Device and method for processing a flat material by means of a shaking device

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (100) for processing a flat material (2), which is cut into a workpiece part (2a) and a remaining part (2b). The device (100) has a transport unit (10) for transporting the flat material (2) along a transport direction (T), and the device (100) additionally has a shaking unit (20) which is provided on the transport unit (10). The device (100) is designed to apply, by means of the shaking unit (20), a shaking movement to the flat material (2) transported by the transport unit (10), while the flat material (2) is being transported past the shaking unit (20), in order to separate the workpiece part (2a) from the remaining part (2b). The invention further relates to a method for processing flat material (2), preferably by means of such a device (100).

Description

[0001] Device and method for processing a flat material using a vibrating device

[0002] Description

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The invention relates to a device for processing a flat material and a method for processing flat material, preferably by means of such a device.

[0005] Technical background

[0006] It is known in the prior art that, during laser or plasma cutting of workpiece parts from a flat material, the workpiece parts can be connected to the surrounding residual lattice (remaining workpiece) via connecting bridges, so-called micro- and / or nanojoints. These are thin struts or bridges that hold the respective workpiece parts in the residual lattice, preventing the cut workpiece parts from simply falling out. The aforementioned connecting bridges can also be used intentionally, for example, to prevent slippage, displacement, or tilting of the workpiece parts during cutting.

[0007] In other separation processes as well, not just laser or plasma cutting of workpiece parts, it can be advantageous from a process engineering perspective to leave corresponding connecting bridges between the workpiece parts and the remaining grid.

[0008] Completely separating and sorting the workpiece parts from the remaining grid can be difficult and time-consuming. For example, manual separation, such as tapping, can be performed by a worker. However, the parts to be moved should not exceed a certain surface area or weight. Machine removal of the connecting strips is also often time-consuming, as the appropriate cutting tool must be moved to each connecting strip, and there is also a risk of damaging the workpiece parts.

[0009] German patent DE 20 2018 001 674 Ul discloses a device and a method for separating parts from a grid of a sheet, wherein the parts are attached to the grid via thin, breakable tabs. The device comprises a frame and a vibrating frame, the vibrating frame being mounted on the frame by springs so that it can be vibrated and set into vibration by vibration drives. During vibration, the sheet is firmly fixed to the vibrating frame by clamps. A disadvantage is that a continuous, ongoing separation process cannot be achieved and a large device mass must be set into vibration. US patent 2016 / 0023368 Al describes a vibrating table in which the workpiece is also firmly connected to the vibrating table during vibration.

[0010] The object of the invention is to provide an improved method for processing flat material, preferably avoiding the disadvantages of previous approaches. A preferred object of the invention is to provide the fastest and / or simplest possible method for completely separating workpiece parts from a remaining part, which were previously connected to each other by at least one connecting web.

[0011] Summary of the invention

[0012] These problems can be solved using the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and applications of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and are explained in more detail in the following description with partial reference to the figures.

[0013] A first independent aspect of the present disclosure relates to a device. Preferably, the device serves for processing (e.g., singulating) a (e.g., metallic) flat material (e.g., a sheet metal panel), wherein the flat material is cut (e.g., laser- or plasma-cut) into a workpiece part and a residual part. For example, a cutting gap can be arranged at least partially between the workpiece part and the residual part, wherein the workpiece part and the residual part can preferably also be connected to each other via at least one connecting web (e.g., micro-connecting web or nano-connecting web).

[0014] The device includes a transport device (e.g. a conveyor belt, a roller conveyor and / or a gripper conveyor) for transporting the flat material (e.g. along a transport direction).

[0015] The device further comprises a vibrating device, preferably beam-shaped (e.g., a vibrating beam), wherein the vibrating device is arranged on (e.g., adjacent to) the transport device. For example, the vibrating device can be arranged above the transport device and / or oriented perpendicular to the transport direction. The vibrating device can be configured to generate periodic or aperiodic vibrating movements (e.g., mechanical oscillations and / or vibrations). For example, the vibrating device can comprise at least one excitation unit for this purpose, e.g., at least one vibrating motor and / or at least one linear vibrator.The device is configured to impart a vibrating motion to the flat material transported by the conveying device, preferably while the flat material is being conveyed past the vibrating device, in order to separate the workpiece part and the remaining part. For example, the device can be configured to activate the conveying device and set the flat material being conveyed, i.e., moved, by the conveying device into a vibrating motion, whereby preferably the at least one connecting web linking the workpiece part and the remaining part is severed, and thus the workpiece part and the remaining part are completely separated from each other.

[0016] This advantageously enables a continuous and therefore rapid separation or singulation process of the workpiece and remaining part. A further advantage is that, unlike previous vibrating table solutions, the vibration motion is applied more locally, thus requiring less mass to be set into vibration. This results in a simpler overall design, particularly suitable for smaller workpieces.

[0017] In addition to a first aspect, the device can also include a control unit (e.g., a control device). The control unit can be configured to operate the device (e.g., the transport unit and vibrating unit) in an operating mode in which the flat material is transported past the vibrating unit by the transport unit, and a vibration motion is applied to the transported flat material by the vibrating unit. This advantageously ensures continuous processing of flat material. Optionally, however, other operating modes can also be provided, e.g., a transport mode in which the flat material is only transported and not vibrated.

[0018] According to another aspect, the vibrating device can be designed to move the flat material back and forth along a vibrating direction (e.g., vertical). Preferably, the vibrating direction is oriented transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the transport direction and / or transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to a main plane of extension of the flat material. For example, the vibrating direction can be oriented vertically, while the transport direction can be horizontal and / or the main plane of extension can be horizontally arranged. This advantageously ensures particularly effective separation of the workpiece and the remaining part. According to another aspect, the vibrating device can have a vibrating element (e.g., a vibrating beam) for imprinting the vibrating motion onto the flat material (e.g., a vibrating beam that is movably mounted). For example, the vibrating element (e.g., a vibrating beam) can be mounted on a rotating platform or a rotating platform.The vibration device must be suspended in a way that allows it to oscillate on a support and / or a bracket, and / or have at least one excitation unit (e.g., a vibration motor and / or a linear vibrator). This advantageously allows the generation of the vibrational motion to be more localized compared to extended vibration tables, thus reducing the overall mass that needs to be moved.

[0019] According to another aspect, the vibrating element can be designed as a vibrating beam. This can also be referred to as a vibrating plank. The inventors determined that this shape is particularly advantageous for imprinting the vibrating motion onto the flat material transported by the conveying device.

[0020] Another aspect is that the vibrating element can have a substantially beam-shaped and / or substantially elongated form. For example, the vibrating element can have an elongated shape and / or be longer in relation to its width and height. Advantageously, this allows sufficient vibration of the flat material to occur as it passes the vibrating device.

[0021] According to another aspect, the vibrating element can have a longitudinal axis that is oriented transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the transport direction. The longitudinal axis can be understood, for example, as the axis of the vibrating element that runs along its longest dimension. Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the vibrating element is oriented parallel to the transverse axis of the flat material being transported by the conveying device. This advantageously allows the vibration motion to be applied across as much of the flat material's width as it is conveyed.

[0022] According to another aspect, the vibrating element can span the transport device (e.g., in a bridge-like manner). For example, the vibrating element can extend between one (e.g., left) edge of the transport device and a preferably opposite (e.g., right) edge of the transport device. Preferably, the vibrating element is arranged at such a distance from the transport device that, as the flat material is transported past, the vibrating element is in contact with the flat material at times (e.g., at maximum deflection of the vibrating element) to impart the vibrating motion, but does not fundamentally block the transport of the flat material. This also advantageously allows the vibrating motion to be applied as continuously as possible across the width of the flat material. According to a further aspect, the vibrating element can have a longitudinal extent of at least

[0023] 1.5 m, preferably at least 2 m, particularly preferably at least 2.5 m.

[0024] Alternatively, or in addition, the vibrating element can have a longitudinal extent that is greater than or essentially corresponds to the transport width of the conveying device. The transport width can be understood, for example, as the perpendicular dimension of the conveying device to the conveying direction, which defines the maximum transportable width of flat material. The transport width can be limited, for example, by the edges of the conveyor belt. This also advantageously allows the vibrating motion to be applied as continuously as possible across the width of the flat material.

[0025] According to another aspect, the vibration element can have at least one excitation unit (e.g., at least one vibration motor and / or at least one linear vibrator). The excitation unit can, for example, be designed to convert electrical, pneumatic, and / or hydraulic energy into a mechanical, vibrating motion.

[0026] Another aspect is that the vibrating element can have an outer housing (e.g., rigid and / or closed). For example, the outer housing can be beam-shaped. The outer housing allows the vibrating element to be in direct contact with the flat material as it is conveyed past the vibrating device. This advantageously ensures reliable imprinting of the vibration motion.

[0027] According to another aspect, the vibrating element (e.g., its outer housing) can have a flat (e.g., rectangular) contact surface. Preferably, this contact surface serves to bring the vibrating element into direct contact with the flat material and / or can be brought into surface contact with the flat material (e.g., transported by the conveying device), at least temporarily, particularly at maximum deflection (e.g., to imprint the vibrating motion). This flat contact advantageously allows for a more localized application of the vibrating motion, while the size of the vibrating element prevents the individual workpiece fragment from (unintentionally) jumping out towards the vibrating element or upwards.

[0028] According to another aspect, the vibrating element (e.g., its outer housing) can have a transverse extension along the transport direction of at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm, and particularly preferably at least 50 cm. Alternatively, or in addition, the vibrating element (e.g., its outer housing) can have a transverse extension along the transport direction of a maximum of 75 cm, preferably a maximum of 50 cm. Preferably, the transverse extension runs along a transverse axis of the vibrating element, which can be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal and vertical axes of the vibrating element. Advantageously, this can again achieve a blocking effect of the vibrating element, so that the isolated workpiece part can only move away from the rest of the workpiece in a direction away from the vibrating element.

[0029] According to another aspect, at least one vibration parameter (e.g., a vibration frequency and / or a vibration amplitude) of the vibration device (e.g., its excitation unit) can be variably adjustable and / or changeable. For example, the at least one vibration parameter can be adjusted and / or changed by a user via an operating device. Alternatively, or in addition, the device can also be configured to adjust and / or change the at least one vibration parameter independently or automatically. This advantageously allows for the vibration motion to be applied as precisely as possible to meet specific requirements.

[0030] According to another aspect, the device can be configured (e.g., via a detection unit, particularly an optical one) to detect at least one flat material parameter (e.g., automatically) and to adjust at least one vibration parameter (e.g., a vibration frequency and / or a vibration amplitude) of the vibration device depending on the detected flat material parameter (e.g., automatically). This can be achieved, for example, by a control unit of the device. The flat material parameter could, for instance, be the thickness of the flat material. For example, a high vibration frequency could be set for thinner material, while a high vibration amplitude could be set for thicker material.In addition, or alternatively, at least one flat material parameter can also include the length of the flat material, the width of the flat material, the workpiece part size, and / or the workpiece part arrangement. This advantageously allows for the vibration motion to be applied as precisely as possible.

[0031] According to another aspect, the transport device can have an opening (e.g., a through-opening) in the area (e.g., below) of the vibrating element. For example, the opening can be located in the area (e.g., below) of the vibrating element and / or opposite it. Preferably, the workpiece part can be removed from the remaining part via the opening (e.g., ejected, for example, into a collection container). Additionally or alternatively, the flat material in the area of ​​the opening can preferably not be supported or supported by the transport device. By way of example only, the opening can be formed by a space between two spaced-apart conveyor belts of the transport device. This advantageously allows for the simple ejection of the individual workpiece parts.

[0032] Another aspect is that the opening width (e.g., oriented along the transport direction) can be adjustable and / or variable, for example, depending on the workpiece size. Preferably, the opening width is therefore not fixed, but variable. This advantageously allows the device to be adjusted to the specific requirements of the flat material being processed.

[0033] According to another aspect, the device can further include a sensor device arranged to detect workpiece parts passing through the opening, for example, to monitor the operation of the vibrating device. The sensor device can, for instance, comprise a light barrier and / or a camera. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor device can be configured, for example, to determine the number of workpiece parts and / or the rate of workpiece parts passing through the opening per unit of time. The sensor device can also be configured to transmit its sensor data (e.g., via a signal line) to the control unit and / or the vibrating device, or to adjust at least one vibrating parameter based on this sensor data. Advantageously, this enables monitoring of the singulation process and / or feedback for optimizing the vibrating and transport settings.

[0034] According to another aspect, the device can also include a covering device (e.g., plate-shaped and / or flat). The covering device can be designed to cover an area (e.g., a top surface area) of the flat material (e.g., completely or partially). By way of example only, the covering device can be placed on and / or attached to the flat material. Preferably, the covering device is designed to cover the area of ​​the flat material in such a way that the covering device blocks the workpiece part from moving away (e.g., jumping out) in the direction of the covering device. This advantageously ensures directed singulation, e.g., in the direction of the opening.

[0035] According to another aspect, the covering device can have a covering element (e.g., a flat and / or plate-shaped one). For example, the covering element can be a plate, a sheet, and / or a mat (e.g., a rubber mat). The shape and / or dimensions of the covering element can be adapted to the shape and / or dimensions of the flat material being processed. This advantageously allows for a covering device that is particularly easy to implement.

[0036] Another aspect of the device is its ability to attach the covering device, particularly its covering element, to the area of ​​the flat material (e.g., transported by the conveying device) (e.g., automatically). For example, the device and / or the covering device can have corresponding actuators by means of which, for instance, the covering element can be moved towards the flat material (e.g., automatically). This advantageously ensures the most autonomous operation possible of the device. Alternatively, the covering element or the covering device can also be moved manually (e.g., by a worker) and / or applied to the flat material manually.

[0037] According to another aspect, the covering device (e.g., its covering element) can be designed to completely cover one side of the flat material (e.g., its top surface). For example, the covering device (e.g., its covering element) can be essentially the same size as the flat material or larger than it.

[0038] Alternatively, or in addition, the covering device (e.g., its cover element) can be arranged between the flat material and the vibrating device, while the flat material is transported past the vibrating device. Accordingly, the vibrating motion can first be applied directly to the covering device (e.g., its cover element) and then indirectly (via the covering device) to the flat material. Preferably, the covering device or the cover element is thus designed to transmit a vibrating motion. This advantageously ensures that the material is separated in a directed manner, e.g., towards the opening.

[0039] Another independent aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for processing (e.g., singulating) flat material. Preferably, the processing is carried out using a device as described herein. Consequently, the features disclosed above in connection with the device are also disclosed and claimable in connection with the method. The same applies vice versa.

[0040] The method involves providing a flat material (e.g., a sheet of metal) which is cut (e.g., by laser and / or plasma cutting) into a workpiece part and a residual part. For example, a cutting gap can be arranged between the workpiece part and the residual part, at least partially, and the workpiece part and the residual part can preferably be connected to each other via at least one connecting web (e.g., a micro-connecting web or nano-connecting web). The cutting gap can delimit the workpiece part, at least partially, and / or define at least one contour of the workpiece part.

[0041] The process also involves (e.g., continuous and / or ongoing) transport of the flat material, for example by means of a transport device (e.g., a conveyor belt, a roller conveyor and / or a gripper conveyor).

[0042] The method further comprises separating the workpiece portion and the remaining portion by imprinting a vibration motion onto the flat material while the flat material is transported past the vibration device (e.g., by means of the transport device). The vibration motion can be imprinted, for example, by means of a vibration device, in particular a vibration device as described herein. For instance, the vibration motion can be imprinted by means of a vibration element (e.g., a vibration beam), which is preferably arranged on (e.g., above) the transport device. As already explained in detail in connection with the apparatus, this again allows for time-saving processing of the flat material, since the flat material can be processed in a continuous or continuous process.

[0043] From one perspective, the workpiece and the remaining part of the (e.g., cut) flat material can be connected by at least one connecting bridge (e.g., a micro-connecting bridge or nano-connecting bridge) created and / or defined during cutting. This connecting bridge can be, for example, a (e.g., thin) strut or bridge of the flat material extending between the workpiece and the remaining part. The connecting bridge can be intentionally introduced and / or left in place during cutting. The width of the connecting bridge can range from several hundred micrometers to several micrometers or less. Furthermore, the singulation process can involve cutting (e.g., breaking) the connecting bridge, for example, through the applied vibration motion.

[0044] According to another aspect, the provisioning step can include cutting the flat material, wherein the cutting can involve forming a kerf separating the workpiece part and the remaining part, as well as forming at least one connecting web. Preferably, the at least one connecting web is arranged in the kerf and / or immediately adjacent to the kerf. The cutting can be carried out, for example, by means of a cutting device (e.g., a laser or plasma cutting device), which can be part of the device or a separate machine. Advantageously, the flat material to be processed (cut) can be provided directly.

[0045] According to another aspect, the method can include (e.g., automatic) detection of at least one flat material parameter (e.g., thickness, length, and / or width of the flat material, workpiece part size, and / or workpiece part arrangement), for example, by means of a detection unit (e.g., a camera). Furthermore, the method can include (e.g., automatic) adjustment of a vibration parameter (e.g., vibration frequency and / or vibration amplitude) of the vibration device depending on the detected at least one flat material parameter. For example, the adjustment can be performed by a control unit, whereby the detected at least one flat material parameter can preferably be made available to the control unit (e.g., via a signal line). Advantageously, this allows for the vibration motion to be applied as precisely as possible.

[0046] According to another aspect, the method can include (e.g., automatic) covering of an area (e.g., a top surface area) of the flat material by means of a covering device. For example, the covering can take place during the transport of the flat material. However, it is also possible for the covering to take place (already) before transport. Preferably, the covering of the area of ​​the flat material by means of a covering device is carried out in such a way that the covering device blocks the workpiece part from moving away (e.g., from springing out) in the direction of the covering device. For example, the workpiece part can only move away in one direction opposite to the covering device, e.g., downwards. Advantageously, this ensures directed singulation, e.g., in the direction of the opening.

[0047] Another aspect of the process is the monitoring of the singulation by means of a sensor device (or a control device coupled to the sensor device). For example, the sensor device can be positioned to detect the workpiece segment moving away from the rest of the workpiece, e.g., in the area of ​​the opening of the device's transport mechanism. If, despite the flat material being transported past the (e.g., running or vibrating) vibrating device, no workpiece segment is detected by the sensor device, a warning and / or an error message can be issued via a corresponding output unit. In general, the term "flat material" can be understood to mean a flat component and / or one bounded on two opposite sides by a planar surface that is extended relative to its thickness. For example, the flat material can be plate-shaped, e.g.,in the form of a sheet or sheet of metal. The flat material is preferably made of metal and / or preferably has a thickness of less than 70 mm, preferably less than 50 mm, particularly preferably less than 30 mm.

[0048] Although the focus here is primarily on a flat material with one workpiece part, the flat material can in principle have at least one further workpiece part, in particular a large number of further workpiece parts.

[0049] Preferably, the vibrating device has a fixed installation position within the apparatus, while the flat material is transported past the vibrating device via the transport system. However, it is also possible for the vibrating device itself to be movable, at least partially, for example, via a suitable movement mechanism relative to the transport system (e.g., over a defined travel path).

[0050] The embodiments and features described above can be combined in any way.

[0051] Brief description of the characters

[0052] Further details and advantages are described below with reference to the attached drawings. These show:

[0053] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a device for processing a flat material according to one embodiment;

[0054] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a flat material according to an embodiment, wherein the flat material is cut into a workpiece part and a residual part, as well as an enlarged detail view of a cutting gap separating the workpiece and residual part from each other;

[0055] Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a device for processing a flat material according to a further embodiment; and

[0056] Figure 4 shows a flowchart of a method for processing flat material according to one embodiment. The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially identical, so similar or identical parts are marked with the same reference numerals, and reference is made to the description of the other embodiments or figures for their explanation in order to avoid repetition.

[0057] Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0058] Figures 1 and 3 each show (in part) a device 100 for processing a flat material 2. The device 100 can be freestanding and / or form part, e.g. a station, of a larger system.

[0059] The flat material 2 (to be processed by the device 100) can be, as shown in detail in Figure 2, a sheet metal plate, for example, rectangular. The flat material 2 can, for instance, have a plate-like shape and / or be bounded on two opposite sides by a flat surface that is extended relative to its thickness D. Preferably, the flat material 2 is made of metal. However, the device 100 can also be used to process flat material 2 made of other materials, such as wood.

[0060] As shown in Figure 2, the flat material 2 is cut into a workpiece part 2a, which can also be referred to as the good part, and into a residual part 2b, which can also be referred to as the residual grid. In this case, the flat material 2 also comprises further workpiece parts. By way of example only, the flat material 2 can be cut into the workpiece part 2a (and the further workpiece parts) and the residual part 2b using a laser or plasma cutting device (not shown). A cutting gap 3 can thus be arranged between the workpiece part 2a and the residual part 2b, at least in sections. The cutting gap 3 can separate the workpiece part 2a and the residual part 2b from each other. The cutting gap 3 can at least partially delimit and / or surround the workpiece part 2a. The cutting gap 3 can at least partially define a contour of the workpiece part 2a.

[0061] Preferably, the flat material 2 has at least one connecting web 4, which may be generated, for example, during cutting. This connecting web 4 can be, for example, a micro-connecting web or a nano-connecting web. The workpiece part 2a and the remaining part 2b can be connected via this connecting web 4. Accordingly, the workpiece part 2a may not be completely separated from the flat material 2 or the remaining part 2b. The connecting web 4 can be strip-shaped and / or strut-shaped. The connecting web 4 can have a first end that can be directly connected to the workpiece part 2a and a second end opposite the first end that can be directly connected to the remaining part 2b. The connecting web 4 can be arranged, at least partially, in and / or adjacent to the cutting gap 3.The workpiece part 2a can be held in place within the remaining part 2b by at least one connecting web 4. For example, the at least one connecting web 4 may have been deliberately inserted and / or left in place during cutting to prevent the workpiece part 2a from slipping, shifting, or tilting during cutting.

[0062] Preferably, the device 100 serves to (completely) separate or singulate the workpiece part 2a and the remaining part 2b. For example, the device 100 can be designed to separate the workpiece part 2a from the remaining part 2b or to cut through the at least one connecting web 4.

[0063] The device 100 has a transport device 10 and a vibrating device 20 for this purpose.

[0064] The transport device 10 is preferably used for transporting the (cut) flat material 2. For example, the transport device 10 can be configured to transport the flat material 2 along a transport direction T. The transport direction T can, for example, be oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the flat material 2.

[0065] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the transport device 10 can have one or more conveyor belts, e.g., horizontal ones. Additionally or alternatively, the transport device 10 can also have a roller conveyor and / or a gripper conveyor. The transport device 10 can have a flat support for the flat material 2. Alternatively, the transport device 10 can also be designed without any (lower) support, in which case the flat material 2 is moved (only) via lateral supports or clamps.

[0066] To discharge the isolated workpiece part 2a, the transport device 10 can have an opening 12 in the area, for example, below the vibrating device 20. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the opening 12 can, for example, be designed as a space between two conveyor belts arranged in alignment with each other. In the area of ​​the opening 12, the transport device 10 can thus be interrupted and / or the flat material 2 can no longer be supported by the transport device 10. The isolated workpiece part 2a can be removed from the remaining part 2b via the opening 12, which will be described in more detail below. For example, a collection container (not shown) can be arranged below the opening 12 in which the isolated workpiece part 2a is collected. Furthermore, the opening width of the opening 12 can be adjustable, e.g. via a shutter and / or adjustment mechanism, e.g. depending on the size of the workpiece part 2a.

[0067] The vibrating device 20 is preferably arranged on or adjacent to the transport device 10. For example, the vibrating device 20 can be arranged above the transport device 10, as shown in Figures 1 and 3. However, other arrangements are also possible, e.g., below the transport device 10.

[0068] The device 100 is configured to impart a vibrating motion to the flat material 2 transported by the transport device 10 (e.g., by appropriately controlling the transport device 10 and the vibrating device 20) as the material passes the vibrating device 20, in order to separate the workpiece part 2a and the remaining part 2b. For example, the vibrating device 20 can have at least one excitation unit 22a, which can be configured to generate vibrating movements (e.g., mechanical oscillations and / or vibrations). The vibrating movements can be periodic or aperiodic. By way of example only, the at least one excitation unit 22a can have a vibrating motor (e.g., an unbalanced motor). Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one excitation unit 22a can have an electromagnetic, pneumatic, and / or hydraulic vibrator.

[0069] The at least one excitation unit 22a can be enclosed by an outer housing 22b, as shown in Figures 1 and 3. For example, the at least one excitation unit 22a can be received and / or arranged in the outer housing 22b. The outer housing 22b can be substantially closed and / or rigid. The outer housing 22b can have an elongated shape. For example, the outer housing 22b can be beam-shaped and / or cuboid-shaped. The at least one excitation unit 22a and the outer housing 22b can form a structural unit, which can also be referred to as a vibration element 22, in this case, in particular, as a vibration beam.

[0070] The vibrating element 22 can be movably mounted. For example, the vibrating device 20 can have a support and / or holding structure (not shown) to which the vibrating element 22 is movably mounted and / or attached. For example, the vibrating element 22 can be mounted and / or attached to the support and / or holding structure in such a way that it can move vertically back and forth in a vibrating motion. The vibrating element 22 or the outer housing 22b can have a longitudinal extent of at least 1 m, preferably at least 2 m. Preferably, one longitudinal axis of the vibrating element 22 or the outer housing 22b is oriented perpendicular to the transport direction T. Accordingly, the vibrating element 22 can span the transport device 10 and / or extend substantially over the entire transport width of the transport device 10.

[0071] The vibrating element 22 or the outer housing 22b can have a transverse extent along the transport direction T of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 40 cm. Alternatively, the vibrating element 22 or the outer housing 22b can have a transverse extent of a maximum of 80 cm, preferably a maximum of 60 cm. These dimensions of the vibrating element 22 advantageously allow for a localized application of the vibration motion, while at the same time, due to the covering effect of the transverse extent, an undesired upward ejection of the individual workpiece part 2a can be prevented.

[0072] Due to the longitudinal and transverse dimensions of the vibrating element 22 and the outer housing 22b, a planar contact surface, in this case, for example, rectangular, can be provided. This can be located, as shown here, for example, on the underside of the vibrating element 22. The contact surface preferably serves for direct mechanical interaction with the flat material 2 and / or for directly imprinting the vibrating motion onto the flat material 2. For example, the vibrating element 22 can be arranged such that the contact surface is in surface contact with the flat material 2, at least temporarily, during its passage by the transport device 10.

[0073] Furthermore, the vibrating element 22 or the outer housing 22b can have a height that is less than 70 cm, preferably less than 50 cm.

[0074] The geometry and arrangement of the vibrating element 22 described above enable the flat material 2 to pass through the device 100 in a continuous transport process, during which a vibrating motion is applied to the flat material. Preferably, the transport process does not need to be paused to vibrate the flat material 2.

[0075] For example, the device 100 can include a control unit 50 (see Figure 3) which can be configured to operate the device 100 in an operating mode in which the flat material 2 is transported past the vibrating device 20 by means of the transport device 10, and a vibrating motion is applied to the transported flat material 2 by means of the vibrating device 20. In other words, the device 100 or the control unit 50 can be configured to carry out a method as described in particular below in connection with Figure 4. The control unit 50 can be connected to the transport device 10 and the vibrating device 20 via corresponding signal lines (dashed lines). The operation of the transport device 10 (e.g., its transport speed) and / or the operation of the vibrating device 20 (e.g., the vibration intensity) can be controlled via the control unit 50.whose vibration amplitude and / or vibration frequency) are controllable and / or predeterminable.

[0076] To ensure vibration that is adapted as closely as possible to the specific geometry of the flat material, at least one vibration parameter of the vibration device 20, e.g., a vibration frequency and / or a vibration amplitude, can be variable. Preferably, the device 100 is configured to detect at least one flat material parameter (e.g., the thickness D of the flat material 2 and / or a length and / or width of the flat material 2 and / or a size of the workpiece part 2a and / or an arrangement of the workpiece part 2a in the flat material 2) and to adjust at least one vibration parameter of the vibration device 20 depending on the detected at least one flat material parameter (e.g., automatically).

[0077] For example, the device 100 can include a detection unit (not shown), e.g., a camera, which is arranged to detect the at least one flat material parameter. Alternatively, the detection can also include receiving the at least one flat material parameter, e.g., via a data connection to an external device. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one flat material parameter of the device 100 can also be predefined by a user.

[0078] Furthermore, the control unit 50 can be configured to control the vibration unit 20, depending on the detected at least one flat material parameter, to adjust the at least one vibration parameter. By way of example only, the control unit 50 can be configured to reduce the vibration frequency of the vibration unit 20 with increasing thickness D of the flat material 2 and / or to increase the vibration amplitude with increasing thickness D of the flat material 2.

[0079] As shown in Figure 3, the device 100 can optionally also include a sensor device 30, which can be arranged to detect workpiece parts 2a passing through the opening 12. The sensor device 30 can be connected to the control device 50 via a data line, thereby providing the control device 50 with information about, for example, the number of workpiece parts 2a and / or the rate of workpiece parts 2a passing through the opening 12 per unit of time. The control device 50 can, for example, be configured to adjust the control of the transport device 10 and / or the vibrating device 20 based on this information. For example, at least one vibrating parameter can be changed if it is determined that singulation is not occurring with the current settings.

[0080] Furthermore, the device 100 can optionally include a covering device 40, as also shown in Figure 3. The covering device 40 can be configured to cover an area, e.g., as shown in Figure 3, a top surface area of ​​the flat material 2. Preferably, it is configured such that the covering device 40 blocks the workpiece part 2a from moving away from the covering device 40, e.g., from popping out.

[0081] The covering device 40 can be designed as a separate component, as shown in Figure 3. For example, the covering device 40 can have a covering element 42, such as a plate, a sheet, and / or a mat, which can be brought into direct contact with the flat material 2, for example, via appropriate actuators (not shown). However, it is also possible for the covering device 40 to be designed, for example, as part of the transport device 10. For example, another or additional conveyor belt can be arranged above the flat material 2.

[0082] The cover element 42 can remain on the flat material 2 solely due to its own weight. Alternatively, or in addition, the cover element 42 can also be pressed against the flat material 2, for example, by a hold-down device (not shown). The cover element 42 can completely cover one side of the flat material 2 or only a part of it. Furthermore, the device 100 can be configured to automatically attach the cover element 42 to the flat material 2, for example, via the corresponding actuators. However, the cover element 42 can also be attached manually.

[0083] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 3, the cover element 42 is arranged on a top side of the flat material 2 and thus between the vibrating element 22 and the flat material 2, while the flat material 2 is transported past the vibrating device 20. Accordingly, the separated or released workpiece part 2a can only move downwards towards the opening 12, where it can, for example, be collected in a container. Figure 4 shows a flowchart of a method for processing flat material 2, preferably using a device 100, as described herein.

[0084] In step S1, a flat material 2 is provided, which is cut into a workpiece part 2a and a residual part 2b, e.g. by laser and / or plasma cutting. For example, the flat material 2 can be designed as described above in connection with Figure 2.

[0085] In step S2, the flat material 2 is transported, e.g. by means of the transport device 10 of the device 100. Preferably, the flat material 2 is transported past the vibrating device 20 of the device 100.

[0086] In step S3, the workpiece part 2a and the remaining part 2b are separated by applying a vibration motion to the flat material 2, e.g., by means of the vibration device 20 of the apparatus 100, while the flat material 2 is transported past the vibration device 20. Preferably, the workpiece part 2a and the remaining part 2b are then present as completely separate components, i.e., entirely separated from each other.

[0087] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art that various modifications can be made and equivalents can be used as substitutes without departing from the scope of the invention. Consequently, the invention is not intended to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather to encompass all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims.

[0088] Reference symbol list

[0089] 2 flat material

[0090] 2a Workpiece part

[0091] 2b Remaining part

[0092] 3 Cut gap

[0093] 4 connecting bridge

[0094] 10 Transport equipment

[0095] 12 Opening

[0096] 20 vibrating device

[0097] 22 vibrating elements

[0098] 22a Excitation unit

[0099] 22b Outer casing

[0100] 30 Sensor device

[0101] 40 Cover device

[0102] 42 Cover element

[0103] 50 Control unit

[0104] 100 Device

[0105] Thickness

[0106] R Vibration direction

[0107] T Transport direction

Claims

Claims 1. Device (100) for processing a flat material (2), cut into a workpiece part (2a) and a residual part (2b), wherein the device (100) comprises: a transport device (10) for transporting the flat material (2) along a transport direction (T); and a vibrating device (20) arranged on the transport device (10), wherein the device (100) is configured to impose a vibrating motion on the flat material (2) transported by the transport device (10) by means of the vibrating device (20) while the flat material (2) is transported past the vibrating device (20), for separating the workpiece part (2a) and the residual part (2b).

2. Device (100) according to claim 1, further comprising: a control device (50) which is configured to operate the device (100) in an operating mode in which the flat material (2) is transported past the vibrating device (20) by means of the transport device (10) and during this time a vibrating motion is imposed on the transported flat material (2) by means of the vibrating device (20).

3. Device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: the vibrating device (20) is configured to move the flat material (2) back and forth along a vibrating direction (R) which is oriented transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the transport direction (T) and / or transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to a principal extension plane of the flat material (2).

4. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the vibrating device (20) has a movable vibrating element (22) for imprinting the vibrating movement onto the flat material (2).

5. Device (100) according to claim 4, wherein the vibrating element (22): is designed as a vibrating beam; and / or has a substantially beam-shaped and / or elongated form; and / or has a longitudinal axis that is oriented transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the transport direction (T); and / or spans the transport device (10); and / or has a longitudinal extent of at least 1.5 m, preferably at least 2 m, particularly preferably at least 2.5 m, and / or has a longitudinal extent that is greater than a transport width of the transport device (10).

6. Device (100) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the vibration element (22) comprises: at least one excitation unit (22a), preferably at least one vibration motor and / or at least one linear vibrator; and / or an outer housing (22b), preferably rigid and / or closed; and / or a planar, preferably rectangular, contact surface, which is preferably capable of being brought into planar contact with the flat material (2) to imprint the vibration movement; and / or a transverse extent along the transport direction (T) of at least 30 cm, preferably at least 50 cm, and / or a maximum of 75 cm.

7. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: at least one vibration parameter, preferably a vibration frequency and / or a vibration amplitude, of the vibration device (20) is variably adjustable; and / or the device (100) is configured to detect at least one flat material parameter, preferably a thickness (D), of the flat material (2) and to automatically adjust at least one vibration parameter, preferably a vibration frequency and / or a vibration amplitude, of the vibration device (20) depending on the detected at least one flat material parameter.

8. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the transport device (10) has an opening (12) in the area, preferably below, the vibrating device (20), wherein preferably: the workpiece part (2a) can be removed from the remaining part (2b) via the opening (12) and / or the flat material (2) is not supported or can be supported by the transport device (10) in the area of ​​the opening (12).

9. Device (100) according to claim 8, wherein: an opening width of the opening (12) is adjustable, preferably depending on a workpiece part size; and / or The device (100) further comprises a sensor device (30) which is arranged to detect workpiece parts (2a) passing through the opening (12), preferably for monitoring the operation of the vibrating device (20).

10. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a covering device (40) configured to cover an area, preferably an upper surface area, of the flat material (2), preferably in such a way that the covering device (40) blocks the movement, preferably the jumping out, of the workpiece part (2a) in the direction of the covering device (40).

11. Device (100) according to claim 10, wherein: the covering device (40) comprises a flat covering element (42), preferably a plate, a sheet and / or a mat, preferably a rubber mat; and / or the device (100) is configured to automatically attach the covering device (40) to the area of ​​the flat material (2), preferably transported by the transport device (10); and / or the covering device (40) is configured to completely cover one side of the flat material (2); and / or the covering device (40) is arranged between the flat material (2) and the vibrating device (20) while the flat material (2) is transported past the vibrating device (20).

12. Method for processing flat material (2), preferably by means of a device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises: Providing a flat material (2), cut, preferably by laser and / or plasma cutting, into a workpiece part (2a) and a residual part (2b); Transporting the flat material (2), preferably by means of a transport device (10); and Singling out the workpiece part (2a) and the remaining part (2b) by imposing a vibrating motion on the flat material (2), preferably by means of a vibrating device (20), while the flat material (2) is transported past the vibrating device (20).

13. Method according to claim 12, wherein: the workpiece part (2a) and the remaining part (2b) of the flat material (2) are connected via at least one, preferably defined, connecting web (4), preferably a micro-connecting web or Nano-connecting bridge, are connected; and The singulation involves cutting through at least one connecting web (4).

14. Method according to claim 13, wherein the provision comprises cutting the flat material (2), preferably by means of a cutting device, wherein the cutting comprises forming a cutting gap (3) separating the workpiece part (2a) and the remaining part (2b) and forming the at least one connecting web (4).

15. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising: Detecting at least one flat material parameter, preferably a thickness (D), of the flat material (2) and adjusting, preferably automatically, a vibration parameter, preferably a vibration frequency and / or a vibration amplitude, of the vibration device (20) depending on the detected at least one flat material parameter; and / or Covering, preferably automatically covering, an area, preferably a top surface area, of the flat material (2) by means of a covering device (30), preferably such that the covering device (40) blocks the movement, preferably the jumping out, of the workpiece part (2a) in the direction of the covering device (40); and / or Monitoring the singulation process by means of a sensor device (30), which is preferably arranged to detect the workpiece part (2a) moving away from the remaining part (2b).

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