KR20160008612A - Method and conveyor device for conveying bulk material - Google Patents

Abstract

In a method of the present invention for conveying a bulk article by means of a conveying device comprising at least two conveying elements (266, 269) loosely arranged in the conveying channel and the conveying channel, the conveying element comprises a conveying channel Is mechanically driven in the transport direction in the first section of the transport channel before the bulk article is fed into it. The bulk article is conveyed by the movement of the conveying element along the conveying direction in a third section of the conveying channel, wherein in the third section of the conveying channel the first conveying element 269 is conveyed by the second conveying element 266 and / And is pressed through the transport channel in the transport direction by the bulk article. The present invention also includes a transfer device for carrying out the method.

Description

[0001] METHOD AND CONVEYOR DEVICE FOR CONVEYING BULK MATERIAL [0002]

The present invention relates to a method and a transfer device for transferring bulk articles.

This kind of conveying apparatus suitable for conveying bulk articles such as, for example, rice, flour, wheat or corn, along the curved pipe, in particular from the inlet for bulk goods to the outlet for bulk goods, Or as a retarding disc conveyor.

US 4,197,938 discloses a transfer device for a bulk article comprising a disk-like carrier. The carrier is arranged in a cable and the cable containing the carrier can be driven by a gear wheel to transport the bulk article, in particular along the curved pipe section, from the inlet to the outlet.

This known transfer device for bulk goods is used, for example, when the carrier is damaged during operation, it requires a lot of labor to be replaced, thereby increasing the maintenance cost and increasing the average throughput of the bulk article through the transfer device mean throughput is reduced. Also, when the cable is used as a pulling element with the carrier mounted, for example, the length adaptation to reduce or increase the length of the transfer device is complex. In addition, the known conveying apparatus has a disadvantage that the filling level of the conveying apparatus can not be adjusted.

NL 1025855 discloses a transfer device having a plurality of carriers including electrical conduction and / or magnetic material.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a transport apparatus, a carrier and a feeding device as well as a method that can prevent the disadvantages of the known contents and in particular to enable reliable operation of the transport apparatus with little maintenance And the operation of such a transfer device is cost-effective. It is a further object to provide a feeding device for permitting the possibility of adjusting the filling level of the transfer device. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method for upgrading and / or converting or retrofitting a previously installed transfer device so that the transfer device can be easily maintained during operation and can be cost-effective.

This object is achieved by a method and a transfer device according to the claims.

General description of the principle of the transfer device according to the invention

For example, the transport device includes a transport channel. The transfer channel is particularly formed as a transfer pipe. At least one carrier is arranged in the transport channel. In particular, at least two carriers are arranged in the transport channel. The transport apparatus includes at least one drive for driving at least one carrier to transport the bulk article along the transport channel axis. The at least one carrier is loosely arranged in the transport channel in at least some sections along the transport channel axis.

In the sense of the present application, the "transfer device" may be understood to be a device for continuously transferring bulk articles in particular. In the sense of the present application, "continuous transfer" of a bulk article can also be understood as a transfer of a bulk article, in particular where the flow of the bulk article in the transfer channel is interrupted at some section by the carrier.

The term "transport channel" in this context may be understood to be a channel through which a bulk article can be transported along its longitudinal axis. For example, the transport channel may be formed as a hollow body or open groove having a circular, triangular, rectangular or square cross-section or any other cross-sectional shape. In particular, the conveyance channel is formed as a conveyance pipe having a circular cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the conveyance pipe. Further, the transport channel is formed as a closed loop, in particular along the circumferential direction.

In the sense of the present application, the "transport channel axis ", when utilized as intended, may be understood to be the longitudinal axis of the transport channel along which the bulk article is transported.

By " carrier "(" transport element "), when used as intended, means that the bulk article is transported substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the transport channel by positioning the carrier along its longitudinal axis It can be understood as an element that allows it to become. In particular, the carrier may be arranged in a hollow body such as, for example, a transport pipe, and may be disposed along the axis of the hollow body to transport the bulk article along the axis of the hollow body.

In the sense of the present application, the term "bulk article" is understood to be a pourable form and in particular a flowable, particulate, powder or fragmented article. In particular, it is understood that bulk goods may be rice, flour, wood, wheat, corn, liquids, powdered materials and any combination thereof.

In the sense of the present application, it is understood that "a loose arrangement of the carrier in at least some sections along the transport channel axis" may be a carrier that is not directly connected to the drive within this section. In such a section, such a carrier is moved only along the transport channel axis by the carrier and / or the transported bulk article arranged adjacently along the transport channel axis. For example, in the drive section, a force is applied onto the carrier substantially parallel to the transport channel axis such that the carrier and the bulk article in contact with the carrier are disposed substantially parallel to the transport channel axis, And / or the bulk article is moved out of the drive section of the transport device along the transport channel axis.

In the sense of the present application, the expression "A and / or B" B; A and B; A is not B; B and A is not meant to be understood.

Designing a transfer device having at least one carrier loosely arranged in the transfer channel is advantageous in that the carrier can be easily replaced, for example, because the carrier is loosely arranged in the transfer channel. As a result, maintenance effort is reduced and the operation of the transfer apparatus is thereby more cost-effective. It is also advantageous in adapting to different transport channel lengths by removing or adding carriers.

In particular, the transport channel is S-shaped in at least one side view. This is advantageous in that it is possible, in particular, to space-arrange the transfer device in only one layer. In the prior art, in this connection, generally two or three floors are required in which the transfer device is arranged inside.

At least in the drive zone, the transport channels, in particular the transport pipe, can comprise steel or can be made of steel.

Preferably, the transport channel is formed as guiding means along the transport channel axis for the carrier.

In the sense of the present application, it is understood that "guiding means" may be means for restricting movement of the carrier substantially perpendicular to the transport channel axis.

This design of the transfer channel as guiding means for the carrier is advantageous in that the carrier can only move slightly vertically with respect to the transfer channel axis, thereby minimizing damage to the carrier during operation.

For example, the average cross-section of the conveyance channel along the conveyance channel axis may be adjusted so that the carrier is still insertable in the conveyance channel and little play in the direction laterally with respect to the conveyance channel axis This design of the transport channel as guiding means can be achieved in that it has a substantially congruent shape in the average cross-section.

Particularly preferably, the drive is realized such that, in at least some sections, the force is applied directly onto the carrier by the drive section substantially parallel to the transport channel axis. For this purpose, the carrier may have at least one drive surface to which the force can be applied. Advantageously, the drive surface is elastic and can be made of, for example, plastic or rubber, or can be coated with plastic or rubber. Thereby, there may be linear or even planar contact as well as punctiform contact between the driver and the carrier. In addition, the driving surface may comprise steel or may be made of steel.

In the sense of the present application, the expression "force can be applied directly" means that force is applied on each carrier by a drive, and by an additional carrier arranged between the drive and carrier and / .

This design of the drive is advantageous in that the force can be transmitted to the carrier in a reliable manner even when the carriers are arranged in a loose manner.

Particularly preferably, at least in the drive section, the drive reaches into the transport channel in order to exert a force on the carrier arranged in the drive section in a manner substantially parallel to the transport channel axis.

This is advantageous in that the drive must be arranged only in a part of the device, and such arrangement is advantageous in that it facilitates the maintenance of the transfer device and simplifies the structural design of the transfer device.

In particular, the total length of the carriers arranged in the transport channel is shorter than the length of the transport channel axis. Preferably, the total length of the carrier is longer than the length of the transport channel axis minus the length of at least one drive section.

This is advantageous in that the driving portion of the carrier in the transport channel can be reliably ensured.

The "overall length" of the carrier is understood to be the product of the longest effective elongation of the carrier along the transport channel axis multiplied by the number of carriers arranged in the transport channel. If the carrier has a different design, it is understood that the "overall length" of the carrier is the sum of the longest effective extension of the carrier along the transport channel axis.

Preferably, the drive is configured such that substantially force can be exerted on the carrier within the peripheral region of the carrier facing the inner wall of the transport channel.

In the sense of the present application, the expression "force can be applied substantially in the peripheral region of the carrier facing the inner wall of the transport channel" means that the driving portion is engaged with the carrier by the driving means for applying a force, Means means directly contacting the section in the circumferential direction of the carrier.

This design is advantageous in that the drive must engage the transport channel only within the region of the inner wall in order to effectively achieve the drive so that collision of the drive with other parts of the carrier or compression of the bulk article is minimized.

Particularly preferably, the driving part may be selected or selected from a list of the following types of driving parts or any combination thereof: chain driving part, belt driving part, coupler mechanism, gear driving part, worm driving part, magnet driving part, servo driving part, dilex driving part. For example, a coupler mechanism can be realized as a four-bar mechanism, particularly as a linear line driver.

Drives of this kind themselves are known to those skilled in the art. Advantageously, the most suitable drive can be selected according to the requirements as well as, for example, the structural boundary conditions.

In particular, a coupler mechanism has been used, which has been found to be particularly advantageous during operation.

When using the magnet driving part, it is particularly necessary to select the material for the carrier so that the alternating magnetic field generated by the magnet driving part can drive the carrier.

In a first preferred version, the drive comprises at least one carrier bolt, whereby in at least some sections the force can be applied directly onto the carrier, in particular parallel to the transport channel axis, directly onto the drive surface of the carrier . Preferably, while at least the force is exerted on the carrier, the carrier bolt extends in the vertical direction.

Advantageously, this first version of the drive is realized as a chain drive and comprises a pair of at least one drive chain, wherein any one of the two opposite ends of the carrier bolt is mounted to the respective drive chain of the pair of drive chains . In the case where the carrier bolt extends vertically, the driving portion includes at least one lower driving chain and at least one upper driving chain.

The drive may comprise only one single or multiple drive chain pairs for each carrier bolt. In some embodiments of the first version, the carrier bolts are arranged laterally of the transport channel. Preferably, the carrier bolts of the first pair of drive chains are arranged on the first side of the transport channel, and the carrier bolts of the second pair of drive chains are arranged on the second side of the transport channel facing the first side. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the carriers from wedged together while the carrier bolt exerts a force onto the carrier.

It is also preferred that the distance between two adjacent carrier bolts is substantially the same as the extension length of the carrier along the transport channel axis. This means that the distance between two adjacent carrier bolts is at least as much as the extension length of the carrier along the transport channel axis and no more than 1.5 times, preferably no more than 1.25 times, and particularly preferably no more than 1.1 times this extension length. In this way, during operation, it can be achieved that the carriers are at least in close contact with each other and accordingly the distance between the carriers is as short as possible. Preferably, the distance between two adjacent carrier bolts is greater than the extension length of the carrier along the transport channel axis, and in particular the ratio of these values may be at least 1.01. Accordingly, a specific clearance can be achieved to compensate for production tolerance and / or wear tolerance.

In a second preferred version, the drive is realized as a chain drive or a belt drive and comprises at least one drive chain with at least one carrier projection. By means of these carrier projections, a force can be applied directly on the carrier, in particular on the drive surface of the carrier, at least in some sections, substantially parallel to the transport channel axis.

Also, in the second version, the drive chain can be arranged laterally of the transport channel. Only one single drive chain or multiple drive chains may also be present. For example, a first drive chain having carrier protrusions may be arranged on the first side of the transport channel, and a second drive chain with carrier protrusions may be arranged on the second side of the transport channel opposite the first side have. Also, in this manner, while the carrier bolt exerts a force onto the carrier, the carriers can be prevented from wedging together.

It is also preferred that the distance between two adjacent carrier protrusions is substantially the same as the extension length of the carrier along the transport channel axis. This means that the distance between two adjacent carrier protrusions is at least as much as the extension length of the carrier along the transport channel axis and no more than 1.5 times, preferably no more than 1.25 times, and particularly preferably no more than 1.1 times this extension length. In this way, during operation, it can be achieved that the carriers are at least in close contact with each other and accordingly the distance between the carriers is as short as possible. Preferably, the distance between two adjacent carrier protrusions is greater than the extension length of the carrier along the transport channel axis, and in particular the ratio of these values may be at least 1.01. Thereby, a certain clearance can be achieved to compensate for production tolerances and / or wear tolerances.

In a third preferred version, the drive is realized as a worm drive and comprises at least one rotatable drive worm, wherein in at least some sections, by virtue of the rotational movement of such drive worm, Can be applied directly onto the carrier, especially onto the drive surface of the carrier. For this purpose, it is particularly preferred that the rotational axis of the drive worm extend substantially parallel to the transport channel axis.

Also in this third version, there can be only one single or multiple rotational drive wahs. For example, a first drive worm may be arranged on the first side of the transport channel, and a second drive worm may be arranged on the second side of the transport channel opposite the first side.

It is also preferable that the extension length of the carrier along the transport channel axis is substantially an integral multiple of the pitch of the drive worm. This means that the ratio of the extension length of the carrier along the transport channel axis to the pitch of the drive worm is smaller by 0.4 or less, preferably by 0.2 or less, particularly preferably by 0.1 or less, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6. For example, the ratio may range from 3.6 to 4, preferably from 3.8 to 4, and particularly preferably from 3.9 to 4. [ Also, in this manner, during operation, the carriers are at least nearly in contact with each other and accordingly the distance between the carriers is as close as possible. It is also preferable that the ratio is smaller than the above-mentioned integer by 0.01 or more. Thereby, a certain clearance can be achieved to compensate for production tolerances and / or wear tolerances.

In the case of multiple drive chain pairs and / or drive chains and / or drive wobbles, they are preferably synchronized with one another. This is possible, for example, by a gear drive known per se, and the drive force can be transferred from the motor to the plurality or all of the drive chains and / or the drive worm by the gear drive. By such synchronization, it can be particularly ensured that the aforementioned carrier bolts extend in the vertical direction while at least the force is exerted on the carrier, and that the plurality of carrier bolts, carrier protrusions or drive wobbles move at the same speed.

Preferably, the drive section has a length along the direction of the transport channel axis that is at least twice, preferably at least three times the length of the carrier. Thereby, it can be ensured that at least one carrier is completely located in the drive section at any time.

At least one guiding element may be present in the inner wall of the conveying channel and the carrier may have a corresponding counter guiding element and the carrier may be guided along the guiding element by means of such corresponding guiding element . Accordingly, tilting or wedging of the carrier can be prevented. The guiding element can be realized, for example, as a lateral guiding plate. Preferably, at least two, more preferably exactly two, opposite side guide plates are arranged in the inner wall of the conveyance channel.

Alternatively, the carrier may be centered by the aforementioned carrier bolts. The above-mentioned drive chain can be guided in the lateral direction and therefore can take a lateral force.

Particularly preferably, the force transfer between the two carriers arranged adjacently in the transport channel parallel to the transport channel axis is achieved by direct contact between the carriers and / or between the carriers in the transport channel, . ≪ / RTI >

This is advantageous because it is sufficient to arrange only one drive in the drive section, which makes the transfer device more cost effective and aids its maintenance.

General description of principle of transport element

A further aspect relates to a carrier for transporting bulk articles in a conveying device as described above. The carrier includes alignment means for aligning the mean surface perpendicular of the carrier surface and the carrier surface in at least some of the sections substantially parallel to the transport channel axis.

In the sense of the present application, the "carrier surface" of the carrier is understood to be the surface that substantially induces the bulk article to be transported in the transport device when the carrier is used as intended.

"Alignment means" is understood to be a means for aligning the carrier surface of the carrier in the transport channel in such a way that the carrier is suitable for transporting the bulk article, when used as intended. For example, this can be achieved by a strut (shank) arranged in the periphery of the carrier parallel to the transport axis, by a corresponding dimensioning as a cylinder, or by a strut (shank) Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > discs < / RTI >

In the sense of the present application, the "average surface normal line" of the carrier surface is understood to be the average value of the surface normal line on the carrier surface that can contact the bulk article when used as intended.

Alignment of the carrier surface by the alignment means substantially parallel to the transport channel axis is advantageous in that the carrier surface takes the desired position during operation and thus permits effective and cost-saving operation. Because the alignment means are arranged in the carrier itself, for example, when the carrier is damaged, the carrier can be replaced easily because the carrier can be loosely arranged in the transport channel, which helps maintenance .

Preferably, the average surface normal of the carrier surface is aligned substantially parallel to the transport channel axis, and the carrier surface covers the average transport channel cross section to an amount less than 100%. Preferably, the average transport channel cross-section is covered in the range of 50% to 99.9%, particularly preferably in the range of 80% to 99.9%. In particular, the covering may be in the range of 85% to 99.9%, optionally in the range of 90% to 99.8%, and optionally in the range of 92% to 97%. In particular, the covering is selected depending on the bulk article to be transported.

In the sense of the present application, the term "average transport channel cross section" is understood to mean the average value of the cross sectional surface perpendicular to the transport channel axis, through which the bulk article is transported when it is used as intended.

The advantage is an effective transfer of bulk articles along the transfer channel, which leads to cost-effective operation.

Particularly preferably, the alignment means are configured as at least a first surface element and a second surface element, the surface elements being arranged so as to be substantially parallel to one another and to be in operative contact with one another, The average surface normal lines are arranged substantially parallel to the transport channel axis.

The advantage is a simple structural design of the carrier. Accordingly, such a design has the advantages described above in terms of alignment means.

For example, the carriers may thus be formed of two circular discs which are connected to each other by a strut (shank) arranged parallel to the transport channel axis and substantially parallel to the transport channel axis .

The driving surface of the carrier can be arranged in one of the two surface elements. In particular, the carrier surface may be formed by the first side of one of the two circular discs, and the drive surface may be formed by the second side of this disc opposite the first side.

Particularly preferably, the surface surrounded by the periphery of the first surface element and the second surface element is formed substantially congruently when projecting parallel to the mean surface normal.

In the sense of the present application, when the outer envelopes of the first surface element and / or the second surface element are arranged in the transfer channel, the first surface element and the second surface element Quot; surface surrounded by the periphery " For example, two full-surface, circular disks arranged in parallel to one another and having the same diameter are formed substantially coincident with the surfaces arranged parallel to one another. Also, a circular, all-surface disk without openings, when arranged in a conveying pipe having a circular cross-section, has a hollow space between struts when the strut has the same radius as the circular, all- Are formed substantially coincident with surface elements comprising radially arranged struts (shanks).

The formation of the first surface element and the second surface element substantially coinciding with each other is advantageous in that the carrier has a simple structural design, which simplifies the maintenance of the carrier and reduces the cost.

Preferably, the first surface element of the carrier facing the conveying direction of the bulk article causes the bulk article to proceed. In particular, the second surface element comprises a carrier surface. In particular, the second surface element is arranged on the side of the carrier facing away from the transport direction.

As used herein, "transport direction" is understood to be the direction in which the bulk article is conveyed, on average, along the transport channel in the transport device, particularly in the section along the transport channel.

In the sense of the present application, the term " lets go through "for surface elements is understood to allow the bulk material being conveyed to proceed. For example, the ability of the bulk article to proceed can be achieved by arranging a sufficiently large opening for the bulk article in the first surface element.

The ability of the bulk article of the first surface element to advance, arranged in a manner spaced apart from the second surface element substantially parallel to the transport channel axis, allows the space between the surface elements to be used for bulk article transfer , Which increases throughput and is therefore more cost effective.

Particularly preferably, the carrier comprises spacing members at the side facing away from the transport direction and / or at the side facing away from the transport direction. In particular, the spacing member is an arm arranged substantially parallel to the transport channel axis. Also, the spacing member is formed at the end facing away from the carrier, in particular in a ball-shaped or dome-shaped manner.

In the sense of the present application, the term "ball-shaped or dome-shaped" is understood to be arranged at the end of a spacing member facing away from the carrier. The dome is understood as a flattened section of the ball.

Placing at least one spacing member in the carrier has the advantage that the minimum distance for effectively transporting the bulk article within the transport channel can be achieved by means of structurally simple measures, Effective and efficient. Arranging the blank-shaped or dome-shaped spacing member also has the advantage that, in the curved transfer channel, the spacing member functions reliably and the occurrence of high point loading is minimized, Reduce maintenance efforts accordingly.

In the side facing the transport direction or the side facing away from the transport direction, the carrier particularly preferably comprises a recess, and the recess is formed such that the spacer can engage with the recess. In particular, the recess is funnel-shaped and more particularly in at least some sections a hollow-shape or at least in some sections parabolic.

This also has the advantage that, in the curved region of the transfer channel, the spacing member can reliably engage the recess, which makes operation more reliable, reduces wear, and thereby leads to reduced maintenance effort .

For example, for a transport apparatus according to the invention, a general description of the principle of a feed apparatus for a bulk article

A further aspect relates to a device for feeding a bulk article into an inlet in a transfer device comprising a transfer channel having an inner wall. In particular, the feeding device is used with the above-described conveying device and optionally with the aforementioned carrier. The bulk goods can be transported into the conveying device by virtue of gravity. In particular, the feeding device is arranged in a substantially horizontal section of the conveying device. The inlet covers an angular range of the inner wall of greater than 0 DEG to less than 180 DEG and / or less than 0 DEG to greater than -180 DEG with respect to the direction of gravity. Preferably, the angular range is greater than 20 ° to less than 160 ° and / or less than -20 ° to greater than -160 °. Especially preferably, the angular range is greater than 45 ° to less than 150 ° and / or less than -45 ° to greater than -150 °.

In the sense of the present application, the "angle to gravity direction" means that the gravity direction forms an angle of 0 [deg.] And that a positive angle is measured clockwise with respect to the gravity direction and a negative angle is measured counterclockwise .

In the sense of the present application, a "substantially horizontal section" is a section that is arranged substantially vertically with respect to the direction of gravity.

In the sense of the present application, it is understood that the "angular region covering the inner wall" covers the opening angle measured from the transfer channel axis, i.e. the center of the transfer channel, It should be understood that the angular range is the average angular range.

For example, if the inlet is arranged in a substantially horizontal section of the transfer device, the inlet is arranged on the side.

Arranging the inlet in the described angular range has the advantage that the filling height or filling level can be adjusted in the transport channel depending on the requirements. The angular range can be advantageously selected depending on the bulk material used.

For example, the angular range can be firmly adjusted. This is advantageous in that, for example, the angle range can be fixed at an optimum value for the bulk article being conveyed, which makes the operation of the conveying device more reliable.

Preferably, the angle range is adjustable, in particular by means of a slide.

For example, the slide may be arranged as a rotary slide and / or as a rotary sleeve in the transfer channel and / or the supply device.

The adjustability of the adjustment angle is advantageous in that the angular extent is adjustable in order to adjust the filling level in the transport channel, depending on the requirements for transporting the bulk goods and also depending on the bulk goods to be transported.

Particularly preferably, the transport device comprises a redirecting portion for transporting the bulk article to the inlet.

For example, it is advantageous in that the bulk article stored in the storage container upstream can be transported to the transport channel through the redirecting portion, and the transport speed or feed rate of the bulk article into the transport channel can be adjusted by the redirecting portion .

In the sense of the present application, a "redirection portion" is understood to be a portion where the bulk article is redirected from a transport direction substantially parallel to the direction of gravity.

Particularly preferably, the redirecting portion is formed as a redirecting surface and is arranged at a redirection angle with respect to the gravity direction in the range of 30 to 70 degrees.

Preferably, the redirection angle lies within the range of 40 to 60, particularly preferably within the range of 45 to 55.

Instead, the reorientation angle may also be -30 ° to -70 °, preferably -40 ° to -60 °, particularly preferably -45 ° to -55 °.

Arranging the redirecting surface within the described angular range is advantageous in that the amount of bulk material supplied can be adjusted depending on the bulk material used and the required flow rate.

In particular, the redirection angle is adjustable, which advantageously allows the redirection angle to be adjusted depending on each requirement.

A general description of the principles of the transfer device according to the invention and / or at least the method for transferring bulk goods by means of said transfer element

An additional aspect of the invention relates to a method for conveying bulk articles by means of a conveying device as described above. Optionally, the transfer device comprises a carrier as described above. Optionally, the apparatus further comprises a feeding device as described above. The method includes transferring the bulk article from the inlet to the outlet.

The method includes the advantages described above.

A general description of the principles of the method for upgrading and / or converting or retrofitting a transfer device according to the invention

A further aspect relates to a method for upgrading and / or converting or retrofitting a transfer device for transferring bulk goods. The method includes mounting at least one carrier to build a transport device as described above. In particular, a carrier as described above is mounted. The method further optionally includes the step of mounting the feeder as described above.

This is advantageous in that an already installed transfer device can be upgraded and / or converted or refurbished to be a transfer device according to the present invention, which is cost effective since no installation of a completely new transfer device is required.

The basic description, general definitions and specific features described in the specific paragraphs herein (eg paragraphs relating to transport devices) also apply to other paragraphs herein (eg paragraphs relating to transport elements).

For a better understanding of the invention, additional features and advantages of the invention will be described in more detail below on the basis of embodiments, and the invention is not limited to such embodiments.

1 shows a perspective view of a transfer device of the present invention.
Figure 2 shows a front view of the transfer device of the invention according to Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows an enlarged view of the drive section of the transfer device of the invention according to Figure 1;
Figure 4 shows a front view of a section of the transfer device of the invention according to Figure 1, including a drive section.
Figure 5 shows a section of a transfer device of the invention comprising two carriers in a linear transfer pipe.
Figure 6 shows a section of a transfer device of the invention comprising two carriers in a curved transfer channel.
Fig. 7 shows a photograph of two carriers of the invention selectively connected in the transport groove.
Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a carrier of the invention.
Figure 9 shows a side view of the carrier according to Figure 8;
Figure 10 shows a schematic view of an inventive feeding device comprising a transport channel.
Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a portion of an alternative transfer device of the invention comprising a carrier and a bulk article.
Fig. 12 shows a schematic view of a conveying device including an S-shaped conveying pipe.
Figure 13a shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of the inventive transfer device comprising carrier bolts arranged in pairs of drive chains.
13B shows a top view of the conveying device according to Fig. 13A.
Figure 14a shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of the inventive transfer device comprising carrier bolts arranged in two pairs of drive chains.
Fig. 14B shows a top view of the conveying apparatus according to Fig. 14A.
15A shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of the inventive transfer device with carrier projections arranged in the drive chain.
Fig. 15B shows a top view of the conveying apparatus according to Fig. 15A.
Figure 16a shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of the inventive transfer device with carrier projections arranged in two drive chains.
16B shows a top view of the conveying apparatus according to Fig. 16A.
17A shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of the inventive transfer device with a drive worm.
Fig. 17B shows a top view of the conveying apparatus according to Fig. 17A.
18A shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of the inventive transfer device with two drive wobbles.
Fig. 18B shows a top view of the conveyance apparatus according to Fig. 18A.
Figure 19A shows a transfer device with four bar mechanisms at a first time point.
Fig. 19B shows the transport apparatus according to Fig. 19A at the second time point.
Figure 20 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of a transfer device of the invention comprising two drive chains.
Figure 21 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of the inventive delivery device comprising two drive belts.
Figure 22 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of a transfer device of the invention comprising two drive belts.
Fig. 23 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of the inventive transfer device, for example comprising two hydraulic elements.
Fig. 24 shows a view of a further embodiment of the inventive transfer device, which comprises a gear drive in the internal bow section of the transfer channel, in particular as an intermediate drive.
Figure 25 shows a view of a further embodiment of the inventive delivery device comprising a coupler mechanism.
Figure 26A shows a view of an embodiment of a mechanical drive.
26B shows a detailed view of a further embodiment of the mechanical drive.
Figure 26c shows a view of the embodiment of Figure 26b.
27A shows a view of a pipe cutout according to the prior art.
27B shows a perspective view of a pipe cutout according to the prior art.
28A shows a view of a pipe cutout as a feed opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
FIG. 28B shows a perspective view of a pipe cutout as a feed opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
29A shows a view of a pipe cutout as a discharge opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
29B shows a perspective view of a pipe cutout as a discharge opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
30A shows a view of a pipe cutout as a discharge opening, for example, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
30B shows a perspective view of a pipe cutout as a discharge opening, for example, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
31A shows a view of a pipe cutout as a discharge opening, for example, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
31B shows a perspective view of a pipe cutout as a discharge opening, for example, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
32A shows a view of a pipe cutout as an observation window according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
32B shows a perspective view of a pipe cut-out portion as an observation window, for example, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
33A shows a first view of a pipe cutout as a drive opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
33B shows a second view of a pipe cutout as a drive opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
33C shows a perspective view of a pipe cutout as a drive opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
34A shows a first view of a pipe cutout as a drive opening, for example, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
34B shows a second view of a pipe cutout as a drive opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
34C shows a perspective view of a pipe cutout as a drive opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
35A shows a first view of a pipe cutout as a drive opening, for example, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
35B shows a second view of a pipe cutout as a drive opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
35C shows a perspective view of a pipe cutout as a drive opening according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example.
Figure 36A shows a view of a pipe cut-out as an insertion opening for a transport element, for example according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 36B shows a perspective view of a pipe cut-out as an insertion opening for a transport element, for example, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 36c shows a perspective view of a pipe cut-out as an insertion opening, for example for a transport element, together with the transport element to be inserted.

Hereinafter, the first to the nineteenth embodiments will be described.

1 shows a perspective view of a transfer device 1 of the invention for transferring bulk articles. The conveyance channel 4 is formed as a conveyance pipe 5 which can be made, for example, of steel or plastic. The conveyance channel 4 is formed in a manner closed in the peripheral direction so that the carrier (conveying element) 2 arranged in the conveyance channel 4 can rotate indefinitely.

A plurality of carriers (2) driven by a driving section (6) in a drive section (8) are arranged in the transfer apparatus (1). The carriers are loosely arranged along the transport channel axis within the transport channel 4. [

The bulk article is conveyed into the conveyance channel 4 by the feeder 18.

Fig. 2 shows a front view of the conveying device 1 according to Fig.

In the following, like reference numerals denote like features in the drawings and will be described again only when necessary.

2, an outlet 22 is shown. During operation, the bulk article is conveyed by feeder 18 into feed channel 4. The bulk product in the transport channel 4 is transported to the discharge port 22 by the driven carrier 2 and at the discharge port the bulk product is dropped into the outside of the transfer device 1, .

Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of an area comprising the drive section 8 of the conveying device 1 according to Fig. The conveying pipe 5 has an inner wall 9 which acts as guiding means along the conveying channel axis with respect to the carrier 2. [

In the drive section 8, the drive arm 25 exerts a force onto the carrier 2 in a substantially parallel manner with respect to the transport channel axis. The drive arm 25 is moved by the drive chain 24 in the drive section 8 substantially parallel to the transport channel axis. The force is applied substantially to the carrier (2) in the peripheral region of the carrier (2) facing the inner wall (9) of the transport channel.

Fig. 4 shows a front view of a part of the section of the conveying apparatus 1 according to Fig.

The drive arm 25 driven by the drive chain 24 engages the conveying pipe 5 through the engagement opening 26. Since the bulk article is only transported downstream of the drive section by the drive section 6, sealing of the engagement opening 26 is not necessary in any case.

Fig. 5 schematically shows a section of a conveyance channel 4 embodied as a conveyance pipe 5 and comprising two carriers 2. Fig. At the side of the carrier 2 facing the conveying direction, the carrier 2 has an arm 17 serving as a spacing member. On the side facing away from the transport direction the carrier 2 has a recess 16 in which the carrier 2 arranged adjacently can selectively engage the arm 17.

The carrier 2 comprises a strut (shank) 23, which in this case is arranged substantially parallel to the conveying channel shaft 7.

Figure 6 schematically shows a section of a transfer device with curved transfer channels in which the carrier 2 is arranged.

Figure 7 shows a section of the conveying device 1 as a picture with a conveyance channel 4 embodied as a conveyance groove in which two carriers 2 with a recess 16 and an arm 17 are conveyed Is shown in the curved section of the channel.

8 is a perspective view of the carrier 2 of the invention.

The carrier 2 according to Fig. 8 comprises an arm 17 arranged in the transport channel at the side facing the transport direction when used as intended.

The carrier (2) comprises a first surface element (13) that allows the bulk article to proceed. The carrier 2 further comprises a second surface element 14 comprising a carrier surface not shown here. The first surface element 13 and the second surface element 14 are arranged in such a way that they are spaced from each other by a strut (shank) 23 to induce an operative connection between the two surface elements.

In addition, at the side of the second surface element 14 facing away from the transport direction, the carrier 2 has a recess 16 to which the arms 17 of adjacently arranged carriers can engage.

Fig. 9 shows a side view of the carrier 2 of the invention according to Fig.

The carrier 2 includes a spacing member 15 formed as an arm 17. The arm 17 is co-shaped at the end facing away from the carrier 2. [ On the side facing away from the transport direction, the carrier 2 has a recess 16 which is co-shaped in some sections so that the spacing member 15 in the form of a blank is in the complementary recess of the additional carrier 16).

The first surface element 13 and the second surface element 14 are operatively connected to each other by a strut 23 and the first surface element 13 and the second surface element 14 And serves as alignment means 11. The first surface element 13 allows the bulk article to proceed.

The second surface element 14 comprises a carrier surface 10 on the first side for transporting the bulk article along the transport channel and a drive surface 27 on the second side opposite the first side. The drive surface 27 can be elastic, and in particular can be made of plastic or rubber. Alternatively, the drive surface 27 can also be made of steel. The drive may apply a force to such a drive surface 27 for drive of the carrier 2.

Surfaces surrounded by the periphery of the first surface element 13 and the second surface element 14 substantially coincide with each other when projecting parallel to the mean surface normal line 12, Which leads to the desired alignment of the carrier 2.

10 shows a side view of a feeding device 18 of the invention for feeding a bulk article 3 into the conveying pipe 5 of the conveying device.

The conveying pipe 5 has an inlet 19 covering an angular range of about 90 degrees. By means of the slide 20 embodied as a rotary slide, the angular range can be adjusted according to the requirements.

The feeder 18 has a redirection zone 21 arranged at a reorientation angle u of about 50 degrees with respect to the direction of gravity.

Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a section of an alternative transport device of the invention. For clarity, the transport pipe is not shown here.

A plurality of carriers 2 are arranged in the conveying pipe, and in this case, three carriers 2 can be visually confirmed. A force can be applied onto the carrier 2 substantially parallel to the transport channel axis by the drive chain 24 (only its section is shown) and the drive arm 25 arranged thereon. The carrier 2 does not have a spacing member. The bulk articles 3 are arranged between the carriers 2, thus leading to the required separation of the carrier 2 in this case.

Fig. 12 shows a schematic side view of the conveying device 1 together with the conveying pipe 5. Fig. The transfer pipe 5 is S-shaped. In the lower region, the inlet container 23 is arranged to supply the bulk goods conveyed by the carrier (not shown) to the outlet container 24. The inlet and outlet are not shown here.

The conveying apparatus 1 according to Figs. 13A and 13B includes a chain drive unit 6 having a pair of drive chains formed by a lower drive chain 28a and an upper drive chain 28b. Four carrier bolts 29 are attached to these drive chains 28a and 28b and each lower end of the carrier bolt 29 is attached to the lower drive chain 28a and the upper end of the carrier bolt 29 is attached to the upper And is attached to the drive chain 28b. Thus, the carrier bolt 29 extends in the vertical direction. Two drive chains 28a and 28b are driven by the drive shaft 30 and two sprocket wheels 31 attached to the drive shaft. At the opposite ends, the drive chains 28a, 28b are redirected by the redirection axis 32. [ Also, more or less than four carrier bolts 29 attached to the drive chains 28a, 28b may be considered.

By rotating the drive shaft 30, the carrier bolt 29 is moved along the transport channel shaft 7. As a result, the carrier bolt 29 comes into contact with the drive surface 27 of the carrier 2, thereby driving its drive surface.

The distance between the two adjacent carrier bolts 29 is about 1.02 times the extension length of the carrier 2 along the transfer channel axis 7 and is thus substantially the same as this extension length in the sense of the foregoing definition. Thus, the carriers 2 can be almost in contact with each other while being driven. However, contact is prevented to prevent undesirable collision of adjacent carriers 2. In addition, the drive section along the transport channel shaft 7 is twice as long as the carrier 2. Thereby, at any time, at least one carrier 2 is fully positioned within the drive section.

The embodiment shown in Figures 14A and 14B includes two chain drive units 6 and 6 having drive chain pairs 28a, 28b and 28a ', 28b' each having four separate carrier bolts 29 and 29 ' '). The two drive chain pairs 28a, 28b, and 28a ', 28b' are arranged on opposite sides of the transfer channel 4. In order to allow synchronous movement and vertical alignment of the carrier bolts 29, 29 ', two drive shafts 30, 30' can be driven by a common motor through a gear drive, not shown here .

The chain drive 6 of the embodiment according to FIGS. 15A and 15B includes a drive chain 33 which is driven by the drive shaft 30 and redirected by the redirection axis 32. Four carrier projections 34 capable of driving the carrier 2 are screwed into the drive chain 33. [ The drive chain 33 is arranged in the lateral direction of the conveyance channel 4.

The distance between the two adjacent carrier protrusions 34 is about 1.02 times the extension length of the carrier 2 along the transfer channel axis 7 and is therefore substantially the same as this extension length in the sense of the above-mentioned provision. Thus, the carriers 2 can be almost in contact with each other while being driven. Further, in this example, the drive section is twice as long as the carrier 2 along the transport channel axis 7. [ Thereby, at any time, at least one carrier 2 is fully positioned within the drive section.

In contrast to Figures 15a and 15b, the conveying device 1 according to Figures 16a and 16b has separate carrier projections 34 and 34 'as well as separate drive shafts 30 and 30' and individual reorienting shafts 32 and 32 ' (33, 33 ') having two opposite driving chains (33, 33'). Also in this embodiment, the two drive shafts 30 and 30 'can be synchronized by a gear drive, not shown here.

17A and 17B, a drive unit is implemented as a worm drive unit 6 having a rotary drive worm 35 whose axis of rotation D extends parallel to the axis of the transfer channel. In this embodiment, the carrier 2 is driven by rotating the drive wobble 35 about its rotational axis D.

The extension length of the carrier 2 along the transport channel shaft 7 is about 3.9 times the pitch G of the drive wobbles 35. [ Accordingly, the carriers can be almost in contact with each other while the carrier 2 is driven.

The embodiment shown in Figs. 18A and 18B shows two drive wobbles 35, 35 'having respective rotation axes D, D' extending parallel to the axis of the transport channel 7. Also, here, the two drive wobbles 35, 35 'can be synchronized by a gear drive, not shown here.

19A and 19B show the driving part 4 implemented as four bar mechanisms. The first end of the first lever 36 is attached to the first drive shaft 37 while the second end of the first lever 36 is connected to the first end 36 of the second lever 39 via the joint 38. [ As shown in FIG. The second lever 39 has a slot 40 to which the pin 41 engages, thereby enabling the second lever 39 to be guided. The first end of the third lever 42 is attached to the second drive shaft 43 while the second end of the third lever 42 is attached to the fourth lever 45 via the joint 44, And is rotatably connected to one end. The fourth lever 45 has a slot 46 to which the pin 47 engages, thereby enabling the fourth lever 45 to be guided. The first drive shaft 37 and the second drive shaft 43 are driven by the common drive belt 48 so that the synchronization of the drive shafts 37 and 43 is achieved.

19A and 19B show the driving unit 6 at two different points in time. In some sections, the second end 49 of the second lever 39 and the second end 50 of the fourth lever 45, when moved by the motion of the drive belt 48, The drive 6 is constructed and arranged so that a force can be applied on the carrier 2 in parallel with the transport channel axis 7. [ The second end 49 of the second lever 39 is also engaged with the first carrier 2 until the second end 50 of the fourth lever 45 begins to exert a force on the second carrier 2. [ The driver 6 is constructed and arranged so as to apply a force to the top and vice versa in the opposite case. In this embodiment, the drive section has a length of the carrier 2.

As an alternative to the embodiment shown in Figs. 19A and 19B, the movement of the lever may also be effected by at least one connecting member < RTI ID = 0.0 > , Preferably also by at least two connecting members.

Accordingly, the present invention first particularly includes the following aspects.

Characterized in that it comprises a conveying channel (4), in particular a conveying pipe (5), at least one carrier (2) arranged in the conveying channel (4), in particular at least two carriers A conveying device (1) comprising at least one drive part (6) for driving at least one carrier (2) for conveying articles (3), characterized in that at least one carrier is arranged at least along the conveying channel axis Is loosely arranged in the transport channel (4) in some sections.

2. Feeding device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the feed channel (4) is formed as guiding means along the feed channel axis (7) for the carrier (2).

3. The driving unit according to either claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least in some sections, a force is applied directly onto the carrier (2) by the drive part (6) substantially parallel to the transport channel axis (1). ≪ / RTI >

4. The drive unit according to any one of modes 1 to 3, characterized in that in order to apply a force substantially parallel to the transport channel axis (7) onto the carrier (2) arranged in the drive section (8) (4), at least in the drive section (8).

5. The drive unit according to any one of modes 1 to 4, wherein the drive unit includes a list of kinds of drive units that are a chain drive unit, a belt drive unit, a coupler mechanism, a gear drive unit, a worm drive unit, a magnet drive unit, a servo drive unit, And wherein the transfer device (1) can be selected or selected from any combination.

6. A device according to any one of modes 3 to 5, wherein the drive part (6) comprises at least one carrier bolt (29, 29 ') and wherein at least a section of the carrier bolt (1) can be applied directly onto the carrier (2) substantially parallel to the carrier (2).

7. The method of embodiment 6, wherein the drive portion is configured as a chain drive portion 6 and includes at least one drive chain pair (28a, 28b; 28a ', 28b'), Characterized in that each of the ends is attached to a respective drive chain (28a, 28b; 28a ', 28b') of a pair of drive chains (28a, 28b; 28a ', 28b').

8. The device as in any of the embodiments 3-7, wherein the drive comprises at least one drive chain (33, 33 ') constructed as a chain drive (6) and having at least one carrier projection (34, 34' , Whereby a force in at least some sections can be applied directly onto the carrier (2) substantially parallel to the transport channel axis (7) by the carrier projection.

9. A device according to any one of modes 3 to 8, wherein the driving part is configured as a worm driving part (6) and comprises at least one rotational driving worm (35, 35 '), Characterized in that a force can be applied directly on the carrier (2) substantially parallel to the transport channel axis (7).

10. A method according to any one of modes 1 to 9, wherein force transfer between two carriers (2) arranged adjacently in the conveyance channel (4) parallel to the conveyance channel axis (7) And / or by means of a bulk article arranged between the carriers (2) in the transport channel. ≪ RTI ID = 0.0 > 1 < / RTI >

11. A carrier (2) for transferring a bulk article (3) in a conveying device (1) according to any one of modes 1 to 10, comprising a carrier surface (10) Characterized in that it comprises alignment means (11) for aligning the average surface normal line (12) of the carrier surface (10) in the at least some sections substantially parallel to the transfer channel axis (7).

12. The method of claim 11, wherein when aligning the average surface normal line 12 of the carrier surface 10 substantially parallel to the transfer channel axis 7, the carrier surface 10 is preferably less than 100% To 50% to 99.9%, particularly preferably to 80% to 99.9% of the average conveying channel cross-section.

13. Apparatus as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the alignment means (11) are configured as at least a first surface element (13) and a second surface element (14), wherein the first and second surface elements Characterized in that the average surface normal line (12) of the surface elements is arranged substantially parallel to the transport channel axis (7) 2).

14. A method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the first surface element (13) facing the conveying direction of the bulk article (3) causes the bulk article (3) to proceed, and in particular the second surface element (14) (2). ≪ / RTI >

15. The carrier (2) according to any one of modes 11-14, wherein the carrier (2) faces the transporting direction and / or faces away from the transporting direction, Characterized in that it comprises an arm (17) arranged substantially parallel to the spacing member (15), in particular the transport channel shaft (7), which is shaped or dome-shaped.

16. The carrier according to claim 15, wherein the carrier (2) includes a recess (16) and the recess is such that the spacer (15) engages a recess (16) in the side facing away from or in a direction away from the transport direction , Characterized in that the recess (16) is particularly funnel-shaped and the recess (16) is preferably at least a hollow-shaped in section and / or at least parabolic in section. .

17. Use of a transfer device (1) according to any one of the preceding aspects 1 to 10, optionally in combination with a carrier (2) according to any one of aspects 11 to 16, additionally optionally with a supply device (3) from an inlet (19) to an outlet (22), comprising the steps of: transferring the bulk product (3) from the inlet (19) to the outlet (22).

18. A method for upgrading and / or converting or retrofitting a conveying device (1) for conveying bulk goods (3), comprising the steps of: A method for transporting a bulk article, comprising the steps of mounting a carrier (2), in particular a carrier (2) according to any one of aspects 11 to 16, and optionally mounting a feeder .

For example, with respect to the description of the drawings, as well as the basic description, general definitions, and features, the invention is also applicable to the case where the bulk article is loosely arranged in the transport channel and pushed or pressed in the transport channel in the transport direction, For example a conveying pipe, by means of a conveying element which moves the bulk article. The transfer elements may be separated, for example, in a separate, non-positive (shape-locked or forced-lock manner) connection to each other (only) body) or (bulk goods) carrier. For example, in a section of the conveyance channel without drive means, a conveying element moving in the conveying channel in the conveying direction can push or push the conveying element located downstream of the conveying element through the conveying channel.

The basic concept that the pressure of the conveying element is transmitted to the next conveying element in the conveying direction is that from the viewpoint of a known tube or pipe chain conveyor its improved energy efficiency, increased conveying speed and performance, better hygiene, Lt; / RTI > In this regard, increased energy efficiency is achieved, for example, by a very low friction transport compared to tube or pipe chain conveyors. It is also possible, in particular, to require only one drive means which is provided in the first section of the conveyance channel and thus does not contact the bulk article supplied to the conveyance channel in the second section only. According to the concept of the present invention it is further possible to provide a method and a transfer device which can be used for transferring different bulk articles such as rice, flour, cereals, corn and wheat. For example, so far, tubing or pipe-chain conveyors have been used for rice, bucket conveyors for flour, and elevator conveyors for grain have been used, but these are not suitable for explosion protection, , Space shortage, and cost reasons, at least for the transportation of rice. On the other hand, tube or pipe chain conveyors can, to some extent, meet the requirements for rice application, but tube or pipe chain conveyors are excluded for cereals for reasons of hygiene and for reasons of conveying performance. By virtue of the present invention, all such bulk articles can be transferred hygienically and very efficiently, easily and without problems.

The present invention achieves the above object by the features of the claims.

The present invention relates to a conveying apparatus and a conveying method for conveying a bulk article by a conveying apparatus including at least two conveying elements loosely arranged in the conveying channel and the conveying channel. In the first section of the transport channel, the transport element is driven mechanically in the transport direction, i. E. Through direct contact with the drive means.

According to an embodiment, during a drive operation, each transfer element is in direct contact with at least one drive element through an opening in the first section of the transfer channel. In particular, the drive means is located substantially outside the conveying channel (or the conveying pipe, wherein the conveying pipe is closed over its cross-section in at least one section after the supply of the bulk article) The driving element can exert a direct force on the conveying element through the opening in the first section of the conveying channel and thus push / push the conveying element in the conveying direction through the first section of the conveying channel.

For example, the at least one transfer element may comprise two disks, and a shank extending transversely therefrom, connecting the disks centrally and at least parallel to the transfer direction in the first section of the transfer channel Lt; / RTI > The distance between the disks of the conveying elements in the conveying direction may be greater than half the length of the conveying elements in the conveying direction (for example, 1 mm to 5 mm or more, 2 mm to 3 mm or more, or especially about 2 mm or more).

According to an embodiment, the transport element is driven in the first section of the transport channel by direct contact with both the disk and / or the disk and / or the shank. In particular, during actuation, the drive element engages a rear disk (a scraper disk comprising the carrier surface) in the transport direction of the transport element, thereby pushing the transport element through the first section of the transport channel.

According to an embodiment, the transport element is driven in a transition zone between the first and second sections of the transport channel by direct contact with the rear disk (scraper disk) in the transport direction of the transport element. In this way, the transport element is pushed by the more stable scraper disk through the first section of the transport channel. Thus, the downstream transport elements of the second and third sections of the transport channel and the total load of the bulk article can be avoided, especially on the front disc (guide disc) which is weakened by recesses.

According to an embodiment, at least two drive elements are provided for each length of the transport element in the transport direction through the opening of the first section of the transport channel. For example, the drive means includes at least two drive elements, and the distance between the drive elements in the transport direction corresponds to half the length of the transfer element.

Since not only one but two driving elements are provided for driving the conveying element for each length of conveying element, the incorrect coupling of the driving elements and thus the damage of the conveying elements can also be avoided. In particular, the distance between the two driving elements is half the length of the conveying element in the conveying direction, while the distance between the front disk of the conveying element (for example a guide disk with a plurality of such recesses) The distance is greater than half the length of the transfer element.

If the distance between the two driving elements corresponds to the length of the conveying element, the driving element is incorrectly coupled to the conveying element, thus moving the conveying element in its conveying direction, for example in the conveying direction, It may not be transferred from the disk. This inaccurate engagement can occur especially when the length of the guide channel closed in the circumferential direction is greater than the sum of the lengths of the individual transfer elements of the transfer channel. However, it may be advantageous if the sum of the lengths of the transport elements is less than the length of the transport channels for transporting larger amounts of bulk goods. In this case, when the transport element reaches the downstream transport element in the transition zone between the first and second sections of the transport pipe, the total load of the upstream transport element and the bulk article is in the (weaker) guide disc, May be damaged or even destroyed.

If the distance between the two driving elements corresponds to half the length of the conveying element and the distance between the scraper disk and the guide disk of the conveying element is slightly greater than half the length of the conveying element, And also pushes the guide disc in the first section of the transport channel towards the front in the transport direction. However, at the moment when the driving element hits the downstream conveying element in the transition area between the first section and the second section, the conveying element is temporarily slowed down and the load is transferred from the driving element of the guide disk at this moment (stronger) And transferred to a subsequent driving element which is associated with the scraper disk.

Thus, when a single transfer element is introduced, incorrect coupling can be avoided in the first section of the transfer channel (as compared to the non-positive type connection between the transfer elements present in the second and third sections of the transfer channel) .

According to an embodiment, the drive element is a (carrier) bolt as described above and / or the carrier protrusion and / or hydraulic element and / or pneumatic element described above. The two hydraulic elements and / or pneumatic elements, one of which is arranged in the rearward direction of the other in the transport direction, are arranged in such a way that they apply an alternating force to the transport element and / or at the same time at different points (for example, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > a < / RTI >

According to the invention, in a second section of the transport channel, which is preferably adjacent to the first section of the transport channel, the bulk article is fed into the transport channel through the feed opening, for example by a feeder. By movement of the transfer element, the bulk article is then transferred to the third section of the transfer channel in the transfer direction, and in the third section of the transfer channel, and in particular also in the second section of the transfer channel, the first transfer element Is pressed or pushed by the second transport element and / or the bulk article through the transport channel in the transport direction. The bulk article is conveyed, for example, from a feed opening for feeding the bulk article into the conveyance channel in the second section to an outlet of the conveyance channel at the end of the third section, the conveyance element comprising a drive section of the first section and second and third Is pushed through the transport channel by a non-positive connection between the transport elements of the section. The non-positive connection is realized through the supplied bulk article between each end of the transport element in the transport direction and, where applicable, if applicable, so that the transport element and the bulk article are pressed through the transport channel.

The present invention also relates to a conveying device having a conveying channel and at least two conveying elements, and in particular has been described above in connection with the method and comprises a machine for driving the conveying element in the conveying direction in a first section of the conveying channel, The conveying element being loosely arranged in the conveying channel, and a conveying device comprising a mechanical drive means and a feed opening for feeding the bulk article into the conveying channel in the second section of the conveying channel. The conveying device is configured to perform the method, in particular in such a manner that in the third section of the conveying channel the first conveying element is pressed through the conveying channel in the conveying direction by the second conveying element and / or the bulk article.

According to an embodiment, the transport channel has an opening in its second section through which the bulk article can be fed into the transport channel by the feeding device. This feed opening is not rectangular (especially when viewed in the longitudinal section of the transport channel). For example, the width of the feed opening (or the length of the curved edge of the opening of the feed pipe) may be smallest at the rearmost point of the feed opening in the feed direction than at any other point in the feed opening.

The design of this feed opening is advantageous in that adjacent edges of the pipe cutout can be avoided. For example, the opening of the transport channel can be configured to cause a shearing effect at the opening when the transport element is passed, so that the bulk article is not destroyed and the transport element is not damaged. In particular, when there is a long cut edge provided perpendicular to the transport direction, the transport element, mainly the disc, is subject to considerable wear and the transported bulk article is easily broken.

According to an embodiment, the conveying channel may comprise, for example, an opening for the actuating part in the first section of the conveying channel and / or a discharge opening and / or conveyance for removing the bulk article in or at the end of the third section of the conveying channel One or more observation openings (observation windows) for inspection in one or more sections of the channel and / or upstream of the first section of the transport channel and / or transport elements in the first section or between the third and first sections of the transport channel Respectively. For these openings, the same principle as for the feed openings is applied, so that even in such openings, adjacent edges of the pipe cutout can be avoided as much as possible. Especially for the described apertures which do not have a rectangular shape, wear of the transfer element is reduced. In the rectangular cutout, there is a point load at the edge, while in the presently described preferred embodiment, the load moves to a different position of the transfer element with the linear movement of the transfer element.

According to an embodiment, the insertion opening of the transfer element can be designed such that only a specific transfer element can be inserted into the transfer channel, for example according to the "poka yoke" principle, and / So that it can be inserted into the transport channel. Thus, for example, a conveying element having an incorrect size or an overall length, or a distance between the scraper disk and the guide disk being not suitable for the drive part, is inserted into the conveying device, and in particular, for example, Conversely, if it is disposed in the transport channel, it can be prevented that the malfunction can be caused internally. For example, the shape of the insertion opening of the transfer pipe wall may correspond substantially to the shape of the transfer element projecting in such a way as to be accurately positioned on the transfer pipe wall and / or to allow for smooth insertion of the transfer element. May be slightly larger.

According to an embodiment, at least one of the transfer elements is provided with a label for automatic identification and / or localization, and the transfer device comprises a reader for reading the label. In particular, the label may be a label that is drawn / printed on the transport element (e.g., a feature that provides specific information) and / or is transported, for example in one or more places in the transport channel / Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > RFID < / RTI > In this way, for example, the start or stop of an operation can be controlled and the transport device can be started only when (specific) transport elements are identified at a particular location and / or (specific) And may be configured to stop as soon as it is moved. For example, the number of well-defined cycles may thus be predetermined in the transfer device.

According to an embodiment, the transfer device, in particular the transfer channel, can be locked. This may be advantageous if, for example, contamination by other bulk goods, undesirable contamination or even a poison can not be introduced into the transfer device in a certain way. For example, it may be provided that the transfer device or the transfer channel is sealed up to the means connected thereto, for example in all sections having openings in the channel wall (or the transfer pipe wall). This may include, for example, driving means coupled to the transport channels through respective openings in the first section, a supply device for supplying the bulk goods through the feed openings of the second section of the transport channel following the first section, And a discharge section of the end of the third section following the second section, or a fourth section following the third section of the transport channel. In particular, the conveying device is designed so that the bulk article is permanently locked in the system from the feeding device (possibly with an additional device connected upstream in a sealed manner) to the discharging device and possibly further devices connected thereto in a sealing manner Lt; / RTI >

In the following, additional features and advantages of the present invention will be discussed in further detail to better understand it on the basis of the embodiments in connection with Figs. 20-36.

Similar to the embodiments of Figs. 13-16, Figs. 20-22 show perspective views of additional embodiments having specific drive means.

Figures 20 and 21 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the present invention having a respective drive chain 202,122 provided with a plurality of drive elements 203,213 and the transfer elements 204,214 via a transport channel in the transport direction Respectively, of the two side driving means 201 and 211, respectively. In contrast to the embodiment shown in Figures 13-16, in the embodiment according to Figures 20 and 21, the distance between the two driving elements 203, 213 is less than the length of the transfer elements 204, 214, About one-third or one-quarter of the length of the transfer elements 204, 214. In particular, the distance between the two drive elements 203, 213 is determined by the distance between the scraper disks 204a, 214a of the transfer elements 204, 214 and the guide disks 204b, 214b as well as the distance between the transfer elements 204, In the case of a non-positive type connection between the transfer elements 204 and 214 and the transfer elements lying there downstream, the transfer elements 204 and 214 can only be adapted to the entire length of the scraper disc 204a And 214a in the conveying direction.

20 and 21, Figure 22 shows a drive with two drive belts 222 in which the drive elements 223 whose distances are smaller than the length of the transfer elements 224 in the transfer direction Means 221 is shown. In particular, the distance of the drive element 223 is in this case half the distance between the scraper disk 224a of the transfer element 224 and the guide disk 224b. It is possible to prevent the total load from being placed on the guide disk 224b of the transfer element 224 as soon as the transfer element reaches the downstream transfer element in the case of an incorrect arrangement of the drive part, as already explained above.

According to an embodiment of the invention (for example also alternatively or additionally to the drive means generally described above), a pneumatic and / or hydraulic drive may be provided.

Figure 23 shows drive means comprising two drive elements configured as pneumatic, hydraulic, or engine-driven cylinders. By stroke movement, the cylinder for example pushes the transfer element forward from the disk element. At the connection point of the force introduction point between the driving element and the disk element, for example, a latch can be provided, so that a return stroke can be made without contact with the transport element in the return direction. In particular, two (or four or six, etc.) driving elements of this kind are advantageous, so that one driving element is in the load stroke while the other driving element returns to the idle stroke.

24 shows the gear drive 241 whose radius corresponds substantially to the radius of the inner curved section 242a of the transfer pipe 242. Fig. Thus, the transfer element 243 can be pushed through the curved section through the transfer pipe 242. [ According to the embodiment, this kind of gear drive can be provided as an intermediate drive part of the transfer device, for example. In this case, the distance in the transport direction between the two adjacent teeth 244 of the gear drive can correspond approximately to the length of the transport element 243.

Figure 25 shows a coupler mechanism, in particular a view of a 4-unit coupler mechanism, in which the connection points make a linear drive movement over a specific path, through which the conveying element can be driven.

26A shows a drive element (e.g., a bolt) 263 that is guided by a drive chain 262 via a gear 264 through a drive aperture 265 of a first section 265 of the transfer pipe, And a mechanical drive means 261 including a drive chain 262. 26A, one of the bolts 263 is not engaged with the transfer element 266 in the scraping disk 267 of the transfer element 266 due to an incorrect coupling and is not coupled with the guide disk 268 of the transfer element 266 Thus pushing the transfer element 266 through the first section 265 of the transfer pipe through direct force application to the guide disc 268. [ As soon as the transport element 266 reaches the downstream transport element, however, the total load of the upstream transport element and the transported bulk article is in the guide disk 268 of the transport element 266, so that the guide disk is damaged or even destroyed .

)에서 하류 이송 요소(269)에 도달할 때까지 오직 볼트(263)에 의해 밀린다. 본 실시예에서 이송 요소(266)의 스크레이퍼 디스크(267)와 가이드 디스크(268)와의 사이의 거리는 이송 방향의 2개의 인접하는 볼트(263) 사이의 거리보다 약간 더 크기 때문에, 이송 요소(266)(및 모든 후속하는 이송 요소)는 그것이 하류 이송 요소에 도달하는 순간에 일시적으로 느려지고, 현재의 파워-전달 볼트(263) 바로 뒤의 볼트(263a)가 스크레이퍼 디스크(267)와 결합한다. 이 순간에, 따라서 하중은 이송 요소(266)의 더 약한 가이드 디스크(268)로부터 더 안정적인 스크레이퍼 디스크(267)로 옮겨지고, 이송 요소(266)의 손상이 방지될 수 있다.For this reason, according to an embodiment of the present invention, an additional driving element (e.g., a bolt) is provided in the driving means. 26B and 26C, the transfer element 266 is also pushed on the guide disc 268 by bolts 263 in the transport direction (see arrows). However, the transfer element 266 may have a transition region 266 (from the first section 265 of the transfer pipe to the second section of the transfer pipe

) Until it reaches the downstream transfer element 269. The downstream transfer element 269, as shown in FIG. The distance between the scraper disk 267 of the transfer element 266 and the guide disk 268 in this embodiment is slightly larger than the distance between two adjacent bolts 263 in the transfer direction, (And all subsequent transfer elements) temporarily become slow at the moment it reaches the downstream transfer element, and the bolt 263a immediately behind the current power-transfer bolt 263 engages the scraper disk 267. At this moment, the load is thus transferred from the weaker guide disc 268 of the transfer element 266 to the more stable scraper disc 267, and the transfer element 266 can be prevented from being damaged.

27A and 27B show the openings of the transport pipe according to the prior art. Typically, this kind of pipe cutout has a rectangular shape, but the pipe cutout is disadvantageous in that this shape causes the long cutout edge 271 to extend perpendicular to the transport direction (see arrow). However, this abutting edge can cause damage to the transfer element, increased wear of the transfer disc, and increased fracture of the transferred bulk article.

Figures 28-36 illustrate an embodiment of an opening or pipe cutout for a transport channel of a transport apparatus of the present invention.

28A and 28B illustrate a feed opening through which a bulk article can be fed into the feed pipe, for example. In particular, in this embodiment, no cutaway edge extends perpendicular to the transport direction (see arrow). It may also be provided that the feed opening is formed by two pipe cuts 283a and 283b which are mirror symmetrical in the top view in the longitudinal axis 282 of the feed pipe 281. [

29A and 29B illustrate a discharge opening in which a bulk article is removed from a transfer device, for example. Again, the cut-out edge in particular does not extend perpendicular to the transport direction (see arrow). In the illustrated embodiment, the discharge opening is defined by two pipe cuts 293a and 293b, which are mirror-symmetrical in the top view in the longitudinal axis 292 of the transport pipe 291, and a pipe cut- (294). The pipe cut-out portions 293a and 293b have adjacent edges curved at the point where the conveying element moving in the conveying direction hits the discharge opening to prevent the conveying element from being damaged.

In the top view, the pipe cutout 294 may have a geometric shape such as a plow, and may also have a geometric shape such as, for example, a position on the feed pipe at a link located between the pipe cutouts 293a and 293b, Is discharged from the discharge opening. 30A and 30B, this kind of kite may also alone serve as the discharge opening 301, in which case the tapered end 302 of the tether 301 is provided with a more blunt end Is passed by the transport element moving in the transport pipe in the transport direction downstream of the transport container 303 (see arrows). In certain embodiments, the kite may be rhombic.

According to an embodiment, the discharge opening may have the shape of a (droplet) droplet substantially as shown, for example, in FIGS. 31A and 31B. Again, the cut-out edge in particular does not extend perpendicular to the transport direction (see arrow).

32A and 32B show an observation window in which the transport operation can be monitored, for example. The width of the pipe cutout shown in the upper view is smaller at the rear end point of the opening in the transport direction (see arrow) than at any other point in the pipe cutout. In particular, the pipe cutout may be substantially arrow-shaped and may be oriented in the transport direction.

33A to 34C show a pipe cutout as a drive opening and the pipe cutout is cut in a top view (see FIG. 33B) in its forward area 331, 341 and rear area 332, 342 in the transport direction It is an arrowhead-shaped. In contrast to FIG. 33, which has a first pipe cutout 333 and a second pipe cutout 334 opposite the first pipe cutout 333 in a side view (see FIG. 33A), the drive opening of FIG. Only one pipe cutout 343 is included. The two-sided pipe cutout as shown in Fig. 33 can be used particularly in the two-sided mechanical drive described above.

Figs. 35A to 35C show a pipe cutout also serving as a drive opening. In contrast to the embodiment of FIGS. 33 and 34, the pipe cut-out is not an arrowhead-shaped in both regions 351 and 352 and is only arrowhead-shaped in rearward region 352 only in the transport direction. The forward region 351 in the conveying direction of the pipe cut portion can be provided perpendicular to the conveying direction in this case.

36A and 36B illustrate a pipe cutout as an insertion opening, for example, for a transfer element. The insertion opening 361 for the transfer element can be moved in such a way that only a particular transfer element 362 can be inserted into the transfer pipe 363, for example also as shown in Figure 36c, in accordance with the principle " . In this way, for example, the transfer element may be inserted into the transfer device with an incorrect distance between the scraper disk 362a and the guide disk 362b and may cause a malfunction therein, especially when combined with the drive means Can be prevented. For example, the shape of the insertion opening 361 of the transfer pipe may correspond to the shape of the transfer element 363 that protrudes substantially from the transfer pipe wall.

Therefore, the present invention provides a method and a transfer device in which transfer performance can be increased while energy can be saved. Also, with this concept, a conveyance height of about 60 m can be reached, and thus the conveying device can be used more effectively in all spatial dimensions, while requiring a relatively small base surface as a whole. And the transfer device can also be configured individually. Since the bulk article is conveyed in the conveying pipe by a separate article (conveying element, carrier) pushing or pushing the bulk article through the conveying pipe, only a small relative movement of the bulk article to reduce separation and internal friction have. In addition, the structure of the transfer device is simple to assemble and maintain (such as the use of individual transfer elements) and the transfer device can also be easily cleaned because the residue can not be collected in the transfer pipe and the bulk goods can not be transported. Also, since the drive is only needed in certain sections of the transport pipe, the drive and bulk supply devices are spatially separated and the drive does not come into contact with the bulk goods (high sanitary condition).

Claims (15)

A method for conveying a bulk article by means of a conveying device comprising at least two conveying elements (266, 269) loosely arranged in the conveying channel and the conveying channel, the method comprising the following steps:
Mechanically driving the transfer elements (266, 269) in the transfer direction in the first section of the transfer channel,
Feeding a bulk article into the transport channel in a second section of the transport channel,
Conveying the bulk article by moving the transfer elements (266, 269) along the transfer direction in a third section of the transfer channel,
In a third section of the transfer channel, the first transfer element (269) is pressed by the second transfer element (266) and / or the bulk article through the transfer channel in the transfer direction. The method of claim 1, wherein during the mechanical actuation, the transfer element (266) is in direct contact with the at least one drive element (263) through the opening (265) of the first section of the transfer channel. The method according to claim 2, wherein, for each length of the transport element (266) in the transport direction, at least two drive elements (263) are provided through the opening (265) of the first section of the transport channel. 4. A method as claimed in claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the longitudinal axis of the at least one transfer element (266) is aligned substantially parallel to the transfer direction in the first section of the transfer channel. 5. A method according to claim 4, wherein the transfer element (266) is driven by direct contact with at least one transfer element in a first section of the transfer channel. 6. A method as claimed in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the transition region between the first and second sections of the transport channel

) Is driven by direct contact with the rear disk (267) of the transport element in the transport direction. A conveying device for conveying a bulk product comprising a conveying channel and at least two conveying elements (266, 269)
In the transfer device,
Mechanical drive means (261) for driving the transfer elements (266, 269) in the transfer direction in a first section of the transfer channel, the transfer element comprising mechanical drive means (261) loosely arranged in the transfer channel ,
The transport channel includes a feed opening for feeding a bulk article in a second section of the transport channel,
Wherein the transfer device is configured such that in a third section of the transfer channel, the first transfer element (269) is pressed through the transfer channel in the transfer direction by the second transfer element (266) and / or the bulk article. 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the transport channel comprises a first section of the first section that pushes the transport element (266) through the first section of the transport channel in the transport direction by direct contact with the transport element (266) 265). ≪ / RTI > 9. A device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the mechanical drive means (261) comprises at least two drive elements (263), the distance between the drive elements in the transport direction being equal to one half of the length of the transport element . 10. A transfer device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the drive element (263) of the mechanical drive means is a bolt and / or a hydraulic element and / or a pneumatic element. 11. The conveying device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the conveying channel has a non-rectangular feeding opening for the bulk article in the second section. 12. The conveying device according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the conveying channel has a width at the rearmost point of the opening in the conveying direction smaller than at another point in the opening. 13. A transfer device according to claim 12, wherein the opening is a drive aperture and / or a feed aperture and / or an exit aperture and / or an observation aperture and / or an insertion aperture for the transport element. The transfer device according to any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the transfer device, in particular the transfer channel, is lockable. 15. A device according to any one of claims 7 to 14, wherein at least one of the transfer elements is provided with a label for automatic identification and / or localization, the transfer device comprising a reader for reading the label, .

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