EP2897889B1 - Device for stacking flat objects, storage device for flat postal objects and postal sorting machine - Google Patents

Device for stacking flat objects, storage device for flat postal objects and postal sorting machine Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2897889B1
EP2897889B1 EP13774725.9A EP13774725A EP2897889B1 EP 2897889 B1 EP2897889 B1 EP 2897889B1 EP 13774725 A EP13774725 A EP 13774725A EP 2897889 B1 EP2897889 B1 EP 2897889B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
stacking
actuator
stack
support
postal
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Not-in-force
Application number
EP13774725.9A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2897889A1 (en
Inventor
Laurent Pellegrin
Christian Duclot
Wilfrid BEAUGRAND
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Solystic SAS
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Solystic SAS
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Publication date
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Publication of EP2897889A1 publication Critical patent/EP2897889A1/en
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Publication of EP2897889B1 publication Critical patent/EP2897889B1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H29/00—Delivering or advancing articles from machines; Advancing articles to or into piles
    • B65H29/38—Delivering or advancing articles from machines; Advancing articles to or into piles by movable piling or advancing arms, frames, plates, or like members with which the articles are maintained in face contact
    • B65H29/40—Members rotated about an axis perpendicular to direction of article movement, e.g. star-wheels formed by S-shaped members
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H31/00—Pile receivers
    • B65H31/04—Pile receivers with movable end support arranged to recede as pile accumulates
    • B65H31/06—Pile receivers with movable end support arranged to recede as pile accumulates the articles being piled on edge
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H31/00—Pile receivers
    • B65H31/04—Pile receivers with movable end support arranged to recede as pile accumulates
    • B65H31/12—Devices relieving the weight of the pile or permitting or effecting movement of the pile end support during piling
    • B65H31/18—Positively-acting mechanical devices
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2301/00—Handling processes for sheets or webs
    • B65H2301/30—Orientation, displacement, position of the handled material
    • B65H2301/32—Orientation of handled material
    • B65H2301/321—Standing on edge
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2301/00—Handling processes for sheets or webs
    • B65H2301/40—Type of handling process
    • B65H2301/42—Piling, depiling, handling piles
    • B65H2301/421—Forming a pile
    • B65H2301/4214—Forming a pile of articles on edge
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2403/00—Power transmission; Driving means
    • B65H2403/50—Driving mechanisms
    • B65H2403/51—Cam mechanisms
    • B65H2403/512—Cam mechanisms involving radial plate cam
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2404/00—Parts for transporting or guiding the handled material
    • B65H2404/60—Other elements in face contact with handled material
    • B65H2404/65—Other elements in face contact with handled material rotating around an axis parallel to face of material and perpendicular to transport direction, e.g. star wheel
    • B65H2404/652—Other elements in face contact with handled material rotating around an axis parallel to face of material and perpendicular to transport direction, e.g. star wheel having two elements diametrically opposed
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2405/00—Parts for holding the handled material
    • B65H2405/30—Other features of supports for sheets
    • B65H2405/35—Means for moving support
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2701/00—Handled material; Storage means
    • B65H2701/10—Handled articles or webs
    • B65H2701/19—Specific article or web
    • B65H2701/1916—Envelopes and articles of mail

Definitions

  • the invention is placed in the technical field of stacking devices flat postal objects.
  • the invention relates to a device for stacking flat objects on edge comprising a stacking support which extends in a certain stacking direction to store stacked edge flat objects inserted successively on the stacking support.
  • the stacking device also includes a stacking actuator for guiding and inserting, in an insertion direction transverse to the stacking direction, each flat object to be stacked at a first end of said stack of flat objects and for pushing. said first stack end upon insertion of the flat object in the stacking direction.
  • the stacking device further comprises a movable retainer in the stacking direction and adapted to retain the flat object stack at a second end of the stack opposite to said first end, pushing the stack of flat objects.
  • the invention relates more particularly to a stacking device for stacking postal flat objects in a storage receptacle equipping a sorting outlet of a postal sorting machine.
  • the postal flat objects may have variable dimensions, but also variable mechanical characteristics, particularly as regards their rigidity. These postal items can be, among others, a simple letter, a magazine, an envelope with or without window, a newspaper, or a catalog presented in a plastic envelope or paper, with or without bellows.
  • the invention also relates to a storage device for postal flat objects and a postal sorting machine.
  • the bucket wheel (or paddle) type stacking actuator rotatably mounted on a fixed axis presses on the last flat object of the pile (by brushing the latter) to free space in which is inserted flat flat object with stack, see p. ex. the publication DE 667 698 C1 .
  • the front of the stack is held by a retaining member movable in translation in the stacking direction. This retaining element is pushed towards the stacking actuator on which the rear of the stack is supported for example by means of a spring, counterweight or any other suitable means.
  • the stack gains weight which requires a stacking actuator powerful enough to squeeze the pile of flat objects and release at each once a space for insertion of the current flat object.
  • the pressure exerted by this stacking actuator on the apparent surface of the last flat object of the stack tends to irreversibly damage the latter, for example leaving marks, holes or burns due to a large friction.
  • stacking devices such as those described for example in publications WO 2012/084708 and US 1,898,704 , do not provide a satisfactory solution. Indeed, these devices comprise a stacking actuator for stacking stacked flat objects on a support.
  • the carrier is movable relative to the stacking actuator in a stacking direction in a single direction, so that insertion of each object into the stack is facilitated by moving the carrier.
  • the publication DD 212 239 A2 discloses a device according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • the object of the invention is to overcome these drawbacks by proposing a stacking device facilitating the insertion of flat objects to stack while minimizing the risk of damage thereof, preserving the integrity of the battery. flat objects and avoiding the need to adapt for each cycle, the speed, the power and the position of the actuator stacking according to the charge of the battery.
  • the object of the invention is also to propose a storage device and a postal sorting machine having the same advantages.
  • the invention relates to a device for stacking flat objects on edge according to claim 1.
  • the idea underlying the invention is therefore to cause pulses on the stacking support which have the effect of overcoming the inertia of the stack which facilitates the insertion of the current flat object to stack, allowing to limit the pressure required to exert by means of the stacking actuator on the stack of flat objects.
  • the invention contributes to simplify the stacking actuator and to limit its role practically in guiding flat objects during stacking.
  • the invention extends to a storage device for postal flat objects comprising a stacking device as defined above and to a postal sorting machine comprising a sorting conveyor for directing postal flat objects to sorting outlets each equipped with such a storage device for flat objects.
  • the stacking device according to the invention is particularly intended to be integrated in a storage device for sorting out of a postal sorting machine.
  • the stacking device 1 for postal flat objects 100 comprises a stacking support 2 or stacking range forming a storage plane on which each postal flat article 100 is inserted on edge in a certain direction of insertion D1 (visible on the figure 2 ) and is stacked on the back of a stack of postal flat objects 100 on singing already formed on the stacking support 2.
  • the postal flat objects 100 thus stack one behind the other in the stacking direction D2 on the stacking support 2, the insertion direction D1 being transverse to the stacking direction D2.
  • the front of the pile of postal flat objects 100 on the stacking support 2 is retained by a retaining element in the form of a pallet 3 or plate, movable in the stacking direction D2, and which pushes the stack of postal flat objects 100 towards a stacking actuator 4 provided at one end of the stacking support 2, therefore opposite the stacking direction D2.
  • the thrust force of the pallet 3 may be produced by a spring, a counterweight, or the like, not shown in the figures.
  • the stacking support 2 is mounted to move in translation in the stacking direction D2 with respect to the stacking actuator 4 between a first position illustrated on FIG. figure 1 and a second position illustrated on the figure 2 .
  • the stacking support 2 can be guided in translation by any known suitable means. It may for example be mounted on freely rotatable mounted rollers, or rollers, which form anti-friction means 5, represented on the figure 4 , limiting the frictional forces during the translation of the stacking support 2.
  • the pallet 3 is here substantially perpendicular to the stacking direction D2, that is to say the plane of the stacking support 2.
  • the pallet 3 is provided to move in the stacking direction D2 as and when As the stack of flat postal articles 100 is formed on the stacking support 2, i.e., as the thickness of the postal flat stack 100 increases.
  • the stacking actuator 4 is a rotary mechanical wheel-type actuator in the present case rotatable about a main axis A substantially perpendicular to the stacking support 2 and the direction of rotation. stacking D2.
  • the stacking actuator 4 comprises a hub 6 carried by the main axis A and from which extend here two bucket arms 7, each curved in the opposite direction to that of the arrival of a flat object 100 postal to stack.
  • the inside areas of the bucket arms 7 define slits 8 adapted to be located successively, as the stacking actuator 4 rotates in relation to the trajectory of the postal flat article 100 to be stacked and its slits 8 are intended to guide the front of each postal flat object 100 to stack.
  • the slot 8 grasps the postal flat object 100 and guides it along the last postal flat object 100 of the stack, accompanying its movement until it is completely stacked.
  • the bucket arm 7 additionally strongly pushes the rear of the pile by brushing the last postal flat object 100 from the pile, and the insertion of the flat object 100 current postal is carried out when a first line L1, connecting the main axis A at the top of the bucket arm 7 is perpendicular to the stacking direction D2.
  • the stacking actuator as described may be replaced by any equivalent stacking actuator.
  • the stacking device 1 comprises pulse means 9 which are synchronized with the stacking actuator 4 and are designed to move the stacking support 2 in translation, in pulses, in accordance with the invention. stacking direction D2 when a flat current mailpiece 100 is stacked at the rear of the stack.
  • the pulse means 9 comprise a mechanical thrust actuator 10 rotatably mounted on the axis A.
  • mechanical thrust actuator can be used a cam 10, here double, rotatably mounted on the main axis A, which axis main A is motorized to drive in rotation both the stacking actuator 4 and the cam 10.
  • the cam 10 is provided with two eccentric zones 11 diametrically opposed to each other and intended to solicit by direct contact , the stacking support 2, to move it in translation between the first position and the second position.
  • the cam 10 is angularly offset from the stacking actuator 4 so that a second straight line L2 connecting the main axis A to the vertices of the eccentric zones 11 is angularly offset relative to the first line L1, around the axis principal A, with a pulse angle ⁇ .
  • the cam 10 is advanced with respect to the bucket arm 7.
  • the pulse generated by the cam 10 slightly precedes the arrival of the postal flat article 100 to be stacked and the pressure maximum applied by the bucket arm 7 on the stack.
  • the stacking device 1 further comprises at least one stop, not shown, designed to block the movement of the stacking support 2, in particular to limit the movement of the stacking support 2 in the event of a small load of stacked postal flat objects 100.
  • the pulse angle ⁇ may in particular be between 30 and 60 ° and preferably between 40 and 50 °.
  • the pulse angle ⁇ may be provided mechanically adjustable according to the operator's choice.
  • the cam 10 can be removably mounted to be changed in order to adapt the stroke of the stacking support 2 during the pulse.
  • the stacking actuator may comprise a single arm and in this case the mechanical thrust actuator comprises a single eccentric zone.
  • pulse means enable the stacking carrier to perform a change of positions once by complete rotation of the eccentric zone around the main axis.
  • the pulse means 9 further comprises a return means 12 which acts against the displacement of the stacking support 2 from the first position to the second position to bring it back to the first position.
  • the return means 12 may be a compression spring 13 already prestressed before each pulse.
  • the compression spring 13 compresses further when the stacking support 2 is moved from the first position to the second position under the action of the cam 10 and by the effect of its expansion pushes the stacking support 2 from the second position to the first position when the cam 10 no longer pushes the stacking support 2.
  • the thrust force of the compression spring 13 is of course less than the thrust force of the cam 10.
  • the stacking support 2 With reference to the figure 1 before the arrival of a postal flat article 100 to stack, the stacking support 2 is in the first position.
  • the cam 10 does not urge the stacking support 2 and the compression spring 13 is more or less prestressed.
  • the bucket arm 7 is in an intermediate position in which it is not facing the trajectory of the postal flat article 100 to stack.
  • the bucket arm 7 and the cam 10 are rotated about the main axis A to the position illustrated by FIG. figure 2 wherein the first line L1 is inclined relative to the stacking direction D2, allowing the cam 10 to move the stacking support 2 while allowing the bucket arm 7 to maintain the integrity of the stack.
  • the slot 8 is in alignment with the trajectory of the postal flat object 100 arriving to be stacked.
  • the stacking actuator 4 thus receives a flat article 100 postal and continues its rotation around the main axis A at the same time as the cam 10.
  • the cam 10 then loses its thrust action by translation of the stacking support 2, and the stacking support 2 is thus displaced in the direction of the stacking actuator 4 by the compression spring 13, in the opposite direction of the stacking direction D2.
  • the rotation of the stacking actuator 4 allows the guiding and stacking of the postal flat object 100 housed in its slot 8 by letting it slide from its bucket arm 7.
  • the stacking support 2 is moved by a pulse distance d schematically on the Figures 1 and 2 .
  • the amplitude of this pulse distance d depends on the dimensions of the cam 10. Since the cam 10 is double, at each complete rotation around the main axis A, its two eccentric zones 11 make it possible to operate twice. the change of positions between the first position and the second position.
  • the return means may comprise a tension spring provided between the stacking support and the main axis. This tension spring can replace or be combined with the compression spring described above.
  • the pulse means 109 comprise a mechanical thrust actuator 110 in the form of an actuating arm 110 carried in its median part by the main axis A integral with the actuator. the stack 104, and each end of which comprises an eccentric zone 111 comprising an idler roller 114.
  • the actuating arm 110 operates in a manner similar to the cam 10 previous.
  • the stacking device 101 further comprises a return means 112 similar to the return means 12 of the previous embodiment.
  • the stacking device 101 comprises an elastic thrust means 116 provided between the actuating arm 110 and the stacking support 102, intended to accumulate the force of the mechanical pulse generated by the actuating arm 110. and rendering it staggered in time to the stacking support 102 by stepping it up in the stacking direction D2.
  • the elastic thrust means comprises a compression spring 116 separated from the actuating arm 110 by a thrust plate 115 substantially parallel to the retaining element 103.
  • the stacking support 102 is urged indirectly by the actuating arm 110 through the thrust plate 115 and the compression spring 113.
  • the operation of the stacking device 101 is substantially the same as that of the preceding embodiment, except for the resilient biasing means 116.
  • the amplitude of the pulse distance d depends on the dimensions of the actuating arm 110, its rotational speed, the characteristics of the compression spring 116 and the combined weight. stacking support 102 and postal flat stack 100.
  • the figure 8 illustrates a third embodiment of the stacking device 201 comprising a stacking actuator 204 and a stacking support 202, according to the invention, of which only the differences with that of the first embodiment are described below.
  • the stacking support 202 comprises a return means 212 formed of bending elements, here compression springs 213 disposed under the stacking support 2 and able to flex to allow the displacement of the support stacking 202 from its first to its second position and back to its first position after the pulse.
  • the number and location of the compression springs 213 are adapted in particular according to the weight of the battery to be supported. Compression springs 213 can also be replaced by elements of type silent-blocks or any suitable element.
  • the first and third embodiments can be combined.
  • a cam can be used indirectly and an actuating arm can be used directly.
  • a letter foot stop located at the end of the stacking support near the stacking actuator prevents the recoil of postal flat objects on the support. stacking when returning from the second to the first position.
  • the stacking support may further comprise a crenellated surface for retaining the edge of postal flat objects on edge or a belt made of a material of adherent type to prevent slippage postal flat objects on its surface.
  • the stacking device 1; 101; 201 makes it possible to create mechanical pulses on the stacking support 2; 102; 202 to overcome the inertia of the pile of postal flat objects 100 and thus, to improve the efficiency and quality of the stacking of postal flat objects 100 regardless of their nature and the amount already stacked.
  • the invention also makes it possible to avoid having to over-size the stacking actuator 4, 104, 204 and to limit the risk of damage to postal flat objects 100, jamming or improper stacking.
  • Stacking device 1; 101; 201 can be integrated with a storage device and a traditional postal sorting machine. It goes without saying that the present invention can not be limited to the foregoing description of one of its embodiments, may undergo some modifications without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Pile Receivers (AREA)

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

L'invention se place dans le domaine technique des dispositifs d'empilage d'objets plats postaux. L'invention concerne un dispositif d'empilage d'objets plats sur chant comportant un support d'empilage qui s'étend selon une certaine direction d'empilage pour stocker en pile sur chant des objets plats insérés successivement sur le support d'empilage. Le dispositif d'empilage comprend également un actionneur d'empilage pour guider et insérer, selon une direction d'insertion transversale à la direction d'empilage, chaque objet plat à empiler à une première extrémité de ladite pile d'objets plats et pour pousser ladite première extrémité de pile lors de l'insertion de l'objet plat dans la direction d'empilage. Le dispositif d'empilage comprend en outre un élément de retenue mobile selon la direction d'empilage et conçu pour retenir la pile d'objet plat à une deuxième extrémité de la pile opposée à ladite première extrémité, en poussant la pile d'objets plats en direction de l'actionneur d'empilage au fur et à mesure que se forme la pile d'objets plats. L'invention concerne plus particulièrement un dispositif d'empilage pour empiler des objets plats postaux dans un réceptacle de stockage équipant une sortie de tri d'une machine de tri postal. Les objets plats postaux peuvent présenter des dimensions variables, mais également des caractéristiques mécaniques variables, en particulier en ce qui concerne leur rigidité. Ces envois postaux peuvent être, entre autres, une lettre simple, un magazine, une enveloppe avec ou sans fenêtre, un journal, ou encore un catalogue présenté dans une enveloppe en matière plastique ou en papier, avec ou sans soufflet. L'invention concerne également un dispositif de stockage pour objets plats postaux et une machine de tri postal.The invention is placed in the technical field of stacking devices flat postal objects. The invention relates to a device for stacking flat objects on edge comprising a stacking support which extends in a certain stacking direction to store stacked edge flat objects inserted successively on the stacking support. The stacking device also includes a stacking actuator for guiding and inserting, in an insertion direction transverse to the stacking direction, each flat object to be stacked at a first end of said stack of flat objects and for pushing. said first stack end upon insertion of the flat object in the stacking direction. The stacking device further comprises a movable retainer in the stacking direction and adapted to retain the flat object stack at a second end of the stack opposite to said first end, pushing the stack of flat objects. in the direction of the stacking actuator as the stack of flat objects is formed. The invention relates more particularly to a stacking device for stacking postal flat objects in a storage receptacle equipping a sorting outlet of a postal sorting machine. The postal flat objects may have variable dimensions, but also variable mechanical characteristics, particularly as regards their rigidity. These postal items can be, among others, a simple letter, a magazine, an envelope with or without window, a newspaper, or a catalog presented in a plastic envelope or paper, with or without bellows. The invention also relates to a storage device for postal flat objects and a postal sorting machine.

Technique antérieurePrior art

Dans les réceptacles de sortie de tri à empilage ou à accumulation, l'actionneur d'empilage du type roue à godets (ou à aubes) montée rotative sur un axe fixe vient appuyer sur le dernier objet plat de la pile (en brossant ce dernier) pour libérer de l'espace dans lequel vient s'insérer l'objet plat courant à empile, voir p. ex. la publication DE 667 698 C1 . L'avant de la pile est maintenu par un élément de retenue mobile en translation selon la direction d'empilage. Cet élément de retenue est poussé en direction de l'actionneur d'empilage sur lequel appuie l'arrière de la pile par exemple à l'aide d'un ressort, de contrepoids ou de tout autre moyen adapté. Au fur et à mesure que la pile d'objets plats se forme sur le support ou plage d'empilage, la pile prend du poids ce qui nécessite un actionneur d'empilage assez puissant pour presser la pile d'objets plats et libérer à chaque fois un espace pour l'insertion de l'objet plat courant. La pression exercée par cet actionneur d'empilage sur la surface apparente du dernier objet plat de la pile a tendance à détériorer ce dernier de manière irréversible en laissant par exemple des marques, des trous ou des brûlures dus à un frottement important. De plus, il serait trop contraignant et techniquement difficile d'adapter, pour chaque cycle, la vitesse, la puissance et la position de l'actionneur d'empilage en fonction de la charge de la pile.In stacking or accumulation sort output receptacles, the bucket wheel (or paddle) type stacking actuator rotatably mounted on a fixed axis presses on the last flat object of the pile (by brushing the latter) to free space in which is inserted flat flat object with stack, see p. ex. the publication DE 667 698 C1 . The front of the stack is held by a retaining member movable in translation in the stacking direction. This retaining element is pushed towards the stacking actuator on which the rear of the stack is supported for example by means of a spring, counterweight or any other suitable means. As the stack of flat objects forms on the support or stacking range, the stack gains weight which requires a stacking actuator powerful enough to squeeze the pile of flat objects and release at each once a space for insertion of the current flat object. The pressure exerted by this stacking actuator on the apparent surface of the last flat object of the stack tends to irreversibly damage the latter, for example leaving marks, holes or burns due to a large friction. In addition, it would be too restrictive and technically difficult to adapt, for each cycle, the speed, power and position of the stacking actuator according to the load of the battery.

Des dispositifs d'empilage connus, tels que ceux décrits par exemple dans les publications WO 2012/084708 et US 1,898,704 , n'apportent pas de solution satisfaisante. En effet, ces dispositifs comprennent un actionneur d'empilage pour empiler des objets plats en pile sur un support. Le support est mobile par rapport à l'actionneur d'empilage selon une direction d'empilage dans un sens unique, de manière à ce que l'insertion de chaque objet dans la pile est facilitée par le déplacement du support.Known stacking devices, such as those described for example in publications WO 2012/084708 and US 1,898,704 , do not provide a satisfactory solution. Indeed, these devices comprise a stacking actuator for stacking stacked flat objects on a support. The carrier is movable relative to the stacking actuator in a stacking direction in a single direction, so that insertion of each object into the stack is facilitated by moving the carrier.

La publication DD 212 239 A2 divulgue un dispositif selon le préambule de la revendication 1.The publication DD 212 239 A2 discloses a device according to the preamble of claim 1.

Exposé de l'inventionPresentation of the invention

Le but de l'invention est de remédier à ces inconvénients en proposant un dispositif d'empilage facilitant l'insertion des objets plats à empiler tout en minimisant les risques d'endommagement de ceux-ci, en préservant l'intégrité de la pile d'objets plats et en évitant la nécessité d'adapter pour chaque cycle, la vitesse, la puissance et la position de l'actionneur d'empilage en fonction de la charge de la pile. Le but de l'invention est également de proposer un dispositif de stockage et une machine de tri postal présentant les mêmes avantages.The object of the invention is to overcome these drawbacks by proposing a stacking device facilitating the insertion of flat objects to stack while minimizing the risk of damage thereof, preserving the integrity of the battery. flat objects and avoiding the need to adapt for each cycle, the speed, the power and the position of the actuator stacking according to the charge of the battery. The object of the invention is also to propose a storage device and a postal sorting machine having the same advantages.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un dispositif d'empilage d'objets plats sur chant selon la revendication 1.For this purpose, the invention relates to a device for stacking flat objects on edge according to claim 1.

L'idée à la base de l'invention est donc de provoquer des impulsions sur le support d'empilage qui ont pour effet de vaincre l'inertie de la pile ce qui facilite l'insertion de l'objet plat courant à empiler, permettant de limiter la pression nécessaire à exercer au moyen de l'actionneur d'empilage sur la pile d'objets plats. Ainsi, l'invention contribue à simplifier l'actionneur d'empilage et à limiter son rôle pratiquement au guidage des objets plats lors de leur empilage.The idea underlying the invention is therefore to cause pulses on the stacking support which have the effect of overcoming the inertia of the stack which facilitates the insertion of the current flat object to stack, allowing to limit the pressure required to exert by means of the stacking actuator on the stack of flat objects. Thus, the invention contributes to simplify the stacking actuator and to limit its role practically in guiding flat objects during stacking.

Le dispositif d'empilage selon l'invention peut avantageusement présenter les particularités suivantes :

  • l'actionneur d'empilage et l'actionneur de poussée sont décalés angulairement l'un par rapport à l'autre sur l'axe principal de sorte que chaque impulsion précède l'arrivée de chaque objet plat à empiler à l'arrière de la pile d'objets plats. Le décalage angulaire entre l'actionneur d'empilage et l'actionneur de poussée selon un angle prédéterminé permet avantageusement d'ajuster la séquence d'actions des deux mécanismes de guidage et de poussée en fonction notamment des caractéristiques physiques des objets plats à empiler ;
  • l'actionneur d'empilage est une roue à godets et l'actionneur de poussée est pourvu au moins d'une zone excentrique ;
  • le support d'empilage est monté mobile en translation sur des moyens anti-frottements. La diminution significative des frottements du support d'empilage permet avantageusement de réduire les efforts à générer par les moyens d'impulsions et les moyens de rappel et de diminuer le bruit provoqué par le frottement du support d'empilage sur son support ;
  • les moyens de rappel comprennent au moins un ressort de compression disposé au-delà du support d'empilage par rapport à l'actionneur d'empilage ;
  • les moyens de rappel sont un élément de flexion fixé sous le support d'empilage et aptes à se fléchir élastiquement dans la direction d'empilage.
  • les moyens d'impulsion comprennent un moyen de poussée élastique prévu entre l'actionneur de poussée et le support d'empilage, conçu pour accumuler l'effort de chaque impulsion mécanique et à le restituer au support d'empilage de manière décalée. Le moyen de poussée élastique permet de restituer l'effort de l'impulsion mécanique en l'intensifiant.
The stacking device according to the invention may advantageously have the following particularities:
  • the stacking actuator and the thrust actuator are angularly offset relative to one another on the main axis so that each pulse precedes the arrival of each flat object to be stacked at the rear of the stack of flat objects. The angular offset between the stacking actuator and the thrust actuator at a predetermined angle advantageously makes it possible to adjust the sequence of actions of the two guiding and thrusting mechanisms as a function, in particular, of the physical characteristics of the flat objects to be stacked;
  • the stacking actuator is a bucket wheel and the thrust actuator is provided with at least one eccentric zone;
  • the stacking support is mounted mobile in translation on anti-friction means. The significant reduction in the friction of the stacking support advantageously makes it possible to reduce the forces to be generated by the pulse means and the return means and to reduce the noise caused by the friction of the stacking support on its support;
  • the return means comprise at least one compression spring disposed beyond the stacking support with respect to the stacking actuator;
  • the return means is a bending element fixed under the stacking support and able to bend elastically in the stacking direction.
  • the pulse means comprise an elastic thrust means provided between the thrust actuator and the stacking support, designed to accumulate the force of each mechanical pulse and to return it to the stacking support in a staggered manner. The elastic thrust means makes it possible to restore the force of the mechanical pulse by intensifying it.

L'invention s'étend à un dispositif de stockage pour objets plats postaux comprenant un dispositif d'empilage tel que défini ci-dessus et à une machine de tri postal comprenant un convoyeur de tri pour diriger des objets plats postaux vers des sorties de tri équipées chacune d'un tel dispositif de stockage pour objets plats.The invention extends to a storage device for postal flat objects comprising a stacking device as defined above and to a postal sorting machine comprising a sorting conveyor for directing postal flat objects to sorting outlets each equipped with such a storage device for flat objects.

Présentation sommaire des dessinsBrief presentation of the drawings

La présente invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres avantages apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée de plusieurs modes de réalisation pris à titre d'exemples nullement limitatifs et illustrés par les dessins annexés, dans lesquels :

  • les figures 1 à 3 sont des vues schématiques partielles de dessus du dispositif d'empilage selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention présenté dans trois configurations de fonctionnement différentes ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue schématique partielle de coté du dispositif d'empilage des figures 1 à 3 ;
  • les figures 5 à 7 sont des vues schématiques partielles de dessus similaires aux figures 1 à 3, du dispositif d'empilage selon un second mode de réalisation de l'invention. Sur ces figures, les éléments analogues à ceux des figures 1 à 4 y sont affectés des mêmes numéros de référence, augmentés de 100;
  • la figure 8 est une vue schématique partielle de coté du dispositif d'empilage selon un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention. Sur cette figure, les éléments analogues à ceux de la figure 4 y sont affectés des mêmes numéros de référence, augmentés de 200.
The present invention will be better understood and other advantages will appear on reading the detailed description of several embodiments taken as non-limiting examples and illustrated by the appended drawings, in which:
  • the Figures 1 to 3 are partial schematic top views of the stacking device according to a first embodiment of the invention presented in three different operating configurations;
  • the figure 4 is a partial schematic side view of the stacking device of Figures 1 to 3 ;
  • the Figures 5 to 7 are partial schematic views from above similar to Figures 1 to 3 of the stacking device according to a second embodiment of the invention. In these figures, elements similar to those of Figures 1 to 4 there are assigned the same reference numbers, increased by 100;
  • the figure 8 is a partial schematic side view of the stacking device according to a third embodiment of the invention. In this figure, elements similar to those of the figure 4 there are assigned the same reference numbers, increased by 200.

Description des modes de réalisationDescription of the embodiments

Le dispositif d'empilage selon l'invention est notamment destiné à être intégré dans un dispositif de stockage pour sortie de tri d'une machine de tri postal.The stacking device according to the invention is particularly intended to be integrated in a storage device for sorting out of a postal sorting machine.

Selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention, et en référence aux figures 1 à 4, le dispositif d'empilage 1 pour objets plats 100 postaux comprend un support d'empilage 2 ou plage d'empilage formant un plan de stockage sur lequel chaque objet plat 100 postal est inséré sur chant selon une certaine direction d'insertion D1 (visible sur la figure 2) et est empilé à l'arrière d'une pile d'objets plats 100 postaux sur chant déjà formée sur le support d'empilage 2. Les objets plats 100 postaux s'empilent donc les uns derrière les autres selon la direction d'empilage D2 sur le support d'empilage 2, la direction d'insertion D1 étant transversale à la direction d'empilage D2. L'avant de la pile d'objets plats 100 postaux sur le support d'empilage 2 est retenue par un élément de retenue se présentant sous la forme d'une palette 3 ou plaque, mobile selon la direction d'empilage D2, et qui pousse la pile d'objets plats 100 postaux en direction d'un actionneur d'empilage 4 prévu à une extrémité du support d'empilage 2, donc à l'opposé de la direction d'empilage D2. La force de poussée de la palette 3 peut être produite par un ressort, un contrepoids, ou analogue, non représenté sur les figures. Le support d'empilage 2 est monté mobile en translation selon la direction d'empilage D2 par rapport à l'actionneur d'empilage 4 entre une première position illustrée sur la figure 1 et une seconde position illustrée sur la figure 2. Le support d'empilage 2 peut être guidé en translation par tout moyen adapté connu. Il peut par exemple être monté sur des galets montés pivotants librement, ou rouleaux, qui forment des moyens anti-frottements 5, représentés sur la figure 4, limitant les forces de frottement lors de la translation du support d'empilage 2.According to a first embodiment of the invention, and with reference to Figures 1 to 4 , the stacking device 1 for postal flat objects 100 comprises a stacking support 2 or stacking range forming a storage plane on which each postal flat article 100 is inserted on edge in a certain direction of insertion D1 (visible on the figure 2 ) and is stacked on the back of a stack of postal flat objects 100 on singing already formed on the stacking support 2. The postal flat objects 100 thus stack one behind the other in the stacking direction D2 on the stacking support 2, the insertion direction D1 being transverse to the stacking direction D2. The front of the pile of postal flat objects 100 on the stacking support 2 is retained by a retaining element in the form of a pallet 3 or plate, movable in the stacking direction D2, and which pushes the stack of postal flat objects 100 towards a stacking actuator 4 provided at one end of the stacking support 2, therefore opposite the stacking direction D2. The thrust force of the pallet 3 may be produced by a spring, a counterweight, or the like, not shown in the figures. The stacking support 2 is mounted to move in translation in the stacking direction D2 with respect to the stacking actuator 4 between a first position illustrated on FIG. figure 1 and a second position illustrated on the figure 2 . The stacking support 2 can be guided in translation by any known suitable means. It may for example be mounted on freely rotatable mounted rollers, or rollers, which form anti-friction means 5, represented on the figure 4 , limiting the frictional forces during the translation of the stacking support 2.

La palette 3 est ici sensiblement perpendiculaire à la direction d'empilage D2, c'est-à-dire au plan du support d'empilage 2. La palette 3 est prévue pour se déplacer selon la direction d'empilage D2 au fur et à mesure que se forme la pile d'objets plats 100 postaux sur le support d'empilage 2, c'est-à-dire à mesure que l'épaisseur de la pile d'objets plats 100 postaux augmente.The pallet 3 is here substantially perpendicular to the stacking direction D2, that is to say the plane of the stacking support 2. The pallet 3 is provided to move in the stacking direction D2 as and when As the stack of flat postal articles 100 is formed on the stacking support 2, i.e., as the thickness of the postal flat stack 100 increases.

Dans l'exemple illustré, l'actionneur d'empilage 4 est un actionneur mécanique rotatif de type roue à godets dans le cas présent mobile en rotation autour d'un axe principal A sensiblement perpendiculaire au support d'empilage 2 et à la direction d'empilage D2. L'actionneur d'empilage 4 comprend un moyeu 6 porté par l'axe principal A et à partir duquel s'étendent ici deux bras à godet 7, incurvés chacun dans le sens opposé à celui de l'arrivée d'un objet plat 100 postal à empiler. Les zones intérieures des bras à godet 7 définissent des fentes 8 aptes à se trouver successivement, au fil de la rotation de l'actionneur d'empilage 4 en regard de la trajectoire de l'objet plat 100 postal à empiler et ses fentes 8 sont destinées à guider l'avant de chaque objet plat 100 postal à empiler. Ainsi, lors de la rotation de l'actionneur d'empilage 4, la fente 8 saisit l'objet plat 100 postal et le guide le long du dernier objet plat 100 postal de la pile en accompagnant son déplacement jusqu'à son empilage complet. Le bras à godet 7 vient en plus pousser fortement l'arrière de la pile en brossant le dernier objet plat 100 postal de la pile, et l'insertion de l'objet plat 100 postal courant est réalisée lorsqu'une première droite L1, reliant l'axe principal A au sommet du bras à godet 7, est perpendiculaire à la direction d'empilage D2. L'actionneur d'empilage tel que décrit peut être remplacé par tout actionneur d'empilage équivalent.In the illustrated example, the stacking actuator 4 is a rotary mechanical wheel-type actuator in the present case rotatable about a main axis A substantially perpendicular to the stacking support 2 and the direction of rotation. stacking D2. The stacking actuator 4 comprises a hub 6 carried by the main axis A and from which extend here two bucket arms 7, each curved in the opposite direction to that of the arrival of a flat object 100 postal to stack. The inside areas of the bucket arms 7 define slits 8 adapted to be located successively, as the stacking actuator 4 rotates in relation to the trajectory of the postal flat article 100 to be stacked and its slits 8 are intended to guide the front of each postal flat object 100 to stack. Thus, during the rotation of the stacking actuator 4, the slot 8 grasps the postal flat object 100 and guides it along the last postal flat object 100 of the stack, accompanying its movement until it is completely stacked. The bucket arm 7 additionally strongly pushes the rear of the pile by brushing the last postal flat object 100 from the pile, and the insertion of the flat object 100 current postal is carried out when a first line L1, connecting the main axis A at the top of the bucket arm 7 is perpendicular to the stacking direction D2. The stacking actuator as described may be replaced by any equivalent stacking actuator.

Selon l'invention, le dispositif d'empilage 1 comprend des moyens d'impulsion 9 sont synchronisés avec l'actionneur d'empilage 4 et conçus pour déplacer en translation, par impulsions, le support d'empilage 2 selon la direction d'empilage D2 quand un objet plat 100 postal courant est empilé à l'arrière de la pile. Les moyens d'impulsion 9 comprennent un actionneur mécanique de poussée 10 monté rotatif sur l'axe A. Par exemple, comme actionneur mécanique de poussée on peut utiliser une came 10, ici double, montée rotative sur l'axe principal A, lequel axe principal A est motorisé pour entraîner en rotation à la fois l'actionneur d'empilage 4 et la came 10. Dans l'exemple illustré, la came 10 est pourvue de deux zones excentriques 11 diamétralement opposées entre elles et destinées à solliciter par contact direct, le support d'empilage 2, pour le déplacer en translation entre la première position et la seconde position. La came 10 est décalée angulairement de l'actionneur d'empilage 4 de sorte qu'une seconde droite L2 reliant l'axe principal A aux sommets des zones excentriques 11 est décalée angulairement par rapport à la première droite L1, autour de l'axe principal A, d'un angle d'impulsion α. De ce fait, la came 10 est en avance par rapport au bras à godet 7. Ainsi, comme décrit plus loin, l'impulsion générée par la came 10 précède légèrement l'arrivée de l'objet plat 100 postal à empiler et la pression maximale appliquée par le bras à godet 7 sur la pile. De ce fait, l'inertie de la pile est vaincue par l'impulsion provoquée par la came 10, soulageant d'autant le bras à godet 7. Le dispositif d'empilage 1 comprend en outre au moins une butée, non représentée, conçue pour bloquer le déplacement du support d'empilage 2, notamment pour limiter le débattement du support d'empilage 2 en cas d'une faible charge d'objets plats 100 postaux empilés. L'angle d'impulsion α peut notamment être compris entre 30 et 60° et de préférence entre 40 & 50°. L'angle d'impulsion α peut être prévu réglable mécaniquement selon les choix de l'opérateur. De même, la came 10 peut être montée de façon amovible pour être changée afin d'adapter la course du support d'empilage 2 lors de l'impulsion.According to the invention, the stacking device 1 comprises pulse means 9 which are synchronized with the stacking actuator 4 and are designed to move the stacking support 2 in translation, in pulses, in accordance with the invention. stacking direction D2 when a flat current mailpiece 100 is stacked at the rear of the stack. The pulse means 9 comprise a mechanical thrust actuator 10 rotatably mounted on the axis A. For example, as mechanical thrust actuator can be used a cam 10, here double, rotatably mounted on the main axis A, which axis main A is motorized to drive in rotation both the stacking actuator 4 and the cam 10. In the illustrated example, the cam 10 is provided with two eccentric zones 11 diametrically opposed to each other and intended to solicit by direct contact , the stacking support 2, to move it in translation between the first position and the second position. The cam 10 is angularly offset from the stacking actuator 4 so that a second straight line L2 connecting the main axis A to the vertices of the eccentric zones 11 is angularly offset relative to the first line L1, around the axis principal A, with a pulse angle α. As a result, the cam 10 is advanced with respect to the bucket arm 7. Thus, as described below, the pulse generated by the cam 10 slightly precedes the arrival of the postal flat article 100 to be stacked and the pressure maximum applied by the bucket arm 7 on the stack. As a result, the inertia of the stack is overcome by the impulse caused by the cam 10, thus relieving the bucket arm 7. The stacking device 1 further comprises at least one stop, not shown, designed to block the movement of the stacking support 2, in particular to limit the movement of the stacking support 2 in the event of a small load of stacked postal flat objects 100. The pulse angle α may in particular be between 30 and 60 ° and preferably between 40 and 50 °. The pulse angle α may be provided mechanically adjustable according to the operator's choice. Likewise, the cam 10 can be removably mounted to be changed in order to adapt the stroke of the stacking support 2 during the pulse.

Selon une variante de réalisation non représentée, l'actionneur d'empilage peut comporter un seul bras et dans ce cas l'actionneur mécanique de poussée comporte une unique zone excentrique. Ainsi, les moyens d'impulsion permettent au support d'empilage d'effectuer un changement de positions une fois par rotation complète de la zone excentrique autour de l'axe principale.According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the stacking actuator may comprise a single arm and in this case the mechanical thrust actuator comprises a single eccentric zone. Thus, pulse means enable the stacking carrier to perform a change of positions once by complete rotation of the eccentric zone around the main axis.

Les moyens d'impulsion 9 comprennent en outre un moyen de rappel 12 qui agit à l'encontre du déplacement du support d'empilage 2 de la première position vers la seconde position pour le ramener à la première position. Le moyen de rappel 12 peut être un ressort de compression 13 déjà précontraint avant chaque impulsion. Ainsi, le ressort de compression 13 se comprime davantage lorsque le support d'empilage 2 est déplacé de la première position à la seconde position sous l'action de la came 10 et par l'effet de sa détente pousse ce support d'empilage 2 de la seconde position vers la première position lorsque la came 10 ne pousse plus le support d'empilage 2. La force de poussée du ressort de compression 13 est bien sûr inférieure à la force de poussée de la came 10.The pulse means 9 further comprises a return means 12 which acts against the displacement of the stacking support 2 from the first position to the second position to bring it back to the first position. The return means 12 may be a compression spring 13 already prestressed before each pulse. Thus, the compression spring 13 compresses further when the stacking support 2 is moved from the first position to the second position under the action of the cam 10 and by the effect of its expansion pushes the stacking support 2 from the second position to the first position when the cam 10 no longer pushes the stacking support 2. The thrust force of the compression spring 13 is of course less than the thrust force of the cam 10.

Le fonctionnement du dispositif d'empilage 1 est décrit ci-après. En référence à la figure 1, avant l'arrivée d'un objet plat 100 postal à empiler, le support d'empilage 2 se trouve dans la première position. La came 10 ne sollicite pas le support d'empilage 2 et le ressort de compression 13 est plus ou moins précontraint. Le bras à godet 7 est dans une position intermédiaire dans laquelle il n'est pas en regard de la trajectoire de l'objet plat 100 postal à empiler.The operation of the stacking device 1 is described below. With reference to the figure 1 before the arrival of a postal flat article 100 to stack, the stacking support 2 is in the first position. The cam 10 does not urge the stacking support 2 and the compression spring 13 is more or less prestressed. The bucket arm 7 is in an intermediate position in which it is not facing the trajectory of the postal flat article 100 to stack.

Avant l'arrivée d'un objet plat 100 postal à empiler, le bras à godet 7 et la came 10 sont actionnés en rotation autour de l'axe principal A jusqu'à la position illustrée par la figure 2, dans laquelle la première droite L1 est inclinée par rapport à la direction d'empilage D2, permettant à la came 10 de déplacer le support d'empilage 2 tout en permettant au bras à godet 7 de maintenir l'intégrité de la pile. Dans cette position la fente 8 se trouve dans l'alignement de la trajectoire de l'objet plat 100 postal arrivant pour être empilé. L'actionneur d'empilage 4 reçoit donc un objet plat 100 postal et poursuit sa rotation autour de l'axe principal A en même temps que la came 10. Comme représenté sur la figure 3, la came 10 perd alors son action de poussée par translation du support d'empilage 2, et le support d'empilage 2 est donc déplacé en direction de l'actionneur d'empilage 4 par le ressort de compression 13, à l'opposé de la direction d'empilage D2. Au même moment, la rotation de l'actionneur d'empilage 4 permet le guidage et l'empilement de l'objet plat 100 postal logé dans sa fente 8 en le laissant glisser de son bras à godet 7.Before the arrival of a postal flat article 100 to be stacked, the bucket arm 7 and the cam 10 are rotated about the main axis A to the position illustrated by FIG. figure 2 wherein the first line L1 is inclined relative to the stacking direction D2, allowing the cam 10 to move the stacking support 2 while allowing the bucket arm 7 to maintain the integrity of the stack. In this position the slot 8 is in alignment with the trajectory of the postal flat object 100 arriving to be stacked. The stacking actuator 4 thus receives a flat article 100 postal and continues its rotation around the main axis A at the same time as the cam 10. As shown on the figure 3 the cam 10 then loses its thrust action by translation of the stacking support 2, and the stacking support 2 is thus displaced in the direction of the stacking actuator 4 by the compression spring 13, in the opposite direction of the stacking direction D2. At the same time, the rotation of the stacking actuator 4 allows the guiding and stacking of the postal flat object 100 housed in its slot 8 by letting it slide from its bucket arm 7.

Entre les première et seconde positions, le support d'empilage 2 est déplacé d'une distance d'impulsion d schématisée sur les figures 1 et 2. L'amplitude de cette distance d'impulsion d dépend des dimensions de la came 10. Du fait que la came 10 est double, à chaque rotation complète autour de l'axe principal A, ses deux zones excentriques 11 permettent d'opérer deux fois le changement de positions entre la première position et la seconde position.Between the first and second positions, the stacking support 2 is moved by a pulse distance d schematically on the Figures 1 and 2 . The amplitude of this pulse distance d depends on the dimensions of the cam 10. Since the cam 10 is double, at each complete rotation around the main axis A, its two eccentric zones 11 make it possible to operate twice. the change of positions between the first position and the second position.

Les étapes décrites en référence aux figures 1, 2 et 3 sont répétées après un demi-tour de rotation de la came 10 et du bras à godet 7 pour chaque nouvel objet plat 100 postal à empiler.The steps described with reference to Figures 1, 2 and 3 are repeated after a half turn of rotation of the cam 10 and bucket arm 7 for each new postal flat object 100 to stack.

Selon une variante de réalisation non représentée, les moyens de rappel peuvent comporter un ressort de traction prévu entre le support d'empilage et l'axe principal. Ce ressort de traction peut remplacer ou être combiné au ressort de compression décrit précédemment.According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the return means may comprise a tension spring provided between the stacking support and the main axis. This tension spring can replace or be combined with the compression spring described above.

Les figures 5 à 7 illustrent un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention du dispositif d'empilage 101 selon l'invention dont seules les différences avec celui du premier mode de réalisation sont décrites ci-après. Selon ce deuxième mode de réalisation, les moyens d'impulsion 109 comportent un actionneur mécanique de poussée 110 se présentant sous la forme d'un bras d'actionnement 110 porté en sa partie médiane par l'axe principal A solidaire de l'actionneur d'empilage 104, et dont chaque extrémité comprend une zone excentrique 111 comportant un galet fou 114. Le bras d'actionnement 110 fonctionne de manière similaire à la came 10 précédente. Le dispositif d'empilage 101 comprend en outre un moyen de rappel 112 similaire au moyen de rappel 12 du mode de réalisation précédent. De plus le dispositif d'empilage 101 comprend un moyen de poussée élastique 116 prévus entre le bras d'actionnement 110 et le support d'empilage 102, destiné à accumuler l'effort de l'impulsion mécanique généré par le bras d'actionnement 110 et à le restituer de manière décalée dans le temps au support d'empilage 102 en l'intensifiant dans la direction d'empilage D2. Selon l'exemple illustré, le moyen de poussée élastique comporte un ressort de compression 116 séparé du bras d'actionnement 110 par une plaque de poussée 115 sensiblement parallèle à l'élément de retenue 103. Ainsi, le support d'empilage 102 est sollicité de manière indirecte par le bras d'actionnement 110 par l'intermédiaire de la plaque de poussée 115 et le ressort de compression 113. Le fonctionnement du dispositif d'empilage 101 est sensiblement le même que celui du précédent mode de réalisation, excepté pour le moyen de poussée élastique 116. Selon ce second mode de réalisation, l'amplitude de la distance d'impulsion d dépend des dimensions du bras d'actionnement 110, de sa vitesse de rotation, des caractéristiques du ressort de compression 116 et du poids combiné du support d'empilage 102 et de la pile d'objets plats 100 postaux.The Figures 5 to 7 illustrate a second embodiment of the invention of the stacking device 101 according to the invention, of which only the differences with that of the first embodiment are described below. According to this second embodiment, the pulse means 109 comprise a mechanical thrust actuator 110 in the form of an actuating arm 110 carried in its median part by the main axis A integral with the actuator. the stack 104, and each end of which comprises an eccentric zone 111 comprising an idler roller 114. The actuating arm 110 operates in a manner similar to the cam 10 previous. The stacking device 101 further comprises a return means 112 similar to the return means 12 of the previous embodiment. In addition, the stacking device 101 comprises an elastic thrust means 116 provided between the actuating arm 110 and the stacking support 102, intended to accumulate the force of the mechanical pulse generated by the actuating arm 110. and rendering it staggered in time to the stacking support 102 by stepping it up in the stacking direction D2. According to the illustrated example, the elastic thrust means comprises a compression spring 116 separated from the actuating arm 110 by a thrust plate 115 substantially parallel to the retaining element 103. Thus, the stacking support 102 is urged indirectly by the actuating arm 110 through the thrust plate 115 and the compression spring 113. The operation of the stacking device 101 is substantially the same as that of the preceding embodiment, except for the resilient biasing means 116. According to this second embodiment, the amplitude of the pulse distance d depends on the dimensions of the actuating arm 110, its rotational speed, the characteristics of the compression spring 116 and the combined weight. stacking support 102 and postal flat stack 100.

La figure 8 illustre un troisième mode de réalisation du dispositif d'empilage 201 comprenant un actionneur d'empilage 204 et un support d'empilage 202, selon l'invention dont seules les différences avec celui du premier mode de réalisation sont décrites ci-après. Selon ce troisième mode de réalisation, le support d'empilage 202 comprend un moyen de rappel 212 formé d'éléments de flexion, ici des ressorts de compression 213 disposés sous le support d'empilage 2 et aptes à fléchir pour autoriser le déplacement du support d'empilage 202 de sa première à sa seconde position et à la ramener dans sa première position après l'impulsion. Le nombre et l'emplacement des ressorts de compression 213 sont adaptés en fonction notamment du poids de la pile à supporter. Les ressorts de compression 213 peuvent par ailleurs être remplacés par des éléments de type silent-blocs ou tout élément adapté.The figure 8 illustrates a third embodiment of the stacking device 201 comprising a stacking actuator 204 and a stacking support 202, according to the invention, of which only the differences with that of the first embodiment are described below. According to this third embodiment, the stacking support 202 comprises a return means 212 formed of bending elements, here compression springs 213 disposed under the stacking support 2 and able to flex to allow the displacement of the support stacking 202 from its first to its second position and back to its first position after the pulse. The number and location of the compression springs 213 are adapted in particular according to the weight of the battery to be supported. Compression springs 213 can also be replaced by elements of type silent-blocks or any suitable element.

Selon un mode de réalisation non représentée, les premier et troisième modes de réalisation peuvent être combinés. Ainsi, une came peut être utilisée de manière indirecte et un bras d'actionnement peut être utilisé de manière directe. Selon une variante de réalisation de l'invention, non représentée sur les figures, une butée de pied de lettre située à l'extrémité du support d'empilage proche de l'actionneur d'empilage empêche le recul des objets plats postaux sur le support d'empilage lors de son retour de la seconde à la première position. Selon d'autres variantes de réalisation l'invention non représentées, le support d'empilage peut comprendre en outre une surface crénelée permettant de retenir le bord des objets plats postaux sur chant ou une courroie réalisée en un matériau de type adhérent pour éviter le glissement des objets plats postaux sur sa surface.According to an embodiment not shown, the first and third embodiments can be combined. Thus, a cam can be used indirectly and an actuating arm can be used directly. According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, not shown in the figures, a letter foot stop located at the end of the stacking support near the stacking actuator prevents the recoil of postal flat objects on the support. stacking when returning from the second to the first position. According to other embodiments of the invention not shown, the stacking support may further comprise a crenellated surface for retaining the edge of postal flat objects on edge or a belt made of a material of adherent type to prevent slippage postal flat objects on its surface.

L'invention permet d'atteindre les objectifs précédemment mentionnés. En effet, le dispositif d'empilage 1 ; 101 ; 201 selon l'invention permet de créer des impulsions mécaniques sur le support d'empilage 2 ; 102 ; 202 pour vaincre l'inertie de la pile d'objets plats 100 postaux et ainsi, d'améliorer l'efficacité et la qualité de l'empilage des objets plats 100 postaux quelles que soient leur nature et la quantité déjà empilée. L'invention permet également d'éviter d'avoir à sur-dimensionner l'actionneur d'empilage 4, 104,204 et de limiter le risque d'endommagement des objets plats postaux 100, de bourrage ou de mauvais empilages. Le dispositif d'empilage 1 ; 101 ; 201 peut être intégré à un dispositif de stockage et à une machine de tri postal traditionnelle. Il va de soi que la présente invention ne saurait être limitée à la description qui précède d'un de ses modes de réalisation, susceptibles de subir quelques modifications sans pour autant sortir du cadre de l'invention telle que définie dans les revendications annexées.The invention achieves the previously mentioned objectives. Indeed, the stacking device 1; 101; 201 according to the invention makes it possible to create mechanical pulses on the stacking support 2; 102; 202 to overcome the inertia of the pile of postal flat objects 100 and thus, to improve the efficiency and quality of the stacking of postal flat objects 100 regardless of their nature and the amount already stacked. The invention also makes it possible to avoid having to over-size the stacking actuator 4, 104, 204 and to limit the risk of damage to postal flat objects 100, jamming or improper stacking. Stacking device 1; 101; 201 can be integrated with a storage device and a traditional postal sorting machine. It goes without saying that the present invention can not be limited to the foregoing description of one of its embodiments, may undergo some modifications without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (9)

  1. A stacker device (1; 101; 201) for stacking flats (100) on edge, which device includes:
    • a stacking support (2; 102; 202) that extends along a certain stacking axis (D2) for storing flats (100) on edge and in a stack, which flats are inserted successively onto said stacking support (2; 102; 202);
    • a stacking actuator (4; 104; 204) designed for guiding each flat (100) to be stacked along an insertion axis (D1) transverse to the stacking axis (D2), for inserting it at a first end of said stack of flats (100), and for pushing said first end of the stack while the flat is being inserted along the stacking axis (D2); and
    • a retaining element (3) that is mounted to move along the stacking axis (D2) and that is designed to retain the stack of flats at a second end of the stack that is opposite from said first end, while pushing the stack of flats (100) towards the stacking actuator (4; 104; 204) as the stack of flats (100) is being formed;
    wherein said stacking support (2; 102; 202) is mounted to move along the stacking axis (D2) in both directions, and wherein said stacker device (1; 101; 201) includes impulse means (9; 109; 209) synchronized with the stacking actuator (4; 104; 204) so as to move said stacking support (2; 102; 202) by direct contact in the direction along said stacking axis (D2) that goes away from the stacking actuator (4; 104; 209), said impulse means (9; 109; 209) including return means (12; 112; 2012) for bringing back the stacking support towards the stacking actuator (4; 104; 209) along the stacking axis (D2), said stacker device being characterized in that the stacking actuator (4; 104; 204) is a mechanical actuator mounted to rotate about a main axis (A) embodied by a stationary pin in the stacker device (1; 101; 201), and in that said impulse means (9; 109; 209) comprise a mechanical thrust actuator (10; 110; 210) that is mounted to rotate about said main axis (A) and that drives said stacking support (2; 102; 202) by mechanical contact so as to move it in translation along the stacking axis (D2).
  2. A stacker device (1; 101; 201) according to claim 1, characterized in that said stacking actuator (4; 104; 204) and said thrust actuator (10; 110; 210) are offset angularly relative to each other on said main axis (A) so that each impulse precedes the arrival of each flat (100) to be stacked at the back of said stack of flats (100).
  3. A stacker device (1; 101; 201) according to claim 1, characterized in that said stacking actuator (4; 104; 204) is a bucket wheel (7) and said thrust actuator (10; 110; 210) is provided with at least one eccentric zone (11; 111; 211).
  4. A stacker device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the stacking support (2) is mounted to move in translation on anti-friction means (5).
  5. A stacker device (1; 101) according to claim 1, characterized in that said return means (12; 112) comprise at least one compression spring (13; 113) disposed beyond said stacking support (2; 102) relative to said stacking actuator (4; 104).
  6. A stacker device (201) according to claim 1, characterized in that said return means (212) are constituted by a bendable element (213) that is fastened under said stacking support (202) and that is suitable for bending resiliently along said stacking axis (D2).
  7. A stacker device (101) according to claim 1, characterized in that said impulse means (109) comprise resilient thrust means (116) provided between the thrust actuator (110) and the stacking support (102), designed to accumulate the force from each mechanical impulse and to deliver it to said stacking support (102) at a later time.
  8. A storage device for storing postal flats (100), characterized in that it includes a stacker device (1; 101; 201) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.
  9. A postal sorting machine including a sorting conveyor for directing postal flats (100) towards sorting outlets, said postal sorting machine being characterized in that each sorting outlet is equipped with a storage device according to claim 8.
EP13774725.9A 2012-09-19 2013-09-05 Device for stacking flat objects, storage device for flat postal objects and postal sorting machine Not-in-force EP2897889B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1258778A FR2995591B1 (en) 2012-09-19 2012-09-19 DEVICE FOR STACKING FLAT OBJECTS, STORAGE DEVICE FOR POST DISH OBJECTS, AND POSTAL SORTING MACHINE
PCT/FR2013/052042 WO2014044946A1 (en) 2012-09-19 2013-09-05 Device for stacking flat objects, storage device for flat postal objects and postal sorting machine

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2897889A1 EP2897889A1 (en) 2015-07-29
EP2897889B1 true EP2897889B1 (en) 2016-11-09

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP13774725.9A Not-in-force EP2897889B1 (en) 2012-09-19 2013-09-05 Device for stacking flat objects, storage device for flat postal objects and postal sorting machine

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US (1) US9073723B1 (en)
EP (1) EP2897889B1 (en)
DK (1) DK2897889T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2995591B1 (en)
PT (1) PT2897889T (en)
WO (1) WO2014044946A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102017216152A1 (en) * 2017-09-13 2019-03-14 Robert Bosch Gmbh Stacking device for multi-layer, flat electrode stacks

Citations (1)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE667698C (en) * 1936-08-02 1938-11-18 Preusse & Co Akt Ges Device for upright stacking of flat, in particular folded, workpieces

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1035716A (en) * 1911-02-20 1912-08-13 B F Cummins Company Stacking mechanism for mail-matter.
US1898704A (en) * 1930-04-22 1933-02-21 Baltimore Paper Company Method and apparatus for stacking flat articles
US2844373A (en) * 1955-04-05 1958-07-22 Andriessen Tech Nv Mail stacking equipment
DD212239A2 (en) 1982-11-29 1984-08-08 Inst Grafische Technik Fi Der STACKING DEVICE FOR BOW
US5372360A (en) * 1991-06-07 1994-12-13 Bell & Howell Phillipsburg Company Apparatus for stacking sheet-like articles
US6398204B1 (en) * 2000-04-28 2002-06-04 Kfw Automation, Inc. On-edge stacking apparatus
US6877739B2 (en) * 2002-12-16 2005-04-12 Pitney Bowes Inc. Vertical stacker input method and apparatus
JP4579296B2 (en) * 2005-08-05 2010-11-10 グローリー株式会社 Paper sheet storage and feeding device
DE102006030093B3 (en) * 2006-06-28 2007-12-27 Siemens Ag Flat mail piece e.g. letter, storage module for use in postal sorting station, has storage area with splitting knife with which two forces exercised antiparallel to stacking direction of part of mail piece stored in area, respectively
DE102006055947B3 (en) 2006-11-24 2008-01-10 Siemens Ag Flat mail items sorting system has multiple sorting registers and memory module, which works at last-in or first-out principle, where memory module is attached to conveyor belt, by switch, which is present in front of switches
WO2012084708A1 (en) * 2010-12-21 2012-06-28 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Stacking device and stacking method
FR2984772B1 (en) * 2011-12-22 2014-02-14 Solystic DEVICE AND METHOD FOR STACKING AND AUTOMATICALLY LOADING SINGLE-PANEL OBJECTS IN A MULTI-COMPARTMENT BIN, POSTAL SORTING MACHINE, AND POSTAL SORTING METHOD

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE667698C (en) * 1936-08-02 1938-11-18 Preusse & Co Akt Ges Device for upright stacking of flat, in particular folded, workpieces

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Publication number Publication date
WO2014044946A1 (en) 2014-03-27
US9073723B1 (en) 2015-07-07
EP2897889A1 (en) 2015-07-29
PT2897889T (en) 2017-01-20
DK2897889T3 (en) 2017-02-20
FR2995591A1 (en) 2014-03-21
US20150203317A1 (en) 2015-07-23
FR2995591B1 (en) 2015-08-14

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