EP0936034A2 - Method and apparatus for cutting and separating segments from a round article - Google Patents

Abstract

The cutter and separator cut and separate segments (42) from a round object (11) especially vertically. A rotarily movable sickle (27) has at least one blade (27). The separator has at least one rotarily movable ejector arm (35) especially in the form of a star with four ejector arms the end of which has a top and or bottom surface (38). The object is rotated by a rotary slide piece (23). At least one outer side of the object has sprung guides, especially in the form of cylindrical rollers (18).

Description

The invention relates to a method and a device for cutting and separating segments from a round object. In this Context, an object is said to be round if a cross-section along at least one plane through the object has essentially circular or oval outline. In particular, can the object is essentially cylindrical or spherical Trade food product, for example a loaf of cheese.

In known methods and devices, objects of this type are used usually cut segments along cutting planes, which run radially with respect to an axis of rotation of the objects. For this purpose, a cutting form with the outline of the one to be produced Segments, for example a stamp or a grid, through the object passed through, so that all segments cut at the same time become. After such a cutting process, the segments adhere to one another or randomly fall out of the shape of the original object apart. The segments are after the cutting process isolated, i.e. individually from the remaining object or the remaining segments moved away by manually capturing and sorting them for further processing, e.g. a Packaging process to make accessible.

This known procedure has the disadvantage that the separation what must be done in a complex manner by human labor means a significant cost factor in the production of the segments. In addition, when manually separating from a food product cut segments the corresponding, the hygiene relevant regulations are observed. After all, it is with this Procedure not possible, the size, the weight or the total number the objects to be cut from an object easy to vary. The provision of several different cutting shapes for items of different sizes or for different numbers of segments to be cut from an object is included high acquisition costs.

It is an object of the invention to provide a method and an apparatus create the cutting and separating segments a round object bypassing the one described above Disadvantages allowed. Weight-differentiated cutting is particularly intended be possible in segments, i.e. individual cutting into segments Weight. The separation should be a simple subsequent processing of the segments, without having to manually separate them To require labor.

This problem is solved by a method in which the segments in a cutting and separating device essentially each successively cut from the object and from the object isolated, i.e. be removed from the item.

According to the invention, both the cutting and the separation are carried out each sequentially and parallel to each other. After or with everyone Cutting process, a segment is singled out of the object. Here the segments are then also considered to have been cut from the loaf one after the other and isolated when a cutting operation and a separation operation done simultaneously, and when a segment is only out of the item is separated if a subsequent segment has already been cut has been. As an object in connection with the invention also after the cutting and separating processes that have already taken place each remaining item remains.

The method according to the invention advantageously enables one automated separation of the cut segments and simplifies it thus the sequential further processing of the segments, for example by moving them one by one on a conveyor belt towards be transported to a packaging facility. The intermediary manual labor is not required for this. By the possibility the automated separation can be in the inventive Procedure - despite the sequential cutting of the segments - not only less effort, but also faster overall Achieve process flow than in known processes.

Because each segment is cut individually from the loaf, it allows the process also includes segments of individual size to cut. In particular, the object - regardless of its exact size or its special outline - in a predefinable number can be cut from segments of the same weight. It is a Advantage of the method that even with a variation of these parameters Exchange of the cutting and separating means used for the process is not required.

It is preferred if the segments are separated by the fact that this at least initially essentially in the vertical direction from the Item to be removed. Such a separation can namely for example by a rotational movement, in a particularly simple manner Wise or with simple means. In particular, a such separation movement easily a rectified Cutting movement can be adjusted, which is the parallel execution of the Cutting and separating further simplified. In particular, it can Cutting a segment and separating this or another Segments are synchronized with each other, for example by mechanical Coupling. This enables a particularly fast and efficient Execution of the procedure.

The separation is preferably carried out by a rotational movement of the Segments down. This essentially in the direction of gravity directed singularization requires only that the Underside of the segment or bumping the top, and it can thus take place in a fast flow of motion. Alternatively, a cut one Segment for separating also initially vertically upwards be carried out, which is particularly keeping the segment within the separating means used for this during a rotation of the same can simplify.

It is preferred if the object is either after each cutting operation or after each separation process by one of its round shape corresponding rotational axis is rotated, namely by one Angle of rotation, which is the size of the segment to be subsequently cut corresponds. This allows them for cutting and separating leave used means in a substantially fixed position become. Depending on the selected cutting and singling sequence can be at the beginning or end of cutting one Object to be dispensed with at least one of these rotary movements.

Cutting the segments from the object can be advantageous simple way in particular within a cutting plane continuously rotating sickle knife. Such a sickle knife enables a fast and with a simple mechanical drive precise cutting of individual segments, and it favors the invention Procedure in that the time the sickle knife between two successive cutting operations during its free rotation is needed, a cut can be used Separate segment or drive the object to a rotary movement.

The segments cut from the object are separated preferably by a rotating ejection star that is attached to one cut segment attacks and this along a particular vertical rotational movement leads or out of the object bumps. The sequential separation in parallel to a sequential cutting can be particularly easily mechanically by means of an ejection star realize.

The rotary movement of the sickle knife and that preferably take place of the ejection star around a horizontal axis, in particular around a common horizontal axis. As a result, drive means can at least partly both for the drive of the sickle knife and that of the ejection star can be used and it is a compact structure a corresponding drive device possible.

If the cutting plane, i.e. the plane within which the cutting medium, especially the sickle knife, is guided, within that plane which the separating means moves, especially the Ejection star rotates, is immediately adjacent, which simplifies Implementation of the method according to the invention still further. A segment can namely immediately after it is cut from the object has been isolated from the subject, being in the meantime if necessary, a rotary movement of the object with the segment is required is.

This can make it easier to start cutting an object that the object is provided with a radial slot beforehand, which extends from the center of the object to an outside as well as from the bottom extends to the top, especially within one Half-plane away from an axis of rotation of the object in one respect this axis of rotation radial direction. This radial slot can serve as the first cut, so that after a first through the actual Cutting aids were already completely cut out of a first segment the object is cut. Simultaneously with the introduction of the radial slot or regardless of this - for example before or after - a center cut can be removed from the object.

The object of the invention is also achieved by a cutting and separating device solved the implementation of the invention Method has a cutting means and a separating means by which cut a single segment from the object or can be isolated. In particular, the areas of activity of the two Means spatially assigned to each other.

Figuren 1a und 1b

schematische Darstellungen einer Seitenansicht bzw. einer Draufsicht von Teilen einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung,

Figuren 2a, 2b bis 5a, 5b

schematische Darstellungen von Seitenansichten bzw. Draufsichten von Teilen der Vorrichtung gemäß der Figuren 1a und 1b bei verschiedenen Schritten des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens, und

Figuren 6a und 6b

eine schematische Darstellung einer Seitenansicht bzw. einer Draufsicht von Teilen einer Anordnung von Nadeln, Führungsrollen und einer Führungskulisse.

Further preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the subclaims. The invention is described below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings; in these show:

Figures 1a and 1b

schematic representations of a side view or a plan view of parts of a device according to the invention,

Figures 2a, 2b to 5a, 5b

schematic representations of side views or plan views of parts of the device according to Figures 1a and 1b in various steps of the inventive method, and

Figures 6a and 6b

is a schematic representation of a side view or a plan view of parts of an arrangement of needles, guide rollers and a guide link.

Figures 1a and 1b show a schematic side view and plan view Parts of a device for cutting and separating segments from an approximately cylindrical and around a central axis A rotationally symmetrical object 11, which is in particular can trade a loaf of cheese. The object 11 has a top view 1b square, continuous center cut-out 13 and a circular sector-shaped cutout 14.

The underside of the object 11 lies on several frustoconical, tapered rollers rotatably mounted with respect to their axes of rotation 16, the better ones in the representations according to FIGS. 1a and 1b For the sake of clarity, only the left half is shown. The cone rollers 16 are essentially rotationally symmetrical with respect to the central axis A. arranged to each other. The axes of rotation of the cone rollers 16 each have a common center in a star shape the central axis A that the object 11 with its underside evenly to those that run horizontally within a common plane Straight line of the cone rollers 16 comes to rest. This is the Object 11 in a direction of rotation B, which in the illustration according to FIG 1b runs clockwise, rotatably mounted.

There are six on the lateral surface of the object 11 with respect to the central axis A guide rollers 18 arranged rotationally symmetrically to one another only one of which is shown in the illustration according to FIG. 1a is. Each guide roller 18 is freely rotatable about a vertical axis stored and attached to a guide arm 20 on its underside. Of the Guide arm 20 has a plurality of arm parts 21 articulated to one another.

At the cutout 14 which defines the sector of the circle in the direction of rotation B. Radial side surface of the article 11, and still inside of the circumference of the object 11, there is a flat rotary valve 23. At the outer end with respect to the central axis A in the radial direction of the rotary valve 23, on its underside, is an L-shaped Shaped arm 24, the other end connected to a torsion bar 25 which is below the object 11 coaxial to the central axis A towering.

In the circular sector-shaped cutout 14 against the direction of rotation B limiting area of the object 11 are an ejection star 29 and a sickle knife 27 are arranged. The sickle knife 27 is with the End of a hollow cylindrical rotating sleeve 31 connected, namely perpendicular to this. This is coaxial with a horizontal axis of rotation C arranged approximately halfway up the object's vertical height 11 extends tangentially spaced from its lateral surface. The sickle knife 27 is located with respect to the axis of rotation C at Center axis A, so that when rotating around the axis of rotation C a Spanning the cutting plane, in the extension of which lies the central axis A. The length of the sickle knife 27 and the distance of the axis of rotation C. of the lateral surface of the object 11 are dimensioned such that when the sickle knife 27 rotates, its tip does not have the center axis A. traverses.

The ejection star 29 is attached to the end of a rotating rod 33 which is rotatably supported within the rotary sleeve 31, coaxial to the axis of rotation C runs and only a short distance from the rotary sleeve 31 protrudes. The ejection star 29 has four perpendicular to the axis of rotation C directed and enclosing an angle of 90 ° Ejection arms 35. At the end of each ejection arm 35 there is an ejection fork 37. In the illustration according to Figure 1a are only two, and in the illustration according to Figure 1b is one of these ejection forks 37 shown.

Each ejection fork 37 has two opposing, parallel to the associated ejection arm 35 extending bearing surfaces 38, the have a distance from each other that is slightly larger than the vertical Height of the item 11. The length of the contact surfaces 38 is shorter than the radius of the object 11. Show in the top view according to FIG. 1b the contact surfaces 38 essentially have a sector-shaped outline, the side of a support surface adjacent to the sickle knife 27 38 runs parallel to its radial orientation at a short distance.

On the opposite one with respect to the aforementioned ejection fork 37 Side of the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27 is only in the illustration L-shaped counter-holding element 40 shown in FIG. 1b. This has essentially the shape of the one shown 1a horizontally directed ejection fork 37, but without an upper Contact surface 38; it thus has one along the bottom of the item 11 and a support surface running along the lateral surface thereof.

On the opposite side with respect to the counter-holding element 40 the plane of rotation of the ejection fork 37 is also only in the Representation according to Figure 1b visible support element 41 arranged. The support element 41 has a flat shape and extends essentially parallel and immediately adjacent to that radial side surface of the object 11, which is the sector-shaped cutout 14 limited against the direction of rotation B.

Within the one pointing downwards in the illustration according to FIG. 1a Ejection fork 37 is a cut from the article 11 and segment 42 rotated by 90 °. This segment 42 with respect to the viewing direction A flat front derailleur 44 is arranged to the rear, the one on its underside around a horizontal derailleur axis D is rotatably mounted. Below the ejection mentioned 37 and thus the derailleur 44 is a conveyor belt 46 a segment 48 lying thereon and tilted by 90 °.

The device shown in Figures 1a and 1b is used for cutting and separating segments 42, 48 from the item 11. Zu For this purpose, the object 11 stored on the cone rollers 16 by means of the rotary valve 23 in each case by such an angle in the direction of rotation B rotates one next to the segmental angle intersecting segment 50 corresponds. After completing this rotation is this next segment 50 to be cut - as in Figure 1b shown - by its in the direction of rotation B over the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27 projecting position defined. During the above Rotary movement of the object 11 has an ejection fork 37 horizontally towards the object 11 so that the next to be cut Segment 50 is surrounded by this ejection fork 37.

After the rotating movement of the object 11, the sickle knife 27 via the rotation sleeve 31 to a in the illustration of Figure 1a counter-clockwise cutting movement E driven, in which the sickle knife 27 removes the segment 50 from the article 11 cuts.

Thereafter, the ejection star 29 via the rotary rod 33 becomes one in the illustration according to Figure 1a also directed counterclockwise Ejection movement F caused by 90 °. This is just now cut segment 50 in particular by means of the ejection movement F behind the segment 50 arranged bearing surface 38, that is the originally upper contact surface 38, from the plane of rotation of the object 11 pushed and guided downwards. After completing the Ejection movement F, that is to say after segment 50 has been rotated by 90 ° about the axis of rotation C, the corresponding ejection arm 35 - as in Fig. 1a for the segment 42 shown - directed vertically downwards, and the this ejection arm 35 adjacent to the ejection movement F. Ejection arm 35 now points horizontally in the direction of object 11.

By a rotational movement of the derailleur 44 about the axis of rotation D and with respect to the representation according to FIG. 1a from the paper plane the segment 42 thus separated out of the ejection fork 37 encountered and tilted by 90 ° on the conveyor belt 46. From this it will conveyed away as shown in Figure 1a for the segment 48.

In the meantime, the object 11 can be moved by means of the rotary valve 23 to be caused to make a further rotational movement in direction B in order to segment 50 to be subsequently cut through the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27 to guide and thus the cutting and separating this Initiate segment 50 in the manner described above. While the rotational movement of the object 11 becomes on its outer surface guided by the guide rollers 18 and with respect to the central axis A centered.

The method described above has the advantage that both the cutting as well as the subsequent separation of each segment 50 in each case individually, which is continuous and in particular also subsequently sequential processing of the cut segments 50 is simplified or enables. In particular, the segments 50, 42 are by means of of the ejection star 29 successively separated from the object 11 and in the same position and orientation on the conveyor belt 46 filed so that a mechanical processing, for example a Packing that deposited on the conveyor belt 46 and by means of the same further promoted segments 48 is possible in a simple manner.

In addition, the object 11 by means of the rotary valve 23 for each segment to be cut 50 individual rotation angles in B direction. This enables segments 50, 48, 42 to be different Circle segment angle and accordingly different Weight to cut from the item 11. Conversely, can - if necessary with knowledge of the location or orientation of the center cut 13 - a predefinable number of segments 50, 48 from an object 11, 42 each of the same weight are cut from the article 11, even with a non-rotationally symmetrical shape of the Mittenausstichs 13, as in the object shown in Fig. 1b 11 is the case.

Figures 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b and 5a, 5b show in a schematic Side view or plan view of parts of the device according to Figures 1a and 1b during different sections of the method according to the invention, the same reference numerals as in Figures 1a and 1b, respectively designate the same parts or directions. Based on these figures are the beginning of the procedure and the individual Steps of the procedure explained in detail.

At the beginning of the method, the rotary slide valve 23 is at a circle segment angle of a segment to be cut first Angle of rotation with respect to the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27 angled arranged. From the originally essentially cylindrical Item 11 is the square center cut using a single stamp 13 and one on a side surface of the center cutout 13 Subsequent, radially outward radial slot 52 generated been, so that the object 11 in the plan view of Figure 2b has shown outline.

The object 11 is, as shown in FIG. 2a, in the horizontal insertion direction G is introduced into the device, in particular into the ejection fork 37, by, as can be seen in FIG. 2b, with that in the vertical plane of the flat rotary valve 23 arranged radial slot 52 ahead is guided until the two delimit the radial slot 52 Radial side surfaces of the object 11, the rotary valve 23 essentially enclose.

The supply of the object 11 to the rotary valve 23 can thereby be relieved that said radial side surfaces of the object 11 along the radial slot 52 in opposite directions H spread apart. Feeding the item 11 is not carried out in a particularly simple manner by one in the figures Carrying device shown which is seen from above through the central cut-out 13 reaches through, supports the object 11 on its underside and him something in the directions H in the manner described above spreads apart.

Figure 3b shows a top view of the after inserting the object 11 in the Device or on the rotary valve 23 reached the same position. The rotary valve 23 is located within the radial slot 52 Ejection fork 37 surrounds one with its two contact surfaces 38 Radial slot 52 opposite the direction of rotation B adjacent section of Item 11.

The sickle knife 27 now leads, starting from the dashed line in FIG. 3a position shown, with a rotational movement E about the axis of rotation C through a first section through the article 11. Thereby becomes a first segment located within the ejection fork 37 54 cut from item 11.

As soon as this segment 54 is completely covered by the sickle knife 27 the remaining object 11 is separated, it is replaced by a in the same direction with the cutting movement E of the sickle knife 27 Ejection movement F of the ejection fork 37 isolated. For this leads the Ejection fork 37 initially rotates vertically downward F through 90 °.

Thus the open side of the ejection fork 37 is directed vertically downwards, while the said ejection fork 37 against the direction of ejection movement F ejection fork 37 adjacent by 90 °, as in FIG 4a shown in dashed lines, with their two contact surfaces 38 parallel to the top or bottom of the object 11 has. During the Ejection movement F of the ejection fork 37 becomes the sickle knife 27 moved a further angle of rotation along the cutting direction E.

As soon as the ejection fork 37 with the segment 54 located therein, the in Figure 4a shown vertically downward position has been reached the segment 54 - in the already in connection with Figures 1a and 1b described manner - by means of a derailleur from the ejection fork 37 ejected or tilted, and the object 11 is by means of Rotary slide valve 23 for a first rotary movement B about the central axis A from the position shown in Fig. 4b to the position shown in Fig. 5b. As a result, the sector section of the object 11 that is to form the second segment 56 to be cut through the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27 into the horizontal with its open side Directional ejection fork 37 screwed in.

The state thus achieved corresponds in principle to that in FIGS. 1a and 1b shown state, and according to the in this context The process described is now continued by the continuously Cutting movement E of the sickle knife 27 another segment cut from the article 11 and by means of a subsequent one Ejection fork 37 isolated.

Preferred constructional examples are given below with reference to FIGS. 1a and 1b Embodiments of the device according to the invention closer explained.

The rotating rod 33 of the ejection star 29 is inside the rotating sleeve 31 of the sickle knife 27 and arranged coaxially to this. Here are the rotating rod 33 and the rotating sleeve 31 in the same direction from the plane of the ejection movement F or the plane of the cutting movement E led away. This makes the device lightweight by many Pages accessible. If both the drive for the sickle knife 27 and those provided for driving the ejection star 29 Means are arranged within a common facility compliance with cutting and separating food products the relevant hygiene regulations.

The axis of rotation C of the sickle knife 27 or the ejection star 29 can also be arranged at a different vertical height than in the figure 1a shown. For example, the axis of rotation C in the amount of The top of the object 11 run.

The means for driving the sickle knife 27, the ejection star 29, the Rotary valve 23 and the derailleur 44 are preferably together synchronized to a trouble-free cutting and singling process to ensure and to avoid collisions of the device parts mentioned to prevent each other. In particular, the drive means of the sickle knife 27 and that of the ejection star 29 mechanically be coupled together.

The ejection star 29 can instead of four ejection arms 35 or ejection forks 37 also have a different number thereof. Likewise can the sickle knife 27 has several of the blades shown in FIG. 1a. In particular, the sickle knife 27 and the ejection star 29 can each have the same number of blades or ejection forks 37, which the synchronization or mechanical coupling of their rotational movements E or F can further simplify.

On the top of the object 11 can guide elements, in particular two enclosing the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27, in essentially guide rollers mounted along horizontal axes of rotation be provided to the sickle knife 27 during its cutting movement E stabilize.

The counter-holding element 40 with its in one of the representation according to FIG 1a corresponding side view L-shaped outline serves as a support of the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27 against the direction of rotation B adjacent portion of the article 11 at a Cutting process. Because of the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27 directly Adjacent counter-holding element 40 becomes a vertical one Downward movement of the object 11 or a horizontal movement avoided in the direction of the axis of rotation C. The counter element 40 is in during the cutting and singling process fixed position. However, in particular in horizontal, radial direction to be designed to adapt to To allow objects 11 of different diameters.

In a similar manner to the counter-holding element 40, the contact surfaces can be 38 of an ejection fork 37 or the bearing surfaces 38 along the Shell surface of an object 11 connecting surface supporting the Object 11 or a segment to be cut 54, 56 on the Counter-holding element 40 with respect to the sickle knife 27 Side effect.

The support element 41 serves on the one hand to stop one in time by means of the rotary valve 23 caused rotary movement B of the object 11 to ensure. It thus prevents the item 11 during a rotary movement B due to its inertia over a The target rotation angle moves out and moves against it the direction of rotation B pointing radial side surface of the rotary valve 23 solves.

On the other hand, the support element 41 supports a just cut and not yet separated segment 50, 54, 56 from the side and thus prevents its falling over in the direction of the circular sector-shaped section 14.

The insertion of the support element 41 into the sector-shaped cutout 14 can be done by swiveling in or linear movement, especially vertically from the top or radially from the outer Shell surface of the object 11.

The support element 41 is preferably already before the first cutting process introduced into the sector-shaped cutout 14. It can it with its flat design essentially within the same Extend plane in which the rotary valve 23 extends. Therefor it is advantageous if the rotary valve 23 - in deviation from its Representation in the figures - flat with the outline of a "U" is, the two "U" legs in particular vertically upwards or point away from the central axis A in the horizontal radial direction. In this case, the support member 41 can be inserted from that direction be in which the "U" legs of the rotary valve 23, so that the support member 41 is surrounded by them without movement the rotary valve 23 in the direction of rotation B to hinder.

As an alternative to this, the support element 41 can only then be shown in FIG. 1a Position if there is already at least a first segment 42, 54 have been cut from the item 11 and separated is, for example to that shown in Figures 4a and 4b Period of the cutting and singling process according to the invention.

As an alternative to using a support element 41, it is possible to use any Ejection fork 37 to be provided with a support surface which is parallel to Plane of rotation of the ejection star 29 between the respective two Contact surfaces 38 extend, specifically on the sickle knife 27 pointing away, i.e. in the direction of rotation B side of the Ejection fork 37. Such a support surface takes over the above Functions of the support member 41, and at the same time does not have to be guided specifically in the sector 14 shaped as a sector of a circle.

In the area of the plane of rotation of the ejection star 29, there may be others Guide surfaces are provided to ensure that one is out of the object 11 cut segment and held in an ejection fork 37 does not accidentally leave them prematurely.

In a similar manner to the counter-holding element 40, the guide rollers can 18, in particular by means of the guide arms 20, in a horizontal manner, in each case radial direction to move, so the stabilization a rotational movement B, of objects 11 different To allow diameter. Preferably, they are horizontal, with respect to the center axis A is supported in the radial direction to avoid unevenness to be able to compensate on the lateral surface of an object 11.

In particular, those guide arms 20 that the in the illustration 1b arranged in the left half arranged guide rollers 18 can be designed such that they lead down vertically this guide rollers 18, optionally connected to a horizontal, radial opening movement, allow to insert a Object 11 in the horizontal direction G in the device or in a To allow ejection fork 37. Such a downward movement of a Guide roller 18 can for example by pivoting the arm parts 21 of the associated guide arm 20 are effected.

In the device shown in Figs. 1a and 1b, it is when cutting Objects 11 of different diameters are provided, the central axis A as the common center of symmetry of the object 11 and the To maintain the device in each case. However, it is also possible to use the item at or after it is fed to the cutting and separating device regardless of its diameter with respect to the sickle knife 27 to align, for example such that the in the direction of Rotation axis C of the sickle knife 27 facing part of the outside of the Object 11 always has the same distance to this axis of rotation C.

In this embodiment of the invention, the counter-holding element 40 arranged in a substantially fixed position, that is, not displaceable to be as a stop surface for the named outside of the object 11 to serve. The guide rollers can be horizontal in the direction of the counter-holding element 40 may be spring-loaded in order to have an on the object 11 Exert aligning force in the direction of the counter-holding element 40.

In a further embodiment of the device according to the invention it is possible that the side of the rotary valve facing the central axis A. 23 as extending over the entire vertical height of an object 11 Design blade. Using this blade, a radial slot can be made 52 are generated in an object 11, while this along the Rotary slide valve 23 is inserted into the device in the horizontal direction G. becomes. In this embodiment, it is sufficient to start the item 11 the cutting and separating process with a center cut 13 to be provided. When the radial slot 52 is then inserted of the object 11 generated in the device is its angular position with respect to the direction of rotation B by the rotary valve 23 predefined and thus exactly known.

As an alternative to the construction of an ejection fork 37 shown in FIG. 1a it is also possible to cover them with only a single contact surface 38 Mistake. This can, based on a horizontal alignment of the associated Ejection arm 35, to lie either on the top or on the underside of an object 11 or a segment 54, 56 is provided depending on the direction of the ejection movement F.

In addition, an ejection fork 37 can be designed as a circumferential frame be by their two contact surfaces 38 not only on their in Direction of the associated ejection arm 35 facing ends, but also on the opposite, each in the direction of the central axis A pointing ends connected to each other by means of a connecting web are the horizontal alignment of the assigned ejection arm 35 extends in the vertical direction. Through this connecting bridge is an ejection fork 37 mechanically more stable. Furthermore, the connecting web when a segment 42 is brought out of the object 11 support the segment 42. In the case of designing an ejection fork 37 with such a connecting web must this when feeding the Item 11 to the device through the radial slot 52 become.

In contrast to the otherwise rotationally symmetrical with respect to the central axis A. The cone rollers 16 are arranged in the region of the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27 and the plane of rotation of the ejection star 29 none Tapered roller provided, since this is the rotational movements E and F of the Sickle knife 27 or the ejection star 29 would hinder.

As can be seen in particular from FIG. 1b, the conical rollers 16 arranged such that between their with respect to the central axis A radial outer end and the circumference of the outer surface of the object 11 or the guide rollers 18 and the guide arms 20 each a certain radial distance remains, so that at the bottom of the Item 11 is an annular corridor is formed, within which the rotary arm 24 in the case of a rotary movement B of the rotary slide 23 around the Center axis A can rotate.

Alternatively, it is possible to enlarge the conical rollers 16 in a larger radial direction Distance from the center axis A and thus with its outer end in substantially along the circumference of the lateral surface of the object 11 to be arranged so that in the area surrounding the central axis A, that is in the area of the center cut 13, a larger free space remains. In the vertical torsion bar 25 can be extended in this way that the rotary arm 24 - instead of with the L-shape shown in Figure 1a - The rotary valve 23 in only a horizontal, radial direction running leads.

With such a structure and when using ejection forks 37 Without a connecting bar at its outer ends, it is possible to use the rotary valve 23 to the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27 in the direction of rotation B immediately adjacent and thus to be arranged within the ejection fork 37. In this case, the rotating arm 24 does not hit the lower one Contact surface 38 of the ejection fork 37. With such a structure the rotary valve 23 or the rotary arm 24 can be the rotary valve 23 directly adjacent to the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27 can be arranged in parallel, and an object 11 can - in difference to the representation according to Figure 2b - the device in an insertion direction G are fed in parallel - and not by an angle of rotation offset - runs to the cutting plane of the sickle knife 27. In this case - in contrast to that in connection with the figures 2a to 3b described procedures - at the beginning of the procedure first a rotary movement B of the object by means of the rotary valve 23 11 causes a first segment 54 before the sickle knife 27 can cut from the item 11.

As an alternative to that described in connection with FIGS. 1a to 5b Driving an object 11 to a rotary movement B by means of the Rotary slide 23 can the rotary drive by means of an arrangement of extendable needles, as shown in schematic in Figures 6a and 6b Side view or top view is partially shown.

This drive means has a rotationally symmetrical with respect to the central axis A. Arrangement of needles 60 on, of which for the purpose of better Overview in Figures 6a and 6b only a few are shown, while the positions of the needles, not shown, in plan view according to Figure 6b are only indicated. Within this arrangement of Needles 60 run through a guide link 62, which is shown in a top view according to FIG 6b shows a circular course and in a side view according to FIG. 6a along an angular section 63 of approximately 60 ° one continuously shows a vertically shifted course. The needles 60 point with their Tip vertically upwards. The lower end of each needle 60 is one rotatably mounted and resting on the underside of the guide link 62 Guide roller 64 connected, the axis of rotation of which is horizontal in each case shows in the direction of the center axis A.

Also when using the arrangement shown in Figures 6a and 6b 6 of needles 60 as the drive means is shown only in FIG Item 11 on cone rollers, not shown in Figures 6a and 6b on. The tips of the needles 60 grip along one of the Shell surface of the object 11 adjacent ring surface on the underside of item 11. By placing the needles 60 over the guide rollers 64 and associated with them, not in Figures 6a and 6b shown guide arms for a rotational movement B about the central axis A driven, the object 11 is over the tips of the needles 60 causes the same rotational movement B.

The guide rollers 64 follow the said rotation B Course of the guide link 62. Accordingly, the needles 60 in the downwardly offset angular range 63 via the guide rollers 64 led down. When rotating through this area 63 the needles 60 thus temporarily move away from the underside of the object 11 vertically back. So if the angular range 63 offset downwards in the area of the cutting plane of a sickle knife or the plane of rotation an ejection star is arranged, the needles 60 over the guide rollers 64 and the guide link 62 there sufficiently vertical moved down to collide with the rotating sickle knife or eject star to avoid.

Thus, the arrangement of needles shown in Figures 6a and 6b 60 as an alternative to the rotary valve 23 for driving the object 11 a rotational movement B can be used. This alternative drive can the structure of the device according to the invention and the implementation simplify the inventive method. Especially is not the introduction of a radial slot 52 in the article 11 required. By driving the object 11 by means of the arrangement of needles 60 can provide higher positioning accuracy in the Rotational movement B of the object 11 can be achieved since the object 11 both with respect to the direction of rotation B and counter to this direction is fixed. With this type of drive, the object 11 can be varied Angle of rotation about the central axis A can be moved.

Reference list

11

object

13

Center cut

14

Neckline

16

Cone roller

18th

Leadership role

20th

Guide arm

21

Arm part

23

Rotary valve

24th

Swivel arm

25th

Torsion bar

27

Sickle knife

29

Ejection star

31

Rotation sleeve

33

Rotary rod

35

Ejection arm

37

Ejection fork

38

Contact surface

40

Counter element

41

Support element

42

segment

44

Front derailleur

46

Conveyor belt

48

segment

50

segment

52

Radial slot

54

segment

56

segment

60

needle

62

Leadership backdrop

63

Angular range

64

Leadership role

A

Center axis

B

Direction of rotation

C.

Axis of rotation

D

Derailleur axle

E

Cutting motion

F

Ejection movement

G

Direction of insertion

H

Spreading direction

Claims (11)

Method for cutting and separating segments (42, 54, 56) from a round object (11),
characterized by that the segments (42, 54, 56) are cut and separated (removed) essentially one after the other from the object (11) in a cutting and separating device. Method according to claim 1,
characterized by that a segment (42, 54, 56) is separated by first being carried away or ejected essentially in the vertical direction, in particular downwards, and / or that a segment (42, 54, 56) is separated from the object (11) after it has been cut from the object (11) and before or at the latest during the subsequent segment (42, 54, 56) from the object ( 11) is cut. Method according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by that the cutting of a segment (42, 54, 56) and the separation of a segment (42, 54, 56) take place synchronized to one another, in particular by mechanical coupling, and / or that the object (11) is rotated after essentially every cutting or singling of a segment (42, 54, 56), in particular is rotated about a vertical axis (A) and / or a variable angle, and / or that a segment (42, 54, 56) is cut from the object (11) by means of a sickle knife (27) rotating within a cutting plane and in particular about a horizontal axis (C). Method according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by that a segment (42, 54, 56) is separated from the object (11) by means of an ejection star (29) rotating in particular about a horizontal axis (C), it being preferred if the cutting movement (E) of the sickle knife (27) and the ejection movement (F) of the ejection star (29) take place about a common axis (C) and / or within two parallel, immediately adjacent planes, and / or if a segment (42, 54, 56) is separated from it by means of the ejection star (29) by a derailleur (44). Method according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by that the object (11) in particular is rotatably mounted about a vertical axis (A). Method according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by that a rotary movement (B) of the object (11) is generated by a rotary slide valve (23) which engages on a radial side surface of a segment to be separated last, or that a rotational movement (B) of the object (11) is generated by a plurality of needles (60) which act on the underside of the object (11) and which carry out the rotational movement (B) to be transmitted to the object (11), wherein it the latter case is preferred if the needles (60) are temporarily extended or retracted substantially in the vertical direction during the rotary movement to bypass a cutting and separating area, in particular by a guide means (64) defining their extended position along a course of the rotary movement of the Object (11) modeled guide link (62) moves. Method according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by that a radial slot (52) is produced in the object (11) before cutting and singling, which extends from the center to an outside and from the bottom to the top of the object (11), it being preferred if, before cutting and singling, a central cut-out (13) is removed from the object (11) simultaneously with the creation of the radial slot (52), preferably by means of a single stamp, and / or if at the beginning of the cutting and separating the object (11) is fed to the cutting and separating device in such a way that the radial slot (52) comes to lie within the cutting plane or is rotated with respect to this by such an angle of rotation that a first to be cut Segment (54) corresponds, and / or if the object (11) is fed to the cutting and separating device in such a way that the rotary slide valve (23) comes to lie essentially within the radial slot (52), the object (11) preferably spreading along its radial slot (52) during this feed movement becomes. Method according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized, that after the supply of the object (11) to the cutting and separating device, either before a rotational movement (B) of the object (11), a first segment (54) is cut from the object (11) or before a first cutting process the object (11) is rotated by an angle of rotation, and / or that the object (11) is centered after being fed to the cutting and separating device and / or during a rotary movement (B) with respect to a central axis (A), in particular by means of guide rollers (18) engaging on an outside of the object (11) , or the article (11) after its supply to the cutting and separating device and / or during a rotary movement (B) is aligned with a part of its outside with respect to a cutting means, in particular by means of guide rollers acting on the outside of the article (11) (18) and / or a counter-holding element (40). Cutting and separating device for cutting and separating segments (42, 54, 56) from a round object (11) according to a method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by means of a cutting means and a separating means, by means of which a single segment (42, 54, 56) can be cut or separated from the object (11), in particular in the initially essentially vertical direction. Device according to claim 9,
characterized by that the device has a rotatable sickle knife (27) with at least one blade as cutting means, and / or that the separating means has at least one rotatable eject arm (35), in particular in that it is designed as a rotatable eject star (29) with four eject arms (35), and has a lower and / or an upper bearing surface (38) at the end of each eject arm (35) , and or that the device has a rotary bearing means by means of which the object (11) can be rotatably supported in particular about a vertical axis (A), the rotary bearing means preferably having conical rollers (16) whose axes of rotation essentially point to a common center. Device according to one of claims 9 to 10,
featured by a drive means, in particular a rotary slide valve (23) or an arrangement of a plurality of needles (60), by means of which the object (11) can be driven to a rotary movement (B) in particular by a variable angle, and / or by means of guiding means, in particular cylindrical rollers (18), provided and preferably spring-loaded on at least one outside of the object (11), for guiding or centering the object (11) during a rotary movement (B), and / or by means of a flat counter-holding element (40) arranged on at least one outside of the object (11) and adjacent to the cutting plane for supporting the object (11) or a segment (42, 54, 56) during or after a cutting movement (E) of the cutting means , and or by a flat support element (41) which can be attached to a radial side surface of a segment (50, 54, 56) to be cut or separated next, and by which the object (11) can be locked after a rotary movement (B) and / or that said segment (50, 54, 56) can be supported during or after a cutting movement (E) of the cutting means.

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