Unloading device and method for unloading or loading stacked mail items
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-05-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-11
AI Technical Summary
In distribution centers, unloading mail items stacked one above the other from trucks poses challenges such as high physical strain on workers, potential damage to mail items, and low throughput rates due to the need for workers to handle items at different heights and long distances.
An unloading device with two transport devices arranged vertically, one above the other, allowing mail items to be efficiently unloaded by minimizing the distance workers need to travel, reducing the risk of damage, and increasing throughput, while being designed to integrate seamlessly into existing systems without requiring additional space.
The solution enables efficient unloading of stacked mail items, reducing physical strain on workers, minimizing damage, and increasing the throughput rate to over 2000 pieces per hour, with the ability to adapt to various sizes and types of mail items, thus enhancing overall handling efficiency.
Smart Images
Figure EP2024064268_05122024_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Unloading device and method for unloading or loading mail items arranged one above the other
[0002] The present invention relates to an unloading device, in particular for mail items, and a method for unloading mail items arranged one above the other.
[0003] In distribution centers such as parcel centers, it's common for trucks or similar vehicles to be filled with mail items stacked on top of each other, ready to be unloaded. The mail items are unloaded semi-automatically, for example. This means that a conveyor is moved up to an opening in the truck, and a worker removes the mail items one by one and places them on a transport device such as a conveyor belt.
[0004] Due to the typical loading height of trucks of approximately 2.40 m, mail items are stacked high inside to maximize the transport space. This requires the operator to pick up mail items at different heights and place them all at the same level, namely the conveyor belt. This can place considerable physical strain on the operator. Furthermore, damage can occur during unloading, as mail items can fall from the upper rows onto the conveyor belt. Furthermore, the long distances the operator must handle the mail items to reach the conveyor belt can result in a low throughput rate.
[0005] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus and a method which can, on the one hand, prevent damage to the mail pieces during unloading and, on the other hand, can increase a throughput rate of mail pieces.
[0006] The present invention solves this problem with an unloading device having the features of claim 1 and with a method for unloading or loading mail items arranged one above the other having the features of claim 29.
[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, an unloading device, in particular for mailpieces, is provided. The unloading device can comprise a first transport device for transporting mailpieces in a first transport direction, wherein the mailpiece is arranged on a first plane when the mailpiece is transported in the first transport direction. Furthermore, the unloading device can comprise a second transport device for transporting mailpieces in a second transport direction, wherein the mailpiece is arranged on a second plane when the mailpiece is transported in the second transport direction. The first transport device and the second transport device can be arranged such that the first plane and the second plane intersect.
[0008] Compared to the known prior art, an unloading device can thus be provided which, in an operating position, has two transport devices arranged vertically one above the other, so that the distance a worker must travel with a picked-up mail item from the removal position to the deposit position on the transport device is reduced. In other words, particularly when unloading mail items from the top row of a truck, a container, or a wagon, the distance that must be traveled to deposit the mail item on a transport device can be minimized. Thus, the first transport device can also be referred to as the upper transport device. Analogously, the second transport device can be referred to as the lower transport device.This allows mail items to be unloaded efficiently, even if the mail items are heavy and / or located at different vertical heights. The unloading device can be arranged between a variable-length conveyor belt and the object to be unloaded. The unloading device can have a receiving side on which the first transport device and the second transport device are arranged, and a delivery side on which the first transport device and the second transport direction are combined to form a single output transport direction. This offers the advantage that the unloading device can be connected to any other devices in a distribution center. The transport device can be a device designed to transport mail items such as small packages, smalls, bags, etc. The mail items can therefore be piece goods that can be handled individually.The transport device can be, for example, a conveyor belt, a roller conveyor, a chute, or any device that can transport mailpieces in a transport direction. The first transport device can transport mailpieces in a first transport direction. The transported mailpiece can be arranged on a first plane. In other words, the first transport device can have a transport surface located in the first plane. The mailpiece can be in contact with the transport surface during transport on the first transport device. The same can apply analogously to the second transport device. The first plane and the second plane can be fictitious planes that have an infinite extension in two dimensions.The first plane and the second plane preferably intersect, so that the transport surface of the first transport device and the transport surface of the second transport device can be inclined at different angles relative to one another. This ensures that at an output of the unloading device (i.e. on the delivery side of the unloading device) the mail items can be output onto just a single transport device (e.g. a collective transport device) and can be further processed using conventional processing devices. The first transport device and the second transport device are preferably arranged overlapping in a plan view of the unloading device (in an operating position). This can reduce the extent of the unloading device transverse to the first transport device and the second transport device.This allows the unloading device to be easily integrated into existing collection centers without requiring a large amount of additional space. A horizontal component of an extension direction of the first transport direction and the second transport direction can be identical. Furthermore, the first transport direction and the second transport direction can differ in their vertical component of the extension direction. With the above unloading device, it is possible to efficiently unload even stacked mail items, for example from a transport bridge, a truck, a container, a wagon or the like. In particular, outputs of more than 2,000 mail items per hour can be achieved. This can increase the overall efficiency of processing mail items. The first transport device and the second transport device can be arranged one above the other.This makes it possible to reduce the distance a piece of goods falls from other items arranged one above the other. In other words, the transport devices can be arranged one above the other in the direction of gravity. Furthermore, it is therefore not necessary to pivot the transport devices in order to be closer to a piece of goods in the direction of gravity and to have to catch them. This means that the transport devices can be designed in a simpler manner. Furthermore, at least one of the transport devices can be designed in sections. In other words, at least one of the transport devices can have several independently movable sections. This makes it possible to optimally adapt to the piece of goods. Preferably, the transport devices can be individually immobile in a direction transverse to the direction of gravity. Of course, the entire unloading device can be relocated.However, it is advantageous that the individual transport devices cannot be pivoted independently transversely to the direction of gravity. This has the advantage that the transport devices can be designed more simply and, due to the fewer moving parts, there is less wear.
[0009] The first transport device is preferably designed as a chute. Thus, the first transport device can be designed as a passive transport device. In other words, the first transport device can be equipped without any active drive. Mailpieces transported away by the first transport device can be conveyed on the first transport device in the first transport direction by gravity. Mailpieces can be transported on the first transport device additionally or alternatively by means of an initial momentum applied to the mailpiece, for example, by a worker. The first transport device preferably has a smoother surface than the second transport device. This can ensure smooth passive transport of mailpieces on the first transport device.Furthermore, by providing a chute as the first transport device, the height difference (particularly in the vertical direction, i.e., the direction of gravity) between the first transport device and the second transport device can be gradually reduced. In other words, a mail item placed on the first transport device can be transported in the first transport device to the level of the second transport device at a merging point between the first transport device and the second transport device. This makes it possible to provide a particularly simple and error-resistant system. Preferably, only the first transport device is designed as a chute element.
[0010] The second transport device is preferably designed as a conveyor device. A conveyor device can be an actively driven device that can transport mail items in the second conveying direction by means of an active drive. For example, the second conveyor device can be a belt conveyor, a roller conveyor, a ball conveyor, etc. This ensures that the second conveyor device can be arranged as close to the ground as possible, so that mail items that are to be unloaded or loaded do not have to be lifted far against the direction of gravity in order to be placed on the second conveyor device. This can reduce the physical strain on a worker. Furthermore, an actively driven conveyor device can ensure that the second conveyor device can convey along an ascending conveyor path (i.e. along the second conveying direction).This allows the unloading device to be even better adapted to existing facilities in collection centers. This can increase the usability of the unloading device. Preferably, only the second transport device is designed as a conveyor device.
[0011] The first transport device preferably has a first section and a second section, wherein the first section is displaceable between a first position and a second position. The first transport device can be divided into a first section and a second section along the first transport direction. In other words, the first section and the second section can adjoin one another in the transport direction. Due to the displaceability of the first section between a first position and a second position, an extension of the first transport device in the first conveying direction can be variable. In other words, the extension of the first transport device in the first transport direction can be shortened or lengthened, depending on whether the first section is in the first position or the second position.In the first position, the first section can, for example, be unfolded so that the first transport device has its maximum length in the first transport direction. In the second position, the first section can, for example, be folded in so that the first transport device has a shortened length in the first transport direction.
[0012] This offers the advantage that when a worker wants to unload the top row of mail pieces from a container, the first section can be in the first position (i.e. in the unfolded position), allowing the worker to easily place the mail pieces from the top row onto the first conveyor. This ensures a minimal distance between the origin of the mail pieces and the deposit location. If the worker then wants to unload a row of mail pieces below, the first section of the first conveyor can be moved to the second position (i.e. in the folded position), allowing the worker to easily reach the next row of mail pieces and move them onto the second conveyor. This also ensures better freedom of movement for the worker between the unloading device and the mail pieces to be unloaded.Preferably, the first section is rotatable about a rotation axis when moved between the first position and the second position. The first section can be foldable about the rotation axis when moved between the first position and the second position. This allows the first section to be moved back and forth between the first position and the second position particularly easily. In the second position, the first section can rest on the second section. In other words, in the second position, the second section can serve as a stop for the first section. The first position can be defined by a stop. The first position and the second position can be the only stable positions into which the first section can be brought. In other words, the first section can fall into positions between the first position and the second position either into the first position or into the second position (e.g.Gravity-driven) without requiring any intervention. This ensures particularly simple operation of the unloading device. Furthermore, a worker can move the first section into the first or second position simply by pushing the first section. This can accelerate the workflow.
[0013] Preferably, the first section and / or the second section is / or is arranged to be elastic. By providing elasticity in the first section, the placing of a mail item on the first section can be dampened or cushioned. This can additionally ensure that the mail items are not damaged. An elastic design can be realized, for example, by the choice of material for the first section. For example, the first section can be formed from an elastically deformable material. For example, the first section can be formed from a plastic material. Furthermore, the first section can be geometrically designed to have elasticity. For this purpose, the first section can have a tapered shape (e.g., opposite to the first transport direction). The arrangement of the first section can be realized, for example, as a cantilever arm.In other words, the first section can be supported at one outer end. This arrangement of the first section can achieve elasticity. This can ensure particularly gentle handling of mail items.
[0014] Preferably, the first section is arranged on the second section in the second position. In the first position, the first section and the second section can form a transport surface that lies in the first plane. In the second position, because the first section rests on the second section, a transport surface formed by the first section and the second section can lie in the first plane. In other words, the first section can be folded onto the second section so that a transport surface of the first section defined by the first section comes to lie directly on a transport surface of the second section. The mailpieces can then be transported away on a transport surface that is formed by a rear surface (opposite the transport surface of the first section) of the first section.Additionally, the transport surface formed in the second position can be formed by the rear surface of the first section and the top surface of the second section. Thus, even in the folded position (i.e., in the second position), the first section can be part of the first level and ensure removal of the mailpieces. In this case, the first level can have a step. This eliminates the need to completely fold away or remove the first section, which would require more space. The above solution can provide a compact unloading device.
[0015] Preferably, the first section is pivoted by at least 175° when moved between the first position and the second position. Pivoting the first section by at least 175° ensures that mail items on a rear surface of the first section can continue to be transported away without problem by the first transport device in the first transport direction. If the pivoting were less far, there would be a risk that mail items would remain on the then wasted first section without being transported away by the first transport device. Preferably, the first section is pivoted by 180°. In other words, the first section can provide a transport surface that lies in the first plane both in the first position and in the second position.This ensures that the mail items are continuously transported in the first transport direction in both the first position and the second position.
[0016] The first section preferably has a first end and a second end, the first section having a cross-sectional shape that tapers towards the first end. The first end of the first section can protrude from the first transport device. The second end of the first section can face the second section. The second end of the first section is preferably in direct contact with the second section. The first section is preferably arranged on the first transport device in the manner of a cantilever arm. The first section can be fixed to the first transport device by its second end. By tapering the shape of the first section towards the first end, the weight force generated by the dead weight of the first section can be reduced. This allows a lever arm on the fastening of the first section to be reduced. The durability of the unloading device can thus be ensured.Furthermore, an elastic effect can be achieved by tapering, so that the first section has a resilient property, which offers advantages when mail items are placed on the first section. The tapered shape can be realized by reducing the material thickness of the first section. In particular, the material thickness can be reduced in a direction of gravity (in the operating position of the unloading device) towards the first end. Preferably, the first section can have a substantially triangular shape in cross-section (the cross-section can be orthogonal to the first and second planes).
[0017] Preferably, the second portion has a curved shape in cross section.
[0018] The second section can have a first end and a second end. The first end of the second section can face the first section. In particular, the first end of the second section can be in direct contact with the first section. The second end of the second section can face the second transport device. The second section can be arranged on the first transport device in a cantilever-like manner. In particular, the second section can be arranged with the first end of the second section on the first transport device. The second end of the first section and the first end of the second section can be fixed to the same attachment point on the first transport device. This allows the first transport device to be designed more simply overall.The curved shape of the second section can ensure that the first section can be easily moved from the first position to the second position. More precisely, the second section can be curved starting from the first end of the second section and then extending straight in the first transport direction to the second end of the second section. This can form a transport surface of the second section that can be parallel to a transport surface of the first section (in the first position) and offset from the transport surface of the first section. This ensures that the first section can be easily moved onto the second section in the second position. In other words, the curved shape of the second section can form a receiving space in which the first section can come to rest in the second position.This allows a particularly simple and compact system to be provided.
[0019] The unloading device preferably further comprises a weight compensation element designed to hold the first section and / or the second section so that a weight force is at least partially compensated. The weight compensation element can thus at least partially absorb a weight force caused by the first section and / or the second section. In addition to the dead weight of the first section and the second section, the weight of a mail item being transported on the first section and / or the second section can also be absorbed by the weight compensation element. As a result, in addition to the fastening of the first section and / or the second section, a further element can be provided which can reduce the weight force at the fastening position of the first transport device.The weight force composition element can comprise a spring, for example. The weight force composition element is preferably designed as a spiral spring or a roller spring. Furthermore, the weight force compensation element can also be configured as a damping element that is in contact with the first section and / or the second section. This allows peak loads on the first transport device (e.g., due to the application of particularly heavy mail items) to be absorbed without these loads being completely absorbed by the fastening of the first section and / or the second section.
[0020] Preferably, the weight force separation element is arranged in the rotation axis. The rotation axis can be the axis about which the first section is rotated when the first section is displaced from the first position to the second position. By providing the weight force compensation element in the rotation axis, a particularly compact design can be achieved. Furthermore, an elastic effect of the first section can be further increased. When providing the weight force compensation element in the rotation axis, it is particularly preferred that the weight force compensation element is designed as a spiral spring or roller spring. This allows a particularly simple design of the first transport device to be realized.
[0021] Preferably, the first section and the second section are arranged at the same fastening point on the first transport device. The fastening point can be a position at which both the first section and the second section are supported. Preferably, the first transport device comprises a frame on which the fastening point is arranged. Thus, the first section and the second section can be fixed to the frame of the first transport device. Preferably, the first section and the second section are fixed exclusively at the fastening point. This makes it possible, on the one hand, to provide a particularly simply designed first transport device and, on the other hand, to support both the first section and the second section in the manner of a cantilever. This can provide a certain degree of elasticity. This allows the mail items to be processed particularly gently by the first transport device.The first section can exhibit elasticity when placing the mailpieces. The second section can exhibit elasticity when releasing the mailpieces and when passing other mailpieces on the second transport device (further details follow below). Furthermore, by attaching the first section and the second section to the same attachment point, the height (i.e., vertical height) of the first transport device can be adjusted particularly easily.
[0022] Preferably, the rotation axis runs through the attachment point. The rotation axis can be the axis about which the first section is displaceable from the first position to the second position. By having the rotation axis run through the attachment point of the first section and the second section, a particularly simple system can be provided that provides the least possible elasticity at the pivot point, but can provide elasticity and / or flexibility at the outer ends of the first section and the second section (i.e., at the first end of the first section and the second end of the second section).
[0023] The first transport device preferably has a first section and a second section, wherein the first section has at least two segments which are displaceable independently of one another between the first position and the second position. In other words, the first section can be divided into a plurality of subsections (i.e. segments). The individual segments can together form the first section. This offers the advantage that the first section can also be displaced only partially, for example from the first position to the second position. In other words, part of the first section can be arranged in the first position, whereas another part of the first section can be arranged in the second position. The first section can thus be adapted even better to a stack of mail items to be unloaded.Furthermore, the working space of a worker adjacent to the first section can be individually adjusted. This allows advantageous adaptation depending on the dimension of the mailpieces (for example, there may be a large number of mailpieces of different sizes). Furthermore, a worker can move back and forth completely or partially between the unloading device and the stack of piece goods to be unloaded, since the first section does not have to be stored completely, i.e. all at once (moved from the first position to the second position), but can be moved successively, i.e. one after the other. This makes it possible to shorten the paths that mailpieces have to travel from the stack to the first transport device. This can increase the efficiency of using the unloading device. For example, three segments can be provided. It is also conceivable, however, that more segments could also be provided.
[0024] Preferably, the at least two segments are individually rotatable about a rotation axis so that at least one of the segments can be moved between the first position and the second position. The individual and independent displaceability of each of the segments allows for simple adaptation to the existing stack of piece goods. The rotation axis around which the individual segments can be rotated in order to be moved between the first position and the second position can be the same rotation axis as in the embodiments described above. Preferably, the first section has three segments. With three segments, it has been found that, given the usual width of transport equipment in a mail processing system, sufficient subdivision can be achieved by the first section in order to optimally adapt the first section to the stack of piece goods.Preferably, the three segments have the same width in a direction orthogonal to the first transport direction and parallel to the first plane. In other words, the first section can be divided into segments of equal width. This makes it easier for the worker to operate the unloading device, as each segment can be loaded with mailpieces in the same way. In a further embodiment, the individual segments have a different width transverse to the first transport direction and parallel to the first plane. This allows for individual adaptation to mailpieces. For example, when unloading a large number of relatively small mailpieces or (such as smalls or the like), it can be advantageous to provide specially designated segments, as these are lighter and allow even more precise adaptation to the mailpieces.This allows a worker to get as close as possible to the stack of mail pieces while still maintaining a minimal distance between the stack of mail pieces and the first unloading device.
[0025] The unloading device preferably further comprises a damping element which is designed to mount the first transport device in a spring-loaded and / or damped manner. Springing can mean that the first transport device gives way to an external load and returns to its original position once the external load has been removed. This can, for example, cushion (i.e., mitigate) an impact when a piece of mail strikes the first transport device. In this case, damping can be defined as a property which reduces mechanical oscillations (such as vibrations, shocks, impacts, etc.). Vibrations can also be interpreted as kinetic energy. The damping property can then convert such kinetic energy into thermal energy. This can reduce a load acting on the first transport device. This can increase the durability of the first transport device.The damping element, which is designed to dampen the first transport device, can be configured, for example, as a vibration support. Furthermore, a damping element can prevent the system from oscillating. This is particularly advantageous when the first and / or second section is designed as a cantilever arm. Overall, the durability of the unloading device can be increased by the damping element. Furthermore, noise generation during operation of the unloading device can be reduced.
[0026] Preferably, the first transport device is spaced apart from the second transport device. In other words, the first transport device cannot contact the second transport device. This can prevent friction. Furthermore, one of the transport devices can be an actively driven transport device (preferably the second transport device) and, upon contact with the first transport device, can damage it. Therefore, it is advantageous if the first transport device and the second transport device are arranged on the unloading device such that they are spaced apart from one another.
[0027] The first transport device preferably has a first section and a second section, wherein the second section is displaceable between a normal position and a deflected position. The second section of the first transport device can be configured to feed mail items that are transported away by the first section of the first transport device in the first transport direction to the second transport unit. Therefore, it is expedient if the second section of the first transport device is located near the second transport device. However, this can lead to problems if mail items are transported away on the second transport unit in the second transport direction.More specifically, if the second section of the first transport device is arranged too close to the second transport device, mail pieces transported on the second transport device can become jammed under the second section of the first transport device and thus block the second transport device. Because the second section of the first transport device can be displaced between the normal position and the deflection position, this can be taken into account in that a mail piece that is transported on the second transport device in the second transport direction can deflect the second section from the normal position towards the deflection position. This can ensure that a mail piece that is transported on the second transport unit can pass through the second section of the first transport device without any problems.The normal position can represent a position in which the second section is arranged in the first plane. The deflected position can represent a position that is further away from the second transport unit than the normal position. This allows the second transport unit to have more space available on which to transport mailpieces. For example, the second section can be articulated and moved passively by a mailpiece that is transported on the second transport unit in the second transport direction. This allows the second section to move exactly as far away from the normal position as is needed to ensure that a mailpiece can be transported away smoothly on the second transport device. This creates an efficient and simple system.Furthermore, the requirement to arrange the second section as close as possible to the second transport unit can be met, so that mail items can be prevented from falling from the second section onto the second transport unit. The first section and the second section can be the same sections as in the above embodiment.
[0028] Preferably, the second section is passively displaceable between the normal position and the deflection position. As already described above, the second section can be moved from the normal position to a deflection position without active actuation by a servomotor, actuator, or the like. Furthermore, the second section can fall back into the normal position from the deflection position under the force of gravity. This ensures individual adjustment of the deflection of the second section of the first transport device.
[0029] The second section is preferably rotated about an axis of rotation when displaced between the normal position and the deflected position. The axis of rotation can be the same axis of rotation as in the above embodiments. In other words, the second section can be designed as a cantilever arm. As a result, when pressure is applied to the second section near the second end of the second section, the second section can be deflected without problem. The second section is preferably designed and arranged such that it automatically returns from the deflected position to the normal position. The normal position can be defined, for example, by a stop. In other words, the second section cannot be moved any closer to the second transport device beyond the normal position.The normal position thus represents the closest possible approach between the second section and the second transport device. The second section can, for example, fall back from the deflected position to the normal position due to its own weight. Additionally or alternatively, a spring element or similar device can be arranged for this purpose, which always forces the second section back to the normal position. This can again provide a system that is particularly easy to control and less prone to errors.
[0030] Preferably, the second transport device is inclined relative to a horizontal plane. Thus, the unloading device can be provided with a connection between a ground-level position of the container to be unloaded and a transport system present in the processing system. In other words, it is advantageous if a worker has to lift mail items as little as possible in the opposite direction. Therefore, it facilitates work if the second transport unit is arranged as close to the ground as possible. However, systems provided in existing systems, such as a variable-length conveyor, which is used in the prior art for unloading transport bridges, require a certain structural height so that the length variability can be provided.However, the second transport device of the present unloading device can be provided almost flush with the floor, since the second transport device cannot have any additional functionalities such as length variability. However, in order to seamlessly integrate the unloading device into existing transport systems, the second transport unit can be inclined relative to the horizontal, bringing the mail items transported thereon to a normal transport level of the respective processing system. This allows the unloading device to be particularly easily integrated into existing processing centers. Preferably, the first transport device and the second transport device are connected by a frame, wherein the frame has a damping element. The damping element can be the damping element described above.The frame can, for example, be a steel and / or aluminum construction that can form part of the unloading device. The frame can hold the first transport unit and the second transport unit. Furthermore, the frame can comprise a base frame having transport rollers. The transport rollers allow the unloading device to be moved to any location. The frame can have a connection between the first conveyor and the second conveyor. The connection can be connected at its first end to the first transport device and at its second end to the second transport device. The connection can be inclined relative to the horizontal and relative to the vertical. This allows a damping element to be expediently attached between the connection and another stationary frame element. This can provide a satisfactory damping and / or spring effect of the damping element.
[0031] Preferably, the unloading device has bidirectional rollers, allowing it to be moved freely within the space. This ensures optimal adaptability of the unloading device into existing systems. Furthermore, even particularly wide mail storage devices can be unloaded without any problems.
[0032] Preferably, the first section and the second section are arranged at the same mounting position on the frame. This allows for a particularly efficient error or damping system to be realized.
[0033] Preferably, the second transport device is designed such that an inclination of the second transport device is adjustable. This allows the unloading device to be adapted even better to existing systems. According to a further aspect of the present invention, a method for unloading or loading mail pieces arranged one above the other is provided. The method can comprise providing an unloading device. The unloading device can comprise a first transport device for transporting mail pieces away in a first transport direction. When the mail piece is transported in the first transport direction, the mail piece can be arranged on a first level. The unloading device can comprise a second transport device for transporting mail pieces away in a second transport direction. When the mail piece is transported in the second transport direction, the mail piece can be arranged on a second level.The first transport device and the second transport direction can be arranged such that the first plane and the second plane intersect. The method can further comprise placing a mailpiece on the first transport device or the second transport device. Furthermore, the method can comprise transporting the mailpiece on a collective transport device that can receive mailpieces from the first transport device in the second transport direction. The collective transport device can, for example, be a transport direction already provided in a mailpiece processing system, onto which the mailpieces to be unloaded are to be transported.
[0034] Individual features and embodiments can be combined with one another to form new embodiments. Advantages and configurations of the features and embodiments then apply analogously to the new embodiments. Advantages and configurations mentioned in connection with the device also apply analogously to the method, and vice versa.
[0035] In the following, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures.
[0036] Fig. 1 shows a schematic section of an unloading device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 shows nine steps (a) to j)) in unloading mail pieces using an unloading device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] Fig. 1 is a schematic view of an unloading device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The unloading device 1 comprises a first transport device 2 for transporting mail pieces in a first transport direction 3. The unloading device 1 further comprises a second transport device 4 for transporting mail pieces 10 in a second transport direction 5. If a mail piece 10 is transported by the first transport device 2 in the first transport direction 3, the mail piece 10 lies on a first plane E1. If a mail piece 10 is transported by the second transport device 4 in the second transport direction 5, the mail piece 10 lies on a second plane E2. In Fig. 1, the planes E1, E2 are shown as dashed lines. The planes extend into the plane of the figure. On the left-hand side in Fig. 1, part of a truck to be unloaded is shown schematically.The truck has a large number of mail items 10 of different sizes in its loading space. The first transport device 2 and the second transport device 4 are arranged such that the two planes E1, E2 intersect. In other words, the transport directions 3 and 5 are inclined such that they intersect. The first transport device 2 is designed as a chute element. This allows the mail items 10 to be transported passively on the first transport device 2. The second transport device 4 is designed as a belt conveyor. The second transport device 4 therefore actively transports the mail items 10. This means that when mail items 10 are transported on the second transport device 4, the mail items can also overcome a height in the direction of gravity.In other words, the second transport device 4 is inclined such that mail pieces 10 can be transported upwards relative to the direction of gravity, whereas the first transport device 2 is inclined such that the mail pieces can be transported away thereon by gravity. The first transport device 2 has a first section 21 and a second section 22. The sections 21, 22 together form the transport device 2 and are each designed as a chute element. The first section 21 has a first end 23 of the first section 21 and a second end 24 of the first section 21. The second section has a first end 25 of the second section 22 and a second end 26 of the second section 22. The first section 21 and the second section 22 are connected to one another by the second end 24 of the first section 21 and the first end 25 of the second section 22.The first section 21 can be transferred from a first position to a second position (see double arrow in Fig. 1). In the first position, the first section forms an extension of the second section 22. In the second position, the first section 21 rests on the second section 22. The first transport unit 2 can therefore be designed with a variable length. Furthermore, the unloading device 1 of the present embodiment has a damping element 6 which is designed to mount the first transport unit 2 in a damped and / or spring-loaded manner. In other words, the first transport device 2 can be designed as a foldable chute. The second section 22 can also be designed to be movable about the pivot point 7. The second section 22 can be movable between a normal position and a deflected position (see double arrow in Fig. 1 on the second section 22). In Fig. 1, the second section 22 is shown in the normal position.Thus, when a mail item 10 is transported on the second transport device 4 in the second transport direction 5, the second section 22 can be pushed away by the mail item 10 against the direction of gravity, so that the mail item 10 can pass through the second section without any problem.
[0038] Fig. 2 shows a plurality of working positions a) to i) through which the unloading device 1 passes. The illustrations each show the unloading device 1 and a plurality of mail items 10 in a plan view.
[0039] In the first illustration a), the unloading device 1 is moved close to a stack of mail items 10 of different sizes (see arrow in Fig. 2). The mail items 10 to be unloaded have different sizes. The approach can be done automatically or by a user 100.
[0040] In the second illustration b), the mail items 10 of the top row are placed in the left quadrant and centered on the unloading device 1. In particular, the mail items are placed on the first transport device 2. Due to the proximity of the first transport device 2 to the mail items 10, the mail items 10 can be placed on the first transport device 2 in a very simple manner by tilting and / or pushing. Thus, the top row in the left quadrant can be completely unloaded.
[0041] In the third illustration c), it can be seen that the first transport device 2, in particular the first section 21 of the first transport unit 2, has three segments (first segment 26, second segment 27, third segment 28). In the third illustration c), it can be seen that the first segment 26 has been transferred from the first position to the second position. In other words, the first segment 26 has been folded onto the second section 22. As a result, the second transport device 4 is now easily accessible for the worker 100. The mail items 10 of the lower row in the left area are now placed on the second transport device 4. This allows the lower row in the left quadrant to be completely unloaded.
[0042] In the fourth illustration d), it can be seen that the worker 100 can reach directly in front of the unloading device 1 via the resulting free space and can place the upper row in the right quadrant onto the second segment 27 and the third segment 28. The second segment 27 and the third segment 28 are still in the first position and thus in close proximity to the mail items 10 of the upper row in the right quadrant. Thus, the mail items 10 can be easily unloaded again by tilting and / or pushing.
[0043] In the fifth illustration e), all segments 26, 27, 28 are in the second position (ie folded over) so that the worker 100 can place the mail items on the second transport device 4.
[0044] In the sixth illustration f) the worker folds the second segment 27 back into the first position and now simply reaches the right side of the unloading devicel.
[0045] In the seventh illustration g), the worker from the side of the unloading device folds the third segment 28 back into the first position in order to then unload the top mail items 10 in the upper right quadrant.
[0046] Once the top row in the right quadrant has been unloaded, the worker 100 can fold all segments 26, 27, 28, as shown in the eighth illustration h), so that the second transport device 4 is exposed across its entire width. The worker 100 can then easily place the bottom row of mail items 10 in the right quadrant onto the second transport device 4 by tilting and / or pushing. Thus, the first row of mail items 100 is unloaded with minimal effort.
[0047] In the ninth illustration i) it can be seen that the unloading device 1 is brought back into the starting position shown in the first illustration a) to the following stack of mail items 10 and the process described above is carried out again.
[0048] List of reference symbols:
[0049] 1 unloading device
[0050] 2 first transport device
[0051] 3 first transport direction
[0052] 4 second transport device
[0053] 5 second transport direction
[0054] 6 Damping element
[0055] 7 axis of rotation
[0056] 10 postal items 21 first section
[0057] 22 second section
[0058] 23 first end of the first section
[0059] 24 second end of the first section 25 first end of the second section
[0060] 26 second end of the second section
[0061] E1 first level
[0062] E2 second level
[0063] 26 first segment 27 second segment
[0064] 28 third segment
[0065] 100 users
Claims
Claims 1 . Unloading device (1 ), in particular for mail pieces (10), comprising: a first transport device (2) for transporting mail pieces (10) in a first transport direction (3), wherein when the mail piece (10) is transported in the first transport direction (3), the mail piece (10) is arranged on a first plane (E1 ), and a second transport device (4) for transporting mail pieces (10) in a second transport direction (5), wherein when the mail piece (10) is transported in the second transport direction (5), the mail piece (10) is arranged on a second plane (E2), wherein the first transport device (2) and the second transport device (4) are arranged such that the first plane (E1 ) and the second plane (E2) intersect.
2. Unloading device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first transport device (2) is designed as a chute.
3. Unloading device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second transport device (4) is designed as a conveyor device.
4. Unloading device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first transport device (2) has a first section (21) and a second section (22), wherein the first section (21) is displaceable between a first position and a second position.
5. Unloading device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the first section (21) is rotatable about a rotation axis (7) when displaced between the first position and the second position.
6. Unloading device (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the first section (21) and / or the second section (22) is designed and / or arranged elastically.
7. Unloading device (1) according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the first section (21) is arranged in the second position on the second section (22).
8. Unloading device (1) according to one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the first section (21) is pivoted by at least 175° during a displacement between the first position and the second position.
9. Unloading device (1) according to one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the first section (21) has a first end (23) and a second end (24), wherein the first section (21) has a shape tapering in cross section towards the first end (23).
10. Unloading device (1) according to one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the second portion (22) has a curved shape in cross section.
11. Unloading device (1) according to one of claims 4 to 10, further comprising a weight force compensation element which is designed to hold the first section (21) and / or the second section (22) so that a weight force is at least partially compensated.
12. Unloading device (1) according to claim 11, wherein the weight force separation element is arranged in the axis of rotation (7).
13. Unloading device (1) according to claim 12, wherein the axis of rotation (7) passes through the attachment point.
14. Unloading device (1) according to one of claims 4 to 13, wherein the first section (21) and the second section (22) are arranged at the same fastening point on the first transport device (2).
15. Unloading device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first transport device (2) has a first section (21) and a second section (22), wherein the first section (21) has at least two segments (26, 27) which are displaceable independently of one another between a first position and a second position.
16. Unloading device (1) according to claim 15, wherein the at least two segments (26, 27) are individually rotatable about a rotation axis (7) so that at least one of the segments (26, 27) is displaceable between the first position and the second position.
17. Unloading device (1) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the individual segments (26, 27) have a different width transverse to the first transport direction (3) and parallel to the first plane (E1).
18. Unloading device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a damping element (6) which is designed to mount the first transport device (2) in a spring-loaded and / or damped manner.
19. Unloading device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first transport device (2) is spaced from the second transport device (4).
20. Unloading device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first transport device (2) has a first section (21) and a second section (22), wherein the second section (22) is displaceable between a normal position and a deflected position.
21. Unloading device (1) according to claim 20, wherein the second portion (22) is passively displaceable between the normal position and the deflection position.
22. Unloading device (1) according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the second section (22) is rotated about a rotation axis (7) during a displacement between the normal position and the deflection position.
23. Unloading device (1) according to one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the second section (22) is designed and arranged such that it returns automatically from the deflected position to the normal position.
24. Unloading device (1) according to one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the second transport device (4) is inclined relative to a horizontal.
25. Unloading device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first transport device (2) and the second transport device (4) are connected by a frame, wherein the frame has a damping element (6).
26. Unloading device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the unloading device (1) has bidirectional rollers so that the unloading device (1) can be displaced as desired in space.
27. Unloading device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first section (21) and the second section (22) are arranged in the same fastening position on the frame.
28. Unloading device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second transport device (4) is designed such that an inclination of the second transport device (4) is adjustable.
29. A method for unloading or loading mail items (10) arranged one above the other, comprising: providing an unloading device (1), comprising: a first transport device (2) for transporting mail items (10) in a first transport direction (3), wherein the mail item (10) is arranged on a first plane (E1) during transport of the mail item (10) in the first transport direction (3), and a second transport device (4) for transporting mail items (10) in a second transport direction (5), wherein the mail item (10) is arranged on a second plane (E2) during transport of the mail item (10) in the second transport direction (5), wherein the first transport device (2) and the second transport device (4) are arranged such that the first plane (E1) and the second plane (E2) intersect, Placing a mail item (10) on the first transport device (2) or the second transport device (4). Transporting the mail item (10) to a collective transport device which can receive mail items (10) from the first transport device (2) and the second transport device (4).