DK177883B1

DK177883B1 - Method and apparatus for packaging signature bundles in paper or plastic film in a single stream

Info

Publication number: DK177883B1
Application number: DK201470026A
Authority: DK
Inventors: Jan Pedersen; Claus Henrik Dybdahl
Original assignee: Fk Distrib As
Priority date: 2013-01-23
Filing date: 2014-01-20
Publication date: 2014-11-10
Also published as: DK177816B1; SE538839C2; SE1450057A1; DK201470026A

Abstract

A group of consecutive bundles (10) of signatures is transported in a single stream on a conveyor (1) along the single path (1') passing at least one packaging station (5, 6, 5/6) configured for packaging bundles (10) selectively in paper (20) or plastic film (7). There is provided an input list with digital data with information about of the bundles (10) in the group of consecutive bundles are to be packaged only with paper and which bundles in the group of consecutive bundles to be packaged only with plastic film. In accordance with the input list, there is switched between packaging bundles only in paper or only in plastic film by the at least one packaging station (5,6).

Description

i DK 177883 B1

Method and apparatus for packaging signature bundles in paper or plastic film in a single stream

Field of the Invention 5 The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing packaged bundles of signatures on a conveyor. Especially, the present invention relates to a conveyor comprising only a single path with at least one packaging station for selectively packaging the bundles with either or all of two or more different materials, especially paper or plastic film, for example customized signature bundles.

10

Background of the Invention

In preparation processes for distribution of signatures, for example advertising material, magazines, newspapers with inserts, typically, the signatures are collated into bundles and wrapped in plastic film or, alternatively, in paper and, optionally, provided 15 with a specific recipient address. The bundles may be individualised in dependence on the receiver and sorted according to demographic and/or geographic information. For example this sorting is done in order to satisfy the demands of geographical destination or even directed towards particular individual recipients, the latter including criteria as to interest, occupation and/or income. A prior art publication describing this is 20 US6050057 by Buhrs-Zaandam.

The sorting and final packaging onto a pallet for further distribution may additionally be made in agreement with the correct postal distribution route in order to minimize efforts for the final delivery stage.

25

In order to provide fast and competitive delivery of such signature bundles, high-speed machines have been developed that can process between 10,000 and 30,000 bundles per hour. At this high speed, the process of collation and wrapping has to be performed very smoothly and with high precision in order not to disturb the flow of bun-30 dies through the machine. In order to assure such smooth operation, often, only one type of wrapping is used for a transport conveyer. This is explained in European patent application EP1681250 by CMC which with respect to earlier prior art refers to a DK 177883 B1 2 wrapping machine with either paper, namely EP0480882 by CMC, or only plastic film, as in PCT/IB2004/003251 published as W02005/035367 by CMC. Also the above mentioned patent US6050057 by Buhrs-Zaandam only refers to paper wrapping or plastic film wrapping but does not disclose the possibility to select paper or plastic 5 film for providing selectively wrapped bundles.

However, as part of the requirements for individually customized collating and packaging, also the wrapping material may have to be tailored to the specific recipient. For this reason, prior art also contemplates signature collating machines where the bundles 10 selectively can be packaged in plastic film or paper or not wrapped at all. In order to accomplish high speed processing, streams of bundles are divided into sub-streams for wrapping or for not wrapping, before the sub-streams are again merged for further processing. Examples of such disclosures are patents US5025610 by Quad/Tech, as well as US6269609 and US6415582 by Quad/Graphics. The patent US5706632 by 15 Buhrs-Zaandam describes the option of having three sub-streams, one for paper, one for film, and one for no wrapping. The clear tendency is to divide main streams into sub-streams and merging these again, where the sub-streams are dedicated to wrapping or no wrapping or even with several sub-streams for different types of wrapping.

20 A different technical solution is found in US7325375 by Quad/Graphics, where different types of packages are provided into which the bundles are pushed, where the packaging and the products can be tailored to the recipient. However, this method of pushing products into packages is not suitable for high speed packaging and not practical for signature bundles of various sizes. For the latter, wrapping is more suitable. In this 25 prior art document, wrapping itself is only mentioned as conventional wrapping with either paper or plastic film.

Providing information on the package of a printed product is disclosed in US8120811 where ablation printing in several steps is disclosed. A final wrapper can be used for 30 wrapping the bundle of signatures in poly wrap and/or paper wrapping. It is not explained whether the signature bundles can be wrapped by a combination of film and paper or whether the wrapping can be done selectively by paper or film; also, no examples are given of how this can be accomplished, especially at high speed, and it is DK 177883 B1 3 not disclosed whether the paper or plastic wrapping is performed in dependence of a customizing process.

Thus, the prior art seems not to advice a high-speed method for customized wrapping 5 in film or paper tailored to the recipient, unless multiple sub-streams are provided.

Object of the Invention

It is therefore the objective of the invention to provide an improvement in the art. It is a further objective of the invention to provide an apparatus and method for customized 10 packaging, for example wrapping, of signature bundles in either or all of two or more different wrapping materials, especially plastic film or paper tailored to the recipient without multiple sub-streams. Especially, the focus is on high-speed processing,

Description of the Invention 15 This objective is achieved with a method and apparatus for providing packaged bundles of signatures, for example advertising material, magazines, or newspapers with inserts, on a conveyor as described in the following.

The apparatus comprises a conveyor with a first location and a second location and 20 only a single path of the conveyor between the first location and the second location, the second location being downstream of the first location with respect to a movement direction of the conveyor. Further, there is provided at least one packaging station, for example one packaging station or two or three or more packaging stations, between the first location and the second location. A group of consecutive bundles is transport-25 ed in a single stream on the conveyor along the single path from the first location to the second location, such that each bundle arriving at the second location has also passed the first location and passed the at least one packaging station.

The at least one packaging station is configured for packaging bundles selectively in a 30 first packaging material, for example paper, or a second packaging material that is different from the first packaging material, for example plastic film. There is provided an input list with digital data with information about which of the bundles in the group DK 177883 B1 4 are to be packaged only with the first packaging material, for example paper, in order to provide a first subgroup where all bundles in the first subgroup are packaged with the first packaging material, for example paper, and which bundles in the group are to be packaged only with the second packaging material, for example plastic film, in or-5 der to provide a second subgroup where all bundles in the second subgroup are packaged with the second packaging material, for example plastic film. In accordance with the input list, the method comprises packaging bundles only in the first packaging material, for example paper, especially paper foil, or only in the second packaging material, for example plastic film, by the at least one packaging station.

10

For example, the apparatus comprises a control unit with digital data resembling an input list determining which bundles in the group to be packaged only with a first packaging material, for example paper, and which bundles in the group to be packaged only with a second packaging material, for example plastic film. The control unit is 15 functionally connected to the at least one packaging station for packaging bundles only in the first packaging material, for example paper, or only in the second packaging material, for example plastic film, by the at least one packaging station in accordance with the input list. Thereby, the group of consecutive bundles are provided at the second location such that some selected bundles of the group are only packaged in the 20 first packaging material, for example paper, and some other selected are only packaged in the second packaging material, for example plastic film. In other words, a first subgroup of the group of consecutive bundles is packaged only in the first packaging material, for example paper, and a second subgroup of the group of consecutive bundles is packaged only in the second packaging material, for example plastic film, by 25 the at least one packaging station in accordance with the input list; thus, the group of consecutive bundles include the first and second subgroup at the second location.

In the following, for sake of illustration, the first and second packaging materials are mentioned to be paper and plastic film, respectively, but it is to be understood that the 30 paper and plastic film can be substituted by other mutually different packaging materials, for example metal foil and/or textiles, if desired.

DK 177883 B1 5

Advantageously, such a machine is capable of delivering bundles at the second location alternately in paper and plastic foil, although such regular configuration of a single stream of bundles would normally not occur. Typically, there are a number of bundles in the single stream, for example less than 10 or less than 5 bundles, that are 5 wrapped in paper, followed by a number of bundles, for example less than 10 or less than 5 bundles, that are wrapped in plastic foil, which in turn is followed by another number of bundles, for example less than 10 or less than 5 bundles, that are wrapped in paper. The number of subsequent bundles that are wrapped alike is typically irregular and depends on the specific delivery data from input list.

10

As an example, the method comprises transporting in the single stream on the conveyor a first, a second, and a third bundle, wherein the second bundle immediately follows the first bundle, and the third bundle follows the second bundle with at most 10 other bundles between the second and the third bundle, wherein the first and the third bun-15 die are packaged only in paper and therefore are part of the first subgroup, and wherein the second bundle is packaged only in plastic film and is part of the second subgroup. Likewise, the vice versa situation is an example, where the first and third are packaged in plastic film and the second bundle in paper.

20 In some embodiments, the method comprises selectively activating and deactivating the at least one packaging station for also providing unpackaged bundles as a third subgroup in the group of consecutive bundles at the second location; the third subgroup with the unpackaged bundles is provided at the second location in addition to the first subgroup, in which the bundles are packaged only in paper by the at least one 25 packaging station, and the second subgroup, in which the bundles are packaged only in plastic film by the at least one packaging station.

Alternatively, the bundles arriving at the second location are only bundles packaged in paper by the at least one packaging station and bundles packaged in plastic film by the 30 at least one packaging station; thus, each bundle is packaged by the at least one packaging station, and none of the bundles are not packaged. Thus, the third subgroup does not exist in this embodiment.

DK 177883 B1 6

In some embodiments, the at least one packaging station comprises a first packaging station and a second packaging station, provided one after the other in the single conveyor path between the first location and the second location. The first packaging station is providing only paper, and the second packaging station is providing only plastic 5 film, or vice versa. In such case, the group of consecutive bundles is transported as a single stream on the conveyor along the single conveyor path and past the first and the second packaging station. According to the input list, the first and second packaging station are activated and deactivated, respectively, for example by the control unit, thereby switching between packaging the bundles selectively in only one of the first 10 and second packaging station.

For example, the first packaging station is a paper wrapper and the second packaging station is a plastic film wrapper, or vice versa.

15 As a further option, the apparatus can be configured to wrap a bundle in paper as well as plastic foil. For example, it is possible to wrap the bundle first with paper and then the same bundle with plastic foil in addition to the paper wrap. This would provide a fourth subgroup at the second location in addition to the first and second subgroup, and optionally in addition to the third subgroup of unpackaged bundles.

20

It should be pointed out that the term “a first and a second packaging station” does not limit the invention to only two packaging stations. It is to be understood as “at least one first and at least one second packaging station”; further packaging stations can be provided of the same type as the first packaging station and/or of the same type as the 25 second packaging station, or even of a third, different type.

Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one packaging station comprises a single wrapper that can switch between paper and plastic film wrapping. For example, a specific packaging station of the at least one packaging station has means for wrapping 30 with paper as well as means for wrapping with plastic film for being capable of selectively switching between paper and plastic film wrapping in the specific packaging station.

DK 177883 B1 7

As a further alternative or addition, a plurality of such wrappers are provided, each wrapper being configured for switching between paper wrapping and plastic film wrapping.

5 As an even further alternative, the at least one packaging station provides paper envelopes or plastic film envelops into which the bundles are fed selectively. These envelops may be of different size in order to match the size of the bundles, for example individually customized bundles. If the envelops are made of plastic film, this film may be shrinkable and exposed to heat in order to shrink fit the plastic foil to the bundle.

10 Typically, however, a wrapper is used for paper packaging and a wrapper for foil packaging.

In some embodiments, the paper packaging station is (or stations are) configured not to entirely cover the bundle with a paper cover, but rather provide a partial wrap as a 15 folder around one edge of the bundle. Optionally, the paper is provided as a paper sheet and the method comprises folding the sheet around en edge of the bundle with a first part of the sheet being provided on the upper side of the bundle and another part of the sheet on the lower side of the bundle. For example, the sheet is folded with approximately one half on the upper side of the bundle and approximately one half on 20 the lower side of the bundle.

Thus, it is to be understood that the term of wrapping a paper sheet “around” a bundle does not necessarily imply folding the sheet entirely around the bundle. The term also implies a partial wrapping, which is around one or more edges but not entirely around 25 the bundle.

The film packaging station is (or stations are) typically configured to entirely wrap the bundle with a film around it. For example, the film is wrapped around the bundle, welded or glued into a sealed enclosure and, potentially, also exposed to heating for 30 crimping of the film into a tight, sealed enclosure around the bundle.

Typically, a number of such bundles, for example between 5 and 50 or between 10 and 30 are assembled in a stacker with a band around the assembled stack. For example, DK 177883 B1 8 such a stack could have a height of between 10 and 30 cm for convenient distribution.

The assembled stack would typically contain some of the bundles packaged in paper (first subgroup) in addition to some bundles packaged in plastic film (second subgroup). Optionally, the assembled stack could in addition contain bundles that are 5 packaged in paper as well as plastic (fourth subgroup) and/or additional bundles without packaging of paper or plastic at all (third subgroup).

The data of the input list is advantageously stored in a digital database. Optionally, the input list in the database contains information about the recipient, for example ad-10 dress, main interest, and special wishes, such as preferred type of packaging material.

The data of the input list may contain digital, coded information as to whether to include or to avoid a certain signature for the customized bundles in the stream.

For example the method and apparatus of the invention is used for transporting the 15 bundles at a conveyor speed of at least 10,000 or at least 15,000 or at least 20,000 bundles per hour along the single path and through the packaging process. This requires a smooth and quick functioning of the packaging stations, because the time for packaging, for example wrapping, is typically less than a second, because 2-4 bundles pass a packaging station per second.

20

In case that multiple packaging stations for paper are provided, for example 2, 3, 4, 5, or more paper packaging stations, the paper packaging stations can, optionally, be used mutually intermittently such that consecutive bundles are packaged by different paper packaging stations. This reduces the requirements for packaging speed of each single 25 paper packaging station. Likewise, in case that multiple packaging stations for plastic are provided, for example 2, 3,4, 5, or more plastic film packaging stations, the plastic film packaging stations can, optionally, be used mutually intermittently such that consecutive bundles are packaged by different plastic film packaging stations.

30 For example, there is provided a plurality of paper or plastic film packaging stations one after the other and which are operated at periods being a multiple of the period between arrival times of bundles. As an example, the most downstream packaging station starts packing while the preceding packaging station is waiting for packaging DK 177883 B1 9 the next bundle. The plurality of packaging stations may be combined with acceleration and/or deceleration conveyor sections in order to have enough time for packaging, on the one hand, and for safeguarding a smooth continuation of the stream of packaged bundles.

5

Optionally, the group of multiple paper packaging stations are all identical, or some of the paper packaging stations in the group are identical. Optionally, the group of multiple plastic film packaging stations are all identical, or some of the plastic film packaging stations in this group are identical.

10

The height of a bundle is typically between 5 and 45 mm, for example with a maximum height of 50 mm. the weight of a bundle depends on the number and dimensions of the signatures. Typically, the weight is restricted to 3 kg or 2 kg, although normally, the weight rarely exceeds 1 kg. In some practical embodiments, the method comprises 15 providing a selection of bundles in the single stream of bundles, wherein the selected bundles have a height of more than 25 mm; for example between 25 mm and 50 mm.

In some embodiments, the input list is provided with identification data and individual characteristics of a plurality of recipients of the bundles. Accordingly, the apparatus is 20 programmed for selectively packaging the bundles in the first or second packaging material in dependence on the individual characteristics.

Optionally, a printer is providing identification data of recipients on the bundles. In a practical embodiment, the control unit is functionally connected to the printer for con-25 trolling selective printing of identification data of recipients on the bundles.

Optionally, the input list comprises a sequence of identification data sorted in geographic distribution order, resembling a delivery sequence for the group of consecutive bundles. Accordingly, the apparatus is programmed for providing the group of consec-30 utive bundles at the second location in agreement with the delivery sequence.

Optionally, the apparatus comprises a stacker configured for collecting the group of consecutive bundles in agreement with the delivery sequence and with some bundles DK 177883 B1 10 only packaged in paper and some bundles only packaged in plastic film, corresponding to the first and second subgroup, respectively. Optionally, the stacker also receives bundles from the third and fourth subgroup, such that a stack can contain bundles from all four subgroups. For example, the bundles are finally packaged from the stacker 5 onto a pallet for further distribution. Advantageously, the bundles are provided at the stacker and/or on the pallet sorted and in agreement with the correct postal distribution route in order to minimize efforts for the final delivery stage.

In order to collate signatures in bundles, optionally, a plurality of signature dispensers 10 are provided upstream of the first location. Signatures are selected from the plurality of signature dispensers and collated into bundles. The selection of signatures for the bundles is dependent on the identification data and individual characteristics in the input list. For example, the control unit comprises a computer program with a processing step for determining individualized selection of signatures from the dispensers 15 in accordance with the input list. Thereby, different, individualized bundles are provided in the group of consecutive bundles, the selection of signatures for the bundles being dependent on the identification data and individual characteristics in the input list.

20 Description of the Drawing FIG. 1 shows a principle of a finishing conveyor; FIG. 2 shows a finishing conveyor line with stations for paper covers and film wrapping; FIG. 3 shows the plastic film wrapper in greater detail; 25 FIG. 4 illustrates a paper wrapper in greater detail; FIG. 5 shows a suction cup of the paper wrapper in greater detail; FIG. 6 is s principal sketch of an optional bundle with paper wrap; FIG. 7 is a principle sketch of an apparatus with a single packaging station; FIG. 8 is a detailed drawing of the apparatus with a single packaging station in a) 30 side view and b) perspective sectional view; FIG. 9 is an enlarged section of the packaging apparatus during paper wrapping.

DK 177883 B1 11

Detailed Description of the Invention FIG. 1 shows a principle of an apparatus for providing packaged signature bundles 10, for example containing newspapers, journals, advertisements, or combinations thereof.

The apparatus comprises a conveyor 1 with a single conveyor path 1 ’ for continuous 5 transport of signature bundles 10 in a single stream on the conveyor 1 along the single conveyor path Γ. A plurality of signature dispensers 4 are provided in the upstream part of the single conveyor path Γ. In the single conveyor path Γ, between a first location 21 and a second location 22, a first packaging station 5, for example a paper wrapper, and a second packaging station 6, for example a plastic film wrapper, are 10 provided one after the other. The first packaging station 5 provides a first packaging material, and the second packaging station 6 provides a second packaging material.

For example, the first packaging material is paper and the second is plastic film, or vice versa.

15 Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 7, there may be provided a single packaging station 6/5 capable of selectively providing different types of packaging material. The difference between two stations 5, 6 with each either paper or plastic film wrapping and the single packaging station 5/6 capable of both paper and plastic wrapping is that the location where paper and plastic film is provided is the same location, namely in the 20 space between a first set of a lower belt 2 and an upper belt 3 and an immediately consecutive set of a lower belt 2’ and an upper belt 3’.

With reference to FIG. 1, a control unit 16 is provided with digital data resembling an input list determining which bundles 10 to be provided with the first or the second 25 packaging material. The control unit 16 is functionally connected to the first 5 and second 6 packaging station in order to provide instructions to the first 5 and second 6 packaging station for selective wrapping of a bundle 10. Optionally, the control 16 unit may be programmed to select for each bundle one of the following: - only the first package material, 30 - only the second package material, - both the first package material and the second packaging material, or - none of them.

DK 177883 B1 12

Corresponding instructions are submitted for respectively activating or deactivating the first and second packaging stations 5, 6, as the bundles 10 pass by.

At the end of the single conveyor path 1 ’, there is provided a stacker 11 for collecting 5 the bundles as a preparation step for delivery of the packaged bundles to the recipients.

A stack is typically assembled and a stabilizing band is arranged around the stack.

In some embodiments, the input list in the control unit 16 comprises identification data and individual characteristics of a plurality of recipients of the bundles 10. In this 10 case, the bundles 10 are packaged in the first or second packaging material in dependence on the individual characteristics. A printing unit 17, for example an inkjet printer, provides identification data of recipients on the bundles. For example, the input list comprises a sequence of identification data sorted in geographic distribution order resembling a delivery sequence for the bundles 10. Once the bundles 10 arrive at the 15 stacker 11, they are already in agreement with the delivery sequence ready for packing on a pallet and transport to the geographical area where the bundles are distributed.

FIG. 2 shows a practical example of a finishing conveyor 1 with a lower belt 2 and upper belts 3 between which bundles of signatures are to be transported. The transport 20 direction 26 is from right to left. Signatures are collated from a plurality of signature dispensers 4, of which three are shown, although, there are typically more than three.

As shown, the single conveyor path also extends upstream to a number of dispensers 4 for providing bundles of signatures.

25 During the collation, addition of a signature from a certain dispenser 4 to a bundle 10 of signatures is determined by data from a database in order to provide customized bundles. The database contains information about the recipient, for example address, main interest, and special wishes, such as type of packaging material. The data may contain coded information to include or to avoid a certain signature for the customized 30 bundles in the stream.

The conveyor line is further equipped with two paper wrappers 5, and one film wrapper 6. Depending on the information from the database, a customized bundle 10 is DK 177883 B1 13 wrapped in paper, or a bundle 10 is wrapped in plastic film. Although, the system allows both paper wrapping and subsequent plastic film wrapping of the same bundle, this is not desired in most situations. The paper wrappers 5 and the film wrapper 6 are provided as part of a single conveyor path that is transporting signature bundles after 5 collation. The number of paper wrappers 5 can be more than the illustrated two paper wrappers for covering the bundles with papers. The number of plastic film wrappers 6 for providing plastic film around the bundle can also more than one.

Typically, a bundle 10 is either wrapped in paper or plastic film, although, in an alter-10 native embodiment, it is also possible to let bundles in the stream pass through the packaging stations 5, 6 without paper packaging or film wrapping. Such bundles would arrive at the stacker and be stacked together with paper wrapped bundles and plastic foil wrapped bundles.

15 The paper wrappers 5 are typically configured not to entirely cover the bundle with a paper cover, but rather provide a partial wrap as a folder around one edge of the bundle. The film wrapper 6 is configures to entirely wrap the bundle with a film around it.

For example, the film is wrapped around the bundle 10, welded or glued into a sealed enclosure and, potentially, also exposed to heating for crimping of the film into a tight, 20 sealed enclosure around the bundle.

The speed of the transportation of the signatures is advantageously at least 10,000 bundles in an hour, for example at least 15,000, at least 20,000, or even at least 25,000 bundles per hour. This is a high speed and very demanding with respect to technology 25 for smooth running of the bundles through the system. The switch between paper packaging, for example paper wrapping, and plastic film packaging, for example plastic film wrapping, must be precise and quick, and the paper packaging and the film packaging must be both quick enough for not causing a delay of the stream of bundles.

30 For this reason, the paper packaging stations can, optionally, be used mutually intermittently such that consecutive bundles are packaged by different paper packaging stations. In order to assure enough time for wrapping and secure a high speed stream, DK 177883 B1 14 accelerating and/or decelerating conveyor sections may be provided in combination with the packaging stations.

FIG. 3 illustrates the film wrapper 6 in more detail. A roll 7 of plastic film 12 is trans-5 ported over an assembly 8 of rollers (rollers not shown) to a region 9 where the bun dles pass between an upper belt conveyer 13 and a lower belt conveyer 14. The film extends across this region between the upper 13 and lower 14 belt conveyers. Thus, when the bundles pass through the region 9, they will be enclosed with film that is cut by a cutter 15 and subsequently welded, for example ultrasonic welded, or glued into a 10 sealed enclosure. Guide belts 28 safeguard a proper transport of the plastic film 12. Optionally, after wrapping, the plastic film 12 is exposed to crimping in a subsequent heating station (not shown).

If a bundle 10 is not to be wrapped in film, the region 9 is not containing film 12, and 15 the bundles can pass freely without film wrapping. In this case, the supply of film from the role is stopped after cutting with cutter 15.

FIG. 4 shows a paper wrapper 5 in greater detail. The paper wrapper 5 comprises a platform 18 on which a pile 19 of sheets 20 of paper for wrapping are provided. In 20 order to wrap a bundle in paper, a sheet 20 is withdrawn from beneath the pile 19 by a number of suction arms 23 and then transported vertically downwards by rollers 24 such that the sheet has approximately equal parts above and below the level at which the bundles are transported. Typically, a bundle is between 5 and 50 mm high, and the vertical length of the vertical sheet is typically between 20 and 60 cm, depending on 25 the height of the bundle and the size of the signatures 25. For example, the paper sheets are A4 or A3 size. When the sheet 20 is in vertical orientation, a bundle is advanced to hit the sheet 20, and during further advancing the bundle, the sheet 20 is folded with approximately one half on the upper side of the bundle 10 and approximately one half on the lower side of the bundle 10. This is illustrated in Fig 6, where 30 the height of the bundle 10 of signatures 25 is exaggerated for sake of illustration.

DK 177883 B1 15 FIG. 5 illustrates the suction arm 23 in greater detail, where a suction cup 27 is provided on the end of the suction arm in order to pull a sheet 20 from the lower side of the pile 19.

5 When wrapping in plastic foil, the entire bundle is typically covered and the plastic film is welded or glued at the edges in order to seal the plastic film into a closed bag.

The principle of the wrapper for plastic foil, as illustrated in FIG. 3 can be constructed similar to the paper wrapper, however, with the difference of not having such kind of suction arms 23 and a roll 7 instead of the pile 19 of paper sheets 20.

10 FIG. 7 illustrates an apparatus with a single packaging station 5/6 that has means 5’, 6’ for wrapping in a first material, for example paper, and a second material, for example plastic film. The packaging station 5/6 is a combination of the first packaging station 5 and the second packaging station 6 into a single packaging station 5/6.

15

The packaging station 5/6 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 8, where FIG. 8a is a side view and FIG. 8b an enlarged a perspective section of the apparatus of FIG. 8a. The single packaging station 5/6 is capable of selectively providing paper sheets 20 or plastic film for wrapping around signature bundles 10 that are transported between 20 lower belts 2 and upper belts 3 between which bundles of signatures are to be transported. Signatures are collated from a plurality of signature dispensers 4, of which three are shown, although, there are typically more than three. Rollers 24, similar to the rollers 24 as illustrated in FIG. 4 are used to transport signature bundles 10 from a pile and in between the lower belts 2 and upper belts 3 for further transport to the sin-25 gle wrapping station, wherein the control unit 16, see FIG. 7, communicates with the packaging station 5/6 on whether to use paper sheets 20 or plastic film 12 or even a combination thereof.

FIG. 8b illustrates that the paper sheet 20 that is wrapped around the bundle 10 is not 30 wrapped entirely around the bundle 10 but only partially around the bundle 10 by being bent around one edge only.

DK 177883 B1 16 FIG. 9 illustrates the removal of a single sheet 20 of paper from the pile 19 by the action of the roller 24. The sheet 20 is being drawn in the space between the first set of belts 2,3 and the second set of belts 2’, 3’ in order to meet the bundle 10 that is transported into this space from the first set of belts 2,3 before continuing in the second set 5 of belts 2’, 3’. The partially withdrawn sheet 20 is also illustrated in FIG. 4.

Claims

A method of providing sheet bundles on a conveyor (1); wherein the conveyor (1) comprises a first place (21) and a second place (22) and only a single path 5 (Γ) of the conveyor (1) between the first place (21) and the second place (22) where second location (22) is downstream of the first location (21) relative to a direction of movement of the conveyor (1), and at least one packing station (5, 6) between the first location (21) and the second location (22); wherein the method comprises advancing a group of consecutive bundles (10) in a single stream on the conveyor (1) with a conveyor speed along one path (Γ) from the first location (21) to the second location (22) , such that each bundle (10) arriving at the second location (22) has also passed the first location (21) and passed the at least one packing station (5, 6); characterized in that the at least one packing station (5.6, 5/6) is configured to selectively bundle bundles (10) into sheets of paper (20) or plastic foil (12); 15 wherein the at least one packing station comprises a first packing station (5) and a second packing station (6) provided one after the other in one conveyor path between the first place and the second place; wherein the first packing station (5) provides only paper (20) and the second packing station (6) only provides plastic film (12), or vice versa; or wherein the at least one packaging station (5/6) comprises a specific packaging station (5/6) with means (5 ') for wrapping with paper sheets (20) as well as means (6') for wrapping with plastic foil ( 12), to be able to selectively switch between paper and plastic wrap wrapping in the specific packaging station; wherein the method comprises providing an input list of digital data indicating which bundles (10) of the group of consecutive bundles to be packed only with paper (20) and which bundles of the group of consecutive bundles, only packaging with plastic wrap (12); packing a first subset of the group of consecutive bundles (10) in paper alone and a second subset of the group of consecutive bundles in plastic film alone with the at least one packing station (5, 6, 5/6) according to the input list and providing the group of consecutive bundles (10) comprising the first and second subgroups at the second site (22). DK 177883 B1 18

The method of claim 1, wherein the method comprises selectively activating and deactivating the at least one packing station (5, 6, 5/6) to further provide a third subset of unpacked bundles as part of the group of consecutive bundles (10). in the second place (22) in addition to the first and second subgroups. 5

The method of claim 1, wherein the bundles (10) arriving at the second location (22) are bundles only from the first and second subgroups.

A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one packing station 10 (5, 6) comprises a first packing station (5) and a second packing station (6) provided one after the other in one conveyor path between the first place and the second place; wherein the first packing station (5) provides only paper (20) and the second packing station (6) only provides plastic film (12), or vice versa; wherein the method comprises passing the successive bundles (10) on the conveyor (1) along one conveyor path (F) and past the first (5) and the second (6) packing station; according to the input list, activating and deactivating the first (5) and the second (6) packing stations, respectively, and thereby selectively switching between packing the bundles (10) only at one of the first (5) and second (6) packing stations.

The method of claim 4, wherein the first packing station (5) is a paper wrap and the second packing station (6) is a plastic wrap, or vice versa.

The method of claim 1, wherein a specific packing station (5/6) of the at least one packing station has means (5 ', 6') for wrapping with paper sheets (20) as well as means 25 for wrapping with plastic foil (12) to be able to switch between paper and plastic wrap wraps in the specific packaging station (5/6).

A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises passing the successive bundles (10) past the at least one packing station (5, 6) at a conveyor speed of at least 10,000 bundles per hour along one of the webs ( F) and packing the group of consecutive bundles at a rate of at least 10,000 bundles per hour with the at least one packing station (5, 6). DK 177883 B1 19

A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises feeding in one stream to the conveyor (1) a first, second and third bundles, wherein the second bundle immediately follows the first bundle and the third bundle follows the first bundle with no more than 10 second bundles between the second and third 5 bundles, wherein the first and third bundles are packaged in paper only (20) and therefore form part of the first subset, and wherein the second bundle is packaged in plastic film alone (12 ) and is part of the other subgroup, or vice versa.

A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the paper is provided as a sheet of paper and the method comprises folding the sheet around an edge of the bundle (10) with a first portion of the sheet provided on the top of the bundle (10) and a second portion. of the sheet (20) on the underside of the bundle (10).

A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises providing the input list with identification data and individual characteristics of a plurality of receivers of the bundles (10), which individual characteristics contain information as to whether a bundle for a specific receiver should be packed in the first (20) or the second (12) wrapping material; selectively packing the bundles in paper sheets (20) or plastic foil (12), depending on the individual characteristics, 20 and providing recipient identification data on the bundles.

The method of claim 10, wherein the input list comprises a sequence of identification data sorted in geographical distribution order corresponding to a delivery order for the group of consecutive bundles (10), and wherein the method comprises providing the group of consecutive bundles (10). at the second location (22) corresponding to the order of delivery.

The method of claim 11, wherein the method comprises assembling the group of consecutive bundles (10) onto a stacker (11) corresponding to the delivery sequence, wherein some bundles are packaged only in paper (20) and some bundles are packaged only. in plastic foil (12). DK 177883 B1 20

The method of claim 11 or 12, wherein a plurality of sheet dispensers (4) are provided upstream of the first site (21), and the method comprises selecting sheets from the plurality of sheet dispensers (4) to provide various individualized bundles (10). ) of sheets (25) in the group of consecutive bundles, where the selection of the sheets to the bundles depends on the identification data and individual characteristics of the input list.

Apparatus for providing packed bundles of sheets on a conveyor (1); wherein the conveyor (1) comprises a first place (1) and a second place (22) and only a single path 10 (Γ) of the conveyor (1) between the first place (21) and the second place (22), where it second location (22) is downstream of the first location (21) relative to a direction of movement (26) of the conveyor (1), and at least one packing station (5, 6) between the first location (21) and the second location (22) ; wherein the apparatus is configured to convey a group of consecutive bundles (10) in a single stream on the conveyor (1) along one path (Γ) from the first location (21) to the second location (22) such that each bundle (10) arriving at the second location (22) has also passed the first location (21) and passed the at least one packing station (5, 6); characterized in that the apparatus comprises a control unit (16) provided with digital data corresponding to an input list which determines which bundles (10) in the group of consecutive bundles to be packaged only 20 with paper (20) and which bundles in the group of consecutive bundles to be wrapped only with plastic wrap (12); the control unit (16) is operably connected to the at least one packing station (5, 6, 5/6) for packing bundles (10) only in paper (20) or in plastic foil (12) alone with the at least one packing station (5, 6) , 5/6) in accordance with the input list, thereby providing the group of consecutive bundles 25 (10) at the second location (22), with some bundles of the group packed alone in paper (20) and some in plastic foil alone. (12); wherein the at least one packing station comprises a first packing station (5) and a second packing station (6) provided one after another in the one conveyor path between the first place and the second place; wherein the first packing station (5) provides only paper (20) and the second packing station (6) only provides plastic film (12), or vice versa; or wherein the at least one packing station (5/6) comprises means (5 ') for packing with paper sheets (20) as well as with means (6') for packing with plastic foil (12) in order to be capable of DK 177883 B1 21 to selectively switch between paper and plastic wrap in the specific packing station.

Apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the at least one packing station (5, 6) comprises a first packing station (5) and a second packing station (6) arranged one after the other in one conveyor path (Γ) between the first place (21) and the second site (22); wherein the first packing station (5) is configured to provide only paper (20) and the second packing station (6) provides only plastic foil (12), or vice versa; wherein the controller (16) is configured for activation and deactivation according to the input list of the first (5) and the second (6) packing stations, respectively, thereby selectively switching between packing the bundles (10) in accordance with the input list. one of the first and second (5, 6) packing stations.

The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the first packing station (5) is a paper wrapper (20) and the second packing station (6) is a plastic foil cover (12), or vice versa.

The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one packing station comprises a specific packing station (5/6) with means (5 ') for wrapping with paper sheets (20) as well as means (6') for wrapping with plastic foil (12) to be able to selectively switch between 20 paper and plastic wrap wrappers in the specific packing station.

Apparatus according to any one of claims 14-17, wherein the conveyor (1) is configured for feeding successive bundles (10) at a conveyor speed of at least 10,000 bundles per hour along one web and configured to pack at least 10,000 packed bundles per hour.

The apparatus of any of claims 14-18, wherein the input list comprises identification data and individual characteristics of a plurality of receivers of the bundles, wherein the individual characteristics contain information as to whether a bundle for a specific receiver should be packaged in paper (20). ) or plastic film (12); and wherein the apparatus is programmed to selectively package the bundles in paper (20) or plastic foil (12) with the at least one packaging station (5, 6, 5/6), depending on the individual characteristics. DK 177883 B1 22

Apparatus according to claim 19, dependent on claim 15 or 16, wherein the apparatus is configured to selectively either package the bundles (10) alone with the first packing station (5) or only with the second packing station (6) according to the input list.

Apparatus according to any one of claims 14-20, wherein the apparatus comprises a printer (17); wherein the controller (16) is functionally associated with the printer (17) for controlling selective printing of recipient identification data on the bundles (10).

The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the input list comprises a sequence of identification data sorted in geographical distribution order corresponding to a delivery order of the bundles (10) and the apparatus is programmed to provide the group of consecutive bundles at the second location. corresponding to the order of delivery.

The method of claim 22, wherein the apparatus comprises a stacker and the apparatus is configured to assemble the group of consecutive bundles (10) corresponding to the delivery order, wherein some bundles are packed only in paper (20) and some bundles are packed only. in plastic foil (12).

Apparatus according to any of claims 21-23, wherein a plurality of sheet dispensers (4) are provided upstream of the first site (21) for selecting sheets of the plurality of sheet dispensers and collating the sheets (25) into bundles (10). ); wherein the controller (16) comprises a computer program having a process step for determining individualized selection of sheets (25) from the dispensers (4) in accordance with the input list for providing various, individualized bundles (10) in the group of consecutive bundles, wherein the selection of the sheets (25) to the bundles (10) is dependent on the identification data and individual characteristics of the input list.