Processing station

Abstract

To provide a device and a method to transport and process a product.SOLUTION: A processing unit B for processing a product is provided with a transportation unit M, processing means D1, D2, and auxiliary means H related to the processing means, and is capable of moving to a lateral direction Y of the transportation direction X relative to a fixed based body G, which makes receiving the product to be supplied to the processing unit B at a specific lateral position possible.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing station for conveying and processing discrete products conveyed across a processing section. Here, a number of similar products (production lots, hereinafter also referred to as batches) are often processed in a processing operation, after which the type of product or the processing required is changed. [Background technology]

[0002] Various treatment means are known which cooperate with the product during treatment to treat the product. This is for example a reading unit that captures the marking of the product. Also contemplated are inspection units that inspect specific characteristics of the product. Also, attaching markings to products is one such treatment process. In many cases, the product is moved into the range of the processing means in a conveying direction X using a conveying unit, e.g., a conveyor belt or similar conveying means, and in many cases, successful processing requires that the product be specially aligned or positioned relative to the processing means.

[0003] Thus, for example, the print head of the printing unit is moved and / or aligned towards the product, in particular transversely to the transport direction X, so that the printing process can be carried out with the desired Y distance between the product and the print head. Alternatively, the initially arbitrarily positioned product may be rerouted and / or aligned, for example, from the conveyor belt of the supply unit, first across a lane change section to a lane extending alongside the print head, and then aligned with the stationary print head by arriving at the processing means in an optimal position or arrangement for processing.

[0004] However, for example, if the movement of the print head is hindered by the conveyor belt, and the print head cannot move freely in the lateral direction Y, which is perpendicular to the conveying direction X, the above configuration may become difficult. On the other hand, lane change sections require additional, costly installation space across the transport path of the processing section. Furthermore, auxiliary means are often required to cooperate favorably with the processing means during product processing. Furthermore, the auxiliary means often must assume a specific position relative to the product during processing, making it even more difficult to correctly position the product, the processing means and the auxiliary means.

[0005] From US Pat. No. 5,649,999 a control system is known which comprises a central control unit connected to a number of sensors for capturing process parameters in real time. The control system incorporates actuators that are controlled by a controller based on collected data to optimize the functioning of the industrial process. This configuration allows for precise adjustment and control, focusing on increased efficiency and flexibility.

[0006] Patent Document 2 describes a processing apparatus having a processing chamber consisting of a base body and a holding device attached thereto. The holding device is configured to enable the object to be treated to be held securely. A locking device is incorporated to secure the object within the processing chamber and ensure accurate alignment. The structure of this locking device is designed to provide both stability and user friendliness, and is suitable for easy installation and maintenance.

[0007] Patent document 3 describes a workpiece handling device that includes a base plate, a support column vertically mounted on the base plate for structural support, a rotating arm attached to the support column for rotating the workpiece, and a gripping mechanism that grasps and holds the workpiece at the end of the rotating arm. The drive unit controls the movement of the rotating arm and the gripping mechanism. This configuration allows for accurate positioning and efficient handling of workpieces in industrial applications.

[0008] From DE 10 02 04 14 A1 an apparatus is known which comprises an apparatus with a base structure to which a holding device is attached. The holding device is used to hold a workpiece or object in a stable position. The device also includes a control mechanism that allows precise adjustment of the holding device. It is designed to ensure improved workpiece handling and positioning and is designed for ease of operation and versatility. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] German Patent Application Publication No. 102009048442 [Patent Document 2] German Utility Model No. 9304387 [Patent Document 3] Utility Model No. 107592 / 1988 [Patent Document 4] Korean Utility Model No. 200206740 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a processing station which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages. The present invention is achieved by a processing station according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 9. Further advantageous embodiments emerge from the dependent claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The invention is based on the insight that the processing means together with the auxiliary means and the transport unit can be shifted in the lateral direction Y as part of the processing unit, thereby allowing the product to be positioned relative to the processing means for its immediate processing. This allows, according to the invention, to move the processing unit or its transport unit to a Y position that can be predetermined to ensure successful processing before the product to be processed reaches the transport unit. By intelligently selecting the Y position, the product arrives at the transport unit in the optimum lateral position for further processing.

[0012] Here, a processing unit is part of a processing station according to the invention and is configured to transport and process discrete products in a product stream, extending in a conveying direction X, a transverse direction Y perpendicular to this and typically extending horizontally, and a height direction Z extending transversely to the conveying direction and typically extending vertically. The processing station comprises a base body that is fixedly positioned during normal operation, e.g., a machine frame that is positioned on the floor of the facility, and this base body is configured to receive and secure the various components of the processing station.

[0013] The processing station comprises a processing unit, which itself comprises a transport unit, at least one processing means and at least one auxiliary means assigned to the at least one processing means. The conveying units are configured to convey the products in a conveying direction X across a conveying surface formed by the conveying units. For example, the flat upper side of the transport belt of the transport unit can form the transport surface.

[0014] The processing means is configured to process the product while it is being transported by the transport unit or while it is paused. In particular, treatment means are intended which require a certain distance between the treatment means and the product for treatment.

[0015] Here, "processing" in the broadest sense is understood as each interaction that is specifically created between a product and a processing means, which is used to create, change or capture a property of the product. Also in this case, the marking of the product should be understood as a property of the product, and reading an already existing marking or attaching a new marking to the product corresponds to capturing or creating a product property. Here, inspecting a product using a camera, for example, to obtain information about certain product characteristics by image evaluation, should also be understood as capturing product characteristics, e.g., inspecting a product using X-rays to capture radiographic characteristics of a product, e.g., to find foreign objects in a product, to identify layer thicknesses, to detect filling levels, to perform integrity tests or leak tests, etc. In contrast, the mere presence or orientation of a product at a particular position on the conveying surface, which can be captured using a sensor for example, should not be understood as a property according to the above definition. Thus, for example, when using a photoelectric sensor, the distance between the product and the sensor is generally inconsequential. Also, for example, inductive or capacitive sensors that are used solely for the mere detection of products despite having certain distance requirements should not be understood as a means for capturing product characteristics.

[0016] Auxiliary means assigned to a particular processing means are used to assist or, in particular, enable the processing of the product by the processing means. For example, the aids may be guide members that align or guide the product during processing. In particular, the guide members serve to stabilize the product against shifting in the lateral direction Y while the processing means are applying, for example, markings to the product. Providing the product with the marking may consist of attaching a label or indicia to the product, the attachment being on the side of the product opposite the guide member. Here, the guide member ensures that the product is guided at a predetermined small Y distance relative to the processing means during marking application, which makes it possible to apply a high-quality marking to the product.

[0017] Embodiments are envisaged in which multiple processing means are provided. For example, a processing unit may include both a printing unit and a camera. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the processing unit comprises a plurality of auxiliary members, each of which may be assigned to a different processing means or even to only one processing means. For example, the guide member can serve to guide the product in the lateral direction Y both during the marking process and during subsequent or prior inspection using a camera, thereby preventing, for example, the product from departing from the camera's focal range during processing.

[0018] Alternatively, the first auxiliary member may simply guide the product during the marking process, while the second auxiliary member configured as a light shield or lighting device assists or optimizes image capture by the camera. In this case, these two auxiliary members are each assigned to a different processing means.

[0019] According to the invention, at least one processing means and at least one auxiliary means assigned to this at least one processing means each extend at least partially above the conveying surface, thereby making it possible or easy to process the products. According to this embodiment, at least one processing means extends at least partially below the conveying unit or conveying surface, whereby the conveying unit prevents the processing means from shifting freely in the lateral direction Y, in particular towards the products P arranged on the conveying surface.

[0020] According to the invention, at least one processing means and at least one auxiliary member assigned to this at least one processing means for processing the product are fixed to the processing unit on two mutually opposing sides in the transverse direction Y of the product. Thus, during processing, the processing means and the assigned auxiliary member receive the product between them, and the processing means on one side of the product and the auxiliary member on the opposite side cooperate with each other to carry out the processing appropriately.

[0021] The essence of the invention is that the processing means and the auxiliary elements assigned to said processing means are configured to be movable together with the transport unit in the transverse direction Y relative to the base body to which they are fixed. According to the present invention, this relative movement allows the product to be supplied to the processing unit to be received at a predetermined Y position on the conveying surface, and then the product can be transported and processed through a passage between the auxiliary member and the processing means.

[0022] The ability of the handling means, the auxiliary means and the transport unit to move together allows particularly flexible adjustment to different product sizes and feed positions in the lateral direction Y of the products. Thus, as is clear from the illustrated example, the processing unit can receive the products to be fed to it at a selectable Y position or at the conveying surface of the conveying unit. And the position of the processing means relative to the transport unit does not have to be changed (ie, newly adjusted) for this purpose. Also, while the auxiliary means maintains its own position relative to the transport unit or processing means, all three units can be shifted together in the lateral direction Y while remaining substantially fixed relative to each other so as to shift to the Y position required to receive the product to be supplied to the transport unit.

[0023] On the other hand, this co-shifting arrangement does not exclude the pre-preparation of processing units for the processing of a particular product type, for example to be processed in batches or in large numbers. In this case, the auxiliary means and / or the handling means may first need to be adjusted and then positioned and fixed in the transverse direction Y relative to the transport unit. For example, the guide members as auxiliary means and / or the printing units as processing means can first be adjusted to the width of the product to be printed by laterally shifting and then fixing each before the processing operation begins. Once the lateral position (receiving position) at which the product is introduced into the transport unit is known, the processing unit can be moved in the lateral direction Y relative to the base body so that one side of the received product, which is the printing target, can pass just past the printing head of the printing unit, while the opposite side can be guided and stabilized by a guide member that has been positioned and fixed in advance. For every further supply of products of the same product type, neither a new lateral shift of the entire processing unit nor a new mutual adjustment of the relative positions of the processing means, auxiliary means and transport unit is required.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the invention, the processing station comprises a supply unit arranged upstream of the processing unit, the supply unit being configured to transfer the products to the transport unit. This supply unit may then comprise a conveyor belt or similar conveying means on which the products are conveyed in a conveying direction X towards the conveying unit and handed over to it. According to the invention, the processing unit can be shifted relative to the supply unit so that the product can be transferred from the supply unit to the transport unit in a line or lane at a selectable Y position in the conveying direction X, without the product itself having to be changed lanes or shifted laterally on the supply or transport unit for further processing.

[0025] Unlike the processing unit, the supply unit may be fixedly connected, for example, to the base body of the processing station. It is neither necessary nor useful to shift the supply unit in the Y direction, i.e. laterally, to realize the present invention, since the object of the present invention cannot be achieved by configuring the device in accordance with the present invention in the reverse manner (i.e. by providing a fixed processing unit and a laterally shiftable supply unit). This is because in this case the supply unit has to be repositioned by individually shifting laterally relative to the processing unit located downstream for each individual product being transported on it, which results in the supply unit's transport capacity being significantly limited and requiring continuous movement.

[0026] Instead, the processing unit is movable in the transverse direction Y relative to the supply unit, so that the products coming from the supply unit are transferred from the supply unit to the transport unit or the transport surface formed by the transport unit at a selectable Y position.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the invention, the processing station is supported by a guide, in particular a linear guide, which is itself connected to the base body. For example, the guide may comprise a lower part connected to the base body and an upper part as a carriage movable in the transverse direction Y relative to the lower part and connected to the processing unit. The guide can be manually operated, for example, by an operator moving the carriage laterally before the start of a processing operation and fixing it in this position. Alternatively, the guide may further comprise a drive device and may also operate automatically, for example by means of a control device which automatically adjusts the lateral position to be approached for processing depending on the product to be processed and its processing.

[0028] The processing means may for example be configured as a printing unit. The printing unit may be configured, for example, to print the product with markings on the side that protrudes from the conveying surface. Furthermore, by configuring the marking to be attached slightly above the transport surface, it is possible to similarly position the print head slightly above the transport surface. For this purpose, it may be necessary to position the printing units at the edge of the transport surface so that part of the printing units can also extend below the transport surface. In this case, the processing unit can be positioned in the transverse direction Y relative to the supply unit located upstream so that the products transfer from the supply unit to the transport unit exactly at the end of the transport surface or the end of the transport belt of the transport unit. For this purpose, the auxiliary element configured as a guide element is adjusted and fixed in the processing unit depending on the product width, so that the product is placed on the end of the conveying belt and conveyed past the printing head and guide element or between the printing head and guide element while being as close as possible to them and without rotating. Also, as with the other processes, the application of markings or printing, for example inkjet printing, can be performed while the product is being transported by the transport unit or while the transport belt is paused.

[0029] The processing means may also be configured as an inspection unit. This should also include a means of capturing markings, specific geometric features, and product dimensions attached to the product. This includes, for example, cameras, RFID sensors, barcode scanners, and QR code scanners. Here too, X-ray devices for capturing specific product characteristics or radiographic characteristics, e.g. X-ray devices for detecting product inhomogeneities or foreign bodies, fill level measurement, light transmission inspection, e.g. X-ray devices for sealing seam inspection, should be included in the group of inspection units. Here, in the case of X-ray examination, the operating means may be, for example, a scintillator, another sensor or detector for detecting X-rays, and the associated auxiliary means may be an X-ray source. In this case, these two components can be positioned opposite each other in the transverse direction Y, allowing inspection of the products conveyed passing between them ("side view").

[0030] Also conceivable as treatment means are ejectors which are capable of ejecting individual products from the conveying stream. In this case, the ejector member is pivotable or movable above the conveying surface and exerts a force laterally on the products by means of an impact, thereby displacing the products downward from the conveying surface. A related auxiliary element may be a guide element which guides the product acted upon by the steering element downward from the conveying plane, for example into a container arranged adjacent to the conveying unit.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary member is configured as a guide member that guides the product conveyed on the conveying surface laterally (in the lateral direction Y). For this purpose, the guide elements have guide surfaces along which the products can slide and against which they can adhere when the conveyor belt is temporarily stopped. The guide surface also serves to prevent the product from rotating or shifting on the conveying surface. Preferably, the guide surface extends in the conveying direction X. The guide surface is preferably flat. Most preferably, the guide surface extends in the XZ plane. The guide member may be useful in a variety of processing tools where guiding of the product during processing is required. This involves attaching markings to the side of the product opposite the guide surface, and in particular when a force in the lateral direction Y is applied to the product due to processing (e.g. when attaching a label), the guide member receives and compensates for this force. The guide member also prevents the product to be inspected using the image recognition means from changing position in the lateral direction Y during processing, for example, by keeping the product within the focal range of the camera, thereby enabling accurate acquisition of image data.

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary members may be configured as light shields, backlight devices, protection from electromagnetic radiation, wind protection members, reflecting means, lighting means or other components directly assigned to the respective processing means and specifically provided to enable or facilitate the processing of the products by the respective processing device.

[0033] According to a further embodiment of the invention, it is also conceivable that the auxiliary means are configured as further processing means. Thus, for example, two opposing cameras can be used to photograph a product from two sides, or printing can be performed on one side of the product while a camera works with the product on the opposite side to capture an image. It is also conceivable to use two printing units, for example, to apply two markings to two opposite sides of a product, each of which has an auxiliary means that acts as a guide member for the printing unit and is at the same time part of the opposite printing unit. It is also conceivable to use two cameras on opposite sides in the lateral direction Y, and the guide member that functions as an auxiliary member for the first camera can simultaneously support the second camera. A second camera can also capture features on the top side of the product opposite the conveying plane.

[0034] Preferably, the at least one handling means and / or the at least one auxiliary means is manually or automatically adjustable and fixable in the lateral direction Y and / or in the height direction Z. This allows the processing unit to be tailored to products with different dimensions and different processing requirements. For example, the height position of the marking applied to the product can be adjusted by fixing the processing means configured as a printing device at the required height.

[0035] The processing station according to the invention itself is fixed and comprises, for example, a common frame as base body on which the processing units are movable and on which the supply unit can be fixedly attached. Here, it is preferable that the processing unit movable in the lateral direction Y relative to the base body is limited as much as possible to the components necessary to realize the principle of the present invention of shifting in the lateral direction (at least one processing means, a transport unit, and at least one auxiliary means). In contrast to this, further mechanical components, such as a housing protecting all or part of the processing station, associated control cabinets, control devices, operating terminals or display units, etc., can preferably be fixedly connected to the base body, since lateral shifting of these components is not directly necessary for implementing the concept of the present invention and the resulting mass to be shifted is small.

[0036] As long as the transport unit of the processing unit can transport the product to be processed between the processing means and the auxiliary means, it can meet the requirements for implementing the present invention. In this case, the conveyor belt preferably has a continuous belt surface. However, alternatively, other conveying devices or conveying principles are also conceivable, depending on the products to be conveyed. Thus, for example, belt conveyors with multiple parallel running belts, roller conveyors or chain conveyors can also be used, as long as the proper transport of the products and the lateral shiftability of the processing units due to the transport principle do not adversely affect the implementation of the invention. Furthermore, the supply unit can be implemented based on various conveying devices known to those skilled in the art, as long as it can deliver the product to the conveying unit.

[0037] The processing station according to the invention may comprise additional transport members arranged above the transport surface to assist in transporting the products. Therefore, a further transport unit can be disposed above the transport unit so that the product can be sandwiched between the upper and lower transport units and transported. Also in this case, the upper transport unit, also called upper runner, is part of the processing unit and is shiftable in the lateral direction Y together with the lower transport unit, the processing means and the auxiliary means. Additionally, the top runner itself may be laterally shiftable and securable relative to the processing unit and / or base body, allowing alignment for specific product types. Furthermore, the top runner can carry further processing means, for example a printing device, a camera, etc., configured for the top side of the product. If the top runner or a means attached to it supports a process by other process means, the top runner can also be understood in the broadest sense as an auxiliary means.

[0038] A method for processing a product (P) using a processing station (T) according to the present invention uses the processing station and the supply unit described above and comprises the following steps: 10) positioning the processing unit laterally relative to the supply unit according to the position at which the product should be placed on the supply unit when transferred to the transport unit; 20) Conveying at least one product using a supply unit, automatically transferring the product to a transport unit of the processing unit, then transporting the product in a transport direction and processing the product by means of processing means and auxiliary means assigned to the processing means.

[0039] After execution of method step 10), method step 20) can be immediately repeated for each subsequent product of the same type or treatment, without the need for a new adjustment or lateral shift each time after method step 10). Here, it is assumed that each product is always transported by the supply unit at the same lateral position so as to arrive at the conveying surface at the transfer position on which the adjustment according to method step b) is based.

[0040] In preparation for product processing, according to an embodiment of the method, it is preferred to carry out the following steps before method step 10). 05) Positioning the at least one processing means and the auxiliary means assigned to the at least one processing means in the transverse direction Y relative to the transport unit depending on the product to be transported, in particular adjusting the distance in the transverse direction Y between the at least one processing means and the auxiliary means assigned to the at least one processing means.

[0041] This ensures that the distance of the processing means and / or auxiliary means to the product and / or the distance between them is adjusted for subsequent processing. This step only needs to be performed once for a batch of similar product and can be replaced with method step 10) depending on product availability.

[0042] An embodiment of the method relates to using a guide member as auxiliary member, the guide member having a guide surface extending substantially in the conveying direction X. Here, method steps 05 and / or 10) are performed under the following conditions: i) a portion of the first outer surface of the product is aligned with the guide surface when delivered to the conveying surface by the supply unit, such that the product is laterally guided by the guide member after delivery to the processing unit; and / or ii) A part of the second outer surface of the product, after delivery to the processing unit, assumes a predeterminable Y position in the conveying plane required for processing by the processing means.

[0043] For example, in order to print the side of the product with the aid of a guide member, first the distance Y between the guide surface of the guide member and the processing means (e.g., the print head) is determined. DHThis distance Y can be set DH corresponds substantially to the width in the lateral direction Y of the product to be processed, so that the first side of the product is guided accurately and closely along the print head. This adjustment can be done, for example, by shifting the guide element a predetermined distance in the lateral direction Y relative to the print head and fixing it to the processing unit in this position. In this case, the print head does not have to be shifted as well and can even be permanently fixed to the processing unit, for example. The processing means "print head", the transport unit and the auxiliary means "guide elements", in this relatively mutually fixed configuration, can together, as part of the processing unit, be shifted in the lateral direction Y relative to the base body.

[0044] Here, the processing unit can be positioned relative to the supply unit so that a second side of the product received from the supply unit, opposite the first side in the lateral direction Y, passes close to the print head during further transport, thereby producing a high-quality printed image on this second side. In this particular application (printing), the processing stations are precisely adjusted to the product width and product feed position by means of method steps i) and ii). Also, for example, when inspecting a product using a camera, the processing unit can be shifted to receive the product at exactly the Y position of the conveying plane, where the product is guided through the focal range of the camera during further transport by the conveying unit.

[0045] For X-ray inspection, it is preferable to position the product so that all rays emitted by the X-ray source are directed at the product, x-raying it over its entire vertical extent. Additionally, the X-ray source and X-ray detector are preferably positioned relative to each other so that the beam of light that X-rays the product, typically emitted from the X-ray source in a fan pattern, makes maximum use of the size of the X-ray detector located behind the product. This is illustrated in FIG.

[0046] For similar processing with respect to the positioning requirements above, the products can be delivered in a straight lane from the supply unit to the transport unit and processed there.

[0047] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail based on the illustrated examples. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0048] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 3 shows the embodiment according to FIG. 2 after a lateral shift of the processing units; [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a simplified plan view of the device according to FIG. 1; [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a simplified plan view of the device according to FIG. 2; [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] Schematic diagram showing X-ray irradiation of a product. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] FIG. 1 shows in a simplified perspective view a processing station T according to the invention, which extends in a horizontal transport direction X, a horizontal lateral direction Y perpendicular to this, and a height direction Z perpendicular to both directions.

[0050] The processing station T is arranged on a base body G, which is only partially shown and is configured as a frame and fixed, and which can be attached, for example, to the floor of a manufacturing facility.

[0051] A supply unit A is mounted on the base body G and is fixedly connected to the base body G. The product P is conveyed in the conveying direction X using the supply unit A. Furthermore, immediately downstream of this supply unit A, a processing unit B is disposed. The processing unit B has a transport unit M which is likewise configured to transport the products P in a transport direction X and, for this purpose, receives the products P from a supply unit A arranged upstream. The supply unit A and the transport unit M each include an endless transport belt. The upper sides of the conveyor belts are positioned flush at the same height, and the conveyor belt of the conveyor unit M defines a conveying plane E on its upper side.

[0052] The processing unit B comprises a first processing means D1 configured as a printing unit, which comprises a print head D1, not shown in detail, which is closely connected to the conveying surface E in the lateral direction Y. The printing unit D1 extends both above and below the conveying plane E. The processing unit B also comprises a second processing means D2 configured as a camera, which is arranged in close proximity to and immediately upstream of the first processing means D1. Also, the camera D2 is closely connected to the conveying surface E at the side and extends both upward and downward as well. Apart from these illustrated solutions, it is also conceivable to position the camera D2 downstream of further processing means, for example to check the quality of the printed image that has just been applied upstream.

[0053] On the opposite side of the transport unit M in the lateral direction Y, a guide member H F and the auxiliary means is provided with a guide surface F extending substantially in the XZ plane. This guide member H F is used to guide or stabilize the product P in the lateral direction Y while it is being photographed by the camera D2 and printed by the printing unit D1. In this way, the guide member H F is assigned to both the camera D2 and the printing unit D1 and assists both of these processing means in their respective processes.

[0054] In addition, the guide member H F The position of can be freely adjusted in the lateral direction Y relative to the transport unit M or relative to the processing means D1 and D2 and can be fixed using two clamping rails not specified in detail. In addition, the guide member H F can be shifted towards the printing unit D1 or the camera D2 and positioned above the transport plane E instead of to the side.

[0055] Processing means D1, processing means D2, transport unit M, and guide member H F The processing unit B is connected to a linear guide L which can be manually operated by a hand wheel, so that the processing unit B can be freely shifted in the lateral direction Y relative to the base body G and therefore also relative to the supply unit A. The processing unit B can optionally be fixed at each selected shift position along the linear guide L using fixing means not shown in detail to prevent unintended shifting. Alternatively, for example, a threaded spindle of the linear guide L can provide the required fixation with sufficient friction or self-locking.

[0056] In FIG. 1 it can be seen that the product P is positioned approximately in the center of the supply unit A and is fed to the transport unit M in this lateral position. This position is disadvantageous at least for processing using the printing unit D1 because the print head cannot reach the side of the product P facing the printing unit D1 when the product P is transported on the transport plane E. In this way, printing is not possible.

[0057] In contrast, as can be seen in FIG. 2, thanks to the ability of the processing unit B to move relative to the base body G or the supply unit A according to the invention, it is possible to change its lateral position to be advantageous for the printing process and to receive the product P. For this purpose, the processing unit B is shifted in the lateral direction Y by a displacement ΔY using linear guides L, so that the product P reaches the transport unit M at the end of the conveyor belt or conveying surface E and can thus be handed over to this transport unit M. At this time, the side of the product to be printed will reach the print head D1 at the close distance required for printing.

[0058] 3 and 4 show the principle according to the invention in a simplified plan view of the conveying surface E. FIG. Here, Figure 3 shows a case where product P can be handed over from supply unit A to the transport unit in the correct lateral position, i.e., at the left end of supply unit A as viewed in the transport direction X, so that product P can be printed using printing unit D1. Therefore, the processing unit B does not need to be laterally shifted relative to the base body G or the supply unit A.

[0059] Also in FIG. 3, a guide element H is provided with a guide surface F so that the product P is guided laterally during its further transport and processing and is guided past the print head of the printing unit D1 with little play. F It can be seen that the axial direction Y is pre-positioned and fixed.

[0060] The camera provided as further processing means D2 is aligned and fixed in the lateral direction Y via positioning means not shown in detail so that the product P, i.e. the part of the product P that is the subject of the camera's image, is located within the camera's focal range.

[0061] 4 shows a case where the product P located at the right end of the supply unit A as viewed in the conveying direction X is introduced into the processing unit B. In FIG. However, in order to still be able to transfer the product P to the transport unit M in the lateral position shown in Figure 3 and process it there, the processing unit B can be shifted in accordance with the invention by a displacement ΔY relative to the base body G or the supply unit A, so that the product P can be delivered linearly to the transport unit M and processed there at the predetermined or currently required separation distance.

[0062] FIG. 5 shows, in simplified form, an alternative embodiment of the present invention, with repeated reference numerals corresponding to their respective above descriptions. One can see a processing device T comprising a supply unit A, a processing unit B arranged downstream thereof and an output belt arranged downstream thereof, not shown in detail. Unlike the supply unit A and the discharge belt, the processing unit B can again be shifted in the lateral direction Y relative to the base body G. The inspection device D2, which is configured as a camera, is positioned next to and just above the conveying surface E, and in this case is used as a processing means for capturing the product P supplied to the conveying surface E using an image recognition means. On the opposite side of the conveying surface E facing the camera D2 in the lateral direction Y, an auxiliary means cooperating with the camera D2 is a light blocking body H L are arranged in the form of This light shielding body H L However, it at least partially blocks the diffusion of light emitted by the lighting device integral to the camera D2 into the surroundings, since in normal cases this is a flash light that would be disturbing to the operator.

[0063] These camera D2, transport unit M and light blocking body H L can be shifted in accordance with the invention in the lateral direction Y as a collection of processing units B so that the products P delivered by delivery unit A are located in the focal range of camera D2.

[0064] FIG. 6 shows a product P undergoing X-ray inspection in a simplified manner as viewed in the conveying direction X. For this purpose, auxiliary means H configured as an X-ray source RQ directs the fan-shaped X-ray beam in the transverse direction Y onto processing means configured as an X-ray detector D3. At this time, the X-ray beams pass through the product P being transported on the transport unit M in the YZ plane and reach the X-ray detector D3, and the intensity of each X-ray beam varies depending on the X-ray imaging characteristics of the product P. In order to completely X-ray the entire product P, the processing unit with the transport unit M is shifted in the lateral direction Y so that the product P is transported in a position Y1 suitable for optimal X-ray photography rather than in an unfavorable lateral position Y0. To optimally utilize the size of the detector D3, the X-ray source H RQ The Y distance between the two has been adjusted in advance. In this way, the product P is completely X-rayed and the X-ray beam reaches the detector D3 over its entire available vertical capture range. [Explanation of symbols]

[0065] A Supply unit B Processing unit D,D * Processing means D1 Printing unit D2...Camera D3 X-ray detector E...Transport surface F Guide surface G··· base body H... Auxiliary member H RQ ...X-ray source H F Guide parts H L ...shading body L···Linear Guide M···Transport unit P...Product T··· Processing Station X: Transport direction Y: Horizontal direction Y0: Incorrect lateral position Y1: Preferred lateral position Y DH Distance between the processing means D and the auxiliary means H Z: Height direction ΔY: Displacement in the lateral direction Y

Claims

1. A processing station (T) for conveying and processing discrete products (P) in a product stream, said processing station (T) extending in a conveying direction (X), a lateral direction (Y) perpendicular to the conveying direction (X) and a height direction (Z) perpendicular to both directions, said processing station comprising a base body (G) whose position is fixed on a frame during normal operation, a) said processing station (T) comprises a processing unit (B), said processing unit (B) itself comprising a transport unit (M), at least one processing means (D) and at least one auxiliary means (H) assigned to said at least one processing means, b) the conveying unit (M) is configured to convey the products (P) in a conveying direction (X) across a conveying surface (E) formed by the conveying unit (M), c) the processing means (D) are configured to process the products (P) while they are being transported by the transport unit (M) or while they are temporarily stopped, and the processing is carried out using the auxiliary members (H) assigned to each of the processing means (D); In the processing station (T), d) said at least one auxiliary member (H) and said at least one handling means (D) each extend at least partially above said conveying surface (E); e) said at least one treatment means (D) and said at least one auxiliary member (H) assigned to said at least one treatment means (D) for treating said product (P), e １ ) fixed to the processing unit (B) on two opposite sides in the lateral direction (Y) of the product (P) conveyed by the conveying unit (M); e ２ ) A processing station (T) characterized in that it is movable (relatively movable) together with the conveying unit (M) in a lateral direction (Y) relative to the base body (G), thereby receiving a product (P) to be supplied to the processing unit (B) at a predetermined Y position of the conveying surface (E) or the conveying unit (M), and conveying it by passing between the auxiliary member (H) and the processing means (D).

2. 2. The processing station (T) of claim 1, further comprising a supply unit (A) arranged upstream of the processing unit (B) and fixed during normal operation, the supply unit (A) transporting a product (P) placed on the supply unit (A) in a transport direction (X) and supplying it to the transport unit (M) of the processing unit (B).

3. The processing unit (B) is supported by a guide (L), in particular a linear guide (L), which is connected to the base body (G) and can be operated automatically or manually; 3. A treatment station (T) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the guides (L) allow the treatment units (B) to be relatively movable in the lateral direction (Y).

4. The at least one processing means (D) a) a marking unit for printing on the side of the product (P), preferably on the side opposite to the auxiliary member (H), in particular a printing unit (D １ ) and and / or b) b １ ) features that mark the product (P), in particular markings attached to the product (P); or b ２ ) an inspection unit (D) for detecting product characteristics that can be detected by the detection means, in particular for detecting inhomogeneities or foreign bodies; ２ ) is configured as A treatment station (T) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The at least one auxiliary member (H) a) a guide member (H) having a guide surface (F) for guiding a product (P) conveyed on the conveying surface (E) in the lateral direction (Y) along the guide surface (F) at a predetermined Y position; Ｆ ) and and / or b) Light shield (H Ｌ ) or configured as a backlight device or an X-ray source, A treatment station (T) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. At least one auxiliary element (H) is provided with a further processing means (D) according to claim 4a) or claim 4b). ＊ 6. A processing station (T) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising:

7. 7. A processing station (T) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one processing means (D) and / or auxiliary means (H) is manually or automatically adjustable and fixable in the lateral direction (Y) and / or height direction (Z) so as to be able to guide and / or process products (P) of various widths and / or heights.

8. a) a housing at least partially enclosing said at least one processing unit (B); and / or b) A processing station (T) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a control unit and / or an evaluation unit and / or a display unit and / or a control cabinet, which are primarily assigned to the at least one processing unit (B), are fixedly connected to the base body (G).

9. A method for treating a product (P) using a treatment station (T) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and claim 2, 10) positioning the processing unit (B) laterally (Y) relative to the supply unit (A) depending on the position at which the product (P) is supplied onto the supply unit (A) when transferred to the transport unit (M); 20) A method for processing products (P) using a processing station (T), comprising the steps of transporting at least one product (P) using the supply unit (A) and automatically transferring the product (P) to the transport unit (M) of the processing unit (B), and then transporting the product (P) in a conveying direction (X) and processing the product (P) by the processing means (D) and the auxiliary means (H) assigned to the processing means (D).

10. Before method step 10), 05) positioning the at least one processing means (D) and the auxiliary means (H) assigned to the at least one processing means (D) in the transverse direction Y relative to the transport unit (M) depending on the product (P) to be transported, in particular the distance (Y) in the transverse direction (Y) between the at least one processing means (D) and the auxiliary means (H) assigned to the at least one processing means (D). ＤＨ 10. A method for processing a product (P) using a processing station (T) according to claim 9, further comprising the step of adjusting the temperature of the product (P).

11. The guide surface (F) extends substantially in the conveying direction (X), and the step of positioning the processing unit (B) in the lateral direction (Y) comprises: i) a part of the outer surface of the product (P) is aligned with the guide surface (F), so that the product (P) can be easily guided by the guide member (H) after delivery to the processing unit (B). Ｆ ) and guided laterally by and / or ii) A method for processing a product (P) using a processing station (T) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and claim 5a), in which a part of the outer surface of the product (P) takes a predeterminable Y position on the conveying surface (E) required for processing by the processing means (D) after delivery to the processing unit (B).

12. The step of positioning the processing unit (B) in the lateral direction (Y) includes: a) Camera (D ２ the area of ​​the product (P) to be photographed by the inspection unit configured as a camera is located in the focal range of the camera, or b) X-ray source (H ＲＱ ) so that the X-rays emitted from the X-ray detector 100 take an X-ray of the entire product (P), A method for processing a product (P) using a processing station (T) as claimed in claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the product (P) or a marking arranged on the product (P) is made to take a Y position on the conveying surface (E) after delivery of the product (P) to the processing unit (B).

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