Bag-opening station, bag-closing station, overhead conveyor system and method for opening and closing an overhead-conveyor transport bag

Abstract

The invention relates to a bag-opening station (52) for in particular automatically opening an overhead conveyor transport bag (10) which can be conveyed downstream in a conveying direction (24) along a guide rail (22) of an overhead conveyor (50), wherein the bag-opening station (52) has two bag-opening means (54) which can be moved relatively towards one another in an adjustment direction transverse to, in particular perpendicularly to, the conveying direction, between which bag opening means the closure device (14) of the overhead conveyor transport bag (10) can be positioned, wherein the bag opening means (54) each have a catching body (58) with a catching region (60) which tapers at least in some regions in the adjustment direction (56) toward a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport bag (10) for catching and centring the interconnected closure strips (14-1, 14-2), and an actuation element (62) arranged in the catching region (60) for actuating the respective closing element (36) for releasing the connection between the front closure strip (14-1) and the rear closure strip (14-2) and thus between the front wall (12-1) and the rear wall (12-2) from the closed state. An analogous bag-closing station (72) is likewise disclosed.

Description

Bag opening station, bag closing station, overhead conveyor system and method for opening and closing an overhead conveyor transport bag

[0001] The present invention relates to a bag opening station. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a bag closing station. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for opening an overhead conveyor transport bag. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for closing an overhead conveyor transport bag.

[0002] Suspended conveyor transport bags, as well as bag closing and bag opening stations designed for them, are already known from the prior art.

[0003] A bag opening station for the automatic unloading of an overhead conveyor transport bag is known, for example, from EP 3 521 214 A1. The transport bag has a support wall with a front wall and a rear wall, and a locking device for the detachable connection of the front wall to the rear wall. The encryption- The direction includes a front locking strip and a rear locking strip for a detachable connection of the front wall to the back wall.

[0004] To release the connection between the front and rear walls, the transport bag has an actuating device with an actuating lever positioned at a distance from the locking mechanism and a flexible transmission element in the form of a Bowden cable acting between the actuating lever and the locking mechanism. The transmission element establishes a force-transmitting connection between the actuating device and the locking mechanism.

[0005] To separate the locking bars, EP 3 521 214 A1 provides for moving the transport bag along a guide profile to a bag opening station by means of a rail drive. In this station, an actuating force acting against the direction of transport is applied to the actuating lever by means of an actuating drive. The actuating force is transmitted via a complex actuating mechanism and the transmission means to a bolt connection in the locking device to release the locking device.

[0006] The bag opening station known from EP 3 521 214 A1 has the disadvantage that the transmission of the actuating force takes place at a distance from the closing device in the area of ​​the suspension device of the transport bag. Such actuation requires additional means on the bag side (e.g., an actuating mechanism and a transmission means) to transfer the actuating force to the closing mechanism of the closure device, thereby increasing the complexity of the transport bag and the susceptibility to errors during the opening and / or unloading process.

[0007] Furthermore, WO 2017 / 178225 A1 shows a bag closing station and a bag opening station for a transport bag equipped with a locking device.

[0008] The pocket opening station known from WO 2017 / 178225 A1 has two pressure means, each with a point approximately perpendicular to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the closure strips. stretching pressure surface, between which the transport bag with its closure strips can be positioned, wherein a distance between the pressure means in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the closure strips can be reduced in such a way that the closure strips are shifted relative to each other.

[0009] The bag opening station known from WO 2017 / 178225 A1 has the disadvantage that the pressure elements are designed as flat pressure plates. To ensure reliable opening of the transport bag, the locking bars must always engage the flat pressure plates perpendicularly, which is difficult to achieve given possible alignment inaccuracies (e.g., caused by the transport bag swinging and / or rotating around a vertical axis). Therefore, targeted and reliable opening is only possible to a limited extent.

[0010] The bag closing station known from WO 2017 / 178225 A1 has two pressure means that can be moved towards each other transversely to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the closing strips, between which the transport bag with its closing strips can be positioned, the distance between the pressure means transversely to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the closing strips can be reduced such that the closing strips are pressed together. The closing strips are pressed against each other by pressure in the conveying direction and are thus locked or clipped in place.

[0011] The bag closing station known from WO 2017 / 178225 A1 has the disadvantage that the pressure elements, designed as flat pressure plates, which press the closure strips together, are located below the transport bags being fed into the bag closing station. To ensure contactless insertion of the transport bag into the engagement area of ​​the pressure elements, the pressure plates are therefore pivotable about a pivot axis running transversely to the conveying direction. Such a design is complex and requires considerable installation space. Furthermore, the pivoting mechanism makes it difficult to reliably transition the closure strips from an open to a closed state. In particular, the pivoting mechanism places high demands on the positioning accuracy of the transport bag or the closure strips in the bag closing station, as even slight deviations can lead to… It is possible that the pressure means can no longer reliably apply the required contact force to connect the locking strips.

[0012] However, the known opening and closing processes still leave room for improvement, especially regarding simplicity, reliability, safety and efficiency.

[0013] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved bag opening station, an improved bag closing station, an improved overhead conveyor system, an improved method for opening an overhead conveyor transport bag and an improved method for closing an overhead conveyor transport bag, which enable simple, reliable and selective opening and closing of the transport bag.

[0014] According to a first aspect of the invention, a pocket opening station is provided for the, in particular automatic, opening of an overhead conveyor transport pocket that can be conveyed downstream in a conveying direction along a guide rail of an overhead conveyor, wherein the overhead conveyor transport pocket has a support wall which has a front wall and a rear wall and can be arranged between a closed state in which the support wall at least partially limits a carrying volume for receiving a conveyed item forwards, downwards and backwards, and an open state in which the support wall releases the carrying volume downwards, and a locking device for the detachable connection of the front wall with the rear wall in the closed state, wherein the locking device has a front locking strip and a rear locking strip which are detachably connected to each other for connecting the front wall with the rear wall in the closed state.and two locking elements, in particular locking bolts, which are movable relative to each other, for releasably connecting the front locking strip to the rear locking strip, wherein the pocket opening station has two pocket opening devices which are movable relative to each other in an adjustment direction transversely, in particular vertically, to the conveying direction, between which the overhead conveyor transport pocket with its locking device can be positioned, wherein the pocket opening devices each have a catching body with a catching area which tapers at least partially in the adjustment direction towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket for catching and centering the enclosed, other connected locking strips and an actuating element arranged in the catch area for actuating the respective locking element to release the connection between the front locking strip and the rear locking strip and thus between the front wall and the back wall from the locked state.

[0015] The bag opening station is used to open an overhead conveyor transport bag. The overhead conveyor transport bag has a support wall with a front and a back wall and a locking mechanism. The support wall, in particular the front and back walls, can be dimensionally flexible, at least in some areas. For example, the support wall can be made of a textile material, at least in some areas.

[0016] The locking device serves to releasably connect the front and rear walls in the closed position and comprises a front locking strip and a rear locking strip. Preferably, the locking device is positively locked and / or force-locked and / or material-locked, particularly as a separate component, attached to the front and / or rear wall. For example, the front locking strip can be attached to or formed on the front wall. The rear locking strip can, for example, be attached to or formed on the rear wall.

[0017] The locking elements of the locking device serve to releasably connect the front locking strip to the rear locking strip, particularly in the locked position. The locking elements can be arranged on the same locking strip (e.g., the front locking strip or the rear locking strip). Alternatively, the locking elements can be arranged on different locking strips. It is also conceivable that one of the two locking elements is arranged on the rear locking strip and the other on the front locking strip.

[0018] The locking elements are movable relative to each other, in particular sliding and / or rotating. The locking elements can, for example, be movable translationally and / or rotationally relative to each other. The locking elements are designed for displacement. The locking elements can be moved from a closed position to an open position relative to each other, in particular by sliding in opposite directions and / or rotating relative to each other. By actuating the locking elements using the actuating elements, the locking device can thus be moved into the open state, in which the support wall releases the load-bearing volume downwards, so that a loaded conveyed item can fall downwards out of the overhead conveyor transport pocket due to gravity. Preferably, each locking element is designed as a locking bolt.

[0019] The pocket opening station according to the invention comprises two pocket opening devices that are movable, displaceable, or adjustable relative to each other in the adjustment direction. The adjustment direction extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction of the overhead conveyor transport pocket. Since each of the two pocket opening devices has a catch body and an actuating element, the catch bodies are also displaceable relative to each other in the adjustment direction. The same applies to the actuating elements. The adjustment direction can be essentially horizontally oriented. The term "horizontally oriented" or "horizontally aligned" preferably refers to an orientation that is rotated by 90 degrees relative to a vertical orientation, i.e., one that corresponds to the Earth's gravitational field.

[0020] The catch bodies have catch areas for capturing and centering the interconnected locking strips. Each catch area tapers, at least partially, in the direction of adjustment towards one side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport bag. In other words, each catch area widens, at least partially, in the direction of adjustment towards one side facing the overhead conveyor transport bag and / or the opposite bag opening device. This partial tapering of the respective catch area ensures that, when the distance between the bag opening devices decreases, the interconnected locking strips are captured at their broad ends by the respective catch areas and centered towards the actuating elements. The actuating elements then actuate the bag-side locking elements to move the bag wall into the open position.In other words, the process involves capturing and centering the interconnected locking bars, as well as operating the... The locking elements are adjusted by moving the pocket opening devices relative to each other in the adjustment direction.

[0021] The bag opening station according to the invention enables automatic, simplified, and reliable opening of the transport bag, particularly in continuous operation. The design of the catching elements places comparatively low demands on the positioning accuracy of the transport bag or the closing device in the bag closing station. Furthermore, the relative mobility of the bag opening devices in the adjustment direction, in conjunction with the arrangement of the actuating elements in the respective catching areas, and especially within the respective catching areas, prevents unintentional opening of the transport bag.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the invention, an overhead conveyor system is proposed, comprising: an overhead conveyor transport bag, which has a support wall comprising a front wall and a rear wall and which can be arranged between a closed state in which the support wall limits a load-bearing volume for receiving a conveyed item at least partially forwards, downwards and backwards, and an open state in which the support wall releases the load-bearing volume downwards, and a locking device for releasably connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, wherein the locking device comprises a front locking strip and a rear locking strip which are releasably connected to each other for connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, and two locking elements, in particular locking bolts, which are movable relative to each other for releasably connecting the front locking strip to the rear locking strip;an overhead conveyor for conveying the overhead conveyor transport bag downstream along a guide rail in one conveying direction; and a bag opening station according to the first aspect.

[0023] The overhead conveyor serves to transport the overhead conveyor transport bag downstream along the guide rail in the conveying direction. The overhead conveyor transport bag can have a suspension device with a transport hook for attaching the overhead conveyor transport bag to a roller adapter on the guide rail. The roller adapter can be mounted so that it can slide linearly within a guide profile of the guide rail. A rail drive allows the roller adapter, together with the attached overhead conveyor transport bag, to be moved automatically along the guide rail.

[0024] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for opening an overhead conveyor transport bag in an overhead conveyor system according to the second aspect is proposed, wherein the method comprises the following steps: Moving the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag opening station between the bag opening devices, wherein the closing device is arranged in the closed state; firstly, reducing the distance between the bag opening devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the interconnected closing bars are captured by the catch areas and centered towards the actuating elements; and secondly, reducing the distance between the bag opening devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the actuating elements detachably connect the captured closing bars to move the support wall into the open state.

[0025] In the step of moving the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag opening station between the bag opening devices, the closing device is in the closed state in which The front locking strip and the rear locking strip are detachably connected to each other.

[0026] During the movement of the overhead conveyor transport bag, the distance between the bag opening devices in the adjustment direction can be set such that collision-free feeding of the overhead conveyor transport bag into the bag opening station between the bag opening devices is ensured. For example, during the movement of the overhead conveyor transport bag, the distance between the bag opening devices, particularly between the catch bodies of the bag opening devices, in the adjustment direction can be set to an entry dimension that is greater than the total length of the locking bars along the adjustment direction and / or along the longitudinal axis of the locking device. In this way, collision-free feeding of the overhead conveyor transport bag can be ensured. The movement of the overhead conveyor transport bag is preferably performed automatically.

[0027] By first reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction, the interconnected locking strips, particularly at their ends on the pocket side, are captured by the respective catch areas and, due to the at least partial narrowing of the respective catch area towards the respective actuating elements, are centered or moved. The first step of reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction preferably occurs automatically.

[0028] By reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices a second time in the adjustment direction, the two pocket-side closing elements are actuated by the corresponding actuating elements to assume the open state, i.e., they are moved relative to each other. This second reduction of the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction preferably occurs automatically.

[0029] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a bag closing station is proposed for, in particular automatically, closing a suspended conveyor transport bag that can be conveyed downstream in a conveying direction along a guide rail of an overhead conveyor, wherein the suspended conveyor transport bag has a support wall which has a front wall and a rear wall and can be arranged between a closed state in which the support wall at least partially limits a carrying volume for receiving a conveyed item forwards, downwards and backwards, and an open state in which the support wall releases the carrying volume downwards, and a closing device for releasably connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, wherein the closing device has a front closing strip and a rear closing strip which are releasably connected to each other for connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state.wherein the front locking strip and the rear locking strip are mounted to be displaceable from one another transversely, in particular vertically, to a direction of the longitudinal axis of the locking device for moving them out of the closed state, wherein the pocket closing station has two pocket closing devices that are movable relative to each other transversely, in particular vertically, to the conveying direction in the adjustment direction, between which the overhead conveyor transport pocket with its locking device can be positioned in the open state, wherein the pocket closing devices each have a catching body with a catching area that tapers at least partially in the adjustment direction towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket for catching and centering the separated locking strips and a clamping section arranged in the catching area for moving the locking device from the open state to the closed state.

[0030] The front and rear locking strips are slidably mounted relative to each other transversely to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the locking device to facilitate movement from the closed position. The longitudinal axis is preferably oriented parallel to, or coincides with, a width direction of the transport bag. The slidable mounting of the front locking strip relative to the rear locking strip and transversely, particularly perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis ensures that the weight of a loaded conveyed item assists in moving the support wall into the open position. Preferably, the slidable mounting of the front locking strip relative to the front- The locking strip is designed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The front locking strip and the rear locking strip can be mounted to each other so that they can be linearly displaced for moving the device out of the locked position.

[0031] The bag closing station according to the invention comprises two bag closing devices that are movable, displaceable, or adjustable relative to each other in the adjustment direction. The adjustment direction extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction of the overhead conveyor transport bag. Since each of the two bag closing devices has a retaining element, the retaining elements are also displaceable relative to each other in the adjustment direction. The same applies to the clamping sections. The adjustment direction can be essentially horizontally oriented.

[0032] The retaining elements each have a retaining area for capturing and centering the separated locking strips. Each retaining area tapers, at least partially, towards one side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport bag in the direction of adjustment. In other words, each retaining area widens, at least partially, towards one side facing the overhead conveyor transport bag and / or the opposite bag closing device in the direction of adjustment.The tapering of the respective capture area, at least in some sections, ensures that the unconnected locking bars are caught at their broad ends by the respective capture areas and centered towards the clamping sections when the distance between the bag closure devices decreases. The clamping sections then move the closure device from the open to the closed position, particularly by pressing the locking bars against each other transversely to the longitudinal axis. In other words, the capture and centering of the separated locking bars, as well as the movement of the locking bars into the closed position, occur through a movement of the bag closure devices relative to each other in the adjustment direction.

[0033] The bag closing station according to the invention enables automatic, simplified and reliable closing of the transport bag, particularly in continuous operation. The design of the catching elements results in comparatively low requirements for The positioning accuracy of the transport bag or the locking device in the bag closing station is ensured.

[0034] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, an overhead conveyor system is proposed, comprising: an overhead conveyor transport bag, which has a support wall comprising a front wall and a rear wall and which can be arranged between a closed state in which the support wall at least partially limits a load-bearing volume for receiving a conveyed item forwards, downwards and backwards, and an open state in which the support wall releases the load-bearing volume downwards, and a locking device for releasably connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, wherein the locking device comprises a front locking strip and a rear locking strip which are releasably connected to each other for connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, wherein the front locking strip and the rear locking strip can be moved transversely, in particular vertically, against each other for displacing the front wall from the closed state.are mounted so as to be displaceable to a longitudinal axis of the closing device; a suspended conveyor for conveying the suspended conveyor transport bag downstream along a guide rail in a conveying direction; and a bag closing station according to the fourth aspect.

[0035] It is understood that the overhead conveyor system, according to the second aspect, may also include a pocket closing station according to the fourth aspect. Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that the overhead conveyor system, according to the fifth aspect, may also include a pocket opening station according to the first aspect.

[0036] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, a method for closing an overhead conveyor transport bag in an overhead conveyor system according to the fifth aspect is proposed, wherein the method comprises the following steps: Moving the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag closing station between the bag closing devices, wherein the closing device is arranged in the open state; firstly, reducing the distance between the bag closing devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the separated closing bars are captured by the capture areas and centered towards the clamping sections; and secondly, reducing the distance between the bag closing devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the captured closing bars are pressed against each other by means of the clamping sections in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis and thereby moved into the closed state.

[0037] In the step of moving the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag closing station between the bag closing devices, the closing device is in the open state in which the front closing bar and the rear closing bar are separated from each other.

[0038] During the movement of the overhead conveyor transport bag, the distance between the bag closing devices can be adjusted in the direction of travel to ensure collision-free feeding of the bag into the closing station between the closing devices. For example, during this movement, the distance between the closing devices, particularly between the locking elements of the closing devices, can be set to an entry dimension greater than the total length of the locking bars along the direction of travel and / or along the longitudinal axis. This ensures collision-free feeding of the bag. The movement of the bag is preferably performed automatically.

[0039] By initially reducing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction, the unconnected closing strips, particularly at their ends on the pocket's side, are captured by the respective locking areas and, due to the at least partial narrowing of the respective locking area towards the respective clamping sections, are centered or moved. This initial reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction preferably occurs automatically.

[0040] In the second step of reducing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction, the captured closing strips are pressed against each other by their respective clamping sections to achieve the closed position. In other words, the closing strips are pressed against each other by force in the conveying direction and thus connected. This second step of reducing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction is preferably performed automatically.

[0041] The task posed at the beginning is thus fully solved.

[0042] In one embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the pocket opening devices are linearly movable relative to each other in the adjustment direction.

[0043] The (relatively) linear movement of the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction enables precise and controlled movement and facilitates automatic opening of the overhead conveyor transport pocket along its broad sides. A further advantage of linear movement is the reduction of mechanical complexity. Linear movements are generally easier to implement than pivoting or rotary movements. Furthermore, linear movements can be controlled with high precision and repeatability, which increases the efficiency of the opening process and reduces the susceptibility to errors.

[0044] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the pocket opening station further comprises a drive device for moving, in particular linearly, the pocket opening devices relative to each other in the adjustment direction.

[0045] The drive unit serves to move, adjust, or shift the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction, thereby setting the distance between them. Integrating a drive unit enables automated and precise motion control. The drive unit can, for example, utilize a toothed belt drive.

[0046] Preferably, the bag opening station includes a control device for controlling the drive mechanism of the bag opening station. The control device can be configured to execute the method according to the third aspect or one of its embodiments.

[0047] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the catching bodies each have a first centering jaw and a second centering jaw which limit the catching area in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction, wherein the actuating elements are arranged, preferably in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction, between the centering jaws of the respective catching body.

[0048] The first and second centering jaws of each catching body define the catching area. The corresponding actuating element is located between the centering jaws of each catching body. In other words, the first and second centering jaws of each catching body are arranged, at least partially, on opposite sides of the respective actuating element, transversely, and in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction. The centering jaws serve to capture and center the locking bars.

[0049] This design facilitates precise centering of the interconnected locking bars towards their respective actuating elements, contributing to a reliable opening process. This self-centering property of the centering jaws ensures that the locking bars reliably move into the optimal position for actuation by the actuating elements during transport, regardless of positioning and / or orientation errors of the overhead conveyor transport bag. This reduces the requirements for the accuracy of the transport bag's positioning and increases tolerance to operational irregularities.

[0050] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the first centering jaws each have a first centering surface and the second centering jaws each have a second centering surface, wherein the first centering surface and the second centering surface of the respective catching body are oriented towards each other in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction, in particular wherein the centering surfaces of the centering jaws of the respective catching body facing each other are at least partially V-shaped.

[0051] In other words, centering surfaces of the respective trap body define the trapping area transversely, and in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction. Due to the at least partial narrowing of the respective trapping area, the centering surfaces (i.e., the first centering surface and the second centering surface) of the respective trap body converge at least partially in the depth direction of the respective trapping area. The depth direction of the respective trapping area is preferably oriented parallel to the adjustment direction.

[0052] The preferred V-shaped orientation of the centering surfaces ensures that the interconnected locking bars are guided smoothly and easily to the respective actuating elements when they enter their respective engagement areas. In particular, this design minimizes the resistance encountered when inserting the locking bars into the engagement areas and ensures a smooth centering motion. This increases the efficiency of the opening process.

[0053] Alternatively or additionally, the opposing centering surfaces of the respective capture body can each be convexly curved, at least in some areas.

[0054] One advantage of the at least partial convex curvature is the improved guidance and centering of the locking bars. In particular, this shape enhances self-centering capability. Another advantage of the convex centering surfaces is the reduction of friction and mechanical resistance. The convex curved shape minimizes the contact area between the locking bars and the centering jaws, thus reducing frictional resistance. This results in smoother movement of the locking bars within the engagement area, increasing the efficiency of the opening process and reducing wear on the mechanical components.

[0055] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the actuating elements are arranged in the adjustment direction, in particular completely, within the respective catch area.

[0056] In other words, the actuating elements do not protrude from their respective catch areas towards the overhead conveyor transport bag along the adjustment direction. This ensures that the actuating elements only come into contact with the closing elements of the overhead conveyor transport bag when the catch bodies have already securely gripped and centered the closing bars.

[0057] This reliably prevents the overhead conveyor transport bag from opening unintentionally. This increases the reliability and operational safety of the bag opening station.

[0058] For example, the distance between a free end of the first catch body and a free end of the second catch body may be smaller than the distance between a free end of the first actuating element located within the first catch area of ​​the first catch body and a free end of the second actuating element located within the second catch area of ​​the second catch body.

[0059] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the actuating elements are designed as pressure elements, each having a pressure surface extending transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction, wherein the actuating elements are designed to come into contact with the respective closing elements with their pressure surfaces when the pocket opening devices move towards each other in the adjustment direction relative to each other and to displace the closing elements relative to each other in order to move the closing device from the closed state to the open state.

[0060] One advantage of this design lies in its reliable force transmission. In particular, the pressure surfaces of the pressure elements, oriented transversely to the direction of adjustment, ensure reliable actuation of the locking elements, thus increasing the operational reliability and efficiency of the opening process. A further advantage of the pressure surfaces is their ability to adapt to different geometries and dimensions of the locking elements. This adaptability increases the versatility and range of applications of the pocket opening station. Each of the pressure elements can, for example, be designed as a pressure pin or a pressure bar. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure elements and / or the locking elements can be designed to be rigid.

[0061] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, each printing element is designed as an essentially vertically oriented printing bar.

[0062] The essentially vertical alignment (i.e., corresponding to the Earth's gravitational field) of the pressure elements, in conjunction with their design as pressure bars, ensures that overhead conveyor transport bags with varying load conditions can be reliably opened using the bag opening station. This is because, due to the at least partially flexible design of the support wall, the overhead conveyor transport bag can have different (vertical) lengths depending on the load. Consequently, the closing mechanism can assume different vertical positions in space depending on the load. Due to the vertical alignment of the pressure bars, the actuation can be performed The bag-side locking elements can be operated at different heights. The bag opening station is therefore able to efficiently open a large number of transport bags with varying load conditions. This significantly contributes to increasing the efficiency, reliability, and flexibility of the bag opening station.

[0063] In particular, the need to provide (additional) vertical mobility for the pocket opening devices, in addition to a preferably horizontal mobility, is eliminated, making the pocket opening station less complex.

[0064] The length of each pressure bar in the vertical direction is preferably selected such that actuation of the locking elements is possible under different load conditions of the overhead conveyor transport bag. Preferably, the length of each actuating element, in particular the pressure bar, in the vertical direction is greater than the length of the locking device in the closed position in the vertical direction, in particular at least twice as long, preferably at least four times as long.

[0065] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the pocket opening devices are movable in the vertical direction, in particular automatically.

[0066] In this way, different loading conditions of the transport bag(s) can be reliably taken into account.

[0067] In particular, it may be provided that at least the catch bodies and / or the actuating elements are vertically movable or relocatable.

[0068] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the actuating elements are each spring-mounted.

[0069] The spring-loaded actuators improve the coupling process with the pocket-side locking elements, ensuring precise and reliable actuation of the locking elements. In particular, the spring mounting offers the advantage that the actuators do not tilt when the distance between the pocket opening devices decreases in the adjustment direction. The spring mounting therefore reduces the need for precise positioning of the transport pocket relative to the pocket opening station and increases operational reliability.

[0070] Preferably, each of the two pocket opening devices has a support structure for Supporting the respective catch body and the respective actuating element, wherein each actuating element is resiliently mounted on the respective supporting structure.

[0071] In a further embodiment of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the width of the respective capture area transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction is greater than the thickness of the closing device in the closed state, in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large, and particularly preferably at least six times as large.

[0072] The thickness of the locking device refers to a thickness direction of the overhead conveyor transport bag. This thickness direction preferably extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the locking device and horizontally. In other words, the thickness direction extends perpendicular to a central plane of the overhead conveyor transport bag oriented vertically and parallel to the longitudinal axis. The thickness of the locking device can, for example, be a, and in particular a maximum, thickness of the locking device in the region of its free ends arranged in the width direction.

[0073] The size ratios refer to a, in particular maximum, thickness of the locking device in the closed state, i.e. when the locking bars are connected to each other.

[0074] The width of the capture area preferably refers to a, in particular maximum, width of the capture area at the free ends of the respective capture body facing the overhead conveyor transport bag (or in the area of ​​the).

[0075] One advantage of this design is that the overhead conveyor transport bag can be securely captured and opened or closed over a comparatively large area along the conveying direction. Furthermore, precise positioning of the overhead conveyor transport bag relative to the bag opening and closing devices is eliminated.

[0076] In a further embodiment of the aspects or one of its embodiments, the length of the respective capture area and / or the respective capture body in the vertical direction is greater than the length of the closing device in the closed state in the vertical direction, in particular at least twice as long, preferably at least four times as long.

[0077] The "length of the capture area" refers to the vertical length (i.e., the length corresponding to the Earth's gravitational field) of the capture area. Similarly, the "length of the closing mechanism" refers to the vertical length (i.e., the length corresponding to the Earth's gravitational field) of the closing mechanism in the closed state.

[0078] The length of the capture area can, for example, be a, in particular a maximum, length of the capture area at the free ends of the respective capture body facing (or in the area of) the overhead conveyor transport bag.

[0079] One advantage of this design is that the bag opening and closing stations can efficiently handle a large number of transport bags with varying load levels. This contributes to increased efficiency, reliability, and flexibility of the respective station.

[0080] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects, the suspended conveyor transport bag also features two locking mechanisms for the reversible engagement of the respective The locking bolt is in the closed position, whereby the distance between the pocket opening devices can be reduced in such a way that the actuating elements, in particular the pressure elements, actuate the respective locking bolts and thereby disengage them from the bolt engagements.

[0081] One advantage of this design is the safe and efficient opening of the overhead conveyor transport bag. The locking bolts serve a dual function: firstly, to ensure the locking bolts engage in the closed position, and secondly, to allow the locking bolts to be actuated or actuated in the closed position by the respective actuating elements, particularly the pressure elements. For this purpose, the locking bolts, especially their free ends, can be exposed on both sides along the longitudinal axis of the locking mechanism when closed. In other words, the locking bolts, especially their free ends, can be actuated or actuated from the outside along their longitudinal axis when closed.Preferably, the locking bolt engagements are designed to accommodate, on the one hand, the respective locking bolt and, on the other hand, a respective actuating element of a corresponding pocket opening station. The locking bolt engagements preferably extend along the longitudinal axis through an outer, in particular the outermost, boundary of the front locking strip.

[0082] In a further embodiment of the third aspect or one of its embodiments, the step of the second reduction of the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction takes place after the step of the first reduction of the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction.

[0083] One advantage of this design lies in its reliable opening process. The sequential timing of the first and second reduction steps prevents the closing elements from being activated prematurely or accidentally, thus reducing the risk of unintentional discharge of conveyed goods. This significantly increases reliability and operational safety.

[0084] In a further embodiment of the third aspect or one of its embodiments, the actuation of the locking elements comprises a displacement of the respective locking element against a locking spring force exerted on the locking bolt, causing the locking element to be moved into the closed state.

[0085] The locking device can have at least one closing spring, and in particular two closing springs, for exerting a closing spring force on the respective locking element, especially the respective locking bolt. The closing spring is preferably designed such that the closing spring force causes the locking element to move into the closed position. The locking element is thus securely held in the closed position, and accidental release of the locking device is reliably prevented. The respective closing spring can be designed as a compression spring and / or as a torsion spring. Preferably, the respective closing spring acts between the respective locking element and the front locking bar or the rear locking bar.

[0086] The closing spring force thus counteracts any displacement of the closing element from the closed position. Therefore, the actuating force exerted by the actuating elements on the closing elements during the second step of reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices must be selected such that the closing spring force(s) are overcome when the closing elements are actuated.

[0087] In a further embodiment of the third aspect or one of its embodiments, it can be provided that each closing element is designed as a closing bolt and the suspended conveyor transport bag furthermore has two bolt engagements, preferably spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal axis of the closing device and arranged on a lateral boundary of the support wall, for the reversible engagement of the closing bolts in the closed state, wherein the closing bolts are actuated in the step of the second reduction of the distance between the bag opening devices in such a way that the closing bolts are disengaged from the respective bolt engagements.

[0088] One advantage of this design is the safe and efficient opening of the overhead conveyor transport bag.

[0089] In a further embodiment of the third aspect or one of its embodiments, the method further comprises a step of increasing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction and / or a step of transporting the opened overhead conveyor transport pocket along the overhead conveyor, in particular in the conveying direction.

[0090] In other words, this means that after the overhead conveyor transport bag is opened, the bag opening devices are moved away from each other relatively along the adjustment direction to allow the overhead conveyor transport bag to pass the bag opening station unhindered, especially in or along the conveying direction.

[0091] The step of increasing the distance between the pocket opening devices preferably occurs after the steps of moving, first decreasing, and second decreasing. The step of advancing the overhead conveyor transport pocket preferably occurs after the step of increasing the distance between the pocket opening devices.

[0092] The step of increasing the distance between the pocket opening devices and / or the step of advancing the overhead conveyor transport pocket is preferably carried out automatically.

[0093] In one embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the pocket closure devices are linearly movable relative to each other in the adjustment direction.

[0094] The (relative) linear movement of the bag closing devices in the adjustment direction enables precise and controlled movement in the adjustment direction and promotes automatic closing of the overhead conveyor transport bag on its broad side. Ten. Another advantage of linear motion is the reduction of mechanical complexity. Linear movements are generally easier to implement than pivoting or rotary movements. Furthermore, linear movements can be controlled with high precision and repeatability, which increases the efficiency of the closing process and reduces the potential for errors.

[0095] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the bag closing station further comprises a drive device for moving the bag closing devices relative to each other in the adjustment direction, in particular linearly.

[0096] The drive unit serves to move, adjust, or shift the pocket closure devices in the adjustment direction, thereby setting the distance between them. Integrating a drive unit enables automated and precise motion control. The drive unit can, for example, utilize a toothed belt drive.

[0097] Preferably, the bag closing station further comprises a control unit for controlling the drive unit of the bag closing station. The control unit can be configured to execute the method according to the sixth aspect or one of its embodiments.

[0098] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the catching bodies each have a first centering jaw and a second centering jaw that limit the catching area in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction.

[0099] The first centering jaw and the second centering jaw of the respective catching body define the catching area, which securely grasps or captures the locking bars and guides them into a position for compression.

[0100] This design facilitates precise centering of the separated locking bars towards their respective clamping sections, contributing to a reliable closing process. This self-centering feature of the centering jaws ensures that, regardless of positioning and / or orientation errors of the overhead conveyor transport bag during transport, the locking bars reliably reach the optimal position for compression. This reduces the requirements for the accuracy of the transport bag's positioning and increases tolerance to operational irregularities.

[0101] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the centering jaws of the respective catching body form the clamping section.

[0102] One advantage of this design is the reduction in the complexity of the pocket closing station. For example, the number of individual components that need to be assembled and maintained can be reduced. A further advantage lies in the synergistic effects resulting from combining several functions in a single assembly. The centering jaws perform both a gripping and centering function as well as a clamping function. Integrating these functions makes the entire closing process simpler and more efficient. Furthermore, this design allows for a compact construction.

[0103] Preferably, the clamping sections are arranged in the narrowest cross-section of the respective capture area. In this context, "narrowest cross-section of the respective capture area" refers to a section or location within the respective capture area where the distance between the opposing centering jaws of the respective capture body is smallest, transversely, particularly perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction. This narrowest point forms a kind of bottleneck within the respective capture area, into which the locking bars are fed to be pressed against each other.

[0104] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the first centering jaws each have a first centering surface and the second centering jaws each have a second centering surface, wherein the first centering surface and the second centering surface of the respective catching body are oriented towards each other in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction, in particular wherein the centering surfaces of the centering jaws of the respective catching body facing each other are at least partially V-shaped.

[0105] In other words, centering surfaces of the respective trap body define the trapping area transversely, and in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction. Due to the at least partial narrowing of the respective trapping area, the centering surfaces (i.e., the first centering surface and the second centering surface) of the respective trap body converge at least partially in the depth direction of the respective trapping area. The depth direction of the respective trapping area is preferably oriented parallel to the adjustment direction.

[0106] The preferred V-shaped orientation of the centering surfaces ensures that the separated locking strips are guided smoothly and easily to their respective clamping sections when they enter the respective engagement areas. In particular, this shape minimizes the resistance encountered when inserting the locking strips into the engagement areas and ensures a smooth centering motion. This increases the efficiency of the closing process.

[0107] Alternatively or additionally, the opposing centering surfaces of the respective capture body can each be convexly curved, at least in some areas.

[0108] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the centering jaws of the respective catching body are offset relative to each other in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the conveying direction.

[0109] Preferably, the offset between the centering jaws of the respective catching body is such that a first offset measured transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction is achieved. The distance between the first centering jaws of the pocket closing station, arranged upstream with respect to the conveying direction, is smaller than a second distance, measured transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction, between the second centering jaws of the pocket closing station, arranged downstream with respect to the conveying direction.

[0110] In other words, the downstream second centering jaws are further apart, transversely and especially perpendicularly, to the conveying direction than the upstream first centering jaws.

[0111] This ensures that the locking bars have sufficient space before the closing process to align themselves correctly transversely, and especially vertically, to the conveying direction, which enables a reliable closing process, particularly when the locking bars are offset from each other.

[0112] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, at least one, in particular each, of the two pocket closing devices further comprises a centering device for centering the separated closing strips in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the conveying direction.

[0113] In other words, at least one of the pocket closing devices is equipped with an additional device that serves to align the captured and separated closing strips relative to each other in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the conveying direction before the actual closing process takes place.

[0114] One advantage of this design is that it ensures reliable alignment of the locking strips, even if they are laterally offset from each other during transport. This promotes a secure closing process for the overhead conveyor transport bag. Furthermore, this measure improves process reliability during automated bag closing, especially at high cycle rates and with variable bag positions.

[0115] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the centering device has a centering element arranged in the capture area, which is spring-mounted.

[0116] One advantage of this design is that the centering element, thanks to its spring-loaded mounting, is able to gently compensate for different misalignments of the locking bars and actively guide them into a mutually aligned position. The spring mechanism allows for a certain degree of tolerance and preferably also provides a restoring force that guides the locking bars into their intended position. This increases the reliability and functionality of the entire closing process, particularly for bags whose locking bars are not sufficiently aligned upon entering the closing station.

[0117] Preferably, the respective centering element is resiliently mounted by means of a spring-loaded rocker arm. The spring-loaded rocker arm allows elastic movement of the centering element transversely to the conveying direction and, through its restoring force, ensures that the centering element returns to its initial position after lateral deflection. In this way, a particularly simple, compact, and reliable solution for the transverse centering of the sealing strips is provided, which is easy to integrate structurally and is simultaneously robust against repeated stress.

[0118] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the respective centering element is arranged in the conveying direction between the first centering jaw and the second centering jaw of the respective catching body.

[0119] This facilitates a compact design of the bag locking station.

[0120] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the centering elements are designed to come into contact with the free ends of the closure strips when the pocket closing devices move towards each other in the adjustment direction relative to each other, thereby aligning the closure strips transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction relative to each other.

[0121] This allows for a robust and mechanically simple implementation of the centering function.

[0122] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the overhead conveyor transport bag of the third to sixth aspects is designed in accordance with the overhead conveyor transport bag according to the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments.

[0123] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the clamping sections are arranged in the adjustment direction, in particular completely, within the respective capture area.

[0124] This ensures that the clamping sections only come into contact with the locking strips of the overhead conveyor transport bag when the catch bodies have already securely captured and centered the locking strips.

[0125] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the bag closing devices are movable in the vertical direction, in particular automatically.

[0126] In this way, different loading conditions can be reliably taken into account.

[0127] In a further embodiment of the sixth aspect or one of its embodiments, the step of the second reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction takes place after the step of the first reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction.

[0128] One advantage of this design lies in a reliable closing process. The sequential action of the first and second reduction steps prevents the separated locking bars from being accidentally pressed against each other, thus eliminating the risk of unintentionally closing the overhead conveyor. The transport bag is smaller. This significantly increases reliability and operational safety.

[0129] In a further embodiment of the sixth aspect or one of its embodiments, the method further comprises a step of increasing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction and / or a step of transporting the closed overhead conveyor transport pocket along the overhead conveyor, in particular in the conveying direction.

[0130] In other words, this means that after the overhead conveyor transport bag is closed, the bag closing devices are moved away from each other relatively along the adjustment direction to allow the overhead conveyor transport bag to pass the bag closing station unhindered, especially in or along the conveying direction.

[0131] The step of increasing the distance between the pocket closing devices preferably occurs after the steps of moving, first decreasing, and second decreasing. The step of advancing the overhead conveyor transport bag preferably occurs after the step of increasing the distance between the pocket closing devices.

[0132] The step of increasing the distance between the bag closing devices and / or the step of advancing the overhead conveyor transport bag is preferably carried out automatically.

[0133] In a further embodiment of the third or sixth aspect or one of its embodiments, the steps of the first reduction of the distance and the second reduction of the distance are carried out with continuous movement of the overhead conveyor transport bag along the conveying direction.

[0134] One advantage of this design is that the opening and closing process can be carried out in continuous operation. Instead of the overhead conveyor transport bag. By not having to stop when opening or closing, it can move continuously along the conveying direction, resulting in significant time savings and optimized material flow. This can considerably increase the throughput rate and productivity of the system.

[0135] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without leaving the scope of the present invention.

[0136] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawing and are explained in more detail in the following description. They show: Fig. 1 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of a hanging conveyor transport bag in a closed state, which has a support wall and a closing device with a front closing strip and a rear closing strip. Figs. 2A-2B are isometric views of a section of the locking device from Fig. 1 in the open and closed states. Figs. 3A-3C Cross-sectional views of a section of the locking device from Fig. 1, illustrating a displacement of the locking bars between the open and closed states. Fig. 4 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a pocket opening station, Figs. 5A-5F Top views of the pocket opening station from Fig. 4 to illustrate an opening process, Fig. 6 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a bag locking station, Figs. 7A-7E Top views of the pocket closing station from Fig. 6 to illustrate a closing process, Fig. 8 shows a front view of the bag opening station from Fig. 4. Fig. 9 shows a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of a method for opening a suspended conveyor transport bag, and Fig. 10 shows a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of a method for closing a suspended conveyor transport bag. Fig. 11 shows a top view of an alternative embodiment of the bag locking station.

[0137] The following describes an embodiment of a suspended conveyor transport bag 10 for receiving one or more conveyed goods (not shown) with reference to Figs. 1 to 3C.

[0138] The overhead conveyor transport bag 10 has a support wall 12, a locking device 14, and a suspension device 16. The suspension device 16 is attached to the support wall 12 and has a transport hook 18 for coupling the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 to a roller adapter 20 of a guide rail 22 (see Fig. 4 and Fig. 6). The roller adapter 20 can, for example, be mounted so as to be linearly displaceable in a guide profile of the guide rail 22. By means of a rail drive (not shown), the roller adapter 20, together with the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 attached to it, can be moved automatically along the guide rail 22.

[0139] The overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is moved in a conveying direction 24, which normally, unless the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 (unintentionally) rotates around a vertical axis, The overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is twisted and oriented parallel to a direction of thickness (thickness direction) D, particularly in its closed state. In Fig. 1, a longitudinal direction L of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 (in the state coupled to the guide rail 22) essentially coincides with a vertical direction 11. The vertical direction 11 corresponds to the Earth's gravitational field.

[0140] The support wall 12 has a front wall 12-1 and a rear wall 12-2. The front wall 12-1 is located at the front of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 along the conveying direction 24, and the rear wall is located at the rear of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 along the conveying direction 24. Alternatively, the front wall 12-1 can be located at the rear of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 along the conveying direction 24, and the rear wall can be located at the front of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 along the conveying direction 24.

[0141] The front wall 12-1 is attached to the suspension device 16 via a loading frame 26. The loading frame 26 defines an upper loading opening 28 of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10, through which the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 can be loaded with conveyed goods (e.g., in a loading station). The loading frame 26 is preferably dimensionally stable.

[0142] Furthermore, the support wall 12 has two side walls 12-3 and 12-4. The side walls 12-3 and 12-4 extend essentially along the thickness direction D of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 and are each arranged between the front wall 12-1 and the rear wall 12-2. The side walls 12-3 and 12-4 are opposite each other in a direction corresponding to a width (lateral direction) B of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10.

[0143] The locking device 14 has a front locking strip 14-1 and a rear locking strip 14-2. The locking strips 14-1 and 14-2 are oriented essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis 30 of the locking device 14. The longitudinal axis 30 preferably extends parallel to the width direction B of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking strips 14-1 and 14-2 are aligned essentially parallel to each other.

[0144] The front locking strip 14-1 is attached to the underside of the front wall 12-1. The rear locking strip 14-2 is attached to the underside of the rear wall 12-2. The locking device 14 extends over, in particular the entire, width of the front wall 12-1 and the rear wall 12-2. The suspended conveyor transport bag 10 has a central plane 32 oriented vertically and parallel to the longitudinal axis 30.

[0145] Figure 1 shows the suspended conveyor transport bag 10 in a closed state. An underside of the front wall 12-1 is connected to an underside of the rear wall 12-2 via the locking device 14. The front locking strip 14-1 is connected to the rear locking strip 14-2, in particular attached to the rear locking strip 14-2, and the support wall 12 defines a carrying volume 34 to the front, rear, and bottom. The front locking strip 14-1 contacts the rear locking strip 14-2 in the area of ​​the central plane 32. The support wall 12, in particular the front wall 12-1 and the rear wall 12-2, is preferably made of a textile material and is dimensionally flexible, in particular flexible. The conveyed goods are thus held firmly within the carrying volume 34.

[0146] As shown particularly in Figures 2A to 3C, the locking device 14 further comprises two slidably mounted locking elements 36 for releasably connecting the front locking strip 14-1 to the rear locking strip 14-2. The locking elements 36 are arranged on the rear locking strip 14-2. However, it is understood that the locking elements 36 can alternatively also be arranged on the front locking strip 14-1. It is also conceivable that one of the two locking elements 36 is arranged on the front locking strip 14-1 and the other of the two locking elements 36 is arranged on the rear locking strip 14-2.

[0147] The locking elements 36 are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis 30 and project beyond the rear locking bar 14-2 on both sides, at least in the locked position, along the longitudinal axis 30 (or along the width direction B). The locking elements 36 are translationally displaceable relative to each other along the longitudinal axis 30. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the two locking elements 36 is designed as a locking bolt 36.

[0148] As shown particularly in Figures 2A to 3C, the locking device 14 further comprises two locking bolt engagements 38 for the reversible engagement of the locking bolts 36 in the locked state. In the locked state, the locking bolts 36 engage with the respective locking bolt engagements 38. The two locking bolt engagements 38 are provided or attached to the front locking bar 14-1. Alternatively, the two locking bolt engagements 38 can also be arranged on the rear locking bar 14-1. An alternating arrangement of the two locking bolt engagements 38 on the locking bars 14-1 and 14-2 is also conceivable. The locking bolt engagements 38 are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis 30 (or along the lateral direction B) and are arranged on a lateral boundary of the support wall 12. The locking bolts 36 together with the respective bolt engagement 38 form a releasable, positive-locking connection in the locked state.The positive locking connection allows the front wall 12-1 and the rear wall 12-2 to be connected particularly reliably.

[0149] As shown particularly in Figures 2A to 3C, the locking device 14 further comprises two closing springs 40, each for exerting a closing spring force on the corresponding locking bolt 36. The closing spring force preferably acts along the longitudinal axis 30 on the respective locking bolt 36. The respective closing spring 40 is preferably designed such that the closing spring force causes the locking bolt 36 to move into the closed position. In other words, the closing spring force counteracts any movement of the respective locking bolt 36 out of the closed position. The locking bolt 36 is thus securely held in the closed position, and unintentional release of the locking device 14 is reliably prevented. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing springs 40 are each designed as compression springs. The closing springs 40 act between the respective locking bolt 36 and the front locking strip 14-1.

[0150] Furthermore, the locking device 14 has centering means 42 (see Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B) for guided displacement of the front locking bar 14-1 relative to the rear locking bar 14-2 into the closed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the centering means 42 are provided or attached to the front locking bar 14-1. The front locking bar 14-1 and the rear locking bar 14-2 can thus be opened and closed particularly securely and robustly, especially automatically. The centering means 42 are preferably arranged in the area of ​​the respective locking engagement 38. In other words, each of the two locking engagements 38 can be assigned at least one centering means 42. The centering means 42 serve to center the locking bars 14-1 and 14-2 relative to each other when the support wall 12 or the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is moved from the open state to the closed state (shown in Fig. 2A and Fig. 3A). The centering means 42 are shown in Fig. 2A and Fig. 3A), in which the support wall 12 releases the load-bearing volume 34 downwards, respectively, into the closed state.

[0151] Furthermore, the locking device 14 has, in particular two, actuating chamfers 43. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating chamfers 43 are provided or attached to the front locking strip 14-1. The actuating chamfers 43 are preferably arranged in the area of ​​the respective bolt engagement 38. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the two bolt engagements 38 is assigned, by way of example, an actuating chamfer 43. The actuating chamfers 43 are designed to actuate the locking bolts 36 when the support wall 12 or the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is moved from the open state to the closed state.

[0152] The operation of the centering means 42 and the actuating chamfers 43 is illustrated in particular in Figures 3A to 3C. In Figure 3A, the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is shown in the open state. To move the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 from the open state (Figure 3A) to the closed state (Figure 3C), the front locking bar 14-1 and the rear locking bar 14-2 can be moved relative to each other along the thickness direction D and / or in the conveying direction 24. In doing so, the locking bolts 36 come into contact with the respective actuating chamfers 43 (Figure 3B) and, as the locking bars 14-1 and 14-2 continue to move relative to each other, are displaced from their end position. The closing spring forces are thereby overcome. The locking bolts 36 finally engage positively with the bolt engagements 38 to assume the closed position, Fig. 3C.The centering means 42 and the actuating chamfers 43 therefore enable the locking bolt 36 to engage, in particular automatically, from the open state to the closed state.

[0153] As shown in Fig. 3C, the locking bolts 36, in particular the free ends 44 of the locking bolts 36, lie in the closed state along the longitudinal axis 30 (or along the In the lateral direction B), the locking bolts 36, and in particular the free ends 44 of the locking bolts, can be actuated or actuated from the outside along the longitudinal axis 30 in the closed position. Preferably, the bolt engagements 38 are designed to accommodate, on the one hand, the respective locking bolt 36 and, on the other hand, a respective actuating element 62 of a corresponding pocket opening station 52 (see Fig. 4).

[0154] The locking engagements 38 preferably extend along the longitudinal axis 30 through an outer, in particular outermost, boundary of the front locking strip 14-1. The locking engagements 38 can be designed as through-openings. Each locking engagement 38 can open along the longitudinal axis 30 into an actuating element receptacle 46 of the locking device 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating element receptacles 46 are each attached to the front locking strip 14-1. The actuating element receptacles 46 are each designed to receive an actuating element 62 of the pocket opening station 52. The actuating element receptacles 46 can serve as centering means for the reliable insertion of the respective actuating element 62. In particular, the actuating element receptacles 46 can be designed to correspond to the respective actuating element 62.Preferably, the locking bolts 36 can be actuated or actuated in the respective bolt engagement 38 and / or in the respective actuating element receptacle 46 in the closed position. This enables, in particular, simplified and automated operation of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10.

[0155] Figures 2A and 3A show the locking device 14 in the open position. The connection between the front locking bar 14-1 and the rear locking bar 14-2 is released. In the open position, the locking bolts 36 are disengaged from their respective locking engagements 38.

[0156] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pocket opening station 52. Identical elements are marked with the same reference numerals and are not explained in more detail below.

[0157] The pocket opening station 52 serves to open an overhead conveyor transport pocket 10, for example, to unload a loaded conveyed item. The overhead conveyor transport pocket is designed according to the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 shown in Figures 1 to 3C. The overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 is coupled to the guide rail 22 of an overhead conveyor 50 and hangs vertically downwards. Figure 4 shows the overhead conveyor transport pocket in the closed state.

[0158] The bag opening station 52, the overhead conveyor 50 and the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 preferably form an overhead conveyor system 48.

[0159] In the illustrated embodiment, the pocket opening station 52 is arranged below the guide rail 22. The pocket opening station 52 has two pocket opening devices 54. The pocket opening devices 54 are linearly movable relative to each other in an adjustment direction 56 transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction 24. The pocket opening devices 54 are spaced apart from each other along the adjustment direction 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the pocket opening devices 54 are arranged on opposite sides of the suspended conveyor transport pocket 10 positioned or positionable between them in the adjustment direction 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment direction 56 is oriented essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis 30 of the suspended conveyor transport pocket 10.

[0160] Each pocket opening device 54 has a catch body 58 with a catch area 60 for capturing and / or centering and / or aligning the locking bars 14-1, 14-2, which are connected to each other in the closed state. The catch bodies 58 are positioned opposite each other in the adjustment direction 56. Furthermore, each pocket opening device 54 has an actuating element 62 for actuating the respective closing element 36 of the locking device 14 of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10. The actuating elements 62 serve to release the connection between the front locking bar 14-1 and the rear locking bar 14-2, and thus between the front wall 12-1 and the rear wall 12-2, from the closed state. The capture areas 60 each taper at least partially in the adjustment direction 56 towards one side facing away from the suspended conveyor transport bag 10, i.e. outwards in the adjustment direction 56.

[0161] The actuating elements 62 are arranged in the respective capture area 60. Each capture area 60 is bounded transversely, in particular vertically, to the adjustment direction 56 and / or in the conveying direction 24 by a first centering jaw 58-1 and by a second centering jaw 58-2 of the respective capture body 58. The first centering jaws 58-1 are arranged at the rear in the conveying direction 24. The second centering jaws 58-2 are arranged at the front in the conveying direction 24. The centering jaws 58-1, 58-2 of the respective capture body 58 are spaced apart from each other in the conveying direction 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the centering jaws 58-1, 58-2 of the respective capture body 58 are spaced apart from each other along their entire (vertical) length. This facilitates efficient capture of the locking bars 14-1, 14-2.

[0162] The actuating elements 62 are arranged transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction 56 and / or in the conveying direction 24 between the first centering jaw 58-1 and the second centering jaw 58-2 of the respective catch body 58. The actuating elements 62 are designed as pressure elements, each having a pressure surface 63 extending transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction 56. The actuating elements 62 are, by way of example, designed as substantially vertically oriented pressure bars.

[0163] The centering jaws 58-1, 58-2 of the respective catching body 58 have mutually facing centering surfaces 64-1 and 64-2 (see in particular Fig. 5A) that limit the catching area 60 in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction 56 and / or in the conveying direction 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the mutually facing centering surfaces 64-1, 64-2 of the centering jaws 58-1, 58-2 of the respective catching body 58 are at least partially V-shaped relative to each other. However, other geometries and / or shapes and / or orientations are also conceivable.

[0164] As illustrated by example in Fig. 5A, a width B F the respective capture area 60 perpendicular to the adjustment direction 56 (or in the conveying direction 24) is greater than a thickness D v the locking device 14 in the closed state. As illustrated by way of example in Fig. 8, a length L Fof the respective capture area 60 and / or of the respective capture body 58 in the vertical direction 11 is greater than a length L v the ver- Closing device 14 in the closed state in the vertical direction 11 (or in the longitudinal direction L).

[0165] Furthermore, each bag opening device 54 has a support structure 66 for supporting the respective catch body 58 and the respective actuating element 62. The centering bodies 58 and the actuating elements 62 are attached to the respective support structure 66. The actuating elements 62 are preferably spring-mounted on the respective support structure. Spring mounting of the actuating elements 62 enables a more reliable and gentler coupling with the respective closing element 36 of the locking device 14 of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10.

[0166] The support structures 66 are linearly movable, in particular linearly displaceable, and are mounted on a frame 68 of the pocket opening station 52. By means of a drive device (e.g., a toothed belt drive), the support structures 66, together with the attached catch bodies 58 and the attached actuating elements 62, can be moved automatically, in particular translationally, along the adjustment direction 56. For this purpose, the frame 68 of the pocket opening station 52 can, for example, have at least one (not shown) guide rail on which the support structures 66 are linearly displaceable. Furthermore, the pocket opening station 52 can have a (not shown) control device for controlling the drive device.

[0167] The opening process of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 using the bag opening station 52 is explained below with reference to Figures 5A to 5F. Identical elements are marked with the same reference numerals and are not explained in further detail below. Figures 5A to 5D show the bag opening devices 54 and the closing device 14 in top view.

[0168] First, the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 with its interconnected locking strips 14-1, 14-2 is moved along the overhead conveyor 50 in the conveying direction 24 into the bag opening station 52 between the bag opening devices 54. (see Fig. 5A). The locking device 14 is arranged in the closed position.

[0169] Once the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 has reached a defined position, the distance between the bag opening devices 54 is reduced along the adjustment direction 56, so that the interconnected locking bars 14-1, 14-2 are caught by the capture areas 60. The locking bars 14-1, 14-2 initially come into contact with the respective first centering jaw 58-1 or its centering surface 64-1 (see Fig. 5B).

[0170] With a further reduction of the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 along the adjustment direction 56, the locking strips 14 are guided along the centering surfaces 64-1 of the first centering jaws 58-1 in the direction of the actuating elements 62, due to the tapered shape of the respective catch area 60 towards the respective actuating element 62 (see Fig. 5C).

[0171] With a further reduction of the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 along the adjustment direction 56, the actuating elements 62 come into contact with the respective closing element 36 of the locking device 14 (see Fig. 5D). In this case, the actuating elements 62 engage in particular with the respective bolt engagement 38 of the locking device 14 and / or with the respective actuating element receptacle 46.

[0172] With a further reduction of the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 along the adjustment direction 56, the closing elements or locking bolts 36 are disengaged from the respective bolt engagement 38 by actuation via the respective actuating element 62 (see Fig. 5E). The closing spring forces are thereby overcome. The connection between the front locking bar 14-1 and the rear locking bar 14-2 is released, and the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 or the support wall 12 of the overhead conveyor transport pocket is moved into the open position.

[0173] The distance between the pocket opening devices 54 is then increased again along the adjustment direction 56, so that the actuating elements 62 and the closing elements or locking bolts 36 are decoupled from each other (see Fig. 5F). Finally, the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 is increased along the adjustment direction 56 until the now open overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 can pass the pocket opening station 28 along the conveying direction 24 without obstruction.

[0174] Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a bag locking station 72. Identical elements are marked with the same reference numerals and are not explained in more detail below.

[0175] The bag closing station 72 serves to close an overhead conveyor transport bag 10. The overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is preferably designed according to the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 shown in Figures 1 to 3C. The overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is coupled to the guide rail 22 of the overhead conveyor 50 and hangs vertically downwards. In Figure 6, the overhead conveyor transport bag 10, or rather the support wall 12 of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10, is shown in the open state.

[0176] In the illustrated embodiment, the pocket closing station 72 is arranged below the guide rail 22. The pocket closing station 72 has two pocket closing devices 74. The pocket closing devices 74 are linearly movable relative to each other in an adjustment direction 56 transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction. The pocket closing devices 74 are spaced apart from each other along the adjustment direction 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the pocket closing devices 74 are arranged on opposite sides of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10, which is positioned or positionable between the pocket closing devices 74, in the adjustment direction 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment direction 56 is oriented essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis 30.

[0177] Each bag closure device 74 has a catching body 76 with a catching area 78 for catching and / or centering and / or aligning the items in the open state. other released locking bars 14-1, 14-2. The locking elements 76 face each other in the adjustment direction 56. Furthermore, each pocket locking device 74 has a clamping section 80 for moving the locking device 14 from the open state to the closed state.

[0178] The capture areas 78 each taper at least partially in the adjustment direction 56 towards one side away from the transport bag 10, i.e. outwards in the adjustment direction 56.

[0179] The clamping sections 80 are arranged in the respective capture area 78. Each capture area 78 is bounded transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction 56 and / or in the conveying direction 24 by a first centering jaw 76-1 and by a second centering jaw 76-2. The first centering jaw 76-1 is arranged at the rear in the conveying direction 24. The second centering jaw 76-2 is arranged at the front in the conveying direction 24. The centering jaws 76-1 and 76-2 are spaced apart from each other in the conveying direction 24. The centering jaws 76-1 and 76-2 of the respective capture body 76 form the clamping section 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the clamping sections 80 are arranged in the top view in the narrowest cross-section of the respective capture area 78 (see Figures 7A-7E).

[0180] The centering jaws 76-1, 76-2 of the respective catching body 76 have mutually facing centering surfaces 82-1 and 82-2, which limit the catching area 78 in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction 56 and / or in the conveying direction 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the mutually facing centering surfaces 82-1 and 82-2 of the respective catching body 76 are at least partially oriented in a V-shape relative to each other. However, other geometries and / or orientations are also conceivable.

[0181] As illustrated by example in Fig. 7E, a width B F the respective capture area 78 perpendicular to the adjustment direction 56 (or in the conveying direction 24) is greater than a thickness D v the locking device 14 in the closed state. As illustrated by way of example in Fig. 6, a length L F of the respective fishing area 78 and / or the the respective trap body 76 in the vertical direction 11 is greater than a length L v the locking device 14 in the vertical direction 11 (or in the longitudinal direction L).

[0182] Furthermore, each pocket closure device 74 has a support structure 84 for carrying the respective catch body 76. The catch bodies 76 are attached to the respective support structure 84.

[0183] The support structures 84 are linearly movable, in particular linearly displaceable, and are mounted on a frame 86 of the bag closing station 72. By means of a drive device (not shown, e.g., a toothed belt drive), the support structures 84, together with the attached catch bodies 76, can be moved automatically along the adjustment direction 56. The movement along the adjustment direction is preferably translational. For this purpose, the frame 86 can, for example, have at least one (not shown) guide rail on which the support structures 84 are linearly displaceable. Furthermore, the bag closing station 72 can have a (not shown) control device for controlling the drive device.

[0184] The closing process of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 using the bag closing station 72 is explained below with reference to Figures 7A to 7E. Identical elements are marked with the same reference numerals and are not explained in further detail below. Figures 7A to 7E show the bag closing devices 74 and the closing mechanism 14 in a top view.

[0185] First, the overhead conveyor transport bag 10, with its detached locking bars 14-1, 14-2, is moved along the overhead conveyor 50 in the conveying direction 24 into the bag closing station 72 between the bag closing devices 74 (see Fig. 7A). The transport bag 10, or rather the support wall 12, is in the open position. The locking bars 14-1, 14-2 are spaced apart from each other in the conveying direction 24.

[0186] Once the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 has reached a defined position, a distance is maintained between the bag closing devices 74 along the adjustment direction 56. reduced, so that the separated locking bars 14-1, 14-2 are each captured by the capture areas 78. The rear locking bar 14-2 comes into contact with the respective first centering jaw 76-1 or its centering surface 82-1 at its broad ends, and the front locking bar 14-2 comes into contact with the respective second centering jaw 76-2 or its centering surface 82-2 at its broad ends (see Fig. 7B).

[0187] With a further reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 along the adjustment direction 56, the closing strips 14-1 , 14-2 are guided along the centering surfaces 82-1 , 82-2 in the direction of the clamping sections 80, due to the tapered shape of the respective catch area 78 towards the respective clamping section 80 (see Fig. 7C).

[0188] With a further reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 along the adjustment direction 56, the closing bars 14-1 , 14-2 are pressed together by the clamping sections 80 in the conveying direction 24, so that the closing bars 14-1 , 14-2 are brought closer together and finally lock together to assume the closed state (see Fig. 7D and Fig. 7E).

[0189] Subsequently, the distance between the bag closing devices 74 along the adjustment direction 56 is increased again, so that the closed transport bag 10 can pass the bag closing station 72 along the conveying direction 24 unhindered.

[0190] In an alternative embodiment of the bag closing station 72, as shown in Fig. 11, each of the bag closing devices 74 further comprises a centering device 88, which includes a centering element 90 arranged in the catching area 78 of the respective catching body 76 and a spring rocker 92 cooperating with it. The centering elements 90 are arranged in the conveying direction 24 between the centering jaws 76-1, 76-2 of the respective catching body 76.

[0191] Furthermore, the centering jaws 82-1, 82-2 of the respective catching body 76 in the embodiment shown in Fig. 11 are oriented transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the The conveying direction 24 is offset relative to each other. The offset between the centering jaws 82-1, 82-2 of the respective catch body 76 is such that a first distance (not shown), measured transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction 24, between the first centering jaws 82-1 arranged upstream with respect to the conveying direction 24, is smaller than a second distance (not shown), measured transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction 24, between the second centering jaws 82-2 arranged downstream with respect to the conveying direction 24. However, the offset shown is not mandatory. Alternatively, the centering jaws 82-1, 82-2 can also be designed as in the embodiment according to FIGS. 6 and 7A-7E (i.e., without offset).

[0192] After the insertion of the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 into the bag closing station 72, the locking bars 14-1 , 14-2 (see Fig. 11), which are separated from each other and offset transversely to the conveying direction 24, are captured by the respective capture areas 78 by reducing the distance between the bag closing devices 74 along the adjustment direction 56 and - due to the tapered shape of the respective capture area 78 - are guided towards the respective centering elements 90 and the respective clamping sections 80. The free ends of the locking strips 14-1, 14-2 come into contact with the centering elements 90. With a further reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 along the adjustment direction 56, the spring-mounted centering elements 90 align the locking strips 14-1, 14-2 transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction 24 relative to each other.After the locking bars 14-1, 14-2 have been aligned, the actual clamping of the locking bars 14-1, 14-2 takes place by the clamping sections 80, thereby bringing the locking bars 14-1, 14-2 closer together and into the closed position. The centering devices 88 thus ensure reliable alignment of the locking bars 14-1, 14-2 before locking, particularly even in the case of an initial offset transverse to the conveying direction 24. Fig. 9 shows an embodiment of a method 400 for opening an overhead conveyor transport bag in the overhead conveyor system 48.

[0193] In a first step 402 of the procedure 400, the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is moved along the overhead conveyor 50 in the conveying direction into the bag opening station, with the closing device 14 arranged in the closed state.

[0194] In a further step 404 of the method 400, a first reduction of a distance between the pocket opening devices 54 in the adjustment direction 56 is provided, wherein the interconnected locking strips 14-1 , 14-2 are captured by the capture areas 60 and centered towards the actuating elements 62.

[0195] In a further step 406 of the method 400, a second reduction of the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 in the adjustment direction 56 is provided, wherein the actuating elements 62 actuate the locking elements 36 which detachably connect the captured locking strips 14-1 , 14-2 to move the support wall 12 into the open state.

[0196] Fig. 10 shows an embodiment of a method 500 for closing a suspended conveyor transport bag 10 in the suspended conveyor system 70.

[0197] In a first step 502 of the process 500, the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is moved along the overhead conveyor 50 in the conveying direction 24 into the bag closing station 72, with the closing device 14 being in the open state.

[0198] In a further step 504 of the method 500, a first reduction of a distance between the pocket closing devices 74 in the adjustment direction 56 is provided, wherein the locking bars 14-1 , 14-2, which have been separated from each other, are captured by the catch areas 78 and centered towards the clamping sections 80.

[0199] Optionally, it may be provided that in step 504, during the first reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 in the adjustment direction 56, the separated locking strips 14-1 , 14-2 are captured by the capture areas 78 and centered towards the at least one centering device 88 and towards the clamping sections 80.

[0200] In a further step 506 of the method 500, a second reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 in the adjustment direction 56 is provided, wherein the captured closing strips 14-1 , 14,2 are held in place by means of the clamping sections in a The two parts of the suspended conveyor transport bag 10 are pressed against each other in a transverse direction, especially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 30, and thereby moved into the closed position.

[0201] Optionally, it may be provided that in step 506, during the second reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 in the adjustment direction 56, the captured and separated locking bars 14-1, 14-2 are first centered or aligned relative to each other in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the conveying direction 24 by means of the at least one locking device 88, before they are pressed against each other by means of the clamping sections 80 in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis 30 of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 and thereby moved into the closed state.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Pocket opening station (52) for opening, in particular automatically, a suspended conveyor transport pocket (10) conveyable downstream in a conveying direction (24) along a guide rail (22) of an overhead conveyor (50), wherein the suspended conveyor transport pocket (10) has a support wall (12) which has a front wall (12-1) and a rear wall (12-2) and can be arranged between a closed state in which the support wall (12) limits a carrying volume (34) for receiving a conveyed item at least partially forwards, downwards and backwards, and an open state in which the support wall (12) releases the carrying volume (34) downwards, and a locking device (14) for releasably connecting the front wall (12-1) with the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the locking device (14) has a front locking strip (14-1) and a rear locking strip (14-2),which are detachably connected to each other in the closed state for connecting the front wall (12-1) with the rear wall (12-2), and two locking elements (36) that can be moved relative to each other, in particular locking bolts (36), for detachably connecting the front locking strip (14-, 1) with the rear locking strip (14-2), wherein the pocket opening station (52) has two pocket opening devices (54) that are movable relative to each other in an adjustment direction transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction, between which the overhead conveyor transport pocket (10) with its locking device (14) can be positioned, characterized in that the pocket opening devices (54) each have a catching body (58) with a catching area (60) that tapers at least partially in the adjustment direction (56) towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket (10) for catching and centering the interconnected locking strips (14-1, 14- 2) and an actuating element (62) arranged in the capture area (60) for actuating the respective closing element (36) to release the connection between the front locking strip (14-1) and the rear locking strip (14-2) and thus between the front wall (12-1) and the rear wall (12-2) from the closed state.

2. Pocket opening station (52) according to claim 1, wherein the pocket opening devices (54) are linearly movable relative to each other in the adjustment direction (56).

3. Pocket opening station (52) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a drive device for moving, in particular linearly, the pocket opening devices (54) relative to each other in the adjustment direction (56).

4. Pocket opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the catching bodies (58) each have a first centering jaw (58-1) and a second centering jaw (58-2) which limit the catching area (60) in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24), wherein the actuating elements (62) are each arranged between the centering jaws (58-1 , 58-2) of the respective catching body (58).

5. Pocket opening station (52) according to claim 4, wherein the first centering jaws (58-1) each have a first centering surface (64-1) and the second centering jaws (58-2) each have a second centering surface (64-2), wherein the first centering surface (64-1) and the second centering surface (64-2) of the respective catching body (58) are oriented towards each other in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24), in particular wherein the centering surfaces (64-1 , 64-2) of the centering jaws (58-1 , 58-2) of the respective catching body (58) facing each other are at least partially V-shaped.

6. Pocket opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating elements (62) are arranged in the adjustment direction (56), in particular completely, within the respective capture area (60).

7. Pocket opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating elements (62) are designed as pressure elements (62) which each have a pressure surface (63) extending transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction (56), wherein the actuating elements (62) are designed to are, in the case of a relative movement of the pocket opening devices (54) towards each other in the adjustment direction (56) their pressure surfaces (63) come into contact with the respective closing elements (36) and displace the closing elements (36) relative to each other in order to move the closing device (14) from the closed state to the open state.

8. Pocket opening station (52) according to claim 7, wherein each actuating element (62) is designed as a substantially vertically oriented pressure bar (62).

9. Pocket opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating elements (62) are each spring-mounted.

10. Pocket opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a width (B F ) of the respective capture area (60) transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24) is greater than a thickness (D v ) the locking device (14) in the closed state, in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large, particularly preferably at least six times as large.

11. Pocket opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a length (L F ) of the respective capture area and / or of the respective capture body in the vertical direction (11) is greater than a length (L v) the locking device (14) in the closed state in the vertical direction (11), in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large.

12. Pocket closing station (72) for closing, in particular automatically, a suspended conveyor transport pocket (10) that can be conveyed downstream in a conveying direction (24) along a guide rail (22) of an overhead conveyor (50), wherein the suspended conveyor transport pocket (10) has a support wall (12) which has a front wall (12-1) and a rear wall (12-2) and can be switched between a closed state in which the support wall (12) has a carrying volume (34) for receiving a conveying the goods are at least partially limited forwards, downwards and backwards, and can be arranged in an open state in which the supporting wall (12) releases the supporting volume (34) downwards, and has a locking device (14) for releasably connecting the front wall (12-1) with the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the locking device (14) has a front locking strip (14-1) and a rear locking strip (14-2) which are releasably connected to each other for connecting the front wall (12-1) with the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the front locking strip (14-1) and the rear locking strip (14-2) are slidably mounted transversely, in particular vertically, to each other for displacement from the closed state to a direction of a longitudinal axis (30) of the locking device (14), wherein the bag closing station (72) has two transversely, in particular vertically, in the adjustment direction (56),The device has pocket closing devices (74) that are movable relative to each other in the conveying direction (24), between which the overhead conveyor transport bag (10) with its closing device (14) can be positioned in the open state, characterized in that the pocket closing devices (74) each have a catching body (76) with a catching area (78) that tapers at least partially in the adjustment direction (56) towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport bag (10) for catching and centering the separated closing bars (14-1, 14-2) and a clamping section (80) arranged in the catching area (78) for moving the closing device (14) from the open state to the closed state.

13. Bag closing station (72) according to claim 12, wherein the bag closing devices (74) are linearly movable relative to each other in the adjustment direction (56).

14. Bag closing station (72) according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising a drive device for moving, in particular linearly, the bag closing devices (74) relative to each other in the adjustment direction (56).

15. Bag closing station (72) according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the catching bodies (76) each comprise a first centering jaw (76-1) and a second centering jaw (76-2) which limit the capture area (78) in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24).

16. Bag closing station (72) according to claim 15, wherein the centering jaws (76-1 , 76- 2) of the respective catching body (76) form the clamping section (80).

17. Bag closing station (72) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the first centering jaws (76-1) each have a first centering surface (82-1) and the second centering jaws (76-2) each have a second centering surface (82-2), wherein the first centering surface (82-1) and the second centering surface (82-2) of the respective catching body (76) are oriented towards each other in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24), in particular wherein the centering surfaces (82-1 , 82-2) of the respective catching body (76) facing each other are at least partially V-shaped.

18. Bag closing station (72) according to one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the centering jaws (76-1, 76-2) of the respective catching body (76) are offset relative to each other in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the conveying direction (24).

19. Bag locking station (72) according to one of claims 12 to 18, wherein a width (B F) of the respective capture area (78) transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24) is greater than a thickness (D v ) the locking device (14) in the closed state, in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large, particularly preferably at least six times as large.

20. Bag locking station (72) according to one of claims 12 to 19, wherein a length (L F ) of the respective capture area (78) and / or of the respective capture body (76) in the vertical direction (11) is greater than a length of the closing device (14) in the closed state in the vertical direction (11), in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large.

21. Pocket closing station (72) according to one of claims 12 to 20, wherein at least one of the pocket closing devices (74) further comprises a centering device (88) for centering the separated closure strips (14-1 , 14-2) in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the conveying direction (24).

22. Bag closing station (72) according to claim 21, wherein the centering device (88) has a centering element (90) arranged in the capture area (78) which is spring-mounted.

23. Overhead conveyor system (48), comprising: an overhead conveyor transport bag (10) comprising a support wall (12) having a front wall (12-1) and a rear wall (12-2) and being arrangable between a closed state in which the support wall (12) limits a load-bearing volume (34) for receiving a conveyed item at least partially forwards, downwards and backwards, and an open state in which the support wall (12) releases the load-bearing volume (34) downwards, and a locking device (14) for detachably connecting the front wall (12-1) with the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the locking device (14) comprises a front locking strip (14-1) and a rear locking strip (14-2) which are detachably connected to each other for connecting the front wall (12-1) with the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, and two locking elements (36) that are movable relative to each other, in particular Locking bolt (36),for releasably connecting the front locking strip (14-1) with the rear locking strip (14-2) comprises a suspended conveyor (50) for conveying the suspended conveyor transport bag (10) along a guide rail (22) downstream in a conveying direction (24); and a bag opening station (52) according to one of claims 1 to 11.

24. Overhead conveyor system (70), comprising an overhead conveyor transport bag, which has a support wall (12) having a front wall (12-1) and a rear wall (12-2) and which can be arranged between a closed state in which the support wall (12) limits a carrying volume (34) for receiving a conveyed item at least partially forwards, downwards and backwards, and an open state in which the support wall (12) releases the carrying volume (34) downwards, and a locking device (14) for detachably connecting the front wall (12-1) with the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the locking device (14) has a front locking strip (14-1) and a rear locking strip (14-2) which are detachably connected to each other for connecting the front wall (12-1) with the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the front locking strip (14-1) and the Rear locking strip (14-2) for moving from the closed state transversely to each other,in particular are mounted vertically, displaceably to a direction of a longitudinal axis (30) of the closing device (14); a suspended conveyor (50) for conveying the suspended conveyor transport bag (10) downstream along a guide rail (22) in a conveying direction (24); and a bag closing station (12) according to one of claims 12 to 22.

25. Method (400) for opening an overhead conveyor transport bag (10) in an overhead conveyor system (48) according to claim 23, wherein the method (400) comprises the following steps: Moving (402) the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag opening station between the bag opening devices, wherein the closing device is arranged in the closed state; first reduction (404) of a distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the interconnected locking bars are captured by the catch areas and centered towards the actuating elements; and second reduction (406) of the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the actuating elements actuate the locking elements which detachably connect the captured locking bars to move the support wall into the open state.

26. Method (500) for closing an overhead conveyor transport bag (10) in an overhead conveyor system (70) according to claim 24, wherein the method (500) comprises the following steps: Moving (502) the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag closing station between the bag closing devices, wherein the closing device is arranged in the open state; first reducing (504) a distance between the bag closing devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the separated closing bars are captured by the capture areas and centered towards the clamping sections; and second reducing (506) the distance between the bag closing devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the captured closing bars are pressed against each other by means of the clamping sections in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis and thereby moved into the closed state.

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