DE102015211955A1 - Working device and method for transporting and folding carton blanks - Google Patents

Abstract

There are disclosed a working apparatus (1) and a method of transporting and folding carton blanks. The working device (1) comprises at least one endlessly circulating conveyor chain (3), which has a plurality of elements (2) arranged in series, which are coupled in a rotationally movable manner to each other via a plurality of mutually parallel pivoting axes (4). Further, at least one folding lever (6) provided for abutment on an outer packaging (5), which is connected via a folding mechanism (12) to members (2) of the at least one conveyor chain (3), so that the at least one folding lever (6) can be brought by a horizontal orientation of at least two members (2) of the at least one conveyor chain (3) in a working position (AP). Also, a stationary positive guide (20) is provided, via which a horizontal orientation of the at least two members (2) in the context of a circumferential movement of the conveyor chain (3) can be specified to the working position (AP) of the at least one for engagement with an outer packaging (5) provided to maintain folding lever (6).

Description

The present invention relates to a working apparatus and method for transporting and folding carton blanks.

In the field of packing and palletizing often individual piece goods, such as beverage containers or the like, summarized and packaged in a box in order to transport these easily and safely. The carton is initially designed as a carton blank and must be folded accordingly before it can be used as outer packaging for a collection of articles. Possibly. Side, front and / or rear flaps are glued together.

Horizontal conveyors are already known from the prior art, which can strike lateral, front and / or rear flaps during transport of carton blanks. On the tabs previously adhesive can be applied, so that a cohesive connection after wrapping the tabs and already during transport of the respective carton blank can be produced.

Such a device discloses, for example, the EP 2 444 323 A1 , The folding device of the EP patent application comprises a conveyor chain and a pivotally mounted on the conveyor chain and guided by this folding fingers. In addition, a coupling device located between folding finger and conveyor chain is provided for pivoting the folding finger. A pivoting of the folding finger via the coupling device at a change in direction and / or deflection of the conveyor chain. In addition, the device comprises a deflector for lifting objects from a conveying plane.

Since the folding finger according to EP patent application kraftbeaufschlagt is performed against a respective outer packaging, it may be that the conveyor chain or individual links of the conveyor chain are placed on contact of the folding finger with the outer packaging. In addition, it may happen in practice that a conveyor chain is not or only insufficiently provided with lubricant, whereby individual members remain twisted after a deflection or do not align horizontally. Especially with older conveyor chains such a movement of links could be observed.

A pivoting movement of the folding finger takes place at a change in direction of the conveyor chain and thus possibly even when erect individual limbs. If the individual links are set up, it may be that the respective folding finger moves away from the outer packaging or is pivoted in the direction of the outer packaging. Tabs of the outer packaging can not be efficiently folded in erected chain links. Further, a possibly applied between side tabs, but not yet fully formed cohesive adhesive bond can be solved, so that the outer packaging is not formed completely or unsatisfactory when individual folding fingers move unintentionally away from the outer packaging.

For this reason, an object of the invention can be seen in providing an apparatus and a method by means of which carton blanks can be folded in an improved manner and which do not have or at least reduced the disadvantages described above. The device should also have a simple structure. Next, the process should be easy to implement.

The above objects are achieved by an apparatus and a method comprising the features in claims 1 and 10. Further advantageous embodiments are described by the subclaims.

The invention relates to a working device for transporting and folding carton blanks. The working device comprises at least one endless circulating conveyor chain, which has a plurality of elements arranged in series, which are rotatably coupled to each other via a plurality of mutually parallel pivot axes. In this case, two deflections can be provided, by means of which the at least one conveyor chain is guided endlessly circulating. A respective member of the at least one conveyor chain may be rotatably coupled to two immediately adjacent members via a respective pivot axis.

Furthermore, the working device comprises at least one folding lever provided for attachment to an outer packaging, which is connected to members of the at least one conveyor chain via a folding mechanism so that the at least one folding lever is brought into a working position by a horizontal orientation of at least two members of the at least one conveyor chain can be. The working position can in this case be designed such that the at least one folding lever protrudes from a transport plane for the outer packaging or for the cardboard blank. In the working position, the at least one folding lever can be brought into abutment with a respective tab of the carton blank and, if necessary, force-set this on a lateral surface of the carton blank.

It is also a stationary or stationary positive guidance or backdrop provided over which a horizontal orientation of at least two members in the context of a circumferential movement of the at least one conveyor chain can be predetermined in order to maintain the working position of the at least one provided for the system to an outer packaging folding lever upright. The positive guide may comprise a linear guide to effect the horizontal orientation of the at least two links. Due to the stationary installation of the forced operation, individual members of the at least one conveyor chain can pass through the forced operation when the at least one conveyor chain is in motion.

Due to the positive guidance and the associated horizontal orientation of the at least two members, the at least two members, which are in communication with the folding mechanism, can not be set up. An unintentional pivoting of the at least one folding lever is thereby prevented. Thus, by means of the working devices according to the invention, carton blanks can be folded without the at least one folding lever moving unintentionally in the direction of a lateral tab.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the folding mechanism can have at least one coupling and at least one axis of rotation, by means of which the at least one folding lever can be pivoted relative to the at least one coupling. The at least one folding lever may be rotatably articulated to a first member of the at least one conveyor chain and the at least one coupling to a second member of the at least one conveyor chain. Such embodiments have proven to be able to convert the at least one folding lever in a simple manner by means of a horizontal orientation of the at least two members in a working position. The axis of rotation, by means of which the at least one folding lever can be pivoted relative to the at least one coupling, is oriented in preferred embodiments horizontally and possibly parallel to the plurality of pivot axes, via which the individual members can be pivoted to each other.

It is also conceivable that the at least two members each comprise at least one own bolt, which respective own bolts project horizontally from the at least one conveyor chain such that they engage with the positive guide in a circumferential movement of the at least one conveyor chain to a horizontal orientation for the at least two members pretend. As previously mentioned, the positive guide may comprise a linear guide. The linear guide can be designed as a backdrop or possibly as an L-shaped or U-shaped profile into which the own bolts are immersed in a circumferential movement of the at least one conveyor chain.

In addition, it is conceivable that the own bolt are formed as a respective pivot axis, via which the at least two members are rotatably connected to adjacent members. In particular, each link of the at least one conveyor chain may comprise two bolts oriented parallel to one another. Furthermore, each link of the at least one conveyor chain may comprise two inner plates oriented parallel to one another, whose respective longitudinal extent is oriented in a horizontal running direction of the at least one conveyor chain. Each inner flap may have two openings, wherein a first own bolt engages through a first opening of a first inner flap and through a first opening of a second inner flap. Through a second opening of a first inner flap and a second opening of a second inner flap can grab another own bolt. Further, there may be a plurality of outer tabs which rest on bolts of adjacent members to rotationally or mutually connect adjacent members of the at least one conveyor chain. In conceivable embodiments, one sleeve may be associated with each of the own bolts, which is rotatably seated on its respective own bolt. The at least one conveyor chain can thus be designed as a roller chain.

It may also be the case that one or more further links are interposed between the first link of the at least one conveyor chain and the second link of the at least one conveyor chain, which are in each case connected to at least one and preferably two own bolts. The own bolts of the one or more further members can in this case protrude horizontally from the at least one conveyor chain so that they engage with the positive guide during a circumferential movement of the at least one conveyor chain in order to align the one or more further members horizontally. Such embodiments further contribute to maintaining a working position for the at least one folding lever.

It is also conceivable that the two links of the at least one conveyor chain, to which the folding lever and the coupling are optionally rotatably articulated, follow a plurality of support members of the at least one conveyor chain, which are immediately adjacent to each other and to each of which a support element is mechanically coupled , The support elements of the immediately adjacent support members can jointly provide a substantially uninterrupted flat level for overpacks or carton blanks. The support members may be formed in terms of their structural design identical to the links to which the at least one folding lever and the coupling are rotatably articulated. Thus, the support members each have two inner tabs, whose respective longitudinal extent is oriented in a horizontal running direction of the at least one conveyor chain. Further, the inner flaps may have at least two openings through which respective bolts engage to mechanically couple the inner flaps together. The longitudinal extension of the bolts can in this case be designed such that they do not engage in a circumferential movement of the at least one conveyor chain with the forced operation.

The support elements may each have a convexly curved outer circumferential surface in the direction away from the at least one conveyor chain or the respective member. In particular, support elements can be fastened in each case via at least one screw on the associated support member.

It is also conceivable that by means of the positive guidance no horizontal orientation of the plurality of support members can be predetermined, which are mechanically coupled to one support element. The plurality of support members may therefore comprise at least one, and preferably at least two, own bolts which, however, do not engage the positive guide in a circumferential movement of the at least one conveyor chain. Such embodiments have proven to be simple and uncomplicated embodiment of a device according to the invention.

It may also be that the at least one conveyor chain provides a horizontal transport plane for outer packaging, wherein the positive guide extends without interruption along the horizontal transport plane to a horizontal alignment of the at least two members, with which the at least one folding lever is connected via a folding mechanism, to effect and maintain a pivotal position of the at least one folding lever during a movement along the horizontal transport plane continuously. The forced operation can end in the region of a deflection for the at least one conveyor chain. Thus, the at least one folding lever in the region of the deflection can be pivoted in connection with a change in direction of the at least one conveyor chain and be brought back into the working position after redirecting again, in which the at least one folding lever protrudes from a formed by the at least one conveyor chain transport plane for carton blanks ,

In various embodiments, the work apparatus may include a plurality of circulating conveyor chains each having a plurality of serially arranged members rotatably coupled to one another via a plurality of mutually parallel pivot axes. Conveying directions of the several circulating conveyor chains can be oriented parallel to each other. Further, a plurality of conveyor chains may be positioned adjacent to each other, so that an outer package or a carton blank is moved together via a plurality of conveyor chains and in this case stands up on a plurality of conveyor chains at the same time.

In addition, it is conceivable that the working device for each of the several circulating conveyor chains comprises at least one folding lever provided for engagement with an outer packaging, which is connected via a respective folding mechanism to members of the respective conveyor chain. The respective folding lever can be brought into a working position via a horizontal orientation of at least two members of the respective conveyor chain, if necessary. It may be that at least one folding lever of a first conveyor chain is provided for driving in a rear flap of a cardboard blank and at least one folding lever of another conveyor chain is provided for driving in a front flap of a cardboard blank.

Further, the working device may comprise a stationary positive guide for each of the plurality of conveyor chains, via which a horizontal orientation of the at least two members of the respective conveyor chain in the context of a circumferential movement of the respective conveyor chain can be specified to the working position of the respective at least one for the plant to an outer packaging intended to maintain folding lever. It is conceivable here that a first conveyor chain and a second conveyor chain between a first forced operation, which is assigned to the first conveyor chain and a second forced operation, which is assigned to the second conveyor chain, are positioned.

In addition, one or more sensors may be provided, via which an actual position of a folding lever for each of the plurality of conveyor chains can be seen. The one or more sensors may be designed as optical sensors.

In addition, a control device can be provided, which is in communication with the one or more sensors and, taking into account the detected via the one or more sensors actual positions of the folding lever, the plurality of conveyor chains can move circumferentially such that the folding lever of the plurality of conveyor chains a certain relative Maintain position position or a certain predetermined target distance in a circumferential movement of the plurality of conveyor chains.

The invention further relates to a method for transporting and folding carton blanks. Features described above for various embodiments of the apparatus of the invention may also be used be provided in conceivable embodiments of the method described below. Further, features which are described below to conceivable embodiments of the method can be used in an implementation or embodiment of a device according to the invention.

As part of the process, a conveyor chain is moved circumferentially, with at least two links of the conveyor chain at least one folding lever via a folding mechanism is in communication. The at least one folding lever is brought by means of the folding mechanism from a horizontal orientation of the at least two members resulting in a working position. Here, a tab of the outer packaging is folded and then guided over the at least one conveyor chain together with the outer packaging along a transport plane. For example, it may be that the at least one folding lever is brought by means of the folding mechanism in the region of a deflection in the working position and in this case folds a tab of the outer packaging.

When the at least one folding lever is guided along the transport plane, the at least two links enter an active region of a positive guide or are in an effective region of the forced guidance which predetermines a horizontal orientation for the at least two links of the at least one conveyor chain to the working position for the to maintain at least one folding lever in its leadership along the transport plane. As a result, carton blanks can be folded effectively, since the at least one folding lever can not be pivoted unintentionally in the direction of the carton blank or avoid unintentionally.

In conceivable embodiments of the method according to the invention, a first deflection for the at least one conveyor chain and a second deflection for the at least one conveyor chain may be provided, wherein the effective range of the forced operation over a certain section along the at least one conveyor chain between the first deflection and the second deflection extends. In particular, embodiments have proven in which the effective range at least approximately reaches the first deflection and the second deflection.

Further, it may be that at least two conveyor chains, which are each associated with at least one folding lever with respective folding mechanism are moved parallel to each other, wherein a folding lever of a first of the at least two conveyor chains in the direction of movement of the carton blank anticipatory flap of the carton blank and a folding lever a second of the at least two conveyor chains strikes a trailing in the direction of movement of the carton blank tab of the respective carton blank.

In conceivable embodiments, moreover, an actual position of a folding lever of the first of the at least two conveyor chains and an actual position of a folding lever of the second of the at least two conveyor chains can be detected by sensors and the revolving movements of the first conveyor chain and the second conveyor chain as a function of the detected actual Positions are coordinated. In this case, a relative distance of a folding lever of the first of the at least two conveyor chains relative to a folding lever of the second of the at least two conveyor chains can be adapted and maintained during a movement of the two folding levers along a transport plane. Thus, it may be that a respective circulating movement speed of the first of the at least two conveyor chains and a circulating movement speed of a second of the at least two conveyor chains in dependence of the detected actual positions are regulated.

In the following, embodiments of the invention and their advantages with reference to the accompanying figures will be explained in more detail. The proportions of the individual elements to one another in the figures do not always correspond to the actual size ratios, since some shapes are simplified and other shapes are shown enlarged in relation to other elements for better illustration.

1 shows a schematic view of an already known from the prior art device for transporting and folding carton blanks;

2 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a device according to the invention;

3 shows a further schematic view of the embodiment of a device according to the invention according to 2 ;

4 shows a schematic view of individual components of the embodiment of a device according to 2 and 3 ;

5 shows a plan view of the components according to 4 ;

6 shows a perspective side view of a conveyor chain and a folding lever with folding mechanism, as they may be provided for various embodiments of a device according to the invention;

7 shows a further perspective side view of a conveyor chain and a folding lever with folding mechanism according to 6 ,

For identical or equivalent elements of the invention, identical reference numerals are used. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only reference symbols are shown in the individual figures, which are required for the description of the respective figure. The illustrated embodiments are merely examples of how the invention may be configured and are not an exhaustive limitation.

1 shows a schematic view of a device already known from the prior art 10 for transporting and folding carton blanks 5 , The device 10 includes a conveyor chain 3 , made up of a large number of individual members 2 composed. The limbs 2 are oriented around several parallel to each other and in 1 in the direction of the image plane extending pivot axes 4 rotatable to each other. Next are two folding mechanisms 12 to recognize, each a paddock 8th as well as an axis 11 include. About the respective axis 11 is the paddock 8th pivotable with a respective folding lever 6 connected. The folding levers 6 and the paddocks 8th are also each on a first and a second link 2c and 2d the conveyor chain 3 rotatably articulated.

The conveyor chain 3 has a conveying direction FR, in which by means of the conveyor chain 3 the carton blank 5 is moved. Here are the folding lever 6 a front flap 7 and a rear flap 9 hammered out of the carton blank 5 to form an outer packaging. On the front tab 7 and the rear flap 9 can be in contact with the folding levers 6 Adhesive are applied so that the tabs 7 and 9 by a material connection on a lateral surface of the cardboard blank 5 can be held in position.

As in 1 to recognize is a change in the relative position of limbs 2 the conveyor chain 3 with a pivoting movement of the folding lever 6 accompanied. In a folding movement, a force on the folding lever 6 act, due to which several members 2 the conveyor chain 3 be set up. As a result, the folding lever moves 6 in the direction of the respective tab 7 respectively. 9 so that it is not folded or insufficiently folded out of the carton blank 5 to form a stable outer packaging. Especially if on the front tab 7 and the rear flap 9 a respective adhesive compound has been applied, it may be that due to an unwanted pivoting of the folding lever 6 a cohesive connection can not or can not be sufficiently formed to the front flap 7 and the back flap 9 in their respective for the outer packaging 5 to fix the intended position.

Practice has also shown that over a longer period used or possibly insufficiently provided with lubricant links 2 of conveyor chains 3 after a deflection not be aligned in a horizontal orientation but in a salaried position, as exemplified in 1 to recognize, remain. Also here are folding lever 6 can not be selectively pivoted to a respective tab 7 respectively. 9 a carton blank 5 in one for the respective trainees Umverpackung 5 intended position, so that devices would be desirable which avoid these problems.

digit 15 refers to 1 to a sensor which is in communication with a control device S. About the sensor 15 becomes a respective position of the folding lever 6 detected and a revolving movement of the conveyor chain 3 controlled or predetermined taking into account the detected position. The folding levers 6 are here in a detection range of the sensor 15 guided. Unless the folding lever 6 were unintentionally pivoted and not in a planned working position AP (see. 2 ), it may be that the conveyor chain 3 is not controlled with intended circumferential motion or speed. Even with a control of a circulating movement of the conveyor chain 3 Therefore, improvements would be desirable to carton blanks 5 to fold and transport exactly.

2 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a device according to the invention 1 , The device 1 is intended for transporting and folding carton blanks 5 and in the present case has four conveyor chains positioned parallel to one another 3 , A transport or conveying direction FR of the conveyor chains 3 is indicated by arrow. Each of the conveyor chains 3 has several members arranged in series or in the conveying direction FR 2 , which have a plurality of mutually parallel pivot axes 4 are rotatably coupled to each other. A possible structural design for the conveyor chains 3 is in the respective detail view according to 6 and 7 to recognize the present patent application.

For every carton blank 5 owns every conveyor chain 3 a folding lever 6 that has a respective folding mechanism 12 (see. 6 and 7 ) with limbs 2 the respective conveyor chain 3 communicates, so that the respective folding lever 6 in a horizontal orientation of the respective members 2 in the in 2 shown working position AP is brought. Two folding levers 6 or two folding lever 6 different conveyor chains 3 are here for the impact a rear flap 9 of the carton blank 5 provided and are in the working position AP with the rear tab 9 in surface contact. There are also two more folding levers 6 two further conveyor chains 3 provided with an in 2 unrecognizable front tab 7 a respective carton blank 5 in plant. From the two other folding levers 6 is a folding lever 6 in 2 to recognize. With a respective front and rear tab 7 respectively. 9 Therefore, there are two folding levers each 6 in contact with the front and rear tabs 7 and 9 align, with each folding lever 6 at a separate conveyor chain 3 is rotatably articulated.

Moreover, for each of the conveyor chains 3 a forced tour 20 or backdrop 21 provided, via which a horizontal orientation of limbs 2 the conveyor chains 3 in the context of a circulating movement of the conveyor chains 3 can be specified. Respective members 2c and 2d (see. 6 and 7 ) of the respective conveyor chain 3 to which the respective coupling 8th as well as the respective folding lever 6 are rotatably articulated, have this each two bolts 16 in the horizontal direction of the respective link 2 stick out and with a circumferential movement of the respective conveyor chain 3 with a respective forced guidance 20 or backdrop 21 engage. Also between the limbs 2 respectively. 2c and 2d to which the paddock 8th as well as the respective folding lever 6 are rotatably articulated, owns the respective conveyor chain 3 more links 2 B with two horizontally from each other member 2 B protruding bolt 16 , in case of circulating movement of the respective conveyor chain 3 in engagement with the respective forced operation 20 or backdrop 21 reach.

Kick a folding lever 6 Stressed with a tab 7 respectively. 9 a carton blank 5 In plant, a force acts on the respective conveyor chain 3 a, due to which individual limbs 2 , as in 1 shown, if necessary hired. Advantageously, in 2 a vertical deflection of the bolts 16 with a circumferential movement of the conveyor chains 3 by means of forced operation 20 or the scenery 21 each inhibited, so that all members 2 that about bolts 16 dispose of at their bolts 16 into the forced operation 20 can not be twisted against each other. This leaves the folding lever 6 even with very large on the folding lever 6 acting force in their respective working position AP and are not unintentionally pivoted. Advantageously, the tabs 7 respectively. 9 of the respective carton blank 5 thereby efficiently folded. Has an adhesive bond on tabs 7 respectively. 9 Applied, it can be problematic a cohesive connection between the respective tab 7 respectively. 9 and a lateral surface of the cardboard blank 5 train as the tabs 7 respectively. 9 during transport of the carton blank 5 by means of the folding lever 6 continuously subjected to force against a lateral surface of the respective carton blank 5 be guided.

With a circulating movement of the conveyor chains 3 these are redirected twice (cf. 3 ). How to 1 already described, it can often be observed in practice that individual limbs 2 a respective conveyor chain 3 after deflection and in particular with insufficient application of lubricant in one opposite other limbs 2 employee orientation. Due to the forced operation 20 or the engagement of the bolts 16 into the forced operation 20 become the individual limbs 2 that have a bolt 16 have forced into a horizontal orientation, so even with older conveyor chains 3 or conveyor chains 3 with insufficient lubricant application a working position AP of folding levers 6 can be produced and maintained problem-free.

There are also several links 2 a respective conveyor chain 3 as support members 2a formed or each have a support element 14 , which mechanically to the respective support member 2a is coupled. The support elements 14 adjacent support members 2a together form a substantially uninterrupted level for carton blanks 5 during their transport. It can also be seen that the support elements 14 one in the upward or in the direction of the respective conveyor chain 3 possess convex curved outer surface. Such embodiments have proven to be a level for a respective carton blank 5 optimized to train.

3 shows a further schematic view of the embodiment of a device according to the invention 1 according to 2 , Across from 2 are in 3 a sensor 15 and to recognize a control device S. In practice, for each of the conveyor chains 3 such a sensor 15 be provided.

About the sensor 15 or the possibly existing multiple sensors 15 can be actual positions of folding levers 6 for straightening tabs 7 respectively. 9 a common carton blank 5 are intended to be detected. Then, taking into account the detected actual positions, circulating movements of the conveyor chains can take place via the control device S. 3 or circumferential movement speeds of the conveyor chains 3 be coordinated with each other. 3 lets recognize that with a rear tab 9 a respective carton blank 5 two folding levers 6 in plant. To the rear flap 9 Erect problem-free and force applied against a lateral surface of the carton blank 5 To be able to perform both fold-levers 6 in the conveying direction FR on same height. By means of the sensor 15 or possibly the multiple sensors 15 , the control device S is capable of the positions of the folding lever 6 to detect in the conveying direction FR and the folding lever 6 coordinated with each other in the conveying direction FR, so that the tabs 7 respectively. 9 of the respective carton blank 5 be placed problem-free and during transport of the respective carton blank 5 Stressed with the respective tab 7 respectively. 9 stay in plant.

It is conceivable here that the conveyor chains 3 along with the folding levers 6 be circulated in the context of a calibration process, with no carton blanks 5 on the conveyor chains 3 are located. It is also conceivable that a respective actual position of the folding lever 6 during transport and folding of carton blanks 5 is monitored and in deviation of an oriented in the conveying direction FR actual position of a folding lever 6 from a predetermined in the conveying direction FR desired position of the respective folding lever 6 a respective circumferential movement speed of a respective conveyor chain 3 is briefly adapted to the respective folding lever 6 in the oriented in the conveying direction FR target position to transfer.

If a folding lever 6 as in the prior art 1 described, unintentionally pivoted, there is a control by means of a sensor 15 and control device S inaccurate, so that a position of a respective folding lever 6 is optionally adjusted via the control device S, the respective folding lever 6 but this is not or not enough with a tab 7 respectively. 9 comes into contact with these kraftbeaufschlagt on a lateral surface of the respective carton blank 5 set. A cohesive connection between the respective tab 7 respectively. 9 and a lateral surface of the respective carton blank 5 this may possibly not be formed or not optimal.

Because by the specification of a horizontal orientation of links 2 the respective conveyor chain 3 by means of forced operation 20 or backdrop 21 the folding levers 6 maintained throughout a working position AP when moving along a transport plane and not be pivoted unintentionally, in such a configuration, a precise control by means of sensor 15 or possibly several sensors 15 and control device S done. This control usable in preferred embodiments of the present invention by means of control device S and sensor 15 helps to make outer packaging from cardboard blanks 5 to produce stable and problem-free.

4 shows a schematic view of individual components of the embodiment of a device 1 according to 2 and 3 , The in the 2 and 3 Forced guidance shown 20 or backdrop 21 as well as the carton blanks 5 are in for clarity 4 not shown. Very good are in 4 again the bolts 16 individual limbs 2 to recognize in the horizontal direction of the conveyor chains 3 stand up to having a forced tour 20 (see. 2 ) to be able to engage. Several support elements 14 together form a stand space for carton blanks 5 out. The folding levers 6 are located in 4 by the horizontal orientation of individual links 2 each in their working position AP, in which the folding lever 6 with tabs 7 respectively. 9 (see. 2 ) of cardboard blanks 5 in plant.

5 shows a plan view of the components according to 4 , The four conveyor chains 3 move carton blanks 5 (not shown) in the conveying direction FR. bolt 16 individual limbs 2 stand still horizontally and laterally from the conveyor chains 3 over, around the limbs 2 by means of a forced operation 20 (see. 2 ) in a horizontal orientation. The through the support elements 14 formed stand level for carton blanks 5 is designed essentially uninterrupted.

5 also shows that a respective coupling 8th with which the folding lever 6 via a rotation axis 11 (see. 2 . 7 and 8th ), on an inner side of the respective conveyor chain 3 is positioned so that during operation of the working device 1 no unintended contact with the paddock 8th can be done.

6 shows a perspective side view of a conveyor chain 3 and a folding lever 6 with folding mechanism 12 as used for various embodiments of a working device according to the invention 1 (see. 2 ) can be provided. The conveyor chain 3 has a large number of individual links 2 , which has several parallel pivot axes 4 are rotatably coupled to each other. For clarity, in 6 only two of these swivel axes in phantom lines and by reference with numeral 4 plotted. On swivel axes 4 or bolt 16 adjacent limbs 2 sits an outer flap 19 rotatable on. Next has every link 2 via two parallel inner plates 18 whose respective longitudinal extension is oriented in the conveying direction FR. To a first link 2 respectively. 2c is a paddock 8th rotatably articulated. To another second link 2 respectively. 2d is the folding lever 6 rotatably articulated. The folding lever 6 and the paddock 8th also have a rotation axis 11 (see. 7 ) with each other. 6 lets you realize that first link 2 respectively. 2c and the second link 2 respectively. 2d over bolts 16 have, in the horizontal direction of the conveyor chain 3 stand up to having a forced tour 20 (see. 2 ) and hereby the first link 2 respectively. 2c and the second link 2 respectively. 2d each in a horizontal orientation to force. As the folding lever 6 in a horizontal orientation of the first member 2 respectively. 2c and the second member 2 respectively. 2d is located in a working position AP and the first link 2 respectively. 2c as well as the second link 2 respectively. 2d by means of forced operation 20 to be forced into a horizontal orientation, the folding lever retains 6 the working position AP during its movement along a transport plane throughout and is not unintentionally in the direction away from the respective carton blank 5 pivoted.

Between the first link 2 respectively. 2c the conveyor chain 3 and the second member 2 respectively. 2d the conveyor chain 3 There are several more members 2 respectively. 2 B , which also over two bolts 16 have, in the horizontal direction of the conveyor chain 3 stand up to having a forced tour 20 to get in touch.

Embodiments in which further members 2 respectively. 2 B that is between the first link 2 respectively. 2c and the second member 2d are positioned, a projecting in the horizontal direction bolts 16 own, have proven themselves to the conveyor chain 3 by means of forced operation 20 to lead quietly and an unwanted pivoting of the folding lever 6 to counteract further.

7 shows a further perspective side view of a conveyor chain 3 and a folding lever 6 with folding mechanism 12 according to 6 , In 7 are the conveyor chain 3 as well as the folding lever 6 with folding mechanism 12 out 6 shown from an opposite side.

In 7 is the rotation axis 11 to recognize which the folding lever 6 to the paddock 8th binds. folding lever 6 and paddock 8th are also movable on the conveyor chain 3 hinged. The rotation axis 11 is parallel to the pivot axes 4 oriented, over which the individual limbs 2 can be rotated to each other. Because all members 2 have a horizontal orientation, is the folding lever 6 in 7 in the working position AP. 7 also shows that the bolts 16 out 6 , which run horizontally from the conveyor chain 3 stand around with the forced guidance 20 (see. 2 ) engage, on its opposite side have no such supernatant.

The invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications or changes may be made to the invention without departing from the scope of the following claims.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

 Working device; contraption

2

 element

2a

 supporting member

2 B

 Another link

2c

 First member

2d

 Second link

3

 conveyor chain

4

 swivel axis

5

 Carton blank; overpack

6

 folding lever

7

 Advancing tab; front flap

8th

 paddock

9

 Lagging flap; rear flap

10

 Working device (prior art)

11

 Axis; axis of rotation

12

 folding mechanism

14

 support element

15

 sensor

16

 bolt

18

 inner plate

19

 outer plate

20

 forced control

21

 scenery

AP

 working position

FR

 conveying direction

S

 control device

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

• EP 2444323 A1 [0004]

Claims (14)

Working device ( 1 ) for transporting and folding carton blanks ( 5 ), comprising - at least one endless circulating conveyor chain ( 3 ) comprising a plurality of series-connected members ( 2 ), which via a plurality of mutually parallel pivot axes ( 4 ) are rotatably coupled to each other, - at least one for the attachment to an outer packaging ( 5 ) provided folding lever ( 6 ), which has a folding mechanism ( 12 ) with links ( 2 ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ), so that the at least one folding lever ( 6 ) by a horizontal orientation of at least two members ( 2 ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) can be brought into a working position (AP), characterized by a fixed forced operation ( 20 ), via which a horizontal orientation of the at least two members ( 2 ) in the context of a circulating movement of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) is specifiable to the working position (AP) of the at least one for the investment in an outer packaging ( 5 ) provided folding lever ( 6 ) to maintain. A working device according to claim 1, in which the folding mechanism ( 12 ) at least one coupling ( 8th ) and at least one axis of rotation ( 11 ), by means of which the folding lever ( 6 ) opposite the paddock ( 8th ), wherein the at least one folding lever ( 6 ) on a first link ( 2c ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) and the at least one coupling ( 8th ) on a second link ( 2d ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) are articulated rotatably. A working apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least two members ( 2 ) at least one bolt ( 16 ), which respective own bolts ( 16 ) so horizontally from the conveyor chain ( 3 ) protrudes that this in a circumferential movement of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) with forced operation ( 20 ) to provide a horizontal orientation for the at least two members ( 2 ) pretend. Working device according to claim 3, in which the own bolts ( 16 ) as the respective pivot axis ( 4 ) are formed, over which the at least two members ( 2 ) with adjacent links ( 2 ) are rotatably in communication. A working device according to claims 2 and 3 or 2 to 4, in which the first member ( 2c ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) and the second member ( 2d ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) one or more further members ( 2 B ), each with at least one bolt ( 16 ), which own bolts ( 16 ) so horizontally from the conveyor chain ( 3 ) protrude that these in a circumferential movement of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) with forced operation ( 20 ) engage the one or more other members ( 2 B ) horizontally. A working device according to one or more of claims 1 to 5, in which the at least two links ( 2 ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) several support members ( 2a ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ), which are immediately adjacent and to each of which a support element ( 14 ) is mechanically coupled, wherein the support elements ( 14 ) of the immediately adjacent support members ( 2a ) together a substantially uninterrupted plane level for outer packaging ( 5 ) provide. Working device according to claim 6, wherein by means of the forced operation ( 20 ) no horizontal orientation of the plurality of support members ( 2a ) can be predetermined, each with a support element ( 14 ) are mechanically coupled. Working device according to one or more of claims 1 to 7, wherein the conveyor chain ( 3 ) a horizontal transport plane for outer packaging ( 5 ), whereby the forced operation ( 20 ) extends along the horizontal transport plane without interruption, in order to achieve a horizontal alignment of the at least two links (FIG. 2 ) and a pivotal position of the at least one folding lever ( 6 ) to sustain throughout a movement along the horizontal transport plane. Working device according to one or more of claims 1 to 8, comprising - a plurality of revolving conveyor chains ( 3 ), each of which has a plurality of series-connected members ( 2 ), which via a plurality of mutually parallel pivot axes ( 4 ) are rotatably coupled to each other, - for each of the several circulating conveyor chains ( 3 ) at least one for the attachment to an outer packaging ( 5 ) provided folding lever ( 6 ), via a respective folding mechanism ( 12 ) with links ( 2 ) of the respective conveyor chain ( 3 ), so that the respective at least one folding lever ( 6 ) by a horizontal orientation of at least two members ( 2 ) of the respective conveyor chain ( 3 ) can be brought into a working position (AP) and - a stationary forced operation ( 20 ) for each of the several conveyor chains ( 3 ), via which a horizontal orientation of the at least two members ( 2 ) of the respective conveyor chain ( 3 ) in the context of a circulating movement of the respective funding chain ( 3 ) can be specified to the working position (AP) of the respective at least one for the investment in an outer packaging ( 5 ) provided folding lever ( 6 ), - one or more sensors ( 15 ), via which an actual position of a folding lever ( 6 ) for each of the several conveyor chains ( 3 ) is recognizable, - a control device (S) with the one or more sensors ( 15 ) and considering the one or more sensors ( 15 ) recognized actual positions of the folding lever ( 6 ) the several conveyor chains ( 3 ) can move around in such a way that the folding lever ( 6 ) of the several conveyor chains ( 3 ) assume a certain relative position position and in a circumferential movement of the plurality of conveyor chains ( 3 ). Method for transporting and folding overpacks ( 5 ), in which a conveyor chain ( 3 ) is moved circumferentially, with at least two members ( 2 ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) at least one folding lever ( 6 ) via a folding mechanism ( 12 ), which has at least one folding lever ( 6 ) by means of the folding mechanism ( 12 ) from a horizontal orientation of the at least two members ( 2 ) is brought into a working position (AP), in this case a tab ( 7 . 9 ) of the outer packaging ( 5 ) and then via the conveyor chain ( 3 ) together with the outer packaging ( 5 ) is guided along a transport plane, characterized in that the at least two links ( 2 ) with a guide of the folding lever ( 6 ) along the transport plane into an effective range of a forced operation ( 20 ) and / or in an effective range of forced operation ( 20 ), which provide a horizontal orientation for the at least two members ( 2 ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) to the working position (AP) for the at least one folding lever ( 6 ) to maintain its guidance along the transport plane. Method according to claim 10, with a first deflection and a second deflection for the conveyor chain ( 3 ), whereby the effective range of forced operation ( 20 ) over a certain section along the conveyor chain ( 3 ) extends between the first deflection and the second deflection, so that the at least two members ( 2 ) of the conveyor chain ( 3 ) in the specific section between the two deflections in the effective range of the forced operation ( 20 ) are located. The method of claim 11, wherein the effective range at least approximately reaches the first deflection and the second deflection. Method according to one or more of Claims 10 to 12, in which at least two conveyor chains ( 3 ), each having at least one folding lever ( 6 ) with respective folding mechanism ( 12 ) are associated, are moved parallel to each other circulating, wherein a folding lever ( 6 ) a first of the at least two conveyor chains ( 3 ) one in the direction of movement of the cardboard blank ( 5 ) anticipatory flap ( 7 ) of the carton blank ( 5 ) and a folding lever ( 6 ) a second of the at least two conveyor chains ( 3 ) one in the direction of movement of the cardboard blank ( 5 ) lagging tab ( 9 ) of the respective carton blank ( 5 ). Method according to Claim 13, in which an actual position of a folding lever ( 6 ) of the first of the at least two conveyor chains ( 3 ) and an actual position of a folding lever ( 6 ) of the second of the at least two conveyor chains ( 3 ) are sensory detected and the circulating movements of the first conveyor chain ( 3 ) as well as the second conveyor chain ( 3 ) are coordinated with each other depending on the detected actual positions.

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