DE102009031161A1 - Device for transport of articles to processing device, has supply device, buffer device and regulator, where fill level sensors of buffer modules are designed, to measure mass for actual fill level of buffer modules - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has a supply device (Z-M), a buffer device and a regulator, where the fill level sensors (FS-1,FS-2,FS-3) of the buffer modules (P-1,P-2,P-3) are designed, to measure a mass for the actual fill level of the buffer modules. The regulator is designed to regulate the supply of articles in each buffer module by using the measured fill level mass such that the actual level of the buffer modules in the given area. An independent claim is also included for a method for transport of articles to a processing device.

Description

The The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for transporting from items, especially postal items, to one Processing device using at least one buffer device with several buffer modules connected in series.

An apparatus having the features of the preamble of claim 1 and a method having the features of the preamble of claim 14 are made US 2008/0000814 A1 known.

• – mit einer „infeed function”, in dem weitere Postsendungen dem Stapel zugeführt werden,
• – mit einer „extraction function”, in der Postsendungen vom Stapel abgezogen werden, oder
• – mit einer „halt function”, in der das Speichermodul deaktiviert ist,

betrieben.In US 2008/0000814 A1 An arrangement with three parallel memory modules will be described. A feeder transports flat and upright mailpieces on a feed transport path to the memory modules. From this feed transport path, three feed paths branch off to the three memory modules. In each memory module, a stack of flat mail items is formed in each case. The growing pile moves a so-called cutting knife. An underfloor conveyor belt shifts the stack to the cutting knife. An additional mail item is transported on the feed path to the stack and withdrawn in the opposite direction again from this stack, namely on the principle of "Last In - First Out" (LIFO). Here, the cutting knife presses on the stack. Each memory module is optional

• With an "infeed function", in which further mailpieces are fed to the stack,
• - with an "extraction function", in which mail is removed from the stack, or
• - with a "halt function", in which the memory module is deactivated,

operated.

In US 2009/0102908 A1 a transport device is described with several parallel transport routes. This transport device is used for example in a printer or copier and transports paper sheets. Flat objects are transported, with each flat object being temporarily sandwiched between two endless conveyor belts, which are guided around rollers with horizontal axes of rotation. The transported objects are distributed on the transport paths. The transport path is operated in either "normal mode" or "standby mode", depending on properties of an item in the transport path and environmental conditions. In "standby mode", the article remains in the transport path for a predetermined period of time, e.g. B. so that a print on the object can dry.

In EP 429118 B1 a buffer device is described which connects a supply device with a removal device. The buffer device comprises a plurality of parallel buffer modules arranged, for. B. storage pockets for flat mail. For example, the buffer device comprises twelve buffer modules, which are arranged in a matrix-like arrangement in three rows, each with four buffer modules. It is monitored when which item is moved to which buffer module and is removed again from it.

In US 6,107,579 there is described a device that weighs mail while the mail is being transported. A feeder transports mailpieces into a branching device. This branching device splits the mailpieces into several parallel transport paths. In each transport path is a scale that weighs the transported in this transport path mail. All transport paths lead to the same removal facility. This arrangement causes the mailpieces to be transported without slippage and yet the weighing does not reduce throughput, although each individual scale has a lower throughput than the feeder device and the removal device.

In US 5,577,596 a device is described which distributes objects to several outputs. Such a device can be z. B. to sort mail items. In the embodiment, the sorting system has four inputs ("input stations") and many sorting outputs ("output positions"). The inputs and outputs are connected via a variety of transport units. Each transport unit is mounted on a turntable and thereby rotatably mounted about a vertical axis of rotation. Furthermore, each transport unit comprises two endless conveyor belts, which are able to pinch an upright postal item between them. A transport unit is able to transfer a mail item to a subsequent transport unit. Because the transport units are rotatably mounted, in each case at least one transport path can be established from each input to each output.

In US 3,633,733 a transport device with a feed device and a plurality of parallel transport paths is described. A classifier classifies the supplied items, e.g. B. according to their color. A diverter allocates delivered items to the transport paths, depending on the particular result provided by the classifier.

In US 4,299,379 a device for transporting mailpieces will be described. A system of endless conveyor belts transports the mailpieces upright along a transport path. A jogging module shakes upright mail during transport. This vibrator module includes several vibrating rollers embedded in the bottom of the transport path.

Of the Invention is based on the object, a device with the features of the preamble of claim 1 and a method with the features of the preamble of claim 14, which make it possible to that the amount of transported to the processing facility Items within a given range remain as long as the supply of items by the feeder is sufficient.

The The object is achieved by a device having the features of the claim 1 and a method having the features of claim 14 solved. Advantageous embodiments are in the subclaims specified.

• – eine Zuführ-Einrichtung,
• – eine Puffer-Einrichtung und
• – einen Regler.

The device according to the solution is able to transport objects to a processing device. The solution according to the device comprises

• A feeding device,
• A buffer device and
• - a controller.

The Buffer device comprises at least two buffer modules, which in Series are switched.

The Feeder is designed to contain items to transport to the buffer device. The buffer device is designed to transport objects in such a way that from the feeder to the buffer device transported objects in succession the buffer modules go through the buffer device and in this way to the processing device to transport.

each Buffer module has each a level sensor. Each level sensor of a buffer module is designed to a measure of the current level of the Buffer module to measure.

Of the Regulator is designed to handle the supply of objects into each buffer module using the measured level measurements such that the current level of the buffer module remains in a predetermined level range.

The Solution-based device and the solution according to Methods allow the throughput of objects largely decoupled from the processing facility by the processing facility Throughput through the feeder. The transport speed the feeder can be largely independent of regulate the processing speed of the processing device. This is achieved by having the buffer device two in Row switched buffer modules and the transport speed Each buffer module can be controlled individually.

The Solution allows a modular design To realize device. An additional buffer module can be added later, a remove existing buffer module.

Dependent the level of a buffer module is the supply of more Objects regulated in this buffer module. The level is the controlled variable whose value is given in a given Range should lie. The feeding amount with the objects supplied to the buffer module is the manipulated variable. The fluctuating amount of objects fed into the feeder is a disturbance.

Preferably At least one buffer module can thereby more objects that at least one sidewall has an area, which is arranged movably. This buffer module is preferred designed as a U-shaped transport channel. The feed of an item in the buffer module the width of the buffer module, the removal reduces this width.

These time-variable width of the buffer module is easy and measure with little effort, z. B. on mechanical or optical Ways. Therefore, in one embodiment, this width is used as the measure of used the level of the buffer module.

Preferably owns the buffer module with the movable sidewall area a return component. This return component decreases the width of the buffer module when an object is out This buffer module is removed by the return component acts on the sidewall area. Conversely, an object transported in this buffer module, so is the width of the buffer module increased counter to the force of the Rückholkomponente.

These Design causes objects in the buffer module pushed together by the side walls of the buffer module become. Flat objects can be approximated vertical position, which is often desired because the processing equipment processes perpendicular objects.

Possible is that the at least one buffer module with the movable sidewall area having an underfloor conveyor belt. Preferably, in the movable side wall embedded a conveyor, or the movable sidewall is from the conveyor educated. The conveyor is against the objects pressed in the buffer module. Conversely, the presses Supply of an item in the buffer module the conveyor against the transported objects. This will be a achieved particularly good transport effect.

In an embodiment transports a subsequent second buffer module Objects slower than a previous fast Buffer module, as long as the level measurement in the subsequent second buffer module below a predetermined level-intervention barrier remains. This ensures that the objects are in the subsequent second buffer module are packed denser than in the previous first Buffer module and on the other hand ensures that the Level in the subsequent second buffer module in the specified Area remains.

in the The invention is based on an embodiment described.

there demonstrate:

1 the buffer device of the embodiment with mailpieces from above;

2 the buffer device of 1 without mail from above;

3 an embodiment of the feed roller unit;

4 a buffer module in the form of a vibrator module;

5 the jogging module of 4 from above.

in the Embodiment, the invention is used to flat Mail (standard letters, large letters, catalogs, postcards u. a.) to a singulator transport. This separator acts in the embodiment as the processing facility.

1 shows the buffer device of the embodiment with mailpieces from above. 2 shows the buffer device of 1 without mail from above.

One Underfloor conveyor transports the flat mail pieces in a direction of transport T to the singler. The underfloor conveyor belt consists in the embodiment of four underfloor conveyor belt units U-Z, U-1, U-2 and U-3.

While During transport, the mailpieces are almost vertical and on one edge and become in a U-shaped transport channel transported with two side walls. In the embodiment is the one side wall S of the transport channel fixedly mounted and acts as a fixed guide device. The other Sidewall can be transverse or oblique to the transport direction T be moved or rotated, which will be described below. The stationary side wall S is z. B. from a horizontal guide device formed in the form of a fence or a guardrail.

The separator V is mounted in the embodiment in addition to an imaginary extension of the stationary side wall S of the transport channel, ie in alignment with this side wall. The separator V comprises at least two rollers, which are mounted on two vertical shafts and around which several endless conveyor belts are guided. In 1 an endless conveyor belt FV of the separator V is indicated.

The Endless conveyor belts are thus one above the other arranged. An area of these endless conveyor belts forms approximately a plane with the guide device. The conveyor belts are turned so that they are in this area are rotated in the transport direction T, namely preferably so that the mailings without leaps in speed between the output of the transport channel and the separator the singler to reach.

At the End of this transport channel is in the embodiment a stop wall A, which extends transversely to the transport direction T. and protrudes into the transport channel. The stop wall A is opposite attached to the separator. This creates between that in the transport channel located area of the stop wall A and the separator V a Slot Schl.

At the stop wall A is attached to a scraper Ab. The upright standing mail items are transported against the stop wall A. and of the stop wall A at their - seen in the transport direction T - front Aligned edges. The mail will be sent as well from a movably mounted area SB-1, SB-2, SB-3 one Side wall against the opposite stationary side wall S in the form of the guide device and on the singler V too pressed. The conveyor belts F-V, ... of the separator V each pull a mail piece from the stack or heaps of upright mail. The scraper From and the stop wall A cause a pre-separation of the mailpiece. The separator V separates this mail item and prevents duplicate copies, So that several mail items are withdrawn at once and overlapping be transported away.

In 1 Several mail items are shown, which are aligned by the stop wall A to their - seen in the transport direction T - front edges. In addition, several mail items are indicated on the underfloor conveyor belt units U-1, U-2 and U-3.

• – ein Zuführ-Modul Z-M mit der Unterflur-Förderband-Einheit U-Z,
• – ein erstes Puffer-Modul P-1 mit der Unterflur-Förderband-Einheit U-1,
• – ein zweites Puffer-Modul P-2 mit der Unterflur-Förderband-Einheit U-2,
• – ein drittes Puffer-Modul P-3 mit der Unterflur-Förderband-Einheit U-3 und
• – die Anschlagwand A mit dem Abstreifer Ab.

The transport channel is described in more detail below. In the exemplary embodiment, the transport channel comprises the following modules, which - as seen in the transport direction T - are arranged one behind the other in this order:

• A feed module ZM with the underfloor conveyor belt unit UZ,
• A first buffer module P-1 with the underfloor conveyor unit U-1,
• A second buffer module P-2 with the underfloor conveyor unit U-2,
• - A third buffer module P-3 with the underfloor conveyor unit U-3 and
• - The stop wall A with the scraper Ab.

Possible is to subsequently add another buffer module or remove an existing buffer module to the transport device to adapt to existing boundary conditions. Thanks to the invention This flexible adaptation is possible quickly.

The series connected buffer modules P-1, P-2, 2-3, ... together the buffer device in the sense of the claims. The Feed Module Z-M acts as a feeder and is designed as a module of the transport channel.

Either the feed module Z-M as well as each buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 each comprise an underfloor conveyor belt unit U-1, U-2, U-third If the modules P-1, P-2, P-3, Z-M are connected in series, so a continuous underfloor conveyor belt is formed.

In In one embodiment, both the feed module Z-M as well as each buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 continue to each one Leadership unit, so that the consecutive switched modules a continuous guide device form. In another embodiment, the transport device comprises a continuous guide device, not to the modules P-1, P-2, P-3, Z-M belongs. The management device has z. B. the shape of a fence or a guardrail.

Each buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 has in the exemplary embodiment a rocker S-1, S-2, S-3, which is rotatably mounted about a vertical axis of rotation D-1, D-2, D-3 is. This axis of rotation runs near the one end of the rocker S-1, S-2, S-3 through the rocker, so that a free end of the rocker is formed. This free end is the - viewed in the transport direction T - front end of the buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3. A reset component RK-1, RK-2, RK-3, z. As a tension or compression spring or a gas-filled piston pushes the free end of the rocker to the stationary side wall S. A heap of mail in the buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 pushes against the force of the return component RK-1, RK-2, RK-3 on the movable side wall area SB-1, SB-2, SB -3 with the rocker S-1, S-2, S-3 and thereby rotates the movable side wall portion SB-1, SB-2, SB-3 away from the stationary side wall S. As a result, the transport channel is widened.

In 1 It is shown how the mail presses the wings S-1, S-2, S-3 away from the stationary side wall S. As in 2 can be seen, the reset component RK-1, RK-2, RK-3 is designed in each case as a tension spring and rotates the rocker S-1, S-2, S-3 about the rotation axis D-1, D-2, D- third

By doing the movable side wall area SB-1, SB-2, SB-3 with the rocker S-1, S-2, S-3 is rotated about the rotation axis D-1, D-2, D-3 the width of the buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 changed. The Conveyor belts F-1, F-2, F-3 on the swingarms S-1, S-2, S-3 form a movably arranged area SB-1, SB-2, SB-3 of a side wall of the buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3.

Of the movably arranged area SB-1, SB-2, SB-3 with the guide device unit the buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 also forms a conveyor unit. The conveyor unit with the swingarm S-1, S-2, S-3 is designed to receive mail in the transport direction T to transport. On each swingarm S-1, S-2, S-3 are in one Design mounted two rollers. To these roles is at least one Continuous conveyor belt F-1, F-2, F-3 guided around- or two conveyor belts vertically above each other. These conveyor belts F-1, F-2, F-3 are designed to To transport mail items in the transport direction T.

In In one embodiment, the conveyor belts F-1, F-2, F-3 on the swingarm S-1, S-2, S-3 in addition to one Guided baffle around. The force of the reset component RK-1, RK-2, RK-3 pushes the baffle from the inside against the Conveyor belt and also causes a stiff mailing is pressed against the stationary side wall S. The baffle can be spring loaded.

One Buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 can also have a feed roller unit Have VE, preferably in the stationary side wall S admitted is. A mailing is placed between the conveyor unit with the rocker S-3 in the movable sidewall area SB-3 of the third buffer module P-3 and the feed roller unit VE through transported and from the conveyor belt F-3 on the swingarm S-3 pressed against a feed roller VR of the feed roller unit VE.

Preferably is the feed roller unit VE in a side wall of - seen integrated in transport direction T - last buffer module.

• – mindestens eine Vorschubrolle VR,
• – einen Antriebsriemen V-Ri,
• – eine Antriebsrolle V-Ro,
• – eine weitere Rolle V-wRO,
• – einen Antriebsmotor V-Mo,
• – einen Ausleger V-Aus,
• – eine Zugfeder V-F,
• – einen Anschlag V-An und
• – eine Halterung V-H.

3 shows an embodiment of the feed roller unit VE. The feed roller unit VE comprises in the embodiment of 3 following components:

• At least one feed roller VR,
• A drive belt V-Ri,
• A drive roller V-Ro,
• - another role V-wRO,
• A drive motor V-Mo,
• A boom V-out,
• A tension spring VF,
• - a stop V-An and
• - A holder VH.

The Feed roller VR is from the following processing device - here: controlled by the separator V -. The feed roller VR causes in cooperation with the stop wall A, that those Mail in the transport channel, which is close to the fixed side wall be preferred, and the remaining mail be retained by the stop wall A. The mobile arranged area SB-3 pushes the mail on the Feed roller VR to. This embodiment causes the mailpieces be aligned at its leading edge on the stop wall A. and that the separator V better, d. H. at a lower rate isolated from double copies ("doubles").

The feed roller VR sits on a vertical shaft whose axis of rotation V-DR near the free end of boom V-out by boom V-Out. The feed roller VR is rigidly connected to another roll V-wRO, which also sits on the shaft. A drive belt V-Ri is led around the further roll V-wro as well as around the drive roll V-Ro. The drive motor V-Mo rotates the drive roller V-Ro, and the drive belt V-Ri transmits the rotations of the drive motor to the further roller V-wRO and thus to the feed roller VR. The tension spring VZ rotates the boom V-off with the feed roller VR into the transport channel and onto the mailpieces and causes the feed roller VR to be pressed against the mailpieces. The boom with the feed roller VR is rotatably connected to the holder VH, the drive motor V-Mo is firmly connected to the holder VH.

The Feed roller VR can also perform another function: If so many mail items have reached the separator V, that no more mail items are to be supplied, thus stops the feed roller VR. This will increase the supply of mail interrupted in the singler V.

each Buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 has one level sensor each FS-1, FS-2, FS-3. In one embodiment, the level sensor FS-1, FS-2, FS-3 are arranged above the buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3. A camera takes pictures from the buffer module. An evaluation unit Evaluates the images from this camera to image through evaluation to measure the current width of the buffer module.

In A preferred embodiment is each level sensor FS-1, FS-2, FS-3, on the other hand, are designed as position sensors. Of the Position sensor FS-1, FS-2, FS-3 of the buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 measures how thick the pile of those mailpieces is that is between the movable sidewall area SB-1, SB-2, SB-3 with the conveyor belts F-1, F-2, F-3 and the stationary Sidewall S are located. Because the conveyor belts F-1, F-2, F-3 is pressed against the stationary side wall S, is the distance between the - seen in the transport direction T - front end of the conveyor belts F-1, F-2, F-3 on the swingarm S-1, S-2, S-3 and the fixed side wall S is approximately equal to the thickness of the stack and approximate equal to the smallest width of the buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3.

Of the Level sensor FS-1, FS-2, FS-3 in the form of a position sensor measures the position of the front end of the rocker relative to a Reference point, e.g. B. relative to the thickness sensor itself. This position sensor acts as level sensor FS-1, FS-2, FS-3 of the buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3, and the measured distance, the approximate equal to the thickness of the stack and thus equal to the width of the transport channel is, acts as the measure of the level.

Farther includes each buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 in the embodiment one photocell Li-1, Li-2, Li-3, the entrance of a Measures mail item in the buffer module. The light barrier Li-1, Li-2, Li-3 is thus - seen in the transport direction T - near the rear end of the buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 or between this buffer module and the previous buffer module.

The Mailing interrupts the light beam emitted by a transmitter LS-1, LS-2, LS-3 of the photoelectric sensor Li-1, Li-2, Li-3 emits. This transmitter LS-1, LS-2, LS-3 has the form of a light source. A receiver Measuring LE-1, LE-2, LE-3 in the form of a photoelectric detector, whether a beam of light emitted by the transmitter LS-1, LS-2, LS-3 was, on the receiver LE-1, LE-2, LE-3 or impinges Not.

The Conveyor units F-1, F-2, F-3 constitute the one Side wall of the U-shaped transport channel, the guide device in the form of the stationary side wall S the other side wall. The mail become upright between conveyor units F-1, F-2, F-3 on the wings S-1, S-2, S-3 and the stationary Sidewall S transported through. The conveyor units F-1, F-2, F-3 on the wings S-1, S-2, S-3 assets erect a tilting or laterally overturned mail piece. For every conveyor unit pushes a mail item in the transport channel against the guide device and thus spends or holds the mailpiece in one upright position.

each Underfloor conveyor unit U-1, U-2, U-3 and the conveyor unit F-1, F-2, F-3 of each buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 respectively a separate drive. This drive can be considered a motor per unit or even be designed so that an entire drive its kinetic energy on any underfloor conveyor unit U-1, U-2, U-3 and each swingarm transmits. One Governor controls the or each drive and can cause that each underfloor conveyor unit U-1, U-2, U-3 and each conveyor unit F-1, F-2, F-3 mailpieces each transported at a predetermined speed by the controller. The controller will use the readings from the level sensors FS-1, FS-2, FS-2 and with the messages from the photoelectric sensors Li-1, Li-2, Li-3 supplies and processes these readings and messages to To generate control commands to the drives, which then transmitted to the drives become.

Of the Separator V is capable of a certain throughput of mail per hour to achieve. Achieved the highest throughput the separator V, when a steady stream reaches the separator V of mail items. The throughput of Mail sent by the Z-M feeder module, however, varies usually over time strong and unpredictable Way, namely depending on the volume of mail. in the Transport channel can fill gaps between postal items occur. The buffer modules P-1, P-2, P-3 cause that anyway a steady stream of mail Separator V reached.

The Underfloor conveyor unit U-Z of the feeder module Z-M moves at a speed v (0) and transports therefore mail items with the speed v (0). The underfloor conveyor unit U-1 of the first buffer module P-1 moves at a speed v (1) and transports mail items at speed v (1). The underfloor conveyor unit U-2 of the second buffer module P-2 moves at a speed v (2) and transports Mail with the speed v (2). The underfloor conveyor unit U-3 of the third buffer module P-3 moves at a speed v (3) and transports mail at the speed v (3).

All four speeds v (0), v (1), v (2) and v (3) are from the controller set to one value each. This value can vary over time. Preferably, a predetermined standard speed is set in each case. This standard speed remains constant until because of a high level in the subsequent module or the Processing device V reduces the speed temporarily becomes.

In the rule holds that v (0)> v (1)> v (2)> v (3), d. H. from module to module is ever achieved a negative speed jump. This causes at each transition from a module to a following module mailings - seen in the transport direction T - be pushed together, so that the mail completely or at least partially overlap. This compresses the stream of mail, gaps between mailings are closed, and the processing capacity the singler V is better utilized. This happens of course just as long until the stream of incoming mail fully exploits the processing capacity of the singler.

Of the Level in each buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 should be one do not exceed the specified level limit. This barrier can be the same for all buffer modules or vary from buffer module to buffer module. This upper level barrier limits the given range in the sense of the claims, in which the level should remain through the scheme. A buffer module is preceded by a transport direction T. Module (previous buffer module or feeder module Z-M) filled with mail and in turn gives mail to a subsequent module (following buffer module or separator) from.

• – Sobald der Füllstand des dritten und letzten Puffer-Moduls P-3 eine vorgegebenen Eingriffs-Füllstands-Schranke erreicht hat, der kleiner als die Füllstands-Schranke für das dritte Puffer-Modul P-3 ist, reduziert der Regler die Transportgeschwindigkeit v(2) des vorhergehenden zweiten Puffer-Moduls P-2. Dadurch werden weniger Postsendungen in das dritte Puffer-Modul P-3 transportiert.
• – Sobald der Füllstand des dritten Puffer-Moduls P-3 die vorgegebene Schranke erreicht hat, werden die Unterflur-Förderband-Einheit U-2 und das Förderband F-2 auf der Schwinge S-2 des zweiten Puffer-Moduls P-2 nur noch solange gedreht, bis eine Postsendung die Lichtschranke Li-3 am Eingang des dritten Puffer-Moduls P-3 erreicht. Dann werden die Unterflur-Förderband-Einheit U-2 und das Förderband F-2 auf der Schwinge S-2 abgestoppt.
• – Fällt umgekehrt der Füllstand im dritten Puffer-Modul P-3 unter eine vorgegebene unteren Füllstands-Grenze, so wird die Geschwindigkeit v(2) des zweiten Puffer-Moduls P-2 vergrößert, um dem Füllstand im dritten Puffer-Modul P-3 zu steigern.
• – Das entsprechende gilt für das zweite Puffer-Modul P-2 und das erste Puffer-Modul P-1, und zwar vorzugsweise mit folgender Variation:
• – Das erste Puffer-Modul P-1 wird dann gestoppt, wenn die Füllstände im zweiten Puffer-Modul P-2 und im dritten Puffer-Modul P-3 die jeweiligen Füllstands-Schranken erreicht haben, also das zweite Puffer-Modul P-2 und das dritte Puffer-Modul P-3 vollständig gefüllt sind.

The maximum processing speed of the separator V is predetermined. Therefore, the transport speed of a buffer module is regulated according to the following rule:

• As soon as the level of the third and last buffer module P-3 has reached a predetermined intervention level barrier, which is smaller than the level limit for the third buffer module P-3, the controller reduces the transport speed v (2 ) of the preceding second buffer module P-2. As a result, fewer mail items are transported into the third buffer module P-3.
• - Once the level of the third buffer module P-3 has reached the predetermined limit, the underfloor conveyor belt unit U-2 and the conveyor belt F-2 on the rocker S-2 of the second buffer module P-2 only until a mail item reaches the light barrier Li-3 at the input of the third buffer module P-3. Then, the underfloor conveyor belt unit U-2 and the conveyor belt F-2 are stopped on the swingarm S-2.
• Conversely, if the level in the third buffer module P-3 falls below a predetermined lower level limit, the speed v (2) of the second buffer module P-2 is increased to the level in the third buffer module P-3 to increase.
• The corresponding applies to the second buffer module P-2 and the first buffer module P-1, preferably with the following variation:
• The first buffer module P-1 is then stopped when the fill levels in the second buffer module P-2 and in the third buffer module P-3 have reached the respective fill level limits, ie the second buffer module P-2 and the third buffer module P-3 are completely filled.

In general, the endless conveyor belt F-1, F-2, F-3 on the rocker S-1, S-2, S-3 of a buffer module P-1, P-2, P-3 with the same Speed rotated as the underfloor conveyor belt unit U-1, U-2, U-3 of this buffer module. However, the controller can cause the endless conveyor belt F-1, F-2, F-3 on the rocker S-1, S-2, S-3 faster or slower than the underfloor conveyor unit U-1, U-2, U-3 U-1, U-2, U-3 is turned. As a result, the dynamic pressure which the mail item generates in a buffer module towards the front of the separator V can be increased or decreased. In addition, thereby the level can be increased or decreased. It is even possible to control the endless conveyor belt F-1, F-2, F-3 on a rocker S-1, S-2, S-3 so that the conveyor belt runs backwards, creating a back pressure on subsequent mail items becomes.

Also the feed roller VR can be rotated in the opposite direction and generate the rear dynamic pressure.

In the embodiment described so far, all three buffer modules P-1, P-2, P-3 each have an underfloor conveyor belt unit U-1, U-2, U-3. In an alternative embodiment, at least one buffer module is additionally designed as a shaker module, preferably the last buffer module P-3 seen in the transport direction. 4 shows this shaking module RM from the side. 5 shows the jogging module of 4 from above.

In a frame of the vibrating module R-M are several horizontal Waves W-1, W-2, ... let in, extending between the two side walls of the Rüttel module extend. On each wave W-1, W-2, ... are each a vibrating roller and a transfer roller assembled. Or on some waves are each a shaker and a transfer roller mounted, and on the rest Shafts each have a transport roller and a transfer roller. The mail items are sent over the vibrating rollers and transported transport rollers away. For example, always are alternately arranged a vibrating roller and a transport roller. In addition, the R-M vibrator module has several guide rollers FR-1, FR-2, ... and a drive roller ARo, which also on horizontal Waves are mounted.

In the example of 4 and 5 on the shaft W-1 a transport roller R-1 is mounted, on the shaft W-2 a vibrating roller R-2, on the shaft W-3 a transport roller R-3, on the shaft W-2 a vibrating roller R-3, on the shaft W-4 a vibrating roller R-4 and on the shaft W-5 a transport roller R-5. On the shafts W-1, W-2, ... the transfer rollers Ü-1, Ü-2, ... are mounted.

A transfer agent in the form of an elastic endless conveyor belt F-R is taut around the drive roller AR, the transfer rollers Ü-1, Ü-2, ... and the guide rollers FR-1, FR-2, guided around. A drive motor AMo turns the drive roller ARo. This rotation causes the transfer rollers Ü-1, Ü-2, ... and the shafts W-1, W-2, ..., on which these transfer rollers Ü-1, Ü-2, ... are mounted, turned. This, in turn, that the transport rollers T-1, T-3, T-5 and vibrating rollers R-2, R-4 are rotated at the same speed. The transport wheels T-1, T-3, T-5 and vibrating rollers R-2, R-4 are turned that they are the upright mail items in the transport direction T to the separator V to transport. Instead of a conveyor belt F-R, the transmission means can also be in the form of a chain or a round belt or timing belt or other suitable Have shapes.

each Rüttelrolle R-2, R-4 is in contact with a mail piece, transported over the shaker R-2, R-4 away becomes. The vibrating roller R-2, R-4 is designed so that the distance of the area in contact with the object the vibrating roller R-2, R-4 of the shaft W-2, W-4, on the The vibrating roller R-2, R-4 is mounted, varies while the vibrating roller R-2, R-4 performs a full turn. This causes at the every turn of the roll one on the Roll standing mailing at least once raised and lowered is, with appropriate design of the role and length the mailing several times.

Preferably each vibrating roller R-2, R-4 has a cross-sectional area in the form of an n-corner, z. B. a regular Hexes or octagons, up. Or any vibrating roller R-2, R-4 is mounted eccentrically on the respective shaft W-2, W-4, so that the axis of rotation is not the center of the cross-sectional area is and the vibrating roller "eggs". Possible is, n-sided and eccentric vibrating rollers in a vibrating module to combine. It is also possible that a n-squared shaker additionally mounted eccentrically.

The Rüttelrollen R-2, R-4 cause the mail stomp on the singler during transport, d. H. moved up and down become. This up and down movement depends on the speed of rotation the vibrating rollers R-2, R-4 as well as the transport speed, with the mail on the Rüttelrollen R-2, R-4 transported away from. If the vibrating rollers R-2, R-4 are turned sufficiently fast, so will the mail shaken. This causes the postal items to become loose become. The danger is reduced by the fact that the singler deducts several postal items at once (double deduction). Furthermore The mail items are aligned at their lower edges. About that In addition, if necessary, dirt particles are removed, which on the mail baste.

The Conveyor rollers T-1, T-3, T-5, however, each comprise a cylinder, which is mounted centrally on the shaft W-1, W-3, W-5.

Between the transport rollers T-1, T-3, T-5 and the vibrating rollers R-2, R-4 are horizontal sliding plates GB-1, GB-2, ... with smooth Surfaces arranged. The upright postal items are transported over these sliding plates GB-1, GB-2, ... away. The slide plates GB-1, GB-2, ... prevent mailpieces from getting Hook on a vibrating roller R-2, R-4.

Around to further loosen the transported mail is in a Design air or another gas from below against the mail blown. In the sliding plates GB-1, GB-2, ... openings are recessed. A blower Gb generates blown air through the openings blown vertically upwards and from below against the mailpieces becomes. Preferably, the openings are the only outlet openings a chamber into which the blower blows air. The openings can be configured as nozzles.

In the example of 4 and 5 is located between the sliding plates GB-1 and GB-2 and between the sliding plates GB-4 and GB-5 each have an opening through which air is blown from below against the mailpieces. The outer walls of the chamber Ka are in 4 shown schematically. In 4 is indicated by arrows, where air enters the chamber Ka and where this air exits the chamber Ka again.

In one embodiment, the blower Gb blows a constant amount of air or other gas per unit of time into this chamber Ka, and through the outlet openings exits this constant amount per unit time. In another embodiment, the amount of gas that the blower Gb conducts per unit time to the chamber Ka, regulated. The controller controls the blower Gb accordingly. For example, this amount is controlled so that the amount varies in proportion to the transport speed with which the shaker module transports mail. The greater this transport speed, the greater the amount. In an embodiment where the shaker module RM has a movable sidewall region, the amount is controlled proportionally by the varying width of the shaker module RM. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS reference numeral importance A abutment wall From Scraper on the stop wall A AMo Drive motor of the vibrating module RM ARo Drive roller of the vibrating module RM D VR Rotary axis about which the feed roller VR is rotatably mounted F-1 Endless conveyor belt of the conveyor unit of the rocker S-1 F-2 Endless conveyor belt of the conveyor unit of the rocker S-2 F-3 Endless conveyor belt of the conveyor Unit of the swingarm S-3 FR-1, FR-2, ... Guide rollers around which the endless conveyor belt FR of the vibrating module RM is guided around FS-1 Level sensor of the first buffer module P-1 FS-2 Level sensor of the second buffer module P-2 FS-3 Level sensor of the third buffer module P-3 FR Endless conveyor belt of the vibrating module RM FV Endless conveyor belt of the separator V GB-1, GB-2, ... Sliding plates of the vibrating module RM gb Blower of the vibrating module RM ka Chamber of the vibrating module RM into which the blower Gb blows air Li-1 Photocell of the first buffer module P-1 Li-2 Photocell of the second buffer module P-2 Li-3 Photocell of the third buffer module P-3 LE-1 Receiver of the light barrier Li-1 LE-2 Receiver of the light barrier Li-2 LE-3 Receiver of the light barrier Li-3 LS-1 Transmitter of the light barrier Li-1 LS-2 Transmitter of the light barrier Li-2 LS-3 Transmitter of the light barrier Li-3 P-1 first buffer module P-2 second buffer module P-3 third buffer module R-2, R-4 Vibrating rollers of the vibrating module RM RK-1 Reset component of the sidewall area SB-1 of the first buffer module P-1 RK-2 Reset component of the sidewall area SB-2 of the second buffer module P-2 RK-3 Reset component of the sidewall area SB-3 of the third buffer module P-3 RM Shaker module S stationary side wall of the transport channel S-1 Swing arm of the guide device unit of the first buffer module P-1 S-2 Swing arm of the guide device unit of the second buffer module P-2 S-3 Swing arm of the third buffer module P-3 guide device unit SB-1 movably arranged portion of a side wall of the first buffer module P-1 SB-2 movably arranged portion of a side wall of the second buffer module P-2 SB-3 movably arranged portion of a side wall of the third buffer module P-3 schl Slot between the separator V and the scraper Ab on the stop wall A T transport direction T-1, T-3, T-5 Transport rollers of the vibrator module U-1 Underfloor conveyor unit of the first buffer module P-1 U-2 Underfloor conveyor unit of the second buffer module P-2 U-3 Underfloor conveyor unit of the third buffer module P-3 UZ Underfloor conveyor unit of feeder module ZM Ü-1, Ü-2, ... Transmission rollers on the shafts W-1, W-2, ..., around which the endless conveyor belt FR of the vibrating module RM is guided around V Processing device in the form of a separator VE Feed roller unit V-An Stop of the feed roller unit VE V-OFF Boom of feed roller unit VE VF Tension spring of the feed roller unit VE VH Support for feed roller unit VE V-Mo Drive motor feed roller unit VE V-Ri Drive belt of the feed roller unit VE V-Ro Drive roller of feed roller unit VE V-WRO further role of the feed roller unit VE VR Feed roller of the feed roller unit VE v (0) Speed at which the feeding module ZM transports mail v (1) Speed at which the first buffer module P-1 carries mail v (2) Speed with which the second buffer module P-2 transports mail v (3) Speed at which the third buffer module P-3 transports mail W-1, W-2, ... Waves of the vibrator module ZM Feed module

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 2008/0000814 A1 [0002, 0003]
• US 2009/0102908 A1 [0004]
• - EP 429118 B1 [0005]
• US 6107579 [0006]
• - US 5577596 [0007]
• - US 3633733 [0008]
• - US 4299379 [0009]

Claims (16)

Device for transporting objects to a processing device (V), the device comprising - a feed device (ZM), - a buffer device and - a controller, the buffer device at least two buffer modules (P-1 , P-2, P-3), the feeder (ZM) is adapted to transport items to the buffer means, and the buffer means is adapted to transport items to the processing means (V) thereby characterized in that the at least two buffer modules (P-1, P-2, P-3) of the buffer device are connected in series, the buffer device is designed to transport objects in such a way that the Device (ZM) to the buffer device (ZM) transported objects successively through the buffer modules (P-1, P-2, P-3) of the buffer device, each buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) each have a level sensor (FS-1, FS-2, FS-3), each level sensor (FS-1, FS-2, FS-3) of a buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) is configured to provide a measure of the current level of the buffer module (P -1, P-2, P-3), and the controller is configured to supply articles to each buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) using the measured level measurements to be regulated so that the current level of the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) remains in a predetermined level range. Device according to claim 1, characterized, that the regulator is designed to the transport speed temporarily reduce a previous buffer module (P-1, P-2), if the measured level measurement in a subsequent Buffer module (P-2, P-3) a predetermined level-intervention barrier reached. Device according to claim 2, characterized, that the device is designed such that the previous one Buffer Module (P-1, P-2) Items at least as long at a faster speed than the following one Transports buffer module (P-2, P-3), like the measured level measurement in the following buffer module (P-2, P-3) below the level-intervention barrier remains. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that at least one buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) has an article sensor (Li-1, Li-2, Li-3), of the Item sensor (Li-1, Li-2, Li-3) is designed to a Generate arrival message once on the processing facility transported object reaches the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3), and the regulator is designed to then, when - the Level measurement of this buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) has reached the upper limit of the level range and - the arrival message was generated, the Supply of articles into this buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) to stop. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least one buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) designed as a U-shaped transport channel is the bottom and / or a side wall of the transport channel a conveyor (F-1, F-2, F-3, VE) and has these Conveyor (F-1, F-2, F-3) is configured to objects to the processing device (V) to transport. Device according to claim 5, characterized, that the conveyor (VE) at least one buffer module (P-3) - A movably arranged arm (V-off) and - one driven feed roller (VR) includes and the feed roller (VR) is designed to Items on the processing facility (V) to transport. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6 characterized in that at least one buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) has a side wall with a movably arranged one Sidewall region (SB-1, SB-2, SB-3), this buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) is designed so that - the width of the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) is variable, wherein - the Supply of an item into the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) Width of the buffer module enlarged and - of the Removal of an item from the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) the width of the buffer module is reduced. Device according to claim 7, characterized, that the level sensor (FS-1, FS-2, FS-3) for this buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) is designed to when Measure of the level the time-varying Width of the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) to measure. Apparatus according to claim 7 or claim 8, thereby marked that the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) a Resetting component (RK-1, RK-2, RK-3) and has the Buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) is designed so that - the Supply of an item into the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) thereof Width by moving the movable side wall portion (SB-1, SB-2, SB-3) against the force of the reset component (RK-1, RK-2, RK-3) enlarged and - of the Removal of an item from the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) causes the reset component (RK-1, RK-2, RK-3) by moving the movable side wall portion (SB-1, SB-2, SB-3) the width of the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) is reduced. Device according to one of claims 7 till 9, characterized in that the movably arranged Sidewall area (SB-1, SB-2, SB-3) a conveyor (F-1, F-2, F-3) and this conveyor (F-1, F-2, F-3) is designed to objects to the processing device (V) to transport. Device according to one of claims 1 until 10, characterized in that at least one buffer module (P-3) a bottom with a vibrator (R-2, R-4) and the vibrator (R-2, R-4) is designed to shake an object located in the buffer module (P-3). Device according to claim 11, characterized, that the vibrating device at least one rotatable mounted vibrating roller (R-2, R-4), the vibrating roller (R-2, R-4) is arranged so that one over the bottom of the Vibrating device transports the object Vibrating roller (R-2, R-4) touched temporarily, and the Rüttelrolle (R-2, R-4) is designed so that the Distance of the area in contact with the object the vibrating roller (R-2, R-4) from the rotation axis (W-2, W-4) the vibrating roller (R-2, R-4) varies while the Vibrating roller (R-2, R-4) describes one complete revolution, so that the rotation of the vibrating roller (R-2, R-4) an up and Movement of the transported article causes. Apparatus according to claim 11 or claim 12, thereby marked that the vibrator device a blower (Gb) and the blower (Gb) is designed to to blow a gas from below against an object, the over the bottom of the vibrating device is transported away. Method for transporting objects to a processing facility using a buffer device with at least two buffer modules (P-1, P-2, P-3), the Method comprises the steps that - things be transported to the buffer device and - the Buffer device Articles for the processing device transported, characterized in that the least two buffer modules (P-1, P-2, P-3) are connected in series, the from the feeder (Z-M) to the buffer means transported objects in succession the buffer modules (P-1, P-2, P-3) of the buffer device, For Each buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) is a measure of the current level of the buffer module is measured and the delivery of items into each buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) using the measured level measurements is regulated in such a way that the current level of the buffer module (P-1, P-2, P-3) in a predetermined level range remains. Method according to claim 14, characterized, that Checks whether the measured level measurement in a subsequent buffer module (P-2, P-3) a predetermined level-intervention barrier has reached or not, and the transport speed of a previous buffer module (P-1, P-2) is temporarily reduced, if the measured level measurement in the following Buffer module (P-2, P-3) the level-intervention barrier has reached or exceeded. Method according to claim 15, characterized, that the previous buffer module (P-1, P-2) items at least as long at a greater speed transported as the subsequent second buffer module (P-2, P-3), as the measured level measurement in the following Buffer module (P-2, P-3) below the level-intervention barrier remains.

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