Coil changing device, induction heating device and method for changing a coil of such an induction heating device

Abstract

The invention relates to a coil changing device (1) for an induction heating device (40) for heating metallic workpieces (50), to an induction heating device (40) for heating metallic workpieces (50), and to a method for changing a coil (41, 46) of such an induction heating device (40).

Description

[0001] Page 1 / 49 Applicant: SMS group GmbH Our Ref: P81050DE September 26, 2024 Coil changing device, induction heating device and method for changing a coil of such an induction heating device The present invention relates to a coil changing device for an induction heating device. Furthermore, the present invention relates to an induction heating device for heating metallic workpieces. Finally, the present invention relates to a method for changing a coil of an induction heating device using a coil changing device. Known induction heating devices for heating moving metallic workpieces have coils that are fixed relative to the metallic workpieces and / or adjustable vertically and / or horizontally with respect to a conveying direction of the metallic workpieces, wherein the metallic workpieces are guided past the respective coil in a conveying direction.The coils of known induction heating devices are supplied with electrical energy from an electrical power source via power electronic components such as transformers, inverters, rectifiers, and capacitors. This puts the coils under thermal stress, causing wear and tear, and thus giving them a limited lifespan. Therefore, the coils must be replaced at regular intervals. Page 2 / 49 P81050DE Replacing a coil is currently a complex and predominantly manual process. Firstly, access to the power electronic components required for coil replacement is often hampered by the limited space around these components. Secondly, due to the manually disconnected electrical connections, coil replacement is only possible when the induction heating devices, and consequently the production line, are shut down.possible. This downtime leads to high production losses. The invention is based on the objective of providing a coil-changing device for an induction heating device, which reduces the time required for a coil change and the proportion of manual labor involved in a coil change. This objective underlying the present invention is achieved by a coil-changing device with the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the coil-changing device are described in the dependent claims of claim 1. More precisely, the objective underlying the present invention is achieved by a coil-changing device for an induction heating device for heating metallic workpieces, wherein the coil-changing device has a receiving device for receiving a coil, wherein the receiving device has a receiving rail for receiving the coil; and aThe device comprises a transport unit for receiving and transporting a coil, wherein the transport unit includes a transport rail for receiving the coil. The coil changing device can be moved between a changing position and a transport position by a relative movement between the receiving unit and the transport unit (page 3 / 49 P81050DE); and in the changing position of the coil changing device, a coil received by means of the receiving unit or received by means of the transport unit can be moved between the receiving unit and the transport unit along a changing rail, wherein the changing rail comprises the receiving rail and the transport rail. Where a proper use or application of the coil changing device is described below, the use and / or application of the coil changing device in conjunction with an induction heating device is described.This means that a coil changing device designed in this way has the advantage that, when used as intended, the downtime of the induction heating device is reduced when changing one or more coils. When moving one or more coils of the induction heating device into their respective transport position and / or their respective working position, the coil can be moved along the changing rail, thus reducing the number of manual work steps through this standardized changing process. Furthermore, after being moved into its transport position and picked up by the transport device, the coil can be transported away from the induction heating device at an accelerated rate. For example, the coil can be moved from the induction heating device by means of the transport device by an actuator, such as an overhead crane.The coil is transported away from the induction heating device. Immediately afterwards, another coil can be transported to the induction heating device using another or the same transport device, so that the coil changing device is in its changing position. In the changing position of the coil changing device (page 4 / 49 P81050DE), the coil transported by the transport device can be picked up by the receiving device by moving the coil between the transport device and the receiving device along the changing rail and moved into the working position of the coil. This reduces the downtime of the induction heating device and simultaneously the manual work steps for changing the coil. The receiving device can partially or completely limit the receiving volume for receiving a coil. The receiving rail can be configured to hold a coil in the receiving-The transport device can partially or completely limit the transport volume for receiving a coil. The transport rail can be configured to receive a coil within the transport device. In other words, the coil can be held within the transport volume limited by the transport device by means of the transport rail. This protects the coil from mechanical damage during transfer between the transport device and the receiving device. Furthermore, a coil located in the transport device can be protected from mechanical damage during relative movement between the transport device and the receiving device.The receiving device should be better protected against mechanical damage. The transport device can be designed to hold more than one coil, preferably two or more coils. The transport device can have a second transport rail for holding another coil. When the coil changing device is used as intended, for example, two differently oriented coils for an induction heating device, such as an upper coil and a lower coil, can be moved relative to the receiving device by means of a transport device, so that changing the coils of the induction heating device is accelerated and the downtime of the induction heating device can be reduced. The receiving device can be designed to hold more than one coil, preferably two or more coils. The receiving device can have a second receiving rail forThe device can accommodate another coil. When used as intended, the coil changing device can, for example, accommodate two differently oriented coils for an induction heating device, such as an upper coil and a lower coil. The receiving rail can have a raised section or a recess in the receiving device, or be formed by such a section. The transport rail can have a raised section or a recess in the transport device, or be formed by such a section. The changing rail can be formed by the receiving rail and the transport rail. In other words, the changing rail can consist of the receiving rail and the transport rail. The receiving rail and the transport rail can form a continuous changing rail in the changing position of the coil changing device. Page 6 / 49 P81050DE In the changing position of the coil changing deviceA first exchange rail can have a first receiving rail and a first transport rail. A second exchange rail can have a second receiving rail and a second transport rail in the exchange position of the coil exchange device. A coil picked up by the receiving device can only be movable along the receiving rail relative to the receiving device. In other words, a coil picked up by the receiving device can only have one degree of freedom relative to the receiving device. When the coil exchange device is used as intended, this allows a coil picked up by the receiving device to be transferred to the transport device with increased safety in the exchange position of the coil exchange device. A coil picked up by the transport device can only be movable along the transport rail relative to the receiving device. In other wordsA coil picked up by the transport device can only have one degree of freedom relative to the transport device. When the coil changing device is used as intended, this allows a coil picked up by the transport device to be transferred to the receiving device with increased safety in the changing position of the coil changing device. In the changing position of the coil changing device, the transport device and the receiving device are preferably connected to each other, at least indirectly, for example, by means of the transport rail and the receiving rail. In the transport position of the coil changing device, the transport device and the receiving device are preferably spaced apart from each other (page 7 / 49 P81050DE) such that a coil picked up by the receiving device or by means of the transport device cannot be moved between the receiving device and the transport device.is transferable. Preferably, the coil changing device is designed such that the changing rail runs in a straight line. A coil changing device designed in this way has the advantage that, when the coil changing device is used as intended, a coil can be transferred between the receiving device and the transport device with increased safety and at the same time in a simplified manner in the changing position of the coil changing device. In kinematics, a straight-line movement represents the simplest form of movement of a body and accordingly does not require any complex control. Preferably, the coil changing device is designed such that, in the changing position of the coil changing device, the transport device is positively connected to the receiving device. A coil changing device designed in this way has the advantage that the transport device and the receiving device in theThe switching position of the coil changing device ensures that the components exhibit a predetermined relative position with increased accuracy. The positive-locking connection between the receiving device and the transport device in the switching position of the coil changing device effectively prevents deviations from a predetermined relative position between the receiving device and the transport device. This allows a coil to be transferred along the switching rail (page 8 / 49 P81050DE) with increased reliability when the coil changing device is used as intended. The positive-locking connection between the receiving device and the transport device can be designed as a snap-fit ​​connection. In the switching position of the coil changing device, the transport device can be frictionally connected to the receiving device. Preferably, theThe coil changing device is designed such that, in the changing position of the coil changing device, the transport rail engages the receiving rail at least partially; or, in the changing position of the coil changing device, the receiving rail engages the transport rail at least partially. A coil changing device designed in this way has the advantage that, in the changing position of the coil changing device, the transport device and the receiving device have a predetermined relative position to each other with even greater accuracy. Because the receiving rail partially engages the transport rail, or the transport rail partially engages the receiving rail, deviations from a predetermined relative position between the receiving device and the transport device can be further improved and prevented. This allows a coil to be moved along the coil changing device as intended when used as directed.The changing rail can be transferred with even greater safety between the receiving device and the transport device. The receiving rail can have a recess formed in an end face of the receiving rail, the recess having a free cross-section corresponding to a cross-section of the transport rail (page 9 / 49 P81050DE). When transferring the coil changing device into the changing position, the transport rail can be received section by section in the recess of the receiving rail and gripped by the receiving rail, so that the transport device is positively connected to the receiving device in the changing position of the coil changing device. The transport rail can have a recess formed in an end face of the transport rail, the recess having a free cross-section corresponding to a cross-section of the receiving rail. When transferring the coil-When the coil-changing device is moved into the changing position, the receiving rail can be section by section received in the recess of the transport rail and engaged by the transport rail, so that the transport device is positively connected to the receiving device in the changing position of the coil-changing device. The receiving rail can have a recess formed in an end face of the receiving rail. The transport rail can have a projection extending away from an end face of the transport rail. When moving the coil-changing device into the changing position, the projection of the transport rail can be received in the recess of the receiving rail and engaged from behind, so that the transport device is positively connected to the receiving device in the changing position of the coil-changing device. The end face of the receiving rail can thereby align with the end face of the transport rail.The transport rail may have a recess formed in one end face. The receiving rail may have a projection extending from one end face of the receiving rail. When moving the coil-changing device into the changing position, the projection of the receiving rail can engage in the recess of the transport rail, so that the transport device is positively connected to the receiving device in the changing position. The end face of the receiving rail may be in direct surface contact with the end face of the transport rail. The projection of the receiving rail and / or the projection of the transport rail may be designed as a locking hook and provide a residual connection between the transport rail and the receiving rail in the changing position.A coil-changing device is to be produced. Preferably, the coil-changing device is designed such that the transport device has a fixing means for reversibly fixing a coil picked up by the transport device along the transport rail; and / or the receiving device has a fixing means for reversibly fixing a coil picked up by the receiving device along the receiving rail. A coil-changing device designed in this way has the advantage that, when the coil-changing device is used as intended, a coil picked up by the transport device can be moved with increased safety relative to the receiving device. Because the coil can be fixed along the transport rail by the fixing means, relative movement between the transport device and the coil picked up by it is not possible, so that the coil is not moved with respect to theThe transport device, regardless of the movement of the transport device, cannot move relative to the transport device, in particular cannot slip. The transport device and / or the receiving device may have more than one fixing means. The fixing means may be designed as a bolt, a screw, and / or a clamping device. Preferably, the coil changing device is designed such that the transport device has one or more than one fastening device, wherein the transport device can be detachably connected to an actuator by means of a fastening device; and the transport device can be moved relative to the receiving device by means of the actuator, so that the coil changing device can be moved between its changing position and its transport position. A coil changing device designed in this way has the advantage that the coil changing deviceThe coil changing device can be moved between its changing position and its transport position in different production environments. This allows the coil changing device to be used flexibly in production and moved between its changing position and its transport position using actuators already present in production, such as an overhead crane. The mounting device can have an anchor point, an eyelet, or other receptacle for a detachable connection to the actuator. The actuator can be an overhead crane, a mobile crane, and / or a forklift truck, or be designed as such. Page 12 / 49 P81050DE Preferably, the coil changing device is designed such that the mounting device is connected to a power supply unit, wherein the power supply unit is configured to supply a coil of an induction heating device with electrical energy. A device designed in this wayThe coil changing device has the advantage that, when used as intended, a coil picked up by the receiving device can be quickly transferred into its working position. Because the receiving device is connected to a power supply, the coil can be automatically electrically connected to the power supply at the same time as it is being transferred into the receiving device, thus automatically moving the coil into its working position. The receiving device can be electrically and / or mechanically connected to the power supply. The power supply can be configured to supply multiple coils with electrical energy. The power supply can be connected to an electrical energy source, such as an electrical power grid. The power supply is preferably configured to...to supply a coil with an electric current of suitable current strength, suitable voltage and / or suitable frequency. The supply device may include a power converter, in particular an inverter. The supply device may include one or more transformers and / or one or more rectifiers. The supply device may include a capacitor device or be electrically connected to one. The capacitor device may include a capacitor or a plurality of capacitors connected in series and / or parallel to one another. The problem underlying the invention is further solved by an induction heating device for heating metal workpieces, comprising at least one first coil that can be moved between a working position and a transport position, wherein the induction heating device has a receiving device for receiving the first coil.The receiving device has a first receiving rail for receiving the first coil. By moving the first coil into its working position, the first coil is received by the receiving device, wherein the first coil in its working position is electrically connected to a supply device; and by moving the first coil into its transport position, the first coil can be received by a transport device, wherein the first coil in its transport position is electrically disconnected from the supply device; wherein the first receiving rail allows movement of the first coil along the first receiving rail when moving the first coil between its working position and its transport position relative to the receiving device. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that downtime of the induction heating device due to the replacement of one or more components is minimized.The number of coils of the induction heating device is reduced. When transferring one or more coils of the induction heating device to their respective transport position and / or their respective working position, the coil can be moved along the first receiving rail. By picking it up using the receiving device, the coil can be automatically electrically connected to the power supply unit (page 14 / 49 P81050DE). This reduces the number of manual work steps. Preferably, the induction heating device is designed such that the power supply unit is connected to the receiving device, preferably electrically conductive and / or mechanically. The induction heating device can include the power supply unit. The receiving device can have a second receiving rail for receiving the first coil or a second coil. In the working position of the first coil, an operative connection betweenThe heating process is initiated by a metallic workpiece and an alternating magnetic field generated by the first coil. In the transport position of the first coil, a direct connection between the metallic workpiece and the first coil is preferably not established. The induction heating device is preferably designed such that the first mounting rail is straight. Such a device has the advantage that a coil picked up by the mounting device can be moved along the first mounting rail with increased safety and in a simplified manner relative to the mounting device. In kinematics, linear motion represents the simplest form of motion and therefore requires no complex control system. The second mounting rail can also be straight. The first and second mounting rails can be parallel to each other.Page 15 / 49 P81050DE Preferably, the induction heating device is designed such that the receiving device has a fixing means for reversibly fixing the first coil relative to the receiving device along the first receiving rail. The induction heating device can have more than one fixing means, in particular two fixing means. A second fixing means can be designed for reversibly fixing a second coil relative to the receiving device along the second receiving rail. The fixing means can be designed as a bolt, a screw, and / or a clamping device. Preferably, the induction heating device is designed such that the first coil can be moved between its working position and its transport position by means of an electric and / or hydraulic and / or pneumatic actuator. The actuator can be an overhead crane, a mobile crane, and / or aThe induction heating device preferably has a quick-release coupling device, wherein the quick-release coupling device has a first coupling half and a second coupling half corresponding to the first coupling half. The first coupling half has a first main electrical connection device and the second coupling half has a second main electrical connection device corresponding to the first main electrical connection device. The quick-release coupling device can be moved between an open position and a closed position by a relative movement between the first coupling half and the second coupling half; in the closed position of the quick-release coupling device, the first main electrical connection device is electrically conductively connected to the second main electrical connection device; theAt least one first coil is electrically connectable to the power supply unit by means of the quick-release coupling device; wherein the first main electrical connection of the first coupling half of the quick-release coupling device is electrically connected to the power supply unit or to the first coil; wherein the second main electrical connection of the second coupling half of the quick-release coupling device is electrically connected to the power supply unit or to the first coil. By moving the first coil into its transport position, the quick-release coupling device is moved into its open position; and by moving the first coil into its working position, the quick-release coupling device is moved into its closed position, so that an electrically conductive connection between the power supply unit and the first coil is automatically generated. A connection designed in this wayThe induction heating device has the advantage that the electrical connection between the first coil and the power supply is established more easily and, in particular, more quickly when the first coil is moved into its operating position. Furthermore, the electrical connection between the first coil and the power supply is also broken more easily and, in particular, more quickly when the first coil is moved into its transport position. This reduces downtime of the induction heating device during coil changes. Another advantage of such a design is that the induction heating device has a reduced number of permanent electrical connections, and in particular no permanent electrical connections, between the first coil and the power supply. This eliminates the need for long cables.The electrical connection between the first coil and the power supply is omitted. This reduces the electrical losses due to current transmission between the power supply and the first coil, thus increasing the efficiency of the induction heating device. The quick-release coupling device is preferably movable from the open position to the closed position in a first direction of travel. The quick-release coupling device is preferably movable from the closed position to the open position in a second direction of travel. The second direction of travel is preferably opposite to the first direction of travel. In the open position of the quick-release coupling device, the first main electrical connection is preferably electrically isolated from the second main electrical connection. In the closed position of the quick-release coupling device, a current, preferably an alternating current, can be connected to aA current of greater than or equal to 1000 amperes can be transmitted via the first main electrical connection device and the second main electrical connection device. By moving the quick-release coupling device from its open position to its closed position, an electrical connection can be established between the first main electrical connection device and the second main electrical connection device, so that an electrical current can be transmitted via the first main electrical connection device and the second main electrical connection device. Page 18 / 49 P81050DE The first coupling half can have a first locking device and the second coupling half can have a second locking device corresponding to the first locking device. In the open position of the quick-release coupling device, the first locking device is preferably separated from the second locking device, in particularmechanically separated. The quick-release coupling device is preferably designed such that, in the closed position of the quick-release coupling device, the first locking device is positively connected to the second locking device by a frictional connection and / or by a vacuum connection, preferably by a fluid-mechanical vacuum connection. The fluid-mechanical vacuum connection can be designed as a pneumatic and / or hydraulic vacuum connection. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that the positive connection between the first locking device and the second locking device of the quick-release coupling device can be established and / or released more easily. The quick-release coupling device is preferably designed such that, in the closed position of the quick-release coupling device, the first locking device is additionally connected to the second locking device.is positively connected. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that the connection between the first coupling half and the second coupling half of the quick-release coupling device is even more stable. Page 19 / 49 P81050DE The first fixing device can be designed as a quick-release fastener and the second fixing device can be designed as a pull-in nipple corresponding to the quick-release fastener. In other words, the first fixing device and the second fixing device can form the components of a quick-release coupling device. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that the connection between the first coupling half and the second coupling half of the quick-release coupling device can be established and / or released even more quickly. The quick-release coupling device is preferably designed such that the first fixing device forms a firstThe quick-release coupling device has a recess formed in a first connecting surface of the first coupling half, and the second fixing device has a first projection extending from a second connecting surface towards the first connecting surface of the first coupling half, preferably orthogonally. When the quick-release coupling device is moved into its closed position, the first projection is engaged in the first recess, so that the first fixing device is positively connected to the second fixing device in the closed position of the quick-release coupling device. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that the connection between the first coupling half and the second coupling half of the quick-release coupling device is further improved. In the closed position of the quick-release coupling device, the first connecting surface of the first coupling half of theThe first recess is arranged opposite the second connecting surface of the second coupling half (page 20 / 49 P81050DE) and is preferably in at least indirect, preferably direct, contact with it. The first recess can be designed as a blind hole. The first recess can have at least one material projection arranged on an inner wall of the first recess, wherein the material projection is designed to engage behind the first projection, preferably in the area of ​​a recess and / or groove of the first projection. The first projection can be designed as a cylindrical projection, preferably as a pin or bolt. The first projection can have a recess and / or a groove. The first projection can be engaged behind the material projection of the first recess in the area of ​​the recess and / or in the area of ​​the groove. The first fixing device can have a second recess which is located in the firstThe first coupling half is formed as a connecting surface, and the second fixing device may have a second projection arranged on the second connecting surface of the second fixing device. The second projection may extend from the second connecting surface towards the first connecting surface, preferably orthogonally. The first fixing device may have a first fixing element and / or a second fixing element. When the quick-release coupling device is moved into its closed position, the first projection is engaged in the first recess and the second projection in the second recess. The first fixing element and the second fixing element are each movable between an open position and a locking position. By moving the first fixing element into the locking position in the closed position of the quick-release coupling device, the first fixing element engages the firstProjection. By moving the second locking element into the locking position in the closed position of the quick-release coupling device, the second locking element engages behind the second projection. The first locking element and / or the second locking element is / are preferably movable in a locking element movement direction that runs transversely to the first movement direction of the quick-release coupling device, between an open position and a locking position. The locking element movement direction is preferably orthogonal to the first movement direction of the quick-release coupling device. Preferably, the first main electrical connection device is arranged on the first connection surface of the first coupling half, and the second main electrical connection device is preferably arranged on the second connection surface of the second coupling half. The first main electrical connection device and the second main electrical connection devicecan be designed as electrical contact plates. The first coupling half can have a first guide device and the second coupling half can have a second guide device corresponding to the first guide device. When the quick-release coupling device is moved into its closed position, the first and second coupling halves can be guided by the first guide device and the second guide device with respect to at least one transverse direction to the first direction of travel, preferably in a centered manner. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that the first main electrical connection device can be connected to the second main electrical connection device with improved accuracy. This allows an electric current to be transmitted with reduced losses via the first main electrical connection device and the secondelectrical main connection device. Preferably, when the quick-release coupling device is moved into the closed position, the first coupling half and the second coupling half are guided by the first guide device and the second guide device such that, in the closed position of the quick-release coupling device, the first coupling half and the second coupling half are centered relative to each other with respect to at least one transverse direction. The transverse direction is preferably orthogonal to the first direction of travel of the quick-release coupling device. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that the first electrical main connection device is connected to the second electrical main connection device with further improved accuracy. This allows an electric current to be transmitted with further reduced losses via the first electrical main connection device.direction and the second main electrical connection device. The first guide device and the first fixing device can be designed as one component. The second guide device and the second fixing device can be designed as one component. In particular, the first guide device and the first fixing device can be monolithically connected to each other. In particular, the second guide device and the second fixing device can be monolithically connected to each other. Page 23 / 49 P81050DE The first guide device can be designed as an entry section of a recess of the first fixing device. The entry section of the recess can have a larger free cross-section than a remaining section of the recess. The free cross-section of the entry section can transition continuously into the free cross-section of the remaining section of the recess. The second guide device can be designed as aThe second fixing device may be formed with a conically tapered end section of a projection, in particular a cylindrical projection. The first coupling half may have a first fluid connection device, and the second coupling half may have a second fluid connection device corresponding to the first fluid connection device, wherein, in the closed position of the quick-release coupling device, the first fluid connection device is fluidly connected to the second fluid connection device. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that, when the quick-release coupling device is moved into its closed position, a fluid connection between the first coupling half and the second coupling half can be automatically established. For example, a cooling fluid for cooling electrical conductors can be transferred in this way. Furthermore, it may be possible, for example, to transfer process fluids in general.The first fluid connection device and the second fluid connection device can be configured to transfer hydraulic oil, cooling fluid (e.g., cooling water), compressed air, or other fluids between the first coupling half and the second coupling half. Page 24 / 49 P81050DE The first coupling half can have a first electrical auxiliary connection device, and the second coupling half can have a second electrical auxiliary connection device corresponding to the first electrical auxiliary connection device, wherein, in the closed position of the quick-release coupling device, the first electrical auxiliary connection device is electrically conductively connected to the second electrical auxiliary connection device. An induction heating device configured in this way has the advantage that, when the quick-release coupling device is moved into its closed position, an additional electrical connection is made for supplying auxiliary components of the induction heating device.The heating device is automatically enabled. Furthermore, the induction heating device has an even reduced number of permanent connections between the first coil and the power supply. This further reduces downtime of the induction heating device. In the closed position of the quick-release coupling, one or more auxiliary components can be supplied with electrical energy via the electrically conductive connection between the first and second auxiliary electrical connections. An auxiliary component can be designed as a cooling device, a display device for electronic control devices, motion actuators, and / or other auxiliary components of an induction heating device. Two corresponding components (for example, the first coupling half and the second coupling half, the firstThe first fixing device and the second fixing device, the first electrical main connection device and the second electrical main connection device, the first guide device and the second guide device, the first electrical secondary connection device and the second electrical secondary connection device) can be brought into an operative connection with each other or enter into such a connection with each other. In particular, two corresponding components can be brought into a mechanical and / or electrical and / or fluid-mechanical operative connection with each other or enter into such a connection with each other. The first coupling half can have a first protective device to protect the first coupling half from contamination. The first protective device can be movable between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the first protective device covers the first connecting surface of the firstThe first protective device can be automatically moved to the open position of the first protective device mechanically, electrically, pneumatically, and / or hydraulically when the quick-coupling device is moved to its closed position. In other words, moving the quick-coupling device to its closed position automatically triggers the movement of the first protective device to its open position. The first protective device can be designed as a mechanically movable housing. A quick-coupling device designed in this way has the advantage that the first connecting surface of the first coupling half is protected against environmental influences, especially dirt. The second coupling half can have a second protective device to protect the second coupling half from contamination. The second protective device can be set between an open position and aThe second protective device can be moved to the closed position. In the closed position of the second protective device, the second protective device at least partially covers the second connecting surface of the two coupling halves. The second protective device can be automatically moved to the open position of the second protective device mechanically, electrically, pneumatically, and / or hydraulically when the quick-release coupling device is moved to its closed position. In other words, moving the quick-release coupling device to its closed position automatically triggers the movement of the second protective device to its open position. The second protective device can be designed as a mechanically movable housing. Alternatively or additionally, the second coupling half can have an actuating device corresponding to the first protective device of the first coupling half. When moving the quick-release coupling device to itsIn the closed position, the actuating device of the second coupling half actuates the first protective device of the first coupling half through mechanical contact, thus moving the first protective device into its open position. In other words, there is a mechanical interaction between the first protective device of the first coupling half and the actuating device of the second coupling half when moving the quick-release coupling into its closed position. The actuating device can have at least one, preferably two, actuating projections extending from the second coupling half towards the first coupling half. The actuating projection can be designed as a pin or bolt. The quick-release coupling is preferably designed such that it can be closed by means of a translational relative movement and / or by means of aThe rotary relative movement between the first coupling half and the second coupling half between an open position and a closed position can be transferred. Page 27 / 49 P81050DE The first coupling half or the second coupling half of the quick-release coupling device can be arranged on the receiving device and / or connected to it, preferably mechanically and / or electrically. By moving the first coil into its working position, the quick-release coupling device can simultaneously be moved into its closed position. By moving the first coil into its working position, the first coil can simultaneously be received by the receiving device. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that the electrical connection between the first coil and the supply device can be made faster and with less effort when moving the first coil into its working position. This allowsDowntime of the induction heating device can be further reduced. Alternatively, by moving the first coil into its working position, the quick-release coupling device can be moved into its closed position with a time delay, particularly a subsequent delay. By moving the first coil into its transport position, the first coil can be picked up simultaneously by the transport device. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that changing the coils can be carried out even more quickly. In the transport position of the first coil, the quick-release coupling device is preferably in its open position. In the working position of the first coil, the quick-release coupling device is preferably in its closed position. The first coil can be moved between its transport position and its working position by means of a translational movement.The first coil can be moved between its transport position and its working position by means of a rotational movement. Alternatively or additionally, the first coil can be moved between its working position and its transport position along a first coil travel direction and / or a second coil travel direction. The first coil travel direction can be collinear or parallel to the first travel direction of the quick-coupling device. The second coil travel direction can be collinear or parallel to the second travel direction of the quick-coupling device. In particular, the electrical connection between the first coil and the supply device can only be established and / or disconnected by moving the first coil between its transport position and its working position. An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that an electricalThe connection between the power supply and the first coil can be established with a reduced number of movements, particularly with a reduced number of movements in different directions. This allows the electrical connection between the first coil and the power supply to be established and / or disconnected even more quickly. Preferably, the induction heating device has a second coil that can be moved between a working position and a transport position; by moving the second coil into its working position, the second coil is picked up by the receiving device, wherein the second coil is electrically connected to a power supply in its working position; and by moving the second coil into its transport position, the second coil can be picked up by a transport device, wherein the second coil in itsThe transport position is electrically isolated from the power supply unit; wherein the receiving unit has a second receiving rail for receiving the second coil, and wherein the second receiving rail allows movement of the second coil along the second receiving rail when transferring the second coil between its working position and its transport position relative to the receiving unit. The induction heating device can have a further quick-coupling device, wherein the at least one second coil can be electrically connected to the power supply unit by means of the further quick-coupling device; wherein, by transferring the second coil into its transport position, the further quick-coupling device is transferred into its open position; and wherein, by transferring the second coil into its working position, the further quick-coupling device is transferred into its closed position, so that an electricallyA conductive connection between the power supply and the second coil is automatically generated. The first coupling half or the second coupling half of the further quick-coupling device can be arranged on the receiving device and / or connected to it, preferably mechanically and / or electrically. Preferably, the induction heating device is designed such that the first coil and the second coil can be moved independently of each other between their operating position and their transport position (page 30 / 49 P81050DE). An induction heating device designed in this way has the advantage that a coil change can be better adapted to the wear condition of a coil. The thermal loads acting on the coils during the operation of an induction heating device can be of different magnitudes, so that the coils are subject to different wear and consequently toThe induction heating device reaches its respective service life limit at different times. This can be better addressed by replacing individual coils, thus maximizing the service life of the coils and effectively reducing operating costs. Preferably, the induction heating device is designed such that the first and second coils are arranged opposite each other in their operating positions, allowing a metallic workpiece to be positioned and / or moved between them. The induction heating device can be configured to generate a longitudinal magnetic field and / or a transverse magnetic field. Preferably, the induction heating device includes a coil-changing device as described above, wherein the receiving device of the induction heating device is the receiving device of theThe object underlying the invention is further solved by a method for changing a coil of a previously described induction heating device using a previously described coil changing device (page 31 / 49 P81050DE), wherein the method comprises the following steps: - Moving the first coil into its transport position; - Transporting the first coil in the transport device to a changing area; - Transporting another coil in the same or a further transport device to the induction heating device; and - Moving the further coil into its working position. The method may comprise the following steps: - Disconnecting a connection, in particular an electrical connection, between the first coil and / or the second coil and the supply device; - Disconnecting a connection between the receiving device and the transport device; - Connecting thethe same or the further transport device with the receiving device; - Establishing a connection, in particular an electrical connection, between the further coil and the supply device; and - Disconnecting a connection between the receiving device and the same or the further transport device. By moving the first coil and / or the second coil into its transport position, the quick-coupling device and / or the further quick-coupling device can be moved into its open position. Further advantages, details, and features of the invention will become apparent from the exemplary embodiments described below. In detail, Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a coil-changing device according to a first embodiment in its changing position; Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the coil-changing device according to the first embodiment in its transport position; Figure 3:Figure 1: A schematic representation of a quick-coupling device according to a second embodiment in its open position; Figure 4: A schematic representation of the quick-coupling device according to the second embodiment in its closed position; Figure 5: A schematic representation of an induction heating device according to a third embodiment with a coil-changing device in its changing position; and Figure 6: A schematic representation of the induction heating device according to the third embodiment with the coil-changing device in its transport position. In the following description, the same reference numerals denote the same components or the same features, so that a description given with respect to one figure also applies to the other figures, thus avoiding repetitive descriptions. Furthermore, individual features that have been described in connection with one embodiment are alsoseparately usable in other embodiments. Page 33 / 49 P81050DE Figure 1 shows a coil changing device 1 for an induction heating device 40 (not shown in Figure 1) according to a first embodiment in its changing position. An embodiment of the induction heating device 40 is shown in Figures 5 and 6. The coil changing device 1 has a receiving device 2 for receiving a coil 41, 46, wherein the receiving device 2 has a first receiving rail 3 for receiving the first coil 41 and a second receiving rail 3 for receiving the second coil 46. The coil changing device 1 has a transport device 5 for receiving and transporting the coils 41, 46, wherein the transport device 5 has a transport rail 6 for receiving the coils 41, 46. The coil changing device 1 is characterized by a relative movement between the receiving device 2 and the transport device 5 between the positions shown in the figure.The second coil 46, shown in Figure 1, can be transferred between the switching position and the transport position shown in Figure 2. In the switching position of the coil changing device 1, a coil 41, 46, either picked up by the receiving device 2 or picked up by the transport device 5, can be transferred between the receiving device 2 and the transport device 5 along a switching rail 9, wherein the switching rail 9 comprises one of the receiving rails 3 and the transport rail 6. The second coil 46, shown in Figure 1, can be transferred from the transport device 5 along a first coil travel direction R1 into the receiving device 2 and along a second coil travel direction R2 opposite to the first coil travel direction R1 from the receiving device 2 into the transport device 5. The receiving device 2 partially defines a receiving volume 4, with the first coil 41 being received in the receiving volume 4 of the receiving device 2.The transport device 5 defines a transport volume 6, wherein the second coil 46 (page 34 / 49 P81050DE) can be completely accommodated within the transport volume 6. In the switching position of the coil-changing device 1 shown in Figure 1, the second coil is transferred by the transport device 5 along the switching rail 9 into the receiving device 2 and received by the second receiving rail 3. In the switching position of the coil-changing device 1 shown in Figure 1, the transport rail 6 partially engages the second receiving rail 3 and is thus positively connected to it. The transport device 5 has a fastening device 8, wherein the transport device 5 can be detachably connected to an actuator (not shown in Figure 1) by means of the fastening device 8, and is movable relative to the receiving device 2 by means of the actuator, so that the coil-changing device 1 can be moved between its positions shown in Figure 1.The quick-release coupling device 1 can be moved between its changing position and its transport position as shown in Figure 2. In the changing position of the coil changing device 1, the transport device 5 is mechanically connected to the receiving device 2 by means of its transport rail 6 and its receiving rail 3. Figure 2 shows the coil changing device 1 according to the first embodiment in its transport position. In the transport position of the coil changing device 1, the transport device 5 and the receiving device 2 are spaced apart from each other such that a coil 41, 46 picked up by means of the receiving device 2 or by means of the transport device 5 cannot be moved between the receiving device 2 and the transport device 5. Figure 3 shows a quick-release coupling device 10 according to a second embodiment for an induction heating device 40 (not shown in Figure 3) in its open position. The quick-release coupling device 10 has a firstThe quick-release coupling device 10 has a second coupling half 30 with a second connecting surface 31. The first coupling half 20 has a first fixing device 23 and a first main electrical connection device 22, wherein the first fixing device 23 and the first main electrical connection device 22 are arranged on the first connecting surface 21. The quick-release coupling device 10 further has a second coupling half 30 with a second connecting surface 31. The second coupling half 30 has a second fixing device 33 corresponding to the first fixing device 23 and a second main electrical connection device 32 corresponding to the first main electrical connection device 22. The second fixing device 33 and the second main electrical connection device 32 are arranged on the second connecting surface 31 of the second coupling half 30. The quick-coupling device 10 is characterized by a relative movement-The quick-release coupling device 10 can be moved between the first coupling half 20 and the second coupling half 30 between their open position shown in Figure 3 and a closed position shown in Figure 4. In particular, the quick-release coupling device 10 can be moved from their open position to their closed position by a relative movement of the first coupling half 20 and the second coupling half 30 in a first direction of travel R1, and from their closed position to their open position by a relative movement of the first coupling half 20 and the second coupling half 30 in a second direction of travel R2. In the open position of the quick-release coupling device 10, the first locking device 23 is mechanically separated from the second locking device 33, and the first electrical main connection device 22 is electrically separated from the second electrical main connection device 32. When moving the quick-release coupling device 10 to its position shown in Figure 4...In the closed position, the first electrical main connection device 22 (36 / 49 P81050DE) is electrically connected to the second electrical main connection device 32. The first fixing device 23 has a first recess 231 and a second recess 232, each formed in the first connecting surface 21 of the first coupling half 20. The second fixing device 33 has a first projection 331 extending orthogonally from the second connecting surface 31 of the second coupling half 30 towards the first connecting surface 21 of the first coupling half 20, and a second projection 332 extending orthogonally from the second connecting surface 31 of the second coupling half 30 towards the first connecting surface 21. The first projection 331 and the second projection 332 are each formed as cylindrical projections. The first fixing device 23 has a first fixing element 233 and a second fixing element 234.When the quick-release coupling device 10 is moved into its closed position as shown in Figure 4, the first projection 331 engages in the first recess 231 and the second projection 332 engages in the second recess 232. The first locking element 233 and the second locking element 234 are movable between an open position and a locked position in a locking element direction that runs transversely to the first direction of travel R1. The first coupling half 20 has a first guide 24 and the second coupling half 30 has a second guide 34 corresponding to the first guide 24. When the quick-release coupling device 10 is moved into its closed position, the first coupling half 20 and the second coupling half 30 are guided in a centered position with respect to at least one transverse direction to the first direction of travel R1. Page 37 / 49 P81050DE The first guidance facility 24 is designed as an entry section of theThe first recess 231 of the first fixing device 23 is formed and has a larger free cross-section than a remaining section of the first recess 231. The second guide device 34 is formed as a conically tapered end section of the first projection 331. The first projection 331 and the second projection 332 each have a groove 333, 334. The first coupling half 20 also has a first fluid connection device 25, which is arranged on the first connecting surface 21 of the first coupling half 20. The second coupling half 30 also has a second fluid connection device 35 corresponding to the first fluid connection device 25, which is arranged on the second connecting surface 31 of the second coupling half 30. The first coupling half 20 has a first protective device 26 to protect the first coupling half 20 from contamination. The first protective device 26 is located between an opening positionand a closed position. In the closed position of the first protective device 26 shown in Figure 3, the first protective device 26 covers the first connecting surface 21 of the first coupling half 20. When the quick-release coupling device 10 is moved into its closed position shown in Figure 4, the first protective device 26 is automatically mechanically moved to the open position of the first protective device 26. The second coupling half 30 has an actuating device 36 corresponding to the first protective device 26. When the quick-release coupling device 10 is moved into its closed position shown in Figure 4, the actuating device 36 actuates the first protective device 26 of the first coupling half 20 by mechanical contact of the actuating device 36 with the first protective device 26, so that the first protective device 26 is moved into its open position (page 38 / 49 P81050DE). TheActuating device 36 has two actuating projections extending from the second coupling half 30 towards the first coupling half 20. Figure 4 shows the quick-release coupling device 10 according to the second embodiment in its closed position. The first safety device 26 is in its open position. The first main electrical connection device 22 is in electrical contact with the second main electrical connection device 32. The first connecting surface 21 of the first coupling half 20 is arranged opposite the second connecting surface 31 of the second coupling half 30. The first projection 331 is received in the first recess 231 and the second projection 332 is received in the second recess 232. The first locking element 233 and the second locking element 234 are each in their respective locking positions. The first fixing element 233 engages behind the first projection 331 in its groove 333. The secondThe fixing element 234 engages the second projection 332 in its groove 334. The first fixing device 23 is thus connected to the second fixing device 33 by friction and positive locking. Figure 5 shows an induction heating device 40 according to a third embodiment. The induction heating device 40 has a coil changing device 1 according to the first embodiment and four quick-coupling devices 10 according to the second embodiment. For the sake of clarity, only two quick-coupling devices 10 are shown with reference numerals in Figures 5 and 6. However, it is explicitly stated that four quick-coupling devices 10 are present. Page 39 / 49 P81050DE The induction heating device 40 has a first coil 41, a second coil 46, and a power supply unit 42. The first coupling halves 20 of each of the four quick-coupling devices 10 are connected with theReceiving device 2 is connected. Furthermore, the first main electrical connection devices 22 of the first coupling halves 20 are each electrically connected to the supply device 42. Two of the four second coupling halves 30 are connected to the first coil 41 and two further second coupling halves 30 are connected to the second coil 46. The second main electrical connection devices 32 are electrically connected to the first coil 41 and the second coil 46. In Figure 5, the first coil 41 is in its working position and the second coil 46 is in its transport position. In the working position of the first coil 41 shown in Figure 5, the first coil 41 is electrically connected to the supply device 42 by means of two of the quick-release coupling devices 10. In the working position of the first coil 41, an electrical connection can be established between a metallic workpiece 50 conveyed in a conveying direction F anda magnetic alternating field generated by the first coil 41. The second coil 46 is electrically isolated from the supply unit 42 in its transport position shown in Figure 5. By moving the second coil 46 from its transport position shown in Figure 5 to its working position shown in Figure 6, the second coil 46 is transferred from the transport unit 5 to the receiving unit 2. Simultaneously, the quick-release coupling devices 10 associated with the second coil 46 are moved into their closed position, so that an electrically conductive connection between the supply unit 42 and the second coil 46 is automatically created. In this process, the second coil 46 is moved along the first coil travel direction S1 from its transport position to its working position, and the quick-release coupling devices 10 are moved from their open position along the first travel direction R1 to theirThe second coil 46 is moved from its working position shown in Figure 6 to its transport position shown in Figure 5. The second coil 46 is moved from the receiving device 2 to the transport device 5. Simultaneously, the quick-release coupling devices 10 associated with the second coil 46 are moved to their open position, thus automatically disconnecting the electrically conductive connection between the supply device 42 and the second coil 46. In this process, the second coil 46 moves from its working position to its transport position along the second coil travel direction S2, and the quick-release coupling devices 10 move from their closed position to their transport position along the second travel direction R2.Open position transferred, whereby the coil travel direction S2 and the travel direction R2 are the same.

[0002] Page 41 / 49 P81050DE Reference Mark List 1 Coil Changing Device 2 Holding Device 3 First / Second Holding Rail 4 Holding Volume 5 Transport Device 6 Transport Rail 7 Transport Volume 8 Fastening Device 9 Changeover Rail 10 Quick Coupling Device 20 First Coupling Half 21 First Connecting Surface (of the first coupling half) 22 First Main Electrical Connection Device 23 First Fixing Device 231 First Recess 232 Second Recess 233 First Fixing Element 234 Second Fixing Element 24 First Guide Device 25 First Fluid Connection Device 26 First Protective Device 30 Second Coupling Half 31 Second Connecting Surface (of the second coupling half) 32 Second Main Electrical Connection Device 33 Second Fixing Device 331 First Projection 332 Second Projection 333 Groove (of the first projection) 334 Groove (of the second projection) 34 Second Guide Device 35 Second Fluid Connection Device 36 Actuating Device 40 Induction Heating Device Page 42 / 49P81050DE 41 Erste Spule 42 Supply device 46 Second coil 50 Metallic workpiece R1 First direction of travel R2 Second direction of travel S1 First coil direction S2 Second coil direction F Conveyor direction

Claims

Page 43 / 49 Applicant: SMS group GmbH Our Ref: P81050DE Patent Claims 1. Coil changing device (1) for an induction heating device (40) for heating metallic workpieces (50), wherein the coil changing device (1) has the following features: - the coil changing device (1) has a receiving device (2) for receiving a coil (41, 46), wherein the receiving device (2) has a receiving rail (3) for receiving the coil (41, 46); - the coil changing device (1) has a transport device (5) for receiving and transporting a coil (41, 46), wherein the transport device (5) has a transport rail (6) for receiving the coil (41, 46); - the coil changing device (1) can be moved between a changing position and a transport position by a relative movement between the receiving device (2) and the transport device (5);and- in the changeover position of the coil-changing device (1), a coil (41, 46) received by means of the receiving device (2) or received by means of the transport device (5) can be transferred between the receiving device (2) and the transport device (5) along a changeover rail (9), wherein the changeover rail (9) comprises the receiving rail (3) and the transport rail (6).

2. Coil-changing device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the changeover rail (9) is straight.

3. Coil-changing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the changeover position of the coil-changing device (1), the transport device (5) is positively connected to the receiving device (2). Page 44 / 49 P81050DE4. Coil changing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the following features: - in the changing position of the coil changing device (1), the transport rail (6) engages the receiving rail (3) at least partially; or - in the changing position of the coil changing device (1), the receiving rail (3) engages the transport rail (6) at least partially.

5. Coil changing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the following features: - the transport device (5) has a fixing means for reversibly fixing a coil (41, 46) received by means of the transport device (5) along the transport rail (6); and / or - the receiving device (2) has a fixing means for reversibly fixing a coil (41, 46) received by means of the receiving device (2) along the receiving rail (3).6.Coil changing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the following features: - the transport device (5) has one or more than one fastening device (8), wherein the transport device (5) is detachably connectable to an actuator by means of a fastening device (8); and - the transport device (5) is movable relative to the receiving device (2) by means of the actuator, so that the coil changing device (1) can be moved between its changing position and its transport position.

7. Coil changing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device (2) is connected to a supply device (42), wherein. Page 45 / 49 P81050DE the supply device (42) is configured to supply a coil (41, 46) of an induction heating device (40) with electrical energy.

8. Induction heating device (40) for heating metal workpieces (50), comprising at least one first coil (41) that can be moved between a working position and a transport position, wherein the induction heating device (40) is characterized by the following features: - the induction heating device (40) has a receiving device (2) for receiving the first coil (41), wherein the receiving device (2) has a first receiving rail (3) for receiving the first coil (41); - by moving the first coil (41) into its working position, the first coil (41) is received by means of the receiving device (2), wherein the first coil (41) is electrically connected to a supply device (42) in its working position;and- by ​​transferring the first coil (41) into its transport position, the first coil (41) can be received by means of a transport device (5), wherein the first coil (41) is electrically disconnected from the supply device (42) in its transport position;- wherein the first receiving rail (3) enables movement of the first coil (41) along the first receiving rail (3) when transferring the first coil (41) between its working position and its transport position relative to the receiving device (2).

9. Induction heating device (40) according to claim 8, characterized in that the first receiving rail (3) is straight.

10. Induction heating device (40) according to claim 8 or claim 9, characterized in that the receiving device; Page 46 / 49 P81050DE (2) has a fixing means for reversibly fixing the first coil (41) relative to the receiving device (2) along the first receiving rail (3).

11. Induction heating device (40) according to one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the first coil (41) can be moved between its working position and its transport position by means of an electrical and / or hydraulic and / or pneumatic actuator.

12. Induction heating device (40) according to one of claims 8 to 11, characterized by the following features: - the induction heating device (40) has a quick-coupling device (10), wherein the quick-coupling device (10) has a first coupling half (20) and a second coupling half (30) corresponding to the first coupling half;- the first coupling half (20) has a first main electrical connection device and the second coupling half (30) has a second main electrical connection device corresponding to the first main electrical connection device; - the quick-release coupling device (10) can be moved between an open position and a closed position by a relative movement between the first coupling half and the second coupling half; - in the closed position of the quick-release coupling device (10) the first main electrical connection device is electrically connected to the second main electrical connection device; - the at least one first coil (41) can be electrically connected to the supply device (42) by means of the quick-release coupling device (10); - wherein the first main electrical connection device of the first coupling half of the quick-release coupling device (10); Page 47 / 49 P81050DE is electrically connected to the supply device (42) or to the first coil (41); - wherein the second main electrical connection device of the second coupling half of the quick-release coupling device (10) is electrically connected to the supply device (42) or to the first coil (41); - by moving the first coil (41) into its transport position, the quick-release coupling device (10) is moved into its open position;and- by ​​moving the first coil (41) into its working position, the quick-coupling device (10) is moved into its closed position, so that an electrically conductive connection between the supply device (42) and the first coil (41) is automatically created.

13. Induction heating device (40) according to one of claims 8 to 12, characterized by the following features: - the induction heating device (40) has a second coil (46) that can be moved between a working position and a transport position; - by moving the second coil (46) into its working position, the second coil (46) is received by means of the receiving device (2), wherein the second coil (46) is electrically conductively connected to a supply device (42) in its working position;and- by ​​transferring the second coil (46) into its transport position, the second coil (46) can be picked up by means of a transport device (5), wherein the second coil (46) is electrically disconnected from the supply device (42) in its transport position;- wherein the receiving device (2) has a second receiving rail (3) for receiving the second coil (46), and wherein the second receiving rail (3) enables movement of the second coil (46) when transferring the second coil (46) between its working position and its transport position; Page 48 / 49 P81050DE relative to the receiving device (2) along the second receiving rail (3) is enabled.

14. Induction heating device (40) according to claim 13, characterized in that the first coil (41) and the second coil (46) can be moved independently of each other between their working position and their transport position.

15. Induction heating device (40) according to claim 13 or claim 14, characterized in that the first coil (41) and the second coil (46) are arranged opposite each other in their working position, so that a metallic workpiece (50) can be positioned and / or moved between the first coil (41) and the second coil (46). 16.Induction heating device (40) according to one of claims 8 to 15, characterized in that the induction heating device (40) comprises a coil changing device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the receiving device (2) of the induction heating device (40) corresponds to the receiving device (2) of the coil changing device (1).

17. Method for changing a coil of an induction heating device (40) according to claim 16 using a coil changing device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the method comprises the following steps: - Transferring the first coil (41) into its transport position; - Transporting the first coil (41) in the transport device (5) to a changing area; - Transporting a further coil in the same or a further transport device (5) to the induction heating device (40); and - Transferring the further coil into its working position.

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