FR3074071A1 - SORTING DEVICE FOR PALLET TRANSFER SYSTEM - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a sorting device (30) for a pallet transfer system, the set of pallets defining a set of parts to move, said first set, the bodies other than the pallets defining a set of parts to be eliminated, said second set (2), the pallet transfer system comprising a guide path (3) adapted to guide the movement of a pallet, the sorting device (30) comprising a switching system (4) arranged to move in interaction with the pallet of a first position, said passage position, allowing the passage through the guide path (3) of a pallet forming part of the first set to a second position, called deflection position, to deflect out of the guiding path (3) the bodies forming part of the second set.

Description

® SORTING DEVICE FOR PALLET TRANSFER SYSTEM.

FR 3 074 071 - A1

@) The present invention relates to a sorting device (30) for a pallet transfer system, the set of pallets defining a set of parts to be moved, called the first set, the bodies other than the pallets defining a set of parts to be eliminated. , said second assembly (2), the pallet transfer system comprising a guide path (3) capable of guiding the movement of a pallet, the sorting device (30) comprising a referral system (4) arranged to move in interaction with the pallet from a first position, called the passage position, allowing passage through the guide path (3) of a pallet forming part of the first assembly to a second position, called the deflection position, allowing to deflect out of the guide path (3) the bodies forming part of the second set.

Sorting device for pallet transfer system

The present invention relates to a sorting device for a pallet transfer system. Such a pallet transfer system can be used for the manufacture of motor control actuators. Pallets are used to move the parts during manufacture from an assembly station, where an assembly step takes place, to another assembly station, where another assembly step takes place.

In pallet conveyor systems, the movement of the pallets is conventionally done by belts on which the pallets to be moved are placed. The movement of the belt makes it possible to drive the pallets and thus to move them from one assembly station to another. The belts rotate continuously.

It may happen that during a step of assembling small parts of the screw or washer type, one of these parts accidentally falls during assembly and ends up on the belt of the conveyor system.

The dropped piece can be drawn by the strap to the end of the strap path, for example where the strap wraps around its guide to allow continuous movement.

The dropped piece can then remain trapped between the transfer system frame and the belt, while rubbing on the belt.

In this case, the wear of the belt is accelerated and the belt must be changed frequently. The replacement of the belt means that the production line has to be stopped, and therefore greatly disrupts the production cycle. In certain cases, the accelerated wear can lead to a rupture of the belt, which causes a breakdown and an even more troublesome disturbance because unplanned.

The invention aims to ensure elimination of the surface of the transmission belt of undesirable parts liable to damage the belt.

To this end, the invention provides a sorting device for a pallet transfer system, the set of pallets defining a set of parts to be moved, called the first set, the bodies other than the pallets defining a set of parts to be eliminated, said second set, the pallet transfer system comprising a guide path capable of guiding the movement of a pallet, the sorting device comprising a referral system arranged to move in interaction with the pallet from a first position, said passage position, allowing passage through the guide path of a pallet forming part of the first set to a second position, said deflection position, making it possible to deviate from the guide path the bodies forming part of the second set.

The sorting device thus eliminates parasitic parts likely to circulate in the guide path, while letting the pallets to be transported. Spurious parts cannot damage the transmission belt flowing in the guideway.

Advantageously, the referral system is arranged to move from the deflection position to the passage position by the push of a pallet.

In this case, the change of position of the referral system to the passage position thus requires no sensor for detecting the arrival of a pallet, nor any additional actuation means for the transfer system. The sorting device is thus simple and economical.

Advantageously also, the referral system is arranged to move from the passage position to the deflection position by the action of an elastic return means.

Returning the referral system to the deflection position requires no additional detection or actuation means for the transfer system. The cost of the sorting device is low, it is therefore possible to equip all the production equipment of a factory without major investment.

Preferably, the referral system comprises a movable part arranged to allow passage through the guide path of a pallet forming part of the first set.

According to one embodiment, the moving part includes a deflector arranged to deflect the bodies forming part of the second assembly outside the guide path.

According to one embodiment, according to which the moving part is movable in rotation.

According to a preferred embodiment, the moving part comprises an arm pivoting about an axis.

Advantageously, the deflector and the pivoting arm form a one-piece assembly.

The pivoting arm and the deflector can thus be manufactured jointly, and do not require assembly.

More advantageously, the deflector and the pivoting arm are made of plastic.

The parts are thus light while offering good mechanical properties.

According to a preferred embodiment, the deflector and the pivoting arm are obtained by adding material.

The parts can thus be produced in small series in a simple manner, for example by additive manufacturing.

According to one embodiment, the deflector is fixed to the pivoting arm.

It is thus possible to change the deflector if necessary, for example in the event of significant wear.

Preferably, the pivoting arm has a contact zone arranged to come into contact with the pallet.

According to a preferred embodiment, the contact area is curved and convex in shape.

This shape limits the impact between the pallet and the swivel arm. In other words, this shape makes it possible to limit the acceleration of the pivoting arm when a pallet pushes it from the deflection position to the passage position.

Advantageously, the contact zone is distant from the pivot axis of the pivoting arm.

The thrust provided by the pallet thus creates a torque which easily swivels the swivel arm.

According to a preferred embodiment, the pivoting arm is movable in rotation between a first angular position called the deflection position, intended to deflect the bodies forming part of the second assembly outside the guide path, and a second angular position called the passage position, in which the pallets can cross the guide path.

In other words, the pivoting arm is in an angular position making it possible to evacuate the undesirable parts as long as no pallet is present near the sorting device. The swivel arm retracts with a rotational movement when a pallet passes.

According to one embodiment, the angular movement of the pivoting arm between the passage position and the deflection position is between 70 ° and 110 °.

Preferably, the pivoting arm comprises an elastic return means arranged to move the pivoting arm from the angular position of passage to the angular position of deflection.

According to a preferred embodiment, the pivoting arm cooperates with a base comprising a helical ramp, so that a rotation of the pivoting arm around the axis is accompanied by a translation along the axis of the pivoting arm.

The pivoting arm can thus be retracted completely without abutting against a neighboring element.

Advantageously, the pivoting arm has a cylindrical bore, the base comprises a rotation shaft, the rotation shaft of the base being arranged in the cylindrical bore.

This arrangement makes it possible to obtain a compact and robust assembly.

Preferably, the helical ramp is obtained by adding material.

The helical ramp is thus easily manufactured without requiring sophisticated tools.

Alternatively, the helical ramp is obtained by molding.

This manufacturing technique allows you to choose from many materials for the manufacture of the helical ramp.

Preferably, the elastic return means is a helical spring.

The restoring effort provided by the elastic return means can thus be easily adapted to requirements.

According to a preferred embodiment, the helical spring is compressed when moving from the first angular position to the second angular position.

Advantageously, the helical spring is disposed in a housing of the base, the housing extending along an axis.

According to one embodiment, the housing comprises a shoulder, the shoulder being arranged to receive an axial surface of the helical spring.

This arrangement guarantees a small radial size.

The invention also relates to a pallet transfer system, comprising:

- a transmission belt arranged to move the pallets in a direction of advance,

- a guide path, the transmission belt circulating in the guide path,

- a sorting device according to the invention.

The sorting device eliminates small unwanted parts that may circulate on the belt, such as screws or washers. These parts cannot get caught between a fixed part of the transfer system and the belt. The risk of premature wear of the transmission belt is eliminated. The downtime for changing belts is spaced, therefore the production capacity of the assembly line is increased.

According to a preferred embodiment, a surface of the transmission belt is arranged to receive a contact pad for the pallets.

The pallets have an area suitable for resting on the transmission belt, having good adhesion with the belt.

Preferably, the axis of rotation of the pivoting arm is perpendicular to the direction of advance of the transmission belt.

More preferably, the transmission belt extends in a plane, the axis of rotation of the pivoting arm being perpendicular to the plane of the transmission belt.

According to a preferred embodiment, the deflector of the sorting device has an edge disposed opposite a surface of the transmission belt.

Unwanted parts thus come up against a well defined stop surface.

Preferably, the edge disposed opposite a surface of the transmission belt is straight. The smooth shape obtained avoids possible jamming of an undesirable piece between the belt and the deflector.

According to another embodiment, the edge disposed opposite a surface of the transmission belt is curved.

This configuration can more effectively guide the parts to be eliminated.

Advantageously, the sorting device comprises a device for adjusting the distance between the edge of the deflector and the surface of the transmission belt.

The sorting device can thus be adapted to the size of the unwanted parts to be eliminated. The smaller the pieces, the closer the edge of the deflector is set to the surface of the belt.

According to one embodiment, the sorting device comprises oblong fixing holes arranged to receive fixing screws.

The oblong holes make it possible to adjust the position of the device before immobilizing it by tightening the fixing screws. The distance between the edge of the deflector and the surface of the transmission belt can thus be easily adjusted, whether during assembly or during maintenance of production equipment.

Preferably, the distance between the edge of the deflector and the surface of the transmission belt is greater than a first predetermined threshold and less than a second predetermined threshold.

The first threshold value, guaranteeing a minimum clearance between the edge of the deflector and the belt, is adjusted to a value making it possible to avoid contact between the deflector and the belt. The second threshold value is set to a value low enough to prevent an unwanted part from creeping in between the edge of the deflector and the belt.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first predetermined threshold is between 0.9 mm and 1.1 mm.

Preferably, the second predetermined threshold is between 1.9 mm and 2.1 mm.

These values are well suited to the elimination of fixing screws and washers.

Advantageously, the angle between the direction of advance of the transmission belt and the deflector is between 140 ° and 160 °.

This angle value makes it possible to guarantee good elimination of the parts to be eliminated, while limiting the size of the device along the direction of advancement of the belt.

According to a preferred embodiment, a surface of the transmission belt is arranged to receive one or more pallets.

The pallets run side by side on the transmission belt, or with an interval between two pallets.

According to one embodiment, the thickness of the transmission belt is constant.

In other words, the surface of the transmission belt is smooth.

According to a preferred embodiment, the guide path of the transmission belt is bordered by a guide wall.

The guide wall protects the edge of the belt and prevents accidental entrainment of an object by the belt.

The guide path of the transmission belt is bordered by a side edge.

Advantageously, the deflector of the sorting device extends from one lateral edge of the transmission belt to the other lateral edge of the transmission belt when the pivoting arm is in the deflection position.

Any object to be removed circulating on the belt thus comes into contact with the deflector.

More advantageously, the deflector of the sorting device extends from the guide wall to the lateral edge of the guide path.

In other words, the deflector covers a wider area than the belt, in order to eliminate unwanted parts even if they rebound.

According to an exemplary implementation of the invention, the width of the transmission belt is between 40 mm and 80 mm.

Preferably, the guide wall is located between the axis and the deflector.

According to a preferred embodiment, the elastic return means of the pivoting arm maintains the pivoting arm against the guide wall when the pivoting arm (7) is in the deflection position. The return force of the elastic return means makes it possible to press the pivoting arm against the guide wall. This avoids the presence of a clearance between the pivoting arm and the guide wall, and thus prevents a part to be eliminated from slipping between the guide wall and the pivoting arm. The efficiency of the sorting device is improved.

Preferably, the displacement along the axis of the pivoting arm when the pivoting arm passes from the angular position of deflection to the angular position of passage is greater than the height of the guide wall.

The pivoting arm can thus pass over the guide wall. The guide wall does not limit the angular movement of the pivoting arm. This can deviate completely from the guide path and allow free passage to the pallets.

More preferably, the height of the guide wall is between 5 mm and 9 mm.

This height ensures effective guidance of the pallets.

According to an exemplary implementation of the invention, the pallet transfer system comprises a recovery tank arranged to collect the bodies of the second set deflected out of the guide path.

The recovery tank prevents the eliminated parts from falling on the ground.

Advantageously, the pallet transfer system comprises:

- a second transmission belt arranged to move the pallets in a direction of advance,

a second guide path, the second transmission belt circulating in the second guide path,

- A second sorting device according to the invention, the second sorting device being arranged to allow passage through the second guide path of a pallet forming part of the first set, and being arranged to deviate out of the second guide path the bodies being part of the second set.

When the pallet transfer system has two separate belts, it is preferable to protect each of the belts. The two belts have the same direction of travel. In other words, the two belts are parallel.

Preferably, the first and the second sorting device are arranged opposite in the direction perpendicular to the direction of advance.

The space occupied along the pallet transfer system by the sorting devices is thus minimized.

According to one embodiment, the first and the second sorting device are symmetrical to each other with respect to a plane.

The two devices thus act according to the same kinematic law.

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description of the embodiments given by way of nonlimiting examples, accompanied by the figures below:

FIG. 1 is a schematic top view of an assembly line comprising a pallet transfer system,

FIG. 2 is a schematic and partial top view of a pallet transfer system,

FIG. 3 is a side view, schematic and partial, of the pallet transfer system of FIG. 2,

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a pallet transfer system equipped with two sorting devices according to the invention,

FIGS. 5a to 5e are schematic views illustrating different positions of the sorting device,

FIG. 6 is a schematic view illustrating the operation of the sorting device,

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the sorting device,

FIG. 8 is a sectional side view of the sorting device,

Figure 9 is a side view, partial, of the sorting device.

In order to facilitate reading of the different figures, the various elements are not necessarily shown to scale.

FIG. 1 schematically represents an assembly line 100 of engine control actuators, such as, for example, exhaust gas recirculation valves intended to equip automobile heat engines.

The assembly line 100 includes different assembly stations, each station corresponding to one or more stages of product assembly. FIG. 1 shows two assembly stations 41 and 42.

The parts to be assembled at each station are arranged in storage areas located at each station. The station designated by 41 has a storage area 43, the station designated by 42 has a storage area 44.

Each product being assembled is placed on a support, also called a pallet.

When all the actions planned on a product at an assembly station have been completed, the pallet is transported to the next assembly station by a pallet transfer system 50.

The pallet transfer system 50 comprises two transmission belts 31 and 31b.

The belts 31 and 31b extend between two rollers which rotate around parallel horizontal axes. As detailed in FIG. 2, the belt 31 rotates in a guide path 3. The belt 31b rotates in a guide path 3b. The two belts have the same forward speed. The direction of advancement of the transmission belt is designated by D2. In other words, the guide path 3 extends longitudinally in the direction D2 of advancement of the belt, and extends transversely in the direction D3 perpendicular.

The rollers, not shown, are contained in a frame 20, shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3, placed on the ground 25 and ensuring the support of the entire transfer system 50.

As detailed in Figures 2 and 3, the surface 32 of the transmission belt 31 is arranged to receive one or more pallets.

More specifically, the surface 32 of the transmission belt 31 is arranged to receive a contact pad 33 of the pallets.

The pallets 1 can thus be placed on the surface 32 of the belt 31, and the rotational movement of the belt 31 makes it possible to drive the pallet (s) 1.

Similarly, the second transmission belt 31b can receive a contact pad 33b of the pallets 1. The two belts 31 and 31b advance at the same speed, so that the pallets 1 have a translational movement.

The pallets 1 can travel one behind the other on the transmission belt, with a distance of a few millimeters between two pallets. The pallets can also circulate in isolation in the transfer system 50. The two cases are shown diagrammatically in FIG. 1.

As detailed diagrammatically in FIG. 2, the guide path 3 of the transmission belt 31 is bordered by a guide wall 34.

The guide wall 34 of the transmission belt 31 is located near a lateral edge of the belt. The low wall 34 is located on the remote side of the second transmission belt 31b.

The height H of the guide wall 34 is between 5 mm and 9 mm.

This height ensures effective guidance of the pallets 1, and prevents a pallet from getting in the way during its movement.

In addition, the lateral edge 36 of the belt is protected from possible accidental contact.

The guide path 3 of the transmission belt 31 is bordered by a lateral edge 35.

In other words, and as particularly visible in FIG. 4, the two lateral edges 36 and 37 of the belt 31 are included, in the direction D3 transverse to the direction of movement of the belt 31, between the guide wall 34 and the edge lateral 35.

The thickness of the transmission belt 31 is constant. In other words, the belt is flat.

The width L of the transmission belt 31 is between 40 mm and 80 mm.

The assembly of a part such as an exhaust gas recirculation valve requires the assembly of small parts, such as flat washers of diameter less than for example 10 mm, or screws of smaller diameter for example to 8 mm. It may happen that one of these parts falls from the storage tank when it is drawn, and that it is driven by one of the transmission belts 31, 31b.

In certain cases, the driven part falls by itself outside of the guide path 3, in particular on the side of the lateral edge 35.

In other cases, the part accidentally dropped on one of the belts 31, 31b can become wedged between this belt and the support frame 20, for example in the area close to a roller around which the belt is wound.

The jammed part will therefore rub continuously against the belt, which causes accelerated wear of this belt.

The invention described here aims to eliminate parasitic parts, in order to avoid premature degradation of the belt, without slowing the transfer of the pallets.

FIG. 4 shows a pallet transfer system 50, comprising:

a transmission belt 31 arranged to move the pallets in a direction of advance D2,

a guide path 3, the transmission belt 31 flowing in the guide path 3,

- A sorting device 30 according to the invention.

The invention provides a sorting device 30 for a pallet transfer system 50, the set of pallets defining a set of parts to be moved, called the first set 1, the bodies other than the pallets defining a set of pieces to be eliminated, said second set 2, the pallet transfer system comprising a guide path 3 capable of guiding the movement of a pallet, the sorting device 30 comprising a referral system 4 arranged to move in interaction with the pallet of a first position, called the passing position, allowing the passage through the guide path 3 of a pallet forming part of the first set to a second position, called the deflection position, making it possible to deviate the bodies forming part of the guide path 3 of the second set.

The sorting device 30 thus makes it possible to eliminate parasitic parts 2 liable to circulate in the guide path 3, while allowing the pallets to be transported to pass. There is no risk of stray parts becoming caught by rubbing against the belt. The risk of premature wear of the transmission belt is eliminated.

The referral system 4 is arranged to move from the deflection position to the passage position by the push of a pallet.

The change of position of the referral system 4 to the passage position requires no detection means or any additional actuation means for the transfer system. The arrival of a pallet 1 triggers the change of position of the referral system 4.

The referral system 4 is arranged to move from the passage position to the deflection position by the action of an elastic return means 9.

Thus, the return of the referral system 4 to the deflection position requires neither means for detecting the position of a pallet, nor additional actuation means for the transfer system.

The referral system 4 comprises a movable part 5 arranged to allow passage through the guide path 3 of a pallet forming part of the first set 1.

The moving part 5 is movable in rotation. The moving part 5 comprises a pivoting arm 7 about an axis Dl.

As detailed in FIGS. 4 and 6, the movable part 5 comprises a deflector 6 arranged to deflect the bodies forming part of the second assembly 2 out of the guide path 3.

When a small part 2 such as a washer or a screw circulates on the belt 31, it is stopped by the deflector 6. The continuous advancement of the belt and the angle J present between the deflector and the direction of advance D2 of the belt allows to eject the part 2 to be eliminated from the belt 31.

In the example illustrated, the deflector 6 and the pivoting arm 7 form a one-piece assembly.

The deflector 6 and the pivoting arm 7 are made of plastic.

The parts are thus light while offering good mechanical properties.

In the example illustrated, the deflector 6 and the pivoting arm 7 are obtained by adding material.

The parts can thus be produced in small series in a simple manner, for example by additive manufacturing. A three-dimensional printer can thus be used for the manufacture of certain parts of the sorting device 30, or of all the parts of the sorting device 30.

The mechanism by which a sorting device 30 according to the invention makes it possible to eliminate the undesirable parts 2, capable of being transported by the transmission belt 31, will now be detailed.

FIG. 6 details a sorting device 30 shown with the referral system 4 in the position for deflecting the bodies to be eliminated 2. The signs xl to x7 denote the successive positions of a part to be eliminated 2 moved by the transmission belt 31 .

The deflector 6 of the sorting device 30 has an edge 18 disposed opposite a surface 32 of the transmission belt 31.

The unwanted parts 2 thus come up against a well defined stop surface. In the position designated by x3, the part to be eliminated 2 comes into contact with the deflector 6. Due to the angle J existing between the deflector 6 and the direction of advance D2, the part to be eliminated is first ejected from the belt, then the guide path 3. In the position designated by x6, the part 2 is no longer on the belt 31.

In the example shown, the edge 18 disposed opposite a surface 32 of the transmission belt 31 is rectilinear.

The smooth shape of the edge 18 of the deflector avoids possible jamming of an undesirable part 2 between the belt 31 and the deflector 6.

As can be seen in FIG. 4, the sorting device 30 includes a device 19 for adjusting the distance between the edge of the deflector 6 and the surface 32 of the transmission belt 31.

The sorting device can thus be adapted to the size of the unwanted parts to be eliminated. The smaller the parts, the closer the edge 18 of the deflector 6 is set to the surface of the belt 31.

The sorting device 30 has oblong fixing holes 21 arranged to receive fixing screws.

The oblong holes 21 make it possible to adjust the position of the sorting device 30 on the frame 20 before immobilizing it by tightening the fixing screws. The distance between the edge of the deflector and the surface of the drive belt can thus be easily adjusted. The initial adjustment is made when the equipment is installed. It can also be carried out during a maintenance operation of the production equipment, in order to take into account the evolution of needs due to changes in manufactured parts, as well as the wear of the equipment.

As shown diagrammatically in FIG. 9, the distance d between the edge 18 of the deflector 6 and the surface 32 of the transmission belt 31 is greater than a first threshold if predetermined and less than a second predetermined threshold s2.

The first threshold value if, guaranteeing a minimum clearance between the edge 18 of the deflector 6 and the belt 31, is adjusted to a value making it possible to avoid contact between the deflector 6 and the belt. The second threshold value s2 is set to a value low enough to prevent an unwanted part from slipping between the edge of the deflector and the belt.

In the example illustrated, the first predetermined threshold si is between 0.9 mm and 1.1 mm.

The second predetermined threshold s2 is between 1.9 mm and 2.1 mm.

These values are well suited for the elimination of fixing screws and washers.

When the distance between the edge 18 of the deflector 6 and the surface 32 is not constant, for example in the case where the edge of the deflector has a wavy profile, distance is understood to mean the average distance along the part of the deflector located facing the belt 31.

As detailed in FIG. 6, the angle J between the direction of advance D2 of the transmission belt 31 and the deflector 6 is between 140 ° and 160 °.

When the edge 18 of the deflector 6 is not straight, the angle J is determined by the angle between the line joining the points C and D of the deflector situated opposite the lateral edges 36 and 37 of the belt and the advancement direction D2.

This value of the angle J ensures good elimination of the parts 2 to be eliminated, while limiting the size of the sorting device 30 along the direction of advancement of the belt. In fact, when the angle J is close to 90 °, the parts to be eliminated tend to accumulate against the edge of the deflector 6 without necessarily being ejected from the guide path 3.

As can be seen in particular in FIGS. 5a and 5e, the deflector 6 of the sorting device 30 extends from a lateral edge 36 of the transmission belt 31 to the other lateral edge 37 of the transmission belt 31 when the pivoting arm 7 is in the deflection position. The entire width of the transmission belt 31 is thus protected.

More precisely, the deflector 6 of the sorting device 30 extends from the guide wall 34 to the lateral edge 35 of the guide path 3.

In other words, the deflector 6 protects a wider area than the belt 31, in order to eliminate the unwanted parts 2 even if they rebound against the deflector 6.

The elastic return means 9 of the pivoting arm 7 keeps the pivoting arm 7 against the guide wall 34 when the pivoting arm 7 is in the deflection position.

The return force of the elastic return means 9 makes it possible to press the pivoting arm 7 against the guide wall 34. This avoids the presence of a clearance between the pivoting arm 7 and the wall 34, and thus prevents a part 2 to be eliminated can slide between the wall 34 and the pivoting arm 7. The efficiency of the sorting device 30 is improved.

The guide wall 34 is located between the axis DI and the deflector 6.

The mechanism by which a sorting device according to the invention allows the passage of the pallets will now be detailed. FIGS. 5a to 5e illustrate this part of the functioning of the sorting device 30. The views 5a to 5e diagrammatically show the evolution of the position of the different elements as a function of time. Views 5a to 5e are in chronological order.

The pivoting arm 7 has a contact area 8 arranged to come into contact with the pallet.

The contact area 8 is curved and convex in shape.

This shape makes it possible to limit the shock between the pallet 1 and the pivoting arm 7. In other words, the shape of the contact area 8 makes it possible to limit the acceleration of the pivoting arm 7 when a pallet 1 pushes it from the deflection position at the passing position.

The position of the contact point (s) between the pallet 1 and the pivoting arm 7 changes over time.

The contact area 8 is distant from the pivot axis DI of the pivoting arm 7. The thrust provided by the pallet 1 thus creates a torque which easily pivots the pivoting arm 7.

The pivoting arm 7 is movable in rotation between a first angular position called the deflection position, intended to deflect outside the guide path 3 the bodies forming part of the second set, and a second angular position called the passage position, in which the pallets 1 can cross guide path 3.

In other words, the pivoting arm 7 is in an angular position allowing the unwanted parts 2 to be removed as long as no pallet is present near the sorting device 30. The pivoting arm 7 is retracted by a rotational movement when 'a pallet 1 pass.

The angular movement of the pivoting arm 7 between the passage position and the deflection position is between 70 ° and 110 °.

The pivoting arm 7 comprises an elastic return means 9 arranged to pass the pivoting arm 7 from the angular position of passage to the angular position of deflection.

The axis of rotation DI of the pivoting arm 7 is perpendicular to the direction of advance D2 of the transmission belt 31.

The transmission belt 31 extends in a plane, the axis of rotation DI of the pivoting arm 7 being perpendicular to the plane of the transmission belt 31.

Figures 5a to 5e illustrate the sequence previously described. In FIG. 5a, the pallet 1 goes towards the sorting device 30. The latter is in the deflection position.

In FIG. 5b, the pallet 1 comes into contact with the contact zone 8 of the pivoting arm 7. The pallet begins to push the pivoting arm 7 and to cause it to rotate.

In FIG. 5c, the rotation of the pivoting arm 7 is started and progresses.

In FIG. 5d, the rotation of the pivoting arm 7 is completed. The pivoting arm 7 is in the passage position. Pallet 1 continues to advance in guide path 3.

In FIG. 5e, the pallet 1 has passed through the sorting device 30, and the return spring 9 has returned the pivoting arm 7 to the position for deflecting the parts to be eliminated.

The parts 2 to be eliminated are too light to be able to trigger the rotation of the pivoting arm 7.

Figures 7 and 8 detail the structure of the sorting device 30. The pivoting arm 7 cooperates with a base 10 having a helical ramp 11 of axis Dl, so that a rotation of the pivoting arm 7 about the axis Dl s 'accompanies a translation along the axis Dl of the pivoting arm 7. The axis of the helical ramp 11 is the axis Dl.

The pivoting arm can thus be retracted completely when a pallet 1 passes, without abutting against a neighboring element.

The pivoting arm 7 has a cylindrical bore 12, the base 10 comprises a rotation shaft 14, the rotation shaft 14 of the base 10 being disposed in the cylindrical bore 12.

This arrangement makes it possible to obtain a compact and robust assembly.

The helical ramp 11 is obtained by adding material.

The elastic return means 9 is a helical spring.

The return force provided by the elastic return means 9 can thus be easily adapted to requirements, by adapting its stiffness and its preload.

The helical spring 9 is compressed during movement from the first angular position A1, called the deflection position, to the second angular position A2, called the passage position.

The helical spring 9 is disposed in a housing 16 of the base 10, the housing 16 extending along an axis Dl.

The housing 16 has a shoulder 17, the shoulder 17 being arranged to receive an axial surface of the helical spring 9.

This arrangement guarantees a small radial size.

The displacement along the axis Dl of the pivoting arm 7 when the pivoting arm 7 passes from the angular position of deflection A1 to the angular position of passage A2 is greater than the height H of the guide wall 34.

The pivoting arm 7 can thus pass over the guide wall 34 when the pivoting arm passes from the deflection position to the passage position. The guide wall 34 does not limit the angular movement of the pivoting arm 7. The latter can deviate completely from the guide path 3 and allow free passage to the pallets 1.

The pallet transfer system 50 comprises a recovery tank arranged to collect the bodies of the second set deflected out of the guide path 3. The recovery tank has not been shown.

The recovery tank makes it possible to prevent the eliminated pieces 2 from falling on the ground.

It is of course possible to equip each of the transmission belts 31 and 31b with protection against unwanted parts which may circulate on the surface of the belts 31 and 31b. In this case, the pallet transfer system 50 comprises:

a second transmission belt 40b arranged to move the pallets in a direction of advance,

a second guide path 41b, the second transmission belt 40b flowing in the second guide path 3b,

- A second sorting device 30b according to the invention, the second sorting device 30b being arranged to allow the passage through the second guide path 3b of a pallet forming part of the first set, and being arranged to deviate from the second guide path 3b the bodies forming part of the second set.

The two sorting devices work in the same way. The two belts 31, 31b have the same direction of advance D2. In other words, the two belts 31, 31b are parallel.

In the example shown in FIG. 4, the first and the second sorting device 30, 30b are arranged opposite one another in the direction D3 perpendicular to the direction of advance D2.

The space occupied along the pallet transfer system 50 by the sorting devices 30 is thus minimized.

In the example illustrated in particular in Figure 4, the first and second sorting device 30, 30b are symmetrical to each other with respect to a plane.

The two devices thus act according to the same kinematic law, and move away symmetrically when a pallet passes.

According to embodiments not shown, the sorting device 30 and the pallet transfer system 50 integrating the sorting device 30 can also include one or more of the characteristics below, considered individually or combined together:

The deflector 6 can be fixed to the pivoting arm 7.

It is thus possible to change the deflector if necessary, for example in the event of significant wear.

The helical ramp 11 can be obtained by molding.

It is thus possible to use many materials for the manufacture of the helical ramp.

The edge 18 disposed opposite a surface 32 of the transmission belt 31 can be curved.

This configuration can more effectively guide the parts to be eliminated.

Of course, other modifications and variations can be easily carried out by a person skilled in the art, after thinking about the different embodiments illustrated.

The invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described and illustrated in this application, which are given by way of examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Claims (14)

1. Sorting device (30) for a pallet transfer system (50), the set of pallets defining a set of pieces to be moved, called the first set (1), the bodies other than the pallets defining a set of pieces to eliminate, said second set (2), the pallet transfer system comprising a guide path (3) capable of guiding the movement of a pallet, the sorting device (30) comprising a referral system (4) arranged to move in interaction with the pallet from a first position, called the passing position, allowing passage through the guide path (3) of a pallet forming part of the first assembly to a second position, called the deflection position, allowing the bodies forming part of the second set to be deviated from the guide path (3). 2. Sorting device (30) according to claim 1, according to which the referral system (4) is arranged to move from the position of deflection to the position of passage by the push of a pallet. 3. Sorting device (30) according to claim 1 or 2, according to which the referral system (4) is arranged to move from the passage position to the deflection position by the action of a return means. elastic (9). 4. Sorting device (30) according to one of the preceding claims, according to which the referral system (4) comprises a movable part (5) arranged to allow passage through the guide path (3) of a pallet forming part of the first set (1), the movable part (5) comprising a deflector (6) arranged to deflect outside the guide path (3) the bodies forming part of the second set (2). 5. Sorting device (30) according to the preceding claim, according to which the movable part (5) comprises a pivoting arm (7) about an axis (Dl), the pivoting arm (7) comprising a contact zone (8 ) arranged to come into contact with the pallet, the contact area (8) being curved and convex in shape. 6. Sorting device (30) according to the preceding claim, according to which the deflector (6) and the pivoting arm (7) are obtained by adding material. 7. Sorting device (30) according to claim 5 or 6, according to which the pivoting arm (7) is rotatable between a first angular position (Al) called the deflection position, intended to deflect the bodies out of the guide path. forming part of the second set, and a second angular position (A2) called the passage position, in which the pallets can cross the guide path. 8. Sorting device (30) according to one of claims 5 to 7, according to which the pivoting arm (7) cooperates with a base (10) comprising a helical ramp (11), so that a rotation of the pivoting arm (7) around the axis (Dl) is accompanied by a translation along the axis (Dl) of the pivoting arm (7). 9. Sorting device (30) according to claim 7 or 8, according to which the elastic return means (9) is a helical spring, the helical spring (9) being compressed during the displacement of the first angular position (Al) at the second angular position (A2). 10. Pallet transfer system (50), comprising: - a transmission belt (31) arranged to move the pallets in a direction of advance (D2), - a guide path (3), the transmission belt (31) flowing in the guide path (3), - a sorting device (30) according to one of the preceding claims. 11. Pallet transfer system (50) according to the preceding claim when the sorting device (30) depends on claims 4 to 9, according to which the deflector (6) of the sorting device (30) has an edge (18) arranged facing a surface (32) of the transmission belt (31), the distance between the edge (18) of the deflector (6) and the surface (32) of the transmission belt (31) being greater than a first predetermined threshold (if) and less than a second predetermined threshold (s2). 12. Pallet transfer system (50) according to the preceding claim, according to which the sorting device (30) comprises a device for adjusting (19) the distance between the edge of the deflector (6) and the surface (32) of the transmission belt (31). 13. Pallet transfer system (50) according to one of claims 10 to 12 when the sorting device (30) depends on claims 5 to 9, according to which the guide path (3) of the transmission belt (31 ) is bordered by a guide wall (34), the elastic return means (9) of the swivel arm (7) holding the swivel arm (7) against the guide wall (34) when the swivel arm (7) is in deflection position. 14. Pallet transfer system (50) according to one of claims 10 to 13 when the sorting device (30) depends on claims 4 to 9, according to which the deflector (6) of the sorting device (30) s' extends from one side edge (36) of the transmission belt (31) to the other side edge (37) of the transmission belt (31) when the pivoting arm (7) is in the deflected position.