Spacing device, method for retrofitting a spacing device, and handling system

Abstract

The invention relates to a spacing device (4), to a method for separating and spacing apart at least one piece good (20), and to a handling system (1). At least one piece good (20) is fed in a substantially closed piece-good flow (21) by a transport device (2) along a transport plane (3) in a transport direction (TR) of the spacing device (4). The spacing device (4) comprises at least one spacer finger (5) arranged on a spacer strip (6), which spacer finger (5) is designed to engage in the piece-good flow (21) from below, substantially perpendicularly to the transport plane (3), in order to separate and space apart the at least one piece good (20) longitudinally with respect to the transport direction (TR). The spacing device (4) additionally comprises a handling device (7) for changing the format of the spacer strip (6). The spacing device (4) can also be assigned a handling device (7) for changing the format of the spacer strip (6). The handling device (7) is designed to carry out the format change within the spacing device (4).

Description

[0001] Dividing device, method for converting a dividing device and handling system

[0002] The present invention relates to a sorting device for separating and sorting piece goods in a substantially closed piece goods flow. The invention further relates to a method for converting such a sorting device and a handling system for such a sorting device.

[0003] For the assembly of individual groups of articles and their subsequent packaging, rows of articles are moved parallel to one another, with consecutive articles possibly queuing up next to one another. To form individual groups of articles from these articles moved parallel to one another in several rows, it may be necessary for a certain number of leading articles to be briefly accelerated relative to the following articles. For this purpose, divider bars with divider fingers can be provided, with the divider fingers engaging the rear of the specific number of articles and then briefly accelerating the specific number of articles relative to the following articles.

[0004] There are also packaging devices in which such divider fingers arranged on divider bars are used to briefly delay subsequent articles relative to the preceding articles. In both embodiments, a relative spacing is created between the specific number of preceding articles and subsequent articles, creating groups of articles to which packaging material can subsequently be applied. The divider bars are usually arranged on circulating conveyor chains. The respective relative distance or pitch between the divider fingers arranged on the divider bars is adapted to the respective group of articles to be formed.

[0005] Currently, the divider bars on packaging machines must be completely replaced when changing the container diameter. These bars consist, for example, of an aluminum profile to which the divider fingers are screwed. The change is performed manually by the operator, who pulls these divider bars out from the side and then places them on a format parts trolley. Due to the manual nature of the work, the operator is tied to the machine during this time. Automated solutions for such packaging tasks are now also available.

[0006] The patent specification EP 3 150 521 B1 describes a device with at least one divider bar, the end sections of which are held on profile sections, wherein the divider bar can be detached from the profile sections without tools and wherein the divider bar can be separated from the at least one profile section by sliding along its longitudinal direction.

[0007] The disadvantage of the solutions described above is that the divider bars require storage space next to the machine. Furthermore, sufficient accessibility and space next to the machine for replacing the divider bars must be provided.

[0008] An object of the invention can therefore be seen in the development of a device which does not have the disadvantages of the prior art, in particular a device which does not require an operator to exchange divider strips and / or a device in which the space requirement of the device, ie the so-called footprint of the device, is reduced.

[0009] The above object is achieved by a dividing device, a method for converting a dividing device, and a handling system comprising the features in the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments are described in the subclaims.

[0010] The invention relates to a sorting device and a method for converting a sorting device. The sorting device serves to separate and sort at least one piece of goods, which are fed in a substantially closed piece of goods flow from a transport device along a transport plane in a transport direction of the sorting device.

[0011] The dividing device comprises at least one dividing finger arranged on a dividing bar. This dividing finger is designed to engage in the piece goods flow from below and essentially perpendicular to the transport plane in order to separate and divide the at least one piece of goods along the transport direction, in order to separate the at least one piece of goods from the subsequent piece goods in the flow and to divide or group them. Furthermore, it is provided that the dividing device comprises a handling device for changing the format of the dividing bar or that a handling device for changing the format of the dividing bar is assigned to the dividing device. The handling device is designed to carry out the format change within the dividing device. In particular, the handling device is designed to carry out the format change on the permanently installed oressentially permanently installed divider bar.

[0012] A format change occurs in particular in order to adapt the divider bar to the new products, in particular their size and shape, or to the new product combinations, for example to the changed number and / or arrangement of the piece goods within the new product combination, in the event of a product change or a production change.

[0013] Furthermore, the invention relates to a handling system comprising a dividing device for separating and dividing at least one piece of goods, which is fed in a substantially closed piece of goods flow from a transport device along a transport plane in a transport direction of the dividing device. The dividing device comprises at least one dividing finger arranged on a dividing bar, which is designed to engage in the piece of goods flow from below, substantially perpendicular to the transport plane, for separating and dividing the at least one piece of goods along the transport direction.

[0014] The handling system further comprises a handling device for changing the format of the divider bar; the handling device is designed to perform the format change within the divider device. In particular, the handling device is designed to perform the format change on the divider bar that is permanently installed or substantially permanently installed within the divider device.

[0015] It should be expressly mentioned at this point that all aspects and embodiments explained in connection with the dividing device according to the invention equally relate to or can be partial aspects of the method according to the invention and the handling system according to the invention. Therefore, if at any point in the description or in the claim definitions for the dividing device according to the invention certain aspects and / or relationships and / or effects are mentioned, this applies equally to the method according to the invention and the handling system. The same applies conversely, so that all aspects and embodiments explained in connection with the method according to the invention equally relate to or can be partial aspects of the dividing device according to the invention and / or the handling system.Therefore, if at one point in the description or in the claim definitions for the method according to the invention certain aspects and / or relationships and / or effects are mentioned, this applies equally to the dividing device or handling system according to the invention.

[0016] The dividing device can either be a dividing device in which incoming piece goods in a mass flow are divided into groups, with the resulting groups of piece goods being spaced apart from each other. Furthermore, such a dividing device can be used to separate piece goods arriving in a mass flow and arrange them at a defined distance from each other.

[0017] Such a sorting device is particularly located in the inlet of packaging devices that, for example, combine the appropriately grouped piece goods with outer packaging to form a single bundle. Examples of such outer packaging include shrink film, cardboard outer packaging, trays (i.e., supports with lateral borders), trays combined with shrink film, or similar. Such a sorting device can also be located in the inlet of a packaging machine that, for example, produces mixed bundles. For this purpose, different piece goods arriving in the mass flow must generally be separated and then combined into mixed bundles by another grouping device.

[0018] According to a further embodiment, piece goods that are already pre-grouped in rows and are located in a so-called piece goods flow or flows are transported upright on a transport device, in particular in multiple rows and with the support of frictional engagement in one transport direction. The support plane for the piece goods formed by the transport device simultaneously forms a transport plane for the piece goods. The at least one piece of goods can be containers, in particular bottles made of PET or another suitable plastic, made of glass, etc. The piece goods can preferably also be cans made of plastic and / or aluminum or another metal or similar. However, the dividing device, the method and the handling system are also suitable for dividing and grouping other suitable piece goods accordingly, for example kegs or similar.

[0019] The general cargo may consist of more than 70% glass, metal, especially sheet metal, or a plastic, especially PET, or a fibrous material. The fibrous material may, for example, contain cellulose.

[0020] In particular, the piece goods may be liquid containers, preferably beverage containers.

[0021] In particular, the piece goods can each have a bulge or bead running at least partially along their circumference, preferably in their upper region.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the piece goods are substantially cylindrical and / or conical, as is the case with commercially available bottles and cans. For example, the piece goods are cylindrical in some regions and conical in some regions; for example, the piece goods can be cylindrical in a lower region and conical in an upper region. In this case, a direct transition between the cylindrical and the conical region can be provided. However, a region with a reduced cross-sectional area can also be provided between the cylindrical and the conical region. Further embodiments are known to the person skilled in the art and are also intended to be encompassed by the application.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the at least one divider finger is connected to a divider bar extending transversely to the transport direction and below the transport plane, or is mounted or fastened there at least on one side, but preferably on both sides of the transport plane. In particular, the divider bar is anchored to suitable conveyors. With the aid of these conveyors, the divider bar is movably guided below the transport plane in a defined movement path. As a rule, a divider device has a plurality of divider bars, each of which is arranged at a corresponding distance along the defined movement path for the at least one divider bar.

[0024] In particular, it can be provided that the at least one divider bar is guided at different speeds in different sections of the movement path. The movement of the divider bar within the movement path can thus vary over time. The path of the movement path is generally spatially fixed, but embodiments are also conceivable in which the movement path is spatially variable and can thus be particularly well adapted to the new product, especially during a product change.

[0025] The divider bar is carried by the conveyor parallel to the transport device for the piece goods, with the speed of the conveyor being slowed down relative to the transport device, at least in certain sections. Thus, the piece goods following the divider fingers are slowed down by the divider fingers. After a defined distance, the divider fingers are removed from the transport plane by lowering downwards, whereby the piece goods are then moved further at the transport speed of the transport device. This leads to the desired gap formation between groups of piece goods, each with a defined number of piece goods, or between the individual piece goods.

[0026] Alternatively, the piece goods leading the divider fingers engaging from below in the transport direction can be spaced apart from the following piece goods after the divider fingers engage in the transport direction by accelerating the separated individual piece goods or groups of piece goods relative to the following piece goods in the piece goods flow, for example, while the divider bar continues to move at the same transport speed as the transport device. For this purpose, for example, an additional conveyor device arranged downstream of the transport device can be provided, with a conveyor speed that is at least temporarily higher than the transport device.

[0027] Alternatively, the piece goods that are ahead of the divider fingers engaging from below in the transport direction can be spaced apart from the following piece goods by accelerating the separated individual piece goods or group of piece goods by accelerating the speed of movement of the divider bar relative to the following piece goods in the piece goods flow and are separated and spaced apart from the following piece goods due to this acceleration.

[0028] A format change of the divider bar is to be understood in particular as meaning that the divider bar in a first embodiment has a different arrangement and / or design of divider fingers than in a second embodiment of the divider bar and / or that the divider bar in a first embodiment has a different number and / or design of divider fingers than in a third embodiment of the divider bar.

[0029] The format change is carried out, for example, by repositioning the at least one divider finger on the at least one divider bar that is essentially permanently installed within the dividing device.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, removal of at least one of at least two divider fingers from the at least one divider bar that is essentially permanently installed within the dividing device can be provided.

[0031] A further alternative or additional embodiment may provide that at least one divider finger is added to the at least one divider bar that is essentially permanently installed within the dividing device.

[0032] Furthermore, the at least one divider finger on the at least one divider bar that is essentially permanently installed within the dividing device can also be replaced.

[0033] A further embodiment may provide that the at least one divider finger is divided and has a lower fastening region and an upper product-dependent region.

[0034] The lower, free end of the lower fastening region is particularly designed such that a detachable fastening can be established between it and a fastening position for the at least one divider finger on the divider bar. The upper, product-dependent region is particularly adapted to the particular piece of goods to be handled. For example, the upper, product-dependent region of such a divider finger has a contour that corresponds in a form-fitting manner to a contour of a respective piece of goods, so that the contour of the divider finger, upon contact with the piece of goods, at least in some areas, forms a form-fitting contact with the outer surface of the piece of goods.

[0035] In this case, when changing products, it may be sufficient to replace only the upper product-dependent section of the divider finger.

[0036] In addition, it may be necessary to adjust the positioning of the divider finger on the divider bar to suit the specific product.

[0037] By varying the number and / or arrangement and / or configuration of separator fingers on the at least one separator bar, which is essentially permanently installed within the separator device, and the differential speed between the transport device for the piece goods and the conveyor of the at least one separator bar, the number of piece goods separated as a group or the separation of the piece goods and the size of the gap between the piece goods groups or between the separated piece goods can be adjusted accordingly. In particular, the piece goods groups or separated piece goods can thus be configured according to the requirements of a downstream packaging machine.

[0038] According to known embodiments of dividing devices, the divider fingers are stable in all directions. The divider fingers are preferably designed and positioned and fixed to the at least one divider bar, which is essentially permanently installed within the dividing device, in such a way that they exert maximum force only in the direction in which the piece goods are pushed over. The application of lateral forces can be virtually eliminated due to the defined transport direction of the piece goods. For this purpose, the divider fingers are attached laterally, for example, with sliding blocks in a groove on the divider bar, whereby a positive connection between the divider fingers and the divider bar is ensured by the groove itself in the transport direction of the piece goods.

[0039] Transverse to the transport direction of the piece goods, the positive locking is ensured by the clampable sliding block. Alternatively or additionally, the divider finger can have a non-circular profile in cross-section (horizontally cut when the divider finger is vertically positioned), at least in some areas, and with more material provided along an axis in the transport direction, in particular with more material provided transverse to the transport direction.

[0040] The replacement, removal, or repositioning of divider fingers on the permanently installed divider bar is carried out automatically by the handling device during a product change or production changeover. For example, the format change can be performed by a handling device formed by a suitable robot.

[0041] For example, it can be provided that the handling device is assigned to the dividing device at least for the duration of a product change. In particular, in such a case, it can be provided that the handling device is part of a self-propelled transport system or is designed to be self-propelled. Such a design has the advantage that the handling device can be used for other tasks during production times. In particular, it can be provided that the handling device can also assume other functions during a different format changeover of the packaging system or during ongoing operation of the packaging system, e.g., an exchange of packaging materials, e.g., film rolls or cardboard magazines.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the divider bar has two or more defined fastening positions for the at least one divider finger. In particular, the divider bar has a plurality of fastening positions for the divider fingers. For example, it is provided that the fastening positions are designed as plug-in positions or locking positions or similar, in which the divider fingers can be fastened, preferably via a quick-release mechanism that can be released without tools.

[0043] Tool-free locking devices are preferably used as fastening means for the divider fingers at the fastening positions. Quick-release systems are particularly preferred. These quick-release systems can be operated automatically by the handling device. The locking can be mechanical, electromechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, or software-based.

[0044] For example, the at least one divider bar can have locking devices and the at least one replaceable divider finger can have at least one corresponding locking means which is suitable for forming a locking connection between the divider bar and the at least one divider finger.

[0045] It is also possible, in particular, to effect an electrically controlled locking of a bolt via a control device, which control device is particularly designed as part of the dividing device, the handling system, or the packaging system. Alternatively, it may be a simple mechanical locking device in the form of a bolt or the like, which prevents lateral movement of the at least one dividing finger and which can be released or secured by the handling device of the dividing device or the handling system, preferably easily, quickly, and / or without tools.

[0046] Magnetic or mechanically locking connections, which can be unlocked or released electromagnetically if necessary, can also be used to position the at least one divider finger at a respective fastening position of the at least one divider strip.

[0047] In the format change mode, it can alternatively be provided that at least one divider finger can be folded sideways within the fastening position after the fixation has been released and can be moved along the divider bar in this folded-away position. The movement can be guided by a guide. After the at least one divider finger has reached its new position, it is folded back up and thus fixed in the corresponding fastening position.

[0048] An alternative embodiment of a divider bar can comprise, instead of defined fastening positions, a guide rail for the at least one divider finger, which guide rail extends perpendicular to the transport direction of the piece goods and along or parallel to a longitudinal axis of the divider bar. Within the guide rail, the at least one divider finger is preferably releasably held and, in the released state, can be moved within the guide rail or removed from the guide rail. Furthermore, further, additional divider fingers can be arranged within the guide rail.

[0049] During a production change, for example, the fixation between the guide rail and the at least one divider finger is released, and the at least one divider finger can be moved to a new, defined position. Alternatively, the released divider finger can be removed from the guide rail, or another divider finger can be attached to the guide rail.

[0050] For example, the guide rail has the same length as the divider bar, so that at least one divider finger can be removed from the guide rail by sliding it sideways or that at least one further divider finger can be accommodated by sliding it sideways through the guide rail.

[0051] One embodiment may provide that the at least one divider finger is inserted into the guide rail, for example, in a first insertion position and can be fixed in place within the guide rail by a 90 degree or 270 degree rotation about the longitudinal axis of the divider finger.

[0052] A further embodiment can provide that the at least one divider finger can be moved laterally within the guide rail by means of a fold-out mechanism and is then locked again to the guide rail.

[0053] A further embodiment may provide that the dividing device comprises a magazine for dividing fingers or that a magazine for dividing fingers is assigned to the dividing device.

[0054] In particular, it is provided that a plurality of differently designed divider fingers are arranged within the magazine and / or are kept ready for format changes. Defined storage positions for the differently designed divider fingers can be provided within the magazine.

[0055] In particular, the divider fingers are arranged in defined storage positions within the magazine by the handling device and / or the divider fingers are removed from the magazine from defined storage positions by the handling device.

[0056] The magazine can be, for example, a revolver magazine, a paternoster magazine or something similar.

[0057] For example, the divider fingers are marked with an identification feature in the form of a QR code, a bar code or similar, whereby a specific identification feature is linked to a defined storage position within the magazine.

[0058] A preferred embodiment may provide that the magazine is designed as part of the handling device of the dividing device or as part of the handling device of the handling system.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the handling device is designed as part of the dividing device.

[0060] In particular, it can be provided that the dividing device comprises a machine frame and that the handling device is arranged within the machine frame.

[0061] Alternatively or additionally, the magazine can be arranged within the machine frame. This results in a compact, space-saving machine with automated format changeover.

[0062] Furthermore, it can be provided that the dividing device comprises a control device or that a control device is assigned to the dividing device, which controls and / or monitors the handling device. In particular, the handling device performs a controlled removal of dividing fingers from a magazine. Furthermore, the handling device performs a controlled deposit of dividing fingers in the magazine.

[0063] The one-piece fingers are preferably recognized using identification features as already described above.

[0064] The control device can also be a machine control of the handling system or a control of at least parts of an overall system, in particular a packaging machine, which comprises the handling system or the dividing device.

[0065] During a format change, the relevant parameters of the piece goods or piece goods groups are entered into the control system. This then calculates which divider fingers are required, in what number and / or arrangement, and controls the automated format change via the handling device, in particular the removal, additional arrangement, or repositioning of the divider fingers.

[0066] With the divider device, the process and the handling system described here, all format parts required for a production program can be changed automatically within the machine frame.

[0067] If the geometry of the divider fingers remains the same, but the position changes due to the piece goods diameter or a different arrangement of the piece goods group, especially the formation of a bundle, one design allows the divider fingers to be moved laterally using a fold-out mechanism and then re-locked to the divider bar. This mechanism can optionally be stationary, and a chain moves the respective divider finger past this mechanism.

[0068] If it is necessary to replace the at least one divider finger, it is possible, for example, to design the at least one divider finger in a split form. In this case, it can also be provided that the fastening receptacles for the at least one divider finger are located at predefined positions on the divider bar, into which, depending on the program, an axis system, for example, uses a gripper to change and lock the at least one divider finger. The running direction of the chain and thus of the divider bar can be used to fix the locking of the at least one divider finger with the fastening receptacles.

[0069] With this type of automation, all changeover parts remain within the dividing device or handling system. This minimizes installation effort during a production changeover. The actual automation allows the operator to change other format parts on the machine simultaneously, thus reducing overall changeover time.

[0070] The dividing device according to the invention or the handling system according to the invention can preferably be part of a packaging system for piece goods, in particular a packaging system for beverage containers.

[0071] The beverage packaging system typically comprises a wet section, which includes at least the filling module and the closing module, as well as, if required, a labeling module. If the beverages are filled into PET bottles, for example, the wet section may additionally include modules for producing the PET bottles, in particular a heating module for preforms and a stretch blow molding module.

[0072] The beverages, filled into corresponding containers, are then combined into packaging units. In particular, individual piece goods are separated or piece goods groups are formed, in particular bottle sets or can sets, in a dividing device or handling system according to the invention. At least one outer packaging material is applied to the piece goods groups in a packaging module. The outer packaging material can be, for example, at least one strap, a shrink film, a cardboard outer packaging, a top grip carton packaging, or similar.

[0073] The piece goods groups combined with the outer packaging material are then preferably assembled into layer arrangements or piece goods layer arrangements in a layer-forming module, for example, using suitable gantry robots, tripods, articulated robots, or other suitable devices. These are compressed, creating palletizable layers. These palletizable layers can be fed to a palletizing device and combined into pallet stacks.

[0074] Within the beverage packaging plant, the unit loads are preferably transported from one module to the next using suitable transport systems. These transport systems can be equipped with suitable buffer systems if necessary. These transport systems can be, for example, star-shaped conveyors and horizontal conveyors.

[0075] In the following, exemplary embodiments will explain the invention and its advantages in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. The relative sizes of the individual elements in the figures do not always correspond to the actual sizes, as some shapes are simplified and others are enlarged relative to other elements for better illustration.

[0076] Fig. 1 shows a schematic plan view of a handling system.

[0077] Fig. 2 shows a side view of the handling system according to Fig. 1. Fig. 3 shows a first embodiment of a divider bar with a first embodiment of divider fingers in a first arrangement.

[0078] Fig. 4 shows a first embodiment of a divider bar according to Fig. 3 with a first embodiment of divider fingers in a second arrangement.

[0079] Fig. 5 shows a first embodiment of a divider bar with a second embodiment of divider fingers in the first arrangement according to Fig. 3.

[0080] Fig. 6 shows a first embodiment of a divider bar with a third embodiment of divider fingers in the second arrangement according to Fig. 4.

[0081] Figures 7 and 8 show a second embodiment of a divider bar.

[0082] Fig. 9 shows a third embodiment of a divider bar.

[0083] Identical reference numerals are used for identical or equivalently functioning elements of the invention. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only those reference numerals are shown in the individual figures that are necessary for the description of the respective figure. The illustrated embodiments merely represent examples of how the invention can be configured and do not constitute an exhaustive limitation.

[0084] The embodiments, examples, and variants of the preceding paragraphs, the claims or the following description and the figures, including their various views or respective individual features, may be used independently of one another or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless the features are incompatible.

[0085] The schematic top view of Fig. 1 shows a handling system 1 used for dividing or grouping piece goods 20, which are transported in parallel piece goods streams 21 in a transport direction TR. Fig. 2 shows a side view of the handling system 1 according to Fig. 1.

[0086] Figures 1 and 2 show that piece goods 20, already grouped in rows, are still located in the piece goods flow 21. These items may, for example, be beverage containers 22 in the form of bottles or cans or other items. The piece goods 20 are preferably transported upright on a transport device 2 in the transport direction TR, in multiple rows and with the assistance of frictional engagement. The support plane for the piece goods 20 formed by the transport device 2 simultaneously forms the transport plane 3.

[0087] The handling system 1 comprises a sorting device 4 for sorting or grouping the piece goods 20. This device comprises sorting bars 6 on which sorting fingers 5 are arranged. The sorting fingers 5 are brought into engagement with the piece goods 20 from below through the transport plane 3.

[0088] The transport device 2 can, for example, be formed by several conveyor belts running parallel with lateral intervals, whereby a free passage is provided for the divider fingers 5.

[0089] In the present case, the handling system 1 has two independent groups of divider fingers 5a and 5b, which are arranged on two divider bars 6a and 6b that are not mechanically connected to each other. The divider bars 6a, 6b are designed, for example, as cantilever arms running parallel to the transport plane 3, each of which is attached to its own vertical cross table or similar drive unit laterally outside and below the transport device 2.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the at least one divider finger 5 is connected to a divider bar 6 extending transversely to the transport direction TR and below the transport plane 3, or is mounted or fastened there at least on one side, but preferably on both sides of the transport plane 3. In particular, the divider bar 6 is anchored to suitable conveyor means 19. With the aid of these conveyor means 19, the divider bar 6 is movably guided below the transport plane 3 in a defined movement path 40.

[0091] As a rule, a dividing device 4 has a plurality of dividing strips 6, which are arranged at a corresponding distance on the defined movement path 40 for dividing strips 6.

[0092] In particular, it can be provided that the divider bars 6 are guided at different speeds in different sections of the movement path 40. The movement of the divider bars 6 within the movement path 40 can thus vary over time. The path of the movement path 40 is generally spatially fixed, but embodiments are also conceivable in which the movement path 40 is spatially variable and can thus be particularly well adapted to the new product, especially during a product change.

[0093] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the piece goods 20 leading the divider fingers 5 engaging from below in the transport direction TR can be spaced apart from the following piece goods 20 after the divider fingers 5 engage in the transport direction TR by accelerating the piece goods groups 23 separated by the engagement of the divider fingers 5, for example, relative to the following piece goods 20 of the piece goods stream 21, while the respective divider bar 6 continues to move at the same transport speed v2 as the transport device 2. For this purpose, for example, a further conveyor device 8 is provided with a conveying speed v8 that is at least temporarily higher than that of the transport device 2.

[0094] Alternatively, it can be provided that the piece goods 20 leading the divider fingers 5 engaging from below in the transport direction TR are spaced apart from the following piece goods 20 by the engagement of the divider fingers 5 by increasing the speed of the divider fingers 5. This increased speed is impressed on the piece goods 20 leading the divider fingers 5 in the transport direction TR, whereby corresponding piece goods groups 23 can also be generated or individual piece goods 20 can be separated.

[0095] The divider bar 6 is carried by the conveyor 19 parallel to the transport device 2 for the piece goods 20, wherein the speed of the conveyor 19 is slowed or increased at least in sections relative to the transport device 2. Thus, the piece goods 20 following the divider fingers 5 are decelerated or accelerated by the divider fingers 5. After a defined distance, the divider fingers 5 are removed from the transport plane 3 by diving downwards, whereby the piece goods 20 can now be moved further at the transport speed v2 of the transport device 2. This leads to the desired formation of gaps between piece goods groups 23, each with a defined number of piece goods 20, or between the individual piece goods 20.

[0096] By varying the number and / or arrangement and / or design of separator fingers 5 on the at least one separator bar 6 installed within the separator device 4 and the differential speed between the transport device 2 of the piece goods 20 and the conveyor 19 of the at least one separator bar 6, the number of piece goods 20 separated as a group or the separation of the piece goods 20 and the size of the gap between the piece goods groups 23 or separated piece goods 20 can be adjusted accordingly. In particular, the piece goods groups 23 or separated piece goods 20 can thus be designed according to the requirements of a downstream packaging machine.

[0097] The handling system 1 further comprises a handling device 7 for changing the format of the divider bar 6 during a production changeover.

[0098] In this case, it is provided that the handling device 7 is designed to carry out the format change within the dividing device 4. Particularly preferably, the handling device 7 is designed to carry out the format change on the at least one dividing bar 6 that is essentially permanently installed within the dividing device 4.

[0099] A format change of the divider bar 6 is to be understood in particular as meaning that the divider bar 6 in a first embodiment has a different arrangement of divider fingers 5 than in a second embodiment of the divider bar 6 and / or that the divider bar 6 in a first embodiment has a different number of divider fingers 5 than in a third embodiment of the divider bar 6 and / or that the divider bar 6 in a first embodiment has divider fingers 5 of a different design than in a fourth embodiment of the divider bar 6 (cf. Figures 3 to 6).

[0100] The format change takes place, for example, by repositioning the at least one divider finger 5 on the at least one divider bar 6 permanently installed within the dividing device 4.

[0101] Alternatively or additionally, removal of at least one of at least two divider fingers 5 from the at least one divider bar 6 permanently installed within the dividing device 4 can be provided.

[0102] A further alternative or additional embodiment may provide for the addition of at least one divider finger 5 to the at least one divider bar 6 permanently installed within the dividing device 4. Furthermore, the at least one divider finger 5 may also be replaced on the at least one divider bar 6 permanently installed within the dividing device 4.

[0103] The handling device 7 can be assigned to the dividing device 4 or the handling device 7 can be designed as a component of the dividing device 4.

[0104] The replacement or removal or repositioning of divider fingers 5 on the permanently installed divider bar 6 is carried out automatically by the handling device 7 during a product change or a production change. For example, the format change can be carried out by a handling device 7 which is formed by a suitable robot 26.

[0105] Furthermore, it can be provided that the handling device 7 can also take over other functions during a different format changeover of the packaging system or during ongoing operation of the packaging system, for example an exchange of packaging materials, for example film rolls or cardboard magazines.

[0106] For example, it can be provided that the handling device 7 is assigned to the dividing device 4 at least for the duration of a product change. In particular, in such a case, it can be provided that the handling device 7 is designed as part of a self-propelled transport system (not shown) or is self-propelled. Such a design has the advantage that the handling device 7 can be used for other tasks during production times.

[0107] Furthermore, it can be provided that the dividing device 4 comprises a magazine 9 for dividing fingers 5 or that a magazine 9 for dividing fingers 5 is assigned to the dividing device 4.

[0108] In particular, it can be provided that a plurality of differently designed divider fingers 5 are arranged in the magazine 9 and / or are kept ready for format changes. Particularly preferably, each differently designed divider finger 5 is assigned a defined storage position within the magazine 9. For example, the divider fingers 5 are marked with an identification feature in the form of a QR code, a bar code, or the like, whereby a specific identification feature is linked to a defined storage position within the magazine 9.

[0109] A preferred embodiment may provide that the magazine 9 is formed as part of the handling device 7, which is illustrated by way of example in Fig. 2. Furthermore, Fig. 2 illustrates by way of example that the handling device 7 is formed as part of the dividing device 4.

[0110] In particular, it can be provided that the dividing device 4 comprises a machine frame (not shown) and that the handling device 7 and / or the magazine 9 is / are arranged within the machine frame.

[0111] Furthermore, the dividing device 4 comprises a control device 10 or the dividing device 4 is assigned a control device 10, which control device 10 controls the handling device 7.

[0112] The control device 10 can also be a machine control 11 of the handling system 1 or a control 12 of at least parts of an overall system (not shown) which comprises the handling system 1.

[0113] Preferably, the handling device 7 performs a controlled removal of divider fingers 5 from the magazine 9, wherein the divider fingers 5 are preferably recognized on the basis of the identification features described above and removed from the magazine 9. Furthermore, a controlled storage of unused divider fingers 5 within the magazine 9 preferably takes place; in particular, a controlled storage of the divider fingers 5 within the magazine 9 at defined storage positions (not shown) preferably takes place on the basis of the identification features described above.

[0114] The at least one piece goods 20 can be containers, in particular bottles made of PET or another suitable plastic, glass, etc. Preferably, the piece goods 20 can also be formed by cans made of plastic and / or aluminum or another metal or the like.

[0115] However, the dividing device 4, the method, and the handling system 1 are also suitable for dividing and grouping other suitable piece goods accordingly, for example, kegs or similar. The piece goods can preferably consist of more than 70% glass, metal, in particular sheet metal, or a plastic, in particular PET, or a fibrous material. The fibrous material can contain, for example, cellulose.

[0116] In particular, the piece goods 20 may be liquid containers, in particular beverage containers 22.

[0117] The schematic side view of Fig. 3 shows a first embodiment of a divider bar 6 with a first embodiment of divider fingers 5, 5-1 in a first arrangement 30. The schematic side view of Fig. 4 shows a first embodiment of a divider bar 6 according to Fig. 3 with a first embodiment of divider fingers 5, 5-1 in a second arrangement 31.

[0118] The divider bar 6 has two or more defined fastening positions 13 for the at least one divider finger 5; in particular, the divider bar 6 has a plurality of fastening positions 13 for divider fingers 5. For example, it is provided that the fastening positions 13 are designed as plug-in positions 14 or locking positions 15 or the like, in which the divider fingers 5 can be fastened, preferably via a quick-release mechanism (not shown) that can be released without tools.

[0119] In the embodiment according to Fig. 3, three separating fingers 5-1 are arranged in adjacent fastening positions 13, whereby, for example, two piece goods 20 transported parallel to one another can be separated as a piece goods group 23 from a piece goods stream (not shown, see Figures 1 and 2) by means of the three separating fingers 5-1. The piece goods 20 have a first width B1.

[0120] In the embodiment according to Fig. 4, three separating fingers 5-1 are also used to separate two piece goods 20-2 transported parallel to one another as a piece goods group 23 from a piece goods stream. However, these are piece goods 20-2 that have a second width B2. The second width B2 essentially corresponds to twice the first width B1 of the piece goods 20-1 shown in Fig. 3.

[0121] In order to handle these piece goods 20-2 with twice the width B2, an empty fastening position 13 is provided between each two adjacent divider fingers 5-1, which represents a second arrangement 31 of the divider fingers 5 on the divider bar 6 that differs from the first arrangement 30 shown in Fig. 3. Fig. 5 shows a first embodiment of a divider bar 6 with a second embodiment of divider fingers 5-2 in a first arrangement 30 according to Fig. 3, and Fig. 6 shows a first embodiment of a divider bar 6 with a third embodiment of divider fingers 5-3 in a second arrangement 31 according to Fig. 4.

[0122] Here, it is provided that the second embodiment is designed with divider fingers 5-2 and the third embodiment with divider fingers 5-3. In particular, the divider fingers 5-2, 5-3 have a lower fastening region 16 and an upper product-dependent region 17.

[0123] The lower free end of the lower fastening region 16 is designed in particular such that a detachable fastening can be established between it and the fastening position 13.

[0124] Tool-free locking devices are preferably used as fastening means for the divider fingers 5 at the fastening positions 13. Quick-release systems are particularly preferred. These quick-release systems can particularly preferably be operated automatically by the handling device 7. This locking can be achieved mechanically, electromechanically, electrically, pneumatically, hydraulically, or by software. It is thus particularly possible to effect electrically controlled locking of a bolt via the control device 10.

[0125] Alternatively, it may be a simple mechanical locking device in the form of a latch or similar, which prevents lateral movement of the divider finger 5 and which can be released or secured, preferably easily, quickly, and / or without tools, by the handling device 7 of the divider device 4 or by the handling device 7 of the handling system 1. Magnetic or mechanically locking connections, optionally electromagnetically unlockable or detachable, may also be used for positioning the divider fingers 5 at the fastening positions 13 of the at least one divider bar 6.

[0126] The upper product-dependent region 17, 17-1, 17-2 is particularly adapted to the respective piece goods 20, 20-1, 20-2 to be handled. For example, the upper product-dependent region 17, 17-1, 17-2 of such a divider finger 5-2 or 5-3 each has a contour that corresponds in a form-fitting manner to a contour of a respective piece goods 20, 20-1, 20-2, so that the contour of the divider finger 5-2, 5-3, upon contact with the piece goods 20, 20-1, 20-2, at least in some regions, forms a form-fitting contact with its outer surface.

[0127] By using such specialized divider fingers 5, the divider bar 6 can be adapted even more specifically when changing products.

[0128] Figures 7 and 8 show a second embodiment of a divider bar 6. In particular, Fig. 7 shows the divider bar 6 with divider fingers 5 in a third arrangement 32, and Fig. 8 shows the divider bar 6 with divider fingers 5 in a fourth arrangement 33. The divider bar 6 has a guide rail 18. In particular, the guide rail 18 is designed parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the divider bar 6. The divider fingers 5 are arranged displaceably within the guide rail 18. In particular, the divider fingers 5 can be fixed in position on the guide rail 18 in respectively set, defined positions.

[0129] During a production change, for example, the fixation between the guide rail 18 and at least one divider finger 5 is released, and this divider finger 5 can be moved to a newly defined position. Alternatively, the released divider finger 5 can be removed from the guide rail 18. For example, the guide rail 18 has the same length as the divider bar 6, so that the at least one divider finger 5 can be removed from the guide rail 18 by sliding it sideways.

[0130] An alternative embodiment may provide that the divider finger 5 is inserted into the guide rail 18, for example, in a first insertion position and is fixed in position within the guide rail 18, for example by a 90 degree or 270 degree rotation about a longitudinal axis of the divider finger 5.

[0131] Another embodiment may provide for the divider fingers 5 to be moved laterally by a fold-out mechanism. The divider fingers 5 are then relocked to the guide rail 18.

[0132] Fig. 9 shows a third embodiment of a divider bar 6 in a format change mode 35. This third embodiment of the divider bar 6, analogous to the embodiment shown in Figs. 3 to 6, has a plurality of fastening positions 13 for divider fingers 5. In the format change mode 35, it is provided that at least one divider finger 5 can be folded away laterally within the fastening position 13 after the fixation has been released and can be moved along the divider bar 6 in this folded-away arrangement. The movement can be guided by a guide 36.

[0133] After at least one divider finger 5 has reached its new position, it is folded upwards again and fixed in the corresponding fastening position 13.

[0134] A final note should be given at this point regarding the descriptions of embodiments of the invention, whereby these descriptive passages each refer to the attached drawings. When reference is generally made to "schematic" representations and views in the context of the figures and their descriptions, this in no way means that the figures and their descriptions are of secondary importance with regard to the disclosure of the invention. A person skilled in the art will be perfectly capable of deriving sufficient information from the schematic and abstractly drawn representations to facilitate their understanding of the invention, without their understanding being in any way impaired by the drawn proportions, which may not be exactly to scale.The figures thus enable the skilled reader to derive a better understanding of the inventive concept formulated in a more general and / or abstract manner in the claims and in the general part of the description on the basis of the more concretely explained implementations of the method according to the invention and the more concretely explained functioning of the device according to the invention.

[0135] The invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment. However, it is conceivable for a person skilled in the art that modifications or changes to the invention can be made without departing from the scope of the following claims.

[0136] 1 handling system

[0137] 2 T ransport facility

[0138] 3 transport levels

[0139] 4 Dividing device

[0140] 5, 5a, 5b one-piece fingers

[0141] 5-1.5-2 one-piece fingers

[0142] 6, 6a, 6b divider bar

[0143] 7 Handling device

[0144] 8 Conveyor system

[0145] 9 Magazine

[0146] 10 Control device

[0147] 11 Machine control

[0148] 12 Control

[0149] 13 Mounting position

[0150] 14 plug-in positions

[0151] 15 locking position

[0152] 16 lower mounting area

[0153] 17,17-1 ,17-2 upper product-dependent range

[0154] 18 Guide rail

[0155] 19 funding

[0156] 20 general cargo

[0157] 21 General cargo flow

[0158] 22 beverage containers

[0159] 23 General cargo group

[0160] 26 robots

[0161] 30 first arrangement

[0162] 31 second arrangement

[0163] 32 third arrangement

[0164] 33 fourth order

[0165] 35 Format change mode

[0166] 40 Movement path

[0167] B1 first width

[0168] B2 second width L longitudinal axis

[0169] TR Transport direction v2 Transport speed v8 Conveyor speed

Claims

Claims 1 . Dividing device (4) for separating and dividing at least one piece of goods (20), which at least one piece of goods (20) is fed in a substantially closed piece of goods flow (21) from a transport device (2) along a transport plane (3) in a transport direction (TR) of the dividing device (4), - wherein the dividing device (4) comprises at least one dividing finger (5) arranged on a dividing strip (6), which dividing finger (5) is designed to engage in the piece goods flow (21) from below, substantially perpendicular to the transport plane (3), for separating and dividing the at least one piece goods (20) along the transport direction (TR), - wherein the dividing device (4) comprises a handling device (7) for changing the format of the divider bar (6) or wherein the dividing device (4) is assigned a handling device (7) for changing the format of the divider bar (6), and - wherein the handling device (7) is designed to carry out the format change within the dividing device (4), in particular wherein the handling device (7) is designed to carry out the format change on the dividing bar (6) installed within the dividing device (4).

2. Dividing device (4) according to claim 1, wherein the format change is formed by a repositioning of the at least one divider finger (5) on the divider bar (6) or by a removal of at least one of at least two divider fingers (5) from the divider bar (6) or by an addition of at least one divider finger (5) on the divider bar (6) or by an exchange of the at least one divider finger (5) on the divider bar (6).

3. Dividing device (4) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the divider strip (6) has two or more defined fastening positions (13) for the at least one divider finger (5), in particular wherein the fastening positions (13) are designed as plug-in positions (14).

4. Dividing device (4) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the divider bar (6) has a guide rail (18) for the at least one divider finger (5) perpendicular to the transport direction (TR) of the piece goods (20), within which guide rail (18) the at least one divider finger (5) is releasably held; and within which guide rail (18) the at least one detached divider finger (5) is slidably arranged, or from which guide rail (18) the at least one detached divider finger (5) can be removed, or in which guide rail (18) at least one further divider finger (5) can be arranged.

5. Dividing device (4) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the dividing device (4) comprises a magazine (9) for divider fingers (5), in particular wherein the magazine (9) comprises a plurality of differently designed divider fingers (5).

6. Dividing device (4) according to claim 5, wherein the magazine (9) has defined storage positions for the differently designed divider fingers (5).

7. Dividing device (4) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the magazine (9) is formed as part of the handling device (7).

8. Dividing device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the dividing device (4) comprises a machine frame and wherein the handling device (7) is arranged within the machine frame and / or wherein the magazine (9) is arranged within the machine frame.

9. Dividing device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the dividing device (4) comprises a control device (10) or wherein the dividing device (4) is assigned a control device (10), which control device (10) controls the handling device (7).

10. Dividing device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the divider fingers (5) are designed to be divided, in particular wherein the divider fingers (5) have a lower fastening region (16) and an upper product-dependent region (17).

11. Method for converting a dividing device (4), which dividing device (4) at least one piece goods (20) from a substantially closed Separates and divides or groups a piece goods stream (21), which at least one piece goods (20) is fed in a transport direction (TR) from a transport device (2) along a transport plane (3) to the dividing device (4), wherein at least one dividing finger (5) arranged on a dividing strip (6) is introduced from below substantially perpendicular to the transport plane (3) into the piece goods stream (21) in order to separate and divide or group the at least one piece goods (20) from the following piece goods (20) of the piece goods stream (21), - wherein, when a product is changed, a format change is carried out to adapt the divider bar (6) to the new products, and - whereby the format change takes place on the divider bar (6) installed within the dividing device (4).

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein during the format change, a repositioning of the at least one divider finger (5) on the divider bar (6) or a removal of at least one of at least two divider fingers (5) from the divider bar (6) or an addition of at least one further divider finger (5) on the divider bar (6) or an exchange of the at least one divider finger (5) on the divider bar (6) takes place, in particular wherein the repositioning, the removal, the addition or the exchange is carried out by a handling device (7) which is part of the dividing device (4) or which handling device (7) is assigned to the dividing device (4) at least for the time of the product change.

13. Method according to claim 12, wherein the handling device (7) is controlled and monitored by a control device (10), in particular wherein the handling device (7) carries out a controlled removal of divider fingers (5) from a magazine (9), and / or wherein the handling device (7) carries out a controlled deposit of divider fingers (5) in the magazine (9).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the divider fingers (5) are arranged within the magazine (9) in defined storage positions and / or wherein the divider fingers (5) are removed from the magazine (9) from defined storage positions.

15. Handling system (1) comprising: a dividing device (4) for separating and dividing at least one piece of goods (20), which at least one piece of goods (20) is fed in a substantially closed piece of goods flow (21) from a transport device (2) along a transport plane (3) in a transport direction (TR) of the dividing device (4), - wherein the dividing device (4) comprises at least one dividing finger (5) arranged on a dividing bar (6), which dividing finger (5) is designed to engage in the piece goods flow (21) from below essentially perpendicular to the transport plane (3) for separating and dividing the at least one piece goods (20) along the transport direction (TR), the handling system (1) further comprising a handling device (7) for changing the format of the dividing bar (6), - wherein the handling device (7) is designed to carry out the format change within the dividing device (4), - in particular wherein the handling device (7) is designed to carry out the format change on the divider bar (6) installed within the dividing device (4).

Images