DE102021111676A1 - Parcel diverter for conveying and sorting piece goods - Google Patents

Abstract

A package switch (1) for conveying and/or guiding piece goods is proposed, comprising a housing (3) and several motor-driven transport rollers (2) accommodated in the housing (3) for conveying and/or guiding piece goods (4). , comprising a conveyor drive (5) for conveying the piece goods (4), which has a motor-driven friction shaft (51) on which the rollers (20) of several transport rollers (2) rest and through the friction shaft (51) about a first axis ( 23) are driven in rotation in order to convey the piece goods (4), and comprising a steering drive (6) for steering the piece goods (4), which the bearing axles (22) of several of the transport rollers for steering the piece goods (4) about a second axis (24) pivots to direct a unit load (4). It is essential that the rollers (20) are acted upon by a spring (28) in the direction of the friction shaft (51) and the transport rollers (2) around their second axis (24) by at least 90°, preferably at least 100° or 110° or 120° are rotatable without the roller (20) losing contact with the friction shaft (51).

Description

The invention relates to a package diverter for conveying and sorting piece goods according to the features of the preamble of claim 1.

Such package switches for conveying and sorting piece goods are already known in various configurations. Known package diverters use a deflection device for ejection, which is designed, for example, as a movable stop in order to push the piece goods in the desired direction. Package switches with so-called omni wheels are also known, i.e. rollers with several fixed axes of rotation, which cause the piece goods to be displaced by the drive about a specific axis of rotation. Also known are package diverters with driven rollers configured at a fixed angle, which can also be configured to be height-adjustable in order to enable the piece goods to be sorted.

The present invention is based on the object of creating an improved package diverter for conveying and sorting piece goods, which can be used universally and enables a high piece goods throughput. In particular, the packet switch should allow easy maintenance or repair.

The object is achieved according to the invention by a package diverter for conveying and sorting piece goods with the features of claim 1.

According to the invention, a package diverter for conveying and/or guiding piece goods is proposed, comprising a housing and a plurality of motor-driven transport rollers accommodated in the housing for conveying and/or guiding piece goods, with piece goods resting on one transport roller or on several transport rollers, and wherein the several transport rollers in the housing are arranged in one plane, preferably next to one another and/or one behind the other, and wherein the transport rollers each have a motor-driven roller, a roller holder and a bearing axis, the roller being arranged on the roller holder and the roller holder being arranged on the bearing axis and comprising a conveyor drive for conveying the piece goods, which has a motor-driven friction shaft against which the rollers of several transport rollers rest and are driven by the friction shaft to rotate about a first axis in order to convey the piece goods, and comprising a steering drive for steering the article, which pivots the bearing axles of a plurality of the transport rollers for steering the article about a second axis in order to steer an article. It is essential that the rollers are acted upon by a spring in the direction of the friction shaft and the transport rollers are rotatable about their second axis by at least 90 °, preferably at least 100 ° or 110 ° or 120 °, without the role loses contact with the friction shaft.

An advantage of the package switch according to the invention is the robust construction of the transport rollers and the large and flexible angle range around the second axis of the transport rollers for steering large or heavy items, even at higher conveying speeds and at larger angles. This makes it possible to make conveyor systems more compact and flexible. Furthermore, the flexible rotatability through a large angular range enables steering of light and heavy cargo alike, as well as gentle ejection, for example in a curve. Flexibly rotatable means in particular that the angle of rotation of the transport rollers around the second axis can be set individually within the angle range. In particular, the angle of rotation of individual transport rollers can be adjusted independently. The large and preferably individually adjustable angular ranges of the transport rollers for steering allow the transport of the piece goods, for example, under a curve, since it is possible, for example, to pivot the transport rollers in the end area of the package switch by a larger angle than in the starting area. In particular, this achieves smooth cornering. In contrast to this, in the case of known package switches, the piece goods are abruptly diverted from straight-line transport. This is necessary with known package switches, because the smaller angle ranges for steering is the only way to ensure discharge at the desired point without an excessively long package switch.

The transport rollers each have a driven roller that can rotate about a first axis. The roll can be designed as a rounded roll or as a roller. The surface of the roller can be crowned, rounded or made up of straight surfaces. In particular, the roller is made of an elastic material, for example a plastic or rubber. Provision can be made for the rollers to be coated with an elastic material, for example a plastic or rubber. The surface of the roller comes into contact with the transport of general cargo or packages in order to promote them. In particular, piece goods or a package lie on the roller of one or more transport rollers.

General cargo is understood to mean, for example, packages or goods packed in trays or tubs or bags. In particular, the packet switch a continuous stream of Transport piece goods in one conveying direction and, if necessary, eject individual piece goods from the flow to the left and/or right.

Piece goods are transported as follows on the rotatably driven roller. The conveyor drive motor drives the rollers about the first axis, with the rotation of the rollers about the first axis causing the piece goods to be conveyed in a conveying direction over the packet diverter. The conveyor drive thus transports the piece goods preferably in a straight line across the package switch. The steering drive pivots the transport rollers, preferably one or more of the bearing axles of one or more of the transport rollers, about the second axis, with the pivoting movement of the transport rollers about the second axis causing a change in direction of the conveying direction of the piece goods, i.e. steering on the package switch. With a combination of the conveyor drive and the steering drive, the piece goods can not only be transported in a straight line over the package switch, but also steered in a desired direction and transported over the package switch. This allows the parcel switch to sort or eject piece goods, for example.

In particular, the packet diverter conveys piece goods or packets along a conveying direction, in particular downstream. The start area of the packet switch is upstream of the end area. The package diverter can have several outlets downstream, preferably adjoining several discharge sections in order to convey packaged goods or packages in a targeted manner to one of the discharge sections. For example, the packet switch can have two or three or four or more outputs, or be connected to two or three or four or more discharge routes.

The conveyor drive and/or the steering drive can be controlled via a control device. For example, the control device can control the rotational speed of the rollers about the first axis and thus the conveying speed. The control device can control the pivoting of the transport rollers about the second axis in order to determine the conveying direction of a unit load. In this case, it can be provided that the control device pivots different transport rollers at different angles in order, for example, to set a curve in the conveying direction of a unit load.

Provision can be made for the transport rollers to be arranged in a basic position in the package diverter. In the basic position of the transport rollers, the piece goods are transported in a straight line over the package switch.

It can be provided that the transport rollers, starting from the basic position, are designed to be pivotable about the second axis up to +/- 60°, i.e. up to 60° in two directions, preferably clockwise as the first direction and counterclockwise as the second direction. The basic position preferably corresponds to an angle of 0°. A pivoting of the transport rollers about their second axis causes a steering, i.e. a change in direction of the packaged goods, in that the packaged goods are transported over the package switch in a deviation from the straight-line transport direction, preferably to the left or to the right in a deviation from the straight-line transport direction over the package switch becomes. In this way, the piece goods can be steered and transported by up to +/- 60°, starting from the straight-line transport in the basic position, to the left or right over the package diverter.

In the versions of the conveyor drive with a friction shaft, the roller of a transport roller is acted upon by a spring in the direction of the friction shaft. The spring ensures contact between the roller and the friction shaft, especially when the transport roller swivels. The spring can be used to maintain the frictional connection between the roller and the friction shaft, even if the surface of the roller or the friction shaft is uneven.

It can be provided that the roller is rotatably mounted about a roller axis. Provision can be made for the roller axis to be rotatably mounted in the roller and fixed in the roller holder. Alternatively, it can be provided that the roller axis is held firmly in the roller, in particular connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the roller, and is rotatably mounted in the roller holder.

Provision can be made for the roller holder of a transport roller to be U-shaped with a base section and two roller holder arms, the roller holder arms of the roller holder having recesses for receiving a roller, preferably a roller axis.

It can be provided that the recess in the roll holder arm for receiving the roll is designed to be open on the side in the direction of the friction shaft, in particular is designed to be open on one side. The advantage of such an open configuration is that the roller can be mounted closer in the direction of the friction shaft and larger angles of rotation about the second axis are thus made possible when a transport roller is pivoted. Furthermore, such a configuration causes an additional securing of the roller, since the roller can only be removed from the roller holder in the direction of the friction shaft and this is not possible during operation.

Provision can be made for the roller to be mounted in the edge area of the roller holder arm in the direction of the friction shaft, preferably in the edge area of the roller holder arm at least at the height of the friction shaft. Provision can be made for the roller holder arm to have a cavity for such storage, and/or the roller to be arranged offset in the roller holder arm towards the friction shaft, and/or the roller holder arm to be arranged offset. Such a configuration enables a larger pivoting range or a larger angle of rotation about the second axis, since such a bearing means that the roll holder arm does not hit the friction shaft when rotating at large angles of rotation.

Provision can be made for the roller axle to be fastened in the recess in the roller holder. The recess is preferably undercut in order to enable the roller axle to be clipped in. The roller axle preferably has projections which engage in the recess in order to enable the roller axle to be clipped in.

Provision can be made for a roller cover to be formed on the transport roller, preferably on the roller holder, which partially covers the opening in the transport surface for the rollers to pass through from below. The roller cover is preferably arranged on the transport roller, most preferably the roller cover rotates with the transport roller when it rotates about the second axis. The advantage of such a configuration is that the openings in the transport surface can be made larger in order to compensate for play in the steering of the rollers or an offset in the arrangement of the transport rollers, while small goods can still be transported at the same time.

Provision can be made for a transport roller to have a spring which urges the roller to rest on the friction shaft. The roller holder is preferably designed to be spring-loaded.

Provision can be made for the roller holder to be designed in two parts for spring loading, with the roller holder arms being arranged on the base section such that they can be tilted in the direction of the friction shaft. The roll holder arms preferably have a connecting section which connects the two roll holder arms to one another.

It can be provided that the spring engages with its first end on the roll holder arm or on the connecting section and acts with its second end on the base section.

Provision can be made for one or more stops to be formed on one or both roll holder arms, which interact with the base section in order to allow spring loading only up to the stop. Provision can be made for the one or more stops to be in the form of screws or shafts which preferably pass through the roll holder arm and are preferably simultaneously designed to hold the roll cover.

It can be provided that the roller axis extends through the roller holder, preferably through the roller holder arms, or is designed to protrude beyond the roller holder, preferably through the roller holder arms. It can be provided that the roller cover is arranged on the portion extending through or on the protruding portion. It can be provided that, together with the holder of the roller cover, the roller cover is secured against rotation by the stop.

Provision can be made for the surface of the roller which interacts with the friction shaft to have stepped flat surfaces, preferably flat surfaces at 0°, 20°, 40° and 60°, preferably flat surfaces at 0°, 20° , 40° and 60° steps. The stepped, flat surfaces ensure that the roller rests securely, i.e. a larger contact surface on the friction shaft and thus safer drive of the roller. As a result, even heavy piece goods can be safely conveyed or steered. It can be provided that the bearing surface at 20°, 40° and 60° is at least 4 mm, preferably at least 6 mm. Due to the larger contact surface, a safe drive can also be guaranteed for heavy piece goods.

It can be provided that the friction shaft has a diameter of at least 1 cm, preferably at least 2 cm, most preferably at least 3 cm.

It can be provided that the conveyor drive has an electric friction shaft motor for driving the friction shaft. Provision can be made for the friction shaft motor to be arranged below, or above, or next to the base plate and supported by it. Provision can be made for the friction shaft motor and the friction shaft to be connected to one another via a belt drive or a chain drive.

It can be provided that the friction shaft is made of steel or plastic or rubber, preferably that the friction shaft at least has a steel or plastic or rubber portion which cooperates with the rollers. The advantage of being made of steel is its long service life. The advantage of being made of plastic or rubber is that higher driving forces can be transmitted to the rollers.

Provision can be made for the first axis of the transport rollers to be parallel to the upper side of the housing or the transport surface, in particular to be aligned horizontally. Provision can be made for the first axis and the second axis to be formed at right angles to one another. In particular, the second axis can be aligned vertically.

It can be provided that the first axis and the second axis of a transport roller intersect. The advantage of such a configuration is that the roller is rotated around the point of intersection both around the first and around the second axis. It is advantageous if the first axis and the second axis of a transport roller intersect, preferably intersect at the center point of the first axis. As a result, the transport roller can be rotated about its center point both about the first axis and, in particular, also about the second axis. This allows the transport roller to rotate quickly without creating an imbalance or an undesirable tilting moment during the rotation.

In particular, a base plate can be provided on which several of the transport rollers, preferably all of the transport rollers, are held. In particular, the base plate can hold the bearing axles of several of the transport rollers. The base plate can be designed as a mechanically stable plate, in particular as a one-piece plate, in order to hold several of the transport rollers and absorb the forces that occur. In particular, the base plate can be designed as a solid plate in order to dampen any vibrations that may occur when the transport rollers are driven. For example, the base plate can be designed as an aluminum plate with a thickness of 10 mm, preferably up to 35 mm.

Provision can be made for a transport roller to be rotatably mounted in the base plate by means of its bearing axles. The bearing axis preferably passes through a recess in the base plate and is held in a form-fitting manner in the recess in particular.

It can be provided that the base plate has either a ball bearing, or a needle bearing, or a bearing bush, or a slide bush for mounting a transport roller, preferably the bearing axle. Versions with ball bearings or needle bearings have higher stability and longer running times. Versions with a bearing bush or sliding bushes are characterized by simple and inexpensive manufacture.

The housing is provided to protect the transport drive and the steering drive. The transport drive and the steering drive are accommodated inside the housing. Provision can be made for the housing to have at least two stable side walls and a housing base and two side walls designed in particular as removable covers. The at least two stable side walls are preferably designed as load-bearing side walls, in particular firmly connected to the base plate and normally not detachable or not designed to be detachable. The supporting side walls are preferably designed as aluminum plates. Provision can be made for the housing to have further side walls which, in particular, are designed to be removable and not load-bearing. The load-bearing and/or non-load-bearing side walls and/or the housing base can preferably have ventilation openings. It can be provided that the housing also has a housing cover, which is in particular removable. The housing cover can be designed as a continuous housing cover or as a segmented housing cover.

It can be provided that the noise development is dampened by the housing and the mechanical components arranged in it, i.e. the standards EN ISO 11688-1 and EN ISO 11688-2 regarding noise exposure are complied with by the arrangement of the mechanical components in the housing.

It can be provided that the base plate is accommodated in the housing and the housing has a separate housing base. An advantage of a separate housing floor is the protection of the transport rollers and components in the housing. Electrical components of the packet switch are preferably arranged on the bottom of the housing, preferably for controlling and/or supplying voltage to individual modules and/or the transport rollers and/or the steering drive. One advantage of a separate base plate is that it can be made more stable without extending spatially over the entire bottom of the packet switch.

Alternatively, it can also be provided that the base plate forms the housing floor.

It can be provided that the package diverter has a transport surface, preferably the transport surface forms the top of the package soft. Provision can be made for the rollers of the transport rollers to reach through the transport surface. Provision can be made for the transport surface to be made of metal, stainless steel or plastic, in particular as a continuous or closed transport surface (apart from the transport rollers passing through the transport surface). The advantage of a preferably continuous or closed transport surface is that small and/or bulky and/or flexible cargo can also be conveyed, since the cargo can rest not only on the rollers but also on the transport surface. Provision can be made for the transport surface to be attached to the housing; the transport surface preferably covers the housing on the upper side. The transport surface preferably represents the housing cover.

Provision can be made for the housing to be arranged on a frame; the frame is preferably designed to be adjustable in height. This means that the packet switch can be integrated into an existing transport system by adjusting the height of the transport rollers to the existing transport system.

Provision can be made for several transport rollers to be arranged next to one another in the package switch. In this case, next to each other preferably means the direction perpendicular to the rectilinear transport in the basic position. Provision can be made for several rows of transport rollers to be arranged one behind the other, i.e. preferably in the direction of straight transport in the basic position. Preferably, the rollers of adjacent rows are offset from one another. In particular, the staggered rolls of two adjacent rows intermesh in order to achieve a high roll density. In particular, the row spacing can be selected to be less than twice the roll diagonal.

Provision can be made for the roller spacing from roller to roller to be between 50 mm and 90 mm, preferably between 60 mm and 80 mm, most preferably 70 mm, preferably the roller spacing from roller to roller in a row. Provision can be made for the distance from row to row to be between 50 mm and 90 mm, preferably between 60 mm and 80 mm, most preferably 70 mm.

Provision can be made for the rollers to have a diameter of 2 cm to 10 cm, preferably 4 cm to 8 cm, most preferably 5.5 cm to 6.5 cm. The advantage of a roller with a smaller diameter is that the transport rollers can be placed closer together. The advantage of a large diameter lies in the robustness of the rollers.

Provision can be made for the rollers to be made of plastic or rubber. At least an outer area of the rollers is preferably made of plastic or rubber.

Provision can be made for the control device for the transport rollers to be arranged in the housing. The control device can include a power pack for supplying the conveyor drive and/or steering drive with electrical energy. In particular, the control device can include a microprocessor and/or a PLC control for controlling the conveyor drive and/or steering drive. Preferably, both the steering drive and the conveyor drive can be controlled by the control device, in particular can be controlled independently. Provision can also be made for the control device to control or supply electrical energy to a number of conveyor drives and/or a number of steering drives.

Provision can be made for a switch cabinet for wiring and/or securing the transport rollers and/or the steering drive and/or the conveyor drive to be arranged in the housing, or for the housing to form a switch cabinet. The switch cabinet is preferably accessible from outside the housing, preferably through a maintenance flap or inspection flap arranged in a housing wall.

Provision can be made for the rotational speed of the rollers to be controlled about the first axis in order to control the conveying speed or a compensating curve. Provision can be made for the angle of rotation of the transport rollers to be controlled about the second axis, in particular in order to define a conveying direction.

In order to swivel the transport rollers, the steering drive can provide a linkage for transmitting a swiveling movement from the motor of the steering drive, preferably the steering motor, to the bearing axles of a number of transport rollers. The linkage can be designed as a gear element and have one or more coupling rods.

In one embodiment, the transport rollers can be combined into modules. Several modules can be exchangeably accommodated or held in the housing. In particular, a module includes a base plate with two rows of transport rollers. The number of transport rollers in a row can be variable. The number of modules in one housing can be variable. In this way, the size of the packet switch can be individually adapted to the necessary framework conditions.

For example, it can be provided that the bearing axis of a transport roller reaches through the base plate. It can be provided that the steering drive is arranged below the base plate and the roller is arranged above the base plate. In particular, the base plate holds a plurality of transport rollers arranged in a row. The base plate can have several such rows of transport rollers next to one another, preferably two rows of transport rollers.

For example, the steering drive can have a coupling rod or a plurality of coupling rods in order to couple or connect a plurality of the transport rollers to one another. In particular, the coupling rod can couple all the transport rollers in a row to one another, in particular couple them to one another in a torque-proof manner. Provision can be made for the coupling rod to interact with the bearing axis in order to rotate the transport roller about the second axis.

In the case of several rows with transport rollers, it can be provided in one embodiment that each row with transport rollers has a coupling rod. In particular, the coupling rod connects all transport rollers in a row. All coupling rods are preferably arranged at the same height or have the same distance from the base plate. This prevents different tilting moments from being introduced into the bearing axles by the coupling rods.

It can be provided that the coupling rod has a connecting section and several bearing sections, the bearing sections being rotatably connected to the connecting section at a first point and the bearing sections being non-rotatably connected to the transport roller, preferably the bearing axis, at a second point. Due to the non-rotatable connection to the transport roller and the rotatable connection to the connecting section, an identical rotary movement of one transport roller can be transmitted to the other transport rollers, in that the rotary movement of the first transport roller causes a displacement of the connecting section of the coupling rod via the bearing sections and the displacement of the coupling rod causes an identical rotary movement transfers the bearing sections to the other transport rollers.

Provision can be made for the connecting section and the bearing section to be rotatably connected to one another via a bolt and a bearing bush or slide bush, or an axle and a ball bearing. The bolt is preferably designed as a steel bolt. The bolt is preferably pressed into the bearing section or the connecting section. A steel bolt design ensures a long service life with frequent switching operations.

Provision can be made for the steering drive to have a steering drive motor, preferably an electric steering drive motor.

Provision can be made for the coupling rod or one of the transport rollers to be connected to the steering drive motor via a chain. The steering drive motor and/or the coupling rod and/or the transport roller preferably has a chain wheel for this purpose. By designing the chain wheel on the coupling rod, preferably on the bearing section, the rotational movement of the chain wheel is transmitted to the transport rollers via the coupling rod. By designing the chain wheel on the transport roller, the transport roller is rotated by the steering drive motor, with this rotational movement being transmitted to the other transport rollers via the coupling rod. The advantage of driving the coupling rod in this way via a chain is that the coupling rod does not self-lock even when the transport rollers rotate by more than +/- 60°. Self-locking means that in this position of the coupling rod, displacement is no longer possible.

It can be provided that the coupling rod, preferably the connecting section, is undercut or has projections. The bearing sections are preferably arranged in the area of the projections or the non-undercut areas in the connecting section. Due to the formation of the projections or the undercut and the rotatable mounting between the connecting section and the bearing section, the projections are pivoted about the second axis when the transport rollers rotate. In particular, the coupling rod can swivel the bearing axles of the transport rollers in the range between plus 60° and minus 60°, as a result of which a total rotation of 120° or more than 120° is made possible.

Provision can be made for the steering drive to have a tensioning device for tensioning a chain or a belt. For example, the steering drive motor can be designed to be displaceable relative to the base plate in order to tension the chain or a belt. It can be provided that the steering drive motor is arranged on a support plate and the support plate has a support plate slot and the base plate has a base plate slot, the support plate and the base plate being designed to be displaceable relative to one another. The carrier plate slot and the base plate slot are preferably rotated by 90° relative to one another in order to enable the chain or the belt to be tensioned.

It can be provided that a rotary stop is formed on the bearing axis, which interacts with a part of the base plate in order to prevent steering beyond +/−60°, preferably a total of 120°. Preferably, the rotation stop can become effective at a rotation angle of more than +/- 62°, most preferably +/- 65°, and in particular can come into contact with the coupling rod.

Provision can be made for the rotary stop to be formed by the linkage and the bearing axis, with the linkage interacting with the bearing axis for the stop.

In one embodiment, it can be provided that the steering drive has a steering drive motor, preferably a steering motor, and a chain, preferably at least one chain, in the motor output. Provision can be made for a chain wheel for the chain to be arranged on the steering drive motor, preferably on a motor axle of the steering drive motor, and on the bearing axle of a transport roller. Since all transport rollers in a row are connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner, it is sufficient if the steering drive motor is connected to one, preferably at least one, transport roller of the transport rollers on the output side. Due to the non-rotatable coupling of the transport rollers in a row, the pivoting movement of one transport roller is transmitted to all transport rollers in a row.

It can be provided that the steering drive motor, preferably the steering motor, has a plurality of sprockets and each sprocket interacts with a sprocket of a row of transport rollers. Preferably, two sprockets are formed on the steering drive motor, preferably the steering motor, with the first sprocket being connected via a first chain to a first bearing axle of a first row and a sprocket arranged thereon, and the second sprocket being connected via a second chain to a second bearing axle of a second row Row and sprocket arranged thereon is connected.

Provision can be made for one or more gear wheels to be arranged on the bearing axle on each of the several transport rollers, with one or more chains connecting the gear wheels to one another.

Provision can be made for the steering drive to have a chain which connects all transport rollers of the packet switch or a module to one another. Provision can be made for the steering drive to have a plurality of chains, it being possible for a chain to connect two adjacent transport rollers to one another. In an embodiment with several chains, for example, two sprockets are arranged one above the other on the bearing axis of the transport rollers.

A chain tensioner may be provided to tension the chain through the chain tensioner. Preferably that each chain is tensioned by its own chain tensioner. As a result, the chain tension of the chains can be adjusted to a predetermined value and slip can thus be avoided or reduced.

Provision can be made for the one or more chain wheels to be arranged below the base plate on the bearing axis of the transport roller.

It can be provided that the package diverter for conveying and/or directing piece goods has several modules arranged next to one another in the housing so as to be interchangeable, with several motor-driven transport rollers being arranged next to one another in each module.

It can be provided that each module has a conveyor drive with at least one electric conveyor motor for driving the transport rollers of the module about the first axis and a steering drive with at least one electric steering motor for driving the transport rollers of the module about the second axis.

An advantage of the invention of the packet switch with several modules according to the invention is that there is no mechanical coupling of drives of several modules to one another. When installing and removing a module, the modules are only coupled electronically to enable joint control. This makes it very easy and quick to replace the modules. A further advantage is that if one module malfunctions, the other modules remain fully functional and thus the conveying and steering is ensured, preferably at least partially ensured, even if one module fails. At least partially ensured can be understood to mean that, for example, a conveyance and guidance of smaller and/or lighter piece goods than the maximum possible can still be ensured without restrictions.

Another advantage is that a single module is fully functional even when removed and can be tested individually. An arrangement of a module within the housing for repair or testing of the module is not necessary. By having a replacement module available, the downtime of the system can also be drastically reduced.

In order to enable a simple test, the connection cable or the connection cables of a module can be dimensioned so long that the module can be removed from the housing and placed next to the housing without the module having to be unplugged. Alternatively, an extension cable can be provided to operate a module outside the housing and connect to the controller or power supply of the housing.

Another advantage of the modular design lies in the noise reduction due to the arrangement of the modules in the housing. It can be provided that the modules are mounted in the housing in a vibration-damping manner.

Provision can be made for the electric conveyor motor to be designed as an electric axis motor or as an electric motor for driving the friction shaft, preferably a friction shaft motor. It can be provided that the steering motor, preferably the steering drive motor, is designed as an electric motor.

In an advantageous embodiment, several of the transport rollers can be combined to form a structural unit as a module. Each of the modules can be independently inserted into the housing or removed from the housing. Individual modules can be exchanged for maintenance or repair purposes. For example, a defective module can be exchanged for a functional module. If a functional module is available as a replacement, the downtime of the packet switch can be minimized.

It can be provided that at least three modules are arranged in the housing, preferably at least five modules, most preferably at least seven modules. Preferably, the housing and the number of modules can be adapted to the requirements of the cargo, i.e. more modules and a longer housing can be selected for heavy cargo or a larger pivoting angle.

In particular, each module has its own base plate. In particular, the base plate extends over the entire base area of a module.

It can be provided that each module has at least 5 and up to 35 transport rollers, preferably at least 15, most preferably at least 27 transport rollers, which are held together on a base plate. In particular, the base plate of a module supports two rows of transport rollers. In order to achieve the closest possible arrangement of the transport rollers, the two rows of a module can be arranged offset from one another, so that a transport roller in one row is arranged partially between the two adjacent transport rollers in the opposite row. With a high number of transport rollers, a safe conveyance of small or heavy piece goods can be ensured. The number of rollers is preferably determined by the width of the modules and the distance between the transport rollers. The number of rollers is preferably determined by the conveying elements arranged before and/or after the packet switch.

Provision can be made for the modular design to be based on a predetermined product range with regard to the size of the housing and/or the number of modules and/or the number of transport rollers per module of the packet switch. In particular, the length and width of the packet switch can be changed flexibly within certain limits.

Provision can be made for the housing to have a housing frame with four side walls and/or a housing base for the modular design of the packet switch. Several of the modules can be accommodated in the housing. Different numbers of modules can be used to adapt the packet switch to different requirements. A housing with two modules can be used for simple conveying tasks. The housing and the number of modules can be increased accordingly for the promotion of correspondingly large piece goods or multi-lane promotion.

Provision can be made for the base plate to be formed from a module base plate in each module for the modular design of the packet switch.

Provision can be made for the transport surface to be formed from a plurality of module transport surfaces for the modular design of the packet switch, with each module having a module transport surface. In particular, the housing cover is formed by the multiple module transport surfaces.

Preferably, a module deck is removably attached to a module. For example, the module transport surface can be removed to insert or remove the module in the housing.

Provision can be made for several transport rollers to be arranged next to one another in the module. Side by side preferably means the direction perpendicular to the straight line Transport of the basic position. It can be provided that several rows of transport rollers are arranged one behind the other, ie preferably in the direction of straight transport in the basic position, preferably that two rows of transport rollers are arranged in one module, preferably that the transport rollers of several rows are arranged offset from one another.

Provision can be made for the one or more modules to be arranged on the housing, preferably on the housing frame, for the modular design of the packet switch. For example, it is provided that the housing frame or the module has module recesses into which a module projection of the module or the housing frame engages, preferably for arranging the module in the housing. In particular, a module can each have a holder which is fastened to the narrow end face of the base plate and which engages in a module recess in the housing frame.

It can be provided that the module can only be inserted into the housing in a defined position or only in one direction. This predefined applicability can be achieved by a geometric, in particular asymmetrical, configuration of the module and/or the housing, preferably the module projection or the module recess, or by geometric arrangement of electrical connections for the power supply or for controlling the module. Provision can be made for the geometric configurations of the module and/or the housing to be in the form of a module recess or module stop or module projections.

In order to facilitate removal or insertion of the modules, provision can be made for handles to be provided or arranged on the module. Preferably, the handles are designed separately and can be connected to a module if necessary, for example, are designed to be screwed on or plugged in or latched. This has the advantage that the handles are only connected to the module when required and can be removed during normal operation. Alternatively, the handles can also be firmly connected to the module, for example mounted on the module so that they can be folded or pulled out.

It can be provided that the weight of the module does not exceed the maximum weight for lifting a single person and/or two people according to DIN 33411-5. This can be achieved by appropriately dimensioning the modules.

Provision can be made for a controller for the modules to be arranged in the housing.

It can be provided that the transport rollers of several modules are synchronized electronically.

It can be provided that each module in a housing can be controlled separately. A separate promotion and/or steering can preferably be set for each module. When steering the piece goods, the angle of the steering is preferably increased step by step in each module in order to eject the piece goods in a curved line.

Provision can be made for each transport roller to be separately controllable in an embodiment of the package switch with electric axis motors. Preferably, the conveyor drive and the steering drive of each transport roller can be controlled separately. Most preferably, the rotational speed of each transport roller about the first axis can be controlled separately.

It can be provided that feet and/or a module frame are attached to the underside of the module base plate. The length of the feet or the module frame is preferably dimensioned in such a way that it protrudes downwards over the steering drive and/or the conveyor drive, so that the module (in the dismantled state, i.e. when the module is not arranged in the housing) on the feet and/or the module frame. In particular, it can be provided that the module frame is designed to be longer than all the components below the base plate. This ensures that when the module is removed, the transport rollers, the steering drive and/or the conveyor drive are not damaged when the module is parked or temporarily stored.

Provision can be made for a receptacle for a module controller and/or cabling and/or securing of the transport rollers to be arranged in the module, in particular on the module frame.

In particular, only electrical connections have to be created when inserting a module into the housing. Since each module has its own steering drive and its own conveyor drive, no coupling to a drive arranged in the housing has to be created. This simplifies the replacement of individual modules considerably.

In particular, a module has only one or two plug-in connections, in particular with only one or two plugs be connected when the module is placed in the housing and disconnected when it is removed. Provision can be made for a connection cable to be formed between the module and the housing. The module is supplied with electrical energy and control data via this plug connection and/or the connecting cable. Provision can be made for the module to be supplied with electrical energy via the first plug-in connection and for control data to be exchanged via the second plug-in connection. In particular, the one plug-in connection and/or the connecting cable includes, in addition to the power supply, an interface for a digital bus in order to bidirectionally exchange control data or control commands and/or sensor signals or status signals.

Provision can be made for the module to be electronically monitored; most preferably, the electronic monitoring counts and/or logs the running time and/or the number of pivoting movements. Provision can be made for the sensor signals and/or the status signals to be used for monitoring. For example, monitoring can determine when a module should be replaced or serviced before the module fails completely.

In an advantageous embodiment, the plug-in connection of a module can be designed in such a way that the plug-in connection is automatically connected when the module is inserted into the housing and is automatically disconnected when the module is removed. As a result, no separate production of the plug connection is necessary and the functional reliability of the packet switch can be increased.

In particular, each module has a steering drive and a conveyor drive and a module controller. This means that a module can also be put into operation outside of the housing, for example to test, maintain or adjust the module.

Provision can be made for a transport lock to be provided for transporting a module in order to secure moving parts.

Provision can be made for a connecting cable to be formed between the housing and the module. The connection cable is preferably designed to be long enough for the module to be placed on the floor next to the housing when it is removed from the housing without detaching the connection cable.

Provision can be made for the module to have sensors for monitoring the function, preferably heat sensors and/or weight sensors and/or noise sensors and/or motion sensors, preferably motion sensors for detecting imbalance.

An advantage of the modularity of the packet switch is that a maintenance and repair concept can be used, which reduces the downtime of the packet switch to an absolute minimum. This concept provides that the plant operator/manufacturer can use a diagnostic tool implemented in the controller to carry out preventive maintenance or preventive replacement before a component actually becomes defective. Likewise, the exchange can only take place when a defect has already occurred. If the customer/manufacturer uses the diagnostic tool, this replacement can take place when the system is shut down as planned or scheduled maintenance is carried out.

The object is also achieved by a method for maintaining and/or repairing a modular packet switch, preferably designed according to one of the preceding statements,
wherein the parcel switch comprises a housing and several modules arranged next to one another in an interchangeable manner in the housing, with several motor-driven transport rollers being arranged next to one another in each module in order to convey and/or steer piece goods, with piece goods lying on one transport roller or on several transport rollers, and
comprising a conveyor drive for driving the transport rollers about a first axis in order to convey the piece goods,
comprising a steering drive for steering the piece goods, which pivots the bearing axes of several of the transport rollers about a second axis for steering the piece goods, and
that each module has a conveyor drive with at least one electric conveyor motor for driving the transport rollers of the module around the first axis and a steering drive with at least one electric steering motor for driving the transport rollers of the module around the second axis,
wherein a maintenance facility is provided for maintenance, and wherein at least one module is removed from the packet switch, and wherein the at least one module is sent to the maintenance facility for maintenance and/or repair, and wherein during maintenance and/or repair a replacement module is placed in the Packet switch we installed, and
after the maintenance and/or repair, the serviced and/or repaired module is sent to the packet switch and installed in the packet switch or stored as a replacement module for the packet switch.

It can be provided that the module is ver in a transport box to the maintenance facility is sent. The transport box secures the module itself and the moving components of the module. The transport box serves to secure the mechanical and electrical components of the module.

Provision can be made for the belt width of the packet diverter to be greater than 450 mm, preferably greater than 600 mm, most preferably greater than 900 mm.

Belt width is to be understood as the maximum width of the package switch on which the piece goods can be conveyed.

The package switch according to the invention can be integrated into existing conveyor systems or picking systems for general cargo or packages. The parcel switch can be used, for example, to eject individual piece goods or parcels. Likewise, the package diverter can be used to direct piece goods or packages, with a continuous stream being able to be distributed by the package diverter, for example, to two or three or four conveyor lines.

Unit goods can be supplied to the package switch, for example, via a feed conveyor line arranged upstream of the package switch. Provision can be made for a conveyor belt to be arranged at the entrance of the packet switch in order to deliver piece goods or packets to the packet switch. At least two, preferably three conveyor sections or conveyor belts can be arranged downstream of the package switch, ie at the output of the package switch, for transporting away or onward transport of the piece goods or packages.

In order to ensure that the package switch receives individual piece goods one after the other, a device for separating the piece goods can be provided upstream of the package switch. In order to read address information, a scanner can be provided for scanning the piece goods, which scans a label present on the piece goods, for example, and transfers the address data to the package switch. In order to ensure that the correct address data for the respective piece goods is transferred, the conveyor line can have a tracking device, for example by tracking the piece goods, preferably using light barriers or sensors.

Provision can be made for a device for aligning the piece goods to be arranged in front of the package switch, and/or for a device for synchronizing the piece goods to be configured, and/or for a device for scanning the piece goods to be configured. The alignment device positions the piece goods in the middle, left or right on the upstream conveyor belt. The clocking device sets the distance between two consecutive piece goods, or sets a minimum distance. The scanning device enables the piece goods to be tracked and ejected in the desired direction. These upstream devices ensure problem-free ejection of the entire product range.

Provision can be made for conveying sections of the conveying system to be designed with less friction before and/or after the packet diverter. This ensures safe guidance and conveyance through the pack switch, since the packaged goods in this area are almost completely influenced by the rollers of the pack switch. It can be provided that laterally arranged conveying sections, which deviate from the straight conveyance, have a higher friction, so that the laterally arranged conveying sections support the ejection process in that the piece goods are pulled through the lateral conveying sections by the package diverter.

It can be provided that piece goods up to a size of 60 cm by 60 cm, preferably 90 cm by 90 cm, can be conveyed and guided.

It can be provided that piece goods weighing up to 32 kg, preferably 50 kg, can be conveyed and steered.

Provision can be made for a conveying speed of up to 1.8 m/s, preferably up to 2.5 m/s. Provision can be made for this conveying speed to be maintained even when piece goods are being guided.

The packet switch according to the invention can be used, for example, by logistics service providers or packet transport companies or in industrial production. The packet diverter according to the invention can also be used in automated warehouses or in food production.

• 1: Schematische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels der erfindungsgemäßen Paketweiche;
• 2: Paketweiche der 1 mit entfernten Modulen;
• 3: Schematische Darstellung eines Moduls mit Reibrollen;
• 4: Modul mit Reibrollen der 3 ohne Transportfläche;
• 5: Fördermotor des Förderantriebs des Moduls der 4;
• 6: Reibrolle in Vorderansicht der 3 bis 9;
• 7: Reibrolle in Rückansicht der 3 bis 9;
• 8: Erstes Ausführungsbeispiel eines Lenkantriebs mit Gestänge;
• 9: Gestänge der 8;
• 10: Rolle mit Lagerabschnitt des Lenkantriebs aus 8 und 13;
• 11: Rolle der 10 mit transparenten Lagerabschnitt;
• 12: Rolle mit Lagerabschnitt des Gestänges aus 8 und 13 und doppeltem Kettenrad;
• 13: Zweite Ausführungsbeispiel eines Lenkantriebs mit Kettenrädern;
• 14: Lenkantrieb der 14 und 19;
• 15: Reibrolle des Lenkantriebs der 13 mit Kettenrad;
• 16: Drittes Ausführungsbeispiel eines Lenkantriebs mit doppelten Kettenrädern;
• 17: Rolle des Lenkantriebs der 16 mit doppelten Kettenrädern;
• 18: Fördereinrichtung mit erfindungsgemäßer Paketweiche.

Further embodiments of the invention are shown in the figures and described below. show:

• 1 : Schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of the packet switch according to the invention;
• 2 : packet switch of 1 with removed modules;
• 3 : Schematic representation of a module with friction rollers;
• 4 : Module with friction rollers 3 without transport surface;
• 5 : Conveyor motor of the conveyor drive of the module 4 ;
• 6 : Friction roller in front view of the 3 until 9 ;
• 7 : Friction roller in rear view of the 3 until 9 ;
• 8th : First embodiment of a steering drive with linkage;
• 9 : linkage of 8th ;
• 10 : Roll out with steering drive bearing section 8th and 13 ;
• 11 : role of 10 with transparent storage section;
• 12 : Roll out with bearing section of linkage 8th and 13 and double sprocket;
• 13 : Second embodiment of a steering drive with sprockets;
• 14 : steering drive of 14 and 19 ;
• 15 : Friction roller of the steering drive of 13 with sprocket;
• 16 : Third embodiment of a steering drive with double sprockets;
• 17 : Role of the steering drive of 16 with double sprockets;
• 18 : Conveying device with package switch according to the invention.

Possible configurations of the invention are shown by way of example in the figures. These configurations serve to explain a possible implementation of the invention and should not be understood as limiting. In particular, the person skilled in the art can combine or vary individual features shown in the figures with other designs without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the claims.

1 shows an embodiment of the packet switch 1 according to the invention with a housing 3 and motor-driven transport rollers 2, which are arranged in the housing 3. The packet switch 1 is in 1 arranged on a frame in order to adjust the transport rollers 2 according to the height of the conveyor belts 80 arranged before and/or after them.

The embodiment of 1 and 2 shows the packet switch 1 with several modules 7 arranged in the housing 3. As in 2 shown, the multiple modules 7 are plugged into the housing 3, for better illustration in 2 four modules away. In the execution of 1 and 2 the housing 3 has two supporting housing side walls 30 which are connected to one another via a housing base 31 . Recesses 84 are formed in the supporting housing side walls 30, into which module lugs 85 (see 3 ) of the modules 7 intervene appropriately. In order to be able to insert the modules 7 into the housing 3 in only one direction, the recesses 84 and the module lugs 85 of the two supporting housing side walls 30 can be designed differently. The housing 3 has two further housing side walls 30, which do not have to be designed to be load-bearing and can preferably have ventilation openings. Handles 72 can be arranged on the modules 7 in order to remove individual modules 7 .

The following is in the 3 until 11 on configurations of the modules with transport rollers as a friction roller and a friction shaft. In this exemplary embodiment, the conveyor drive 5 is designed as a friction shaft 51 with friction rollers. For ease of illustration, the roles 20 in the 1 and 2 shown as simple, particularly cylindrical rollers. i.e. the rollers are without the specific rounded shape found in, for example, 3 shown.

3 shows a module 7 of the packet switch according to the invention with transport rollers 2, which has rollers 20 as friction rollers and a friction shaft 51 as conveyor drive 5. To convey the piece goods 4, the rollers 20 are designed to be rotatable about a first axis 23 (see FIG 6 ). The transport rollers 2 are designed to be rotatable about a second axis 24 to steer the piece goods 4 (see FIG 6 ).

The module 7 of 3 until 5 has a module base plate 70 in which the transport rollers 2 are arranged so as to be rotatable about the second axis 24 . A transport surface 14 with openings, through which the rollers 20 of the transport rollers 2 partially reach, is formed on the module base plate 70 via a continuation of the module base plate. The piece goods 4 can rest on the rollers 20 and, if necessary, also on the transport surface 14 during conveyance. A conveyor drive 5 is also formed below the module base plate 70 .

In the embodiment of 3 until 5 the transport rollers 2 are arranged in two rows, with several transport rollers 2 being arranged side by side in each row. The rollers 20 of the two rows are offset one behind the other. In this exemplary embodiment, a frame 74 is formed below the module base plate 70, on which the module 7 can be placed.

The rollers 20 of the transport rollers 2 as friction rollers are driven via the friction shaft 51. For this purpose, the rollers 20 rest against the friction shaft 51 under pressure. The friction shaft 51 is rotatably mounted in a continuation of the module base plate and, as in 5 shown driven by an electric motor 52 and a belt. For better visibility of the friction shaft 51, 5 two transport rollers 2 not shown.

the 6 and 7 show the transport roller 2 of the 3 until 5 , which are designed as friction rollers. In this exemplary embodiment, the outside of the roller 20 is formed with a plurality of flat sections at 0°, 20°, 40° and 60°. The roller 20 is mounted so that it can rotate about the first axis 23 , the axis engaging in two recesses in the roller holder 21 . The recesses point in the direction of the friction shaft 51 to secure the rollers 20.

The rollers 20 rest against the friction shaft 51 under pressure as a result of the two-part roller holder 21 being spring-loaded. The two-part roll holder 21 consists of the base section 25, which is U-shaped in this exemplary embodiment. Furthermore, the two-part roll holder 21 has two roll holder arms 26 which are connected to one another via a connecting section. The rollers 20 are pressed against the friction shaft by the rotatable mounting about the pressing axis 16 of the roller holder arms 26 in the base section 25 and by the spring loading. The spring loading is effected by a spring 28 which in this exemplary embodiment is arranged on the bearing axis of the roll holder and interacts with one end with the connecting section of the roll holder arms 26 and with its second end with the base section 25 . In order to prevent complete tilting of the roll holder arms 26 and thus of the roll 20 when the transport roll 2 is removed, screws passing through these are arranged on the roll holder arms 26, which from a predetermined angle of tilting of the roll holder arms 26 with the base section 25 work together as a stop.

The axis of the roller 20 extends in this embodiment 6 and 7 beyond the roll holder arms 26 and has an overhanging trapezoidal section. The roll cover 15 in the 6 and 7 is held on the one hand by the screws of the roll holder arms 26 and on the other hand by the trapezoidal section which engages with the roll cover 15.

As in the 6 and 7 As shown, the upper portion of the roll holder arms 26 is recessed in the direction of the axis of the roll 20. Due to this shape, the roller 20 is arranged in the edge area of the roller holder arms 26 in the direction of the friction shaft 51 . This cavity has the effect that when the transport roller 2 rotates about the second axis 24, the part of the roller holder arm 26 which is formed in the direction of the friction shaft 51 does not come into contact with the friction shaft 51, even at large angles.

In the 8th until 17 various exemplary embodiments of the steering drives 6 and the transport rollers 2 used with them are shown. the 8th until 12 show an embodiment of the steering drive 6 and the transport rollers 2 with linkage. the 13 until 15 show an embodiment of the steering drive 6 and the transport rollers 2 with a chain 65. The 16 and 17 show an embodiment of the steering drive 6 and the transport rollers 2 with several chains 65. In all the exemplary embodiments, the steering drive 6 is arranged below the module base plate 70 and is used to pivot all transport rollers 2 of a module by the same angle about the second axis 24 .

As in the 8th until 12 shown, the steering drive 6 in this exemplary embodiment consists of a coupling rod 60 which has a connecting section 61 and a plurality of bearing sections 62 . Each transport roller 2 has its own bearing section 62 . The bearing portions 62 are rotatably connected to the connecting portion 61 . The bearing sections 62 are non-rotatably connected to the bearing axle 22 of the transport rollers 2 in order to pivot them through the desired angle. Due to the non-rotatable connection of the bearing section 62 to the transport rollers 2 and the rotatable connection of the bearing section 62 to the connection section 61, an identical rotary movement of a transport roller 2 can be transmitted to the other transport rollers 2, in that the rotary movement of the first transport roller 2 via the bearing section 61 causes a displacement of the Connecting section 62 of the coupling rod 60 causes and the displacement of the coupling rod 60 transmits an identical rotational movement through the bearing sections 62 to the further transport rollers 2 . The connection section 61 and the bearing section 62 are connected to one another via a bolt 66 .

To drive the transport rollers 2, an electric motor 63 is arranged under the module base plate, the electric motor having an axle with two sprockets which are offset in height from one another. The two chain wheels of the electric motor 63 can drive two rows of transport rollers 2 for steering about their second axis 24 . For this purpose, the first transport roller 2 of each row has a chain wheel 17 or a double chain wheel 17 at its bearing axis 22 up. The rotation of the electric motor 63 is transmitted to the first transport roller 2 in each case via a chain. If the first transport roller 2 is steered, the coupling rod 60 in each row causes the steering to be transmitted to the other transport rollers 2, as described above.

In the embodiments of 8th and 9 the connecting portion 61 of the coupling rod 60 is formed with projections on which the bearing portions 62 are arranged. During steering, these projections are guided in a circular motion around the bearing axis 22, with the web of the connecting section 61 interacting with the bearing axis 22 as a stop when steering beyond a certain angle.

the 12 shows the first transport roller 2 of each row from the 8th and 9 . the 10 and 11 show the other transport rollers 2 of 8th and 9 , where in 11 to show the non-rotatable mounting of the bearing section 62 with the bearing axis 22, the bearing section 62 is shown transparently. The bearing section 62 is connected to the bearing axle 22 via a groove connection. The transport rollers 2 in the 10 until 16 are designed as friction rollers.

the 13 until 15 show a second embodiment of a steering drive 6 with the transport rollers 2 used for it. In this embodiment, the transport rollers 2 point below the module base plate 70, as in 15 shown, a sprocket 17 on. As in 13 shown, a chain 65 is arranged in such a way that it runs all the way around so that all sprockets 17 are connected to one another. To drive the steering drive 6, as in 13 and 18 shown, an electric motor 63 is arranged under the module base plate 70, which drives two transport rollers 2 via its axis and two chain wheels, which have a double chain wheel 17 on their bearing axis 22. The circulating chain 65 transmits the steering of the two driven transport rollers 2 to all other transport rollers 2 of the module.

The transport roller 2 in 15 is shown as a friction roller with a chain wheel 17 which is arranged on the bearing axle 22 .

In the 16 and 17 a third exemplary embodiment of a steering drive 6 with the transport rollers 2 used for this purpose is shown. In this embodiment, all transport rollers 2 are designed with double chain wheels on their bearing axles 22. The double sprockets are offset in height from one another on the bearing axle 22 . Two chain wheels at the same height of two adjacent transport rollers 2 are connected to one another via a chain 65, as a result of which the steering of the first transport roller 2 is transferred to all other transport rollers 2 of the module 7. The first transport rollers 2 are driven by an electric motor with a double chain wheel 17 arranged on its axis.

17 shows a transport roller 2 designed as a roller, with a double sprocket 17 on the bearing axis 22. The transport roller 2 of 16 can also be designed as a friction roller according to one of the exemplary embodiments described here.

18 shows a conveyor with the package switch 1 according to the invention. The conveyor represents an order-picking system for piece goods 4 in that the package switch 1 is used to eject individual pieces of goods.

The item 4 is transported in the conveyor from left to right and first passes through an aligner 81, which shifts the item 4 to the left or right side or to the middle. The minimum distance between two piece goods is then set by a clock 82 . The piece goods 4 then pass through a scanner 83, through which the information on the piece goods 4 can be read, for example for guidance at the package switch 1. The scanner 83 can also be used to determine the address data or to track the piece goods. A conveyor belt 80 transports the cargo 4 further to the package switch 1 according to the invention. Behind the package switch 1 are in the embodiment of the 18 three conveyor belts 80 arranged. The parcel switch 1 transports the parcel 4 in the desired direction, ie here onto the left conveyor belt 80, the right conveyor belt 80 or the central conveyor belt 80.

Reference List

1

packet switch

2

transport roller

3

Housing

4

general cargo

5

conveyor drive

6

steering drive

7

module

8th

conveyor

14

transport surface

15

roll cover

16

pressure axis

17

Sprocket

20

role

21

roll holder

22

bearing axis

23

first axis

24

second axis

25

base section

26

Reel Seat Arm

27

attack

28

Feather

29

Cable

30

housing side panel

31

case bottom

51

friction shaft

52

Motor of the friction shaft

60

connecting rod

61

connection section

62

storage section

63

Steering drive motor

64

head Start

65

Chain

66

bolt

70

module base plate

71

Module transport surface

72

Handle

73

cable plate

74

frame

80

conveyor belt

81

organizer

82

beater

83

scanner

84

recess

85

module nose

Claims (15)

Parcel diverter (1) for conveying and/or guiding piece goods, comprising a housing (3) and several motor-driven transport rollers (2) accommodated in the housing (3) in order to convey and/or direct piece goods (4), whereby piece goods (4) rests on a transport roller (2) or on several transport rollers (2), and wherein the several transport rollers (2) are arranged in the housing (3) in one plane, preferably lying side by side and/or one behind the other, and the transport rollers ( 2) each have a motor-driven roller (20), a roller holder (21) and a bearing axle (22), the roller (20) being arranged on the roller holder (21) and the roller holder (21) being arranged on the bearing axle (22). and comprising a conveyor drive (5) for conveying the piece goods (4), which has a motor-driven friction shaft (51) against which the rollers (20) of several transport rollers (2) rest and through the friction shaft (51) around a first Axle (23) driven in rotation en to convey the piece goods (4), and comprising a steering drive (6) for steering the piece goods (4), which the bearing axles (22) of several of the transport rollers for steering the piece goods (4) about a second axis (24) pivots in order to steer piece goods (4), characterized in that the rollers (20) are acted upon by a spring (28) in the direction of the friction shaft (51) and the transport rollers (2) about their second axis (24) by at least 90°, preferably at least 100° or 110° or 120°, without the roller (20) losing contact with the friction shaft (51). Packet switch (1) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the roller (20) of a transport roller (2) is acted upon by a spring (28) in the direction of the friction shaft (51), preferably the spring (28) ensures contact between the roller (20) and friction shaft (51). , especially when the transport roller (2) pivots. Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the roller (20) is rotatably mounted about a roller axis, preferably that the roller axis is rotatably mounted in the roller (20) and fixed in the roller holder (21). , or that the roller axis is held firmly in the roller (20), in particular connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the roller (20), and is rotatably mounted in the roller holder (21). Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the roller holder (21) of a transport roller (2) is U-shaped with a base section (25) and two roller holder arms (26), the roller holder arms ( 26) of the roll holder (21) have recesses for receiving a roll (20), preferably a roll axle. Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recess in the roller holder arm (26) for receiving the roller (20) is open on the side in the direction of the friction shaft (51), in particular is open on one side. Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the roller (20) is designed to be mounted in the edge area of the roller holder arm (26) in the direction of the friction shaft (51), preferably in the edge area of the roller holder arm (26) at least at the level of the friction shaft (51), preferably it can be provided that the roller holder arm (26) has a cavity for such a bearing, and/or the roller (20) offset towards the friction shaft (51) in the roller holder arm (26 ) is arranged, and / or the roll holder arm (26) is arranged offset, preferably offset to the second axis (24) is arranged. Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the roller axis is fastened in the recess in the roller holder (21), preferably the recess is undercut to enable the roller axis to be clipped in, preferably has the rollers -Axis projections, which engage in the recess to allow clipping of the roller axis. Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the roller holder (21) is designed in two parts for spring loading, the roller holder arms (26) being arranged on the base section (25) such that they can be tilted in the direction of the friction shaft (51). Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or more stops (27) are formed on one or both roller holder arms (26) which cooperate with the base section (25) to prevent spring loading only up to the stop (27) to allow. Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the roller axis extends through the roller holder (21), preferably through the roller holder arms (26), or over the roller holder (21), preferably through the roller holder -Arms (26), is formed protruding. Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the surface of the roller (20) which interacts with the friction shaft (51) has stepped flat surfaces, preferably at 0°, 20°, 40° and 60° Having surfaces, preferably that the flat surfaces form steps at 0°, 20°, 40° and 60°. Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the friction shaft (51) has a diameter of at least 1 cm, preferably at least 2 cm, most preferably at least 3 cm. Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conveyor drive (5) has an electric friction shaft motor for driving the friction shaft (51). Packet switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the friction shaft (51) is made of steel or plastic or rubber, preferably that the friction shaft (51) has at least one area made of steel or plastic or rubber, which is connected to the rollers (20) interacts. Package switch (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the package switch (1) for conveying and/or guiding piece goods has a plurality of modules (7) arranged next to one another in the housing (3) in an interchangeable manner, with each module (7 ) several motor-driven transport rollers (2) are arranged side by side.

Images