DE202015009551U1 - Collecting container, collecting arrangement and tray segment - Google Patents

Abstract

Collecting container shell segment (10) designed and constructed to be installed with at least one further shell segment (10) in the assembled state to form an outer shell of a collection container (3) configured to rotate about an axis of rotation (P) be rotatable and operable to, objects (23), such. Fruit, by rolling the collection container over the articles (23) in a rotational movement of the collection container (3) to thereby convey the articles (23) through the outer shell into the collection container (3), the collection container shell segment (10 ) in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation (P) defines a predefined angle sector (alpha) of the outer shell of the collecting container (3), which has a predefined dihedral angle (alpha) with respect to the axis of rotation (P).

Description

The present application is directed to a collection container, a collection assembly and a tray segment.

The collection of objects, such. Fruit, such as apples, pears, quinces and the like, from the ground is relatively cumbersome when done manually.

Efforts have therefore been made to at least partially simplify the collection of fruit from the soil. By way of example, reference is made to the WO 2013/064660 A1 which shows a fruit picking device with a picking basket made of a plurality of resilient arched wire straps clamped at their ends by two axial hubs for defining a generally curved convex collecting cage or basket. By rolling the pickup basket over a fruit lying on the ground, the wires at which the fruit touches the basket are pushed apart by the fruit so that the fruit enters the container through the basket wrapping made of the plurality of wires , The construction, manufacture and assembly of such a collecting basket in which the multiple wires are attached to the hubs are relatively expensive and cumbersome.

Thus, it is an object of the invention to provide a way to facilitate, simplified and / or cost-efficient production and assembly of a respective collection container. In particular, a collecting container, a collecting container cup segment, a collecting arrangement and a method for producing a collecting container are to be provided, which allow facilitated, simplified and / or cost-efficient production and assembly and preferably at the same time permit easier manual operation.

This object is achieved in particular with the features and the subject of the independent claims. Embodiments also result in particular from respective dependent claims.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a collection container shell segment constructed and configured to be installed with at least one further, in particular structurally identical, collection container shell segment to form, in the normal assembled condition, an outer shell or the outer wall structure or envelope of an inner volume of a collection container.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a collection container, in particular implemented as a basket or cage, which is configured to be rotatable and operable about an axis of rotation, to convey objects, e.g. Fruit, by rolling the collection container over the articles in a rotary motion to thereby convey the articles through the outer shell into the collection container. The proposed collection container comprises an outer shell assembled from a predetermined number, at least two, collection container shell segments, each of the shell segments being constructed or implemented in accordance with at least one of the shell segment embodiments described herein. Advantages and advantageous effects in connection with the collecting container arise in particular from advantages and advantageous effects of the proposed shell segments.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a collection assembly comprising at least one collection container according to at least one of the collection container embodiments described herein. The collection assembly may further include a support for rotatably supporting the collection container and may further optionally include a manual operation handle adapted for coupling to the support. Advantages and advantageous effects in connection with the Aufsammelanordnung arise in particular from advantages and advantageous effects of the proposed shell segments and the proposed collection container.

In addition, a method for manufacturing a collection container according to at least one of the embodiments described herein is provided. In particular, advantages with respect to the method result from corresponding advantages described in connection with any embodiments of the shell segment or the collection container. Furthermore, as will be apparent from the discussion below, the proposed method is comparatively simple and can at the same time be carried out comparatively cost-efficiently.

In embodiments of the invention, the outer shell of the collection container may be considered as a solid shell extending with respect to an axis of rotation over a dihedral angle of 360 °, ie the outer walls of the collection container over a complete axial rotation Are defined. The outer shell, and also the collecting container, in embodiments may have a shape corresponding to a rotationally symmetrical structure.

The collection container, in embodiments, may be configured to be rotatable about an axis of rotation and configured to roll or roll on and over the ground. The collection container may also be operable to remove items, such. As fruits, such as apples and the like, by rolling the collecting container on respective objects, for example, lying on the ground, in a rotary movement of the collecting container, thereby to convey the objects through the outer shell into the collecting container, for example by elastic deformation of a suitable area of the outer shell, to be read.

The collector shell segment may, in embodiments in a circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation, define a predefined angle sector of the outer shell of the collection container and may have a span or spread over a predefined dihedral angle with respect to the axis of rotation.

The collection container shell segment may, in embodiments, form an arcuate sector of the collection container which is defined by two planes which are radial with respect to the axis of rotation, i. H. two planes passing through and containing the axis of rotation and twisted by the dihedral angle, or at least one, in particular two, tangent planes, d. H. Levels that are parallel to the axis of rotation is limited.

A shell segment, in embodiments with respect to the assembled state of the collection container and with respect to the rotation axis, may comprise a wedge-shaped sub-region or recess, i. H. Segment, the collecting container with a dihedral angle corresponding wedge angle.

In further embodiments, a shell segment may define a layer or piece of the collection container enclosed between two parallel tangent planes parallel to the axis of rotation.

In other embodiments, a shell segment may define a cap defined by a single plane tangent to the axis of rotation.

In embodiments where the shell segment defines a cap as described above, the collection container may be assembled from upper and lower cap-like shell segments and an intermediate or intermediate liner segment defining a double-sided frusto-conical region of the collection container.

Advantageously, the Aufsammelbehälterschalensegmente for a certain collection container may be constructed in embodiments such that the collecting container by a predefined number of structurally identical shell segments, d. H. from shell segments that are identical in construction, can be assembled together.

In embodiments, the shell segments may be implemented and constructed such that all of the shell segments from which the collection container is assembled or assembled have an identical construction. This can be achieved for example by the use of half shells or quarter shells or wedge-shaped shell segments with defined dihedral angles.

As can be seen, the proposed collection container shell segment which forms a predefined dihedral angle range of an entire collection container and which can be installed with other, advantageously structurally identical, shell segments to cover the entire collection container, significantly reduces the assembly costs, the production and the manufacturing costs for the collection container. In particular, a collecting container for collecting objects according to the present invention can be assembled by using, for example, only two half-shells or, for example, four quarter-shells. This is obviously suitable for reducing the assembly effort, especially in comparison to known solutions that require that each individual wire band is attached or fixed individually to axial hubs.

In embodiments, the dihedral angle subtended by the predefined angular sector is in the range of 30 to 180 degrees and / or the range of 45 to 135 degrees and / or the range of 60 to 90 degrees.

In the event that the shell segments are constructed to overlap without overlap, with the exception or neglect of overlap that may be present at possible connector interfaces and connector elements, such as a connector. B. locking elements to the With adjacent shell segments engaged, assembled, assembled and assembled, the sum of the dihedral angles of the shell segments in the assembled state of the collection container may be approximately, preferably equal to 360 °, which means in particular that the shell elements define the collection container along its entire circumference. In the event that fittings or similar intermediate elements are used or provided between adjacent shell segments or in the event that adjacent shell segments overlap in the circumferential direction, the sum of the dihedral angles of the shell segments forming the collection vessel may be below or above 360 ° lie.

By using dihedral angle ranges as mentioned above, a predefined and favorable number of shell segments can be provided with regard to the assembly effort.

As an example, shell segments each having a dihedral angle of 180 ° may be provided, which means that the collection container may be assembled from two half-shells.

As another example, shell segments each having a dihedral angle of 90 ° may be provided, meaning that the collection container may be assembled from four quarter shells.

It is noted that also other dihedral angles and a different number of shell segments, such. B. three shell segments or six shell segments can be provided. It is further noted that the shell segments assembled to a collection container need not have the same dihedral angles. In this regard, a selection of shell segments which in the assembled state form the collection container may be two cap-shaped shell segments and an intermediate shell element or layer, each defined by different dihedral or circumferential angles and cutting planes with respect to the axis of rotation. In other variants, the collection container can be assembled from a half shell and two quarter shells, each spanning different dihedral or circumferential angles. Other configurations are conceivable.

Generally, shell segments forming a collection container may be formed by dividing the outer shell of the collection container by such selected or placed cutting planes as to avoid severing the envelope of the collection container, particularly elastic bands defining such envelope, across the axial length of the collection container , defined or obtained.

As can be seen, the construction and configuration of the proposed shell segments can greatly simplify the assembly of the collection container due to a limited number of mounting hardware and relatively simple attachment procedures.

Improvements in terms of assembly effort and cost can be achieved when using shell segments that are structurally identical. This is especially true in cases where all the shell segments required for the assembly of a single collection container are structurally identical.

With regard to the use of structurally identical shell segments, only a limited number of manufacturing molds or molds may be required for injection molding of the shell segments. In particular, in the case where all the shell segments for assembling a single collection container are structurally identical, a single manufacturing form of form for the shell segments may be sufficient, which obviously represents an advantage in terms of reducing the manufacturing cost.

As has already been stated, the shell segments which are provided for the assembly of a single collection container may be implemented in embodiments as half-shells or quarter-shells.

In embodiments, the shell segment may be implemented as an integral one-piece part. In this case, the shell segment may be made of a plastic material. Plastic materials for making the shell member may be processed using injection molding techniques.

The provision of the shell segments as integral parts, which are advantageously produced by injection molding, can be effective in reducing the number of mounting parts, thereby reducing the assembly effort and the complexity of assembling a collecting container.

In embodiments, the collection container may be implemented as a collection basket or cage. Such a basket or cage may comprise a plurality of elastic straps or braces or straps, which preferably have a wire-like or wire-shaped configuration and are located in the Extend longitudinally according to the axis of rotation of the collecting container.

The brackets or straps or straps may be designed to extend between both axial ends of the collection container in a direction transverse to the circumferential direction of the collection container with respect to the axis of rotation.

The plurality of straps or straps or straps may span or form a peripheral enclosure of the collection container, the enclosure being penetrable due to the elasticity of the straps or braces or straps for articles to be collected with the collection container. In particular, the straps or braces or straps may be made of a resilient plastic material using injection molding techniques.

In embodiments, the collector shell segment may include an axial hub segment at each axial end. The hub segments may be designed to define axial end portions of the collection container.

In embodiments, the hub segments in the axial direction, i. H. in the axial direction with respect to the axis of rotation, be connected by a plurality of elastic strap or clips or straps, in particular according to the description previously made. The brackets or straps or bands provided in the axial direction between the axial hubs are equally spaced in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation. Furthermore, the straps or straps or straps are constructed and configured to be elastically deformed and forced apart or driven in the circumferential direction such that an object to be collected is separated by, for example, a group of adjacent straps or braces or straps generated gap can be conveyed through the brackets or clips or bands in the circumferential direction elastically pushed apart or pressed. The brackets or straps or straps may be curved radially outward in variants for defining or forming a curved collecting container having a convex structure.

In embodiments, the collection container shell segment may include at least one axial hub segment at an axial end thereof, the axial hub segment being implemented as a ring segment that is part of an axial hub and is configured, for example, as an axial flange or stub axle region, wherein the axial hub is assembled in the assembled one Condition of the collecting container with a counterpart hub of a holder for the collecting container can be rotatably coupled.

The axial hub segment, in particular the ring segment, may be constructed such that the stirrups or clips or bands emerge or depart from the hub or ring segment from certain equally spaced locations along the circumferential direction. In particular, the axial hub segment and the straps or clips or straps may be integrally formed integrally.

The bands may in embodiments form a grid of non-crossing grid elements in the form of the axial bands. However, embodiments with crossing ribbons should not be excluded.

In embodiments in which both axial ends of the collection container are provided with an axial hub segment, which may be implemented as described above, for example, the stirrups or clips may be connected to both axial hub segments and may be integral with both axial hub segments in an integral configuration be educated. In this case, it can be considered that the shell segment is a single mounting unit that is suitable for reducing the total number of mounting parts and for facilitating and simplifying the mounting of the collecting container.

In embodiments where the cup segment includes an axial hub segment implemented as a ring segment, it may be provided that an inner radius of the ring segment is such that, in the assembled configuration of the collection container, an axial ejection port for ejecting articles collected in the collection container an axial end of the Aufsammelbehälters is generated. This means that the inner radius of the ring segment is configured, preferably sufficiently large or small, that the ultimately assembled collection container at the axial end of an axial ejection opening with a size or a diameter such that objects, such as fruits, the be collected with the collecting container and lie therein, can be ejected through the ejection opening from the collecting container comprises.

As can be seen, the proposed design and assembly of a collection container using some shell segments allow flexible adaptation of the collection container to various needs and requirements. In particular, the manufacturing process for the receptacle flexible to structural or Design changes of the collecting container can be adjusted.

In embodiments in which the collection container comprises at least one axial hub segment, in particular as described above, at least one of the hub segments may be implemented as an axial circular wall segment. In this case, the axial hub of the collecting container may be implemented as a closed wall portion in the assembled state, and a stub shaft portion configured to rotatably couple the accumulating container with, for example, a holder may be formed or provided on an outer surface of the axial wall portion.

It is noted that the proposed construction and assembly of the collection container with some shell segment components allows the flexible adaptation of the collection container to various requirements and requirements, in particular in the region of the axial end regions of the collection container. Thus, the manufacturing process proposed here for the collecting container can be readily and flexibly adapted even in the case of structural or design changes of the collecting container, while maintaining and ensuring comparatively simple and uncomplicated fastening and assembly processes for the collecting container.

In embodiments that include an axial hub segment that may be used as an axial circular wall segment, such as an axial circular wall segment. B. According to the embodiment described above, and defines an axial circular wall of the collecting container, the axial wall segment on an outer axial side may comprise an axial projection defining a segment of an axial stub axle, which in the assembled state with a counterpart hub or To cooperate bearing shell of example, a holder.

As can be seen, it is with the modular concept and the arrangement of the collecting container according to the proposals made here, according to which some shell segments are combined to form a single collecting container, in particular possible, functional or structural elements, such. As an axial stub axle to implement. Functional and structural elements may be implemented by appropriately dividing or subdividing respective functional elements into regions or segments of the shell segments such that the overall shape and geometry of the respective functional or structural elements is established, preferably without requiring additional or extra assembly and / or attachment steps become.

For example, referring to the modular construction of the collection container according to the present proposals, which include at least one hub segment, at least one of the hub segments may include at least one connector or interlocking interface.

The locking interface may in embodiments snap connectors, such as. B. plug-and-snap connectors such as a snap tab or a pin, and one or some corresponding snap recesses.

The connector or latch interface may, in embodiments, comprise at least one connector or latching structure or connector or latch member for engaging in the assembled state of the cup segments with a mating connector or latching structure or mating connector interface of an adjacent cup segment is constructed.

It may be considered that the connector interfaces take into account the modular structure and arrangement of the collection container defined by the use of some shell elements and as suggested herein. It may be considered that the connector interfaces and the connector structures allow easy and uncomplicated connection of the individual shell segments to form the collection container.

In embodiments where a connector interface is provided, the connector interface may include: at least one locking or extension extension and / or at least one locking recess.

The latch extension may be configured and configured, in the assembled state of the cup segment to which it belongs, to engage a corresponding latching recess of a connector interface of an adjacent cup segment. Further, the locking recess may be configured and configured to engage, in the assembled condition, with a locking extension of a connector interface of the or another adjacent collection container shell segment.

In embodiments, the connector interface may be at least partially formed at or at at least one axial flange of the accumulator cup segment. The axial Flange may be implemented on or at an axial hub segment and / or axial projection, as described in greater detail above, or in conjunction therewith.

In particular, in embodiments, a connector interface may be provided on or at the axial protrusions provided on an outer axial side of an axial wall segment of the shell segment, in particular such that a coupling or connection force or effect in the assembled state in the region of Achsstummels, which is composed of the axial projections, is generated or achieved.

In embodiments, the connector interface may be circumferentially provided and aligned, which means in particular that adjacent shell segments are held together by forces acting in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, by providing the connector interfaces on respective peripheral sides, comparatively simple assembly steps can be achieved.

In embodiments where the shell segments include axial hub segments or axial stub axle segments that constitute an axial hub or an axial stub axle in the assembled condition of the collection container, it may be contemplated that a respective axial hub and axial stub axle may be included in the circumferential and axial stub axles optionally in the axial direction by respective counterpart hubs, such as bearing shells, a support structure, such as. A holder configured to rotatably support the composite collection container. Implementing the hub and / or stub axle such that they can be enclosed by a counterpart hub or bearing shell of suitable construction may be advantageous to the overall fastening process, as specific and separate fixation elements may be omitted. In addition, by using, providing, or enabling circumferential containment, improved support and stability for the collector can be achieved.

In embodiments of the collection container, each shell segment may define in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation a predefined angle sector of the outer shell of the collection container. In embodiments, the shell segment may have a predefined dihedral angle relative to the axis of rotation, with the sum of the dihedral angles of the predefined number of shell segments preferably being 360 °. With respect to the sum of dihedral angles, reference is also made to the discussion above, which indicates that, depending on the particular construction of the shell segments, the sum of the dihedral angles may be more or less than 360 °, depending on the overlap or Distance between adjacent shell segments in the circumferential direction.

1. a. Herstellen einer vordefinierten Anzahl an Aufsammelbehälterschalensegmenten, die zumindest gemäß mindestens einer der Ausführungsformen gemäß der hier erfolgenden Beschreibung ausgeführt sind, wobei jedes Schalensegment in der Umfangsrichtung bezüglich der Drehachse einen vordefinierten Winkelsektor der Außenschale des Aufsammelbehälters definiert, der bezüglich der Drehachse einen vordefinierten Diederwinkel aufweist, wobei die Summe aus den Diederwinkeln der vordefinierten Anzahl an Schalensegmenten vorteilhafterweise 360° beträgt;
2. b. Verbauen und Zusammensetzen der Schalensegmente durch Verbinden entsprechender Verbindergrenzflächen angrenzender Schalensegmente miteinander zum Erhalt einer bezüglich der Drehachse umfangsmäßigen Vollschale, die die Außenschale des Aufsammelbehälters definiert.

Now to embodiments of the provided method; Embodiments of a method of manufacturing a collection container may include the following steps:

1. a. Producing a predefined number of collection container shell segments, which are embodied according to at least one embodiment as described herein, wherein each shell segment in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis defines a predefined angle sector of the outer shell of the collection container having a predefined dihedral angle with respect to the axis of rotation the sum of the dihedral angles of the predefined number of shell segments is advantageously 360 °;
2. b. Assembling and assembling the shell segments by connecting respective connector interfaces of adjacent shell segments to each other to obtain a full shell circumferentially circumferentially about the axis of rotation that defines the outer shell of the collection container.

In accordance with the above discussion, it will be appreciated that the tray segment of the collection containers and the picking arrangement are suitable for accomplishing the object identified above.

In further embodiments, a support, in particular a support frame or a support structure may be provided, which is implemented for use with a collection container according to any embodiment described herein. In particular, a bracket or frame may be provided which is capable of rotatably supporting or supporting the collection container, which may be implemented as a collection basket.

In embodiments, an adapter unit arranged to be releasably coupled to a counterpart adapter unit for, for example, a handle, may be associated with the holder, in particular fixedly or detachably secured thereto. The counterpart adapter unit may for example be associated with a handle, so that the Fruit picking device for manual use can be releasably attached to the handle.

In embodiments, the collecting assembly, the holder, and / or the collection container may be either designed specifically for a particular fruit / item or may be configured to be used with a certain series of fruits or items having a similar shape / or tailored to it.

In embodiments, the fixture may be configured to hold various types of collection containers, each for collecting a particular type of item or fruit, such as a cask. As apples, peaches, nuts, etc., are executed, can accommodate. The holder may be designed for multiple uses with different types or sizes of collection containers.

According to a further aspect of the invention, which can be claimed separately, a collecting system or a collecting kit can be provided, comprising at least one holder and at least one collecting container, which are composed of shell segments as described herein, or at least one holder and at least a number of shell segments, as described herein, suitable for assembly or assembly to form at least one collection container.

The kit may be configured to use various types, sizes or shapes of collection containers, particularly designed to collect various types, sizes or shapes of fruits. In particular, such a kit may comprise a series of fruit or article picking devices with rotatable collecting containers which may be coupled to a respective handle. Each fruit collector may include a separate holder associated with a corresponding collection container and corresponding tray segments according to any embodiment described herein. However, it is also possible for the collection devices to include a unit support and a number of collection containers, each of the collection containers configured to be coupled to the unitary support.

In embodiments, the unitary support may be fixed in the mold and configured to be coupled to a single collection container or to a certain number of different collection containers. In particular, different types of collection containers may be configured to be coupled to the unit holder. Alternatively, the support may be implemented with variable shape and / or design so that it can be adapted to various shapes and / or configurations of collection containers. However, in the variable-holder embodiment as well, there may be some adjustment of the holder in terms of shape or design, which allows it to cooperate with different types of collection containers adapted to that particular setting.

With such a system or kit, the picking arrangement can be readily adapted to picking different types of fruits or objects, for example, by replacing the type of fruit picking device and / or the picking up container. At least the holder and the collection container of such a system or kit may be embodied according to any embodiment or variant as described herein.

The mount may be implemented in embodiments to rotatably support or retain the collection container such that the collection container is rotatable about a main axis of rotation. The axis of rotation or axis of rotation can in particular coincide with an axis of symmetry, in particular a rotational axis of symmetry, of the collecting container.

In embodiments, the collection container may comprise an elongate or elongated structure, i. H. it may have a structure in which a dimension in the axial direction, particularly parallel to or coincident with the rotation axis, is more than a dimension in the radial transverse direction, or may have a structure in which the dimension in the axial direction is less as the dimension in the, in particular radial, transverse direction.

In embodiments, the holder may include an orifice configured to pass fruits or items to be collected in or dispensed from the collection container. The mouth may be configured to pass articles into and out of the collection container. In embodiments, the mouth may extend in a direction parallel and / or oblique to an axis of rotation defined by the support and be open to that end.

In embodiments, the mouth may be integrally formed with the holder. Here can the muzzle and the bracket a form and define a one-piece component. In such embodiments, the mouth may be fixedly and immovably mounted or implemented on the mount.

In other embodiments, the mouth may be provided as a separate component and may be configured for attachment or connection to the holder. In particular, the mouth can be movably mounted on the holder in such embodiments. In embodiments, the mouth or at least a portion thereof may be mounted or fixed such that it can be pivoted and / or rotated with respect to the axis of rotation of the holder.

In further embodiments, the orifice may be implemented such that the direction and orientation of an open end of the orifice, which in the assembled state points away from the collection container and defines a type of collection hatch or discharge orifice, with a rotational and / or pivoting movement of the orifice of the movable portion thereof can be changed. In this way, the orifice can be adjusted to best suit crop gathering requirements and user-specific operating conditions.

In embodiments, the aperture plane of an outer mouth of the mouth may be implemented such that an angle in the opposite direction between a vertical plane passing through the axis of rotation and a sectional plane passing through the axis of rotation and coincident with a center plane of the holder , in an optimal or average operating condition of the fruit collector with respect to a roll-up mode of operation, is in the range between 30 and 60 degrees, in particular in the range of about 55 degrees.

In embodiments, the collection container may include or be defined by, among other things, a wrapper which defines, with respect to the axis of rotation, a circumferential, in particular elastic, wrapper which is permeable to fruits to be collected or collected.

The wrapper may, in embodiments, comprise a plurality of resilient regions or elements constructed and implemented such that an article, in particular a fruit lying on the ground, may elastically deform a certain number of the elastic elements to thereby pass through Slip through the enclosure and to get into the interior of the collecting container when rolling the collecting container or moving the collecting container on the object from the outside.

In embodiments, the elastic regions may comprise wires or wire rods made of a plastic, a metal material and / or a composite material, in particular a reinforced material.

In certain embodiments, the wire rods may have a diameter in the range of 1.0 mm to 1.5 mm or 1.1 mm to 1.4 mm or 1.25 mm to 1.3 mm. Such diameters can provide sufficient flexibility and, at the same time, sufficient flexibility to permit the collection of objects, particularly fruits, without severely damaging the surface of the collected items, and permit manufacture by injection molding or the like.

A collecting container with a cover according to the above-mentioned embodiment can be rolled by the user on the floor or floor, whereby objects are moved by rolling the collecting container over the objects that elastically deform the respective articles and the cover has an entrance opening or entrance nip generated in the enclosure, can be picked up. The penetration into the envelope, which includes the elastic deformation of the envelope, can for example take place in a direction transverse to the axis of rotation direction.

In embodiments, the holder, in particular the base region thereof, a coupling, in particular a standardized coupling, or a coupling piece, which is designed to, the holder with a handle on a, such. B. a multi-function handle, provided counterparts coupling interchangeable include. A connection between the counterpart coupling and the coupling may be plug-and-snap or may include a screw-fastening mechanism or otherwise.

In embodiments, the collection container may include at one axial end thereof a stub axle region having a central through hole or ejection opening dimensioned and dimensioned to allow items to be collected to move into or be moved into the collection container wherein the stub axle portion may be configured to cooperate with or be coupled to a bearing shell of the bracket. The ejection port or through-hole may be used to convey fruit by moving objects through the However, it may be used mainly for ejecting objects from the collection container. The ejection opening can be designed such that in each case an object can slide through.

In embodiments, the stub axle portion may comprise a bearing or sliding surface, for example with a segmented annular configuration, which may be configured to cooperate, in the attached condition, with a counterpart bearing or sliding surface of a bearing cup of the bracket. The bearing or sliding surface may be an inner or an outer surface, wherein the counterpart bearing or sliding surface of the hub may then be implemented as an outer or inner surface.

In embodiments, one of the bearing or sliding surfaces may include friction reducing or guiding components, structures, or structural elements that reduce the friction between the bearing or sliding surfaces and / or achieve proper guidance of the bearing or sliding surfaces, particularly for restricting movement or play or clearance of the bearing or sliding surfaces in the axial direction. These friction-reducing components or structural elements may comprise projections and / or recesses, in particular beads and / or bulges and the like, which are suitable for reducing frictional forces acting between the sliding or bearing surfaces and / or providing adequate guidance. The friction reducing components or structural elements may, for example, be provided in the axial and / or radial direction with respect to the axis of rotation and may, moreover, be configured to prevent blocking of rotational movement of the collecting container and may for example be implemented as sliding rings.

In embodiments, the collection container may include an additional or a further stub axle region that is implemented at an axial end of the accumulation container, wherein the additional stub axle region may be implemented as a shaft configured to cooperate with a corresponding bearing shell implemented on the bracket is.

The further stub axle region may comprise a disc hub with one or a protruding centered stub axle or shaft. The stub axle or the shaft may be configured so that it or they can cooperate with a bearing shell or a bearing mounting of the holder.

• 1 eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Aufsammelanordnung zum Aufsammeln von Gegenständen, wie z. B. Früchten, gemäß einer beispielhaften Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt;
• 2 die Aufsammelanordnung von 1 in einem teilweise auseinandergebauten Zustand zeigt;
• 3 ein Viertelschalensegment eines Aufsammelbehälters der Aufsammelanordnung in 1 und 2 zeigt;
• 4 ein Halbschalensegment, das aus zwei Viertelschalensegmenten gemäß 3 zusammengebaut ist, zeigt;
• 5 ein Detail von 4 zeigt;
• 6 zwei Halbschalensegmente gemäß 4 kurz vor dem Zusammenbau zeigt;
• 7 ein Detail von 6 zeigt;
• 8 eine Seitenansicht einer Behälteranordnung zur Darstellung des normalen Betriebs zeigt; und
• 9 eine perspektivische Ansicht der Aufsammelanordnung, die sich auch auf den normalen Betrieb bezieht, zeigt.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described in conjunction with the appended drawings, in which:

• 1 a perspective view of a Aufsammelanordnung for collecting objects such. Fruit, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;
• 2 the collecting arrangement of 1 in a partially disassembled state;
• 3 a quarter shell segment of a collecting container of the collecting arrangement in 1 and 2 shows;
• 4 a half shell segment consisting of two quarter shell segments according to 3 assembled, shows;
• 5 a detail of 4 shows;
• 6 two half-shell segments according to 4 just before assembly shows;
• 7 a detail of 6 shows;
• 8th a side view of a container assembly to illustrate the normal operation shows; and
• 9 a perspective view of the Aufsammelanordnung, which also relates to the normal operation shows.

1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a Aufsammelanordnung 1 for collecting objects (see 23 in 8th ), such. As fruits such as apples and the like, but also for collecting other objects with a similar shape, such. As nuts, balls and the like.

The collection arrangement 1 in accordance with the illustration of the exemplary embodiment in FIG 1 can be a holder 2 and a collection container 3 include.

The holder 2 may have a C-shaped configuration that has a base area 4 and a pair of support arms 5 that project from it. As shown in 1 and also in 2 that the collection arrangement 1 from 1 In a partially disassembled configuration, the bracket can 3 the shape and configuration of a wheel fork, which for rotatably holding the collecting container 3 at axial hub areas 6 it is executed.

As in particular from 2 can be seen, the retaining arms 5 include respective bearing shells 7.1 and 7.2 at their free ends, each of which is constructed and configured accordingly Achsstummelbereiche 8.1 and 8.2 record and hold such that the collecting container 3 around a rotation axis P ( 1 ) passing through the bearing shells 7 and the stub axle areas 8th is defined, can be rotated.

The holder 3 in accordance with the illustration of the exemplary embodiments in FIG 1 and 2 can be attached to one of the retaining arms 5 remote location an adapter area 9 include. The adapter area 9 may be designed and constructed with a counterpart adapter of a handle or handle bar (see 21 in 8th . 9 ), whereby manual operation of the picking arrangement 1 is possible.

As in 1 and 2 is specified and can be concluded from it, the collection container 3 a certain, in particular predefined, number of collecting container shell segments 10 include and be composed of these. It is noted that in 1 and 2 only one of a total of 4 shell segments with the reference numeral 10 is provided.

3 shows one of the quarter shell segments 10 of the collection container 3 the collection arrangement 1 as shown in 1 and 2 ,

The shell segment 10 is according to the in 3 shown embodiment as a quarter shell segment 10 implements, which means that the outer shell of the collection container 3 of four (ie 4) shell segments, each of the shell segments in the embodiment in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation P covers a dihedral angle α (alpha) of 360 ° * 3/4 = 90 °.

The dihedral angle α (alpha), that of the shell segment 10 can be defined by radial planes passing through the axis of rotation and the shell segment 10 in the circumferential direction, with elements such. For example, interlocking elements of connector interfaces that protrude in the circumferential direction and overlap adjacent shell regions in the assembled state are preferably neglected in determining the dihedral angle.

Thus, the dihedral angle of embodiments of the shell segment may be defined as an angle encompassed between radial planes defined by the circumferential extent of the shell segment, but excluding areas overlying adjacent shell areas in the assembled state.

It is noted that the shell segments in various embodiments of the collection container 3 Dihedral angle α (alpha), ie not 90 °, and the dihedral angle of shell segments, which in the assembled state, a collection container 3 form, may be different from each other.

The shell segment 10 as shown in the embodiment of FIG 3 can be manufactured as a one-piece integrated part, in particular made of plastic in a molding process. In this way, shell segments can 10 and thus also the collection container 3 be made comparatively easy and cost-efficient.

As shown in the embodiments of the figures, the shell segments are 10 structurally identical and thus can be a collection container 3 by attaching four identical tray segments together 10 be assembled.

According to the embodiments shown in the figures, it can be deduced that the use of identical shell segments 10 to a generally rotationally symmetrical shape of the collecting container 3 can lead. Such a configuration may be advantageous in view of the intended use of the collection container for collecting items with a rolling motion therethrough, as described below.

As can be understood from the above discussion, the assembly of the collecting container can be achieved comparatively easily, simply and cost-efficiently. It is noted that this also applies to embodiments in which the collecting container 3 in less than four shell segments 10 is divided, and also applies to embodiments in which the collecting container 3 in more than four shell segments 10 is divided.

According to the representation of the exemplary embodiments in the figures, for example 3 , the shell segment can 10 at each axial end 11.1 and 11.2 include an axial hub segment 12.1 and 12.2. The axial hub segments 12 in the assembled state define the axial end shape and configuration of the outer shell 10 of the collection container 3 ,

The outer shell 10 of the collection container 3 as shown in the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures may continue to be curved bands 13 be defined, which are in the axial direction between the axial hub segments 12 extend and connect them together.

The arched ribbons 13 , which in the embodiment have a wire or fiber-like longitudinal structure, may be made of the same material as the axial hub segments 12 be manufactured and can continue to be integral with the axial hub segments 12 be educated. The bands 13 are constructed and implemented to be elastically deformable or bendable, wherein a major direction of elastic deformability may correspond to the circumferential direction. The deformability may be such that adjacent bands 13 can be forced apart in the circumferential direction, thus forming a gap 14 between at least two adjacent bands 14 to enlarge.

The bands 13 According to the illustration of the embodiments in the figures and with regard to their overall shape, they can be bent outwardly to the extent that in the assembled state a collecting container 3 to form a domed, convex structure which may have a rotationally symmetric geometry.

In particular, the bands can 13 in embodiments, such as 3 it can be seen to have a shape starting at the axial hub segments 12 initially substantially parallel to the axial direction and then bulge according to a predefined curvature to the outside, whereby the final shape and geometry of the outer shell of the collecting container 3 is defined in the circumferential direction.

As is clear from the embodiment that is in 3 and 4 is shown, is apparent 4 a half-shell segment, which consists of two quarter-shell segments according to 3 is assembled, the axial hub segment 12.1, which is in 3 and 4 located on the right side, an axial circular wall segment 15 , in particular in the form of a disc-like segment, in the assembled state, a portion of a closed axial wall of the outer shell of the collecting container 3 Are defined.

The axial hub segment 12.1 may further include an axial flange portion 16 which extends axially inwardly in the assembled condition and defines a circumferential base from which the bands 4 extend in the axial direction.

As shown in the figures, the axial wall segment 15 on an outer axial side an axial projection 17 comprising a segment of the stub axle 8.1 (see 2 ) defined at the right axial hub region 6 is generated. The axial stub axle 8.1 is designed, in the assembled state of the collecting container with the bearing shell 7.1, on the right side of the holder 2 as shown in 1 and 2 is positioned to interact.

As exemplified in the embodiments of 2 to 4 and particularly 5 that a detail of 4 is shown, the axial projection 17 as well as the axial flange area 16 the axial circular wall segment, such as in 2 4, connector elements or a connector structure, for example in the form of locking tabs 18 projecting in the circumferential direction thereof. Furthermore, the axial projection 17 as well as the axial flange area 16 on from the locking tongues 18 opposite sides counterpart connector elements, for example in the form of counterpart locking recesses 19 , include.

The connector elements and the counterpart connector elements may be constructed to define connector interfaces and may be implemented for engagement with each other.

As can be seen from the embodiment in the figures, the locking tongues 18 and the locking recesses 19 be constructed such that the locking tongues 18 an adjacent preceding shell segment 10 into the locking recesses 19 can latch and that the locking tongues 18 in the locking recesses of a subsequent shell segment 10 can snap, causing the shell segments 10 be held together in the assembled state. The cohesion of the shell segments 10 in the assembled state can be particularly supported by the fact that the stub axle area (the stub axle areas) 8 of the bearing shells of the holder 2 that the collection basket 3 rotatably supports, is surrounded / are.

It is noted that the stub axle area 8.2, on the left in 2 is positioned, may or may not have, but has such a connector interface, so that a locking engagement on the left axial hub 6 of the collection container 3 can be achieved.

As is apparent from the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG 3 and 4 As can be seen, the left axial hub segment 12.2 may be implemented as a ring segment 12.2 which, in the assembled condition of the collection container, is part of an axial hub adapted for rotatable coupling to the left bearing shell (see Figs 2 ) of the holder 2 is executed.

As is apparent from the embodiments, in particular in 2 . 4 and 6 , the two Half shell segments according to 4 As can be seen, an inner radius of the ring segment 12.2 may be implemented such that in the assembled configuration of the collection container 3 an axial ejection opening 20 for ejecting objects stored in the collecting container 3 be collected. Such an ejection opening 20 may be for quick and easy ejection of collected items from the collection container 3 be beneficial. The modular construction of the collecting container 3 that made some shell segments 10 is assembled, provides a comparatively simple implementation of such ejection openings and at the same time ensures easy and uncomplicated assembly and manufacture.

The following is an exemplary manner of assembling the collecting container 3 based on four quarter shells 1 to 7 , in which 7 a detail of 6 shows explained. This general assembly principle also applies to collection containers with a higher or lower number of shell segments 10 ,

In an initial step, for example, by manufacturing, a predefined number of shell segments 10 (please refer 3 ) to be provided.

In a subsequent step, the individual shell segments 10 combined and assembled, with the locking tongues 18 and the locking recesses 19 adjacent shell segments 10 can be locked together.

For example, two of the quarter shell segments 10 to a first half-shell as shown in FIG 4 and 5 be combined, with corresponding locking elements engage with each other. Then, a second half shell can be assembled from two further quarter shell segments 10 and the two half shell segments can ultimately be combined to form the outer shell of the collection container 3, which is exemplified in FIG 6 and 7 is specified.

How out 6 and 7 can be derived, penetrate the locking tongues 18 which protrude from the half-shell segments, when assembling the two half-shell segments in the corresponding locking recesses 19 and interlock with these, thereby forming the four shell segments 10 for the formation of the collecting container 3 , or at least the outer shell of it, to hold together.

In another (optional) attachment step, the assembled collection container 3 by engaging the stub axle areas 8th with their corresponding cups 7 for rotatably coupling the collecting container 3 with the bracket 2 with the bracket 2 be coupled.

By attaching the collection container 4 on the bracket 3 What by squeezing the collecting container in the axial direction and attaching the collecting container to the holder 3 can take place, enter the sliding surfaces 18 . 19 engaged with each other, so that the collecting container 4 on the holder 3 is rotatably supported.

With regard to the above, it can be deduced that the collecting container 3 and the Aufsammelanordnung according to the proposals made here allow a relatively simple and straightforward assembly, mounting and manufacturing while allowing structural flexibility, which is to mean that the design, shape and structure of the collecting container, such. B. the ejection port, can be relatively widely adapted without affecting the easy and uncomplicated installation. Thus, it can be considered that the underlying object of the invention is achieved by the embodiments according to the invention described herein.

Hereinafter, an exemplary operation mode for the collecting arrangement and the collecting container in connection with 8th and 9 described, wherein 8th and 9 a side view and a perspective view, which relate to normal operating modes of the Aufsammelanordnung show.

The collection container 3 that rotates on the bracket 2 is mounted or mounted, is designed so that it can be rolled in a rotational movement on the ground, which is in 8th is indicated by a pointing to the right arrow as a forward movement.

For manual operation of the Aufsammelanordnung, the holder 2 over the adapter area 9 with a counterpart adapter area 21 that as a handle 22 that is configured by the operator to roll the collection container 3 to be held above the ground, implemented, coupled.

In the case that the collection container 3 rolling over the ground onto an object 23 with sufficient rigidity, such. As an apple, butts and the collection container 3 on the object 23 is rolled, the object can 23 through the wrapping, which is through the perimeter ribbons 13 of the collection container 3 is defined, slide through and into the collection container 3 enter.

To enter the collection container 3 causes the item 23 while rolling the collecting container 3 about the object 23 that is a group of adjacent bands 13 elastically bending the sheath and pushing it apart so that the elastic deformation creates a gap in the sheath through which the article passes 23 slide through and can penetrate the envelope. When entering the collection container 3 the gap is due to the elastic resilience forces of the bands 13 closed or removed.

Thus, the object becomes 23 by rolling the collection container 3 about the object 23 in the collection container 3 collected through the enclosure by their elastic deformation.

How out 8th and 9 it can be seen, the holder can 2 , For example, on a respective bearing shell, on an outside thereof an orifice 24 include. The estuary 24 Can in a one-piece configuration with the bracket 2 be integrally constructed in the form of a bent Rohrendbereichs.

Like, for example 1 and 2 it can be seen, the mouth can 24 an inner opening with the axial ejection opening 20 of the collection container 3 communicates and is geared to this.

By using the muzzle 24 it is possible to empty the collecting container 3 and the objects collected therein 23 through the mouth 24 eject. The collection container 3 can by such turning (see curved arrow in 9 ) of the collecting arrangement, that the mouth 24 facing downward, so that in the collecting container 3 contained items 23 over the estuary 24 can escape through the force of gravity, be emptied.

Thus, it is not necessary to collect collected items 23 through the band structure of the envelope of the collecting container 3 to eject, and thus the ejection of in the collecting container 3 collected items 23 be greatly simplified.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Aufsammelanordnung

2

bracket

3

collection tank

4

base region

5

holding arm

6

axial hub area

7

bearing shell

8th

Achsstummelbereich

9

adapter area

10

shell segment

11

axial end

12

axial hub segment

13

tape

14

gap

15

axial circular wall segment

16

axial flange area

17

axial projection

18

locking tab

19

Counterpart locking recess

20

axial ejection opening

21

Counterpart adapter area

22

Handle

23

object

24

axial mouth

P

axis of rotation

A

Dihedral angle (alpha)

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

Cited patent literature

• WO 2013/064660 A1 [0003]

Claims (14)

Collecting container shell segment (10) designed and constructed to be installed with at least one further shell segment (10) in the assembled state to form an outer shell of a collection container (3) configured to rotate about an axis of rotation (P) be rotatable and operable to, objects (23), such. Fruit, by rolling the collection container over the articles (23) in a rotational movement of the collection container (3) to thereby convey the articles (23) through the outer shell into the collection container (3), the collection container shell segment (10 ) in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation (P) defines a predefined angle sector (alpha) of the outer shell of the collecting container (3), which has a predefined dihedral angle (alpha) with respect to the axis of rotation (P). Collection container shell segment (10) according to Claim 1 wherein the dihedral angle (alpha) spanned by the predefined angle sector (10) is in the range of 30 to 180 ° and / or in the range of 45 ° to 135 ° and / or in the range of 60 ° to 90 ° , Collection container shell segment (10) according to Claim 2 implemented such that the predefined angle sector defines a half shell or a quarter shell (10) of the outer shell. Collecting container shell segment (10) after at least one of Claims 1 - 3 wherein the shell segment is implemented as an integral one-piece member made of plastic or metal. Collecting container shell segment (10) after at least one of Claims 1 - 4 crankshaft having an axial hub segment (12) at each axial end (10), the hub segments (12) being interconnected in the axial direction by a plurality of stirrups (13), the stirrups (13) spaced apart and resilient in the circumferential direction deformable, so that an object (23) can be conveyed through a gap created between a group of brackets (13) which are elastically pressed apart in the circumferential direction. Collecting container shell segment (10) after at least one of Claims 1 - 4 comprising at least one axial hub segment (12), in particular according to Claim 5 wherein the axial hub segment (12) is implemented as a ring segment (12.2) which is part of an axial hub (6) adapted to be fitted with a mating hub (7.2) in the assembled state of the collection container (2) Holder (2) for the collecting container (3) to be rotatably coupled. Collection container shell segment (10) according to Claim 6 wherein an inner radius of the ring segment (12.2) is such that, in the assembled configuration of the collecting container (3), an axial ejection opening (20) for ejecting objects (23) collected in the collecting container (3) is produced. Collecting container shell segment (10) after at least one of Claims 1 - 4 , the at least one axial hub segment (12.1), in particular according to Claim 5 , wherein at least one of the hub segments (12.1) is implemented as an axial circular wall segment. Collection container shell segment (10) according to Claim 8 wherein the axial wall segment (12.1) on an outer axial side comprises an axial projection (17) defining a segment of an axial stub axle (8.1) intended to cooperate in the assembled state with a counterpart bearing cup (7.1). Collecting container shell segment (10) after at least one of Claims 1 - 10 wherein at least one of said hub segments (12) comprises at least one connector interface comprising at least one connector structure (18) adapted for engagement in the assembled condition with a mating connector structure (19) of a mating connector interface of an adjacent shell segment (10). is constructed. Collection container shell segment (10) according to Claim 10 wherein the connector interface comprises at least one locking extension (18) and / or at least one locking recess (19), the locking extension (18) being preferably configured and configured, in the assembled condition, into a corresponding locking recess (19) of a connector interface of an adjacent one And wherein the locking recess (19) is preferably configured and configured to engage, in the assembled condition, with a locking extension (18) of a connector interface of the or another adjacent shell segment. Collecting container shell segment (10) after at least one of Claims 10 and 11 wherein the connector interface is formed at least in part on at least one axial flange (12, 16) of the collection container shell segment (10). A collection container (3) configured to be rotatable and operable about an axis of rotation (P); Fruit, by rolling the collection container over the articles (23) in a rotary motion to thereby convey the articles (23) through the outer shell into the collection container (3), the collection container (3) comprising an outer shell, which is assembled from a predetermined number of, at least two, collection container shell segments (10), each of the shell segments according to at least one of Claims 1 - 12 is constructed, wherein each shell segment (10) in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis (P) defines a predefined angle sector (alpha) of the outer shell of the collection container (3) having a predefined dihedral angle (alpha) with respect to the rotation axis (P) Sum of the dihedral angles (alpha) of the predefined number of shell segments (10) is advantageously 360 °. Collecting arrangement (2, 3, 23), the at least one collecting container (3) according to Claim 13 and a holder for rotatably supporting the collection container (3), and optionally further comprising a handle (22) for manually operating the collection container (3) adapted to be coupled to the holder (2).

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