DE102015105175B4 - Transfer device and method for operating this transfer device and transfer line using the transfer device - Google Patents

Abstract

Transfer device for transporting workpieces (sheets 50) which are not inherently stable, in particular transversely to their plane of the plate, along a transfer path (9) running in a transfer plane (20) in the transport direction (10) from one deposit position (22) to the next (22) , For example, in a transfer line (100), arranged on both longitudinal sides (9a, b) of the transfer path (9) in the transport direction (10) transfer units (1), each comprising
a) a clamping carriage (2) each having at least one, preferably a plurality of clamping units (5.1, 5.2),
b) wherein the clamping carriage (2) along each of a carriage guide (3) in the transport direction (10) is movable,
c) wherein each clamping unit (5.1, 5.2) has a clamping upper part (5a) and a lower clamping part (5b) which are movable relative to one another in the vertical (12), the perpendicular to the transfer plane (20) and in a direction to the transfer path (9 ) open clamping slot (4) each receive the edge of a workpiece, in particular sheets (50), between them and can clamp, characterized in that
d) the clamping carriage (2) is longer in the longitudinal direction (10) than the carriage guide (3),
e) clamping upper part (5a) and lower clamping part (5b) relative to the base body (2a) of the clamping carriage (2) in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction (10) in the transfer plane (20) extending transverse direction (11) are limited adjustable.

Description

field of use

The invention relates to the necessary between the individual workstations of a transfer line for processing workpieces transfer devices.

Technical background

A typical case of such a transfer line is one for making stuffing and sealing of cup-shaped containers, so-called trays, made of thermoformable plastic.

• - Entweder wird dies alles an der laufenden, durchgängigen Folienbahn realisiert
• - oder von der Rolle werden Abschnitte der gewünschten Größe, sog. Sheets, abgetrennt und diese Sheets einzeln den beschriebenen Arbeitsschritten unterworfen, also zunächst aus dem Sheet durch Tiefziehen ein Mutter-Tray mit meist mehreren beinhalteten Trays erstellt usw.

In order to first form cup-shaped containers by means of thermoforming from a roll stocked on a roll, ie quasi endless, by thermoforming, then to fill them and seal them tightly by overlaying and sealing a sealing foil, there are in principle two possibilities:

• - Either this is all realized on the current, continuous film web
• - Or from the role sections of the desired size, so-called. Sheets, separated and subjected to these sheets individually to the described steps, ie first created from the sheet by deep drawing a mother tray with mostly several trays included, etc.

In the first method, the running film web is transported by being clamped on both sides in clamping chains that hold the lateral edges of the film web and take over the transport in the longitudinal direction.

• - diese Klemmketten natürlich durch die gesamte Maschine hindurch überall die gleiche Geschwindigkeit haben und
• - beim Aufheizen oder anschließenden Tiefziehen der Folie auftretende Wärmedehnungen, Verwerfungen etc. nur schwer oder überhaupt nicht durch die Klemmketten ausgeglichen werden können.

This is very easy handling, but can cause problems because

• - These clamping chains naturally throughout the machine have the same speed everywhere and
• - When heating or subsequent thermoforming of the film occurring thermal expansion, warping etc. difficult or impossible to be compensated by the clamping chains.

Devices for producing bowl-shaped containers from a film web are, for example, from the documents JP 2015-048 136 A and DE 199 17 442 C2 known. In the latter document, the film web is conveyed by means of opening and closing pairs of clamping nippers through the individual processing stations of the apparatus, such as the heating station and the forming station.

The second method has the disadvantage that a higher handling effort is required, but depending on the machine equipment, the individual sheets can be handled independently.

A device for handling workpieces is for example from the Scriptures DE 103 10 941 A1 By means of which a tool fastened to the device can be moved in all three spatial directions.

Furthermore, from the Scriptures DE 195 06 079 A1 a device is known, which in each case has one or more grippers movable in the direction of passage at two transport rails arranged parallel to one another at a distance from each other. Two cooperating grippers can for example form a clamping element by the two parallel transport rails to move two grippers towards each other, wherein the workpiece to be clamped is received between the self-rigid gripper fingers.

Presentation of the invention

Technical task

It is therefore the object according to the invention to provide a transfer device and a transfer line equipped therewith, in particular for the production of deep-drawn plastic trays, which is simple and inexpensive and by a method with an individual control at the individual work stations good results achieved in terms of wall thickness and shape retention and in particular a ripple of the film can be avoided.

Solution of the task

This object is solved by the features of claims 1, 12 and 19. Advantageous embodiments will be apparent from the dependent claims.

The basic idea of the transfer device according to the invention is to arrange clamping units on both sides of a transfer path, each of which can grasp and clamp an edge of the usually plate-shaped or foil-shaped workpiece extending across the transfer path and by synchronously moving the mutual, each opposite clamping units in the transport direction along the transfer path, usually from one processing station to the next, can continue to transport.

In the following, instead of "workpieces" always "sheets" talk, without limiting the invention thereto, because in most cases, it will be the workpieces to plate-shaped workpieces, which are not even transversely to their plate plane inherently stable, such as a plastic film.

The plane in which the plate-shaped workpieces, the sheets, lie and are transported in the transport direction - which is generally the same for all the sheets to be transported and in which the film web is previously located, from which the sheets are separated - is here referred to as a transfer plane, and that path within the transfer plane on which the sheets move as a transfer path. The perpendicular to this transfer plane is referred to as vertical, and transverse to the transport direction lying within the transfer plane perpendicular to the transport direction is referred to.

However, these clamping units are only over a limited distance, usually a uniform pitch R , movable in the transport direction back and forth, so that the sheets can be transported over longer distances with one and the same transfer device only by the sheet is transported step by step, so taken from a pair of clamping units to a step, usually the grid R , is transported further and released and stored, and the clamping unit moves back around this distance.

The sheet is then re-detected by the subsequent clamping unit, clamped and transported again one step.

For this purpose, a plurality of clamping units in a longitudinally movable clamping carriage, in particular longitudinally fixed, arranged in the transport direction, which can also be controlled separately with respect to the lying transversely to the transfer plane clamping direction - the vertical - separately, so the relative movement of the clamping shell and clamping base each clamping unit to each other or can be controlled separately from each other.

Each clamping carriage is movable for moving in and against the transport direction in a likewise running in the transport direction slide guide. Such a slide guide may consist of a continuous guide rail or a guide profile, or even only of longitudinally spaced individual guide blocks to which a fixed to the clamping carriage, e.g. Guide bar is guided.

It is essential that the clamping carriage in the longitudinal direction is in each case longer than the slide guide and in particular at least about the length of a sheet measured in the longitudinal direction, the transport direction, preferably even at least the length of a grid R, which is usually the most common distance from center to center two consecutive storage positions of the sheet in the stepwise forward transport by means of one and the same transfer device is.

As a rule, yes holds a clamping slide, which has several, for example three, clamping units in the transport direction one behind the other, in the transport state, so while he clamps sheets and transported, in each of the clamping units a sheet, which are each transported from one to the next storage position , Therefore, the grid dimension from center to center of two successive storage positions - and thus usually the processing stations - usually the same.

In individual cases, the distance between two successive storage positions may be shorter or longer than the grid dimension. If the distance between two storage positions is greater than the grid dimension, the clamping carriage should also be longer than the carriage guide by at least this extended grid dimension.

The above-mentioned storage positions for sheets are those positions along the transfer path where the clamping of the sheet is opened by a clamping unit, and thereafter the clamping unit is moved relative to the sheet in the opened state and thus the sheet is held on the transfer path by another support is, for example, by resting on a support.

A distinction must be made between intermediate positions at which a clamping unit and thus the clamping carriage stops for a short time, but one of the clamping units still clamps the clamped sheet and does not open the clamp, while other clamping units of the same clamping carriage change from the open state to the clamping state or vice versa, to clamp or release a sheet.

For the following considerations and representations, it is assumed that the clamping carriage, as a rule, always transports the workpieces by the same grid dimension R, without limiting the invention to this.

To this excess of the clamping carriage relative to the carriage guide of the clamping carriage so for example against the transport direction, ie to the rear, from the carriage guide protrude, and there take in this supernatant a workpiece, so clamp, for example, from a local processing station, without the carriage guide must protrude into the longitudinal region of this processing station.

Likewise, the clamping carriage by method by a grid in the transport direction, ie forward, projecting over the carriage guide to put a held at the front end of the clamping sheet in a for example local processing station as a storage position, without that - usually stationary mounted - slide guide must protrude into the length range of this storage position or processing station.

This has the significant advantage that the carriage guide fixedly mounted in the machine is not present in the area of the workstation, and there neither hinders the operation of the processing stations in space nor, for example, the replacement of, for example, the tools of such a processing station: Since the transfer device laterally next to the transfer path does not pass through the processing stations, for example, a tool change by pulling out of the tool in the transport plane transverse to the transport direction.

Other transfer devices, such as clamp carriages attached to an upper run of a revolving chain, do not offer this advantage, since this chain must pass over the entire length range which must be reached by the clamp units and thus into the length range of the first and last Storing position, usually a processing station, must extend.

• Theoretisch könnte die Schlittenführung beispielsweise nur die Länge eines Sheets oder die Länge eines Rastermaßes besitzen, der Klemmschlitten dagegen die zum Beispiel fünffache Länge aufweisen. Er könnte dann solche Positionen einnehmen, bei denen er zum Beispiel über die Schlittenführung nach vorne und hinten um jeweils zwei Rastermaße vorsteht, oder er könnte auch in eine solche Position verfahren werden, dass er nur einseitig, zum Beispiel nach vorne, aus der Schlittenführung um das vierfache Rastermaß vorsteht.

How much the clamp carriage is longer than the slide guide, in particular by the multiple of the grid dimension depends on the one hand on the application and on the other hand on the stability of the carriage guide and the weight of the sheet and the accuracy requirements in the application:

• Theoretically, the slide guide could, for example, only have the length of a sheet or the length of a grid dimension, whereas the clamping carriages have, for example, five times the length. He could then take such positions in which he, for example, on the carriage guide projects forward and back by two pitches, or he could also be moved into such a position that he only one-sided, for example, forward, from the carriage guide to protrudes four times the pitch.

Of course, this large overhang on one side of the guide length, which accounts for only a quarter of it, does not provide optimum stability and guidance accuracy, but could still be sufficient for certain applications.

For example, in order to realize irregular distances between two storage positions for the sheets, that is deviating from an always same grid, or for other purposes, it makes sense that each of the clamping units can be clamped and released independently of the other within the same clamping carriage, So it can be controlled.

The relative movements of the lower clamping part to upper clamping part of the clamping unit, ie transversely to the transfer plane, preferably effected pneumatically, wherein the maximum acting pneumatic pressure is preferably adjustable, and / or preferably both clamping units for clamping carriage, in particular synchronously, movable in the transverse direction.

In addition, clamping upper part and lower clamping part of each clamping unit can be limited relative to the main body of the clamping carriage in the transverse direction to the transport direction adjustable, preferably only limited limited together, but in particular independent of such a transverse movement of the other tops and clamp bases in the same clamping carriage. As a result, for example, dimensional inaccuracies of the workpiece to be gripped or position inaccuracies can be compensated.

In particular, the clamping upper part and the lower clamping part can also be designed as one, ie upper and lower, clamping roller, which is rotatable about a respective pinch roller axis, which extends in the transport direction.

By an opposite driving of these upper and lower pinch roller to the preferably same angular amount held in the clamping slot between the pinch rollers sheet in the transverse direction to the transport direction, outwardly - or inwardly - moves to the longitudinal center of the transport path, and there a sheet on both sides in a clamping device is held, can be tightened by moving the sheet outward.

Preferably, the relative movement of clamping upper part to lower clamping part perpendicular to the transfer plane as well as the rotation of the pinch rollers of one and the same drive device is effected, in particular by a pneumatic drive device.

In addition, the slide guides of a transfer device including the clamping carriage and thus all clamping units therein in the transverse direction of the transfer plane can be adjusted, it may be necessary depending on the application, the carriage guide only on one side of the transfer path or the carriage guides on both sides of the transfer path in this Transverse to make adjustable.

With the aid of such transfer devices, a transfer line can thus be provided with a plurality of processing stations arranged one after the other in the passage direction of the workpieces by at least one of the above-described transfer devices being used to transport the plate-shaped workpieces, in particular sheets, from one to the next processing station on both sides of the transfer path.

As already stated above, it is important for this purpose that the slide guides of the transfer devices in the transport direction do not extend into the length range of the processing stations in order not to impair their function.

On the other hand, in the transverse direction of the transfer plane, the processing stations must also be slightly narrower than the transverse extent of the sheets, so that their edges on both sides project so far out of the processing station that they can be gripped by a clamping unit.

A typical transfer line is one for making trays from a sheet of thermoplastic material, usually plastic, by deep drawing, especially including the subsequent filling and sealing of such trays.

In this case, a transfer line comprises as workstations a cutting station for separating individual sheets from a film web, and then one or more heating stations for heating the sheets to deep drawing temperature, and then a thermoforming station for feeding the sheets to e.g. transform tray-shaped trays.

If these trays are then still to be filled and closed, then a filling station for filling the trays and a sealing station for sealing a sealing film on the top of the trays is also required.

Between the individual stations, in turn, on both sides, one of the transfer devices according to the invention takes over the transport of the initial sheets and later trays by moving them step by step, sometimes with one or more storage positions between the individual workstations, from one workstation to the next, and in this way longitudinally successively arranged transfer devices are transported through the entire transfer line.

For example, the heating station consist of two successively arranged heating units, which must pass through the sheets in succession, to be gradually brought to deep drawing temperature.

If the two heating units are to be arranged directly one behind the other, so therebetween no separate transfer device should be arranged with their carriage guide between them, either the upstream transfer device between, for example, cutting station and heating station or the downstream transfer device between heating station and thermoforming station and the transfer of the sheets from the first Cope with the heating unit to the second heating unit.

If this assumes the upstream transfer device, and yet should not extend their slide guide in the range of the two heating units - which is indeed the basic idea of the invention -, the clamping carriage not only the simple, but at least twice the length of a sheet, in particular twice the pitch of the transfer device, be longer than the carriage guide:

Because in order to implement a pre-heated in the first heating sheet in the second heating unit, the clamping carriage must be extendable from the front end of the carriage guide to this double sheet length or grid dimension.

Between the heating station and the thermoforming station can then follow a second, both sides, transfer device, in which it is sufficient, however, if, for example, the slide guide the simple pitch and the length of the clamping carriage twice the pitch corresponds, so the clamping carriage only by a pitch longer is as the carriage guide.

However, if the first transfer device should be able to store not only in the two heating stations but also in the thermoforming station, the transport carriage must be at least three times the pitch longer than the carriage guide.

If the distance between the front and rear ends of the carriage guide and the adjacent workstation is less than 0.6 times the pitch, the distance between successive work stations may be very short be kept and space saved, and also the grid size increases compared to the length of the sheet only slightly.

However, it may also be appropriate that the sum of the two distances between the respective end of the carriage guide and the next workstation is slightly larger than the length of a sheet, in particular slightly larger or equal to the grid. Because then the clamping slide can be brought in such a position between the two processing stations in the longitudinal direction, that also the clamping slide projects into any of the two processing stations, and thus held in the clamping carriage sheets can be kept out of engagement of both adjacent workstations, depending on the workflow or may also be advantageous for simultaneously to be performed on both workstations maintenance.

The procedure for transporting sheets along a transfer path having a plurality of storage positions, for example by a transfer line with a plurality of spaced processing stations arranged one behind the other and one or more pairs of transfer devices arranged therebetween, is that along the transfer path one behind the other and preferably slightly in Transport direction spaced apart virtual or physically formed storage positions for sheets are present, the storage positions can also be located in one of the processing stations in the respective processing position.

The sheets are transported by means of the transfer device gradually from one to the next storage position by each one of the opposing clamping units on each side of the sheet in the length range of the stored on a tray sheet using the respective clamping slide is moved synchronously in particular, so that the Edge of the sheet protrudes into the clamping slot of the respective clamping unit.

For this purpose, the tray must rest sufficiently against the projecting lateral edge of the sheet at the side edges.

Then, the edge of the sheet is clamped on both sides by the respective clamping unit, optionally lifted from the tray (which is done in particular by the vertical lifting of the clamping base during clamping against the remaining unchanged in height clamping upper part) and the sheet by synchronous longitudinal movement of the two each other opposite clamping carriage moved to the next storage position and stored there and the clamping of the clamping units is opened.

The clamping and raising of the edge of the sheet is carried out either simultaneously or preferably one after the other.

Subsequently, the clamping carriage moves back the same distance and the same clamping unit takes on the same storage position as before another sheet, while the downstream next pair of two-sided clamping units of the two-sided clamping slide clamp the above-mentioned, stored sheet, lift if necessary and turn to the next storage position transport.

In this way, especially with a uniform spacing between all storage positions, each transfer device can be moved back and forth by at least the same pitch, so that after the transfer line has started during the travel of the clamping carriages, each pair of clamping units each hold one sheet. As a result, the sheets transported by a pair of clamping carriages can be transported through the entire transfer line, preferably with a constant cycle time, that is, a dwell time in their storage positions.

If the distance from center to center of two successive storage positions deviates from the grid dimension or generally each pair of successive storage positions occupy a different distance from one another, it may be necessary for the clamping carriage to be moved back and forth over unmatched distances or over several distances in succession first forward and / or then moved back another route or vice versa.

As a rule, the distance which is most frequently defined in a transfer path or a transfer line as the spacing, ie from center to center, of two successive storage positions in the longitudinal direction is defined as the grid dimension and thus the normal step length.

If, for example, between a first and a second storage position for technical reasons, the distance is greater than the grid in the form of the distance between all subsequent pairs of storage positions, then after retraction of the clamping carriage, in which yes, then usually all clamping units open and empty are, the return first done to the opposite of the pitch larger distance to the first processing station.

There, however, only the rearmost clamping unit is clamped, which thereby receives the sheet lying in the first processing station.

Now, however, it is not moved by the grid dimension forward or even the entire distance by which the clamping carriage has moved backwards, but only by the difference between the greater return length and the grid. At this so-called intermediate storage location, which may even overlap with the first storage location in the processing station, the other clamping units are now closed, for example, since they are now each at a storage position, and the lying there sheets each terminals and should absorb it.

If the difference amount is greater than 50%, in particular greater than 100%, of the grid dimension and if, in particular, the free distance between sheets stored in these two storage positions is greater than the length of a sheet in the transport direction, an additional regular, instead of the adjacent storage positions, is recommended instead the grid spacing, storage position.

At each clamping and receiving the edge of a sheet, the respective clamping unit, preferably both with respect to the longitudinal center of opposing clamping units of a pair of clamping units, stretch the held sheet in the transverse direction and thereby avoid sagging in non-inherently stable sheets.

In addition, the slide guides and thus the guided clamping carriage can be moved and adjusted in total in the transverse direction, for example, depending on the width of the sheets to be transported and their position in the transverse position.

As a rule, the storage positions are located in one processing station each, in which the sheet stored there is subsequently processed.

Since some of these processing stations would interfere with a laterally adjacent to the processing station carriage guide, the carriage guides in the longitudinal direction in front or behind, so in the transport direction away, this storage positions and thus arranged there processing station attached, and for storing or retrieving a sheet of this Deployment position of the clamping carriage accordingly far extended from the rear end of the upstream slide guide to the rear or extended over the front end of the downstream of this storage position slide guide forward.

list of figures

• 1a - c:eine Transferstraße in perspektivischer Ansicht sowie weiteren Ansichten,
• 2a - d:einen Teil der Transfervorrichtung der Transferstraße in perspektivischer Ansicht und weiteren Ansichten,
• 3: eine Transfereinheit der Transfervorrichtung in perspektivischer Ansicht,
• 4a, b: die Transfereinheit der 3, betrachtet in Laufrichtung der Transfervorrichtung in zwei verschiedenen Funktionszuständen,
• 5a, b: eine vergrößerte Darstellung einer ersten Bauform der Transfereinheit, betrachtet in Transportrichtung, einmal in der offenen Stellung und einmal in der geschlossenen Stellung der Klemmeinheit,
• 5c, d: eine vergrößerte Darstellung einer zweiten Bauform der Transfereinheit, betrachtet in Transportrichtung, einmal in der offenen Stellung und einmal in der geschlossenen Stellung der Klemmeinheit,
• 6a-z: eine Prinzipdarstellung der Transferstraße gemäß 1c in unterschiedlichen Transport-Zuständen der Transfervorrichtung.

Embodiments according to the invention are described in more detail below by way of example. Show it:

• 1a - c : a transfer line in perspective view and other views,
• 2a - d FIG. 2: a part of the transfer device of the transfer line in a perspective view and further views,
• 3 : a transfer unit of the transfer device in perspective view,
• 4a, b : the transfer unit of 3 , viewed in the direction of the transfer device in two different functional states,
• 5a, b FIG. 2: an enlarged view of a first design of the transfer unit, viewed in the transport direction, once in the open position and once in the closed position of the clamping unit, FIG.
• 5c, d FIG. 2: an enlarged view of a second design of the transfer unit, viewed in the transport direction, once in the open position and once in the closed position of the clamping unit, FIG.
• 6a-z : a schematic diagram of the transfer line according to 1c in different transport states of the transfer device.

The 1a-c show the transfer device according to the invention, used in a transfer line, in which from a film web thermoformed trays are to be produced.

For this purpose, the film web 51 from a supply roll arranged at the left end of these figures 52 deducted and in the transport direction 10 moved through the transfer line, with the film web 51 initially a first processing station in the form of a cutting unit 101 is fed from the quasi-endless film web 51 sheets 50 separated and then transported by the transfer device.

Both after the supply roll towards the cutting unit 101 transported film web 51 as well as the subsequently created sheets 50 be in a horizontal plane, the transport plane 20 , transported, along a transport path 9 who is in the transport plane 20 lies and the width of the film web 51 or sheets 50 owns and also in the transport direction 10 extends.

In transport direction 10 joins the cutting unit 1 a first heating unit 102.1 and then a second heating unit 102.2 each of which consists of a heating top 102 and one Heizunterteil 102b exists in the vertical direction 12 - So the direction across the transfer plane 20 - as far as can be approximated to each other, that they are in contact on both sides with the between performed and held sheet 50 get out of thermoplastic material and heat it in two stages to the necessary thermoforming temperature.

The sheets heated in this way 50 be downstream of the heating units 102.1 . 102.2 next to a thermoforming unit 103 fed, in which they between a Formoberteil 103a and a mold base 103b by dipping these three-dimensional moldings are three-dimensionally deformed into a so-called mother tray 54 in which a variety of the desired individual trays side by side 55 are formed as depressions so that they at a later, not shown time - if these trays 55 filled and sealed with local application of a sealing foil are - separated by punching or cutting.

The transport along the transport path takes place on both sides of the transport path 9 in the transport direction 10 arranged, in the transverse direction 11 opposite transport units 1 , which are the longitudinal edges of the sheets 50 grab and by moving in the transport direction 10 forward transport. The procedure used will be described later on the basis of 6a-z explained.

In the transfer street of 1a - c is a first pair of transport units 1 between the cutting unit 101 and the thermoforming unit 103 present, and a second pair of transport units 1 downstream of the thermoforming unit 103 ,

• Das Maschinengestell besteht im Wesentlichen aus in Querrichtung 11 beabstandeten, vertikal stehenden und jeweils eine begrenzte Strecke in Transportrichtung 10 verlaufenden Seitenwangen 100a, b, die über Querstreben 100c auf Abstand gehalten und fest gegeneinander verschraubt sind, sodass dazwischen ein Transferpfad 9 gebildet wird und an der linken und rechten Wange 100a, 100b jeweils eine ebenfalls in Transportrichtung 10 verlaufende Transporteinheit 1 befestigt werden kann, wie sie in 3 einzeln perspektivisch dargestellt ist und im Wesentlichen aus einer Schlittenführung 3 und dem daran in Transportrichtung 10 geführten Klemmschlitten 2 besteht.

The 2a - d show a part of the transfer line, namely a part of the machine frame and a part of the transfer device, at the downstream, right end in the 1a - c Transfer line shown:

• The machine frame essentially consists of in the transverse direction 11 spaced, vertically standing and a limited distance in the transport direction 10 extending sidewalls 100a . b that cross over struts 100c kept at a distance and firmly screwed together, so in between a transfer path 9 is formed and on the left and right cheek 100a . 100b one each also in the transport direction 10 extending transport unit 1 can be fixed as they are in 3 is shown individually in perspective and essentially from a carriage guide 3 and the one in the transport direction 10 guided clamping carriage 2 consists.

In 2a is the already generated mother tray 54 with the individual trays formed therein 55 shown, which with its two longitudinal edges in each one of the two opposite transport units 1 is held.

In the supervision of the 2c For simplicity's sake, instead, it's just a plain, smooth, flat sheet 50 shown in the side view of 2 B is, however, only symbolically the transfer level 20 located.

Around the sheet taken at the longitudinal edges 50 longitudinal 10 continue to transport, must be on both sides of the sheet 50 attacking transport units 1 - as best in 2d to recognize - synchronously in the transport direction 10 be moved, otherwise the sheet 50 would forgive.

Therefore, the two have, in the transverse direction 11 opposite, clamping carriage 2 a rack on its underside 14 , with a respective underlying drive pinion 13 combed and driven by this and the two drive pinions 13 are according to 2d rotationally fixed to each other via a transverse drive shaft 7 connected by a motor 8th or a motor-gear unit is driven.

The one side edge of the film to be transported, in this case an already created mother tray 54 , is in the 4a, b enlarged and leaves - as well as 3 in the perspective view - recognize that the clamping carriage 2 in the transport direction 10 along the carriage guide 3 is movable, with a guide profile 3a stationary on the machine frame, namely its side cheek 100 a, is bolted while a guide rail 3b at the transport direction 10 movable clamping carriage 2 is attached and in the longitudinal center plane 10 ' open, C-shaped guide profile 3a protrudes and is guided in this direction in the transport direction.

As especially the 3 shows are on the clamping carriage 2 in the transport direction 10 spaced several, in this case a total of three, clamping units 5.1 . 5.2 . 5.3 present, each consisting of a clamping shell 5a and a clamping base 5b exist between those in the vertical direction 12 spaced apart, open state a clamping slot 4 is open, in the longitudinal edge of a sheet 50 or as shown a mother tray 54 , Can be picked up, and by approaching each other from Klemmoberteil 5a and clamp base 5b clamped between and thus by longitudinal movement of the clamping unit, for. B. 5.1 , in transport direction 10 can be moved further.

The 4 a, b differ from each other in that in 4a the clamping slot 4 is open, so clamp shell 5a and clamp base 5b in the vertical direction 12 spaced from each other and the edge of the mother tray 54 from the longitudinal center 10 ' in this clamping slot 4 protrudes. In 4b on the other hand are clamping shell 5a and clamp base 5b in the vertical direction 12 so far as to approach each other, that they the longitudinal edge of the intervening foil of the mother tray 54 between them and hold.

The 5a, b show like that 4a, b again considered in the transport direction 10 a transport unit 1 once in the open state of its clamping unit 5.1 and once in the closed state, but with respect to the 4a, b additionally the clamping unit 5.1 in the transverse direction 11 opposite the main body 2a of the clamping carriage 2 is limited to a movable on both sides in such a clamping unit 5.1 held sheet 50 in the transverse direction 11 to be able to tighten.

• In diesem Grund Körper 2a ist ein Pneumatik-Zylinder 17 ausgebildet, in dem ein Pneumatik-Kolben 18 in Querrichtung 11 beweglich ist, wobei bezüglich der Längsmitte 10' auf der Außenseite des Pneumatik-Kolbens 18 eine Druckfeder 16 angeordnet ist, welche im drucklosen Zustand des Pneumatik-Zylinder 17 den Pneumatik-Kolben 18 in die ausgefahrene Stellung, also Richtung Längsmitte 10' drückt.

It is again firmly on the side wall 100a the machine put screwed guide profile 3a to recognize, in the over rolling bodies 15 in the direction of view, the transport direction 10 , sliding a guide rail 3b is guided, which is the main body 2a of the clamping carriage 2 wearing:

• In that reason body 2a is a pneumatic cylinder 17 formed in which a pneumatic piston 18 in the transverse direction 11 is movable, with respect to the longitudinal center 10 ' on the outside of the pneumatic piston 18 a compression spring 16 is arranged, which in the pressureless state of the pneumatic cylinder 17 the pneumatic piston 18 in the extended position, ie direction longitudinal center 10 ' suppressed.

On the pneumatic piston 18 is the clamping unit 5.1 attached, which is usually open in this extended state, ie in the vertical direction 12 an open clamping slot 4 has, which also to the longitudinal center 10 ' is open, and in this way a longitudinal edge of a film web 51 or a sheet 50 in the clamping slot 4 can be introduced.

By then closing the clamping slot 4 between terminal shell 5a and clamp base becomes the side edge of the sheet 50 clamped.

If subsequently via the compressed air connection, for example 19 Compressed air in the pneumatic cylinder 17 on the from the compression spring 16 is entered by the opposite side of the pneumatic piston 18 and thus also the clamping unit 5.1 against the force of the compression spring 16 from the longitudinal center 10 ' moved outward and thereby the sheets 50 in the transverse direction 11 curious how 5b shown.

The 5c, d differ from those of 5a, b in that the clamping unit 5.1 opposite the main body 2a of the clamping carriage 2 in the transverse direction 11 is not movable, but fix, as well as in the 4a 4b.

Nevertheless, here is a stretching of a sheet 50 in the transverse direction 11 possible by both in the clamping shell 5a as well as the clamping base 5b one pinch roller each 6a . b rotatable and drivable about one in the transport direction 10 extending axis of rotation is arranged, each in the direction of clamping slot 4 something from the terminal shell 5a or clamping base 5b protrude, leaving the edge of a sheet 50 between the pinch rollers 6a . b can be clamped.

By rotary drive, in particular synchronous rotary drive, the two pinch rollers 6a . b so that their peripheral surface in the clamping slot 4 in the transverse direction 11 to the outside, that is from the longitudinal center 10 ' moved away, the edge of a sheet clamped between them becomes 50 pulled outward and thus the sheet 50 in the transverse direction 11 curious; excited.

One of the ways described above for clamping a clamped sheet 50 in the transverse direction 11 is either on one side of the transfer path 9 at the transfer unit 1 present or on both sides.

In the 6a to y is the procedure, as the individual sheets 50 by means of the transport device according to the invention 1 through the transfer line 100 transported, step by step shown on a purely symbolic, reduced to schematic representations, viewed in the transverse direction 11 to the transport direction 10 in which the sheets 50 through the transfer line 100 be transported.

Corresponding to the representation, in the following only the single-number form of a terminal unit, a clamping carriage and so forth is mentioned, whereby according to the preceding figures it should be clear that for gripping and transporting a sheet 50 always on both sides such a unit must be present, each one of the two side edges of the sheet 50 captured and moved by synchronous movement of this pair of units.

• - eine Schneideinheit 101, um von der Folienbahn 51, die von einer zum Beispiel Vorratsrolle 52 aus zugeführt wird und quasi endlos, Sheets 50 der gewünschten Länge abzuschneiden,
• - eine erste Heizeinheit 102.1, um die Sheets 50 auf ein erstes Temperaturniveau zu erwärmen,
• - eine zweite Heizeinheit 102.2, um die Sheets dort einzeln nacheinander auf ein zweites Temperaturniveau, welches für das anschließende Tiefziehen ausreicht, zu erwärmen,
• - eine Tiefzieheinheit 103, in der die plattenförmigen, im wesentlichen ebenen Sheets 50 einzeln nacheinander zu den gewünschten Trays 55 umgeformt werden - wie am besten in 6w ersichtlich - wobei in der Regel in dem aus dem Sheet 50 erzeugten Muttertray 54 mehrere der gewünschten einzelnen Trays 55 nebeneinander erzeugt werden, die anschließend aus dem Muttertray 54 in einer weiteren, nicht mehr dargestellten, Arbeitsstation herausgestanzt werden.

The transfer road 100 includes in this case - as best in 6a to recognize - in the direction of transport 10 behind each other

• - a cutting unit 101 to get off the film web 51 by a supply roll, for example 52 is fed from and quasi endless, Sheets 50 to cut to the desired length,
• - a first heating unit 102.1 to the sheets 50 to heat to a first temperature level
• - a second heating unit 102.2 to heat the sheets one at a time to a second temperature level, which is sufficient for the subsequent thermoforming,
• - a thermoforming unit 103 in which the plate-shaped, substantially flat sheets 50 one by one to the desired trays 55 to be reshaped - as best in 6w apparent - where usually in the from the sheet 50 generated mothers tray 54 several of the desired individual trays 55 be created next to each other, which then from the mother's tray 54 be punched out in another, not shown, workstation.

Likewise, downstream additional processing stations for filling and sealing the trays are no longer shown.

The transfer device 1 consists of the clamping carriage 2 , in which - to the longitudinal center 10 ' the transfer path 9 towards open - basic body 2a (as best in 3 or 4a or 5a to see) in the transport direction 10 one behind the other three clamping units 5.1 . 5.2 and 5.3 are arranged, each consisting of a clamping shell 5a and a clamping base 5b exist, as in 6a shown.

This clamp carriage 2 is in the longitudinal direction 10 slidable back and forth in a fixed mounted slide guide 3 stored, but in the longitudinal direction 10 is much shorter than the clamping carriage 2 , in this case, only as long as a clamping unit and thus about as long as one of the heating units 102.1 ,

The clamping units 5.1 . 5.2 and 5.3 are between a vertically disassembled, open state, as in 6a , but also 4a and 5a and in a clamped condition in which the film is clamped therebetween, as in FIG 6b on the left clamping unit 5.1 represents and also in the 4b and 5b can be seen, independently for the individual clamping units back and forth movable.

These clamping units 5.1 to 5.3 own in the longitudinal direction 10 preferably in each case the length of the sheet to be clamped therebetween 50 , as of the 6b Under certain circumstances, however, they can also be shorter, but rarely much longer.

The individual clamping units 5.1 to 5.3 in each case only clamp in the transverse direction 11 outer edge of the film or a sheet 50 which is why it has already become a mother tray 54 deformed sheets 50 can be clamped and transported on the outside protruding undeformed edge by means of the clamping units.

6a further shows that the distance from center to center of most processing stations, so the two heating units 102.1 and 102.2 as well as from the heating unit 102.2 to the thermoforming unit 103 , in each case the same pitch R , so to speak, have the step length of the transfer process.

This can not be maintained between all processing stations, especially if in the longitudinal direction 10 the transfer line 100 as short as possible to be kept. Therefore, for example, the distance between the cutting unit 101 and the first heating unit 102.1 shorter than this pitch R However, a distance between two adjacent processing stations could also be greater than the pitch once R be. As a grid R Therefore, the most common distance between two adjacent processing stations is usually chosen.

With regard to the clamping carriage 2 It can also be seen that the distance in the transport direction 10 from center to center from one clamping unit to the next 51 ., 5.2 . 5.3 also the grid dimension R equivalent.

The view of 6a At first it gives the impression as if the slide guide 3 and also the entire clamping carriage 2 between the vertically superposed spaced heating top 102 and heating base 102b Yes, from the illustrated disabled position to heat the film to the sheet 50 be approached vertically, if necessary, to the touch.

The slide guide 3 and the clamp carriage 2 However, are considered in the supervision - such as in 1b to recognize - laterally outside the respective processing station and thus also the heating unit 102.1 ,

However, there are processing stations, such as sometimes the thermoforming unit 103 in which it is nevertheless desirable that the transfer device 1 is not permanently provided laterally in the length range of the processing station, for example, the tool of this processing station, in this case the thermoforming tool, with Tiefziehoberteil and Tiefziehunterteil 103b easy for replacement or maintenance laterally in the transverse direction 11 from the transfer line 100 to be able to pull out.

Making this possible is one of the advantages of the transfer device according to the invention 1 ,

The procedure during the operation of the transfer device will be described below with reference to FIG 6a to y explained step by step, starting with a film web 51 whose front free end is at the longitudinal position of the cutting unit 101 ends.

The clamping carriage 2 will now open, in the direction of flow 10 rearmost, clamping unit 5.1 so far against the transport direction 10 proceed that the clamping unit 5.1 upstream of the cutting unit 101 is at the longitudinal position of the new sheet to be produced, ie in particular in the direction of passage 10 front end of the clamping unit 5.1 with the front free end of the film web 51 matches.

Then be according to 6b the clamping shell 5a and the clamp base 5b Move vertically against each other and the film web 51 clamped in between. By moving the reciprocal transport carriages 2 in the transport direction 10 becomes the film web 51 so far from the supply roll 52 subtracted until the back end of the sheet to be produced 50 at the position of the cutting unit 101 , ie at the cutting point, stands, as in 6c shown.

Then the cutting unit becomes 101 activated and by moving the two cutting edges of the film web against each other 51 the sheet 50 separated with the desired length, wherein the first front end portion of the film web 51 and after cutting the sheet 50 in the first clamping unit 5.1 remains clamped. Up to this time, the other two clamping units, so the middle clamping unit 5.2 and the right clamping unit 5.3 remain in the open position.

The severed sheet 50 is now clamped in the rearmost clamping unit 5.1 longitudinal 10 transported until it is at the position of the first heating unit 102.1 located in the longitudinal direction 10 usually just as long or longer as the sheet to be heated 50 ,

In general, the correct positioning in the heating unit means that the longitudinal direction 10 measured middle of the sheet 50 in the longitudinal direction 10 measured center of the heating unit 102.1 located.

In this position is the clamping carriage 2 with his left end still in the carriage guide 3 but protrudes from this backwards at most only slightly insignificant, while the middle and front clamping unit 5.2 and 5.3 longitudinal 10 forward from the slide guide 3 protrude.

According to 6e then open the terminal shells 5a and clamp bases 5b and give the edge of the sheet 50 free, after or while heating shell 102 and heating base 102b the first heating unit 102.1 against each other and thus against the sheet 50 have approximated or even easily pinch this between themselves.

During this first sheet 50.1 is heated further, moves the clamping carriage 2 with the opened first clamping unit 5.1 again against the transport direction 10 back until the first clamping unit 5.1 again in the 6a illustrated starting position for gripping the free end of the film web 51 immediately upstream of the cutting unit 101 is located as in 6f shown. In this position of the clamping carriage 2 becomes the clamping unit 5.1 closed, as in 6g represented, and thereby the free end of the film web 51 taken.

To a new, second sheet 50.2 to produce, the end of the film web would have to 51 again so far in the longitudinal direction 10 be transported that the desired length of the sheet 50.2 from the location of the cutting unit 101 from in the longitudinal direction 10 protrudes.

As 6g shows, however, in this way the first, in the first heating unit 102.1 located sheet 50.1 thereby from the middle clamping unit 5.2 and taken to the next heating unit 102.2 , So the next processing station to be transported.

Since the distance from the back end of the current position of the first sheet 50.1 to the back end of the not yet separated potential second sheet 50.2 but larger than the grid size R is, namely a difference D is bigger and R + D is, the clamping carriage initially moves only by this difference D longitudinal 10 forward, as in 6h shown, so that the second clamping unit 5.2 now on the longitudinal position of the first sheet 50.1 and thus the first heating unit 102.1 is located as in 6h shown.

In this position the clamping carriage stops 2 on, and the middle clamping unit 5.2 is closed, so this now the first sheet 50.1 clamps, as well as the free end of the film web 51 still in the first clamping unit 5.1 is clamped, as in 6i shown.

Only then will the clamping carriage 2 longitudinal 10 Continue to process until the rear end of the potential second sheets 50.2 on cutting position, ie the position of the cutting unit 101 , is located, and in this position of the clamping carriage 2 stopped and by operating the cutting unit 101 the second sheet 50.2 , which is still clamped and held, from the rearmost clamping unit 5.1 and the new sheet 50.2 by actuating the cutting unit 101 separated, as in 6k shown.

Then according to 6I Continue to move in the longitudinal direction until the rear and middle clamping unit 5.1 and 5.2 , in each case a sheet 50.2 and 50.1 is located at the position of the first and the second heating station 102.1 respectively. 102.2 are located.

That in the first heating unit 102.1 previously heated first sheet 50.1 It will now be in the second heating unit 102.2 spent to be further heated up there.

In this position of the clamping carriage 2 can now - optionally after closing the two heating units - the first and second clamping unit 5.1 and 5.2 to be reopened - as in 6m shown - and then the transport carriage 2 again against the transport direction 10 are moved back to the position according to 6a , as in 6n represents.

It will now turn according to 6o the rearmost clamping unit 5.1 closed to the free end of the film web 51 upstream of the cutting unit 101 to pinch.

As already described above, is then according to 6p the transport carriage 2 only by the distance D in the longitudinal direction 10 proceed until the middle clamping unit 5.1 at the position of the first heating unit 102.1 and the foremost clamping unit 5.3 in the position of the other heating unit 102.2 located.

The edges of the sheets lying inside 50.1 and 50.2 can by closing and clamping in the foremost clamping unit 5.3 and the middle clamping unit 5.2 - as in 6 shown - are taken and now the clamping slide 2 according to 6r in the transport direction 10 continue to proceed until the rear end of the now by means of the cutting unit 101 third sheets to be produced 50.3 is at cutting position and by operating the cutting unit 101 can be separated. This again takes place when the transport carriage is stationary 2 ,

Connecting can according to 6s the transport carriage 2 , in which now all three clamping units 5.1 to 5.3 are closed and each one between them a sheet 50.1 respectively. 50.2 respectively. 50.3 record, as far as moved in the longitudinal direction, to the individual clamping units and held therein sheets on position each one of the processing stations, ie one of the heating units 102.1 or 102.2 or the thermoforming unit 103 stand, as in 6s shown.

Now all three clamping units 5.1 to 5.3 be opened - preferably only after the corresponding processing stations with their upper and lower parts have at least partially moved into the closed position - as in 6t shown, and then with open clamping units according to 6u are moved back to the starting position according to 6o for gripping and pulling the next piece of the film web and the supply roll 52 to create the next sheet.

Meanwhile or afterwards, the heating units are activated, ie upper part approximated to lower part and also in the thermoforming unit 103 , in which now for the first time a sheet 50.1 is located, form top 103a and mold base 103b approximated against each other, as in 6v represented so that the sheet 50.1 in between is deformed to a mother tray 54 , as in 6w dashed for the middle part of the mother tray 54 drawn, while the lateral outer edges remain undeformed and can be gripped by the clamping units.

This in 6v Sheet to be transported after forming 50.1 or mother tray 54 which many individual trays 55 contains, according to 6w now picked up by another clamp carriage 2 ' , which is to another, downstream transfer device 1' heard whose carriage guide 3 ' downstream of the thermoforming unit 103 is arranged.

The slide guide 3 ' the further transfer device 1' is preferably located at the longitudinal position of the subsequent next processing station, which in 6w downstream of the thermoforming unit 103 is still indicated, and the clamping carriage 2 ' can be against the transport direction 10 so far back from the slide guide 3 ' be extended, that is the first clamping unit 5.1 ' in the position of the thermoforming unit 103 is located and the sheet lying therein 50.1 or the mother tray 54 can seize edge by closing the clamping unit 5.1 ' , as in 6x shown.

At the same time, according to 6x Of course, the middle and front clamping unit 5.2 and 5.3 the first transfer device 1 closed, because the next step will be according to 6y both transfer devices 1 and 1' - Preferably synchronously, but not necessarily synchronous - in the transport direction 10 advanced.

So according to 6z the clamping carriage 2 of the first transfer device remain when the back end of the potentially next sheet to be produced 50.4 the position of the cutting unit 101 has reached, in which case then the other two clamping units 5.2 and 5.3 not quite at the position of the next processing station to be approached.

Regardless, the clamp carriage can 2 ' the next transfer device 1' continue driving until the clamping unit, for example, 5.1 'is in the position of the next processing station.

For example, the 6v and lower it is clear that the two successive transfer devices 1 and 1' and their clamping carriage 2 . 2 ' can be positioned in the length range of certain desired processing stations, in this case the thermoforming station 103 , longitudinal 10 temporarily neither of the two transfer devices 1 . 1' and not their clamping slide 2 . 2 ' available.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

transfer unit

2

clamping slides

2a

body

3

carriage guide

3a

guide profile

3b

guide rail

4

clamping slot

5, 5.1.5.2

terminal unit

5a

Clamping shell

5b

Clamp lower part

6

axis

6a

upper pinch roller

6b

lower terminal roller

7

drive shaft

8th

engine

9

Transfer Path

9a, b

long side

10

Longitudinal direction, transport direction, passage direction

10 '

longitudinal center

11

(horizontal) transverse direction

12

vertical

13

pinion

14

rack

15

rolling elements

16

compression spring

17

Pneumatic cylinder

18

Pneumatic piston

19

air connection

20

transfer level

21

22

storage position

50

Sheet

51

sheet

52

supply roll

53

54

Muttertray

55

tray

100

transfer line

100a, b

side cheek

100c

crossmember

101

Processing station, cutting unit

102. 1,102.2

Processing station, heating unit

102

Heizoberteil

102b

Heizunterteil

103

Processing station, thermoforming unit,

103a

Mold top

103b

Mold part

Claims (25)

Transfer device for transporting workpieces (sheets 50) which are not inherently stable, in particular transversely to their plane of the plate, along a transfer path (9) running in a transfer plane (20) in the transport direction (10) from one deposit position (22) to the next (22) in a transfer line (100), for example, with transfer units (1) arranged on both longitudinal sides (9a, b) of the transfer path (9) in the transport direction (10), each comprising a) a clamping carriage (2) each having at least one, preferably a plurality of clamping units (5.1, 5.2), b) wherein the clamping carriage (2) along a respective slide guide (3) in the transport direction (10) is movable, c) wherein each clamping unit (5.1, 5.2) has a clamping upper part (5a) and a lower clamping part (5b), in the vertical (12), the perpendicular to the transfer plane (20), are movable relative to each other and in a to the transfer path (9) open clamping slot (4) each receive the edge of a workpiece, in particular sheets (50), between them and can thereby characterized in that d) the clamping carriage (2) in the longitudinal direction (10) is longer than the carriage guide (3), e) clamping upper part (5a) and clamping lower part (5b) relative to the main body (2a) of the clamping carriage (2) in a perpendicular to Transport direction (10) in the transfer plane (20) extending transverse direction (11) are limited adjustable. Transfer device after Claim 1 , characterized in that the clamping carriage (2) from the carriage guide (3) in the longitudinal direction (10) optionally - either front or rear protruding - or at the same time front and rear protruding, can be positioned. Transfer device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the relative movement of clamping upper part (5a) to lower clamping part (5b) for each clamping unit (5) separately and independently of the other clamping units (5), also the same clamping carriage (2) can be controlled in particular in that at least either the clamping upper part (5a) or the lower clamping part (5b) is movable relative to the base body (2a) of the clamping carriage (2) in the vertical (12). Transfer device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the slide guides (3), including the guided therein clamping carriage (2) at least one, preferably both longitudinal sides of the transfer path (9) in the transverse direction (11) are adjustable. Transfer device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the relative movement of the lower clamping part (5b) to upper clamping part (5a) is pneumatically driven and in particular the maximum acting pneumatic pressure is adjustable. Transfer device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that clamping upper part (5a) and lower clamping part (5b) are only jointly adjustable relative to the main body (2a) of the clamping carriage (2) in the transverse direction (11), but in particular independently of the upper clamping parts (2a). and terminal bases (2b) of the other clamping units (5). Transfer device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that clamping upper part (5a) and lower clamping part (5b) are designed as upper and lower clamping rollers (6a, b) which are rotatable about their respective pinch roller axis (6 '), which in the transport direction (10 ) runs. Transfer device after Claim 7 , characterized in that the pinch rollers (6a, b) can be driven synchronously in opposite directions in such a direction that a sheet (50) held in the clamping slot (4) between the pinch rollers (6a, b) in the transverse direction (11) of the transfer path (9 ) is stretched outwards. Transfer device according to one of Claims 7 or 8th , characterized in that the relative movement of clamping upper part (5a) to lower clamping part (5b) to the clamping of the sheet (50) and the subsequent rotation of the pinch rollers (6a, b) for tensioning the sheet (50) by one and the same drive device, in particular a pneumatic drive device is effected. Transfer device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the length (L1) of the slide guide (3) measured in the longitudinal direction (10) is the integer one or more times a grid dimension (R), and the length (10) measured in the longitudinal direction (10). L2) of the clamping carriage (2) by the integer one or more times the pitch (R) is longer than the carriage guide (3), each with an accuracy of ± 15%, better ± 10%, better ± 5% with respect to integral one or more times the grid dimension (R), wherein the carriage guide (3) can also consist of separate, in the longitudinal direction (10) spaced, longitudinal guide blocks, which together form a slide guide (3). Transfer device after Claim 10 , Characterized in that the procedure defined in the longitudinal direction (10) pitch (R) of at least equal to the measured longitudinal length (L) to be transported sheets (50), in particular the distance in the transport direction from center to center of the deposit positions (22) for the Sheets (5). Transfer line (100) with a plurality of processing stations (101, 102, 103) arranged successively in the transport direction (10) and a transfer device with at least one transfer unit (1) for the plate-shaped workpieces, in particular sheets (50), between the processing stations (101, 102, 103), characterized in that the transfer device is designed according to one of the preceding claims. Transfer road to Claim 12 , characterized in that the carriage guides (3) in the transport direction (10) do not extend into the region of the processing stations (101, 102, 103) and in particular the slide guides (3) ends at such a distance in front of the adjacent processing station (for example, 102.2) in that the clamping carriage (2) can release and deposit a sheet (50) held in its clamping unit (eg 5.3) in this processing station (eg 102.2) in the intended processing position, the storage position. Transfer road to Claim 12 or 13 , characterized in that the transfer line (100) for producing (100) plastic trays (55) by means of deep drawing, in particular for producing filled and closed such trays (55), and the transfer line (100) comprises: - a cutting station ( 101) for separating individual sheets (50) from a film web (51), - at least one heating station (102.1, 101.2) for heating the sheets (50) to deep drawing temperature, and - a deep drawing station (103) for feeding the sheets (50 ) to transform trays. Transfer road to one of the Claims 12 - 14 , characterized in that the transfer line (100) further comprises a filling station (104) and a sealing station (105) for sealing a sealing film. Transfer road to one of the Claims 12 - 15 , characterized in that - the transfer line (100) immediately after two heating units (102.1) and (102.2) and - the transfer device in the region of the cutting station (101) and heating station (102) on both sides each have a slide guide (3) whose length (L1) corresponds to the simple grid dimension (R) and the length (L2) of the clamping slide (2) guided therein corresponds to three times the grid dimension (R). Transfer road to one of the Claims 12 - 16 , characterized in that - the distance (A1) between the adjacent work stations, in particular the cutting device (101), and the rear end of the carriage guide (3) and - the distance (A2) between the front end of the carriage guide (3) and adjacent workstation, in particular the first heating station (102.1), each less than 0.6 times, better 0.5 times, better 0.3 times, better 0.2 times, better 0, 1 times the grid dimension (R). Transfer road to one of the Claims 12 - 17 , characterized in that between the heating station (102) and the thermoforming station (103) a second transfer device (1b) is arranged, - the length (L3) of the carriage guide (3) corresponds to the simple grid dimension (R), - the length ( L4) of the clamping carriage (2) corresponds to twice the grid dimension (R). Method for transporting sheets (50) lying in a transfer plane (20) along a transfer path (9) running in the transfer plane (20) whose width corresponds to the width of the sheets (50), with a plurality of mutually spaced storage positions for the sheets (50 ) by means of at least one transfer device (1) according to one of Claims 1 - 10 in which - the sheets (50) are transported step by step from one to the next storage position (22) by - each sheet (50) at a storage position (22.1) at each of its longitudinal edges by one of the clamping units (5.1) each a clamping carriage (2 ), - by means of the mutual clamping units (5.1) transported in the transport direction (10) to the next storage position (22.2) and there by opening the mutual clamping units (5.1) is released, - the clamping carriage (2) with open clamping units (5.1) against the Transport direction (10) are moved back to the clamping units (5.1) adjacent clamping units (5.2) of the same clamping slide (2) at the storage position (22.2) of the previously stored there sheet (50) and - the sheet (50) the storage position (22.2) clamped at each of its longitudinal edges of the clamping units (5.2), transported by means of the clamping units (5.2) in the transport direction (10) to the next storage position (22.3) and there by releasing the clamping units (5.2) are released. characterized in that - clamping upper part (5a) and lower clamping part (5b) of the clamping units (5.1, 5.2) relative to the base body (2a) of the clamping carriage (2) in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction (10) in the transfer plane (20) extending transverse direction (11 ) are limited. Method according to Claim 19 , characterized in that the distance between two successive storage positions (22.1 and 22.2) that occurs most frequently within a transfer path (9) is defined as a grid (R) and is used as a regular increment in the stepwise transport of the sheets (50). Method according to Claim 20 , characterized in that at a greater distance between two successive storage positions (22.1 and 22.2), which is greater by a difference (D), which in particular is itself smaller than the grid dimension (R) than the grid dimension (R) - when recording of sheets (50) the upstream of this larger distance filed sheet (50) by the there positioned clamping unit (eg 5.1) clamped and the clamping carriage (2) only by the difference (D) is moved and then, in particular with stopped clamping carriage (2), the remaining clamping units, which are then in each case a storage position, the local sheet (50) clamp and - when placing sheets (50) of the clamping carriage (2) is initially moved only by the pitch (R), then the upstream of the larger distance located clamping units open and their sheets (50) are stored and then the clamping slide (2) by moving the difference (D) further and then opening the clamping units located downstream of the greater distance and depositing the sheets (50) held therein. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, characterized in that for depositing and / or picking up a sheet (50) at a storage position (eg 22.1) to be kept clear in its longitudinal area of slide guides (3) the clamping carriage (2) is arranged from a carriage guide arranged away from this longitudinal area (3) is extended out into this longitudinal area. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the sheet (50) is clamped during or after clamping by double-sided clamping units (5.1 or 5.2) in the transverse direction (11). Method according to Claim 23 , characterized in that the tensioning in the transverse direction (11) - either by turning of pinch rollers (6a, b) takes place, serving as a clamping base (5a) and clamping-upper part (5b) and about an axis (6) are pivotable moving in the transport direction (10), or by moving the closed clamping unit with the edge of a sheet (50) clamped therebetween in the transverse direction (11) from the longitudinal center (10 ') to the outside. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, characterized in that before the start of the transport, the slide guides (3) of the opposing clamping carriages (2) are adjusted to the appropriate distance corresponding to the width of the sheets (50) to be transported.

Images