Device for monitoring conveyor systems

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for monitoring drive units and / or conveyor paths in conveyor systems comprising at least one drive unit, wherein the device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems is designed to ensure that a visual inspection of the drive unit and / or conveyor paths can be carried out. The device for monitoring thereby enables a simplified inspection of the drive unit, in particular of central drives, in conveyor systems, thereby reducing system downtimes that would otherwise be required for repairs. During maintenance and repair, the device for monitoring can advantageously remain on the conveyor system since its removal is not necessary due to the possibility of visual inspection.

Description

[0001] Device for monitoring conveyor systems

[0002] The invention relates to a device for monitoring a conveyor system comprising a conveyor belt and at least one drive unit.

[0003] Conveyor systems, such as conveyor belts, assembly lines, transport belts or belt conveyors, are usually stationary conveyor systems for transporting goods, such as piece goods or bulk materials.

[0004] DE 10 2021 109 792 A1 relates to a conveyor roller diagnostic system designed for inspecting rollers and drive units in conveyor systems. The inspection is carried out using a diagnostic system that runs parallel to the conveyor system on a guide rail and uses various sensor systems to record the condition of rollers and drive units along a conveyor system. However, the drive units are freely accessible and not enclosed by a cover.

[0005] Furthermore, DE 10 2005 029 637 A1 describes a device for monitoring a conveyor system.

[0006] DE102 08 741 A1 discloses a device for feeding raw material in constant quantities, which can feed wet raw material in constant quantities when ceramic honeycombs are to be extruded. The device comprises a raw material container for storing and feeding raw material, a belt for transferring raw material, a height control guide for defining a thickness of raw material on the belt, and a belt cover. Furthermore, a reversible belt drive motor is provided for controlling a rotation direction of the belt in the forward and reverse directions, and a raw material removal device is arranged on a reverse side of the belt. If there is too much raw material on the belt, the material can be removed by changing the rotation direction. To prevent clumping of the raw material, provision can be made for optically monitoring the amount of raw material.For this purpose, the belt cover can be designed to be transparent.

[0007] US 10,488,282 B2 describes a system for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems. Monitoring is performed using a sensor capable of detecting motor vibrations and thereby determining the tension of the belts in conveyor systems. The condition of the motor is detected via vibration, but there is no guarantee that damage or the need for maintenance work will be detected in advance. Visual inspection is not possible.

[0008] Sensory monitoring systems in conveyor systems are known from the state of the art, which require a high level of technical complexity and are sometimes not suitable for detecting any minor damage to the drive unit.

[0009] The objective is therefore to provide a simplified method for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems that overcomes the disadvantages of the current state of the art. Furthermore, the safety of operating and maintenance personnel during inspection of drive units in conveyor systems should be increased.

[0010] According to the invention, the object is achieved according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0011] A first aspect of the invention relates to a device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems.

[0012] According to the invention, the device for monitoring drive units and / or conveyor lines in conveyor systems is designed to ensure a visual inspection of the drive unit and the conveyor line. The visual inspection can be carried out manually or automatically. For example, the inspection can be carried out by an employee or by a camera system, whereby errors or damage in the area of ​​the drive unit can be detected quickly and easily. This enables timely repairs without long downtimes due to damage. The inspection can also determine the need for maintenance of the drive unit, for example the necessary supply of lubricant. In addition, the components of the conveyor line, such as rollers and chains, can be inspected during operation.

[0013] For the purposes of the invention, the drive unit is understood to mean motors, in particular electric motors.

[0014] For the purposes of the invention, a conveyor system refers to mechanical devices that work together to efficiently move material. Depending on the design of the conveyor system, such devices can be, for example, chains or rollers.

[0015] The invention offers particular advantages in chain drives and / or belt drives. A chain drive is a mechanical drive system that uses a chain to transfer kinetic energy from a drive element (such as a motor) to a driven element.

[0016] The chain, for example, consists of a series of interconnected links that move flexibly around gears or sprockets. It can be made of metal or plastic, depending on the application and load. The sprockets mesh with the chain and transfer power from the drive shaft to the output shaft. They are designed to enable smooth and efficient movement. Furthermore, a tensioning device may be provided to maintain the correct tension of the chain to ensure smooth operation and prevent excessive wear. In many applications, lubricant is used to reduce friction between the chain links and sprockets, extending the service life of the drive system.

[0017] Chain drives are commonly used in industrial applications such as conveyor systems, bicycles, motorcycles, and agricultural machinery. They are known for their robustness, efficiency, and ability to transmit large forces.

[0018] Belt conveyor systems are used in the bulk materials industry, mining, and food production. They are also used in logistics in warehouses and distribution centers to transport products efficiently. According to the invention, the monitoring device is transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque. This design allows visual and / or optical inspection of the drive unit by users, maintenance personnel, or optical monitoring systems.

[0019] The monitoring device can be transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque. A transparent or semi-transparent design allows direct visual inspection of the drive unit without having to disassemble or open it. This can be achieved, for example, by using transparent or translucent materials such as glass or plastic. An opaque design can be advantageous, for example, if the monitoring device is additionally equipped with optical inspection systems, such as cameras or sensors. In this case, the opaque design can serve to protect the drive unit from external influences while simultaneously enabling reliable monitoring.

[0020] In embodiments of the invention, the device enables continuous or periodic visual monitoring of the drive unit and / or conveyor lines. This can be achieved, for example, by providing suitable surveillance cameras that continuously or periodically record images or videos of the drive unit. These images or videos can then be used for visual inspection of the drive unit.

[0021] In embodiments of the invention, the device can also be designed to enable automatic visual inspection of the drive unit and / or conveyor lines. This can be achieved, for example, by providing suitable image processing systems capable of automatically analyzing the captured images or videos and detecting potential problems.

[0022] In embodiments of the invention, the device can also be configured to enable remote inspection of the drive unit and / or conveyor lines. This can be achieved, for example, by providing suitable communication systems capable of transmitting the captured images or videos to a remote location where the visual inspection of the drive unit can be performed.

[0023] In embodiments of the invention, monitoring is automated by optical systems, such as camera systems. These can detect changes in the drive unit, chain, rollers, or belt and transmit corresponding information. This allows wear or the need for lubrication of the parts or chain to be identified early on. Thus, the operating condition of the drive units and / or conveyor line can be directly determined, and maintenance or repair requirements can be identified. This avoids long downtimes and costs.

[0024] In embodiments of the invention, the monitoring device is made of a plastic selected from polyacrylates, polycarbonates, polyesters, or mixtures thereof. The plastic design allows for easy processing and machining, allowing the device to be customized as needed. Furthermore, a transparent or partially transparent design is also simplified.

[0025] The monitoring device can be made of a plastic selected from polyacrylates, polycarbonates, polyesters, or mixtures thereof. These materials offer a good combination of mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and optical transparency, making them particularly suitable for use in a conveyor monitoring device. Polyacrylates are known for their excellent transparency and weather resistance. Polycarbonates are characterized by their high impact strength and good heat resistance. Polyesters offer good chemical resistance and are easy to process. Blends of these plastics can be used to achieve specific properties required for the respective application.

[0026] In embodiments of the invention, the monitoring device is made of PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol). PETG offers the advantage of being a material that is already qualified for a wide range of applications, thus ensuring broad applicability. PETG is characterized by optimal deep-drawing properties, outstanding low-temperature performance, very good chemical resistance, and very high impact strength.

[0027] The plastic used to make the monitoring device can be PETG. PETG is a copolyester characterized by high impact strength, good chemical resistance, and excellent transparency. Furthermore, PETG is easy to process and mold, making it an ideal material for manufacturing the monitoring device. It is also resistant to many common cleaning agents and disinfectants, making it particularly suitable for use in industrial environments.

[0028] Advantageously, the monitoring device is designed at least as part of the cover of the drive unit and / or conveyor lines. The cover of the drive unit and / or conveyor lines ensures the protection of the drive unit and / or conveyor lines against external influences, as well as the protection of operating personnel in the event of improper handling. For example, there is an increased risk of accidents if maintenance or inspection is carried out during ongoing operation, which requires the removal of the cover. If the device is designed for monitoring, there is no need to remove the cover if only a visual inspection of the drive unit is performed.

[0029] This means that the monitoring device not only serves for the visual inspection of the drive unit and / or conveyor lines, but also acts as physical protection for the drive unit. For example, it can be used to protect the drive unit and / or conveyor lines from dust, dirt, moisture, and other environmental influences. In addition, the monitoring device can help protect the drive unit and / or conveyor lines from accidental contact with people or objects. This can be particularly important to ensure the safety of operating personnel and prevent damage to the drive unit. The monitoring device can form the entire cover of the drive unit or it can serve as part of a larger cover that includes other components.

[0030] The monitoring device is advantageously designed as a side cover of the drive unit and / or conveyor line. The design as a side cover of the drive unit and / or conveyor line has considerable advantages, as it allows easy retrofitting of existing systems. To do so, the existing side cover, which is usually made of metal or sheet metal, is simply removed and replaced with a device according to the invention. This means that the monitoring device is attached to the side of the drive unit and / or conveyor line and allows lateral access to the drive unit and / or conveyor line. This can be particularly advantageous if the drive unit and / or conveyor line is installed in a position in which access from above or below is difficult or impossible.A side cover can also provide additional protection for the drive unit and / or conveyor line by preventing dust, dirt, and other foreign matter from entering the drive unit and / or conveyor line. Furthermore, a side cover can help reduce noise from the drive unit and / or conveyor line by acting as a sound barrier.

[0031] In addition, safety for users and maintenance personnel is increased and easy inspection of the drive unit and / or conveyor line is made possible in a simple manner, even in existing systems.

[0032] In embodiments of the invention, the monitoring device has at least one opening that enables maintenance and / or repair of the drive unit and / or conveyor line during operation of the system. The opening(s) in the monitoring device are advantageously designed in such a way that intervention by the user or maintenance personnel, and thus contact with the drive unit and / or conveyor line, is prevented, but at the same time the supply of lubricants or tools is permitted. This enables minor necessary interactions by the user or maintenance personnel with the drive unit and / or conveyor line without requiring the cover to be opened. This significantly increases the safety of the user or maintenance personnel.The opening can be provided in any position on the monitoring device, depending on the specific configuration and requirements of the conveyor system. For example, the openings can be designed as slots or elongated holes. These openings allow for simple maintenance work, such as adding lubricant, tightening screws, etc., during operation without the need to remove the cover. The transparent design makes it easy to maintain an overview during maintenance. Furthermore, the transparent design ensures the actual function, namely the inspection of the drive unit and / or conveyor line.

[0033] In embodiments of the invention, the monitoring device has a dirt-repellent coating on the inside facing the drive unit and / or conveyor line. This ensures visual inspection of the drive unit and / or conveyor line even after extended periods of operation and / or after maintenance. Particularly after lubrication, oil or grease can contaminate the device, potentially making visual inspection impossible. In this respect, a dirt-repellent coating is advantageous because it still ensures visual inspection despite potential contamination of the device.

[0034] For example, the dirt-repellent coating for PETG can be produced using nanotechnology coatings (e.g. NCT PLAS® coating), non-stick coatings, epoxy resin coating or chemical treatment with dichloromethane.

[0035] In embodiments of the invention, the side of the monitoring device facing the drive mechanism and / or conveyor line is designed to be scratch-resistant. This prevents rapid wear of the monitoring device. A scratch-resistant design can be achieved through the use of scratch-resistant materials or coatings, or through special surface treatments that make the surface more resistant to scratches and wear. This can be particularly important in harsh industrial environments where the monitoring device may be regularly exposed to harsh conditions.

[0036] In embodiments of the invention, the side of the monitoring device facing the drive device and / or conveyor line has a detachably mounted protective device. The protective device serves to protect the monitoring device from scratches and / or contamination. For example, the protective device can be designed as a self-adhesive transparent film, which can be easily replaced if it becomes dirty or scratched.

[0037] Advantageously, the device has a first and a second cover, wherein the first cover faces the drive unit and the second cover is arranged on the outside of the device, wherein the second cover has a receptacle for receiving the first cover. For example, the first cover can be designed as a transparent pane which can be pushed into the second cover. This makes it possible to replace the first cover if necessary, for example if it is scratched or dirty and a visual inspection of the drive device and / or conveyor line can no longer be guaranteed without errors. In addition, the first cover can have a detachably arranged protective device on the side facing the drive unit. In this embodiment, the first cover can be removed and the protective device removed or replaced if necessary.This eliminates the need to replace the first cover, while ensuring the functionality of the monitoring device.

[0038] In embodiments, the protective device is designed as a film, wherein the film is adhesively attached to the side of the first cover facing the drive unit and / or conveyor line and is detachably arranged. For example, the film can be designed as a self-adhesive film with an adhesive on one side. This allows for detachable arrangement on the side of the first cover facing the drive unit and / or conveyor line.

[0039] In embodiments, a plurality of protective devices are removably arranged one above the other on the side of the first cover facing the drive unit and / or conveyor line. This allows the topmost film to be removed as needed if it becomes dirty or scratched, ensuring the functionality of the monitoring device. This ensures a simple and quick continuation of the inspection of the drive unit and / or conveyor line.

[0040] In embodiments of the invention, the monitoring device is made of a material which is classified as B1, non-burning droplets, according to DIN 4102. This

[0041] In embodiments of the invention, the monitoring device is made of a material that can be used in the temperature range from 200°C to 300°C. This allows the monitoring device to be used in high-temperature environments. Furthermore, in the event of a fire, it is ensured that the device itself does not contribute to the fire.

[0042] A further aspect of the invention relates to the use of a device according to the invention for monitoring in conveyor systems.

[0043] The invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated and described, but also encompasses all embodiments having the same effect within the meaning of the invention. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to the specifically described combinations of features, but can also be defined by any other combination of specific features of all the individual features disclosed as a whole, provided that the individual features are not mutually exclusive or a specific combination of individual features is not explicitly excluded.

[0044] Examples of implementation

[0045] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to a figure and some exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments refer to representations of the device according to the invention and are intended to describe the invention without limiting it.

[0046] Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the device according to the invention.

[0047] In a first exemplary embodiment, shown in Figure 1, the device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems 1 is designed as a transparent side cover of the cover of drive unit 2. Drive unit 2 is designed, for example, as an electric motor. Drive unit 2 is designed as a chain conveyor, with chain 3 driving another roller.

[0048] The side cover features openings in the form of slots or elongated holes. These openings allow for simple maintenance work, such as adding lubricant, tightening screws, etc., during operation without having to remove the cover. The transparent design makes it easy to maintain an overview during maintenance. Furthermore, the transparent design ensures the actual function, namely the inspection of drive unit 2.

[0049] In a further embodiment, the device for monitoring one of the drive units in conveyor systems 1 is designed as a side cover. The side cover has a first cover, the side facing the drive unit 2, and a second cover arranged on the outside of the side cover. The second cover can also form the outside of the side cover.

[0050] The first and second covers are preferably transparent to ensure inspection of the drive unit 2. It is therefore not necessary for the side cover as a whole to be made of a transparent material. The second cover has a receptacle, for example in the form of a rail or groove, to hold the first cover. The first cover can be pushed into the second cover such that it is arranged on the inside of the second cover in the direction of the drive unit 2. This makes it possible to change the first cover without there being any risk of the user or maintenance personnel coming into direct contact with the drive unit 2 when removing the first cover. If the first cover becomes worn, for example due to scratching or dirt, it can be easily replaced.

[0051] In a further exemplary embodiment, the first cover has a removable protective device on the side facing the drive unit 2. This can be, for example, a self-adhesive film that mimics the shape of the first cover. By removing the protective film and, if necessary, rearranging a new film, the first cover can continue to be used. This is to be viewed positively from the point of view of sustainable use of the device according to the invention for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems 1. In one configuration of the exemplary embodiment, several protective devices can be arranged on the first cover. These can, for example, be arranged as a stack of self-adhesive films on the side of the first cover facing the drive unit 2. In the event of wear or contamination, the uppermost film can be removed so that the film underneath now forms the uppermost film.This allows the film that is no longer usable due to contamination and / or scratches to be replaced quickly and efficiently, ensuring that the inspection of drive unit 2 can be continued without delay.

[0052] List of reference symbols

[0053] 1 monitoring facility

[0054] 2 drive unit

[0055] 3 Chain

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device for monitoring drive units and / or conveyor lines in conveyor systems (1) comprising at least one drive unit (2) and / or conveyor line, characterized in that the device for monitoring the drive unit and / or conveyor lines in conveyor systems (1) is designed to ensure a visual inspection of the drive unit (2) and / or conveyor lines, wherein the monitoring device (1) is designed to be transparent, partially transparent or opaque 2. Device for monitoring drive units and / or conveyor lines in conveyor systems (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the monitoring device (1) is made of a plastic selected from polyacrylates, polycarbonates, polyesters or mixtures thereof.

3. Device for monitoring drive units and / or conveyor lines in conveyor systems (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the plastic is PETG.

4. Device for monitoring drive units and / or conveyor lines in conveyor systems according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the monitoring device (1) is designed at least as part of the cover of the drive device (2) and / or conveyor lines.

5. Device for monitoring drive units and / or conveyor lines in conveyor systems (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the monitoring device (1) is designed as a side cover of the drive device (2) and / or conveyor lines.

6. Device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the monitoring device (1) has at least one opening which enables the maintenance and / or repair of the drive unit (2) and / or conveyor lines during operation of the system.

7. Device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the side of the monitoring device (1) facing the drive device (2) is designed to be scratch-resistant.

8. Device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the side of the monitoring device (1) facing the drive device (2) and / or conveyor lines has a detachably arranged protective device.

9. Device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the device (1) has a first and a second cover, wherein the first cover faces the drive unit (2) and / or conveyor lines and the second cover is arranged on the outside of the device (1), wherein the second cover has a receptacle to receive the first cover.

10. Device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the first cover has a detachably arranged protective device on the side facing the drive unit (2) and / or conveyor lines.

11. Device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems (1) according to claim 8 or 10, characterized in that the protective device is designed as a film, wherein the film is adhesively arranged detachably on the side of the first cover facing the drive unit (2) and / or conveyor lines.

12. Device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems (1) according to one of claims 8, 10 or 11, characterized in that a plurality of protective devices are detachably arranged one above the other on the side of the first cover facing the drive unit (2) and / or conveyor lines.

13. Device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the monitoring device (1) is made of a material which is classified as B1, non-burning dripping, according to DIN 4102.

14. Device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the monitoring device (1) is made of a material which can be used in the temperature range from 200°C to 300°C.

15. Use of a device for monitoring drive units in conveyor systems (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14 in conveyor systems.

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