DE102014116232A1 - Individual transport of food portions - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for moving portions, each comprising at least one of a food product, in particular by means of a slicing device, in particular a high-speed Slicers, separated disc, with a plurality of individually movable Transportmover, each having a drive unit, and with a transport device which has an at least substantially planar support over which the transport movers are movable, and a guide unit arranged below the support or comprising the support, which cooperates with the transport movers with the aid of an electromagnetic force in such a way that the transport movers on the support each on one move by a control device predetermined path in a transport direction.

Description

The invention relates to the movement of portions which each comprise at least one slice separated from a food product, in particular by means of a slicer, in particular a high-speed slicer.

In particular, in the production of single or multi-sort packaging containing one or more portions of, for example, sausage and / or cheese slices, conveyor systems are required to one or more slicing, in particular so-called slicer, produced and portions or at least partial portions forming food slices one Supply packaging machine.

The conveyor line is in practice not only the transport of portions from the slicer to the packaging machine, but has additional, dependent on the particular application functions to meet, which are generally known in the art and of which at this point merely exemplified buffering and formatting should be. Immediately following the slicer, portioning and completion tasks are also required. Furthermore, the portions must be weighed.

An ever-increasing importance is also a so-called multi-track operation, in which several food products are cut simultaneously by means of a slicer. The subordinated conveyor system must be able to form such a multi-track operation and above all to be able to form from the portions produced in the respective number of tracks those formats which are also called format records and which can be required or processed by the downstream packaging machine.

These and other objects of a conveyor system in the field of handling portions of slices separated by slicing particular loaf or bar-shaped food products are currently being satisfactorily solved by conveyor belt systems.

To distribute portions to different tracks, for example, transverse bands or tape units are used. A portion is transported on a belt, which is moved transversely either in the entirety or in the inlet or outlet side area. Also plate distributors can be used. The plates serve as a product carrier and can be moved in the transverse direction. For this purpose, the plates are mounted on transverse bars. The rods are in turn guided at both ends in a conveyor chain and run around so that they move at the top in the conveying direction. At the bottom, the bars including the plates run back over a lower strand. Between the rod planes, mechanical elements for influencing the plates in the transverse direction can be provided. In this way, the portions arranged on the plates can be conveyed both in the conveying direction and transversely thereto.

However, conveyor belt systems and plate distributors are associated with a high mechanical complexity. Problematic e.g. in view of the required gentle transport of the portions are also in particular the transitions between successive conveyor belt sections. Furthermore, conveyor belts can of course only be used to realize straight conveyor sections or conveying sections consisting of rectilinear sections, i. the flexibility in the design of a conveyor line is limited in conveyor belt systems.

Likewise, the capabilities of the entire system are limited, e.g. regarding the products to be processed and the portioning and formatting possibilities. In addition, in connection with conveyor belt systems used in the food industry, a relatively high expenditure on cleaning is required in order to be able to comply with the high hygiene standards.

In particular, when using panel distributors, there are great hygienic risks, since the relatively complex structure leads to some relatively difficult to access from the outside areas.

Against this background, an object of the invention to provide a way for the transport of food portions, in which the above-mentioned disadvantages do not exist and yet can meet the currently imposed requirements with the highest possible flexibility.

The solution of this object is achieved by the features of claim 1, which relates to a device for moving portions, each comprising at least one of a food product, in particular by means of a slicing device, in particular a high-speed Slicers, separated slice.

According to the invention, the device comprises a plurality of individually movable transport movers, which each have a drive unit. It is a transport device is provided, which is an at least substantially flat support over which the Transportmover are movable, and arranged below the support or the Pad comprehensive guide unit which cooperates using an electromagnetic force in such a way with the Transportmovern that the Transportmover move on the support each on a predetermined path by a control device in a transport direction.

In the context of the invention, the term "portion" is to be understood broadly. A portion can accordingly consist of only a single slice. Alternatively, a portion may comprise a plurality of slices, which may be present in a basically arbitrary relative arrangement, for example in a so-called stacking or shingling arrangement, as are known in the technical field in question to those skilled in the art. The portion may be a total portion, as packaged and offered commercially. Alternatively, the portion may be a partial portion, which together with one or more further partial portions, which in turn may each comprise one or more slices, forms a total portion. The partial portions of a total portion may be formed of different types of products, so that by assembling several partial portions a Mehrsortenportion can be produced and after the packaging thus a multi-variety package is present. The slices can be, for example, comparatively thin slices, as are generally known in the form of sausage or cheese slices. Alternatively, the slices may each be relatively thick pieces, such as slices or steaks, in comparison to sliced meat, especially fresh meat slices.

In other words, it is within the scope of the invention in a portion to the smallest in terms of transport task unit that must be transported on the one hand over a certain distance and optionally - depending on the application - on the other hand in addition to other portions must be related in order to meet the respective requirements of the overall system comprising one or more slicing devices, in particular slicers, the transport system and one or more packaging machines. For example, with regard to the formation of formats, as they must be provided for the respective intended packaging machine.

According to the invention, it has been recognized that with an individual system with individually movable transporters for the portions, all currently required and also future requirements for a transport system for food portions can be mapped in an ideal manner. While the prior art is under the notion of having to accomplish the transport of food servings by means of conveyor systems, the invention means a departure from such communal transportation towards "private transport" in which the servings can be moved independently and, in particular, in the overall system as well can be registered individually.

The fact that the transport movers can be moved freely on the flat support, the movement is not limited for example by a rail or rail system. The transport movers can thus be moved in particular to any position of the support. Turnouts or the like, as provided in a rail or rail system and pretend the way the Transportmover are therefore not required.

According to the invention, the transport system comprises a plurality of transport movers, the total number of which depends on the respective application. One aspect of the invention is not merely to move a few portions and for this purpose only a relatively small number of e.g. to provide less than 10 transport movers. Rather, it is provided according to the invention in particular that the railway system comprises several dozen to several hundred transport movers, i. In a sense, there may be a veritable "swarm" of transport movers on the overlay to transport a plurality of servings and, optionally, perform additional functions, e.g. a buffering of portions.

In principle, it is also possible that a portion of several, especially two, transport movers is transported together. Thereby, e.g. larger loads are transported.

A significant advantage of the transport system according to the invention over conventional conveyor belt systems or systems in which Transportmover be moved on rails, is that the support for the movers requires no moving parts and therefore is relatively insensitive to dirt or easy to clean. In particular, the overlay can be produced in such a way protected or encapsulated that meets high hygiene standards and strict standards can be met even under extremely harsh conditions hygienic aspects, as they prevail in the processing of food products and the associated cleaning requirements. In particular, it is possible according to the invention to realize an IP69K-capable transport system with reasonable effort.

The transport principle according to the invention can be technically implemented in different ways and with regard to the specific requirements, as described in more detail below. The movement of the transport movers takes place in particular by means of the Lorentz force and / or the reluctance force.

The drive can be done in particular by means of a planar direct drive, as in eg WO 2007/135006 A1 is described. Also, a linear motor can be used, such as in US 5,880,541 is taught. These documents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference for the disclosure of a possible drive or operating principle for the invention.

The invention also relates to a system for processing food products, comprising at least one device for slicing food products, in particular a high-speed slicer, and a transport system comprising a device of the type described here.

The invention also relates to a method for moving portions, each comprising at least one slice separated from a food product, in particular by means of a slicer, in particular a high-speed slicer. In the method, the portions are moved by means of a plurality of individually movable transport movers, which each have a drive unit. A transport device has an at least substantially planar support, over which the transport movers are moved, and a guide unit arranged below the support or comprising the support, which cooperates with the transport movers in such a way by means of an electromagnetic force, that the transport movers on the support respectively to move a given by a control device path in a transport direction.

The device according to the invention or the system according to the invention is designed in particular for carrying out a method of the type described here. The method according to the invention is carried out in particular with a device or system of the type described here.

The support may in particular be flat, e.g. as a plate, be formed. In particular, the width of the support is greater than the width of a Transportmovers. Preferably, the width of the support corresponds at least to the width of two transport movers, so that these are e.g. can be moved side by side on the support.

The transport device can be constructed comparatively complex, wherein the guide unit may comprise a plurality of controllable electromagnets. The overlying support can be formed for example of glass or plastic.

Due to the separation between the guide unit and the support, the hygiene can be significantly improved. Thus, the guide unit can be arranged in a closed housing. The edition delimits the guide unit from the food and can be cleaned in a simple manner.

Alternatively, the guide unit can also be designed as a passive support, in particular as a stator. For example, the guide unit may comprise a metal plate. The movement is controlled by means of the transport movers.

Possible developments of the invention are also given in the following part of the description, in the description of the figures, in the drawings and in the claims.

According to one embodiment, the guide unit comprises an active unit with at least one electromagnet and the drive unit comprises a passive unit with at least one magnet. The active unit interacts with the passive unit.

The term "magnet" is to be understood broadly in the present case. Thus, both passive magnets and magnetizable materials, in particular ferromagnetic materials, are subsumed under it. In particular, the magnets may be permanent magnets. Electromagnets, however, are explicitly referred to by the term "electromagnets".

Since the guide unit comprises electromagnets and in particular is designed as a linear motor, the movement and control of the transport movers can take place with the aid of the transport device. In particular, the electromagnets can be selectively controlled in order to move the transport movers in a desired way. The main component of the drive is thus to a certain extent contained in the transport device, while the transport movers are passively carried. The guide unit can thus in particular form a planar drive field. In order to transmit the position, that is to say in particular the longitudinal, transverse and / or rotational orientation, of the transport movers to the drive field, the latter can comprise at least two magnets and at least one sensor. By controlling the electromagnets, the transport movers can be moved and / or rotated, while e.g. Sensors in the Transportmover continuously record the situation.

The Transportmover can be produced inexpensively in this way. Also no energy supply is necessary for the transport movers. In particular, the transport movers can thus be moved freely without disturbing cables. Also, the weight can be kept low because, for example, no energy storage are provided on or in the transport movers.

According to a further embodiment, the guide unit has a plurality of electromagnets, which are arranged in an application-specific arrangement or an application-specific pattern, in particular uniformly distributed. The arrangement may in particular result in a check pattern or a grid. Preferably, the electromagnets form several tracks for different transport movers. Also, some electromagnets may e.g. be arranged diagonally to allow a change between tracks. The arrangement of the electromagnets is basically arbitrary.

According to a further embodiment, the arrangement of the effective electromagnets of the guide unit and / or the arrangement of at least one effective magnet of the drive unit can be changed and in particular predetermined by means of the control device. For example, electromagnets can be switched on or off, thereby changing the path of the transport movers. Alternatively or additionally, for example, the position of the magnets or electromagnets may be changed, e.g. by the electromagnets or magnets are moved mechanically. Also, the electromagnets or magnets can be designed exchangeable. If the arrangement of the effective electromagnets or the effective magnets is changed, the path of movement of the transport movers also changes.

According to a further embodiment, the guide unit comprises at least one moving magnet and / or electromagnet, wherein in particular its path is fixed by a guide. A magnet or electromagnet can thus be moved in particular below the support. The movement can be done in particular mechanically. Due to the electromagnetic force, a transport mover located on the support is pulled along. The transport mover thereby complies with the movement of the magnet or electromagnet of the guide unit.

According to one embodiment, the guide unit comprises a conveyor belt which conveys at least one magnet and / or electromagnet in a conveying direction. A magnet or electromagnet can thus be used e.g. rest on the conveyor belt and transported on this. The conveyor belt can be arranged below the support. The transport mover arranged above the support track the movement of the conveyor belt due to the electromagnetic force of the magnets or electromagnets.

According to a further embodiment, a displacement device is provided, which shifts at least one magnet and / or electromagnet transversely to the conveying direction. The magnets or electromagnets may in particular be arranged on slidable rods, as in the case of a plate distributor. In this way, the magnets or electromagnets can be adjusted as desired in the X and Y directions, whereby the Transportmover be moved in the longitudinal and transverse directions.

According to an alternative embodiment, the drive unit comprises an active unit, in particular a rotor, with at least one electromagnet and the guide unit a passive unit, in particular a stator, with at least one magnet, wherein the active unit cooperates with the passive unit. The guide unit may be, for example, a plate of a ferromagnetic material, in particular metal. The guide unit is inexpensive to create in this way. In particular, the transport movers can be moved by means of a linear motor. In this case, the electromagnets of the drive unit can be controlled accordingly, in particular wirelessly, e.g. via radio. The transport movers are moved in particular by means of a planar drive. The transport movers in this case form the runners, while the support can be designed as a stationary, planar stator.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the drive unit has a plurality of electromagnets on an end facing the support, which are arranged in an application-specific arrangement, in particular evenly distributed. Depending on the arrangement of the electromagnets, the transport movers may move differently.

According to a further embodiment, the arrangement of the effective electromagnets of the drive unit and / or the arrangement of at least one effective magnet of the guide unit can be changed and in particular can be predetermined by means of the control device. The electromagnets are especially switched on or off. Also, the position of the electromagnets or magnets can be changed, for example displaceable. Furthermore, the electromagnets or magnets can be exchanged. In this way, different movement paths of the transport movers can be realized.

According to a further embodiment, the arrangement of effective electromagnets and / or effective magnets of at least two transport movers is different from one another. In this way, different transport movers For example, be moved on different transport routes. In particular, a transport mover can also be assigned to a specific track in this way.

According to a further embodiment, the drive unit comprises a motor, which in particular drives rollers, balls and / or belts of the transport movers and / or displaces the transport movers into a vibration for propulsion. In this case, in particular, a vibration drive can be used. A pure forward motion can be accomplished, for example, by means of the motor, while the direction of movement can be specified by means of electromagnets or magnets.

According to a further embodiment, for determining the position of the transport movers, the guide unit and / or the transport movers comprise at least one sensor. In particular, magnets or electromagnets and sensors may alternate in the guide unit. The sensors can preferably be arranged in a grid, so that the most accurate possible determination of the position of the transport movers is ensured at all times. Alternatively or additionally, the transport movers may themselves have one or more sensors. The determination of the position of the transport movers is necessary in order to be able to control the electromagnets correspondingly at the respective position of the transport movers. The recorded data can in particular be forwarded to the control device and evaluated there.

According to a further embodiment, a local positioning system, in particular in the manner of a GPS system, an optical system, in particular with a camera, and / or a distance measuring system, in particular with an ultrasonic sensor, is provided for determining the position of the transport. The recorded data can in particular be forwarded to the control device and evaluated there.

According to a further embodiment, the transport device fulfills a rotational, longitudinal alignment, transverse alignment, distribution, sorting and / or buffering function. Due to the individual controllability of the transport movers, these can consequently be used in a variety of ways. Complex arrangements of conveyor belts are therefore not necessary.

In principle, any angles of rotation are possible, in particular rotations of 90 °, 180 °, 270 ° or 360 °.

According to a further embodiment, a rotational movement of the transport movers takes place by a corresponding control of the respective active unit for transport movers and / or the active unit of the guide unit. In this way, the Transportmover can be rotated without a mechanical adjustment, for example, the support is necessary. Nevertheless, a rotatable support is conceivable in principle. In particular, for example, a part of the guide unit can also be rotated for a rotational movement of the transport movers. An overlying edition can remain in a stationary position.

According to a further embodiment, at least a portion of the transport device, in particular at least a portion of the support, oriented vertically. In this way, a height shift of the portions is made possible in particular. Preferably, a vertically standing support, e.g. as a stator, and vertically movable transport movers, e.g. as a runner, be provided. The energy supply can be done from above. In particular, carriers for portions can be fixed to the transport mugs and project horizontally laterally. Preferably, two transport movers can be aligned with the rear sides in each case. The carriers can each be arranged laterally. The electronic part of the two transport movers is thus decapsulated from the tracks for the portions. The juxtaposed Transportmover can also include a common electronic part.

Also, two stator elements can be arranged vertically back-to-back between two conveyor tracks and to a certain extent form a partition wall between two tracks.

Furthermore, a horizontal back-to-back arrangement of two stator elements is conceivable. A Transportmover can turn this after the delivery of a portion of this at the end of the conveyor line, hanging on the lower stator element are returned and then turned again at the beginning of the conveyor line and placed on the upper stator element.

The region of a vertical orientation can be designed in particular as a buffer.

According to a further embodiment, the support comprises a parking area for at least temporarily unused transport movers. Preferably, the parking area is provided at an edge region of the support. If required, the transport movers can thus be quickly activated again and used for the transport of portions. Unnecessary transport movers can alternatively also be removed and removed from the support, in particular for cleaning purposes.

According to a further embodiment, an edge region of the support is a separate one Conveyor and / or the bottom of the transport device, in particular the underside of a conveyor belt, for the return transport of the transport movers, in particular against a conveying direction formed. If, for example, a transport movers have handed over a portion to a packaging device, then the transport movers can be removed, for example, from the support and set back to the beginning of the conveyor line. Alternatively, the transport movers may be moved back to receive a new portion. In particular, a separate track can be created by a corresponding arrangement of electromagnets or magnets in order to move back the transport movers without obstructing the transport movers moving in the conveying direction. In this case, an edge region or even a central region of the overlay is suitable. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that a separate conveyor is provided. A conventional conveyor belt is also conceivable, for example, for the return transport of the transport movers. If the support is designed to be movable as a conveyor belt, the lower side of the conveyor belt can also be used for the return transport. For this purpose, magnets or electromagnets can also be provided on the underside.

According to a further embodiment, the transport movers are movable by means of a, in particular magnetic and / or an air cushion generating, levitation device at least substantially contact-free over the support. In particular, a magnetic levitation technique can be used here. The levitation device can be provided in the transport movers and / or in the transport device. For example, the Transportmover be equipped with a compressed air storage. Alternatively or additionally, the transport device can also generate an air cushion for the transport movers. Non-contact movement reduces frictional resistance.

According to a further embodiment, the drive unit comprises a, in particular exchangeable and / or rechargeable, energy storage, which supplies the transport movers with energy, in particular electricity and / or compressed air. The energy store can, for example, supply a motor, the electromagnets and / or the hovering device of the transport movers with energy.

In particular, the transport device can have a charging device for charging the energy stores of the transport movers. The charging can be done, for example, inductively. Preferably, the transport movers may be cleaned during the loading process. In this way, the charging time can be meaningfully used.

According to a further embodiment, the transport movers each have an area with a friction-reducing material, a magnet, an electromagnet and / or an energy store at their end facing the support. The area may in particular be at least one curvature. Preferably, two bulges are provided, whereby the Transportmover run as it were on skids on a smooth surface. Alternatively or additionally, the transport movers may also have at least one pillar. Preferably, at least three legs, in particular four legs, are provided. If the transport movers are returned to an underside of a conveyor belt, the legs must have a certain minimum length to be deflected in a deflection zone of the conveyor belt at the transition from the top to the bottom of the conveyor belt without lying.

The end region of the transport movers may be provided with a friction-reducing material. As a result, this can be moved over the support, for example, on the bulges or the legs without much resistance. The friction-reducing material may be, for example, a plastic material. Preferably, at least one magnet or electromagnet is provided at the end region, which is embedded in particular in the friction-reducing material. Due to the fact that, in particular, the magnets or electromagnets are arranged at a lower end region of the transport movers, comparatively strong electromagnetic forces act.

Alternatively or additionally, an energy store may also be provided in the end region. The Transportmover is thus divided into several sections so to speak. Portions or trays may be received in portions in an upper portion, while the lower portion, which is particularly sealed from the upper portion, provides for movement on the tray and / or power supply. This separation ensures a high standard of hygiene. With a change of energy storage, the energy supply of the Transportmovers can be renewed. The energy store can in particular supply a chip, a display and / or further components of the transport movers with energy.

According to a further embodiment, the support on guides for the Transportmover, in particular depressions and / or, preferably detachable, guide rails. The transport movers can cooperate in particular with the guides, wherein, for example, the bulges or the legs engage in depressions of the support. The guides support eg the Trajectory of transportation movers. Preferably, the guide rails can be removed from the area of the support. After removing the guide rails results in an easy-to-clean surface.

According to a further embodiment, the support is exchangeable. This is particularly advantageous if the support has guides. In this way, depending on the application, a different path for the transport movers can be specified. It is also possible in principle to exchange the pads in order to clean and / or maintain them.

According to a further embodiment, the transport movers each have a carrier for at least one portion, which is connected to the drive unit, in particular releasably, coupled or with it, in particular displaceable and / or rotatable connected. Also, several transport movers can share with their carriers together a portion and transport together.

Preferably, at least one and in particular each carrier is designed for the direct reception of at least one portion and, in particular, comprises a substantially planar bearing surface for the portion. As a result, it is not necessary to provide the transport movers with parts of the final packaging, for example a packaging base also referred to as a tray, since the portion can be picked up directly by the transport movers or their carriers themselves. This has the advantage, for example, that the transfer of a portion to the packaging can be transferred to a specifically optimized area and in a manner that is specifically optimized for this purpose. In particular, it is not necessary to move parts of a package in the railway system. For example, in the production of multi-grade packages, it is not necessary to sequentially feed the individual portions by moving a packaging component, such as a packaging component. a so-called tray to collect.

Furthermore, it can be provided according to the invention that at least one carrier and in particular each carrier is designed during operation to remain on the transport movers or for only temporary separation from the transport movers and subsequent reuse or recycling at the or another transport movers.

Alternatively, however, the carrier can also comprise a tray, be designed as a tray or receive a tray. The carrier can also be, for example, parts of a packaging.

A transport movers can therefore already be connected to a carrier by themselves or can only be connected, at least temporarily, to a carrier, for example a tray or a foil packaging.

According to a development, a coupling between the carrier and the drive unit comprises an automatically detachable connection, in particular a magnetic, snap, latching, clamping, clamping, clamping, suction, welding and / or adhesive connection. The drive unit of the Transportmovers can for example consist essentially only of magnets or electromagnets. These magnets can be connected to the carrier, for example a tray or a foil packaging, at least temporarily. In particular, magnets and / or electromagnets can be attached to the carrier by means of a machine unit and / or removed again.

According to a further embodiment, the carrier and the drive unit are adjustable relative to each other, in particular displaceable and / or rotatable. A carrier can thus be rotated, for example, without the drive unit also rotating. This can be helpful in particular when receiving or dispensing portions.

According to a further embodiment, at least one transport mover comprises a cleaning device, in particular a slide. A slider can serve in particular to clean the pad. Thus, the Transportmover figuratively speaking like a snow plow to free the circulation of impurities. The slider can in particular prevent dirt in the area below the Transportmovers, in particular an air gap, enter and restrict his freedom of movement. The cleaning device may also comprise a spraying device to thereby seal the pad with a cleaning fluid, e.g. Water, wet and clean.

A transport movers may also include a slider and / or flexible aprons on all sides. The aprons may serve in particular for forming an air cushion. In this way, the transport movers can be moved over the support like a hovercraft or hovercraft.

It is also conceivable that at least temporarily special transport movers are used, which are used exclusively for cleaning. These can in particular remove contaminants from the support, e.g. Aspirate, strip or blow away. A spray treatment and / or disinfecting the pad is possible here.

According to a further embodiment, a cleaning device is provided which cleans the transport movers during the return transport, in particular on the underside of the transport device. The transport of portions must therefore not be interrupted for cleaning purposes. Accordingly, the cleaning of the transport movers, which may in particular also comprise a disinfection, can also take place during normal operation. Preferably, the transport movers on the underside of a conveyor belt can be cleaned. The transport movers on the top are not affected.

According to a further embodiment, a loading region of the support is adapted to receive portions coming from a conveyor system comprising in particular at least one conveyor belt by means of the transport movers. Alternatively or additionally, a discharge region of the support may be designed to deliver portions to a conveyor system comprising, in particular, at least one conveyor belt by means of the transport movers. The transport device can thus be integrated, in particular, into a conventional conveyor system comprising conveyor belts. The conveyor system may in particular comprise a weighing belt in order to weigh the portions before or after the transport device.

According to a further embodiment, a knife edge band or a transfer device, in particular with belts engaging in the transport movers, with at least one conveyor belt or with at least one robot is provided for receiving and / or dispensing the portions. Using the knife edge band, the portions can be loaded from a conveyor belt to the transport movers. If the transport movers are first conveyed by a conveyor belt, belts can intermesh with slots in the transport movers in order to move them onto the transport device. Even when transferring the transport movers from the transport device to a conveyor belt, belts can intervene in the transport movers. Thus, portions can be transferred in a simple and cost-effective manner from a conveyor belt to the transport device or from the transport device to the conveyor belt. In the loading area or unloading area, alternatively, at least one robot, preferably with a picker, can be provided. The robot may e.g. Portions, the carrier and / or the transport movers transferred from a conveyor belt to the transport device or from the transport device on a conveyor belt.

The invention also relates to a system comprising a device for moving portions and a slicing device, in particular a high-speed slicer. The portions each comprise at least one slice separated from a food product by means of the slicing device. The slicing device can in particular comprise a planetary and / or rotary circular or sickle blade.

The device for moving the portions has a plurality of individually movable Transportmover, each comprising a drive unit. Furthermore, a transport device is provided, which has an at least substantially flat support, over which the transport movers are movable, and a guide unit arranged below the support or comprising the support, which cooperates with the transport movers in such an electromagnetic force to interact with the transport movers move the support in each case on a predetermined path by a control device in a transport direction.

The invention also relates to a method for moving portions, each comprising at least one of a food product, in particular by means of a slicer, in particular a high-speed Slicers, separated disc, with a plurality of individually movable Transportmover, each having a drive unit, and with a transport device. The transport device has an at least substantially planar support over which the transport movers are moved, and a guide unit arranged below the support or comprising the support. This acts by means of an electromagnetic force in such a way with the transport movers that move the transport movers on the support each on a predetermined path by a control device in a transport direction.

In particular, with the aid of sensors in the transport device or in the transport movers, the position of the transport movers can be determined at any time. Corresponding to a desired movement path of the transport movers, electromagnets can then be activated. Depending on the requirement, the transport movers can be buffered or, in particular for the formation of multi-variety portions, be moved to a specific packaging device.

All embodiments of the device and of the system described here are in particular designed to be operated according to the method described here. Furthermore, all embodiments of the device, the system described here and all embodiments of the method described here can each be combined with each other.

The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the drawings. Show it:

1 FIG. 2 schematically a plan view of a first embodiment of a transport device of a device according to the invention for moving portions, FIG.

2 FIG. 2 schematically a plan view of a second embodiment of a transport device of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

3 1 is a schematic sectional view of a first embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions;

4 FIG. 2 schematically a bottom view of a first embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

5 FIG. 2 schematically a bottom view of a second embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

6 FIG. 2 schematically a bottom view of a third embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

7 FIG. 2 schematically a bottom view of a fourth embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

8th FIG. 2 schematically a bottom view of a fifth embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

9 FIG. 2 schematically a bottom view of a sixth embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

10 FIG. 2 schematically a partially transparent plan view of a second embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

11 1 is a schematic plan view of a third embodiment of a portion moving device according to the invention;

12 1 is a schematic plan view of a fourth embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions;

13 FIG. 2 schematically a top view of a fifth embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

14 schematically a side view of the device for moving portions in accordance with 13 .

15 FIG. 2 schematically a plan view of a sixth embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

16 1 is a schematic side view of a seventh embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions;

17 1 is a schematic side view of an eighth embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions;

18 FIG. 2 schematically a side view of a ninth embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

19 FIG. 2 schematically a side view of a tenth embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

20 1 is a schematic sectional view of a seventh embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions;

21 FIG. 2 schematically a sectional view of an eighth embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

22 FIG. 2 schematically a top view of a ninth embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

23 FIG. 2 schematically a sectional view of a tenth embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

24 FIG. 2 schematically a side view of an eleventh embodiment of a transport movers of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

25 1 is a schematic plan view of an embodiment of transport movers which are connected to carriers;

26 and 27 schematically a plan view of carriers associated with Transportmover according to 25 .

28 schematically a sectional view of the carriers associated with Transportmover according to 26 respectively. 27 .

29 FIG. 2 schematically a plan view of a twelfth embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions; FIG.

30 schematically a plan view of a thirteenth embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions, and

31 schematically a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of a device according to the invention for moving portions.

First, it will be noted that the illustrated embodiments are merely exemplary in nature. In particular, the number and arrangements of the magnets and the electromagnets of the transport movers and / or the guide unit can vary. The features of one embodiment may also be arbitrarily combined with features of another embodiment. Also, in the embodiments, magnets may basically be replaced by electromagnets and vice versa.

1 shows a plan view of a transport device 10 , which is a flat edition 12 and one below the pad 12 located leadership unit 14 having. The leadership unit 14 includes several electromagnets 16 , which are arranged in a grid pattern. Between the electromagnets 16 there are sensors 18 , which are also arranged in a grid shape. Further, a control device 20 provided, which the electromagnets 16 can activate or deactivate. The control device 20 can also do that with the sensors 18 evaluate the data obtained. The flat, rigid edition 12 is permeable to the electromagnetic forces of the electromagnets 16 , The edition 12 itself is preferably non-magnetic, non-ferromagnetic and / or non-metallic. This can for example consist of a plastic material or glass.

Through the arranged in a matrix electromagnets 16 and sensors 18 A linear drive can be generated in the X and Y direction as well as in any angle between them.

An alternative embodiment of a guide unit 14 in which the electromagnets 16 are not arranged exclusively grid-shaped, is in 2 shown. By way of example, a plurality of parallel and rectilinear linear drives and cross connections are shown. The cross connections can be oriented at right angles or at an angle to the linear drives. Thus, a web for on the pad 12 set Transportmover be specified. The arrangement of the electromagnets 16 and thus the route sections can be adjusted, for example mechanically. In this way, for example, track transitions and / or track distances can be varied.

In 3 is a transportation movers 22 on the edition 12 placed. The transport movers 22 has a food portion on top 24 added. At its bottom, the transport movers 22 a drive unit 26 on which permanent magnets 28 as well as sensors 18 includes.

A bottom view of the transport movers 22 is in 4 shown. In this embodiment, the transport mover 22 designed as a passive unit, ie they are only passive permanent magnets 28 intended. The drive itself is done using the transport device 10 , In this case, by the control device 20 below the pad 12 magnetic force fields are moved, in particular by activation and / or deactivation of different electromagnets 16 , Due to the generated electromagnetic forces, the Transportmover 22 on the pad 12 taken along and over the edition 12 to be moved.

Already without a conversion of the transport device 12 can the transport movers 22 thus essentially arbitrary about the edition 12 to be moved. The transport movers 22 can be aligned in particular longitudinally and / or transversely. Buffering, sorting and the formation of multi-variety portions are also possible. In this case, the transport movers 22 be moved so that partial portions of different product types are included. Alternatively, a transport movers 22 approach different delivery points.

A transport movers 22 can, after serving a portion 24 has returned, in particular be returned. In this case, the control device 20 the electromagnets 16 control accordingly.

The 5 to 9 show various possible arrangements of permanent magnets 28 at the bottom of the transport movers 22 , Not all permanent magnets have to 28 be permanently activated. Thus, depending on the application, some magnets 28 be switched off or removed. This results in a different movement behavior of the transport movers 22 , In particular, by the arrangement of the magnets 28 the assignment to a track 30 or the force introduction are determined. Will the arrangement of the magnets 28 changed, so the corresponding orbit assignment may change. So in particular different transport movers 22 be provided for certain routes or movements, for example, for portioning or sorting.

An example of three magnetic areas at the bottom of the transport movers 22 with a corresponding track mapping is in 6 shown.

Especially if the transport movers 22 on the pad 12 through the underlying transport device 12 can be dragged along, the arrangement of the magnets 28 be adjusted flexibly. According to the 7 and 8th can magnets 28 through sliders 32 be exchanged or replaced. In this way, with appropriate coordination with the transport device 10 For example, a rotation instead of a transverse displacement can be achieved.

Also, the position of the magnets 28 and sliders 32 be designed to be displaceable or replaceable, so that in coordination with the transport device 10 under the edition 12 a different course of the track or a different track behavior arises. This is exemplary in 9 shown. Switchable poles or energized areas under the support 12 can the transport movers 22 thus capture at different positions. This results in a different displacement and / or rotational movement. Will the position of the magnets 28 not changed, so only single magnets 28 be selectively energized. In total, however, more magnets are used 28 needed as with magnets 28 , which can be set or moved to different positions.

In 10 are switchable magnets 28 several transport movers 22 shown. According to the activated magnets 28 are the transport movers 22 a corresponding track 30 assigned. Also, a rotation can by an appropriate control of the transport device 10 be achieved.

According to the in 11 embodiment shown comprises the guide unit 14 an endless conveyor belt 34 , Above the conveyor belt 34 is a not shown edition 12 intended. On the conveyor belt 34 are magnets 28 arranged, which as in a plate distributor both in the conveying direction R of the conveyor belt 34 as well as additionally across it by means of a rib 36 comprehensive displacement device can be moved. The control can be done, for example, using arranged thereunder rails. transport Mover 22 , which rest on an overlying edition 12 are taken on the basis of the resulting electromagnetic force.

The principle of magnetic towing technology is also in 12 shown. A transport movers 22 includes four legs 38 , On the legs 38 can sliders 32 with embedded magnets 28 be provided. The edition 12 may include a metal or glass plate on which the transport movers 22 move. The transport movers 22 can with the sliders 32 on the pad 12 rest. Through the magnets 22 are the transport movers 22 with magnets or electromagnets below the support 12 coupled. There are, for example, suitable guides and / or switches, which control the movement of the transport 22 Taxes.

By a rotary arrangement of the transport device 10 can the transport movers 22 be rotated accordingly. This will be a transport movers 22 coupled in at least two points using the towing technique so that it moves differently at each point. The transport movers 22 then performs a total of one turn.

The transport movers 22 For example, at an edge region of the support 12 to be led back.

As in 13 shown, the transport movers 22 but also for example on an underside of a conveyor belt 34 be moved back.

At the conveyor belt 34 can the leadership device 14 be arranged between the bands. To the transport movers 22 from the top of the conveyor belt 34 to transport the bottom or from the bottom to the top, have the transport movers 22 mainstays 38 on. Preferably, per transport movers 22 four legs 38 intended. These come closer, for example, to a generally rectangular format of the trays. In principle, however, more or less, for example three, feet are conceivable. Three feet are especially on a flat surface 12 easier to align. Depending on the position in the deflection zone, a slightly greater distance to the surface may be necessary with three feet.

As in 14 you have to see the legs 38 have a minimum distance to the surface, so that there is enough space for a deflection available. In particular, at least two magnets 28 or magnet positions for guiding a Transportmovers 22 required. Basically, for example, two strips with magnets 28 on two opposite sides of the transport movers 22 conceivable. Preferably, these are in turning areas transverse to the conveying direction R and to the conveyor belt 34 aligned.

A return on a bottom is not limited to the magnet technology. So can support for example from below a Edition or a mechanical towing aid be provided.

A return transport on a bottom of a support 12 has the particular advantage that the transport movers 22 can be cleaned on the way back, while the transport movers 22 on the top undisturbed can transport portions.

Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the transport movers 22 be withdrawn laterally at the end of the conveyor line and transported back on a, preferably parallel, conveying path. The separate conveying path can in particular be used as a lateral, separate return transport device outside the support 12 be formed, for example as a separate conveyor belt.

In 15 an alternative embodiment of a movement device according to the invention is shown. Here is the leadership unit 14 as a passive unit with permanent magnets 28 formed while the drive unit 26 the transport movers 22 as an active unit with electromagnets 16 is trained.

The drive of the transport movers 22 can thus via a linear motor in the Transportmover 22 respectively. Also superconducting materials can be used. For this purpose, it can be provided that the transport movers 22 be strongly cooled.

The leadership unit 14 may also be only a magnetic, ferro-magnetic and / or metallic edition 12 include. Such a transport device 10 is particularly inexpensive to produce.

The transport movers 22 even have a built-in, active drive for the longitudinal, transverse and / or rotational movement. There are also sensors 18 provided for position identification of the longitudinal, transverse and / or rotational position.

Below the edition 12 can the magnets 28 in a matrix or linear for the longitudinal and transverse movement of the transport movers 22 be arranged. Furthermore, sensors can 18 , in particular position transmitter and / or receiver, be provided in matrix form or in series.

The electromagnets 16 the transport movers 22 can be controlled by means of a control device. The transport movers 22 can be divided into two parts. So can a functional upper part for receiving the products 24 and an electronics base be provided in which the electromagnets 16 as well as sensors 18 are arranged.

The transport movers 22 can be buffered for charging separately and in particular cleaned.

In 16 is a possible energy supply for the transport movers 22 shown. Here is an electrical energy storage 40 provided, which is designed as a battery. The transport movers 22 Thus, for example, it may be divided into three, ie a functional upper part, a middle electronic part and an energy storage lower part. The power supply can in particular also be effected by means of electrical lines. The energy supply lines of the transport movers 22 especially above the overlay 12 be summarized centrally. This is possible in particular when the transport movers are moved over a defined movement path in a predetermined sequence. The energy supply lines can preferably be tracked with the guideway. An overhead line system, similar to eg trams or trolleybuses, is basically conceivable.

Alternatively or in addition to the electromagnets 16 can be a transportation movers 22 also a motor as a drive unit 26 have which wheels or rollers 42 set in rotation. The movement in the longitudinal direction can thus use the rollers 42 be realized while the direction of movement using magnets 28 or electromagnet 16 can be adjusted.

The drive can be over rollers 42 or for example driven balls, eg three rolling bodies, take place. Alternatively, bands can also be used 44 or chains are powered by the motor. This is exemplary in 17 shown.

According to 18 can be a transportation movers 22 also have a vibration motor. This can be used in particular to a floating state of Transportmovers 22 to reach. Alternatively, the transport movers 22 also by means of air pressure or magnetic forces in a suspended state above the support 12 be kept in order to be moved as low as possible by means of the air cushion and / or magnetic levitation.

A floating state by means of vibration is advantageous in terms of hygiene, since, for example, no hard-to-clean holes, such as those required for producing an air cushion, are provided.

The transport movers 22 is by means of micro vibrations of the edition 12 decoupled. The transport movers 22 can also be an elastomer 46 include, which serves in particular, the Area of transport movers 22 which is for taking portions 24 is intended to dampen from the vibrations.

According to 19 can be a transportation movers 22 also vaults 48 exhibit on which the transport movers 22 about the edition 12 running. The vaults 48 can have sliding areas, thereby minimizing friction. Also, in the vaults 48 magnets 28 or electromagnets 16 be provided.

As in 20 can also be seen, the edition 12 to support the management or the orientation of the transport movers 22 at least in part depressions 50 and / or guide rails 52 which are in 21 are shown. The guide rails 52 In particular, they can be designed to be easily detachable, around the support 12 to be able to clean as best as possible.

Preferably, the guide rails 52 be suspended laterally or from above, so that they have no contact with the rest 12 to have. This also allows for easy cleaning. Furthermore, the guide rails 52 depending on the application rebuilt, in particular, be repositioned.

guide rails 52 showing the movement of the transport movers 22 support are also exemplary in 22 shown. The guide rails 52 can be bent on at least one end area to the transport movers 22 to the desired track 30 to steer. In this way, an accurate web guide is also possible if that is below the support 12 located magnetron is formed comparatively coarse. The guide rails 52 can be compiled application-specific.

Are the guide rails 52 however, firmly with the edition 12 connected or are depressions 50 in the edition 12 provided, so the edition 12 be formed exchangeable. The surface of the overlay 12 can thus be independent of a magnet system arranged underneath. Depending on the application and desired trajectory of the transport movers 22 So can another edition 12 above the leadership unit 14 be installed.

According to the embodiment in FIG 23 can be a transportation movers 22 a carrier 54 for receiving a food portion 24 exhibit. The carrier 54 , which may be, for example, a tray, can with the drive unit 26 of the transport movers 22 for example, releasably coupled, in particular to be clamped. The carrier 24 can transport the food products 24 with the drive unit 26 be connected and resolved again when the carrier 54 with a portion 24 is delivered to a packaging device.

According to 24 can the transport movers 22 a stop frame 56 comprising, which with the drive unit 26 connected is. The stop frame 56 can be on a rotation axis 58 with the drive unit 26 connected and, for example, magnetically to this by means of a magnetic bolt 60 be assured. Will the stop frame 56 which is a carrier 54 can hold, for example, magnetically unlocked, so the stop frame 56 together with the carrier 54 relative to the drive unit 26 around the axis of rotation 58 be pivoted, for example, 90 ° counter to the conveying direction. After the carrier 54 has been issued, can, for example, a mechanical, provision of the stop frame 56 respectively.

Next to the two-sided stop frame shown 56 is basically also a three-sided stop frame 56 conceivable to the wearer 54 to keep safe.

According to the in 25 schematically illustrated embodiment, a carrier 54 at least temporarily with a drive unit 26 be connected to on a pad 12 to be moved specifically. Here, the drive unit 26 For example, a magnetic strip or magnets 28 exhibit. The carrier 54 may for example include a punched hole or a hole into which the drive unit 26 is hung. Also, the drive unit 26 with an edge of the carrier 54 clamped or jammed. In particular, this can lead to a form fit. In principle, any snap, tension and / or magnet attachments are conceivable. Also, the drive unit 26 for example, with the carrier 54 glued and / or welded or to an edge of the carrier 54 , in particular a film edge, be formed. After a successful transport, the drive unit 26 in particular be separated again, for example mechanically and / or thermally.

As in 26 shown, the drive unit 26 on one side of the carrier 54 be attached. According to the embodiment in FIG 27 can the drive unit 26 also at corner areas of the carrier 54 be attached. This allows not only a towing but also a rotatability of the carrier 54 , In particular, magnetic properties or different polarities can also be provided only in individual zones, in particular in corner or exterior areas. This allows electromagnets 16 the leadership unit 14 at the outer points attack and the carriers 54 turn it in a simple way.

The attachment of the drive unit 26 on the straps 54 For example, by hand or by means of a machine unit 62 respectively. The machine unit 62 may be provided in particular in or immediately after a carrier dispenser. The carrier dispenser may have a supply of carriers 54 exhibit. Also, a supply of drive units 26 be provided, which may be formed in particular as brackets. Such trained as brackets drive units 26 are in 28 shown. The drive units 26 can be attached to an edge of the carrier 54 be clipped. The brackets may in particular be spring loaded. An actuation by means of an axle, which can be rotated, is basically possible. Furthermore, the drive unit 26 magnetic and / or electrical on the carrier 54 be attached.

At the end of the transport process, the drive units 26 be returned again. These can be ordered, aligned and / or in a magazine of the machine unit 62 be returned. In particular, film residues can be removed. Also, a cleaning and / or hygiene treatment is possible.

As a staple supply, the brackets can be threaded in the longitudinal guide, so that subsequently an edge of a carrier 54 each can be threaded in an open bracket in the conveying direction. The release takes place in a similar, only reverse manner.

In this way, receives a carrier 54 at least temporarily or locally a drag magnet 28 and thus a magnetic tool.

For determining the position of a transport movers 22 In principle, different systems are possible. So can the transport movers 22 and / or the leadership unit 14 sensors 18 exhibit. Also a local positioning system, which in 29 is indicated, is possible in principle. Such a positioning system 64 can work like a GPS and that way the transport movers 22 locations.

Alternatively, optical systems, eg camera systems, are conceivable. Also laser technology and a corresponding image analysis can basically be used. Furthermore, a position detection using distance measuring systems is conceivable, for example via ultrasound. The ultrasonic signal can in this case, for example, from the outside to the Transportmovern 22 or from the individual transport movers 22 be sent to the outside.

According to the embodiment in FIG 30 can be a transport device 10 also be integrated into a conventional conveyor system. So can the edition 12 for example, load cells 66 upstream, which via feed conveyor 68 with portions 24 be supplied. For example, the food portions 24 without transport movers 22 be weighed. Alternatively, the portions 24 also already on the transport wallets 22 be arranged and together with the transport movers 22 be weighed. Also, weighing can basically be done on the pad 12 respectively. For this purpose, load cells can be used on partial surfaces of the transport device 10 be integrated.

In the embodiment according to 31 is a transport device 10 integrated into a conventional tape system. As a transition between the conventional tape system and the edition 12 this can be a knife edge band 70 be provided, which can be withdrawn to the portions 24 on the transport movers 22 to lay.

A transport device 10 can thus be easily integrated into conventional conveyor systems.

The transport device according to the invention 10 enables extremely flexible and individual transport of food portions 24 , In particular, through the interaction of the transport movers 22 with the transport device 10 the portions 24 longitudinally and / or transversely aligned and, for example, buffered as required.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

 transport device

12

 edition

14

 Guide unit

16

 electromagnet

18

 sensor

20

 control device

22

 transport Mover

24

 Food portion

26

 drive unit

28

 permanent magnet

30

 track

32

 slide

34

 conveyor belt

36

 Rib, displacement device

38

 foothold

40

 energy storage

42

 role

44

 tape

46

 elastomer

48

 bulge

50

 deepening

52

 guide rail

54

 carrier

56

 stop frame

58

 axis of rotation

60

 magnetic bars

62

 machine unit

64

 local positioning system

66

 Load cell

68

 feed conveyor

70

 Knife edge tape

R

 conveying direction

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• WO 2007/135006 A1 [0021]
• US 5880541 [0021]

Claims (30)

Device for moving portions ( 24 ), each of which comprises at least one slice separated from a food product, in particular by means of a slicer, in particular a high-speed slicer, with a plurality of individually movable transport movers (US Pat. 22 ), each having a drive unit ( 26 ), and with a transport device ( 10 ), which are at least substantially flat ( 12 ) about which the transport movers ( 22 ) are movable, and one below the support ( 12 ) or the support ( 12 ) comprehensive management unit ( 14 ), which by means of an electromagnetic force in such a way with the Transportmovern ( 22 ) that the transport movers ( 22 ) on the edition ( 12 ) each on a by a control device ( 20 ) Move predetermined path in a transport direction. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide unit ( 14 ) an active unit with at least one electromagnet ( 16 ) and the drive unit ( 26 ) a passive unit with at least one magnet ( 28 ), wherein the active unit cooperates with the passive unit. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the guide unit ( 14 ) several electromagnets ( 16 ), which are arranged in an application-specific arrangement, in particular evenly distributed. Device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the arrangement of the effective electromagnets ( 16 ) of the management unit ( 14 ) and / or the arrangement of at least one effective magnet ( 28 ) of the drive unit ( 26 ) and in particular by means of the control device ( 20 ) can be specified. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the guide unit ( 14 ) at least one moving magnet ( 28 ) and / or electromagnets ( 16 ), wherein in particular its path is determined by a guide. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the guide unit ( 14 ) a conveyor belt ( 34 ) comprising at least one magnet ( 28 ) and / or electromagnets ( 16 ) promotes in a conveying direction (R). Apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that a displacement device ( 36 ) is provided, which at least one magnet ( 28 ) and / or electromagnets ( 16 ) moves transversely to the conveying direction (R). Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the drive unit ( 26 ) an active unit, in particular a rotor, with at least one electromagnet ( 16 ) and the leadership unit ( 14 ) a passive unit with at least one magnet ( 28 ), wherein the active unit cooperates with the passive unit. Apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the drive unit ( 26 ) on one of the edition ( 12 ) facing end of several electromagnets ( 16 ), which are arranged in an application-specific arrangement, in particular evenly distributed. Device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the arrangement of the effective electromagnets ( 16 ) of the drive unit ( 26 ) and / or the arrangement of at least one effective magnet ( 28 ) of the management unit ( 14 ) and in particular by means of the control device ( 20 ) can be specified. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive unit ( 26 ) comprises an engine, which in particular rolls ( 42 ), Balls and / or belts of transport movers ( 22 ) and / or the transport movers ( 22 ) is put into vibration for propulsion. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for determining the position of the Transportmover ( 22 ) the management unit ( 14 ) and / or the transport movers ( 22 ) at least one sensor ( 18 ). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for determining the position of the Transportmover ( 22 ) a local positioning system ( 64 ), an optical system, in particular with a camera, and / or a distance measuring system, in particular with an ultrasonic sensor, is provided. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport device ( 10 ) performs a rotational, Längsausricht-, Querausricht-, distribution, sorting and / or buffering function. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a rotational movement of the transport movers ( 22 ) by a corresponding control of a respective active unit of the transport movers ( 22 ) and / or an active unit of the management unit ( 14 ) he follows. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a portion of the transport device ( 10 ), in particular at least a portion of the overlay ( 12 ), oriented vertically. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an edge region of the support ( 12 ), a separate conveyor and / or the underside of the transport device ( 10 ), in particular the underside of a conveyor belt ( 34 ), for the return transport of the transport movers ( 22 ), in particular against a conveying direction (R), is formed. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport movers ( 22 ) by means of a, in particular magnetic and / or an air cushion generating, levitation device at least substantially contactless over the support ( 12 ) are movable. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive unit ( 26 ) one, in particular exchangeable and / or rechargeable, energy storage ( 40 ), which the transport movers ( 22 ) supplied with energy, in particular electricity and / or compressed air. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport movers ( 22 ) in each case of their edition ( 12 ) end facing a region, in particular at least one curvature ( 48 ) and / or at least one pillar ( 38 ), with a magnet ( 28 ), an electromagnet ( 16 ) and / or an energy store ( 40 ) exhibit. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support ( 12 ) Guided tours for the transport movers ( 22 ), in particular depressions ( 50 ) and / or, preferably detachable, guide rails ( 52 ). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport movers ( 22 ) each have a carrier ( 54 ) for at least one portion ( 24 ), which is connected to the drive unit ( 26 ), in particular detachably, can be coupled or connected thereto, in particular displaceable and / or rotatable. Apparatus according to claim 22, characterized in that a coupling between the carrier ( 54 ) and the drive unit ( 26 ) comprises an automatically detachable connection, in particular a magnetic, snap, latching, clamping, clamping, stapling, suction, welding and / or adhesive connection. Device according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that the carrier ( 54 ) and the drive unit ( 26 ) are adjustable relative to each other, in particular displaceable and / or rotatable, are. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one transport movers ( 22 ) comprises a cleaning device, in particular a slide. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a cleaning device is provided, which the Transportmover ( 22 ) during the return transport, in particular on the underside of the transport device ( 10 ), cleans. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a loading area of the support ( 12 ) is adapted to receive portions coming from a conveyor system comprising in particular at least one conveyor belt ( 24 ) by means of the transport movers ( 22 ) and / or that a discharge area of the support ( 12 ) is adapted to portions ( 24 ) to a, in particular at least one conveyor belt comprehensive, conveyor system by means of Transportmover ( 22 ). Apparatus according to claim 27, characterized in that for receiving and / or dispensing the portions ( 24 ) a knife edge band ( 70 ) or a transfer device, in particular with engaging in the Transportmover belt and / or with at least one robot is provided. System with a slicing device, in particular a high-speed slicer, and a device for moving portions ( 24 ) according to any one of the preceding claims. Method for moving portions ( 24 ), each of which comprises at least one slice separated from a food product, in particular by means of a slicer, in particular a high-speed slicer, with a plurality of individually movable transport movers (US Pat. 22 ), each having a drive unit ( 26 ), and with a transport device ( 10 ), which are at least substantially flat ( 12 ) about which the transport movers ( 22 ), and one below the overlay ( 12 ) or the support ( 12 ) comprehensive management unit ( 14 ), which by means of an electromagnetic force in such a way with the Transportmovern ( 22 ) that the transport movers ( 22 ) on the edition ( 12 ) each on a by a Control device ( 20 ) Move predetermined path in a transport direction.

Images