RU2735964C1 - Apparatus for controlling articles and apparatus for feeding articles therewith - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: transportation.

SUBSTANCE: apparatus for controlling articles, for example meat pieces, is provided with a transportation control mechanism having a transportation control element configured to allow passage of an article, height of which is less than or equal to a predetermined height, and receiving an object whose height exceeds a predetermined height, to prevent further movement of the object to the downstream side in the conveying direction. Transport control mechanism shifts the transportation control element using a predetermined displacement force to a control position corresponding to a predetermined height, and supports the transportation control element in such a way that enabling the transportation control element to retreat upwards on the downstream side in the transportation direction, by applying an external force greater than a predetermined displacement force, and which enables the transport control element to return to said control position by stopping the action of the external force.

EFFECT: device makes it possible to separate stuck objects from each other and to transport them separately.

5 cl, 21 dwg

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to an apparatus for feeding objects, which transports and delivers objects to their destinations, and an apparatus for controlling objects provided in this apparatus for feeding objects in order to control the transported objects.

TECHNOLOGY LEVEL

[0002]

Examples of such apparatuses which are designed to allow objects to be fed include a combination balance. The combination weigher includes a plurality of weighing units that receive and weigh the supplied items. The weights of the items measured by the weighing units are summed in various ways to select a combination of weighing units containing items whose total weight falls within a predetermined range of weights. The items are then released from the weighing nodes and therefore the items are selected.

[0003]

Roughly speaking, combined scales can be divided into three types of scales, providing for different designs: automatic scales, semi-automatic scales and manual scales, in accordance with how objects are fed into and out of weighing units. Combined scales for manual weighing require personnel to both supply and release items. Items are fed into the semi-automatic combined scales manually, and the design provides for mechanized release of items. In an automatic combination weigher, both the feeding and discharging of items are automated, so there is no need to rely on labor.

[0004]

Semi-automatic combination scales, where the operator brings and feeds the items to be weighed, may be suitable for use when weighing irregularly shaped items that have relatively large unit weights and items such as seafood or pieces of meat such as chicken that are quite sticky, difficult to manipulate in equipment.

[0005]

Patent Document 1 discloses such a semi-automatic combination balance that requires the involvement of personnel when feeding the items to be weighed. These semi-automatic combination scales are equipped with a cyclical conveyor that carries the objects on it, moving them around the slots of the multiple weighing hoppers of the combination scales. In the case of these semi-automatic combination scales, from the items carried on the cyclical conveyor, the operator takes the items near the slots and throws them into these slots.

[0006]

Patent Document 2 describes a combination weigher in which an operator transfers items to and places on a plurality of feeding conveyors, and the feeding conveyors transfer to a plurality of weighing conveyors to measure the weights of the items. The weights of the items measured by the weighing conveyors are summed in various ways to select a combination of weighing conveyors containing items whose total weight falls within a predetermined weighing range. The items are then discharged from the weighing units, thereby picking them up by means of a collection conveyor.

LIST OF Cited LITERATURE

Patent documents

[0007]

Patent Document 1: Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 1985-7033

Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-251990

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Technical challenges

[0008]

The semi-automatic combination weighers described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, in both cases, require an operator to pick up and feed items into slots in a plurality of weighing hoppers or on a plurality of feed conveyors. Weighing a large number of items using such a scale can be cumbersome.

[0009]

To cope with this problem, it is possible to propose the automatic transport of objects to the slots available in the combined scales and the lowering of the objects into these slots. Then the possible risk is that the feed into one of the slots will be excessive if some objects stick together and are transported all at once. This overfeeding can introduce a risk of inaccuracy when items are then pooled and weighed. This problem can be more noticeable in the case of sticky products, which, if stick together, often turn out to be difficult to pull through.

[0010]

The present invention is made to solve these problems of known technical solutions and is aimed at creating means and methods that allow - if objects stick together and are transported all at once - they can be easily taken apart and transported separately to their destinations, which allows for smooth and efficient manipulation of objects.

Problem solutions

[0011]

To this end, the present invention provides the following technical aspects.

[0012]

1) The object control device according to the present invention includes a transport control mechanism configured to control the height of objects along the transport path for the objects to be transported. The transport control mechanism includes a transport control member configured to allow an item whose height is less than or equal to a predetermined height to pass through and receive an item whose height exceeds a predetermined height to prevent the item from moving further towards the downstream side in direction of transportation. The transport control mechanism supports and biases the transport control member with a predetermined displacement force to a control position corresponding to a predetermined height. The transport control mechanism also supports the transport control element so that the transport control element is allowed to retract upward on the downstream side in the transport direction by the application of an external force greater than a predetermined displacement force and which allows the transport control element return to the mentioned control position due to the termination of the external force.

[0013]

The "predetermined biasing force" may preferably be a biasing force generated by a biasing member, an example of which is a spring. The displacement force can preferably be varied, for example by replacing the displacement element or by correcting the condition of attachment of the displacement element.

[0014]

If, in an object control device according to the present invention, with such characteristics, if the objects stick together and are transported all at once, they can be acted upon by the transport control element of the object transport mechanism. Any items found to be greater than the predetermined height are received by the transport control element to prevent the item from moving further towards the downstream side in the transport direction, and any other items that are less than or equal to the predetermined height. it is allowed to pass by the transport control member and transport to the downstream side in the transport direction.

[0015]

Among the superimposed objects that are received by the transport control element so that they do not move further in the transport direction, objects on the underside that are less than or equal to the predetermined height may pass by the transport control element and move towards the side located downstream in the direction of transportation. Objects on the upper side, separated by this movement from objects on the lower side, fall from above onto objects on the lower side on the upper side in the transport direction or on the transport surface belonging to the transport route, and their height decreases. If the height decreases to less than the predetermined height, the objects are allowed to pass by the transport control element and move towards the downstream side in the transport direction.

[0016]

As a result, a plurality of items transported in the superimposed state are transported along the conveying direction, and overlapping is eliminated.

[0017]

In addition, when a plurality of superimposed objects are about to be caught and stuck between the transport surface of the transport path and the transport control member or the like, the jam creates a force that is directed towards the downstream side in the direction transport, and acts as an external force on the transport control element. When this external force is greater than the displacement force applied to hold the transport control element in the desired position of the transport control element, the transport control element retreats upward on the downstream side in the transport direction. This increases the spacing between the transport control element and the transport surface belonging to the transport path, "causing" the item to move under the transport control element towards the downstream side in the transport direction. Thus, the element transport manager, on which the external force has been eliminated by preventing jamming, returns to the original control position again.

[0018]

2) In an object control device according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the transport control mechanism may include a biasing member that biases the transport control member to said control position with a predetermined biasing force.

[0019]

According to this embodiment, since a biasing member is provided for biasing the transport control member, the biasing force applied by the biasing member is selected, for example, the tension force of the spring as the biasing member is selected. In particular, the biasing force for biasing the transport control element into an adjustable position can be set to be changed by changing the spring or the like. Thus, the displacement force required to release and separate a certain amount of sticky objects can be easily adjusted according to the properties of the objects, such as sticky objects.

[0020]

3) In an object control device in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the transport control mechanism supports the transport control element such that the transport control element is allowed to retract from and return to that position along a circular arc.

[0021]

In accordance with this aspect, when the external force directed to the downstream side in the conveying direction exceeds the displacement force, the conveying element retreats upwardly on the downstream side in the conveying direction along the circular arc-shaped path, and as it moves backward, the height of the transport control member gradually increases. This makes it possible for the transport control element to act on a plurality of superimposed objects with a simultaneous change in height, and the overlap of objects can be effectively eliminated.

[0022]

4) An item control device in accordance with another aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of transport control mechanisms, which are respectively in a plurality of positions along the transport direction. One of the plurality of transport control mechanisms on the upstream side in the transport direction is positioned such that the predetermined height of the transport control member for the upstream side transport control mechanism is greater than the predetermined height for the other of the plurality of control mechanisms transport on the downstream side in the direction of transport.

[0023]

In accordance with this aspect, any piled objects, sticking together and being transported, are first exposed to the transport control element located at some higher position on the upstream side in the transport direction, and their height is accordingly reduced to some extent. These objects are then exposed to the transport control element located at a lower position on the downstream side in the transport direction, and their height accordingly undergoes a further decrease. By carrying multiple transport controls operating at different heights, a plurality of items stacked in multiple layers can be torn apart and cascaded.

[0024]

5) In an object control device according to yet another aspect of the present invention, the transport control element may be a bar-shaped element supported in some position over the transport path so that it can cross the transport path.

[0025]

In accordance with this aspect, the bar-shaped transport control member can confidently receive any item having portions that differ in height in the direction of the width of the transport path and prevent the item from being transported. Advantageously, the bar-like shape of the transport control can minimize contact with objects. In the case that the object is a piece of meat, it is possible to prevent, for example, adhesion of fat and / or oil on the surface of the meat to the shaped transport control member and build-up thereon.

[0026]

6) In the object control device according to the preferred aspect of the present invention, the transport control mechanism can cantilever support the bar-shaped member such that it projects upwardly from the transport path to the side of the transport path.

[0027]

In accordance with this aspect, the bar-shaped element, which is the transport control element, receives cantilever support and projects upwardly from the transport path. Therefore, the decision about the controllable item width for items controlled in height in the direction of the width of the conveyance path can be made optionally and set depending on the length of the projection, that is, the length of the rod-shaped element as such.

[0028]

7) An item control device in accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of transport control mechanisms, which are respectively in a plurality of positions along the transport direction. Bar-shaped elements projecting upwardly from the transport path have a length that is less than the width of the transport path. A plurality of transport control mechanisms are disposed along the transport direction alternately at positions on one side of the transport path and on the other side of the transport path.

[0029]

In accordance with this aspect, the bar-shaped element and a length less than the width of the transport path does not accept the item at any positions along the transport path that are farther outward than the free end of the bar-shaped element. Therefore, objects can pass the free end of the bar-shaped element, moving towards the downstream side in the transport direction. This can reduce the risk of items jamming during transport, which can occur when transport control extends over the entire width of the transport path.

[0030]

Numerous transport control mechanisms are positioned along the direction of transport of the objects alternately at positions on one side and on the other side of the transport path, which means that bar-shaped elements having a length less than the width of the transport path cantilever protrude in alternating order from different sides transportation ways. Thus, any of the items that have passed one bar-shaped element on the upstream side in the transport direction can be accepted and prevented from further transport by another bar-shaped element on the side located downstream in the direction of transportation. In this way, transport control can be confidently performed over the entire width of the transport path.

[0031]

8) An object feeding apparatus in accordance with another aspect of the present invention includes an object handling apparatus according to the present invention and an object transport mechanism that transports objects along a transport path.

[0032]

In the object feeding apparatus according to the present invention, the object handling device can sequentially unstuck the stacked piled objects and transport different pieces of objects separately along the object transport path of the object transport mechanism. This can prevent items from overlapping at their destinations in the event that the items stick together and are transported by the item transport mechanism, allowing the items to be manipulated smoothly and efficiently at their destinations.

[0033]

9) In an apparatus for supplying objects according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the object transporting mechanism may include an oscillating conveyor configured to swing motion centered on an upstream side in the conveying direction directed towards a plurality of positions on the side, located downstream in the direction of transport, and from these positions.

[0034]

If, in an object feeding apparatus according to this aspect, having such additional features, the objects being transported to and arriving at the article transport mechanism stick together on the upstream side in the transport direction, the article handling device may pull them out during transport. along the transport route, and items separated from each other can be distributed to different positions on the downstream side in the transport direction.

Effects of the invention

[0035]

In the event that any objects stick together and are transported, the present invention, providing these technical features, can facilitate the successful separation of such objects from each other and the transportation of different pieces of objects separately in order to avoid overlapping objects at their destination, which allows smoothly and efficiently manipulate items at destinations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0036]

Figure 1 is a perspective view of the overall structure of a weighing system equipped with an object control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the weighing system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the weighing system of FIG. 1.

4 is a perspective view of a set of distribution items destinations.

Fig. 5 is a partially cut away perspective view of the transport control mechanism on the upstream side in the transport direction.

6 is a transparent perspective view of a downstream side transport control mechanism.

7 is a partially cutaway front view of the object control device.

8 is a partially cutaway side view of the object control device.

Fig. 9A is a schematic side view illustrating the mode of operation of the object control device.

Fig. 9B is a schematic side view illustrating the mode of operation of the object control device.

Fig. 9C is a schematic side view illustrating the mode of operation of the object control device.

10 is a schematic front view of a set of distribution items destinations.

Fig. 11 is a schematic side view of the combination balance.

12 is a schematic plan view illustrating the locations of sensors for detecting objects.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a control configuration of the weighing system shown in FIG. 1. FIG.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary general control of the item feeding apparatus.

15 is a flow diagram illustrating exemplary control of the vibratory feeder.

FIG. 16 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary control of the distribution vehicle.

17 is a flow chart illustrating exemplary control of the item release mechanism.

Fig. 18 is a front view of an object control device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

19 is a perspective view of an object control device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0037]

Below, with reference to the accompanying drawings, is a detailed description of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038]

1 is a perspective view of the overall structure of a weighing system equipped with object control devices 50 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the weighing system, and FIG. 3 is a side view of the weighing system. The weighing system according to this embodiment includes an apparatus 1 for feeding items, and a semi-automatic combination weigher 2, which is a type of combination weigher that usually requires personnel to feed items.

[0039]

This weighing system automatically supplies the semi-automatic combination scale with 2 items by means of the item feeding apparatus 1 described here. Therefore, the combined scales 2 described here can be called differently - automatic combined scales, in which both the feeding and the release of objects are automated.

[0040]

This embodiment is directed to weighing irregularly shaped items having relatively large unit weights that are sticky and difficult to handle, such as chunks of thigh or breast meat cut in blocks from broilers (chicken breed).

[0041]

Thus, a weighing system according to this embodiment may be suitable for use in weighing such items in broiler primary processing lines.

[0042]

The apparatus 1 for feeding objects includes a horizontally installed and located on the front stage (initial) transport mechanism 3, mechanisms 4 for discharging objects, located in a plurality of positions (which in this embodiment are three) along the transport path, three distribution transport mechanisms 5, placed in accordance with mechanisms 4 for releasing objects, and a plurality of vibrating feeders 6; on the rear stage (end) transport mechanisms located one after the other. Three vibratory feeders 6 in this embodiment are arranged corresponding to one distribution transport mechanism 5.

[0043]

The transport mechanism 3 located on the front stage includes a belt conveyor; as illustrated by the arrow in FIG. 2, a conveyor belt 7 is horizontally rewound and circulates around the rollers of the conveyor belt at a constant speed from right to left. Broiler meat pieces, which are here referred to as objects "w", are fed to the right-hand side of the conveyor belt 7 located at the front stage of the transport mechanism 3, where the transportation of the items to be transported begins.

[0044]

Each of the object release mechanisms 4 includes a guide member 8 that is shaped like an elongated plate. The guide element 8 is located on one of the two sides, passing through the transport path of the transport mechanism 3 located on the front stage, and is configured to oscillate around the vertical swing axis "a". When the guide element 8 is driven to move away from the transport path and to be on one side of the transport path along the direction of transport of objects, as illustrated by the solid line in Fig. 2, the guide element 8 allows the passage of the objects "w" transported along the transport path located on the front step by the transport mechanism 3. When the guide member 8 is driven to oscillate about the vertical swing axis "a" towards the transport path, crossing the transport path diagonally as seen in plan view, as illustrated by the dotted line in FIG. 2, the guiding element 8 guides along its surface the objects "w" transported along the transport path in order to move outward, i.e. towards the other of the two sides of the transport mechanism 3 located on the front step across the transport path, so that the objects "w »Are released from the transportation route.

[0045]

Discharge chutes 9, inclined downward and tapering towards their bottoms, are fixedly installed in positions on the discharge side of the objects located on the front stage of the transport mechanism 3. The objects "w", which are guided into and out of the transport path by means of the guide element 8, slide off the side release of objects into the outlet chute 9, and then fall down.

[0046]

Each of the object release mechanisms 4 invites the elongated plate-shaped guide element 8 to cross diagonally the transport path of the transport mechanism 3 on the front stage, so that the objects "w" transported by the transport mechanism 3 on the front stage are guided along the surface of the guide element 8 and are released from the transportation route. In this way, objects "w", which are chunks of sticky broiler meat, can be reliably released from the transport path at predetermined positions.

[0047]

Each of the distribution transport mechanisms 5 includes a lowering funnel 10 and an oscillating conveyor 14. The lowering funnel 10 has a shape that increases in size towards the upper edge and receives objects "w" discharged from the transport path by the object release mechanism 4. Oscillating conveyor 14 is able to swing at a predetermined angle and transport objects "w" received by the funnel 10 for lowering. The distribution transport mechanism 5 functions as a product transport mechanism that transports the items "w" to be fed by the oscillating conveyor 14 which configures the transport path. Oscillating conveyor 14 includes a conveyor belt 11, right and left side plates 12, and an outlet cover 13. Items "w" sliding down along the lowering funnel 10 are on and transported by the conveyor belt 11. Side plates 12 are vertically mounted on both sides of the conveyor belt 11. The outlet cover 13 is U-shaped in plan view and is attached to the end portions of the side plates 12.

[0048]

The outlet cover 13 forms an object drop channel that allows the objects "w" transported on and with the conveyance belt 11 to fall down without jumping out in the direction of conveyance. As shown in FIG. 4, the outlet cover 3 is bolted to the side plates 12 so that the position of the cover 3 in the transport direction can be adjusted. By adjusting the position of the outlet cover 13, the length of the opening of the falling objects channel, measured in the transport direction, changes according to the object dimensions "w". This can give all "w" objects the ability to drop out exactly at predetermined positions, while getting stuck in the mentioned channels.

[0049]

The swinging of the swinging conveyor 14 at a predetermined angle about the swinging vertical axis "b" determined on the side of the conveyor belt 11 that receives objects falling from the lowering funnel 10 is provided by a servo motor. Oscillating conveyor 14 is constructed so that the channel for falling objects on the other end side, where the objects exit, conveyor belt 11, is located directly above the vibratory feeders 6 in three positions: a central position and two lateral positions through a central position, in the range of swinging motion. An oscillating conveyor 14, constructed in this way, swings around a vertical swing axis "b" at a predetermined angle, distributing the objects "w" into three vibratory feeders 6.

[0050]

In this way, the swinging conveyor 14 is allowed to swing about the swinging vertical axis "b" defined at the end side where the transfer starts, the conveyor belt 11, which receives objects falling from the lowering funnel 10. Regardless of the swinging position of the swinging conveyor 14, the guide 8 of the object release mechanisms 4 can facilitate the release of the objects "w" that have been carried by the transport mechanism 3 on the front stage, and feed them to the end where the objects arrive of the swinging conveyor 14. Thus when it is necessary to feed objects to the end side, where the objects of the oscillating conveyor 14 enter, regardless of the oscillating position of the oscillating conveyor 14, the mechanisms 4 for releasing objects can release the objects from the transport mechanism 3 located at the front stage, and then quickly feed them to the oscillating conveyor fourteen.

[0051]

The transport mechanism 3 located on the front stage, shown in Figs. 1-3, can occasionally receive simultaneously two or more objects "w", which stick together, and in this case it is possible to release the sticky objects "w" from the transport mechanism 3 located on the front stage into the hopper 10 for lowering and frequent intake by the swinging conveyor 14.

[0052]

In the event that - unlike one piece of each item "w" being fed at a time, the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5 receives such sticky items "w", and then at the next destination of the items to be distributed by vibrating feeders 6, the items , lowered into the grooves 25 of the combined balance 2, can be superimposed on objects "w". Then the collections of items that are inferred by combinatorial computations may be incorrect or lead to unsatisfactory performance.

[0053]

Based on the above, in this embodiment, the following means are used to prevent the sticky objects "w" from being transported to the vibratory feeders 6 in the swinging conveyors 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5.

[0054]

This embodiment provides item control devices 50 configured to control items "w" conveyed by swing conveyors 14. As shown in FIG. 4, each of item control devices 50 includes two transport control mechanisms: a first transport control mechanism 50A and the second transport control mechanism 50B. Each of the object control devices 50 is in a position in which the objects "w" are lowered into the swinging conveyor 14, i.e., at some position further downstream in the conveying direction than the lowering funnel 10. The first and second transport control mechanisms 50A and 50B are respectively on both sides of the transport path and are offset relative to each other along the transport direction (longitudinal direction). Transport control mechanisms 50A and 50B are identical in structure except that they are respectively left and right components. Detailed design features of these mechanisms are shown in Figures 5-8.

[0055]

Fig. 5 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the first conveyance control mechanism 50A on the upstream side in the conveyance direction. 6 is a "transparent" perspective view of the second transport control mechanism 50B on the downstream side in the transport direction. 7 is a partially cut-away front view of the object control device 50. 8 is a partially cutaway side view of the object control device 50.

[0056]

The first and second transport control mechanisms 50A, 50B have a box-shaped support frame 51. Each of these support frames 51 is connected to and supported by a support table, not shown in the drawings, mounted on the sides of the transport path. In the first and second transport control mechanisms 50A, 50B, a transport control member 52, which is a round bar made of stainless steel, protrudes upwardly from the side surface of each supporting frame 51 facing the transport path in the upward direction of the transport path from the way of transportation. Each of the transport control elements 52 is cantilevered and protrudes horizontally to cross the transport path at a substantially right angle. The transport control member 52 has a length that is less than the lateral width of the transport path. The free end of the transport control member 52 is further inwardly than the lateral end of the transport path.

[0057]

In the supporting frame 51, a pivot arm 53 is supported on the inner surface of the side plate facing the transportation path. The pivot arm 53 is pivotable about a horizontal swing axis "c". End shipment control member 52 located at the base of the latter, is detachably connected - by means of a wing bolt 54 - to the lower free end of the pivot arm 53. The side plate carry ut its frame 51 elongated hole 55 formed in an arc shape centered on the axis of the circle swing arm 53. The transport control member 52, connected to the lower free end of the swing arm 53, projects towards the transport path through this elongated opening 55. In response to the pivot movement of the swing arm 53, the transport control member 52 is allowed to move up and down the path , having the shape of a circular arc, parallel to the surface for transporting the conveyor belt 11.

[0058]

The spring support pin 56 and the spring support bolt 57 are connected by a bridge - the spring 58. The spring support pin 56 is attached to the bottom of the pivot arm 53. The spring support bolt 57 is fixedly attached to the side plate of the frame 51 facing the transportation path. The tension force of the spring 58 biases the pivot arm 53, turning it so that its lower end is directed towards the upstream side in the transport direction. Therefore, in the normal state, the transport control member 52 is pressed against the lower end of the elongated hole 55, and the transport control member 52 is held in a position of the transport control member that is set at a certain height from the transport surface.

[0059]

The spring support bolt 57, which supports the stationary end of the spring 58, is inserted through a vertically elongated hole 59 made in the side plate of the support frame 51, and is then fixedly secured by a nut 60. The position in which the spring support bolt 57 is vertically adjustable along the elongated opening 59 to control the downward pivotal force of the pivot arm 53, i.e., the initial pressure to press the transport control member 52 against the lower end of the elongated opening 55.

[0060]

The box frame 51 has an openable rear side. On its rear side, the support frame 51 has vertical guide grooves 51b, which are opposite each other on two lateral sides. The rear bulkhead 51a is fitted in these grooves. The rear baffle 51a is connected in and removed from the grooves while sliding vertically. The support frame 51 opens wide by removing the rear bulkhead 51a. The rear side of the support frame 51 thus open wide can facilitate handling of the components, for example when the transport control member 52 is detached from the pivot arm 53 for cleaning, or when the lock position of the spring support bolt 57 is adjusted.

[0061]

As previously described, the first and second transport control mechanisms 50A and 50B on both sides of the transport path are disposed at positions offset from each other in the transport direction. In addition, the first transport control mechanism 50A on the upstream side of the transport direction is set to a position higher than that of the second transport control mechanism 50B on the downstream side of the transport direction. In the first transport control mechanism 50A on the upstream side in the transport direction, the transport control member 52 is at a higher height from the transport surface than the transport control element 52 of the second transport control mechanism 50B on the downstream side in the transport direction ... In the second transport control mechanism 50B on the downstream side of the transport direction, the height from the transport surface of the transport control member 52, for example, is approximately equal to the average vertical thickness of the objects "w". In the first transport control mechanism 50A on the upstream side of the transport direction, the height from the transport surface of the transport control member 52 is approximately 1.5 to 2 times the average vertical thickness of the objects "w".

[0062]

9A-9C are schematic side views illustrating the modes of operation of the first and second transport control mechanisms 50A and 50B constructed as described above.

[0063]

If the objects "w" stick together and are discharged from the transport mechanism 3 at the front step into the lowering funnels 10, then the objects "w" stuck together in this way are transported by an oscillating conveyor 14.

[0064]

As shown in FIG. 9A, first the superimposed objects "w" conveyed on the conveyor belt 11 of the oscillating conveyor 14 are acted upon by a conveyance control member 52 located at a higher position in the upstream side of the first control mechanism 50A transportation. Then, an item placed on top of the items "w" that are higher than the transport control 52 is received by the transport control 52 to prevent further movement of this item, while other objects "w" below the transport control 52 pass by. moving further downstream.

[0065]

Thus, the item "w" received by the transport control member 52 not to move as shown in FIG. 9 is then transported to the upstream side in the transport direction, while the remaining items "w" move to the downstream side. downstream in the direction of transportation, and fall on objects "w", the height of which is lower, or on the conveyor belt 11 for further transportation.

[0066]

Under these circumstances, since the conveyance control member 52 is set shorter than the width of the conveyance path, it is possible for a portion of the items "w" to be conveyed to pass through the free end portion (tip portion) of the conveyance control member 52. Therefore, it becomes possible to prevent the forced clogging of the transportation path along its entire width by objects "w" and to level the development of the congestion.

[0067]

As shown in FIG. 9C, objects "w" that have been reduced in height after passing by the transport control 52 located on the upstream side of the first transport control mechanism 50A are further affected by the transport control 52 at the lower position , the second transport control mechanism 50B on the downstream side in the transport direction. Thus, a certain number of sticky objects "w" can be partially or completely pulled apart and divided into separate pieces as a result of two "rounds" of transport control. The sticky objects "w", which are now essentially divided into separate pieces, are then transported to the end, from where the objects of the oscillating conveyor 14 exit and are distributed to the subsequent vibratory feeders 6.

[0068]

In the event that excess items "w" are about to be caught and stuck between the conveyor belt 11 and the conveyance control 52, a large external force is applied to the conveyance control 52 towards the downstream side in the conveying direction. As previously described, the transport control member 52 is biased by an initial predetermined pressure applied by the spring 58, therefore approaching the upstream side in the transport direction at the lower end of the elongated opening 55. When the downward external force applied to the transport control the element 52 exceeds the initial predetermined pressure, the pivot arm 53 supporting the transport control element 52 pivots against the biasing force of the spring 58.

[0069]

As a result, the transport control element 52 retreats upward on the downstream side in the transport direction, and objects "w" that are about to be caught in this interval are able to pass the transport control element 52 and move to the downstream stream side. This allows you to successfully avoid the risk of transportation failure due to objects "w" caught in the mentioned interval.

[0070]

The transport control member 52 pivots upstream on the downstream side in the transport direction in an arc-shaped path. Consequently, the transport control member 52 moves to a higher position as it pivots. The transport control element 52 of this design will be able - by changing its height - to confidently act on piled objects "w" that are about to be caught in the said interval, and it will be possible to effectively pull apart the stuck together objects "w". This action of the transport control element 52 can be effective, in particular, for items such as sticky and hard-to-take pieces of sticky meat cut from broilers.

[0071]

Each of the vibratory feeders 6 constituting the transport mechanisms located at the rear stage has a tray 15, which is detachably connected to the vibration generator 16 shown in FIG. 3. Due to the transmission of vibrations to the tray 15, the objects "w", lowered into the tray 15, are transported to the combined scales 2. A supporting frame 17 is connected to the bottom surface of the tray 15. The supporting frame 17 supports the tray 15, tilting it down towards its front edge in the direction of transportation ... In some position, the support frame 17 interacts with the vibration head 16a at the upper end of the vibration generator 16 and is fixedly secured by the use of a handle-driven fastener type connecting mechanism 18.

[0072]

On its bottom surface and on the surfaces of the sides, the tray 15 has a large number of through holes 19, the shape of which is similar to the slots and which are aligned along the longitudinal direction of the tray 15. These through holes 19 serve to release fat and / or oil released on the surfaces of the objects "w "- pieces of broiler meat. This can prevent grease and / or oil excessively adhering to the inner surface of the tray 15 and solidifying thereon, adversely affecting the transportability of the items "w".

[0073]

The chute 15 of the vibratory feeder 6 has numerous through holes 19 formed therein and is inclined downwardly towards its leading edge in the transport direction. These design features of the tray 15 can facilitate the smooth transport of items "w" - chunks of oily and sticky broiler meat.

[0074]

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, for the swing conveyor 14 of one distribution transport mechanism 5 there are three vibratory feeders 6. By sliding the swing conveyor 14 to the center position and two lateral positions through the center position, and from these positions, objects "w" from the oscillating conveyor 14 to any of the trays 15 of the three vibrating feeders 6. In general, objects “w” can be vibrated and transported on nine linear vibrating feeders 6, whereby the objects arrive at a total of nine target locations.

[0075]

The drive or termination of the drive of the vibrating feeders 6 and, accordingly, the transportation or termination of the transportation of the objects "w" in such a way that the objects "w" are transported to the ends of the trays 15, from where the objects come out, in the vibrating feeders 6, is maintained as long as the supply of objects into the slots 25 for lowering objects available in the combination balance 2. Thus, the objects "w" can be fed into the combination balance 2 in a very timely manner.

[0076]

In the positions between the central tray 15 and the trays 15 on the lateral sides through the central tray of a set of three vibrating feeders 6, the freely rotating rollers 20 are supported horizontally in the transport direction by using an anchor pad, not shown in the drawings, and facing the path of the end from where the objects exit swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5. During the swinging motion of the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport 5, the freely rotating rollers 20 can serve to receive any objects "w" suddenly falling out in positions between the central tray 15 and the two side trays 15. Freely the rotating roller 20, if it has received the item "w", rotates under its own weight, and the received item "w" falls into the tray 15 - one of the central tray and two side trays.

[0077]

As schematically shown in the front view of FIG. 10, a relatively long object "w", if it falls on top of the freely rotating roller 20, can be caught there across the sides of the roller. Such an incident can be dealt with as follows. When the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5 swings sideways in the opposite direction (to the left in FIG. 10), the end from which the objects exit of the swinging conveyor 14, i.e. the lower end of the outlet cover 13, can push the object "w" against free-rotating roller 20. This action can cause the free-rotating roller 20 to rotate and the object "w" to fall into the chute 15 towards which the swinging conveyor 14 moves.

[0078]

As shown in Fig. 4, by using an anchor pad, not shown in the drawing in question, to the outer sides of the ends from which objects exit, both side trays 15 included in a set of three trays 15 are attached to the tilt guide plates 21. Each of the guides, the inclination of the plates 21 is shaped like a chevron and the inclination towards the inner side of the tray 15. In the presence of such a guiding inclination of the plate, objects "w" entering any of the side trays 15 and possibly caught by the outer side wall of the tray can be guided reliably into Tray 15.

[0079]

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the upper surface of the semi-automatic combination balance 2 has a large number - nine in the illustrated example - of slots 25 for lowering objects, which are linearly arranged side by side. Combined scales 2 are located so that these slots 25 for lowering objects face the outlets of the apparatus 1 for feeding items, from where the items to be distributed are discharged, i.e., to the ends from where items come out of the vibrating feeders 6. Each of the slots 25 for lowering items equipped with a pair of right and left flaps 26, which open and close like a French window. These flaps are left open until a request is made to supply items.

[0080]

In the weighing system according to this embodiment, decisions on the number of items to be fed and the speed of the semi-automatic combination weigher 2 and the setting of these parameters occur so that the number of items weighed by the semi-automatic combination weigher 2 is greater than the number of items fed and received. located on the front step, the transport mechanism 3 of the apparatus 1 for feeding objects.

[0081]

In the event that the number of objects received by the transport mechanism 3 on the front stage of the apparatus 1 for feeding objects temporarily exceeds the number of objects weighed by the semi-automatic combined scales 2, the objects transported by the transport mechanism 3 on the front stage can be transported past the guiding elements 8 of the mechanisms 4 to release items without releasing them from the transport path.

[0082]

11 is a schematic side view of a semi-automatic combination balance 2.

[0083]

The semi-automatic combination balance 2 is essentially similar in construction to the known semi-automatic combination balance. Combined scales 2 have feed hoppers 40 in positions directly under the flaps 26 of grooves 25 for lowering objects and weighing hoppers 41, each of which includes two storage chambers 41-1 and 41-2 in positions under the feed hopper 40.

[0084]

Each of the feed hoppers 40 has two outlet flaps 40a and 40b that open and close independently of each other. Items are discharged into the storage chamber 41-1 of the weighing hopper 41 when the discharge gate 40a is opened, and the items are discharged into the storage chamber 41-2 of the weighing hopper 41 when the discharge gate 40b is opened.

[0085]

In each weighing hopper 41, the storage chamber 41-1 has an outlet flap 41a, and the storage chamber 41-2 has an outlet flap 41b. When the outlet flap 41a or 41b is opened, the items are discharged from one of the storage chambers 41-1 and 41-2.

[0086]

A weight sensor 42 is attached to each weighing hopper 41. The weight sensor 42 detects the weight of the objects in the weighing hopper 41, and outputs the detection result to the combined weigher 2 controller, described below. Based on the changing weight of the objects in the weighing hopper 41, the controller of the combined scale 2 calculates the weight of the objects in the storage chamber 41-1, 41-2 of the storage weighing hopper 41. Based on the weight of the objects in the storage chamber 41-1, 41-2 hopper-batcher 41, the controller performs combinatorial calculations, which will be described below.

[0087]

In the position under the weighing hoppers 41, an accumulation conveyor 43 is installed. The accumulating conveyor 43 receives items discharged from the weighing hoppers 41 and transports the received items to a packaging machine not shown in the drawings. The packaging machine vacuum seals items having a total weight within a predetermined range of weights.

[0088]

Combined balance controller 2 performs combinatorial calculations in which the weights of items in storage chambers 41-1 and 41-2 of weighing hoppers 41 are combined in different ways to select a combination of storage chambers 41-1 and 41-2 containing items whose total weight remains within a predefined range of weights. As a result of combinatorial calculations, the selected items located in storage chambers 41-1 and 41-2 are released into the accumulating conveyor 43.

[0089]

In a weighing system according to this embodiment having such features, objects "w" are fed at one end, where transport of the objects begins, on the upstream side of the transport mechanism 3 in the direction of transport of objects. "W" are released by transport mechanisms 4 to release objects from the transport path in three positions in the direction of transport, and then they are sent to the distribution transport mechanisms 5. Then the objects "w" are distributed in the distribution transport mechanisms 5 to three distribution destinations and sent to vibratory feeders 6 ; in particular, a total of 6 vibrating feeders, a total of nine. The objects "w" located in the distribution transport mechanisms 5 are then distributed to three destinations and sent to the vibrating feeders 6, in particular to the vibrating feeders 6, of which there are a total of nine. The objects "w", thus distributed in nine vibrating feeders 6, are then directed to the lowering slots available in the combined scales 2. It is possible to transport part of the objects "w" past the three mechanisms 4 for the release of objects, carried out without being released from the transport path with the arrival on the exit of the transport mechanism 3 located on the front stage. Such items "w" are accumulated in a container and transported from it. The operator transfers the objects accumulated in this way to the end, from where the transportation begins, located on the front stage of the transport mechanism 3.

[0090]

During the previously described feeding of objects, the control of the mechanisms 4 for releasing objects, the distribution transport mechanisms 5 and the vibrating feeders 6 is carried out in order to ensure that they are triggered in response to the current situation, for example, depending on whether the objects "w" in the desired positions in the apparatus 1 for feeding objects and is there a request for feeding objects to the slots 25 for lowering available in the combined scales 2, vibratory feeders 6, distribution transport mechanisms 5 and mechanisms 4 for releasing objects.

[0091]

FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view of FIG. 2, respectively, and exemplary of the arrangement of object detection sensors mounted to detect objects "w".

[0092]

Object detectors according to this embodiment, i.e. sensors Sa (1) —Sa (3), Sb (1) —Sb (3), Sc (1) —Sc (3), Sd (1) —Sd (3), Se (1) —Se (9) and Sf (1) —Sf (9), can be through-type photoelectric sensors, each of which includes a phototransmitter and a photodetector. Each of these photoelectric sensors detects objects "w" passing through the area between the photo transmitter and the photo detector facing each other, and then outputs the detection result.

[0093]

The Sa (1) —Sa (3) sensors are front-stage (initial) object sensors that detect objects “w” passing through the target detection area just in front of the object release mechanisms 4. These sensors are located in the transport path of the transport mechanism located at the front stage 3.

[0094]

The Sb (1) -Sb (3) sensors are projectile detectors that detect objects ejected from the transport path. These sensors are located in the base portions of the outlet chutes 9, which receive objects "w" discharged from the transport path by the object release mechanisms 4. Through holes are made in the base parts of the outlet chutes 9 so as not to block the optical paths of the Sb (1) -Sb (3) sensors for detecting the ejected objects.

[0095]

The Sc (1) -Sc (3) sensors are sensors for detecting incoming objects during distribution, and the Sd (1) -Sd (3) sensors are sensors for detecting outgoing objects during distribution. Sensors Sc (1) -Sc (3) and Sd (1) -Sd (3) are located at the ends where objects enter and ends where objects come out, which are located, respectively, on the upstream side and downstream to the flow side in the direction of transportation of the swinging conveyors 14 of the distribution transport mechanisms 5 and are designed to detect objects "w" at these ends where the objects enter and the ends from where the objects exit. Side plates and outlet covers 13 of the swinging conveyors 14 have through holes made in them so as not to block the optical paths of the Sc (1) -Sc (3) sensors for detecting incoming objects during distribution and Sd (1) -Sd (3) sensors for detecting outgoing items during distribution.

[0096]

The Se (1) -Se (9) sensors are rear-stage (end) sensors for detecting incoming objects, and the Sf (1) -Sf (9) sensors are rear-stage sensors for detecting exiting objects. These sensors are located at the ends where the objects enter and the ends where the objects leave, located, respectively, on the upstream and downstream sides in the direction of transport of the trays 15 of the vibratory feeders 6; thus, the transport mechanisms located on the rear step facilitate the detection of objects "w" at the ends where the objects enter and the ends from where the objects come out of the trays 15. The trays 15 of the respective vibrating feeders 6 have through holes 23 made in them so as not to block the optical the paths of the Se (1) -Se (9) sensors located on the back stage for detecting incoming objects, and the Sf (1) -Sf (9) sensors located on the back stage for detecting outgoing objects.

[0097]

Fig. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of a weighing system according to this embodiment.

[0098]

The weighing system according to this embodiment includes a programmable controller 27 (hereinafter referred to as a programmable logic controller (PLC for short)) that controls the entire operation of the system.

[0099]

A programmable display 29 is connected to the PLC 27. The programmable display device 29 is a display that is manipulated by an operator. The programmable display device 29 is used to enter and display, for example, various pieces of data and settings, for example, transport speeds by means of the transport mechanism 3 located at the front stage and swinging conveyors 14, as well as the vibration intensities of the vibratory feeders 6.

[0100]

The following signals are input to the PLC 27: signals (1) to (9) requesting objects when the controller 28 of the semi-automatic combination weigher 2 requests the supply of objects to the nine slots 25 for lowering; and detection results from the Sa (1) —Sa (3), Sb (1) —Sb (3), Sc (1) —Sc (3), Sd (1) —Sd (3), Se (1 ) —Se (9) and Sf (1) —Sf (9) for object detection.

[0101]

The PLC 27 controls the front-stage transport mechanism 3 with the help of the drive control circuit 30 of the front-stage transport mechanism and controls the guide elements 8 of the object release mechanisms 4 with the help of the guide element drive control circuit 31. The PLC 27 also controls the oscillating conveyors 14 of the distribution transport mechanisms 5 using the oscillating conveyor drive control circuit 32 and the oscillating conveyor oscillation control circuit 33, and also controls the vibratory feeders 6 using the vibratory feeder drive circuit 34.

[0102]

Upon receipt from the combined scales 2 of a request to supply objects to any (any) of the slots 25 for lowering, the PLC 27 essentially controls the respective components in such a way that the objects are transported to the ends from where the objects come out of the trays 15 in the vibrating feeders 6 and turn out ready to feed to target slot (s) 25.

[0103]

When an object is not detected at the end where objects exit from the tray 15 in the vibrating feeder 6, the objects detected at the end where the objects enter from the tray 15 are transported to the end where the objects exit from this tray. When an object is not detected at the end where the objects enter the chute 15 in the vibratory feeder 6, the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5 receives a request to feed the objects to the end where the objects enter the chute.

[0104]

In the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5, the objects are transported to the end, from where the items of the swinging conveyor 14 come out, and the drive of the swinging conveyor 14 provides its swing to a certain position, so that the items are immediately fed into the tray 15 of the vibrating feeder 6, requesting the supply of items. When an object is not detected at the end where objects exit from the swinging conveyor 14, the items found at the end of the swinging conveyor 14 where the objects enter are transported to the end where the items come out of this swinging conveyor 14. When the item is not found at the end where the items are entering of the swinging conveyor 14, the item release mechanism 4 receives a request to supply the items to the swinging conveyor 14.

[0105]

In response to the detection of objects that pass through the detection area immediately in front of the object release mechanism 4, the drive of the guide element 8 of the object release mechanism 4 is actuated, having received a request to supply objects to and along the transport path in order to achieve readiness to release objects from the path transportation. Therefore, the transported objects are released by the mechanism 4 to release the objects from the transport path and fall into the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5.

[0106]

The following is a more detailed description of PLC operation control 27.

[0107]

14 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary general control of the object feeding apparatus 1 according to this embodiment.

[0108]

First, it is determined whether the operation switch of the programmable display device 29 is pressed (step S1). When it is determined that the operation switch is pressed, the device starts to operate. When the item request signal (1) - (9) corresponding to each of the nine lowering slots 25 is input from the semi-automatic combination weigher 2 (step S2), the vibratory feeder 6, which is located furthest downstream in the conveying direction in the apparatus 1, is controlled. supply of items (step S3). Thereafter, the distribution transport mechanism 5, which is located more upstream than the vibratory feeder 6 in the previous step (step S4), is controlled, and then the mechanism 4 for discharging objects, which is located more upstream than the distribution transport mechanism 5 in the previous step (step S5). It is then determined whether the operation switch is turned off (step S6). When the work switch is determined to be in the off position, work ends.

[0109]

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary control of the vibratory feeder 6, which is a subroutine in the overall control of FIG. 14. FIG.

[0110]

The configuration of this control is, in essence, such that when the sensor Sf (1) -Sf (9) located at the rear stage for detecting objects exiting does not detect an object, i.e., when there is no object at the end from which objects exiting, tray 15 in the vibratory feeder 6, the vibratory feeder 6 is driven for a certain certain period of time in order to transport the objects currently located at the end where the objects enter, the tray 15 to its end, from where the objects exit. Instead of driving the vibrating feeder 6 for a certain period of time, it is possible to drive until the sensor Sf (1) -Sf (9) located at the rear stage for detecting objects exiting detects objects at the end from which objects exiting from tray 15 ...

[0111]

When the Se (1) -Se (9) sensor located on the rear step for detecting incoming objects does not detect an object at the end where the objects are entering, i.e. when the object is not at the end where the objects enter, tray 15 in the vibratory feeder 6, the flag of the command for supplying items, which requests the supply of items into the tray 15 of the vibrating feeder 6, is made active, inviting the distribution transport mechanism 5 to feed the items into the vibrating feeder 6.

[0112]

In response to the receipt of a signal for requesting objects from the semi-automatic combined scales 2, when objects are present at the end from which the objects come out of the tray 15 in the vibrating feeder 6, and are detected by the sensor Sf (1) -Sf (9) located on the rear stage to detect the exiting objects, the vibratory feeder 6 is driven for a certain period of time, so that the objects located at the end from where the objects come out of the tray 15 in the vibratory feeder 6 enter the groove 25 for lowering objects, which is available in the semi-automatic combined scales 2. Instead of driving the vibrating feeder 6 in for a certain period of time, it is possible to stop the drive when the sensor Sf (1) -Sf (9) located at the rear stage for detecting objects exiting does not detect objects at the end from which objects exiting from tray 15, and this indicates that objects have entered slot 25 for lowering objects, available in semi-automatic combination scales.

[0113]

In the example described here, the number "k" specifying one vibratory feeder 6 is set to "1" (step S301), and it is determined whether or not the drive enable flag indicating that the vibratory feeder 6 is being driven is active (step S302) as shown in FIG. 15. When the drive enable flag is determined to be active, the value in the drive timing timer for the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number "k" is incremented (step S303), and it is determined whether the timer has elapsed (step S304).

[0114]

When it is determined in step S304 that the timing of the drive timing timer for the vibratory feeder 6 to which the number "k" has elapsed, indicating that this vibratory feeder 6 has been driven for a certain period of time, the vibratory feeder drive 6 to which the number " k "is terminated (step S305). The drive enable flag for this vibratory feeder 6, which is assigned the number "k" and which is no longer driven, is made inactive (step S306). Then, the number k is incremented (step S307) and it is determined whether the number “k” has reached the value “10”, that is, whether all nine vibrating feeders 6 are “processed” (step S308). When it is determined that the number "k" is not yet equal to "10", the process returns to step S302, and when it is determined that the number "k" is equal to "10", the process exits the subroutine.

[0115]

When it is determined in step S302 that the drive enable flag for the vibratory feeder 6 to which the number "k" is inactive, then it is determined whether any objects are detected at the end where the objects exit from the tray 15 in the vibratory feeder 6 to which the number "k ", That is, whether any objects are detected by the outgoing object detection sensor Sf (k) at the rear stage for the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number" k "(step S309). When objects are detected there, then it is determined whether an object request signal corresponding to the number "k" is input from the semi-automatic combination weigher 2 (step S310). When the input of the item request signal is confirmed, the drive enable flag for the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number "k" becomes active (step S311), and the timing timer for the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number "k" is set to the counting time (step S312 ). Thereafter, the drive of the vibration feeder 6 to which the number "k" is assigned is started, and the process proceeds to step S307 (step S313).

[0116]

When it is determined in step S309 that no object is detected at the exit end of the tray 15 in the vibratory feeder 6 to which the number "k" is assigned, it is then determined whether any items are detected at the exit end of the tray 15 in the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number "k", that is, whether any objects are detected by the sensor Se (k) at the rear stage for detecting incoming objects for the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number "k" (step S314). When the presence of any objects is detected, the drive enable flag for the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number "k" is made active (step S315), and the drive timing timer for the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number "k" is set to the counting time ( step S316). Thereafter, the drive of the vibrating feeder 6 to which the number "k" is assigned is started, and the process proceeds to step S307 (step S317).

[0117]

When it is determined in step S314 that an object is not detected at the end where the objects exit from the tray 15 in the vibratory feeder 6 to which the number "k" is assigned, the object feeding command flag is made active, and this causes the dispensing transport mechanism 5, corresponding to the number "k" receives a request to supply items to the tray 15 of the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number "k", and the process proceeds to step S307 (step S318).

[0118]

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary control of the distribution vehicle 5, which is a subroutine in the general control flowchart illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0119]

The configuration of this control is, in essence, such that when no object is detected at the end where objects arrive in the vibratory feeder 6, i.e. when the Se (1) -Se (9) sensor located at the rear stage for detecting incoming objects does not detect the object, the objects are transported to the end, from where the objects come out of the swinging conveyor 14 in the distribution transport mechanism 5, so that the objects are fed to the end where the objects enter, the tray 15 in the vibrating feeder 6.

[0120]

When the Sd (1) -Sd (3) sensor for detecting the objects released during distribution does not detect an object, i.e. when the object is not detected at the end from where the objects exit from the swinging conveyor 14 in the distribution transport mechanism 5, the drive of the swinging conveyor 14 is carried out for a certain period of time in order to transport the objects located at the end where the objects arrive of the oscillating conveyor 14 to the end where the objects exit. Instead of driving the oscillating conveyor 14 for a certain period of time, it is possible to stop the drive when the Sd (1) -Sd (3) sensor located at the rear stage for detecting objects exiting during distribution does not detect any objects, indicating that the objects have been transported to the end from where the objects come out of the swinging conveyor 14.

[0121]

When the sensor Sc (1) -Sc (3) for detecting objects arriving during distribution does not detect an object, i.e. when an object is not detected at the end where objects arrive of the swinging conveyor 14, the command flag for releasing objects is made active, which causes a request to the mechanism 4 for the release of items to release items into the swinging conveyor 14.

[0122]

In the event that the swinging conveyor 14 is not currently in a position in which the objects can be lowered into the tray 15 of the vibrating feeder 6, when the objects are not found at the end where the objects enter, the tray 15 in the vibrating feeder 6, but are at the end where they come out the objects of the oscillating conveyor 14 in the distribution transport mechanism 5 drive the oscillating conveyor 14 so that it oscillates into a position where the objects can be lowered into the chute 15 of the vibrating feeder 6. For the oscillating conveyor 14, which is driven to overturn and arrive at the above-mentioned position is also driven to direct the objects into the swinging conveyor 14 - to the end where the items arrive of the vibratory feeder 6. In case the swinging conveyor 14 is currently located in such a way that the objects can be lowered into the tray 15 of the vibrating feeder 6 when objects are not found at the end where the objects arrive, tray 15 in vibratory feeder 6, but are present at the end, from where the objects of the oscillating conveyor 14 exit in the distribution transport mechanism 5, the oscillating conveyor 14 is driven for a certain period of time in order to direct the objects into the oscillating conveyor 14 to the end where the objects arrive, the vibrating feeder 6. Instead of driving the oscillating conveyor 14 during for a certain period of time, it is possible to stop the drive when the Sd (1) -Sd (3) sensor located at the rear stage for detecting incoming objects during distribution no longer detects any objects, indicating that the objects have been transported to the end from which objects come out of tray 15 in vibratory feeder 6.

[0123]

The objects are fed into the trays 15 of the three vibrating feeders 6 by an oscillating conveyor 14 of one distribution transport mechanism 5. The position of the oscillating conveyor 14, in which the objects are dropped, can be easily controlled, since its rocking motion is driven by a servomotor.

[0124]

In this example, the number "j" defining one distribution transport mechanism 5, the number "k" defining one vibratory feeder 6, and the number "a" defining the number of vibratory feeders 6 that receive items distributed by one distribution transport mechanism 5 are all set equal “1” (step S401) as shown in FIG. 16. It is determined whether or not the drive enable flag indicating that the oscillating conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5 assigned the number "j" is currently being driven (step S402) is active. When the drive enable flag is determined to be active, the value in the drive timing timer for the oscillating conveyor 14 of the distribution vehicle 5 assigned the number "j" is incremented (step S403), and it is determined whether the timer has elapsed (step S404).

[0125]

When it is determined in step S404 that the timing in the drive timing timer for the swing conveyor 14 of the distribution transport 5 assigned the number "j" has expired, the drive of the swing conveyor 14 of the distribution transport 5 assigned the number "j" ends ( step S405), and the drive enable flag for the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution vehicle 5 assigned the number “j” is made inactive (step S406). Then, the number k defining one vibratory feeder 6 and the number “a” of the vibratory feeder 6 are incremented (step S407), and it is determined whether the number “a” has reached the value “4”, i.e., whether the objects are distributed in the three vibratory feeders 6 ( step S408). When it is determined that the number "a" is not yet "4", indicating that the distribution of items to the three vibrating feeders 6 has not yet been completed, the process returns to step S402.

[0126]

When it is determined in step S406 that the number "a" is "4", indicating that the distribution of objects into the three vibrating feeders 6 by the distribution transport mechanism 5 assigned the number "j" is completed, the number "j" is incremented, and the number " a "is set to" 1 "again (step S409). It is then determined whether the number "j" is equal to the value "4", that is, whether all three distribution transport mechanisms 5 are "processed" (step S410). The process returns to step S402 when the number "j" is not yet "4", and the process exits the subroutine when the number "j" is "4".

[0127]

When it is determined in step S402 that the drive enable flag for the oscillating conveyor 14 of the distribution transport 5 assigned the number "j" is inactive, then it is determined whether any objects are detected at the end where the objects exit from the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport 5, which is assigned the number "j" equal to "4", i.e., whether the sensor Sd (j) for detecting objects escaping during distribution for the distribution transport mechanism 5, which is assigned the number "j", has detected any objects ( step S411). When the presence of any objects is detected there, then it is determined whether the item feeding command flag for the tray 15 of the vibrating feeder 6 assigned the number "k" is active, that is, whether the tray 15 of the vibrating feeder 6 is requested to supply items (step S412 ). The process proceeds to step S413 when the supply command flag is determined to be active, and the process proceeds to step S407 when the supply command flag is determined to be inactive.

[0128]

In step S413, it is determined whether the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5 assigned the number "j" is currently in a position where objects can be lowered into the chute 15 of the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number "k", i.e. whether the end from which the objects exit of the conveyor belt 11 in the oscillating conveyor 14 is currently in a position directly above the chute 15 of the vibratory feeder 6, which is assigned the number "k". When the swinging conveyor 14 is currently in this position, the item feeding command flag for the tray 15 of the vibrating feeder 6 to which the number “k” is assigned is made inactive (step S414). Thereafter, the drive enable flag for the oscillating conveyor 14 of the distribution transport 5 assigned the number "j" is made active (step S415), and the drive timing timer for the oscillating conveyor 14 of the distribution transport 5 assigned the number "j" the counting time is set (step S416). Then, the drive of the oscillating conveyor 14 of the distribution vehicle 5 to which the number "j" is assigned starts, and the process proceeds to step S407 (step S417). When it is determined in step S413 that the oscillating conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5 assigned the number “j” is not currently positioned so that objects can be dropped into the chute 15 of the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number “k”, the oscillating conveyor is driven 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5 assigned the number “j”, causing said conveyor to swing to a position where objects can be lowered into the chute 15 of the vibratory feeder 6 assigned the number “k”, and the process proceeds to step S407 (step S418).

[0129]

When it is determined in step S411 that no object has been detected at the exit end of the objects of the swing conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism assigned the number "j", then it is determined whether any items have been found at the end of entry of the swing conveyor 14 of the distribution vehicle assigned the number "j", that is, whether the dispensing sensor Sc (j) corresponding to the distribution vehicle assigned the number "j" has detected any items (step S419 ). When the presence of any object is detected at this step, the drive enable flag for the swing conveyor 14 of the distribution transport assigned to the number "j" is made active (step S420), and the drive timing timer for the swing conveyor 14 of the distribution transport, which number "j" is assigned, the counting time is set (step S421). Thereafter, the drive of the oscillating conveyor 14 of the distribution vehicle assigned the number “j” is started, and the process proceeds to step S407 (step S422).

[0130]

When it is determined in step S419 that no object is detected at the end where items of the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism assigned the number “j” are received, the release command flag for the item release mechanism 4 assigned the number “j” is is made active so that the items are discharged into the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport assigned the number “j”, and the process proceeds to step S407 (step S423).

[0131]

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary control of the item dispensing mechanism 4, which is a subroutine in the general control flowchart illustrated in FIG. 14. FIG.

[0132]

The configuration of this control is, in essence, such that, when controlling the distribution transport mechanism 5 for objects, when the command flag for the release of objects for the mechanism 4 for releasing objects is made active, it is necessary to release the objects into the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanisms 5. For this, when located at the front stage, the Sa (1) -Sa (3) sensor detects objects to detect objects, drive the guiding element 8 of the mechanism 4 for releasing objects to the transportation path and across it to reach readiness for releasing objects. After that, the guide element 8 guides the objects so that they fall from the conveyor belt 7 of the transport mechanism 3 located at the front stage, and then down to the outlet chute 9. Objects thus falling down from the conveyor belt 7 are detected by the sensor Sb (1) - Sb (3) to detect projected items.

[0133]

The program of the control of the mechanism 4 for the release of objects is regularly started at certain intervals. Provided that this program is run every 10 ms, and 10 detection outputs in sequence are output from the Sb (1) -Sb (3) sensor to detect ejected objects, objects can block the optical path of the Sb (1) -Sb (3) sensor for detecting released items within a period of 10 ms × 10 = 100 ms. Thus, a rough estimate of the volume of items produced is possible. After a certain predetermined period of time has elapsed, set for the discharged objects, detected by the sensor Sb (1) -Sb (3) to detect the discharged objects, the guide element 8 of the mechanism 4 for discharging objects is driven to take it out of the transportation path and return to its original position. This can ensure the proper volume of items to be released into the distribution transport mechanism 5.

[0134]

When the object detection sensor Sa (1) -Sa (3) located in the front step detects objects passing through the detection area immediately in front of the object release mechanism 4, the guide element 8 is respectively driven to move it to the ready-to-release position and guide the objects to be released from the transportation route. Consequently, the Sb (1) -Sb (3) sensor for detecting ejected objects must detect objects ejected from the conveyor belt 7 located at the front stage of the transport mechanism 3 to the outlet chute 9. Therefore, if the Sb (1) -Sb ( 3) for the detection of the released objects does not detect the object within a certain predetermined period of time, one can suspect the occurrence of some problems, for example, sticking of a piece (s) of objects between the guide element 8 and the conveyor belt 7.

[0135]

In this example, the number "k" specifying one item release mechanism 4 is set to "1" (step S501), and it is determined whether or not the release detection enable flag is active indicating that the items released by the item release mechanism 4 to which the number "k" are detected by the sensor Sb (k) for detecting the discharged objects (step S502) as shown in FIG. 12. When the discharge detection enable flag is determined to be active, it is then determined whether the sensor Sb (k) operates to detect the discharged objects, that is, whether the sensor continuously detects objects (step S503). When it is determined that the discharged object detection sensor Sb (k) continuously detects objects, the detection time (k) for the object discharging mechanism 4 assigned the number "k" to detect the discharged objects is increased (step S504), and it is determined whether the detection time (k) has reached a predetermined amount of time (step S505). When it is determined that the detection time (k) has reached a predetermined time value, indicating that the proper volume of objects has been released, the guide element 8 is deactivated, i.e., the guide element 8 is driven to move it out of the transport path to its initial position ( step S506). Thereafter, the release detection enable flag indicating that the items emitted by the item release mechanism 4 assigned the number "k" are detected are made inactive (step S507), and the drive enable flag that indicates that the guide member 8 is being driven the item release mechanism 4 to which the number “k” is assigned is made inactive (step S508). Thereafter, the number “k” is incremented (step S509), and it is determined whether the number “k” is equal to “4”, that is, whether the release of items by the three item release mechanisms 4 is completed (step S510). The process returns to step S502 when the number "k" is not yet equal to the value "4", and the process exits the subroutine when the number "k" is determined to be "4".

[0136]

When it is determined in step S502 that the release detection enable flag, which indicates that the items discharged by the item discharging mechanism 4 to which the number "k" is assigned, are currently detected by the discharged item detection sensor Sb (k), is inactive, after it is determined whether the drive enable flag, which indicates that the guide member 8 of the object discharging mechanism 4 assigned the number "k" is being driven (step S511) is active. When the drive enable flag is determined to be active, it is then determined whether the sensor Sb (k) is activated to detect the objects being thrown, that is, whether any objects are detected (step S512). When it is determined that the release detection sensor Sb (k) is activated, the release detection enable flag, which indicates that the objects ejected by the object release mechanism 4 assigned the number "k" are detected by the release detection sensor Sb (k) items are made active, and the process proceeds to step S509 (step S513).

[0137]

When it is determined in step S512 that the discharging object detection sensor Sb (k) is not activated, the discharge failure detection time spent on detecting a discharge failure occurring in the item discharging mechanism 4 assigned the number "k" is increased (step S514 ). It is then determined whether the exhaust failure detection time has reached a predetermined amount of time (step S515). When it is determined that the discharge failure detection time has reached a predetermined amount of time, the detected discharge failure occurring in the item discharging mechanism 4 to which the number "k" is assigned, for example, is displayed and broadcast on the programmable display device 29, and the process proceeds to step S509 (step S516).

[0138]

When it is determined in step S511 that the drive enable flag that indicates that the guide member 8 of the object discharging mechanism 4 to which the number "k" is assigned is inactive, then it is determined whether the release command flag for the object discharging mechanism 4 is active, which is assigned the number "k" (step S517). When it is determined that the release command flag is active, it is then determined whether the object detection sensor Sa (k) on the front stage is activated, which detects objects passing through the detection area immediately in front of the object release mechanism 4, which is assigned the number "k", that is, whether any items are detected (step S518). When it is determined that objects are detected, the guide member 8 of the object discharging mechanism 4 assigned the number "k" is driven to and across the conveying path to become ready to release the objects (step S519). Then, the drive enable flag indicating that the guide member 8 of the item discharging mechanism 4 assigned the number "k" is currently being driven is made active (step S520), and the item release command flag is made for the item discharging mechanism 4 to which number "k" is assigned to inactive (step S521). Then, the detection time of the detection failure for the item release mechanism 4 to which the number "k" is assigned is set to "0" and the process proceeds to step S509 (step S522).

[0139]

As described so far, when objects are fed on the upstream side of the front-stage transport mechanism 3 in the transport direction, then the objects are guided by the guide elements 8 of the object release mechanisms 4 at three positions along the transport path, falling out of the transport path into the respective swinging conveyors 14 of the three distribution transport mechanisms 5. Then, the discharged objects are distributed by the swinging conveyor 14 into the trays 15 of the three vibrating feeders 6. Thus, the objects in the same position on the upstream - in the direction of transport - side of the transport mechanism 3 located on the front stage are distributed in trays 15 with a total of nine vibrating feeders 6, and then transported from trays 15 vibrating feeders 6, finally entering the nine slots 25 for lowering, available in the combined scales 2.

[0140]

In this way, the items "w", which are chunks of broiler meat, can be automatically fed to the lowering slots 25 on the combination scale 2. The operator no longer needs to carry every single piece of items to the lowering slots on the semi-automatic combination scales ... This can lead to a large reduction in the labor normally required from the operator.

[0141]

Provided that the appropriate weighing frequency of the semi-automatic combination scale is, for example, 20 times per minute, during vacuum packing of 2 kg pieces of broiler meat with the packaging machine after weighing them on the semi-automatic combination scale, the operator would have to pick up and carry the pieces of meat by hand. which weigh approximately 20 kg × 20 × 60 = 2.4 tonnes per hour, to the lowering slots on the combination scale. In addition, the operator would have to stand during the entire operation. Such manual work, if it lasts for long hours, would be quite grueling work.

[0142]

However, according to this embodiment, the object feeding apparatus 1 automatically distributes and feeds the objects "w" to the lowering slots 25 in the combination scale 2. Therefore, the operator does not need to transfer the meat pieces to the lowering slots 25 in the combination scale. 2, resulting in a large reduction in the labor typically required by the operator.

[0143]

A situation is possible in which the stuck together objects "w" are transported to the transport mechanism 3 on the front stage and then transported from the transport mechanism 3 located at the front stage to the swinging conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5. However, in this embodiment, where the first and the second transport control mechanisms 50A and 50B, the objects "w" stuck together in this way can be successfully pulled apart in the transport direction by these transport control mechanisms during transport by the swinging conveyor 14. This can prevent the sticky objects "w" from being thrown out from the swinging end. conveyor 14 all at once into the vibratory feeder 6 and can accordingly prevent the simultaneous overlapping of objects "w" from the vibratory feeder 6 into the lowering groove 25 present in the combined scale 2. As a result, it is possible to successfully prevent such unfavorable phenomena as inaccuracy in combining items "w" in combination scales 2 and unsatisfactory performance.

[0144]

ANOTHER OPTION OF IMPLEMENTATION

The present invention also provides the following technical aspects, the application of which is optional.

[0145]

1) In the embodiment described previously, the item management apparatus 50 includes two transport control mechanisms: a transport control mechanism 50A and a transport control mechanism 50B. However, the item control device 50 may be equipped with three or more transport control mechanisms.

[0146]

2) In the embodiment described previously, a bar-shaped member, which is an example of a transport control member 52, is cantilevered. Instead, a bar-shaped element extending the entire width of the conveyance path can be supported at both ends.

[0147]

The transport control member 52 can be shaped differently; for example, it can be in the form of a plate or any other suitable shape.

[0148]

3) The positions of the first and second transport control mechanisms 50A and 50B can be adjusted up and down, as well as back and forth along the transport direction, which allows the transport control members 52 to be positioned in any suitable positions in the vertical direction and in positions along the transport direction, depending on the size and properties of items to be transported. As a result, transportation management can be more efficient.

[0149]

4) As shown in FIG. 18, the transport control member 52 may be structured in which the roller 52b in the form of a cylindrical shaft made of polymer material or stainless steel is seated with a gap that would allow the roller to rotate on a carrier shaft 52 cantilevered in transverse direction. With this structure, it is possible to easily pass the objects "w" between the transport control elements 52 by rotating the roller 52b.

[0150]

5) In the embodiment described previously, each of the transport control mechanisms 50A and 50B has one transport control element 52. Instead, each of these transport control mechanisms may be equipped with two or more transport control elements.

[0151]

For example, the item control device 50 may include one transport control mechanism 50C that has two transport control elements 52, with one transport control element on the upstream side of the transport direction in a position that is higher than the other. a transport control element on the downstream side as shown in FIG. 19.

[0152]

Referring to FIG. 19, each of the transport control members 52 has a comb-like shape in which a plurality of bar-shaped, downwardly directed members 52d are connected to a support shaft 52c rotatably supported on the support frames 52 - and extends between them on both sides of the transportation route. With this structure, torsion springs 62 are seated on the outside of the bosses of the pivot arms 61, which are fixedly connected to one ends of the bearing shafts 52c. One end of the torsion spring 62 makes contact with the spring bearing pin 63 in the bearing frame 51, and the other end 62b of the torsion spring 62 engages the pivot arm 61.

[0153]

The comb transport control member 52 pivots in a direction, and the pivot arm 61 is received by an abutment 64 in the support frame 51 to have the transport control member 52 which maintains a constant position in which the bar shaped members 52d are directed downward. It is then possible to receive the objects to be transported while preventing their further movement by the rod-shaped elements 52d that control the transport of the elements 52 in a plurality of positions in the direction of the width of the transport path. When multiple objects "w" are pressed against and gripped by transport control 52, the transport control 52 oscillates against the torsion spring 62 backward about axis d of carrier shaft 52c to allow objects "w" to pass.

[0154]

6) If desired, the conveyor belt 11 of the oscillating conveyor 14 can be selected from various means according to, for example, dimensions, weights and / or properties of the objects. Examples of the conveyor belt 11 may include mesh conveyors and plate conveyors with a large number of interconnected horizontal "planks" made of a solid polymeric material or material such as metal. For more reliable transportation of objects "w", the conveyor belt 11 can have on its surface several small projections or transversely directed projections made with a certain pitch.

[0155]

7) The guide element 8 of the object transport 4 can be replaced by a pusher located on one side of the transport path and adapted to extend and retract in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction. Items "w" can be pushed laterally out of the transport path by extending the pusher onto the transport path.

[0156]

8) Instead of using an oscillating conveyor 14 of the distribution transport mechanism 5, it is possible to use a chute to which vibration is imparted, as a result of which the objects placed in this chute are transported by vibration.

[0157]

9) Instead of a vibratory feeder, you can select the transport mechanism located at the rear stage from the conveyor belts.

[0158]

10) In the embodiment described earlier, the objects are released by the release mechanisms from the transport path in three positions and are distributed by the distribution transport mechanisms to three destinations. The locations where the items are released and the destinations of the distributed items may include - but not in a limiting sense - three locations and destinations.

[0159]

11) In the embodiment described earlier, the object is transported by the object feeding apparatus into the object dropping slots of the combination scale. Instead, items can be fed to a plurality of item conveyors of the semi-automatic combination weigher as described in Patent Document 2, or can be fed to non-combination weighers.

[0160]

12) In the embodiment described earlier, the items dispensed by the distribution conveyors are transported by the vibratory feeders - the conveyors at the rear stage - into the lowering slots of the combination scale. Instead, the items can be dispensed and then transported directly by distribution vehicles to the item's destinations, in which case the transport at the rear stage is unnecessary.

[0161]

13) In the embodiment described earlier, the items to be transported are cuts of meat cut from broilers. Items are not necessarily limited to such cuts of meat, but may include seafood, including various types of fish, octopus and cuttlefish. This invention can be effectively applied to transport various items, often stuck together and transported in this form.

LIST OF DRAWING POSITIONS

[0162]

1 Apparatus for feeding objects

2 Combined balance

3 The transport on the front step

4 Item release mechanism

5 Distribution transport mechanism

6 Vibratory feeder

8 Guide element

14 Oscillating conveyor

15 Tray

27 PLC (controller)

50 Item Control Device

50A First transport control mechanism

50B second transport control mechanism

50C Transport Control Mechanism

52 Transport control element

w Subject

Sa Front stage object sensor

Sb Probe for detecting released objects

Claims (14)

1. An item control device comprising a transport control mechanism configured to control the height of items along the transportation path for items to be transported, moreover, the transport control mechanism includes: a transport control member configured to allow an object whose height is less than or equal to a predetermined height to pass and receive an object whose height exceeds a predetermined height to prevent the object from moving further towards the downstream side in the transport direction, and a biasing member configured to support and bias the transport control member with a predetermined biasing force to a control position corresponding to a predetermined height, wherein the transport control element is a bar-shaped element installed in a position above the transport path, crossing the transport path, and the transport control mechanism also supports the transport control element so that the transport control element is allowed to retract upward on the downstream side in a circular arc in the transport direction by applying an external force greater than a predetermined force displacement, and the ability to control the transportation of the element to return to the control position along a trajectory in the form of an arc of a circle, due to the termination of the external force. 2. The object control device of claim 1, wherein the bar-shaped element is a round bar made of stainless steel, the transport control mechanism cantileverly supports the bar-shaped element so that it projects upwardly from the side transport path. transportation ways. 3. An object control device according to claim 2, comprising a plurality of transport control mechanisms, which are respectively in a plurality of positions along the transport direction, wherein bar-shaped elements protruding in the upward direction from the conveyance path have a length less than the width of the conveyance path, and a plurality of transport control mechanisms are disposed along the transport direction alternately at positions on one side of the transport path and on the other side of the transport path. 4. An apparatus for feeding objects, containing: object control device according to any one of claims 1-3 and an item transport mechanism that transports items along a transport path. 5. The apparatus for supplying items according to claim 4, wherein the item transporting mechanism comprises an oscillating conveyor configured to perform a swinging motion centered on the upstream side in the conveying direction, which is directed towards a plurality of positions on the downstream side. flow in the direction of transport, and from these positions.

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