EP2610188A1 - Labelling unit - Google Patents

Abstract

The labeling assembly (A) has a transfer module (T) that includes a rotatably driven hub (2) in which a vertical line shaft (13) is rotationally driven with a pallet (14). A vertical adhesive roller (24) guides a label magazine (M). A rotatably driven gripper cylinder is rotated about a vertical axis. A lever set is arranged relative to support such that vertical line shaft, magazine, gripper cylinder or adhesive roller is detachedly connected to lever set by relative horizontal and lateral movement of lever set.

Description

The invention relates to a labeling unit specified in the preamble of claim 1. Art.

It is well known in bottling technology to provide containers with individual label equipments, which may be printed paper or plastic blanks, Stanniol blanks, logos or relief-like structures, and applied to the container surface using, for example, cold glue. Since quite more than 50,000 containers per hour and more are to be labeled, sophisticated labeling units are used for this purpose, which are functionally assigned to a container to be labeled passing conveyance turntable. In the same Etikettieraggregats different label items can be processed simultaneously on different floors, such as a belly label for the container belly, a neck label for the container neck, or the like .. A change in the type of a label and / or a dimensional change of the container to be labeled and / or a change in the Division of the container requirement during labeling requires a conversion due to given geometric conditions in the labeling. For this purpose, different Wechselgarnituren be kept for the labeling that fit different working conditions and are interchangeable. The above-mentioned high labeling frequencies are only possible with upright, while rotating containers possible, which has the consequence that the axes of rotation in the labeling unit working components are also oriented at least substantially vertically. The change sets are mounted in the labeling unit so that a change requires that each change set to be lifted during removal over a considerable axial path and then move up and / or sideways, and again insert at insertion from the side or from above and on the thread long axial path. Since auxiliary lifting devices are unusable due to the usually very limited access in Etikettieraggregat, retooling by operators must be done manually, which is extremely cumbersome and because of the considerable weight of each Garniturteils, the large number of different Garniturteile and especially the wide vertical lifting and lowering movement is unergonomic.

So must be at the US 3,736,213 Known labeling each pallet shaft after dismantling or swinging away an upper support vertically upwards pulled out of a coupling sleeve of an underlying Triebstock and laterally lifted. Even the bottom driven glue cylinder can only be lifted upwards. something similar applies to the gripper cylinder, which is rotatable about a vertical stationary pivot bearing, which extends because of the need to possibly tag in multiple floors, far up, and therefore must be raised and lowered very far vertically.

In the out DE 32 16 138 A Known labeling unit, each pallet shaft must be raised from a coupling sleeve of the engine block below it after swinging away an upper support far up vertically to release the engagement between a polygon end of the pallet shaft and the coupling sleeve. This also applies to the glue roller driven from below and likewise to the gripper cylinder. Also, the magazine in which the labels are kept stacked for transfer is usually threaded onto vertical support columns from above and supported so that lateral reaction forces from the label removal are easily absorbed and the magazine remains properly positioned. Since magazines are often placed one above the other in several levels, these vertical support columns are correspondingly high, which requires lifting the large weight, especially full of magazines, and then carefully lowering them over the support columns or the still considerable weight of each empty magazine over one vertical movement path to raise vertically. This over decades now standardized construction and handling of the change sets is ergonomically unfavorable in terms of a set change and user-unfriendly and in terms of occupational safety regulations, for example, for women, critical, and results in relatively long change times.

The invention has for its object to make a labeling unit of the type mentioned in relation to a change of change sets ergonomically favorable and user-friendly.

The stated object is achieved with the features of claim 1.

Since the connection of the at least one change set with the associated support is formed so that the connection by a substantially largely horizontal and lateral relative movement of the change set relative to the support is detachable and producible, eliminating the need to raise the change set when changing over a considerable amount or lower. Rather, the change set released by the essentially largely horizontal and lateral relative movement can be conveniently lifted away or transferred directly to a support such as a change carriage or the like. This is ergonomically favorable and user-friendly and also results in shorter changeover times.

In an expedient embodiment, the connection to be loosened or produced after a change is a rotary coupling via which a torque and / or rotational movements can be transmitted during operation of the labeling unit, and which can be disengaged and engaged by a horizontal lateral tilting movement of the interchangeable set. A horizontal lateral tilting movement for a user means a much lower load, as it arises when lifting or lowering the weight of the changing set over considerable height and in the vertical direction. Namely, the Wechselgarnitur can be transferred with the tilting movement equal to a prepared support and then transported away without the operator has to carry or lift the total weight. Conversely, this also applies to the insertion or production of the compound, because after attaching the change set to the rotary joint in the subsequent horizontal and lateral tilting movement until the full engagement of the rotary coupling, the weight of the change set is already partially supported by the rotary coupling. The coupling can be frontally strong and / or positively pronounced.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the respective rotary coupling is a Hirth coupling which has been known for decades as an easily detachable, torque-transmitting coupling in many fields of technology, where it matters, the Hirth rotary joint in confined spaces only easy to move in and out by a tilting movement.

Advantageously, the rotary coupling has two intermeshing, preferably identically designed, spur gear rings which can be moved in and out laterally relative to the coupling axis by a relative tilting movement of a coupling half and can transmit high torques in their full mutual engagement position.

A particularly important aspect of the rotary joint is that it is formed in addition to their easy tilting separability and -ininability as a centering between the waves to be coupled, so that only by establishing the full engagement position with each other to be coupled waves are properly centered to each other. Since a centering could also be formed by axially interlocking centering parts, which in turn would require a considerable lifting movement in a vertically standing change set of a Etikettieraggregats, the self-centering of the rotary coupling alone on the tilting rotary clutch engagement movement is a significant advantage that no appreciable lifting or lowering a heavy Wechselgarnitur requires.

Since it is very often important in the case of changing sets of a labeling unit that a specific rotational positioning between waves to be coupled is maintained in the connection, another important aspect of the invention is that the rotary coupling used in only a single relative rotational positioning between the shaft and the drive shaft and especially free of play in the full engagement position can be brought. For a backlash in the circumferential direction could affect the orderly transmission of torque or rotational movements sensitive.

In an expedient embodiment, each spur gear ring is arranged concentrically to the axis of the rotary joint about a central clearance, which, preferably, may be circular. This results in manufacturing advantages for the rotary joint and takes into account the phenomenon of mechanics, according to which large torques between meshing Stirnverzahnungskränzen are best transmitted to the largest possible diameter. The internal space also has the advantage of accommodating further components, which can be used, for example, for the axial securing of the engaged rotary coupling.

In order to engage or disengage the rotary joint with a lateral tilting movement, properly centered in the full engagement position waves relative to each other and ensure only a single predetermined relative rotational positioning in the rotary joint, it may be appropriate if each spur gear teeth circumferentially irregularly distributed teeth and Having tooth spaces, wherein the teeth and at least some of the interdental spaces in radial and axial directions have sloping flanks and ridges. Preferably, in the axial direction, the circumferentially measured distance between the sloping flanks of each tooth symmetrically increases in the direction of the tooth root. In the radial direction inwards, at least a portion of the toothed crest slopes off in the direction of the tooth root. Also conceivable in the circumferential direction regularly distributed, the same teeth or interdental spaces on the spur gear rims and at least one additional positioning device for only a predetermined engagement position between the two spur gears. This could e.g. a centering pin on a Sitrnverzahnungskranz and a receptacle for the centering pin in the other face gear be.

To ensure that the change set is properly positioned before or after a change over the rotary coupling and not uncontrollably tilts automatically to the side, or in operation in the torque transmission through the inclined tooth flanks forces uncontrollably separate the rotary coupling is in another embodiment in the rotary joint provided between the spur gear at least in the full engagement position a positive and / or positive axial locking.

In view of high ergonomic quality and ease of use for changing an interchangeable set can here be provided a magnetic axial, which is convertible only by substantially horizontal and lateral tilting movement of the changing set when removing or attaching between holding and release positions and automatically via magnetic forces of full engagement position the holding position takes and holds. The holding effect of this magnetic axial securing need only be relatively low, so that an operator is readily able to raise without the weight of the changing set, to prepare by the lateral tilting movement, the rotary coupling to disengage.

In an alternative embodiment, however, may be appropriate magnetic axial securing, the magnet or counterpart is brought before removal of the changing set via a connecting element with little effort from the holding position to the release position, so that an operator when removing the change set the release position not with manual power needs to produce. The holding position is also produced by inserting the Wechselgarnitur by pressing the connecting element.

In another embodiment, a positive and non-positive axial locking is provided, which, however, requires to bring before releasing the rotary coupling the positive axial lock in the release position, and after insertion in the full engaged position of the rotary joint and before re-operation recording again in the holding position convert. This can be done for example with a clamping screw which fixes the rotary coupling in the engaged position, or controlled by an axial rotational movement, radially displaceable, wedge-shaped locking elements, or via a bayonet coupling, which requires a rotational and pulling movement via a corresponding actuator. A form-fitting axial securing can be used preferably when the rotary coupling is used to position an interchangeable set connected only at one end, or a superstructuring interchangeable set which is optionally operated without upper support, for example a gripper cylinder.

In order to accomplish the removal or insertion of at least one magazine or a magazine carrier ergonomically favorable and user-friendly, is provided in a further embodiment, each connection between the magazine or the magazine carrier and a respective stationary support (without torque transmission) by to produce a cone taper which is inserted into a tapered sleeve, the mutual axial engagement depth being equal to or less than the mean engagement diameter, and having a cone angle between about 5 ° and 15 °. The magazine or the magazine carrier therefore no longer needs to be raised or lowered over a long vertical path of movement as an interchangeable set, but only over the relatively small depth of engagement between the respective conical peg and the conical sleeve, the relatively acute cone tip angle ensuring a perfect and stable fit so that even lateral forces from the removal of the labels are easily absorbed and a proper relative positioning of the magazine is ensured.

Since the magazine or the magazine carrier can be an interchangeable set having considerable dimensions in the transverse direction, it is expedient if several such connections are provided in the circumferential direction, each with a cone pin and a conical sleeve, so that the magazine is stably supported over a large area. In this case it may be expedient if, in at least one such connection between the cone pin and the conical sleeve, a e.g. axial magnetic safety in the full engagement position is effective, which an operator is able to overcome by a small force during the change, and which assumes its holding position automatically when inserting as soon as the full engagement position is reached.

Since often several magazines or magazine carriers are to be stacked in superimposed floors, it is expedient to provide between the magazines or magazine carriers each such easily detachable connections, which require only a very small lifting or Aufsetzbewegung. The respective upper magazine or upper magazine carrier can be removed and placed on the lower one by way of at least one cone / conical sleeve. About the relatively sharp Konusspitzenwinkel and the multiple connections results even with several stacked magazines for all a stable support and positioning, each upper magazine is easily lifted, without jeopardizing the connection between underlying magazines, as these by the magnetic axial and the overburden Magazine weight remains in the engaged position.

In an expedient embodiment of the labeling unit, in which the pallet shafts constitute interchangeable sets, the multiple hub of the transfer module rotatably mounted with a common lantern is rotatable with a direct drive motor mounted on a stationary support structure, preferably an electric torque motor, with stationary, a winding-containing stator and internal, equipped with magnets ring rotor, in drive connection. The torque motor drives the hub the driving stick and over the driving stick the pallet waves in the hub, which, like known per se, in operation can also be individually switched off. This design with the direct drive motor saves considerable height in the area of the drive block, avoids a gear drive configuration, and therefore allows easy pre-assembly and functional testing of the functional unit of the transfer module.

The structure of the transfer module can be made simple and inexpensive, especially due to the omission of a cast gear housing construction, when the hub is stored in the center area without engagement in the region of its outer periphery via a bearing ring free four-point moment bearing element in the support structure. The support structure for rotatably supporting the hub and for mounting the direct drive motor may be a simple steel plate. The four-point torque bearing element without bearing rings saves height and space in the diameter direction. On the steel plate, the lantern can be conveniently mounted between the direct drive motor and the support structure, partially engaging also in the hub from below.

In an expedient embodiment, especially for weight and cost reasons, each suitable pallet for the pallet shaft made of plastic. Preferably, the pallet is a two-component injection molded part. For the purpose of purposeful reduction of the pallet surface to be coated with glue, it is provided with a varying groove pattern, for example and preferably in which recesses are produced in a regular pattern by laser ablation between overlapping straight webs, so that glue is only applied by the glue roller to the webs ,

Furthermore, for weight reasons, the pallet shaft can expediently have, at least in sections, a tube cross-section. To ensure the respective correct rotational positioning of a mounted on the pallet shaft pallet regardless of their height position along the pallet shaft without complex tools, it may also be appropriate to make the pallet shaft at least partially with a non-circular outer cross-section, for example, be approximately triangular (with rounded corners) can.

High structural strength with minimized weight can be achieved for the change set of the pallet shaft in that the pallet shaft is formed as Karbonformteil or stainless steel tube hydroforming and, preferably, only at the lower end of an annular flange carries a rotary coupling half of the rotary joint.

In a further embodiment of the labeling unit, in which the gripper cylinder is an interchangeable set, the gripper cylinder via at least one rotary coupling with a drive shaft of a mounted directly on a support structure, preferably a common support structure for the gripper cylinder and the at least one transfer module direct drive motor rotatably mounted in drive connection and on the support structure. The direct drive motor is expediently an electric servomotor. This design allows convenient pre-assembly of the functional unit of the gripper cylinder. The rotary coupling makes it possible to remove or attach the gripper cylinder with a substantially only lateral and horizontal tilting movement, without having to raise it vertically over a considerable amount. Optionally, a plurality of rotary joints are provided between the direct drive motor and the gripper cylinder, for example, to adjust over distance holding intermediate elements, the desired height of the gripper cylinder or its gripper on the support structure, and to be able to easily change the altitude at a change.

In a cost-effective and convenient solution, the glue roller or a glue station, the at least one transfer module, the gripper cylinder and the magazine or the magazines are arranged on a common, formed as a plate support structure in the labeling, which, if it is in each case to change sets, each Removable trim is removably attached via a connection that can be conveniently solved and produced by a substantially horizontal lateral relative movement of the changing set.

In a further expedient embodiment, the glue roller is not driven as usual from below, but rotatably mounted at its lying above the support structure end in a supported on the support structure bearing and flying and with a top mounted on the storage electric servomotor in direct drive connection. This compact design ensures that running-down glue does not pose a threat to bearings or drive connections. The direct drive motor, in particular an electric servomotor, allows precise control of the speed of the glue roller, for example for exact synchronization with the advancement of the surface of the pallet, i.e. in precise adaptation to a varying velocity profile of the movement of the surface of the pallet. If the glue roller is designed as an interchangeable set and change due to conversion, it may be appropriate that the glue roller above the storage is essentially only laterally expandable, and not be raised or lowered vertically at the removal or insertion over a considerable amount needs.

Fig. 1

eine Schnittdarstellung, in perspektivischer Ansicht von schräg oben, eines Etikettieraggregats, in welchem als mögliche Ausführungsvariante eine gemeinsame Tragstruktur für funktionell kooperierende Komponenten vorgesehen ist,

Fig. 2

eine Perspektivdarstellung des Etikettieraggregats von Fig. 1,

Fig. 3

eine Perspektivdarstellung einer Wechselgarnitur in Form einer mit einer Palette bestückten Palettenwelle, und

Fig. 4

eine Abwicklung einer Palettenfläche mit einem oberflächenoptimierten Rillenmuster.

With reference to the drawings, embodiments of the subject invention will be explained. Show it:

Fig. 1

a sectional view, in a perspective view obliquely from above, of a labeling unit, in which is provided as a possible embodiment, a common support structure for functionally cooperating components,

Fig. 2

a perspective view of the labeling of Fig. 1 .

Fig. 3

a perspective view of an interchangeable set in the form of a pallet shaft equipped with a pallet, and

Fig. 4

a processing of a pallet surface with a surface-optimized groove pattern.

Fig. 1 shows major components of one embodiment of a labeling A, in particular a cold glue labeling unit for labeling equipment for labeling standing on the labeling of moving past container, such as plastic or glass bottles (not shown). Although in the illustrated embodiment, the main components are mounted on a common support structure 1, such as a steel plate, the main components could also be separate functional units each on their own support structures (not shown).

Central main component of the labeling unit A of Fig. 1 is a transfer module T with a substantially vertical transfer axis, the label from a connected to the support structure 1 magazine M decreases individually and transferred to a gripper cylinder Z on the support structure 1, which further promotes the labels and applies to containers, not shown. In the embodiment shown, the major components operate in a single plane. Alternatively, the major components could work in multiple superimposed planes to simultaneously process different labels (eg, belly labels, neck labels, or neck outfits).

Another main component on the support structure 1 is a gluing unit L, which provides the glue required to apply the labels and cooperates with the transfer module T.

Magazine carriers M 'are indicated by a respective magazine M, which can store a plurality of magazines stacked on top of one another and in which labels are kept stacked, of which the transfer module T picks up and transfers one at a time in each storey. The configuration of the labeling A is known per se, but differs from known label units in that for a conversion-related change (label change, container dimensional change, Behälterteilungswechsel and the like.), As is also known, removable and attachable change sets arranged in a novel way and interchangeable are.

In a central section of the support structure 1, a plate-shaped hub 2 of the transfer module T in the center region is free-standing near the outer periphery via a bearing ring-free four-point moment bearing element 3 rotatably mounted and sealed by a peripheral labyrinth seal 4. On the underside of the support structure 1 is a clamping plate 5 of a arranged under the hub 2 Triebstocks 7 with pinions, teeth, tooth segments and the like. For Drehantreiben of pallet shafts 13, which rotate with the rotationally driven hub 2 and are rotatably mounted therein provided via clamping bolt 6. For each pallet shaft 13, an overload clutch 8 is optionally provided within the drive block 7, which allows a single circuit (passivation) of the pallet shaft 13 in operation, similar to that in its overall disclosure hereby incorporated DE 32 16 138 A , Specifically, the overload clutch 8 shown works with spring-loaded balls.

In the hub 2 for each pallet shaft 13, a vertical drive shaft 9 is rotatably supported by means of rolling bearings 10, which leads to a at the top of the hub 2 projecting annular flange 11 which is sealed inwardly by a labyrinth seal 11 '. With the annular flange 11, the respective plate shaft 13 is aligned and centered via a rotary coupling D in drive connection, wherein at the lower end of the pallet shaft 13, a further annular flange 12 is arranged, and the annular flanges 11, 12 mating rotary coupling halves H form. The respective rotary joint D is described in detail on the basis of Fig. 3 explained. Their Hauptcharakteristikum is that it is disengaged or engageable by essentially substantially horizontal lateral relative movement or tilting movement (arrows 29) of the pallet shaft 13 and transmits the torque backlash of the drive shaft 9 to the pallet shaft 13 in the full engagement position shown.

For each rotary coupling D of a pallet shaft 13, a magnetic axial securing S is expediently provided, which fixes the rotary coupling D in the full engagement position only when changing only by the lateral tilting away of the upper end of the pallet shaft 13 (arrows 29), the axial lock in a Release position is brought and the rotary coupling D is disengaged to take out the pallet shaft 13 to the side of the transfer module T without having to lift it upwards. In Fig. 1 the axial securing S of each rotary coupling D of a pallet shaft 13 is constituted, for example, by a ferromagnetic or magnetic plate 41 in the lower annular flange 11 and an annular disc magnet or individual circumferentially distributed, to permanent magnets 42 in the upper annular flange 12. It could also be two permanent magnets 42 interact axially.

At least one pallet shaft 13 carries at least one pallet 14 in a predetermined relative and fixed rotational position. From the center of the hub 2, a shaft 15 extends upwardly, on which a peripheral recesses having cover plate 16 is arranged vertically displaceable in the operating position shown in FIG Fig. 1 the upper ends of the pallet shafts 13 are rotatably supported at 17. The cover plate 16 is lifted at a stationary labeling unit A upwards and optionally rotated by a division of the peripheral recesses, so that the upper ends of the pallet shafts 13 are exposed and they are wegkippbar in the direction of arrows 29 laterally to disengage the respective rotary coupling D and the To change pallet shaft. The central shaft 15 of the hub 2 extends upwards into a storage console 18, here for example the gluing unit L mounted stationarily on the support structure 1.

In the gluing unit L, a cylindrical glue roller 19 is rotatably arranged, which is accessible in an opening 24, facing the transfer module T, of a comprehensive housing 23 of the gluing unit L for surfaces of the pasting pallets 14. An upper end 20 of the glue roller 19 is rotatably mounted in a stationary, for example via telescopic columns 18 'supported on the support structure 1 bearing 21 and with a direct drive motor mounted thereon M3 in drive connection. A tensioning device 22 makes it possible, for example, to pull up the glue roller 19 with the direct drive motor M3, which may, preferably, be an electric servomotor. Alternatively, the glue roller 19 could also be removed from the storage 21 at the top and removed laterally, if necessary, since it is supported in the storage 21 hanging and flying, so that on the glue roller 19 applied glue without risk for drive elements or sealing areas can drain down and can be dissipated. The gluing unit L may further comprise at least one glue squeegee and one glue supply for the glue roller 19.

For the magazine M or the respective magazine carrier M 'are in Fig. 1 distributed in the circumferential direction several releasable connections V on each stationary supports on the support structure 1 or a lower magazine M provided. Each connection V consists of a cone pin 26 at the top of the support structure 1 and the top of a magazine support M ', which is inserted into a mating conical sleeve 25 which is mounted on the underside of each magazine carrier M', for example via adjusting nuts 28. The insertion depth, for example, approximately corresponds to the average engagement diameter of the conical pin 26, or even less than this. In Fig. 1 are shown in several floors magazine carrier M '. It could be only one provided. The height adjustment and fixation of each conical pin 26 on the support structure 1 is accomplished, for example via a clamping nut 27. Also, the respective magazine M or the magazine carrier M 'is in the in Fig. 1 shown embodiment, an interchangeable set of labeling A, which can be replaced with a changeover-related change. All or some of the cone pins 26 may have an integrated magnet 26 ', which generates a magnetic axial securing with the conical sleeve 25 in the fully engaged position. When changing, each magazine carrier M 'only over the depth of engagement raised between the taper pin 26 and the conical sleeves 25 by releasing the magnetic axial securing and then moved away to the side before a new magazine support M 'or a new magazine M is mounted in reverse order. The connections V for the magazine or the magazine carrier M, M 'are expediently designed such that the conical pegs 26 each point upwards, and the conical sleeves 25 are placed on the conical pegs 26 from above. However, a reverse installation is also possible.

For the hub 2 of the transfer module T and the lantern 7, a direct drive motor M1 is mounted on the underside of the support structure 1 or the support plate 5. In the embodiment shown, the direct drive motor M1 is an electric torque motor 32 having a stationary, winding-containing stator 33 and an inner ring traveler 34 equipped with magnets 35 which drives a central vertical shaft 36 of the hub 2.

The gripper cylinder Z is also an interchangeable set and Umrüstbedingt against another gripper cylinder Z changeable. For the gripper cylinder Z, a direct drive motor M2, preferably an electric servo motor 37 is mounted on the underside of the support structure 1, which has a stationary motor housing 38 with an internal winding and an inner, vertical drive shaft 39 for a rotor 47 of the gripper cylinder Z. The drive shaft 39 is rotatably mounted in rolling bearings 40 and extends up to over the top of the support structure 1 to a first rotary joint D, which may be similar or similar to the rotary joints D of the pallet shafts 13, and, optionally in the embodiment shown, via a Spacer 45 to a second rotary joint D, which connects the drive shaft 39 with the rotor 47 of the gripper cylinder Z. On the gripper cylinder rotor 47 are circumferentially fastening means 48 for in Fig. 1 not shown gripper assemblies provided.

Further, an axial securing S is provided in each rotary joint D for the gripper cylinder Z, which fixes the rotary joint D in the fully engaged position. When gripper cylinder Z is the axial securing for example, the upper rotary joint D form-fitting (eg as a clamping screw, bayonet or with adjustable from above locking elements) or designed so that the axial lock optionally works magnetically, but by means of an operable from above connecting element 46 from the holding position shown in FIG a release position can be brought, in which the rotary joint D by a substantially largely horizontal and lateral tilting movement (arrows 30) for lateral removal or attachment of the gripper cylinder Z is disengaged without having to raise the gripper cylinder Z upwards.

Fig. 2 shows the labeling unit A, for example Fig. 1 in perspective from a different perspective than in Fig. 1 , In the transfer module T are shown on one of the pallet shafts 13 two pallets 14, 14 'mounted one above the other. The upper pallet 14 'is used, for example, to simultaneously process an upper label. The gripper cylinder Z is used here only to take over the labels supplied by lower pallets 14 by means of its gripper 49 and is already in the Fig. 1 shown, both rotary clutches D above the direct drive motor M2 so to speak supported on a central pivot column on the support structure 1. A torque arm 50 is provided for positioning of unspecified cams for gripper control, and optionally, also for stabilizing the gripper cylinder Z in operation. At the upper end of the gripper cylinder rotor 47 is shown a rotary coupling half D which can be used to set up a further gripper cylinder Z '(indicated by dashed lines) which serves to remove the labels supplied by the upper pallets 14'. At the upper end of the rotor 47 access to the operation of the axial securing S is given for a change of the gripper cylinder Z, after removal or with the torque arm 50 as an interchangeable set with a lateral and substantially largely horizontal tilting movement (arrows 30) on the at least one rotary coupling D. removed or used.

Fig. 3 illustrates another embodiment of an interchangeable set in the form of a pallet shaft 13 with a rotary coupling half H of the rotary coupling D on the annular flange 12, which is attached to the lower end of the pallet shaft 13. The pallet shaft 13 has in this embodiment, for example, an approximately triangular outer cross section for proper rotational positioning of the pallet 14, which transfers labels 61 with its pallet surface. The height position of the pallet 14 along the pallet shaft 13 is adjustable.

Each rotary coupling half H of the rotary joint D has a spur gear ring 51 on which is formed in the circumferential direction, for example around a central clearance 52, for example circular shape, in the outer peripheral region and on the end face of the annular flange 32. In the free space 52, for example, a permanent magnet circular disk 42 (see Fig. 1 ), which is part of the here, for example, magnetic axial S, which pulls the two coupling halves H against each other in the full engaged position of the rotary joint and secures.

Each spur gear 51 has in Fig. 3 a plurality of radially-oriented teeth 54 and interdental spaces 55, wherein the teeth 54 and the interdental spaces 55 in the embodiment shown form four circumferentially distributed groups of three / three / three / two equal teeth 54, and four tooth-free wider interstices 56 are formed. The distribution of the teeth 54 and interdental spaces 55 is irregular and chosen so that only a single predetermined relative rotational position is possible between the two rotary coupling halves H in the full engagement position of the rotary joint D, which is for example the pallet shaft 13th it is important so that this equipped with at least one pallet 14 after insertion has the correct rotational orientation with respect to the drive shaft 9 in the rack 7. Alternatively (not shown), like teeth or tooth spaces 54, 55 may be distributed regularly in the circumferential direction. At least one additional positioning device, such as a centering pin and a Zentrierstiftaufnahme, then ensures the only relative rotational position between the two spur gears 51 in the engaged position.

In the event that it should not depend on only one correct relative rotational positioning in the rotary joint D, which may apply, for example, to the gripper cylinder Z, the intermeshing spur gear rings 51 may be formed regularly and interfit in different relative rotational positions.

An important feature of the mating spur gearing 51 is that flanks 59 and the tooth comb 57, 58 of each tooth 54 are inclined obliquely, so that the rotary joint D simultaneously acts as a centering device in the fully engaged position and between coupled shafts. Thus, for example, inner portions 57 of the combs 58 fall radially inward obliquely toward the tooth root, as well as the flanks 59 which are symmetrically inclined by the tooth comb 57, 58 in the direction of the tooth root so that the distance between the flanks 59 of each tooth 54 in Direction to the tooth root increases. Also, the interdental spaces 55 can, as indicated at 60, extend obliquely in the radial direction to the rotary coupling axis. In the Fig. 3 not shown other rotary coupling half H may be formed similar. A salient feature of this rotary joint D is that it is able to transmit high torques without play in the full engagement position and additionally ensures accurate centering, for example between the pallet shaft 13 and the drive shaft 9 or the annular flanges 11, 12, but by a transverse to Rotary coupling axis oriented tilting movement of a shaft can be engaged and disengaged, without requiring any significant stroke in the direction of the rotary coupling axis.

In the Fig. 3 Pallet shaft 13 shown, for example, a carbon molding or a stainless steel pipe hydroforming, ie hollow and yet dimensionally stable to save weight. Also, the pallet 14 may be a plastic molded part, for example, a two-component injection molded part to save weight, wherein the pallet surface 61 either during injection molding with a in Fig. 4 groove pattern shown is designed, or the groove pattern is subsequently generated surface-optimized, for example, by laser ablation to remove just as much glue from the glue roller 19, as required for the proper adhesion of a label.

Fig. 4 1 shows a development of an embodiment of a groove pattern carrying pallet surface 61, which is rectangular here and at least one edge at least one lateral recess 62 for the engagement of at least one gripper finger of the gripper 49 (FIGS. Fig. 2 ) of the gripper cylinder Z to ensure a then glue-free edge region of a label. In the embodiment shown, two such recesses 62 are formed along all side edges of the pallet surface 61. The groove pattern of the pallet surface 61 is characterized, for example, by spaced-apart straight webs 63 and intervening indentations 64 interconnected within the entire groove pattern, formed for example by laser ablation. Only the webs 63 receive a glue application when rolling the pallet surface 61 against the glue roller 19.

Claims (23)

Labeling unit (A), in particular for the continuous labeling of containers with individual glued equipment labels, comprising a transfer module (T 1) having at least one rotary drivable, substantially vertical pallet shaft (13) with at least one pallet (14, 14 ') on a rotationally driven hub (2) ), the functionally an at least substantially vertical glue roller (24), at least one label magazine (M) and an at least substantially vertical axis rotatably driven gripper cylinder (Z) can be assigned, wherein at least the pallet shaft (13) and / or the magazine (M) and / or the gripper cylinder (Z) and / or optionally the glue roller (24) each for a Umrüstbedingten change with a respective support separably connected exchange set is or change sets are, characterized in that the respective compound (V) at least an interchangeable fitting with its support is designed so that the Wechselgarnitur is removable and attachable by a substantially substantially horizontal and lateral movement relative to the support. Labeling unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the support of an over a shaft rotatably driven Wechselgarnitur a drive shaft (9, 39), preferably for the pallet shaft (13) or the gripper cylinder (Z), and that the connection is a torque-transmitting rotary joint (D) is that by a horizontal lateral tilting movement (30, 29) of the changing set and is engageable. Labeling unit according to claim 2, characterized in that the rotary joint (D) is a Hirth coupling (H). Labeling unit according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the rotary coupling (D) comprises two intermeshing, preferably identically designed, spur gear rings (51). Labeling unit according to claim 2, 3 or 4, characterized in that the rotary coupling (D) in a full engagement position additionally forms a centering device between coupled in the torque transmission shafts (9, 13, 39, 47). Labeling unit according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the rotary coupling (D) in only a single relative rotational positioning between a shaft (47, 13) of the change set and the drive shaft (9, 39) can be brought into full and play-free engagement. Labeling unit according to claim 4, characterized in that each spur gear ring (51) of a rotary coupling half (H) concentric with the axis of the rotary coupling (D) and, preferably, a central, preferably circular, free space (52) in the interior of the rotary joint (D), is arranged. Labeling unit according to claim 6, characterized in that each serration (51) in the circumferential direction either irregularly distributed teeth (54) and interdental spaces (55, 56) or evenly distributed, equal teeth or interdental spaces and at least one additional positioning device for a predetermined engagement position of the serration limit (51), and in that the teeth (54) have oblique flanks (59) and toothed ridges (57, 58) in radial and axial directions, preferably in the axial direction of the circumferentially measured distance between the oblique flanks (59) of each tooth (54 ) symmetrically increases from the tooth comb (57, 58) in the direction of the tooth root and in the radial direction inwardly at least a portion (57) of the tooth comb (57, 58) drops in the direction of the tooth root. Labeling unit according to claim 2, characterized in that in the rotary coupling (D) at least in the full engagement position between the spur gear rings (51) a positive and / or positive axial locking (S) is provided. Labeling unit according to claim 9, characterized by a magnetic axial securing, which is convertible by the substantially horizontal and lateral tilting relative movement (29, 30) when removing the change set from a holding position to a release position. Labeling unit according to claim 9, characterized by a magnetic axial securing means (S) with two attracting magnets (42) or an attracting magnet (42) and a ferromagnetic or magnetic counterpart (41), the magnet or the counterpart being actuated by one, preferably predominantly axially adjustable, connecting element (46) from a holding position into a release position of the axial securing (S) can be switched. Labeling unit according to Claim 9, characterized in that the axial securing device (S) to be actuated before dismantling or after insertion of the replacement fitting comprises a clamping screw or a radially displaceable, wedge-shaped locking element or a bayonet coupling driven by an axial rotational movement. Labeling unit according to claim 1, characterized in that each connection (V) between the of a magazine (M), optionally a magazine carrier (M '), formed Wechselgarnitur and a respective stationary support (27) inserted through a conical sleeve (25) Conical pin (26) is formed, wherein, preferably, the mutual axial engagement depth between the taper pin and the tapered sleeve is only about the mean engagement diameter or less than this, and wherein, preferably, the cone tip angle between about 5 ° and 15 °. Labeling unit according to claim 13, characterized in that in the circumferential direction of the magazine (M) or the magazine carrier (M ') a plurality of connections (V) are each provided with a conical pin (26) and a conical sleeve (25), preferably each with a magnetic, for example Axialsicherung (S ') between the conical sleeve (25) and the inserted cone pin (26). Labeling unit according to claim 13, characterized in that in the case of a plurality of magazines (M) or magazine carriers (M ') stacked one above the other, at least one connection (V) is removed from a cone pin (26) and a conical sleeve (25) is positioned on the lower, and, preferably, by an axial lifting or Aufsetzbewegung on the depth of engagement and a horizontal lateral movement is removable or attachable. Labeling unit according to claim 2, characterized in that the multiple, with a common drive rod (7) coupled pallet shaft rotary coupling halves (H) rotationally supporting hub (2) of the transfer module (T) with a on a stationary support structure (1) mounted on the underside direct drive motor (M1), preferably an electric torque motor (32) with stationary, a winding containing stator (33) and internal, equipped with magnets (35) ring rotor (34) is in drive connection. Labeling unit according to claim 16, characterized in that the hub (2) is mounted in the center without engagement near the outer periphery via a bearing ring free four-point moment bearing element (3) in the support structure (1). Labeling unit according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each pallet (14) is made of plastic, preferably as a two-component injection molded part, and that, preferably, a pallet surface (61) a varying, preferably by laser ablation between overlapping straight Webs (63) generated, groove pattern carries. Labeling unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the pallet shaft (13) at least partially a pipe cross-section (43), preferably with at least partially non-circular, preferably triangular, outer cross-section (44). Labeling unit according to claim 19, characterized in that the pallet shaft (13) is formed as Karbonformteil or stainless steel pipe hydroforming, and, preferably, at the lower end of the rotary coupling half at a diameter relative to the pallet shaft (13) enlarged end flange (12). Labeling unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the gripper cylinder (Z) via at least one of the support structure (1) rotatably mounted disengageable rotary coupling (D) with the drive shaft (39) of a bottom of a support structure (1), preferably a common support structure ( 1) of the gripper cylinder (Z) and the at least one transfer module (T), mounted direct drive motor (M2), preferably an electric servomotor (37) is in drive connection. Labeling unit according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a gluing unit (L) containing the glue roller (19), the transfer module (T), the gripper cylinder (Z) and the magazine (M) or the respective magazine carrier (M ') the common, designed as a plate support structure (1) are mounted. Labeling unit according to claim 22, characterized in that the glue roller (19) at its above the support structure (1) lying end (20) in a bearing on the support structure (1) supported bearing (21) is suspended in a cantilevered hanging and with a top of the Storage (21) mounted electric servomotor (M3) is in direct drive connection, wherein, preferably, the glue roller (19) at the top in or with the storage (21) is laterally removable.

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