking member toward the actuator is slowed down.

[0028] Timing is possible solely by switching the actuator, which is designed as an electromagnet, or by means of a return spring. The pressure force of the accumulated parts pushing into the separating device forces the locking elements into the holding position, with the actuator or electromagnet actively delaying the opening.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the actuator is switchable to hold the locking member in the first position, the locking position, for an adjustable holding period, wherein the transport of the parts through the device is stopped. Furthermore, the actuator can be switchable to hold the locking member in the second position, the holding position, for an adjustable holding period, wherein a part received in the effective range of the locking member is retained.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the distance between successive parts along the transport direction after the device is adjustable by means of the actuator.

[0031] In one embodiment of the invention, the number of pivoting movements actively initiated by the actuator can be detected by a sensor. This provides the possibility of easily detecting the number of parts passing through the part-separating device based on the number of switching operations of the actuator. Furthermore, it proves advantageous that counting the parts passing through the separating device allows for precise filling of transport crates, etc., whereby, for example, the flow of parts can be redirected or fed to a buffer device when a certain number of parts is reached. According to one embodiment, the transport device, which conveys parts to, through, and out of the separating device, comprises at least one transport means designed as a belt conveyor.The belt conveyor may comprise a conveyor belt, round belts or other circulating transport means suitable for transmitting drive forces to the parts to be conveyed by means of frictional forces.

[0032] The belt conveyor is preferably designed as a vacuum belt conveyor. A vacuum belt conveyor increases the contact pressure of the parts on the surface of the transport means or the conveyor belt and stabilizes the position of the parts to be conveyed. This can increase the slip between the surface of the conveyor belt and the parts to be conveyed, which is advantageous for the design of the transport device. It is conceivable that only a section of the transport path, in particular the area corresponding to the effective range of the blocking element, is designed as a vacuum conveyor. Alternatively or additionally, compressed air conveying can also be provided at least in the inlet area of ​​the transport device, e.g., in the accumulation section.

[0033] To counteract the problem that the relative movement between the transport device and the part being conveyed can cause damage to the parts due to friction, the transport device should be designed to reduce friction, at least in the area of ​​the accumulation section. Suitable options include vacuum conveying or a coating on the transport plane.

[0034] To ensure a single-row, adjacent arrangement of the parts at least in the accumulation section or a section upstream of the separating device, lateral boundaries running parallel to each other in the transport direction can be arranged above the transport path in such a way that the parts are preferably guided along opposite sides of the outer surface of the parts. This prevents individual parts from deviating from the single-row arrangement due to the prevailing back pressure.

[0035] The arrangement, shape, or dimension of the at least one rocker-like locking member can be adapted to the shape or length of the parts perpendicular to the transport direction. Thus, by adapting the arrangement and / or shape of the locking member, it is possible to easily adapt the separating device to different parts. In this way, the flexibility of the separating device for parts with different dimensions can be further improved. Tall parts have a shape that is elongated along their axis, so that they protrude a certain height above the surface of the transport device. Adapting or positioning the at least one locking member at a correspondingly higher level, or arranging it above the transport device, allows reliable separation even for this tall part shape thanks to a correspondingly enlarged contact surface.

[0036] To minimize friction between the rocker-like locking element and the part, bearings, such as ball bearings, can be provided on the contact surfaces of the locking element and the part to be separated. This reduces friction at the contact surfaces and thus reduces wear. Thus, transport through the separating device can take place at high speed and with extreme precision with minimal friction. Alternatively or in addition to the at least one bearing, a friction-reducing coating can be provided on the contact area. A high-speed feeder with a capacity of up to approximately 4,500 parts per minute, or an optimum throughput, is conceivable.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the invention, the actuator can be switched such that at least one of the parts is at a standstill during a definable holding period. This state can be used to close any gaps detected in the parts flow. This generateable and adjustable standstill during an adjustable holding period can further be used to perform an optical inspection and / or an electrical test of the parts for defects using one or more testing devices. The holding period, which can be set using the actuator, can be adapted to the requirements of the test method used, or the test can be synchronized with the separation or pivoting movement of the locking member. The test can be selected from a variety of test methods, in particular it is an optical test method and / or a high-voltage test.

[0038] Preferably, the optical inspection of the parts can be based on an image of the part taken using an image recording device. The image can then be evaluated by a processing device to identify defective parts. A comprehensive optical inspection can be used to check the performance of a closure or container; for example, the integrity of a tamper-evident strip, a closure thread, and / or a sealing element can be checked.

[0039] Alternatively and / or additionally, the conveyed part can be subjected to an electrical test to detect holes and / or cracks. A high-voltage test is suitable for this purpose. In particular, the high-voltage test can be carried out by applying a pulsed voltage from a voltage source. A suitably designed test device comprises an electrode arrangement with an upper electrode arranged above the transport plane and a lower electrode arranged below the transport plane, between which a discharge gap forms. The applied test voltage is greater than or equal to the breakdown voltage between the electrodes in air, but less than the breakdown voltage between the electrodes through a flawless part.

[0040] It is particularly advantageous if a transport means designed as a conveyor belt has holes or openings that are arranged at a certain distance from one another in the transport direction. For example, a vacuum belt conveyor has such holes. These holes or openings are designed and arranged such that during the high-voltage test, the discharge path between the upper electrode and the lower electrode runs through one of the holes or openings and thus not through a potential insulator, such as the conveyor belt.

[0041] The combination of separation and inspection proves particularly advantageous in terms of precise tracking of parts along the transport path. For example, using encoders for position and / or distance measurement, a part identified as defective can be tracked and sorted out at the end of the transport path.

[0042] Furthermore, identified defects, such as micro-holes and / or micro-cracks detected during a high-voltage test, can be recorded in statistics and combined with the results of other testing methods. Defective parts can be assigned to their injection molding cavity in the tool, allowing for targeted correction at an early stage.

[0043] The present invention also relates to a method for separating parts, for example, rotationally symmetrical closures, containers, and / or preforms, which can advantageously be carried out using the separating device according to the invention. The method comprises transporting parts along a transport path by means of a transport device, wherein the parts can be arranged in a single row and adjacent to one another along a buffer section in front of the device.The method further comprises pivoting a rocker-like locking member into a first position by means of an actuator. This locking member extends along the transport direction and defines an effective range for the parts, wherein a part is prevented from entering the effective range, pivoting into a second position in which the entering part can be received in the effective range, and pivoting the rocker-like locking member into a third position, which corresponds to the first position, thereby clearing the path for the part in the transport direction. The part leaves the effective range of the locking member at a distance from the preceding part.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the pivoting of the locking member from one position to the other is delayed by a certain time, by an adjustable holding time. This holding time, which can be adjusted via the actuator control, allows the distance between separated parts to be easily adjusted. Accordingly, the distance resulting between two parts passed through in cycles is adjustable. The parts separated by the device can remain in a stationary position either before or during separation. According to one embodiment of the method, the separation method can be combined with an optical and / or electrical testing method of the preferably stationary parts by means of an appropriately designed optical and / or electrical testing device.

[0045] Further details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments, which are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings. The description reveals further advantages of the present invention, as well as suggestions and proposals for how the subject matter of the invention can be modified or further developed within the scope of the claims.

[0046] Brief description of the drawings

[0047] They show:

[0048] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a device according to the invention for separating parts;

[0049] Figure 2 shows a schematic sectional view of the device according to the invention for separating parts in one embodiment;

[0050] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of a detail of the device according to the invention for separating parts in combination with a testing device;

[0051] Figure 4A is a schematic plan view of a device for separating round parts according to an embodiment in a first phase;

[0052] Figure 4B is a schematic plan view of the device for separating round parts in a second phase; Figure 4C is a schematic plan view of the device for separating parts in a third phase;

[0053] Figure 5 is a schematic plan view of the device for separating round parts in a further embodiment.

[0054] Preferred embodiments of the invention

[0055] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a device 1 according to the invention for separating parts, for example rotationally symmetrical parts 2, such as closures for beverage containers. The parts 2 are largely identical objects produced in large quantities, for example closures as shown. The device 1 for separating parts is also referred to as a separating device 1. The separating device 1 is designed to separate parts 2 transported by a transport device 10 in a transport direction 11 along a transport path 16. The parts 2 are fed by transport means 12 and accumulated in at least sections of a storage section 13 such that they are arranged in a single row and adjacent to one another on a transport plane 14.On the transport level 14, the parts 2 are transported by the transport means 12 through the separation device 1 and on to downstream devices. The transport means 12 can comprise belt conveyors, vacuum belt conveyors, or the like to convey the parts 2 in the transport direction 11 along the transport path 16. Details of the transport means 12, such as the supporting structure, drive unit and / or deflection unit for a conveyor belt, and possibly a sliding plate, are not shown for the sake of clarity. Preferably, a negative pressure or vacuum can be applied, which acts on the parts 2 via slots or openings 18 in the transport means 12. The openings 18 also prove advantageous with regard to electrical testing, since, for example, an insulator conveyor belt is eliminated during a high-voltage test.

[0056] Above the transport plane 14, parallel lateral guides 15 are arranged, extending at least in the area of ​​the accumulation section 13, such that the transported parts 2 are guided along opposite sides, for example, of the outer surface, and thus assume a single-row, adjacent arrangement. The separating device 1 can be connected to upstream and / or downstream devices by means of the transport device 10.

[0057] The separating device 1 according to the invention in the illustrated embodiment has a locking arrangement 20, comprising a first locking member 20.1 and a second locking member 20.2, which are arranged opposite one another above the transport plane 14. Each of the locking members 20.1, 20.2 is mounted on a joint such that it can pivot about a pivot axis 21 perpendicular to the transport plane 14, as can be seen in Figure 3. The first locking member 20.1 and the second locking member 20.2 are actively actuated by an actuator 30. In this case, the locking member 20.1 and the locking member

[0058] 20.2 are each pivoted about their pivot axes 21.1; 21.2, ie, deflected such that they either project into the transport path 16 or are pivoted out of it. Details of the locking arrangement 20 are shown in Figure 3.

[0059] The pivoting of each of the two locking members 20.1, 20.2 does not occur passively, but actively and in a timed manner via the actuator 30, in particular via a controllable electromagnet. The actuator 30 therefore causes the continuously fed parts 2 lying next to one another to perform a timed movement along the transport path 16 by being stopped by the two locking members 20.1, 20.2, wherein the stop is effected by the locking arrangement 20 pivotable by the actuator 30. Furthermore, the timed pivoting movement of each of the locking members by the actuator 30 enables

[0060] 20.1, 20.2 of the locking arrangement 20, so that an appropriate response can be made to blockages of parts that do not meet the specification and / or gaps along the transport path 16. In the event of an interrupted flow of parts in the transport direction 11, the blockage can be released by automatically moving the locking elements 20.1, 20.2 apart. Furthermore, by detecting the position of the locking arrangement 20 and / or an arrangeable part trigger sensor (not shown), a jam can be detected and transmitted to a control unit 32 (not shown) of the singling device 1. To release the jam, for example, an opening width 23 between the opposite first locking element 20.1 and the second locking element 20.2 of the locking arrangement 20 can be enlarged, so that the parts 2 are released from the blockage, the jam is cleared, and the flow of parts flows uninterrupted.Alternatively or additionally, a provided compressed air nozzle (not shown) could be activated to sort out the blocked parts 2 from the parts flow. To ensure that downstream devices, such as inspection devices, are not affected, the control unit 32 can transmit a corresponding signal to them indicating the beginning and / or end of a part flow of defective parts.

[0061] Figure 2 shows a schematic sectional view of the separating device 1. The parts 2 are transported along the transport direction 11 into, through and out of the separating device 1. In doing so, they pass the locking arrangement 20 with the first locking member 20.1 and the second locking member 20.2. The first locking member 20.1 has a first end 22.1.1 and a second end 22.1.2; the second locking member 20.2 accordingly has a first end 22.2.1 and a second end 22.2.2. The first locking member 20.1 and the second locking member 20.2 each extend along the transport direction with a length such that an effective range W is created in each case. Each of the locking members 20.1, 20.2 can be pivoted about the respective pivot axis 21.1; 21.2, with the actuator 30 initiating the pivoting movement. Due to the timed pivoting movement of the locking members 20.1, 20.2 the parts are separated so that successive parts 2 are spaced apart by a distance 17 which is adjustable.

[0062] Figure 2 shows details of the transport device 10, comprising a transport means 13 designed as a belt conveyor with corresponding drive rollers and a conveyor belt. Also indicated is an inspection device 40, which will be described below.

[0063] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the separating device 1 in a section in an embodiment with two opposing locking members 20.1 and 20.2, which can be pivoted in a timed manner about their pivot axes 21.1; 21.2 by means of the actuator 30 or several actuators 30. When one of the first locking members 20.1 and / or the second locking member 20.2 pivots about its respective pivot axis 21.1 or 21.2, the first end 22.1.1 and the second end 22.1.2 of the first locking member 20.1 and / or the first end 22.2.1 and the second end 22.2.2 of the second locking member 20.2 each perform an opposite movement with respect to the transport path 16. The locking arrangement 20 extends with a length along the transport direction 11 and defines the effective range W between the first end 22.1 .1 and the second end 22.1 .2 of the first locking member 20.1 and the first end 22.2.1 and the second end 22.2.2 of the second locking member 20.2. The first end 22.1.1 of the first locking member 20.1 and the first end 22.2.1 of the second locking member 20.2 of the locking arrangement 20 are in contact with the part 2.1, which pushes into the respective effective area W. At the first end 22.1.1 of the first locking member 20.1 and the first end.

[0064] 22.2.1 of the second locking member 20.2 of the locking arrangement 20, a bearing means 24 is provided, which reduces friction during a relative movement of part 2.1 along the first end 22.1.1 of the locking member 20.1 or the first end 22.2.1 of the second locking member 20.2. It is shown that part 2.1, which is currently at a standstill, can be optically and / or electrically inspected for defects using the indicated testing device 40. A high-voltage test of part 2.1 is shown for detecting micro-holes and / or micro-cracks, which, for example, impair the tightness of a closure. The testing process is advantageously timed synchronously with the rocker movement of the first locking member 20.1 and / or the second locking member 20.2 of the locking arrangement 20 and, in particular, is adapted and controllable to the circuit of the actuator 30.

[0065] In Figure 3, 32 represents a control unit which controls at least the actuator 30 and / or the testing device 40.

[0066] Figure 4A shows a first phase in a schematic plan view of the separating device 1. Here, the actuator 30 comprises a displaceable plunger 31, which in the illustrated embodiment can be brought into interaction with the second end 22.1.2 of the first locking member 20.1 or the second end 22.2.2 of the second locking member 20.2. However, it is also conceivable that the actuator 30 interacts with the first end

[0067] 22.1.1 of the first locking member 20.1 and / or the first end of the second locking member 20.2. In the illustrated first phase, the opposing first and second locking members 20.1; 20.2 of the locking arrangement 20 are pivoted into a first position about the respective pivot axes 21.1 and 21.2 when the actuator 30 is activated. In this first position, a locking configuration exists in which the advancing part 2.1 is pressed against the first end 22.1.1 of the locking member 20.1 and the first end 22.2.1 of the second locking member 20.2 of the locking arrangement 20 and stopped. Accordingly, in this first position, the transport path 16 for the advancing part 2.1 is blocked. The front part 2.1, as seen in the transport direction 11, is stopped, as are the parts 2 following it.

[0068] In Figure 4B, the first end 22.1.1 of the first locking member 20.1 and the first end 22.2.1 of the opposite second locking member 20.2 of the locking arrangement 20 are moved apart, thus clearing the path for the advancing part 2.1, which can be received in the respective effective areas W of the first locking member 20.1 and the second locking member 20.2. The part 2.1 is stopped by the rear second end 22.1.2 of the first locking member 20.1 and the second end 22.2.2 of the second locking member 20.2, as viewed in the transport direction 11. The resulting movement of the first locking member 20.1 and / or the second locking member 20.2 can be varied manually or automatically, whereby the opening width 23 (see Figure 1) between the first locking member 20.1 and the second locking member 20.2 can also be adjusted. Parts 2 with different diameters can thus be separated without having to replace the locking arrangement 20 as a whole.The second position of the first locking member 20.1 and / or the second locking member 20.2, which can be referred to as the holding position, can be maintained for an adjustable holding period. The holding period corresponds approximately to the cycle time between two switching operations of the actuator 30. During both the locking position and the holding position, at least one of the parts 2 is at a standstill. In Fig. 4B, this is at least the part 2.1 that is accommodated in the respective effective range W. In Fig. 4A, this is the part 2.1 that is in contact with the first end 20.1.1 of the first locking member 20.1 and / or the first end 20.2.1 of the second locking member 20.2 in this first position. Figure 4C shows a subsequent third phase of the separating device 1. The first locking member 20.1 and the second locking member 20 are in this third phase.2 of the locking arrangement 20 in a third position, the release position, which corresponds to the first position, the locking position. Here, the first locking member 20.1 and the second locking member 20.2 are pivoted by the actuator 30 such that the part 2.1 is released and conveyed further in the transport direction 11 by the transport device 10 at a defined distance 17 from the preceding part 2.0.

[0069] Figure 5 shows a further embodiment of the separating device 1. In this embodiment, the locking arrangement 20 comprises a locking member 20.1 which is designed such that it can pivot about its pivot axis 21.1 and, in the different positions, causes a stopping and holding as well as a release of a part 2.1 entering and leaving its effective range W. As shown, the actuator 30 comprises an electromagnet 32 ​​which, in the embodiment shown, can be brought into interaction with the first end 22.1.1 of the first locking member 20.1 or a magnetic means provided thereon. However, it is also conceivable for the actuator 30 to comprise a displaceable plunger 31 which interacts with the first end 22.1.1 of the first locking member 20.1. Depending on the design and arrangement of the actuator 30 relative to the pivot axis 21.1 of the locking member 20.1, a locking position or a locking position are achieved in its active or passive state.the other positions.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device (1) for separating parts (2), for example rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms, comprising - a transport device (10) by means of which the parts (2) to be conveyed can be conveyed to, through and out of the device (1) along a transport path (16) in a transport direction (11), wherein the transport device (10) comprises at least one transport means (12) for transporting the parts (2) in a single row and a buffer section (13), - a locking arrangement (20) with at least one rocker-like locking member (20.1; 20.2) which extends with a length along the transport direction (11) and defines an effective range W for the parts (2), characterized in that the device (1) further comprises an actuator (30), wherein the actuator (30) is designed to pivot the at least one locking member (20.1; 20.2) into a first position in which a part (2.1) advancing into the effective range (W) is retained and to pivot from the first position into a second position in which the advancing part (2.1) can be received in the effective range (W).

2. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the device (1) further comprises a control unit (32) which is designed to switch the actuator (30) in a definable cycle.

3. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the locking arrangement (20) arranged laterally of the transport path (16) comprises a first locking member (20.1) and oppositely a second locking member (20.2), which can be actuated synchronously by the actuator (30).

4. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that an opening width (23) between the first locking member (20.1) and the second locking member (20.2) can be adapted to a diameter of the parts (2).

5. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuator (30) is designed to cause pivoting of the at least one locking member (20.1; 20.2) of the locking arrangement (20) magnetically or mechanically.

6. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the actuator (30) is arranged to cause a rotation of a pivot axis (21.1; 21.2) of the at least one locking member (20.1; 20.2) of the locking arrangement (20).

7. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuator (30) is switchable to hold the at least one locking member (20.1; 20.2) of the locking arrangement (20) in the first position for an adjustable holding time, wherein the transport of the parts (2) through the device (1) is stopped.

8. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuator (30) is switchable to hold the at least one locking member (20.1; 20.2) of the locking arrangement (20) in the second position for an adjustable holding time, wherein a part (2) received in the effective range (W) of the locking arrangement (20) is held.

9. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuator (30) is switchable in order to set a distance (17) between successive parts (2) after the device (1).

10. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a sensor comprises is to detect a number of the parts (2) conveyed by the device (1).

11. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport device (10) has at least one transport means (12) designed as a belt conveyor.

12. Device (1) for separating parts (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the belt conveyor is a vacuum conveyor.

13. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the parts (2) in the accumulation section (13) can be actively transported by means of compressed air or belt conveyor.

14. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one locking member (20.1; 20.2) can be arranged and / or designed in such a way that it can be brought into engagement with high parts (2).

15. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that bearing means (24) can be arranged on contact surfaces between the at least one locking member (20.1; 20.2) and part (2).

16. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a testing device (40) is included in order to inspect parts (2) which are at a standstill for defects by means of an optical and / or electrical test, wherein the test is carried out in time with the pivoting movement of the at least one locking member (20.1; 20.2).

17. Device (1) for separating parts (2) according to claim 16, characterized in that the testing device (40) is designed for an optical Testing involves image recording and / or electrical testing involves high-voltage equipment.

18. Method for separating parts (2), for example rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms, comprising a) transporting parts (2) along a transport path (16) by means of a transport device (10), wherein the parts (2) can be arranged in a single row and adjacent to one another along a storage section (13) in front of the device (1), b) pivoting a rocker-like locking member (20.1; 20.2) into a first position by means of an actuator (30), which locking member (20) extends with a length along the transport direction (11) and defines an effective range (W) for the parts (2), wherein a part (2.1) is prevented from entering the effective range (W), c) pivoting the rocker-like locking member (20) into a second position by means of the actuator (30), in which the part (2.1) can be received in the effective range (W), and d) pivoting the rocker-like locking member (20) into the first position, wherein the part (2) is released in the transport direction (11).

19. Method for separating parts (2) according to claim 18, characterized in that between steps a) and b) or between steps b) and c) an adjustable holding time is provided, the length of which can be determined by means of the actuator (30).

20. Method for separating parts (2) according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that an optical and / or electrical test of the parts (2) at a standstill can be carried out before or during the separation by means of a test device (40).

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