DE102021120511A1 - Packaging material transfer and alignment module and packaging material transfer and alignment method and use - Google Patents

Abstract

When handling and processing packaging material, several processes such as gluing, folding, cutting, punching must be coordinated. For this purpose, individual systems are usually used, which have to be coordinated with each other, especially with regard to the number of cycles and the highest possible output. Depending on the size of the series to be produced of the respective type of packaging material, the respective system has to be reset after a short time. The present invention relates to an independent system component (10) that can be used in a modular manner with a transfer and alignment function for handling packaging material (2), having: a table (13) for transferring the packaging material and having transfer units (13.1) and an alignment unit (13.3) and with a drive (14) and at least one drive and/or control component (18). According to the invention, the system component (10) is provided as an independent module. Furthermore, the present invention relates to the methods and uses described in the description part, each in connection with the transfer and alignment of packaging material, in particular flat cardboard packaging, in particular in a production line comprising a number of systems to be coordinated with one another.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a system component with a transfer and alignment function for at least partially automated handling of packaging material that is packed or separated in batches, in particular flat cardboard boxes, with: a table for transferring the packaging material; and a plurality of drivable transfer units provided on the table; and with at least one alignment unit provided on the table; and with at least one drive and at least one drive and/or control component from the following group: actuator, transducer, sensor. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for transferring and aligning packaging material, in particular flat cardboard packaging. Last but not least, the present invention also relates to the use of a transfer and alignment module on a single system or in a production line comprising a plurality of systems to be coordinated with one another. In particular, the invention relates to a device and a method according to the preamble of the respective independent claim.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

When processing packaging material, especially cardboard (e.g. flat cardboard), it is necessary to coordinate several processes such as gluing, folding, cutting, punching. For this purpose, individual systems are usually used, which have to be coordinated with each other, especially with regard to the number of cycles and the highest possible output. Depending on the size of the series to be produced of the respective type of packaging material, the respective system has to be readjusted after a short time. With regard to different system manufacturers and different system generations, the adjustment and coordination of the processes, especially in more complex production lines or production lines with several systems arranged in a row, is associated with technical difficulties and expenditure of time and money, for example also with regard to system downtime and the associated interruption of the output. Last but not least, there are also liability problems when a service provider (e.g. maintenance service company) has to intervene in existing production lines.

According to the prior art, the transfer and alignment is supported manually and/or made possible by coordinating (or setting up) the processes of a number of systems arranged in series or one after the other. There is therefore interest in improved or simplified adjustability in connection with the transfer and alignment of packaging material, in particular cardboard boxes.

The publication can serve as an example U.S. 9,492,984 B2 be mentioned, which describes a device for the pre-treatment of cardboard boxes, the pre-treatment comprising, for example, folding, cutting, embossing, punching, printing or exposure.

Based on the state of the art, there is a need for new ways to simplify material transfer at one or more system interfaces.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object is to provide a device and a method with which the transfer and alignment of packaging material, in particular cardboard boxes (for example flat cardboard boxes), can be simplified. It is also an object to provide a transfer and alignment function in such a way that the packaging material can be handled in the most flexible and variable manner possible, particularly in the case of fully automated handling for large numbers of items or high output. Last but not least, the task is to carry out or design a transfer and alignment function in such a way that several systems of a production line with different consecutive processes can be easily coordinated with one another, especially if the packaging material is in different states or in a changing state (in particular different orientation or shape of the packaging material) is to be passed between plants in the handling process.

This object is achieved by a transfer and alignment module that can be modularly coupled to the respective system according to claim 1 and by a method according to the independent method claim and by a use according to the respective independent use claim. Advantageous developments of the invention are explained in the respective dependent claims. The features of the exemplary embodiments described below can be combined with one another unless this is explicitly denied.

A transfer and alignment module is provided, set up for at least partially automated/automatable handling of packaging material that is packed or separated in batches, in particular flat cardboard boxes, with: a table for transferring (guiding) the packaging material; and with a multitude of drivable transfer units provided on the table, in particular transfer rollers or bearings; and with at least one alignment unit provided on the table, in particular with slide rails for setting a lateral relative position; and with at least one drive and at least one drive and/or control component from the following group: actuator, measured value transmitter (in particular rotary encoder), sensor (in particular angle of rotation or speed sensor); According to the invention, it is proposed that the transfer and alignment module has a first material transfer point (material loading) upstream of the table and a second material transfer point (material transfer) downstream of the table, with the transfer and alignment module having a frame and rollers or wheels supporting the table and thereby is mobile, wherein the transfer and alignment module is modular in design and is/can be arranged relative to at least one system for at least partially automated handling or processing or manufacturing of the packaging material in such a way that the transfer and alignment module is for the packaging material transfer and for the alignment of the packaging material can be modularly coupled to the plant, in particular immediately upstream of the plant. This provides a high degree of independence and flexibility and variability, especially without the need to intervene in existing production lines or processes.

For example, there is no need to implement a system-specific alignment function, or specialist staff can be saved, which might have to be provided for inserting and aligning the packaging material (at least for safety reasons). Last but not least, the present invention also expands the scope of options when designing the system, because it is not necessary to intervene in existing systems for an expansion/improvement of the functionality, but the additional functionality can be provided by means of an independent module. In this respect, the present invention is also based on the concept of relocating the (expanded, optimized) functionality of systems to at least one additional, independent module. Last but not least, this also favors a retrofit option and generally the modernization and maintenance of production lines.

It has been shown that the packaging material packed in batches or separated, in particular separated sheets of flat cardboard packaging, can be transferred and aligned in a particularly precise, flexible and variably adaptable manner using the module, independently of any system parameters. This simplifies the process optimization, in particular without the need for more precise knowledge of the respective plant-specific processes.

A “table” is to be understood in particular as an at least approximately flat device for storing and supporting the components for handling the packaging material.

A “transfer unit” is to be understood in particular as a drivable component for moving the packaging material, in which case the transfer unit can optionally also include one or more actuators.

An “alignment unit” is to be understood in particular as a unit set up for aligning the packaging material that has been transferred or is currently being transferred.

A "slide rail" is to be understood in particular as an element for the sliding displacement and positioning of components for handling the packaging material, in particular with a stepless adjustment option.

A “drive” is to be understood in particular as any type of motor or actuator that can be controlled and is set up for the purposes described here.

A “drive component” is to be understood in particular as a component that can be used or connected in connection with the drive in order to carry out the automation processes described here.

A "control component" is to be understood in particular as any component or any means in connection with the control and/or regulation processes described here.

A "material transfer point" is to be understood in particular as a constructively predefined interface either upstream or downstream of the module, in particular set up for the transfer of individual cardboard boxes.

The transfer and alignment module can also be referred to as a mobile transfer and alignment module device that is independent of the plant or production line in terms of energy.

Personified terms, insofar as they are not formulated in the neuter, can relate to all genders in the context of the present disclosure. Any English terms or abbreviations used herein are industry terms and are familiar to those skilled in the English language. Synonymous used/usable German-language terms can be found here optionally specified in (brackets) for the sake of completeness, or vice versa.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the transfer and alignment module has at least one control component that can be coupled to at least one (control) signal of the system, by means of which at least one transfer parameter, in particular the transfer speed parameter, can be specified as a function of the operating state of the system, in particular one on the at least a drive of the sensor coupled to the transfer and alignment module, which is or can be brought into communication with the system (i.e. which is set up to record and transfer at least one measurement parameter or drive parameter from the system to the module). This simplifies an adaptation to preceding and/or downstream processes, in particular also in the case of process variations from plants arranged upstream; in addition, a safety function can also be implemented, for example with regard to system downtime.

According to one embodiment, the first material transfer point is defined by a free end of at least one transfer rail protruding upstream. According to one embodiment, the second material transfer point is defined by a free end of at least one transfer rail protruding downstream. This also favors a simple/easy (mechanical) coupling in each case.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the table is variable in length at at least one of the material transfer points, in particular by means of at least one transfer rail that is variable in length, in particular that can be folded out or telescoped. Last but not least, this favors a (local) adaptation of the material transfer point, in particular to the circumstances of the system, in particular without the need to reposition the module. The length variation can also be implemented depending on the specific application. The length variation is, for example, 10-25% or 10-50% of the absolute length of the movement path in the module. In this way, positional tolerances in/on production lines can also be compensated.

According to one embodiment, the table has at least two transfer rails aligned in the transfer direction, on which at least one drive component of the transfer and alignment module coupled to the drive is provided, in particular at least one drive roller and/or at least one drive belt. This favors an expedient interaction with the packaging material to be transferred, in particular in the area of support points of the packaging material on a/the transfer unit and/or on the table.

According to one embodiment, the alignment function of the transfer and alignment module aligns the transferred packaging material about the vertical axis and/or adjusts the movement path predefined for the transfer, particularly in the plane defined by the table. This can further improve the functional integration, especially with regard to intermediate fine tuning between several systems of a production line.

According to one embodiment, the width of a transfer area defined by the alignment unit can be adapted to the width of the packaging material.
According to one embodiment, the table has at least two transfer rails aligned in the transfer direction, of which at least one can be positioned transversely to the transfer direction with respect to a specific width of the table depending on the packaging material to be transferred. This favors variability with regard to numerous different types of packaging material.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the alignment unit has at least one, preferably two slide rails, in particular slide rods in an alignment at least approximately orthogonal to the transfer direction, on which the table can be adjusted or positioned in the lateral direction, with the relative lateral position or alignment of the table or the at least one Sliding rail can be adapted either manually or at least partially automatically to the type of packaging material and/or to the predefined movement path. For example, the slide rails or slide rods have an extent that is 2 to 4 times greater than the width of the packaging material that is usually to be handled. Thus, not only can a relative position of the module relative to the system be compensated without having to relocate the module, but the module can also be used for various different products and for various different systems/production lines. Experience has shown that the comparatively large width (extension transverse to the transfer direction) is not a disadvantage, not even when there is only very little space in a machine hall.

According to one embodiment, the transfer and alignment module (already alone, exclusively) can be coupled to the operating state of the system by means of a rotary encoder (encoder) and set up, the operating state of the upstream angeord to mirror the system, in particular with regard to the transfer speed, or to scale it for a second system arranged downstream. It has been shown that the transfer can be implemented in a very simple manner without any noticeable outlay in terms of control/regulation technology using at least one rotary encoder of this type. This ensures a high level of variability, and the use of the module according to the invention also enables a noticeable simplification in the optimization, modernization or expansion of entire production lines.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the transfer and alignment module has an energy supply and is energetically independent of a system or production line to which the transfer and alignment module can be/is coupled. This also increases/improves self-sufficiency and independence from systems or production lines. This further simplifies the use of the module.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the transfer and alignment module has a control device connected to the at least one drive and/or control component and is control/regulatory independent of a/the system or production line to which the transfer and alignment module can be/coupled is. This increases the self-sufficiency of the module and can also broaden the spectrum of its possible applications (areas of use).

According to one embodiment, the maximum extent of the frame or other components supporting the table in the transfer direction is less than a factor of 1.5 than the maximum extent of the entire transfer and alignment module in the transfer direction, in particular less than a factor of 2 or even less than a factor of 2.5 or even less than a factor of 3. This also provides advantages with regard to the small space between the individual systems of a production line that are to be coupled or bridged. The overall design of production lines can advantageously be kept slim. Transfer times can be minimized in particular thanks to short relocation distances (movement paths of the transferred material).

The previously defined object is also achieved in particular by a system for the at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular a system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and/or folding, the system having at least one transfer previously described above - Having and alignment module, wherein the transfer and alignment module is coupled to the system as a mobile module, namely upstream or downstream of the system. This results in the aforementioned advantages, in particular with regard to maintaining the system configuration thanks to the addition of at least one function provided externally by the module. Optionally, an uncomplicated retrofitting of the system can also be carried out in this way.

The previously defined object is also achieved in particular by a production line with at least two systems for at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular each with a system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and/or folding, the production line has at least one transfer and alignment module previously described above, the transfer and alignment module being coupled as a mobile module between the systems, namely downstream of a first of the systems and upstream of a/the second of the systems, in particular such that by means of the transfer - and aligning module during material transfer, especially when handing over individual cardboard boxes, the speed and/or cycle number of the handed over material is also synchronized. This results in the advantages mentioned above, in particular with regard to maintaining the configuration of a production line thanks to the addition of at least one function provided externally by the module (no functional implementation within the production line or system required). Optionally, it is also possible to do without specialists who are continuously responsible for the material transfer, so that the long-term costs can be noticeably reduced.

For example, the production line includes a flat box machine/system (FKM or folding box gluing machines) and a feeding system for hot application of adhesives or the like (HST). For example, the HST is located upstream of the FKM. For example, the displacement path/movement path defined by the HST for the packaging material is aligned at least approximately orthogonally to the displacement path/movement path defined by the FKM, so that the transfer is provided at a point of a change of direction of approx. 90°, i.e. at the angular point of an angularly arranged one production line. In the case of packaging material that does not have a square base area or a base area that is of the same size in all directions, such a change of direction can also be associated with a variation in the number of cycles and/or transfer speed. For example, the packaging materials on the HST first run in a longitudinal direction and are then in a transverse direction at the angle/transfer point due to the 90° change of direction relocated or transferred, so that the transfer/relocation speed of the FKM can tend to be slower than the relocation speed of the HST. In such a constellation or with other speed variations, at least two speed-related control components can preferably be provided on the module, in particular a (first) rotary encoder for the parameter(s) of the HST and a further (second) rotary encoder for the parameter(s) of the FKM.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by a method according to the corresponding independent method claim, namely by a method for the at least partially automated transfer and alignment of batches of packed or separated packaging material, in particular flat cardboard boxes, from a first material transfer point (material loading) upstream of a table a second material transfer point (material transfer) downstream of the table, with the packaging material being aligned during transfer on the table by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table, with the transfer taking place by at least one drive and at least one drive and/or control component from the following group: Actuator, transducer (in particular rotary encoder), sensor (in particular angle of rotation or speed sensor); According to the invention, the table is modularly coupled to a system for the transfer and alignment, in particular in an arrangement on a mobile supporting frame with rollers or wheels, with the at least one drive being controlled by means of at least one measuring transducer, in particular by means of a rotary encoder (encoder) to specify at least one transfer parameter ), is coupled to the operating state of the system, with the operating state of the system being mirrored (taken over) in particular with regard to the (identical) transfer speed or being scaled in an arrangement between two systems from a first transfer speed or cycle number to a second transfer speed or cycle number. This results in the aforementioned advantages, in particular with regard to automating a material transfer upstream of a plant or intermediately between plants of a production line. The method is preferably carried out using a transfer and alignment module as described above, in particular by positioning the module upstream of the system or between systems and coupling it upstream and/or downstream with the system at least via a control component relating to the transfer speed.

The system can be a single system, in particular arranged downstream, so that the transfer parameter is a transfer parameter predetermined by the further process downstream. However, several transfer parameters can also be processed, they are/are specified both downstream and upstream of the module and are taken into account by the module.

According to one embodiment, the at least one transfer parameter is specified by means of a rotary encoder, in particular for specifying a speed transfer parameter. In this case, the transfer function can also be additionally specified by further measuring sensors. It has been shown that the use or implementation of at least one rotary encoder, in particular two rotary encoders (upstream and downstream), enables a particularly simple and efficient arrangement and integration of the module.

According to one embodiment, to specify at least one alignment parameter, a comparison is made with the alignment of a/the downstream system, in particular based on at least one angular alignment parameter. This favors an optimization of the accuracy of the alignment, for example in connection with a width adjustment when fitting the module to different widths of individual materials. The alignment function can also be provided or implemented independently of the feed function.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by using a transfer and alignment module previously described above upstream of a system for the at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular a system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and/or folding, wherein the transfer and alignment module is modularly coupled to the system and thereby provides a material transfer point at which the packaging material is transferred from a table of the transfer and alignment module to the system, the packaging material being aligned by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table, wherein the transfer takes place through at least one drive and at least one drive and/or control component from the following group: actuator, measured value transmitter (in particular rotary encoder), sensor (in particular rotary angle or speed sensor); wherein the at least one drive is coupled to the operating state of the system to specify at least one transfer parameter, the operating state of the system being mirrored (taken over) by the transfer and alignment module for the material transfer point. As a result, the aforementioned advantages can be realized, in particular with regard to ver simpler and less labour-intensive material supply.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by using a transfer and alignment module previously described above between two systems of a production line for at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular between systems for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and/or or folding, whereby the transfer and alignment module is modularly coupled between the systems, thereby providing a first material transfer point upstream and a second material transfer point downstream, at which the packaging material is transferred to and from a table of the transfer and alignment module from/to the corresponding system , the packaging material being aligned by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table, the transfer being carried out by at least one drive and at least one drive and/or control component from the following group e follows: actuator, measured value transmitter (in particular rotary encoder), sensor (in particular angle of rotation or speed sensor); wherein to specify at least one transfer parameter, in particular at least two transfer parameters, the at least one drive is coupled to the operating state of the systems, the operating state of the systems being mirrored (taken over) by the transfer and alignment module for the corresponding material transfer point. As a result, the aforementioned advantages can be realized, in particular with regard to simplified and less personnel-intensive material transfer between two systems, in particular without the need for a procedural adjustment to the respective system.

Summary: When handling and processing packaging material, it is necessary to coordinate several processes such as gluing, folding, cutting, and punching. For this purpose, individual systems are usually used, which have to be coordinated with each other, especially with regard to the number of cycles and the highest possible output. Depending on the size of the series to be produced of the respective type of packaging material (e.g. 1,000 pieces or 100,000 pieces), the respective system has to be reset after a short time. The present invention relates to an independent system component that can be used in a modular manner with a transfer and alignment function for handling packaging material, with: a table for transferring the packaging material and with transfer units and with an alignment unit and with a drive and at least one drive and/or control component. According to the invention, the system component is provided as an independent module. Furthermore, the present invention relates to the methods and uses described in the description part, each in connection with the transfer and alignment of packaging material, in particular flat cardboard packaging, in particular in a production line comprising several systems to be coordinated with one another.

character list

• 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D in unterschiedlichen Ansichten ein Transfer- und Ausrichtmodul gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 2A, 2B jeweils in einer perspektivischen Ansicht ein Transfer- und Ausrichtmodul gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 3 in einer Draufsicht eine Fertigungslinie mit integriertem bzw. zwischengeschaltetem Transfer- und Ausrichtmodul gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 4 in einer Seitenansicht in schematischer Darstellung ein Transfer- und Ausrichtmodul gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;

The invention is described in more detail in the following drawing figures, reference being made to the other drawing figures for reference symbols which are not explicitly described in a respective drawing figure. Show it:

• 1A , 1B , 1C , 1D in different views, a transfer and alignment module according to an embodiment;
• 2A , 2 B each in a perspective view a transfer and alignment module according to an embodiment;
• 3 in a plan view, a production line with an integrated or interposed transfer and alignment module according to an embodiment;
• 4 in a side view in a schematic representation a transfer and alignment module according to an embodiment;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The invention will first be explained with general reference to all reference numerals and figures. Special features or individual aspects or aspects of the present invention that are clearly visible/representable in the respective figure are discussed individually in connection with the respective figure.

A transfer and alignment module 10 for handling isolated packaging material 2, in particular flat cardboard packaging(s), is set up to transfer the packaging material 2 to at least one material transfer point 11, in particular both to a first material transfer point upstream 11.1 of a first system 31.1 (receipt of isolated packaging material from a system upstream) and at a second material transfer point downstream 11.2 of the module and upstream of a downstream second system 31.2 (handover of transferred packaging material to a system downstream). The transfer and alignment module 10 has a frame 12 with a carrier unit 12.1, in particular height-adjustable or height-adjustable, with height-adjustable feet 12.2 adjusting the height position of a Table 13 of the module 10 allow. The table 13 also defines a plane of movement Exy for the singulated packaging material in the module. The isolated packaging material 2 can be actively transferred by means of transfer units 13.1 and transfer rails 13.2, with several actuators 18.1 and/or sensors 18.3 being able to be used.

At least one alignment unit 13.3 can optionally also align and position transversely to the (main) displacement direction x, for example by transverse positioning using slide rails 13.4 (either manually or automatically).

The interaction of drive and/or control components 18 can be organized by means of at least one drive 14 and a control device 15, in particular actuators 18.1, measuring value transmitters 18.2 (in particular rotary encoders) and sensors 18.3 (in particular angle of rotation or speed sensors).

The module 10 can be provided independently of other system components via a power supply 16 (or power supply or feed point), and wheels 17 of the module enable it to be moved without further aids, whether manually or by the module's own drive (14; 18.1).

The module 10 is arranged, for example, upstream of a single system 20, in particular for cutting, gluing, folding cardboard boxes. Optionally, the module 10 is arranged as an intermediate in a production line 30 downstream of a first system 30.1 (in particular a feeding system for hot application of adhesives or the like (HST)) and upstream of a second system 30.2 (in particular a flat cardboard packaging machine/system (FKM or folding box gluing machines)). The individual systems 30.1, 30.2 of the production line 30 can form an angle 31 or define a change of direction at the transfer point (in particular approximately 90°).

The movement path Mxy of the separated packaging material 2 in the module 10 is, for example, arranged in a straight line and completely in a horizontal plane. Optionally, a gradient can also be realized.

The module 10 can be interposed in a mechanical manner as an intermediate in a production line by defining a first coupling interface P1 (system-related docking point upstream) and a second coupling interface P2 (system-related docking point downstream). A signaling or control-related coupling takes place, for example, via at least one rotary encoder.

• Längsrichtung x, insbesondere horizontal, insbesondere entsprechend der Transfer-/Verlagerungsrichtung; Längserstreckung x10 (Länge) des Moduls; Längserstreckung x12 Gehäuse oder Rahmen; Längserstreckung x12.1 der Trägereinheit; Längserstreckung x13 des Tisches; Querrichtung y, insbesondere horizontal; Quererstreckung (Breite) y10 des Moduls; Quererstreckung (Breite) y13 des Tisches; Quererstreckung (Breite) y13.3 der Ausrichteinheit; Höhenrichtung z, insbesondere vertikal/lotrecht; Vertikalerstreckung (Höhe) z10 des Moduls; Höhe z13 des Tisches; Höhenposition z13. 1 der Transfereinheit;

The following directions and dimensions are for easier orientation:

• Longitudinal direction x, in particular horizontal, in particular corresponding to the transfer/displacement direction; Longitudinal extension x10 (length) of the module; longitudinal extension x12 housing or frame; Longitudinal extent x12.1 of the carrier unit; Longitudinal extension x13 of the table; transverse direction y, in particular horizontal; Transverse extension (width) y10 of the module; transverse extension (width) y13 of the table; Transverse extension (width) y13.3 of the alignment unit; Height direction z, in particular vertical/perpendicular; vertical extent (height) z10 of the module; height z13 of the table; Height position z13. 1 of the transfer unit;

The respective coupling interface P1, P2 can optionally be of a purely mechanical nature. This means that an energetic or control/regulation coupling is not necessarily required, apart from any rotary encoder/speed parameters.

Individual aspects are explained below with specific reference to individual figures.

In the 1A , 1B , 1C , ID are individual components of the module 10 illustrated. In the orientation shown, the movement path Mxy corresponds to the x-axis (longitudinal direction). In 1C a separated packaging material 2 is indicated as an example.

Regarding the 2A , 2 B the optional joint 13.21 or a folding or telescopic mechanism with the same effect on the respective transfer rail is worth mentioning. This favors a length adjustment, in particular to completely bridge a distance between two systems of a production line.

In 3 a production line 30 with two systems 30.1, 30.2 is shown in plan view. The movement path 21 of the packaging material 2 in the respective system is always straight. The two systems (or their feed directions/axes) are aligned at an angle 31 of approx. 90° to one another, so that a change of direction takes place at the transfer point (or directly upstream or downstream of the module 10) (in particular approx. 90°). A change of direction within the module is not intended and not particularly advantageous; Rather, it is desirable that the packaging material 2 can be transferred as straight as possible through the module 10, without having to noticeably change the orientation of the packaging material 2 .

In 4 For the sake of completeness, drive and control components and sensory components or other components relating to the independence of the module 10 are shown, as they can be implemented in the exemplary embodiments described above: at least one drive 14, a control device 15, an energy supply 16, drive and/or or control components 18, in particular from the following group: actuators 18.1, sensors 18.2 (in particular encoders), sensors (18.3), in particular angle of rotation or speed sensors. Their arrangement and coupling can be adapted individually for each application, if required at all.

It can be seen from the figures that the module 10 essentially defines two axes of movement, namely the transfer/feed axis (or direction) in the longitudinal direction on the one hand and, on the other hand, the adjustment option in the y-direction transverse to this for setting the width of the transfer and /or alignment unit, or for positioning the transfer and/or alignment unit transversely to the feed direction (at least partial alignment function).

Reference List

2

Isolated packaging material, in particular flat cardboard box(es)

10

Transfer and alignment module

11

material transfer point

11.1

First material transfer point upstream (acceptance of individual packaging material)

11.2

second material transfer point downstream (handover of transferred packaging material)

12

Frame

12.1

Carrier unit, in particular height-adjustable or height-adjustable

12.2

height-adjustable stand

13

Table

13.1

transfer unit

13.2

transfer rail

13.21

Articulated or folding or telescopic mechanism transfer rail

13.3

alignment unit

13.4

sliding rail

14

drive

15

control device

16

power supply

17

wheels of the module

18

Drive and/or control component

18.1

actuator

18.2

Measuring transducers, in particular rotary encoders

18.3

Sensor, in particular angle of rotation or speed sensor

20

Plant, in particular for cutting, gluing, folding cardboard boxes

21

Movement path in plant (especially straight line)

30

production line

30.1

first system, in particular upstream of second system, in particular feeding system for hot application of adhesives or the like (HST)

30.2

second system, in particular downstream of the first system, in particular flat box machine/system (FKM or folding box gluing machines)

31

Angle or change of direction (in particular approx. 90°) on the movement path in the production line

Exy

Plane of movement of the separated packaging material in the module

mxy

Movement path of the separated packaging material in the module

P1

first coupling interface (system-technical docking point upstream)

p2

second coupling interface (system-technical docking point downstream)

x

Longitudinal direction, in particular horizontal, in particular transfer direction

x10

Longitudinal extent (length) of the module

x12

Longitudinal housing or frame

x12.1

Longitudinal extension of the carrier unit

x13

Longitudinal table

y

Transverse direction, especially horizontal

y10

Transverse extent (width) of the module

y13

Transverse extent (width) of the table

y13.3

Transverse extension (width) of the alignment unit

e.g

Vertical direction, especially vertical

z10

Vertical extent (height) of the module

z13

height of the table

z13.1

Height of the transfer unit

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was 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.

Patent Literature Cited

• US 9492984 B2 [0004]

Claims (15)

Transfer and alignment module (10) set up for at least partially automated handling of batch packed or separated packaging material (2), in particular flat cardboard boxes, with: - a table (13) for transferring the packaging material (2); - a multiplicity of drivable transfer units (13.1) provided on the table, in particular transfer rollers or bearings; - at least one alignment unit (13.3) provided on the table, in particular with slide rails (13.4) for setting a lateral relative position; - at least one drive (14) and at least one drive and/or control component (18) from the following group: actuator (18.1), measuring value transmitter (18.2), sensor (18.3); characterized in that the transfer and alignment module (10) has a first material transfer point (11.1) upstream of the table (13) and a second material transfer point (11.2) downstream of the table, the transfer and alignment module (10) having a frame supporting the table (12) and rollers (17) and is therefore mobile, the transfer and alignment module (10) being designed in a modular manner and being positioned in such a way relative to at least one system (20) for at least partially automated handling or processing or manufacturing of the packaging material (2) it can be arranged that the transfer and alignment module (10) for the packaging material transfer and for the alignment of the packaging material (2) can be modularly coupled to the system (20), in particular upstream of the system. Transfer and alignment module claim 1 , wherein the transfer and alignment module has at least one control component that can be coupled to at least one signal of the system, by means of which at least one transfer parameter, in particular the transfer speed parameter, can be specified as a function of the operating state of the system, in particular one connected to the at least one drive of the transfer and Alignment module coupled transducer, which is in communication with the system or can be brought. Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first material transfer point is defined by a free end of at least one upstream projecting transfer rail; and/or wherein the second material transfer point is defined by a free end of at least one transfer rail projecting downstream; and/or wherein the table is variable in length at at least one of the material transfer points, in particular by means of at least one transfer rail that is variable in length, in particular that can be folded out or telescoped. Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the table has at least two transfer rails aligned in the transfer direction, on which at least one drive component of the transfer and alignment module coupled to the drive is provided, in particular at least one drive roller and/or at least one drive belt. Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the alignment function of the transfer and alignment module is used to align the transferred packaging material about the vertical axis and/or to adjust the movement path predefined for the transfer, in particular in the plane defined by the table; and/or wherein the width of a transfer area defined by the alignment unit can be adapted to the width of the packaging material; and/or wherein the table has at least two transfer rails aligned in the transfer direction, at least one of which can be positioned transversely to the transfer direction with respect to a specific width of the table depending on the packaging material to be transferred. Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the alignment unit has at least one, preferably two slide rails, in particular slide rods in an alignment at least approximately orthogonal to the transfer direction, on which the table can be adjusted or positioned in the lateral direction, the relative lateral position or Alignment of the table or the at least one slide rail can be adapted either manually or at least partially automatically to the type of packaging material and/or to the predefined movement path. Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer and alignment module can be coupled to the operating state of the system by means of a rotary encoder and is set up to mirror the operating state of the system arranged upstream, in particular with regard to the transfer speed, or to scale it for a second system arranged downstream . Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer and alignment module has an energy supply and is energetically independent of a/the system or production line to which the transfer and alignment module can be coupled; and/or wherein the transfer and alignment module communicates with a with the at least one drive and/or control component and is independent of a/the system or production line in terms of control/regulation technology, to which the transfer and alignment module can be coupled. System (20) for at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and/or folding, the system having at least one transfer and alignment module (10) according to one of the preceding claims has, wherein the transfer and alignment module (10) is coupled to the system as a mobile module, namely upstream or downstream of the system. Production line (30) with at least two systems (20) for at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular each with a system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and/or folding, the production line having at least one transfer and alignment module (10) according to any one of Claims 1 until 8th wherein the transfer and alignment module (10) is coupled as a mobile module between the systems, namely downstream of a first of the systems and upstream of one/the second of the systems, in particular in such a way that by means of the transfer and alignment module during material transfer also one The speed and/or number of cycles of the transferred material is synchronized. Method for the at least partially automated transfer and alignment of packaging material packed or separated in batches, in particular flat cardboard boxes, from a first material transfer point upstream of a table to a second material transfer point downstream of the table, the packaging material being transferred to the table by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table is aligned, the transfer being effected by at least one drive and at least one drive and/or control component from the following group: actuator, measured value transmitter, sensor; characterized in that the table for the transfer and alignment is coupled in a modular manner to a system (20), in particular in an arrangement on a mobile supporting frame with rollers, with the at least one drive being adapted to the operating state by means of at least one measuring value transmitter in order to specify at least one transfer parameter of the system is coupled, the operating state of the system being mirrored in particular with regard to the transfer speed or being scaled in an arrangement between two systems from a first transfer speed or number of cycles to a second transfer speed or number of cycles. Method according to the preceding method claim, wherein the at least one transfer parameter is specified by means of a rotary encoder, in particular for specifying a speed transfer parameter. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein, in order to specify at least one alignment parameter, a comparison is made with the alignment of a/the downstream system, in particular based on at least one angular alignment parameter. Use of a transfer and alignment module according to one of Claims 1 until 8th upstream of a system for at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular a system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and/or folding, the transfer and alignment module being modularly coupled to the system and thereby providing a material transfer point, on which the packaging material is transferred from a table of the transfer and alignment module to the system, the packaging material being aligned by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table, the transfer being carried out by at least one drive and at least one drive and/or control component from the following group occurs: actuator, transmitter, sensor; wherein the at least one drive is coupled to the operating state of the system to specify at least one transfer parameter, the operating state of the system being mirrored by the transfer and alignment module for the material transfer point. Use of a transfer and alignment module according to one of Claims 1 until 8th between two systems of a production line for at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular between systems for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and/or folding, with the transfer and alignment module being coupled in a modular manner between the systems and thereby a first material transfer point upstream and a second material transfer point downstream, at which the packaging material is transferred to and from a table of the transfer and alignment module from/to the corresponding system, the packaging material being aligned by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table is, the transfer being effected by at least one drive and at least one drive and/or control component from the following group: actuator, transducer, sensor; wherein for specifying at least one transfer parameter, in particular at least two transfer parameters, the at least one drive is coupled to the operating state of the systems, the operating state of the systems being mirrored by the transfer and alignment module for the corresponding material transfer point.

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