Case processing apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides a case processing apparatus for printing on a desired surface of a case without using a complicated mechanism, the apparatus comprising: a transfer device that lifts and transfers a case in which a plurality of articles are stored; and a printing unit that prints on the case. The printing unit is fixed to a predetermined position and does not have a movement mechanism for printing. The transfer device moves the lifted case to the printing unit and, after printing on the case is performed by the printing unit while the case is moved in the lifted state with respect to the fixed printing unit, transfers the case.

Description

Case Processing Equipment

[0001] The present invention relates to a case handling device.

[0002] Conventionally, in a packaged egg production system such as that shown in Patent Document 1, produced packaged eggs are stored in egg cases made of cardboard or the like, and the egg cases are then loaded onto a storage unit such as a pallet using a transfer device such as a robot (palletizing) for temporary storage.

[0003] In conventional packaged egg production systems, egg cases are transported on a conveyor, and information about the packaged eggs is printed on the egg cases on the conveyor by a printing device.

[0004] However, since the printing is performed on egg crates transported on a conveyor, a complex mechanism is required depending on which side of the egg crates is to be printed. Specifically, when the egg crates are made of cardboard, for example, the printing is often performed on the narrow side (top side), which is the side with the smallest area. Furthermore, when these egg crates are transported on a conveyor, the narrow side faces are either at the front or rear of the conveyor, and printing on the wide side of the egg crates on the conveyor requires a complex mechanism. This problem is not limited to egg crates, but also occurs in cases containing other items.

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-138201

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and has as its object to print on a desired surface of a case without using a complicated mechanism.

[0007] In other words, the case processing device of the present invention comprises a transfer device that lifts and transfers cases containing multiple items, and a printing unit that prints on the cases, the printing unit being fixed in a predetermined position and not having a moving mechanism for printing, and the transfer device moves the lifted case to the printing unit, and while moving the case in a lifted state relative to the fixed printing unit, has the printing unit print on the case before transferring it.

[0008] This case processing device allows the transfer device to position the case in various positions relative to the printing unit, allowing printing on the desired side of the case without using a complex mechanism. Furthermore, because the printing unit can be fixed, printing problems are less likely to occur even when liquid ink is used. Furthermore, printing can be performed while the case is being lifted and distributed, allowing printing and distribution to be performed continuously, improving case processing efficiency.

[0009] The case processing device of the present invention preferably further includes an inspection unit that inspects the printing on the cases by the printing unit, and the transfer device preferably moves the cases printed by the printing unit to the inspection unit before transferring them. With this configuration, the transfer device moves the cases lifted by the transfer device to the printing unit and then moves them directly to the inspection unit, allowing printing and inspection to be performed consecutively while the transfer device is lifting the cases. This eliminates the need to track the printed cases, preventing erroneous sorting due to tracking errors.

[0010] It is desirable that the transfer device sort and transfer the cases based on the inspection results of the inspection unit. With this configuration, printing, inspection, and sorting can be performed continuously while the transfer device is holding the cases up. As a result, space can be saved compared to when mechanisms for printing, inspecting, and sorting on cases are separately provided. Furthermore, since there is no need to stop the device when a defective case (NG) is detected, the operating rate can be improved.

[0011] Furthermore, the case processing device of the present invention preferably further includes an inspection unit that inspects the printing on the cases by the printing unit, and the transfer device moves the cases printed by the printing unit to the inspection unit, inspects the printing on the cases by the inspection unit, and then distributes the cases to two or more transport units or two or more storage units based on the inspection results of the inspection unit. With this configuration, printing, inspection, and distribution can be performed continuously while the transfer device is holding the cases. As a result, tracking of printed cases is unnecessary, preventing mis-sorting due to tracking errors. Furthermore, space can be saved compared to when separate mechanisms are provided for printing, inspecting, and sorting cases. Furthermore, since there is no need to stop the device when a defective case is detected, operation rate can be improved.

[0012] According to the present invention configured in this manner, it is possible to print on the desired surface of the case without using a complicated mechanism.

[0013] Fig. 1 is a plan view schematically showing the configuration of a case processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a plan view schematically showing the configuration of a case processing device according to a modified embodiment; Fig. 3 is a plan view schematically showing the configuration of a case processing device according to a modified embodiment; Fig. 4 is a plan view schematically showing the configuration of a case processing device according to a modified embodiment; Fig. 5 is a plan view schematically showing the configuration of a case processing device according to a modified embodiment.

[0014] An embodiment of a case processing device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that in all of the drawings shown below, parts are omitted or exaggerated as needed for clarity. Identical components are designated by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted as needed.

[0015] <Configuration of Case Processing Device 100> The case processing device 100 of this embodiment processes cases 10 that store multiple items. The case processing device 100 described below processes cases 10 that store multiple egg containers that store eggs as the multiple items. Here, the egg containers may be made of resin such as plastic, or may be made of paper. Furthermore, the cases 10 may be made of, for example, cardboard, or may be made of resin such as plastic.

[0016] Specifically, as shown in Figure 1, the case processing device 100 has a distribution device (transfer device) 3 that lifts and distributes (transfers) the cases 10 supplied by the case supply unit 2, a printing unit 4 that prints on the cases 10, an inspection unit 5 that inspects the printing on the cases 10 by the printing unit 4, a storage unit 6 that stores the inspected cases 10, and an unloading unit 7 that unloads the inspected cases 10.

[0017] The case supply unit 2 is formed, for example, by a conveyor, and is configured to dispense the cases 10 one by one. Specifically, the case supply unit 2 has a positioning mechanism (not shown) that dispenses and positions the cases 10 at a predetermined holding position held by the distributor 3. This positioning mechanism has, for example, a guide rail provided on the transport conveyor that moves the cases 10 to one side of the transport conveyor, and a stopper provided at the downstream end of the transport conveyor that stops the cases 10.

[0018] The distribution device 3 lifts and distributes (transfers) the cases 10 by gripping or holding them by suction. Specifically, the distribution device 3 has a holding unit 31 that holds the cases 10, and a mechanism 32 such as an articulated robot or a two-axis or three-axis Cartesian robot that moves the holding unit 31. The holding unit 31 is provided with a chuck mechanism for gripping the cases 10 or a suction mechanism for suctioning the cases 10.

[0019] The distribution device 3 then moves the case 10 that it is holding and lifting to the printing unit 4. The distribution device 3 also moves the case 10 that has been printed by the printing unit 4 to the inspection unit 5. The distribution device 3 then moves the case 10 that has been inspected by the inspection unit 5 to the storage unit 6 or the carry-out unit 7 for distribution. Here, while the distribution device 3 is still holding and lifting the case 10, it moves the case 10 successively to the printing unit 4, the inspection unit 5, and the storage unit 6 (or the carry-out unit 7). Other detailed operations of the distribution device 3 will be described later.

[0020] The printing unit 4 is fixed at a predetermined position. Specifically, the printing unit 4 is fixed within the movable range of the case 10 lifted by the dispensing device 3. The printing unit 4 prints on the printable surface or printable area of ​​the case 10 held and lifted by the dispensing device 3. The printing unit 4 may print within a printed frame on the case 10, print on a sticker affixed to the case 10, or print directly on the case without a printed frame. The printing unit 4 of this embodiment may be configured using, for example, an inkjet printer. The printing unit 4 may also be provided with a mechanism, such as a spacer, to maintain a constant distance from the printable surface of the case 10 held and lifted by the dispensing device 3. This allows for consistent printing quality by the printing unit 4. Furthermore, the information printed by the printing unit 4 is, for example, the product name (such as "XX Eggs") of the egg container (eggs) stored in the case 10, the size (S, MS, M, etc.), the "best before" text, the expiration date (numbers), or an identifier such as a barcode or QR code.

[0021] The inspection unit 5 inspects the printing on the cases 10 printed by the printing unit 4. The inspection unit 5 is located within the movable range of the cases 10 lifted by the distribution device 3. The inspection unit 5 of this embodiment includes an imaging camera 51 that captures images of the sides of the cases 10, and an image processing unit 52 that processes the images captured by the imaging camera 51 to inspect the state or content of the printing. The inspection unit 5 can also inspect the overall condition of the cases 10. For example, the inspection unit 5 can inspect the type, distortion, damage, packaging condition, seal condition, etc. of the cases 10. The inspection results by the inspection unit 5 are used in the sorting (distribution) operation by the distribution device 3 to the storage unit 6 and the discharge unit 7.

[0022] The storage unit 6 stores inspected cases 10 and has one or more pallets or racks. The storage unit 6 is provided within the movable range of the cases 10 lifted by the distribution device 3. The storage unit 6 stores any of the cases 10 that have been judged as good products, defective products, or sorting-determined products as a result of inspection by the inspection unit 5. The storage unit 6 of this embodiment stores cases 10 that have been judged as good products as a result of inspection by the inspection unit 5. Furthermore, when the type of case 10 is inspected by the inspection unit 5, multiple storage units 6 are provided according to the type of case 10, and the cases 10 corresponding to each storage unit 6 are stored therein.

[0023] The discharge unit 7 discharges inspected cases 10 and has one or more rows of conveyors. A portion of the discharge unit 7 is provided within the movable range of the cases 10 lifted by the distribution device 3. The discharge unit 7 discharges any of the cases 10 that have been determined to be good, defective, or sorting-determined as a result of inspection by the inspection unit 5. The discharge unit 7 of this embodiment discharges any of the cases 10 that have been determined to be defective or sorting-determined as a result of inspection by the inspection unit 5. Furthermore, when the type of case 10 is inspected by the inspection unit 5, multiple discharge units 7 are provided according to the type of case 10, and the cases 10 corresponding to each discharge unit 7 are discharged.

[0024] <Operation of Case Processing Device 100> Next, the operation of the case processing device 100 will be described.

[0025] The operation of the case processing device 100 is controlled by a control device CTL. This control device CTL is composed of a computer having a CPU, memory, input / output interface, AD converter, display device such as a display, input device, communication device, etc. The control device CTL controls each part of the case processing device 100 through cooperation of the CPU and peripheral devices based on a program stored in memory, causing the case processing device 100 to perform operations such as sorting the cases 10. Note that instead of the control device CTL controlling the entire case processing device 100, control units may be provided corresponding to each part of the case processing device 100 and controlling each part.

[0026] The distributing device 3 holds and lifts the case 10 that has been transported to a predetermined holding position in the case supplying unit 2. The distributing device 3 then moves the case 10 that it has held and lifted to the printing unit 4.

[0027] Here, the distribution device 3 moves the printing target surface or printing target area of ​​the case 10 to the printing unit 4. Then, the distribution device 3 operates in coordination with the printing operation of the printing unit 4 while the case 10 is lifted.

[0028] Specifically, if the printing unit 4 does not have a movement mechanism for printing, the distribution device 3 moves the case 10 that it holds and lifts relative to the printing unit 4, and causes the printing unit 4 to print on the case 10. Also, if the printing unit 4 has a movement mechanism for printing, the distribution device 3 fixes the case 10 that it holds and lifts to a predetermined printable position relative to the printing unit 4, and causes the printing unit 4 to print on the case 10. Here, the information to be printed by the printing unit 4 is registered in advance in the control device CTL or the printing unit 4. Specifically, a set of information to be printed is registered in association with a number (for example, a lot), and the information to be printed is set by the user selecting a number.

[0029] After this printing, the distribution device 3 moves the case 10 that it is holding and lifting to the inspection unit 5. Then, with the case 10 lifted, the distribution device 3 operates in coordination with the inspection operation of the inspection unit 5.

[0030] Specifically, when inspection unit 5 inspects a stationary case 10, distribution device 3 fixes the case 10 that it has held and lifted to a predetermined inspectable position relative to inspection unit 5, and inspects the case 10 using inspection unit 5. Furthermore, when inspection unit 5 inspects a moving case 10, distribution device 3 moves the case 10 that it has held and lifted relative to inspection unit 5, and inspects the case 10 using inspection unit 5.

[0031] Next, the distribution device 3 sorts and distributes the cases 10 based on the inspection results by the inspection unit 5. The distribution device 3 transfers and stores the cases 10 that have been determined to be non-defective as a result of the inspection by the inspection unit 5 to the storage unit 6. Here, the distribution device 3 stacks the cases 10 in the storage unit 6 so that the printing on the cases 10 is visible after stacking, for example, facing outward. On the other hand, the distribution device 3 distributes and carries out to the carry-out unit 7 the cases 10 that have been determined to be defective or sorted as a result of the inspection by the inspection unit 5.

[0032] <Effects of this embodiment> According to the case processing device 100 of this embodiment, the dispensing device 3 can position the case 10 in various positions relative to the printing unit 4, making it possible to print on the desired side of the case 10 without using a complex mechanism. Furthermore, because the printing unit 4 can be fixed, printing problems are less likely to occur even when liquid ink is used.

[0033] Furthermore, by moving the cases 10 lifted by the distribution device 3 to the printing unit 4 and then to the inspection unit 5, printing and inspection can be performed continuously while the distribution device 3 is holding the cases 10. This eliminates the need to track the printed cases 10, and prevents erroneous sorting due to tracking errors.

[0034] Furthermore, printing, inspection, and distribution can be performed continuously while the dispensing device 3 is holding up the case 10. As a result, space can be saved compared to when separate mechanisms are provided for printing, inspecting, and dispensing on the case 10. Furthermore, since there is no need to stop the device when a defective case 10 is detected, the operating rate can be improved.

[0035] <Modified Embodiments of the Present Invention> The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments.

[0036] For example, in the above embodiment, the case supply unit 2 and the discharge unit 7 are provided separately, but as shown in Figure 2, the case supply unit 2 and the discharge unit 7 may be configured as a conveying unit 20 that is continuous with each other. In this case, the distribution device 3 is provided midway along the conveying unit 20, holds the cases 10 conveyed by the conveying unit 20, and moves them to the printing unit 4 and the inspection unit 5 for printing and inspection. Cases 10 that are determined to be defective as a result of the inspection may be returned to the conveying unit 20 and conveyed out. In this case, the conveying unit 20 may be provided with a movable stopper 20a for stopping the cases 10 at a predetermined holding position.

[0037] 3, the storage unit 6 of the above embodiment may have a storage unit 6a for storing cases 10 judged to be non-defective and a storage unit 6b for storing cases 10 judged to be defective or sorted. In this case, the discharge unit 7 of the above embodiment can be omitted. The distribution device 3 then distributes and stores the cases 10 in the storage units 6a and 6b based on the results of the inspection by the inspection unit 5.

[0038] Furthermore, while the above embodiment is configured to include a storage section 6, as shown in Fig. 4, the storage section 6 may also be configured as an output section 7. In this case, the case processing device 100 may be configured to include two or more output sections 7, such as a non-defective product output section 7a that outputs cases 10 determined to be non-defective, a defective product output section 7b that outputs cases 10 determined to be defective, and a sorted product output section 7c that outputs cases 10 determined to be sorted. Note that the defective product output section 7b and the sorted product output section 7c may be used as a common output section.

[0039] 5, a case packer 8 may be provided upstream of the case supply unit 2. This case packer 8 is a device that stores egg containers in egg cases 10 made of cardboard or the like, and may be provided for each egg size (for example, for small, medium, or medium egg sizes).

[0040] This case packer 8 is controlled by a second control device 9, and the second control device 9 transmits information to the control device CTL, such as information about the egg containers (eggs) stored in the egg cases 10 and timing information when the egg cases 10 leave the case packer 8.

[0041] The control device CTL tracks the egg cases 10 that have left the case packer 8 based on timing information transmitted from the second control device 9. When the tracked egg cases 10 are lifted by the distribution device 3 and moved to the printing unit 4, the control device CTL controls the printing unit 4 based on information about the egg container (eggs) of the tracked egg cases 10 to print the product name (e.g., "XX eggs"), size (e.g., S, MS, M), "best before" text and the date (numbers) of the best before date, etc., on the egg cases 10.

[0042] Based on information about the egg containers (eggs) of the tracked egg cases 10, the control device CTL controls the distributor 3 to distribute the eggs to one of two or more discharge units 7. The two or more discharge units 7 may be provided for each size (S, MS, M, etc.), or as shown in Figure 4, they may be provided for each inspection result of the inspection unit 5. Note that in Figure 5, one or more storage units 6 may be provided instead of or in addition to the discharge unit 7.

[0043] Although the case processing device in the above embodiment has an inspection unit, it may have no inspection unit. In this case, the distribution device 3 may be configured to transfer the cases 10 printed by the printing unit 4 to two or more storage units 6 or two or more discharge units 7.

[0044] The case treating device of the above embodiment treats cases 10 containing a plurality of egg containers as a plurality of articles, but may treat cases containing other articles.

[0045] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it goes without saying that various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0046] According to the present invention, it is possible to print on a desired surface of a case without using a complicated mechanism.

[0047] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100: Case processing device 10: Case 3: Distribution device (transfer device) 4: Printing unit 5: Inspection unit 7: Carry-out unit

Claims

1. A case processing device comprising: a transfer device which lifts and transfers cases containing multiple items; and a printing unit which prints on the cases, the printing unit being fixed in a predetermined position and not having a moving mechanism for printing, the transfer device moving the lifted case to the printing unit, and moving the case in a lifted state relative to the fixed printing unit while having the printing unit print on the case before transferring it.

2. A case processing device as described in claim 1, further comprising an inspection unit that inspects the printing on the case by the printing unit, and the transfer device moves the case printed by the printing unit to the inspection unit before transferring it.

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