productionsystem

The invention relates to a production system, in particular Processing line for the production and / or processing workpieces, components or the like.

Production systems, in particular processing lines or machining centers are known. Such production systems are constructed so that the workpieces to be machined and

Components on a conveying path to the individual processing machines or centers are transported and usually are then transported through this. It is also known through transport paths with machines to couple such that at the processing machine a converter, or a translator is provided, then the workpieces or components transported in the machine inside. For this purpose, in known solutions the conveyor track interrupted. The machining center itself requires this corresponding translator or transfer means, which in the transport path are to be integrated.

It is for instance well known, individual machining centers equip with a common translator. Parallel to the number of processing centers is a loading conveyor and unloading. The translator is, for example, this parallel traversing and grabs from the loading belt, a workpiece, puts it in the machining center and takes the finished workpiece afterwards and translates it again on a unloading. The formation of such production systems by combining conveyor belt, translator or loader and unloader are extremely complicated and requires in usually a significant konstruktionstechnischen- and technical assembly Effort to these components of a production system together.

Starting from the above-described prior art, it is The object of the invention to provide an easy-set-up possible to provide production system.

The invention is based on the previously described prior art and proposes to meet this object, a production system, particular processing line before which modular one hand, formed by one or more process modules is, edit the workpieces and the other by at least one logistics module is formed and this logistics module supports the transport of the workpieces, the logistics module as a prefabricated system module, a plurality of Process modules conjunction with workpieces and disposed of and the process module connectable from system module to the Logistics Module is.

The object of the invention is also achieved by a production system, particular processing line for production and / or the machining of workpieces, components or the like, consisting of different, as the system module trained module types for the processing and the Transport, binding or together with any quantity be combined.

By designing the production system with a modular Structure of the individual system components or system modules it is now possible for a variety of tasks to devise appropriate modules for the production system and in any order and with any number together or with each other to connect. So it is, for example, possible a transport path module-like building, the then depending on the respective requirements of the respective project or the respective customer's request, in appropriate Length with the branching units required for this along a processing line with machines or stations can be arranged. The individual modules are especially designed so that they also easily transportable are. In particular, the effect of the module-like construction, that the Modules for transport do not or only minimally must be dismantled. This reduces the expense of such Work to a considerable extent, since they are particularly in Essentially also to artisan work to be undertaken with is relatively high, manual effort. The concept of Production system with a module of a construction consistent performed, allows next to the modular construction of the conveyor tracks also such a construction for the individual processing stations, which, for example, as a process module then are formed, also in the manner previously described, a combination with the transport paths or modules and other system modules such as different Processing stations to be combined.

is a further development of the production system according to the invention thus characterized in that the process module and the Logistics module are separate from each other system modules.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention Production system, it is provided that the process module a workpiece directories or -entsorgungseinheit having that which, or the workpieces from the past leading the process module Logistics module in the process module brings and afterwards to re Logistics module transports.

For this purpose it is advantageous if the process module, either directly is arranged on logistics module or a workpiece directories or -entsorgungseinheit with workpieces is locked and disposed of and only the logistics module for transporting the workpieces to be the process modules ensures. Hereby is achieved that the Logistics Module as a single, closed transport path with the module of a construction already described course can be performed and thus rationalizing Production of such logistics modules enables consistent is. So it is for example by this module of a construction now enables the logistics module to other, also is module-like formed components, divisible. It is but also possible specific machine units within of such a module then provided.

A further development of the production system according to the invention characterized therefore by the fact that the logistics module for the transport of the workpieces within the system a transport unit having.

According to the invention has also been found that it is advantageous if the logistics module for transporting energy and for the process necessary media line unit both the supply of process modules as well as for its disposal having.

A specific embodiment of the production system according to the invention distinguished by the fact that the logistics module indicated by a frame which in floors arranged comprising at least two transport modules, whereby below the transport modules a drainage system or a Part of it, for example, a disposal chute for expiring arranged coolant or lubricant, chips or the like is and in another, indicated by the frame plane the power supply module or a part thereof, such as pipelines for cooling water, process gases, cables or the like is arranged.

In summary, for the logistics module to one or more of the embodiments described above, the following Objects and advantages stated:<ul><li>Uniform transport of workpieces within the the entire system,</li><li>Supply of process modules with energy and media by a central unit,</li><li>the supply of the process modules by the logistics module concerns for example: electrical energy, for example in current busbars out, hydraulic oil, compressed air, process gases, Coolant for drives, tempered water for thermal stabilization of the process modules and / Or the workpieces, cooling lubricants for metal cutting Machining processes, optionally in various Pressure stages and filter fineness degrees,</li><li>Removal of residual and auxiliary substances from the process modules, eg chips, process wastes, cooling lubricants, vapors, Fog, Smoke,</li><li>Providing the lines for data exchange within the system and to the outside,</li><li>hazardous protect people from possibly Movements or from noise sources within the logistics module, realized by integrating necessary Guards or coverings in the module,</li><li>Providing standardized interfaces for connection of other system modules.</li></ul>

The module is therefore designed as a pre-assembled frame, which contains one or more transport paths for workpieces. These webs may for example next to or above each other be arranged. The webs may for example, as Treadmills, roller or Friktionsrollenbänder be executed. The workpieces are on the tapes, preferably, but not mandatory on pallets with standardized interfaces transported. The workpieces can also directly, without a pallet, be transported. In the frame are also arranged, Cables, hoses and pipes for media supply and disposal of the system modules, as well as for the data exchange, optionally Busway for electrical energy and / or distribution Pneumatic energy, conveyors, conveyor belts and / or chutes for the removal of process waste z. B. coolants and chips during machining processes. Here are these conveyors or chutes preferably in the lower region of the Rack mounted. It is provided, protective covers, acoustic panels, to the extent necessary to to arrange the logistics module. There is further provided, Interfaces for attaching additional system modules provide. It it is also provided the logistics module preassembled as complete and to devise testable unit. Thus it can in realized different, possibly standardized lengths be to make it any production systems to can. In conjunction with preferably be provided branching modules can any system arrangements implemented will. These may be one or more strands with any be cross-connections and closed circulations.

A further development of the production system according to the invention thus advantageously provides that a branch module is provided as a module system, which serves multiple Logistics modules angularly in a plane and / or in different Levels to each other.

It is advantageous if these modules to the branch Transport modules corresponding to a handover or takeover are arranged to the processing modules.

An advantageous development of the invention also provides, that the branching module loading and unloading modules and / or includes locking or Entpackungsmodule or stations.

Another aspect of the production system according to the invention is that the branching module by at least each a switch, turning station, lift station for distributing the Workpieces or pallets in different transport planes and conversion or translator or the like is given.

According to an advantageous development of the production system, as described above, it is envisaged that the Production system comprises a power supply module as a system module, which and the supply of process modules with energy Media ensured.

A further development of the production system according to the invention distinguished by the fact that a drainage system as System module is designed to process waste and spent Auxiliary products to collect and recycle where appropriate. there it has proven to be advantageous if from supply module and disposal module is provided formed operating module, which both supply the disposal tasks Production system as a summary system module takes over.

Another aspect of the production system according to the invention is given by the fact that the system modules and preassembled transportable as a unit with little or no disassembly effort are formed. allows, as already described this consistent execution in the module adhere construction savings of assembly or disassembly work before the actual Mounting the processing line or the overall production system. Also, subsequent conversions to other production sites considerably easier.

A special design of the production system of the invention is characterized by a logistics module, preferably with its own modular structure, which for<ul><li>the transport of the workpieces within the system,</li><li>the supply of process modules with energy and media, </li><li>the removal of Prozessrest- and auxiliaries from the Process modules,</li><li>the provision of data transmission means for the Information and data exchange within the system,</li><li>the protection of persons from hazards such as hazardous Movements, noise, ambustion or the like is formed.</li></ul>

This are very diverse logistics tasks or Auxiliary processes in the production system already a logistic module, as described above, dissolved. Of course is also a modular construction of the individual System components makes sense. However, it is according to the invention also provided that plants or plant parts in are a logistics module integrated, which does not own have modular construction.

According to the invention it is advantageous if in accordance with a advantageous embodiment of the invention, a logistics module is provided, which interfaces to connect with or Connecting at least one process module and / or at least another logistics or transport module or power supply modules, Branching modules, systems or system components, is provided.

It is advantageous, furthermore, if the process module by machines for machining of workpieces, for example for Machining, forming, for joining or separating by inspection stations, Assembly stations, Justagestationen, surface treatment stations, Esterification or Entpackungsstationen, marking stations for marking of workpieces, or Palettenbe- -entladestationen and cleaning stations is formed. Of course, it is also advantageous if the abovementioned plant components also by a module stick Construction distinguished.

A further development of the production system according to the invention provides that the supply module is adapted that power, fluids, process gases, gases and / or pressurized gases or other in the process modules needed media processed and / or makes available.

It is particularly advantageous is when the power supply module centrally the need to provide in the process modules Media at least for a part of the process modules, preferably to anything in the production system process modules accepts simultaneously. This enables a more rational Summary of previously decentralized to the individual parts Machine tools and the like provided supply systems. So it was, for example, according to the prior Technology previously customary, each process module as a processing station or working machine with own utilities such as pumps, filters, exhaust systems, and the like provided. This required a large number of individual parts of the system or gensets, that now the center of a power supply module can be summarized. This simplifies on the one hand the structure of the process modules themselves, and of course also the structure of the entire production system.

A further development of the production system according to the invention provides that in the same manner as previously described for the power supply module describes a central drainage system provided is that central disposal of the production system total, but at least for a part of the process modules serves. It is preferably, as already described above provided that the drainage system for all process modules the disposal of waste, spent excipients through the central collection and processing of these substances realized. Also in this case, a plurality of necessary Completion parts, individual plants or gensets, be saved on the process modules, as now a done centralization of this media. This allows the pump, Extraction, filtration systems and the like in the same Way be saved, as is described above. The Summary of the previously arranged in the individual process modules Disposal plant components in the disposal module provides The advantage of this possibly somewhat higher performance to arrange in the drainage system and those for it in save the process modules. Cumulative to the above-described Solution for the power supply module and for the disposal module in a production system, for example, fifteen different process modules, the result is a significant number of system components that through this rationalization can be saved.

It is particularly advantageous in this context when the drainage system at least a portion of the spent auxiliary agents, coolants, Process gases and the like collects, conditions and the Production cycle of the production system then feeds again. This results in further economies of scale, located in the grouping of the job to be done results in a single drainage system.

A further development of the production system according to the invention provides therefore that a disposal module is provided, which centrally for several, preferably for all process modules the extraction of fumes, smoke or the like carries on a common central extraction.

Another aspect of the invention is given by the fact that the transport module by conveyor tracks, treadmills, conveyor belts, is sliding tracks or the like are given. In order ensures that the transport module within the logistics module In total the module of a construction of the entire production system subordinates. It is understood, however, also possible for the known within a transport module previously Plant components such as conveyor tracks, friction roller and the like to use. You are then only the module adhere adapt structure of the entire system.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the above described Solutions it is provided that the transport module by at least two or mehretagig superposed Conveyor tracks is specified.

Naturally, it is also possible that the transport module is characterized in that at least two or more juxtaposed conveyor tracks are provided.

It is particularly advantageous is when the power supply module, the Drainage system or the operating module in an soundproofed has housing that the noise-generating units such as compressors, pumps, compressors, vacuum pumps, etc. receives.

It has further been found that it is advantageous, when the housing of the supply module or of the disposal module or both modules summarizing operating module an air conditioning or cooling by means of which the of Aggregate waste heat generated is dissipated.

As a further advantage, it has found out that the Supply module assembly for a common supply several, preferably all process modules includes, for example, Hydraulic power unit, cooling lubricant unit, Compressed air aggregate, aggregate for thermal stabilization of tempered process modules, for example, by providing Water, gas supply unit, power supply and Switching stations or aggregates.

An advantage of the production system according to the invention also when it comes to by a central power supply For contactless guided busbars with circuit breakers out and with no-contact tap or by cable characterized wherein the central power supply preferably is integrated in the or the supply module (s).

The central power supply has the task flow, liquids needed and gases in each of the system modules prepare and shape to provide. This For example, by a central terminal for electric power for the entire system happen. simultaneously can switch, fuse, transformers to adapt provided at different voltages and power forms be. Furthermore, it is advantageous when frequency converter for Adaptation to different power frequencies, where appropriate also an emergency power generation, batteries, accumulators, Generators, are provided. The supply of compressed air, whose filtering whose pressure regulation itself, the drying of the but also the air lubrication of compressed air, if necessary, can also be implemented centrally by a supply module will. Furthermore, the power supply module is the supply all system components of the production system with coolant. Given the supply module includes for example, a cooling unit, which all modules supplied with coolant. Ideally, are in the process modules and no further heat exchanger Thermostat then required. The liquid can not only for cooling but also for targeted heating within the process modules are used. If necessary, more provide circuits for cooling or heating. The power supply module can also be a central supply of the production system provide with laser energy. Also process gases and the Treatment of process gases for the process modules is in the Supply module provided centrally. The same applies to the Lubricating system, central which for example, by a asked lubrication unit for the entire system available is. The process liquids are also within the Supply module summarized. This can, for example, be realized by tanks, pumps, pressure regulators and Filters for the process fluids in the supply module are provided. It is further contemplated that high-pressure lubricant for machining processes central to the entire production system provided by the power supply module becomes. If necessary, it is then only only necessary in the process modules optionally separate pressure regulator provide.

The invention is also characterized by a common Fire protection module or system. This fire protection module for example, a sprinkler system, which also module-like is set up and in the production system as a whole is integrated.

The production system according to the invention is characterized further to characterized by the fact that the different sub-systems or types of module within the supply module, but also within the entire system, are designed or configured redundantly.

Furthermore the invention proposes that the process module having logistics element, and the processing module at the logistics element is connected with the logistics module. It is quite helpful and beneficial if a little on the processing module, optionally disposed short logistic element in particular for transporting the workpiece within the Process Modules used. It is therefore also the interface for the terminal to the logistic module.

Similarly, it is advantageous that the process module having supply element to the power supply module is connected. The process module, for example, a cutting Processing machine, with flushing or cooling liquid operated. This media must be disposed of afterwards. Since the Media immediately below the processing machine in the process module incurred, it is favorable to the related supply element, So for example, a chip conveyor trough or like to arrange a supply element in the process module, which is then connected to the supply module, which is part of Logistics Modules is, is connected.

According to the invention it is also advantageous that a central Supply module exists. This central supply module serves to provide a plurality of process modules. Conveniently it is provided that an integrated supply and Drainage system exists, in particular because, for example, the preparation of adjuvants that yes as to be disposed Good apply and adjuvants after preparation immediately can be fed back into the power supply module and can be made available.

It is also advantageous that a common frame of the Logistics Modules for the transport module and for the locking and is disposal module provided. Such a variant is to For example in Fig. 2, 4 and 5. Such a variant is with respect to the accessibility of the entire production line advantageous, because in any case, the process modules unilaterally remain accessible. Alternatively, it is possible that for the transport module on the one hand and for the supply and disposal module on the other hand provided each own Placed. The Modules can both sides with respect to the process module or each side possibly side by side or one above the other be arranged.

Summary, it is determined that the central Energy and Media preparation example in the supply module under others, the following advantages have:<ul><li>A variety of small aggregates in or on the process modules is avoided. This results in a Cost savings, simplified maintenance, eg., By a only at a central unit or a central Physical necessary oil change, greater availability by a smaller complexity of the overall system.</li><li>Consumption peaks of individual process modules are alike at least partially out again, whereby the total installed power can be kept lower.</li><li>Improved controllability example of cooling circuits, because peak loads can be leveled and example a large or larger central tank provided can be.</li><li>This results in further saving space at the Process modules.</li><li>By centralizing noise sources such as pumps and Fan results in a simplified and improved Soundproofing. This applies equally to the System components of disposal modules.</li></ul>

The invention is described with reference to exemplary embodiments and drawings described.

Show it:<dl tsize="9"><dt>Fig.1</dt><dd>Block diagram of one embodiment the invention Production system, </dd><dt>Fig.2</dt><dd>Execution of a logistics module according to the invention,</dd><dt>Fig.3</dt><dd>Segment of a block diagram, a further embodiment the invention,</dd><dt>Fig.4</dt><dd>in a plan view a further Embodiment of the invention production Systems and</dd><dt>Fig. 5, 6</dt><dd>respectively in a view details the production system of the invention, according to arrow V, VI in Fig. 4.</dd></dl>

1 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of the Production system of the invention. The arrow with the Numeral 1 denotes the logistics module. The logistics module 1 consists of a transport module 1/1, a power supply module 1/2, a drainage system and a 1/3 in this Representation branching module not shown 1/4. The Transport module 1/1 can a roller conveyor, a slide, a friction roller or the like, for example, Workpieces 3 zoom results in the processing of the process modules 2 and if necessary there on branch modules 1/4 passed to this.

The power supply module 1/2 is in two parts in this embodiment, educated. It consists for example of a supply rail, on which the individual lines to supply the process modules 2 are. The box with the Numeral 1/2 denotes a power module that central, For example, the preparation of the process media as Energy, gas, pressure and the like as described above, for Provides. The disposal module 1/3 is also in two parts represented by, for example, a central disposal station is provided in which all applicable for disposal are collected and / or processed excipients. This is connected to the box, which with the reference mark 1/3 is provided, schematically indicated.

Below the transport module 1/1 is a central Collection tank, in the shavings and effluent cooling water, for example, collected and in which is provided with the box be transported disposal module 1/3. There the Media separated, purified and optionally then the Supply module supplied 1/2 or directly to the process modules 2 passed. Each box of the process modules 2 denote the Zerspanungsmodul 2/1, a test module 2/2, a mounting module 2/3, a 2/4 Justagemodul, a surface treatment module 2/5, a cleaning module 2/6, an identification module 2/7 and a packaging module 2/8. The preparation is chosen to illustrate how on the basis of individual modules a production system in different ways can be designed by the module of a construction. This is According to the invention allows now. All single components are both in size and in their function coordinated and can in any way with each other be combined. The advantage of such a module stick Construction is clearly apparent that the individual module types can also be made independently. It is merely required all modules with corresponding interfaces to provide, so that a problem-free joining or combining is possible with each other.

2 shows an embodiment of a logistics module 1 The arrow with the reference numeral 1 designates the entire Logistics Module. Numeral 1/1 are two transport modules designates which arranged in tiers one above the other are. On the upper transport module 1/1 is a located Workpiece 3, which in the transport module to a process module 1/1 2 travels. are Numeral 1/4 1/1 branching modules specified on the respective transport modules. This is also indicated only schematically and not to be understood as a technical drawing. By means of Branching modules 1/4, the workpieces 3 in the individual Process modules 2 are transported.

However, it is also possible for different modules logistics to combine or to branch so that different Process flows can be realized. The branch modules 1/4 then serve the distribution in the corresponding Flows and levels. Of course, also a Floor-like replacement of the workpieces 3 on the respective Transport Module 1/1 provided. With the reference numeral 5 the Frame for the entire logistics module called. The frame 5 carrying case, both the transport modules 1/1, as well as supply module 1/2 and 1/3 disposal module. The supply module 1/2 is on the left side of the frame 5 in a Furthermore, above the transport modules 1/1 situated plane arranged. Here, lines or cables are as constituents the supply module 1/2 only schematically indicated. The Disposing module 1/3 or a part thereof is formed as a trough and serves the collection of waste and of runoff Coolant or lubricant. This tub itself can appropriate have transport, for example, the Chips lead to a central chip collecting system. For this purpose, serve, for example, a central unit as example in Figure 1 by the reference number 1/3 as boxes designated shown. It is of course the invention also provides that one a logistics module such that builds two transport modules 1/1 next to each other are arranged. However the invention is not limited to the number of two transport modules 1/1. If it necessary is, it is of course also enables a plurality of transport modules side by side or one above the other or both provide the same.

Figures 3 a and 3 b show a partial section of another Embodiment of the invention. Figure 3 is a a plan view of a part of a production system according to the invention. With reference numeral 1.1 is again Transport module, for example, refers to a conveyor belt on which workpieces 3 are. The box is 2/1 For example, a Zerspanungsmodul designated into which a Workpiece 3 is transported. With the additional box 2/5 is a surface treatment module suggests, in the example, the surfaces can be machined workpieces 3, to obtain smoother surfaces of the workpiece. Of the Advantage of the arrangement according to the figures 3 a and b is that a supply module 1/2 on the right side of the process modules 2 is. Here, a frame 5, as seen from the Figure 3 b seen arranged such that, for example, People below this frame can move and not by the components of the supply module 1/2, which is disposed on the frame 5, be hindered. With the Numeral 6 are wires or cables or the like designates that the process modules 2 corresponding with the Media or energy supply. Figure 3 b shows a Sectional view through the embodiment of Figure 3 a. It is also indicated only schematically, the Zerspanungsmodul 2/1 can be seen in the center of the picture, in which For example, a workpiece 3 is just for editing. The reference numeral 4 designates a tool spindle for machining Machining the workpiece 3 are Numeral 6 the lines designated on the power and media supply takes place in the Zerspanungsmodul 2/1. As already mentioned the frame 5 configured such that people problems including stopping and can move. This the risk of accidents considerably restricted. On the left Side of the diagram in FIG. 3b is a transport module 1/1 represented, on which also is a workpiece. 3

is shown in Fig. 4, similarly to Fig. 3a, 3b, a further Variant of the design of the production system of the invention shown. There are in this case along the transport unit 1.1 a plurality of process modules 2/5, 2/1, 2/2 respectively.

The processing module 5.2 is for example a machining center with the option for more complex operations, process modules 2/1, 2/2 contrast run only a few processing steps. The logistics module 1 is on one side in this embodiment disposed on the left side with respect to the process modules second

Fig. 5, 6 are views in the direction of transport within the Production system of the invention. The views correspond the arrows V, VI in Fig. 4. It is noticeable here that after the first, complex working machining center 2/5 as a process module, to which the workpieces to be machined in two floors above the other be supplied and carried away (Fig. 5) in FIG. 6 is provided a serial processing, since the Transport unit 1/1 through the processing chamber of the process module passes. To this end 4 is shown in Fig. In the process module 2/5 a workpiece indicated 3 by dashed lines, the right of the Transport unit is 1/1 away. The arrangement is such selected (Fig. 5), that the transport unit in the upper 1/1 not yet been processed blanks are promoting, then are processed in the processing unit and then 2/5 there on the lower Ausförderband 1/1 for machined workpieces be issued. Such an arrangement also allows In principle a retundante assembly of process modules or but the parallel processing to a power entspechende or to achieve productivity. Since the processing steps in the process modules 2/1, 2/2 are shorter is the residence time the workpieces 3 in this much lower, so this done processing steps in a serial sequence can. If necessary, inlets or outlets of double-deck arrangement according to FIG. 5 lifts provided the workpieces in the correct position on each of the supply or bringing removal conveyor belts.

In the FIG. 3b illustrated embodiment, can be found Process modules 2 between the supply and disposal unit 2/2 and 1/1 of the transport unit. In the shown in Fig. 5, 6 Embodiments are those above the other, in addition arranged an exhaust duct 1/8 in the field of waste management is.

The with the application now and later filed claims are attempted formulations without prejudice for obtaining broader protection.

If here, on closer examination, in particular the relevant prior art, indicates that the one or other characteristic of the object of the invention may be convenient, not but is decisively important, of course, already now sought a formulation that such a feature, in particular in the main claim, not more.

References in the sub-claims relate refer to further development of the subject of the main claim by the features of the respective sub-claim out. However, these are not as a waiver of the right an independent subject protection for the features the sub-claims referred to understand.

Features that were previously only disclosed in the description, can during the proceedings as being of inventive Meaning, for example to distinguish from the prior art are claimed.

Features which were only disclosed in the description, or Individual features of claims that a plurality of features include, at any time to distinguish from the state of Technology are transferred to the first claim, even then, if such features in connection with other characteristics mentioned or in conjunction with other Features achieve particularly convenient results.