TRANSFER DEVICE WITH NESTED CROSS CONVEYORS

Abstract

The transfer device (T) comprises a first conveyor (1) and a second conveyor (2) which are transverse and nested and a raising and lowering system (3) which makes it possible to raise and lower at least said second conveyor (2) between a high position and a low position, so as to allow a transfer between the two conveyors (1; 2) with a change of the conveying direction. The raising and lowering system (3) comprises at least one adjustable column (30), which is positioned under and supports said second conveyor (2) and which comprises a cam (3021) and a cam follower (303). The cam comprises a cam path (3022) centered on this vertical axis of rotation (A), and the cam follower (303) is adapted to cooperate with said cam path (3022), so that the rotation of the cam (3021) around this vertical axis of rotation (A) allows said up and down movement of the second conveyor (2).The up and down system (3) comprises an actuator (31) for rotating the cam (3021) around this vertical rotation axis (A). Figure 1.

Description

Title of the invention: TRANSFER DEVICE WITH NESTED TRANSVERSE CONVEYORS Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the conveying of loads, in particular, but not exclusively, heavy loads of the pallet type. In this field, it relates more particularly to a transfer device with nested transverse conveyors, allowing a transfer from one conveyor to another with a change in the conveying direction, and more particularly with a change of direction at 90°. Prior art

[0002] In the field of transit systems, it is known to use automated transfer devices in a conveyor line of the type comprising roller, wheel, chain or belt conveyors, and which make it possible to change the conveying direction of a transported load, for example to direct it laterally onto another conveyor track or to eject it laterally from a conveyor track.

[0003] A known type of transfer device comprises two "nested" transverse conveyors, for example a first roller conveyor and a second chain conveyor, the chains of which are interposed between the rollers.

[0004] The first conveyor forms a first conveying surface and makes it possible to support and transport a load in a first conveying direction. The second conveyor forms a second conveying surface and makes it possible to support and transport a load in a second conveying direction, transverse to the first conveying direction, and more particularly perpendicular to the first conveying direction. At least one of the two conveyors is vertically movable, and the transfer device comprises a raising and lowering system, which makes it possible to raise and lower at least this movable conveyor between at least two low and high positions, so as to allow a transfer between the two nested transverse conveyors with a change in the conveying direction.

[0005] A first solution for obtaining said up and down movement consists of using lifting jacks. This solution, however, has the disadvantage of being very cumbersome in height, and does not allow the two conveyors to be positioned as close to the ground as possible.

[0006] A second solution consists of obtaining said up and down movement by means of a cam system, by implementing a motorized shaft with a horizontal rotation axis, provided at each of its two ends with at least one cam in contact with the conveyor. This second solution is described for example in the following publications: WO2014 / 152614, WO2020 / 124027, WO2014 / 15261, US10882703 and JP2014152024.

[0007] This second solution has the advantage of being more compact than the first solution mentioned above, but does not allow for significant lifting force. It is therefore not suitable for conveying heavy loads, for example pallets. Objective of the invention

[0008] The invention proposes a new solution for a transfer device with nested transverse conveyors, which has the advantage of being compact and optionally of allowing positioning close to the ground of the transport surfaces of the conveyors of the transfer device, while being robust and allowing a significant lifting force to be obtained, which in particular makes the solution of the invention suitable for the transfer of loads which may be heavy, for example, but not exclusively, for the transfer with change of direction of pallets in a conveying installation. Summary of the invention

[0009] The invention thus relates to a transfer device comprising a first conveyor and a second conveyor which are transverse and nested, at least the second conveyor being vertically movable, and a raising and lowering system which makes it possible to raise and lower at least said second conveyor between a high position and a low position, so as to allow a transfer between the two conveyors with a change in the conveying direction.

[0010] Characteristically according to the invention, the up and down system comprises at least one adjustable column, which is positioned under and supports said second conveyor and which comprises a cam and a cam follower, the cam or the cam follower being rotatable about a vertical axis of rotation, the cam comprising a cam path centered on this vertical axis of rotation, and the cam follower being adapted to cooperate with said cam path, so that the rotation of the cam or the cam follower about this vertical axis of rotation allows said up and down movement of the second conveyor; the up and down system comprises an actuator making it possible to actuate in rotation the cam or the cam follower about this vertical axis of rotation.

[0011] Optionally, the transfer device may also include the following optional technical characteristics, taken individually or in combination with each other: - The up and down system comprises several adjustable columns, which are positioned under and support said second conveyor and which each comprise a cam and a cam follower, each cam or cam follower being rotatable about a vertical axis of rotation, each cam comprising a cam track centered on this vertical axis of rotation, and each cam follower being adapted to cooperate with said cam track, so that the rotation of the cams or cam followers about their vertical axis of rotation allows said up and down movement of the vertically movable conveyor, and said actuator of the up and down system allows the cams or cam followers of all the adjustable columns to be simultaneously rotated about their vertical axis of rotation. The first conveyor and the second conveyor are perpendicular and allow a 90° transfer. The number of adjustable columns is at least three and preferably at least four. Each adjustable column is positioned at the top of a polygon. The first conveyor comprises a frame, on which are mounted first conveying elements which are movable and form a first conveying surface for supporting and transporting a load in a first conveying direction (X) and the second conveyor comprises a frame, on which are mounted second conveying elements which are movable and form a second conveying surface for supporting and transporting a load in a second conveying direction (Y) transverse, and preferably perpendicular, to the first conveying direction; the first conveying elements and the second conveying elements are nested. Each adjustable column is mounted between the frame of the first conveyor and the frame of the second conveyor and acts as an adjustable spacer allowing the height gap between the two frames to be adjusted. The first conveying elements comprise a set of rollers and the second conveying elements comprise a set of chains interposed between the rollers. The second conveying elements comprise a set of rollers and the first conveying elements comprise a set of chains interposed between the rollers. The height (H) between the base of the first conveyor frame and the first conveying surface is 90mm + / -10mm. Each cam is rotatable about its vertical central axis and the cam follower is locked in rotation about this axis and is movable in translation up and down. Each adjustable column has a fixed guide tube, which defines the vertical axis of rotation of the cam; the cam is threaded onto the guide tube of such that the guide tube allows the cam to be guided in rotation around this axis, and the cam follower is inserted into the guide tube in contact with the cam path, such that the cam follower is locked in rotation around this axis and is movable and guided in translation up and down by the guide tube. - The guide tube is fixed on the first conveyor. - The guide tube has two axial guide notches, which are diametrically opposed and symmetrical to each other with respect to the axis of rotation of the cam and which allow said locking in rotation of the cam follower and said guiding in translation upwards and downwards of the cam follower. - Each adjustable column comprises a crown-shaped bearing, and more particularly a needle thrust roller bearing, which is threaded onto the guide tube and allows a rolling rotational connection between the rotary cam and the support on which the guide tube is fixed, and preferably between the rotary cam and the frame of the first conveyor. - The frame of the second conveyor is placed and fitted onto the guide tubes of the adjustable columns. - The cam path is symmetrical about the central axis of rotation of the cam or cam follower. - The cam follower comprises at least one follower roller in rolling contact with the cam track. - The cam follower comprises two follower rollers which are in rolling contact with the cam track, and which are diametrically opposed and symmetrical to each other with respect to the central axis of rotation of the cam or cam follower. - The actuator of the up and down system comprises a motor, the motor shaft of which is rotatably coupled to at least one adjustable column by means of a connecting rod-crank connection, the motor preferably being mounted on the first conveyor. - The transfer device comprises several adjustable columns and each adjustable column is coupled in rotation to another adjustable column by means of a connecting rod-crank connection. - The up and down system is suitable for supporting and lifting a load which is placed on the second conveyor and whose weight can reach at least 1000 kg.

[0012] Another subject of the invention is a conveying installation comprising at least one conveying line which comprises at least one aforementioned transfer device, interposed between two additional conveyors aligned with the first conveyor of the transfer device and / or at least one conveyor line which comprises at least one aforementioned transfer device, interposed between two additional conveyors which are aligned with the second conveyor of the transfer device in the high position.

[0013] In a particular embodiment, the conveying installation comprises a first and a second transverse, and preferably perpendicular, conveying line, and the transfer device is interposed between the two additional conveyors of the first conveying line and between the two conveyors (additional to the second conveying line).

[0014] The invention also relates to a use of the aforementioned transfer device in a conveying installation for transferring in a second transverse conveying direction a load, and more particularly a pallet, which is transported in the conveying installation in a first conveying direction to the transfer device or for laterally ejecting a load, and more particularly a pallet, which is transported in the conveying installation in a first conveying direction to the transfer device. Brief description of the drawings

[0015] The characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the detailed description below of a preferred embodiment of the invention, which description is given as a non-limiting and non-exhaustive example of the invention, and with reference to the appended drawings in which: - [Fig.l] [Fig.l] is an exploded isometric perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a roller / chain type transfer device according to the invention. - [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is an isometric perspective of the assembled transfer device of [Fig.l], with the chain conveyor in the lower position. - [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is an isometric perspective of the assembled transfer device of [Fig.l], with the chain conveyor in the upper position. - [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is an exploded view of an adjustable column of the transfer device of figures 1 to 3. - [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is an isometric view of an adjustable column of the transfer device of figures 1 to 3, when the cam follower is in the low position. - [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is an isometric view of an adjustable column of the transfer device of figures 1 to 3, when the cam follower is in an intermediate position between the low position and the high position. - [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is an isometric view of an adjustable column of the transfer device of figures 1 to 3, when the cam follower is in the high position. - [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a top view of the roller conveyor frame (rollers removed), showing the actuator (motor / crank-rod assembly type) of the adjustable columns, in a configuration corresponding to the high position of the adjustable columns. - [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is a top view of the roller conveyor frame (the rollers being removed), showing the actuator (motor type / crank-rod assembly) of the adjustable columns, in a configuration corresponding to an intermediate position between the high and low positions of the adjustable columns, during a lowering movement towards the low position. - [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] is a top view of the roller conveyor frame (rollers removed), showing the actuator (motor / crank-rod assembly type) of the adjustable columns, in a configuration corresponding to the low position of the adjustable columns. - [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] is a top view of the roller conveyor frame (rollers removed), showing the actuator (motor / crank rod assembly type) of the adjustable columns, in a configuration corresponding to an intermediate position between the low and high positions of the adjustable columns, during an upward movement towards the high position. - [Fig. 12] [Fig. 12] is a top view of a four-track perpendicular conveyor installation in which the transfer device of Figures 1 to 3 is integrated. - [Fig. 13] [Fig. 13] is an isometric view of an example of a standard pallet that can be transported in the conveyor system of [Fig.12], Detailed description

[0016] With reference to figures 1 to 3, the transfer device T comprises two conveyors 1 and 2, which are transverse and nested.

[0017] In this particular embodiment, the first conveyor 1 is fixed and the second conveyor 2 is vertically movable.

[0018] The transfer device T comprises a raising and lowering system 3, which makes it possible to move the second conveyor 2 vertically relative to the first conveyor 1 between at least one low position ([Fig.2]) and one high position ([Fig.3]), so as to to allow a transfer between the two conveyors 1 and 2 with a change of conveying direction.

[0019] This transfer device T is more particularly suitable for transferring, with a change in the conveying direction, a pallet of the type of the standard pallet P of [Fig. 13], said pallet P being able to be empty, as illustrated in [Fig. 13], or being able to be loaded with products. The invention is however not limited to a transfer of empty or loaded pallets, but a transfer device of the invention can be used to transfer any type of load in a conveying line, with a change in the conveying direction. The load can for example be a rigid tray or container, empty or filled, an empty or filled cardboard box, a parcel, etc. Examples of conveyors 1 and 2

[0020] The first conveyor 1 comprises a mechanically welded frame 10 on which are mounted first conveying elements 11 which are movable and form a first conveying surface making it possible to support and transport a pallet P, in a first conveying direction X, in a conveying direction XI or in the opposite conveying direction X2.

[0021] In this particular example, these first movable conveying elements 11 comprise a set of motorized and spaced rollers 110, the axes of rotation of which are parallel. These rollers 110 are aligned vertically (Z axis) so as to form said first conveying surface, which is horizontal.

[0022] More particularly, in the example illustrated, the set of rollers 110 is made up of two groups G1 and G2 of several rollers. Usually, one of the rollers 110 of each group G1 or G2 comprises an internal motor for driving it in rotation in one direction or the other and is coupled to the other rollers 110 by a transmission belt allowing the other rollers of the group to be driven in rotation.

[0023] The second conveyor 2 comprises a mechanically welded frame 20 on which are mounted second conveying elements 21 which are movable and form a second horizontal conveying surface, making it possible to support and transport a pallet P, in a second conveying direction Y, in a conveying direction Y1 or in the opposite conveying direction Y2.

[0024] This second conveying direction Y is oriented transversely to the first conveying direction X, and more particularly, in this preferred example, is perpendicular to the first conveying direction X.

[0025] In this particular example, these second conveying elements 21 comprise a set of endless chains 210, which are interposed between the rollers 110 and which are aligned vertically so as to form said second conveying surface.

[0026] The second conveyor 2 further comprises an electric motor 22, which is mounted on the frame 10 of the first conveyor 12 and which is coupled in the usual manner to the endless chains 210, in order to allow them to be driven in rotation in the conveying direction Y1 or in the other conveying direction Y2.

[0027] The second conveyor 2 is assembled with the first conveyor 1 and is vertically movable between a low position ([Fig.2]) in which the transport surface of the chains 210 is positioned below the transport surface of the rollers 110 of the first conveyor and a high position ([Fig.3]) in which the transport surface of the chains 210 is positioned above the transport surface of the rollers 110 of the first conveyor 1.

[0028] The invention is not limited to the implementation of a conveyor 1 with rollers 110 and a conveyor 2 with chains 210, other mobile conveying elements being able to be envisaged, such as for example rotating rollers, the important thing being that the conveying elements 11, 21 of the two conveyors are nested and make it possible to support and transport a load in conveying directions X and Y which are transverse, and preferably perpendicular.

[0029] Furthermore, in another embodiment, the conveyor 2 may be fixed, while the conveyor 1 is vertically movable and can be actuated between a low position and a high position. In another embodiment, the two conveyors 1 and 2 may be vertically movable relative to a supporting frame and each actuable between a low position and a high position. Up and down system 3

[0030] The up and down system 3 of the transfer device T comprises several adjustable columns 30, which are positioned under and support the second conveyor 2, and an actuator 31 which is coupled to the adjustable columns 30.

[0031] More particularly, in the example illustrated, the frame 10 of the first conveyor 1 acts as a supporting frame and each adjustable column 30 is mounted between the two frames 10 and 20 of the conveyors 1 and 2 and makes it possible to support the second conveyor 2 on the frame 10 of the first conveyor 1. Each adjustable column 30 also acts as an adjustable spacer making it possible to adjust the vertical spacing between the two frames 10 and 20, between a minimum value corresponding to the aforementioned low position and a maximum value corresponding to the aforementioned high position.

[0032] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the transfer device T comprises four adjustable columns 30, which are positioned at the vertices of a quadrilateral, so as to obtain good load distribution and good stability. This particular number of adjustable columns 30 is not limiting of the invention. The transfer device T may more generally comprise a single central adjustable column, or two adjustable columns or n (n>2) adjustable columns. preferably positioned at the vertices of an n-sided polygon, for example three adjustable columns positioned at the vertices of a triangle, five adjustable columns positioned at the vertices of a pentagon, ...

[0033] A preferred example of adjustable column structure 30 will now be detailed with reference to FIGS. 1, 4 to 7.

[0034] Examples of embodiments of the adjustable columns 30 of the up and down system 3

[0035] In this preferred example, each adjustable column 30 comprises ([Fig.4]) a guide piece 300, a crown-shaped bearing 301, a cam assembly 302, and a cam follower 303.

[0036] The guide part 300 comprises a cylindrical guide tube 300a extended by a collar 300b serving as a fixing base.

[0037] The guide tube 300a comprises two axial guide notches 300c, which are made in its upper edge, and which are diametrically opposite and symmetrical to each other with respect to the central axis of the tube 300a.

[0038] The guide piece 300 is fixed to the frame 10 of the first conveyor 1, for example by welding the collar 300b to this frame, so that the central axis of the guide tube 300a is vertical. This central axis of the guide tube 300a defines the axis of rotation A of the cam assembly 302.

[0039] The crown-shaped bearing 301 is, for example, a needle roller bearing. This bearing 301 is threaded coaxially onto the guide tube 300a and is placed on the frame 10, so as to form a rolling bearing for the cam assembly 302.

[0040] In this preferred embodiment, the cam assembly 302 consists of an assembly of two parts: a cylindrical ring 3020, the internal face of which has a circular section, and a cylindrical part 3021 with cam function.

[0041] More particularly, the cam 3021 is fitted coaxially and tightly onto the cylindrical ring 3020.

[0042] The cylindrical ring 3020 of the cam assembly 302 is threaded coaxially onto the guide tube 300a above the needle bearing 301 and is supported by the needle bearing 301.

[0043] The cam assembly 302 (ring 3020 / cam 3021) is thus movable in rotation about its central axis A relative to the frame 10 of the conveyor 1, being guided by the external face with circular section of the guide tube 300a, lubrication preferably being provided between the guide tube 300a and the ring 3020. The needle stop 301 allows rolling contact in rotation between the cam assembly 302 and the frame 10.

[0044] The upper face of the cam 3021 forms a cam path 3022 centered on the central axis of rotation A of the cam 3021.

[0045] The cam follower 303 comprises a cylindrical part 3030, on which are mounted two follower rollers 3031, which are each mounted on a fixed shaft 3032, and are diametrically opposed and symmetrical to each other with respect to the axis of rotation A of the cam 3021. Each follower roller 3031 is rotatable about an axis of rotation A1 ([Fig.4]).

[0046] With reference to [Fig.5], the cylindrical part 3030 is inserted coaxially inside the guide tube 300a, being oriented in rotation relative to the guide tube 300a, such that the two ends of the axis 3032, which support the rotary rollers 3031, are positioned in the notches 300c of the tube 300a, the two follower rollers 3031 being supported by the cam path 3022 of the cam 3021 and being in rolling contact with the cam path 3022.

[0047] With reference to [Fig. 4], the upper edge of the cylindrical part 3030 is crenellated, so as to comprise several teeth 3033, which are distributed over its circumference, and which are intended to be inserted through corresponding through openings 201 ([Fig. 1]) of the frame 20 of the conveyor 2. Thus, the frame 20 of the conveyor 2 can be easily and quickly assembled with the frame 10 of the conveyor 1, by simply being placed and fitted onto the guide tubes 300a of the adjustable columns 30, which advantageously simplifies the operations of assembling or disassembling the two conveyors 1 and 2.

[0048] The cam path 3022 of each cam 3021 generally has a profile which is adapted such that the rotation of the cam 3021, around its axis A, makes it possible to axially move the cam follower 303 upwards, and thereby the second conveyor 2, to a high position corresponding to the above-mentioned high position ([Fig. 3]) of the second conveyor 2 and to axially move the cam follower 303 downwards, thereby the second conveyor 2, to a low position corresponding to the above-mentioned low position ([Fig. 2]) of the second conveyor 2.

[0049] In this preferred embodiment, this cam path 3022 extends over 360° around this axis of rotation A and is symmetrical with respect to this axis of rotation A.

[0050] More particularly, this cam path 3022 defines ([Fig.5]) two upper portions 3022a, which are diametrically opposite and symmetrical to each other with respect to the axis of rotation A and two lower portions 3022b, which are diametrically opposite and symmetrical to each other with respect to the axis of rotation A.

[0051] [Fig. 5] shows a column 30 whose cam follower 303 is in the low position, the follower rollers 3031 being in contact with the two lower portions 3022b of the cam path 3022.

[0052] With reference to [Fig.6], the rotation of the cam 3021 around its vertical axis of rotation A makes it possible to vertically raise the cam follower 303 to its high position of [Fig.7], in which the follower rollers 3031 are in contact with the two high portions 3022b of the cam track 3022.

[0053] Then to bring the cam follower back into the low position, it is sufficient to continue rotating the cam 3021 in the same direction of rotation or to rotate the cam 3021 in the opposite direction of rotation.

[0054] During its upward and downward movement, the cam follower 303 is locked in rotation and is guided axially in translation by the notches 300c of the guide tube 300a and the follower rollers 3031 allow rolling contact between the rotating cam 3021 and the cam follower 303.

[0055] In another variation, the cam 3021 and the cam follower 303 may be designed to allow sliding contact between the cam track 3022 and the cam follower 303.

[0056] The invention is not limited to the implementation of a cam 3021 movable in rotation associated with a cam follower 303 having only one degree of freedom in vertical translation. In another alternative embodiment, the cam follower 303 can conversely be movable in rotation and be actuable in rotation by a raising and lowering system and the cam can be fixed.

[0057] In another embodiment, the cam path may be oriented downwards and be placed on the cam follower and the up and down movement being transmitted to the cam due to its rotation or the rotation of the cam follower.

[0058] Examples of actuator 31 of the up and down system 3

[0059] The actuator 31 of the up and down system 3 is coupled to all the cams 3021 of the adjustable columns 30 and makes it possible to simultaneously actuate in rotation the cams 3021 of all the adjustable columns 30 around their vertical axis of rotation A, so as to carry out the up and down movement of the second conveyor 20.

[0060] This actuator 31 comprises an electric motor 310, which is mounted on the frame 10 of the first conveyor 1, and whose vertical motor shaft 311 ([Fig.8]) is coupled to the rotary cams 3021 by connecting means allowing the cams 3021 to be driven simultaneously in rotation in the same direction of rotation.

[0061] More particularly, with reference to [Fig.8], the motor shaft 311 of the electric motor 310 is coupled to the cam 3021 of a first closest adjustable column 30.1, by means of a first connecting rod-crank connection L1. The cam 3021 of this first adjustable column 30.1 is coupled to the cam 3021 of a second adjustable column 30.2, by means of a second connecting rod-crank connection L2. The cam 3021 of this second adjustable column 30.2 is coupled to the cam 3021 of a third adjustable column 30.3, by means of a third connecting rod-crank connection L3. The cam 3021 of this third adjustable column 30.3 is coupled to the cam 3021 of a fourth adjustable column 30.4, by means of a fourth connecting rod-crank link L4.

[0062] In [Fig.8], the cams 3021 of the columns 30.1 to 30.4 are in the low position. The rotation of the drive shaft 311 in a direction of rotation RI is transmitted to all the cams 3021 of the columns 30.1 to 30.4 by the connecting rod-crank connections L1 to L4, which make it possible to rotate all the cams 3021 in the same direction of rotation R2, which is opposite to the direction of rotation RI of the drive shaft.

[0063] The rotation of the motor shaft 311 in the direction of rotation RI (Figures 8, 9 and 10) thus makes it possible to simultaneously obtain the descent of the cam followers 303 to the low position of [Fig. 10], which corresponds to the lowering movement of the second conveyor 2 from its high position to its low position.

[0064] With reference to [Fig. 11], by continuing the rotation of the drive shaft 311 in the direction of rotation RI, this rotation of the drive shaft 311 is transmitted to all the cams 3021 of the columns 30.1 to 30.4 by the connecting rod-crank connections L1 to L4, such that all the cams 3021 are rotated in the same direction of rotation RI as the drive shaft 311. This simultaneously obtains the rise of the cam followers 303 to the high position of [Fig.8], which corresponds to the rise movement of the second conveyor 2 from its low position to its high position.

[0065] Although the implementation of articulated mechanical connections of the connecting rod-crank type is preferred, the invention is not limited to this particular type of mechanical connection. In a non-exhaustive manner, the actuator 31 can be produced by implementing connections of the pinion / chain type or of the pinion / rack type or of the pinion / worm type.

[0066] Example of implementation in a conveyor line - [Fig. 12]

[0067] [Fig. 12] shows, in top view, an example of a four-track conveyor installation comprising the transfer device T previously described.

[0068] This conveying installation comprises two roller conveyors C1 and C2 between which the transfer device T is mounted, such that the roller conveyors C1 and C2 are juxtaposed and aligned with the first roller conveyor 1 of the transfer device T in the first conveying direction X and form a first conveying line LC1.

[0069] When the second conveyor 2 of the transfer device T is in the low position, this first conveyor line LC1 makes it possible to transport a pallet P ([Fig. 13]), empty or loaded with products, in the conveying direction X, in one direction XI or in the other conveying direction X2, depending on the direction of rotation of the rollers.

[0070] This conveying installation also comprises two chain conveyors C3 and C4 oriented at 90° relative to the roller conveyors C1 and C2, and mounted on either side of the second chain conveyor 2. The chain conveyors C3 and C4 are juxtaposed and aligned with the second chain conveyor 2 of the transfer device T, in its high position, so as to form a second conveyor line LC2, perpendicular to the first conveyor line LC1.

[0071] When the second conveyor 2 of the transfer device T is in the high position, this second conveyor line LC2 makes it possible to transport a pallet P ([Fig. 13]), empty or loaded with products, in the conveying direction Y, in one direction Y1 or in the other direction Y2 of conveying, depending on the direction of rotation of the chains.

[0072] The motor 310 of the raising and lowering system 3 of the transfer device T is controlled by an industrial programmable controller, so as to automatically raise to the high position, or to automatically lower to the low position, the second conveyor 2, depending on the path that a pallet P must follow transported on one or other of the conveyor lines LC1, LC2.

[0073] In particular when a pallet P, empty or loaded, is transported on the conveyor line LC1 (the conveyor 2 being in the low position), and must be transferred at 90° to the other conveyor line LC2, said automaton is programmed to detect the presence of the pallet P on the transfer device T by means of at least one presence sensor mounted on the transfer device T, and when the presence of a pallet P is detected, said automaton: - automatically controls the stopping of the rollers 110 of the first conveyor 1, - controls the motor 310 of the up and down system 3, so as to raise the second conveyor 2 to the high position, - controls the motor 22 to drive the chains 210 of the second conveyor 2 in the desired conveying direction (Y 1 or Y2), the pallet P thus being automatically transferred at 90° onto the conveyor C4 or C3.

[0074] Conversely, when a pallet P, empty or loaded, is transported on the conveyor line LC2 (the conveyor 2 being in the high position), and must be transferred at 90° to the other conveyor line LC1, said automaton is programmed to detect the presence of the pallet P on the transfer device T by means of at least one presence sensor mounted on the transfer device T, and when the presence of a pallet P is detected, said automaton: - automatically controls the stopping of the chains 210 of the second conveyor 2, - controls the motor 310 of the up and down system 3, so as to lower the second conveyor 2 to the low position, - controls the motors of the rollers 110 of the first conveyor 2 in the desired conveying direction (XI or X2), the pallet P thus being automatically transferred at 90° onto the conveyor Cl or C2.

[0075] The conveying installation may comprise a single conveying line, for example line LC1. In this case the transfer device T is used to eject laterally from this conveying line a pallet transported on this conveying line to the transfer device T.

[0076] The transfer device T can advantageously be placed directly on the ground and fixed to the ground, for example by bolting the frame 10 of the transfer device T to a flat ground. It can nevertheless also be mounted at a height.

[0077] The raising and lowering system 3 of the invention advantageously makes it possible to obtain very good height compactness of the two nested conveyors 1 and 2.

[0078] In particular and preferably, thanks to this compactness, in a preferred embodiment, it has been possible to produce a transfer device whose height H ([Fig.l]) between the base of the frame 10 of the first conveyor 1 and the supporting surface (tops of the rollers 110) of the first conveyor 1 is low and of the order of 90 mm + / -10 mm.

[0079] When the chassis 10 of the transfer device T is placed directly on the ground, this low height makes it possible to load the pallets P to be transported into the transport installation by means of a simple manual pallet truck with a short lifting stroke.

[0080] The raising and lowering system 3 of the invention also has the advantage of being robust and of allowing the implementation of a significant lifting force.

[0081] By way of example, in a preferred embodiment, it was possible to produce a transfer device T allowing the transfer of pallets P loaded with products and capable, for example, of weighing at least up to 1000 kg.

Claims

1.

2. Claims Transfer device (T) comprising a first conveyor (1) and a second conveyor (2) which are transverse and nested, at least the second conveyor (2) being vertically movable, and a raise and lower system (3) which makes it possible to raise and lower at least said second conveyor (2) between a high position and a low position, so as to allow a transfer between the two conveyors (1; 2) with a change in the conveying direction, characterized in that the raise and lower system (3) comprises at least one adjustable column (30), which is positioned under and supports said second conveyor (2) and which comprises a cam (3021) and a cam follower (303), the cam or the cam follower being rotatable about a vertical axis of rotation (A), the cam comprising a cam path (3022) centered on this vertical axis of rotation (A), and the cam follower (303) being adapted to cooperate with said path of came (3022),so that the rotation of the cam (3021) or the cam follower (303) around this vertical axis of rotation (A) allows said up and down movement of the second conveyor (2), in that the up and down system (3) comprises an actuator (31) for actuating in rotation the cam (3021) or the cam follower (303) around this vertical axis of rotation (A), in that each adjustable column (30) comprises a fixed guide tube (300a), which defines the vertical axis (A) of rotation of the cam (3021), in that the cam (3021) is threaded onto the guide tube (300a) so that the guide tube (300a) allows the cam (3021) to be guided in rotation around this axis (A), and the cam follower (303) is inserted into the guide tube (300a) in contact with the cam path (3022),such that the cam follower (303) is locked in rotation about this axis (A) by the guide tube (300a) and is movable and guided in translation upwards and downwards by the guide tube (300a)., Transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the up and down system (3) comprises several adjustable columns (30), which are positioned under and support said second conveyor (2) and which each comprise a cam (3021) and a cam follower (303), each cam or cam follower being rotatable about a vertical axis of rotation (A), each cam comprising a path of cam (3022) centered on this vertical axis of rotation (A), and each cam follower being adapted to cooperate with said cam path, so that the rotation of the cams or cam followers around their vertical axis of rotation allows said up and down movement of the vertically movable conveyor, and said actuator (31) of the system (3) up and down allows the cams (3022) or cam followers (303) of all the adjustable columns (30) to be simultaneously actuated in rotation around their vertical axis of rotation (A).

3. Transfer device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the first conveyor (1) and the second conveyor (2) are perpendicular and allow a transfer at 90°.

4. Transfer device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the number of adjustable columns (30) is at least three and preferably at least four.

5. Transfer device according to claim 4, in which each adjustable column (30) is positioned at the top of a polygon.

6. Transfer device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the first conveyor (1) comprises a frame (10), on which are mounted first conveying elements (11) which are movable and form a first conveying surface for supporting and transporting a load in a first conveying direction (X) and the second conveyor (2) comprises a frame (20), on which are mounted second conveying elements (21) which are movable and form a second conveying surface for supporting and transporting a load in a second conveying direction (Y) transverse, and preferably perpendicular, to the first conveying direction, and in which the first conveying elements (11) and the second conveying elements (21) are nested.

7. Transfer device according to claim 6, in which each adjustable column (30) is mounted between the frame (10) of the first conveyor (1) and the frame (20) of the second conveyor (2) and acts as an adjustable spacer allowing the height spacing between the two frames (10, 20) to be adjusted.

8. A transfer device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the first conveying elements (11) comprise a set of rollers (110) and the second conveying elements (21) comprise a set of chains (210) interposed between the rollers.

9. Transfer device according to claim 6 or 7, in which the second conveying elements (21) comprise a set of rollers and the first conveying elements (11) comprise a set of chains interposed between the rollers.

10. Transfer device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the height (H) between the base of the frame (10) of the first conveyor (1) and the first conveying surface is 90mm + / -10mm.

11. Transfer device according to claim 10, wherein the guide tube (300a) is fixed on the first conveyor (1).

12. Transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 1 wherein the guide tube (300a) comprises two axial guide notches (300c), which are diametrically opposite and symmetrical to each other with respect to the axis of rotation (A) of the cam (3021) and which allow said locking in rotation of the cam follower (303) and said guiding in translation upwards and downwards of the cam follower (303).

13. Transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in which each adjustable column (30) comprises a crown-shaped bearing (301), and more particularly a needle thrust type roller bearing, which is threaded onto the guide tube (300a) and allows a rolling connection in rotation between the rotary cam (3021) and the support on which the guide tube (300a) is fixed, and preferably between the rotary cam (3021) and the frame (10) of the first conveyor (1).

14. Transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, in which the frame (20) of the second conveyor is placed and fitted onto the guide tubes (300a) of the adjustable columns (30).

15. Transfer device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the cam path (3022) is symmetrical with respect to the central axis of rotation (A) of the cam (3022) or the cam follower (303).

16. Transfer device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the cam follower (303) comprises at least one follower roller (3031) in rolling contact with the cam path (3022).

17. Transfer device according to any one of the preceding claims in which the cam follower (303) comprises two follower rollers (3031) which are in rolling contact with the cam path (3022), and which are diametrically opposed and symmetrical to each other with respect to the central axis of rotation (A) of the cam (3021) or cam follower (303).

18. Transfer device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the actuator (31) of the up and down system comprises a motor (310), the motor shaft (311) of which is coupled in rotation to at least one column (30) adjustable by means of a connecting rod-crank connection (L1), the motor (310) preferably being mounted on the first conveyor (1).

19. Transfer device according to claim 18, comprising several adjustable columns (30) and in which each adjustable column (30) is coupled in rotation to another adjustable column (30) by means of a connecting rod-crank connection (L2; L3; L4).

20. Transfer device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the raising and lowering system (3) is adapted to support and lift a load which is placed on the second conveyor (2) and whose weight can reach at least 1000 kg.

21. Conveying installation comprising at least one conveyor line (LC1) which comprises at least one transfer device (T) according to any one of claims 1 to 20 interposed between two conveyors (C1, C2) aligned with the first conveyor (1) of the transfer device (T) and / or at least one conveyor line (LC2) which comprises at least one transfer device (T) according to any one of claims 1 to 20 interposed between two conveyors (C3, C4) which are aligned with the second conveyor (2) of the transfer device (T) in the high position.

22. Conveying installation according to claim 21, comprising a first (LC1) and a second (LC2) transverse, and preferably perpendicular, conveying lines, and in which the transfer device (T) is interposed between the two conveyors (Cl, C2) of the first conveying line (LC1) and between the two conveyors (C3, C4) of the second conveying line (LC2).

23. Use of the transfer device (T) of any one of claims 1 to 20 in a conveying installation, for transferring in a second transverse conveying direction (Y or X) a load, and more particularly a pallet (P), which is transported in the conveying installation in a first conveying direction (X or Y) to the transfer device (T) or to laterally eject a load, and more particularly a pallet (P), which is transported in the conveying installation in a first conveying direction (X or Y) to the transfer device (T).

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