WO2000051919A1

WO2000051919A1 - Device and method for transporting containers

Info

Publication number: WO2000051919A1
Application number: PCT/JP2000/001325
Authority: WO
Inventors: Koichi Takagi
Original assignee: Koichi Takagi
Priority date: 1999-03-04
Filing date: 2000-03-06
Publication date: 2000-09-08
Also published as: JP2000255736A

Abstract

A device and a method for transporting containers capable of suitably preventing the containers from falling down during the transportation, eliminating the need for stopping a production line even if the containers are fallen down, and also transporting them smoothly in straight direction, changing the transporting direction, and allowing them to move in vertical direction with a simple configuration, wherein the PET bottles (Q1) are transported under the condition that they are held by holders (E1) which are formed integrally with or fixed to conveyor chains (B1) combined with each other in continuous loop shape, and the conveyor chains (B1) are connected rotatably in both vertical and lateral directions so as to guide the containers with guide members (C1) for transportation.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a container transporting apparatus and method, and in particular, can smoothly and linearly transport a container or the like in a production line or a filling line without falling down of the container. The present invention relates to a container transport device and a container transport method that can easily change a transport path. BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, containers and the like are transported using a conveyor chain in the production and filling lines of containers and the like. In this case, there are various modes such as a case where the transport direction is linear, a case where the transport direction is gradually changed up and down, and a case where the transport direction is changed left and right. In this case, if you want to change the transport direction to the left and right direction in addition to the linear direction, add a conveyor shaft to the normally rotatable vertical direction and arrange a rotation axis in the left and right direction. Alternatively, the conveyor chain can be changed in the vertical and horizontal directions by assembling in a continuous loop with a play in the left-right direction. When a container is transported in the production of a container, a filling line, or the like, the container is transported to a predetermined position by placing the container on the conveyor. However, in such a container transport device, when the container travels straight at a high speed or when the transport direction of the container is changed by changing the traveling direction of the container, particularly, the container is placed in a backside such as a beverage container. May be expensive and unstable, or With an empty PET container, there was a risk that the beverage container would fall over. For this reason, the line may have to be stopped due to the container being overturned or removed to eliminate it, and problems such as a decrease in the line operation rate and the need for human labor, or stable transport will be achieved. It had problems such as a complicated structure as much as possible. Also, with the method of placing containers on a conveyor, it was difficult to move the container in a large vertical direction because the container would fall over. Therefore, the present invention can suitably prevent the container from overturning during transportation, and does not need to stop the line even if the container overturns. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a container transport device capable of smoothly transporting a container in a linear direction, changing the transport direction, and vertically moving the container. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION According to the present invention, firstly, the holding tool is integrally or fixedly attached to the chain member so that the container can be held and hung, and the container can be hung by the holding tool. The container is transported in a state where it is suspended and gripped. As a result, the container is suspended and gripped by the gripping tool, so that the container can be suitably prevented from tipping over, and the transfer line can be operated at a high speed, and furthermore, it can be moved in the vertical direction. become. Also, it is possible to smoothly cope with the case where the above-mentioned container is intermittently supplied in a state of being separated. In addition, since the container is hung by the above-mentioned gripper, even if the container falls over on the upstream side, the overturned container falls down to the lower part of the device without being grasped. The above-mentioned container does not obstruct the operation of the downstream machine, and there is no need to stop the line for collecting the container, so that problems such as a decrease in the line operation rate and the need for human labor do not occur. Furthermore, Since the above-mentioned container can be constituted by only a single row of the above-mentioned chain member, a simple and inexpensive structure can be obtained, and adjustment and maintenance become easy. Secondly, a chain member that is rotatably connected in the vertical direction so as to be able to travel in a straight line and is combined in a continuous loop, and a guide that guides the chain member in the linear direction and the vertical direction. The member and the chain member are integrally or fixedly attached to the chain member so that the container that can be suspended can be grasped and suspended, and the container can be switched between a grasped state and an open state. And a tool. In the container transport device of the second configuration, in addition to the features of the first configuration, the chain member is further connected to be able to move in a straight line, to be rotatable in the vertical direction, and to be combined into a continuous loop. And a guide member for guiding the chain member in the linear direction and the vertical direction, so that the chain member is guided by the guide member and smoothly moves in the linear direction and the vertical direction. It can be transported. Thirdly, a chain member that is rotatably connected in the vertical and horizontal directions so as to be able to travel in a straight line, and is combined in a continuous loop, and the chain member is connected in a linear, vertical and horizontal direction. A guide member and a chain member are integrally or fixedly attached to the chain member so that a container capable of being suspended can be grasped and suspended. And a switchable switch. In the container transport device of the third configuration, in addition to the features of the first configuration, furthermore, the container transport device is connected to be capable of turning straight in the vertical and horizontal directions so as to be able to travel in a straight line, and is combined into a continuous loop. Since it has a chain member and a guide member for guiding the chain member in a linear direction, up and down, and left and right directions, the chain member is guided by the guide member, and is linearly, vertically and horizontally. It is possible to change the transport direction smoothly and freely in the direction. Therefore, the transfer point is not limited, and the degree of freedom of layout is remarkably improved. Fourth, the first, second or third above In the configuration of (1), the gripper is configured to be capable of gripping the container by a pair of rotatably pivoted lever members, and the gripping state of the gripper is determined by the rotation of the pair of lever members. And an open state, and a switching means for switching between the gripping state of the gripper and the open state. In the container transport device having the fourth configuration, the gripper can be switched between the gripping state and the open state by rotating the pair of lever members, and the gripper can be switched between the gripping state and the open state. Since it has a switching means for switching between the gripping tool and the open state, it is possible to switch between the gripping state of the gripping tool and the open state with a simple configuration. Fifth, in the configuration of the first or second or third or fourth, there is provided a stopper for restricting a gripping state of the container by the lever member, and the stopper is used to control the gripping state of the container. The holding state is restricted to a holding state in which the container is not pinched, and the container and the holding tool can be relatively moved in the transport direction of the container. In the container transporting device having the fifth configuration, the container has a stopper that regulates a holding state of the container by the lever member, and the container holds the holding state of the holding tool by the stopper. Since the container and the gripper are restricted to a holding state in which the container is not held and the container can be relatively moved in the carrying direction of the container, the carrying speed of the container or the carrying speed of the container and the holding The container can be accumulated or dispersed with a simple configuration by providing a difference between the transfer speed of the tool and the relative movement of the container and the gripping tool even if the difference occurs in the transfer speed. It will be possible. Sixth, in the fourth or fifth configuration, an urging member for urging the pair of lever members toward the gripping side is provided so as to always hold the pair of lever members. And The container transport device of the sixth configuration has an urging member that urges the pair of lever members toward the gripping side, and the pair of lever members is always in the gripping state. There is no need for an operating mechanism to hold the holding device, and the switching mechanism only needs to be set for the part where the container is opened and the setting range is short, such as the part for holding and releasing the container. Position control such as a guide for a gripper at a site is not required, and a simple and efficient configuration can be achieved. Seventh, the sixth configuration is characterized in that the biasing member obtains a biasing force by a repulsive force or an attractive force of a magnet. Therefore, the urging member can be set with a simple and inexpensive configuration without fear of cutting or the like. Eighthly, in the fourth or fifth or sixth or seventh configuration, the switching means is performed by a repulsive force or an attractive force of a cam mechanism or a magnet. In the container transport device of the eighth configuration, it is possible to smoothly switch between the gripping state of the gripper and the open state with a simple configuration. In particular, in the configuration of the switching means using the repulsive force or the attraction force of the magnet, the switching means does not generate abrasion powder due to non-contact, and also suppresses the impact on the gripper. Ninth, in the configuration of the fourth or fifth or sixth or seventh or eighth, a plurality of sets of the switching means are arranged, and the holding position or opening of the container is provided on the traveling route of the chain member. The feature is that the position can be changed. In the container transport device having the ninth configuration, a plurality of sets of the switching means are arranged, and the holding position or the opening position of the container can be changed on the travel route of the chin member. It is possible to convey to a desired position in the route, select and convey from a plurality of positions, and allocate the number of conveys to a plurality of positions. A tenth aspect is a container transporting method, wherein a container capable of being suspended can be grasped and suspended by being integrally or fixedly attached to a chain member combined in a continuous loop. At the same time, the gripper is switched from the open state to the gripping state at the original position by using a gripper capable of switching between the gripping state and the open state of the container. The container is gripped, the container is transported from the transport source position to an arbitrary destination position in the suspended gripping state, and the gripping tool is switched from the gripping state to the open state at the transport destination position. The container is opened and the container is transported. In the container transport method according to the tenth aspect, the holding tool is integrally or fixedly attached to the chain member so that the container can be held and suspended, and the container is suspended by the holding tool. It transports possible containers while holding them in a suspended state. Therefore, the container is suspended and gripped by the gripping device, and the container can be suitably prevented from tipping over, enabling high-speed operation of the transport line, and furthermore, moving up and down. become. In addition, it is possible to smoothly cope with the case where the containers are intermittently supplied in a disjointed state. In addition, since the container is hung by the gripping tool, even if the container is overturned on the upstream side, the overturned container falls down to the lower part of the device without being gripped, so the container is overturned during transportation. There is no need to stop the line to collect the above-mentioned containers, and there is no problem such as a reduction in line operation rate or labor._t Furthermore, the above-mentioned chin member can be constituted by only a single row, a simple and inexpensive constitution can be achieved, and adjustment and maintenance are easy. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing a container transport device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a connection state of a chain block. FIG. FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of changing the traveling direction in the up and down directions. FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of changing the traveling direction in the up and down directions. FIG. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a main part showing a state, and FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a main part showing a holding state of a container by a gripper. FIG. FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a main part showing an opened state of a container, FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a main part showing an example of holding a container with clearance by a gripper, and FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a dimensional relationship with a container. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a switching operation between a gripping state of a gripper and a release state by a gripping cam and a release cam, and FIG. FIG. 12 is an explanatory view showing the operation of the gripping tool when turning left and right of FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is an explanatory view showing the operation of the gripping tool when the container is vertically moved up and down. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a pulley is used on the inner diameter side of the bent portion of the conveyor chain, and FIG. 15 is a diagram circulating the conveyor chain in a plane. FIG. 16 is a configuration diagram showing another example of the urging member. FIG. 16 is a configuration diagram showing another mode of the urging member. FIG. 17 is a configuration diagram showing another mode of the biasing member, and FIG. 18 is a configuration diagram showing another mode of the biasing member, the switching means, and the lever member. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present embodiment shows an example of a case where containers are transported in a single row. Also, an example is shown in the case of a PET bottle having a round shape as a container to be conveyed. As shown in FIG. 1, the container transport device A 1 according to the present invention includes a conveyor chain B l, a guide member C l, a gripper E l, a gripping force G (switching means) G l, a release cam (switching). Means) It has G2, frame Fl, supply conveyor (conveyance source position) J1, unloading conveyor (conveyance destination position) J2, and PET bottle (container) Q1. The conveyor chain B 1 has a plurality of chains (chain members) B 10 connected in a continuous loop to form a drive wheel B 1 a and a driven wheel B 1 b as shown in FIG. It is wound and the above The rotating force is transmitted from the driving wheel B 1 a to the driven wheel B 1 b. The driving wheel B1a is driven by an electric motor (not shown), and the driven wheel B1b is rotatably supported and is free to move. The drive wheel B1a and the driven wheel B1b are each supported by the frame F1. As the conveyor chain B1, various types of chains can be used as described later, but as shown in FIG. 2, a continuous loop is formed by engaging each chain block B10 with a pin B20. And, as described above, are wound around the driving wheel B1a and the driven wheel B1b. The chain block B10 is formed of a resin or the like, and as shown in FIG. 2, a front convex portion B12 and a rear concave portion B14 are formed so as to be fitted to each other. In addition, a long hole B12a is formed on the side wall surface of the front protrusion B12, and the rear recess B14 corresponding to the long hole B12a at the time of fitting is formed. Through holes B 14 a are formed in the inner wall surfaces on both sides. Therefore, the above-mentioned chain block B10 is inserted into the long hole B12a and the through hole B14 with the front convex portion B12 and the rear concave portion B14 fitted to each other. As described above, by inserting the pins B20 into the a, the chain blocks B10 can be engaged, and the conveyor chain B1 can be formed in a continuous loop shape. Will be possible. In this case, since each of the chain blocks B10 is pivotally supported by the pin B20, the chain chain B10 connected to the chain block B10 is centered on the pin B20. As a result, it is rotatable vertically by a predetermined amount. Therefore, the entire conveyor chain B1 can freely rotate in the vertical direction. Further, since the elongated hole B12a of the distal end convex portion B12 through which the pin B20 is inserted is formed in the shape of a long hole in the left-right direction, the pin B20 extends in the left-right direction. The connected chain block B10 is rotated by a predetermined amount in the left-right direction. Therefore, the entire conveyor chain B 1 Rotation in the direction becomes free. As shown in FIG. 2, a crocodile portion B10d is formed on the upper surface of the chain block B10 so as to protrude left and right on both sides. On the lower surface of 10, flange portions B 100 e projecting left and right on both sides are formed. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the guide member C 1 is continuously arranged between the flange B 10 d and the flange B 10 e, whereby the chain blower is formed. It is possible to plan in a straight line direction, or up, down, left and right while restraining the hook B 10 in the up and down direction. As shown in FIG. 2, a fitting hole B10f is formed at the center of the chain block B10 so as to be engaged with the teeth of the driving wheel B1a or the driven wheel B1b. Are formed. The guide member C1 is disposed on both sides of the chain block B10 as shown in FIG. 2, and as shown in FIG. Is held by. Then, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a pair of the guide members C 1 are continuously arranged between the supply conveyor J 1 and the unloading conveyor J 2, whereby the container transport device is provided. In A1, a transport route from the supply conveyor J1 to the unloading conveyor J2 is formed. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3, the traveling direction of the transport route can be changed on a substantially horizontal plane between the supply conveyor J 1 and the unloading conveyor j 2. In other words, the traveling direction can be bent left and right. As described above, this is made possible by the fact that the entire conveyor chain B1 is freely rotatable in the left-right direction. In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, the container transporting device A 1 can move the traveling direction up and down between the supply conveyor J 1 and the unloading conveyor J 2. As described above, this is made possible by the fact that the entire companion B1 is freely rotatable in the vertical direction. Note that, of course, The transport route that bends in the vertical direction and the transport route that raises and lowers the travel direction described above are combined in one transport route and used simultaneously to change the travel route of the container up, down, left, and right. It is also possible. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the gripper E 1 is fixed to the lower flat surface of the chain block B 10 thus formed so as to be openable and closable. Specifically, a bracket D14 having a substantially inverted T-shape in side view is fixed to the lower side of the chin block B10. The bracket D14 has a recess D14a for rotatably supporting the gripper E1.Furthermore, both sides of the recess D14 communicate with the bracket D1 through the recess D14a. Through holes D 14 b are formed. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the gripper E1 is provided with an arm-shaped lever member E10 in a pair of left and right sides in the recess D14a of the bracket D14. And is formed to be opposed to. The pins D16 are inserted into the through holes D14b, respectively, so as to be rotatably supported by the brackets D14, as described above. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a claw portion Ela projecting inward at a substantially right angle is formed at a lower end portion of the lever member E10. Further, in order to urge the lever members E 10 arranged in the left and right pair in the direction in which the claw portions E 1 a always pull each other, a substantially central portion of the lever member E 10 is provided with: Spring (biasing member) E 20 is stretched. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the pair of left and right claws E1a is inserted under the neck portion Q la of the PET bottle Q1, so that the PET bottle is preferably inserted. It is possible to hold Q 1 and suspend it. The pin D16 pivotally supporting the pair of lever members E10 is located substantially directly above the claw portion E1a or slightly in the center. Therefore, when the PET bottle Q1 is suspended, the weight of the PET bottle Q1 does not act in the direction of pushing and expanding the lever member E10, so that the spring E20 is biased. The force does not require a large force, but may be a small force. Therefore, the spring E 20 can be made more compact, and a large rigidity is not required because a large force does not act on the lever member E 10, and the size and weight can be further reduced. Can be. In addition, since the gripping portion is gripped with a slight urging force, scratches on the gripping portion of the PET bottle Q1 can be suppressed. Further, as shown in FIG. 12, by forming the claw portion E1a of the lever member E10 into a tapered surface on both sides, a tapered surface of the adjacent claw portion E1a is provided. A configuration in which the two are overlapped with each other, and the degree of opening of the adjacent lever members E10 in the traveling direction can be absorbed by changing the degree of overlap of the tapered surface of the claw portion E1a. It is also possible. With such a configuration, a change in the interval in the traveling direction of the lever member E10 is absorbed by a change in the degree of overlap of the tapered surface of the claw portion E1a. There is no large gap between the members E10, and it is possible to more effectively prevent the PET bottle Q1 from dropping from the gap between the lever members E10. become. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, by pressing the outer upper end corner E1b of the lever member E10 inward, the lever member is piled on the spring force of the spring E20 as shown in FIG. E10 rotates outwardly around the pin D16. Therefore, the suspension of the PET bottle Q1 is released in an open state in which the grip of the PET bottle Q1 is released. In other words, by opening and closing the outer upper end corner E1b of the lever member E10, the gripper E1 switches between the holding state and the open state of the PET bottle Q1. This will be possible. Further, since the above-mentioned pair of lever members E 10 is urged toward the gripping side by the above-mentioned spring E 20, and the above-mentioned pair of lever members E 10 is always in the gripping state, the above-mentioned gripping tool E 1 There is no need to install an additional operating mechanism to hold the PET bottle. It is only necessary to set a switching mechanism such as a cam for the part where the setting range is short and open, such as the part to be released and the part to be released. This is unnecessary, and a simple and efficient configuration can be achieved. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, a stopper E1c is formed inside the lever member E10 below the spring E20. By setting the height of the stopper E1c, it is possible to set the gripping state of the PET bottle Q1. For example, when it is necessary to change the transport pitch of the PET bottle Q 1 to be transported, or when it is necessary to rotate the PET bottle Q 1, as shown in FIG. 8, the height of the stopper E lc is changed as shown in FIG. By setting it high, the rotation of the lever member E10 in the closing direction due to the pulling force of the spring E20 is restricted, and the claw portion E1a of the lever member E10 and the PET bottle are restricted. The torque Q 1 is held with a clearance t that is not in contact. Therefore, even when the gripping device E1 suspends the PET bottle Q1, the relative movement between the gripping device E1 and the PET bottle Q1 is possible. It is possible to change the transport pitch of Q 1 or rotate it. Specifically, the PET bottle Q1 and the gripper E1 can be relatively moved in the transport direction of the PET bottle Q1 so that the PET bottle Q1 in FIG. A difference is made between the carry-in speed of the supply conveyor J 1 or the carry-out speed of the carry-out conveyor J 2 of the PET bottle Q 1 and the carry speed of the conveyor chain B 1, or in a downstream state in a gripped state. Even if there is a difference between the container processing capacity of the installed equipment and the transport speed of this equipment, the PET bottle Q 1 and the gripper E 1 move relative to each other, so the transport pitch of the PET bottle Q 1 , The distance between the PET bottles Q 1 can be increased or decreased, and the containers can be accumulated or dispersed with a simple configuration. For example, in front of the filling device (upstream) In this case, since the supply capacity of the PET bottle Q 1 of the conveyor chain B 1 is slightly larger than that of the filling device, the conveyor chain B 1 is slightly smaller than the PET bottle Q 1 while gripping and transporting in this portion. If the PET bottles Q 1 are supplied separately, they can accumulate in this area. When changing the transport direction of the PET bottle Q1 in the vertical direction at a steep inclination, etc., the height of the stopper Elc should be increased to prevent the PET bottle Q1 from sliding down. By setting it low, the turning of the lever member E10 in the closing direction due to the pulling force of the spring E20 is increased, and as shown in FIG. 5, the claw portion of the lever member E10 E 1a and the above-mentioned PET bottle Q 1 are kept in complete contact. Therefore, since the gripper E 1 force firmly grips the PET bottle Q 1, the relative movement between the gripper E 1 and the PET bottle Q 1 becomes difficult. This makes it possible to prevent the PET bottle Q1 from sliding down when changing the transport direction in the vertical direction at a steep inclination. Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the grippers E1 are arranged at a pitch Pe shorter than the pitch Pq of the PET bottle Q1. As a result, the number of the grippers E1 is more continuous than that of the PET bottles Q1, so that the PET bottles Q1 can be appropriately prevented from falling or falling. At the same time, the intermediate gripper E 1 prevents the relative movement of the PET bottle Q 1, and the PET bottle Q 1 can be gripped regardless of the pitch of the PET bottle Q 1. . Preferably, the pitch Pe of the holding tool E1 is set to about 30 to 70% with respect to the outer diameter of the PET bottle Q1. Further, the gripping tools E1 are arranged so that a gap Le between the gripping tools E1 is equal to or less than 10% of a gripping portion width Lq of the PET bottle Q1. . Therefore, it is necessary to prevent the PET bottle Q1 from dropping into the gap Le between the grippers E1. Becomes possible. As shown in FIG. 1, the gripping cam G1 and the release cam G2 are formed of a resin member or the like along a periphery of the driving wheel B1a and the driven wheel B1b in a substantially arc shape in a side view. Is done. The gripping cams G 1 are disposed right above the supply conveyor J 1 in a pair of left and right directions facing each other at a predetermined interval. Further, the release cams G2 are provided in a right and left pair right above the carry-out conveyor J2 in a direction facing each other at a predetermined interval. Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the gripping cam G1 and the release cam G2 gradually increase in thickness in the advancing direction in the unfolded shape, and conversely in the advancing direction when reaching the top. The thickness gradually decreases. Then, at the top, the distance between the gripping force G1 and the releasing force G2, which are disposed in a pair on the left and right, is adjusted by pushing the upper end corner Elb of the lever member E10 into a predetermined position. Set so that the opening and closing operation of is possible. Therefore, when the gripper E1 passes through the gripper cam G1 and the release cam G2, as shown in FIG. 10, the outer upper end corner E1b of the gripper E1 is formed. Since the opening and closing operation is performed, as described above, the switching between the holding state and the opening state of the PET bottle Q 1 is performed. Next, the operation and effect of this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the PET bottles Q 1 are conveyed to the lower side of the conveyor chain B 1 in a single row by the supply conveyor J 1. Further, the drive chain B1a is driven by an electric motor (not shown) to rotate the compare chain B1 in a loop along the guide member C1. That is, on the traveling side (lower surface side) of the conveyor chain B1, the conveyor chain B1 continuously moves in the transport direction of the PET bottle Q1. At this time, when the gripper E1 descends from the upper surface side of the conveyor chain B1 to the lower surface side along the outer periphery of the drive wheel B1a, as shown in FIG. Outer top corner E 1 b The upper end corner E 1 b is pushed inward to enter between the grip cams G 1. When the upper end corner E 1 b moves to the tops of the pair of gripping cams G 1, the upper end corner E 1 b is pushed in by a predetermined amount, and the lever member E 10 rotates. As shown in the figure, the gripping tool E 1 is in an open state. When the gripper E 1 reaches the vicinity of the lowermost end of the driven wheel B 1 b, the claw portions E 1 a of the pair of left and right lever members E 10 are connected to the PET bottle Q 1. Since the lower side of the neck Q1a is set, the gripping cam G1 is set so as to be retracted at this position. Therefore, since the gripper E1 is in the gripping state shown in FIG. 5, the claw portions E1a of the pair of left and right lever members E10 are provided below the neck portion Q1a of the PET bottle Q1. Preferably, the PET bottle Q 1 can be held and suspended by the holding device E 1. In this case, as described above, the gripper E1 is disposed at a pitch Pe shorter than the pitch Pq of the PET bottle Q1 as shown in FIG. Therefore, the gripping tool E1 becomes more continuous, so that the PET bottle Q1 can be suitably prevented from falling or falling. That is, the PET bottle Q1 is not only gripped by one gripping tool E1 but may be gripped by a plurality of gripping tools E1 in some cases. Further, as described above, the gripping tool E1 is arranged so that the gap Le between the gripping tools E1 is 10% or less of the width Lq of the gripping portion of the PET bottle Q1. Therefore, the PET bottle Q 1 does not fall into the gap Le between the grippers E 1, so that the PET bottle Q 1 can be suitably prevented from falling. Then, while the PET bottle Q 1 is held by the holding device E 1, the conveyor bottle B 1 is rotated and the PET bottle Q 1 is transported in the arrow direction shown in FIG. 1. You. Then, as shown in FIG. 3, the PET bottle Q 1 is formed by the guide member C 1. In a transfer line whose traveling direction is bent to the left and right, since the chain block B10 moves along the guide member C1, the conveyor chain B1 as a whole moves in the horizontal direction. The transport direction of the PET bottle Q1 is changed to the left and right. In this case, as shown in FIG. 11, when there is a left-right turning radius R1 in the traveling direction of the PET bottle Q1, the inner-side lever member E10 and the outer-side lever member E At 10, the radius of curvature of the inner diameter side lever member E 10 is smaller than the above left / right turning radius R 1, but the radius of curvature of the outer diameter side lever member E 10 is the left / right turning radius. It is larger than R1. As a result, as shown in FIG. 11, there is a difference in the pitch between the lever member E 10 on the inner diameter side and the lever member E 10 on the outer diameter side, and the PET bottle Q of the claw portion E 1 a is formed. The neck E1a of the neck of the PET bottle Q1 is changed by the expansion and contraction of the spring E20. Since it is possible to flexibly follow the shape of 1a, the gripping state of the PET bottle Q1 is reliably ensured. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 4, when the PET bottle Q1 is on a transport line in which the traveling direction formed by the guide member C1 moves up and down, The chain block B10 moves along the conveyor member B1, so that the entire conveyor chain B1 moves up and down in the vertical direction, and the transport direction of the PET bottle Q1 is changed in the vertical direction. You. In this case, as shown in FIG. 12, when the vertical turning radius of the gripping portion of the PET bottle Q1 by the lever member E10 is R2, the conveyor chain B1 and the lever With the gripping part of the PET bottle Q1 by the member E10, the vertical turning radius R2 is larger than the radius of curvature of the competition B1. In other words, the grip of the PET bottle Q1 by the lever member E10 is more open. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12, the neck of the PET bottle Q1 of the above-mentioned claw portion Ela Although the degree of engagement with the part Q la fluctuates, when the spring E 20 expands and contracts due to the fluctuation, the claw E 1a follows the shape of the neck Q 1 a of the PET bottle Q 1. Therefore, the grasping state of the PET bottle Q 1 is reliably ensured. Then, as shown in FIG. 1, when the PET bottle Q1 is transported to the upper portion of the unloading conveyor J2, as shown in FIG. It enters between the cams G2. Then, to the tops of the pair of opening cams G2. When the gripper E1 moves, the upper end corner E1b outside the lever member E10 is opened and closed, as shown in FIG. Then, the gripper E 1 is released. Therefore, the holding state of the PET bottle Q 1 by the holding tool E 1 is released, and the PET bottle Q 1 descends a minute distance on the surface of the unloading conveyor J 2 as shown in FIG. It is transported by the unloading conveyor J2. Then, from that state, the gripper E 1 is lifted along the drive wheel B 1 a toward the return side (upper side) of the conveyor chain B 1 together with the chain block B 10. Then, the return side of the compare chain B 1 is pulled back to the opposite side of the transport direction of the PET bottle Q 1, and the transport of the PET bottle Q 1 is again performed at the upper part of the supply conveyor J 1. Used. In addition, the traveling speeds of the supply conveyor J1, the conveyor chain B1, and the unloading conveyor J2 are substantially the same so that the transfer to each member can be performed smoothly without overturning. Speed is preferred. As described above, according to the configuration of the container transport device A 1 according to the present embodiment, the gripper E 1 is integrally or fixedly attached to the conveyor chain B 1 to grip the PET bottle Q 1. The PET bottle Q 1, which can be hung and can be hung by the gripper E 1, is transported in a state of being hung and held. Therefore, the PET bottle Q1 is suspended and gripped by the gripper E1, and the PET bottle Q1 is suspended. Of the transfer line can be suitably prevented, and high-speed operation of the transfer line can be performed. Further, even when the PET bottle Q1 is intermittently supplied in a state of being separated, it is possible to respond smoothly. In addition, since the gripper E 1 is a method of suspending the PET bottle Q 1, the PET bottle Q 1 supplied from the supply conveyor J 1 in a state where the PET bottle Q 1 is overturned upstream is not gripped. Since it falls and is collected at the lower part, it is not necessary to remove the PET bottle Q 1 from the equipment, which hinders the operation of the downstream machine-The line is stopped to collect the PET bottle Q 1 There is no need, and there is no problem such as a decrease in line operation rate or labor. Further, as described above, the conveyor chain B 1 is suspended by the gripping tool E 1 and smoothly guided by the guide member C 1, so that the PET bottle Q 1 drops. It is possible to achieve stable conveyance with little shaking without fear of occurrence. For this reason, it is not necessary to use a plurality of conveyor chains, and it is possible to carry out sufficiently stable conveyance even in the case of a single-row configuration. Improvements can be made, and adjustment and maintenance become easier. In addition, since the conveyor chain B1 is rotatable up and down and left and right, and is guided by the guide member C1, it is possible to smoothly change the transport direction in up and down and left and right directions and freely change the transfer direction. Will be able to do so. Therefore, the transfer point is not limited, and the degree of freedom of layout is remarkably improved. In addition, it goes without saying that the conveyor chain B 1 may be of a linear traveling type and arranged only in the linear direction, and the PET bottle Q 1 may be transported in the linear direction and, if necessary, in the vertical direction. . Also in this case, since each of the chain blocks B 10 is guided on both sides by the guide member C 1, it is possible to carry the chain block B 10 smoothly in the linear direction and the vertical direction. Further, in the gripper E 1, the gripping state of the gripper E 1 is released by the rotation of the pair of lever members E 10. Since the state can be switched, the state of the gripper E 1 can be switched between the gripped state and the released state with a simple configuration. At that time, switching between the gripping state and the release state of the gripping tool E 1 is performed by a cam mechanism including the gripping cam G 1 and the release cam G 2. Therefore, it is possible to smoothly switch between the gripping state of the gripper E1 and the open state with a simple configuration. The states of the gripping cam G1 and the release cam G2 viewed from above in each drawing show a developed shape. Further, while the PET bottle Q 1 is gripped by the gripper E 1, the transport and the change of the traveling direction are performed, so that the stability is high, and higher speed operation is possible. Also, since the gripper E1 is directly or integrally fixed to the back surface of the single-row chain block B10, the chain block B10 is mounted using a plurality of rows of chains. Compared to the case where the gripper E 1 is provided on the side surface, it is possible to save space, particularly in the width direction. Also, when transporting different types of PET bottles Q 1, the difference in the neck diameter of the PET bottles Q 1 can be absorbed by the gripper E 1. It is also possible to transport different types of PET bottles Q1 without adjusting or exchanging grippers. Furthermore, since the main components such as conveyors and grippers can be easily made of plastic, it is possible to achieve a non-lubricating device, and it is easy to clean, so that a sanitary configuration can be obtained. Configuration that can be suitably applied to beverage filling lines, etc., which place importance on environmental aspects_c It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to only the configuration of the above embodiment, and various embodiments are possible without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, the sliding between the chain block B10 and the guide member C1 is also made of resin in the present embodiment, but is not limited to this, and is not limited thereto. Or above the chain block B10 Any material that can slide smoothly on the guide member C 1 is included. In this embodiment, the PET bottle Q1 is transported. However, the PET bottle Q1 can be hung by a holding tool such as a bottle, a milk bottle, or a jug-like container with a handle. If it is, it is included. In this example, the PET bottle is used to mean a bottle made of polyethylene terephthalate. Of course, the above-mentioned competition Bl, guide member C1, gripper E1, gripper cam G1, release cam G2, etc. are the weight, size, speed, etc. of the container to be transported. According to-is set arbitrarily. For example, if the container is relatively light, each of the members is made of an oil-impregnated resin, and if the container is relatively heavy, each of the members is made of steel or stainless steel. . The control of the electric motor (not shown) for driving the conveyor chute B1 may be arbitrarily performed, such as an electric circuit based on signals from sensors arranged upstream and downstream of the line, and control by a micro computer. . In addition, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, when the PET bottle Q1 is in an open empty container before being filled with drinking water or the like, the dustproof plate is provided on the upper side of the PET bottle Q1. It is also possible to arrange E30 so as to prevent dust and dirt from entering the PET bottle Q1. Further, as shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 5, the pair of stoppers E 1c has a shape having a step that interlocks with each other, and the upper part of the PET bottle Q 1 is By arranging it at a position close to the bottle Q1, the stopper E1c can be used to prevent dust from entering the PET bottle Q1. It is. In other words, even if the lever member E10 rotates, the stopper E1c overlaps at the step, so that dust and dirt always enter the PET bottle Q1. Can be prevented. In addition, with this configuration, the stopper E 1 c and the dustproof plate can be used. The common E30 can be used, and a simple configuration with a small number of parts can be employed to prevent dust and dirt from entering the above-mentioned PET bottle Q1. Also, when transferring the PET bottle Q 1 from the supply conveyor J 1 to the gripper E 1, or when transferring the PET bottle Q 1 from the gripper E 1 to the unloading conveyor J 2, etc. In addition, as shown in FIG. 13, a support fork S 1 having a gradually changing thickness can be provided below the neck Q la of the PET bottle Q 1. With such a configuration, the above operation can be performed more smoothly and reliably. When the traveling direction of the PET bottle Q1 is largely bent right and left, the guide member C1 for guiding the inner side of the conveyor chain B1 is replaced with the guide member C1 shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, the pulley is formed to have substantially the same thickness as the guide member C 1 and to have the same radius as the radius of curvature on the inner diameter side in the traveling direction of the PET bottle Q 1. It is also possible to use C10. With this configuration, the sliding resistance on the inner diameter side of the conveyor chain B 1 is reduced, so that the traveling direction of the conveyor chain B 1 can be smoothly changed. Also, in the above-described chain block B10 in the conveyor chain B1, in the present embodiment, the up-down rotation is constituted by the shaft supported by the pin B20, and the rotation in the left-right direction is performed. Although one shaft with the backlash of the pin B20 is used, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. In this embodiment, the conveyor chain B 1 is configured to be rotatable up and down, left and right, but of course, it may be linear. It may be configured to be conveyed to only one of them, or may be configured to be rotatable only up and down with the function limited to only one of them, or may be configured to be rotatable only left and right. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a flange B 10 d is provided on the above-described chain block B 10. However, it may be formed in a rod shape such as a round bar, and the upper and lower portions of the mounting portion of the flange B 100 e and the bracket D 14 are guided. The collar B Od can also be eliminated. In the present embodiment, the conveyor chain B 1 is wound around the driving wheel B 1 a and the driven wheel B 1 b, conveyed on the lower side, turned upside down and rolled back. Since the conveyor chain B1 is also rotatable in the left and right direction, as shown in Fig. 15, a planar circulation in which each of the chain blocks B10 is always facing up as shown in Fig. 15 It is also possible. More specifically, the guide member C 1 is formed as a pair of inner and outer sides in a planar loop, and the conveyor chain B 1 to which the gripper E 1 is fixed is disposed between the guide members C 1 in a loop. I do. Further, in order to rotationally drive the conveyor chain B1, the drive wheel B1a and an arbitrary number of the driven wheels B1b are arranged in a plane. Therefore, a fitting hole (not shown) that engages with the teeth of the driving wheel B1a or the driven wheel B1b is formed in the side surface of the chain block B10. With this configuration, since each of the above-mentioned chain blocks B10 always circulates in an upward direction, the PET bottle Q1 can be continuously held and the endless configuration is obtained. The PET bottle Q1 can be gripped and opened at any position without distinction between the start and end of the conveyor chain B1. Further, as shown in FIG. 15, a plurality of sets of the gripping cam G1 or the release force G2 are provided in the traveling route of the conveyor belt B1 and the gripping cam G1 or The release cam G2 can be switched between a position where the gripper E1 can be pushed and a position where the gripper E1 cannot be pushed by an air cylinder or the like (not shown), so that the conveyor chain B1 can be moved during the traveling route. By selecting the desired position, the PET bottle Q 1 can be gripped and released. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the first lot Q ly of the PET bottle Q 1 is moved from the supply conveyor J 1 to the carry-out conveyor J 2 a. The next lot Q 1 z is transported from the supply conveyor J 1 to the unloading conveyor J 2 b. Conversely, it is also possible to collectively transport the PET bottles Q1 from a plurality of the supply conveyors J1 to a single unloading conveyor J2. Therefore, it becomes possible to provide a container transport device having functions such as a branching device, a consolidating device, and an allocating device for a substantially transport container. Further, in the configuration of the present embodiment, as described above, the tension member (spring E 20) and the cam (the grip cam G 1 and the release cam G 1) are also provided in the biasing member and the switching means of the gripper E 1. Although the configuration is based on 2), the present invention is not limited to this, and various modes are possible. For example, the biasing member may be configured to obtain a biasing force for biasing the gripper E 1 by a repulsive force of a compression spring, a leaf spring, or a magnet, or an attraction force. Examples of the means include a configuration that switches between a gripping state and an open state by a repulsive force or an attractive force of a magnet, a configuration in which a pushing member is brought into contact with the gripper E1 by a solenoid to open and close, and the like. The tool E 1 can be opened and closed smoothly, and any mechanism that can hold the grip state is included. For example, as a specific example in which a compression spring is used as the urging member, as shown in FIG. 16, a fitting hole E is provided at substantially the center of the left and right lever members E 10. 10a, and a plate D20 extending inward from the lower end of the bracket D14, and the fitting hole E10a of the plate D20. A screw hole D 20 a is formed at the opposing portion. A spring E50 is provided in the fitting hole E10a, and a bolt E40 is tightened in the screw hole D20a, whereby the lever member E10 is always in the closing direction. May be configured to be urged to. Further, an example in which the repulsive force of the magnet is used as the urging member will be specifically described. As shown in FIG. 17, the magnet M is located at the position inside the upper end of the left and right lever members E 10. 10 and the recess D 14 in the bracket D 14 A magnet M having a convex portion D30 formed therein, and a magnetic pole direction set at a portion of the convex portion D30 facing the magnet M10 so as to repel the polarity of the magnet M10. Arrange 20. Therefore, the lever member E10 can always be urged in the closing direction by the repulsive force of the magnet M10 and the magnet M20. Further, an example in which the attraction force of a magnet is used as the urging member will be specifically described. As shown in FIG. 18, each of the left and right lever members E 10 has a portion inside the center of the lever member E 10. The magnets M30 and M40 are arranged in opposite directions so that the magnetic poles attract each other. Therefore, the lever member E10 can be attracted to each other by the attractive force of the magnet M30 and the magnet M40, and the lever member E10 can always be urged in the closing direction. Further, an example in which the repulsive force of the magnet is used as the switching means will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 18, the upper end corners E lb of the left and right lever members E 10 are respectively outwardly directed. , Magnets M50 and M60 are arranged. In addition, at the position facing the magnets M50 and M60 at the holding position or the opening position of the PET bottle Q1 at which the switching of the holding device E1 is required, the magnet M50 is provided, respectively. The magnets M70 and M80 are arranged so that the magnetic poles repel each other. Therefore, when the magnets M50, M60 and the magnets M70, M80 repel each other at the holding position or the opening position of the PET bottle Q1, the lever member E10 is moved. Since the upper end corner E1b of the lever member E10 is pushed in by overcoming the urging force of the urging member urging the gripping side, the lever member E10 can be turned to the open side. In the case where the biasing member obtains a biasing force by a repulsive force or an attractive force of a magnet, a simple and inexpensive configuration without fear of cutting or the like can be obtained. In a configuration in which the switching means utilizes a repulsive force or an attractive force of a magnet, the switching means does not generate abrasion powder because of non-contact, and can suppress the impact on the gripper. Ma In FIG. 18, the left and right lever members E 10 are both pivotally supported by a single pin D 16. In this way, the pin D 16 is shared. With such a configuration, it is possible to provide a configuration of an inexpensive and simple holding tool.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, according to the present invention, containers conveyed at high speed operation do not fall over, and even if they fall down, efficient transportation is performed without stopping the line, and It is applied to a container transfer device and a container transfer method that enable linear transfer, change of transfer path, and vertical movement of containers.

Claims

The scope of the claims

1. A chain member combined in a continuous loop, and a container capable of being suspended or fixed to or fixed to the chain member so that the container can be suspended and held. A container transport device having a gripper capable of switching between open states.

2. A chain member that is rotatably connected in the vertical direction so as to be able to move straight, and is combined in a continuous loop, a guide member that guides the chain member in the linear direction and the vertical direction, and the chain member. The container is integrally or fixedly attached to the container so that the container capable of being suspended can be grasped and suspended. The container has a gripper capable of switching between a gripping state and an open state of the container. Container transport device.

3. A chain member that is connected rotatably in the vertical and horizontal directions so as to be able to run straight, and is combined in a continuous loop, and a guide member that guides the chain member in the linear, up, down, and left and right directions. And a holder that is integrally or fixedly attached to the chain member so as to be able to hold and suspend the suspendable container and to switch between the holding state and the open state of the container. A container transport device comprising:

4. The gripper is configured to be able to grip the container by a pair of rotatably supported lever members, and the gripping state of the gripper is released by the rotation of the pair of lever members. 4. The container transporting device according to claim 1, wherein the container transporting device is switchable between a holding state and a holding state of the holding tool and an open state.

5. A stopper for restricting the degree of gripping of the container by the lever member, and the stopper is used to restrict the gripping state of the gripping tool to a gripping state in which the container is not pinched. Of the container with the gripper 5. The container transport device according to claim 1, wherein relative movement in a direction is enabled.

6. The container transporting device according to claim 4, further comprising an urging member for urging the pair of lever members toward a gripping side so as to always hold the pair of lever members. .

7. The container conveying device according to claim 6, wherein the urging member obtains an urging force by a repulsive force or an attractive force of a magnet.

8. The container transporter according to claim 4, wherein the switching means is performed by a cam mechanism or a repulsive force or an attractive force of a magnet.

9. A plurality of the switching means are provided, and a gripping position or an opening position of the container can be changed in a traveling route of the chain member, wherein 7. The container transfer device according to 7 or 8.

10. It is possible to hold and suspend a container that can be suspended, integrally or fixedly to a chain member that is combined in a continuous loop, and to determine whether the container is in a gripped state or an open state. Using a switchable gripper, switch the gripper from the open state to the gripping state at the transport source position to grip the container, and hold the container in the suspended gripping state, and optionally from the transport source position. Transporting the container to the transfer destination position, and at the transfer destination position, switching the gripping tool from the gripping state to the open state to open the container and transporting the container. .