Fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device and fruit and vegetable box packing device

Abstract

The present invention provides a fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device and a fruit and vegetable boxing device that minimize gaps between fruit and vegetable loads being transported toward the transfer unit. [Solution] The fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device of the present invention comprises a transfer unit for transferring fruit and vegetable loads, a first conveying body for conveying fruit and vegetable loads transferred by the transfer unit, a recovery body for recovering fruit and vegetable loads sent out from the first conveying body, and a second conveying body for conveying fruit and vegetable loads recovered by the recovery body. The transfer unit comprises an upstream rotating body, a downstream rotating body, and an endless rotating body wound around the outer circumference of the upstream rotating body and the downstream rotating body, and the endless rotating body is provided with locking claws that engage with engaging protrusions provided on the fruit and vegetable loads. The fruit and vegetable boxing device of the present invention comprises the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device of the present invention and a boxing unit for removing fruit and vegetables from fruit and vegetable loads on the first conveying body of the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device and boxing them.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fruit and vegetable transfer device for transferring fruit and vegetables, and a fruit and vegetable boxing device for boxing the fruit and vegetables transferred by the fruit and vegetable transfer device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a device for sorting long fruit and vegetables (long fruits and vegetables) such as cucumbers, eggplants, bitter gourds, carrots, zucchinis, etc. and round fruit and vegetables (round fruits and vegetables) such as tomatoes, persimmons, peaches, apples, mangoes, pears, dekopons, etc. into equal grades, there is a fruit and vegetable sorting device (Patent Documents 1 and 2) previously developed by the present inventor.

[0003] As shown in FIG. 11, the aforementioned fruit and vegetable sorting device includes a bucket A for placing and transporting fruit and vegetables, a measuring device B for measuring the size, shape, etc. of the fruit and vegetables during transportation, a fruit and vegetable extraction conveyor C for taking out the fruit and vegetables whose equal grades have been determined based on the measurement results by the measuring device B from the bucket A, and a transfer conveyor D for taking over and transporting the fruit and vegetables on the fruit and vegetable extraction conveyor C.

[0004] In this fruit and vegetable sorting device, the size, shape, etc. of the fruit and vegetables placed on the bucket A and being transported are measured by the measuring device B, and the fruit and vegetables whose equal grades have been determined based on the measurement results are taken out by the fruit and vegetable extraction conveyor C, and the fruit and vegetables on the fruit and vegetable extraction conveyor C are taken over by the transfer conveyor D.

[0005] The fruit and vegetables sorted into equal grades are boxed and shipped by grade. However, the conventional fruit and vegetable sorting device is a device that only performs the sorting of fruit and vegetables by grade, and the subsequent boxing work has been carried out manually. <p

[0006] Under such circumstances, the applicant of the present application developed a fruit and vegetable transfer device and a fruit and vegetable boxing device equipped with the fruit and vegetable transfer device in order to automate the boxing work of fruit and vegetables (Patent Document 3).

[0007] The aforementioned fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device comprises a detector for detecting fruits and vegetables on a conveyor, a first rotating body that operates based on an output signal from the detector, a fruit and vegetable load that moves in conjunction with the rotation of the first rotating body, a first conveying body that takes over and conveys the fruit and vegetable load sent out from the first rotating body at the front of the first rotating body, a second rotating body that collects the fruit and vegetable load sent out from the first conveying body, and a second conveying body that conveys the fruit and vegetable load collected by the second rotating body toward the first rotating body. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-153119 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-186132 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-132779 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] The aforementioned fruit and vegetable sorting and packing apparatus can automate the process from sorting to packing of fruits and vegetables. However, with this apparatus, if a gap occurs between the fruit and vegetable loads being transported by the second conveyor toward the first rotating body, continuous supply of fruit and vegetable loads to the first rotating body becomes impossible, potentially hindering the smooth transfer of fruits and vegetables.

[0010] This invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its objective is to provide a fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device and a fruit and vegetable box packing device that minimize gaps between fruit and vegetable loads. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] [Fruit and Vegetable Transfer and Conveying Device] The fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device disclosed in this application is a device for transferring and conveying fruit and vegetables on a conveyor, comprising a transfer unit for transferring fruit and vegetable loads, a first conveying body for conveying fruit and vegetable loads transferred by the transfer unit, a recovery body for recovering fruit and vegetable loads sent out from the first conveying body, and a second conveying body for conveying fruit and vegetable loads recovered by the recovery body, wherein the transfer unit comprises an upstream rotating body, a downstream rotating body, and an endless rotating body wound around the outer circumference of the upstream rotating body and the downstream rotating body, and the endless rotating body is provided with locking claws that engage with engaging protrusions provided on the fruit and vegetable loads.

[0012] [Fruit and Vegetable Packing Machine] The fruit and vegetable packing apparatus disclosed in this application is a device for packing fruits and vegetables into boxes, and comprises a fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device of the present invention and a packing unit that takes fruits and vegetables from a fruit and vegetable load on the first conveying body of the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device and packs them into boxes. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device and fruit and vegetable box packing device make it less likely for gaps to form between fruit and vegetable loads, and it is possible to prevent problems caused by gaps forming between fruit and vegetable loads. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram illustrating an example of the fruit and vegetable packing apparatus of the present invention. [Figure 2] (a) is a side view showing an example of a fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device, and (b) is an enlarged view of section IIb of (a). [Figure 3] (a) is an explanatory diagram showing one example of a fruit and vegetable support structure, and (b) is an explanatory diagram showing another example of a fruit and vegetable support structure. [Figure 4] (a) is an explanatory diagram of the state before the fruit and vegetable load reaches the stopper, and (b) is an explanatory diagram of the state when the fruit and vegetable load is stopped at the stopper. [Figure 5] (a) is an explanatory diagram showing the fruit and vegetable removal unit of the boxing unit in a detached state, and (b) is an explanatory diagram showing the fruit and vegetable removal unit of the boxing unit in a detached state. [Figure 6]Schematic explanatory diagram showing another example of the fruit and vegetable boxing device of the present invention. [Figure 7] (a) is a side view showing another example of the fruit and vegetable transfer device, and (b) is an enlarged view of part VIIb of (a). [Figure 8] (a) is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the fruit and vegetable placing body, and (b) is an explanatory diagram of the fruit and vegetable placing body in (a) viewed from different angles. [Figure 9] (a) is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the fruit and vegetable placing body, and (b) is an explanatory diagram of the fruit and vegetable placing body in (a) viewed from different angles. [Figure 10] Explanatory diagram showing an example of the anti-drop ridge. [Figure 11] Explanatory diagram showing an example of a conventional fruit and vegetable sorting device.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] (Embodiment 1) An example of an embodiment of the fruit and vegetable transfer device and the fruit and vegetable boxing device of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The fruit and vegetable transfer device and the fruit and vegetable boxing device of the present invention can be used for boxing various fruits and vegetables. Here, the case where the fruit and vegetable is a long fruit and vegetable, cucumber, will be described as an example.

[0016] As an example, the fruit and vegetable boxing device 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes a fruit and vegetable transfer device 20 that takes over and conveys fruits and vegetables sorted by grade from the conveyor X, and a boxing unit 30 that takes out the fruits and vegetables conveyed by the fruit and vegetable transfer device 20 and boxes them.

[0017] First, the fruit and vegetable transfer device 20 will be described. The fruit and vegetable transfer device 20 is a device that takes over and conveys fruits and vegetables on the conveyor X. As shown in FIG. 1, the fruit and vegetable transfer device 20 of this embodiment mainly includes a detector 21, a transfer unit 22, a fruit and vegetable placing body 23, a first conveyor (upper conveyor) 24, a recovery body 25, and a second conveyor (lower conveyor) 26.

[0018] The detector 21 detects fruits and vegetables on the conveyor belt X. The detector 21 can be composed of various existing sensors, including proximity sensors, photosensors, photoelectric sensors, and laser sensors. The detector 21 is positioned above the end of the conveyor belt X.

[0019] The transfer unit 22 is a unit for transferring the fruit and vegetable tray 23 to the front. As an example, the transfer unit 22 shown in Figures 1 and 2(a) and 2(b) comprises an upstream rotating body 22a, a downstream rotating body 22b, an endless rotating body 22c wound around the outer circumference of the upstream rotating body 22a and the downstream rotating body 22b, and a motor (not shown) as a power source for rotating the upstream rotating body 22a.

[0020] The upstream rotating body 22a includes two upstream sprockets 22d and 22e that are spaced apart and facing each other, and an upstream connecting drum 22f that connects the two upstream sprockets 22d and 22e.

[0021] The downstream rotating body 22b is equipped with two downstream sprockets 22g and 22h that are spaced apart and facing each other, and a downstream connecting drum 22i that connects the two downstream sprockets 22g and 22h. The downstream connecting drum 22i supports the fruit and vegetable loader 23 as it moves along the downstream rotating body 22b, preventing it from sinking, and guides it forward.

[0022] In this embodiment, the upstream sprockets 22d and 22e are larger in diameter than the downstream sprockets 22g and 22h. Furthermore, the downstream sprockets 22g and 22h and the upstream sprockets 22d and 22e are positioned at the same or approximately the same height at their lower ends.

[0023] An endless chain (hereinafter referred to as the "first chain") 22j is wound around the outer circumference of the upstream sprocket 22d and downstream sprocket 22g on the right side in the direction of transport by the first transporter 24, and an endless chain (hereinafter referred to as the "second chain") 22k is wound around the outer circumference of the upstream sprocket 22e and downstream sprocket 22h on the left side in the direction of transport by the first transporter 24, as an endless chain (hereinafter referred to as the "second chain").

[0024] The first chain 22j and the second chain 22k are configured to move in the same direction as the first conveyor 24 above the upstream rotating body 22a and the downstream rotating body 22b, and in the same direction as the second conveyor 26 below them.

[0025] Furthermore, the first chain 22j and the second chain 22k are configured to rotate synchronously in the same direction, so that the positions of the paired locking claws 22m are aligned (the paired locking claws 22m can lock one fruit / vegetable holder 23).

[0026] In this embodiment, the portions of the first chain 22j and the second chain 22k located below the upstream sprockets 22d and 22e and the downstream sprockets 22g and 22h are configured to be parallel or substantially parallel to the second conveyor 26.

[0027] In this way, by making a portion of the first chain 22j and the second chain 22k parallel or nearly parallel to the second conveyor 26, line pressure can be applied to the fruit and vegetable trays 23 at an early stage of the second conveyor 26, making it easier to prevent gaps from forming between the fruit and vegetable trays 23.

[0028] Furthermore, by ensuring that the portion parallel or nearly parallel to the second conveyor 26 overlaps with about half or one-third of the downstream portion of the second conveyor 26, multiple (for example, 5 to 10) fruit and vegetable loaders 23 moving on the second conveyor 26 are locked in place by the locking claws 22m of the transport unit 22.

[0029] In this way, when multiple (for example, 5 to 10) fruit and vegetable loaders 23 are moved on the second transporter 26, they are locked by the locking claws 22m of the transport unit 22, which applies line pressure to the multiple fruit and vegetable loaders 23 and makes it easier to prevent gaps from forming between the fruit and vegetable loaders 23.

[0030] The outer circumference of the first chain 22j and the second chain 22k is provided with two or more locking claws 22m at intervals, which engage with the engaging projection 23e (described later) of the fruit and vegetable holder 23. Each locking claw 22m protrudes outward.

[0031] The spacing between the two or more locking claws 22m is set to be the same as or approximately the same as the pitch (spacing) of the engaging protrusions 23e of the closely spaced fruit and vegetable racks 23. By providing the locking claws 22m at such intervals, the fruit and vegetable racks 23 can be moved while being closely spaced (pressed) together.

[0032] As the first chain 22j and the second chain 22k rotate, the fruit and vegetable load 23 is moved forward by the locking claws 22m attached to the first chain 22j and the second chain 22k. The fruit and vegetable load 23 moved by the locking claws 22m is pressed forward in the direction of movement, and line pressure (pressing force) is applied to the fruit and vegetable load 23 as it moves on the second conveyor 26.

[0033] In this way, the locking claws 22m push the fruit and vegetable load 23, applying line pressure, which causes the fruit and vegetable load 23 to be transported in a tightly packed (closely packed) state, allowing the fruit and vegetable load 23 to be sent without any gaps. This prevents accidents such as the conveyor X rotating even if the fruit and vegetable load 23 has not reached its predetermined position, causing the fruit and vegetables on the conveyor X to fall.

[0034] In this embodiment, the transfer unit 22 is configured to rotate intermittently based on the output signal from the detector 21. Specifically, when the detector 21 detects that there are fruits or vegetables at a predetermined position, the transfer unit 22 rotates by a preset 1 pitch, and the fruit or vegetable loader 23 moves forward by 1 pitch, thereby transferring the fruits or vegetables at the predetermined position on the conveyor X onto the fruit or vegetable loader 23.

[0035] Furthermore, in case a gap occurs between two or more fruit and vegetable loaders 23 due to a malfunction, the transport unit 22 can be configured to rotate based on two detection signals: a detector 21 that detects fruits and vegetables and a detector that detects the fruit and vegetable loaders 23 (hereinafter referred to as "loader detector").

[0036] The aforementioned fruit and vegetable carrying body 23 is a component (bucket) that picks up and transfers fruits and vegetables from the conveyor X. As an example, the fruit and vegetable carrying body 23 shown in Figure 3(a) comprises a base portion 23b and an upright wall 23c erected on the upper surface of the base portion 23b. The base portion 23b is a horizontally rectangular, thick member, and two outwardly projecting running wheels 23d are provided on each of its longitudinal outer sides. The two running wheels 23d are spaced apart in the front and rear directions of travel.

[0037] The aforementioned running wheels 23d are components that are placed on the first conveyor body 24 and the second conveyor body 26, which will be described later. In addition to bearing rollers, rubber rollers, resin rollers, etc., can be used for the running wheels 23d.

[0038] There are no particular limitations on the shape of the running wheel 23d, but for example, a wheel can be used that has a mounting portion 23f that rests on the first conveyor body 24 and the second conveyor body 26, and a protruding ring portion 23g with a larger outer diameter than the mounting portion 23f. By including the protruding ring portion 23g, the protruding ring portion 23g will come into contact with the inner surfaces of the first conveyor body 24 and the second conveyor body 26, preventing the wheel from coming off. Note that a running wheel 23d without a protruding ring portion 23g, as shown in Figure 3(b), can also be used.

[0039] Between the two running wheels 23d, an engaging projection 23e is provided, protruding in the same direction as the running wheels 23d. The engaging projection 23e is provided on both the longitudinal outer sides of the base portion 23b. The engaging projection 23e is a member that the locking claw 22m of the transfer unit 22 engages with when the locking claw 22m takes over the fruit and vegetable load 23. The engaging projection 23e is long enough to protrude outward from the running wheels 23d, and the locking claw 22m of the transfer unit 22 and the locking claw 25b (described later) of the collection body 25 engage with the protruding portion.

[0040] The aforementioned upright walls 23c constitute the placement recess 23h on which fruits and vegetables are placed. In this embodiment, eight upright walls 23c are provided at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the base portion 23b. The spacing between the upright walls 23c functions as a passage to prevent interference with the conveyor X when removing fruits and vegetables from the conveyor X.

[0041] The number of vertical walls 23c can be set according to the number of conveyors X, and may be more or less than eight. The spacing between each vertical wall 23c can also be set appropriately according to the width of the conveyor X on which the fruits and vegetables are placed.

[0042] Each vertical wall 23c has a recess 23h on its upper surface for placing fruits and vegetables. Of the two pointed portions 23i that make up the recess 23h, the pointed portion 23i on the rear side in the direction of movement of the fruit and vegetable holder 23 functions as a locking claw to remove fruits and vegetables from the conveyor X. Once placed in the recess 23h, the pointed portion 23i prevents the fruits and vegetables from falling in the front-to-back direction.

[0043] As shown in Figure 1, a guide (hereinafter referred to as the "first guide") 27a is provided on the outer circumference of the upstream rotating body 22a to prevent the fruit and vegetable tray 23 from falling off. The first guide 27a is a quarter-circular arc-shaped member installed in the range that moves the fruit and vegetable tray 23 vertically from the end position of the second conveying body 26, which will be described later.

[0044] The first conveyor 24 is the part that takes over and conveys the fruit and vegetable load 23 sent out from the upstream rotating body 22a. As shown in Figure 1, the first conveyor 24 in this embodiment is equipped with two endless conveyors (hereinafter referred to as "first endless conveyors") 24a and 24b that are arranged parallel to the upstream rotating body 22a.

[0045] The two first endless conveyors 24a and 24b are connected by a connecting member (not shown) and rotate synchronously by the power of a motor (not shown). In this embodiment, the first conveyor body 24 is constantly rotating. For example, timing conveyors can be used for the first endless conveyors 24a and 24b.

[0046] The wheels 23d of the fruit and vegetable carrier 23 rest on both first endless conveyors 24a and 24b. The fruit and vegetable carrier 23, which is sent out from the upstream rotating body 22a, has its wheels 23d resting on the first endless conveyors 24a and 24b, and moves in the same direction as the first endless conveyors 24a and 24b move.

[0047] As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), in this embodiment, a stopper 24c is provided at a position on the first conveyor 24 closer to the collection body 25. This stopper 24c is a component for stopping the fruit and vegetable loader 23 at a predetermined position on the first conveyor 24 for a predetermined time.

[0048] When the stopper 24c comes into contact with the front side of the fruit and vegetable loader 23, the fruit and vegetable loader 23 stops at that position. At this time, the running wheels 23d rotate freely on the first endless conveyors 24a and 24b, and the fruit and vegetable loader 23 accumulates (stays) at that position.

[0049] The recovery unit 25 is a component for recovering the fruit and vegetable load 23 that is sent out from the first conveyor 24. The recovery unit 25 is connected to a motor (not shown) and rotated by the motor. The recovery unit 25 in this embodiment comprises a cylindrical drum portion 25a and locking claws 25b that protrude outward from the outer circumference of the drum portion 25a.

[0050] Multiple locking claws 25b are provided on each of the longitudinal ends of the drum section 25a. The multiple locking claws 25b are spaced apart in the rotational direction of the drum section 25a. This spacing is the same as or approximately the same as the pitch of the engaging protrusions 23e of the closely fitted fruit and vegetable holder 23, similar to the locking claws 22m provided on the outer circumference of the first chain 22j and the second chain 22k.

[0051] As shown in Figure 1, the outer circumference of the collection body 25 is provided with a guide (hereinafter referred to as the "second guide") 27b to prevent the fruit and vegetable carrying body 23, which was taken over from the first conveyor body 24, from falling off. The second guide 27b is a semicircular member installed between the end position of the first conveyor body 24 and the start position of the second conveyor body 26.

[0052] In this embodiment, when the fruits and vegetables on the fruit and vegetable tray 23, which have been collected at a predetermined position, are removed by the suction arm 35 of the box packing unit 30 (described later), the restriction (stop) by the stopper 24c is released, and the fruit and vegetable tray 23 moves toward the collection unit 25. The stopper 24c is operated by an output signal from a sensor (not shown).

[0053] In this embodiment, the case in which the collection body 25 is equipped with a locking claw 25b is shown as an example, but the collection body 25 can also be cylindrical without a locking claw 25b. In this case, since the fruit and vegetable holder 23 moves vigorously along the collection body 25, a braking device (not shown) can be provided on the second guide 27b to suppress the momentum of the fruit and vegetable holder 23.

[0054] The second conveyor 26 transports the fruit and vegetable load 23 collected by the recovery unit 25 toward the upstream rotating body 22a. Similar to the first conveyor 24, the second conveyor 26 in this embodiment is equipped with two endless conveyors (hereinafter referred to as "second endless conveyors") 26a and 26b.

[0055] The two second endless conveyors 26a and 26b are connected by a connecting member (not shown) and rotate synchronously using the power of a motor (not shown). In this embodiment, the first conveyor body 24 is kept rotating at all times. For example, timing conveyors can be used for the second endless conveyors 26a and 26b.

[0056] The wheels 23d of the fruit and vegetable loader 23 rest on both second endless conveyors 26a and 26b. When the fruit and vegetable loader 23 is sent out from the collection unit 25, the portion of the wheel 23d of the fruit and vegetable loader 23 rests on the second endless conveyors 26a and 26b, and moves towards the upstream rotating body 22a as the second endless conveyors 26a and 26b move.

[0057] In this embodiment, the fruit and vegetable loads 23 that are sequentially fed into the second conveyor 26 from the rear push the fruit and vegetable loads 23 located further forward (towards the upstream rotating body 22a) (applying line pressure to the fruit and vegetable loads 23), so that the fruit and vegetable loads 23 are fed into the upstream rotating body 22a without any gaps. The line pressure on the fruit and vegetable loads 23 is further increased by being pushed by the locking claws 22m of the transfer unit 22.

[0058] As described above, in this embodiment of the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device 20, the first conveying body 24 is positioned on the upstream side of the rotating body 22a and the conveyor X, the recovery body 25 is positioned below the first conveying body 24, the second conveying body 26 is positioned on the side of the recovery body 25, and the upstream rotating body 22a is positioned on the side of the second conveying body 26, thereby forming a series of unconnected annular conveying paths, along which the fruit and vegetable load 23 moves.

[0059] Next, the boxing unit 30 will be described. The boxing unit 30 is used to take out the fruits and vegetables transported by the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device 20 and pack them into boxes. As an example, the boxing unit 30 shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(b) comprises a mounting base 31, an air cylinder 32 fixed to the mounting base 31, and a movable body 33 connected to the tip of the rod of the air cylinder 32.

[0060] Between the mounting base 31 and the movable body 33, a pantograph-shaped telescopic body 34 is provided that extends and retracts in the front-to-back direction (the direction in which the rod extends and retracts). Two telescopic body guides 34a are provided on the telescopic body 34, spaced apart vertically, to guide the telescopic body 34.

[0061] In this embodiment, the mounting base 31, air cylinder 32, movable body 33, and telescopic body 34 function as a mechanism (spacing adjuster) for adjusting the spacing between two or more suction arms (fruit and vegetable picking bodies) 35, which will be described later.

[0062] In this embodiment, the expandable body 34 is provided with suction arms 35 for removing fruits and vegetables from the mounting recess 23h by suction. Multiple suction arms 35 (eight in this embodiment) are provided at intervals in the expansion and contraction direction of the expandable body 34.

[0063] The spacing between the multiple suction arms 35 is such that it is equal to the spacing between the mounting recesses 23h of the fruit and vegetable holder 23 when the telescopic body 34 is extended. The suction arms 35 are positioned above the fruit and vegetable holder 23 that has been accumulated in a predetermined position, so that the fruit and vegetables can be removed from the fruit and vegetable holder 23.

[0064] In this embodiment, with the telescopic body 34 extended, the fruits and vegetables on the fruit and vegetable holder 23 that have been accumulated at a predetermined position are removed by the suction arm 35. Then, by contracting the telescopic body 34, the spacing between the multiple fruits and vegetables held by the suction arm 35 is reduced. This spacing is the same as the spacing between boxes (spacing such that adjacent fruits and vegetables lightly touch each other).

[0065] By making it possible to change the spacing of the suction arms 35 (making them wider or narrower) when removing fruits and vegetables and when packing them into boxes, the fruits and vegetables can be packed into boxes in an orderly fashion without any gaps. The spacing of the suction arms 35 can be set to an appropriate interval depending on the size of the fruits and vegetables being packed and the size of the box.

[0066] In this embodiment, when the suction operation by the suction arm 35 is completed, a signal indicating the completion of the suction operation is sent to the control unit (not shown), and based on this signal, the restriction on the fruit and vegetable holder 23 by the stopper 24c is released, and the fruit and vegetable holder 23 moves toward the collection unit 25.

[0067] Furthermore, the fruit and vegetable removal device does not have to be a suction arm, as long as it is capable of removing the fruit and vegetables from the fruit and vegetable holder 23.

[0068] In this embodiment, a remaining fruit and vegetable conveyor 28 is provided ahead of the first conveyor 24 to remove and convey any remaining fruit and vegetables on the first conveyor 24. As an example, the remaining fruit and vegetable conveyor 28 shown in Figure 1 is equipped with seven belt conveyors (hereinafter referred to as "narrow conveyors") that are rotated by a motor (not shown). The width of the narrow conveyors is narrower than the spacing formed between the vertical walls 23c of the fruit and vegetable loading body 23.

[0069] The remaining fruit and vegetable conveyor 28 is positioned so that its starting end is ahead of the terminal end of the first conveyor 24 and above the collection unit 25. A small gap is maintained between the terminal end of the first conveyor 24 and the starting end of the remaining fruit and vegetable conveyor 28 to prevent interference between them. This gap is small enough to prevent the fruit and vegetables from falling out.

[0070] In this embodiment, the upper surface of the first conveyor 24 and the upper surface of the remaining fruit and vegetable conveyor 28 are flush or nearly flush. By aligning the upper surfaces of both conveyors to the same height, the movement of the fruit and vegetables becomes smoother, and the risk of dropping or other incidents can be reduced.

[0071] In the remaining fruit and vegetable conveyor 28, any fruit and vegetables that were not picked up by the suction arm 35 of the boxing unit 30 are removed. Specifically, as the fruit and vegetable carrier 23, on which the fruit and vegetables are placed in the placement recess 23h, descends along the recovery unit 25, the fruit and vegetables in the placement recess 23h are transferred to the remaining fruit and vegetable conveyor 28 by the rotation of the narrow conveyor.

[0072] The remaining fruit and vegetable transporter 28 may be provided as needed, and can be omitted if unnecessary.

[0073] (Embodiment 2) Another embodiment of the present invention will be described using the tomato, which is a round-fruited vegetable, as an example. The basic configuration of this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 1. In the following, parts common to Embodiment 1 will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate, and the focus will be on the parts that differ from Embodiment 1.

[0074] The basic configuration of the fruit and vegetable packing device 10 in this embodiment is the same as in Embodiment 1, and as shown in Figure 6, it includes a fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device 20 that takes over and conveys fruits and vegetables sorted by grade from the conveyor X, and a packing unit 30 that takes out the fruits and vegetables conveyed by the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device 20 and packs them into boxes.

[0075] The aforementioned fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device 20 is a device that transfers and conveys fruits and vegetables on the conveyor X. As shown in Figure 6, the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device 20 of this embodiment mainly comprises a detector 21, a transfer unit 22, a fruit and vegetable loader 23, a first conveying body 24, a collection body 25, and a second conveying body 26.

[0076] The upstream rotating body 22a is positioned below the end of the conveyor X, the first conveying body 24 is positioned ahead of the conveying direction of the conveyor X, the recovery body 25 is positioned below the ahead of the first conveying body 24, and the second conveying body 26 is positioned between the recovery body 25 and the downstream side of the upstream rotating body 22a.

[0077] The detector 21 is used to detect fruits and vegetables on the conveyor belt X, and the same type as in Embodiment 1 can be used. The detector 21 is positioned above the end of the conveyor belt X.

[0078] The transfer unit 22 is a unit for transferring the fruit and vegetable tray 23 to the next location. The transfer unit 22 in this embodiment is narrower in width than that of embodiment 1, but its configuration is the same as that of embodiment 1.

[0079] The aforementioned fruit and vegetable holder 23 is a component that takes fruit and vegetables off the conveyor X and transfers them. As an example, the fruit and vegetable holder 23 shown in Figures 8(a) and 8(b) has a circular shape in plan view and is equipped with a base portion 23b and an upright wall 23c erected on the upper side of the base portion 23b.

[0080] The base portion 23b is a thick member that is circular or substantially circular in plan view. Flat portions 23k parallel to the vertical walls 23c are provided on both outer sides of the base portion 23b in the direction of travel of the fruit and vegetable holder 23. The base portion 23b can also be made without the flat portions 23k.

[0081] Each flat section 23k is provided with two outwardly protruding running wheels 23d. The two running wheels 23d are spaced apart in the front and rear directions of travel.

[0082] The aforementioned running wheels 23d are components that are placed on the first conveyor 24 and the second conveyor 26. In addition to bearing rollers, running wheels 23d can be rubber rollers, resin rollers, or other components equipped with a mounting portion 23f that rests on the first conveyor 24 and the second conveyor 26.

[0083] Between the two running wheels 23d, an engaging projection 23e is provided, protruding in the same direction as the running wheels 23d. The configuration of the running wheels 23d and the engaging projection 23e can be the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0084] The aforementioned upright wall 23c constitutes a placement recess 23h on which fruits and vegetables are placed. In this embodiment, five upright walls 23c are provided on the base portion 23b at intervals along its longitudinal direction. The spacing between the upright walls 23c functions as a passage to prevent interference with the conveyor X when removing fruits and vegetables from the conveyor X.

[0085] The number of vertical walls 23c can be set according to the number of conveyors X, and may be more or less than five. The spacing between each vertical wall 23c can also be set appropriately according to the width of the conveyor X on which the fruits and vegetables are placed.

[0086] Of the vertical walls 23c, three vertical walls 23c, excluding the two outer vertical walls 23c, are provided with mounting recesses 23h on their upper surfaces for placing fruits and vegetables. The raised portions at the front and rear of the mounting recesses 23h (corresponding to the pointed portions 23i in Embodiment 1) function as removal claws for removing fruits and vegetables from the conveyor X. Once placed in the mounting recesses 23h, the raised portions prevent the fruits and vegetables from falling in the front-to-back direction.

[0087] The fruit and vegetable carrier 23 may also be equipped with a base portion 23b that is square or approximately square in plan view, as shown in Figures 9(a) and 9(b). By making the base portion 23b square or approximately square in plan view, there is an advantage in that unintentional rotation during travel is less likely to occur compared to the case where the base portion 23b is circular or approximately circular in plan view, thereby reducing the risk of items falling due to rotation.

[0088] The running wheels 23d shown in Figures 8(a)(b) and 9(a)(b) are equipped with mounting portions 23f that rest on the first conveyor body 24 and the second conveyor body 26. However, similar to the running wheels 23d of the fruit and vegetable carrier body 23 in Embodiment 1, a wheel equipped with a mounting portion 23f and a protruding ring portion 23g with a larger outer diameter than the mounting portion 23f can be used (see Figure 3(a)). In this case, the protruding ring portion 23g will contact the inner surfaces of the first conveyor body 24 and the second conveyor body 26, preventing the wheel from coming off.

[0089] As shown in Figure 6, a first guide 27a is provided on the outer circumference of the upstream rotating body 22a to prevent the fruit and vegetable tray 23 from falling off. The first guide 27a is a quarter-circular arc-shaped member installed in the range that moves the fruit and vegetable tray 23 vertically from the end position of the second conveying body 26, which will be described later.

[0090] The first conveyor body 24 is a part that takes over and conveys the fruit and vegetable load 23 sent out from the upstream rotating body 22a, and can be the same as that used in Embodiment 1.

[0091] The recovery unit 25 is a component for recovering the fruit and vegetable load 23 that is sent out from the first conveyor 24. The recovery unit 25 can be the same as that used in Embodiment 1.

[0092] The second conveyor 26 transports the fruit and vegetable load 23 collected by the recovery unit 25 toward the upstream rotating unit 22a. The second conveyor 26 can be the same as that used in Embodiment 1.

[0093] The aforementioned boxing unit 30 is for taking out the fruits and vegetables transported by the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device 20 and packing them into boxes. The boxing unit 30 can be the same as that used in Embodiment 1.

[0094] In this embodiment, a residual fruit and vegetable conveyor 28 is provided ahead of the first conveyor 24 in the conveying direction, for removing and conveying any fruit and vegetable remaining on the first conveyor 24. The residual fruit and vegetable conveyor 28 can be the same as that used in Embodiment 1.

[0095] (Other embodiments) In the above embodiment 1, the case in which both the conveyor X and the remaining fruit and vegetable transporter 28 are composed of seven narrow conveyors is given as an example, but the structure of the conveyor X and the remaining fruit and vegetable transporter 28 may be other than that.

[0096] For example, the conveyor X can be configured as in Embodiment 2 above, comprising five long, narrow conveyors (hereinafter referred to as "long conveyors") X1 and short, narrow conveyors (hereinafter referred to as "short conveyors") X2 provided between each long conveyor X1 (Figure 6).

[0097] The fruit and vegetable loading platform 23 for round fruits and vegetables tends to be narrower in width than the fruit and vegetable loading platform 23 for long fruits and vegetables. Therefore, if the same width of passage is to be secured as with the fruit and vegetable loading platform 23 for long fruits and vegetables, the number of vertical walls 23c will be reduced. In this case, the number of narrow conveyors that make up the conveyor X will inevitably be reduced, but if there are fewer conveyors, the weight of the fruits and vegetables may cause the narrow conveyors to sag and interfere with the transport unit 22.

[0098] In this case, by using a combination of a long conveyor X1 and a short conveyor X2 as the conveyor X, it is possible to remove the fruits and vegetables from the fruit and vegetable loading body 23 while ensuring the necessary strength. The same applies to the remaining fruit and vegetable transporter 28.

[0099] In Embodiment 2, similar to Embodiment 1, the first conveyor body 24 is provided with two first endless conveyors 24a and 24b, and the fruit and vegetable loader 23 is moved by these two first endless conveyors 24a and 24b as an example. However, the configuration of the first conveyor body 24 in Embodiments 1 and 2 may be other than those described above.

[0100] For example, the first conveyor 24 can be configured to have two belt conveyors on which the bottom surface of the fruit and vegetable tray 23 rests, and the fruit and vegetable tray 23 is moved by these two belt conveyors. In this case, in order to prevent the fruit and vegetable tray 23 on the belt conveyors from rotating unintentionally, a guide (not shown) parallel to the two belt conveyors can be provided between them.

[0101] When a guide is provided between two belt conveyors, a guide groove 23j is provided on the bottom surface of the fruit and vegetable tray 23 (see Figures 8(a)(b) and 9(a)(b)). This allows the guide to fit into the guide groove 23j on the bottom surface of the fruit and vegetable tray 23, preventing the fruit and vegetable tray 23 from rotating unintentionally and falling as a result. Note that the guide groove 23j is only necessary when a guide is provided, and can be omitted otherwise.

[0102] In Embodiment 1, a fruit and vegetable holder 23 for long fruits and vegetables is used as an example, and in Embodiment 2, a fruit and vegetable holder 23 for round fruits and vegetables is used as an example. However, the fruit and vegetable holder 23 can also be configured to hold both long and round fruits and vegetables. In this case, there is the advantage that one type of fruit and vegetable holder 23 can be used for both long and round fruits and vegetables.

[0103] Although not described in Embodiments 1 and 2 above, the first conveyor body 24 may also be provided with a fall prevention projection 29 to prevent the fruit and vegetable carrier 23 from falling off (dropping) while the first conveyor body 24 is in motion. Specifically, as shown in Figure 10, a projection 29a can be provided inward from a frame (not shown) of the first conveyor body 24, and a cushioning material 29b can be provided at its tip to form the fall prevention projection 29.

[0104] The anti-detachment protrusions 29 can be provided along the longitudinal direction of the first conveyor 24. The anti-detachment protrusions 29 can be provided on both sides in the width direction of the first conveyor 24, or on only one side in the width direction of the first conveyor 24.

[0105] As shown in Figure 10, the protrusions 29a and cushioning material 29b are positioned opposite the outer surfaces of the vertical walls 23c on both sides of the fruit and vegetable loader 23. A small clearance is maintained between each vertical wall 23c and each cushioning material 29b so that they do not come into contact when the fruit and vegetable loader 23 is being transported in the correct orientation, but come into contact when the fruit and vegetable loader 23 meanders or shifts laterally.

[0106] The configuration of the anti-detachment protrusion 29 is just one example, and other configurations are also possible. Furthermore, the anti-detachment protrusion 29 may be provided as needed, and can be omitted if unnecessary.

[0107] The fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device 20 of the present invention is suitable for use together with the packing unit 30 as part of the fruit and vegetable packing device 10, as in the embodiments 1 and 2 described above, but it can also be used as a standalone device separate from the packing unit 30.

[0108] The configurations of Embodiments 1 and 2 described above are examples, and the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device and fruit and vegetable boxing device of the present invention are not limited to these configurations. The fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device and fruit and vegetable boxing device of the present invention can be modified by adding, omitting, or replacing components, to the extent that the intended purpose can be achieved.

[0109] The fruit and vegetable packing device of the present invention can be suitably used as a conventional fruit and vegetable sorting device as shown in Figure 11, specifically as a device in which fruits and vegetables are placed on a fruit and vegetable carrying body 23 and transported, the size and shape of the fruits and vegetables are measured during transport, and the fruits and vegetables are packed into boxes based on the grade determined based on the measurement results. However, the configuration of the fruit and vegetable sorting device itself is not limited to that shown in Figure 11. [Industrial applicability]

[0110] The fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device and fruit and vegetable boxing device of the present invention can be used for conveying and boxing various fruits and vegetables, and is particularly suitable for boxing long fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, eggplants, bitter melons, carrots, and zucchini, as well as round fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, persimmons, peaches, apples, mangoes, pears, and dekopon oranges. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0111] 10. Fruit and vegetable packing machine 20. Fruit and Vegetable Transfer and Conveying Device 21 Detectors 22 Transfer Units 22a Upstream rotating body 22b Downstream rotating body 22c Endless rotating body 22d, 22e upstream sprocket 22f Upstream connecting drum 22g, 22h downstream sprocket 22i Downstream coupling drum 22j endless chain (first chain) 22k endless chain (second chain) 22m locking claw 23 Fruit and vegetable mounting body 23b Base section 23c standing wall 23d Running wheels 23e Engagement protrusion 23f Mounting section 23g protruding ring section 23h Mounting recess 23i tip 23j guide groove 23k flat part 24. First transport unit (upper transport unit) 24a, 24b Endless conveyor (first endless conveyor) 24c stopper 25 recovered items 25a Drum section 25b Locking claw 26. Second transport unit (lower transport unit) 26a, 26b Endless conveyor (second endless conveyor) 27a Guide (First Guide) 27b Guide (Second Guide) 28 Remaining fruit and vegetables carrier 29 Falling prevention protrusion 29a Projection 29b Cushioning material 30 box packing units 31 Mounting base 32 Air Cylinders 33 Movable body 34 Stretch body 34a Extendable Guide 35. Suction Arm (Fruit and Vegetable Extraction Unit) A bucket B Measuring device C. Fruit and vegetable removal conveyor D. Transfer / Transport Unit X Conveyor X1 Long Conveyor X2 Short Conveyor

Claims

1. In a fruit and vegetable transfer and transport device that takes over and transports fruits and vegetables on a conveyor, A transport unit for transporting fruit and vegetable loads, A first conveying body that conveys the fruit and vegetable load transported by the aforementioned transfer unit, A recovery unit for recovering the fruit and vegetable load sent out from the first transporter, The system includes a second transporter for transporting the fruit and vegetable loads collected by the aforementioned recovery unit, The transfer unit comprises an upstream rotating body, a downstream rotating body, and an endless rotating body wound around the outer circumference of the upstream rotating body and the downstream rotating body. The endless rotating body is provided with a locking claw that engages with an engaging projection provided on the fruit and vegetable holder. A fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device characterized by the following features.

2. In the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device according to claim 1, Two or more locking claws are provided at intervals. A fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device characterized by the following features.

3. In the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device according to claim 2, The spacing between the protruding parts of two or more locking claws is the same as or approximately the same as the spacing between the engaging protrusions of two closely spaced fruit and vegetable holders. A fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device characterized by the following features.

4. In the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device according to claim 1, Equipped with a detector to detect fruits and vegetables, The transport unit operates based on the output signal from the detector. A fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device characterized by the following features.

5. In the fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device according to claim 1, A stopper is provided to stop the fruit and vegetable load on the first conveyor, A fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device characterized by the following features.

6. In a fruit and vegetable box packing machine, A fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The aforementioned fruit and vegetable transfer and conveying device is equipped with a boxing unit that removes fruit and vegetables from the fruit and vegetable loading body on the first conveying body and packs them into boxes. A fruit and vegetable box packing device characterized by the following features.

7. In the fruit and vegetable box packing apparatus according to claim 6, The boxing unit is equipped with two or more fruit and vegetable removal units. A fruit and vegetable box packing device characterized by the following features.

8. In the fruit and vegetable box packing apparatus according to claim 7, The boxing unit is equipped with a spacing adjustment machine that adjusts the spacing between two or more fruit and vegetable removal units. A fruit and vegetable box packing device characterized by the following features.

9. In the fruit and vegetable box packing apparatus according to claim 6, A remaining fruit and vegetable transporter is provided ahead of the first transporter in the transport direction, for removing and transporting any remaining fruit and vegetables on the first transporter. A fruit and vegetable box packing device characterized by the following features.

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