AT501695A1 - ELECTRICALLY DECENTRALIZED CONVEYING DEVICE FOR PARTICULAR CONVEYORS AND CORRESPONDING CONVEYOR SYSTEM - Google Patents

Description

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The invention relates to an electrically controllable conveying device for piece-like conveyed goods, as described in claim 1 and in claim 16, as well as a composite of several conveyors conveyor system, as indicated in claim 22.

From CH 678 715 A5 a conveyor system with a plurality of conveyors and an electronic control device is known. This conveyor system has a plurality of conveyor units, each with at least one conveyor. Each of the conveying devices has at least one movable, electrically controllable conveying member and at least predominantly at least one detector in order to determine the presence of an article to be conveyed or its position and / or the position of a conveying member by means of sensors. For each conveyor unit one of these associated control unit is present with a digital subscriber computer. Each control unit is electrically connected to each controllable motor, each controllable actuator and each detector of the respective conveyor unit. At least a portion of the subscriber computers is networked and programmed with each other via a bus line to control the conveying organs at least in part due to the information exchanged between the networked subscriber computers. Furthermore, the subscriber computers are connected via this bus line with a hierarchically higher-level control computer, which in turn can be connected to a hierarchically superior central computer. By dividing the control functions on several interconnected control units, the manufacturing costs and the susceptibility to failure are to be reduced and also subsequent changes in the conveyor systems should be facilitated. However, the described control structure with several decentralized control units does not meet all the requirements for a modular, simple control for conveyors. N2005 / 06700

US 2004/0195078 Al describes a wide variety of types of conveyor modules for forming a comprehensive conveyor system. The individual conveyor modules in this case have a plurality of sensors and actuators, which are connected to a local control device on each conveyor module. In this case, the control device comprises a first interface type in order to provide a cost-effective, standardized fieldbus system, such as, for example, PROFIbus, build and connect a plurality of engine control devices. In particular, a control device is formed on at least one of the conveyor modules, which can be coupled via this cost-effective, standardized, first fieldbus system with a plurality of motor control devices of a plurality of conveyor devices. In addition, the control device of the conveyor module via a further interface of another type, for example, an Ethemet interface or a PROFInet interface, with a higher-level section control control or with a so-called material flow computer, e.g. in the manner of a PC, connected. The control device further has a same type, second interface, in particular a second Ethemet interface or PROFInet interface to couple the control device of the conveyor module even with another control device of another conveyor module data technically. The disadvantage here is that in the construction of a contiguous network network occasionally additional network components are required in order to build a coherent data network between the individual conveyor modules and the parent material flow computer can.

The present invention has for its object to provide an electrically controllable conveyor device for forming a continuous, branched conveyor system, which allows a simple construction of a comprehensive data network between the individual conveyors. In addition or nonetheless, an increased availability or reliability of a conveyor system formed from a plurality of conveying devices is to be achieved.

Regardless of this, a further object is to provide a conveying device or a conveying system which has the highest possible transport rate for conveyed goods and nevertheless achieves reliable transport of the conveyed goods. N2005 / 06700 ·· ·· · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · • ··· · • • • • • • • • • • • ··· »··

The first object of the invention is achieved by a conveying device according to the features in claim 1. An advantage of the conveyor device according to the invention is that complex or extensive conveyor systems can be constructed without the necessary control system becomes unmanageable or uneconomical. In particular, due to the simple data linkability of the control device of a first conveying device with the control device of a further conveying device, a continuous data network incorporating either all or most of the conveying devices can be easily built up. Of particular advantage is further that minimum cable lengths are executable to network the conveying devices of a modular composite conveyor system control technology. The relatively short cable lengths between the communication interfaces of two control devices thus result in a reduction in the construction costs. Of particular advantage is that the technical clarity of the system or the control network is hardly affected even with complex conveyor systems due to the relatively short cable lengths and the reduced number of cables. An advantage of the assignment of a control device to a modular conveyor device is also that subsequent changes, extensions or other interventions in the control system are comparatively easy to perform. In addition, the performance or computing performance of the overall control system is always increased or at least partially tracked in a subsequent extension of a conveyor system with additional conveying devices.

Another significant advantage of the conveyor device according to the invention is that a composite conveyor system consists of a plurality of uniform or identical control devices, so that a high efficiency in the construction of a large conveyor system can be achieved. A particular advantage of the multiple trained, same type communication or data interfaces on the control device of the conveyor is also that branched conveyor paths can be realized in a particularly simple manner, without additional, the conveyor system more expensive network components, such. so-called switches or hubs are required. In addition, further conveying devices with communication-compatible control devices can be incorporated into the communication network in a simple manner at originally free communication interfaces. To N2005 / 06700 originally free or unused communication interfaces at any time for on-demand connection of service or observation devices, such as. mobile terminals. After such operating and / or observation devices can be integrated into the control system or into the data network at any point of a complex conveyor system as needed, the user can select a locally most suitable coupling position as far as possible. For example, this also makes it possible to carry out in a particularly simple manner with a mobile terminal certain commissioning or adjustment work on that location of a conveyor system, where a particularly good visibility is given to the technical process or to the respective conveyor.

Another advantage is also a development according to claim 2, as a subsequent extension or modification of an originally existing structure can be made without special knowledge of the control technology in a simple manner.

Of particular advantage is also a development according to claim 3, since an increased fault tolerance or increased reliability is achieved in a composite of several conveyors conveyor system. In particular, resulting from the annular closed communication path between the control devices of several conveyors redundant communication paths, which can ensure a maintenance of the operation or the function of the conveyor system even if one of the communication paths, for example, was interrupted by a cable break or other disturbances in an unpredictable manner , In addition, by conscious formation of annular data networks between a plurality of control devices of the conveyor system, the transmission time of data packets of a first subscriber to another subscriber can be reduced, since this data transmission can take place via a communication path in which comparatively fewer control devices are integrated or in which a comparatively low network load is present.

The advantage of the embodiment according to claim 4 is that a multiple arrangement of a standardized Ethemet communication interface is executed, whereby a N2005 / 06700 5

Reliable and cost-effective design of a data network between adjacent or juxtaposed conveyor devices is possible.

Another advantage is the training of claim 5, as a result, a routing function is integrated into the control device so to speak, and thus structurally independent, costly routers are unnecessary. In addition, a compact control structure is made possible, since preferably no external network router or switches are required in order to achieve an orderly data exchange or a correct data transmission in the data network. Namely, the address-based data transmission is managed by the control devices of the conveyors themselves in an advantageous manner.

The embodiment of claim 6 guarantees a fast information or data transmission within the data network between the conveyors.

The development according to claim 7 ensures that primarily those data packets or information are processed, which are for a proper or scheduled transport of goods of greater importance.

The embodiment according to claim 8 ensures that particularly important information is processed or processed with priority and that no time-increasing blocking of data with increased priority can occur.

Another advantage is the embodiment according to claim 9, as a new or reprogramming and / or observation of the control processes at that point of a complex Fördersy stems can be made, at which a good visibility on the technical process or the given respective control processes. The local attachment of the operating and / or monitoring device also reduces the risk of incorrect operation or programming of a specific conveyor within a complex conveyor system.

Another advantage is the embodiment according to claim 10, since all or at least several types of conveyor modules are provided with one and the same control device, so that a modular arrangement to a comprehensive conveyor system is simplified. Furthermore, it is of particular advantage that the multiply formed N2005 / 06700 6 ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ·

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Communication interfaces are also formed on conveying devices with at least one Förderweg- diversion. Especially in the case of so-called node modules or crossing modules, no additional network components are required for data linkage with three or more subsequent conveying devices, which would have to be integrated with additional outlay into the data network between the various conveying devices.

By using additional measures according to claim 11, the basis for a dynamic maintenance detection and Femwartungsfahigkeit is created, especially by a distributed control intelligence with multiple controllers such be-lastungs- or event-oriented maintenance is economically implementable.

But also the development according to claim 12 is economically implementable when using a control device with decentralized control modules or control devices. It is advantageous that it is possible by detecting or measuring noises, vibrations and the like, relatively reliable and yet uncomplicated, early to detect any undesirable changes within the technical system and initiate preventive measures in a timely manner. As a result, a high system availability or increased reliability of the conveyor is achieved.

By the measures according to claim 13, the elicitation of incorrect or unfavorable processes is simplified. In addition, system optimization can be carried out without problems after the relevant data are also logged for past periods in the memory and preferably subsequently evaluated at any time via the head station or the material flow computer.

In the embodiment of claim 14 is advantageous that the performance of the conveyor or a composite conveyor system can be continuously optimized. Also, this improvement of the conveyor device is particularly economically feasible only by the formation of decentralized control devices in the conveyor system.

The development according to claim 15 enables an at least partially automated generation of operating software for the conveyor device. In particular, it is advantageous that the conveying device or its control device is already equipped with N2005 / 06700 -7- ····································································. English:. German: v3.espacenet.com/textdoc? DB = EPODOC & ... PN = EP0494351 a uniform control software that is identical for all control devices can be equipped so that the required basic functions can be fulfilled. Any additional or special functions can be implemented at any time in a simple manner by additional software modules. In particular, automated software generation for the programming of the electromechanical conveyor modules can be carried out at least partially via corresponding software tools. Optionally, depending on the layout of a composite conveyor system, an assignment of the particular logistic function, e.g. due to the neighborhood relationship of the respective conveyor, at least semi-automatically done. Such software generation for various conveying devices can be accompanied by query dialogs or else run fully automatically on the basis of the system layout. After a preferably performed plausibility check, a completely generated software module or control program can be loaded directly or via the data network into the control device of the corresponding conveyor device.

The second-mentioned object of the invention is achieved by an electrically controllable conveying device according to the features in claim 16.

This self-contained solution has the advantage that an automated adjustment of the conveying speed or the acceleration of the conveyed material to be demanded is simple and functionally reliable. As a result, on the one hand a gentle conveyance of the conveyed material allows and on the other hand, the maximum achievable performance or performance of the conveyor system can be exploited. In addition, this automated detection of the stability of the cargo or the transported material any disturbances in the flow of the conveyor system or critical delivery failures can be avoided. This also increases the plant availability or reliability of the control system. The specified in the characterizing part of claim 16 solution is especially advantageous in the formation of a control system with distributed or decentralized control devices. Only by the formation of conveying devices, which are decentralized controllable or have an independent control device, an optimal condition is created to implement the specified function of the sensory detection of Ladegut- or Fördergutverschiebungen or Fördergutverformun-gene economically meaningful. N2005 / 06700 -8- -8- ···· ··· ···························· ♦ · · · t ·

The advantage here is an embodiment according to claim 17, characterized in that depending on the dimensional stability or depending on the lability of the material to be conveyed, the respective optimal acceleration or conveying speed of the conveyor can be set automatically. The efficiency of the conveyor device is thus utilized in the best possible manner without there being any increased risk of damage to the conveyed material or a risk of faults or failures in the conveyor system.

In the embodiment according to claim 18, it is advantageous that slipping or unintentional displacement of a load or material to be conveyed can be detected by sensors in a simple and efficient manner.

The measures according to claim 19, it is possible in a simple manner, the Fördergutbeschleunigung or the maximum Fördergutgeschwindigkeit the conveyor depending on the stability or depending on the allowable acceleration values for the conveyed automatically adjust.

By the measures according to claim 20 also relatively unstable conveyed goods, like e.g. Stack of individual, superimposed elements to be transported quickly and yet safely or as trouble-free as possible.

The embodiment according to claim 21 guarantees a transport of sensitive goods taking into account the maximum load capacity, in particular taking into account the maximum acceleration or centrifugal forces.

The invention also includes a conveyor system as described in claim 22. An advantage of such a conveyor system is that there is a modular or modular system that extends from the mechanical conveyor modules to the modular control components. A significant advantage is that almost any complex conveyor systems can be constructed without the need for external network components or network distributors, e.g. at Förderwegverzweigungen to continue or continue the data network. This reduces the costs of the conveyor system, resulting in significant benefits for the producer as well as for the operator of the conveyor system. In addition, such a conveyor system of a modular design is relatively reliable. The invention is based on the following features: N2005 / 06700 -9- •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • · · · · · · • · · · · · · · · Easy to modify or expand, because on the one hand the mechanical conveyor modules and on the other hand also the electrotechnical Control technology modules can be relatively easily put together in functional operative connection.

The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings.

Show it:

Figure 1 is an exemplary, schematic representation of a conveyor system consisting of modular conveyor devices of different types each with associated control device and a plurality of identically ausgefuhrten communication interfaces for establishing a data network between the electrical control devices.

2 shows two conveying devices of a conveyor system, each with associated control devices and a data bus between the control devices in a simplified, schematic representation;

FIG. 3 shows the conveying devices according to FIG. 2 in plan view; FIG.

4 shows an exemplary conveyor system with a plurality of conveying path sections and a ring-closing data network between the control devices of individual conveying devices;

5 shows an exemplary structure of the control system with the respective electrical components as a simplified block diagram;

6 shows a modular control device for a conveying device in a simplified, schematic representation;

7 shows a conveyor system with a sensor system for detecting load offsets or conveyed material deformations as a result of transport accelerations;

Fig. 8 shows a further embodiment of a sensor for determining Fördergutverschiebungen or Fördergutverformungen. N2005 / 06700 - 10 ·· ······· · · · · · ·······································

By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the differently described embodiments, the same parts are provided with the same reference numerals or the same component names, wherein the disclosures contained in the entire description can be mutatis mutandis to the same parts with the same reference numerals or component names. Also, the location information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc. related to the immediately described and illustrated figure and these position information in a change in position mutatis mutandis to transfer to the new location. Furthermore, individual features or combinations of features from the different exemplary embodiments shown and described can also represent independent, inventive or inventive solutions.

In Fig. 1, a modular conveyor system 1 for piece goods 2 is exemplified. The chunky conveyed material 2 can be formed, for example, by packages, containers, workpiece carriers, workpieces or trays, pallets, etc., which are spent within the constructed conveyor system 1 by means of several, modular composite conveyors 3,4, 5 to different, respectively desired or required positions can be. The individual processes in the conveyor system 1 shown by way of example run at least partially automatically, for which purpose an electrical control system 6 is embodied, which comprises a plurality of electrical or electronic control devices 7. In particular, each of the conveying devices 3, 4, 5, or at least most of the structurally autonomously designed, modular conveying devices 3, 4, 5 has its own control device 7, at least for the automated control of the functional sequences of the respective conveying device 3, 4, 5. The control devices 7 are connected to one another via a standardized data bus 8 known from the prior art, so that the individual control devices 7 are connected to each other via a data network 9 in a data-technical connection. By means of the control devices 7 connected to the data network 9, an orderly data or information exchange or rapid data transmission is made possible between the control devices 7 of the various conveying devices 3, 4, without a large number of information or data lines being required. By means of the control technology coupled to each other control devices 7 so a basis for a scheduled control flow within the composite conveyor system 1 is created. In particular, the functional interaction between the local, in each case N2005 / 06700 11 11 • · • · • ·

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Intelligence having control devices 7 at the individual conveyors 3, 4.5 an automated, scheduled operation of the conveyor system 1 ensures. Via the data bus 8, inter alia, also control-related or process-relevant information is transferred between the conveying devices 3, 4, 5 which follow one another in the conveying direction of the conveyed material 2 or between their control devices 7.

The complete control system 6 for the conveyor system 1 includes, for example, a control computer 7 superordinate control computer or a so-called material flow computer 10. This material flow computer 10 can also be integrated via a data bus 8 in the data network 9 with the individual control devices 7. The material flow computer 10 may be formed by any programmable logic controller or by an industrial personal computer or by other, processing control programs, computing unit. The material flow computer 10 in turn can be coupled according to an extended imple mentation form with a central, resource-managing host computer 11, the processes or functionalities of the conveyor system 1 depending on the resources or requirements within a technical system, for example within a commodity or Warehouse or a baggage handling system, determined or managed. Likewise, the host computer 11 may be connected directly to a control device 7 or to a plurality of control devices 7.

The host computer 11 counts in particular to the highest level of plant control and can be part of a so-called ERP system (Enterprise Resource Program System).

The material flow computer 10 can rather be understood as a structurally independent executed master control, to which the individual, decentralized control devices 7 are connected in the manner of intelligent slave controllers.

The individual control devices 7 are successively connected to one another via the data bus 8 and coupled to the material flow computer 10 via this data bus 8. The control architecture between the individual control devices 7 and the material flow computer 10 thus includes decentralized, control technology intelligent or at least partially autonomous control devices 7. The N2005 / 06700 described below

Network architecture offers over the conventional architecture, which a stem resp. Tree-shaped wiring requires considerable advantages, as will be explained in more detail below.

As best seen in Figs. 2, 3, the generally self-contained, i.e. actively conveying, modularly constructed conveying devices 3,4, 5 within a complex, composite conveyor system 1 at least occasionally an electrical or sensory detection device 12 and / or at least occasionally a drive device 13 for implementing or execution of movements. The respective sensory detection devices 12 on the respective conveying devices 3, 4 are connected to the local control device 7 of the respective conveying device 3, 4, in particular to the corresponding inputs of the control device 7. In addition, each of the existing drive devices 13 or each actuator, which is mounted or arranged on or on a single conveyor device 3,4, 5 for implementing motion functions, connected to the corresponding outputs of the control device 7. On the basis of control or flow programs, which are to be processed by the various control devices 7 or by logical links of sensory detected states or on the basis of other, control-relevant conditions is optionally involving information from the material flow computer 10 and / or information from neighboring, ie of upstream and downstream conveyors 3,4,5 and their control devices 7 of the respectively desired or required initial state produced by the corresponding actuator or the corresponding drive device 13 is activated or deactivated. A program-technical linking of inputs of the control device 7 and an automated state change to the corresponding outputs of the control device 7 is well known to those skilled in the art and can be found for this most diverse versions of the prior art, which is not discussed in more detail on the control or programmtechnischen functions , In any case, each of the local control devices 7 is used on each of the autonomously functioning, modular conveyor devices 3,4,5 at least for controlling the associated conveyor device 3,4, 5, wherein based on data or control commands, which are transmitted via the data network 9, and optionally Based on information or states, which were determined via the local detection device 12, the corresponding output states or nominal states of the delivery N2005 / 06700 ····························································· Direction 3, 4, 5, 5, 5, 3, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6 or the total executed conveyor system 1 are manufactured or implemented automatically.

In order to be able to receive information relevant to the operation of neighboring, in particular of upstream or downstream conveying devices 3,4, 5 or to transmit such operationally relevant data or information and to integrate this information into the control processes or program-technically edit or via logical functions according to the To be able to link Boolean algebra, each of the control devices 7 preferably wired or line-bound communication onsschnittstellen 14 for data communication with the control device 7 of or at least one of the adjacent or adjacent conveyor devices 3,4, 5. In particular, the control devices 7 of the various conveying devices 3, 4, 5 are coupled to each other in terms of data or control technology via the communication interfaces 14 respectively formed on the individual control devices 7. Preferably, a serial connection between the control devices 7 of the individual conveyors 3,4, 5 is formed. That is, the data bus 8 is continued like a chain from a control device 7 to the next control device 7, so that the individual control device 7 of the various conveyor devices 3,4 are serially and chain-like strung together and form on the common data bus 8, the common data network 9, in which Preferably, the material flow computer 10 (FIG. 1) is also integrated.

Preferably, the control devices 7 of the immediately adjacent conveyors 3,4, 5 are connected to each other via the data bus 8 in order to achieve the shortest possible cable lengths. In principle, however, it is also possible for the control devices 7 to be coupled by means of comparatively widely spaced conveying devices 3, 4, 5 via the data bus 8 in terms of data or control technology.

It is essential that each control device 7 at each electrically controllable conveying device 3,4, 5 of the conveyor system 1 at least three, preferably four uniformly or identically executed communication interfaces 14 for data connection to communication-compatible control devices 7 immediately adjacent or the conveyor line weiteretzender conveying devices 3.4 , 5. This per control device 7 or per modular conveyor device 3,4, 5 multiple times, in particular at least three times, N2005 / 06700 - 14- • t ·· · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ···· In this case, preferably four-fold arranged communication interfaces 14 are functionally and structurally identical and have the same type and type of execution ,

Preferably, these multiply, in particular at least three times, but for example also five or six times built on the control devices 7, indiscriminate or same type formed communication interfaces 4 to build the data network 9 between the individual conveyor modules or conveyors 3,4, 5 indiscriminately or arbitrarily verifiably executed. That the at least triple, preferably fourfold, communication interfaces 14 on each of the control devices 7 can be used to establish a data communication link between the control devices 7 without a fixed ranking or without a specific assignment order, to an information or data network 9 between the individual Build control devices 7. In the case of linear or rectilinear conveying devices 3, 4, which are lined up essentially without gaps to achieve the required conveying path or conveying length and are connected to each other via the data bus 8, at least one communication interface 14 remains unoccupied per control device 7 if three similar communication interfaces 14 are activated the control device 7 are executed.

Preferably, individual, the data bus 8 forming cable connections, which each have electrical plug devices or plugs at the two cable ends, from a control device 7 to the next or subsequent control device 7. In particular, a between two adjacent conveyor devices 3.4 arranged conveyor 5 and their control device 7 by means of two separate cable connections, in particular by means of two so-called patch cables, connected via a first cable connection to the conveyor section, upstream conveyor device 3 and a second cable connection with the related to the conveyor line, downstream conveyor device 4, such as this is the illustration of FIG. 1 easy to see.

As a result of the above-described multiple arrangement of communication interfaces 14 at the control devices 7, at least one communication section will normally remain N2005 / 06700 ··· ····························································· 14 at the various control devices 7 unoccupied, whereby these at any time or if necessary for the connection of a mobile operating and / or or observation device, eg in the manner of a handheld terminal, and / or for connecting the material flow computer 10 can be used. Independently of this, a remote maintenance system or a so-called remote control system can be integrated via the data bus 8 and an unoccupied communication interface 14 of the control devices 7.

After a plurality of such communication interfaces 14 usually remain unoccupied in a conveyor system 1 consisting of a plurality of conveying devices 3, 4, 5, a locally ideal selection or wiring of a still free communication interface 14 is made possible by the operator or user. In addition, a particularly flexible extension of the control system 6 can be made after a plurality of locally distributed positions within the conveyor system 1 for extensions or additional connections are available.

The specified multiple arrangement of the functional or communication-physically identical communication interfaces 14 on at least one conveying device 3,4, 5 of a complex conveyor system 1 offers a number of advantages already described above. An advantageous conveyor device 3,4,5 with at least three, preferably four uniformly executed communication sections 14 can of course also be coupled to a conveyor module which has less than three, for example only two, uniformly executed, communication-compatible communication interfaces.

The sensory detection devices 12 described above on the various conveying devices 3, 4, 5 can be formed by any sensors, encoders or switches known from the prior art. In particular, sensors can be used in accordance with any physical principle of action to detect or detect operationally relevant states and to be able to evaluate them in terms of electrical engineering or control technology. Preferably, at least one opto-electrical light barrier is arranged as the detection device 12 in order to be able to automatically determine the presence and / or the position of a conveyed material 2 to be demanded. However, the sensory sensing device 12 may also include sensors or switches which are used to determine the location of the sensor. N2005 / 06700 -16 • ft • ft • · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Conveying members of the conveyor device 3, 4.5 are provided.

The drive devices 13 described above are understood to be any drives or actuators known from the prior art. In particular, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or other drive motors are included in the umbrella description "drive device 13". Under drive devices 13 but also actuators or switching valves are to be understood, which can activate or deactivate movement drives. In particular, solenoid valves are to be understood as a drive device 13 or as a control-engineering actuator.

The modular conveyor devices 3, 4, 5 of the conveyor system 1 have, at least occasionally, a controlled movable conveyor member 15. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the conveying devices 3, 4, 5 comprise rotatably mounted or in active rotary motion displaceable conveyor rollers 16 for the transported material to be transported 2. The conveyor devices 3,4, 5 shown in the figures are thus formed by so-called roller conveyor. Alternatively or in combination with such Rollenförderem can be designed as a conveyor device 3,4, 5 but also belt conveyors, belt conveyors, lifting or lowering platforms, curve conveyors and the like to form a coherent conveyor system 1 in combination. Each modulatively executed conveying device 3, 4, 5 comprises at least one associated control device 7, which is designed to implement the basic functions of the respective conveying device 3, 4, 5 in terms of control technology.

In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of conveyor rollers 16 of a conveyor 3,4,5 via suitable coupling mechanisms, such. Belt or gear connections, motion coupled and by means of a drive motor at least unidirectional, preferably bidirectional, driven.

4, an exemplary structure of a conveyor system 1, consisting of a plurality of individual conveyors 3,4,5 is schematically illustrated. At least some of the individual conveying devices 3, 4, 5 have the control device 7 at least for controlling the sequences or functions of the respectively associated conveying device 3, 4, 5. Preferably, a control device 7 is designed for each independent delivery module. N2005 / 06700 ·· · -17-

• • • • · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · The conveyor system 1 thus has a control system 6, which comprises a plurality of distributed control devices 7, so that a predominantly decentralized or distributed control architecture is present. As previously described, the individual control devices 7 are connected in series to a data network 9 by means of a data bus 8, which enables a regulated exchange of information or data between the control devices 7 within the data network 9. As has already been described above, the data network 9 between the distributed control devices 7 is also connected to a control-material superordinated material flow computer 10. The material flow computer 10 is preferably integrated via the same or matching data bus 8, preferably via a so-called Ethernet connection, into the data network 9 between the control devices 7 or between the individual conveying devices 3, 4, 5. For this purpose, the material flow computer 10 is preferably connected at any point of the conveyor system 1 via a standardized cable connection for the data bus 8, in particular via a so-called patch cable to a free communication interface 14 of the conveyor devices 3,4, 5.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the material flow computer 10 is integrated into the data network 9 with the control devices 7 via at least one further cable connection, in particular via a second data connection 17 at another location of the conveyor system 1 or via a further conveyor device 3,4, 5. The additional data connection 17 between the material flow computer 10 and the data network 9 is preferably identical in terms of its type to the data bus 8 or identical to the type of the data network 9. The data connection 17 is therefore preferably formed by a further Ethernet connection via which the material flow computer 10 integrates data into the data network 9 at a further layout position of the conveyor system 1, in particular via a free or unoccupied communication interface 14 of another control device 7.

As previously described, the material flow computer 10 may communicate over a local, standardized network connection 18, such as a network. a standard Ethemet connection (LAN) to be connected to a higher-level host computer 11. This host computer 11 can, as shown schematically, be formed by a single computing unit N2005 / 06700 -18- •·············································································· Or else can also be implemented by a plurality of arithmetic units. English: v3.espacenet.com/textdoc? The host computer 11 or the group of several networked data management systems can take over functions for a computer-aided warehouse management and / or a goods management or for an organizational management of a company or a company.

The control system 6 for the conveyor system 1 may also comprise at least one mobile operating and / or monitoring device 19. This operating and / or observation device 19 is preferably formed by a portable terminal 20, which allows a reprogramming and / or observation or verification of the control-technical processes of the control system 6. For this purpose, the mobile operating and / or observation device 19 at any point of the conveyor system 1 in the data network 9, which is constructed between the control devices 7 of the individual conveyors 3, 4.5, integrated or integrated data technology. In particular, the mobile operating and / or observation device 19 can be connected via a data cable 21 to a free or in-use communication interface 14 of any control device 7. Preferably, each of the control devices 7 in the data network 9 to a unique address or distinctive identifier, as is well known in the prior art. In the illustrated embodiment, the operating and / or monitoring device 19 has been connected to a free communication interface 14 of the control device 7 with the address or identifier 22. In an advantageous manner can be made by the multiple arrangement of the communication interfaces 14, the connection of the mobile operating and / or observation device 19 in the vicinity or close range of those conveying device 3,4, 5, in which programming or observation activities by an authorized operator or Administrator are necessary. Due to the optional connectability of the mobile operating and / or monitoring device 19 at a plurality of possible locations within the conveyor system 1, good visibility of the respective processes is ensured, so that the likelihood of possible incorrect operation or incorrect programming of the respective conveyor 3,4, 5 essential can be reduced.

Alternatively or in combination with a wired integration of a mobile operating and / or monitoring device 19 into the data network 9, this data can be stored in the data network 9. Be made via a wire or contactless data interface 22. This wireless data interface 22 of the mobile operating and / or monitoring device 19 is provided for contactless data exchange within a radio network 23 (WLAN). The material flow computer 10 preferably forms an access component 24, in particular a so-called "access point" for the radio network 23, or an access component 24 for a standardized radio network 23 is connected to the material flow computer 10. Alternatively, it is also possible to assign the access component 24 for a radio network 23 to a head end 37 (FIG. 5).

According to a conceivable alternative, at least a part number or all the control devices 7 of the conveying devices 3, 4, 5 can be in data communication with one another via a radio network 23, for example a standardized WLAN data network, and the required information, data or commands can be wireless or contactless change. The communication interfaces 14 on the control devices 7 are formed for the alternative case of the formation of a radio network 23 by transmitting and / or receiving antennas for electromagnetic waves.

As is best seen in FIG. 4, the control devices 7 are formed on the various conveying devices 3, 4, 5 for establishing at least one annularly closed communication path 25 between the control devices 7 of a plurality of conveying devices 3, 4, 5. That is, the data network 9 between the control devices 7 may comprise a circular closed communication path 25 or a plurality of annular closed communication paths 25 between individual groups of control devices 7. In particular, at least one subset of the control devices 7 is interconnected in a circular fashion via the data bus 9 or is networked together in a ring shape. In particular, a structurally endless communication path 25 is established between a plurality of control devices 7 or between a plurality of conveying devices 3, 4, 5.

In the illustrated embodiment, a first control device 7, e.g. with the address or identifier 4 with further control devices 7 with the identifiers 5,11,15, 14,13,10,3 connected in series. In addition, the last control device 7 with the address N2005 / 06700 • · • · 20 ·· ··· ♦ ··· ······································································ «· ♦ ···· · ♦ · ♦ ·· ··

se 3 in the chain-like networked control devices 7 is connected via a ring closure connection 26 with the quasi first or initial control device 7 with the identifier 4. This ring connection 26 is formed in a simple manner by a data cable which is identical to the data cables or connecting cables between the other control devices 7 of the data network 9 is executed. Such a ring-closure connection 26 between a plurality of control devices 7 or the formation of at least one annular communication path 25 substantially increases the availability of the conveyor system 1. In particular, multiple or redundant communication paths between the control devices 7 are created by the construction of the annular communication path 25 between a plurality of control devices 7 or due to the ring closure connection 26. For example, e.g. if, between the control device 7 with the identifier 4 and, for example, the material flow computer 10 or the head station 37 a unidirectional or bidirectional data exchange is to take place, this usually via the shortest serial data connection between the control devices 7 with the identifiers 5,11,15 , 19,21 realized. However, if there is an interruption of the shortest, usual communication path between the control device 7 with the identifier 4 and the material flow computer 10 or the head end 37 - as described e.g. can occur in a cable break or other defect - so may due to the annular communication path 25 or due to the ring closure 26 in the data network 9, the corresponding information on the control devices 7 with the identifiers 3,10,13,14,15, 19,21 be transferred to the material flow computer 10. Of course, an information or data transmission, for example, starting from the material flow computer 10 or starting from the head station 37 via this alternative, redundant data transmission path to the control device 7 with the identifier 4 is possible. By targeted construction of annular closed communication paths 25 between a plurality of control devices 7 so a communication redundancy is created, which nevertheless allows a maintenance of the operation of the conveyor system 1 in case of failure of individual data connections between the control devices 7 in an advantageous manner. The plant availability is thus increased, so that a significant benefit or advantage for the user of the conveyor system 1 can set after the reliability is increased accordingly. N2005 / 06700 21 • · * · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ···········································

• · · · · ·······

A particular advantage of this communication redundancy via the at least ring-closure connection 25 or via the at least one annular communication path 25 is also that an emergency stop or emergency stop can be initiated with increased reliability or safety. In particular, such a stop command for the conveyor system 1 or for at least one conveyor device 3, 4, 5 can also be implemented if the actually provided signal path is not available for unforeseeable reasons or the basically responsible signal path has been interrupted. In addition, by forming a ring closure connection 26 between a plurality of control devices 7, the reaction time to general control commands or to a quick stop command (emergency stop) can be minimized. This is especially true if such, possibly time-critical shutdown or. Stop commands between one of the control devices 7 and the material flow computer 10 and / or the host computer 11 are to be transmitted. However, a transmission of such stop commands can also be necessary starting from the material flow computer 10 and / or host computer 11 to one of the control devices 7 or Fördervomchtungen 3,4,5 in the conveyor system 1 reliably and within the shortest possible time.

After the control devices 7 have at least three, preferably four uniformly executed, preferably contact-type or electrical communication interfaces 14 for forming the data network 9, an annularly closed communication path 25 can be built up, without additional components, such as e.g. Switches, hubs or the like., To integrate into the data network 9. An advantage of this multi-port solution to the control devices 7 of the Fördervomchtungen 3,4, 5 is thus also that no more expensive, additional network components must be integrated into the data network 9 and still an advantageous communication redundancy can be created in a simple manner by a communication or signaling ring closure 26 can be constructed between the first control device 7 and the last control device 7 within a group of a plurality of conveyors 3,4,5.

The conveying devices 5 with the addresses or identifiers 3, 5, 8, 23 and 15, which are shown schematically in FIG. 4, each have at least one conveying branch branch 27, 28 or allow these conveying devices 5 branches or branches of conveying pieces. In particular, these conveying devices 5 are formed by node modules or crossing modules named so-called N2005 / 06700. Especially with such conveying devices 5 with at least one possible conveying path branch 27, 28, it is of particular advantage that their control devices 7 have at least three or four identical or identically designed communication interfaces 14 for data connection to communication-compatible control devices 7 immediately adjacent or immediately following, the conveyor line weiteretzender conveying devices 3.4 have. In particular, continuations of the data network 9 can be created and / or annular communication paths 25 can be established without additional network components having to be integrated into the data network 9. As a result, on the one hand, a compact, manageable structure of the data network 9 is maintained and, on the other hand, expensive additional or distribution components in the data network 9 between the control devices 7 are unnecessary.

The formation of a ring closure connection 26 or a closed communication path 25 between control devices 7 of a plurality of conveying devices 3, 4, 5 is fundamentally not restricted to conveying devices 3, 4, 5 which are installed in a ring. In particular, 3,4,5 ring-closure connections 26 can also be made in a linear or arbor-shaped conveyor system 1 between individual control devices 7 or between individual groups of arbitrarily arranged conveying devices.

FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram relating to a possible structure of the control system 6 for a complex conveyor system 1 (FIG. 4). This block diagram also depicts the hierarchy of the various components within the control system 6.

Starting from a control device 7 for a modular conveying device 3, 4, 5 (FIG. 4), a variety of subcomponents or peripheral devices are connected to the control device 7 of the respective ones via standardized bus systems, in particular via fieldbus systems 29, such as CAN, PROFIbus, DeviceNet and the like Conveyor 3,4,5 attachable. Peripheral components include barcode scanners or RFEDs (radio frequency identification) readers 30, label printers and / or weighing devices 31 for transportable N2005 / 06700 -23-

Conveyed goods and / or controls for building components, e.g. Gate controllers 32 for high-speed room dividers, such as Shutters or blinds, to understand.

According to an advantageous embodiment, an image acquisition device 33, in particular a network-capable video camera or a so-called "webcam", is connected to the control device 7. Via this image capturing device 33, it is possible to record the environment around the corresponding conveying device 3, 4, 5 in a video-like manner and to transmit the captured image or sound data via the data network 9 to widely spaced locations, in particular also to globally distant locations. By means of this image capturing device 33 on at least one of the decentralized control devices 7 then a Femwartung or assistance in a troubleshooting can be carried out particularly efficiently from far away or globally remote locations in a simple manner.

The previously described, mobile operating and / or monitoring device 19 can either also be connected via a fieldbus system 29 to the control device 7 or be integrated via a blank communication interface 14 in the data network 9 between a plurality of control devices 7.

Furthermore, a plurality of input and output modules 34 for the control device 7 can be connected via the local control bus or field bus of the control device 7. These input and output modules 34 on the control device 7 allow the connection of any actuators or sensors. In particular, optionally required coding circuits, solenoid valves, heaters, temperature sensors, power drives, contactor circuits, engine starting devices, frequency converters and the like can be connected via the input and output interfaces of the input and output modules. Furthermore, a detection device 12 in the manner of a data light barrier for object detection can be integrated into the control system 6 via such an input and output module 34.

It is advantageous if the control device 7 also has an input and / or output module 35 with increased functional reliability or increased control priority. This highly secure input and / or output module 35 is preferably used to integrate at least one emergency stop switching device 36 into the control system 6. N2005 / 06700 -24- ·· ··· ♦ ····· ·· ····· ····· ······ ··· ···················

The control devices 7 integrated in the data network 9 are also connected to the material flow computer 10 via this data network 9. Between the material flow computer 10 and the network of the control devices 7 and at least one optionally required control technology head station 37 may be arranged, which can take over central administration services or which may be required for the connection of the control devices 7 to the material flow computer 10 and which at least in part can take over the functionalities described for the previously described material flow computer 10.

At least one security-relevant or security-based control device 38 can also be embedded in the data network 9. This safety-based control device 38 serves to achieve or guarantee a particularly personal and / or functionally reliable operation of the conveyor system 1.

However, at least one stationary operating and / or monitoring device 19 (HMI: human-machine interface) can also be integrated into the data network 9, as was exemplified in FIG.

The material flow computer 10 for superordinate management of the material or transport flows can be coupled to an additional warehouse management computer 39 and / or to an electronic goods management system 40 and / or to a resource management system 41 (ERP). Optionally, the warehouse management computer 39 and / or the goods management system 40 and / or the resource management system 41 can also be integrated into the material flow computer 10 or form a subset of the material flow computer 10.

According to an advantageous embodiment, a Femanbindungsrechner 42, in particular a so-called RemotePC, can be integrated into the control system 6 for the conveyor system 1. This Femanbindungsrechner 42 is coupled on the one hand with the material flow computer 10 and / or with the data network 9 data technology and on the other hand via a communication device 43, such. a modem or network router into a global communications network, e.g. the Internet 44, einbindbar. By means of this Femanbindungsrechner 42 it is possible in the control system 6 for the N2005 / 06700 -25- ···························································································. «· ····· ·················································································································································································································

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary construction of the control device 7 for a conveyor device 3, 4, 5. The electronic control device 7 itself is preferably likewise of modular construction and comprises a program-controlled central unit 45 with at least one microprocessor for forming a programmable program-controlled automatic control. The at least three, preferably four identically or uniformly executed, communication interfaces 14 for on-demand connection to the control devices 7 of further conveying devices 3, 4, 5 (FIG. 1) are formed on this central unit 45.

To this central unit 45 a plurality of input and output modules 34 can be coupled. These input and output modules 34 have a plurality of inputs and outputs for the electrical connection of the various sensors and actuators of the corresponding conveyor device 3, 4 or 5 (FIGS. 2, 3). As is well known, the input and output modules 34 may also include a plurality of display devices 46, such as those shown in Figs. LED's, for visualization of the respective states of the inputs and / or outputs. At least one optical and / or acoustic display device 46 may also be executed on the central unit 45. Optionally, the central processing unit 45 or the control unit 7 may also comprise an input device, such as an input device. Button, switch or the like., Have.

Depending on the application, the individual input and output modules 34 can correspond to a higher-quality or lower-grade protection class or insulation class (IP class). The individual input and output modules 34 are signal-coupled via a local communication bus 47 with the central unit 45. An advantage of the modular control device 7 for the various conveying devices 3, 4, 5 (FIG. 1) is that the functionality of the control device 7 can be easily removed in accordance with the respective requirements.

The control device 7, in particular its central unit 45, comprises at least one microcontroller 48. This microcontroller 48 is connected to the communication interfaces 14 of the control device 7. Among other things, the microcontroller 48 is programmed or executed in order to provide an address-based routing function for the device at the time of communication. N2005 / 06700 26 26 ♦ ··· ··················································································. · · · ····· ·

• Implementing 14 incoming data packets. In particular, in the control unit 7 or in the microcontroller 48, a functionality similar to a so-called router is included. This advantageously makes it possible to use separate network components, e.g. Switches, unnecessary. Among other things, an increased compactness of the overall control system 6 (FIG. 1) is thereby achieved and, in addition, the susceptibility of the control system 6 to interference is reduced.

The microcontroller 48 is thus inter alia for the evaluation of the data packets or its addresses, which are received at the multiply, in particular at least three or four times arranged communication interfaces 14, is provided. Furthermore, this microcontroller 48 of the control unit 7 is provided for forwarding or transferring a received data packet to one of the further communication interfaces 14.

The forwarding or transfer to the corresponding communication interface 14 takes place taking into account the destination address or taking into account the most direct possible communication path to the intended control device 7 within the data network. 9

According to an advantageous embodiment, the at least one microcontroller 48 is configured or programmed in the control device 7 of a conveying device 3, 4, 5 (FIG. 1) for receiving and evaluating data packets with priority markings. In addition, the microcontroller 48 of each control device 7 within the conveyor system 1 (FIG. 1) is designed or programmed for generating and sending data packets with priority identifications, and for prioritizing the individual data packets. This ensures that important or safety-relevant information with increased priority is processed or evaluated by the control system 6 (FIG. 1).

It is expedient if the microcontroller 48 is designed or programmed in order to form a priority order for processing or processing the data packets upon receipt of a plurality of data packets with different priority labels. The availability of the system or the responsiveness of the control to various events is thereby considerably improved.

Due to the decentralized placement of a plurality of control devices 7 within the conveyor system 1 (FIG. 1), it is either possible or relatively inexpensive N2005 / 06700 27 27 ···· ·· ·· · ·· ····· · · · · · · · ·· ·· · ·

It is possible to implement various sensor systems in the control system 6 or in the control sequences of the conveyor system 1. In particular, it may be expedient if at least one control device 7 has a delivery counter 49 and / or an operating hours counter. As a result, the utilization or service life of the corresponding conveying device 3,4, 5 (FIG. 1) can be detected, whereupon load-dependent maintenance or service is required. Service messages can be generated automatically. Such a conveyor counter 49 is preferably realized by software, but can also be implemented by an additional sensory counter component.

Alternatively or in combination, at least one control device 7 may be connected to at least one vibration sensor 50 arranged on the conveyor members 15 (FIG. 2) and / or on the support frame. As a result, any malfunctions or defects in the mechanical components of the conveying device 3, 4, 5 can be automatically detected and corresponding errors or warning messages generated. Such service or warning messages can be signaled locally to the control device 7 and / or transmitted via the data network 9 to the material flow computer 10 or the host computer 11 (FIG. 4) or to a globally remote service control center.

The decentralized or distributed control devices 7 within a conveyor system 1 (FIG. 1) also allow a simple integration of noise-sensitive sensors or of at least one acoustic detection device 12, in particular of at least one microphone 51. This acoustic detection device 12 or the at least one Microphone 51 is preferably connected to an input of the control device 7, in particular to an input of the input and output modules 34 or to an input of the central unit 45 and to detect noises in the environment of the respective conveyor device 3,4, 5 (FIG. 4) , As a result, early e-damage can be detected, which occur due to excessive stress or wear and tear. These sensory detected states can be evaluated automatically and used for the timely deposition of automatic service or status information.

It can be expedient if the control device 7 has at least one digital memory device 52, in particular a fault memory for storing and proto- N2005 / 06700 -28- ······································································ ························································································································································································································································ This functionality enables efficient fault localization or troubleshooting.

The control device 7 of at least one conveying device 3, 4, 5 (FIG. 1) can also be designed to determine the demand of the technical load or conveyed goods load of the conveying devices 3, 4, 5. The determined data can be logged and / or forwarded by the control device 7. In particular, such data can be sent to the material flow computer 10 and / or the host computer 11 and / or to globally distanced service centers.

It may be expedient if the control device 7 is connected to a storage device 52 for depositing a basic software that is common to all conveyors 3, 4, 5 and for storing type-specific or function-specific additional software. As a result, a certain basic configuration of the conveying devices 3, 4, 5 (FIG. 4) is already possible at the factory and system-specific or application-specific adaptations or additions to the basic software are made possible at any time without problems. By a certain basic equipment with operating software, the effort to install a complex conveyor system 1 (Fig. 4) can be reduced in an advantageous manner.

The sensors or actuators described above, wherein the actuator is also an engine start unit or a frequency converter for drive motors, can be connected to the central unit 45 via a fieldbus system and / or connected to the input and output modules 34 of the central unit 45 ,

In Fig. 7, an electrically controllable conveyor 3 is illustrated for piece-like conveyed 2. The conveying device 3 comprises at least one electrically controllable drive device 13 for at least one conveying member of the conveying device 3. Furthermore, at least one electrotechnical detecting device 12 is formed on the conveying device 3. The sensory detecting device 12 and the driving device 13 are connected to an electric control device 7 for controlling the operations of the conveying device 3. The control device 7 can be arranged directly on the conveyor device 3 or mounted on the support frame. N2005 / 06700 -29- ································································································· ··· ···················

It is essential that this control device 7 is formed with a detection device 12 for determining the dimensional stability and / or a drive slip of a conveyed material 2 to be demanded. As a result, conveyance-related conveyance of the material to be conveyed 2 can be accomplished without requiring a highly complex structure or an overall structure that excessively increases the overall cost. In particular, this sensory detection device 12 makes it possible to achieve maximum conveying speeds or maximum accelerations of the conveying speed, without impairing the conveyed material 2.

The above-mentioned detection device 12 comprises at least one sensor 53 for detecting the relative positions between a lower and an upper portion of a conveyed material 2 to be conveyed. This at least one sensor 53 is formed by a distance or distance measuring sensor operating without contact or contact , The sensor 53 can be formed by an optical sensor, for example a laser sensor, or an electroacoustic sensor, in particular an ultrasonic sensor. In any case, a deviation of the material to be conveyed 2 as a result of accelerations or centrifugal forces during the transport of the material to be conveyed 2 can be detected via the at least one sensor 53 on the control device 7. If the sensors 53 operate on the optical principle, they can be formed by light barrier arrangements. Preferably, at least two sensors 53, in particular displacement or distance sensors or light barrier arrangements, are arranged one above the other in the vertical direction, as can be seen by way of example in FIG.

The conveyed material 2 can be formed by a pallet load, for example, with stacked superimposed individual elements, in which an increased sensitivity to accelerations and / or centrifugal forces is required.

The control device 7 is designed or programmed in order to evaluate the values recorded sensory by the detection device 12 and thus to draw conclusions about possible displacements or deformations of the conveyed material 2.

According to an advantageous sequence for determining the maximum possible acceleration of the conveyed material, different acceleration values are first passed through or tested by the conveying device 3, until finally an override of the control device 7 is obtained. · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ····· a limit value of the load or conveyed material displacement or a deformation of the goods is determined. The permissible acceleration value determined in this way is then forwarded to the affected control device 7 with the charge or conveyed data as the value to be maintained for this transport direction, and its possibly existing values are correspondingly corrected.

Such a charge scanning and automated adjustment of the conveying speed or acceleration of the material to be conveyed 2 makes it possible to achieve optimum performance of the conveying device 3 or a modular composite conveyor system.

In Fig. 8, another embodiment for the determination or detection of cross-border deviations or deformations of the conveyed material 2 on a conveyor device 3 as a result of accelerations or centrifugal forces is illustrated.

In this case, at least one sensor 53 is formed on the conveyed material 2, which is coupled to the control device 7 in a contact or wireless manner, or connected by signal technology. In particular, at least one acceleration sensor is attached to the conveyed material 2, which receives the respective occurring acceleration values on the conveyed material 2. The respectively present acceleration values are transmitted wirelessly to a transmitting and / or receiving device 54 of the control device 7. When the upper limit value of the acceleration difference or conveying speed is exceeded, a permissible, maximum possible value is automatically determined by the control device 7. The acceleration-sensitive sensor 53 on the conveyed material 2 can be embodied as a transponder or as a radio frequency operation. The transmitting and / or receiving device 54, which is connected to the control device 7 or integrated into the control device 7, has at least one transmitting and / or receiving antenna for receiving radio data of the sensor 53.

If the sensor 53 is formed by a battery-free operating transponder, the transmitting and / or receiving device 54 is provided for emitting an electromagnetic alternating field in order to ensure the supply of the sensor 53 with electrical energy. Optionally, two such acceleration sensors 53 are formed, wherein one of the sensors 53 is placed in the lower portion of the conveyed material 2 and the further sensor 53 is disposed in the upper portion of the conveyed material 2. N2005 / 06700 -31 - ·· ··· ·············································· ···································

Device 7 acts on the drive device 13 of the conveyor device 3 in a controlled or regulating manner as a function of the possible or permissible acceleration.

Preferably, the control device 7 is connected to a storage device 52 for the storage of delivery-product-specific limits for Fördergutbeschleunigungen. These limits in the storage device 52 may be subject to adaptive change by the sensory sensing device 12.

The transmitting and / or receiving device 53 can also be formed by a non-contact reading device 55, which monitors an acceleration sensor 53 designed as a transponder or as a radio frequency on the conveyed material 2 to be transported or records its measured values.

It is expressly stated at this point that the communication interfaces 14 described in FIGS. 1 to 6 in connection with a conveying device 3, 4, 5, in particular at least three times, preferably four times, execute a data connection to at least one further communication-compatible one Communication interface 14 and control device 7 a further conveyor device 3,4, 5 enable or provide. In other words, at least the data communication between the control devices 7 of a plurality of conveying devices 3, 4, 5 is identical or functionally identical. For example, at least three, preferably four, communication interfaces 14 according to the Ethemet standard or the like, are executed on the control devices 7 of conveying devices 3, 4, 5 of the conveyor system 1. With regard to the structural design or with respect to the hardware nature, these multiply formed communication interfaces 14 of a control device 7 can also be designed differently. So it is e.g. possible that two communication interfaces 14 of the multiply executed communication interfaces 14 are executed by default, and at least one further, communication-physically compatible or identical communication interface 14, for example, a higher protection class or a higher insulation class (IP class) has. Conveniently, at least those communications interface (s) 14 are implemented in a higher protection or isolation class, e.g. due to not N2005 / 06700

··· ···· ·· # · ········· ········ existing or due to the plant layout not required Förderwegverzweigungen often or usually remains unoccupied or remain.

In particular, structurally or hardware-technically different types of sockets or plugs can be executed - but the communication protocols used should be uniform. It is therefore essential that at least three, preferably four, functionally identical or uniformly executed communication interfaces 14 are executed, which are mutually communication-compatible, ie implement the same or a compatible communication protocol.

Thus, it is e.g. within the scope of the invention, for example, if two standard Ethemet communication interfaces 14 are implemented and in addition at least one further Ethemet communication interface 14 is implemented, which e.g. in addition to transmitting or providing higher electrical energy is suitable. In particular, a standard Ethemet communication interface 14 and an Ethernet communication interface 14 extended with respect to the energy transmission performance, in particular a so-called "Power Over Ethemet" interface, are functionally identical and functionally uniform, since both interface types are communication compatible with each other. In a so-called "power-over-ethernet communication interface 14", in comparison to a standard Ethemet communication interface 14, only higher electrical power can be transmitted via the cable connections and / or via the plug interfaces or plug sockets. In particular, electrical energy for supplying the network participants or consumers connected to this communication interface 14 can be transmitted via such a "power-over-ethernet" communication interface 14. In this case, the electrical supply energy can be transmitted to the same lines or cable pairs, on which the communication-relevant data are transmitted. Alternatively, in the formation of "power-over-ethernet" communication interfaces 14, the unused or reserved cores or pairs of lines can be used for the transmission of electrical supply energy. This means that the sockets of the at least three, preferably four, communication interfaces 14 of the individual control devices 7 or conveying devices 3, 4, 5 are structurally N2005 / 06700 -33- ·················· English:. German: v3.espacenet.com/textdoc? can be like this with standard Ethemet communication interfaces 14 compared to more powerful Power-Over-Ethemets

Communication interfaces 14 is the case. An advantageous, data-technical connection or coupling to communication-compatible control devices 7 further conveying devices 3,4, 5 is namely in both versions of this structurally or hardware technically differently designed interfaces nevertheless possible in an advantageous manner.

One possible application is e.g. the formation of at least one power-over ethernet communication interface 14 for problem-free, on-demand connection of a mobile operating and / or observation device 19 or a mobile terminal 20 with higher energy and power requirements. Such an operating and / or monitoring device 19 can be easily connected to a correspondingly higher performance communication interface 14 on a conveyor device 3, 4, 5 within the conveyor system 1 at any time. In terms of data technology and communication physics, this stronger in terms of electrical supply power communication interface 14 namely do the same communication protocol as possibly additionally arranged standard Ethernet communication interfaces 14 on the control device 7. The decentralized control devices 7 can each other, for example by using TCP / IP Communication protocols communicate data technically.

The embodiments show possible embodiments of the conveyor system 1 and the electrically controllable conveyor device 3,4, 5, wherein it should be noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated embodiments thereof, but rather also various combinations of the individual embodiments with each other possible and this possibility of variation is due to the doctrine of technical action by objective invention in the skill of those skilled in this technical field. There are therefore also all possible embodiments, which are possible by combinations of individual details of the illustrated and described embodiment, the scope of protection. N2005 / 06700 -34- · «· + · * ··· ························································································· · · · · ········

For the sake of order, it should finally be pointed out that, for a better understanding of the structure of the electrically controllable conveying devices 3, 4, 5, these or their components have been shown partially unevenly and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size.

The individual, in Figs. 1; 2.3; 4; 5; 6; 7; The embodiments shown in FIG. 8 can form the subject of independent solutions according to the invention. The relevant objects and solutions according to the invention can be found in the detailed descriptions of these figures. N2005 / 06700 • · • · · · · · · ··· ···

Reference numeral 1 conveyor system 2 conveyed material 3 conveying device 4 conveying device 5 conveying device 6 control system 7 control device 8 data bus 9 data network 10 material flow computer 11 host computer 12 detecting device 13 driving device 14 communication interface 15 conveying device 16 conveying roller 17 data connection 18 network connection 19 operating and / or monitoring device 20 terminal 21 data cable 22 Data interface 23 Radio network 24 Access component 25 Communication path 26 Ring connection 27 Conveyor branch 28 Conveyor branch 29 Fieldbus system 30 RFID reader 31 Weighing device 32 Gate controller 33 Image capture device 34 Input and output module 35 Input and / or output module 36 Emergency stop switching device 37 Head station 38 Control device 39 Warehouse management computer 40 Merchandise management system 41 Resource management system 42 Femanbindungsrechner 43 Communication device 44 Internet 45 CPU 46 Display device 47 Communication bus 48 Microcontroller 49 Conveyor counter 50 Vibration sensor 51 Microphone 52 Memory device 53 Sensor 54 Transmitter and / or receiver 55 Reader N2005 / 06700

Claims (22)

-1 - · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device (3,4, 5) for piece-like conveyed material (2), comprising at least one electrically controllable drive device (13) for at least one conveying member (15) and / or at least one electrotechnical detection device (12) for operationally relevant states, wherein the drive device (13) and / or the detection device (12) is provided with an electrical control device (7) for controlling the operations of the conveying device (3, 4.5) and the control device (7) has at least one wire-bound or line-bound communication interface (14) for the data-technical connection with the control device (7) of a further conveying device (3, 4, 5), characterized in that d at least one control device (7) at least three, preferably four, functionally identical, uniformly executed communication interfaces (14) for data connection to communication compatible control devices (7) preferably immediately adjacent or the conveyor line weiteretzender Fördervomchtungen (3,4, 5). 2. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that the multiply arranged communication interfaces (14) are functionally or physically identical in terms of communication and constructed to establish a communication connection with at least one conveying device (3, 4, 5) randomly assignable. 3. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control device (7) with its communication interfaces (14) for forming an annular closed communication path (25) between the control devices (7) of a plurality of conveying devices (3,4, 5 ) is trained. N2005 / 06700 ································································································································································································································· 9 99 ········ 9999 The invention relates to a storage device (52) for depositing a basic software which is uniform for all conveying devices (3, 4, 5) and for storing type-specific or function-specific additional software. 4. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication interfaces (14) are formed by at least three, preferably four Ethemet ports. 5. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (7) comprises at least one microcontroller (48) which is connected to the communication interfaces (14) and trained to execute an address-based routing function for incoming data packets or programmed is. 6. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to claim 5, characterized in that the microcontroller (48) is provided for evaluating an incoming at one of the communication interfaces (14) data packet and for forwarding or transfer to a communication interface (14) which to the destination address or is closest to the intended control device (7) or results in a communication path that is as direct as possible. 7. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to claim 5, characterized in that the microcontroller (48) is designed for receiving and evaluating and for generating and sending data packets with priority labels for the data packet. 8. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to claim 7, characterized in that the microcontroller (48) is formed upon receipt of a plurality of data packets with different priority labels for forming a priority order for the processing or processing of the data packets. 9. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the communication interfaces (14) for on-demand connection of a mobile, portable operating and monitoring N2005 / 06700 • • • • 94 4 4999 44 * ♦ • 4 9 9 4 4 • 9 • • • 9 9 9 9 9 9 • 9 • 9 9 9 9999 • • 9 • • • 4 9 4 • • • • 49 99 4 • 49 ···· device (19) for states of the conveyor device (3,4, 5) and / or a composite conveyor line is formed. 10. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is formed by a linear and / or sheet conveyor and / or by a conveying device (5) with at least one Förderstreckenabzweigung (27,28). 11. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (7) has at least one operating hours counter and / or Fördergutzähler (49) and / or with at least one, on the conveying members (15) and / or on the support frame arranged vibration sensor (50) is connected. 12. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (7) with at least one acoustic detection device (12) for detecting noise in the environment of the conveying device (3,4,5) is connected. 13. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (7) comprises at least one digital storage device (52) for depositing and logging operationally hazardous or operationally disturbing conditions. 14. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (7) for determining the conveyor technology utilization or the conveyed goods load of the conveyor device (3, 4, 5) and for logging and / or forwarding of the determined data is formed , 15. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (7) with a N2005 / 06700 16. electrically decentralized controllable conveying device (3, 4, 5) for piece-like conveyed material (2), comprising at least one electrically controllable drive device (13) for at least one conveying member (15) and / or at least one electrotechnical detecting device (12) for operationally relevant states, wherein the drive device (13) and / or the detection device (12) is / are connected to at least one electrical control device (7) for controlling the processes of the conveying device (3, 4, 5), characterized in that at least one control device (7) with a detection device (12) for determining the dimensional stability or a drive slip of a conveyed material to be conveyed (2) is connected. 17, electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to claim 16, characterized in that the control device (7) with at least one sensor (53) for detecting the relative positions between a lower and an upper portion of a conveyed material to be conveyed (2) is formed. 18. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that at least two displacement or distance measuring sensors or light barrier arrangements are arranged one above the other in the vertical direction. 19. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the control device (7) with at least one transmitting and / or receiving device (54) for detecting an acceleration-sensitive sensor (53) on a conveyed conveyed (2 ) connected is. 20. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to claim 19, characterized in that the transmitting and / or receiving device (54) by a non-contact reading device (55) for a transponder or for a Funkfrequenzeti- N2005 / 06700 -5- · · chain is formed with an acceleration sensor (53) on the transported material to be transported (2). 21. Electrically decentralized controllable conveying device according to claim 16, characterized in that the control device (7) is connected to a storage device (52) for the storage of conveyance-specific limits for Fördergutbeschleunigungen. 22 conveying system (1) of a plurality of juxtaposed conveyor devices (3,4, 5) for forming a composite, optionally branched conveyor line for chunky goods (2), characterized in that the conveyor system (1) a plurality of electrically controllable decentralized conveyor devices (3 , 4,5) according to one or more of the preceding claims. TGW Transportgeräte GmbH by ·) (Dr. N2005 / 06700