Conveying device and laser processing machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a conveying device (1), in particular for arranging below a workpiece support of a laser processing machine, comprising a circulating conveyor belt (4) having a load-bearing upper strand (5) and a lower strand (6), wherein the circulating conveyor belt (4) is coupled to a first circulating traction means (7) and a second circulating traction means (8) running parallel thereto, and the first traction means (7) is mounted in a circulating manner in or on a first guide housing (9) and the second traction means (8) is mounted in a circulating manner in or on a second guide housing (10), and the conveyor belt (4) has a plurality of conveyor belt rods (13) which extend perpendicularly to the conveying direction (11) and over the width (12) of the conveyor belt (4) and which are coupled to the first traction means (7) and the second traction means (8), wherein the first traction means (7) and / or the second traction means (8) are / is connected to a drive unit (14) such that the circulating conveyor belt (4) can be moved via the first traction means (7) and / or the second traction means (8) and the conveyor belt rods (13) coupled thereto, wherein the conveying device (1) has a rotatably mounted support shaft (15) which is stationary relative to the conveyor belt (4) and runs between the load-bearing upper strand (5) and the lower strand (6) of the conveyor belt (4) perpendicular to the conveying direction (11) of the conveyor belt (4).

Description

[0001] Conveyor system and laser processing machine

[0002] The present invention relates to a conveyor device, in particular for arrangement beneath a workpiece support of a laser processing machine, comprising a circulating conveyor belt with a load-bearing upper run and a lower run, wherein the circulating conveyor belt is coupled to a first circulating traction means and a second circulating traction means running parallel thereto, and the first traction means is mounted in or on a first guide housing, and the second traction means is mounted in or on a second guide housing, and the conveyor belt has a plurality of conveyor belt rods extending perpendicular to the conveying direction and across the width of the conveyor belt, which are coupled to the first traction means and the second traction means, wherein the first traction means and / or the second traction means are / is connected to a drive unit,so that the rotating conveyor belt can be driven via the first traction means and / or the second traction means and the conveyor belt rods coupled thereto. The invention further relates to a laser processing machine with such a conveyor device.

[0003] Laser processing machines are well known in the art. For example, DE202011003825U1 describes a laser processing machine that features a workpiece support and a processing head carrier located above it, which ensures precise positioning of the processing head. The machine enables precise movements along multiple axes and is controlled by various drive systems. A laser beam source and a numerical control system complete the system.

[0004] It is also generally known to arrange a conveyor system beneath a workpiece support of such a laser processing machine. This conveyor system, for example, primarily serves to remove offcuts and material residues that fall during the laser processing process, particularly during laser cutting. The core component of such a conveyor system is a circulating conveyor belt. This belt is typically made of a heat-resistant and abrasion-resistant material to withstand the high stresses caused by hot, sharp, or heavy workpieces, as well as the residual laser beam intensity penetrating the cutting gap in the workpiece. The belt moves continuously or at intervals to collect the fallen materials and transport them to a collection area or disposal site.

[0005] As laser cutting machine productivity increases, increasingly powerful lasers (over 20 kW) are being used as tools. This results in ever greater heat exposure from the laser radiation to components below the cutting process, and especially to the conveyor belt. This heat can cause thermal deformation of the conveyor belt. Typically, the conveyor belt bends downward, which is also referred to as sagging.

[0006] What is technically relevant here is that deflection or sagging can impair the structural integrity and functional efficiency of the conveyor belt. The effect on the traction devices, such as chains or toothed belts, that drive the conveyor belt is particularly critical. Belt sagging can lead to uneven belt travel, which in turn can cause the traction devices to jam in their guides. Jamming describes a situation in which the traction device no longer runs optimally in the intended guide track, but is positioned crooked or offset from this track. This jamming not only leads to inefficient operation of the conveyor belt but can also cause increased wear on the traction devices and guide components.

[0007] In addition, a sagging conveyor belt can drag along the floor of the conveyor system, which increases wear and tear on the conveyor belt and, in the worst case, can lead to jamming and damage to the conveyor belt.

[0008] Therefore, the object of the invention is to avoid or at least reduce the problems known from the prior art and to provide a conveyor system in which the potential deflection of the conveyor belt and its consequences are at least minimized. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to realize an improved laser processing machine.

[0009] This object is achieved by a conveyor device, in particular for arrangement below a workpiece support of a laser processing machine, comprising a circulating conveyor belt, with a load-bearing upper run and a lower run, wherein the circulating conveyor belt is coupled to a first circulating traction means and a second circulating traction means running parallel thereto, and the first traction means is mounted in or on a first guide housing so as to rotate, and the second traction means is mounted in or on a second guide housing so as to rotate, wherein the first traction means and / or the second traction means are / is connected to a drive unit so that the circulating conveyor belt can be driven via the first traction means and / or the second traction means, and the conveyor belt has a plurality of conveyor belt rods extending perpendicular to the conveying direction and across the width of the conveyor belt,wherein the conveyor device has a rotatably mounted but stationary support shaft relative to the conveyor belt, which extends between the load-bearing upper run and the lower run of the conveyor belt perpendicular to the conveying direction of the conveyor belt, wherein the support shaft has a first coupling section formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft, which is in gear engagement with the first traction means or the second traction means such that a predefined offset of the first traction means or the second traction means causes a predefined rotation of the support shaft, and the support shaft has a second coupling section formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft, on which the conveyor belt rods can be supported in the direction of gravity and / or wherein the support shaft has a second coupling section formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft and having a plurality of support contours that can be coupled to the conveyor belt rods,wherein the second coupling section and the support contours are designed such that two circumferentially successive support contours can be coupled one after the other to two conveyor belt bars that follow one another in the conveying direction.

[0010] According to the invention, the load shaft and the conveyor belt are kinematically synchronized. Thus, the load shaft preferably rotates in a predefined ratio to the transport speed of the conveyor belt. This can be achieved according to the invention by two alternative gear couplings. Firstly, the support shaft can have a first coupling section that is rotationally fixed to the support shaft and that is in gear engagement with the first traction means or the second traction means such that a predefined offset of the first traction means or the second traction means causes a predefined rotation of the support shaft.On the other hand, the coupling section formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft can have a plurality of support contours which can be coupled to the conveyor belt bars directly or indirectly and, for example, by a positive connection, so that a movement of the conveyor belt bars causes a rotation of the support shaft, i.e. the support shaft is moved by the conveyor belt bars.

[0011] The pivoting, stationary support shaft between the load-bearing upper and lower strands of the conveyor belt thus contributes to supporting and stabilizing the conveyor belt, at least in the event of sagging. The synchronized kinematics enable precise control of the load strand, even with heavy loads or thermally induced length changes. The coupling sections of the support shaft, which are geared to the traction mechanisms, enable defined control and positioning of the conveyor belt depending on the conveyor belt's transport speed. This feature can be specifically used for a controlled rotational movement of the support shaft that is synchronized with the conveyor belt speed.Preferably, the rotational speed of the second coupling section is selected such that the tangential speed component of the outer surface of the second coupling section corresponds to between 95-105% of the conveyor belt speed.

[0012] Synchronizing the rotational speed of the support shaft with the transport speed of the conveyor belt offers significant advantages for the operation of the conveyor system. Firstly, this synchronization enables smoother and more consistent operation of the conveyor system by reducing the mechanical stresses that could result from the speed difference between the rotating support shaft and the moving conveyor belt. This contributes to reducing wear and potential malfunctions during operation, increasing the service life and reliability of the system. Reducing or eliminating slippage between the second coupling section and the conveyor belt also contributes to particularly quiet acoustic operation of the conveyor belt.

[0013] Synchronizing the rotation speed of the support shaft with the conveyor belt speed can also help ensure optimized power transmission between the drive unit and the conveyor belt. This can reduce energy consumption while ensuring consistent conveying performance by minimizing energy losses due to slippage or asynchronicity.

[0014] The support contours, which can be coupled to the conveyor belt rods, also allow for precise and thus material-friendly support of the conveyor belt, at least when sagging occurs. This leads to a reduction in pressure points and damage to the conveyor belt rods during transport. Furthermore, the support contours can also contribute to the synchronization of the conveyor belt's transport movement and the rotational movement of the support shaft through a releasable positive connection between the support contours and the support shaft. This may eliminate the need for an additional coupling section engaging with a traction device, simplifying the design and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0015] The ability to couple two consecutive support contours with two conveyor belt bars positioned one after the other in the conveying direction enables sequential support of the conveyor belt throughout the conveying process. This allows for more reliable guidance and improved process continuity.

[0016] The conveyor device according to the invention preferably has a configuration with two parallel traction means, which enables an even distribution of forces across the conveyor belt and thus improved load distribution. This results in a more stable and robust conveyance of the workpiece parts or residual materials. Furthermore, the arrangement of the two traction means increases the reliability of the conveyor device by ensuring a uniform movement of the conveyor belt within the conveyor device.

[0017] The preferred mounting of the first and second traction elements in a guide housing each contributes to the guidance accuracy and protects the traction elements from environmental influences such as abrasion and contamination, which extends the service life of the system.

[0018] The conveyor belt advantageously consists of a flexible yet robust belt structure guided over a series of rollers. These rollers are located at the ends of the conveyor belt frame and enable the belt to rotate continuously. The belt material must be selected so that it can withstand the thermal and mechanical stresses of the laser processing. The function of the conveyor belt is to collect the parts and scraps generated during the laser processing process and transport them to a collection area or disposal point. The belt can either be in continuous motion or controlled by sensors that react to the presence of materials on the workpiece support. A conveyor belt can, for example, be selected from the group of hinged belts, wave belts, belt conveyors, and / or scraper belts.As a rule, metallic hinged conveyor belts are used in laser cutting systems.

[0019] A hinged belt is a rotating conveyor belt consisting of individual, interconnected metal plates – the so-called hinged belt plates. This design enables high flexibility and robustness against the stresses generated during laser cutting, such as residual radiation, hot workpiece parts or slag, and the weight of the workpiece residue. The hinged belt plates are designed to enable seamless and continuous movement of the belt. The conveyor belt usually runs over rollers positioned at both ends of the conveyor. These rollers are often connected to a drive unit that controls the movement of the belt. The speed of the hinged belt can be adjusted as required to ensure continuous or interval-controlled removal of the material residue.

[0020] The function of the hinged belt plate primarily involves transporting and forwarding material residues from the processing station, for example, to a collection or disposal area. The design of the hinged belt plate ensures that the plate remains functional under various operating conditions, including high temperatures and mechanical stress. A hinged belt plate is preferably made of a robust, heat-resistant material that can withstand the high loads caused by hot, sharp-edged, or heavy workpieces. The plate is preferably rectangular or square in shape and has plate hinges on the edges, designed, for example, as hinge eyes or hinge band eyes, which allow several hinged belt plates to be connected to form a continuous belt.The hinges ensure the necessary flexibility of the hinge band to negotiate curves while simultaneously enabling continuous, stable movement of the workpiece remnants.

[0021] A hinged belt plate can, for example, be designed as a steel plate. Such a steel plate is preferably made of carbon steel or stainless steel, which gives these plates a high level of strength and is therefore particularly suitable for heavy loads. In principle, however, it would also be conceivable to use plastic plates to form the hinged belt plates. To extend their service life, the hinged belt plates can be provided with a coating which, for example, offers additional resistance to abrasion and corrosion. It is also conceivable for a plurality of hinged belt plates to have perforations, which are particularly preferably used for applications where ventilation or cooling is required. Furthermore, it is possible for a plurality of hinged belt plates to have a surface structure, in particular on the side facing the goods to be transported.Such hinge plates can provide better grip for the transported materials due to a correspondingly designed surface structure, or can also prevent or reduce the adhesion of sticky transported goods.

[0022] A plate hinge allows the hinge, and thus the corresponding hinge belt plate, to rotate around a fixed point. This ensures the mobility of the conveyor belt so that it can navigate around curves and angles in the conveyor system and guarantees smooth belt movement. The main function of the plate hinge is to connect the individual hinge plates of the conveyor belt, while at the same time allowing sufficient flexibility for the movement of the belt. This includes bending, twisting, and turning the belt, which is essential for the continuous and trouble-free operation of the conveyor belt. A plate hinge is preferably formed in one piece, in particular monolithically, with a hinge belt plate. A hinge belt plate particularly preferably has a plurality of plate hinges or hinge eyes.It is further preferred that a plurality of plate hinges are arranged on the edges of a hinge band plate running perpendicular to the transport direction.

[0023] The plate hinge can preferably have at least one hinge eye. A hinge eye is an opening or eye ring integrated into or on the hinge plate, allowing a hinge rod to pass through to articulate the hinge plate to the hinge rod. It is preferred to have a circular hinge eye to allow even distribution of mechanical stress. A hinge eye can also be slotted, meaning it is not completely closed around its circumference. This can be particularly advantageous for applications requiring quick assembly or disassembly of the hinge connections.

[0024] A hinge band rod is preferably an elongated, cylindrical pin, which is particularly guided through the hinge band eyes of the hinge plates to connect them to one another. Its positioning and shape enable the pivoting movement of the hinges and thus the flexible movement of the entire hinge band. The main function of the hinge band rod is to create a reliable, yet flexible connection between the hinge plates. This connection must be strong enough to bear the mechanical stresses of operation, but at the same time offer a certain degree of flexibility to allow the movement of the conveyor belt. It can be advantageous for the hinge band rods of a hinge band to pass through the hollow pins of a traction device designed as a hollow pin chain and thus be connected to the hollow pin chain. The hinge band rods can preferably be designed as steel rods.To provide additional protection against wear and corrosion, the rods can be coated with various materials, such as zinc or nickel. It can also be advantageous to design the hinged band rods as hollow rods, which can contribute to a reduction in weight, particularly for the masses moved in the conveyor system.

[0025] Alternatively, a hinged band rod can be formed by the hinged band plates each having several hinged band eyes on both opposite sides in the transport direction, and the hinged band eyes of adjacent hinged band plates interlock to achieve the hinged connection of the hinged band plates. The interconnected hinged band eyes of two adjacent hinged band plates thus each form a (hollow) hinged band rod.

[0026] A traction mechanism is used to transmit power and control the movement of the conveyor belt. The traction mechanism is a mechanical element that transfers the drive force from the drive unit to the conveyor belt. The main function of the traction mechanism is to convert the rotary motion of the drive unit into a linear motion of the conveyor belt. The traction mechanism is preferably designed to be circumferentially closed. The traction mechanism can be implemented, for example, as a chain, toothed belt, flat belt, and / or rope.

[0027] Preferably, a traction device is designed as a chain. A chain consists of a series of interconnected links that form a flexible yet robust structure to enable and control the movement of the conveyor belt. The individual chain links are preferably made of metal (such as steel or stainless steel) and can have various shapes, depending on the requirements of the conveyor system. The chain links are connected to each other by bolts or pins, which also serve as pivot points for the chain's mobility. The main function of the chain as a traction device is to transfer the mechanical energy from the drive unit to the conveyor belt. The chain engages at specific points on the conveyor belt, preferably on the hinged belt bars, to ensure smooth and continuous movement of the belt. A chain can in particular be designed as a hollow pin chain.In this case, it is advantageous if, for example, the hinge band rods of a hinge band pass through the hollow pins and are thus connected to the hollow pin chain.

[0028] It is also possible for a traction device to be designed as a toothed belt. The main function of the toothed belt is to transfer the drive power from a drive unit to the conveyor belt. A toothed belt is typically made of a flexible but tensile-resistant base material, such as rubber or a special plastic, and is equipped with a series of regularly spaced teeth. These teeth mesh, for example, with a correspondingly toothed pulley, enabling precise power transmission without slippage. The toothed belt can be equipped with one or more reinforcement layers, such as fabric inserts or metal threads.

[0029] The conveyor device has at least one drive unit. The drive unit preferably comprises a motor, which represents the primary energy source for the mechanical drive of the conveyor belt. This motor can advantageously be connected via a gearbox to a drive shaft of the conveyor belt, which in turn is connected to the conveyor belt. The gearbox can be used to adapt the speed of the motor to the required speed of the conveyor belt. In addition, tensioning devices can be integrated into the drive unit in order to maintain the necessary tension of the conveyor belt and / or a traction device, as well as clutches and brakes to precisely control the movement of the belt. The motor is preferably designed as an electric motor. A conveyor device can preferably have a conveyor frame. A conveyor frame is a structural element of the conveyor device, to which the conveyor belt and, if applicable,other components such as the drive unit are arranged. The conveyor frame supports the weight of the conveyor belt, the transported materials and, if applicable, the drive unit. The frame also ensures the correct alignment of all components to one another. The conveyor frame thus serves as a support and frame structure to hold the conveyor belt, the drive unit (if applicable) and any other associated components safely and stably. The conveyor frame preferably consists of a support frame made of metal (such as steel or aluminum). This support frame forms the base to which the conveyor belt and, if applicable, the drive unit are mounted. Depending on the design of the conveyor belt, the frame can also contain rollers, rails or guide plates that serve to guide and support the conveyor belt.In addition, adjustable legs or columns may preferably be provided to allow the frame to be leveled on uneven surfaces and to adapt the height to the specific conditions of the operating environment.

[0030] The conveyor frame advantageously has a support frame. The support frame advantageously consists of a rigid structure made of materials such as steel or aluminum. This structure typically includes longitudinal and transverse beams that ensure high stability and load-bearing capacity. The dimensions and arrangement of the beams are designed to meet the specific loads and requirements of the conveyor system. In addition, components such as legs or columns, possibly with rollers, can be integrated to facilitate assembly, positioning, and any necessary mobility of the conveyor frame. The support frame can also, in particular, have a guide housing in which, for example, the traction device is guided.

[0031] The support frame preferably has two guide housings running parallel to each other. The main function of the guide housings is to keep the traction device in the correct position during operation and to ensure smooth, trouble-free movement. This includes preventing canting or displacement of the traction device, which could lead to increased wear or malfunctions. Furthermore, the guide housing can shield the traction device in such a way that it is impossible for a person to intervene during operation of the conveyor system and to prevent contamination of the traction device. The guide housing can be formed from one or more profiles, which are preferably made of robust materials such as metal (steel or aluminum) or high-strength plastics. The guide housing preferably has a hollow structure that is shaped to accommodate the traction device and guide it along a defined path.This structure can have solid side walls and an open top or a completely enclosed design, depending on the type of traction device and the application requirements. Additional elements such as rollers, guide rails, or sliding surfaces can be integrated within the guide housing to support the movement of the traction device and minimize friction.

[0032] A guide housing preferably comprises at least one guide rail. The main function of the guide rail is to provide a stable and precise path for the traction device. It supports the smooth movement of the conveyor belt and prevents it from tilting, shifting sideways, or deviating from its intended path. The guide rail preferably consists of an elongated, narrow profile, advantageously made of durable materials such as steel, stainless steel, or high-quality plastics. Its design can vary to adapt to different types of traction devices. Preferably, the rail is shaped to provide a smooth running surface for the traction device and ensure lateral guidance. This can be achieved by straight edges, adapted grooves, or special formations that enclose the traction device or rest against its sides.A guide rail can in particular be a component of a guide housing.

[0033] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the first traction means and / or the second traction means are / is designed as a chain, and the first coupling section designed as a chain pinion is in gear engagement with the first or second chain. The direct engagement of the chain pinion with the chain enables precise, slip-free power transmission, which enables exact control of the conveyor belt. The robustness of chains against abrasive and corrosive environmental influences such as dust, dirt, heat, and moisture increases the reliability and availability of the conveyor system under industrial conditions. Furthermore, the engagement of several teeth of the chain pinion with the chain can distribute the load evenly and reduce wear on each individual tooth, which increases the service life of the entire system.

[0034] In principle, it would also be conceivable for a traction means to be designed as a toothed belt and the first coupling section as a pulley that is in gear engagement with the toothed belt.

[0035] According to a further preferred development of the invention, it can also be provided that the second coupling section is arranged substantially centrally to the width of the conveyor belt. This central positioning of the coupling section achieves an even load distribution across the entire width of the conveyor belt. The symmetry of the load distribution, which is promoted by the central position of the coupling section, also reduces potential lateral forces and torsions that could act on the conveyor belt and the structure of the conveyor system. This minimization of asymmetric loads helps to ensure that the frame and components of the conveyor system are not subjected to unnecessary stress, which in turn promotes the structural integrity and stability of the entire system.Because the support is located in the center, deflections and deformations of the conveyor belt are reduced or eliminated, maintaining the surface flatness of the conveyor belt and thus increasing the quality of the transport process. Furthermore, the central placement of the coupling section can also simplify the design and manufacturing processes of the conveyor system. The symmetrical structure can reduce the complexity of the component design and thus simplify assembly and maintenance.

[0036] Furthermore, according to a likewise advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the second coupling section is designed in the shape of a circular disk. When supporting the conveyor belt rods or coupling with them, the round shape leads to a balanced distribution of the forces acting on the conveyor belt, whereby localized wear on the conveyor belt and the support elements is reduced. The second coupling section can be formed integrally, in particular monolithically, with the support shaft. It would also be possible in principle for the second coupling section to be designed as a component separate from the support shaft and to be connected to the support shaft in a rotationally fixed manner, for example by a press fit and / or a welded connection and / or a spline connection. The largest diameter of the second coupling section orthe circular disc is selected such that the second coupling section is at a distance from the lower run of the conveyor belt so that the second coupling section cannot tilt or jam between the upper and lower run when the conveyor belt is supported on the coupling section.

[0037] According to another particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the support contours can be designed as radially inwardly extending curvatures, which in particular can improve the interaction with the conveyor belt bars and the load distribution on the conveyor device. When changing loads between different support contours, radially extending curvatures offer uniform engagement behavior. The uniform geometric shape facilitates the transition and minimizes the shock effect when changing from one support contour to the next. The radially inwardly extending curvatures create, in particular, a contoured support surface that offers greater structural stability. These shaped contours allow the conveyor belt bars to be stably supported, which minimizes the risk of misplacement or slipping.The gentle curvature of the contours can reduce local stress peaks that could occur at sharp contact points. This avoids excessive stress on the material of the conveyor belt bars and the support contours, thus contributing to a reduction in wear. The configuration of the curvatures can support a self-cleaning function, as abrasive particles such as chips or dirt can be more easily carried away along the contours, preventing the accumulation of foreign matter and thus ensuring a clean operating environment. The rounded curvatures can also lead to a reduction in operating noise during operation, as they offer a smaller surface area for vibration generation, thus resulting in quieter running of the conveyor system.

[0038] Furthermore, the invention can also be further developed such that the support shaft has a third coupling section that is rotationally fixed to the support shaft and that is geared to the second traction mechanism in such a way that a predefined offset of the second traction mechanism causes a predefined rotation of the support shaft. Because the support shaft is geared to a traction mechanism on both sides, particularly smooth running and even load distribution from the conveyor belt to the support shaft can be achieved.

[0039] In a likewise preferred embodiment variant of the invention, it can also be provided that the first coupling section and the third coupling section are essentially geometrically identical, which can contribute to a higher degree of uniformity and thus to lower production costs.

[0040] It may also be advantageous to further develop the invention such that a first bearing unit is arranged at a first distal end of the support shaft, which is fastened to the first guide housing. This configuration enables precise and stable mounting of the support shaft, which contributes to exact guidance and smooth running of the conveyor belt. The bearing unit fastened to the guide housing bears the axial and radial load of the support shaft and thus secures its position within the conveyor system. This configuration ensures that the rotational axis of the support shaft is maintained consistently and that the conveyor sand bars can easily engage the support contours.

[0041] According to a further preferred embodiment of the subject matter of the invention, the support shaft can completely penetrate the first guide housing, and the first bearing unit is arranged on the side of the first guide housing facing away from the conveyor belt. This fixed connection of the bearing unit to the guide housing further ensures improved ease of maintenance. Maintenance or replacement work on the support shaft or the bearing unit can be simplified because the design offers direct access and easy disassembly options. This shortens potential downtimes and facilitates the replacement of wearing parts.

[0042] Finally, the invention can also be advantageously implemented such that a second bearing unit is arranged at a second distal end of the support shaft, which is fastened to the second guide housing, which can contribute to a further optimized and uniform support of the support shaft. Here, too, it is preferred that, for improved maintenance, the support shaft completely extends through the second guide housing, and the second bearing unit is arranged on the side of the second guide housing facing away from the conveyor belt.

[0043] The conveyor belt is preferably designed as a hinged belt. It is also preferable for a majority of the conveyor belt rods to be designed as hinge elements, to each of which at least one hinged belt plate is pivotably mounted. Preferably, all conveyor belt rods are designed as hinge elements. The hinge elements are thus, for example, axles or pins to which the hinged belt plates are pivotably mounted.

[0044] In this context, it is further preferred that the hinged belt plates each have at least one hinged belt eyelet, which at least partially surrounds one of the conveyor belt rods in the circumferential direction. The hinged belt plates preferably have a plurality of hinged belt eyes. The implementation of a plurality of hinged belt eyes on the hinged belt plates can contribute to a more even distribution of the forces acting between the belt plates and the conveyor belt rods. Such a multi-point support also has a positive effect on the smooth running and uniformity of the belt movement and reduces potential vibrations that could lead to increased wear and susceptibility to failure. If the conveyor belt rods are surrounded by conveyor belt eyes, the support contours of the second coupling section of the support shaft are coupled to the conveyor belt rods indirectly via the hinged belt eyes.In this design, the support contours do not engage directly and immediately with the conveyor belt rods, but rather with the hinged belt eyes that surround the conveyor belt rods. The coupling with the hinged belt eyes can prevent excessive stress on the conveyor belt rods, which could occur with direct coupling. The support at the hinged belt eyes also stabilizes the hinged belt plates, resulting in better resistance to deformation and greater mechanical stability of the conveyor belt.

[0045] In an alternative embodiment, the hinged belt plates can each have a plurality of hinged belt eyes on the opposite sides in the conveying direction. The hinged belt eyes of two adjacent hinged belt plates can engage with each other to form a hollow conveyor belt rod. This results in a structurally simple design of the conveyor belt rods without additional pin- or axle-shaped elements that must be inserted into the hinged belt eyes. In this embodiment, too, the conveyor belt rods formed from the interlocking hinged belt eyes are coupled to the support contours of the second coupling section of the support shaft by a positive fit or are at least supported in the support contours in the event of sagging of the conveyor belt.

[0046] Advantageously, the hinge eyes are formed integrally, particularly monolithically, with the hinge plates. The integral, particularly monolithic, design of the hinge eyes with the hinge plates ensures uniform load-bearing capacity and resistance to fracture. Furthermore, such a design eliminates potential weak points, such as those that can occur with bolted or otherwise connected components, thereby reducing the risk of mechanical failure. Furthermore, the manufacturing process is simplified because fewer individual parts need to be assembled, leading to increased efficiency in manufacturing and assembly.In principle, it would also be conceivable for the hinge strap eyes to be manufactured as a separate component from the hinge strap plates and then preferably connected to a hinge strap plate by means of a material bond, which can result in increased flexibility in the choice of material and production.

[0047] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the first coupling section has a plurality of second support contours on which the hinged belt plates can be supported in the direction of gravity, at least when the conveyor belt sags. The second support contours can be formed, for example, by circular-arc-shaped sectors of a circular-disk-shaped coupling section. The radially inwardly extending curvatures of the first support contours can be arranged between the circular-arc-shaped sectors. In this way, continuous support of both the conveyor belt rods and the hinged belt plates is ensured, and the sagging of the conveyor belt is particularly reliably reduced or avoided.

[0048] The object of the invention is further achieved by a laser processing machine comprising a section disposal and raw material recovery system with a conveyor device according to one of claims 1-14.

[0049] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to figures without limiting the general inventive concept.

[0050] It shows:

[0051] Figure 1 shows a conveyor device in a perspective view,

[0052] Figure 2 shows a first perspective view of a support shaft in the conveyor device, Figure 3 shows a detailed illustration of the coupling section designed as a chain pinion in engagement with a traction means designed as a chain in a perspective view,

[0053] Figure 4 shows a second perspective view of a support shaft in the conveyor device,

[0054] Figure 5 shows a support shaft with two bearing units in a cut-out perspective view,

[0055] Figure 6 shows a second coupling section with support contours in engagement with a conveyor belt rod in a schematic longitudinal section,

[0056] Figure 7 shows a laser cutting system in a perspective overview.

[0057] Figures 1-6 show a conveyor device 1 for arrangement below a workpiece support of a laser processing machine, comprising a rotating conveyor belt 4, with a load-bearing upper run 5 and a lower run 6. The rotating conveyor belt 4 is coupled to a first rotating traction means 7 and a second rotating traction means 8 running parallel thereto, wherein the first traction means 7 is mounted in or on a first guide housing 9 and the second traction means 8 is mounted in or on a second guide housing 10.

[0058] In the embodiment shown, the conveyor belt 4 is designed as a hinged belt, which is sufficiently known from the prior art, so that its design and function will only be briefly discussed here.

[0059] The conveyor belt 4 has a plurality of conveyor belt rods 13 extending perpendicular to the conveying direction 11 and across the width 12 of the conveyor belt 4, which are coupled to the first traction means 7 and the second traction means 8, wherein the first traction means 7 or the second traction means 8 is connected to a drive unit 14, so that the rotating conveyor belt 4 can be driven via the first traction means 7 or the second traction means 8 and the conveyor belt rods 13 coupled thereto.

[0060] The conveyor device 1 further comprises a support shaft 15 that is rotatably mounted but stationary relative to the conveyor belt 4 and extends between the load-bearing upper run 5 and the lower run 6 of the conveyor belt 4 perpendicular to the conveying direction 11 of the conveyor belt 4, as can be seen particularly clearly in Figure 6. It is understood that several of these support shafts 15 can also be present in the conveyor device 1, distributed along the conveying direction 11. In this case, the support shafts 15 are preferably designed essentially identically. A support shaft 15 can be configured as a solid or hollow shaft.

[0061] As can be seen from Figure 3, the support shaft 15 has a first coupling section 16 which is formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft 15 and which is in gear engagement with the first traction means 7 such that a predefined offset of the first traction means 7 causes a predefined rotation of the support shaft 15. For this purpose, the first traction means 7 is designed as a chain, and the first coupling section 16 is designed as a chain pinion with which the chain is in gear engagement. The support shaft 15 further has a second coupling section 17 which is formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft 15 and on which the conveyor belt rods 13 can be supported in the direction of gravity.

[0062] As can be seen, for example, from Figure 2 or Figure 4, the support shaft 15 further comprises a second coupling section 17 which is formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft 15 and has a plurality of support contours 18 which can be coupled to the conveyor belt rods 13. The second coupling section 17 and the support contours 18 are designed such that two consecutive support contours 18 can each be coupled circumferentially one after the other to two conveyor belt rods 13 which are successive in the conveying direction 11, which can be clearly seen in Figure 6. The support contours 18 are distributed equidistantly over the circumference of the second coupling section 17 and are formed with radially inwardly extending curvatures. Figure 6 shows a variant in which the conveyor belt rods 13 are designed as separate, pin-shaped axes and are encompassed by the conveyor belt eyes 23 of the conveyor belt plates 22.In this variant, the support contours 18 of the second coupling section 17 of the support shaft 15 do not engage directly with the conveyor belt rods 13, but rather with the hinged belt eyes 23 that encompass them. The coupling of the support contours 18 to the conveyor belt rods 13 thus occurs indirectly via the hinged belt eyes 23. In the example shown, the coupling of the support contours 18 to the conveyor belt rods 13 occurs in that the hinged belt eyes 23 are supported in the support contours 18, at least when a sag of the conveyor belt 4 occurs or even during normal operation of the conveyor belt 4 without a sag. The conveyor belt rods 13 can also be supported indirectly via the hinged belt eyes 23 in the support contours 18.Alternatively, the conveyor belt rods 13 can be formed by the hinge eyes 23 of adjacent hinge plates 22 engaging with each other, thus creating a movable, hinge-like connection of the hinge plates 22. An additional pin-shaped axle element, as shown in Figure 6, is not necessary in this case.

[0063] As can be clearly seen in Figure 6, the second coupling section 17 is designed like a circular disk and, in addition to the support contours 18, has second support contours 31 on which the hinged belt plates 22 can be supported in the direction of gravity. The second support contours 31 are formed by circular arc-shaped sectors and are distributed alternately with the inwardly extending curvatures over the circumference of the circular disk-shaped coupling section 17. In this way, continuous support of both the conveyor belt rods 13 and the hinged belt plates 22 is ensured during the movement of the conveyor belt 4.

[0064] The geared coupling of the support shaft 15 via the first coupling section 16 to the first traction means 7 has a transmission ratio which is configured such that, in accordance with the conveying speed of the conveyor belt 4, a rotation of the second coupling section 17 with the support contours 18 is effected, which rotation is so fast that the hinge belt eyes 23 of the conveyor belt 4 are supported one after the other by the support contours 18.

[0065] As can be seen from Figure 1, the second coupling section 17 is arranged essentially centrally to the width 12 of the conveyor belt 4. In principle, it would also be conceivable to arrange several of these second coupling sections 17 distributed across the width 12 of the conveyor belt 4 on a support shaft 15.

[0066] Figure 5 shows that the support shaft 15 has a third coupling section 21 which is rotationally connected to the support shaft 15 and which can be brought into gear engagement with the second traction means 8, designed as a chain, such that a predefined offset of the second traction means 8 causes a predefined rotation of the support shaft 15. The first coupling section 16 and the third coupling section 21 are essentially geometrically identical, so that both coupling sections 16, 21 can be driven synchronously by the chains of the conveyor device 1.

[0067] The coupling between the support contours 18 and the conveyor belt rods 13 can alternatively be achieved by a positive fit, as long as the conveyor belt 4 does not sag, whereby the coupling section 17 and thus the support shaft 15 are moved synchronously when the conveyor belt 4 moves. Even when the conveyor belt rods 13 are supported in the support contours 18, a positive fit can additionally be provided in order to synchronize the movement of the conveyor belt 4 and the support shaft 15. In such an alternative embodiment, the first or third coupling section 16 or 21, which is formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft 15, can be omitted.

[0068] At a first distal end of the support shaft 15, a first bearing unit 19 is arranged, which is fastened to the first guide housing 9. The support shaft 15 extends completely through the first guide housing 9, and the first bearing unit 19 is arranged on the side of the first guide housing 9 facing away from the conveyor belt 4, as can also be seen in Figure 4. In an analogous manner, at a second distal end of the support shaft 15, a second bearing unit 20 is arranged, which is fastened to the second guide housing 10, and here too, the support shaft 15 extends completely through the second guide housing 10, and the second bearing unit 20 is arranged on the side of the second guide housing 10 facing away from the conveyor belt 4.

[0069] In the embodiment shown, the conveyor belt rods 13 are designed as hinge elements, to each of which two hinge belt plates 22 are pivotally mounted, as can be clearly seen from Figure 2 and Figure 4. The hinge belt plates 2 have a plurality of hinge belt eyes 23, each of which surrounds one of the conveyor belt rods 13 in the circumferential direction, at least in sections.

[0070] Figure 7 shows the structure of a 2D laser cutting system as an exemplary embodiment of a laser processing system. Other conceivable exemplary embodiments include, for example, a 3D laser cutting system, a laser welding system, or a combined punching / laser cutting system. The 2D laser cutting system comprises a laser cutting machine 2 with a laser beam source 25 and peripheral devices such as a cooling system for cooling the laser beam source 25 and the machine components, a dust extractor, control cabinets, or a pallet changer 26. Figure 7 particularly clearly illustrates the integration of the conveyor system 1 into such a laser cutting system.

[0071] The laser cutting machine 2 has a solid-state laser (disk or fiber laser), a diode laser, or a CO2 laser as the laser beam source 25, a laser cutting head 28, and a workpiece support 3. A workpiece 24 is arranged on the workpiece support 3. A laser beam is generated by the laser. The laser beam is guided from a CO2 laser with the aid of deflecting mirrors or—as in the example shown—from a solid-state or diode laser with the aid of a fiber optic cable 27 (optical fiber) to the laser cutting head 28 into the working area (not shown) of the laser cutting machine 2, which is surrounded by a protective housing. The laser beam is directed onto the workpiece 24 by means of focusing optics arranged in the laser cutting head 28.The laser cutting head 28 is moved over the workpiece 24 within the work area by means of the movement device 30 such that the focused laser beam cuts contours of the workpiece parts into the workpiece 24 and thus cuts the workpiece parts out of the workpiece 24. After cutting, the workpiece parts, together with the remaining workpiece, are transported out of the work area by means of the pallet changer 26, and a new workpiece sheet 29 is introduced into the work area.

[0072] The laser cutting machine 2 is also supplied with cutting gases, for example oxygen and nitrogen. Compressed air or application-specific gases can also be provided alternatively or additionally. The use of the individual gases depends on the material of the workpiece 24 to be machined and on the quality requirements for the cut edges. Furthermore, an extraction device (not shown) is provided, which is connected to an extraction chamber located beneath the workpiece support 3 and to the dust extractor. When the workpiece is cut using oxygen as the cutting gas, the material of the workpiece 24 is melted and largely oxidized. When inert gases, such as nitrogen or argon, are used, the material is merely melted. The resulting melt particles are then, if necessary,Together with the iron oxides, they are blown downward from the cutting gap formed during cutting and extracted together with the cutting gas via the extraction chamber by the extraction device. Larger particles and small workpiece residues (slugs) that fall downward through the workpiece support are transported out of the working area of ​​the laser cutting machine 2 by the conveyor device 1 known from Figures 1-6 and collected, for example, in a container (not shown).

[0073] The invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated in the figures. The above description is therefore not to be considered restrictive, but rather explanatory. The following claims are to be understood in such a way that a stated feature is present in at least one embodiment of the invention. This does not exclude the presence of further features. Where the claims and the above description define 'first' and 'second' features, this designation serves to distinguish between two similar features without establishing a priority.

[0074] List of reference symbols

[0075] 1 conveyor system

[0076] 2 laser processing machines

[0077] 3 Workpiece support

[0078] 4 Conveyor belt

[0079] 5 Upper strand

[0080] 6 lower strand

[0081] 7 traction devices

[0082] 8 traction devices

[0083] 9 Guide housing

[0084] 10 guide housings

[0085] 11 Conveying direction

[0086] 12 width

[0087] 13 conveyor belt bars

[0088] 14 Drive unit

[0089] 15 Support shaft

[0090] 16 Coupling section

[0091] 17 Coupling section

[0092] 18 support contours

[0093] 19 storage unit

[0094] 20 storage units

[0095] 21 Coupling section

[0096] 22 Hinge plate

[0097] 23 Hinge band eye

[0098] 24 Workpiece

[0099] 25 Laser beam source

[0100] 26 pallet changers

[0101] 27 fiber optic cables

[0102] 28 laser cutting head

[0103] 29 Workpiece board

[0104] 30 Movement device

[0105] 31 support contours

Claims

Claims 1 . Conveying device (1), in particular for arrangement beneath a workpiece support (3) of a laser processing machine (2), comprising a circulating conveyor belt (4) with a load-bearing upper run (5) and a lower run (6), wherein the circulating conveyor belt (4) is coupled to a first circulating traction means (7) and a second circulating traction means (8) running parallel thereto, and the first traction means (7) is mounted circulatingly in or on a first guide housing (9) and the second traction means (8) is mounted circulatingly in or on a second guide housing (10), and wherein the first traction means (7) and / or the second traction means (8) are / is connected to a drive unit (14) so ​​that the circulating conveyor belt (4) can be driven via the first traction means (7) and / or the second traction means (8), and wherein the conveyor belt (4) has a plurality of tracks extending perpendicular to the conveying direction (11) and across the width (12) of the conveyor belt (4). extending conveyor belt bars (13),, characterized in that the conveyor device (1) has a rotatably mounted but stationary support shaft (15) relative to the conveyor belt (4), which extends between the load-bearing upper run (5) and the lower run (6) of the conveyor belt (4) perpendicular to the conveying direction (11) of the conveyor belt (4), wherein the support shaft (15) has a first coupling section (16) which is formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft (15), which is in gear engagement with the first traction means (7) or the second traction means (8) such that a predefined offset of the first traction means (7) or the second traction means (8) causes a predefined rotation of the support shaft (15), and the support shaft (15) has a second coupling section (16) which is formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft (15), coupling section (17) on which the conveyor belt rods (13) in can be supported in the direction of gravity, and / or wherein the support shaft (15) has a second coupling section (17) which is formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft (15) and has a plurality of support contours (18) which can be coupled to the conveyor belt rods (13), wherein the second coupling section (17) and the support contours (18) are formed such that in each case two circumferentially successive support contours (18) can be coupled one after the other to two conveyor belt rods (13) which follow one another in the conveying direction (11).

2. Conveyor device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first traction means (7) and / or the second traction means (8) are / is designed as a chain, and the first coupling section (16) designed as a chain pinion is in gear engagement with the first or second chain.

3. Conveyor device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second coupling section (17) is arranged substantially centrally to the width (12) of the conveyor belt (4).

4. Conveyor device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second coupling section (17) is designed in the manner of a circular disk and the largest diameter of the second coupling section (17) is selected such that the second coupling section (17) is at a distance from the lower run (6) of the conveyor belt (4).

5. Conveying device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support contours (18) are designed as radially inwardly extending curvatures.

6. Conveyor device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support shaft (15) has a third coupling section (21) which is formed in a rotationally fixed manner with the support shaft (15) and which is in gear engagement with the second traction means (8) such that a predefined offset of the second traction means (8) causes a predefined rotation of the support shaft (15).

7. Conveying device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the first coupling section (16) and the third coupling section (21) are substantially geometrically identical.

8. Conveyor device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first bearing unit (19) is arranged at a first distal end of the support shaft (15), which first bearing unit is fastened to the first guide housing (9), wherein in particular the support shaft (15) completely passes through the first guide housing (9) and the first bearing unit (19) is arranged on the side of the first guide housing (9) facing away from the conveyor belt (4).

9. Conveyor device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a second bearing unit (20) is arranged at a second distal end of the support shaft (15), which is fastened to the second guide housing (10), wherein in particular the support shaft (15) supports the second guide housing (10) completely penetrates and the second bearing unit (20) is arranged on the side of the second guide housing (10) facing away from the conveyor belt (4).

10. Conveyor device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of the conveyor belt rods (13) are designed as hinge elements, on each of which at least one hinge plate (22) is articulated.

11. Conveyor device (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that the hinged belt plates (22) each have at least one hinged belt eye (23) which surrounds one of the conveyor belt rods (13) in the circumferential direction at least in sections.

12. Conveyor device (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that the hinged belt plates (22) each have a plurality of hinged belt eyes (23) which engage in an articulated manner in the hinged belt eyes (23) of an adjacently arranged hinged belt plate (22) such that a conveyor belt rod (13) is formed.

13. Conveyor device according to one of claims 11 or 12, characterized in that the support contours (18) of the second coupling section (17) of the support shaft (15) can be coupled to the hinge band eyes (23).

14. Conveyor device according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the first coupling section (17) has a plurality of second Support contours (31) on which the hinge band plates (22) can be supported in the direction of gravity.

15. Laser processing machine (2), comprising a workpiece support (3) for the workpiece to be processed and a section disposal and raw material recovery system arranged thereunder in the direction of gravity, with a conveyor device (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

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