DE202016105199U1 - Device and its use for the production of sealing rings - Google Patents

Abstract

Device (10) for producing sealing rings (1.3) from endless material (1), in particular from round cords, comprising - a feed unit (20) arranged to convey and position the continuous material in at least one cutting position (Ps); - A cutting unit (30) arranged for separating a portion (1.2) from the continuous material; - at least one gripper unit (40; 40a, 40b) arranged for gripping and displacing the continuous material or the section; - A control device (50), which is in communication with the feed unit, the at least one gripper unit and / or the cutting unit; characterized in that the at least one gripper unit is adapted to controllably displace at least one free end (1a, 1b) of the section along a predeterminable movement path (BP1.1, BP1a, BP1b) into and / or out of a wetting position (Bf) the apparatus further comprises connection fluid supply means (60) in communication with the control means and arranged or disposable such that compound fluid (F) can be controllably applied to the at least one free end locatable in the wetting position.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to an apparatus for producing elastic, flexible sealing rings, for example O-rings of elastomeric material (e.g., sponge rubber) or special plastics, e.g. high temperature resistant plastics. Furthermore, a corresponding method is affected, in particular with the highest possible degree of automation. Last but not least, the invention also relates to the use of a control device for automating such a method.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Sealing rings are used in virtually every area of technology, whether for sealing fluids, sound, emissions, vibrations, etc. One of the myriad of applications also concerns chemical containers in which a lid must be sealed. Just as varied as the fields of application are the materials that can be used. It may well be at least roughly distinguished between metallic or less or only slightly deformable materials on the one hand and elastic or flexible materials, in particular rubber or elastomers on the other hand. Rubber rings or O-rings can e.g. are made of round cords by the round cords are cut to length in the desired length and then joined together cohesively. The use of round cords, e.g. EPDM, VMQ and FKM round cords, may be used as a static seal e.g. for the sealing of larger pipe connections and as a cover seal in the tank construction. Due to the high numbers required in many cases, it is of interest to be able to automate the production of the sealing rings as possible to a high proportion. In particular, the cohesive bonding but still has to be done manually in many materials or applications. Round cords are often used directly on site, e.g. in maintenance, and there "made to measure" in a ring. For this, e.g. Cyanoacrylate or 2-component adhesive can be used.

The DE 37 39 058 A1 describes a cutting and connecting device with a welding bar, on which two free ends of a profile strand can be melted to then join them together.

The EP 0 567 502 B1 describes a method for producing a sealing ring, in which a liner is used to connect two free ends of a strand of an endless ring exactly on impact with each other. The connection is made using a steel clamping band directly at the place of use or at the mounting position of the directional ring.

The production of sealing rings is described in further publications, for example in DE 35 32 440 A1 . DE 25 47 128 C2 . DE 2 056 460 A . DE 10 2012 024 120 A1 . DE 195 31 167 A1 . DE 10 2007 042 487 B4 . DE 25 42 436 A1 . DE 10 2007 040 077 B4 . DE 2 321 648 A1 . DE 38 29 210 A1 , In the case of corresponding devices or methods, there is in many cases a close relationship to the application: For example, the integral connection of free ends of a round cord takes place "in situ", ie in the mounting position of the seal to be created. Also, in many of these cases, for example, only a single step in the manufacture of the rings can be automated. Or the manufacture of the ring also includes a step, eg vulcanization, which does not relate directly to the ring itself, but to other machine elements. In other words, a possibility for a production of more or less arbitrary sealing rings which can be automated to a high degree, irrespective of the type of elastic sealing material and regardless of when or where or how these are to be used later, is not yet known.

There is therefore a need for a device or a method by means of which a production of sealing rings which can be automated to a very high degree in a simple manner can be carried out independently of its intended use, in particular of rings with an individually predefinable diameter.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object is to provide a device or a method for the production of sealing rings, whereby the production can be simplified, accelerated or made cheaper or more flexible. It is also an object to design the device in such a way that it is possible to produce a large number of different variants of sealing rings without having to reconfigure the device in a complex manner. Last but not least, it is an object to design the method so that it can be easily optimized for a certain type of seal rings to be produced, even in the event that there are no standard materials or should be deviated from standard dimensions.

At least one of these objects is achieved by a device according to claim 1 and a use according to the independent use claim. Advantageous developments of the invention are explained in the respective subclaims. The features of the following described embodiments can be combined with each other, unless this is explicitly denied.

• – eine Vorschubeinheit eingerichtet zum Fördern und Positionieren des Endlosmaterials bzw. einer entsprechenden abzutrennenden Stelle davon in wenigstens eine/r Schneideposition;
• – eine Schneideeinheit eingerichtet zum Abtrennen eines Abschnitts vom Endlosmaterial;
• – wenigstens eine Greifereinheit eingerichtet zum Greifen und Verlagern des Endlosmaterials oder des Abschnitts;
• – eine Steuerungseinrichtung, die in Verbindung mit der Vorschubeinheit, der wenigstens einen Greifereinheit und/oder der Schneideeinheit steht.

Erfindungsgemäß wird vorgeschlagen, dass die wenigstens eine Greifereinheit eingerichtet ist zum gesteuerten Verlagern wenigstens eines freien Endes des Abschnitts entlang eines vorgegebenen bzw. vorgebbaren Bewegungspfades in eine und/oder aus einer Benetzungsposition, wobei die Vorrichtung ferner eine Verbindungsfluidzuführeinrichtung umfasst, welche in Verbindung mit der Steuerungseinrichtung steht und derart angeordnet oder anordenbar ist, dass Verbindungsfluid auf das in der Benetzungsposition angeordnete wenigstens eine freie Ende gesteuert aufbringbar ist. Dies ermöglicht eine Standardisierung und Automatisierung der Verwendung von Verbindungsfluid bzw. Kleber, insbesondere auch das Aufbringen von Verbindungsfluid gemäß exakter Vorgaben, mit großer Sauberkeit, und in einem engen Toleranzbereich, insbesondere an exakt vorgegebener Position, insbesondere weder mit zu viel noch mit zu wenig Verbindungsfluid. Das Endlosmaterial kann dabei z.B. extrudiert worden sein. Die Vorrichtung kann einem Extruder nachgeschaltet sein. Provided is a device for producing elastic, flexible, in particular elastomer sealing rings made of endless material, in particular of round cords, comprising

• A feed unit arranged to convey and position the continuous material or a corresponding part thereof to be separated therefrom in at least one cutting position;
• A cutting unit configured to sever a portion of the continuous material;
• At least one gripper unit configured to grip and displace the continuous material or section;
• - A control device, which is in communication with the feed unit, the at least one gripper unit and / or the cutting unit.

According to the invention, it is proposed that the at least one gripper unit is set up for controllably displacing at least one free end of the section along a predefined movement path into and / or out of a wetting position, wherein the device further comprises a connection fluid supply device which is connected to the control device is and is arranged or can be arranged such that connection fluid can be applied to the arranged in the wetting position at least one free end can be applied. This allows standardization and automation of the use of compound fluid or adhesive, in particular the application of compound fluid according to exact specifications, with great cleanliness, and in a narrow tolerance range, in particular at exactly predetermined position, in particular neither too much nor too little connecting fluid , The continuous material may have been extruded, for example. The device can be connected downstream of an extruder.

The cutting unit may e.g. comprise at least one blade, which is in particular orthogonal displaceable relative to the strand. Optionally, at least two blades may be provided, which are scissor-like relative to each other displaced or are mounted about a common joint.

The cutting position preferably corresponds to a location or position of the bar, at which the strand can be both separated and taken, in particular in the zero position of the gripper unit can be taken. This makes it possible to convert the separated portion of the cutting position or zero position in the wetting position or connecting position as accurately as possible. Preferably, the cutting position between the feed unit and the at least one gripper unit is arranged.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the at least one free end or the at least one gripper unit can be displaced controlledly into a connection position, in particular on a movement path corresponding to a circular path in which the two free ends of the section can be brought into contact with one another. This allows automation not only of the application, but also of the connection, so the complete production of the ring.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the at least one free end is displaceable in a connection position displaceable, which is arranged between two gripper units arranged in a zero position during cutting, in particular in alignment and / or in the middle between the zero positions, in particular on a circular path. This allows a simple method or a simple construction of the device, in particular regardless of how long the severed section is. The connection position can remain the same. Last but not least, a compact machine design can be provided.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the connection fluid supply device has at least one supply unit for supplying connection fluid, which is positioned or aligned relative to a movement path of the section or the at least one gripper unit, in particular radially or orthogonal thereto. This favors a point or area exact application of compound fluid. For example, the supply unit has an outlet whose dimensions correspond at least approximately to the dimensions of a cross-sectional profile of the section. Optionally, the feed unit can be movable, in particular rotatable concentrically around the wetting position, so that nevertheless a flat application of the connecting fluid can take place with a comparatively large end face.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the connecting fluid supply device has two supply units, each of which has an outlet oriented in one of two wetting positions, in particular directed downwards. This allows the application of compound fluid to both free ends, in particular simultaneously, whereby the load capacity of the cohesive connection can be optimized, depending on the nature of the connecting fluid. In particular, different types of connecting fluid can be applied to both ends, in particular in each case one component of a two-component adhesive. This can have advantages for certain materials of the seal. There may also be advantages in providing the adhesive. In particular, it can be avoided that the respective Glued feed unit, because each component can be kept separately from the other component. Also, then the method of application / wetting can be optimized, for example, with respect to the respective viscosity.

According to one embodiment, the Verbindungsfluidzuführeinrichtung is arranged above the at least one gripper unit. This allows, in addition to advantages in terms of the arrangement of individual components of the device (in particular free space for strand section), an application or wetting under the action of gravitational force. Depending on the viscosity of the connecting fluid, this can have great advantages, in particular with regard to the simplest possible dosage.

According to one embodiment, the feed unit is adapted to guide the endless material to the gripper unit and past the gripper unit to at least one further gripper unit, in particular to a further gripper unit in opposite position. This allows the gripping of both free ends of the section in a simple manner. In particular, the ends can be taken in a particularly precise manner at the desired locations and be displaced correspondingly exactly in the respective position. Preferably, the gripping of the free ends is in such a position that the free ends easily project from the gripper units, e.g. 0.5mm.

According to one embodiment, the at least one gripper unit has a passage for the portion to be separated. This makes it possible to displace the strand through the respective gripper unit and thereby already to arrange it in a desired gripping position. Furthermore, this can be arranged in series of several gripper units, whereby the process can be advantageously facilitated.

According to one embodiment, the device comprises a web or a guide or a sliding contour, which is arranged such that the endless material or the respective section along a predefined movement path or a predefined contour, in particular at least approximately rectilinear, are moved away from the cutting unit can, in particular to another gripper unit. This facilitates gripping and increases accuracy. The web or the guide rail can in particular be made of aluminum material.

The web is preferably arranged on a disk, in particular eccentrically. Preferably, the web has a length which is smaller than a diameter of the disc. This allows the formation of a free space for the loop-shaped arrangement of the section, in particular between two web sections. More preferably, the web is formed by two sections, which can each be arranged on a disc and rotated with rotation of the disc with the disc.

The web or the guide or sliding contour can form both a base (in the vertical direction) and a lateral guide (in the transverse direction). This can ensure that the section to be separated initially remains substantially aligned in the feed direction. As soon as the section is compressed, it can decouple itself from the web, in particular also uncouple it from the lateral guide, so that the section bulges downward due to the gravitational force.

The lateral guide is formed according to a variant of a side surface of the (respective) disc. Once the section has been gripped by a gripper unit, the bridge can also be displaced, in particular to allow the section to bulge downwards due to gravitational force, particularly even if the section consists of a gripper unit very dense, solid material. By the web is displaceable out of a path of movement of the section, in particular rotatable about a pivot bearing of the respective disc, also ejection can take place in a particularly elegant manner, in particular only by opening at least one of the gripper units and releasing down (gravity) of the section (Committee ).

According to one embodiment, the feed unit is arranged or aligned in alignment with the gripper unit and with at least one further gripper unit. This allows a comparatively simple feed (feed) to the grippers.

According to one embodiment, the at least one gripper unit is arranged in an eccentric position on a rotatably mounted, motor-driven disc. On the one hand this allows a particularly simple, robust construction, on the other hand a simple control or a very exact positioning. The arrangement of the gripper unit (s) described here makes it possible to provide only a single operation of gripping the section for the entire process until the free ends of the section are connected. By now the gripping, before or after cutting, with high accuracy, the wetting and later connecting the free ends can be done in a relatively accurate manner, without the gripper units must be controlled again.

According to one embodiment, the movement path of the at least one free end corresponds at least in sections to one Circular path. On the one hand, this enables exact positioning, on the other hand, an advantageous construction of the device, in particular with the same components for both free ends.

According to one embodiment, the device has at least one disc which can be arranged in predefined rotational positions by means of a drive unit, on which the (respective) gripper unit is arranged eccentrically. Again, this provides a simple, sturdy design. In this case, individual rotational positions or rotational angles can be correlated with a respective zero position or the cutting position or the wetting position or the connecting position.

According to one embodiment, the device comprises two gripper units, which are arranged in eccentric position on two discs, which are rotatably mounted opposite to each other, in particular in engagement with each other, in kinematic dependence. A rotation angle of a disc thus requires a certain angle of rotation of the other disc, in particular the same angle of rotation. This makes it possible to move the gripper units exactly synchronously with one another, be it by the same angle of rotation or by different angles of rotation. The discs may each have a toothing, which together form a spur toothing. The discs preferably have the same diameter or the same number of teeth. This favors a symmetrical arrangement of the gripper units.

According to one embodiment, the device comprises two gripper units, which are displaceable in each case from a zero position or from the wetting position into a connecting position, in particular synchronously or simultaneously in kinematic dependence, in which the two free ends of the portion can be brought into contact with each other. This allows the exact positioning of the ends by means of the gripper units, wherein only one of the gripper units must be driven, and optionally also the exercise of a predefinable pressing force.

The zero position preferably corresponds to the cutting position, ie without displacement of the gripper unit. In other words, when the section / strand is in the cutting position, the gripper unit is in the zero position.

According to one embodiment, the device comprises two gripper units and is arranged to shift the two free ends of the cut-to-length section respectively from a zero position, in which the section is arranged after separation, along the respective movement path into the wetting position, in particular simultaneously and / or on asymmetric movement paths, there to dwell for the application of compound fluid, and then to bring the free ends in a connecting position in particular abutment against each other to the plant, in particular with a predefined residence time. This makes it possible to control the entire process from cutting to joining via the position of the gripper units. The gripper units can grasp the section as accurately as possible in a narrow tolerance range with respect to the gripping position, and then hold or fix until the connection. It does not require re-grasping. As a result, the connection can be made in a particularly exact, easily reproducible manner.

The connection position can be arranged on a line or at least approximately aligned between the zero positions of the gripper units. The connection position can be arranged in the middle between the zero positions of the gripper units.

As asymmetric motion paths, e.g. two circular paths are understood, which are traversed in opposite directions of movement.

The entire apparatus, together with a coil for the continuous material, may be placed on a frame, e.g. has dimensions of 1m width, 1m depth and 1m height. This results in a compact arrangement of the components of the device, and also the method requires little space, in particular less space than a workplace for manual processing.

The device may have at least one test option, in particular according to VPA2 standard. In particular, a random measurement of the tensile force transferable in the connection point and / or a random or continuous, in particular optical, measurement of an offset in the connection point can take place, with a corresponding adjustment possibility. For this purpose, the gripper units can be repositioned on the discs and / or the passage of the respective gripper unit can be mounted to be adjustable transversely to the feed direction.

ITEM At least one of the aforementioned objects is also achieved by an apparatus for producing sealing rings of endless material, comprising a feed unit arranged for conveying and positioning the endless material in at least one cutting position; a cutting unit configured to sever a portion of the continuous material; two gripper units arranged for gripping and displacing the continuous material or section along a predeterminable movement path; a control device that in Connection with the feed unit, the gripper units and the cutting unit is; wherein the gripper units are adapted to controllably displace at least one of the free ends of the portion to a wetting position, the apparatus further comprising connection fluid supply means in communication with the control means and arranged such that connection fluid is exposed to the at least one free wetting position located in the wetting position End controlled controlled applicator, wherein the free ends or the gripper units are displaced from the wetting position in a connecting position in which the two free ends of the portion are abuttable to each other; wherein the feed unit is arranged to guide the endless material to and past a first of the gripper units to a second one of the gripper units, in particular in opposite position, wherein the gripper units each have a passage for the portion to be separated, wherein the gripper units each in an eccentric position on a rotatably mounted, motor-driven disc are arranged, which are rotatably mounted opposite to each other, in particular in engagement with each other, wherein the respective movement path is a circular path. This results in previously described advantages.

At least one of the abovementioned objects is also achieved by a control device configured to control a device for producing sealing rings from endless material, in particular designed to drive a previously described device, wherein the control device comprises a data memory in which at least one type of data from the following Group: Position data of a zero position of at least one gripper unit, position data of at least one wetting position, position data of a connection position, data relating to a movement path of the at least one gripper unit, in particular with respect to a rotational adjustment movement of a drive unit, data on the properties of at least one type of endless material; wherein the control device has a communication interface to at least one of the following components of the device: feed unit, cutting unit, gripper unit, connecting fluid supply unit. Hereby, a control of the manufacturing process with respect to a variety of parameters can be done, either individually, isolated, or in combination with each other, so that the device can be used in a particularly flexible manner, or can be easily adapted to specific sealing rings.

At least one of the aforementioned objects is also achieved by using a control device in a device for producing sealing rings from endless material, in particular in a device described above, for specifying at least one wetting position and a connection position of free ends of a cut-to-length portion of the continuous material, in particular for driving of at least one drive unit for displacing at least one gripper unit, in particular on a circular path. As a result, significant process steps can be automated for the connection of the ends. The compound can be produced reproducibly. This facilitates e.g. also a random quality control.

At least one of the aforementioned objects is also achieved by using at least one rotatably mounted disc in a device for producing sealing rings of endless material, in particular in a device described above, for positioning at least one gripper unit in a zero position for gripping the endless material and in a wetting position for Applying compound fluid to at least one free end of a cut-to-length portion of the continuous material and further in a connection position for connecting the two free ends of the portion, in particular using two discs which are rotated in positive rotational engagement with each other in opposite directions of rotation. This allows the positioning and alignment in the respective position in a very precise manner, in particular synchronously, with relatively simple control. The gripper unit can be mounted eccentrically on the disc, in particular completely outside, in particular such that the gripper unit is at least approximately flush with the outer contour of the disc and the outer contour of the disc does not overlap. This can ensure that two gripper units can be moved past each other on two intermeshing disks. In particular, the gripper units are positioned so that they only extend to the beginning of the toothing of the disc, with a radial distance of e.g. 0.5mm. So the gripper units do not close flush with the disc, but just a little further radially inward.

At least one of the aforementioned objects is also achieved by using a previously described apparatus in connection with an extruder or an alternative plant for producing a strand. As a result, the production of the raw material up to the final product (sealing ring) from one hand or in the same manufacturing plant or at the same place.

• – Fördern und Positionieren des Endlosmaterials in wenigstens eine/r Schneideposition;
• – Abtrennen eines Abschnitts vom Endlosmaterial in der Schneideposition;
• – Greifen und Verlagern des Abschnitts mittels wenigstens einer Greifereinheit;

wobei erfindungsgemäß vorgesehen ist, dass das Verlagern des Abschnitts nach dem Abtrennen erfolgt und ein gesteuerten Verlagern wenigstens eines freien Endes des Abschnitts entlang eines vorgebbaren Bewegungspfades in eine und/oder aus einer Benetzungsposition umfasst, insbesondere entlang eines Bewegungspfades (jeweils) entsprechend einem Kreissegment, ferner mit dem Schritt: Aufbringen von Verbindungsfluid auf das in der Benetzungsposition angeordnete wenigstens eine freie Ende. Hierdurch kann die Herstellung auf einfache Weise automatisiert werden, indem ein Verlagern des freien Endes in die jeweilige Position erfolgt. Der Abschnitt muss weder manuell gehalten noch ausgerichtet werden. At least one of the abovementioned objects is also achieved by a method for producing elastic, flexible, in particular elastomer sealing rings made of endless material, in particular of round cords, comprising the steps:

• Conveying and positioning the continuous material in at least one cutting position;
• - separating a portion of the continuous material in the cutting position;
• - Grasping and moving the section by means of at least one gripper unit;

wherein it is provided according to the invention that the displacement of the section takes place after the separation and a controlled displacement of at least one free end of the section along a predetermined movement path into and / or from a wetting position, in particular along a movement path (respectively) corresponding to a circle segment, further with the step of applying bonding fluid to the at least one free end disposed in the wetting position. As a result, the production can be automated in a simple manner by a displacement of the free end takes place in the respective position. The section does not have to be held manually or aligned.

The displacement can take place about an axis of rotation, in particular about an axis of rotation, which is aligned in the transverse direction y, transversely to the feed direction x.

The application can be controlled as a function of the time at which the wetting position is reached, in particular be started directly when it is reached, or also shortly before, e.g. 1 second before starting, for example, when the connecting fluid has a high viscosity and can be supplied only slowly.

The conveying and positioning can comprise feeding a free end of the endless material to a gripper unit further spaced from the advancing unit, wherein the endless material can be supplied via the cutting unit and via a gripper unit arranged closer to the cutting unit, in particular along a contour or a web ,

The conveying and positioning may also include arranging a web or a guide or a sliding contour so that the movement path of the section is defined, in particular a rectilinear movement path in the feed direction x. Likewise, a folding away or pulling the web may be included, in particular immediately after the section has been taken. This promotes autonomous formation of an arcuate geometry of the section.

The gripping and displacing can be a rotational movement and / or an alignment of an end face of at least one free end of the section in an at least approximately horizontal plane and / or forming a curved or circular segment-shaped, in particular semicircular contour of the section and / or reducing the distance the free ends to each other, in particular by half.

The gripper units can be arranged when gripping at a maximum distance from each other, which is less than or equal to the minimum length of the separated portion or the circumference of the ring to be produced. This makes it possible to relocate the gripper units without having to stretch the section, in particular with an arrangement of gripper units on wheels / discs of a spur gear toothing.

In this case, the connecting fluid can be applied by means of a feeding unit or a metering pump aligned with the wetting position, wherein the application is an application controlled by a control device, in particular with respect to the quantity or a minimum residence time. Also, the connecting fluid may be applied to the two free ends of the section by means of a connecting fluid supply device aligned with two wetting positions on two free ends.

According to one embodiment, the method further comprises the step carried out after the application of connecting fluid: displacing at least one of the free ends of the section, in particular of both free ends, from the wetting position into a connecting position for materially connecting the free ends to one another by means of the applied connecting fluid, in particular by one Rotational movement (respectively) along a movement path corresponding to a circle segment. This type of movement can be realized in a comparatively simple and exact manner, as already described above.

In the connection position, the free ends can be abutted against each other, in particular with a predefined pressure, in particular during a predefined duration. The ends can in particular be fixed outstandingly in the respective gripper unit from the respective gripper unit. In this case, the movement path between the zero position and the wetting position and / or the connection position may be a segment of a circular path, in particular by a rotation angle of 90 ° or 180 °.

According to one embodiment, the method comprises the step of: displacing both free ends from the wetting position into a connecting position between two zero positions, in each case one of two gripper units when cutting is arranged, in particular in alignment and / or in the middle between the zero positions, in particular on a circular path. This makes it possible always to connect the ends in the same way in the same place, regardless of the length or type of section.

According to one embodiment, the displacement of the section or of the gripper unit (s) further comprises the formation of a free space for the loop-shaped arrangement of the section, in particular between two web sections. This can be done both in particular by a rotational movement.

According to one embodiment, the displacement of the section or the gripper unit (s) further comprises turning away at least one web around its transverse axis to form a free space for the loop-shaped arrangement of the section. This can be done both by a rotation of a disc on which the web is attached.

According to one embodiment, the method comprises the step of displacing the end faces of both free ends from orientation facing away from one another, in particular exactly opposite orientation, in orientation facing one another in the connection position, in particular by two rotational movements or on two circular paths. This arrangement allows a path of movement for the section or its free ends, which can be realized by means of a robust mechanism which can be controlled in an exact and simple manner.

According to one embodiment, the method further comprises the step carried out after connecting the free ends: moving back the at least one gripper unit from the connection position to the zero position, in particular on a circular path, in particular by a rotation angle of 180 °. This allows the repositioning of the gripper units by means of the same drive unit, in particular on the same path of movement. The moving back can be done in the same or in the opposite direction.

According to one embodiment, the method further comprises the step of ejecting the sealing ring, in particular in a predefinable direction or with a predefinable pulse. This can simplify automation, especially with different types / lengths of sealing rings to be packaged or further processed separately.

According to one embodiment, the at least one gripper unit is guided during displacement on a circular path with changing direction of rotation, in particular by means of a disc. This can result in constructive advantages, be it with the respective pane, be it with respect to the arrangement of a drive unit. This can in particular also allows short displacement paths, depending on the arrangement of the gripper units.

According to a variant, a rotation angle of at least approximately 180 ° is passed through between the zero position and the connection position. Then the direction of rotation can be maintained.

According to one embodiment, two gripper units are guided during displacement in opposite directions of rotation on circular paths. This can be realized in particular by a spur toothing, which can be controlled in a simple manner and positioned in predefinable rotational positions. A respective disk for this can e.g. have a diameter of 150mm and 100 teeth.

According to one embodiment, during displacement two mutually engaging discs are rotated, in particular by means of a drive unit acting on one of the discs, in particular a pinion. This enables exact synchronization without elaborate control technology.

According to one embodiment, the at least one gripper unit is moved between three rotational positions, one position of which corresponds to a zero position for gripping the portion, one position of the wetting position, and one position of the connecting position, wherein the rotational positions are preferably offset by 90 ° from each other. This provides a simple structure or a simple method, each with advantages in the respective position, in particular with regard to accessibility or flexibility.

ITEM At least one of the foregoing objects is also achieved by a method of manufacturing sealing rings of continuous material, comprising the steps of: conveying and positioning the continuous material in at least one cutting position; Separating a portion of the continuous material in the cutting position; Gripping and displacing the section by means of two gripper units along a predetermined movement path; wherein the displacement of the portion occurs after separation and comprises controlled displacement of two free ends of the portion to a wetting position, further comprising the step of applying compound fluid to at least one of the free ends, further comprising the step of applying compound fluid: Displacing the free ends of the wetting position in a connecting position for materially connecting the free ends together by means of the applied Connecting fluid, further comprising the step of connecting the free ends of the gripper units from the connection position to a zero position, wherein the respective movement path of the free ends or the gripper units is a circular path or composed of individual circular segments between the respective positions, in particular 1 / 4-circle segments or 90 ° rotation angles. This results in previously described advantages. The respective gripper unit can be guided during displacement on a circular path with changing direction of rotation, in particular by means of a disc.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In the following drawing figures, the invention will be described in more detail, reference being made to reference characters, which are not explicitly described in a respective drawing figure, to the other drawing figures. Show it:

1A . 1B . 2 . 3 . 4 each in a side view in a schematic representation of a device according to an embodiment of different process steps;

5A . 5B each in a side view in a schematic representation of a device according to an embodiment; and

6 a schematic representation of steps of a method according to embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In 1A is a strand 1.1 of endless material 1 in a feed unit 20 arranged and is using rollers 21 ; 21a . 21b . 21c . 21d conveyed in the longitudinal direction x. The strand 1.1 is through a cutting unit 30 through or past it, and further through two gripper units 40 ; 40a . 40b , each through a passage 41 from that. A free end 1b of the strand 1.1 is doing over a bridge 23 led, in particular until there is a limit switch 25 reached behind the second gripper unit in the feed direction 40b is arranged. The respective gripper unit may comprise bipolar solenoids with end position fixation. The respective gripper unit is in an eccentric position Pex with the eccentricity ex on a disc or a gear 70 ; 70a . 70b arranged. The discs grip on a form-fitting contour in the manner of a toothing 73 into each other and form a spur toothing

The strand 1.1 is displaced along a movement path BP1.1, which movement path corresponds to at least approximately a straight line or the feed direction x. The gripper units remain arranged in each case in a zero position P0. A movement in the transverse direction y or height direction z is not desired or required.

In 1A a situation is shown in which the strand 1.1 through the passage of the front gripper unit 40a over the jetty 23 to the arranged in alignment with the rear gripper unit 40b is advanced. Both gripper units are open and arranged in the zero position.

In 1B a situation is shown in which the free end of the strand 1.1 up to a limit switch 25 was relocated. As soon as the limit switch 25 is reached, the rear gripper unit can be closed. The rear in the feed direction gripper unit can then grab the free end of the strand and fix it in this position. The limit switch can be formed mechanically or also optically, for example. The front gripper unit 40a is still open.

The strand can now be displaced against the rear gripper unit, which causes the rod to bulge or assume a circular segment shape. In this way, regardless of the distance of the gripper units to each other a desired length of the portion to be separated can be adjusted.

In 2 Now, a situation is shown in which the feed has been stopped, and arranged on the cutting unit length portion of the strand is arranged in a cutting position Ps, in which a knife is to hit the strand. In other words, the feed unit has realized a desired length specification for the section to be separated, for example by length or feed measurement on the rotating rollers, and has been locked in order to enable cutting in the most exact possible predetermined length position. The length can be set, for example, by the number of steps of a stepper motor, eg 1 step = 1 mm.

The strand 1.1 is so against the rear gripper unit 40b or has been advanced against a limit switch, that the strand arches arcuately, in particular downwards due to the gravitational force. It has been shown that the web or the guide rail on which the strand was previously displaced in the feed direction does not necessarily have to be displaced, depending on the material. As a result of the arching, the strand, in particular in the case of sponge rubber, slips down autonomously from the guide rail. In this case, the strand has been pressed into a free space V0 between the gripper units for buffering, which free space V0 is open at the bottom or is unlimited, at least in a range of, for example, 15 to 25 cm. In particular, this free space V0 is open to length variations of the strand before cutting to the bottom Height dimensions corresponding to at least half the circumference of a ring of maximum diameter, for which the device should be designed. This allows an elegant concept for gripping and positioning sections of different lengths, without having to adjust the process to the desired length.

Once the desired length has been reached or the feed has been stopped, the front gripper unit can be closed. Now, the cutting to length or separation of a section 1.2 of the strand 1.1 by means of a knife 31 the cutting unit 30 respectively.

Then the separated section 1.2 be shifted by the discs are rotated against each other. For this purpose, a drive unit engages 80 comprising at least one stepper motor 80a . 80b by means of a pinion 82 with positive locking contour or toothing 83 in at least one of the discs, whereby the free ends are displaced from the zero position P0 in the wetting position Pf, namely by a rotation angle of 90 °, as in 3 is apparent. A rotation angle α of the driven pulley here corresponds to the rotation angle α1 from the zero position to the wetting position.

The in the respective passage 41 clamped free ends of the section are thereby displaced along the circular arcs BP1a, BP1b, corresponding at least approximately to a movement path BP40 of the respective gripper unit, or concentrically thereto. In the wetting position Pf, both free ends are aligned face-up. In the example shown here one of them is wetted. Optionally, both can be wetted.

A Verbindungsfluidzuführeinrichtung 60 is located above the wetting position Pf and comprises one or two feeding units 61 ; 61a . 61b each with an outlet 61.1 , During the application of compound fluid F, the wetting position Pf can be maintained briefly, for example a few seconds. Optionally, however, a continuous displacement through the wetting position Pf through (without stop), depending on the manner of supplying connecting fluid, or depending on the viscosity of the connecting fluid.

In 3 a situation is shown in which both free ends 1a . 1b of the separated section 1.2 have been moved 90 ° in opposite directions of rotation on circular paths toward each other and have been brought into the wetting position, in which connection fluid can be applied, optionally on one or both free ends or on their end faces. Here, the (respective) bridge 23 be turned away together with the slices.

In 4 is a sealing ring 1.3 were prepared by the free ends were brought into a connection position or pressing position Pp, in turn by shifting on a circular path. The angle of rotation α2 from the zero position to the connecting position corresponds to 180 °, and the angle between the wetting position and the connecting position corresponds to 90 °.

In 4 a situation is shown in which both gripper units or both free ends 1a . 1b of the separated section 1.2 by 90 ° in opposite directions of rotation were moved towards each other on circular paths and were brought into the connection position in which the free ends can be abutted against each other to the plant, in particular with a predefinable pressure, which, for example, depending on an overlap or a supernatant the ends can be adjusted with respect to each other. The supernatant is for example 2 mm.

The end faces of the section were shifted from opposite, exactly opposite orientation, in a frontally facing each other orientation by two rotational movements on two circular paths in the connecting position.

In this position, the discs can be locked, for example, for a few seconds to ensure a durable, resilient connection can. Then the ring can 1.3 be ejected or removed, and the discs can be turned back or further rotated until the respective zero position is reached again. In other words, the drive unit or the stepper motor can also be set up for an alternating direction of rotation.

In 5A is an example of a device 10 for producing sealing rings, comprising a measuring device 2 with at least a first sensor 2.1 , in particular an angle measuring unit or Drehconder, at least one time detection unit 2.2 , at least one optical measuring unit, in particular a camera 2.3 , and at least one pressure sensor 2.4 , in particular integrated into the respective gripper unit. The measuring device 2 is to a controller 50 coupled, which is a computing unit 51 , a data store 52 , an input / output unit 53 , in particular with a visual user interface and a communication interface 54 , especially for wireless communication.

In the 5B well recognizable is a respective pivot bearing 71 for the respective disc, and furthermore a pivot bearing 81 for the drive unit. The individual components of the device 10 are on a frame 90 arranged and on a plate 91 attached, in particular a reservoir 93 or a reel for the endless material 1 , and also a guide 93.1 in particular a rod arranged obliquely with respect to the horizontal for receiving ejected, fully connected sealing rings.

The respective disc 70a . 70b is in a mounting position / height z70 in the pivot bearing 71 mounted, wherein the mounting height z70 is preferably greater than the maximum diameter of the rings to be created, in particular at least 35 to 40cm. This allows the ring to move freely in the free space, regardless of its size. The mounting height z70 may be measured with respect to a plate arranged in the xy plane, and may be 50 cm or 60 cm, for example. With such a mounting height z70, a large clearance V0 can be realized, in which the rings can be produced and, optionally, also temporarily stored, eg batches of 100 or 200 pieces.

In 6 schematically variants of a possible sequence of a method according to the invention are illustrated, highlighting six individual steps, which are preferably carried out in the chronology described.

First, in a first step S1, a conveying of a strand takes place 1.1 of the endless material (driving the feed unit 20 ) to at least one gripper unit 40a . 40b and positioning the strand 1.1 according to a desired length of a portion to be cut off 1.2 relative to a cutting unit 30 namely, in a cutting position Ps (feed stop). For this example, a length of 20cm or 25cm from the strand 1.1 be unwound. The length of the section may correspond to the distance of the gripper units to each other, or be greater. In the embodiment described here, the strand is gripped by two gripper units, so that the length of the section corresponds at least to the distance between the gripper units.

In this case, the conveying and positioning can be regulated in a first control point R1, in particular by predefining parameters to a feed unit (s) 20 such that the first step S1 can be controlled, in particular with regard to a specific position (feed stop) or its regulation, or also with respect to a conveying speed or contact pressure of rollers of the feed unit to the sealing material.

According to one embodiment, the strand is conveyed in an at least approximately horizontal plane. To facilitate the gripping of the free end, a ridge or a sliding contour can be provided which serves as a sliding support for the strand. The web can be aligned with the gripper unit. The web can be arranged on the respective disc.

During or at the end of the first step S1 is the strand 1.1 So in a cutting position Ps, in which the section of desired length can then be separated from the strand later. If the length is greater than the distance between the gripper units, so the strand can be transported against one of the gripper units (feed against the rear gripper unit), in particular after the free end of the strand has been gripped by the gripper unit. In this case, the strand can be arranged in a U-shape, in particular by the strand between a further, second gripper unit 40b which has already seized the strand, and a first gripper unit 40a relative to which the rod is still displaceable, is placed in an arc or a (semi-) circle segment (feed against an already grasped end). Depending on the desired length of the section, the strand hereby lies in a U-shape with a characteristic height. Thus, step 1 may also include gripping and positioning or holding one or more of the free end of the strand. The gripping can on the one hand a first gripping the free end or (after cutting) of the rear end in the feed direction and on the other hand, a second gripping the strand or (after cutting) of the front / first end in the feed direction. The first gripping can be adjusted to the feed. In particular, at the control point R1 a signal can be output from a limit switch that the free end of the strand has now reached a zero position in which the strand can be taken. The limit switch can in particular be arranged in alignment behind a passage of the gripper unit, and be actuated by means of the free end itself. Optionally, the feed for the first gripping stop (positioning). For the second gripping the feed is stopped.

According to one embodiment, the first step S1 also includes retraction, folding back or displacement or turning of the web, namely, when the length of the section is to be greater than the distance of the gripper units. Thus, also the first control point R1 may comprise a control loop for a mechanism for displacing the web. Preferably, the web is rotated together with a respective disc about a pivot bearing of the disc.

Then, in a second step S2, a separation of the section or a severing of the strand, in particular by one or two knives orthogonal to the strand 31 the cutting unit 30 ,

In particular, cutting parameters can also be monitored in a second control point R2, for example an applied force, a movement speed of the blade and / or the geometry of the generated cutting edge, for example by means of at least one optical measuring unit 2.3 , If the cut edge is not clean, in particular not even, the first step S1 can be repeated (dashed line). In particular, the strand can be cut to length again, in particular after the strand section to be discarded has been ejected. At the end of the second step S2, therefore, there is a cut-to-length section with cut edges or free ends, which are suitable for a cohesive connection.

In a third step S3, then a gripping of the separated free end and moving the section 1.2 take place, in particular such that both free ends of the section can be wetted by means of connecting fluid. The gripping of the separated free end can also have already taken place in step S1 or S2. In a third control point R3, therefore, in particular also the displacement of the free ends can be regulated, in particular by a continuous position detection or control. The displacement of the free ends can be done in particular on circular paths, in particular with opposite rotation angle. In this case, the gripper units can be moved toward each other, in particular from a maximum distance to half of this distance from each other. At the end of the third step S3, the free ends are thus accessible to connecting fluid F, in particular with their end faces pointing upwards and aligned in an at least approximately horizontal plane. In the third control point R3, the position detection or regulation can also be done in an elegant manner in that both gripper units are arranged on intermeshing discs, of which only one is driven. Thus, one of the discs or gripper units can be positioned indirectly through the other, providing easy control and a robust process.

The wetting position Pf does not necessarily have to deviate from the cutting position or zero position. Rather, according to a variant, an application of compound fluid in the cutting position or zero position can take place. Therefore, in 6 indicated that the step S3 can optionally be skipped. However, it has been found that it is advantageous, in particular with regard to the arrangement of components of the device, to select a wetting position that is not equal to the zero or cutting position.

Once the one or more free ends are arranged in the wetting position Pf, in a fourth step S4, the application of connecting fluid, and optionally also at least partial drying can take place. The wetting position Pf can correspond to the highest point of a rotatable disc on which the respective gripper unit can be arranged. In a fourth control point R4 on the one hand the application, on the other hand, the drying or lingering can be regulated, in particular with respect to the applied type or amount of the connecting fluid or a residence time in the wetting position. At the end of the fourth step S4, the free end or ends are thus set up to be connected to one another. In the desired desiccation period but also a period of time can be included, which is required for a displacement of the gripper units from the wetting position into a connecting position.

In a fifth step S5, the free ends of the section are connected, in particular comprising a displacement from the wetting position into the connection position, whereby the free ends can be contacted with one another. The displacement can be done by a rotary motion, in particular exclusively. The free ends can be brought to rest solely by a rotational movement to each other, in particular each about pivot points, which are arranged in alignment in the feed direction one behind the other.

In a fifth control point R5 on the one hand, the displacement can be monitored / regulated in the connection position (which can be done in the manner described above), on the other hand, the contacting of the free ends are monitored, in particular with respect to the relative orientation to each other, and / or with respect to a contact pressure and / or a residence time in the connection position. Here, e.g. optical measuring units or pressure sensors are used. At the end of the fifth step S5 so there is a cohesive connection, by means of which from the section a ring was formed.

It should be noted that gripping the tread ends in the desired position may already be sufficient to define all other free end positions during the process. The grippers need only be closed once. The corresponding position of the free ends can be specified both for the application of adhesive as well as for contacting or pressing against each other. In order to optimize or regulate the gripping and optional optional adjustment of the strand, an optical control can take place, in particular by means of or arranged in the region of the zero positions aligned cameras. This embodiment of the method allows a high degree of accuracy, and the effort for adjustment and repositioning or corrections can be minimized. In particular, when the gripper units and the discs or gears are designed as rigid elements, the positioning of the free ends can be optimized only by the fact that the feeding of the profile ends is carried out particularly carefully or exactly.

Optionally, the process may be terminated at this stage, or may resume with step S1, depending on whether ejecting the creating ring is required or desired. The step S5 may optionally also include opening or releasing the at least one gripper unit. The opening of the respective gripper unit can also take place in such a way that an ejection is associated therewith, or at least a slipping out of the ring onto a rod of a reservoir arranged as directly as possible in the transverse direction next to the gripper unit. For example, by opening the gripper units slightly in time, e.g. 1 sec., Causes the ring to rotate out of the xz plane and then fall out by itself upon opening the further gripper unit. In particular, the method can then be continued directly at step S1 if a gripping unit arranged in the connection position can already be gripped by a new section, be it with the same gripper unit or with an additional gripper unit.

According to a variant, the device comprises more than two gripper units, which are arranged such that at a gripper pair already arranged in the connection position, then at least one gripper unit is already arranged already in the zero position or at least approximately in the zero position. A relocation / turn back does not necessarily have to be done. Rather, the gripper pair arranged in the connecting position can easily be further rotated, e.g. by 20 °, to create a free space for the strand to be supplied and to arrange another gripper pair in the zero position. This can also save time and enable high volumes. For example, a plurality of gripper units can be arranged circumferentially on each disc. Optionally, the respective gripper unit may be pivotally mounted.

In a sixth step S6, a movement of a gripper unit or the relocation of the respective gripper unit into the zero position can take place, in particular of both gripper units synchronously with one another, in particular in opposite directions of rotation. The sixth step may include ejection, in particular prior to moving the gripper unit. The sixth step S6 may include a control point in which an ejection is regulated, in particular with respect to the type or time of release of the sealing ring by the gripper unit (s), and / or in which the type or the time and / or the speed of Movement be regulated. At the end of the sixth step S6, the gripper units are / are 40a . 40b So again arranged in the zero position and set up to grasp a newly supplied strand section.

In 6 are also indicated direct arrows between the individual steps, bypassing the control points, which should be emphasized that individual control points can also be skipped, depending on whether the device can be fixed in this regard / set, or if the control loop performed only randomly shall be.

With reference to the 1 to 6 In the following, a specific embodiment of the method is described, namely one of the possible variants for the automatic cutting and bonding of metered (moss) rubber profiles into rings.

The piece goods to be glued (round cord) 1 is the beginning of the device 10 stored, in particular wound up on a spool. Then the round cord 1 by a feed unit 20 , in particular four-roll feed with Drehconder (rotation angle measurement) for length measurement, to one of two at gears 70a . 70b mounted gripper units 40a . 40b transported. When entering or feeding the cord 1 the two gripper units are open. In particular, bipolar solenoids with end position fixation can be used as gripper units. Once the cord 1 reaches a certain zero position or a limit switch, the second (further away from the feed unit arranged) gripper unit 40b closed, reducing the cord 1 is fixed in it. By means of the feed unit 20 becomes the cord 1 further advanced to the desired nominal length or to the desired diameter of the ring to be created, namely in an area between the gripper units. The corresponding section 1.2 the cord is held in the form of a loop. When the target length has been reached, the first gripper unit becomes 40a closed, which also causes the corresponding profile end 1a the string is fixed. Thereupon, a cutting unit installed between the feed and the first gripper unit lengthens 30 the cord to the desired, programmable or adjustable length from.

One with a control device 50 connected drive unit 80 , In particular, a stepper motor can then the two gears 70a . 70b turn, in particular by 90 degrees in a wetting position Pf. If the desired position of the two gears is reached, there is an application of compound fluid F or adhesive, by means of a feed unit 61 or by means of a metering pump, which feed unit is preferably arranged above the wetting position. By slight reverse rotation of the metering pump or of a corresponding stepping motor, dripping off of connecting fluid can be avoided, in particular following the bonding process. For example, the stepper motor may be driven ten steps forward (corresponding to a certain amount x ml of adhesive delivery), and then two steps back, corresponding to a slight withdrawal of the adhesive from the outlet or applicator needle.

When connecting emitted vapors, especially cyanide-containing adhesive vapors can be sucked off. In contrast to manual gluing, these vapors are therefore no health hazards, or at least can be evacuated without being inhaled by a human being. An extraction takes place in particular via at least one activated carbon filter.

After applying the compound fluid, the stepper motor rotates 80 the respective gripper unit to the connection position or pressure position Pp on. In the connection position, the two profile ends 1a . 1b the cord attached to each other, especially on impact. This arrangement or the pressure position Pp is maintained for a predefinable minimum time, in particular depending on the type of compound fluid or the material to be bonded, for example 5 seconds. After the minimum time, the gripper units are opened again. The created / glued ring 1.3 can now leave the device 10 can be removed or can be ejected by means of an ejector (not shown). The ejector can cause ejection in a pneumatic manner (air blast), in particular by arranging the ejector behind the gripper units or behind the respective passage or behind the connection position.

To prepare for a subsequent connection process, the stepper motor 80 the gears 70 bring back to the starting position or zero position, in particular turn back. The gripper units can remain open. Once the initial position has been reached, the meter will be returned to the second gripper unit by means of the feed unit 40b transported, and the process described above is repeated until a desired / preset number of rings 1.3 is reached.

With the help of the control device 50 At least the following criteria or parameters may be defined, in particular at the beginning of a respective bonding / bonding process:
desired number of rings;
Length of the desired profile section or diameter of the ring;
Duration of the bonding process or bonding, depending on the used connection fluid / adhesive and environmental influences

In summary, it can be mentioned: In the manufacture of sealing rings made of flexible elastic, in particular elastomeric material, in many cases some process steps must be carried out manually, in particular gluing of free ends of a section separated from endless material. The present invention provides an apparatus and a method by which not only the particular cohesive connection of the free ends can be automated, but also a cutting to a desired length, or an ejection. As a result, high quantities of sealing rings can be automated and produced inexpensively in a flexible, predefinable manner.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

 endless material

1a, 1b

 free end

1.1

 Strand, round cord

1.2

 section

1.3

 sealing ring

2

 measuring device

2.1

 first sensor, in particular angle measuring unit or Drehconder

2.2

 Time recording unit

2.3

 optical measuring unit, in particular camera

2.4

 Pressure sensor, in particular integrated in gripper unit

10

 Device for producing sealing rings

20

 feed unit

21; 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d

 Role, in particular first to fourth role

23

 Bridge or guide or sliding contour

25

 limit switch

30

 cutting unit

31

 knife

40; 40a, 40b

 Gripper unit, in particular first and second gripper unit

41

 Passage for strand section

50

 control device

51

 computer unit

52

 data storage

53

 Input / output unit, in particular with visual user interface

54

 Communication interface, in particular for wireless communication

60

 Verbindungsfluidzuführeinrichtung

61; 61a, 61b

 Feeding unit, in particular first and second feed unit

61.1

 outlet

70; 70a, 70b

 Disc or gear, in particular first and second disc

71

 Swivel bearing for washer

73

 Positive locking contour, in particular toothing

80; 80a, 80b

 Drive unit, in particular first and second stepper motor

81

 Swivel bearing for drive unit

82

 pinion

83

 Positive locking contour, in particular toothing

90

 Frame for arranging and fixing components of the device

91

 plate

93

 reservoir

93.1

 Guide, in particular obliquely arranged with respect to the horizontal rod

BP1a, BP1b

 Motion path of a free end of the section after grasping

BP1.1

 Movement path of the strand, in particular before grasping

BP40

 Motion path of the (respective) gripper unit

ex

 eccentricity

F

 connecting fluid

Pex

 eccentric position

pf

 Wetting position, in particular with respect to a free end and with respect to an outlet

ps

 Cutting position, in particular with respect to the part of the strand to be separated

P0

 Zero position, in particular zero position of the respective gripper unit and a respective free end

pp

 Connection position, in particular pressing position of the respective gripper unit and a respective free end

R1

 first control point, in particular with respect to gripping and position detection or position control

R2

 second control point, in particular with respect to cutting parameters

R3

 third control point, in particular position detection or control

R4

 fourth control point, in particular with regard to applied type or amount of the connecting fluid or residence time in wetting position

R5

 fifth rule point, in particular regarding relocation and contacting

S1

 Step 1, in particular conveying / feeding and positioning and gripping

S2

 Step 2, in particular separation, optionally also grasping

S3

 Step 3, in particular displacement of at least one free end in wetting position

S4

 Step 4, in particular application of compound fluid

S5

 Step 5, in particular connecting the free ends of the section

S6

 Step 6, in particular ejecting and moving the gripper unit to the zero position

V0

 Free space for buffering or for length variations of the strand before cutting to length

x

 Longitudinal direction or feed direction, in particular in the horizontal plane

y

 Transverse direction, especially in the horizontal plane

z

 Height direction or vertical

Z70

 Mounting position / height of the respective disc

α

 Rotation angle of the driven pulley

α1

 Angle of rotation up to the wetting position

α2

 Angle of rotation up to the connection position

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 3739058 A1 [0003]
• EP 0567502 B1 [0004]
• DE 3532440 A1 [0005]
• DE 2547128 C2 [0005]
• DE 2056460 A [0005]
• DE 102012024120 A1 [0005]
• DE 19531167 A1 [0005]
• DE 102007042487 B4 [0005]
• DE 2542436 A1 [0005]
• DE 102007040077 B4 [0005]
• DE 2321648 A1 [0005]
• DE 3829210 A1 [0005]

Claims (20)

Contraption ( 10 ) for the production of sealing rings ( 1.3 ) from endless material ( 1 ), in particular of round cords, comprising - a feed unit ( 20 ) arranged to convey and position the continuous material in at least one cutting position (Ps); A cutting unit ( 30 ) arranged to separate a section ( 1.2 ) of the endless material; At least one gripper unit ( 40 ; 40a . 40b ) arranged to grip and displace the continuous material or section; A control device ( 50 ), which is in connection with the feed unit, which is at least one gripper unit and / or the cutting unit; characterized in that the at least one gripper unit is arranged to controllably displace at least one free end ( 1a . 1b ) of the section along a predeterminable movement path (BP1.1, BP1a, BP1b) into and / or out of a wetting position (Bf), wherein the device further comprises a connection fluid supply device ( 60 ), which is in connection with the control device and is arranged or can be arranged such that connecting fluid (F) can be applied to the at least one free end that can be arranged in the wetting position. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one free end or the at least one gripper unit is displaceable in a connecting position (Pp), in which the two free ends of the portion are abuttable against each other. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one free end in a connecting position (Pp) is displaceable, which is arranged between two in cutting at a zero position (P0) arranged gripper units, in particular aligned and / or centrally between the zero positions. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting fluid supply device ( 60 ) at least one feed unit ( 61 ; 61a . 61b for supplying compound fluid (F) which is related to a path (BP1.1, BP40) of the portion (FIG. 1.2 ) or the at least one gripper unit ( 40 ) is positioned or aligned, in particular radially or orthogonal thereto. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the Verbindungsfluidzuführeinrichtung is arranged above the at least one gripper unit. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the feed unit ( 20 ), the endless material ( 1 ) to the gripper unit ( 40a ) and past the gripper unit to at least one further gripper unit ( 40b ), in particular to another gripper unit in opposite position. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one gripper unit ( 40a . 40b ) a passage ( 41 ) for the portion to be separated. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises a web or a guide or a sliding contour ( 23 ) which is arranged such that the continuous material or the respective section (FIG. 1.2 ) along a predefined movement path or a predefined contour, in particular at least approximately rectilinearly, from the cutting unit ( 30 ) can be moved, in particular to another gripper unit ( 40b ). Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the feed unit in alignment with the gripper unit and at least one further gripper unit ( 40b ) is arranged. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one gripper unit ( 40a . 40b ) in eccentric position (Pex) on a rotatably mounted, motor-driven disc ( 70 ; 70a . 70b ) is arranged. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the movement path (BP1a, BP1b) of the at least one free end (BP1a, BP1b) 1a . 1b ) is at least partially a circular path. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device at least one by means of a drive unit ( 80 ; 80a . 80b ) can be arranged in predefined rotational positions disc ( 70 ; 70a . 70b ), on which the gripper unit is arranged eccentrically. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises two gripper units ( 40a . 40b ), which in eccentric position (Pex) on two discs ( 70a . 70b ) are arranged, which are rotatably mounted opposite to each other, in particular in engagement with each other. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises two gripper units ( 40a . 40b ), which in each case can be displaced from the wetting position into a connecting position (Pp), in which the two free ends of the section can be brought into contact with one another. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device ( 10 ) two gripper units ( 40a . 40b ) and is arranged, the two free ends ( 1a . 1b ) of the cut-to-length section ( 1.2 ) in each case along the respective movement path (BP1a, BP1b) in the wetting position (Pf) to shift, in particular simultaneously and / or on asymmetrical movement paths, there for the application of compound fluid (F) to dwell, and then the free ends in a connection position (Pp) to each other to plant, in particular with a predefined residence time. Apparatus for producing sealing rings of continuous material, in particular a device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a feed unit arranged to convey and position the continuous material in at least one cutting position; a cutting unit configured to sever a portion of the continuous material; two gripper units arranged for gripping and displacing the continuous material or section along a predeterminable movement path; a controller in communication with the feed unit, the gripper units and the cutter unit; wherein the gripper units are adapted to controllably displace at least one of the free ends of the portion to a wetting position, the apparatus further comprising connection fluid supply means in communication with the control means and arranged such that connection fluid is exposed to the at least one free wetting position located in the wetting position End controlled is applied, wherein the free ends or the gripper units are displaced from the wetting position to a connecting position in which the two free ends of the portion are abuttable to each other, wherein the feed unit is arranged, the endless material to a first of the gripper units and thereto to lead to a second of the gripper units, in particular in opposite position, wherein the gripper units each have a passage for the portion to be separated, wherein the gripper units each eccentric Position are arranged on a rotatably mounted, motor-driven disc, which are rotatably mounted opposite to each other, in particular in engagement with each other, wherein the respective movement path is a circular path. Control device ( 50 ) adapted for driving a device for producing sealing rings ( 1.3 ) from endless material ( 1 ), in particular adapted for driving a device ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device has a data memory ( 52 ) in which are stored: position data of a zero position (P0) of at least one gripper unit ( 40 ), Position data of at least one wetting position (Pf), position data of a connection position (Pp), data relating to a movement path (BP40) of the at least one gripper unit, in particular with respect to a rotational adjustment movement of a drive unit ( 80 ), and / or data on the properties of at least one kind of continuous material ( 1 ), wherein the control device ( 50 ) has a communication interface to at least one of the following components of the device: feed unit ( 20 ), Cutting unit ( 30 ), Gripper unit ( 40 ), Verbindungsfluidzuführeinrichtung ( 60 ). Use of a control device ( 50 ) in a device for producing sealing rings from endless material, in particular in a device ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, for specifying at least one wetting position (Pf) and a connection position (Pp) of free ends ( 1a . 1b ) of a cut-to-length section ( 1.2 ) of the endless material, in particular for driving at least one drive unit ( 80 ) for displacing at least one gripper unit ( 40 ), in particular on a circular path. Use of at least one rotatably mounted disc ( 70 ; 70a . 70b ) in a device for producing sealing rings from endless material, in particular in a device ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, for positioning at least one gripper unit ( 40 ) for gripping the continuous material and in a wetting position (Pf) for applying connecting fluid (F) to at least one free end ( 1a . 1b ) of a cut-to-length section ( 1.2 ) of the continuous material and further in a connecting position (Pp) for connecting the two free ends of the section. Use according to claim 18 or 19, wherein at least two discs ( 70a . 70b ) are used, which are rotated in positive engagement with each other in opposite directions of rotation.

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