EP2809600B1 - Machine for sorting flat objects on edge with multiple pickup detection - Google Patents

Machine for sorting flat objects on edge with multiple pickup detection Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2809600B1
EP2809600B1 EP12819122.8A EP12819122A EP2809600B1 EP 2809600 B1 EP2809600 B1 EP 2809600B1 EP 12819122 A EP12819122 A EP 12819122A EP 2809600 B1 EP2809600 B1 EP 2809600B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
belts
sorting machine
flat objects
suction
upstream
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Not-in-force
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EP12819122.8A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2809600A1 (en
Inventor
Hicham El Bernoussi
Agnès Philippe
Céline GUIGNARD
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Solystic SAS
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Solystic SAS
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Publication of EP2809600A1 publication Critical patent/EP2809600A1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C5/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or feature; Sorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
    • B07C5/34—Sorting according to other particular properties
    • B07C5/342—Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour
    • B07C5/3422—Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour using video scanning devices, e.g. TV-cameras
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H3/00—Separating articles from piles
    • B65H3/08—Separating articles from piles using pneumatic force
    • B65H3/12—Suction bands, belts, or tables moving relatively to the pile
    • B65H3/124—Suction bands or belts
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H3/00—Separating articles from piles
    • B65H3/46—Supplementary devices or measures to assist separation or prevent double feed
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H5/00—Feeding articles separated from piles; Feeding articles to machines
    • B65H5/02—Feeding articles separated from piles; Feeding articles to machines by belts or chains, e.g. between belts or chains
    • B65H5/021—Feeding articles separated from piles; Feeding articles to machines by belts or chains, e.g. between belts or chains by belts
    • B65H5/023—Feeding articles separated from piles; Feeding articles to machines by belts or chains, e.g. between belts or chains by belts between a pair of belts forming a transport nip
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H7/00—Controlling article feeding, separating, pile-advancing, or associated apparatus, to take account of incorrect feeding, absence of articles, or presence of faulty articles
    • B65H7/02—Controlling article feeding, separating, pile-advancing, or associated apparatus, to take account of incorrect feeding, absence of articles, or presence of faulty articles by feelers or detectors
    • B65H7/06—Controlling article feeding, separating, pile-advancing, or associated apparatus, to take account of incorrect feeding, absence of articles, or presence of faulty articles by feelers or detectors responsive to presence of faulty articles or incorrect separation or feed
    • B65H7/12—Controlling article feeding, separating, pile-advancing, or associated apparatus, to take account of incorrect feeding, absence of articles, or presence of faulty articles by feelers or detectors responsive to presence of faulty articles or incorrect separation or feed responsive to double feed or separation
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2301/00—Handling processes for sheets or webs
    • B65H2301/30—Orientation, displacement, position of the handled material
    • B65H2301/32—Orientation of handled material
    • B65H2301/321—Standing on edge
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2301/00—Handling processes for sheets or webs
    • B65H2301/40—Type of handling process
    • B65H2301/44—Moving, forwarding, guiding material
    • B65H2301/445—Moving, forwarding, guiding material stream of articles separated from each other
    • B65H2301/4451—Moving, forwarding, guiding material stream of articles separated from each other forming a stream or streams of separated articles
    • B65H2301/44514—Separating superposed articles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2701/00—Handled material; Storage means
    • B65H2701/10—Handled articles or webs
    • B65H2701/19—Specific article or web
    • B65H2701/1916—Envelopes and articles of mail

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a machine for sorting flat objects on edge comprising an upstream conveyor, a downstream conveyor provided with lateral downstream belts facing each other and arranged for conveying with pinching the flat objects, and means for detecting multiple taps. flat objects.
  • Flat objects are for example small format mail items, such as letters, or larger format, such as magazines.
  • Such a sorting machine makes it possible to serialize and transport the flat objects in series, for example between a destacker of flat objects and one or the other of the sorting outlets at each of which the flat objects are stacked according to a predetermined sorting plan.
  • flat objects are arranged on edge, stack, in a store in which they are pressed against an unstacking plate.
  • the latter is for example provided with a belt, able to move the first flat object of the stack relative to the rest of the stack.
  • the flat objects are thus unstacked, one after the other in an unstacking direction, and then conveyed by a conveying device to sorting outlets.
  • the flat objects unstuck follow each other without overlapping, they are in simple engagement.
  • two successive flat objects overlap and then form a multiple socket.
  • This separation device comprises a tunnel defined by two suction belts provided opposite one another at a distance greater than the cumulative thickness of two flat objects in multiple engagement.
  • each flat object in the tunnel is sucked against one or the other of the suction belts through which it is transported.
  • one of the flat objects is pressed against a first suction belt, the other against the second suction belt so as to be separated laterally from one another by limiting the shear stresses experienced by the flat objects.
  • Each suction belt can be individually controlled in terms of speed and suction, thus displacing multiple flat objects from one another.
  • this separation device is provided with detection means provided upstream of the suction belts and able to determine the arrival profile of the flat objects and to detect any multiple taps.
  • the detection means are also coupled to means for measuring thickness of the flat objects, also provided upstream of the tunnel, and for adjusting the distance between the suction belts.
  • the separation devices cited allow to detect and then process multiple taps. In some cases, it may nevertheless be interesting to use autonomous detection means, not directly related to the separation device to use technologies of less complexity and better efficiency. The detected multiple taps will then be evacuated to a specific output of the sorting machine for later reprocessing.
  • Such detection means such as that described in the publication FR 2 891 168 behave for example belts carrying flat objects by pinching.
  • a detection zone provided with lighting means and a camera is provided under the passage zone of the flat objects thus pinched.
  • their feet do not necessarily have the same height.
  • the depth adjustment of the camera and the range of the associated illumination allow the detection of such a flat object at a height different from that of the foot of the other flat object in multiple engagement.
  • the image captured by the camera is then analyzed to determine multiple capture cases.
  • the erroneous detection of a single-ended flat object as a multiple plug leads to its evacuation from the automatic sorting process for subsequent reprocessing and is therefore expensive.
  • the aim of the invention is to remedy these drawbacks by proposing, alternatively, a sorting machine making it possible to ensure reliable and reproducible detection of the multiple taps for efficient treatment of these multiple taps downstream of their detection.
  • the invention relates to a flat objects sorting machine according to claim 1.
  • the idea underlying the invention is to provide detection means between an upstream conveyor carrying flat objects without pinching and a downstream conveyor carrying the flat objects with nip.
  • the detection means can operate independently on the basis of flat objects referenced in height.
  • the detection means are also intended to detect the multiple taps during the conveying of flat objects without pinching of the latter which facilitates and makes reliable the image capture and multiple capture detection.
  • the suction of the flat objects on both sides of the passage zone makes it possible to separate them laterally without any shearing force, the distance separating them facilitating their detection. differentiated.
  • the sorting machine 1 comprises successively a storage magazine 50 of flat objects, a destacker 60 adapted to depilate and serialize the flat objects depilated, an upstream conveyor 10 flat objects, a downstream conveyor 30, a system for decoding the address plates 70 and sorting outlets 90 adapted to receive the flat objects according to a predetermined sorting plan according to the previously decoded addresses and to stack them.
  • the sorting machine 1 comprises also flat object multiple detection means 100, arranged between the upstream conveyor 10 and the downstream conveyor 30.
  • the sorting machine 1 may further comprise either means of evacuation, of known type, capable of evacuating the flat objects detected in multiple engagement by the detection means 100, or separation means 80, also of known type, of these same flat objects detected in multiple engagement.
  • Complementary conveying means may also be provided between the elements of the sorting machine 1 and the sorting machine 1 may comprise any other suitable equipment.
  • the upstream conveyor 10 comprises a foot belt 11 on which the flat objects 2 rest, and able to convey the flat objects 2 downstream of the sorting machine 1 in the longitudinal direction F It also comprises upstream lateral belts 12 carried by upstream pulleys 13 and disposed facing each other, substantially perpendicular to the foot belt 11.
  • the upstream belts 12 are substantially parallel to each other and separate from each other. one of the other a first distance D1 in which the flat objects 2 can be received without being pinched.
  • the first distance D1 is fixed and between 15 and 30 mm and preferably substantially equal to 18 mm. This first distance D1 is thus greater than the thickness of two flat objects 2 in multiple engagement.
  • the upstream belts 12 accompany without pinching the flat objects 2 in their movement on the foot belt 11 in the longitudinal direction F, they are single or multiple engagement.
  • the flat objects 2 are placed freely with reference in height, their feet resting on the foot belt 11. They are thus wedged and stabilized in height which facilitates the subsequent detection of multiple takes.
  • the downstream conveyor 30 comprises downstream belts 32 carried by downstream pulleys 33 arranged facing each other and brought together between they so as to form a pinch point 34 flat objects 2.
  • the flat objects 2 and pinched are driven in a controlled manner.
  • the downstream conveyor 30 may be followed by evacuation means (not shown) able to evacuate flat objects 2 detected in multiple engagement by the detection means 100 described below.
  • the downstream conveyor 30 may also be followed by separating means 80 capable of separating the flat objects 2 in multiple engagement, for example by accelerating one of the flat objects 2 with respect to the other to create between them a longitudinal gap to transform multiple plug in single sockets.
  • the separation means 80 are followed by the sorting outlets 90 schematized on the figure 1 between which the flat objects 2 are distributed and stacked according to a predetermined sorting plane.
  • the detection means 100 are provided between the upstream conveyor 10 and the downstream conveyor 30. They comprise an intermediate conveyor 20, suction means 24, 25 image capture means 26 and analysis and processing means of images schematized by the block referenced 4 on the figure 2 .
  • the intermediate conveyor 20 comprises perforated lateral intermediate belts 22, carried by intermediate pulleys 23 and arranged facing each other, substantially in alignment with the downstream belts 12 to delimit a passage zone 27.
  • the speed of each intermediate belt 22 is chosen identical to each other, for example 4 m / s.
  • the intermediate belts 22 are separated from each other by a second distance D2 in which the flat objects 2 can be received without being pinched.
  • the second distance D2 is equal to or greater than the first distance D1 and preferably substantially equal to 22 mm.
  • the intermediate belts 22 extend for example over a length of at least about 190 mm and have perforations (not detailed) allowing the passage of air through them.
  • the intermediate belts 22 accompany without pinching the flat objects 2 in their movement on the foot belt 11 in the longitudinal direction F.
  • the foot belt 11 does not extend to the downstream ends of the intermediate belts 22 to preserve a sighting window for the detection means described below. This sighting window is thus provided opposite the passage zone 27 of the flat objects 2.
  • Each intermediate belt 22 is associated with suction means 24, 25 able to create a depression through the perforations of the intermediate belt 22, according to the transverse arrows A.
  • suction means 24, 25 preferably comprise two vacuum pumps of the conventional type, not shown, connected to two suction chambers that are independent of one another and which extend at the rear of each of the belts.
  • the suction means 24, 25 are independent of each other in terms of suction power, allows in the case of multiple setting, the plating of one of the flat objects 2 against one of the intermediate belts 22 does not increase the suction through the other intermediate belt 22 which can effectively suck and press against it the other flat object 2 without disturbing the plating of the first flat object 2.
  • the suction means 24, 25 are arranged so that the suction of each intermediate belts 22 are identical to each other.
  • the suction means 24, 25 are controlled to act simultaneously and generate a suction of 10 to 12 mbar on each of the intermediate belts 22 with a flow rate of preferably about 150 m 3 / h which can also be higher without exceeding the limit of approximately 600 m 3 / h beyond which the aerodynamic disturbances in the suction zone affect the effectiveness of the plating, of each of the two flat objects 2 in multiple engagement, on each of the intermediate belts 22.
  • 24, 25 are also arranged so that the suction through the intermediate belts 22 impacts only a limited height, namely the lower part of the intermediate belts 22, for example from 25 to 100 mm above the To achieve this, it is possible to provide suction mouths of limited height and / or intermediate belts 22 whose perforations extend only over part of their height.
  • the passage zone 27 is overhung by a protective plate (not shown), preferably horizontal, to limit the aerodynamic disturbances in the passage zone 27.
  • This protective plate is advantageously transparent over most of its length so that the flat objects 2 passing through the passage zone 27 remain visible to the operator and opaque above the image capture means described below so as not to disturb the detection of multiple taps.
  • the suction means 24 and 25 are advantageously offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction F. The upstream front of the suction means 25 is thus provided downstream of the upstream front of the suction means. 24.
  • This arrangement promotes the plating of the first flat object 2 entering the passage zone 27 against the intermediate belt 22 on the side where the suction is in advance, namely the side of the suction means 24.
  • the first of two flat objects 2 found, by construction of the unstacker 60 in the majority of cases on the side of the suction means 24, will be pressed against the intermediate belt 22 of the same side and leave free the second flat object 2 which will more easily be pressed on the other intermediate belt 22 on the side of the suction means 25.
  • the detection means 100 further comprise lighting means, such as for example one (or more) white LED (s) (not shown) and image capture means, in particular a camera 26 disposed opposite the viewing window for example a length of about 40 to 45 mm and a width of about 22 mm.
  • LED lighting is of a known type. The use of such a type of lighting is made possible by the prior reference of the feet of the flat objects 2 against the foot belt 11.
  • the zone of view of the camera 26 is provided in the downstream portion of the zone passage 27 at the exit of the intermediate belts 22 and able to cover the entire width of the passage zone 27. Thus, the camera 26 can capture the image of the edge of any flat object 2 passing through the passage zone 27.
  • the flat objects 2 in multiple engagement have time to be sucked and plated on both sides of the passage area 27 against the intermediate belts 22 before reaching the 26.
  • the camera 26 can capture an accurate image of the edge of the flat objects 2 and the detection of the multiple taps is facilitated and made more reliable.
  • a matrix camera 26 is used which is less expensive than a linear camera and which allows undeformed and artifact-free image capture related to the movement of the flat objects in the conveyor during image acquisition. , allowing reliable analysis.
  • the camera 26 can be carried by a pivoting support (not shown) allowing its retraction, especially for cleaning and / or maintenance operations.
  • the fact that the flat objects 2 are previously wedged in height against the foot strap 11 allows a precise adjustment of the focus of the camera 26 which, to obtain a clear image and exploitable, does not need to be adjusted to each new flat object 2 in the passage area 27, it is also not necessary to have a large depth of field or a wide range of lighting for this same reason.
  • the lateral separation of flat objects 2 in multiple engagement, sucked on either side of the passage zone 27 against the intermediate belts 22 allows them to be better detected by the camera 26.
  • the figure 3 illustrates an example of successive image captures 40-48 of two multiple-plate flat objects 2 crossing the passage zone 27.
  • the images 40-48 are for example taken at regular time intervals, at a frequency of 100 images / s with a resolution of 4pts / mm in the direction of the length and 16 pts / mm in the width.
  • the capture of images can be triggered at the detection of the presence of a flat object 2.
  • These images 40-48 make it possible to analyze more finely the dynamic behavior of the flat objects 2 passing in the passage zone 27 above. of the viewing window. We thus observe on the figure 3 the behavior of multiple flattened flat objects separated laterally to facilitate their detection.
  • the detection means 100 also comprise image analysis and processing means 4 capable of detecting, from the images 40-48, any possible multiple pick-up of flat objects 2.
  • the analysis and image processing means 4 can take advantage of the variation in distance between the trace of the two flat objects 2 in multiple engagement due to their suction and plating against the intermediate belts 22.
  • the analysis and image processing means 4 can for example to be configured to detect the cone 200 formed by the approximation of the flat objects 2 forced by the downstream conveyor 30 provided after the intermediate conveyor 20. Indeed, when flat objects 2 in multiple engagement were laterally separated by suction at through intermediate belts 22, they are again pressed against each other at the pinch point 34 of the downstream conveyor 30, thus reforming the multiple plug that will be treated pl us downstream of the sorting machine 1.
  • the foot strap extends only along the downstream belts and is followed by a smooth gliding sole which extends along the intermediate belts while preserving the viewing window.
  • the nominal speed of the flat objects is preserved by means of the intermediate belts sucking and driving the flat objects.
  • the sorting machine 1 makes it possible to make reliable the detection of multiple catches of flat objects 2 to allow their dissociated treatment further downstream.
  • the systematic physical separation of the multiple-tap flat objects makes it possible to reduce the rate of erroneous detections of multiple taps, which is for example common with flat objects 2 containing several brochures packed in transparent flexible plastic.
  • the second distance D2 between the intermediate belts 22 makes it possible to prevent the plastic packaging of such flat objects 2 from being slid on either side of each of the intermediate belts 22.
  • Flat objects 2 separated laterally is clearly facilitated compared to detection on flat objects pinching.

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

L'invention concerne une machine de tri d'objets plats sur chant comportant un convoyeur amont, un convoyeur aval pourvu de courroies aval latérales se faisant face et agencé pour convoyer avec pincement les objets plats, et des moyens de détection de prises multiples d'objets plats.The invention relates to a machine for sorting flat objects on edge comprising an upstream conveyor, a downstream conveyor provided with lateral downstream belts facing each other and arranged for conveying with pinching the flat objects, and means for detecting multiple taps. flat objects.

Les objets plats sont par exemple des envois postaux de petit format, tels que les lettres, ou de plus grand format, tels que les magazines.Flat objects are for example small format mail items, such as letters, or larger format, such as magazines.

Une telle machine de tri permet de sérialiser et de transporter les objets plats en série, par exemple entre un dépileur d'objets plats et l'une ou l'autre des sorties de tri au niveau de chacune desquelles les objets plats sont empilés selon un plan de tri prédéterminé.Such a sorting machine makes it possible to serialize and transport the flat objects in series, for example between a destacker of flat objects and one or the other of the sorting outlets at each of which the flat objects are stacked according to a predetermined sorting plan.

Selon la dénomination habituelle dans le domaine du tri d'objets plats, on entend par prise simple le cas où les objets plats sont convoyés les uns derrière les autres séparés par un intervalle et prise multiple le cas où les objets plats convoyés se recouvrent en tout ou partie, nécessitant un traitement particulier pour éviter les erreurs de tri d'une partie de ces objets et les bourrages en aval de la machine de tri.According to the usual denomination in the field of the sorting of flat objects, by simple grasping is meant the case where the flat objects are conveyed one behind the other separated by an interval and multiple taking the case where the flat objects conveyed overlap in all or part, requiring special treatment to avoid sorting errors of some of these objects and jams downstream of the sorting machine.

Technique antérieurePrior art

De façon connue, les objets plats sont disposés sur chant, en pile, dans un magasin dans lequel ils sont plaqués contre une plaque de dépilage. Cette dernière est par exemple pourvue d'une courroie, apte à déplacer le premier objet plat de la pile par rapport au reste de la pile. Les objets plats sont ainsi dépilés, les uns après les autres selon une direction de dépilage, puis convoyés par un dispositif de convoyage vers des sorties de tri. En fonctionnement optimal, les objets plats dépilés se suivent sans recouvrement mutuel, ils sont en prise simple. Toutefois, il arrive que deux objets plats successifs se chevauchent et forment alors une prise multiple. Pour garantir le traitement aval optimal des objets plats, il est alors nécessaire soit de séparer les objets plats en prise multiple, soit de les évacuer pour les retraiter ultérieurement. Dans l'un ou l'autre de ces cas, la prise en compte adaptée des prises multiples nécessite leur détection préalable et la séparation des objets plats en prises multiples avant tout traitement ultérieur.In known manner, flat objects are arranged on edge, stack, in a store in which they are pressed against an unstacking plate. The latter is for example provided with a belt, able to move the first flat object of the stack relative to the rest of the stack. The flat objects are thus unstacked, one after the other in an unstacking direction, and then conveyed by a conveying device to sorting outlets. In optimal operation, the flat objects unstuck follow each other without overlapping, they are in simple engagement. However, it happens that two successive flat objects overlap and then form a multiple socket. To guarantee the optimal downstream treatment of flat objects, it is then it is necessary either to separate the flat objects in multiple catch, or to evacuate them for later reprocessing. In either case, taking into account the multiple taps requires their prior detection and separation of the flat objects in multiple taps before any further processing.

Les dispositifs de séparation d'objets plats en prises multiples sont connus. La publication US 6,494,446 décrit notamment un tel dispositif de séparation comportant une zone de pincement suivie de deux chemins distincts de courroies aspirantes, l'un permettant la poursuite du traitement des objets plats, l'autre l'évacuation des objets plats pour un traitement ultérieur. La zone de pincement est formée par des courroies latérales entre lesquelles les objets plats sont pincés pour être convoyés. La distance entre les courroies latérales de la zone de pincement est régulée en fonction de l'épaisseur des objets plats, déterminée pour chaque objet plat au moyen de détecteurs prévus en amont de la zone de pincement. Lorsqu'un objet plat plus ou moins épais que le précédent se présente en entrée de la zone de pincement, la largeur de cette dernière est adaptée pour garantir un pincement optimal des objets plats. En cas de prise multiple, une fois la zone de pincement passée, l'un des objets plats est entrainé par aspiration par le premier chemin de courroies vers les zones de traitement suivantes, l'autre par le second chemin de courroies vers un bac d'évacuation. La prise multiple est ainsi supprimée et les objets plats évacués peuvent être retraités ultérieurement.Multiple-dish flat separation devices are known. The publication US 6,494,446 describes such a separation device comprising a nipping zone followed by two separate paths of suction belts, one allowing the further processing of flat objects, the other the evacuation of flat objects for further processing. The nipping zone is formed by lateral belts between which the flat objects are pinched to be conveyed. The distance between the side belts of the nipping zone is regulated according to the thickness of the flat objects, determined for each flat object by means of detectors provided upstream of the nipping zone. When a flat object more or less thick than the previous one is at the entrance of the nip, the width of the latter is adapted to ensure optimal pinching flat objects. In the case of multiple gripping, once the nip has passed, one of the flat objects is sucked by the first belt path to the next treatment areas, the other through the second belt path to a drip tray. 'evacuation. The multiple plug is thus removed and the evacuated flat objects can be reprocessed later.

On connait également de la publication US 2009/0 218 751 un dispositif de séparation de prises multiples comportant une zone de pincement similaire à la précédente au niveau de laquelle les vitesses de défilement des courroies d'entrainement sont différentes, l'une des courroies étant plus rapide. Ainsi, en cas de prise multiple, l'un des objets plats est entraîné par la courroie plus rapide, l'autre par la courroie moins rapide. Toutefois, ce différentiel de vitesses tend à créer une force de cisaillement permettant de séparer les objets plats formant la prise multiple. Or, il a été constaté que cette force de cisaillement risque fortement d'endommager les objets plats fragiles, notamment les objets plats ouverts ou sous emballage plastique.We also know about the publication US 2009/0 218 751 a multiple tap separation device having a pinch area similar to the previous one at which the running speeds of the drive belts are different, one of the belts being faster. Thus, in the case of multiple gripping, one of the flat objects is driven by the faster belt, the other by the slower belt. However, this differential speed tends to create a shear force to separate the flat objects forming the multiple socket. It has been found that this shearing force is highly likely to damage fragile flat objects, especially open flat objects or plastic packaging.

D'autres dispositifs de séparation tels que celui décrit dans la publication FR 2 958 276 sont connus. Ce dispositif de séparation comporte un tunnel délimité par deux courroies aspirantes prévues en regard l'une de l'autre à une distance supérieure à l'épaisseur cumulée de deux objets plats en prise multiple. Ainsi, en fonctionnement normal, chaque objet plat se présentant dans le tunnel est plaqué par aspiration contre l'une ou l'autre des courroies aspirantes par laquelle il est transporté. En cas de prise multiple, l'un des objets plats est plaqué contre une première courroie aspirante, l'autre contre la seconde courroie aspirante de sorte à être séparés latéralement l'un de l'autre en limitant les contraintes de cisaillement subies par les objets plats. Chaque courroie aspirante peut être commandée individuellement en vitesse et en aspiration pour ainsi décaler l'un de l'autre les objets plats en prise multiple. Pour commander de manière adaptée les courroies aspirantes, ce dispositif de séparation est pourvu de moyens de détection prévus en amont des courroies aspirantes et aptes à déterminer le profil d'arrivée des objets plats et à détecter les éventuelles prises multiples. Les moyens de détection sont par ailleurs couplés à des moyens de mesure d'épaisseur des objets plats, également prévus en amont du tunnel, et permettant d'adapter la distance entre les courroies aspirantes.Other separation devices such as that described in the publication FR 2 958 276 are known. This separation device comprises a tunnel defined by two suction belts provided opposite one another at a distance greater than the cumulative thickness of two flat objects in multiple engagement. Thus, in normal operation, each flat object in the tunnel is sucked against one or the other of the suction belts through which it is transported. In case of multiple gripping, one of the flat objects is pressed against a first suction belt, the other against the second suction belt so as to be separated laterally from one another by limiting the shear stresses experienced by the flat objects. Each suction belt can be individually controlled in terms of speed and suction, thus displacing multiple flat objects from one another. To suitably control the suction belts, this separation device is provided with detection means provided upstream of the suction belts and able to determine the arrival profile of the flat objects and to detect any multiple taps. The detection means are also coupled to means for measuring thickness of the flat objects, also provided upstream of the tunnel, and for adjusting the distance between the suction belts.

Les dispositifs de séparation cités permettent de détecter puis de traiter les prises multiples. Dans certains cas, il peut néanmoins être intéressant de pouvoir utiliser des moyens de détection autonomes, non directement liés au dispositif de séparation permettant d'utiliser des technologies de complexité moindre et d'une meilleure efficacité. Les prises multiples détectées seront alors évacuées vers une sortie spécifique de la machine de tri pour être retraitées ultérieurement.The separation devices cited allow to detect and then process multiple taps. In some cases, it may nevertheless be interesting to use autonomous detection means, not directly related to the separation device to use technologies of less complexity and better efficiency. The detected multiple taps will then be evacuated to a specific output of the sorting machine for later reprocessing.

En complément des dispositifs de séparation, on connait également des moyens de détection de prises multiples autonomes. De tels moyens de détection comme celui décrit dans la publication FR 2 891 168 comportent par exemple des courroies transportant les objets plats par pincement. Une zone de détection pourvue de moyens d'éclairage et d'une caméra, est prévue sous la zone de passage des objets plats ainsi pincés. Dans cette zone de passage où les objets plats sont convoyés par pincement, leurs pieds n'ont pas forcément la même hauteur. Aussi, pour pallier ce problème, il est nécessaire de forcer les moyens d'éclairage pour qu'ils portent jusqu'au pied de l'éventuel objet plat en prise multiple situé plus haut. Il est également nécessaire que le réglage de profondeur de la caméra et la portée de l'éclairage associé permettent la détection d'un tel objet plat à une hauteur différente de celle du pied de l'autre objet plat en prise multiple. L'image captée par la caméra est ensuite analysée pour déterminer les cas de prises multiple. Toutefois, en fonction des objets plats traités, il est souvent difficile de détecter les prises multiples de manière fiable. C'est notamment le cas pour les cartes postales ou les coupons fins superposés pincés ensemble, pour lesquels l'espace entre les objets plats est suffisamment faible pour ne pas être détecté. Il est également difficile de détecter certains objets plats en prise simple en tant que tel. C'est le cas par exemple des objets plats contenant plusieurs éléments tels que les magazines ou les brochures sous un emballage plastique transparent ou encore pour certaines couvertures imprimées d'objets plats dont les impressions génèrent des artefacts à l'image perturbant la détection des prises multiples. La détection à tort d'un objet plat en prise simple comme prise multiple conduit à son évacuation du procédé de tri automatique pour un retraitement ultérieur et est de ce fait coûteuse.In addition to the separation devices, there are also known means for detecting multiple autonomous taps. Such detection means such as that described in the publication FR 2 891 168 behave for example belts carrying flat objects by pinching. A detection zone provided with lighting means and a camera is provided under the passage zone of the flat objects thus pinched. In this zone of passage where the flat objects are conveyed by pinching, their feet do not necessarily have the same height. Also, to overcome this problem, it is necessary to force the lighting means so that they carry to the foot of the possible multiple flat object located above. It is also necessary that the depth adjustment of the camera and the range of the associated illumination allow the detection of such a flat object at a height different from that of the foot of the other flat object in multiple engagement. The image captured by the camera is then analyzed to determine multiple capture cases. However, depending on the flat objects processed, it is often difficult to reliably detect the multiple sockets. This is particularly the case for postcards or fine coupons superimposed pinched together, for which the space between the flat objects is small enough not to be detected. It is also difficult to detect certain single-ended flat objects as such. This is the case, for example, of flat objects containing several elements such as magazines or pamphlets in transparent plastic packaging or even for certain flat-printed covers whose prints generate artifacts in the image disturbing the detection of the catches. multiple. The erroneous detection of a single-ended flat object as a multiple plug leads to its evacuation from the automatic sorting process for subsequent reprocessing and is therefore expensive.

Exposé de l'inventionPresentation of the invention

Le but de l'invention est de remédier à ces inconvénients en proposant, en alternative, une machine de tri permettant d'assurer une détection fiable et reproductible des prises multiples pour un traitement efficace de ces prises multiples en aval de leur détection.The aim of the invention is to remedy these drawbacks by proposing, alternatively, a sorting machine making it possible to ensure reliable and reproducible detection of the multiple taps for efficient treatment of these multiple taps downstream of their detection.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet une machine de tri d'objets plats selon la revendication 1.For this purpose, the invention relates to a flat objects sorting machine according to claim 1.

L'idée à la base de l'invention est de prévoir des moyens de détection entre un convoyeur amont transportant les objets plats sans pincement et un convoyeur aval transportant les objets plats avec pincement. Ainsi, les moyens de détection peuvent fonctionner de manière indépendante sur la base d'objets plats référencés en hauteur. Les moyens de détection sont par ailleurs prévus pour détecter les prises multiples lors du convoyage des objets plats sans pincement de ces derniers ce qui facilite et fiabilise la capture d'image et la détection de prise multiple. L'aspiration des objets plats de part et d'autre de la zone de passage permet de les séparer latéralement sans effort de cisaillement, la distance les séparant facilitant leur détection différenciée.The idea underlying the invention is to provide detection means between an upstream conveyor carrying flat objects without pinching and a downstream conveyor carrying the flat objects with nip. Thus, the detection means can operate independently on the basis of flat objects referenced in height. The detection means are also intended to detect the multiple taps during the conveying of flat objects without pinching of the latter which facilitates and makes reliable the image capture and multiple capture detection. The suction of the flat objects on both sides of the passage zone makes it possible to separate them laterally without any shearing force, the distance separating them facilitating their detection. differentiated.

La machine de tri selon l'invention peut avantageusement présenter les particularités suivantes :

  • le convoyeur amont est pourvu de courroies amont latérales se faisant face et d'une courroie de pied et est agencé pour convoyer sans pincement les objets plats référencés en hauteur sur la courroie de pied,
  • les courroies amont du convoyeur amont sont séparées entre elles d'une première distance et les courroies intermédiaires sont séparées entre elles d'une seconde distance sensiblement égale ou supérieure à la première distance ;
  • les première et seconde distances sont fixes et comprises entre 15 et 30 mm, la première distance étant de préférence sensiblement égale à 18 mm et la seconde distance étant et de préférence sensiblement égale à 22 mm ;
  • le convoyeur intermédiaire est agencé pour que les courroies intermédiaires soient commandées simultanément en déplacement à une vitesse sensiblement similaire entre elles ;
  • les moyens d'aspiration sont agencés pour que les dépressions de chaque courroie intermédiaire soient sensiblement similaires entre elles ;
  • la courroie de pied s'étend sur au moins une partie de la longueur des courroies intermédiaires pour supporter le pied des objets plats tout en ménageant dans la portion aval de la zone de passage une zone de visée pour les moyens de capture d'image ;
  • les moyens d'aspiration sont agencés pour n'aspirer que sur une hauteur limitée de la partie inférieure des courroies intermédiaires ;
  • les moyens de capture d'image comportent une caméra matricielle équipée d'un éclairage à LED ;
  • le front amont d'un moyen d'aspiration est décalé en amont des courroies intermédiaires par rapport au front amont de l'autre moyen d'aspiration ;
  • les moyens d'aspiration sont agencés pour générer une aspiration de 10 à 12 mbar sur chacune des courroies intermédiaires avec un débit d'au moins environ 150m3/h et inférieur à environ 600 m3/h ;
  • la zone de passage séparant les courroies intermédiaires est recouverte par une plaque de protection agencée pour limiter les perturbations aérodynamiques dans la zone de passage.
The sorting machine according to the invention may advantageously have the following particularities:
  • the upstream conveyor is provided with upstream lateral belts facing each other and a foot belt and is arranged to convey without pinching the flat objects referenced in height on the foot belt,
  • the upstream conveyor upstream conveyor belts are separated from each other by a first distance and the intermediate belts are separated from each other by a second distance substantially equal to or greater than the first distance;
  • the first and second distances are fixed and between 15 and 30 mm, the first distance preferably being substantially equal to 18 mm and the second distance being and preferably substantially equal to 22 mm;
  • the intermediate conveyor is arranged so that the intermediate belts are simultaneously controlled moving at a speed substantially similar to each other;
  • the suction means are arranged so that the depressions of each intermediate belt are substantially similar to each other;
  • the foot strap extends over at least a portion of the length of the intermediate belts to support the foot of the flat objects while providing in the downstream portion of the passage zone a sighting zone for the image capturing means;
  • the suction means are arranged to suck only on a limited height of the lower part of the intermediate belts;
  • the image capture means comprise a matrix camera equipped with LED lighting;
  • the upstream front of a suction means is offset upstream of the intermediate belts relative to the upstream front of the other suction means;
  • the suction means are arranged to generate a suction of 10 to 12 mbar on each of the intermediate belts with a flow rate of at least about 150 m 3 / h and less than about 600 m 3 / h;
  • the passage zone separating the intermediate belts is covered by a protective plate arranged to limit the aerodynamic disturbances in the passage zone.

Présentation sommaire des dessinsBrief presentation of the drawings

La présente invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres avantages apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée d'un mode de réalisation pris à titre d'exemple nullement limitatif et illustré par les dessins annexés, dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue schématique de dessus d'une machine de tri selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue de dessus partielle de la machine de tri de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 3 est une représentation schématique d'une succession d'images captées par les moyens de capture d'images des moyens de détection de la machine de tri selon l'invention.
The present invention will be better understood and other advantages will appear on reading the detailed description of an embodiment taken by way of non-limiting example and illustrated by the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic top view of a sorting machine according to the invention;
  • the figure 2 is a partial top view of the sorting machine of the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 3 is a schematic representation of a succession of images captured by the image capture means of the detection means of the sorting machine according to the invention.

Description des modes de réalisationDescription of the embodiments

En référence à la figure 1, la machine de tri 1 selon l'invention comporte successivement un magasin de stockage 50 d'objets plats, un dépileur 60 apte à dépiler et sérialiser les objets plats dépilés, un convoyeur amont 10 des objets plats, un convoyeur aval 30, un système de décodage 70 d'adresse des objets plats et des sorties de tri 90 aptes à recevoir les objets plats selon un plan de tri prédéterminé en fonction des adresses préalablement décodées et à les empiler. La machine de tri 1 comporte également des moyens de détection 100 de prise multiple d'objets plats, disposés entre le convoyeur amont 10 et le convoyeur aval 30. La machine de tri 1 peut en outre comporter soit des moyens d'évacuation, de type connu, aptes à évacuer les objets plats détectés en prise multiple par les moyens de détection 100, soit des moyens de séparation 80, également de type connu, de ces mêmes objets plats détectés en prise multiple. Des moyens de convoyage complémentaires peuvent également être prévus entre les éléments de la machine de tri 1 et la machine de tri 1 peut comporter tout autre équipement adapté.With reference to the figure 1 , the sorting machine 1 according to the invention comprises successively a storage magazine 50 of flat objects, a destacker 60 adapted to depilate and serialize the flat objects depilated, an upstream conveyor 10 flat objects, a downstream conveyor 30, a system for decoding the address plates 70 and sorting outlets 90 adapted to receive the flat objects according to a predetermined sorting plan according to the previously decoded addresses and to stack them. The sorting machine 1 comprises also flat object multiple detection means 100, arranged between the upstream conveyor 10 and the downstream conveyor 30. The sorting machine 1 may further comprise either means of evacuation, of known type, capable of evacuating the flat objects detected in multiple engagement by the detection means 100, or separation means 80, also of known type, of these same flat objects detected in multiple engagement. Complementary conveying means may also be provided between the elements of the sorting machine 1 and the sorting machine 1 may comprise any other suitable equipment.

En référence à la figure 2, le convoyeur amont 10, ou communément appelé tapis de stabilisation, comporte une courroie de pied 11 sur laquelle les objets plats 2 reposent, et apte à convoyer les objets plats 2 vers l'aval de la machine de tri 1 selon la direction longitudinale F. Il comporte en outre des courroies amont 12 latérales portées par des poulies amont 13 et disposées en regard l'une de l'autre, sensiblement perpendiculairement à la courroie de pied 11. Les courroies amont 12 sont sensiblement parallèles entre elles et séparées l'une de l'autre d'une première distance D1 dans laquelle les objets plats 2 peuvent être reçus sans être pincés. La première distance D1 est fixe et comprise entre 15 et 30 mm et de préférence sensiblement égale à 18 mm. Cette première distance D1 est ainsi supérieure à l'épaisseur de deux objets plats 2 en prise multiple. Ainsi, les courroies amont 12 accompagnent sans pincement les objets plats 2 dans leur déplacement sur la courroie de pied 11 selon la direction longitudinale F, qu'ils soient en prise simple ou en prise multiple. Les objets plats 2 se placent librement en référence en hauteur, leurs pieds en appui sur la courroie de pied 11. Ils sont donc ainsi calés et stabilisés en hauteur ce qui facilite la détection ultérieure des prises multiples.With reference to the figure 2 , the upstream conveyor 10, or commonly called stabilizing belt, comprises a foot belt 11 on which the flat objects 2 rest, and able to convey the flat objects 2 downstream of the sorting machine 1 in the longitudinal direction F It also comprises upstream lateral belts 12 carried by upstream pulleys 13 and disposed facing each other, substantially perpendicular to the foot belt 11. The upstream belts 12 are substantially parallel to each other and separate from each other. one of the other a first distance D1 in which the flat objects 2 can be received without being pinched. The first distance D1 is fixed and between 15 and 30 mm and preferably substantially equal to 18 mm. This first distance D1 is thus greater than the thickness of two flat objects 2 in multiple engagement. Thus, the upstream belts 12 accompany without pinching the flat objects 2 in their movement on the foot belt 11 in the longitudinal direction F, they are single or multiple engagement. The flat objects 2 are placed freely with reference in height, their feet resting on the foot belt 11. They are thus wedged and stabilized in height which facilitates the subsequent detection of multiple takes.

Le convoyeur aval 30 comporte des courroies aval 32 portées par des poulies aval 33 disposées en regard l'une de l'autre et rapprochées entre elles de sorte à former un point de pincement 34 des objets plats 2. Les objets plats 2 ainsi pincés sont entrainés de manière contrôlée. Le convoyeur aval 30 peut être suivi de moyens d'évacuation (non représentés) aptes à évacuer des objets plats 2 détectés en prise multiple par les moyens de détection 100 décrits plus loin. Le convoyeur aval 30 peut également être suivi de moyens de séparation 80 aptes à séparer les objets plats 2 en prise multiple, par exemple en accélérant l'un des objets plats 2 par rapport à l'autre pour créer entre eux un intervalle longitudinal pour transformer la prise multiple en prises simples. Les moyens de séparation 80 sont suivis des sorties de tri 90 schématisées sur la figure 1 entre lesquelles les objets plats 2 sont distribués et empilés selon un plan de tri prédéterminé.The downstream conveyor 30 comprises downstream belts 32 carried by downstream pulleys 33 arranged facing each other and brought together between they so as to form a pinch point 34 flat objects 2. The flat objects 2 and pinched are driven in a controlled manner. The downstream conveyor 30 may be followed by evacuation means (not shown) able to evacuate flat objects 2 detected in multiple engagement by the detection means 100 described below. The downstream conveyor 30 may also be followed by separating means 80 capable of separating the flat objects 2 in multiple engagement, for example by accelerating one of the flat objects 2 with respect to the other to create between them a longitudinal gap to transform multiple plug in single sockets. The separation means 80 are followed by the sorting outlets 90 schematized on the figure 1 between which the flat objects 2 are distributed and stacked according to a predetermined sorting plane.

Les moyens de détection 100 sont prévus entre le convoyeur amont 10 et le convoyeur aval 30. Ils comportent un convoyeur intermédiaire 20, des moyens d'aspiration 24, 25 des moyens de capture d'images 26 et des moyens d'analyse et de traitement d'images schématisés par le bloc référencé 4 sur la figure 2.The detection means 100 are provided between the upstream conveyor 10 and the downstream conveyor 30. They comprise an intermediate conveyor 20, suction means 24, 25 image capture means 26 and analysis and processing means of images schematized by the block referenced 4 on the figure 2 .

Le convoyeur intermédiaire 20 comporte des courroies intermédiaires 22 latérales perforées, portées par des poulies intermédiaires 23 et disposées en regard l'une de l'autre, sensiblement dans l'alignement des courroies aval 12 pour délimiter une zone de passage 27. La vitesse de chaque courroie intermédiaire 22 est choisie identique entre elles, par exemple de 4 m/s. Les courroies intermédiaires 22 sont séparées l'une de l'autre d'une seconde distance D2 dans laquelle les objets plats 2 peuvent être reçus sans être pincés. La seconde distance D2 est égale ou supérieure à la première distance D1 et de préférence sensiblement égale à 22 mm. Les courroies intermédiaires 22 s'étendent par exemple sur une longueur d'au moins environ 190 mm et comportent des perforations (non détaillées) autorisant le passage de l'air au travers d'elles. Cette longueur minimale permet à l'aspiration décrite plus loin d'être pleinement efficace pour séparer latéralement entre eux les objets plats 2 et garantir une détection fiable des prises multiples. La courroie de pied 11 précédemment décrite et s'étendant le long des courroies aval 12, s'étend également le long d'une partie des courroies intermédiaires 22. Ainsi, les courroies intermédiaires 22 accompagnent sans pincement les objets plats 2 dans leur déplacement sur la courroie de pied 11 selon la direction longitudinale F. La courroie de pied 11 ne s'étend pas jusqu'aux extrémités aval des courroies intermédiaires 22 pour préserver une fenêtre de visée pour les moyens de détection décrits plus loin. Cette fenêtre de visée est ainsi prévue en regard de la zone de passage 27 des objets plats 2.The intermediate conveyor 20 comprises perforated lateral intermediate belts 22, carried by intermediate pulleys 23 and arranged facing each other, substantially in alignment with the downstream belts 12 to delimit a passage zone 27. The speed of each intermediate belt 22 is chosen identical to each other, for example 4 m / s. The intermediate belts 22 are separated from each other by a second distance D2 in which the flat objects 2 can be received without being pinched. The second distance D2 is equal to or greater than the first distance D1 and preferably substantially equal to 22 mm. The intermediate belts 22 extend for example over a length of at least about 190 mm and have perforations (not detailed) allowing the passage of air through them. This minimum length allows the suction described later to be fully effective to separate laterally between them flat objects 2 and ensure reliable detection of multiple sockets. The foot belt 11 previously described and extending along the downstream belts 12, also extends along a portion of the intermediate belts 22. Thus, the intermediate belts 22 accompany without pinching the flat objects 2 in their movement on the foot belt 11 in the longitudinal direction F. The foot belt 11 does not extend to the downstream ends of the intermediate belts 22 to preserve a sighting window for the detection means described below. This sighting window is thus provided opposite the passage zone 27 of the flat objects 2.

Chaque courroie intermédiaire 22 est associée à des moyens d'aspiration 24, 25 propres à créer une dépression au travers des perforations de la courroie intermédiaire 22, selon les flèches transversales A. Ainsi, lorsque les objets plats 2 circulent un par un entre les courroies intermédiaires 22, chacun est individuellement plaqué par aspiration vers la courroie intermédiaire 22 de laquelle il est le plus proche. Lorsqu'une prise multiple se présence à l'entrée de la zone de passage 27, l'un des objets plats 2 est plaqué par aspiration contre l'une des courroies intermédiaires 22, l'autre objet plat 2 est plaqué par aspiration contre l'autre des courroies intermédiaires 22. Ainsi, les objets plats 2 en prise multiple sont provisoirement séparés latéralement. Les moyens d'aspiration 24, 25 comportent de préférence deux pompes à vide de type classique, non représentées, raccordées à deux chambres d'aspiration indépendantes l'une de l'autre et qui s'étendent à l'arrière de chacune des courroies intermédiaires 22 par rapport à la zone de passage 27. Le fait que les moyens d'aspiration 24, 25 soient indépendants l'un de l'autre en termes de puissance d'aspiration, permet en cas de prise multiple, que le placage de l'un des objets plats 2 contre l'une des courroies intermédiaires 22 n'augmente pas l'aspiration au travers de l'autre courroie intermédiaire 22 qui peut ainsi efficacement aspirer et plaquer contre elle l'autre objet plat 2 sans perturber le plaquage du premier objet plat 2. De manière avantageuse, les moyens d'aspiration 24, 25 sont agencés pour que l'aspiration de chacune des courroies intermédiaires 22 soit identique entre elles. Les moyens d'aspiration 24, 25 sont commandés pour agir simultanément et générer une aspiration de 10 à 12 mbar sur chacune des courroies intermédiaires 22 avec un débit de préférence d'environ 150m3/h qui peut également être supérieur sans dépasser la limite d'environ 600 m3/h au-delà de laquelle les perturbations aérodynamiques dans la zone d'aspiration nuisent à l'efficacité du plaquage, de chacun des deux objets plats 2 en prise multiple, sur chacune des courroies intermédiaires 22. Les moyens d'aspiration 24, 25 sont également agencés pour que l'aspiration au travers des courroies intermédiaires 22 n'impacte qu'une hauteur limitée, à savoir la partie inférieure des courroies intermédiaires 22, par exemple de 25 à 100 mm au-dessus de la courroie de pied 11. Pour ce faire, il est possible de prévoir des bouches d'aspiration de hauteur limitée et/ou des courroies intermédiaires 22 dont les perforations ne s'étendent que sur une partie de leur hauteur. Cette configuration particulière permet de limiter les perturbations aérodynamiques préjudiciables à la bonne présentation des objets plats 2 au-dessus des moyens de capture d'image décrits plus loin. Par ailleurs, la zone de passage 27 est surplombée par une plaque de protection (non représentée), de préférence horizontale, permettant de limiter les perturbations aérodynamiques dans la zone de passage 27. Cette plaque de protection est avantageusement transparente sur la plus grande partie de sa longueur de sorte que les objets plats 2 traversant la zone de passage 27 restent visibles par l'opérateur et opaque au-dessus des moyens de capture d'images décrits ci-après de sorte à ne pas perturber la détection des prises multiples. Enfin, les moyens d'aspiration 24 et 25 sont avantageusement décalés l'un par rapport à l'autre selon la direction longitudinale F. Le front amont du moyen d'aspiration 25 est ainsi prévu en aval du front amont du moyen d'aspiration 24. Cette disposition favorise le plaquage du premier objet plat 2 entrant dans la zone de passage 27 contre la courroie intermédiaire 22 du coté où l'aspiration est en avance, à savoir du coté du moyen d'aspiration 24. Dans le cas d'une prise multiple, le premier des deux objets plats 2 qui se trouve, par construction du dépileur 60 dans la majorité des cas du coté du moyen d'aspiration 24, sera plaqué contre la courroie intermédiaire 22 de ce même coté et laissera libre le second objet plat 2 qui viendra plus facilement se plaquer sur l'autre courroie intermédiaire 22 du coté du moyen d'aspiration 25.Each intermediate belt 22 is associated with suction means 24, 25 able to create a depression through the perforations of the intermediate belt 22, according to the transverse arrows A. Thus, when the flat objects 2 circulate one by one between the belts intermediate 22, each is individually vacuum-plated to the intermediate belt 22 of which it is nearest. When a multiple socket is present at the entrance of the passage zone 27, one of the flat objects 2 is pressed by suction against one of the intermediate belts 22, the other flat object 2 is pressed by suction against the Other intermediate belts 22. Thus, flat objects 2 in multiple engagement are provisionally separated laterally. The suction means 24, 25 preferably comprise two vacuum pumps of the conventional type, not shown, connected to two suction chambers that are independent of one another and which extend at the rear of each of the belts. intermediate 22 relative to the passage zone 27. The fact that the suction means 24, 25 are independent of each other in terms of suction power, allows in the case of multiple setting, the plating of one of the flat objects 2 against one of the intermediate belts 22 does not increase the suction through the other intermediate belt 22 which can effectively suck and press against it the other flat object 2 without disturbing the plating of the first flat object 2. Advantageously, the suction means 24, 25 are arranged so that the suction of each intermediate belts 22 are identical to each other. The suction means 24, 25 are controlled to act simultaneously and generate a suction of 10 to 12 mbar on each of the intermediate belts 22 with a flow rate of preferably about 150 m 3 / h which can also be higher without exceeding the limit of approximately 600 m 3 / h beyond which the aerodynamic disturbances in the suction zone affect the effectiveness of the plating, of each of the two flat objects 2 in multiple engagement, on each of the intermediate belts 22. 24, 25 are also arranged so that the suction through the intermediate belts 22 impacts only a limited height, namely the lower part of the intermediate belts 22, for example from 25 to 100 mm above the To achieve this, it is possible to provide suction mouths of limited height and / or intermediate belts 22 whose perforations extend only over part of their height. . This particular configuration makes it possible to limit the aerodynamic disturbances detrimental to the good presentation of flat objects 2 above the image capture means described below. Furthermore, the passage zone 27 is overhung by a protective plate (not shown), preferably horizontal, to limit the aerodynamic disturbances in the passage zone 27. This protective plate is advantageously transparent over most of its length so that the flat objects 2 passing through the passage zone 27 remain visible to the operator and opaque above the image capture means described below so as not to disturb the detection of multiple taps. Finally, the suction means 24 and 25 are advantageously offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction F. The upstream front of the suction means 25 is thus provided downstream of the upstream front of the suction means. 24. This arrangement promotes the plating of the first flat object 2 entering the passage zone 27 against the intermediate belt 22 on the side where the suction is in advance, namely the side of the suction means 24. In the case of a multiple socket, the first of two flat objects 2 found, by construction of the unstacker 60 in the majority of cases on the side of the suction means 24, will be pressed against the intermediate belt 22 of the same side and leave free the second flat object 2 which will more easily be pressed on the other intermediate belt 22 on the side of the suction means 25.

Les moyens de détection 100 comportent en outre des moyens d'éclairage, tels que par exemple une (ou plusieurs) LED(s) blanche(s) (non représentée(s)) et des moyens de capture d'images, en particulier une caméra 26 disposée en regard de la fenêtre de visée par exemple une longueur d'environ 40 à 45 mm et une largeur d'environ 22 mm. L'éclairage à LED est de type connu. L'utilisation d'un tel type d'éclairage est rendu possible par la mise en référence préalable des pieds des objets plats 2 contre la courroie de pied 11. La zone de visée de la caméra 26 est prévue dans la portion aval de la zone de passage 27, en sortie des courroies intermédiaires 22 et apte à couvrir toute la largeur de la zone de passage 27. Ainsi, la caméra 26 peut capter l'image du chant de tout objet plat 2 traversant la zone de passage 27. De plus, grâce à l'emplacement particulier de la caméra 26, les objets plats 2 en prise multiple ont le temps d'être aspirés et plaqués de part et d'autre de la zone de passage 27 contre les courroies intermédiaires 22 avant d'atteindre la zone de visée de la caméra 26. De ce fait, la caméra 26 peut capter une image précise du chant des objets plats 2 et la détection des prises multiples en est facilitée et fiabilisée. De manière avantageuse, on utilise une caméra 26 matricielle d'un coût moins élevé qu'une caméra linéaire et qui permet une capture d'image non déformée et sans artefact lié au mouvement des objets plats dans le convoyeur durant l'acquisition d'image, autorisant une analyse fiable. La caméra 26 peut être portée par un support pivotant (non représenté) permettant son escamotage, notamment pour les opérations de nettoyage et/ou de maintenance. Le fait que les objets plats 2 soient préalablement calés en hauteur contre la courroie de pied 11 permet un réglage précis de la mise au point de la caméra 26 qui, pour obtenir une image claire et exploitable, n'a ainsi pas besoin d'être ajustée à chaque nouvel objet plat 2 dans la zone de passage 27, il n'est pas non plus nécessaire d'avoir une grande profondeur de champ ni une grande portée de l'éclairage pour cette même raison. De même, la séparation latérale des objets plats 2 en prise multiple, plaqués par aspiration de part et d'autre de la zone de passage 27 contre les courroies intermédiaires 22 leur permet d'être mieux détectés par la caméra 26. La figure 3 illustre un exemple de captures d'images 40-48 successives de deux objets plats 2 en prise multiple traversant la zone de passage 27. Les images 40-48 sont par exemple prises à intervalles temps réguliers, à une fréquence de 100 images/s avec une résolution de 4pts/mm dans le sens de la longueur et de 16 pts/mm dans la largeur. La capture d'images peut être déclenchée à la détection de présence d'un objet plat 2. Ces images 40-48 permettent d'analyser plus finement le comportement dynamique du ou des objets plats 2 passant dans la zone de passage 27 au-dessus de la fenêtre de visée. On observe ainsi sur la figure 3 le comportement des objets plats 2 en prise multiple, séparés latéralement pour faciliter leur détection. Les moyens de détection 100 comportent également des moyens d'analyse et de traitement d'images 4 aptes à détecter, à partir des images 40-48, toute éventuelle prise multiple d'objets plats 2. Les moyens d'analyse et de traitement d'images 4 peuvent tirer profit de la variation de distance entre la trace des deux objets plats 2 en prise multiple du fait de leur aspiration et plaquage contre les courroies intermédiaires 22. Les moyens d'analyse et de traitement d'images 4 peuvent par exemple être paramétrés pour détecter le cône 200 formé par le rapprochement des objets plats 2 forcé par le convoyeur aval 30 prévu après suivant le convoyeur intermédiaire 20. En effet, lorsque des objets plats 2 en prise multiple ont été séparés latéralement grâce à l'aspiration au travers des courroies intermédiaires 22, ils sont de nouveau plaqués l'un contre l'autre au niveau du point de pincement 34 du convoyeur aval 30, reformant ainsi la prise multiple qui sera traitée plus en aval de la machine de tri 1.The detection means 100 further comprise lighting means, such as for example one (or more) white LED (s) (not shown) and image capture means, in particular a camera 26 disposed opposite the viewing window for example a length of about 40 to 45 mm and a width of about 22 mm. LED lighting is of a known type. The use of such a type of lighting is made possible by the prior reference of the feet of the flat objects 2 against the foot belt 11. The zone of view of the camera 26 is provided in the downstream portion of the zone passage 27 at the exit of the intermediate belts 22 and able to cover the entire width of the passage zone 27. Thus, the camera 26 can capture the image of the edge of any flat object 2 passing through the passage zone 27. , thanks to the particular location of the camera 26, the flat objects 2 in multiple engagement have time to be sucked and plated on both sides of the passage area 27 against the intermediate belts 22 before reaching the 26. As a result, the camera 26 can capture an accurate image of the edge of the flat objects 2 and the detection of the multiple taps is facilitated and made more reliable. Advantageously, a matrix camera 26 is used which is less expensive than a linear camera and which allows undeformed and artifact-free image capture related to the movement of the flat objects in the conveyor during image acquisition. , allowing reliable analysis. The camera 26 can be carried by a pivoting support (not shown) allowing its retraction, especially for cleaning and / or maintenance operations. The fact that the flat objects 2 are previously wedged in height against the foot strap 11 allows a precise adjustment of the focus of the camera 26 which, to obtain a clear image and exploitable, does not need to be adjusted to each new flat object 2 in the passage area 27, it is also not necessary to have a large depth of field or a wide range of lighting for this same reason. Similarly, the lateral separation of flat objects 2 in multiple engagement, sucked on either side of the passage zone 27 against the intermediate belts 22 allows them to be better detected by the camera 26. The figure 3 illustrates an example of successive image captures 40-48 of two multiple-plate flat objects 2 crossing the passage zone 27. The images 40-48 are for example taken at regular time intervals, at a frequency of 100 images / s with a resolution of 4pts / mm in the direction of the length and 16 pts / mm in the width. The capture of images can be triggered at the detection of the presence of a flat object 2. These images 40-48 make it possible to analyze more finely the dynamic behavior of the flat objects 2 passing in the passage zone 27 above. of the viewing window. We thus observe on the figure 3 the behavior of multiple flattened flat objects separated laterally to facilitate their detection. The detection means 100 also comprise image analysis and processing means 4 capable of detecting, from the images 40-48, any possible multiple pick-up of flat objects 2. The analysis and processing means of FIG. 4 can take advantage of the variation in distance between the trace of the two flat objects 2 in multiple engagement due to their suction and plating against the intermediate belts 22. The analysis and image processing means 4 can for example to be configured to detect the cone 200 formed by the approximation of the flat objects 2 forced by the downstream conveyor 30 provided after the intermediate conveyor 20. Indeed, when flat objects 2 in multiple engagement were laterally separated by suction at through intermediate belts 22, they are again pressed against each other at the pinch point 34 of the downstream conveyor 30, thus reforming the multiple plug that will be treated pl us downstream of the sorting machine 1.

Selon une variante de réalisation non représentée, la courroie de pied ne s'étend que le long des courroies aval et est suivie par une sole de glisse lisse qui s'étend le long des courroies intermédiaires tout en préservant la fenêtre de visée. Dans ce cas, la vitesse nominale des objets plats est conservée au moyen des courroies intermédiaires aspirant et entrainant les objets plats.According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the foot strap extends only along the downstream belts and is followed by a smooth gliding sole which extends along the intermediate belts while preserving the viewing window. In this case, the nominal speed of the flat objects is preserved by means of the intermediate belts sucking and driving the flat objects.

L'invention permet d'atteindre les objectifs précédemment mentionnés. En effet, la machine de tri 1 selon l'invention permet de fiabiliser la détection de prises multiples d'objets plats 2 pour permettre leur traitement dissocié plus en aval. La séparation physique systématique des objets plats en prise multiple permet de réduire le taux de détections erronées de prises multiples, ce qui est par exemple fréquent avec les objets plats 2 contenant plusieurs brochures emballées dans du plastique souple transparent. En particulier, la seconde distance D2 entre les courroies intermédiaires 22 permet d'éviter que l'emballage plastique de tels objets plats 2 ne se plaque de part et d'autre sur chacune des courroies intermédiaires 22. La détection de prise multiple réalisée sur des objets plats 2 séparés latéralement est nettement facilitée comparée à une détection sur des objets plats en pincement.The invention achieves the previously mentioned objectives. In fact, the sorting machine 1 according to the invention makes it possible to make reliable the detection of multiple catches of flat objects 2 to allow their dissociated treatment further downstream. The systematic physical separation of the multiple-tap flat objects makes it possible to reduce the rate of erroneous detections of multiple taps, which is for example common with flat objects 2 containing several brochures packed in transparent flexible plastic. In particular, the second distance D2 between the intermediate belts 22 makes it possible to prevent the plastic packaging of such flat objects 2 from being slid on either side of each of the intermediate belts 22. Flat objects 2 separated laterally is clearly facilitated compared to detection on flat objects pinching.

Il va de soi que la présente invention ne saurait être limitée à la description qui précède d'un de ses modes de réalisation, susceptible de subir quelques modifications sans pour autant sortir du cadre des revendications annexées.It goes without saying that the present invention can not be limited to the foregoing description of one of its embodiments, may undergo some modifications without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (12)

  1. A sorting machine (1) for sorting flat articles (2) on edge, which machine includes an upstream conveyor (10), a downstream conveyor (30) that is provided with side downstream belts (32) facing each other and that is arranged to convey said flat articles (2) by nipping them, and detector means (100) for detecting bunching of said flat articles (2), wherein said detector means (100) are provided between said upstream conveyor (10) and said downstream conveyor (30) and include:
    · an intermediate conveyor (20) provided with side perforated intermediate belts (22) facing each other and arranged to convey said flat articles (2) without nipping them;
    · suction means (24, 25) associated individually with said intermediate belts (22) and suitable for generating suction at each of said intermediate belts (22), which suction is suitable for pressing any flat article (2) traveling between said intermediate belts (22) against one or the other of said intermediate belts (22) ;
    · image capture means (26) suitable for capturing images (40-48) of the edges of said flat articles (2) passing between said intermediate belts (22); and
    · image analysis and processing means (4) suitable for detecting any bunching of said flat articles (2) on the basis of said images (40-48);
    said sorting machine being characterized in that said image capture means (26) being disposed facing the passage zone (27) defined by said intermediate belts (22), in the downstream portion of said passage zone (27).
  2. A sorting machine according to claim 1, characterized in that said upstream conveyor (10) is provided with side upstream belts (12) that face each other and with a bottom belt (11), and in that it is arranged to convey said flat articles (2) without nipping them, said flat articles (2) being referenced in the height direction on said bottom belt (11).
  3. A sorting machine (1) at least according to claim 2, characterized in that said upstream belts (12) of said upstream conveyor (10) are spaced apart from each other by a first distance (D1), and in that said intermediate belts (22) are spaced apart from each other by a second distance (D2) substantially equal to or greater than said first distance (D1).
  4. A sorting machine (1) at least according to claim 3, characterized in that said first and second distances (D1), (D2) are fixed and lie in the range 15 mm to 30 mm, said first distance (D1) preferably being substantially equal to 18 mm and said second distance (D2) preferably being substantially equal to 22 mm.
  5. A sorting machine (1) at least according to claim 1, characterized in that said intermediate conveyor (20) is arranged so that said intermediate belts (22) are caused to move simultaneously at speeds that are substantially mutually similar.
  6. A sorting machine (1) at least according to claim 1, characterized in that said suction means (24, 25) are arranged so that the suctions of the respective intermediate belts (22) are substantially mutually similar.
  7. A sorting machine (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that said bottom belt (11) extends over at least a fraction of the length of said intermediate belts (22) so as to support the bottoms of said flat articles (2) while also providing a zone of sight for said image capture means (26) in the downstream portion of said passage zone (27).
  8. A sorting machine (1) at least according to claim 1, characterized in that said suction means (24, 25) are arranged so as to apply suction over only a limited height of the bottom portion of said intermediate belts (22).
  9. A sorting machine (1) at least according to claim 1, characterized in that said image capture means (26) include a matrix-array camera equipped with LED lighting.
  10. A sorting machine (1) at least according to claim 1, characterized in that the upstream edge of one suction means (24) is offset upstream from said intermediate belts (22) relative to the upstream edge of the other suction means (25).
  11. A sorting machine (1) at least according to claim 1, characterized in that said suction means (24, 25) are arranged so as to generate suction of in the range 10 mbar to 12 mbar on each of said intermediate belts (22) with a flow rate of at least about 150 m3/h and less than about 600 m3/h.
  12. A sorting machine (1) at least according to claim 1, characterized in that the passage zone (27) separating said intermediate belts (22) is covered with a protective plate arranged to limit the aerodynamic disturbance in said passage zone (27).
EP12819122.8A 2012-02-02 2012-12-28 Machine for sorting flat objects on edge with multiple pickup detection Not-in-force EP2809600B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1250991A FR2986447B1 (en) 2012-02-02 2012-02-02 SINGLE FLAT OBJECT SORTING MACHINE WITH MULTIPLE SOCKET DETECTION
PCT/FR2012/053097 WO2013114008A1 (en) 2012-02-02 2012-12-28 Machine for sorting flat objects on edge with multiple pickup detection

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EP2809600A1 EP2809600A1 (en) 2014-12-10
EP2809600B1 true EP2809600B1 (en) 2015-10-07

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JP (1) JP6109855B2 (en)
AU (1) AU2012367889B2 (en)
DK (1) DK2809600T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2986447B1 (en)
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WO (1) WO2013114008A1 (en)

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JP6109855B2 (en) 2017-04-05
US9180494B2 (en) 2015-11-10
EP2809600A1 (en) 2014-12-10
FR2986447A1 (en) 2013-08-09
FR2986447B1 (en) 2019-04-12
DK2809600T3 (en) 2015-11-23
US20150008165A1 (en) 2015-01-08
WO2013114008A1 (en) 2013-08-08
AU2012367889A1 (en) 2014-07-24
AU2012367889B2 (en) 2016-11-17
JP2015505517A (en) 2015-02-23
PT2809600E (en) 2015-12-04

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