EP3012204A1 - Holding device for a labelling machine and module unit - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a receiving device (10) for a labeling machine for receiving and positioning a module assembly (80) in a predetermined operating position relative to the labeling machine, wherein the receiving device (10) is attachable to a periphery of the labeling machine. The receiving device (10) comprises at least one engagement element (38) which can be brought into engagement with at least one complementary counter engagement element (104) on the module assembly (80), and a lifting device (20) with which the module assembly (80) engages at least one engagement element (38) and the at least one counter-engagement element (104) can be raised from a substrate into the predetermined operating position. In this case, the receiving device (10) at least one positioning element (58), which after reaching a complete mutual engagement of the at least one engagement element (38) and the at least one counter-engagement element (104) during the subsequent lifting of the module unit (80) via the lifting device ( 20) aligns the module unit (80) in the predetermined operating position relative to the labeling machine in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding modular unit (80).

Description

The present invention relates to a picking device for a labeling machine for picking up and positioning a modular unit in a predetermined operating position relative to the labeling machine, wherein the receiving device is attachable to a periphery of the labeling machine, and wherein the receiving device comprises at least one engaging element, the at least one complementary Counter-engaging element on the module unit can be brought into engagement, and a lifting device with which the module unit in mutual engagement of the at least one engagement element and the at least one counter-engagement element from a substrate can be raised to a predetermined operating position.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a module unit for receiving in a receiving device of the type described above, wherein the module unit is displaceably displaceable on the substrate and at least one counter-engagement element, which can be brought into engagement with at least one complementary engagement element on the receiving device, said module aggregate on the Lifting device of the receiving device upon mutual engagement of the at least one engagement element and the at least one counter-engagement element of a substrate in a predetermined operating position can be raised.

In bottling plants, for example in the beverage industry, containers, such as bottles or the like, will be provided with different types and designs of labels. Depending on the type and design of the containers and labels corresponding labeling modules are attached to a labeling machine. In order to allow the most flexible adaptation of the labeling machine to different requirements and thus the widest possible use of the machine, the individual modules must be interchangeable.

Interchangeability of the modules is also necessary for reasons of maintenance of the labeling machine or the modules. For example, if a module has a defect, the module must be replaced as soon as possible by a functional module to interrupt production as quickly as possible. Furthermore, one problem with replaceable labeling modules is always to position the modules exactly in relation to the labeling machine. Precise positioning of the modules is essential to ensure trouble-free production operation and to apply the labels to the products in a predetermined position.

The closest prior art of the present invention is out EP 1 706 323 B9 known. The document discloses a machine for providing articles with labels having an interchangeable labeling unit located at the periphery of the machine. The unit can be used in a ground-based power take-off, which is connected to components of a carousel of the machine. In this case, the labeling is equipped with first elements that engage immediately upon insertion (coupling) of the labeling in associated second elements on the unit intake. These elements center the labeling unit relative to the aggregate receptacle and fix it in its position.

A disadvantage of this device is that the labeling unit must already be aligned relatively precisely when it is inserted into the unit receptacle so that the first elements can engage in the second elements. This means that when the module is approached to the unit mount, it must already be ensured that the first and second elements are aligned with one another. However, this means a considerable amount of time and manual effort for an operator and appropriate expertise and care. This is especially true for those in the FIGS. 6 and 7 of the closest prior art embodiment shown. In this, the second elements are designed in the form of Zentrierkegeln on a lifting device of the aggregate, which are positively inserted into correspondingly shaped conical seating surfaces. The smaller the conical seat surfaces are formed, the more accurate a positioning must be made before an intervention. However, a design of larger conical seat surfaces brings with it a greater clearance between the first and second elements, which leads to an inaccurate centering and fixing the position of the module assembly.

Another disadvantage of in EP 1 706 323 B9 described embodiment is that the first and second elements can jam each other in an inaccurate positioning or only partially engage with each other. This can lead to a misalignment of the modular unit with respect to the labeling machine and thus lead to faulty operation. This problem is more pronounced when the substrate over which the module assembly is approached is uneven or oblique. In practice, therefore, the first and / or second elements are provided with a movement play, so that the "threading" is facilitated each other. However, this suffers the accuracy of the positioning of the module assembly relative to the labeling machine.

Another prior art, in which also a relatively accurate positioning of a labeling in relation to a labeling machine must be made in order to enable a positive engagement of complementary components is from the EP 1 412 279 B1 and the EP 1 553 045 A1 known.

Furthermore, the describes WO 2013/131587 A1 a labeling machine with a plurality of receiving devices, which are each provided for receiving a module aggregate. When inserting the module assembly in the direction of the respective receiving device, the module assembly is aligned relative to the receiving device. Subsequently, components of the receiving device and the module assembly engage each other to lift the module unit sections.

The high manual and temporal effort for picking up and positioning a module assembly relative to a labeling machine of the prior art described above contradicts the desire to keep downtime as low as possible. In addition, in the brewing industry often untrained personnel is used, which is not designed to make an exact positioning of the module unit when approaching the labeling machine.

The invention is therefore based on the object to provide a receiving device and a corresponding module assembly, which are relatively easy to handle in practice and at the same time allow safe, error-free and accurate positioning of the module unit.

This object is achieved with a receiving device having the features of claim 1 and a module unit with the features of claim 18 and a method having the features of claim 32.

Preferred embodiments will be apparent from the dependent claims 2 to 16 and 19 to 31.

According to the invention, it is provided that a module unit can initially be roughly moved by a user into a receiving area of a receiving device according to the invention, wherein no positioning of the module unit relative to the labeling machine takes place. The moving in of the module assembly in the sufficiently large trained receiving area can be achieved, for example, by means attached to the module roles. Also in the subsequent insertion of the module assembly in the receiving device, i. When coupling the module unit and receiving device, the user does not have to take any special care, since here too no precise positioning of the module unit takes place. This allows a relatively simple insertion process, which can be performed relatively quickly by untrained personnel. During the entire engagement between complementary engagement and mating engagement elements of the receiving device and the module assembly, which is performed by means of a lifting device of the receiving device, while still no positioning takes place. Only when the module assembly and the receiving device are fully engaged, i. If the module unit is completely lifted from a ground and is carried with the entire weight of the receiving device, according to the invention aligning and positioning of the module assembly is carried out relative to the receiving device. During insertion, and also immediately after full engagement, before positioning is performed, the module assembly may be further shifted horizontally. The subsequent precise alignment and positioning can be realized according to the invention automatically upon further lifting of the module assembly. The automatic positioning does not require any manual activity of the user. The exact positioning is done automatically.

Thus, the manual effort can be kept relatively low with the present invention, resulting in a considerable time savings in introducing the module assembly into the receiving device. At the same time, the automatic positioning during lifting can guarantee precise alignment.

To achieve the object, the receiving device according to the invention at least one positioning element, after reaching a complete mutual engagement of the at least one engagement element of the at least one counter-engagement element during the subsequent lifting of the module assembly on the lifting device, the module assembly in the predetermined operating position relative to the labeling in the horizontal direction aligns.

Thus, the module assembly is only then aligned horizontally with respect to the labeling machine when the insertion process of the module assembly is completed in the receiving device. During the insertion or during the engagement of the at least one engagement element with the at least one complementary counter-engagement element, the module assembly is further horizontally movable. Only after the complete procedure, i. after the module assembly has been lifted from the ground, the at least one positioning member of the receiving device contacts at least one component of the module assembly to align the module. The timing for starting the alignment may be predetermined by the arrangement of the at least one positioning element.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the engagement element can have a continuous horizontally arranged holding shaft or at least two separate horizontally arranged holding shaft sections. The retaining shaft sections may preferably have a shaft flange at at least one end. Furthermore, instead of a round shaft, a prism bar with any desired cross-section can be provided as an engagement element.

Furthermore, the continuous holding shaft or the at least two separate holding shaft sections can be displaceably mounted along the shaft axis in the receiving device, preferably via bearing bushes. Alternatively, slidable bearing bushes can be provided on the continuous support shaft or on the at least two separate holding shaft sections. The bushings may preferably be in the form of plain bearing bushes, roller bearing bushes, ball bearing bushings or the like. The bushings are used for easier horizontal displacement of a modular unit, which is in engagement with the receiving device and is already raised from the ground. Through the shaft flanges, the bushings can be secured on the shaft.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the continuous support shaft, at least one of the support shaft sections or at least one of the bearing bushes can be spring-biased in an initial position. The advantage of spring biased aforementioned components is that the at least one engagement element is automatically aligned with respect to it prior to engagement with the at least one counter engaging element, thereby further simplifying insertion of the module assembly into the receiving device.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the engagement element may be designed in the form of a gripper with a gripping recess. Preferably, the gripping recess can be designed to be complementary to the counter-engagement element of the module assembly. The gripping recess may additionally have chamfers to facilitate insertion. Furthermore, the gripper or the gripping recess can be designed such that a counter-engagement element engaging therein can not slip out of the gripper when the module unit is lifted.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the at least one positioning element may be designed in the form of a positioning roller which is rotatably mounted on the receiving device. In this case, the positioning roller can be designed to cooperate with a provided on the module unit positioning surface and roll it off to align the module unit during lifting. In this case, the at least one positioning element may preferably be spaced apart from the labeling machine in the direction of the module assembly such that it interacts as closely as possible with the center of gravity of the module assembly with the positioning surface provided thereon. Such a selected point of the positioning roller on the module unit simplifies the horizontal displacement and avoids tilting moments when aligning the module unit.

The at least one positioning element may alternatively also be designed in the form of a sliding body which is attached to the receiving device. In this case, the slider can be designed to cooperate for aligning the module assembly during lifting with a provided on the module assembly positioning surface and slide along it.

According to a further embodiment, in a receiving region of the receiving device, in which the module unit is used, at least two opposing positioning, preferably two oppositely positioned positionally offset positioning pairs, may be provided. These can attack on both sides of the module aggregate to align it during lifting in the horizontal direction.

According to one embodiment of the invention may be provided on the receiving device at least one positioning, which is adapted to cooperate with at least one provided on the module unit positioning for aligning the module assembly during lifting. At least that too In this case, a positioning surface can be spaced apart from the labeling machine in the direction of the module assembly in such a way that it lies in a region near the center of the modular module. Preferably, the at least one positioning surface may have at least one surface portion which is inclined to the horizontal and the vertical plane. As long as this surface portion is in contact with a corresponding position element of the module assembly when lifting the module assembly, the module assembly can be moved horizontally for the purpose of alignment.

According to a development of the invention, at least one support element can be provided at a distance from the at least one engagement element below it, which is designed to support tilting forces or tilting moments with at least one complementary counter-support element on the module unit. By means of the at least one support element and the at least one complementary counter-support element, tilting of the module assembly about a longitudinal axis of the engagement element or of the counter-engagement element can thus be prevented.

In this case, the at least one support element having a rotatably mounted support roller or a sliding body, which are each formed for engagement with a corresponding Gegenabstützfläche on the module unit. As a result, the at least one support element can simultaneously support the horizontal displaceability of the module.

Furthermore, the at least one support element can be displaceably mounted on a guide rail of the receiving device via a carriage, wherein the guide rail can be firmly connected to the receiving device. In addition, the carriage can be mounted on the guide rail via a linear guide. Is supported by a complementary Gegenabstützelement the module assembly from the at least one connected to the carriage support, the linear guides can be optimally loaded, whereby a smooth running can be achieved. Thus, a horizontal moving and aligning the module aggregate can be positively supported.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the receiving device can be attached via a flange detachably on the periphery, for example, a stationary table top or other frame component, the labeling machine. The flange connection can act as an adapter, whereby the receiving device is flexibly attached to a periphery of various labeling machines.

The flange connection may be formed as a separate component of the receiving device or integrally with the receiving device. Furthermore, the flange connection can have at least one bore and / or threaded bore in order to be connected by means of screws, bolts or pins to the periphery of the labeling machine and / or the receiving device. In this case, associated threaded bores may be formed on the periphery of the labeling machine and / or a connecting portion of the receiving device.

Also, the flange connection and the receiving device can be brought into engagement with each other via at least one projection and at least one complementary recess.

One of the labeling machine in operation facing side surface of the flange connection may comprise a spring which is in a groove, for example in the outer peripheral surface of the table top, einbringbar. Further, the spring and the side surface comprising the spring may have a curved contour, which is adapted to the respective contour of the component of the periphery of the labeling machine to which the flange connection is to be attached.

The invention further relates to a module assembly comprising at least one positioning element, which after reaching a complete mutual engagement of the at least one engagement member and the at least one counter-engagement member during the subsequent lifting of the module assembly via the lifting device, the module assembly in the predetermined operating position relative to the labeling machine in horizontal Aligning direction.

As already explained above with respect to the receiving device, the module unit is not aligned until the at least one engagement element and the at least one counter-engagement element completely engage, ie when the module unit is completely raised from the ground. For this reason, no prior relatively precise alignment of the module assembly relative to the receiving device must be made to insert the module assembly. It should also be noted that even during the insertion of the module assembly into the receiving device, that is, when the engagement elements engage in the counter-engagement elements, no alignment is carried out in the horizontal direction. According to one embodiment of the invention, the counter-engagement element may have a continuous horizontally arranged holding shaft or at least two separate horizontally arranged holding shaft sections. The at least two retaining shaft sections can furthermore have a flange at at least one end. Alternatively, the counter-engagement element can also have a prismatic profile.

According to a further embodiment, the continuous holding shaft or the at least two separate shaft sections can be displaceably mounted along the shaft longitudinal axis in the module unit, preferably via bearing bushes. Alternatively, slidable bearing bushes can be provided on the continuous support shaft or on the at least two separate holding shaft sections along the shaft longitudinal axis. Further, the bushings in each of the above embodiments may be in the form of plain bearing bushings, rolling bearing bushes, ball bearing bushes or the like. The shaft flanges can secure the bearing bushes on the shaft or the shaft sections.

A horizontally displaceable mounting of the continuous support shaft or of the at least two separate holding shaft sections or the provision of displaceable bearing bushes on the continuous support shaft or on the at least two separate support shaft sections serves for the horizontal displaceability of the module assembly.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the continuous support shaft or at least one of the support shaft sections or at least one of the bearing bushes can be spring-biased to an initial position. As a result, the relative position of the respective component relative to the engagement element of the receiving device can already be roughly determined before intervention, without requiring manual operation to be carried out for this purpose. Accordingly, the module assembly can be roughly inserted by a user into the receiving area of the receiving device without performing an accurate manual alignment for insertion of the module assembly in the receiving device.

A development of the invention provides that the counter-engagement element may be formed on the module unit in the form of a gripper with a gripping recess. In this case, the gripping recess may preferably be designed to be complementary to the shape of the engagement element of the receptacle. Further, the gripping recess may be formed such that slipping out of a complementary Component is prevented from the gripping recess after lifting the module unit.

A development of the invention provides that the at least one positioning element can be designed in the form of a positioning roller, which is rotatably mounted on the module unit. In this case, the positioning roller can be designed to cooperate for aligning the module assembly during lifting with a provided on the receiving device positioning and unrolling at this. The at least one positioning element can preferably be arranged in a region near the center of gravity of the module assembly.

Furthermore, the at least one positioning element may be designed in the form of a sliding body which is attached to the module unit. In this case, the sliding body may be designed to cooperate for aligning the module assembly during lifting with a positioning surface provided on the receiving device and to slide along this.

A further embodiment of the invention provides that at least one positioning surface can be provided on the module unit, which is designed to cooperate with at least one positioning element provided on the receiving device for aligning the module assembly during lifting. The positioning surface may preferably have at least one plane inclined to the horizontal and vertical plane surface portion. This surface portion may be formed such that the module unit is moved horizontally when lifting, as long as the inclined surface portion cooperates with the at least one positioning of the receiving device.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, at least one Gegenabstützelement on the module unit is provided at a distance from the at least one counter-engagement element below the counter-engagement element, which is designed to support tilting forces or tilting moments with the at least one support element. Thus, tilting of the module assembly about the longitudinal axis of the engagement or counter engagement member upon lifting is prevented.

The at least one counter-supporting element can preferably have a rotatably mounted supporting roller or a sliding body, which are designed to engage a corresponding supporting surface on the receiving device. The at least one counter-support element can therefore tilt the module assembly counteract while allowing a horizontal displacement of the module unit for aligning.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the module unit in a region facing the labeling machine can have a lower height than in a region facing away from the labeling machine. As a result, in a state in which the module unit is not raised completely from the ground, the module unit can tilt along a longitudinal axis of the module unit relative to the ground.

If such an inclined modular unit is introduced into a receiving device according to the invention and lifted after complete engagement of the at least one counter-engagement element with the at least one engagement element from the ground, the inclination can be substantially compensated by the lifting. In other words, the longitudinal axis of the module assembly can be aligned by lifting the module assembly substantially parallel to the ground.

In this case, first wheels or similar Untergrundabstützelemente the module unit can be raised, which are arranged in the labeling of the machine-facing portion of the module unit, while wheels of the module unit, which are arranged in a remote from the labeling machine, continue to be in contact with the ground. As long as the wheels still touch the ground in the region of the module assembly facing away from the labeling machine, ie the module assembly has not yet been raised completely from the ground, the inclination during lifting can be reduced. Furthermore, the Gegenabstützelement the module assembly may not yet be in contact with the support member of the receiving device due to the inclination, as long as the module unit is not fully raised from the ground. Only when the module assembly is completely raised from the ground, the module unit against the ground no longer on inclination and is at least one Gegenabstützelement in contact with the at least one support element.

It is understood that the subject matter of the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. The described embodiments and features can be combined as desired by the person skilled in the art, without departing from the subject matter of the invention.

Figur 1

eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Aufnahmevorrichtung gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt,

Figur 2

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Modulaggregats gemäß der ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt,

Figur 3

eine perspektivische Darstellung der Aufnahmevorrichtung gemäß Figur 1 und des Modulaggregats gemäß Figur 2 zeigt, die miteinander in Eingriff stehen,

Figur 4

eine Detailansicht eines Bereichs aus Figur 3 zeigt, der eine Vergrößerung eines Eingriffselements und eines Gegeneingriffselements umfasst,

Figur 5

eine Teilschnittdarstellung der Detailansicht gemäß Figur 4 zeigt,

Figuren 6a, 6b, 6c

einen Vorgang des Ausrichtens des Modulaggregats der ersten Ausführungsform beim Anheben gemäß der Funktionsweise der Erfindung zeigt,

Figur 7

eine Draufsicht der miteinander in Verbindung stehenden Aufnahmevorrichtung und des Modulaggregats gemäß Figur 3 zeigt,

Figur 8

eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Aufnahmevorrichtung gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt,

Figur 9

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Modulaggregats gemäß der zweiten Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt,

Figur 10

eine perspektivische Darstellung der Aufnahmevorrichtung gemäß Figur 8 und des Modulaggregats gemäß Figur 9 zeigt, die miteinander in Verbindung stehen,

Figur 11

eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Aufnahmevorrichtung gemäß einer dritten Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt,

Figur 12

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Modulaggregats gemäß der dritten Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt,

Figur 13

eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Aufnahmevorrichtung gemäß einer vierten Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt,

Figur 14

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Modulaggregats gemäß einer vierten Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt,

Figur 15

eine Draufsicht auf das Modulaggregat gemäß Figur 14 zeigt,

Figur 16

eine Schnittdarstellung des Modulaggregats gemäß Figur 15 zeigt,

Figur 17

eine vergrößerte Teilschnittdarstellung eines Gegeneingriffselements des Modulaggregats gemäß Figur 16 zeigt,

Figur 18

eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Aufnahmevorrichtung gemäß einer fünften Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt,

Figur 19

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Modulaggregats gemäß einer fünften Ausführungsform zeigt,

Figur 20

in einer Seitenansicht eines Modulaggregats gemäß der dritten Ausführungsform und einer Aufnahmevorrichtung gemäß der dritten Ausführungsform, die Neigung des Modulaggregats zeigt,

Figuren 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d

einen Vorgang des Anhebens des geneigten Modulaggregats gemäß Fig. 20 zeigen,

Figur 22

eine Detailansicht eines Bereichs aus Figur 21b zeigt,

Figur 23

eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Flanschverbindung zwischen einer Aufnahmevorrichtung gemäß der dritten Ausführungsform und einer Tischplatte einer Etikettiermaschine zeigt, und

Figuren 24a und 24b

eine perspektivische Darstellung der Tischplatte der Etikettiermaschine sowie eine Detailansicht eines Ausschnitts davon zeigen.

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which

FIG. 1

shows a perspective view of a receiving device according to a first embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 2

shows a perspective view of a module assembly according to the first embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 3

a perspective view of the receiving device according to FIG. 1 and the module aggregate according to FIG. 2 shows that are engaged with each other,

FIG. 4

a detailed view of an area FIG. 3 shows, which comprises an enlargement of an engagement element and a counter-engagement element,

FIG. 5

a partial sectional view of the detail view according to FIG. 4 shows,

Figures 6a, 6b, 6c

shows a process of aligning the module assembly of the first embodiment during lifting according to the operation of the invention,

FIG. 7

a plan view of the interconnected receiving device and the module assembly according to FIG. 3 shows,

FIG. 8

shows a perspective view of a receiving device according to a second embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 9

shows a perspective view of a module assembly according to the second embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 10

a perspective view of the receiving device according to FIG. 8 and the module aggregate according to FIG. 9 shows that communicate with each other,

FIG. 11

shows a perspective view of a receiving device according to a third embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 12

shows a perspective view of a module assembly according to the third embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 13

shows a perspective view of a receiving device according to a fourth embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 14

shows a perspective view of a module assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 15

a plan view of the module unit according to FIG. 14 shows,

FIG. 16

a sectional view of the module assembly according to FIG. 15 shows,

FIG. 17

an enlarged partial sectional view of a counter-engagement element of the module assembly according to FIG. 16 shows,

FIG. 18

shows a perspective view of a receiving device according to a fifth embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 19

shows a perspective view of a module assembly according to a fifth embodiment,

FIG. 20

in a side view of a module assembly according to the third embodiment and a receiving device according to the third embodiment, the inclination of the module assembly shows

Figures 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d

a process of lifting the inclined module aggregate according to Fig. 20 demonstrate,

FIG. 22

a detailed view of an area FIG. 21b shows,

FIG. 23

shows a perspective view of a flange connection between a receiving device according to the third embodiment and a table top of a labeling machine, and

Figures 24a and 24b

a perspective view of the tabletop of the labeling and a detail view of a section thereof show.

For the sake of clarity, multiple components are usually only provided once with reference numbers in the figures for reasons of clarity.

An in FIG. 1 shown receiving device 10 comprises two vertical laterally arranged frame components 12 which are interconnected by a provided in the lower region of the receiving device 10 horizontal frame component 14. In this case, the horizontal frame component 14 is arranged on the side of the receiving device 10 facing a labeling machine (not shown). The horizontal frame component 14 has lateral end portions 16, which are each angled in the direction of the vertical frame components 12 and thus enclose them.

On a side facing away from the labeling machine, the receiving device 10 has a receiving area 17 into which a module unit (in FIG. 1 not shown) can be grossed in.

About a bottom plate 18 of the receiving device 10, a lifting device 20 of the receiving device 10 is arranged. The lifting device 20 is vertically displaceable by means of two lifting gears 22, which are connected to a drive shaft 24, wherein each lifting gear 22 is in the form of a Spindelhubgetriebes, each with a spindle shaft 26 is formed. In FIG. 1 only one of the two screw jack 22 with spindle shaft 26 is shown. The motor-driven lifting drive (not shown) lies outside the receiving device 10 and is only indicated by a lateral extension of the drive shaft 24.

The lifting device 20 comprises a lifting frame 28 with two vertically movable lifting struts 30, which are arranged on opposite sides left and right and connected by a horizontal Hubrahmenkomponente 32. In the upper region, the vertical lifting struts 30 each have an angular formation 34 for stabilizing the lifting device 20 or the lifting frame 28, the angular formation 34 each having an opening 36 for one of the spindle shafts 26. Furthermore, the lifting device 20 of the receiving device 10 comprises an engagement element 38. This extends in the first embodiment according to FIG. 1 in a horizontal position between the vertical lifting struts 30 and is each connected at one end fixed to one of the vertical lifting struts 30. The engagement member 38 is formed in the form of a continuous support shaft 38 having at both ends in each case a bearing bush 40 which is mounted horizontally displaceable on the support shaft 38. In addition, the support shaft 38 includes two shaft flanges 42 um limit the range of motion of the bushings 40 in the direction of the support shaft center point. Between a respective shaft flange 42 and one of the bearing bushes 40 and between the respective bearing bush 40 and the adjacent vertical lifting strut 30, a spring arrangement 44 is shown, which biases the respective bearing bush 40 horizontally into an initial position. Between the bearing bushing 40 and the support shaft 38, a ball bearing (not shown) is provided, that in each case allows a slight low-friction displacement of the bearing bush 40 on the support shaft 38.

The horizontal lifting frame component 32 comprises two surface sections 46 which are each angled along an edge K1 in the direction of the engagement element 38 and extend substantially parallel to the bottom plate 18. In this case, the surface portions 46 are formed such that one of the spindle shafts 26 is in each case guided through an opening in one of the surface portions 46. On a lower side (not shown) of the surface portions 46, a spindle bearing (not shown) is mounted in the region of the respective leadthrough of the spindle shafts 26. On the surface of each of a surface portion 46, a support member 48 is arranged, which comprises according to the first embodiment, a vertical cylindrical piece 50 with a support roller 52 mounted thereon.

The entire lifting device 20 of the receiving device 10 is (not shown) via the Spindelhubantrieb or the interaction of the spindle shafts 26 with the attached to the surface portions 46 spindle bearings vertically movable. For this purpose, in each case also a rail 54 is formed on the inner sides of the vertical frame components 12. Each guided on the rail complementary component (in FIG. 1 not shown) is formed on the respective outer side of the vertical Hubstreben 30. Due to the interaction of the guide rails 54 with the guided components of the lifting device 20, the lifting device 20 can only be moved in the vertical direction. Movements of the lifting device 20 in other directions are prevented by the rail guide, which increases the stability of the device.

The vertical frame components 12 have tab-shaped surface portions 56 on an opposite side of the labeling machine (not shown), which are angled along an edge K2 perpendicular to the side surface of the vertical frame component 12, so that they extend substantially parallel to the horizontal Hubrahmenkomponente 32. On these surface portions 56, a positioning member 58 is arranged in each case, according to the first embodiment a cylinder piece 60 having a roller 62 disposed thereon, the cylinder piece extending in a direction opposite to the labeling machine (not shown).

FIG. 2 shows a module assembly 80 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The module assembly 80 comprises a substantially cuboidal base body 82 which is slidably supported on a substrate by means of rollers 84 fastened on its underside. For better handling and displaceability of the module assembly 80 by an operator (not shown), a handle 86 is mounted on the back of the module unit 80, which projects beyond the module unit upwards. On the top of the module unit 80, an opening 88 is provided in the front half.

On the two side surfaces 90 of the module assembly 80, of which only one side surface in FIG. 2 is shown, in each case a positioning element 92 is mounted, which comprises a positioning surface 94 according to the first embodiment. The positioning elements 92 are connected, for example by means of a welding, riveting or screw connection with the respective side surface 90 of the module assembly 80. Here, the positioning elements 92 with the positioning surface 94 in the front region of the respective side surface 90, ie in an operating state of the labeling machine (not shown) facing region of the side surface 90 of the module assembly 80, respectively. In this case, the positioning elements 92 are located substantially at the level of the vertical center of the module assembly 80.

The positioning elements 92 show, in addition to the positioning surface 94, an upper surface 96 and a lower surface 98 via which the respective positioning element 92 is in contact or connected with the side surface 90 of the module assembly 80. The upper surface 96 and the lower surface 98 extend substantially parallel to a background (not shown) or parallel to the top and bottom of the module assembly 80 outwardly away. The positioning surface 94 connects each of the upper surface 96 with the lower surface 98 and is angled relative to these surfaces. In this case, each positioning surface 94 comprises a vertical surface portion 100 and a horizontal and vertical plane inclined surface portion 102. The inclination of the inclined surface portion 102 is defined by the length of the upper surface 96 and the length of the lower surface 98, the upper surface 96 a shorter As a result, the inclined surface section 102, which is located above the vertical surface section 100, is opposite to this in the direction of the main body 82 of the module assembly 80 angled. The inclined surface portion 102 is thus provided between the upper surface 96 and the vertical surface portion 100, while the vertical surface portion 100 is disposed between the lower surface 98 and the inclined surface portion 102.

In addition, the module unit 80 in FIG. 2 Counter-engagement elements 104, which are each connected to a side surface 90 of the main body 82. According to the first embodiment shown, the counter-engagement elements 104 in the form of grippers 104 are formed with gripping recesses 106. The gripping recesses 106 are also adjoined in each case by an oblique insertion surface 107. The grippers 104 and the gripping recesses 106 are open at the bottom. The counter-engagement elements 104 extend substantially parallel to each other and parallel to the side surfaces 90 of the module assembly 80 and project beyond it in the direction of the labeling machine (not shown). The grippers 104 are each connected via a surface piece 108 with one of the side surfaces 90 and spaced therefrom to the outside. The surface portion 108 extends substantially parallel to a front side 110 of the module assembly 80. The distance of the counter-engagement element 104 from the adjacent side surface 90 of the module assembly 80 is determined by the width of the surface portion 108. The sheet 108 is followed by another sheet (not shown, see, for example, FIG FIGS. 6a to 6c ), which is angled relative to the surface piece 108 and abuts in a region between the upper surface 96 and the lower surface 98 of the component 92 substantially on the respective side surface 90 of the module assembly 80. The grippers 104, each comprising a surface with the gripping recess 106, the surface piece 108 and the surface piece, not shown, are each formed in one piece and have substantially an S-shape viewed from above.

At the level of the counter-engagement elements 104, a recess 114 in the front 110 of the module unit 80 is provided. This recess 114 extends in the first embodiment over the entire width of the front side and comprises approximately a height which corresponds to the height of the positioning element 92.

In addition, the front side 110 has two counter-support elements 116 in the lower region, which are each arranged in a lateral region of the front side 110. The counter-supporting elements 116 according to the first embodiment comprise a circular support surface 118, which is formed substantially parallel to the front side 110 and is spaced from the front side by a distance component 120.

FIG. 3 shows the receiving device 10 according to the in FIG. 1 illustrated embodiment and the module assembly 80 according to the in FIG. 2 illustrated embodiment, which are engaged with each other. The module unit 80 is located in the receiving area 17 of the receiving device 10 and the engagement element 38 in the form of the continuous horizontal support shaft 38 is on the bearing bushes 40 arranged thereon with the counter-engagement elements 104 in the form of grippers 104 into engagement. Although the lifting device 20 is raised in the state shown so far from the ground that the engagement member 38 fully engages the counter-engagement elements 104, but not far enough that the positioning elements 58 of the receiving device 10 with the positioning elements 92 and the positioning surfaces 94 (in FIG. 3 not visible) of the module assembly 80 are in contact. That is, the module aggregate 80 in the in FIG. 3 shown position on the bushings 40 is still horizontally displaceable and thus in this state is not yet aligned relative to the labeling machine (not shown).

Out FIG. 3 It can also be seen that the recess 114 in the front 110 of the module assembly 80 according to the first embodiment is formed such that when the module assembly 80 is engaged with the receiving device 10, the engagement member 38 in the form of the continuous support shaft 38 in the area the recess 114 is located. In this case, the recess 114 has a depth and width which are sufficiently large that the engagement element 38 or the continuous support shaft 38 does not come into contact with the base body 82 of the module assembly 80. This applies both to the time when the module assembly 80 is moved up to the receiving device 10 without the engagement member 38 and the counter-engagement member 104 are engaged, as well as for the time when the engagement member 38 and the counter-engagement member 104 partially or fully engaged stand.

Further shows FIG. 3 how the counter-supporting element 116 is supported via the supporting surface 118 relative to the roller 52 of the supporting element 48 of the receiving device 10. The arrangement of the roller 52 and the support surface 118 of the Gegenabstützelements 116 at the same time prevents tilting of the module assembly 80 about a longitudinal axis of the engagement member and a light, low-friction horizontal displacement of the module unit 80 allows.

The in FIG. 3 the area marked E is in FIG. 4 shown enlarged. This area shows a section of the engagement element 38 and one of the counter-engagement elements 104 and grippers 104, which engage with each other. The engagement element 38 of the receiving device 10 engages over the bearing bush 40 in the gripping recess 106 of the counter-engagement element 104 of the module assembly 80 a. In this case, the engagement element 38 and the counter-engagement element 104 are in FIG. 4 state shown in complete engagement with each other. The recess 106 of the counter-engagement element 104 is congruent with the bearing bush 40, and therefore, in the state of complete engagement, no gap or gap is provided between the gripping recess 106 and the bearing bush 40.

In FIG. 4 In addition, the spring assembly 44 between the bearing bush 40 and the shaft flange 42 and between the bearing bush 40 and the vertical frame component 12 is shown clearly. The spring arrangement 44 determines the position of the bearing bush 40 relative to the counter-engagement element 104 of the module assembly, before the engagement element 38 engages in the counter-engagement element 104. At the same time, however, the spring assembly 44 does not interfere with the horizontal movement of the bushing 40 or module assembly 80 when the engagement member 38 engages the mating engagement member 104.

An enlarged partial sectional view of the in FIG. 3 marked area E is in FIG. 5 shown. In this illustration, in addition to the previously described components, a linear ball bearing 122 is shown, which is arranged between the continuous support shaft 38 and the bearing bush 40. The linear ball bearing 122 is attached via two retaining rings 124 in the bearing bush. The retaining rings 124 are each arranged at one end of the linear ball bearing 122.

In the sectional view of FIG. 5 Further, the positioning member 92 having the upper surface 96, the lower surface 98, and the vertical surface portion 100 is shown. The inclined surface portion 102 is hidden in this view.

Out FIG. 5 It can also be seen that the engagement element 38 in the in FIG. 3 shown state in complete engagement with the counter-engagement element 104, but without the module unit is so far raised from the ground that the positioning member 58 of the receiving device 10 is in contact with the positioning surface 94 and the inclined surface portion 102 or the vertical surface portion 100.

The module unit 80 described above can be received by the receiving device 10. For this purpose, the module assembly 80 is roughly moved into the receiving area 17 of the receiving device 10. An exact positioning is not required. Subsequently, the lifting device 20 is moved vertically upwards, whereby the engagement element 38 engages with the counter-engagement element 104. About the oblique insertion surfaces 107, the module assembly 80 is first pushed away from the labeling machine (not shown) or the receiving device 10. However, an alternative embodiment of the insertion surfaces 107 is possible, by which the module unit 80 is first used in the direction of the labeling machine to the receiving device 10. After pushing away or pulling the module unit 80 is lifted by means of the lifting device 20 of the receiving device 10 from the ground. In this case, the module assembly 80 during the engagement of the engagement element 38 in the counter-engagement element 104 and also immediately after a complete intervention further horizontally displaceable. This applies until the positioning elements 58 of the receiving device 10 come into contact with the complementary positioning elements 92 or positioning surfaces 94 of the module assembly 80. As a result of the interaction of one of the positioning elements 58 with the corresponding inclined surface section 102, the module assembly 80 is optionally displaced horizontally during lifting and aligned horizontally relative to the labeling machine. This will be discussed in detail below.

Once the positioning elements 58 are then in contact with the vertical surface portions 100, the module assembly 80 is completely aligned horizontally and fixed in its horizontal position. From this point on, only a vertical displacement of the module assembly 80 by a further raising or lowering of the lifting device 20 is possible, as long as the positioning elements 58 are in contact with the vertical surface portions 100 of the positioning elements 92.

The described functions of the individual components and the interaction of a module assembly with a receiving device according to the invention also applies to the other embodiments of the invention, which in the FIGS. 8 to 17 are shown.

Figures 6a, 6b and 6c show the process of aligning the module assembly 80 according to the in FIG. 1 shown embodiment when lifting the module assembly 80 (see vertical arrow PV). The FIGS. 6a to 6c each show a sectional view of the receiving device 10 according to the in FIG. 1 shown embodiment and the module assembly 80 according to the in FIG. 2 shown embodiment, which engage with each other, wherein of the receiving device 10, only the two positioning elements 58 and some frame components are shown.

FIG. 6a shows the in FIG. 3 illustrated state, after which the module unit 80 is already received by the receiving device 10. In this condition, the engagement member (not shown) is fully engaged with the mating engagement member (not shown). The rollers 84 of the module assembly 80 no longer touch the ground in this state, which means that the module unit 80 is already raised. However, the positioning elements 58 are still at least partially above the positioning element 92 and the positioning surface 94. Thus, the module assembly 80 is further horizontally displaceable in this state and the automatic alignment of the module assembly relative to the labeling has not yet begun in this state.

FIG. 6b FIG. 12 shows another state of the module assembly 80 during horizontal alignment relative to the labeling machine at a time later than the time of the state FIG. 6a , In this state, the module assembly 80 is already raised further from the ground, so that the positioning surface 94 in the region of the inclined surface portion 102 on one side of the module assembly 80 (here on the real side) is in contact with the corresponding positioning member 58 of the receiving device 10.

FIG. 6b also shows that the module unit 80 is opposite to the state in FIG. 6a is offset horizontally (see horizontal arrow PH). This offset may be due to a horizontal displacement of the module assembly 80 during lifting, for example due to an uneven ground. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the module assembly 80 already in the introduction of the module assembly 80 in the receiving area 17 of the receiving device 10 in FIG. 6b shown position (unlike in FIG. 6a shown).

Upon further lifting of the module assembly 80, the inclined surface portion 102 contacting the positionally fixed positioning member 58 cooperates with the roller 62 of the corresponding positioning member 58. Due to the inclination of the inclined surface portion 102 and the further vertical lifting of the module assembly 80, the horizontally displaceable module unit 80 is displaced horizontally in the direction of the non-contacting positioning element 58. This creates an automatic horizontal alignment and positioning relative to the labeling (horizontal arrow PH).

FIG. 6c shows a further state of the module unit 80 during lifting, the time after the in FIG. 6b shown state is. The module assembly 80 is in the in FIG. 6c shown state again raised from the ground. In the state shown, the positioning elements 58 on both sides of the module assembly 80 with the respective positioning surface 94 and their vertical surface portions 100 in contact. In this state, the module unit 80 is completely fixed in its horizontal position and thus aligned horizontally relative to the labeling.

FIG. 6c shows that the distance between the positioning elements 58 of the receiving device 10 substantially corresponds to the distance between the vertical surface portions 100 of the module assembly 80. As a result, in this state, in which the positioning elements 58 on both sides of the module assembly 80 are in contact with the vertical surface portions 100, no horizontal displacement of the module assembly 80 is possible. Although in this state, a further vertical movement of the module assembly 80 is possible, but without changing its horizontal position. As soon as the vertical position of the module assembly 80 is determined in this state, this is completely aligned with respect to the labeling and accurately positioned.

This shows in the Figures 6a, 6b and 6c illustrated process that for the horizontal alignment and positioning of the module unit 80 relative to the labeling machine no manual intervention is required. By virtue of the positioning members 58 integral with the pickup 10, which are fixed in position, and the co-operating inclined and vertical surface portions 100 and 102, the horizontal alignment and positioning relative to the labeling machine is carried out completely automatically.

FIG. 7 shows a plan view of the in FIG. 3 shown receiving device 10 and the module assembly 80, which are engaged with each other. In addition to the components of the receiving device 10 and the module assembly 80 already shown in the preceding figures, the components 126 guided on the rails 54 are shown here. The guided components 126 are designed such that they undercut the respective rail 54. Since the guided components 126 are firmly connected to the lifting device 20 of the receiving device 10 or to the vertical lifting struts 30, thus only a vertical movement of the lifting device 20 is allowed.

FIG. 7 also shows that the distance between the positioning elements 58 and the rollers 62 of the positioning elements 58 substantially corresponds to the distance between the vertical surface portions 100 of the positioning surfaces 94 of the module assembly 80. Accordingly, the horizontal position of the module assembly is completely fixed relative to the labeling machine as soon as the positioning elements 58 are in contact with the vertical surface portions 100 of the module assembly 80 on both sides.

In the other embodiments of the invention described below, the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment described above are used for the same or equivalent components, but the reference numerals are provided with a trailing letter for each embodiment. The components, which are not described again in the other embodiments, are similar in their design and function to the corresponding components of the first embodiment of the receiving device and the module assembly according to the FIGS. 1 to 7 ,

Since the construction of in FIG. 8 shown receiving apparatus 10a according to a second embodiment, the structure of the receiving device according to the above first embodiment is similar, will be discussed here only on the differences between the two embodiments.

In contrast to the receiving device 10 according to the first embodiment, the receiving device 10a according to the second embodiment in FIG FIG. 8 a provided on the lifting device 20a engaging element 38a in the form of two separate holding shaft sections 38a. A holding shaft section 38a is in each case arranged on one side of the lifting device 20a and firmly connected to the respective adjacent vertical lifting strut 30a. The two holding shaft sections 38a extend in each case starting from the adjacent vertical lifting strut 30a in the direction of the receiving region 17a of the receiving device 10a. In this case, the two holding shaft sections 38a are each formed substantially parallel to the bottom plate 18a.

According to the first embodiment, the shaft portions 38a of the second embodiment also have a shaft flange 42a, respectively. The shaft flange 42a is in each case placed on the end of the respective holding shaft section 38a facing away from the vertical lifting frame component 30a and thus closes off the respective holding shaft section 38a. The support shaft portions 38a extend thus each between one of the vertical lifting strut 30a and a shaft flange 42a. According to the first embodiment, the support shaft portions 38a of the second embodiment are each provided with a bushing 40a horizontally slidable on the respective support shaft portion 38a and spring-biased by a spring assembly 44a between the adjacent vertical lift frame component 30a and the adjacent shaft flange 42a.

FIG. 9 shows a module assembly 80a according to a second embodiment, the structure of which is similar to the structure of the module assembly 80 according to the first embodiment, which is why in the following only the differences between the two embodiments will be discussed.

This in FIG. 9 shown module assembly 80a has at its side surfaces 90a in the front, the labeling machine facing region each have a recess 114a, which is respectively disposed at the level of the positioning elements 92a and the positioning surfaces 94a and the counter-engagement element 104a. The lateral recesses 126a each extend from the front side 110a of the module assembly 80a to the adjacent positioning member 92a. The height of the recesses 114a corresponds in each case approximately to the height of the component 92a, wherein the height decreases slightly, starting from the front side 110a in the direction of the component 92a. The depth of the recesses 114a in the direction of the Modulaggregatmitte is in each case to the length of the complementary engagement elements 38a of the receiving device 10a according to FIG. 8 customized.

FIG. 10 shows the receiving device 10a according to the in FIG. 8 shown second embodiment and the module assembly 80a according to the in FIG. 9 shown second embodiment, which are engaged with each other. It shows FIG. 10 the same condition as FIG. 3 in that the engagement member 38a fully engages the mating engagement member 104a, but the module assembly 80a is not yet raised enough from the ground that the positioning members 58a are in contact with the positioning surface 94a of the module assembly 80a. Thus, the module unit 80a is still horizontally displaceable in this state.

In FIG. 10 In addition, it is shown how the retaining shaft sections 38a extend into the respective lateral recess 114a upon complete engagement of the engagement elements 38a and counter engagement elements 104a. It can also be seen from this illustration that the height of the lateral recesses 114a is large enough It must be understood that the retaining shaft sections 38a can already extend without contact into the lateral recesses 114a when the module assembly 80a approaches the receiving device 10a.

FIG. 11 shows a receiving device 10b according to a third embodiment of the invention. The receiving device 10b likewise comprises two laterally arranged vertical frame components 12b, which are respectively supported by two feet 130b with respect to the ground. For example, to increase the stability of the receiving device 10b, these feet 130b may also be firmly screwed to the substrate.

Unlike in the previous embodiments, the frame components 12b each have a rail 54b in an area facing the labeling machine (not shown). Two guided components 126b of a lifting device 20b, which are connected to the respective rail 54b in such a way that they can only be displaced in the vertical direction on the rails 54b, are provided on the rails. Thus, the lifting device 20b according to this third embodiment, some alternative embodiments of the first two embodiments.

The lifting device 20b comprises a horizontally arranged lifting frame component 30b which engages with the rails 54b via the guided components 126b. The lift frame component 30b is thus disposed adjacent to the vertical frame components 12b substantially between them and the labeling machine (not shown). The lift frame component 30b each includes two guided components 126b at the left and right ends of a surface facing the vertical frame components 12b. Accordingly, the lifting frame component 30b extends in a horizontal manner over a length which substantially corresponds to the distance between the two vertical frame components 12b of the receiving device 10b.

The lifting device 20b is vertically movable by means of a lifting drive, wherein the lifting drive or the components of the lifting drive in FIG. 11 are not shown. However, the illustration shows two vertical profiles 132b which are mounted on a surface of the lifting frame component 30b facing away from the labeling machine. For example, these vertical profiles 132 may include spindle bearings (not shown) which may cooperate with a spindle drive (not shown). In addition, the vertical profiles 132 act in sections as a support element for cooperation with complementary Gegenabstützelementen a module aggregate.

On the surface of the lifting frame component 30b facing away from the labeling machine, two engagement elements 38b are additionally arranged in the form of grippers. The engagement members 38b are fixedly connected to the lift frame component 30b by a welded joint, for example, and extend substantially parallel to the side frame components 12b and are spaced from each other. The grippers 38b each have a gripping recess 134b and an insertion surface 136b. The grippers 38b correspond in this embodiment in their embodiment substantially in FIG. 2 shown grippers 104 of the module assembly 80, however, the grippers 38b on an upward opening.

At a side facing away from the labeling of the end of the side frame components 12b, ie in the receiving area 17b of the receiving device 10b, in each case a holding device 138b is mounted in a lower region of the two frame component 12b with an insertion roller 140b mounted therein. In this case, the insertion rollers 140b are each arranged substantially parallel to the substrate. When introducing the module unit 80b into the receiving area 17b of the receiving device 10b, the introduction rollers 104b interact with the side surfaces 90b of the module unit 80b.

Furthermore, the lateral frame components 12b each comprise two positioning elements 58b, which according to the third embodiment are designed in the form of a positioning element pair. A positioning element 58b in each case consists of a positioning roller 142b, which is respectively mounted in a holding device 144b and fixedly connected thereto by the respective frame component 12b. In this case, the positioning roller 142b is arranged in each case substantially parallel to the lifting frame component 30b. The two positioning elements 58b of a positioning element pair are spaced apart horizontally and vertically.

FIG. 12 shows a module assembly 80b, which comprises a base body 82b, which is supported on rollers 84b on the ground and moved. On a front side 110b facing the labeling machine in the operating state, the main body 82b has two narrow trapezoidal bodies 150b, which extend the main body 82b via the front side 110b. In each case, a trapezoidal body 150b is arranged in the left and right edge region of the front side 110b, so that the respective outer sides of the trapezoidal body follow the respectively adjacent side surface 90b of the main body 82b extend the front. Thus, the trapezoidal bodies 150b are substantially parallel to each other and spaced from each other. The trapezoidal bodies 150b terminate upwardly with the upper surface of the main body 82b, but are shorter in a vertical extent than the main body 82b. The end faces 152b of the two trapezoidal bodies 150b are formed substantially parallel to the front side 110b of the module assembly 80b. The width of the trapezoidal bodies 150b slightly decreases with the distance from the front side 110b.

The end faces 152b of the trapezoidal bodies 150b each have, in a lower region, a counter-support element 116b in the form of a circular surface.

Between the trapezoidal bodies 150b extends a counter-engagement element 104b in the form of a horizontally arranged continuous support shaft. The continuous support shaft is formed substantially parallel to the ground or to the top and bottom of the main body 82b. Furthermore, the continuous support shaft is arranged approximately in the middle of the inner side surfaces 154b of the two trapezoidal bodies 150b. The counter-engagement element 104b in the form of the continuous support shaft extends over the entire width of the module assembly 80b, so that the two ends of the support shaft 104b are each mounted in one of the trapezoidal bodies 150b. For this purpose, the two trapezoidal bodies 150b each have a corresponding opening 156b.

The bearing of the support shaft 104b is realized via bearing bushes 40b which are arranged between the ends of the support shaft 104b and the respective trapezoid body 150b on the shaft. In this case, the bearing bushes 40b are fixedly connected to the associated trapezoidal body 150b (not shown) and supported by a ball bearing (not shown) on the support shaft, so that the support shaft 104b is horizontally displaceable. The range of horizontal displaceability of the support shaft 104b can also be determined, for example, by securing elements or shaft flanges (not shown).

In addition, the module assembly 80b comprises on its side surfaces 90b a positioning element 92b with a positioning surface 94b, the positioning surface 94b each comprising two adjoining vertical surface sections 100b and two inclined surface sections 102b. The vertical surface portions 100b extend substantially parallel to the respective side surface 90b and are spaced therefrom and connected thereto via the inclined surface portions 102b, respectively. Unlike in the first and second embodiments, the inclined surface portions 102b in this embodiment directly connected to the associated side surface 90b. Further, in this embodiment, the vertical surface portion 100b closer to the front side 100b has a greater height than the more distant vertical surface portion 100b.

FIG. 13 shows a receiving device 10c according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. The receiving device 10c essentially corresponds to the receiving device 10b according to FIG FIG. 11 , The only difference between these two embodiments is that the lifting device 20c, in particular the horizontal lifting frame component 30c, is formed in two parts, ie separated from one another. Thus, the lifting device 20c has a gap 158c extending between the two engaging elements 38c.

FIG. 14 shows a module assembly 80c according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. The module unit 80c substantially corresponds to the one in FIG FIG. 12 shown module assembly 80b according to the third embodiment of the invention. However, module assembly 80c, unlike module assembly 80b, does not have a counter-engagement element in the form of a continuous support shaft, but instead comprises two counter-engagement elements 104c, which are each in the form of a support shaft section.

The holding shaft sections 104c each extend from an inner side surface 154c of the trapezoidal bodies 150c in the direction of the respectively opposite inner side surface 154c. In this case, the holding shaft sections 104c are each formed substantially parallel to the ground.

According to this fourth embodiment, the support shaft portions 104c of the mating engagement member 104c are not supported in the trapezoidal bodies 150c, but are fixedly connected to the respective side surface 154c by a shaft flange 42c on one side. At the end facing away from the respective side surface 154c, the holding shaft sections 104c are each firmly connected to a holding component 160c. The holding components 160c each extend substantially parallel to the inner side surface 154c and are fixedly connected to the front side 110c of the main body 82c of the module assembly 80c.

Furthermore, in each case a bearing bush 40c is provided on the two holding shaft sections 104c and can be displaced horizontally on the respective holding shaft section 104c is arranged. In addition, between the bearing bushes 40c and the respective inner side surface 154c or the respective holding component 160c, a spring arrangement 44c is provided, which biases the bearing bush 40c.

According to this embodiment, the vertical surface portion 100b closer to the front side 100b has a lower height than the more distant vertical surface portion 100b.

FIG. 15 shows a plan view of the module assembly 80c according to the in FIG. 14 illustrated embodiment. In this illustration, of the two positioning surfaces 94c, only the inclined surface portions 102c are visible on both sides of the module assembly 80c. In addition, in this illustration, the spring assembly 44c and the bearing bushes 40c, which are arranged on the support shaft sections, better visible.

FIG. 16 shows a section AA of in FIG. 15 module unit 80c shown. The illustration indicates a region B, in which the bearing of the bearing bushes 40c is shown in more detail on the support shaft sections.

Area B is also in FIG. 17 shown enlarged and shows in detail how the bushings 40 c are mounted horizontally displaceable on the support shaft sections. For horizontal displaceability, a ball bearing 122c is arranged between the bearing bush 40c and the holding shaft section. Further, the bearing bush 40c has side openings 162c in which springs of the spring assembly 44c engage and thereby the bearing bush 40c is biased relative to the support component 160c and a shaft flange 42c. In this case, the shaft flange 42c is formed on an end of the holding shaft section opposite the holding component 160c. About this shaft flange 42c, the support shaft sections can be connected via a weld, screw or other connection firmly with the adjacent trapezoidal body 150c.

FIG. 18 shows a receiving device 10d according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. Since the construction of in FIG. 18 Shown recording device 10d is similar to the structure of the receiving device 10b according to the third embodiment, will be discussed only differences between these two embodiments.

In contrast to the receiving device 10b according to the third embodiment, the receiving device 10d according to the fifth embodiment shows a guide rail 164d provided on the receiving device 10d. The guide rail 164d is disposed below the engagement members 38d on the horizontal lift frame component 30d. In this case, the guide rail 164d extends substantially parallel to the ground.

On the guide rail 164d two slidably mounted carriage 166d are arranged. The carriage 166d are each connected via linear guides with the guide rail 164d. Since linear guides require a certain amount of load to ensure easy running, the carriages 166d may be fixed in an unloaded state in their relative position on the guide rail 164d or biased to an initial position. The carriages 166d are spaced from each other in the embodiment shown and arranged with respect to counter-supporting elements of a corresponding modular unit.

In order to cooperate with counter-supporting elements of a corresponding modular unit, the carriages 166d each have a supporting element 48d in the form of a plate. Since the support members 48d according to the fifth embodiment are formed in the manner described, in the illustrated embodiment, vertical profiles 132b, 132c (see FIG Figures 11 and 13 ), which can act in sections as support elements omitted.

FIG. 19 shows a module assembly 80d according to a fifth embodiment. Since the module unit 80d according to the fifth embodiment is substantially similar to the module unit 80b according to the third embodiment, only differences between the two embodiments will be discussed below.

The module assembly 80d according to the fifth embodiment includes a rail 168d. The rail 168d is fixedly connected at each end in a lower region of a front side 152d of the trapezoidal body 150d of the module assembly 80d with the module assembly 80d. In this case, the rail 168d extends substantially parallel to the front side 110d of the module assembly 80d. The rail 168d is connected substantially in the regions of the end faces 152d of the trapezoidal bodies 150d to the module assembly 80d, in which the module assembly 80b according to the third embodiment (FIG. FIG. 12 ) each having a Gegenabstützelement 116b.

In contrast to the module assembly 80b according to the third embodiment, the module assembly 80d according to the fifth embodiment has no counter-supporting elements on the end faces 152d of the trapezoidal bodies 150d. The counter-supporting elements 116d are in the in FIG. 19 embodiment shown in the form of bolts 170d on the rail 168d. The Gegenabstützelemente 116d are spaced from each other and extend beyond the rail 168d and thus the module assembly 80d in the direction of the labeling machine (not shown). The end faces of the bolts 170d in the direction of the labeling machine each form a support surface 118d. However, instead of forming the counter-supporting elements 116d in the form of bolts 170d, it is also possible to form a plate, surface or the like on the rail 168d.

If the counter-engagement element 104d of the module assembly 80d is brought into engagement with the engagement element 38d of the receiving device 10d, the counter-support elements 116d of the module assembly 80d can interact with the support elements 48d of the receiving device 10d during the lifting of the module assembly 80d. The linear guides of the carriages 166d mounted on the guide rail 164d are loaded thereby, whereby a slight displacement of the carriages 166d on the guide rail 164d is made possible. As a result, the horizontal alignment of the module assembly 80d during the further lifting of the module assembly 80d by means of the receiving device 10d is positively supported.

FIG. 20 shows the receiving device 10b according to the third embodiment and a module assembly 80e according to a sixth embodiment in a side view. In the side view shown, the inclination of the module assembly 80e along the longitudinal axis of the module assembly 80e by the angle X can be seen. It should be noted that the inclination of the module assembly and the resulting consequences and features in the FIGS. 20 to 22 by way of example on the module assembly 80e according to the sixth embodiment in cooperation with the receiving device 10b according to the third embodiment. However, the module assemblies 80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d of the previously described embodiments may also be formed with a corresponding inclination.

The inclination of the module assembly 80e results from the height difference or the levels of storage between an area of the module assembly 80e facing the labeling machine and an area of the module assembly 80e facing away from the labeling machine. This difference in height leads to the inclination angle X, wherein the region of the module assembly 80e facing away from the labeling machine is higher than the labeling of the machine facing away from the module unit 80e.

The module unit 80e has two rollers 80e, both in the region facing the labeling machine and in the region facing away from the labeling machine, via which the module assembly 80e is supported relative to the substrate. FIG. 20 shows the module assembly 80e in a state in which all rollers 84e are in contact with the ground. Further, the module aggregate 80e is in FIG. 20 spaced from the receiving device 10b and thus is not yet engaged with the receiving device 10b.

The FIGS. 21a, 21b . 21c and 21d show in a sectional side view the process of lifting the module assembly 80e by the receiving device 10b (see vertical arrow PV). The illustrated process particularly shows the effects of lifting the module assembly 80e with respect to the described inclination of the module assembly 80e. The in the FIGS. 6a to 6c The process of horizontal alignment when lifting is shown in FIG FIGS. 21a to 21d not apparent. However, also when lifting the module assembly 80e according to the FIGS. 21a to 21d a horizontal alignment of the module assembly 80e according to the in the FIGS. 6a to 6c process shown instead.

FIG. 21a shows the module assembly 80e, which is introduced into the receiving area 17b of the receiving device 10b. The engagement element 38b and the counter-engagement element 104e do not engage in one another in the state shown. The rollers 84e of the module assembly 80e touch in this state still completely the ground. The module unit 80e is not yet lifted from the ground and is therefore still in the FIG. 20 already explained angle X inclined.

FIG. 21b FIG. 12 shows another state of the module aggregate 80e during the lifting of the module 80e at a time later than the time of the state FIG. 21a , In this state, the engagement member 38b and the counter engagement member 104e are fully engaged with each other. However, in the state shown, no lifting of the module assembly 80e from the ground has yet taken place. All rollers 84e of the module assembly 80e continue to completely contact the ground, which is why the module assembly 80e is further inclined by the angle X in this state.

From the illustration shown, it is also apparent that the counter-support element 116e is not yet in contact with the receiving device 10b or a component 132b of the receiving device 10b in this state. The counter-support member 116e is still spaced from the receiver 10b due to the inclination of the module assembly 80e despite the full engagement of the engagement member 38b and the counter-engagement member 104e. An interaction of the Gegenabstützelements 116e with a component 132b of the receiving device 10b therefore does not take place in this state.

A detailed view of the non-contacting with the receiving device 10b Gegenabstützelements 116e at the time of the state of FIG. 21b is in FIG. 22 shown enlarged. FIG. 22 shows the resulting from the inclination distance Y of the Gegenabstützelements 116 e of the component 132 b receiving device 10 b.

FIG. 21c shows a further state of the module unit 80e when lifting, the time after the in FIG. 21b shown state is. In this state, the module unit 80e is already partially raised from the ground. The rollers 84e in the area facing the labeling machine are raised from the ground by a distance Z, while the rollers 84e continue to completely contact the ground in the region facing away from the labeling machine. The distance Z compensates in this state substantially the angle X, whereby the inclination is substantially balanced in the representation shown. The longitudinal axis of the module assembly 80e is substantially parallel to the ground.

By compensating the inclination is also achieved that the Gegenabstützelement 116e is supported in this state relative to the receiving device 10b and a component 132b of the receiving device 10b. Accordingly, the shrinking in FIG. 22 shown distance Y in this state to zero. As a result of the interaction of the counter support element 116e with the component 132b of the receiving device 10b, upon further lifting, tilting of the module assembly 80e and thus tilting of the module assembly 80e in a direction opposite to the previous inclinations is prevented. Thus, the module aggregate 80e remains substantially parallel to the ground during further lifting.

Figure 21d shows a further state of the module unit 80e when lifting, the time after the in FIG. 21c shown state is. The module unit 80e is raised completely from the ground in the state shown. None of the rollers 84e touches the ground in this state. The module unit 80e points in Furthermore, this state has no inclination along the longitudinal axis of the module assembly 80e. The lateral (horizontal) alignment along the direction of the support shaft 104d is as described above.

This shows the FIGS. 21a, 21b . 21c and 21d in that the inclination of the module assembly 80e when lifting by the receiving device 10b is compensated for without requiring manual intervention.

FIG. 23 shows a flange 200 between a receiving device 10 b and a table top 300 of a labeling machine (not shown), wherein the table top 300 is shown only in fragmentary form. In FIG. 23 For example, the receiving device 10b according to the third embodiment is shown. However, it is understood that the flange connection 200 can also be used with the receiving devices of the further embodiments and, alternatively, can also be attached to the periphery of the labeling machine via a component other than the tabletop 300.

The flange connection 200 shown is formed as a separate plate-shaped component separated from the receiving device 10 b and the table top 300. The flange connection has on a side surface 202 facing the table top 300 in operation a curved contour on which a spring 204 is formed. The curve shape and the spring 204 of the contour are adapted to an associated portion of an outer peripheral surface 302 of the table top 300, which is provided with a corresponding groove 304 to allow a precise and firm connection between the connecting flange 200 and the table top 300. Already by the introduction of the spring portion 204 in a portion of the groove 304, the flange 200 is fixed relative to the table top 300 vertically. The fixed connection is realized in the embodiment shown by means of a screw connection. For this purpose, the flange connection 200 comprises three horizontal bores 206, which are in each case aligned coaxially with corresponding threaded bores 306 in the groove 304 of the table top 300. In FIG. 23 For example, a screw 208 of this screw connection is shown, which is screwed through one of the bores 206 into one of the threaded bores 306.

For connecting the flange connection 200 to the receiving device 10b, two vertical bores 210 are formed in the flange connection 200, which each extend coaxially to an associated bore 188b at a connecting section 190b of the receiving device 10b during operation. In these associated holes 188b, 210 is in each case a pin 212 can be introduced (in FIG. 23 only one pin is shown by way of example) in order to fix the receiving device 10b at least in the radial and tangential direction relative to the table top 300.

Furthermore, on the planar connecting portion 190b of the receiving device 10b, two recesses 192b are formed, which are each engageable with a projection (not shown) provided on a planar underside of the flange connection, which is indicated by the dashed line in FIG FIG. 23 is indicated. By this engagement, the planar underside of the flange joint 200 can be brought into abutting engagement with the connecting portion 190b of the receiving device 10b, whereby corresponding bores 210, 188b of the flange connection 200 and the receiving device 10b are aligned coaxially with each other, which assists easy and quick assembly.

It is understood that the number of holes in the flange joint 200, the connecting portion 190b of the receiving device 10b and the table top 300 may also differ from the respective number mentioned above.

FIG. 24a shows the circular table top 300 of the labeling machine, which has a central recess 308 for a drive shaft (not shown) of a carousel of the labeling machine. On the outer peripheral surface 302 of the table top 300, in turn, the plurality of spaced-apart threaded bores 306 can be seen. About these threaded holes 306 receiving devices for modular units at the periphery of the labeling machine can be attached at any position.

A detail view of the detail F of the table top 300 is in FIG. 24b shown enlarged. It is shown that the threaded holes 306 are formed in the groove 304, which extends along the outer peripheral surface 302 of the table top. The groove 304 extends radially inwardly from the outer peripheral surface 302 with respect to the rotational axis of the table top 300, with a region of the outer peripheral surface 302 being formed above and below the groove 304.

Claims (15)

A picking device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) for a labeling machine for picking up and positioning a module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) in a predetermined operative position relative to the labeling machine, the picking device (10, 10a , 10b, 10c, 10d) is attachable to a periphery of the labeling machine, wherein the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) - At least one engagement element (38, 38 a, 38 b, 38 c, 38 d) with at least one complementary mating engagement element (104, 104 a, 104 b, 104 c, 104 d, 104 e) on the module assembly (80, 80 a, 80 b, 80 c, 80 d, 80 e ) is engageable, and - A lifting device (20, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) with the module unit (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) upon mutual engagement of the at least one engagement element (38, 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) and the at least one counter-engagement element (104, 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e) can be lifted from a substrate into the predetermined operating position, characterized in that the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) has at least one positioning element (58, 58a, 58b, 58c, 58d) which after reaching a complete mutual engagement of the at least one engagement element (38, 38a, 38b , 38c, 38d) and the at least one counter-engagement element (104, 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e) during the subsequent lifting of the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) via the lifting device (20, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) aligns the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) in the predetermined operating position relative to the labeling machine in the horizontal direction. Receiving device (10, 10a) according to claim 1,
characterized in that the engagement element (38, 38a) has a continuous horizontally disposed support shaft (38) or at least two separate horizontally disposed support shaft sections (38a),
wherein, in particular, the continuous support shaft or the at least two separate support shaft sections along the shaft longitudinal axis in the receiving device, preferably via bearing bushes, slidably mounted or alternatively on the continuous support shaft (38) or on the at least two separate support shaft sections (38a) along the shaft longitudinal axis displaceable Bushings (40, 40a) are provided,
wherein the bearing bushes (40, 40a) are optionally in the form of plain bearing bushes, roller bearing bushings or ball bearing bushes and / or the continuous support shaft (38) or at least one of the support shaft sections (38a) or at least one of the bearing bushes (40, 40a) optionally in an initial position spring-biased. Receiving device (10b, 10c, 10d) according to claim 1,
characterized in that the engagement element (38b, 38c, 38d) in the form of a gripper (38b, 38c, 38d) with a gripping recess (134b, 134c, 134d) is formed. Receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the at least one positioning element (58, 58a, 58b, 58c, 58d) is in the form of a positioning roller (62, 62a, 144b, 144c, 144d) rotatably mounted on the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c , 10d), wherein the positioning roller (62, 62a, 144b, 144c, 144d) is adapted to align the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) with one on the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e). 80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) cooperate and roll off at this positioning surface (94, 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d, 94e),
and / or that the at least one positioning element (58, 58a, 58b, 58c, 58d) is in the form of a sliding body which is attached to the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d), the sliding body being designed for this purpose for aligning the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) during lifting with a positioning surface (94, 94a, 94b, 94c) provided on the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e); 94d, 94e) and to slide along this
wherein preferably in a receiving area (17, 17a, 17b, 17c, 17d) of the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d), in which the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) is insertable, at least two opposing positioning (58, 58a, 58b, 58c, 58d), preferably two opposing positionally staggered positioning pairs (58b, 58c, 58d) are provided, which are formed on both sides of the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b , 80c, 80d, 80e) at this to attack in the horizontal direction. Receiving device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that there is provided on this at least one positioning surface, which is designed with at least one positioning element provided on the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) for aligning the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c , 80d, 80e) during lifting. Receiving device according to claim 4 or 5,
characterized in that the positioning surface has at least one inclined to the horizontal and vertical plane surface portion. Receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that at least one support element (48, 48a, 132b, 132c, 48d) is provided at a distance from the at least one engagement element (38, 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) underneath it for supporting tilting forces or tilting moments is formed with at least one complementary counter-support element (116, 116a, 116b, 116c, 116d, 116e) on the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e),
wherein the at least one support member (48, 48a, 132b, 132c, 48d) preferably includes a rotatably supported support roller (52, 52a) or slider adapted to engage a corresponding counter support surface (118, 118a, 118b, 118c, 118d, 118e ) are formed on the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) and / or wherein the at least one support element (48d) is preferably mounted on a guide rail (164d) of the receiving device (10d) displaceably via a carriage (166d) is. Receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) via a flange 200 releasably connected to the periphery, preferably a table top 300, the Labeling machine is attachable. Labeling machine with a receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) according to one of the preceding claims. Modular assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) for receiving in a receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) movable on the ground is displaceable and at least one counter-engagement element (104, 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e), which with at least one complementary engagement element (38, 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) on the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d), wherein the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) via a lifting device of the receiving device upon mutual engagement of the at least one engagement element (38, 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) and the at least one Counter-engagement element (104, 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e) can be raised from a ground to a predetermined operating position,
characterized in that the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) comprises at least one positioning element (92, 92a, 92b, 92c, 92d, 92e) which, after having achieved full mutual engagement of the at least one engagement element (38 , 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) and the at least one counter engaging element (104, 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e) during the subsequent lifting of the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) via the lifting device Module unit (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) in the predetermined operating position relative to the labeling machine in the horizontal direction aligns. Module unit (80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) according to claim 10,
characterized in that the counter-engagement element (104b, 104c, 104d, 104e) comprises a continuous horizontally disposed support shaft (104b, 104d, 104e) or at least two separate horizontally disposed support shaft sections (104c),
wherein, in particular, the continuous support shaft (104b, 104d, 104e) or the at least two separate support shaft sections along the shaft longitudinal axis in the module assembly (80b, 80d), preferably via bearing bushes (40b, 40d, 40e), slidably mounted or alternatively on the continuous support shaft or on the at least two separate holding shaft sections (104c) along the shaft longitudinal axis displaceable bearing bushes (40c) are provided,
wherein the bearing bushes (40b, 40c, 40d, 40e) are optionally in the form of plain bearing bushes, roller bearing bushes or ball bearing bushes and / or the continuous support shaft (104b, 104d, 104e) or at least one of the support shaft sections (104c) or at least one of the bearing bushes ( 40b, 40c, 40d, 40e) is optionally spring biased to an initial position. Module unit (80, 80a) according to claim 10,
characterized in that the counter-engagement element (104, 104a) on the module unit (80, 80a) in the form of a gripper (104, 104a) with a gripping recess (106, 106a) is formed. Module unit according to one of claims 10 to 12,
characterized in that the at least one positioning element is designed in the form of a positioning roller, which is rotatably mounted on the module unit, wherein the positioning roller is adapted for aligning the module assembly during lifting with a on the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c 10d) to cooperate and roll off at this positioning,
and / or that the at least one positioning element (92, 92a, 92b, 92c, 92d, 92e) is in the form of a sliding body which is attached to the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e), wherein the Slider is designed to cooperate for aligning the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) during lifting with a provided on the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) positioning surface and slide along it .
and / or that at least one positioning surface (94, 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d, 94e) is provided on the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e), which is formed with at least one on the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) provided positioning member (58, 58a, 58b, 58c, 58d) for aligning the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) cooperate during lifting,
wherein the positioning surface (94, 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d, 94e) preferably has at least one surface portion (102, 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d, 102e) inclined to the horizontal and vertical planes. Module unit (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) according to one of claims 10 to 13,
characterized in that at least one counter support element (116, 116a, 116b, 116c, 116d, 116e) at the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e), which is designed to support tilting forces or tilting moments with at least the support element (48, 48a, 132b, 132c, 48d),
wherein the at least one counter-support member (116, 116a, 116b, 116c, 116d, 116e) preferably comprises a rotatably supported support roller or slider adapted to engage a corresponding support surface on the receptacle (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) are,
and / or that the module unit (80e) in a region facing the labeling machine has a lower height than in a region facing away from the labeling machine, whereby the module assembly (80e) in one not completely raised state from the ground along a longitudinal axis of the module assembly (80e) has a slope relative to the ground. Method for positioning a modular unit (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) according to one of Claims 10 to 14 on a labeling machine by means of a receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) according to one of Claims 1 to 8, wherein the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) is attached to a periphery of the labeling machine,
wherein the at least one engagement element (38, 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) of the receiving device (10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) with at least one complementary mating engagement element (104, 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e) on the module aggregate (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) is engaged,
further wherein the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) upon mutual engagement of the at least one engagement member (38, 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) and the at least one counter engaging member (104, 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d , 104e) is lifted by the lifting device (20, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) from a base to the predetermined operating position,
further comprising, upon completion of full mutual engagement of the at least one engagement member (38, 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) and the at least one counter-engagement member (104, 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e) and during the lifting of the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) via the lifting device (20, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) the module assembly (80, 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, 80e) via the at least one positioning element (58, 58a, 58b , 58c, 58d) is aligned in the horizontal direction.

Images