Conveyance device

Abstract

To provide a device and related technology advantageous for efficiently conveying a plurality of stick-shaped bodies while changing the posture in a desired posture.SOLUTION: A conveyor 10 for conveying a plurality of stick-shaped bodies T includes a holding space 15s, a hold body 15 having a supply opening 15a and a discharge opening 15b communicating with the holding space 15s, and a movement drive part 17 for moving the hold body 15 along an endless track including a supply point S1 and a discharge point S2. The hold body 15 is supplied with a plurality of stick-shaped bodies T at a supply point S1, the plurality of stick-shaped bodies T are held in the holding space 15s via the supply opening 15a, and at the discharge point S2, the plurality of stick-shaped bodies T are discharged from the holding space 15s to the outside via the discharge opening 15b.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a conveying device for conveying a stick-shaped object. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a device that supplies a large number of stick-shaped packaging items together to a transport cup or a packaging bag for a packaging machine. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-016336 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An apparatus that transports a large number of stick-shaped objects one after another while changing their orientation is required to transport the large number of stick-shaped objects efficiently and to accurately change the stick-shaped objects to a desired orientation.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus and related technology that are advantageous for efficiently transporting multiple stick-shaped objects while changing their orientation to a desired position. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a conveying device that conveys a plurality of stick-shaped objects, comprising a holder having a holding space, a supply opening and a discharge opening that communicate with the holding space, and a movement drive unit that moves the holder along an endless track that includes a supply point and a discharge point, wherein the holder supplies a plurality of stick-shaped objects at the supply point, holds the plurality of stick-shaped objects in the holding space via the supply opening, and discharges the plurality of stick-shaped objects from the holding space to the outside via the discharge opening at the discharge point.

[0007] The endless track is a track centered on a central axis, and the central axis may form an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal axis extending in the horizontal direction.

[0008] A plurality of holders may be provided, and the movement drive unit may move the plurality of holders along the endless track.

[0009] The conveying device may also include a first jump-out restriction section provided on the holder so as to move along the endless track together with the holder, which opens a supply opening at the supply point and at least partially covers the supply opening while moving along at least a portion of the conveying track portion, which is the portion of the endless track between the supply point and the release point, to restrict the multiple stick-shaped bodies from jumping out of the holding space through the supply opening.

[0010] The first protrusion limiting portion has a first shutter and a second shutter that can be positioned in an open position that opens the supply opening and a closed position that closes the supply opening, and each of the first shutter and the second shutter may have a shutter body that covers the supply opening in the closed position and at least partially opens the supply opening in the open position, and a shutter upright portion connected to one end of the shutter body.

[0011] The conveying device may also include a second jump-out restriction section provided on the holder so as to move along the endless track together with the holder, which opens a release opening at the release point and at least partially covers the release opening while moving along at least a portion of the conveying track portion, which is the portion of the endless track between the supply point and the release point, thereby restricting the multiple stick-shaped bodies from jumping out of the holding space through the release opening.

[0012] The conveying device may also include a first jump-out restriction section extending along at least a portion of the conveying track portion, which is the portion of the endless track between the supply point and the discharge point, and which restricts the multiple stick-shaped bodies from jumping out of the holding space through the supply opening in at least a portion of the conveying track portion.

[0013] The holder may have a notch, and while the holder moves on at least a portion of the conveying track portion, at least a portion of the first protrusion restriction portion may be disposed in a holding space of the holder while passing through the notch.

[0014] The conveying device is provided with a second jump-out restriction section that extends in an arc shape along at least a portion of the conveying track portion, which is the portion of the endless track between the supply point and the release point, and in at least a portion of the conveying track portion, the second jump-out restriction section faces an end face portion of the holder that defines the release opening and restricts the multiple stick-shaped bodies from jumping out of the holding space through the release opening, and the end face portion may have a curved shape that follows the curve of the limiting surface of the second jump-out restriction section that faces the end face portion.

[0015] The conveying device may be equipped with a protrusion detection sensor that detects the protrusion of multiple stick-shaped bodies from the holding space of the holder in the conveying track portion, which is the portion of the endless track between the supply point and the discharge point, and a control unit that receives the detection results of the protrusion detection sensor.

[0016] The conveying device includes an intermediate storage section that temporarily stores the plurality of stick-shaped bodies released from the holder through the release opening and then releases the plurality of stick-shaped bodies into the container, and the intermediate storage section may move between an intermediate supply position for receiving the plurality of stick-shaped bodies released from the holder through the release opening and an intermediate release position for releasing the plurality of stick-shaped bodies into the container.

[0017] The transport device may include a control unit, and the movement drive unit may have a servo motor that operates under the control of the control unit.

[0018] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a conveying method for conveying a plurality of stick-shaped objects using a conveying device, the conveying device comprising a holder having a holding space, a supply opening and a discharge opening communicating with the holding space, and a movement drive unit that moves the holder along an endless track that includes a supply point and a discharge point, the conveying method including a step of supplying the plurality of stick-shaped objects to the holder at the supply point and holding the plurality of stick-shaped objects in the holding space via the supply opening, and a step of discharging the plurality of stick-shaped objects from the holding space towards the outside via the discharge opening at the discharge point.

[0019] The conveying device may have a first shutter and a second shutter that can be positioned in an open position that opens the supply opening and a closed position that closes the supply opening, and at the release location, gas may be blown toward at least one of the space between the first shutter and the second shutter, and the space between at least one of the first shutter and the second shutter and a holder. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] The present disclosure is advantageous in that multiple stick-shaped objects can be efficiently transported while being adjusted to a desired position. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a part of an example of a stick throwing machine according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the entire stick dispenser shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the portion (tray) indicated by the symbol "III" in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a part of an example of a stick throwing machine according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a front view (see arrow "V" in FIG. 4) of the tray shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a side view showing a portion of an example of a stick throwing machine according to a second modified example. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view (see arrow "VII" in FIG. 6) showing the tray shown in FIG. 6 (particularly the tray located at the discharge point). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] Below, we will explain by way of example the case where the conveying device of the present disclosure is embodied as a stick dispenser (stick-shaped object supply device), which is a device that dispenses multiple stick-shaped objects into a container (particularly a bag), but it may also be embodied as any other device.

[0023] In the following description, the stick-shaped object may be configured as, for example, food or daily necessities, but may also be an object used for any other purpose.

[0024] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a portion of an example of a stick dispenser 10 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view of the entire stick dispenser 10 shown in FIG. 1. To facilitate understanding, some elements (e.g., some trays 15) are omitted from FIG. 2. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the area designated by the symbol "III" in FIG. 1 (tray 15).

[0025] The stick inserter (conveying device) 10 of this embodiment receives a plurality of stick-shaped objects T supplied from a stick-shaped object supplying device (not shown) provided upstream, conveys the plurality of stick-shaped objects T while changing their posture, and inserts the plurality of stick-shaped objects T into bags B being transported by a bag transporting device (not shown) provided downstream.

[0026] The stick dispenser 10 comprises multiple (four in this example) trays (holders) 15 and a movement drive unit 17 that moves the multiple trays 15 along an endless track (a circular track centered on a central axis Ax in this example). The endless track includes a supply point S1 for supplying multiple stick-shaped objects T to each tray 15, and a discharge point S2 for discharging the multiple stick-shaped objects T from each tray 15.

[0027] The central axis Ax, which serves as the reference for the endless track, forms an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to the horizontal axis extending horizontally. Therefore, the endless track based on the central axis Ax extends in both the horizontal and vertical directions. In this example, the central axis Ax extends so as to form an angle of 45 degrees with respect to both the horizontal axis extending horizontally and the vertical line extending vertically (see Figure 2).

[0028] The direction in which the central axis Ax extends is not limited. To smoothly supply the stick-shaped materials T to and release the stick-shaped materials T from each tray 15 using gravity, the angle that the central axis Ax forms with the horizontal axis may be, for example, in the range of 25 to 65 degrees, more preferably in the range of 35 to 55 degrees, and more preferably 45 degrees or an angle close to 45 degrees.

[0029] Each tray 15 has a holding space 15s, and a supply opening 15a and a discharge opening 15b that communicate with the holding space 15s. The tray 15 shown in Figures 1 to 3 has a box-like shape as a whole, and an inner space having a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape is provided as the holding space 15s. The supply opening 15a and the discharge opening 15b are positioned adjacent to each other and extend at approximately a right angle to each other.

[0030] Each tray 15 is supplied with a plurality of stick-shaped objects T at a supply point S1 of the endless track, and the plurality of stick-shaped objects T are held in a holding space 15s via a supply opening 15a. Furthermore, each tray 15 discharges the plurality of stick-shaped objects T from the holding space 15s through a discharge opening 15b toward the outside (in this example, a first funnel 31 (intermediate storage section)) at a discharge point S2 of the endless track.

[0031] In this embodiment, the supply point S1 is assigned to the highest point (top) of the endless track along which each tray 15 moves, while the discharge point S2 is assigned to the lowest point (bottom) of the endless track along which each tray 15 moves.

[0032] While each tray 15 moves along the endless track, the relative attitude of each tray 15 with respect to the central axis Ax basically does not change, but the overall attitude (orientation) of each tray 15 changes depending on the position of each tray 15 on the endless track.

[0033] For example, in the tray 15 positioned at the supply point S1, the supply opening 15a opens upward, and the discharge opening 15b opens horizontally (particularly to the left in FIG. 2). On the other hand, in the tray 15 positioned at the discharge point S2, the supply opening 15a opens horizontally (particularly to the right in FIG. 2), and the discharge opening 15b opens downward. In particular, by making the central axis Ax form a 45-degree angle with the horizontal axis, it is possible to orient the supply opening 15a of the tray 15 positioned at the supply point S1 directly upward, while orienting the discharge opening 15b of the tray 15 positioned at the discharge point S2 directly downward.

[0034] As the tray 15 moves between the supply point S1 and the discharge point S2, the posture and orientation of the tray 15 continuously change, and the supply opening 15a and the discharge opening 15b are directed in the desired directions at each of the supply point S1 and the discharge point S2.

[0035] The movement drive unit 17 in this example has a servo motor 17a as a drive source. The servo motor 17a outputs rotational power under the control of the control unit 50, and moves each tray 15 intermittently along an endless track.

[0036] The stick throwing device 10 of this embodiment further includes a guide (first jump-out restriction portion) 19, a cover (second jump-out restriction portion) 22, and a detection sensor 25.

[0037] The guide 19 extends along at least a portion of the conveying track portion, which is the portion between the supply point S1 and the discharge point S2 of the endless track along which each tray 15 moves (particularly the portion along which each tray 15 moves from the supply point S1 toward the discharge point S2). The guide 19 restricts the multiple sticks T from jumping out of the holding space 15s of each tray 15 through the supply opening 15a along at least that portion of the conveying track portion.

[0038] In the example shown in Figures 1 to 3, multiple (four) guides 19 are provided, extending in a line (elongated (e.g., round rod) shape), and each guide 19 extends over the entire conveying track portion along which each tray 15 moves from the supply point S1 to the discharge point S2 (see, for example, Figure 1). Each guide 19 is fixedly supported by a cover 22 and positioned so as to cover the supply opening 15a of the tray 15 moving from the supply point S1 to the discharge point S2. Therefore, each guide 19 can physically block the stick-shaped objects T that attempt to jump out of the holding space 15s through the supply opening 15a.

[0039] Note that each guide 19 does not cover the supply opening 15a of the tray 15 at least at the supply point S1. This prevents the supply of multiple stick-shaped objects T to the tray 15 (holding space 15s) via the supply opening 15a at the supply point S1 by each guide 19.

[0040] Each tray 15 in this example has a cutout 20, and while each tray 15 moves on at least a portion of the conveying track portion, at least a portion of each guide 19 passes through the cutout 20 and is positioned in the holding space 15s of that tray 15. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a plurality of cutouts 20 (four on each of two sides (end faces) (eight in total)) are formed in the end face (supply side end face) of the tray 15 that defines the supply opening 15a. While the tray 15 moves from the supply point S1 toward the discharge point S2, each guide 19 is positioned in the corresponding cutout 20 of that tray 15 and is positioned partially in the holding space 15s of that tray 15.

[0041] By providing such a cutout portion 20, each guide 19 is positioned closer to the multiple stick-shaped objects T stored in the tray 15 (holding space 15s), effectively preventing the multiple stick-shaped objects T from jumping out or falling out of the tray 15.

[0042] The cover 22 extends along at least a portion of the conveying track portion, which is the portion between the supply point S1 and the discharge point S2 of the endless track along which each tray 15 moves (particularly the portion along which each tray 15 moves from the supply point S1 toward the discharge point S2). The cover 22 restricts the multiple sticks T from flying out of the holding space 15s of each tray 15 through the discharge opening 15b along at least a portion of the conveying track portion.

[0043] 1 to 3, a single cover 22 in the shape of a plate extending in an arc is provided, and the cover 22 extends over the entire conveyance track portion along which each tray 15 moves from the supply point S1 to the discharge point S2 (see, for example, FIG. 1). The cover 22 is fixedly supported by a support frame 40 and positioned so as to cover the discharge opening 15b of the tray 15 moving from the supply point S1 to the discharge point S2. Therefore, the cover 22 can physically block the stick-shaped objects T that attempt to jump out of the holding space 15s through the discharge opening 15b.

[0044] The cover 22 does not cover the discharge opening 15b of the tray 15 at least at the discharge location S2. This means that the cover 22 does not prevent the release of the stick-shaped objects T from the tray 15 (holding space 15s) through the discharge opening 15b at the discharge location S2.

[0045] In this example, the cover 22 faces the discharge side end surface 15g of the tray 15 that defines the discharge opening 15b in at least part of the conveying track portion along which each tray 15 moves from the supply point S1 to the discharge point S2, and restricts the multiple stick-shaped objects T from flying out of the holding space 15s through the discharge opening 15b.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 3, the discharge side end surface 15g of each tray 15 has a curved shape that follows the curve of the limiting surface 22s of the cover 22 that faces the discharge side end surface 15g.

[0047] When the discharge end surface 15g of each tray 15 has a non-curved (flat) shape, the distance between the arc-shaped cover 22 (particularly the limiting surface 22s) and the discharge end surface 15g tends to vary greatly while each tray 15 moves along the arc-shaped (curved) conveying track. That is, even if the distance (spacing) between both ends of the discharge end surface 15g of the tray 15 and the cover 22 is relatively small, the distance (spacing) between the center between both ends of the discharge end surface 15g and the cover 22 becomes relatively large. In this case, a relatively large space is locally created between the center of the discharge end surface 15g and the cover 22. As a result, a stick-shaped object T may enter this relatively large space, making it easy for the stick-shaped object T to be unintentionally pinched between the discharge end surface 15g (tray 15) and the cover 22.

[0048] On the other hand, the tray 15 of this example has a discharge end surface 15g with a curved shape that follows the curve of the limiting surface 22s of the cover 22, which reduces variation in the distance (spacing) between the discharge end surface 15g and the cover 22. That is, the distance (spacing) between the discharge end surface 15g of the tray 15 and the cover 22 can be made uniform throughout, effectively preventing the occurrence of a relatively large space locally between the center of the discharge end surface 15g and the cover 22. Therefore, the distance (spacing) between the discharge end surface 15g of the tray 15 and the cover 22 can be made smaller overall. In this case, it becomes difficult for stick-shaped objects T to enter the space between the discharge end surface 15g and the cover 22, effectively preventing the stick-shaped objects T from being unintentionally pinched between the discharge end surface 15g (tray 15) and the cover 22.

[0049] The detection sensor 25 (see Figure 2) detects the protrusion of multiple stick-shaped bodies T from the holding space 15s of the tray 15 through the supply opening 15a in the conveying track portion, which is the portion of the endless track between the supply point S1 and the release point S2 (particularly the portion where each tray 15 moves from the supply point S1 toward the release point S2), and transmits the detection result to the control unit 50.

[0050] The detection sensor 25 is typically configured by an optical sensor, but may be configured by any other sensor.

[0051] The control unit 50 receives the detection result from the detection sensor 25 and can perform any processing based on the detection result of the detection sensor 25. For example, if the detection sensor 25 detects that a stick-shaped object T has popped out, the control unit 50 can issue a warning to an operator (not shown) or bring the operation of the stick inserter 10 to an emergency stop in part or in whole.

[0052] The stick dispenser 10 of this embodiment further includes a first funnel 31 and a second funnel 32.

[0053] The first funnel 31 is positioned directly below the tray 15 (particularly the discharge opening 15b) located at the discharge location S2 and is configured as a cylindrical body having a through-hole extending in the height direction. The second funnel 32 is positioned at least partially directly below the first funnel 31 (particularly the lower opening including the lower end of the through-hole) and has a so-called coronoid opening / closing portion.

[0054] In the example shown in Figures 1 to 3, the lower end (particularly the lower opening) of the first funnel 31 is positioned lower than the upper end of the opening / closing portion of the second funnel 32, and is particularly positioned in the inner space of the second funnel 32 formed when the opening / closing portion is closed.

[0055] The first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 move up and down integrally, i.e., the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 move back and forth between an upper position (intermediate supply position Ps) and a lower position (intermediate discharge position Pr), and intermittently stop at each of the intermediate supply position Ps and the intermediate discharge position Pr.

[0056] The first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 configured in this manner temporarily store multiple stick-shaped objects T released through the release opening 15b from the tray 15 positioned at the release point S2, and then act as an intermediate storage section that releases the stick-shaped objects T into the bag B.

[0057] That is, the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 move between an intermediate supply position Ps for receiving multiple stick-shaped objects T released from the tray 15 through the release opening 15b at the release location S2, and an intermediate release position Pr for releasing multiple stick-shaped objects T into a bag B positioned directly below the second funnel 32.

[0058] The multiple stick-shaped objects T in the tray 15 (holding space 15s) are transported along the endless track and positioned at the release point S2, whereby under the influence of gravity they are released from the tray 15 (holding space 15s) through the release opening 15b toward the first funnel 31, which stops intermittently at the intermediate supply position Ps. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, while the tray 15 is moving from the supply point S1 to the release point S2, the release opening 15b is covered by the cover 22, preventing the stick-shaped objects T from being released from the tray 15 through the release opening 15b. When the tray 15 is positioned at the release point S2, the release opening 15b is no longer covered by the cover 22 and is opened, causing the multiple stick-shaped objects T in the tray 15 to fall naturally through the release opening 15b.

[0059] The first funnel 31 guides the multiple stick-shaped objects T that are released and fall from the tray 15 toward the second funnel 32, whose coracoid-shaped opening and closing section is closed, and as a result, the multiple stick-shaped objects T are held and stored by the second funnel 32.

[0060] In this manner, it is preferable to determine the relative positions in the height direction between the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 so that a portion (particularly the upper portion) of each stick-shaped object T stored in the second funnel 32 is supported by the first funnel 31. In this case, the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 maintain the upright posture of each stick-shaped object T stored in the second funnel 32.

[0061] Then, with a plurality of stick-shaped objects T stored in the second funnel 32, the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 move downward as a unit from the intermediate supply position Ps and are placed at the intermediate discharge position Pr together with the plurality of stick-shaped objects T. By being placed at the intermediate discharge position Pr, the lower part of the second funnel 32 (particularly the coronoid opening / closing portion) enters the inside of the bag B, which is waiting intermittently below the second funnel 32, through the open mouth Bm of the bag B, with the opening / closing portion remaining closed.

[0062] When the opening and closing portion of the second funnel 32 is opened at the intermediate discharge position Pr, the multiple stick-shaped objects T fall from the second funnel 32 in an upright position under the influence of gravity and are contained in the bag B.

[0063] In this example, the opening / closing portion of the second funnel 32 is opened with its lower portion (particularly the coracoid-shaped opening / closing portion) positioned inside the bag B, so that multiple stick-shaped objects T can be reliably introduced into the bag B from the second funnel 32. The relative positions of the second funnel 32 positioned at the intermediate release position Pr and the bag B (e.g., the closed bottom portion Bb) waiting intermittently below the second funnel 32 are determined so that the multiple stick-shaped objects T introduced into the bag B from the second funnel 32 are all released from the second funnel 32 and positioned in the interior space of the bag B.

[0064] Next, we will explain an example of the operation of the stick injection machine 10 shown in Figures 1 to 3. The operation of the stick injection machine 10 explained below is performed by the control unit 50 controlling various elements.

[0065] First, a plurality of stick-shaped objects T are transported by a stick-shaped object supplying device (not shown) to above supply point S1 on an endless track, and then supplied in a recumbent position (a position extending horizontally) from the stick-shaped object supplying device to a tray 15 positioned at supply point S1. The stick-shaped object supplying device transports sets of stick-shaped objects T one after another above supply point S1, and sequentially supplies the sets of stick-shaped objects T to each of a plurality of trays 15 positioned one after another at supply point S1.

[0066] Each tray 15 holds multiple stick-shaped objects T supplied at supply point S1 in holding space 15s, and is transported from supply point S1 to release point S2 by movement drive unit 17. During this transport, guide 19 and cover 22 prevent the multiple stick-shaped objects T from jumping out or falling from tray 15, and detection sensor 25 monitors whether the stick-shaped objects T have jumped out of tray 15.

[0067] When the tray 15 reaches the release point S2, the multiple stick-shaped objects T in the tray 15 fall in an upright position (a position extending in the height direction). The multiple stick-shaped objects T falling in this manner are received and stored by the first funnel 31 and the closed second funnel 32 waiting at the relay supply position Ps.

[0068] The multiple stick-shaped objects T then descend from the intermediate supply position Ps together with the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 to be positioned at the intermediate discharge position Pr. When the opening and closing portion of the second funnel 32 is opened at the intermediate discharge position Pr, the multiple stick-shaped objects T fall from the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 toward the open bag B waiting below the second funnel 32, and are contained in the bag B.

[0069] After a plurality of stick-shaped objects T have been contained in bag B in this manner, first funnel 31 and second funnel 32 rise from intermediate discharge position Pr and are positioned at intermediate supply position Ps where they are kept on standby. The opening / closing section of second funnel 32 is adjusted from the open state to the closed state prior to being positioned at intermediate supply position Ps or at intermediate supply position Ps, and is kept on standby in the closed state at intermediate supply position Ps.

[0070] Then, while the empty tray 15 is moved downstream from the release point S2 by the movement drive unit 17, the next tray 15 holding a plurality of stick-shaped objects T is moved from upstream to be positioned at the release point S2. The process of inserting a plurality of stick-shaped objects T from the next tray 15 into the bag B is then carried out in the same manner.

[0071] Meanwhile, after the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 rise from the intermediate discharge position Pr and the second funnel 32 separates from the bag B, the bag B containing the plurality of stick-shaped objects T is sent downstream by a bag transfer device (not shown), and a new bag B containing no plurality of stick-shaped objects T is positioned in an open state below the second funnel 32 and made to wait. By undergoing the above-mentioned series of steps, the new bag B positioned below the second funnel 32 in this way receives a plurality of upright stick-shaped objects T supplied via the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 from the next tray 15 positioned at the discharge location S2.

[0072] A device may be provided to encourage the correct posture of the multiple stick-shaped objects T in the bag B. For example, a device (such as a tapping device) may be provided to apply vibration (tapping, etc.) to the bag B containing the multiple stick-shaped objects T.

[0073] The above-described series of processes are performed by the mutual interlocking of the movements of the various devices, but the various devices can be interlocked in any manner. For example, sensors that detect the movements of the various devices may be provided, and the control unit 50 may control the movements between the devices (e.g., operation timing) based on the detection results of the sensors so that the movements of the various devices are interlocked. Alternatively, the movements between the devices (e.g., operation timing) may be controlled by a mechanical mechanism such as a cam mechanism, thereby interlocking the movements of the various devices. In this case, sensors that detect the movements of the various devices may not be provided, and the various devices may not be controlled by the control unit 50.

[0074] As described above, according to this embodiment, each tray 15 can receive multiple stick-shaped objects T in a lying position (horizontal position), convey them while changing from the lying position to an upright position (vertical position), and release them in the upright position toward the bag B. In particular, since the rotary-type stick dispenser 10 repeatedly and cyclically moves multiple trays 15 along an endless track, it is possible to efficiently convey a large number of stick-shaped objects T while changing their position as desired.

[0075] In particular, by providing multiple trays 15, it is possible to simultaneously supply multiple stick-shaped bodies T to one tray 15 and release multiple stick-shaped bodies T from another tray 15, thereby improving the efficiency and speed of processing.

[0076] In this way, the stick dispenser 10 of this embodiment can quickly perform posture change processing and transport processing of multiple stick-shaped objects T, and can stably release multiple stick-shaped objects T in the desired upright posture, thereby stably dispensing multiple stick-shaped objects T into bag B.

[0077] On the other hand, it is difficult for conventional devices to achieve the effects provided by the stick dispenser 10 of this embodiment. For example, in the device of Patent Document 1, the stick-shaped packaged item holder must be moved back and forth along an arc-shaped track together with a cylindrical rotating body, so processing is not necessarily efficient and it is not easy to speed up processing.

[0078] Furthermore, by making the central axis forming the center of the endless track form an angle with the horizontal axis that is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees (45 degrees in the example shown in Figures 1 to 3), the endless track as a whole can be tilted with respect to both the horizontal and vertical axes (vertical axis). This makes it possible to shift the vertical positions between the supply point S1 and the release point S2, as well as the horizontal positions. Therefore, it is relatively easy to achieve an apparatus layout that prevents interference between the supply of multiple stick-shaped objects T to the tray 15 at the supply point S1 and the release of multiple stick-shaped objects T from the tray 15 at the release point S2.

[0079] Furthermore, by providing the guide 19 and cover 22, it is possible to prevent the stick-shaped objects T from jumping out or falling off the tray 15, and thereby prevent the position of the stick-shaped objects T from becoming distorted on the tray 15. As a result, it is possible to properly guide multiple stick-shaped objects T into the bag B while maintaining the correct position (upright position).

[0080] Furthermore, because the multiple stick-shaped objects T released from tray 15 are guided into bag B via first funnel 31 and second funnel 32 (intermediate storage section), the distance the multiple stick-shaped objects T fall at one time can be shortened. In particular, first funnel 31 and second funnel 32 receive the multiple stick-shaped objects T at an upper position (intermediate supply position Ps), then descend and release the multiple stick-shaped objects T toward bag B at a lower position (intermediate discharge position Pr). As a result, the force (impact force) acting on the multiple stick-shaped objects T on their way from tray 15 to bag B can be reduced, preventing the upright stick-shaped objects T from becoming distorted, and allowing the multiple stick-shaped objects T to be effectively contained in bag B while maintaining the desired upright position.

[0081] Furthermore, if multiple stick-shaped objects T are subjected to a relatively large force (impact force) on their way from tray 15 to inside bag B, and multiple stick-shaped objects T are introduced into bag B in an unbalanced state, the stick-shaped objects T may pile up vertically inside bag B, causing some of the stick-shaped objects T to protrude from bag B via the mouth Bm. In this case, the sealing process of the mouth Bm of bag B, which is carried out later, may be hindered by the stick-shaped objects T and may not be carried out properly.

[0082] [Second embodiment] Figure 4 is a side view showing a portion of an example of a stick dispenser 10 according to the second embodiment. Figure 5 is a front view (see arrow "V" in Figure 4) showing the tray 15 shown in Figure 4 (particularly the tray 15 located at the supply point S1).

[0083] In this embodiment, elements that are the same as or correspond to those in the first embodiment described above are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0084] In the first embodiment described above, the fixed guide 19 and cover 22 (see Figure 1) are provided as a protrusion restriction section that restricts the stick-shaped object T from protruding from the holding space 15s of each tray 15, but such a protrusion restriction section may also be provided to be movable.

[0085] In this embodiment, each of the multiple trays 15 is provided with its own supply opening shutter 61 (first jump-out restriction portion), and each supply opening shutter 61 is arranged to move along the endless track together with its corresponding tray 15. Each supply opening shutter 61 is opened and closed by a shutter opening / closing mechanism 70 under the control of the control unit 50 (see FIG. 2 ). That is, each supply opening shutter 61 opens the supply opening 15a of the corresponding tray 15 at the supply point S1. Furthermore, each supply opening shutter 61 at least partially covers the supply opening 15a while moving along at least a portion (in this example, the entirety) of the endless track between the supply point S1 and the release point S2 (the conveying track portion; particularly, the portion where each tray 15 moves from the supply point S1 toward the release point S2), thereby restricting the multiple stick-shaped objects T from jumping out of the holding space 15s through the supply opening 15a.

[0086] 4 and 5, each of the supply opening shutters 61 provided for each of the four trays 15 has a first shutter 61A and a second shutter 61B that can be positioned at an open position that opens the supply opening 15a and a closed position that closes the supply opening 15a. The first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B cover the supply opening 15a in the closed position and at least partially (in this example, entirely) open the supply opening 15a in the open position.

[0087] Each of the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B has a shutter body 61a and a shutter upright portion 61b connected to one end of the shutter body 61a. The shutter upright portion 61b extends so as to protrude outward (i.e., toward the outside of the holding space 15s) from the corresponding shutter body 61a, and the shutter body 61a and the shutter upright portion 61b as a whole have a generally L-shaped cross section. The joint (bent portion) between the shutter body 61a and the shutter upright portion 61b is rounded on the side facing the holding space 15s (i.e., the surface exposed to the holding space 15s).

[0088] When the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B are disposed in the closed position, the shutter upright portion 61b of the first shutter 61A and the shutter upright portion 61b of the second shutter 61B are in contact with each other, and the supply opening 15a is covered without any gaps by the supply opening shutter 61 (the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B). In particular, the shutter upright portions 61b are in surface contact with each other, and the contact surfaces of the shutter upright portions 61b extend in the height direction (vertical direction) when it is assumed that the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B are disposed in the closed position at the supply location S1.

[0089] When the supply opening shutter 61 is in the closed position, a gap may be provided between the shutter uprights 61b and / or between the shutter body 61a and the tray 15 (the supply side end surface that defines the supply opening 15a). However, from the perspective of preventing the stick-shaped objects T from protruding from the holding space 15s, such a gap is preferably as small as possible, and may be smaller than any one side of the stick-shaped objects T, for example.

[0090] Each shutter body 61a is attached to a swingable support swing member 75, and swings together with the support swing member 75 to an open position (see the two-dot chain line in FIG. 5) and a closed position (see the solid line in FIG. 5). The support swing members 75 of the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B that make up the supply opening shutter 61 are connected to each other by an opening / closing biasing part 72 that can be constituted by a tension spring or the like, and receive a force toward each other (i.e., a force that moves them toward each other). In addition, each support swing member 75 has its own opening / closing swing part 71 attached, and swings together with the own opening / closing swing part 71.

[0091] The opening / closing swing portion 71 of each of the first shutter 61A and second shutter 61B constituting the supply opening shutter 61 swings when subjected to force from the shutter actuator 62 (actuator action portion 62d), which in turn swings the corresponding support swing member 75, shutter main body 61a, and shutter upright portion 61b. Note that in FIG. 5, the swing trajectory of each shutter upright portion 61b (particularly the tip portion) is indicated by the symbol "t." In this way, the shutter opening / closing mechanism 70 including the opening / closing swing portion 71 and support swing member 75 is driven by the shutter actuator 62 to open and close the supply opening shutter 61.

[0092] 5, the opening / closing swing parts 71 of the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B are arranged in line symmetry and take line symmetric swing behaviors and swing positions by receiving force from a common single actuator action part 62d. That is, when the actuator action part 62d is spaced downward from each opening / closing swing part 71 and does not apply force to each opening / closing swing part 71, each opening / closing swing part 71 takes a swing position in which the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B are located in the closed position. On the other hand, when the actuator action part 62d applies a force to each opening / closing swing part 71 (a roller provided at one end of each opening / closing swing part 71 in the example shown in FIG. 5) so as to push up from below, each opening / closing swing part 71 takes a swing position in which the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B are located in the open position.

[0093] 4, the shutter actuator 62 has an actuator main body 62a fixedly supported by an actuator support member 65, and an actuator protrusion 62b whose vertical (downward) protrusion amount from the actuator main body 62a can be changed under the control of the control unit 50 (see FIG. 2). The actuator protrusion 62b is connected to an actuator action portion 62d via a connecting member 62c, and the connecting member 62c and the actuator action portion 62d move up and down in the height direction in accordance with the forward and backward movement of the actuator protrusion 62b from the actuator main body 62a. That is, as the downward protrusion amount of the actuator protrusion 62b increases, the actuator action portion 62d descends, and as the downward protrusion amount of the actuator protrusion 62b decreases, the actuator action portion 62d rises.

[0094] In this embodiment, the supply opening shutter 61, which is driven to open and close by the shutter actuator 62, is arranged to move along an endless track together with the tray 15, and is positioned in each of the open and closed positions under the control of the control unit 50.

[0095] The supply opening shutter 61 is placed in the open position at the supply location S1, opening the supply opening 15a of the corresponding tray 15. A plurality of stick-shaped objects T supplied from a stick-shaped object supply device (not shown) provided upstream are supplied to the holding space 15s of the tray 15 through the opening of the supply opening shutter 61 placed in the open position and the supply opening 15a.

[0096] After the supply of multiple stick-shaped materials T to the holding space 15s of the corresponding tray 15 is completed, the supply opening shutter 61 is placed in the closed position, closing the supply opening 15a of the corresponding tray 15. The tray 15 then moves from the supply location S1 to the release location S2 together with the corresponding supply opening shutter 61 closing the supply opening 15a. The supply opening shutter 61 may be placed in the closed position at the supply location S1, or may be placed in the closed position after starting to move from the supply location S1 toward the release location S2.

[0097] When the tray 15 reaches the discharge location S2, as in the first embodiment described above, the multiple stick-shaped objects T in the tray 15 fall in an upright position through the discharge opening 15b and are received and stored by the first funnel 31 and the closed second funnel 32 waiting at the intermediate supply position Ps. The multiple stick-shaped objects T then fall from the intermediate supply position Ps together with the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32, and when the opening / closing portion of the second funnel 32 is opened at the intermediate discharge position Pr, the multiple stick-shaped objects T fall toward the open bag B waiting below the second funnel 32 and are stored in the bag B.

[0098] As described above, according to this embodiment, while the tray 15 is moving from the supply location S1 to the release location S2, the supply opening 15a of the tray 15 is closed by the supply opening shutter 61, and the supply opening shutter 61 prevents the stick-shaped objects T in the tray 15 from jumping out through the supply opening 15a. Therefore, there is no need to install the guide 19 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) that was installed in the first embodiment.

[0099] In this embodiment, while the tray 15 moves from the supply point S1 to the discharge point S2, the discharge opening 15b of the tray 15 is covered by a cover 22 (particularly the restricting surface 22s; see Figure 1) as in the first embodiment described above, and the cover 22 prevents the stick-shaped objects T in the tray 15 from flying out through the discharge opening 15b.

[0100] Furthermore, the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B in the closed position close the supply opening 15a while contacting each other via surface contact between the shutter uprights 61b. By utilizing the surface contact between the shutter uprights 61b, which has a relatively wide contact area, the contact force per unit area acting between the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B in the closed position can be reduced. Therefore, even if a stick-shaped object T is caught between the shutters 61A and 61B in the closed position, it is possible to prevent the shutters 61A and 61B from exerting an excessively large force on the stick-shaped object T, thereby reducing damage to the stick-shaped object T. In particular, because the joint between the shutter body 61a and the shutter uprights 61b is rounded on the side of the holding space 15s, it is possible to prevent the stick-shaped object T from being caught between the shutters 61A and 61B in the closed position and to prevent the shutters 61A and 61B from exerting an excessively large force on the stick-shaped object T.

[0101] [First Modification] In the second embodiment described above (see Figures 4 and 5), a supply opening shutter 61 and a shutter actuator 62 are provided instead of the guide 19 (see Figures 1 and 2), but instead of the cover 22 (see Figure 1), a limiting mechanism (not shown; second jump-out limiting section) that limits the jump-out of the stick-shaped object T in the tray 15 through the discharge opening 15b may be provided on each tray 15.

[0102] This second jump-out restriction section may have any configuration that can restrict the stick-shaped objects T from jumping out of the tray 15 via the release opening 15b. As an example, the second jump-out restriction section may be configured by a shutter that opens and closes the release opening 15b and an actuator that drives the shutter to open and close (not shown), similar to the mechanisms 61, 62 that restrict the stick-shaped objects T from jumping out of the tray 15 via the supply opening 15a in the second embodiment described above.

[0103] That is, the second jump-out restriction section is provided on the tray 15 so as to move along the endless track together with the tray 15, and opens the release opening 15b at the release point S2, and may at least partially cover the release opening 15b while moving along at least a portion (e.g., the entire) of the portion of the endless track between the supply point S1 and the release point S2 (the conveying track portion; particularly the portion where the tray 15 moves from the supply point S1 to the release point S2), thereby restricting the multiple stick-shaped bodies T from jumping out of the holding space 15s through the release opening 15b.

[0104] By providing such a second jump-out restriction portion on each tray 15, it becomes unnecessary to provide a cover 22 (FIG. 1) for covering the discharge opening 15b of each tray 15.

[0105] [Second Modification] Fig. 6 is a side view showing a portion of an example of a stick dispenser 10 according to a second modified example. Fig. 7 is a front view (see arrow "VII" in Fig. 6) showing the tray 15 shown in Fig. 6 (particularly the tray 15 located at the discharge point S2).

[0106] In this modification, elements that are the same as or correspond to those in the second embodiment described above are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0107] The stick inserter (conveying device) 10 may be provided with a gas blowing section (blower) at the discharge point S2 that blows gas toward at least one of the spaces between the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B, and the spaces between at least one of the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B and the tray (holding body) 15.

[0108] 6 and 7, a plurality of air blowing units (i.e., a first air blowing unit 80A and a second air blowing unit 80B) are provided at the discharge location S2. The air blowing units 80A and 80B are provided outside the tray 15 and the supply opening shutter 61 (a first shutter 61A and a second shutter 61B) positioned at the discharge location S2.

[0109] The first air blowing section 80A blows air (compressed air) A toward the space between the first shutter 61A and the second shutter 61B (particularly between the shutter upright sections 61b) in the closed position covering the supply opening 15a of the tray 15 positioned at the release point S2.

[0110] The second air blowing unit 80B blows air (compressed air) A toward the gap between the tray 15 (particularly the supply side end face 15f defining the supply opening 15a) positioned at the release point S2 and the supply opening shutter 61 (particularly the first shutter 61A positioned downstream) in the closed position. In particular, in this modified example, the air A is blown from the second air blowing unit 80B toward the notch 20 formed in the supply side end face 15f, which locally forms a large gap between the notch 20 and the supply opening shutter 61 (first shutter 61A).

[0111] The stick-shaped objects T supplied into the tray 15 at the supply point S1 may become caught between the shutters 61A and 61B in the closed position (particularly between the shutter upright portions 61b) and / or between the supply opening shutter 61 in the closed position and the tray 15 as they move from the supply point S1 to the release point S2. In particular, the stick-shaped objects T tend to become caught under the influence of gravity between the first shutter 61A of the supply opening shutter 61, which is located on the side facing the direction of gravity when moving from the supply point S1 to the release point S2, and the tray 15 (supply side end surface portion 15f).

[0112] If a stick-shaped object T is caught between the shutters 61A and 61B (particularly between the shutter upright portions 61b) at the release location S2, air A from the first air blowing section 80A is blown onto the stick-shaped object T, urging it to be released from between the shutters 61A and 61B. As a result, the stick-shaped object T caught between the shutters 61A and 61B can be effectively released at the release location S2 toward the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 (see FIG. 2).

[0113] Furthermore, if a stick-shaped object T is caught between the supply opening shutter 61 (for example, the first shutter 61A) and the tray 15 at the release point S2, air A from the second air blowing section 80B is blown onto the stick-shaped object T, facilitating its release from between the supply opening shutter 61 and the tray 15. As a result, the stick-shaped object T caught between the supply opening shutter 61 and the tray 15 can be effectively released toward the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 at the release point S2.

[0114] The gas blowing section is not limited to the first air blowing section 80A and the second air blowing section 80B shown in Figures 6 and 7, and it is possible to blow gas toward the tray 15 and / or the supply opening shutter 61 at any position and in any form.

[0115] 6 and 7, the gas blowing units (first air blowing unit 80A and second air blowing unit 80B) are provided at the discharge point S2, but the gas blowing units may also be provided at a location other than the discharge point S2. For example, the first air blowing unit 80A and / or the second air blowing unit 80B that blow gas (compressed air, etc.) at the tray 15 and the supply opening shutter 61 may be provided midway along the path along which the tray 15 and the supply opening shutter 61 move from the supply point S1 toward the discharge point S2 (for example, at a position closer to the discharge point S2 than the supply point S1). In this case, it is possible to effectively prevent the stick-shaped objects T from becoming caught between the shutters 61A, 61B (particularly between the shutter upright portions 61b) and / or between the supply opening shutter 61 (for example, the first shutter 61A) and the tray 15 while the tray 15 and the supply opening shutter 61 move from the supply point S1 toward the discharge point S2.

[0116] 6 and 7, a third air blowing unit (not shown) may be provided that blows air between the second shutter 61B and the tray 15 (particularly, the supply-side end surface 15f). The first air blowing unit 80A shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 blows air A only to a portion of the area between the shutters 61A and 61B (particularly, between the shutter upright portions 61b), but air A may be blown over the entire area. Similarly, the second air blowing unit 80B shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 blows air A only to a portion of the area between the tray 15 (supply-side end surface 15f) and the supply opening shutter 61 (first shutter 61A), but air A may be blown over the entire area.

[0117] [Other variations] The above-described embodiments and modifications may be omitted, substituted, and altered in various ways without departing from the scope and spirit of the appended claims.

[0118] For example, by providing a mechanism that encourages the stick-shaped objects T contained in the tray 15 to adjust their posture, it is possible to more reliably release a plurality of stick-shaped objects T from the tray 15 in a desired upright posture. Such a mechanism that encourages the stick-shaped objects T to adjust their posture can have any configuration, and may be, for example, a mechanism that vibrates the tray 15 in large and / or small increments.

[0119] For example, a vibrating device (not shown) may be attached to each tray 15, and the vibrating device may vibrate each tray 15 to encourage the alignment of the stick-shaped objects T in each tray 15. Alternatively, the movement drive unit 17 (servo motor 17a) may move each tray 15 in the direction from the release point S2 toward the supply point S1 while moving it from the supply point S1 to the release point S2. Alternatively, the movement drive unit 17 may change the transport acceleration of each tray 15, causing an inertial force to act on the stick-shaped objects T in each tray 15, thereby encouraging the alignment of the stick-shaped objects T in each tray 15.

[0120] In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, four trays 15 are provided, but the number of trays 15 is not limited.

[0121] The trays 15 may also be provided interchangeably. For example, multiple types of trays 15 with different sizes (volumes) and shapes of holding spaces 15s may be prepared in advance. In this case, the optimum tray 15 according to the specific size / shape of the stick-shaped objects T and the number of stick-shaped objects T to be inserted into the tray 15 (and therefore into bag B) may be selected by the operator and attached interchangeably to the stick dispenser 10 (particularly the movement drive unit 17). By providing interchangeable trays 15 in this way, the stick dispenser 10 can flexibly accommodate stick-shaped objects T of various sizes and various numbers of stick-shaped objects T to be inserted into bag B.

[0122] Various sensors may also be provided as needed. For example, while the detection sensor 25 described above detects stick-shaped objects T protruding from the tray 15 through the supply opening 15a, a detection sensor (not shown) may also be provided that detects stick-shaped objects T protruding from the tray 15 through the discharge opening 15b. A sensor may also be provided that can detect the presence of the tray 15 on the endless track (for example, a specific position such as the supply point S1 and / or the discharge point S2). A sensor may also be provided that can detect whether or not stick-shaped objects T are protruding from the bag B.

[0123] The detection results of the various sensors are transmitted to the control unit 50 and can be used for any processing or purpose under the control of the control unit 50. For example, a bag B that is determined to have a stick-shaped object T protruding based on the detection results of the sensor may be discharged by an external discharge device under the control of the control unit 50 along a route that differs from the normal route along which normal bags that properly contain multiple stick-shaped objects T are transported.

[0124] Furthermore, the guide 19 and the cover 22 may have any shape; for example, the guide 19 may have one or more plate-like members, and the cover 22 may have one or more line-like members.

[0125] Furthermore, although each tray 15 is intermittently transported by the movement drive unit 17 in the above-described embodiments, it may be transported continuously without intermittent stops.

[0126] Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 are separate from each other (see FIG. 2), but the first funnel 31 and the second funnel 32 may be connected to each other and provided as an integral unit.

[0127] The shape of the endless track is not limited, and may be, for example, an elliptical, egg-shaped, oval, polygonal, or a shape including a straight track and a curved track.

[0128] It should be noted that the embodiments and modifications disclosed in this specification are merely illustrative in all respects and should not be construed as limiting. For example, the above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined in whole or in part, and embodiments other than those described above may be combined with the above-described embodiments or modifications. Furthermore, the effects of the present disclosure described in this specification are merely illustrative, and other effects may be obtained.

[0129] The technical category that embodies the above technical idea is not limited. For example, the above technical idea may be embodied by a computer program that causes a computer to execute one or more procedures (steps) included in a method of manufacturing or using the above device. The above technical idea may also be embodied by a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium on which such a computer program is recorded.

[0130] [Note] The present disclosure may also take the following forms.

[0131] [Aspect 1] A conveying device for conveying a plurality of stick-shaped objects, a holder having a holding space and a supply opening and a discharge opening communicating with the holding space; a movement drive unit that moves the holder along an endless track that includes a supply point and a discharge point; The holder is the plurality of sticks are supplied at the supply location and held in the holding space via the supply opening; A conveying device that, at the release location, releases the plurality of stick-shaped objects from the holding space to the outside through the release opening.

[0132] [Aspect 2] the endless track is a track centered on a central axis, The central axis forms an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal axis extending in the horizontal direction. The transport device according to embodiment 1.

[0133] [Aspect 3] A plurality of the holders are provided, The movement drive unit moves the plurality of holding bodies along the endless track. 3. The transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0134] [Aspect 4] a first jump-out restriction unit provided on the holder so as to move along the endless track together with the holder, the first jump-out restriction unit opening the supply opening at the supply location and at least partially covering the supply opening while the holder moves along at least a portion of a conveying track portion between the supply location and the release location of the endless track to restrict the plurality of stick-shaped objects from jumping out of the holding space through the supply opening; 3. The transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0135] [Aspect 5] the first jump-out restriction portion has a first shutter and a second shutter that can be positioned at an open position that opens the supply opening and a closed position that closes the supply opening, Each of the first shutter and the second shutter has a shutter body that covers the supply opening in a closed position and at least partially opens the supply opening in an open position, and a shutter upright portion connected to one end of the shutter body. 5. The transport device according to embodiment 4.

[0136] [Aspect 6] a second jump-out restriction section provided on the holder so as to move along the endless track together with the holder, the second jump-out restriction section opening the release opening at the release location and at least partially covering the release opening while the holder moves along at least a portion of a conveying track portion between the supply location and the release location of the endless track, thereby restricting the plurality of stick-shaped objects from jumping out of the holding space through the release opening; 3. The transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0137] [Aspect 7] a first jump-out restriction section extending along at least a portion of a conveying track portion between the supply point and the release point of the endless track, the first jump-out restriction section restricting the plurality of stick-shaped objects from jumping out of the holding space through the supply opening in at least a portion of the conveying track portion; 3. The transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0138] [Aspect 8] The holder has a notch, While the holder moves in at least a portion of the conveying track portion, at least a portion of the first protrusion restriction portion is disposed in the holding space of the holder while passing through the notch portion. 8. The transport device of embodiment 7.

[0139] [Aspect 9] a second jump-out restriction section extending in an arc shape along at least a portion of a conveying track portion between the supply point and the release point of the endless track, the second jump-out restriction section facing an end face of the holder that defines the release opening in at least a portion of the conveying track portion to restrict the plurality of stick-shaped objects from jumping out of the holding space through the release opening, The end surface portion has a curved shape that follows the curve of the limiting surface of the second protrusion limiting portion that faces the end surface portion. 3. The transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0140] [Aspect 10] a protrusion detection sensor that detects the protrusion of the plurality of stick-shaped objects from the holding space of the holder in a conveying track portion that is a portion of the endless track between the supply point and the release point; a control unit that receives a detection result of the pop-out detection sensor, 3. The transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0141] [Aspect 11] an intermediate storage section that temporarily stores the plurality of stick-shaped objects released from the holder through the release opening and releases the plurality of stick-shaped objects into the container, the intermediate storage section moves between an intermediate supply position for receiving the plurality of stick-shaped objects released from the holder through the release opening, and an intermediate release position for releasing the plurality of stick-shaped objects into the container. 3. The transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0142] [Aspect 12] A control unit is provided, The movement drive unit has a servo motor that is driven under the control of the control unit. 3. The transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0143] [Aspect 13] 1. A method for transporting a plurality of stick-shaped objects using a transport device, comprising: the conveying device includes a holder having a holding space, a supply opening and a discharge opening communicating with the holding space, and a movement drive unit that moves the holder along an endless track including a supply point and a discharge point; the plurality of sticks are supplied to the holder at the supply location and the plurality of sticks are held in the holding space via the supply opening; and releasing the plurality of stick-shaped objects from the holding space to the outside through the release opening at the release location.

[0144] [Aspect 14] the conveying device has a first shutter and a second shutter that can be positioned at an open position that opens the supply opening and at a closed position that closes the supply opening, At the release location, the gas is blown toward at least one of a space between the first shutter and the second shutter and a space between at least one of the first shutter and the second shutter and a holder. A method of transport according to aspect 13. [Explanation of symbols]

[0145] 10 stick inserter, 15 tray, 15a supply opening, 15b discharge opening, 15f supply side end surface, 15g discharge side end surface, 15s holding space, 17 movement drive unit, 17a servo motor, 19 guide, 20 notch, 22 cover, 22s limiting surface, 25 detection sensor, 31 first funnel, 32 second funnel, 40 support stand, 50 control unit, 61 supply opening shutter, 61A first shutter, 61B second shutter, 61a shutter body, 61b shutter standing portion, 62 shutter actuator, 62a actuator body, 62b actuator protrusion, 62c connecting member, 62d actuator action portion, 65 actuator support member, 70 shutter opening / closing mechanism, 71 opening / closing swing portion, 72 opening / closing biasing portion, 75 support swing member, 80A First air blowing section, 80B second air blowing section, A air, Ax central axis, B bag, Bm mouth section, Bb bottom section, P1 open position, P2 closed position, Ps intermediate supply position, Pr intermediate discharge position, S1 supply point, S2 discharge point, T stick-shaped body, t standing section trajectory

Claims

1. A conveying device for conveying a plurality of stick-shaped objects, a holder having a holding space and a supply opening and a discharge opening communicating with the holding space; a movement drive unit that moves the holder along an endless track that includes a supply point and a discharge point; The holder is the plurality of sticks are supplied at the supply location and held in the holding space via the supply opening; A conveying device that, at the release location, releases the plurality of stick-shaped objects from the holding space to the outside through the release opening.

2. the endless track is a track centered on a central axis, The central axis forms an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal axis extending in the horizontal direction. The conveying device according to claim 1 .

3. A plurality of the holders are provided, The movement drive unit moves the plurality of holding bodies along the endless track.

3. The conveying device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. a first jump-out restriction unit provided on the holder so as to move along the endless track together with the holder, the first jump-out restriction unit opening the supply opening at the supply location and at least partially covering the supply opening while the holder moves along at least a portion of a conveying track portion between the supply location and the release location of the endless track to restrict the plurality of stick-shaped objects from jumping out of the holding space through the supply opening; 3. The conveying device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. the first protrusion restriction portion has a first shutter and a second shutter that can be positioned at an open position that opens the supply opening and a closed position that closes the supply opening, Each of the first shutter and the second shutter has a shutter body that covers the supply opening in a closed position and at least partially opens the supply opening in an open position, and a shutter upright portion connected to one end of the shutter body. The conveying device according to claim 4.

6. a second jump-out restriction section provided on the holder so as to move along the endless track together with the holder, the second jump-out restriction section opening the release opening at the release location and at least partially covering the release opening while the holder moves along at least a portion of a conveying track portion between the supply location and the release location of the endless track, thereby restricting the plurality of stick-shaped objects from jumping out of the holding space through the release opening; 3. The conveying device according to claim 1 or 2.

7. a first jump-out restriction section extending along at least a portion of a conveying track portion between the supply point and the release point of the endless track, the first jump-out restriction section restricting the plurality of stick-shaped objects from jumping out of the holding space through the supply opening in at least a portion of the conveying track portion; 3. The conveying device according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The holder has a notch, While the holder moves along at least a portion of the conveying track portion, at least a portion of the first protrusion restriction portion is disposed in the holding space of the holder while passing through the notch portion.

8. The conveying device according to claim 7.

9. a second jump-out restriction section extending in an arc shape along at least a portion of a conveying track portion between the supply point and the release point of the endless track, the second jump-out restriction section facing an end face of the holder that defines the release opening in at least a portion of the conveying track portion to restrict the plurality of stick-shaped objects from jumping out of the holding space through the release opening, The end surface portion has a curved shape that follows the curve of the limiting surface of the second protrusion limiting portion that faces the end surface portion.

3. The conveying device according to claim 1 or 2.

10. a protrusion detection sensor that detects the protrusion of the plurality of stick-shaped objects from the holding space of the holder in a conveying track portion that is a portion of the endless track between the supply point and the release point; a control unit that receives a detection result of the pop-out detection sensor, 3. The conveying device according to claim 1 or 2.

11. an intermediate storage section that temporarily stores the plurality of stick-shaped objects released from the holder through the release opening and releases the plurality of stick-shaped objects into the container, the intermediate storage section moves between an intermediate supply position for receiving the plurality of stick-shaped objects released from the holder through the release opening, and an intermediate release position for releasing the plurality of stick-shaped objects into the container.

3. The conveying device according to claim 1 or 2.

12. A control unit is provided, The movement drive unit has a servo motor that is driven under the control of the control unit.

3. The conveying device according to claim 1 or 2.

13. 1. A method for transporting a plurality of stick-shaped objects using a transport device, comprising: the conveying device includes a holder having a holding space, a supply opening and a discharge opening communicating with the holding space, and a movement drive unit that moves the holder along an endless track including a supply point and a discharge point; the plurality of sticks are supplied to the holder at the supply location and the plurality of sticks are held in the holding space via the supply opening; and releasing the plurality of stick-shaped objects from the holding space to the outside through the release opening at the release location.

14. the conveying device has a first shutter and a second shutter that can be positioned at an open position that opens the supply opening and at a closed position that closes the supply opening, At the release location, the gas is blown toward at least one of a space between the first shutter and the second shutter and a space between at least one of the first shutter and the second shutter and a holder. The transport method according to claim 13.

Images