Patent Description:
Flat pieces such as plastic cards are used in different technical areas and need to be treated and in different ways. For example, imaging of the flat piece may be carried out, a card printer can be used to print an image and/or graphical elements on the flat piece, a laser may be used for engraving, the flat piece may be laminated, cured, cut, embossed or otherwise treated.

One requirement for performing such treatments and manipulations in an efficient and highly automated manner is that the flat piece is transferred from a supply to the respective treatment devices reliably and at a high frequency.

Different methods for transferring flat pieces to a machine have been suggested. However, there is a need for more efficient and reliable feed-in techniques. Flat pieces need to be transferred from a supply to treatment devices and provided reproducibly. <CIT> describes a device for flipping flat pieces, while transferring them between stacks.

It is the problem of the invention to provide an improved device and method for transferring a flat piece, in particular a plastic card, from an initial position to a destination position. In particular, it is one problem of the invention to provide the flat pieces such that they are positioned reproducibly and reliably at a target position and in a defined orientation. Also, the transferring process should be flexible for different positions and/or orientations, while at the same time a consistent timing should be reached.

This problem is solved by a device and a method according to the independent claims of the attached set of claims. Further advantageous embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

The device for transferring a flat piece, in particular a plastic card, from an initial position to a destination position, comprises a holder element for holding the flat piece and a rotator element, which is rotatable around a rotation axis. The holder element is swivel-mounted to the rotator element, such that the holder element is rotatable relative to the rotator element around a swivel axis. When the rotator element is at a destination rotation angle, the holder element can have a first or a second holder orientation relative to the rotator element, wherein the first and second holder orientation relative to the rotator element are oriented opposite to each other, and, when the rotator element is rotated from an initial rotation angle towards the destination rotation angle in a first rotation direction, the holder element reaches the destination position having the second orientation relative to the rotator element.

This provides an advantageously simple and reliable mechanic to transfer the flat piece. By using a rotation of the rotator element to move the holder element with the respective flat piece, the transfer to the destination position can be linked to further translation and rotation movements, in order to reach a defined state of the flat piece.

In particular, the rotation of the holder element is not driven actively, but passively, for example by an active rotation of the rotator element. Also, the rotation of the holder element can be driven indirectly instead of directly from a motor element, for example by a rotation of the rotator element, which is driven directly by a motor element.

In particular, a flat piece extends mainly in one plane. Thus, it has a thickness, which is at least a factor <NUM> smaller than its extension perpendicular to the direction of the thickness. Examples of a flat pieces are plastic cards, sheets of plastic, paper, metal or other material, mail pieces, or similar objects. The flat piece may be provided with different shapes, such as an essentially rectangular or round shape.

At the initial position, the flat piece may be provided by a loading element or a feeding device. Also, the flat piece may be taken from a supply, such as a stack or a container with a supply of flat pieces. In general, the flat piece is taken up or loaded to the holder element at the initial position.

At the destination position, the flat piece may be presented to a treatment device, such as a device for imaging or a printer. For example, the flat piece can be fed onto a transport element, such as a belt or carrier element, in order to transport the flat piece further. In general, the flat piece may leave or be removed from the holder piece at the destination position.

In particular, the swivel axis of the holder element relative to the rotator element may be different from the rotation axis of the rotator element. In an embodiment, the swivel axis is oriented parallel to the rotation axis of the rotator element.

The first and second holder orientation relative to the rotator element is oriented opposite to each other, wherein the second holder orientation is reached by a rotation of <NUM>° around the swivel axis. In further non-claimed embodiments, the first and second holder orientation may be defined differently, e.g., by another difference of rotation angle around the swivel axis.

Thus, when the flat piece is provided at the destination position and the rotator element has been rotated to the destination rotation angle, there are at least two distinct orientations that the holder element - and the flat piece provided therewith - can have. The device therefore allows for a high flexibility in providing the flat piece in a defined orientation. In particular two cases can be distinguished, either flipping the flat piece in the process of transferring it to the destination position, or not flipping.

For example, the first and/or second holder orientation may be defined by an angle between the rotator element and the holder element. For example, a rotator longitudinal extension may be defined between the rotation axis and the swivel axis; a holder longitudinal extension may be defined between the swivel axis and the cam roller or along the length of a card when it is held by the holder element. In particular, the longitudinal axes of the rotator and holder element may be at a <NUM>° angle in the first and/or second holder orientation. In particular, the holder element can be flipped with respect to the rotator element, when it changes between the first and second holder orientation. Also, a flat piece that is held by the holder element can be flipped together with the holder element relative to the rotator element.

The device may be configured such that, when the rotator element is at the initial rotation angle, i.e., when the holder element is at the initial position, the holder element has always an initial holder orientation relative to the rotator element, for example the first holder orientation or another holder orientation.

On the other hand, the device may be configured such that the holder element can have either the first or the second holder orientation relative to the rotator element, when the rotator element is at the destination rotation angle, i.e., when the holder element is at the destination position. In particular, if other holder orientations are excluded at these rotation angles, a very clearly defined positioning and orientation of the flat pieces is achieved. This allows for example two ways of transferring the flat pieces, namely with and without a flipping action, wherein one side or another side of the flat piece is presented upwards.

In an embodiment, the holder element has constraining pieces, which are at least partially spring-loaded and configured to clamp a flat piece between V-grooves. Such V-grooves may define a direction, along which an edge of the flat piece is oriented. By providing such grooves in constraining pieces on opposite sides, the flat piece may be secured along the direction between these constraining pieces. In particular, a constraining piece on one side may be fixed, while the opposing one is spring-loaded, e.g., by a leaf spring.

In an embodiment, the device comprises a loading element, which is configured to load the flat piece from the initial position to the holder element. This allows advantageously providing the flat piece automatically to the holder element.

A loading element may be configured, for example, to push a flat piece between constraining pieces of the loading element. Different push mechanisms can be used, for example utilizing a spring-loaded or motor-driven pusher arm. In particular, the loading element can be configured to transfer a flat piece from a supply and insert it into the holder element.

For example, the loading element pushes a flat piece from a supply towards the holder element, for example between the above-described constraining pieces.

In an embodiment, the device further comprises a rotation motor unit, which is configured to drive the rotation of the rotator element, and a control unit, which is configured to control the rotation direction, a rotation speed, an amount of rotation and/or a rotation angle of the rotator element. This allows advantageously automated and reproducible transfer of the flat pieces.

In particular, the control unit may be configured to generate a control signal and transmit the control signal to the rotation motor unit. In response to the control signal, the rotation motor unit may then initiate a rotation of the rotator element around the rotation axis in a specific rotation direction and/or at a specific rotation speed, for a specific amount of rotation and/or to a specific rotation angle of the rotator element.

Different motor types may be used, in particular an electric motor such as a stepper motor. The motor unit may be configured to give a position feedback. If the motor unit does not give a position feedback, a position sensor and/or a homing sensor may be provided to detect a specific position of the motor and/or the rotator element. In particular, the sensor signal may be fed to the control unit, where it is used for generating the motor control signal.

In an embodiment, the device is in an initial state or loading state, when the rotator element has the initial rotation angle, for example when it is facing downwards in a gravity field. However, other orientations of the rotator element can be used to define the initial rotation angle.

In an embodiment, the device is in a destination state, when the rotator element has the destination rotation angle, for example when it is facing upwards in a gravity field. However, other orientations of the rotator element can be used to define the destination rotation angle.

In another embodiment, the rotator element may be facing upwards at the initial rotation angle and downwards at the destination rotation angle. Thus, the initial and destination state can advantageously be defined very easily through the respective rotation angles.

Also, the holder element may be at the initial position and/or in an initial holder orientation, when the device is in the initial or loading state. In particular, the device may be configured to receive a flat piece, when it is in the initial state. Thus, if a loading element is provided, it may be configured to load the flat piece, when the device is in the initial state.

A sensor may be provided in order to sense the current rotation angle of the rotator element, and/or to sense the current position and/or orientation of the holder element. Thus, such a sensor may be used to determine the current state of the device, and the sensor readout may be used to control the device and further devices for providing or treating the flat pieces.

In particular, the position of the holder element and a flat piece, respectively, is at the initial position, when the rotator element has the initial rotation angle and the device is in the initial state, respectively.

On the other hand, a destination state or output state or feeding state of the device may be defined, when the rotator element has the destination rotation angle, in particular when it is facing upwards.

For example, the device may be configured to output the flat piece, when it is in the destination state. Thus, if an outputting element, a pusher element or a feed-out element is provided, it is configured to output the flat piece, when the device is in the destination state. In particular, the position of the holder element and a flat piece, respectively, is at the destination position, when the rotator element has the destination rotation angle and the device is in the destination state, respectively. For example, the destination position is reached, after the flat piece has been loaded on the device in the initial state and the rotator element has been rotated to the destination rotation angle in the first or second rotation direction.

In an embodiment, when the rotator element is at the initial rotation angle, the holder element has the first holder orientation relative to the rotator element. A cam roller is connected to the holder element. Herein, when the rotator element is rotated towards the destination rotation angle in the first rotation direction, the cam roller reaches a first limitation stop, such that the holder element is rotated towards the second orientation relative to the rotator element.

This configuration allows a very efficient and easy control over the orientation of the flat piece. Also, the device can be implemented cost-efficiently and robust. Using a cam to control the movement and in particular the rotation of the holder element is a very reliable approach, which can easily be adjusted for different uses.

In an embodiment, the device further comprises at least one orienting member for keeping the holder element in the first or second holder orientation relative to the rotator element. Thus, a defined holder orientation is advantageously reached, and the device can "switch" from one holder orientation to the other. In addition to that, the holder element may be secured at a defined orientation and/or position, such that the flat piece is presented in a highly defined and reproducible manner.

The first and second holder orientation are opposite to each other, i.e., rotated <NUM>° relative to the rotator element.

In an embodiment, the orienting member comprises a magnetic element, which may be configured to magnetically keep the holder element in the first or second holder orientation relative to the rotator element. Thus, the holder element is advantageously fixed in the first or second holder orientation very easily. A magnetic force between the holder element and the orienting member serves to temporarily secure a defined holder orientation relative to the rotator element.

For example, the holder element may comprise a magnetic material, in particular a paramagnetic material, which is held by the orienting member with a magnet. On the other hand, in an inverted configuration, the orienting member may comprise a magnetic material, in particular a paramagnetic material, which is held by a magnet of the holder element.

In further embodiments, the orienting member may comprise another mechanism. For example, a snap-lock principle and/or spring-loaded elements may be used, wherein the holder element snaps into a temporarily fixed position with respect to the rotator element. In particular, the device may be configured such that the snap-lock mechanism can be opened and the holder orientation can be switched.

In an embodiment, the cam roller is connected to the holder element such that it has a fixed position relative to the holder element. For example, the cam roller may be comprised by or integrated in the holder element. This allows advantageously easy guidance of the holder movement and orientation by the cam roller.

In particular, the cam roller may be guided along a cam roller guide. The cam roller guide may be configured such that it has at least the first limitation stop.

The first limitation stop may be configured such that it prevents further rotation of the rotator element in the first rotation direction, when the cam roller abuts the first limitation stop. In particular, the further rotation may be prevented through an interaction between the cam roller and the first limitation stop. In addition to that, further rotation may be prevented through an interaction between the holder element and the rotator element.

In an embodiment, when the rotator element is rotated towards the destination rotation angle in a second rotation direction, the cam roller reaches a second limitation stop, such that the rotation of the rotator element is stopped. Thus, the device can advantageously vary the way of presenting the flat piece in the holder element by changing the rotation direction.

In particular, the second limitation stop is comprised by the cam roller guide, and the device is configured such that, when the rotator element is rotated towards the destination rotation angle in a second rotation direction, in particular opposite to the first rotation direction, the cam roller reaches the second limitation stop.

The second limitation stop may be configured such that it prevents further rotation of the rotator element in the second rotation direction, when the cam roller abuts the second limitation stop. In particular, the further rotation may be prevented through an interaction between the cam roller and the second limitation stop. In addition to that, further rotation may be prevented through an interaction between the holder element and the rotator element.

A sensor may be provided for sensing that the cam roller has reached the second limitation stop. A control signal can be generated and sent to the control unit for controlling a rotation motor and stopping the rotation.

In another embodiment, the rotation of the holder element is coupled to the rotation of the rotator element by a gearing. Thus, a very simple and robust mechanism is provided.

In particular, the rotation of the holder element can be coupled to the rotation of the rotator element such that, when the rotator element is rotated, the holder element is rotated as well.

Also, the coupling can be such that the rotation direction of the rotator element also determines the rotation direction of the holder element.

Also, the rotation speed of the rotator element can determine the rotation speed of the holder element.

The gearing can be configured such that a defined relation between the rotation of the rotator element and the rotation of the holder element have a defined relation to each other. For example, the holder element can rotate in the same or the opposite direction as the rotator element. In another example, the holder element can rotate at a double angular speed as the rotator element, or the rotational speeds can have another ratio.

In an embodiment, the holder element is fixed to a holder gearwheel, which engages with a static gearwheel. In particular, the static gearwheel does not rotate, while the rotator element and/or the holder element is rotated. While the holder gearwheel is moved relative to the static gearwheel, a holder rotation can be induced.

In an embodiment, the static gearwheel is arranged concentric with the rotation axis. For example, the static gearwheel can be arranged around a sleeve, through which the rotation axis is running.

In an embodiment, the holder gearwheel is arranged concentric with the swivel axis. For example, the holder gearwheel can be fixed to the holder element or the holder element's axis such that the holder element experiences the same rotation as the holder gearwheel.

In an embodiment, the static gearwheel and the holder gearwheel have a transmission ratio such that a full rotation of the rotator element corresponds to (N+<NUM>) rotations of the holder element, wherein N is a natural number.

For example, the static gearwheel and the holder gearwheel can have a transmission ratio of <NUM>:<NUM>.

In particular, when the rotator element is rotated <NUM>° around the rotation axis, the holder element is rotated <NUM>° angle around the swivel axis. On the other hand, when the rotator element is rotated <NUM>° around the rotation axis, the holder element is rotated <NUM>° around the swivel axis.

More generally, the transmission ratio may be configured such that one full rotation of the static gearwheel corresponds to N+<NUM> full rotations of the holder gearwheel, and thus the holder element.

Thus, the device can be configured to translate the holder element and the flat piece, respectively, while at the same time either keeping effectively the same holder orientation or flipping the holder orientation. To this end, an initial rotation angle of the rotator element is defined, and a destination rotation angle is defined as <NUM>° in the first rotation direction or <NUM>° in the second rotation direction. Both destination rotation angles correspond to the same destination position. While the rotator element is rotated, the holder element is also rotated either <NUM>°, when choosing the first rotation direction for the rotator element, or <NUM>°, when choosing the second rotation direction for the rotator element. Thus, by choosing the first or second rotation direction, the flat piece in the holder element can be flipped or not flipped during translation.

In an embodiment, when the rotator element is rotated in the first rotation direction and reaches the destination rotation angle, the holder element has essentially the same holder orientation relative to the rotator element, as when the rotator element is at the initial rotation angle. In other words, a flat piece, which is held by the holding element, is not flipped over during a translation from the initial position to the destination position. The flat piece is therefore advantageously easily moved from the initial position to the destination position very efficiently.

In an embodiment, when the rotator element is rotated in the second rotation direction and reaches the destination rotation angle, the holder element has essentially an opposite holder orientation relative to the rotator element, as when the rotator element is at the initial rotation angle. In other words, a flat piece, which is held by the holding element, is flipped over while the rotator element is rotated in the second rotation direction, and reaches the destination position through a translation combined with a rotation compared to the initial position.

Thus, by changing the rotation direction, the device allows advantageously a simple and robust choice between flipping the transferred flat piece, or transferring the flat piece without such a flip or rotation.

In particular, the opposite orientation relates to a rotation around <NUM>° around an axis, which extends in the plane of the flat piece or parallel to this plane. For example, one side that is facing upwards will face downwards in the opposite orientation.

On the other hand, the device may be configured such that, when the flat piece reaches the destination position, it is also rotated around another axis, in particular around an axis perpendicular to the plane of the flat piece.

In an embodiment, the device further comprises an outputting element, in particular a pusher element or a feeding element, to output the flat piece from the holder element. Thus, the flat piece can advantageously be output very easily and without the use of additional devices.

In particular, the outputting element is configured to output the flat piece, after the holder element has reached the destination position.

The outputting element, which may be configured as a pusher element, can be actuated by an outputting motor unit, in particular a pusher motor unit. For example, a pushing motor unit may be configured to rotate a pusher element, which is thereby pivoted into contact with the flat piece and which pushes the flat pieces out of the holder element in a defined direction.

For example, the outputting element may be controlled by a control unit, in particular the same control unit as a rotation motor.

In an embodiment, a height difference is provided between the initial and destination position of the holder element. In particular, the height is defined along an axis, which may be parallel to an axis of a gravity field. Thus, the device can be advantageously used to overcome a height difference while the flat piece is presented.

The height difference may be essentially determined by a distance between the rotation axis of the rotator element and the swivel axis of the holder element, in particular if the difference between the initial rotation angle and the destination rotation angle of the rotator element is <NUM>°. In this the case, for example, the rotator element may be oriented downwards and the holder element may be at its lowest position in the initial state, while in the destination state the rotator element is oriented upwards and the holder element is at its highest position, such that a positive height difference is overcome. On the other hand, the rotator element can be oriented upwards and the holder element may be at its highest position in the initial state, while in the destination state the rotator element is oriented downwards and the holder element is at its lowest position, such that a negative height difference is overcome. The height difference may, e.g. be chosen between <NUM> and <NUM>, in particular between <NUM> and <NUM>, in particular between <NUM> and <NUM>, in particular between <NUM> and <NUM>, in particular at <NUM>.

The method for transferring a flat piece, in particular a plastic card, from an initial position to a destination position comprises loading the flat piece on a holder element at the initial position, and rotating a rotator element, to which the holder element is swivel-mounted, around a rotation axis from an initial rotation angle to a destination rotation angle. When the rotator element is at the initial rotation angle, the holder element has a first orientation relative to the rotator element. When the rotator element is rotated towards the destination rotation angle in the first rotation direction, the holder element is rotated towards a second holder orientation relative to the rotator element.

In particular, the method is suited to operate the above-mentioned device. Thus, it has the same advantages as the device for transferring a flat piece, in particular a plastic card, from an initial position to a destination position.

The invention is described further on the basis of the attached figures. Therein, the figures show:.

Turning to <FIG>, a first embodiment of the device is described.

The device <NUM> of the embodiment comprises a rotator element <NUM>, which is at one end mounted rotatably around a rotation axis 12a.

Also, the device <NUM> comprises a holder element <NUM>, which is swivel-mounted around a swivel axis 14a at the end of the rotator element <NUM> that is opposite the rotation axis 12a.

The rotator element <NUM> has an orienting member <NUM> attached with two magnetic elements 18a, 18b at opposing sides.

In the embodiment, the magnetic elements 18a, 18b are configured to hold the holder element <NUM> by magnetic force, when the holder element <NUM> comes close enough towards or into contact with one of the magnetic elements 18a, 18b. To this end, the holder element <NUM> comprises a paramagnetic section, at least in the region where it can come get close to or into contact with the magnetic elements 18a, 18b.

In the case shown in <FIG>, the holder element <NUM> has been rotated around the swiveling axis 14a such that it comes into contact with one of the magnetic elements 18a, where it is held at a <NUM>° angle relative to the rotator element <NUM>. Thus, when the rotator element <NUM> is rotated around the rotation axis 12a, the holder element <NUM> will remain at its <NUM>° orientation relative to the rotator element <NUM>, until an external force releases its magnetic connection to the magnetic element 14a.

A cam roller <NUM> is attached at the end of the holder element <NUM> that is opposite to the swivel axis 14a. The cam roller <NUM> is guided by a cam roller guide <NUM>, which comprises a first 20a and a second limitation stop 20b.

The device <NUM> of the embodiment is designed to transmit cards <NUM> from an intermittent walking beam transport onto a conveyor belt <NUM>.

Also, the device of the embodiment is configured to optionally provide a specific position of a flat piece, in particular a card <NUM>, for visual inspection, before transferring the card <NUM> to the conveyor belt <NUM>. In this case, an image of the card <NUM> is taken, after it has been brought up to the level of the conveyor belt <NUM>, but before the card <NUM> is transferred to it.

Thus, the device <NUM> has the functionality to hold the card <NUM> in position during visual inspection, and to guide the card <NUM> during its actual transfer to the conveyor belt <NUM>.

In addition to that, the device <NUM> of the embodiment provides the possibility to transfer the card <NUM> in its original orientation to the conveyor belt <NUM> or to flip the card <NUM> to transfer it in an opposite orientation.

<FIG> shows a loading element <NUM>, which is configured to load flat pieces <NUM>, in this case a card <NUM>, on the holding element <NUM> via a card guide of the loading element <NUM>. The holding mechanism and the loading are described in more detail later. In the embodiment, an initial position of the flat piece <NUM> or card <NUM> is defined as the position, where the card is loaded on the holder element <NUM>.

Also, <FIG> shows an end of a conveyor belt <NUM>, which is configured to transport the card <NUM> towards further devices, in particular treatment devices such as a printer.

In this embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, there is a height difference h between the level of the initial position of the card <NUM> and a destination position at the end of the conveyor belt <NUM>. In the case of this embodiment, the height difference h is about <NUM>.

Turning to <FIG>, an embodiment of the method to operate the device <NUM> is described.

The method starts at an initial state of the device <NUM>, which is shown in <FIG>. Therein, the rotator element <NUM> is at an initial rotation angle and faces downwards, while the holder element <NUM> and the card <NUM>, which is loaded thereon, are at an initial position. Also, the holder element <NUM> is held at a first holder orientation relative to the rotator element <NUM> by the orienting element <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a case, where the rotator element <NUM> is rotated counterclockwise around the rotation axis 12a. Dashed lines show an intermediate position of the assembly, wherein the rotator element <NUM> has been rotated ca. In this case, the cam roller <NUM> is following the cam roller guide <NUM> and has not yet reached the first limitation stop 20a.

However, when the rotator element <NUM> is rotated further, the cam roller will abut the limitation stop 20a. The cam roller guide <NUM> is configured such that the rotation of the rotator element <NUM> can be continued and the cam roller will glide along the first limitation stop 20a, essentially radially towards the rotation axis.

Further counterclockwise rotation will cause the holder element <NUM> to get loose from the orienting member <NUM> and to rotate relative to the rotator element <NUM>, such that it is swiveled around the swivel axis 14a relative to the rotator element <NUM> into a second holder orientation, which is opposite to the first holder orientation, relative to the rotator element <NUM>. At this second holder orientation, the holder element <NUM> is held again by the orienting member <NUM>, which also prevents further rotation.

In this embodiment, the rotator element <NUM> has reached its destination rotation angle, while it is facing upwards. At this end point, which is shown in <FIG>, the device <NUM> is in the destination state and the card <NUM> has reached the destination position. Subsequently, visual inspection can be carried out and the card <NUM> can be pushed onto the conveyor belt <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, the card <NUM> is transferred to the destination position with the same orientation that is has at the initial position, i.e., the same face of the card <NUM> faces upwards in both initial and destination state of the device <NUM>. This is a result of the counterclockwise rotation and the configuration of the cam roller guide <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

<FIG>, on the other hand, shows a case, where the rotator element <NUM> is rotated clockwise around the rotation axis 12a. In this case, the cam roller <NUM> is following the cam roller guide <NUM>, until it reaches the second limitation stop 20b, which prevents further rotation.

The holder element <NUM> stays in contact with and is held by the orienting member <NUM> in the same first holder orientation as in the initial state. At the same time, the rotator element <NUM> is rotated <NUM>°, such that the holder element <NUM> and the card <NUM> therein are also rotated.

As the rotator element <NUM> reaches its destination rotation angle, it is facing upwards. At this end point, which is shown in <FIG>, the device <NUM> is in the destination state and the card <NUM> has reached the destination position. Subsequently, visual inspection can be carried out and the card <NUM> can be pushed onto the conveyor belt <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, the card <NUM> is turned <NUM>°, while it is transferred to the destination position. It has therefore the opposite orientation compared to when it is at the initial position, i.e., the opposite face of the card <NUM> faces upwards in the destination state of the device <NUM>. This is a result of the clockwise rotation and the configuration of the cam roller guide <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

Thus, the device <NUM> can transfer the card <NUM> either with the same orientation as before, when the rotator element <NUM> rotates counterclockwise. It can also transfer the card <NUM> with the opposite orientation, i.e., in combination with a flipping action, when the rotator element <NUM> rotates clockwise.

The device <NUM> is configured to transfer cards <NUM> at a given speed. A "cycle time" is defined as the minimum time interval between the transfer of two cards <NUM> by the device <NUM>. For the purpose of the embodiment, a cycle time is provided that is short enough to transmit <NUM> cards <NUM> per hour. The time needed for performing the visual inspection may be part of this cycle time.

In the embodiment, the device <NUM> receives a control signal and the rotation direction and rotation speed of the rotator element <NUM> are configured according to the control signal.

In further embodiments, a control unit generates the control signal and transmits it to the device <NUM>.

In further embodiments, the control signal is generated depending on input data, which is acquired before or when the card <NUM> is loaded on the holder element <NUM>. For example, a sensor can check the original orientation of the card <NUM> at the initial position and it can be decided, whether or not the card orientation should be changed during transfer.

In further embodiments, a visual inspection is performed on the card, when the rotator element <NUM> reaches the destination rotation angle. For example, imaging data can be acquired by a camera, e.g., for performing a calibration or to determine the position of calibration positions.

Depending on the visual inspection or another signal, a further control signal can be generated to rotate the rotator element <NUM> back to the initial rotation angle and further, in order to provide the card <NUM> with the opposite orientation at the destination position.

For example, the orientation of the card <NUM> can be checked and, if the opposite orientation is desired, the card can be flipped by rotating the rotator element <NUM> into the opposite direction. Also, calibration, for example by visual inspection, treatments or similar actions can be carried out on both sides of the card <NUM>, while it is held in the holder element <NUM>.

In order to output the card <NUM> from the device <NUM>, a pusher may push the card <NUM> such that it leaves the holder element <NUM>. This is described in further detail below.

Turning to <FIG>, the embodiment of <FIG> is explained in more detail.

From the drawing of <FIG>, it is visible that the holder element <NUM> with the cam roller <NUM> is symmetrically configured. The card <NUM> is held on opposite sides, which is further explained below. The cam rollers <NUM> are each guided along symmetrically configured cam roller guides <NUM>, which have limitation stops 20a, 20b.

Furthermore, the device <NUM> has a homing sensor 12b for the rotator element <NUM>. In particular, this sensor 12b is configured to determine when the rotator element <NUM> is reaching the initial position, as shown in <FIG>. This information can be used to control a stepper motor <NUM>, which drives the rotator element <NUM>. For example, a calibration step for the rotation angle of the rotator element <NUM> can be performed to provide reproducible and precise transfer and positioning of the card <NUM>.

Also, the device <NUM> comprises a pusher <NUM>, which is driven by a motor <NUM>.

The pusher <NUM> is configured such that, when its arm is driven by the motor <NUM>, it is moved in a pivoting motion and pushes a card <NUM> from the holder element <NUM> out of the device <NUM>. For example, the card <NUM> is pushed onto the conveyor belt <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

Also, the pusher <NUM> is configured such that a card can only be pushed out, when it is at the destination position, in this case higher than the initial position. This destination position is reached, when the rotator element <NUM> is rotated upwards.

A homing sensor 64a is provided to detect a defined position of the pusher <NUM> and its arm, respectively. This allows, e.g., performing a calibration in order to provide reproducible and precise transfer and positioning of the card <NUM>.

Furthermore, a sensor <NUM> for "flip detection" is provided. This sensor <NUM> detects the cam roller <NUM>, when it reaches the second limitation stop 20b. In this case, the transferred card <NUM> has been flipped, as described above with references to <FIG>. Based on the detection of the sensor <NUM>, a signal may be generated and transmitted, e.g., to the control unit, that the flipping of the card <NUM> has occurred.

Eccentric adjustment bushings <NUM> are provided to adjust the device <NUM> and for example to make sure that the elements are properly aligned, and that the transferred cards <NUM> reach the predetermined destination position exactly.

In the embodiment, an elastic coupling is provided between the rotator element <NUM> and the motor <NUM> to ensure a stable position of the holder element <NUM>, in particular for performing a visual inspection on the card <NUM> at the destination position. Thus, there is no need for a high accurate motor controller. This imposed mechanically rigid position of the holder element <NUM> can be adjusted by the eccentric bushings <NUM>. In particular, the destination position can be independently adjusted for both flipped and non-flipped transfer.

Also, the device <NUM> has a card detection sensor <NUM>, which detects the presence of a card <NUM> at the destination position.

Turning to <FIG>, the operation of the rotator element and the pusher is explained in further detail.

The rotator element <NUM> is actuated by a motor <NUM> and the pusher <NUM> is actuated by another motor <NUM>. In the embodiment, the motors <NUM>, <NUM> are provided as direct drive stepper motors without a position feedback. For each movement, an accurate optic fork sensor is provided for homing, and an extra inductive proximity switch is provided for detecting a flip position as well. Both homing signals are intended to use an upcoming flank. For the rotator homing position <NUM>, a software-adjustable offset parameter ensures an accurate entry position <NUM>, i.e., initial loading position of the holder element <NUM>. A mechanical tool <NUM> makes it possible to comfortable validate the position by caliper measurements, shown in <FIG> as height measurements H1, H2.

The schematic drawings of <FIG> show different angles of the rotator element <NUM> and the pusher <NUM>, as well as their activation in different phases of operating the device <NUM>:
The signals of the sensors of the device <NUM> correspond to specific phases of the operation and positions of both pusher <NUM> and rotator element <NUM>. When the pusher homing sensor signal S2 is "high", the rotator element <NUM> is allowed to rotate. In case the rotator homing sensor signal S1 is "low", the pusher <NUM> may always move to the home position <NUM>.

According to <FIG>, an offset angle A0 is configured as a software parameter. Also, a "No Flip" angle A1 and a "Flip" angle A2 are provided as software parameters.

The homing sensor signal for the pusher <NUM> switches to "high", when the homing position <NUM> is reached, as shown in <FIG>. Herein, a safe area <NUM> is defined, based on the signal S2 of the pusher homing sensor 64a. Thus, no collision of the pusher <NUM> with the rotator element <NUM> or another element occurs.

A home position for the pusher <NUM> is defined as a rest position <NUM> for the pusher <NUM>, while the main transport phase of the device <NUM> is active.

Also, an angle A3 is defined for the pusher <NUM> during visual inspection of the card <NUM>. Here, this angle A3 is located shortly before the end position of the pusher <NUM> in this direction, for example at about <NUM>°.

Furthermore, an angle A4 is defined for the pusher <NUM> as a feed angle or output angle:.

The pusher <NUM> is pivoted to push out the card <NUM> from the holder element <NUM>, when the destination position is reached. This angle A4 is located shortly before the end position in this direction, for example at about <NUM>°.

The following initialization diagram gives all initialization statuses with corresponding actions:.

Turning to <FIG>, a detailed view of a holder element <NUM> of the device <NUM> is explained.

To be able to perform a sufficiently accurate image recording and/or visual inspection of the card <NUM>, when it reaches the destination position, it is necessary that the card <NUM> is positioned at the correct height. To secure the card <NUM> in the holder element <NUM>, it is clamped between constraining pieces 31a, 31b with V-grooves on opposite sides of the holder element <NUM>. The constraining pieces 31a on one side are fixed, while constraining pieces 31b on the opposite side are spring-loaded by leaf spring.

In particular, the fixed constraining pieces 31a on one side form a fixed reference guide, while the spring-loaded constraining pieces 31b on the opposite side form a spring-loaded guide.

For the purposes of the present embodiment, the card thickness is assumed to be accurately known. Thus, the card's top surface will also be at a reproducible height in the device <NUM>.

In order to be able to scan curved cards well, the card <NUM> is held at three points on both sides, i.e., by six constraining pieces 31a, 31b. Although the position is thus over-constrained, it is assumed that the card edge is exactly straight, and therefore the flatness of the card surface as well.

Turning to <FIG>, a second embodiment of the device is described. In <FIG>, the device is shown in a front view perspective, and in <FIG>, the device is shown in a sectional view, along the axis S-S. Elements that are similar to the elements of the above-described embodiments are denoted with the same reference numerals and are not described again in detail.

In the case of <FIG>, the device <NUM> is shown in the initial state.

As already described above, the device <NUM> comprises a rotator element <NUM> and a holder element <NUM>, which is configured to take up a flat piece <NUM>, in this case a plastic card <NUM>.

The rotator element <NUM> is connected to a motor <NUM> and can be rotated around a rotation axis <NUM>.

The holder element <NUM> is connected to the rotator element <NUM> rotatably around the swivel axis 214a.

In the present embodiment, the rotation of the holder element <NUM> is limited by a holder gearwheel <NUM>, which is fixed to the holder element <NUM>. Herein, the holder gearwheel <NUM> is coaxially arranged with the holder axis 214a.

The holder gearwheel <NUM> engages with a static gearwheel <NUM>, which is fixed relative to the rotator element <NUM>. Herein, the static gearwheel <NUM> is arranged coaxially with the rotation axis 212a. In particular, the static gearwheel <NUM> is fixed to a housing of the motor <NUM>.

Thus, when the rotator element <NUM> is rotated, the holder element <NUM> with the holder gearwheel <NUM> is rotated as well. Its engagement with the static gearwheel <NUM> leads to a corresponding rotation of the holder element <NUM> relative to the rotator element <NUM>.

The diameters and numbers of teeth for the static gearwheel <NUM> and the holder gearwheel <NUM> are configured such that after a <NUM>° clockwise rotation of the rotator element <NUM>, the holder element <NUM> has been turned <NUM>°. Thus, the card <NUM> in the holder element <NUM> is been flipped over, while it is transported to the destination position. On the other hand, after a <NUM>° counter-clockwise rotation of the rotator element <NUM>, the holder element <NUM> has been turned <NUM>°. Thus, the card <NUM> in the holder element <NUM> is presented with the same side facing upwards as in the initial position.

Also, a height difference h is overcome between the initial and destination position.

In further embodiment, the device <NUM> of the second embodiment has analogous sensors as the ones described above to measure the present rotation state of the rotator element <NUM> and/or the holder element <NUM>, and/or to determine the orientation of the holder element <NUM>, whether the card <NUM> is flipped or not.

Claim 1:
Device (<NUM>) for transferring a flat piece (<NUM>), in particular a plastic card (<NUM>), from an initial position to a destination position, comprising
a holder element (<NUM>) for holding the flat piece (<NUM>); and
a rotator element (<NUM>), which is rotatable around a rotation axis (12a); wherein
the holder element (<NUM>) is swivel-mounted to the rotator element (<NUM>), such that the holder element (<NUM>) is rotatable relative to the rotator element (<NUM>) around a swivel axis (14a); characterised in that
when the rotator element (<NUM>) is at a destination rotation angle, the holder element (<NUM>) can have a first or a second holder orientation relative to the rotator element (<NUM>), wherein the first and second holder orientation relative to the rotator element (<NUM>) are oriented opposite to each other; and,
when the rotator element (<NUM>) is rotated from an initial rotation angle towards the destination rotation angle in a first rotation direction, the holder element (<NUM>) reaches the destination position having the second orientation relative to the rotator element (<NUM>).