A transfer line with devices for conveying work pieces along the central bases, lateral bases set up along the sides of the central bases on which the processing units are mounted so as to be capable of displacement, and supply devices for the processing stations. In order to improve access to the transfer line and simplify component units, the following features are proposed: a) the supply devices along the direction of travel of the work pieces are arranged exclusively within or in the region of and/or above the central bases; b) the supply devices are connected to each processing station via short detachable connecting pieces; c) shut-off devices are provided at least in the main lines for hydraulics, lubrication, pneumatics etc.; and d) at least one control block with valves is provided between the shut-off devices and the processing station. Alternatively, it is proposed that a control panel with a control block should be provided in the immediate vicinity of the work piece conveyor line and should be connected via valve tubes to a distributor block and/or directly to the main lines for hydraulics, lubricants, pneumatics or the like and to the consumer units of the processing station.
In a transport system for flow line production, especially in the car manufacturing industry, workpieces are movable along at least two first guides between working stations in transportation direction. At least one working station is configured as a screwing and/or assembling means which particularly comprises a plurality of working tools. To improve such a transport system in a way that with little constructional efforts and at reduced costs the assignment of working station and workpiece to be worked thereby is simplified and made possible in an accurate and reproducible manner, the screwing and/or assembling means is integrated into the transport system and is movable at least over a working path in parallel with the first guides in the transport system.
A screwing station, in particular along an assembly line, comprises at least one machine frame and a screwing tool adjustably supported relative thereto between at least one retracted and one operative position and connected to a supply and, optionally, a measuring line. To improve a screwing station of this type in such a way that less mass has to be moved while the screwing station is of a simple construction, so that wear, maintenance work and energy consumption are reduced and a concurrent movement of supply and measuring lines is prevented at the same time, which might otherwise result in damage to the lines, the screwing tool comprises a drive shaft supported on the machine frame and a wrench head telescopically displaceable relative to said shaft, the drive shaft and wrench head being drivingly connected and the wrench head being movable by means of a lifting and lowering means between retracted and operative position.
