System for processing elements

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (1, 1') for processing elements, comprising a supply device (2), a processing device (3) and a hollow transfer piping (4), the supply device (2) and the processing device (3) being connected to each other via the hollow transfer piping (4), the processing device (3) being designed for processing elements, the supply device (2) being designed to receive some elements and hand them over to the hollow transfer piping (4), the elements being able to be transferred to the processing device (3) via the hollow transfer piping (4) in order to supply the elements to the processing device (3), and in which pneumatically operated system components are provided for operating the system (1, 1'). According to the invention, the system (1, 1') comprises a gas compressor unit (23) for generating and providing compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air, the gas compressor unit (23) being provided in an installation space in which the system (1) is accommodated, the gas compressor unit (23) being designed to take in air from the environment of the treatment device (3) and / or the environment of the supply device (2) in the installation space and to provide compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air to the pneumatically operated system components for the operation of the supply device (2) and for the operation of the treatment device (3).

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001] [Prior art] Systems for processing elements are known, for example comprising system subunits including a supply device for supplying the element, a processing device, and a hollow transfer pipe for transporting the element from the supply device to the processing device.

[0002] The elements which are small components are for example functional elements such as rivets or joining elements such as connection elements. The elements are for example fed to a processing device or tool, for example collecting individual elements from a stock of elements and feeding the elements in an automated manner, where a pressurized gas such as pressurized air is used as a means of transport or energy carrier for example to transport the elements.

[0003] Pressurized air is used, for example, in pneumatic systems with cylinder-piston units, which use compressed air as energy carrier. In industrial applications, compressed air is, for example, supplied centrally to different consumers at different points of use. To compress the air, in particular, compressors are used, for example.

[0004] A drawback with many applications of compressed air is that it is insufficient as an energy carrier, with losses or energy losses occurring in areas up to 90% or more. This results in relatively high operating costs. Therefore, compressed air as an energy carrier has traditionally been subject to criticism. In view of the global climate crisis, for example, compressed air as an energy carrier has likewise been criticized for being insufficient.

[0005] [Objectives and Advantages of the Invention] It is an object of the present invention to provide a system for processing elements, in which the discussed drawbacks are minimized or can be avoided.

[0006] This object is achieved by the independent claims. Advantageous and advantageous further developments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0007] The invention starts from a system for processing elements, comprising a supply device, a processing device and a hollow transfer piping, the supply device and the processing device being connected to each other via the hollow transfer piping, the processing device being designed for processing elements, the supply device being designed to receive several elements and to transfer them to the hollow transfer piping, the elements being able to be transferred to the processing device via the hollow transfer piping in order to supply the elements to the processing device, and pneumatically operated system components are provided for operating the supply device and / or for operating the processing device. The system is designed as a technological system, such as part of a production facility, for example for setting rivets or functional elements on workpieces.

[0008] Elements that may be considered are, for example, connecting or joining elements such as screws and rivets, self-piercing rivets, clinch rivets, and / or functional elements such as self-piercing, punch-in, press-in, stamp-in nuts, and / or self-piercing, punch-in, press-in or stamp-in bolts. Thus, the supply device may be used in a versatile and flexible manner for different setting tasks. By means of the supply device, an associated processing device may be supplied with the respective element via a transfer piping.

[0009] The processing device is, for example, a tool such as a setting or pressing tool, a punching tool, and / or a clinching tool. The processing device is, for example, a tool for clinching, riveting, self-piercing riveting, and / or pressing in elements, such as functional elements and other elements that can be pressed in. The processing device is specifically designed to receive elements, for example from a transfer piping, such as a transfer duct or a supply hose, and to further process the elements and attach the elements to a workpiece. By way of example, elements can be pressed and / or punched, for example, into single-layer or multi-layer components with the processing device.

[0010] The workpiece is generally fixed, e.g. positioned, using a holding means, e.g. clamping means, and / or a position defining means. Operation and use of the means, e.g. opening and releasing of the means or clamping means, is accomplished, e.g. pneumatically. Alternatively, electrically operated clamping means are possible.

[0011] A feeding device, such as a feeding instrument or feeding arrangement, is designed in such a way as to receive and deliver the elements in a delivery configuration, such as as a pile of material or in a pile form, or in an undefined spatial orientation, etc. The feeding device is specifically designed to bring the elements into at least a substantially defined orientation or arrangement, and to transfer the elements to a transfer piping for onward transfer to a processing device.

[0012] The core of the invention is the fact that the system comprises a gas compressor unit for generating and supplying compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air, which is provided in the installation space in which the system is housed, and which is designed to take air from the environment of the processing device and / or the environment of the supply device in the installation space, and to supply compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air towards the pneumatically operable system components for the operation of the system. The gas compressor unit is designed for example to generate a compressed and / or accelerated gas volume forming the pressurized air. Pressurized air or gas pressure should be understood to mean the amount of gas that is available in a gas space that is defined, for example, towards the outside. The gas volume is a static gas volume or a dynamic or moving gas volume. The pressurized air is slightly higher than the ambient or atmospheric pressure level, for example 10% to 30% above the ambient or atmospheric pressure level, for example 10%, 20% or 30% above the average pressure level of approximately 1 bar. Pressurized air also includes gas or air quantities having pressure levels corresponding to multiples of the ambient pressure, such as 2-10 bar, up to a pressure level of more than 100 bar, or up to a maximum of several hundred bar, which can be technically generated and safely supplied from ambient air at ambient pressure.

[0013] For example, a gas compressor unit is designed to take in air from the environment of a processing device and / or the environment of a supply device in the installation space and to supply compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air towards pneumatically operable system components for the operation of the supply device and / or the operation of the processing device.

[0014] For example, the system includes exactly one gas compressor unit. For example, the system includes exactly one gas compressor unit that supplies pressurized air to a plurality of processing devices. For example, each system component of the processing device is supplied with pressurized air. For example, it is possible for a plurality of system components to be simultaneously supplied with pressurized air by exactly one gas compressor unit.

[0015] The system may, for example, comprise two, three, four, or five processing devices. For example, each processing device has at least one pneumatically operable system component. For example, each or all of the pneumatically operable system components of the two, three, four, or five processing devices are supplied with compressed air by exactly one gas compressor unit. For example, a gas compressor unit supplies exactly one pneumatically operable system component or supplies multiple or all pneumatically operable system components of the system.

[0016] For example, the system comprises two, three, four, or five supply devices with a pneumatically operable system component or a plurality of pneumatically operable system components. For example, the plurality of supply devices comprises exactly one gas compressor unit or exactly two gas compressor units. For example, each of the plurality of gas compressor units has exactly one gas compressor unit. For example, each of the plurality of supply devices has exactly one gas compressor unit.

[0017] For example, the supply device comprises one gas compressor unit. For example, the processing device comprises one gas compressor unit. For example, the gas compressor unit is provided as a unit separate from the supply device and separate from the processing device. For example, the gas compressor unit is provided in an installation space separate from the supply device and separate from the processing device, and is provided in, for example, a movable or immobile form.

[0018] For example, exactly one gas compressor unit in the system supplies pressurized air to two processing devices in the system, three processing devices in the system, four processing devices in the system, or five processing devices in the system.

[0019] For example, exactly one gas compressor unit of the system supplies pressurized air to two or more air pressure operable system components of the system.

[0020] For example, exactly one, or exactly two, or exactly three, or exactly four gas compressor units are provided in the system, e.g., as part of the supply device and / or as part of the processing device and / or as separate gas compressor units external to the supply device and / or the processing device.

[0021] For example, the supply device may comprise a pneumatically operable system component, or multiple pneumatically operable system components, one or more of which may be supplied with pressurized air by exactly one gas compressor unit of the system.

[0022] For example, the processing device may comprise a pneumatically operable system component, or multiple pneumatically operable system components, one or more of which may be supplied with compressed air by exactly one gas compressor unit of the system.

[0023] For example, the processing device may include a pneumatically operable system component, such as a pressurized air consumer, e.g., the processing device may include a pneumatically operable system component designed as a clamping system component for clamping or holding a workpiece or multiple workpiece layers of a workpiece.

[0024] The proposed architecture of the system includes a decentralized on-site pressurized air supply. The proposed system forms an opposite concept to a central pressurized air supply. Thereby, it is possible to avoid the drawbacks of centrally supplied pressurized air as an energy carrier. Forward losses or energy losses of the central pressurized air are avoided or at least minimized. Furthermore, operating costs can be reduced compared to a system with a central pressurized air supply. In the proposed system, it is possible to minimize leakage and / or piping losses, in particular by using the spatial proximity of the gas compressor unit to the location of consumption of the compressed air. For example, overpressure losses can be minimized, thereby making it possible to realize considerable potential savings with respect to a central pressurized air supply.

[0025] It is possible in a technically advantageous manner to use different compressor principles for different requirements on the compressed air supply for the system components, for example with regard to the pressure level and / or the volumetric flow rate of the compressed air supplied, As a result, it is possible to use the respective selected compressor principle in a selective manner adapted to the respective application.

[0026] By means of a gas compressor unit or gas compression unit, for example, gas, more specifically air from the immediate environment of the treatment device and / or the supply device, is taken in the installation space. The taken in ambient air has an ambient air pressure or atmospheric pressure, such as an ambient air pressure of about 1 bar.

[0027] Gas compressor units are designed to provide a predeterminable amount of compressed air and / or a quantity of gas at a predeterminable pressure level.

[0028] By using pressurized air, it is possible to pneumatically transport the elements, for example with a gas volume as in a gas flow, the transport of the pressurized air taking place in a transport piping, so that the elements reach the processing device in the transport piping.

[0029] The pressurized air for the system components that can be operated with the air pressure of the supply device is generated, for example, directly in the supply device or supply arrangement and not by some other pressurized air system. The pressurized air is supplied without the need for externally supplied pressurized air. In the system, in particular, it is possible to have a fully distributed, for example central pressurized air supply or a pressurized air supply that comes from outside and is connected.

[0030] Overall, it is possible with the proposed system to avoid losses such as overpressure losses, piping system losses or piping system pressure losses, and / or leakage losses. Monitoring or controllability of the gas compressor unit allows the compressed air to be generated in a way that dynamically and precisely matches the demand. It is advantageously possible to define the exact compressed air volume and / or pressure level required for the pneumatically operable system components.

[0031] The system components may, for example, form a consumer of pressurized air.

[0032] The system may, for example, have exactly one system component. Generally, there may be a plurality of such system components in the system. The system may, for example, have a plurality of pneumatically operable system components. In this case, several different configurations are possible. For example, exactly one gas compressor unit may be assigned to exactly one system component. Alternatively or additionally, exactly one gas compressor unit may be assigned to several system components. Exactly one gas compressor unit may, for example, supply compressed air to exactly two, or exactly three, or more than three system components.

[0033] It is also contemplated that multiple gas compressor units, e.g., exactly two gas compressor units, may be assigned to a system component operable at exactly one air pressure. For example, multiple gas compressor units, or exactly two gas compressor units, may operate simultaneously and simultaneously supply compressed air to exactly one associated system component. For example, exactly one of the multiple gas compressor units, or, for example, exactly one of the two gas compressor units, may operate simultaneously and supply compressed air to exactly one associated system component at any one time.

[0034] For example, multiple gas compressor units, such as exactly two gas compressor units, are assigned to multiple system components. For example, two or more gas compressor units supply pressurized air to two or more system components. Exactly one active or multiple active gas compressor units may be used to simultaneously supply pressurized air to multiple system components.

[0035] For example, exactly one gas compressor unit is provided, which supplies the generated pressurized air, by which the elements can be transported in the transfer piping and / or the system components can be operated by means of exactly one gas compressor unit. For example, multiple system components can be supplied with pressurized air. For example, the elements can be supplied to a processing device via the transfer piping by means of pressurized air from exactly one gas compressor unit, and each further system component can be supplied with pressurized air, for example, via in each case one associated further pressurized air piping. For example, multiple system components can be supplied with pressurized air from exactly one gas compressor unit by means of a respective pressurized air piping.

[0036] The gas compressor unit may be set up as a separate unit near the processing device or may be part of the supply device.

[0037] For example, another additional pressurized air pipe between the gas compressor unit and a system component of the processing device or a system component installed in the processing device is provided in addition to the transfer pipe for pneumatic transfer of elements to the processing device. For example, the system component is a motion drive. For example, another additional pressurized air pipe is provided for feeding the pressurized air provided by exactly one gas compressor unit to a motion drive of a processing device punch that can be movably driven. For example, the pressurized air fed by the another additional pressurized air pipe is used to drive the movement of the processing device punch in a pneumatic and / or pneumatic manner. For example, another additional pressurized air pipe or several other additional pressurized air pipes are provided between the gas compressor unit and the processing device. The pressurized air pipe is provided for example for pneumatic operation of a system component of the processing device or a system component in the processing device.

[0038] Other refinements of these variations are possible.

[0039] For example, a system for press joining materials is proposed, comprising a press joining device, the press joining device being designed for press joining, the system being arranged in an installation space, and a pneumatically operable system component for operating the press joining device being provided, the system comprising a gas compressor unit for generating and / or supplying a compressed and / or accelerated gas quantity, the gas compressor unit being arranged in the installation space, the gas compressor unit being designed to take in air from an environment of the press joining device in the installation space and designed to supply compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air towards the pneumatically operable system component for operation of the press joining device.

[0040] In this case, it is possible in a system comprising a press joining device to achieve the advantages explained above and to avoid the disadvantages considered in systems with a central pressurized air supply.

[0041] A press joining device, such as a clinching tool or a press joining tool, for example has a pneumatic, hydro-pneumatic or pneumo-hydraulic drive. For example, a gas compressor unit is used to supply pressurized air to the pneumatic, hydro-pneumatic or pneumo-hydraulic drive.

[0042] The gas compressor unit may be provided separately or in a manner integrated into the processing device, for example separately or mounted on the press fitting tool.

[0043] The processing device is, for example, a setting tool, a clinching tool, a riveting tool, a self-piercing riveting tool and / or a press-in tool. An electric drive, such as an electric motor, is also possible as drive for a processing device such as a setting device or as drive for the setting tool, the clinching tool, the riveting tool, the self-piercing riveting tool and / or the press-in tool.

[0044] The press joint device can for example be mounted on a robot arm of a robot and can be moved and controlled in space, or alternatively the press joint device can be positioned in a fixed manner in the installation space.

[0045] It is proposed that there are several gas compressor units, which makes it possible to set up the system in a variable manner, for example in a manner adapted to the amount of compressed air required or to the required pressure level of the compressed air, and the system can be adapted to the number of consumers, or the number of pneumatic system components, or the number of supply devices, and / or the number of processing devices, and / or the number of press-joining devices.

[0046] The system may, for example, have exactly two, exactly three, exactly four, or more than four gas compressor units. Thus, for example, different or identical system components may be provided for the operation of the supply device and / or the operation of the processing device, and may be loaded into the system in a flexible manner. For example, two, three or more, or all of the gas compressors may be of the same design, such as of the same construction. For example, two, three or more, or all of the gas compressors may be identical in terms of a principle of operation, such as a principle of operation. For example, two, three or more, or all of the gas compressors may be of the same or different power ratings.

[0047] Alternatively, exactly one system component may be supplied with respective compressed air or respective compressed air streams simultaneously by exactly two or more gas compressor units.

[0048] It is not excluded that for exactly one consumer or exactly one pneumatic system component, exactly two gas compressor units are provided, for example to supply the system component with compressed air. For example, it is possible to have exactly one system component supplied at any one time by exactly one gas compressor unit of two or more gas compressor units.

[0049] Alternatively, two, three or more, or all of the plurality of gas compressors may differ, for example, in principle of operation or in construction, e.g., two, three or more, or all of the plurality of gas compressors are of different power ratings.

[0050] For example, the pneumatically operable system components for operating the processing device include an element loading station and / or a tool changing station, which can be temporarily removed from the processing device or moved away from the processing device, but installed in the same working environment. For example, the element loading station or the tool changing station can be coupled, for example temporarily, to the processing device, for example, to load the element and to change the tool.

[0051] An element filling station, for example a riveting element filling station, is used to fill an element storage container, for example an element magazine, in a processing device. For example, the element filling station has a plurality of elements. With pressurized air provided by a gas compressor unit, the element filling station can be operated pneumatically, for example via a pneumatic connection between the gas compressor unit and the element filling station. For example, the gas compressor unit is part of the supply device. Alternatively, the gas compressor unit is provided outside the supply station. For example, the elements can be transferred pneumatically from the element filling station to the processing device. In the coupled state of the element filling station and the processing device, for example, the elements can be transferred from the element filling station to an element storage device, for example, which remains permanently in the processing device. For example, a slide of the element filling station is operated pneumatically. To transfer the elements from the element filling station to the processing device or to the element storage device, the processing device is moved to the element filling station in a fixed position, brought into a mutually coupled state, and after the transfer, the processing device is moved away again from the element filling station. For the purpose of transferring elements, it is also possible for the element loading station to be moved to the processing device or to an element storage device in the processing device and, after transfer, to be moved away again from the processing device.

[0052] It is possible, for example, by means of the tool changing station, to change or exchange the tool of the processing device for a different tool provided in the tool changing station. During this process, a coupling, such as a temporary coupling of the tool changing station with the processing device, is performed. For example, a tool is removed from the processing device and replaced by a tool in the tool changing station. In this case, for example, the tool from the processing device is received by the tool changing station. In order to exchange the tool in the coupled state, by removing the previously present tool in the processing device and loading the tool from the tool changing station in the processing device, the processing device is moved, for example, to the tool changing station and, after the transfer, moved away again. Conversely, it is also possible to move the tool changing station to the processing device for the purpose of tool exchange and, after the exchange of the tool, to move the tool changing station away again from the processing device.

[0053] For example, exactly one gas compressor unit is provided that is designed to supply compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air to multiple pneumatically operable system components, for example, exactly one gas compressor unit is provided that is designed to supply compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air to multiple pneumatically operable system components that are of the same type or to multiple pneumatically operable system components that are different.

[0054] For example, the pressurized air provided by the gas compressor unit can be used to operate a pneumatically operated system component or multiple pneumatic system components in a processing device, such as a pneumatically operated system component that may be temporarily coupled to the processing device or that is permanently present in the processing device.

[0055] For example, the supply device comprises exactly one gas compressor unit capable of supplying pressurized air for the operation of several pneumatic system components. Exactly one gas compressor unit, for example exactly one compressor, supplies pressurized air, which is used for operating an element filling station and for operating a tool changing station of a pneumatic system component in a processing device, such as a pneumatic drive for a punch of the processing device and / or a pneumatic drive for pneumatic transfer of elements from the supply device to the processing device via a transfer piping. In this case, for example, two, three or four different system components are supplied with pressurized air by means of exactly one gas compressor unit. Several pneumatic components, for example control valves and / or regulating valves, are present in the system for the purpose of supplying pressurized air in a manner controlled by a control unit. The pneumatic components can be operated with the pressurized air supplied by the gas compressor unit.

[0056] Improvements are obtained by designing the gas compressor unit to supply pressurized air at different pressure levels. The different pressure levels can be provided at specified times, for example by means of a system control unit. For example, exactly one gas compressor unit under consideration can be regulated, for example by means of a control unit or by regulating means, in such a way that the one gas compressor unit under consideration supplies pressurized air at the respectively required pressure level. It is conceivable here for the gas compressor unit to supply different pressure levels of pressurized air to consumers or system components, for example exactly one system component requiring a respective different pressure level of pressurized air in a time-dependent manner. It is also conceivable for the gas compressor unit to selectively supply pressurized air to exactly one of two consumers or to one pneumatic system component of two system components requiring a respective different pressure level of pressurized air. The gas compressor unit may be connected in a switchable manner, for example to a first system component or a second system component, thereby allowing the gas compressor unit to supply the respective pressurized air at the respective appropriate pressure level to exactly one system component at any one time. This may be advantageous, for example, when exactly one of a plurality of pneumatic system components operates at any one time.

[0057] It is further advantageous if two gas compressor units are provided, the two gas compressor units differing in construction and / or principle of operation, which allows proper or optimal operation of the system components at the respective required volumetric flow rates of compressed air and / or at the respective pressure levels of compressed air.

[0058] The at least two gas compressor units may, for example, have a gas compressor unit operating according to the dynamic compression principle. The at least two gas compressor units may, for example, have a gas compressor unit operating according to the dynamic compression principle and equipped with an axial turbo compressor.

[0059] The at least two gas compressor units include, for example, a gas compressor unit operating according to the dynamic compression principle and equipped with a radial turbo compressor.

[0060] The at least two gas compressor units may, for example, comprise gas compressor units operating according to the positive displacement principle.

[0061] The at least two gas compressor units may, for example, comprise gas compressor units operating according to the positive displacement principle and may comprise a rotary compressor and / or a piston compressor.

[0062] An exemplary refinement of the system consists in providing one gas compressor unit operating according to the dynamic compression principle and one gas compressor unit operating according to the positive displacement principle. This allows the system to be flexibly adapted to different requirements in terms of pressure level and / or volumetric flow rate of compressed air. For example, exactly one gas compressor unit based on the above compressor principle and exactly one gas compressor unit based on the positive displacement principle are provided in the system.

[0063] In the dynamic compression principle, air is drawn between the blades of a rapidly rotating compressor rotor and accelerated to high speeds. The accelerated gas or air is then forced through a diffuser, where the kinetic energy of the air flow is converted into static pressure. Often, gas compressor units operating according to the dynamic compression principle are dynamic compressors, for example turbo compressors with an axial or radial pattern.

[0064] In the case of the positive displacement principle, according to which piston compressors operate, for example, air is taken into one or more compression chambers, after which the intake inlets of the compression chambers are closed and the volume of each individual compression chamber is gradually reduced. During this process, the air is compressed in the compression chambers. When the pressure in the compression chambers reaches the desired pressure level or the desired pressure ratio, the connection or valve leading to the compression chamber is opened. Due to the continuous reduction in the volume of the compression chambers, the compressed air flows outward from the compression chambers to the system components that can be operated pneumatically. The air flows out of the compression chambers to the adjacent chambers, for example in the outlet system. The air flows outward from the compression chambers to the system components at the corresponding pressure levels.

[0065] According to one variant, the gas compressor unit is designed to deliver a pressure level that is less than 0.3 bar above the initial pressure, or less than 0.2 bar above the initial pressure, or less than 0.1 bar above the initial pressure, the gas compressor unit working according to the positive displacement principle. The initial pressure reflects, for example, the pressure level of the induced pressure and is generally in the region of 1 bar or the ambient air pressure.

[0066] The gas compressor unit is designed to provide a pressure level having an absolute gas pressure of more than 2 bar, such as, for example, 3 bar, or, for example, 4 bar, or, for example, 5 bar, or, for example, more than 6 bar. The absolute gas pressure is provided by compressed or accelerated pressurized air at the delivery side of the gas compressor unit, i.e., at the outlet side of the gas compressor unit. For example, the gas compressor unit is designed to feed pressurized air to a system component that receives pressurized air temporarily, not continuously. For example, the gas compressor unit is designed to feed pressurized air to a pressurized gas storage device for receiving the pressurized air. For example, the gas compressor unit is designed to feed a pressurized gas storage device such that an identifiable pressure level of a gas, such as air, contained in the pressurized gas storage device prevails in said device.

[0067] Gas compressor units operating according to the positive displacement principle comprise, for example, rotary compressors and / or piston compressors.

[0068] One improvement is distinguished by the fact that the gas compressor unit is adapted to supply a maximum system pressure level to system components located downstream of the gas compressor unit.

[0069] For example, the gas compressor unit is adapted to supply a maximum system pressure level to a system component installed downstream of the gas compressor unit, such as a compressed air consumer, and the pressure level generated by the gas compressor unit is no more than 10% higher than the pressure level actually required by the system component, which allows for high operational reliability.

[0070] For example, the gas compressor unit may be adapted to supply a maximum system pressure level to a system component installed downstream of the gas compressor unit, such as a compressed air consumer, and the pressure level generated by the gas compressor unit may be no more than 20% higher than the pressure level actually required by the system component.

[0071] For example, the gas compressor unit may be adapted to supply a maximum system pressure level to a system component installed downstream of the gas compressor unit, such as a compressed air consumer, and the pressure level generated by the gas compressor unit may be no more than 30% higher than the pressure level actually required by the system component.

[0072] For example, a gas compressor unit is matched to a system component, such as a compressed air consumer, that is connected immediately downstream of the gas compressor unit, and the immediately downstream system component or compressed air consumer connected immediately downstream affects the maximum system pressure level for all of the system components or compressed air consumers present in the system. Thus, the generated or provided pressure level of compressed air is no more than 10%, 20%, or 30% higher than a requirement, such as the maximum pressure level, required by the system component of the system.

[0073] For example, the gas compressor unit may be adapted to supply a maximum system pressure level to system components installed downstream of the gas compressor unit, and the pressure level may be adapted in a dynamic and flexible manner during operation to changing required pressure levels, etc.

[0074] According to one exemplary variant, the gas compressor unit is provided as a separate subunit of the system. This allows a variable supply of pressurized air to the system components or to the consumers in the system. The subunit can be, for example, of portable design and can be moved, for example, manually by a person and / or by means of a motorized motion drive. For example, the subunit is designed as a separate structural unit. The subunit can be moved in space, for example in the installation space, by means of a housing and / or by means of a platform with rollers or the like. The subunit can be moved and positioned in various possible positions, such as the position of use in the installation space. To connect the subunit to the system components to which pressurized air can be supplied, there is, for example, a pressurized air pipe between the gas compressor unit of the subunit and the consumer or the system component. The pressurized air pipe is used to pass compressed and / or accelerated air or pressurized air, for example, from the delivery side of the gas compressor unit to, for example, a pressurized air inlet of a system component.

[0075] In the case of a plurality of gas compressor units belonging to a system or present in a system, for example, each individual gas compressor unit is designed as a separate subunit. Alternatively or additionally, exactly two or more gas compressor units are accommodated in one subunit. The exactly two or more gas compressor units in exactly one subunit are, for example, identical. The exactly two or more gas compressor units in exactly one subunit are, for example, different from each other. For example, the different gas compressor units differ in at least one characteristic, such as, for example, structure, size, power rating, and / or principle of operation. In the case of three or more gas compressor units, at least two of the plurality of gas compressor units are different from each other.

[0076] In exactly one subunit there is for example at least one gas compressor unit operating according to the dynamic compression principle and at least one further gas compressor unit operating according to the positive displacement principle or positive displacement compression. A subunit for example has a piston compressor and additionally an axial and / or radial compressor.

[0077] The sub-unit may for example simply comprise a blower unit or a compressed air pump, which may for example be operated by means of an electric drive.

[0078] The operating settings of each gas compressor unit can be adjusted or specified, for example, by means of adjustment means or a control unit, in each case separately or independently from the other gas compressor units. Each gas compressor unit preferably has a dedicated associated pressurized air connection, for example for connection to a pressurized air line connected to the delivery side, such as a pressurized air hose.

[0079] For example, the supply device comprises a gas compressor unit. The gas compressor unit can, for example, be an integral part of the supply device or can be connected to the supply device. For example, the connectable part or the gas compressor unit is connected to the supply device via a piping connection for a pressurized air piping. The pressurized air piping connects the gas compressor unit and the supply device to convey the pressurized air.

[0080] For example, the supply device comprises a gas compressor unit designed as a gas flow generating device etc. The gas compressor unit operates, for example, according to the dynamic positive displacement principle. For example, the supply device comprises an axial and / or radial compressor.

[0081] The supply device has, for example, a storage container for accommodating a plurality of elements. The supply device has, for example, a hollow piping section through which the elements can be moved from an element transfer position, where the elements can be introduced into the piping section, to a connection position of the supply device, which is designed as a separately positionable peripheral unit for supplying the elements to a processing device. The elements that can be moved in the piping section can be discharged from the supply device via a connection position. The connection position is designed for connection, in particular for a gas-tight connection, of the piping section to a hollow transfer piping that can be connected to the supply device. In the connected state of the piping section and the transfer piping, the elements can be transferred in the hollow transfer piping from the connection position to a processing device at a given distance from the supply device. The elements can be transferred to the connection position by means of a gas flow in the piping section. The supply device preferably has a gas compressor unit in such a way that the gas flow in the piping section can be supplied in such a way that the elements can be moved from the element transfer position through the piping section to the connection position thanks to the gas flow. The elements can be transferred out of the piping section from the connection position thanks to the gas flow supplied by means of the gas compressor unit. For example, the supply device is installed in an installation space. A gas compressor unit is installed in the installation space in which the system is housed. The gas compressor unit is designed to take air from the environment of the supply device in the installation space of the supply device to supply compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air. For example, the pressurized air is used to provide a gas flow. The compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air is used to operate the supply device and / or the processing device.

[0082] For example, the processing device may comprise a gas compressor unit, which may for example be an integral part of the processing device or may be connected to the supply device.

[0083] For example, the connectable component or gas compressor unit is connected to the processing device via a piping connection for a pressurized air line that connects the gas compressor unit and the processing device to convey pressurized air.

[0084] According to a refinement, the gas compressor unit has an electric drive, whereby proven methods of driving the gas compressor unit are possible, for example the electric drive comprises an electric motor.

[0085] The gas compressor unit may for example have an electric drive and means are provided for supplying the electric drive with a portion of excess energy from other system subunits of the system. Thereby it is possible to provide an energy efficient system. The excess energy is for example at least a portion of the amount of energy from further system subunits of the system. The further system subunits of the system are for example other equipment components of the system and / or other process steps of a process in the system. The excess energy is for example at least a portion of the amount of energy in the form of energy from other equipment components of the system and / or other process steps of a process in the system.

[0086] The gas compressor unit has, for example, a mechanical drive, which represents a robust and simple drive variant.

[0087] According to another variant, the gas compressor unit has a mechanical drive and means are provided for taking part of the movement of the other system subunits of the system in order to mechanically drive the gas compressor unit, which is particularly energy efficient.

[0088] Further features and advantages will now be explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments illustrated diagrammatically in the figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0089] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 shows a diagrammatically illustrated system for processing elements, comprising a supply device, a processing device and a transfer piping. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows the arrangement according to FIG. 1 without a workpiece and without a robot. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows the upper segment of the feeding device from FIGS. 1 and 2 in a front view without the front device door. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an alternative system. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 illustrates another alternative system in highly schematic form. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 shows another system, partly illustrated in a schematic manner. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 shows another schematic diagram of a system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0090] In some cases, the same reference numbers are used below for substantially corresponding elements of different illustrative embodiments.

[0091] FIG. 1 shows a system 1 for processing elements (not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 ) in a perspective view. The system 1 comprises a supply device 2, a treatment device 3 and a hollow transfer pipe 4. The transfer pipe 4 is designed, for example, as a hollow flexible supply hose. The transfer pipe 4 is connected or attached at one end 4b to said treatment device 3 via a pipe connection 3a of said treatment device 3. The treatment device 3 is designed for processing the elements. The supply device 2 serves to receive a plurality of elements and to transfer the elements to the transfer pipe 4.

[0092] The system 1 is used for acting on or processing the workpieces 5, 6, 7 and 8 which are present in fixed positions in a processing station 11. Acting on the workpieces 5-8 for attaching the elements to the joining location is carried out with the aid of a processing device 3 for processing the elements or for example for setting the elements on the respective workpieces 5-8 at the joining location. For example, the angular workpieces 5-7 are each riveted to the workpiece 8 which is designed as a flat metal sheet layer. The workpieces 5-7 are positioned at regular intervals above the workpiece 8. According to FIG. 1, the processing device 3 is installed in the area of ​​the workpiece 5.

[0093] The processing device 3 is connected to a robot 9 or is mounted on a movable robot arm 10 of the robot 9. The robot 9 is used for the operation and spatial movement of the processing device 3, for example to attach elements to the workpieces 5-8.

[0094] The processing device 3, designed for example as a riveting processing device, comprises for example a hydro-pneumatic or pneumo-hydraulic drive 15 and a C-shaped bracket 12 with two limbs. A punch unit 13 is mounted on one limb of the C-shaped bracket 12 and a die unit 14 of the processing device 3 is mounted on the other limb (see FIG. 2).

[0095] The system 1, together with the robot 9 and the processing station 11 with the workpieces 5-8, is positioned in an installation space R. The installation space R occupies, for example, part of a production shop and is indicated diagrammatically in Figure 1 by a dashed boundary.

[0096] FIG. 2 shows the system 1 without the workpieces 5-8 and without the robot.

[0097] The supply device 2 and the treatment device 3 are connected to each other via a hollow transfer pipe 4. The elements are transported from the supply device 2 to the treatment device 3 in a transport direction T by a gas flow in the transfer pipe 4, which is in particular gas-tight. The elements arriving at the treatment device 3 are conveyed further in the corresponding pipe section of the treatment device 3 and set at the respective joining locations of the workpieces 5-8 by means of a punch unit 13. The treatment device 3 is used, for example, to set rivets, such as self-piercing rivets, clinch rivets or functional elements, in the workpieces 5-8.

[0098] The supply device 2 is designed as a peripheral unit separate from the processing device 3, for example with a bottom roller 2a so that the processing device 3 can be driven on a solid bottom surface.

[0099] The supply device 2 has a storage container 16 with a receiving volume 16a for the provision or receipt of a plurality of elements (not shown). The storage container 16 is connected to a sorting pot 18 via a hollow, tubular intermediate part 17 so that the elements can pass through individually. In the sorting pot 18, the elements arriving from the intermediate part 17 are individually positioned in a correct position and transferred to a buffer pipe 19 which is connected to the sorting pot 18. In the buffer pipe 19, the elements are presented one after the other in the same orientation, in each case in a queue. From the buffer pipe 19, the elements proceed downwards to a separation device 20 for the elements.

[0100] From the separation device 20, the elements enter individually into a hollow piping section 21 of the supply device 2. Through the piping section 21, the elements pass to a connection position 22 of the supply device 2.

[0101] At the connection position 22 the elements can be discharged from the supply device 2. At the connection position 22 the piping section 21 is connected, for example gas-tight, to one end 4a of the transfer pipe 4. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the piping section 21 and the transfer pipe 4 are integrally formed with each other or are integrally connected with each other. By way of example, the piping section 21 and the transfer pipe 4 are formed by a continuous part as a supply hose.

[0102] The elements can be transported in the piping section 21 and the transfer pipe 4 with the aid of or by means of the gas flow G from the connection position 22 to the processing device 3 installed at a certain distance from the supply device 2. The elements are, for example, taken separately in the region of the separation device 20 and transported in the direction of the connection position 22 by the gas flow G prevailing in the piping section 21 (see FIG. 3). The gas flow continues in the transfer pipe 4, so that the elements are moved from the piping section 21 to the transfer pipe 4. Thanks to the gas flow G in the transfer pipe, the elements are transported almost frictionlessly in the transfer pipe 4 up to the end 4b of the transfer pipe 4, which runs to a pipe connection 3a in the processing device 3, for example in the region of the punch unit 13. The end 4b of the transfer pipe 4 is connected to a pipe connection 3a in the punch unit 13, through which the elements, for example, enter individually at the correct position into the punch passage of the punch unit 13 and are blown in with the aid of a gas flow G.

[0103] The system 1 comprises a pneumatically operated system component, which is used, for example, to operate a delivery device and is, for example, part of the delivery device 2.

[0104] The system 1 comprises a gas compressor unit 23 for generating and supplying compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air. For example, the gas compressor unit 23 is designed as a gas flow generating device to provide a gas flow G. To provide the gas flow G in the piping section 21 and further in the transfer piping 4, the supply device 2 has a gas compressor unit 23. The gas compressor unit 23 is provided exclusively for the supply device 2 for the purpose of delivering elements with the gas flow G, for example. Via the suction side 23a of the gas compressor unit 23, which is open to the environment or surroundings, ambient air L is taken from the environment and compressed and / or accelerated in the gas compressor unit 23. The gas compressor unit 23 can be operated electrically, for example, by means of an integrated drive motor or an electric motor. The delivery side 23b of the gas compressor unit 23 is connected to the separation device 20, for example, via a pressurized air conveying connection piping 24. In this case, the gas flow of pressurized air enters the area of ​​the piping section 21 connected to the separation device 20. The gas flow exerts a suction or entrainment force on the single elements at the discharge side of the separation device 20. In this case, for example, the incoming pressurized air flows into the piping section 21, entrains the individual single elements at the front of the separation device 20 and conveys them to the piping section 21. The separation device 20 separates the elements at the front towards the separation device 20 from the series of elements waiting in the buffer piping 19 at the separation device 20.

[0105] When the gas compressor unit 23 is active, the elements to be successively separated by the separation device can be moved by means of the gas flow through the piping section 21 to the connection location 22 .

[0106] In the connection state of the piping section 21 and the transfer piping 4 , the components are transported by means of the gas flow from the connection position 22 out of the piping section 21 and in the transfer piping 4 to the treatment device 3 .

[0107] The gas compressor unit 23 is designed to take in air L from the environment of the supply device 2 at the suction side 23a of the gas compressor unit 23 to provide a gas flow.

[0108] To provide the gas flow, the gas compressor unit 23 is designed to take in air at ambient pressure from the environment of the supply device 2, i.e. to take in a part of the air in the installation space R of the supply device 2 at the suction side 23a of the gas compressor unit 23. The suction side 23a is, for example, in an internal space 26 of the supply device 2, which is in or surrounded by a housing 25 of the supply device 2, the internal space 26 being open to the environment or connected to an air space in the installation space R. Alternatively or additionally, the suction side 23a opens, for example, to an air space in the installation space R outside the housing 25 of the supply device 2. The gas compressor unit 23 comprises, for example, an air flow generator.

[0109] The box-shaped enclosure 25 has side walls 25a, a back wall 25b, a base 25c, a top side 25d and a pivotable door 25e. The top side 25d is open to the environment by means of an open pivotable flap, which is shown in Figs. 1 and 2, to ensure that sufficient ambient air always reaches the suction side 23a of the gas compressor unit 23 during operation of the gas compressor unit 23. No electrical cables are shown, for example, for supplying electrical energy to the supply device 2. The supply device 2 does not have a supply interface, for example, for a decentralized supply of pressurized air to the supply device 2. Thus, the supply device 2 does not have a pressurized air connection or a pressurized air inlet, for example, for feeding pressurized air supplied externally or supplied in a central manner with respect to the system 1.

[0110] The gas compressor unit 23 comprises, for example, a gas compression unit for the gas flow generated on the suction side in the piping section 21. The gas flow can be supplied by air compressed and / or accelerated by means of the gas compressor unit 23, which is possible in various ways. For example, the gas compressor unit 23 comprises a pressurized air compression unit. For example, the gas compressor unit 23 operates according to the turbo compressor principle, for example by means of a radial and / or axial compressor, such as a multi-stage radial compressor and / or a multi-stage axial compressor.

[0111] A higher level control unit 27 (not explicitly shown) of the supply device 2 comprises a computer control system or software and a processing and storage unit and serves to control the operation of the supply device 2. The control unit 27 serves in particular to control a specifiable or adaptable and / or adjustable power level of the gas compressor unit 23. With the control unit 27 it is possible to specify and / or vary, for example, the compression of the compressed air, the generation of the compressed air and the air output that can be provided by this means. With the control unit 27 the air output that can be provided can be adapted, for example dynamically adapted, in particular to the actual air demand, respectively the instantaneous required. The actual air demand can in particular be programmable and / or adapted, for example dynamically, based on sensor values ​​obtained by sensor means (not shown). The obtained sensor values ​​relate, for example, to the speed of the delivered elements in the piping section 21 and / or in the transfer piping 4. Using the control unit 27, it is possible to adapt the speed of the delivered elements to a target value or set value stored in the software, for example based on a sensor-acquired speed of the delivered elements in the piping section 21 and / or the transport piping 4.

[0112] Sensor means of the supplying device 2 are provided for acquiring and making available sensor values, for example for making the sensor values ​​available for further processing by the control unit 27 .

[0113] An alternative (not shown) of the system 1 is distinguished by the presence of a supply device in the processing device 3, such as the direct presence in said processing device of a supply device with components corresponding to the supply device 2, for example without the housing 25. Alternatively, a supply device with functions or components corresponding to the supply device 2 is provided, for example in the robot 9. In the robot 9, there is for example a magazine-type capacity in the form of a storage container for the elements and / or further sorting pots and / or buffer piping. For a system designed as a technical system, for example exactly one supply device or exactly two, or more than two supply devices are provided. For example, in an alternative system, this is possible for at least one component, such as in the supply device 2, provided in the processing device 3, and for at least one other component, such as in the supply device 2, provided in the robot 9.

[0114] In an alternative system or technical system, provision is made for means of delivering the elements to be provided on the processing device 3 and / or on the robot 9, for example, to deliver the elements from the transport device to a filling station of the processing device.

[0115] In an alternative system or technical system, provision is made for delivering the elements from a magazine provided in the processing device for holding a number of elements prepared at a processing position of the processing device, the processing position of the processing device comprising, for example, a setting head of the processing device comprising a punch unit and a die unit.

[0116] In the case of an overall system of multiple paths, for example a system like system 1 operating in parallel, provision can be made for each path to be designed, for example, by system 1 as described above.

[0117] Another alternative of the system is distinguished by the fact that a standard compressor or, for example, a commercially known compressor is provided in the supply device 2 and / or in the processing device 3 and / or in the robot 9. The compressor, for example, works according to the positive displacement principle and is implemented, for example, as a piston compressor or a screw compressor.

[0118] Figure 4 differs from the system 1 shown in figure 1 in that the supply device 2 does not have an integral gas compressor unit. On the contrary, the system 1 has a gas compressor unit 29 provided as a separate subunit 28 indicated in highly schematic form. During the operation of the gas compressor unit 29, said unit takes in air L from the installation space R at the suction side of the gas compressor unit 29 and supplies compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air to the delivery side. The pressurized air leaves the gas compressor unit 29 at the delivery side of the gas compressor unit 29, for example in the form of a gas flow. From the gas compressor unit 29, the pressurized air flows to an airtight outflow pipe 30 connected to the gas compressor unit 29 at the delivery side. The outflow pipe 30 is branched and opens into a pipe section 30a and a pipe section 30b.

[0119] Via a valve (not shown), for example in outlet pipe 30 and / or pipe section 30a and / or pipe section 30b, the pressurized air in outlet pipe 30 flows to pipe section 30a and / or pipe section 30b.

[0120] Via a piping section 30a connected to the supply device 2, pneumatically operated system components (not shown) of the supply device 2 can be supplied with pressurized air.

[0121] Via a piping section 30b connected to the processing device 3, pneumatically operated system components (not shown) of the processing device 3 can be supplied with pressurized air.

[0122] 5 shows in highly schematic form an alternative system 1 with a decentralized pressurized air supply. The system 1 comprises a supply device 2, a treatment device 3 and a transfer line 4. In the treatment device 3, between a punch unit 13 and a die unit 14, there is a workpiece W, such as a metal sheet, against which an element 31 can be pressed, which is shown in highly schematic form.

[0123] The supply device 2 comprises exactly one gas compressor unit 23, such as exactly one compressor. The gas compressor unit 23 can be operated electrically or comprises an electric motor, for example. By means of the gas compressor unit 23, air L can be taken from the environment of the supply device 2 at the suction side of the gas compressor unit 23. During operation of the gas compressor unit 23, pressurized air, for example at a pressure of 3-6 bar, is supplied to the delivery side for the pneumatic operation of the system components.

[0124] Using the separation device 20, elements 31 are separated, some of which are held in the storage container 16 of the supply device 2. Via a connecting pipe 24, the individual elements are each continuously pumped and pneumatically delivered from the separation device 20 to the processing device 3 via a hollow transfer pipe 4 which is supplied with pressurized air by a gas compressor unit 23.

[0125] Also, the system component 33 of the processing device 3 is supplied with pressurized air made available by the gas compressor unit 23 via a hollow pressurized air pipe 32, which is formed between the gas compressor unit 23 and the processing device 3 on the delivery side. The system component 33 can be operated pneumatically. For example, the system component 33 is a motion drive for pneumatically or pneumohydraulically driving a linear motion punch of the processing device 3 or, for example, a locking member for mechanically locking a movable component. The system component 33 is supplied with pressurized air via the hollow pressurized air pipe 32, which is airtight to the outside.

[0126] The system component 35 of the processing device 3 is supplied with pressurized air made available by the gas compressor unit 23 via a further hollow pressurized air pipe 34, which is installed on the delivery side between the gas compressor unit 23 and the system component 35. The system component 35 comprises a tool changing station 36, in which for example four tools 37 are releasably arranged in correct positions at the tool changing station 36. The tools 37 can each be individually exchanged for a tool in the processing device 3, for example for a punch unit of the processing device 3, which is achieved pneumatically by means of the pressurized air supplied via the pressurized air pipe 34.

[0127] The system component 39 of the processing device 3 is supplied with pressurized air made available by the gas compressor unit 23 via a further hollow pressurized air pipe 38, which is installed on the delivery side between the gas compressor unit 23 and the system component 39. The system component 39 comprises a storage container 40 in which a number of elements 41, such as rivets or functional elements, are held. For example, the storage container 40 is designed as a magazine or element magazine, in whose internal volume the elements 41 are accommodated and can be introduced from outside. The elements 41 can be pneumatically communicated to a magazine (not shown in FIG. 5) for receiving several elements 41 in the processing device 3, which is achieved pneumatically by means of pressurized air supplied via the pressurized air pipe 38. To fill the magazine for receiving the elements 41, for example the processing device 3 is driven to the storage container 40 filled with the elements 41, such as by a robot on which the processing device 3 is mounted and which can be moved in space. Then, a pneumatic transfer of the element 41 takes place, following which the processing device 3 moves again away from the system component 39 .

[0128] Fig. 6 shows a configuration with exactly one gas compressor unit 23 directed to a decentralized supply of pressurized air for the system component 35 and the further system component 39. The gas compressor unit 23 according to Fig. 6 is, for example, a compressor. The system components 35 and 39 are mounted on a common boom 42. The gas compressor unit 23, for example, takes in air L from the environment of the gas compressor unit 23 and compresses the air L to 3-6 bar. Via a compressed air line 43, the pressurized air is delivered further to the boom 42 and to the system component 35 and / or the system component 39.

[0129] The gas compressor unit 23 may be set up as a separate unit in the vicinity of the treatment device or may be part of the supply device 2 .

[0130] Finally, Figure 7 shows, in highly schematic form, an alternative system 1' with a decentralized compressed air supply. The system 1' shown in Figure 7 comprises exactly one gas compressor unit 23. In other respects, the system 1' comprises twice as many components as the system 1 shown in Figure 5.

[0131] The system 1′ comprises a first supply device 2, a second supply device 2′, a first processing device 3 with a workpiece W, and a second processing device 3′ with a workpiece W. Between the first supply device 2 and the first processing device 3 there is a first transfer piping 4.

[0132] Between the second supply device 2' and the second treatment device 3' there is a second transfer line 4'.

[0133] The system 1′ comprises a gas compressor unit 23. For example, exactly one gas compressor unit 23 is part of the supply device 2, for example the gas compressor unit 23 is a compressor. The gas compressor unit 23 takes air L from the environment of the supply device 2 and supplies it to a number of pneumatic system components, such as all pneumatic system components of the system 1′.

[0134] During operation of the gas compressor unit 23, pressurized air, e.g. at a pressure of 3-6 bar, is supplied to the delivery side for pneumatic operation of the pneumatically operable system components 35, 39, 35', and 39'. For example, the system components 35 and 39 are system components of the processing device 3. For example, the system components 35' and 39' are system components of the processing device 3'. The gas compressor unit 23 further provides pressurized air for transferring the element 31 from the supply device 2 to the processing device 3. The gas compressor unit 23 further provides pressurized air for transferring the element 31' from the supply device 2' to the processing device 3'.

[0135] For this purpose, pressurized air lines 32, 34, 38, 32', 34' and 38' are provided.

[0136] Via a compressed air line 44, the gas compressor unit 23 is connected to a compressed air accumulator 45 of the supply device 2'. The compressed air provided by the gas compressor unit 23 is thus delivered to the compressed air accumulator 45 and there made available for pumping the separated components 31' via the transfer line 4' to the processing device 3'.

[0137] Alternatively, it is also possible that the pressurized air accumulator 45 of the supply device 2' is omitted. For example, the pressurized air accumulator 45 may not be part of the supply device 2' but may be installed at some other location in the system 1'.

[0138] In addition to the gas compressor unit 23, for example exactly one further gas compressor unit or a greater number of gas compressor units may be provided, for example as part of the supply device 2' and / or as another gas compressor unit 23 external to the supply devices 2 and / or 2' or external to the processing devices 3, 3' and / or as part of at least one of the processing devices 3, 3'. [Explanation of symbols]

[0139] 1, 1'...system, 2, 2'...feeding device, 2a...roller, 3, 3'...processing device, 3a...piping connection, 4, 4'...transfer piping, 4a, 4b...end, 5-8...workpiece, 9...robot, 10...robot arm, 11...processing station, 12...C-bracket, 13...punch unit, 14...die unit, 15...drive, 16...storage container, 16a...receiving volume, 17...intermediate part, 18...sorting pot, 19...buffer piping, 20...separation device, 21...piping area, 22...connection location, 23...gas compressor unit, 23a...suction side, 23b...delivery side, 24...connecting piping, 25... Enclosure, 25a...side wall, 25b...rear wall, 25c...base, 25d...upper side, 25e...door, 26...internal space, 27...control unit, 28...subunit, 29...gas compressor unit, 30...outlet piping, 30a, 30b...piping area, 31, 31'...elements, 32, 32'...pressurized air piping, 33...system components, 34, 34'...pressurized air piping, 35, 35'...system components, 36...tool change station, 37...tools, 38, 38'...pressurized air piping, 39, 39'...system components, 40...storage vessel, 41...elements, 42...boom, 43...pressurized air piping, 44...pressurized air piping, 45...pressurized air accumulator

Claims

1. A system (1, 1') for processing an element, comprising a supply device (2), a processing device (3) and a hollow transfer pipe (4), said supply device (2) and said processing device (3) being connected to each other via said hollow transfer pipe (4), said processing device (3) being designed for processing an element, said supply device (2) being designed to receive a plurality of elements and to transfer said plurality of elements to said hollow transfer pipe (4), said elements being capable of being transferred to said processing device (3) via said hollow transfer pipe (4) in order to supply said elements to said processing device (3), and pneumatically operable system components for operating said system (1, 1') being provided, The system (1) comprises a gas compressor unit (23) for generating and supplying compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air, the gas compressor unit (23) being provided in an installation space in which the system (1) is accommodated, the gas compressor unit (23) being designed to take in air from the environment of the treatment device (3) and / or the environment of the supply device (2) in the installation space, and to supply compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air towards system components operable with said pneumatic pressure for the operation of the supply device (2) and the operation of the treatment device (3).

2. A system for press-joining materials, comprising a press-joining device, the press-joining device being designed for press-joining, the system (1) being arranged in an installation space and being provided with pneumatically operable system components for operating the press-joining device, The system (1) comprises a gas compressor unit for generating and supplying a compressed and / or accelerated gas quantity, the gas compressor unit being arranged in the installation space, the gas compressor unit being designed to take in air from the environment of the press joining device in the installation space and to supply compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air towards the pneumatically operable system components for the operation of the press joining device.

3. The system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the pneumatically operable system components for operating the processing device (3) comprise an element filling station and / or a tool changing station.

4. 4. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that exactly one gas compressor unit (23) is provided which is designed to supply compressed and / or accelerated pressurized air to a plurality of pneumatically operable system components.

5. A system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that a plurality of gas compressor units are provided.

6. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas compressor unit (23) is designed to supply compressed air at different pressure levels.

7. 7. A system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two gas compressor units are provided, said two gas compressor units differing in construction and / or principle of operation.

8. 8. A system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that one gas compressor unit (23) operating according to the dynamic compression principle is provided and one gas compressor unit operating according to the positive displacement principle is provided.

9. 9. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the gas compressor unit (23) is designed to deliver a pressure level that is less than a pressure level of 0.3 bar above the initial pressure, or a pressure level that is less than a pressure level of 0.2 bar above the initial pressure, or a pressure level that is less than a pressure level of 0.1 bar above the initial pressure, and that the gas compressor unit operates according to the positive displacement principle.

10. 10. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the gas compressor unit is adapted to supply a maximum system pressure level to system components arranged downstream of the gas compressor unit.

11. 11. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the gas compressor unit is adapted to supply a maximum system pressure level to system components arranged downstream of the gas compressor unit, said pressure level being adaptable in a dynamic and flexible manner during operation.

12. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas compressor unit (29) is provided as a separate subunit (28) of the system (1).

13. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the supply device (2) comprises a gas compressor unit.

14. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the treatment device (3) comprises a gas compressor unit.

15. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas compressor unit (23) has an electric drive.

16. 16. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the gas compressor unit has an electric drive and that means are provided for supplying the electric drive with a portion of excess energy from other system components of the system.

17. A system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas compressor unit has a mechanical drive.

18. 18. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the gas compressor unit has a mechanical drive and that means are provided for taking off a part of the movement of other system components of the system (1) in order to mechanically drive the gas compressor unit.

Images