Supply device, supply system and system

Abstract

The invention relates to a supply device (2, 28, 33) of an element (35) which can be moved to a connection point (22) of the supply device (2, 28, 33), the supply device (2, 28, 33) being designed as a separately locatable peripheral unit for supplying the element (35) to a processing device (3), the connection point (22) being designed with a hollow transport line (4, 34) which can be connected to the supply device (2, 28, 33, so that the element (35) can be transported from the connection point (22) in the hollow transport line (4, 34) to the processing device (3), the element (35) being transported by a gas flow. According to the invention, the supply device (2, 28, 33) has a gas flow generator (23) so that the element (35) can be moved from the connection point (22) by the gas flow provided by the gas flow generator (23), the supply device (2, 28, 33) being provided in the installation space, the gas flow generator (23) being designed to take in air from around the supply device (2, 28, 33) in the installation space of the supply device (2, 28, 33) in order to provide the gas flow.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001] [Prior Art] Devices or installations are known for supplying elements from a provided quantity of elements, for example in the form of small parts such as joining elements, e.g. functional elements or connecting elements, e.g. rivets, to consumers of said elements, which are, for example, supplied to a processing device or tool, in which a compressed gas, e.g. compressed air, is used as a transport means for transporting the elements in order to collect the individual elements from the provided quantity of elements and for automatically supplying said elements or as an energy source.

[0002] Compressed air is used in pneumatic systems with, for example, cylinder / piston units, which use compressed air as an energy source. Compressed air is provided centrally, for example in industrial applications, and distributed to various consumers. Compressors are used for this purpose.

[0003] The inefficiency of compressed air as an energy source is a disadvantage in many compressed air applications, with losses of up to 90% or more occurring, e.g. as compression losses, leakage losses, network losses or flow losses such as line network pressure losses. [Objectives and Advantages of the Invention] It is an object of the present invention to provide a feeding device which avoids or minimizes the above mentioned disadvantages. This object is achieved by the independent claims.

[0004] The present invention relates to a supply device for elements, the elements being capable of being moved to a connection point of the supply device, the supply device being designed as an independently addressable peripheral unit for supplying the elements to a processing device, the elements being capable of being discharged from the supply device via the connection point, the connection point being configured for connection to a hollow transport line connectable to the supply device, such that in the connected state of the transport line the elements can be transported in the hollow transport line from the connection point to a processing device arranged at a distance from the supply device, the elements being capable of being transported by a gas flow.

[0005] The supply device has a gas flow generator that provides a gas flow such that the elements can be transported from the connection point by the gas flow provided by the gas flow generator. The supply device is present in the installation space, and the gas flow generator is configured to introduce air from the surroundings of the supply device in the installation space of the supply device to provide the gas flow.

[0006] For example, the connection point is configured in particular for the gas-tight connection of a line section of the supply device to a hollow transport line which is connectable to the supply device, for example the line section and the transport line being integrally connected to one another at the connection point, for example by a uniform hollow hose.

[0007] For example, the supply device may have a storage container for housing a number of elements. For example, the element can be transported from the element transfer point through the line section to the connection point by the gas flow provided by the gas flow generator, e.g., the element can be transported out of the line section, e.g., into a transport line, and further advanced within the transport line, by the gas flow provided by the gas flow generator.

[0008] The invention develops from a supply device having a storage container for accommodating a plurality of elements, the supply device having a hollow line section, through which the elements can be moved from an element transfer point, where the elements can be introduced into the line section, to a connection point of the supply device, the supply device being designed as an individually addressable peripheral unit for supplying the elements to a processing device, the elements that can be moved in the line section can be discharged from the supply device via the connection point, the connection point being configured in particular for an airtight connection of the line section to a hollow transport line that can be connected to the supply device, so that in the connected state of the line section and the transport line, the elements can be transported from the connection point through the hollow transport line to a processing device spaced apart from the supply device, the elements can be transported in the line section to the connection point by a gas flow. The elements are moved by the gas flow that permeates the line section, and when the transport line is connected to the line section, the elements are moved from the connection point into the transport line and proceed through the transport line to the processing device. Thus, when the transport line is connected, the gas flow continues, for example, to advance from the line section into the transport line. The gas flow provides the driving force for transporting the elements in the line section and in the transport line in the transport direction of the elements. In particular, forward transport in the transport line is caused by the gas flow provided by the feed device. The gas flow in the line section continues from or out of the line section into the interior of the transport line along the entire length of the transport line, in particular up to the processing device.

[0009] In the feeder, the elements are drawn in by the gas flow at the element transfer point and are advanced in the line section in the conveying direction by the gas flow at the line section. The kinetic energy of each element at the connection point keeps the elements moving forward in the transport line and along the transport line to the processing device.

[0010] For example, the dispenser may have a housing that encloses an interior of the dispenser, the interior preferably having sides or points that are connected such that the interior is open to the surrounding atmosphere or to the ambient air within the installation space in which the dispenser resides. The housing may have, for example, a base, a back wall, and vertical side walls.

[0011] A storage container for accommodating a plurality of elements, for example up to several hundred individual elements, is arranged inside the feed device. The elements, which are kept in a prepared state in the storage container, are arranged in a random orientation and are present in the storage container, for example as bulk goods. The storage container for the elements, or the storage container's storage volume, is connected to the sorting box, for example via an intermediate piece in the form of a hollow line. The intermediate piece serves, for example, to guide the individual elements leaving the storage volume through and forward to the sorting box. In the sorting box, the elements are individually arranged in the right direction and transported to a buffer line adjacent to the sorting box. In the buffer line, the elements are automatically provided in each case, for example, aligned with one another in the same orientation. The elements advance from the buffer line to a device for singulating the elements. One of the elements at the front of the row advances from the singulating device to an element transfer point. From the element transfer point, each element advances into the line section. This transport is performed, for example, by means of a gas flow. This transport of the elements, or the transport movement, is performed, for example, by means of gravity. The gas flow is adjusted so that each element can be drawn into the line section and transported within the line section towards or up to and beyond the connection point. The hollow line section can be, for example, a flexible hollow hose or a hollow fixed line.

[0012] For example, the feed device is designed in such a way that different kinds of elements can be processed or fed by the feed device and transported by the gas flow, for example connecting or joining elements like screws or rivets, punch rivets and / or functional elements like stamping elements, punch elements, press elements, clinch rivet elements, press-fit bolts and / or press-fit nuts.

[0013] A line segment extends, for example, from an element transfer point to a connection point. The line segment and the transport line are often integrated, for example, a hollow hose. Alternatively, the connection point is formed, for example, by an open end of a line section. The connection point comprises, for example, an opening of a supply device through which compressed air flows during operation. However, it is advantageous, for example, if the line section and the transport line are formed integrally, for example as a supply hose. In this case, the connection point is not visible as such. In this case, the connection point is a point formed in the area of ​​a line cross section. The cross section is in this case an imaginary separation point between one end of the line section and the end of the transport line adjacent to it in succession. For example, the connection point can be formed by cutting the integral supply hose at the respective point of the cross section of the supply hose.

[0014] It is further explained below that the feeding system according to the invention comprises a feeding device and a transport line in combination. It is not excluded that the element transfer point and the connection point are directly adjacent.

[0015] The core idea of ​​the invention is that the supplying device comprises a gas flow generator, which provides a gas flow in the line section such that the elements can be moved by the gas flow from the element transfer point through the line section to the connection point, and the elements can be transported from the line section to the connection point by the gas flow provided by the gas flow generator, and the supplying device is present in an installation space, and the gas flow generator is configured to introduce air from the surroundings of the supplying device in the installation space of the supplying device to provide the gas flow. The air is introduced from the surroundings of the supplying device, in particular, for example from the immediate environment or vicinity of the supplying device. The introduced air is in particular air from the air mass surrounding the supplying device. When the gas flow generator is in operation, the introduced air is compressed and / or accelerated by the gas flow generator. The gas flow generator is also called a gas compression unit. The compressed air provided by the gas flow generator flows forward to the element transfer point and, if a transport line is connected, into the transport line.

[0016] In a connected state of the line section and the transport line, for example when the transport line is connected via one end to the line section, the element can be transported out of the line section and forward within the transport line, in particular to a processing device, by the gas flow or compressed air provided by the gas flow generator, and the other end of the transport line is connected to the processing device.

[0017] The proposed supply device provides an advantageous decentralized compressed air supply for transporting elements, in particular avoiding possible disadvantages in the use of centralized compressed air systems for providing gas flows in line sections.

[0018] The decentralized gas flow generator of the supply system eliminates many of the losses that occur compared to centralized compressed air supplies. A gas flow generator is understood to mean in particular a device for generating a gas flow from a gas, for example air, for example ambient air at normal atmospheric pressure, usually in the pressure range of 1 bar. The gas or air is introduced by the gas flow generator directly from the environment near the supply device or from the vicinity of the supply device. In particular, compressed air provided by a compressed air source not associated with the supply device is not used. The air is introduced by the gas flow generator at the pressure level of the air's surroundings, and the gas flow is generated at a pressure level higher than the ambient pressure. A gas flow generator is not understood to mean a device such as a compressed gas at high pressure, or an air conditioner that reduces compressed air to a lower pressure level, for example to reduce the pressure of compressed air previously generated at a pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure. Instead, the gas flow generator serves to increase the pressure of the atmospheric air naturally present, for example in the installation space of the supply device, for example to compress and / or accelerate the air by the gas flow generator.

[0019] For example, a gas flow generator is associated with exactly one supply device. For example, a gas flow generator is exactly one gas flow generator configured to generate a gas flow for the associated supply device. Preferably, exactly one supply device is supplied with compressed air or gas flow from exactly one gas flow generator.

[0020] In principle, the gas flow generator can comprise exactly one machine, for example exactly one compressor. Alternatively, the gas flow generator can have exactly two or exactly three or more compressors that provide a gas flow individually in each case from the introduced ambient air. Two, three or more machines of the gas flow generator can also generate one gas flow in each case, and the individual gas flows, for example with one gas volume flow rate in each case, can then also be combined to provide a gas flow.

[0021] The use of compressed air has fundamental advantages compared to other energy sources. For example, when conveying individualized elements through hollow lines, such as hoses, the use of compressed air as a conveying medium has advantages. For example, conveying the elements with compressed air tends to be less prone to interference between the elements with each other and / or with the wall parts of the line. Furthermore, for example, an advantageous concomitant advantage is that wear and dirt are evacuated from the line parts by the gas flow without any added complexity. Finally, a failure in the middle part of the passage along the compressed air conveying path, for example a leak in a line part or a transport line, does not necessarily lead to an interruption in the conveying of the elements.

[0022] In the case of compressed air networks with centralized compressed air generation and onward compressed air transport, large lines and piping associated with installations such as compressed air vessels are usually required, where pressure losses can occur in different ways and at multiple locations. In addition to pressure losses, network-related pressure losses, such as leakage losses, also have a negative effect.

[0023] For example, pressure losses depend on the pressure, and in known pressurized systems with a centralized compressed air supply, generic and therefore somewhat excessive pressure levels are often prevalent in all the different applications to which they are connected. For example, in applications where elements need to be conveyed at a precise speed, the associated pressure regulation leads to the occurrence of the aforementioned losses.

[0024] Advantageously, the advantages of using compressed air are not lost by the present invention, since losses are minimized. For example, the use of compressed air as a conveying medium when conveying singulated elements through hollow lines such as hoses has advantages over other conveying techniques that operate without compressed air. For example, there is a relatively low tendency for clogging and for wear and dirt to be introduced from the compressed air lines.

[0025] According to the invention, the gas or air flow is generated directly in the supply device or supply assembly and not by another external compressed air system leading to the supply device, such as for example a central compressed air supply. In particular, the supply device does not have any supply interface for a decentralized compressed air supply of the supply device or such a supply interface can be omitted. Thus, it is advantageous that the supply device does not have, for example, any compressed air connection or compressed air input.

[0026] The gas flow generator is, for example, accommodated in a housing rack of the supply device. Alternatively, the gas flow generator is present outside the supply device. In particular, the gas flow generator is installed inside the supply device, surrounded by a casing or housing of the supply device. The inside of the supply device is open at one point or one side towards the surroundings, for example towards the surrounding space or towards the atmosphere. The supply device does not have a connection for receiving a compressed air supply, for example from the outside. Compressed air generated away from the supply device is not required or is not required. The supply device does not require compressed air to be connected to the supply device from the outside, for example through a supply line or compressed air line, for example via a centralized compressed air supply device, and sends compressed air from the outside to the supply device.

[0027] The gas flow generator is present in the region of the installation space or in the installation space in which, for example, a supply device is installed or is present. Instead of accommodating the gas flow generator in the housing of the supply device, the gas flow generator is accommodated separately from the supply device but in the same installation space, for example the gas flow generator is separate from the remaining subunits of the supply device and is connected to them via a connecting line or gas line which conducts the gas flow to the remaining subunits of the supply device.

[0028] Alternatively, the gas flow generator is connected via a gas line directing the gas flow from the gas flow generator to the remaining subunits of the supplying apparatus. For example, the gas flow generator is separated from the remaining subunits of the supplying apparatus by a distance of up to 10 meters. For example, the gas flow generator is separated from the remaining subunits of the supplying apparatus by a distance of up to 8 meters, for example, up to 6 meters, for example, up to 4 meters, for example, up to 2 meters.

[0029] During processing, air at ambient pressure level is introduced by a gas flow generator. For this purpose, the gas flow generator has, for example, an intake unit for introducing a gas mass, such as an ambient air mass. The gas flow generator has, for example, an axial and / or centrifugal compressor.

[0030] A gas flow directed toward the connection point is generated within the line segment by a gas flow generated on-site or at a supply device, and flows into the line segment through an air lock, e.g., a valve assembly. Elements within the line segment are surrounded by or are surrounded by the gas flow. The directed gas flow draws in elements within the line segment and continues to form into the transportation line.

[0031] The transportation line adjacent to the supply device at the connection point is not part of the supply device. The line section and the transport line preferably have the same internal shape and / or the same inner diameter.

[0032] For example, the line section and the transportation line have the same interior or cavity. The feeding device forms a unit, for example a peripheral unit, which is movable, for example with rollers on the underside. The feeding device is a peripheral unit that is easy to operate, so that the feeding device can be moved or rolled by a person on a hard and flat ground in order to be placed in the use or working area. The feeding device is for example a peripheral unit that can be placed separately, so that the spatial position of the feeding device relative to the processing device can be adjusted in various ways. The peripheral unit can in particular be installed regardless of the position of the processing device, provided that a transport line of sufficient length is provided.

[0033] For example, the gas flow generator may be configured to provide a low pressure level gas flow at an outlet side of the gas flow generator, with the gas pressure being between 1.03 bar and 1.50 bar absolute, thereby minimizing energy losses due to the high pressure of the provided gas.

[0034] The thermomechanical increase in gas pressure for a compressible medium such as gas or air is described by the pressure ratio characteristic π, which represents the ratio of the gas pressure on the pressure side of the gas flow generator to the gas pressure on the intake side of the gas flow generator.

[0035] For example, the gas introduced by the gas flow generator has an average ambient pressure. For example, the gas introduced by the gas flow generator has an output pressure. The output pressure of the gas prevails at an input side, such as an intake side, of the gas flow generator.

[0036] For example, the accelerated gas on the pressure side has an output pressure that prevails on the output side of the gas flow generator. For example, the gas flow generator is adapted to the shape and / or size of the transported elements, such that the elements of the transport line move at a speed between 3 meters per second or 3 m / s and 30 m / s per second. For example, the output pressure of the gas flow generated by the gas flow generator is adapted to the shape and / or size of the transported elements. For example, the output pressure of the gas flow generated by the gas flow generator is adapted to the type of element and the inner cross section of the transport line. For example, the output pressure of the gas flow generated by the gas flow generator is adapted to the shape and / or size of the transported elements, such that the elements of the transport line move at a speed between 3 meters per second or 3 m / s and 30 m / s. For example, the elements of the transport line move at a speed between 15 and 20 m / s.

[0037] For example, a gas flow generating device such as a fan or blower operates with a characteristic π pressure ratio between 1.0 and 1.5. For example, no gas pressure higher than the pressure required for transporting the elements is generated by the gas flow generator on the pressure side, and thus in the system with the supply device. The elements here can be transported by the gas flow generated by the gas flow generator. For example, no adjustment of the relatively high pressure generated by the central pressure supply device to the pressure actually used in the respective application is performed. Energy losses are avoided. For example, no storage of the relatively high pressure gas provided by the gas flow generator to the pressure side is required.

[0038] For example, the gas flow generator is configured to provide a pressure ratio π in the range of 1.0 to inclusive 4. For example, the gas flow generator is configured to provide a pressure ratio π in the range of 1.03 to inclusive 1.5.

[0039] For example, the gas flow generator is configured to provide a pressure ratio π in the range of 1.03 to 3.5 or less, or a pressure ratio π in the range of 1.03 to 3.0 or less, or a pressure ratio π in the range of 1.03 to 2.5 or less, or a pressure ratio π in the range of 1.03 to 2.0 or less, or a pressure ratio π in the range of 1.03 to 1.5 or less.

[0040] For example, the gas flow generator may comprise a fan or a blower. For example, in terms of power output, a fan achieves an average volumetric flow rate at an average pressure ratio of π. For example, in terms of power output, a fan achieves a high volumetric flow rate at a low pressure ratio π.

[0041] For example, the gas flow generator comprises exactly one fan. For example, the gas flow generator comprises a fan providing a pressure ratio π of 1.1 to less than or equal to 4. For example, the fan has a centrifugal structure. For example, the fan has an axial structure. For example, the gas flow generator comprises a centrifugal fan or an axial fan. For example, the gas flow generator is a fan. For example, the gas flow generator is a centrifugal compressor, such as, for example, a centrifugal fan. For example, the gas flow generator is an axial compressor, such as, for example, an axial fan.

[0042] For example, the fan may be single stage or multi-stage. A gas flow generating device, such as for example a fan, has on the suction side of the fan a filter unit, such as for example a filter device, with for example a filter medium or a filter layer.

[0043] For example, a fan for introducing a gas flow has a suction line on the suction side and a pressure line on the pressure side. On the suction and / or pressure side of the fan, the suction or pressure line, respectively, has a cross-sectional area corresponding to 0.5 to 3 times the cross-sectional area of ​​the transport line from the feeder to the processing device. For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the suction and pressure lines is at least 30 square millimeters (mm 2 For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the suction and pressure lines should be at least 50 square millimeters (mm 2 ).

[0044] For example, a fan may have a typical fan characteristic curve or a typical fan characteristic curve, where the volume flow rate requires the greatest proportion of energy. For example, the fan may have a power input of between 50 Watts (W) and 1500 Watts (W), e.g., 500 Watts (W). For example, the power input may be substantially self-regulating across the fan's characteristic curve. Alternatively, the power input may be indirectly influenced, e.g., by a tachometer, the value of which may be read and provided to a control unit, e.g., for controlling the rotational speed of the fan.

[0045] For example, the fan is at least approximately rectangular or cuboid and occupies an installation space in the range of, for example, 200 mm x 200 mm x 200 mm. For example, the gas flow generator comprises exactly one fan, for example an externally driven turbomachine which conveys the gaseous medium by means of a rotating impeller.

[0046] For example, the gas flow generator comprises a fan providing a pressure ratio π between 1.0 and 1.1. For example, the gas flow generator is a fan. For example, the gas flow generator is an axial flow fan.

[0047] For example, the gas flow generating device is a centrifugal fan. For example, a higher pressure ratio π can be provided by the gas flow generator for relatively small elements to be transported, for example by using a centrifugal fan. Alternatively, multiple ventilators or multiple fans connected in series can be used, for example two or more ventilators or fans such as two or more axial fans connected in series can be used.

[0048] For larger elements to be transported, a lower pressure ratio π is provided by the gas flow generator, for example by using an axial fan or blower. For example, the gas flow generator conveys a gas, e.g. air, from an intake side of the gas flow generator to a pressure side of the gas flow generator. The intake side of the gas flow generator is prevailed by intake air pressure, e.g. the intake side pressure of the gas on the intake side is about 1 bar.

[0049] Additionally, gas, e.g., air, entrained by the gas flow generator is accelerated from the intake side to the pressure side of the gas flow generator. Normal pressure is normal atmospheric pressure, for example 1013.25 mbar, which is the average atmospheric pressure at sea level. The local pressure depends, for example, on the temperature of the gas and the altitude of the site.

[0050] For example, a pressure of 1013.25 mbar is used as the reference pressure around the supply device or gas flow generator to calculate the pressure ratio π. For example, a pressure of 1013.25 mbar is set as the intake pressure. For example, the gas flow generator may include a fan that generates an output volumetric flow rate of up to 860 liters per minute (l / min).

[0051] For example, the gas flow generator may comprise two or more fans connected in series, such that a desired output pressure level exceeding the pressure side level or output pressure level achievable by a single fan can be achieved by multiple fans, e.g. of the same or different types.

[0052] For example, the gas flow generator may comprise two or more fans connected in series, such that a desired output pressure level exceeding a pressure side level or an output pressure level achievable by a single fan can be achieved by multiple fans, for example of the same or different types.

[0053] For example, the gas flow generating device, such as a ventilator or fan, has an electric drive, such as an electric motor that can operate at a low voltage, such as 24 V or 48 V. For example, the electric motor is a brushless DC motor.

[0054] It is advantageous if the gas flow generator comprises a gas compression unit for providing the gas flow. For example, the gas compression unit is an integral part of the supply device. The gas compression unit is, for example, adjustable or changeable with respect to its output data. With the gas compression unit, gas such as air from the immediate environment of the supply device or the gas compression unit, and thus the air around the supply device, can be introduced and compressed by the gas compression unit. The basic design or configuration of the compression unit can be advantageously adapted to the general requirements or to the specifications of the current conveyance of the elements. For example, friction effects or friction losses in the transport of the elements should be taken into account during processing. The introduction and compression of the air is carried out in a way that is precisely adapted to the application and the site where the compressed air is used, both in terms of time and in terms of characteristic values. This minimizes losses, which is therefore economically and / or ecologically advantageous.

[0055] Gas compression units are particularly suitable for providing a gas flow that varies over time. This allows for flexible use of the gas flow. The gas flow can also be constant or continuously the same or unchanging. The pressure level provided by the gas flow can be variably and / or consistently provided by adjusting the gas compression unit.

[0056] It is further advantageous if the gas flow generator comprises a gas compression unit according to the turbocompressor principle for providing the gas flow. For example, the gas compression unit is a turbocompressor, for example a turbomachine configured as a centrifugal compressor or an axial compressor. A turbocompressor has a rotating compressor part mounted in a compressor housing. A turbocompressor works according to the reverse physical principle of a turbine.

[0057] For example, the gas flow generator comprises a gas compression unit for providing a gas flow that is generated on the pressure side in the line section, the gas compression unit for example working according to or on the turbocompressor principle, the element being surrounded by a flow of compressed air leaving the gas flow generator on the pressure side and thus drawn into the line section.

[0058] The gas flow generator advantageously comprises a gas compression unit for providing a gas flow that is generated, for example, on the suction side in the line section, the gas compression unit operating, for example, according to or on the turbocompressor principle. The element is then surrounded by a flow of air that enters the gas flow generator on the suction side and is thus drawn into the line section.

[0059] According to an exemplary configuration, the gas flow generator comprises a gas compression unit having a centrifugal compressor for providing the gas flow, the gas compression unit working according to the turbocompressor principle, in this way the gas flow is flexibly adaptable.

[0060] It is further proposed that the gas flow generator comprises a gas compression unit, for example with an axial compressor for providing the gas flow, which operates according to the turbocompressor principle, in this way the gas flow is flexibly adaptable.

[0061] Advantageously, the gas flow generator comprises a gas compression unit with a multi-stage compressor, which operates according to the turbocompressor principle, in this way the pressure level of the gas flow can be defined, for example, depending on the number of compressor stages.

[0062] According to one exemplary variant, there is a higher-level control unit for controlling the output stage of the gas flow generator. The control unit serves, for example, to control a definable or adaptable and / or adjustable power stage of the gas flow generator. For example, the compression of the compressed air, the generation of the compressed air and the air power provided thereby can be defined and / or modified by the control unit. The air power that can be provided can be adapted, for example dynamically adapted, by the control unit, in particular to the actual air requirements, for example the respective instantaneous required air requirements. The actual air power can be programmable and / or dynamically adapted to the actual requirements, in particular based on sensor values ​​detected, for example, by sensor means of the supply device. The detected sensor values ​​relate, for example, to the speed of the elements conveyed in the line section and / or in the transport line. Based on the speed of the elements conveyed in the line section and / or in the transport line detected by the sensor, for example by using the control unit, it is possible to adapt the speed of the conveyed elements to a target value or to a nominal value of the speed of the conveyed elements stored in the software.

[0063] According to an exemplary variant of the supply device, there are sensor means for detecting and providing sensor values ​​and adapting the gas flow demand in order to provide the gas flow. For example, sensor values ​​relating to properties for the element and / or the gas flow can be detected by the sensor means. The sensor values ​​can be detected continuously or discontinuously and provided by the sensor means. For example, the sensor values ​​for processing by the control unit can be provided by the sensor means. For example, the sensor means or the provided sensor values ​​serve, inter alia, to dynamically adapt the gas flow demand. For example, data indicative of the speed of the element during transport through the line section and / or transport line can be provided by the sensor means. The sensor means is, for example, a position sensor or a position detection sensor, for example at a certain distance from the measurement object. Other sensors are also possible, which detect and transmit sensor data, for example regarding the gas flow and / or the moving element in the line section and / or transport line.

[0064] Depending on the data that can be provided by the sensor means of the control unit, it is also possible, for example, to control and / or regulate the speed of the element to a target value of the speed of the element during movement through the line section and / or the transport line.

[0065] The sensor means comprises eg sensor means for detecting the gas pressure and / or eg sensor means for detecting the gas volume flow rate of the gas flow generated by the gas flow generator.

[0066] It is further advantageous if the supply device is configured as a separate peripheral unit with a housing and an interior of the supply device enclosed by the housing. In this way, the supply device can be used flexibly for different applications. The peripheral unit is configured as a mobile unit, for example, so that a person can manually move the supply device to the installation space, in particular to a desired installation location within the installation space.

[0067] The peripheral unit has, for example, a moving means for moving the peripheral unit or the supply device, for example by rollers or wheels. The feed device may, for example, have at least one further component, for example a sorting bin adjacent to the storage container and / or next to the line section, a buffer section and / or a singulation device, which serves, for example, to singulate an element from the provided series of elements, for example the first or front element of the series of elements, for example prior to entry into the line section.

[0068] The feeding device is adapted to provide elements, for example mechanical elements such as screws, rivets, punch rivets, stamping elements, punching elements, press elements, clinch rivet elements, fastening elements such as press-in bolts and / or press-in nuts, etc. In this way, the feeding device can be used versatile and flexible for different placement operations. A tool, such as a press tool or a stamping tool or a clinch tool, can be provided by the feeding device and a corresponding matching element can be provided on the tool.

[0069] The element may be, for example, a one-piece or integrated element. For example, the line sections and transport lines are adapted to accommodate the elements that may be transported therein by the gas flow, eg, the shape and / or size of the elements.

[0070] Furthermore, the supply device has a filter unit for filtering the gas, which serves to provide a gas flow. The filter unit is, for example, a gas filter unit, such as a fine air filter and / or a coarse air filter. The filter unit is in particular provided on the suction side of the gas flow generator. In this way, for example particles are removed from the gas or the air introduced by the gas flow generator. For example, fine particles, such as dust particles, can be removed by the filter unit from the gas or the air introduced almost completely, for example up to 90%. In this way, filtering, such as cleaning, of the introduced compressed and / or accelerated air mass is performed before it enters the gas flow generator.

[0071] Furthermore, the invention relates to a supply system with a hollow transport line and a supply device, the supply device being provided with one of the above-mentioned configurations. The system thus comprises the above-mentioned supply device and additionally a transport line. In this way, different processing devices can be provided. The transport line comprises, for example, a flexible hollow supply hose or a rigid hollow line.

[0072] The supply of elements in the transport line from the supply device to the processing device can take place, for example, in units of individual elements when the elements are transported, for example individually or, for example, in units of two, three or more adjacent elements which are in contact with one another in a series of elements.

[0073] The transport takes place via line sections and via hollow transport lines, which serve to guide and transport the elements and which bridge the area between the feeding device and the processing device.

[0074] Finally, the invention extends to a system having a processing device for processing elements and having a supply system as described above, the system being, for example, a technical system with a distributed compressed air supply and / or a distributed compressed air supply, the gas flow generator, for example a compressed air supply for providing and transporting the elements, being, for example, integrated in the supply device.

[0075] The processing device is configured to process the element provided by the supply device. The processing device is, for example, a tool that places the element on the workpiece, for example, in order to attach the element to the workpiece. For example, the system additionally comprises a robot. For example, the processing device is connected to the robot or is mounted on a mobile robot arm of the robot. The robot is in particular responsible for operating the processing device to move it in the space, for example, in order to attach the element to the workpiece using the processing device.

[0076] The processing device configured as a riveting device comprises, for example, a hydro-pneumatic or pneumatic-hydraulic drive and a C-bracket having two legs, on one leg of which, for example, a ram unit is placed and on the other leg, for example, a die unit of the processing device is placed.

[0077] Alternatively, for example, the robot claw can be equipped with an element magazine. A plurality of processing devices can be used, for example to provide a technological system with exactly two or more than two processing or feeding devices.

[0078] For example, to provide a gas flow, a gas flow generator capable of introducing air from the surroundings of the processing device (3) is provided on the processing device, and a low pressure level gas flow with an absolute gas pressure of 1.03 to 1.5 bar is provided on the outlet side of the gas flow generator.

[0079] Alternatively, a processing device for elements is proposed, in which a gas flow generator capable of introducing air from the surroundings of the processing device is provided to provide a gas flow for transporting the elements, and at the output side of the gas flow generator, a gas flow at a low pressure level with an absolute gas pressure of between 1.03 and 1.50 bar is provided. For example, the processing device has a storage container for a plurality of elements. The singulated elements from the storage container on the processing device can be transported individually by the gas flow generator to a transfer point of the processing device. At the transfer point of the processing device, the elements are moved forward, for example by a movable ram of the processing device, and processed by the processing device, for example pressed against a workpiece.

[0080] A processing device having a gas flow generator may also be used in the above-described system as a replacement for a processing device that does not have a gas flow generator. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0081] Further features and advantages are explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments which are illustrated diagrammatically in the following drawings. [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic representation of a system for attaching an element to a workpiece, comprising a feeding device, a processing device and a transport line. [Diagram 2] 2 shows the assembly according to FIG. 1, with the workpiece and robot omitted. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows a front view of the top of the dispensing apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2, without the front apparatus door. [Figure 4] 1 shows a perspective view of an alternative dispensing device with the front housing portion removed. [Diagram 5] 1 shows a schematic representation of an alternative system with a feeding device, a transport line and a processing device with designated work pieces. [Figure 6] 6 illustrates diagrammatically an alternative system to that of FIG. 5; [Figure 7] 1 shows a processing apparatus having a gas flow generator; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0082] The same reference numbers may be used for equivalent elements in different exemplary embodiments. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a system 1 for processing elements (not shown in Figures 1 to 3). The system 1 comprises a feed device 2, a processing device 3 and a hollow transport line 4. The transport line 4 is designed, for example, as a hollow flexible supply hose. The transport line 4 is connected at one end 4b to the processing device 3 via a line connection 3a of the processing device 3.

[0083] The system 1 serves to act on the workpieces 5, 6, 7, 8 which are stationarily present on the processing station 11 or to process the workpieces 5, 6, 7, 8. The action on the workpieces 5-8 for attaching the elements to the joint is carried out using a processing device 3 for processing the elements or, for example, for placing the elements on the joint on each of the workpieces 5-8. For example, the angular workpieces 5-7 are riveted in each case to the workpiece 8 which is constructed as a flat layer of metal sheet. The workpieces 5-7 are arranged so that they are evenly spaced from one another on the upper surface of the workpiece 8. According to FIG. 1, the processing device 3 is present in the area of ​​the workpiece 5.

[0084] 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 serves to manipulate and move the processing device 3 in space, for example to attach elements to the workpieces 5-8.

[0085] The processing device 3 configured as a rivet processing device comprises, for example, a hydro-pneumatic or pneumatic-hydraulic drive unit 15 and a two-legged C-bracket 12. A ram unit 13 is placed on one leg of the C-bracket 12, and a die unit 14 of the processing device 3 is placed on the other leg (see FIG. 2).

[0086] The system 1, including the robot 9 and the processing station 11 with the workpieces 5-8, is arranged in an installation space R. The installation space R occupies a part of a warehouse of a factory and is shown, for example, as being diagrammatically enclosed by a dashed line in FIG.

[0087] FIG. 2 shows the system 1 without the work pieces 5-8 and the robot. The supply device 2 and the processing device 3 are connected to one another by a hollow transport line 4. The elements are transported in the transport line 4, which is in particular gas-tight, from the supply device 2 to the processing device 3 in a transport direction T by a gas flow. The elements arriving at the processing device 3 are directed to advance in the corresponding line section of the processing device 3 and are placed by the ram unit 13 on the respective joints of the workpieces 5-8. For example rivets, such as punch rivets, clinch rivets or functional elements, are placed by the processing device 3 on the workpieces 5-8.

[0088] The feed device 2 is designed as a peripheral unit, which is separate from the processing device 3 and has, for example, rollers 2a on the underside for running the processing device 3 on a firm ground.

[0089] The feeder 2 comprises a storage container 16 with a storage volume 16a for providing or accommodating a plurality of elements (not shown). The storage container 16 is connected to a sorting bin 18 via a hollow line-type intermediate piece 17, allowing the passage of the individual elements. The elements arriving from the intermediate piece 17 are individually oriented in the sorting bin 18 and conveyed to a buffer line 19 adjacent to the sorting bin 18. The elements are provided to the buffer line 19 each time in the same orientation, one behind the other. From the buffer line 19, the elements advance and descend towards an element singulation device 20.

[0090] From the singulation device 20 the elements proceed individually into a hollow line section 21 of the feeder 2. Through the line section 21 the elements reach a connection point 22 of the feeder 2. The elements can be discharged from the supply device 2 at a connection point 22, where, for example, the line portion 21 is hermetically connected to one end 4a of the transport line 4. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the line portion 21 and the transport line 4 are configured to be integral with each other or to be integrally connected to each other. By way of example, the line portion 21 and the transport line 4 are formed in a continuous piece as a supply hose.

[0091] The elements can be transported with or by means of a gas flow G in the line section 21 and the transport line 4 from the connection point 22 to a processing device 3 located away from the feed device 2. For example, the elements are individually drawn into the area of ​​the singulation device 20 by the gas flow G permeated through the line section 21 (see FIG. 3) and transported in the direction of the connection point 22. The gas flow continues in the transport line 4, so that the elements are moved from the line section 21 into the transport line 4. The elements are carried with low friction by the gas flow G in the transport line to the end 4b of the transport line 4. The end 4b of the transport line 4 extends to a line connection 3a on the processing device 3, for example in the area of ​​the ram unit 13. The end 4b of the transport line 4 is connected to the line connection 3a on the ram unit 13, and through the line connection 3a the elements proceed individually and in the correct position into the ram channel of the ram unit 13 and are blown into the ram channel, for example with the help of the gas flow G.

[0092] To provide a gas flow G to the line section 21 and further on to the transport line 4, the supply device 2 comprises a gas flow generator 23. For example, the gas flow generator 23 is an axial fan. For example, the gas flow generator 23 is provided specifically for the supply device 2 in order to transport the elements by the gas flow G. Air L is introduced from the surroundings through the suction side 23a of the gas flow generator 23, which is open to the surroundings or atmosphere, and is compressed and / or accelerated in the gas flow generator 23. The gas flow generator 23 can be electrically operable, for example, by an integrated drive motor or an electric motor. The pressure side 23b of the gas flow generator 23 is connected to the singulation device 20, for example, by a connecting line 24 which conducts compressed air. During processing, the compressed air gas flow passes into the area of ​​the line section 21 connected to the singulation device 20. The gas flow generates a suction or drawing force acting on the singulated elements on the discharge side of the singulation device 20. The incoming compressed air flows into line portion 21 and draws the front individual elements of singulation device 20, i.e., the singulated elements, forward into line portion 21. Looking towards singulation device 20, singulation device 20 singulates the front element of the series of elements lined up in singulation device 20 within buffer line 19.

[0093] When the gas flow generator 23 is activated, the elements successively singulated by the singulation device can be moved by the gas flow through the line section 21 to the connection point 22 .

[0094] With the line section 21 and the transport line 4 connected, the elements can be transported by the gas flow out of the line section 21 and forwarded from the connection point 22 into the transport line 4 to the processing device 3 .

[0095] The gas compressor unit 23 is configured to introduce air L from the surroundings of the supply apparatus 2 at a suction side 23a of the gas compressor unit 23 to provide a gas flow.

[0096] The gas flow generator 23 is configured to introduce air at the suction side 23a of the compressor unit 23 from the surroundings of the supply device 2 at atmospheric pressure and thus at a rate of air in the installation space R of the supply device 2, in order to provide a gas flow. For example, the suction side 23a is inside the housing 25 of the supply device 2 or in an interior 26 of the supply device 2 enclosed by the housing 25, the interior 26 being open towards the surroundings or connected to an air space in the installation space R. Alternatively or additionally, the suction side 23a is, for example, outside the housing 25 of the supply device 2, so as to open towards the air space in the installation space R. For example, the gas flow generator 23 comprises an air flow generator.

[0097] The box-shaped housing 25 has a side wall 25a, a rear wall 25b, a base 25c, a top side 25d and a pivotable door 25e. The top side 25d is open to the surroundings by an open pivotable flap as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, so that sufficient ambient air always enters the suction side 23a of the gas flow generator 23 during operation of the gas flow generator 23. Electrical wiring, for example, for supplying power to the supply device 2, is not shown. The supply device 2 does not have a supply interface, for example, for a decentralized compressed air supply of the supply device 2. Thus, the supply device 2 does not have a compressed air connection or compressed air input, for example, for supplying the system 1 with compressed air supplied externally or centrally.

[0098] For example, the gas flow generator 23 comprises a gas compression unit for the gas flow generated on the suction side of the line section 21. The gas flow can be provided by air compressed and / or accelerated by the gas flow generator 23, but other methods are also possible. For example, the gas flow generator 23 has a compressed air compression unit. For example, the gas flow generator 23 operates according to the turbocompressor principle by means of a centrifugal and / or axial compressor, for example a multistage centrifugal compressor and / or a multistage axial compressor.

[0099] Although not shown in more detail, a superordinate control unit 27 of the supply device 2 is computer controlled or comprises software, a computer and a storage device and serves to control the operation of the supply device 2. The control unit 27 serves in particular to control a definable or adaptable and / or adjustable output stage of the gas flow generator 23. For example, the compression of the compressed air, the generation of the compressed air and the air output that can be provided therewith are definable or adaptable and / or variable by the control unit 27. The air output that can be provided can be adapted, for example dynamically, by the control unit 27 in particular to the actual air demand, for example the respective instantaneously required air demand. The actual air demand can in particular be programmable and / or dynamically adapted to the actual demand, for example based on sensor values ​​detected by sensor means (not shown). The detected sensor values ​​relate for example to the speed of the elements conveyed in the line section 21 and / or the transport line 4. Based on the speed of the elements transported in the line section 21 and / or the transport line 4 detected by the sensor, the speed of the elements transported can be adapted to a target value or a nominal value stored in the software, for example by means of the control unit 27.

[0100] Sensor means of the supply device 2 are provided for detecting and providing sensor values, for example for further processing by the control unit 27 . An alternative system to the system 1, which is not shown, differs in that a feed device with components according to the feed device 2 is present on the processing device 3, for example directly thereon, but without the housing 25. Alternatively, a feed device with functions or components according to the feed device 2 is present, for example, on the robot 9. For example, magazines and / or sorting bins and / or buffer lines for elements with storage containers are additionally present on the robot 9. For example, exactly one feed device or exactly two or more feed devices are provided for a system configured as a technical system. For example, in an alternative system, at least one component according to the feed device 2 can be present on the processing device 3 and at least one other component according to the feed device 2 can also be present on the robot 9.

[0101] In the case of alternative or technical systems, transport means for the elements are provided on the processing device 3 or on the robot 9, for example to transport the elements from the transport device to a refill station of the processing device.

[0102] In the case of an alternative system or technical system, it is for example arranged to transport the elements from a magazine provided on the processing device to provide a large number of elements to a processing point of the processing device, the processing point of the processing device comprising for example a placement head of the processing unit with a ram unit and a die unit.

[0103] For example, in a multi-track overall system in which systems according to system 1 operate in parallel, it may be provided that, for example, each track is considered according to system 1 described above.

[0104] A further alternative for the system is that a normal compressor, or for example a commercially known compressor, is present in the feeding device 2 and / or on the processing device 3 and / or on the robot 9. The compressor, for example, works according to the swept volume principle and is implemented, for example, as a piston compressor or a screw compressor.

[0105] Figure 4 shows a feeder 28 as an alternative to the feeder 2 without the front housing part. The feeder 28 differs from the feeder 2 with respect to the gas flow generator 23. The gas flow generator 23 in Figure 4 is configured as a multi-stage centrifugal fan 29. Air L from the surroundings is introduced at the suction side of the gas flow generator 23, and a filter unit 30 is arranged upstream of the centrifugal fan 29. The singulated elements are transported in the line section 21 from the element transfer point 31 of the singulation device 20 to the connection point 22 by a low-pressure gas or air flow between 1.03 and 1.5 bar.

[0106] 5 very diagrammatically shows a system 32 with a supply device 33 including a gas flow generator 23 and a hollow transport line 34 by which elements 35 can be transported individually by a low pressure gas flow to a processing device 3. The elements 35 to be transported to the processing device 3 are attached to a workpiece W by the processing device 3 and for example pressed into the workpiece W with the aid of a movable power-driven ram of the processing device. The workpiece W is for example supported on a die 36 of the processing device 3. A plurality of elements 35 are provided or stored in a storage container 16 of the supply device 33.

[0107] The gas flow generator 23 is a single or multi-stage axial or centrifugal fan or ventilator. An air flow of constant absolute gas pressure between 1.03 and 1.50, i.e. gas flow G, is generated on the pressure side of the gas flow generator 23.

[0108] The elements 35 singulated in the singulation device 20 are transported inside a hollow transport line 34 to the placement head 3b with the ram unit of the processing device 3 by a gas flow G provided by a gas flow generator 23. The gas flow G flows inside the transport line 34 and is illustrated as flow arrows on the outside of the transport line 34 only for the purposes of improving the illustration in Figures 5 and 6.

[0109] FIG. 6 shows a system comprising a supply device 33 including a gas flow generator 23 and a hollow transport line 34 capable of transporting elements 35 individually to a processing device 3 of a system 37 by the low pressure gas flow provided by the gas flow generator 23.

[0110] The singulated elements 35 are transferred by the singulation device 20 into the transport line 34. Due to the gas flow G in the direction towards the processing device 3 prevailing in the hollow transport line 34, the elements 35 proceed in the transport line 34 to the processing device 3. For example, one end 34a of the transport line 34 is moved back and forth between a place 20a on the singulation device 20 for receiving the individual elements 35 in the transport line 34 and a connection point 22. The connection point 22 corresponds, for example, to the pressure side outlet of the gas flow generator 23. In this way or in another way, the individual elements 35 can be moved in each case into the transport line 34 and transported to the processing device 33. In the system 37, there is no line section of the feed device 33 or there is no line section 21 according to the above-mentioned assembly.

[0111] 7 shows a processing device 38, which is an alternative to the processing device 3 for placing the workpieces W on the die 36. The processing device 38 processes elements 35, many of which are stored in a storage container 39, e.g. a magazine, on the processing device 38. The processing device 38 is equipped with a gas flow generator 40, such as a fan or a ventilator. To provide the gas flow G, gas or air from the surroundings of the processing device 38 can be introduced by the gas flow generator 40, which can provide a low-pressure level gas flow G with an absolute gas pressure between 1.03 bar and 1.50 bar at the outlet side of the gas flow generator 40. The elements 35 from the storage container 39 can be individually fed in a hollow transport line 41 to the placement head 3b of the processing device 38 by the gas flow G with a gas pressure between 1.03 bar and 1.50 bar. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1...system, 2...feeding device, 2a...roller, 3...processing device, 3a...line connection, 3b...placement head, 4...transport line, 4a, 4b...end, 5-8...workpiece, 9...robot, 10...robot arm, 11...processing station, 12...C-bracket, 13...ram unit, 14...die unit, 15...drive, 16...storage container, 16a...accommodation volume, 17...intermediate piece, 18...sorting box, 19...buffer line, 20...single device, 20a...location, 21...line section, 22...connection point, 23...gas flow generator, 23a...suction side, 23b...pressure side, 24...connecting line, 25...housing, 25a...side wall, 25b...rear wall, 25c...base, 25d...upper side, 25e...door, 26...inside, 27...control unit, 28...supply device, 29...centrifugal fan, 30...filter unit, 31...element transfer point, 32...system, 33...supply device, 34...transport line, 34a...end, 35...element, 36...die, 37...system, 38...processing device, 39...storage container, 40...gas flow generator, 41...transport line

Claims

1. A supply device (2, 28, 33) for an element (35), said element (35) being capable of being moved to a connection point (22) of said supply device (2, 28, 33), said supply device (2, 28, 33) being designed as an independently addressable peripheral unit for supplying an element (35) to a processing device (3), said element (35) being capable of being discharged from said supply device (2, 28, 33) via said connection point (22), said connection point (22) being designed as an independently addressable peripheral unit for supplying an element (35) to a processing device (3), said element (35) being capable of being discharged from said supply device (2, 28, 33) via said connection point (22), ) is adapted to be connected to a hollow transport line (4, 34) which can be connected to the supply device (2, 28, 33), so that in a connected state of the transport line (4, 34), the element (34) can be transported in the hollow transport line (4, 34) from the connection point (22) to the processing device (3) located away from the supply device (2, 28, 33), and the element (35) can be transported by a gas flow, The supply device (2, 28, 33) comprises a gas flow generator (23) that provides a gas flow such that the element (35) can be transported from the connection point (22) by the gas flow provided by the gas flow generator (23), the supply device (2, 28, 33) is present in an installation space, and the gas flow generator (23) is configured to introduce air from the surroundings of the supply device (2, 28, 33) in the installation space of the supply device (2, 28, 33) in order to provide the gas flow.

2. 2. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas flow generator (23) is configured to provide a gas flow at a low pressure level at an outlet side of the gas flow generator (23) with an absolute gas pressure of between 1.03 bar and 1.50 bar.

3. 3. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the gas flow generator (23) comprises a fan (29) or a ventilator.

4. A supply device (2, 28, 33) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the supply device (2, 28, 33) has a hollow line section (21) through which the element (35) can be moved from an element transfer point (31) at which the element (35) can be introduced into the line section (21) to the connection point (22) of the supply device (2, 28, 33).

5. A supply device (2, 28, 33) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the element capable of being moved in the line section (21) can be moved from the element transfer point through the line section (21) to the connection point by the transport line (4) by the gas flow in the line section (21) in a connected state of the line section (21).

6. 2. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas flow generator (23) comprises a gas compression unit for providing the gas flow.

7. 2. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas flow generator (23) comprises a gas compression unit according to the turbocompressor principle for providing the gas flow.

8. 10. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas flow generator (23) comprises a gas compression unit for providing a gas flow generated on the pressure side in the line section (21).

9. 10. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas flow generator (23) comprises a gas compression unit for providing a gas flow generated on the suction side in the line section (21).

10. 10. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas flow generator (23) comprises a gas compression unit with a centrifugal compressor for providing the gas flow, the gas compression unit operating according to the turbocompressor principle.

11. 10. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas flow generator (23) comprises a gas compression unit with an axial compressor for providing the gas flow, the gas compression unit operating according to the turbocompressor principle.

12. 10. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas flow generator (23) comprises a gas compression unit with a multi-stage compressor, the gas compression unit operating according to the turbocompressor principle.

13. 2. A supply device (2, 28, 33) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that there is a higher-level control unit (27) for controlling the output stage of the gas flow generator (23).

14. 10. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that there are sensor means for detecting and providing sensor values ​​and for adapting the gas flow demand to provide said gas flow.

15. A supply device (2, 28, 33) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the supply device (2, 28, 33) is configured as a separate peripheral unit with a housing (25) and an interior (26) of the supply device (2, 28, 33) enclosed by the housing (25).

16. A feeding device (2, 28, 33) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the feeding device (2) is configured to provide elements (35) for feeding said elements from the feeding device (2, 28, 33) to the processing device (3), said elements (35) being mechanical elements such as screws, rivets, punch rivets, stamping elements, punching elements, press elements, clinch rivet elements, fastening elements such as press-in bolts and / or press-in nuts.

17. 6. The supply device (2, 28, 33) according to claim 1, characterized in that the supply device (2) comprises a filter unit (30) for filtering the gas, the filter unit (30) serving to provide the gas flow.

18. A supply system comprising a hollow transport line (4, 34) and a supply device (2, 28, 33) according to one of the preceding claims.

19. A system (1, 32) having a processing device (3) for processing elements (35), comprising a feed system according to claim 18.

20. 20. The system (1, 32) according to claim 19, further comprising a gas flow generator (40) on said processing device (3, 38), by means of which air can be introduced from the surroundings of said processing device (3, 38) to provide a gas flow, and at the outlet side of said gas flow generator (40) a gas flow at a low pressure level with an absolute gas pressure between 1.03 bar and 1.50 bar is provided.

21. 1. A processing device (38) for an element (35), comprising a gas flow generator (40) by which air can be introduced from the surroundings of the processing device (38) to provide a gas flow for transporting the element (35), and which provides a low-pressure level gas flow at an outlet side of the gas flow generator (38) with an absolute gas pressure between 1.03 bar and 1.50 bar.

Images