EP1254857B1 - Device for collating flat objects into stacks and for the further processing of the stacks - Google Patents

Device for collating flat objects into stacks and for the further processing of the stacks Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1254857B1
EP1254857B1 EP02405322A EP02405322A EP1254857B1 EP 1254857 B1 EP1254857 B1 EP 1254857B1 EP 02405322 A EP02405322 A EP 02405322A EP 02405322 A EP02405322 A EP 02405322A EP 1254857 B1 EP1254857 B1 EP 1254857B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
stack
supporting surface
supports
stack supports
zone
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP02405322A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1254857A2 (en
EP1254857A3 (en
Inventor
Werner Honegger
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Ferag AG
Original Assignee
Ferag AG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ferag AG filed Critical Ferag AG
Publication of EP1254857A2 publication Critical patent/EP1254857A2/en
Publication of EP1254857A3 publication Critical patent/EP1254857A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1254857B1 publication Critical patent/EP1254857B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65HHANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H29/00Delivering or advancing articles from machines; Advancing articles to or into piles
    • B65H29/26Delivering or advancing articles from machines; Advancing articles to or into piles by dropping the articles
    • B65H29/28Delivering or advancing articles from machines; Advancing articles to or into piles by dropping the articles from mechanical grippers
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65HHANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H39/00Associating, collating, or gathering articles or webs
    • B65H39/02Associating,collating or gathering articles from several sources
    • B65H39/06Associating,collating or gathering articles from several sources from delivery streams
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65HHANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2301/00Handling processes for sheets or webs
    • B65H2301/40Type of handling process
    • B65H2301/43Gathering; Associating; Assembling
    • B65H2301/432Gathering; Associating; Assembling in pockets, i.e. vertically
    • B65H2301/4321Gathering; Associating; Assembling in pockets, i.e. vertically and dropping material through bottom of the pocket
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65HHANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2301/00Handling processes for sheets or webs
    • B65H2301/40Type of handling process
    • B65H2301/44Moving, forwarding, guiding material
    • B65H2301/443Moving, forwarding, guiding material by acting on surface of handled material
    • B65H2301/4433Moving, forwarding, guiding material by acting on surface of handled material by means holding the material
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65HHANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2301/00Handling processes for sheets or webs
    • B65H2301/40Type of handling process
    • B65H2301/44Moving, forwarding, guiding material
    • B65H2301/447Moving, forwarding, guiding material transferring material between transport devices
    • B65H2301/4471Grippers, e.g. moved in paths enclosing an area
    • B65H2301/44712Grippers, e.g. moved in paths enclosing an area carried by chains or bands
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65HHANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2301/00Handling processes for sheets or webs
    • B65H2301/40Type of handling process
    • B65H2301/44Moving, forwarding, guiding material
    • B65H2301/447Moving, forwarding, guiding material transferring material between transport devices
    • B65H2301/4476Endless transport devices with compartments
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65HHANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2405/00Parts for holding the handled material
    • B65H2405/50Gripping means

Definitions

  • the invention is in the field of conveyor technology and relates to a device according to the preamble of the first claim.
  • the device is used for continuous Gather flat objects for serial production of stacks and for further processing of the produced stacks.
  • stack sheets, folded sheets, signatures or other printed products by providing a series of feed points by creating emerging ones Stack substantially continuously one behind the other along this row of Feed points are promoted and by each at each feed point Stack a printed product is added.
  • the device for promotion the resulting stack has, for example, a plurality of successively arranged, essentially V-shaped pockets with upwards facing oneself substantially transversely to the conveying direction extending openings into which the Printed products are introduced with an edge in front. It already leans against in the bag, resulting stack against the one of the bag walls and is optionally pressed by suitable means to this wall, so that the preparingde Product can be safely and precisely added to the stack.
  • Publication EP-0908408 proposes such gathering bags, when the stack is finished formed therein, during a continuous further promotion open bottom, allowing the stack to fall into a lower pocket by gravity be moved, which lower bag connects to the gathering bag.
  • the walls of the lower pockets are so movable that in such a Bag fallen pile can be clamped between these walls, so that when opening this bag, the bottom of the stack, or all lower edges the flat objects collected in the stack become freely accessible, while the pile is held in the bag.
  • the so uncovered stack page can then, for example, roughened for a bond, cropped and / or with Adhesive treated. After this treatment, the stack of the bag walls released and deliberately dropped.
  • EP-0712736 is a collation of printed products described in essentially continuously funded pockets.
  • the finished educated Stack is then pinched and held by the bag walls in such a way that the bag can be opened at the bottom and the position of the stack relative to the pocket walls remains unchanged.
  • the bag used has one as Hollow bar designed base part, which moved away to open the bag down becomes. According to this publication too, the product edges thus exposed become which form the lower stacking side, for binding the stack or book block further dealt with what the stack including the pressing pocket walls in Collets is introduced.
  • the invention now has the object, a device for continuous Gathering flat objects into stacks and for further processing the stack to create with which device excellent edges of the stacked, flat objects when stacking aligned and finished Stacks are made available for further processing and with which device the stacks with the exposed edge areas of a further processing be promoted.
  • the device according to the invention is intended to be known Devices which serve the same purpose, in particular by distinguishing that it is more universally applicable and simpler and that it is significantly simpler various requirements for the exposure of the edge regions of the stacked, flat objects is customizable.
  • the inventive device has a plurality in a conventional manner from one behind the other in the conveying direction substantially continuously conveyed Stacking pads on. These stack supports are conveyed essentially continuously, first for the formation of stacks by gathering along a Row of feeders, then through an exposure area and from there to a further processing.
  • the stack supports have aligned substantially transversely to the conveying direction, Support surfaces and at the lower end of the support surface depending on a foot element.
  • the Foot element is operatively connected to the support surface, that it with a pressing force is pressed against this bearing surface and that it by means of suitable control means against the pressing force or after switching off the pressing force of the support surface is distanzierbar and from this distant position back into the pressing position can be dismissed.
  • the flat objects will be at the in this Phase advantageously laid inclined surface and its lower edges be on each other by the foot element, which is pressed against the support surface aligned.
  • Support surface and foot element carry together the resulting and the finished stack in a defined position.
  • the last feeding point is followed by an exposure area in the conveying direction, through the stack supports are conveyed substantially the same as along the row from feeding points.
  • the exposure area also becomes pile support means promoted, synchronized with the stack supports and aligned with them, wherein the conveying path of the stack supports and the conveying path of the stack support means are designed such that the stack support means at the entrance of the exposure area are arranged directly under the stack supports and during the Promotion through the exposure area further and further down from the pile supports remove.
  • this exposure area means for controlling the foot elements intended.
  • the foot elements are where the stack support means move directly under the stack supports, so on Entrance of the exposure area, distanced from the bearing surfaces, so that the on the bearing surfaces adjacent stack are released against the bottom and, always abutting the bearing surfaces, slip on the stack support means.
  • the stacks become so long on the bearing surfaces fitting and by the stack support means Supported until they are due to the divergence of the conveyor paths of pile support and stack support means are slid so far that the lower edges of the stacked flat objects, the lower edges of the bearing surfaces by a predetermined Surpass the size.
  • a second control means is provided, by the foot elements from their distance from the support surface position be released back to their pressing position.
  • the Pile supports further promoted, with their spatial position now also changeable is, for example by pivoting the stack supports relative to the conveyor or by deflection of the conveying path.
  • the clamped therein stacks of flat Objects may be the bearing surfaces superior, aligned and originally against bottom edge portions for further processing optimally oriented.
  • the stack supports can easily between the support surface and foot element grasped projecting stack part with a suitable means and then for Stapelentturi the foot element again in its distance from the support surface position to be brought.
  • the inventive Device also substantially transversely to the conveying direction extending, V-shaped gathering bags with two in the conveying direction each other have opposite pocket walls.
  • the one of the bag walls then represents the bearing surface and the foot element closes the distance between the pocket walls against the bottom.
  • FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention in the exposure area 1, through which the stack supports 2 move substantially continuously (conveying direction F), essentially in the same spatial position in which they were also conveyed along the row of feed points.
  • the stack supports 2 each have a support surface 3 and a foot element 4.
  • the stack supports 2 are for example, as shown, equidistantly coupled to a conveying member (dash-dotted line 5), but it can also be substantially independently of each other in the conveying direction F traversable elements.
  • the support surfaces 3 of the stack supports 2 extend substantially transversely to the conveying direction F (perpendicular to the paper plane of the figure) and are arranged obliquely in the conveying direction, for example, such that their lower edges run after the upper edges.
  • the evacuation area 1 zuge admirten stack supports 2 each carry a stack 6, wherein the flat objects of the stack 6 before the promotion of the stack support through the exposure area 1 shown in FIG. 1 during the conveyance along a series of feed points in a conventional manner on the stack supports 2 were filed.
  • Stack support means 10 provided such that they are at the entrance of the exposure area 1 are positioned immediately below the lower edges of the support surfaces 3 and during their promotion through the exposure area 1 at an acute angle to be moved away from them.
  • the stack support means 10 consist for example from individual stack supports 11 which are closed on a conveyor member 12 with self-contained Orbit are coupled.
  • a first Control means (not shown) effective, by the action of the foot elements 4th from passing through stack supports 2 in their distance from the support surface 3 Position be brought. As a result, slips on the bearing surface 3 fitting Stack 6 on the stack support 11 from.
  • stack 6 slips due to the divergence of the conveying paths of stack supports 2 and stack supports 11 further down and extends beyond the support surface 3 more and more.
  • a second control means (not shown) arranged by the action of the foot elements 4 of over conveyed stack supports 2 from their from the support surface 3 detached position to be released back into their pressing position to the over the support surface 3 slipped stack 6 to press against them and so in his to fix the bearing surface 3 superior position.
  • the stack supports 11 are in an area following the point B of the Stack supports 2 moves away, whereby the lower edge portions 13 of the stacked, flat objects that surmount the support surface 3 and foot element 4, for a Further processing of the stack are freely accessible.
  • the stack supports 2 are very simple Device parts are very close to each other along the conveying path can be promoted. It can also be seen that the stack supports 2, if they keep a stack 6 clamped between bearing surfaces 3 and foot elements 4, for example, by pivoting parallel to the conveying path F and / or by deflection of the transport route can be brought into various spatial locations, whereby the exposed, originally lower edge regions 13 of the stacked, flat objects for example, for processing or for a transfer another conveyor can be made optimally accessible.
  • FIG. 1 it can be seen from FIG. 1 that it is very simple to carry out the invention Device for various manipulations of different stacks adjust. It does not matter in the furthest limits, how big (even how different big), how thick (also how differently thick) and how numerous the stacked, flat objects are. As long as they are essentially straightforward Have edge area and as long as these edge portions of all objects to be stacked must be aligned with each other, the device is unchanged applicable.
  • the point B or the second control means along the conveying path F moved is advantageously the point B or the second control means along the conveying path F moved (Arrows C). But it can also be the angle between the conveying path F of Stack supports 2 and the conveying path of the stack supports 11 can be adjusted.
  • the stack supports 11 shown in FIG. 1 extend parallel to the bearing surfaces 3 and the foot elements 4 substantially transversely to the conveying direction F. and have a bottom surface, which is advantageously perpendicular to the bearing surfaces 6 is aligned. With such stacking supports 11 can be ensured that the stack 6 is given a rectangular shape. In cases where such Squareness is not relevant, even a simple conveyor belt can Assume the function of the illustrated in Figure 1, individual stack supports 11.
  • FIG. 2 shows essentially the same device as FIG. 1. While the device according to FIG. 1 is operated in a mode in which the foot elements 4 of all the stack supports 2 conveyed are actuated at the point A, this is only suitable for selected stack supports according to FIG 2, for example, only for stack supports containing a defect-free stack 6. Unselected stack supports 2 are conveyed through the exposure area 1 in an unchanged state.
  • control means may be, for example stationary Steuerkulissen be provided with the foot elements 4 of the stack supports 2 arranged control rollers cooperate.
  • the operating mode according to Figure 2 are to provide active control means, the on the foot elements 4 selectively actuate acting controls.
  • Figures 3 to 5 show in more detail the operation of an exemplary embodiment of a stack support 2 in a device, as shown in Figures 1 and 2 is more schematically.
  • the bottom portions of stack supports 2 are shown in a configuration for gathering ( Figure 3), for exposing the lower edge portions 13 of the stacked flat objects or for discharging a stack ( Figure 4) and for further processing the stacks 6 and the exposed edge portions 13 ( Figure 5).
  • the foot member 4 is pivotally attached to the side pieces 20 and is with a biased between side piece 20 and foot element 4 tension spring 21 driven against the support surface 3.
  • the foot element 4 also has a Control roller 22, via which the foot member 4 by a control link 23 against the Spring force of the tension spring 21 in one of the support surface 3 more or less distanced Position can be brought and preserved in such a position.
  • the control gate 23 is necessary in areas of the conveying path ( Figure 4), in which the foot elements 4 are to be kept in a distance from the support surface 3 position.
  • the control link 23 may be missing in regions of the conveying path (FIGS. 3 and 5), in FIG which the foot member 4 with full spring force against the support surface 3 and against a voltage applied to the support surface 3 stack 6 is to be pulled.
  • Figure 3 shows the foot member 4 in the collation configuration in which it is driven by the force of the tension spring 21 when no stack 6 is positioned between the support surface 3 and foot member 4.
  • the foot element 4 closes in this position closely to the support surface 3, such that it can support flat objects applied to the support surface 3.
  • FIG. 4 shows the stack support 2 in the exposure or discharge configuration in which it is conveyed through the exposure area, ie in the areas of the conveying path between the points A and B shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and through a discharge area in which a stack is released from its clamped between the support surface 3 and 4 foot element position.
  • the foot member 4 is spaced from the support surface 3, such that the lower end of the support surface 3 is free and slipping on the support surface 3, flat objects slide on it or can be removed between support surface 3 and 4 foot element.
  • the foot member 4 is guided in this position during the promotion by the control link 23 and pressed by the spring force of the tension spring 21 against this.
  • FIG. 5 shows the stack support 2 in the further processing configuration into which it is brought when the stack 6 resting on the support surface 3 and supported by the stack support means (not shown) slips over the support surface 3 by a predetermined amount (location B in FIGS Figures 1 and 2).
  • the foot member 4 is pressed by the tension spring 21 against the stack 6 and holds it firmly.
  • tension spring 21 instead of the tension spring 21, other means may be used to the foot element 4 to press against the support surface. This feature can, for example also taken from the guide rollers 22 and a corresponding control link become.
  • control blocks not as a tax There are then active, for example, the tension spring 21st to provide selectively disengaging control means.
  • Figures 6 and 7 show two further exemplary embodiments of the inventive device.
  • the stack supports 2 according to Figure 6 have at support surface 3 and foot element 4 against down substantially mutually parallel extensions 30 and thus form a kind of flat-nose pliers, through which a stack 6 can be kept even better than this with the embodiment according to Figures 1 and 2 is the case.
  • FIG. 7 very schematically shows another exemplary embodiment of the device according to the invention, in which bearing surfaces 3 and foot elements 4 form parts of essentially V-shaped collapsing pockets 2 '.
  • the foot elements 4 are hingedly hinged to one of the bearing surface 3 opposite pocket wall 31 and are driven with pressing means not shown in a "closed” position and controlled with suitable control means against the pressing force or after switching off the pressing force in an "open” position.
  • Figures 8 to 12 show the embodiment of the inventive device, as shown in Figures 1 to 5, in a conveying region downstream of the exposure area. In this area, the stacks 6 are attackingly attacked on the exposed edge regions 13 of the flat objects.
  • This further processing is to be understood in a very broad sense of the word, it should not only include these edge area changing steps (for example, binding a stack of printed products) but also a pure handling (for example, a transfer to another conveyor) or both ,
  • FIG. 8 shows a stack handling, which essentially consists in reversing the exposure of the lower edge regions 13, if necessary after processing these edge regions 13.
  • the stack supports 2 keep between the support surfaces 3 and foot elements 4 pressed stack 6 when they are fed to this area in which another stack support means 10 'is provided with parallel to the stack supports 2 funded stack supports 11'.
  • These stack supports 11 ' are adjustable in height relative to a conveying member 12' to an extent such that they can push back stack 6 on the support surface 3.
  • a first control means are provided analogously to the release region at a point A, and a second control means at a point B, these control means, as already described in connection with FIG. 1, acting on the foot elements 4 of all stack supports 2 conveyed past or only on the foot elements 4 a selection of the stack supports 2 (as shown in Figure 8).
  • stack supports 11 'and foot elements 4 are designed such that they can mesh.
  • the stack supports 11 'thus have, for example, along their extent transverse to the conveying direction gaps or are narrower than the stacked Objects and the foot elements 4 consist of at least two foot element parts, aligned with these gaps or sideways from the stack supports 11 'are arranged.
  • FIGS. 9 to 11 show transfer areas in which stacks 6 held clamped between support surfaces 3 and foot elements 4 by stack supports 2 are transferred to a further conveyor 40.
  • a first control means to be provided with which the foot elements 4 are brought by conveyed over stack supports 2 in the distance from the support surface 3 position.
  • the receiving conveying means 40 has grippers 41 which hold the uncovered Take edge portions 13 before the stack supports 2 through the point A be encouraged.
  • the receiving conveyor 40 has pockets 42, in which cover sheet 43 may be presented. The shared Edge portions 13 are inserted into these pockets as far as possible before the stack supports 2 pass the point A, where the stack 6 by the control the foot elements 4 are released and dropped into the pockets.
  • the stack 6 it is particularly advantageous if the stack 6 the bearing surfaces 3 so far dominate as much as possible, so that the free fall can be kept as short as possible.
  • the exposure area 1 and the transfer area essentially fall together.
  • the stack 6 are already in the exposure of the lower Edge regions 13 in the exposure area 1 when slipping over the support surfaces 3 in clamping means 50 of another conveyor 40 and introduced by these after the exposure area grabbed by clamping and then by dismiss the foot elements 4.
  • FIG. 12 shows a further processing in the areas of the exposed edge regions 13 of stacks 6 held clamped in stack supports 2.
  • These stacks 6, which are directed against the bottom at least in the exposure area, are deflected 60 by the conveying path F of the stack supports 2 and by corresponding pivoting of the stack supports 2 brought relative to this conveying path in a vertical position, in which the exposed edge portions 13 are directed upwards.
  • the stack supports 2 for further processing of the stacks 6 are conveyed through a processing area and a discharge area.
  • folded cover sheets 43 are opened and laid over the exposed edge areas.
  • the exposed edge regions 13 with the cover sheet 43 laid over are grasped by suitable grippers and released from the foot elements 4 (point A).
  • the exposed edge areas may optionally roughened or trimmed and treated with glue after hanging up the cover sheet 43 are pressed accordingly. It is also conceivable, more than a cover sheet 43 hang up and the majority of cover sheet before discharge to hog the stack 6 together.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Pile Receivers (AREA)
  • Battery Mounting, Suspending (AREA)
  • Mechanical Treatment Of Semiconductor (AREA)
  • Electrical Discharge Machining, Electrochemical Machining, And Combined Machining (AREA)
  • Magnetic Heads (AREA)

Abstract

Flat articles are gathered on stack supports (2) being conveyed past feed points substantially continuously and one after the other. After the gathering operation, bottom edge zones (13) of the gathered articles are exposed for a further processing operation. The corresponding device includes continuously conveyed stack supports (2) each with an inclined supporting surface (3) and a foot element (4) located in the bottom area of the supporting surface (3). The foot elements are actively connected with the supporting surfaces such that they are capable of being pressed against the supporting surface and of being spaced from the supporting surface. In an exposure zone downstream of the gathering zone (1), stack support structure, which are conveyed in synchronism with the stack supports (2) and substantially in the same direction, and a control device are provided. At the entrance to the exposure zone (1), the stack support structure is arranged so as to be positioned immediately underneath the stack supports and such that, further downstream, the stack support structure moves away from the stack supports (2) in a downwards direction. The control device acts on the foot elements (4) of stack supports (2) conveyed through the exposure zone such that the foot elements are spaced from the supporting surfaces (3) at the entrance to the exposure zone for letting the stacks slide down onto the stack support device, and such that the stacks having slid down onto the stack support device (10) are clamped between the foot element and the supporting surface. The exposed edge zones (13) of the gathered articles can then be processed in a simple way and/or can be taken hold of by further conveying device.

Description

Die Erfindung liegt auf dem Gebiete der Fördertechnik und betrifft eine Vorrichtung nach dem Oberbegriff des ersten Patentanspruchs. Die Vorrichtung dient zum kontinuierlichen Zusammentragen von flachen Gegenständen zur seriellen Herstellung von Stapeln und zur Weiterverarbeitung der hergestellten Stapel.The invention is in the field of conveyor technology and relates to a device according to the preamble of the first claim. The device is used for continuous Gather flat objects for serial production of stacks and for further processing of the produced stacks.

Es ist insbesondere aus der Druckerei- und Buchbinderei-Industrie bekannt, Stapel von Blättern, gefalteten Bogen, Signaturen oder anderen gedruckten Produkten herzustellen, indem eine Reihe von Zuführungsstellen vorgesehen wird, indem entstehende Stapel im wesentlichen kontinuierlich hintereinander entlang dieser Reihe von Zuführungsstellen gefördert werden und indem an jeder Zuführungsstelle jedem entstehenden Stapel ein Druckprodukt zugefügt wird. Die Vorrichtung zur Förderung der entstehenden Stapel weist beispielsweise eine Mehrzahl von hintereinander angeordneten, im wesentlichen V-förmigen Taschen mit gegen oben gerichteten, sich im wesentlichen quer zur Förderrichtung erstreckenden Öffnungen auf, in die die Druckprodukte mit einer Kante voran eingeführt werden. Dabei lehnt ein sich bereits in der Tasche befindender, entstehender Stapel gegen die eine der Taschenwände und wird gegebenenfalls mit geeigneten Mitteln an diese Wand gepresst, so dass das zuzugebende Produkt dem Stapel sicher und präzis zugegeben werden kann. Zum gleichen Zwecke können auch hintereinander angeordnete, L-förmige Stapelauflagen mit je einer Auflagefläche und einem Fusselement vorgesehen werden, wobei die Auflageflächen sich ebenfalls quer zur Förderrichtung erstrecken und gegenüber der Senkrechten vorteilhafterweise schief ausgerichtet sind. An diesen Auflageflächen werden die zugeführten Druckprodukte vorteilhafterweise an der vorlaufenden Kante geführt angelegt, wie dies beispielsweise in der Schweizer Patentanmeldung Nr. 2525/00 (P1814) derselben Anmelderin beschrieben ist.It is especially known from the printing and bookbinding industry, stack sheets, folded sheets, signatures or other printed products, by providing a series of feed points by creating emerging ones Stack substantially continuously one behind the other along this row of Feed points are promoted and by each at each feed point Stack a printed product is added. The device for promotion the resulting stack has, for example, a plurality of successively arranged, essentially V-shaped pockets with upwards facing oneself substantially transversely to the conveying direction extending openings into which the Printed products are introduced with an edge in front. It already leans against in the bag, resulting stack against the one of the bag walls and is optionally pressed by suitable means to this wall, so that the zugebende Product can be safely and precisely added to the stack. At the same Purposes can also be arranged behind one another, L-shaped stack supports each a support surface and a foot element are provided, wherein the bearing surfaces also extend transversely to the conveying direction and with respect to the vertical are advantageously oriented obliquely. At these bearing surfaces are the supplied printed products advantageously guided at the leading edge applied, as for example in Swiss Patent Application No. 2525/00 (P1814) of the same Applicant.

Es ist ebenfalls bekannt, die Stapel von in der oben kurz skizzierten Art zusammengetragenen, flachen Gegenständen aus V-förmigen Taschen zu entnehmen dadurch, dass die Taschen unten geöffnet werden und die Stapel von der Schwerkraft getrieben aus den Taschen fallen.It is also known that the stacks of compiled in the manner outlined briefly above, thereby removing flat objects from V-shaped pockets the pockets are opened at the bottom and the stacks are driven by gravity fall out of the pockets.

In der Publikation EP-0908408 wird vorgeschlagen, solche Zusammentrag-Taschen, wenn der Stapel darin fertig gebildet ist, während einer kontinuierlichen Weiterförderung unten zu öffnen, so dass die Stapel durch die Schwerkraft in eine untere Tasche verschoben werden, welche untere Tasche sich an die Zusammentrag-Tasche anschliesst. Die Wände der unteren Taschen sind derart beweglich, dass der in eine solche Tasche gefallene Stapel zwischen diesen Wänden geklemmt werden kann, so dass beim Öffnen dieser Tasche die untere Seite des Stapels, bzw. alle unteren Kanten der im Stapel zusammengetragenen, flachen Gegenstände frei zugänglich werden, während der Stapel in der Tasche festgehalten ist. Die derart freigelegte Stapelseite kann dann beispielsweise für eine Bindung aufgerauht, beschnitten und/oder mit Klebstoff behandelt werden. Nach dieser Behandlung wird der Stapel von den Taschenwänden freigegeben und gezielt fallen gelassen.Publication EP-0908408 proposes such gathering bags, when the stack is finished formed therein, during a continuous further promotion open bottom, allowing the stack to fall into a lower pocket by gravity be moved, which lower bag connects to the gathering bag. The walls of the lower pockets are so movable that in such a Bag fallen pile can be clamped between these walls, so that when opening this bag, the bottom of the stack, or all lower edges the flat objects collected in the stack become freely accessible, while the pile is held in the bag. The so uncovered stack page can then, for example, roughened for a bond, cropped and / or with Adhesive treated. After this treatment, the stack of the bag walls released and deliberately dropped.

Auch in der Publikation EP-0712736 wird ein Zusammentragen von Druckprodukten in im wesentlichen kontinuierlich geförderten Taschen beschrieben. Der fertig gebildete Stapel wird dann von den Taschenwänden derart eingeklemmt und gehalten, dass die Tasche unten geöffnet werden kann und die Position des Stapels relativ zu den Taschenwänden unverändert bleibt. Die verwendete Tasche weist einen als Hohlleiste ausgestalteten Basisteil auf, der zum Öffnen der Tasche nach unten weggefahren wird. Auch gemäss dieser Publikation werden die derart freigelegten Produktekanten, die die untere Stapelseite bilden, zum Binden des Stapels oder Buchblockes weiter behandelt, wofür der Stapel samt den pressenden Taschenwänden in Spannzangen eingeführt wird.Also in the publication EP-0712736 is a collation of printed products described in essentially continuously funded pockets. The finished educated Stack is then pinched and held by the bag walls in such a way that the bag can be opened at the bottom and the position of the stack relative to the pocket walls remains unchanged. The bag used has one as Hollow bar designed base part, which moved away to open the bag down becomes. According to this publication too, the product edges thus exposed become which form the lower stacking side, for binding the stack or book block further dealt with what the stack including the pressing pocket walls in Collets is introduced.

Die Erfindung stellt sich nun die Aufgabe, eine Vorrichtung zum kontinuierlichen Zusammentragen von flachen Gegenständen zu Stapeln und zur Weiterverarbeitung der Stapel zu schaffen, mit welcher Vorrichtung ausgezeichnete Kanten der gestapelten, flachen Gegenstände beim Stapeln aufeinander ausgerichtet und am fertigen Stapel für eine Weiterverarbeitung zugänglich gemacht werden und mit welcher Vorrichtung die Stapel mit den freigelegten Kantenbereichen einer Weiterverarbeitung zugefördert werden. Die erfindungsgemässe Vorrichtung soll sich von bekannten Vorrichtungen, die demselben Zwecke dienen, insbesondere dadurch unterscheiden, dass sie universeller anwendbar und einfacher ist und dass sie bedeutend einfacher an verschiedene Anforderungen an die Freilegung der Kantenbereiche der gestapelten, flachen Gegenstände anpassbar ist.The invention now has the object, a device for continuous Gathering flat objects into stacks and for further processing the stack to create with which device excellent edges of the stacked, flat objects when stacking aligned and finished Stacks are made available for further processing and with which device the stacks with the exposed edge areas of a further processing be promoted. The device according to the invention is intended to be known Devices which serve the same purpose, in particular by distinguishing that it is more universally applicable and simpler and that it is significantly simpler various requirements for the exposure of the edge regions of the stacked, flat objects is customizable.

Diese Aufgabe wird gelöst durch die Vorrichtung, wie sie in den Patentansprüchen definiert ist.This object is achieved by the device as defined in the claims is defined.

Die erfindungsgemässe Vorrichtung weist in an sich bekannter Weise eine Mehrzahl von in Förderrichtung hintereinander im wesentlichen kontinuierlich geförderten Stapelauflagen auf. Diese Stapelauflagen werden im wesentlichen kontinuierlich gefördert, zuerst für die Bildung von Stapeln durch Zusammentragen entlang einer Reihe von Zuführungsstellen, dann durch einen Freilegungsbereich und von dort zu einer Weiterverarbeitung.The inventive device has a plurality in a conventional manner from one behind the other in the conveying direction substantially continuously conveyed Stacking pads on. These stack supports are conveyed essentially continuously, first for the formation of stacks by gathering along a Row of feeders, then through an exposure area and from there to a further processing.

Die Stapelauflagen weisen im wesentlichen quer zur Förderrichtung ausgerichtete, Auflageflächen und am unteren Ende der Auflagefläche je ein Fusselement auf. Das Fusselement ist derart mit der Auflagefläche wirkverbunden, dass es mit einer Presskraft gegen diese Auflagefläche pressbar ist und dass es mittels geeigneter Steuermittel gegen die Presskraft oder nach Ausschalten der Presskraft von der Auflagefläche distanzierbar ist und aus dieser distanzierten Position wieder in die Pressstellung entlassen werden kann.The stack supports have aligned substantially transversely to the conveying direction, Support surfaces and at the lower end of the support surface depending on a foot element. The Foot element is operatively connected to the support surface, that it with a pressing force is pressed against this bearing surface and that it by means of suitable control means against the pressing force or after switching off the pressing force of the support surface is distanzierbar and from this distant position back into the pressing position can be dismissed.

Während dem Zusammentragen werden die flachen Gegenstände an der in dieser Phase vorteilhafterweise schiefen Auflagefläche angelegt und ihre unteren Kanten werden durch das Fusselement, das gegen die Auflagefläche gepresst ist, aufeinander ausgerichtet. Auflagefläche und Fusselement tragen zusammen den entstehenden und den fertigen Stapel in einer definierten Position.During gathering, the flat objects will be at the in this Phase advantageously laid inclined surface and its lower edges be on each other by the foot element, which is pressed against the support surface aligned. Support surface and foot element carry together the resulting and the finished stack in a defined position.

Auf die letzte Zuführungsstelle folgt in Förderrichtung ein Freilegungsbereich, durch den die Stapelauflagen im wesentlichen gleich gefördert werden wie entlang der Reihe von Zuführungsstellen. Durch den Freilegungsbereich werden auch Stapelstützmittel gefördert und zwar synchron mit den Stapelauflagen und auf diese ausgerichtet, wobei der Förderweg der Stapelauflagen und der Förderweg der Stapelstützmittel derart ausgelegt sind, dass die Stapelstützmittel sich am Eingang des Freilegungsbereichs unmittelbar unter den Stapelauflagen angeordnet sind und sich während der Förderung durch den Freilegungsbereich immer weiter gegen unten von den Stapelauflagen entfernen. The last feeding point is followed by an exposure area in the conveying direction, through the stack supports are conveyed substantially the same as along the row from feeding points. The exposure area also becomes pile support means promoted, synchronized with the stack supports and aligned with them, wherein the conveying path of the stack supports and the conveying path of the stack support means are designed such that the stack support means at the entrance of the exposure area are arranged directly under the stack supports and during the Promotion through the exposure area further and further down from the pile supports remove.

Ferner sind in diesem Freilegungsbereich Mittel zur Steuerung der Fusselemente vorgesehen. Durch ein erstes solches Steuermittel werden die Fusselemente da, wo die Stapelstützmittel sich unmittelbar unter den Stapelauflagen bewegen, also am Eingang des Freilegungsbereiches, von den Auflageflächen distanziert, so dass die an den Auflageflächen anliegenden Stapel gegen unten freigegeben werden und, immer an den Auflageflächen anliegend, auf die Stapelstützmittel abrutschen. Die Stapel werden so lange an den Auflageflächen anliegend und durch die Stapelstützmittel gestützt gefördert, bis sie aufgrund der Divergenz der Förderwege von Stapelauflage und Stapelstützmittel derart weit abgerutscht sind, dass die unteren Kanten der gestapelten flachen Gegenstände die unteren Kanten der Auflageflächen um ein vorgegebenes Mass überragen. An dieser Stelle ist ein zweites Steuermittel vorgesehen, durch das die Fusselemente aus ihrer von der Auflagefläche distanzierten Position wieder in ihre Pressposition entlassen werden. Durch das Abrutschen des Stapels ist dieser nun zwischen der Auflagefläche und dem Fusselement positioniert, so dass das Fusselement bei seiner Entlassung in die Pressposition nicht mehr direkt gegen die Auflagefläche gepresst wird sondern gegen den Stapel, so dass dieser zwischen Fusselement und Auflagefläche gepresst und dadurch in seiner Position relativ zur Auflagefläche fixiert wird. Ein weiteres Abrutschen des Stapels ist also nicht mehr möglich.Furthermore, in this exposure area means for controlling the foot elements intended. By a first such control means, the foot elements are where the stack support means move directly under the stack supports, so on Entrance of the exposure area, distanced from the bearing surfaces, so that the on the bearing surfaces adjacent stack are released against the bottom and, always abutting the bearing surfaces, slip on the stack support means. The stacks become so long on the bearing surfaces fitting and by the stack support means Supported until they are due to the divergence of the conveyor paths of pile support and stack support means are slid so far that the lower edges of the stacked flat objects, the lower edges of the bearing surfaces by a predetermined Surpass the size. At this point, a second control means is provided, by the foot elements from their distance from the support surface position be released back to their pressing position. By slipping the stack is this now positioned between the support surface and the foot element, so that the foot element when released into the pressing position no longer directly against the support surface is pressed but against the stack, leaving this between Foot element and bearing surface pressed and thereby in its position relative to Support surface is fixed. Another slippage of the stack is therefore no longer possible.

Mit dem zwischen Auflagefläche und Fusselement eingeklemmten Stapel werden die Stapelauflagen weiter gefördert, wobei ihre räumliche Lage jetzt auch veränderbar ist, beispielsweise durch Verschwenken der Stapelauflagen relativ zum Förderweg oder durch Umlenkung des Förderweges. Durch derartige Veränderungen der räumlichen Lage der Stapelauflagen und damit der darin festgeklemmten Stapel von flachen Gegenständen können die die Auflageflächen überragenden, aufeinander ausgerichteten und ursprünglich gegen unten gerichteten Kantenbereiche für eine Weiterverarbeitung optimal orientiert werden. With the stack clamped between the support surface and the foot element, the Pile supports further promoted, with their spatial position now also changeable is, for example by pivoting the stack supports relative to the conveyor or by deflection of the conveying path. Through such changes of spatial Location of the stack supports and thus the clamped therein stacks of flat Objects may be the bearing surfaces superior, aligned and originally against bottom edge portions for further processing optimally oriented.

Für eine Entlassung der gegebenenfalls im Bereiche der freigelegten Kantenbereiche bearbeiteten, gestapelten flachen Gegenstände von ihrer geklemmten Position auf den Stapelauflagen kann sehr einfach der zwischen Auflagefläche und Fusselement vorstehende Stapelteil mit einem geeigneten Mittel erfasst und dann zur Stapelentlassung das Fusselement wieder in seine von der Auflagefläche distanzierte Position gebracht werden.For a release of the optionally in the areas of exposed edge areas machined, stacked flat objects from their clamped position The stack supports can easily between the support surface and foot element grasped projecting stack part with a suitable means and then for Stapelentlassung the foot element again in its distance from the support surface position to be brought.

Anstelle von L-förmigen Stapelauflagen, wie sie oben beschrieben sind, kann die erfindungsgemässe Vorrichtung auch sich im wesentlichen quer zur Förderrichtung erstreckende, V-förmige Zusammentrag-Taschen mit zwei in Förderrichtung einander gegenüberliegenden Taschenwänden aufweisen. Die eine der Taschenwände stellt dann die Auflagefläche dar und das Fusselement verschliesst den Abstand zwischen den Taschenwänden gegen unten.Instead of L-shaped stack supports, as described above, the inventive Device also substantially transversely to the conveying direction extending, V-shaped gathering bags with two in the conveying direction each other have opposite pocket walls. The one of the bag walls then represents the bearing surface and the foot element closes the distance between the pocket walls against the bottom.

In derselben Art, wie mit der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung Stapel aus einer Mehrzahl von flachen Gegenständen erstellt und weiterverarbeitet werden können, können selbstverständlich auch einzelne Gegenstände positioniert, durch Klemmen gehalten und in dieser Position weiterverarbeitet werden, also "Stapel", die nur einen einzigen flachen Gegenstand umfassen.In the same way as with the inventive device stack of a Plurality of flat objects can be created and processed, Of course, individual objects can also be positioned by clamping held and processed in this position, so "stack", the only one to include a single flat object.

Beispielhafte Ausführungsformen der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung werden im Zusammenhang mit den folgenden Figuren mehr im Detail beschrieben. Dabei zeigen:

  • Figuren 1 und 2 den Freilegungsbereich einer ersten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung in zwei Funktionsmodi;
  • Figuren 3 bis 5 die Funktion des Fusselementes illustriert im Detail an der Ausführungsform gemäss Figuren 1 und 2;
  • Figuren 6 und 7 die Freilegungsbereiche von zwei weiteren, beispielhaften Ausführungsformen der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung;
  • Figuren 8 bis 12 die Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung gemäss Figuren 1 und 2 in Bereichen der Weiterverarbeitung von zwischen Auflagefläche und Fusselement geklemmt festgehaltenen Stapeln
  • .Exemplary embodiments of the device according to the invention will be described in more detail in connection with the following figures. Showing:
  • Figures 1 and 2, the exposure range of a first embodiment of the inventive device in two modes of operation;
  • Figures 3 to 5 the function of the foot member illustrated in detail on the embodiment according to Figures 1 and 2;
  • Figures 6 and 7, the exposure ranges of two further exemplary embodiments of the inventive device;
  • Figures 8 to 12, the embodiment of the inventive device according to Figures 1 and 2 in areas of further processing of clamped between the support surface and foot element held piles
  • ,

    Figur 1 zeigt eine erste Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung im Freilegungsbereich 1, durch welchen sich die Stapelauflagen 2 im wesentlichen kontinuierlich bewegen (Förderrichtung F) und zwar im wesentlichen in derselben räumlichen Lage, in der sie auch entlang der Reihe der Zuführungsstellen gefördert wurden. Die Stapelauflagen 2 weisen je eine Auflagefläche 3 und ein Fusselement 4 auf. Die Stapelauflagen 2 sind beispielsweise, wie dargestellt, äquidistant an einem Förderorgan (strichpunktierte Linie 5) angekoppelt, es kann sich aber auch um im wesentlichen unabhängig voneinander in Förderrichtung F verfahrbare Elemente handeln. Die Auflageflächen 3 der Stapelauflagen 2 erstrecken sich im wesentlichen quer zur Förderrichtung F (senkrecht zur Papierebene der Figur) und sind in Förderrichtung schief angeordnet, beispielsweise derart, dass ihre unteren Kanten den oberen Kanten nachlaufen. FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention in the exposure area 1, through which the stack supports 2 move substantially continuously (conveying direction F), essentially in the same spatial position in which they were also conveyed along the row of feed points. The stack supports 2 each have a support surface 3 and a foot element 4. The stack supports 2 are for example, as shown, equidistantly coupled to a conveying member (dash-dotted line 5), but it can also be substantially independently of each other in the conveying direction F traversable elements. The support surfaces 3 of the stack supports 2 extend substantially transversely to the conveying direction F (perpendicular to the paper plane of the figure) and are arranged obliquely in the conveying direction, for example, such that their lower edges run after the upper edges.

    Die dem Freilegungsbereich 1 zugeförderten Stapelauflagen 2 tragen je einen Stapel 6, wobei die flachen Gegenstände des Stapels 6 vor der Förderung der Stapelauflage durch den in der Figur 1 dargestellten Freilegungsbereich 1 während der Förderung entlang einer Reihe von Zuführungsstellen in an sich bekannter Weise auf den Stapelauflagen 2 abgelegt wurden. The evacuation area 1 zugeförderten stack supports 2 each carry a stack 6, wherein the flat objects of the stack 6 before the promotion of the stack support through the exposure area 1 shown in FIG. 1 during the conveyance along a series of feed points in a conventional manner on the stack supports 2 were filed.

    Im Freilegungsbereich 1 sind unterhalb der Stapelauflagen 2 synchron mit den Stapelauflagen 2 und auf diese ausgerichtet durch den Freilegungsbereich bewegbare Stapelstützmittel 10 vorgesehen, derart, dass sie am Eingang des Freilegungsbereichs 1 unmittelbar unter den unteren Kanten der Auflageflächen 3 positioniert sind und sich während ihrer Förderung durch den Freilegungsbereich 1 in einem spitzen Winkel von diesen weg bewegt werden. Die Stapelstützmittel 10 bestehen beispielsweise aus individuellen Stapelstützen 11, die an einem Förderorgan 12 mit in sich geschlossener Umlaufbahn angekoppelt sind.In the exposure area 1 are below the stack supports 2 in sync with the stack supports 2 and aligned to this movable through the exposure area Stack support means 10 provided such that they are at the entrance of the exposure area 1 are positioned immediately below the lower edges of the support surfaces 3 and during their promotion through the exposure area 1 at an acute angle to be moved away from them. The stack support means 10 consist for example from individual stack supports 11 which are closed on a conveyor member 12 with self-contained Orbit are coupled.

    An der mit A bezeichneten Stelle, die etwa derjenigen Stelle entspricht, an der die Stapelstützen 11 am nächsten an den Auflageflächen 3 angeordnet sind, ist ein erstes Steuermittel (nicht dargestellt) wirksam, durch dessen Aktion die Fusselemente 4 von vorbei geförderten Stapelauflagen 2 in ihre von der Auflagefläche 3 distanzierte Position gebracht werden. Dadurch rutscht der an der Auflagefläche 3 anliegende Stapel 6 auf die Stapelstütze 11 ab.At the point marked A, which corresponds approximately to the point at which the Stacking supports 11 are arranged closest to the bearing surfaces 3, is a first Control means (not shown) effective, by the action of the foot elements 4th from passing through stack supports 2 in their distance from the support surface 3 Position be brought. As a result, slips on the bearing surface 3 fitting Stack 6 on the stack support 11 from.

    Bei der Weiterförderung rutscht der Stapel 6 durch die Divergenz der Förderwege von Stapelauflagen 2 und Stapelstützen 11 weiter nach unten und überragt die Auflagefläche 3 immer mehr.During further promotion, the stack 6 slips due to the divergence of the conveying paths of stack supports 2 and stack supports 11 further down and extends beyond the support surface 3 more and more.

    An der mit B bezeichneten Stelle, die flussabwärts von der Stelle A liegt, ist ein zweites Steuermittel (nicht dargestellt) angeordnet, durch dessen Aktion die Fusselemente 4 von vorbei geförderten Stapelauflagen 2 aus ihrer von der Auflagefläche 3 distanzierten Position wieder in ihre Pressposition entlassen werden, um den über die Auflagefläche 3 abgerutschten Stapel 6 gegen diese zu pressen und so in seiner die Auflagefläche 3 überragenden Position zu fixieren. At the point marked B, which lies downstream of the point A, is a second control means (not shown) arranged by the action of the foot elements 4 of over conveyed stack supports 2 from their from the support surface 3 detached position to be released back into their pressing position to the over the support surface 3 slipped stack 6 to press against them and so in his to fix the bearing surface 3 superior position.

    Die Stapelstützen 11 werden in einem auf die Stelle B folgenden Bereich von den Stapelauflagen 2 weg bewegt, wodurch die unteren Kantenbereiche 13 der gestapelten, flachen Gegenstände, die Auflagefläche 3 und Fusselement 4 überragen, für eine Weiterverarbeitung der Stapel frei zugänglich werden.The stack supports 11 are in an area following the point B of the Stack supports 2 moves away, whereby the lower edge portions 13 of the stacked, flat objects that surmount the support surface 3 and foot element 4, for a Further processing of the stack are freely accessible.

    Es ist aus der Figur 1 deutlich ersichtlich, dass die Stapelauflagen 2 sehr einfache Vorrichtungsteile sind, die sehr nahe aufeinander folgend entlang des Förderweges gefördert werden können. Es ist auch ersichtlich, dass die Stapelauflagen 2, wenn sie einen Stapel 6 zwischen Auflageflächen 3 und Fusselementen 4 geklemmt halten, beispielsweise durch Schwenkung parallel zum Förderweg F und/oder durch Umlenkung des Förderweges in verschiedenste räumliche Lagen gebracht werden können, wodurch die freigelegten, ursprünglich unteren Kantenbereiche 13 der gestapelten, flachen Gegenstände beispielsweise für eine Bearbeitung oder für eine Übergabe an eine weitere Fördervorrichtung optimal zugänglich gemacht werden können.It can be clearly seen from FIG. 1 that the stack supports 2 are very simple Device parts are very close to each other along the conveying path can be promoted. It can also be seen that the stack supports 2, if they keep a stack 6 clamped between bearing surfaces 3 and foot elements 4, for example, by pivoting parallel to the conveying path F and / or by deflection of the transport route can be brought into various spatial locations, whereby the exposed, originally lower edge regions 13 of the stacked, flat objects for example, for processing or for a transfer another conveyor can be made optimally accessible.

    Insbesondere ist aber aus der Figur 1 ersichtlich, dass es sehr einfach ist, die erfindungsgemässe Vorrichtung für verschiedene Handhabungen verschiedener Stapel einzustellen. Es spielt in weitesten Grenzen keine Rolle, wie gross (auch wie verschieden gross), wie dick (auch wie verschieden dick) und wie zahlreich die gestapelten, flachen Gegenstände sind. Solange sie einen im wesentlichen geradlinigen Kantenbereich haben und solange diese Kantenbereiche aller zu stapelnden Gegenstände aufeinander ausgerichtet werden müssen, ist die Vorrichtung unverändert anwendbar. Für eine Einstellung des Masses, um das die unteren Kantenbereiche 13 in ihrem freigelegten Zustand über die Auflagefläche 3 vorstehen sollen, wird vorteilhafterweise die Stelle B bzw. das zweite Steuermittel entlang des Förderweges F verschoben (Pfeile C). Es kann aber auch der Winkel zwischen dem Förderweg F der Stapelauflagen 2 und dem Förderweg der Stapelstützen 11 eingestellt werden. In particular, however, it can be seen from FIG. 1 that it is very simple to carry out the invention Device for various manipulations of different stacks adjust. It does not matter in the furthest limits, how big (even how different big), how thick (also how differently thick) and how numerous the stacked, flat objects are. As long as they are essentially straightforward Have edge area and as long as these edge portions of all objects to be stacked must be aligned with each other, the device is unchanged applicable. For a setting of the dimension around which the lower edge regions 13 in their projected state on the support surface 3 are projecting, is advantageously the point B or the second control means along the conveying path F moved (Arrows C). But it can also be the angle between the conveying path F of Stack supports 2 and the conveying path of the stack supports 11 can be adjusted.

    Die in der Figur 1 dargestellten Stapelstützen 11 erstrecken sich parallel zu den Auflageflächen 3 und den Fusselementen 4 im wesentlichen quer zur Förderrichtung F und weisen eine Bodenfläche auf, die vorteilhafterweise senkrecht zu den Auflageflächen 6 ausgerichtet ist. Mit derartigen Stapelstützen 11 kann sichergestellt werden, dass der Stapel 6 eine rechtwinklige Form erhält. In Fällen, in denen eine solche Rechtwinkligkeit nicht relevant ist, kann auch ein einfaches Transportband die Funktion der in der Figur 1 dargestellten, individuellen Stapelstützen 11 übernehmen.The stack supports 11 shown in FIG. 1 extend parallel to the bearing surfaces 3 and the foot elements 4 substantially transversely to the conveying direction F. and have a bottom surface, which is advantageously perpendicular to the bearing surfaces 6 is aligned. With such stacking supports 11 can be ensured that the stack 6 is given a rectangular shape. In cases where such Squareness is not relevant, even a simple conveyor belt can Assume the function of the illustrated in Figure 1, individual stack supports 11.

    Figur 2 zeigt im wesentlichen dieselbe Vorrichtung wie die Figur 1. Während die Vorrichtung gemäss Figur 1 in einem Modus betrieben wird, in dem die Fusselemente 4 aller vorbei geförderten Stapelauflagen 2 an der Stelle A angesteuert werden, ist dies gemäss Figur 2 nur für ausgewählte Stapelauflagen 2 der Fall, zum Beispiel nur für Stapelauflagen, die einen fehlerfreien Stapel 6 enthalten. Nicht ausgewählte Stapelauflagen 2 werden in einem unveränderten Zustand durch den Freilegungsbereich 1 gefördert. FIG. 2 shows essentially the same device as FIG. 1. While the device according to FIG. 1 is operated in a mode in which the foot elements 4 of all the stack supports 2 conveyed are actuated at the point A, this is only suitable for selected stack supports according to FIG 2, for example, only for stack supports containing a defect-free stack 6. Unselected stack supports 2 are conveyed through the exposure area 1 in an unchanged state.

    Für die Steuerung des Betriebsmodus gemäss Figur 1 können als Steuermittel beispielsweise stationäre Steuerkulissen vorgesehen werden, die mit an den Fusselementen 4 der Stapelauflagen 2 angeordneten Steuerrollen kooperieren. Für die Steuerung des Betriebsmodus gemäss Figur 2 sind aktive Steuermittel vorzusehen, die auf die Fusselemente 4 wirkende Steuerelemente selektiv betätigen.For the control of the operating mode according to FIG. 1, the control means may be, for example stationary Steuerkulissen be provided with the foot elements 4 of the stack supports 2 arranged control rollers cooperate. For the controller the operating mode according to Figure 2 are to provide active control means, the on the foot elements 4 selectively actuate acting controls.

    Figuren 3 bis 5 zeigen mehr im Detail die Funktionsweise einer beispielhaften Ausführungsform einer Stapelauflage 2 in einer Vorrichtung, wie sie in den Figuren 1 und 2 mehr schematisch dargestellt ist. Es sind die unteren Bereiche von Stapelauflagen 2 dargestellt und zwar in einer Konfiguration für das Zusammentragen (Figur 3), für das Freilegen der unteren Kantenbereiche 13 der gestapelten, flachen Gegenstände oder für das Entlassen eines Stapels (Figur 4) und für die Weiterverarbeitung der Stapel 6 bzw. der freigelegten Kantenbereiche 13 (Figur 5). Figures 3 to 5 show in more detail the operation of an exemplary embodiment of a stack support 2 in a device, as shown in Figures 1 and 2 is more schematically. The bottom portions of stack supports 2 are shown in a configuration for gathering (Figure 3), for exposing the lower edge portions 13 of the stacked flat objects or for discharging a stack (Figure 4) and for further processing the stacks 6 and the exposed edge portions 13 (Figure 5).

    Sichtbar ist jeweils ein unterer Teil der Auflagefläche 3, die beidseitig durch Seitenstücke 20 (eines sichtbar) begrenzt ist, und eines an der Auflagefläche 3 anliegenden Stapels 6. Das Fusselement 4 ist an den Seitenstücken 20 schwenkbar befestigt und wird mit je einer zwischen Seitenstück 20 und Fusselement 4 vorgespannten Zugfeder 21 gegen die Auflagefläche 3 getrieben. Das Fusselement 4 weist ferner eine Steuerrolle 22 auf, über die das Fusselement 4 von einer Steuerkulisse 23 gegen die Federkraft der Zugfeder 21 in eine von der Auflagefläche 3 mehr oder weniger distanzierte Position bringbar und in einer derartigen Position haltbar ist. Die Steuerkulisse 23 ist notwendig in Bereichen des Förderweges (Figur 4), in denen die Fusselemente 4 in einer von der Auflagefläche 3 distanzierten Position zu halten sind. Die Steuerkulisse 23 kann fehlen in Bereichen des Förderweges (Figuren 3 und 5), in denen das Fusselement 4 mit voller Federkraft gegen die Auflagefläche 3 bzw. gegen einen an der Auflagefläche 3 anliegenden Stapel 6 gezogen werden soll.Visible is in each case a lower part of the support surface 3, on both sides by side pieces 20 (one visible) is limited, and one adjacent to the support surface 3 Stack 6. The foot member 4 is pivotally attached to the side pieces 20 and is with a biased between side piece 20 and foot element 4 tension spring 21 driven against the support surface 3. The foot element 4 also has a Control roller 22, via which the foot member 4 by a control link 23 against the Spring force of the tension spring 21 in one of the support surface 3 more or less distanced Position can be brought and preserved in such a position. The control gate 23 is necessary in areas of the conveying path (Figure 4), in which the foot elements 4 are to be kept in a distance from the support surface 3 position. The control link 23 may be missing in regions of the conveying path (FIGS. 3 and 5), in FIG which the foot member 4 with full spring force against the support surface 3 and against a voltage applied to the support surface 3 stack 6 is to be pulled.

    Figur 3 zeigt das Fusselement 4 in der Zusammentrag-Konfiguration, in der es durch die Kraft der Zugfeder 21 getrieben wird, wenn kein Stapel 6 zwischen Auflagefläche 3 und Fusselement 4 positioniert ist. Das Fusselement 4 schliesst sich in dieser Position eng an die Auflagefläche 3 an, derart, dass es an die Auflagefläche 3 angelegte, flache Gegenstände stützen kann. Figure 3 shows the foot member 4 in the collation configuration in which it is driven by the force of the tension spring 21 when no stack 6 is positioned between the support surface 3 and foot member 4. The foot element 4 closes in this position closely to the support surface 3, such that it can support flat objects applied to the support surface 3.

    Figur 4 zeigt die Stapelauflage 2 in der Freilegungs- oder Entlassungs-Konfiguration, in der es durch den Freilegungsbereich gefördert wird, also im Bereiche des Förderweges zwischen den in den Figuren 1 und 2 dargestellten Stellen A und B, und durch einen Entlassungsbereich, in dem ein Stapel aus seiner zwischen Auflagefläche 3 und Fusselement 4 geklemmten Position entlassen wird. Das Fusselement 4 ist von der Auflagefläche 3 distanziert, derart, dass das untere Ende der Auflagefläche 3 frei ist und an der Auflagefläche 3 anliegende, flache Gegenstände darauf abrutschen oder zwischen Auflagefläche 3 und Fusselement 4 entnommen werden können. Das Fusselement 4 wird in dieser Position während der Förderung durch die Steuerkulisse 23 geführt und durch die Federkraft der Zugfeder 21 gegen diese gedrückt. FIG. 4 shows the stack support 2 in the exposure or discharge configuration in which it is conveyed through the exposure area, ie in the areas of the conveying path between the points A and B shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and through a discharge area in which a stack is released from its clamped between the support surface 3 and 4 foot element position. The foot member 4 is spaced from the support surface 3, such that the lower end of the support surface 3 is free and slipping on the support surface 3, flat objects slide on it or can be removed between support surface 3 and 4 foot element. The foot member 4 is guided in this position during the promotion by the control link 23 and pressed by the spring force of the tension spring 21 against this.

    Figur 5 zeigt die Stapelauflage 2 in der Weiterverarbeitungs-Konfiguration, in die sie gebracht wird, wenn der auf der Auflagefläche 3 aufliegende und vom Stapelstützmittel (nicht dargestellt) gestützte Stapel 6 um ein vorgegebenes Mass über die Auflagefläche 3 abgerutscht ist (Stelle B in den Figuren 1 und 2). Das Fusselement 4 wird von der Zugfeder 21 gegen den Stapel 6 gepresst und hält diesen fest. FIG. 5 shows the stack support 2 in the further processing configuration into which it is brought when the stack 6 resting on the support surface 3 and supported by the stack support means (not shown) slips over the support surface 3 by a predetermined amount (location B in FIGS Figures 1 and 2). The foot member 4 is pressed by the tension spring 21 against the stack 6 and holds it firmly.

    Anstelle der Zugfeder 21 können auch andere Mittel eingesetzt werden, um das Fusselement 4 gegen die Auflagefläche zu pressen. Diese Funktion kann beispielsweise auch von den Führungsrollen 22 und einer entsprechenden Steuerkulisse übernommen werden. Für den in der Figur 2 dargestellten Betriebsmodus eignen sich Steuerkulissen nicht als Steuermittel. Es sind dann aktive, beispielsweise die Zugfeder 21 selektiv ausklinkende Steuermittel vorzusehen.Instead of the tension spring 21, other means may be used to the foot element 4 to press against the support surface. This feature can, for example also taken from the guide rollers 22 and a corresponding control link become. For the operating mode shown in Figure 2 are control blocks not as a tax. There are then active, for example, the tension spring 21st to provide selectively disengaging control means.

    Figuren 6 und 7 zeigen zwei weitere, beispielhafte Ausführungsformen der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung. Figures 6 and 7 show two further exemplary embodiments of the inventive device.

    Die Stapelauflagen 2 gemäss Figur 6 weisen an Auflagefläche 3 und Fusselement 4 gegen unten im wesentlichen parallel zueinander verlaufende Verlängerungen 30 auf und bilden damit eine Art Flachzange, durch die ein Stapel 6 noch besser gehalten werden kann, als dies mit der Ausführungsform gemäss Figuren 1 und 2 der Fall ist. The stack supports 2 according to Figure 6 have at support surface 3 and foot element 4 against down substantially mutually parallel extensions 30 and thus form a kind of flat-nose pliers, through which a stack 6 can be kept even better than this with the embodiment according to Figures 1 and 2 is the case.

    Figur 7 zeigt sehr schematisch eine weitere, beispielhafte Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung, in der Auflageflächen 3 und Fusselemente 4 Teile von im wesentlichen V-förmigen Zusammentrag-Taschen 2' bilden. Die Fusselemente 4 sind gelenkig an je einer der Auflagefläche 3 gegenüberliegenden Taschenwand 31 angelenkt und werden mit nicht dargestellten Pressmitteln in eine "geschlossene" Position getrieben und mit geeigneten Steuermitteln gegen die Presskraft oder nach Ausschalten der Presskraft in eine "offene" Position gesteuert. FIG. 7 very schematically shows another exemplary embodiment of the device according to the invention, in which bearing surfaces 3 and foot elements 4 form parts of essentially V-shaped collapsing pockets 2 '. The foot elements 4 are hingedly hinged to one of the bearing surface 3 opposite pocket wall 31 and are driven with pressing means not shown in a "closed" position and controlled with suitable control means against the pressing force or after switching off the pressing force in an "open" position.

    Figuren 8 bis 12 zeigen die Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung, wie sie in den Figuren 1 bis 5 dargestellt ist, und zwar in einem Förderbereich flussabwärts vom Freilegungsbereich. In diesem Bereich werden die Stapel 6 an den freigelegten Kantenbereichen 13 der flachen Gegenstände angreifend weiterverarbeitet. Diese Weiterverarbeitung ist in einem sehr weiten Sinne des Wortes zu verstehen, sie soll nicht nur diese Kantenbereiche verändernde Schritte (zum Beispiel Binden eines Stapels von Druckprodukten) beinhalten sondern auch eine reine Handhabung (zum Beispiel ein Übergeben an eine weitere Fördervorrichtung) sein können oder beides. Figures 8 to 12 show the embodiment of the inventive device, as shown in Figures 1 to 5, in a conveying region downstream of the exposure area. In this area, the stacks 6 are attackingly attacked on the exposed edge regions 13 of the flat objects. This further processing is to be understood in a very broad sense of the word, it should not only include these edge area changing steps (for example, binding a stack of printed products) but also a pure handling (for example, a transfer to another conveyor) or both ,

    Figur 8 zeigt eine Stapelhandhabung, die im wesentlichen darin besteht, die Freilegung der unteren Kantenbereiche 13 gegebenenfalls nach einer Bearbeitung dieser Kantenbereiche 13 rückgängig zu machen. Die Stapelauflagen 2 halten zwischen Auflageflächen 3 und Fusselementen 4 gepresste Stapel 6, wenn sie diesem Bereich zugeführt werden, in dem ein weiteres Stapelstützmittel 10' mit parallel zu den Stapelauflagen 2 geförderten Stapelstützen 11' vorgesehen ist. Diese Stapelstützen 11' sind in ihrer Höhe gegenüber einem Förderorgan 12' verstellbar in einem Ausmass derart, dass sie Stapel 6 auf die Auflagefläche 3 zurückschieben können. Zur Ansteuerung der Fusselemente 4 sind analog zum Freilassungsbereich an einer Stelle A ein erstes und an einer Stelle B ein zweites Steuermittel vorgesehen, wobei diese Steuermittel, wie bereits im Zusammenhang mit Figur 1 beschrieben, auf die Fusselemente 4 aller vorbei geförderten Stapelauflagen 2 wirken können oder nur auf die Fusselemente 4 einer Auswahl der Stapelauflagen 2 (wie in der Figur 8 dargestellt). FIG. 8 shows a stack handling, which essentially consists in reversing the exposure of the lower edge regions 13, if necessary after processing these edge regions 13. The stack supports 2 keep between the support surfaces 3 and foot elements 4 pressed stack 6 when they are fed to this area in which another stack support means 10 'is provided with parallel to the stack supports 2 funded stack supports 11'. These stack supports 11 'are adjustable in height relative to a conveying member 12' to an extent such that they can push back stack 6 on the support surface 3. For controlling the foot elements 4, a first control means are provided analogously to the release region at a point A, and a second control means at a point B, these control means, as already described in connection with FIG. 1, acting on the foot elements 4 of all stack supports 2 conveyed past or only on the foot elements 4 a selection of the stack supports 2 (as shown in Figure 8).

    Für eine Weiterverarbeitung, wie sie in der Figur 8 dargestellt ist, ist es eine Voraussetzung, dass Stapelstützen 11' und Fusselemente 4 derart ausgestaltet sind, dass sie ineinander greifen können. Die Stapelstützen 11' weisen also beispielsweise entlang ihrer Ausdehnung quer zur Förderrichtung Lücken auf oder sind schmaler als die gestapelten Gegenstände und die Fusselemente 4 bestehen aus mindestens zwei Fusselementteilen, die auf diese Lücken ausgerichtet oder seitlich von den Stapelstützen 11' angeordnet sind.For further processing, as shown in FIG. 8, it is a prerequisite that stack supports 11 'and foot elements 4 are designed such that they can mesh. The stack supports 11 'thus have, for example, along their extent transverse to the conveying direction gaps or are narrower than the stacked Objects and the foot elements 4 consist of at least two foot element parts, aligned with these gaps or sideways from the stack supports 11 'are arranged.

    Figuren 9 bis 11 zeigen Übergabebereiche, in denen zwischen Auflageflächen 3 und Fusselementen 4 von Stapelauflagen 2 geklemmt gehaltene Stapel 6 an ein weiteres Fördermittel 40 übergeben werden. Dazu ist an einer Stelle A des Förderweges F wiederum ein erstes Steuermittel vorzusehen, mit dem die Fusselemente 4 von vorbei geförderten Stapelauflagen 2 in die von der Auflagefläche 3 distanzierte Position gebracht werden.FIGS. 9 to 11 show transfer areas in which stacks 6 held clamped between support surfaces 3 and foot elements 4 by stack supports 2 are transferred to a further conveyor 40. For this purpose, at a point A of the conveying path F, in turn, a first control means to be provided, with which the foot elements 4 are brought by conveyed over stack supports 2 in the distance from the support surface 3 position.

    Gemäss Figur 9 weist das übernehmende Fördermittel 40 Greifer 41 auf, die die freigelegten Kantenbereiche 13 ergreifen, bevor die Stapelauflagen 2 durch die Stelle A gefördert werden. Gemäss Figur 10 weist das übernehmende Fördermittel 40 Taschen 42 auf, in denen Deckbogen 43 vorgelegt sein können. Die freigegebenen Kantenbereiche 13 werden in diese Taschen so weit wie möglich eingeführt, bevor die Stapelauflagen 2 die Stelle A passieren, wo die Stapel 6 durch die Ansteuerung der Fusselemente 4 freigegeben und in die Taschen fallen gelassen werden. Für diesen Fall ist es besonders vorteilhaft, wenn die Stapel 6 die Auflageflächen 3 so weit wie möglich überragen, wodurch der freie Fall möglichst kurz gehalten werden kann. According to FIG. 9, the receiving conveying means 40 has grippers 41 which hold the uncovered Take edge portions 13 before the stack supports 2 through the point A be encouraged. According to FIG. 10, the receiving conveyor 40 has pockets 42, in which cover sheet 43 may be presented. The shared Edge portions 13 are inserted into these pockets as far as possible before the stack supports 2 pass the point A, where the stack 6 by the control the foot elements 4 are released and dropped into the pockets. For this Case, it is particularly advantageous if the stack 6 the bearing surfaces 3 so far dominate as much as possible, so that the free fall can be kept as short as possible.

    Gemäss Figur 11 fallen der Freilegungsbereich 1 und der Übergabebereich im wesentlichen zusammen. Die Stapel 6 werden schon bei der Freilegung der unteren Kantenbereiche 13 im Freilegungsbereich 1 beim Abrutschen über die Auflageflächen 3 in Klemmmittel 50 eines weiteren Fördermittels 40 eingeführt und von diesen im Anschluss an den Freilegungsbereich durch Klemmung ergriffen und dann von den Fusselementen 4 entlassen.According to FIG. 11, the exposure area 1 and the transfer area essentially fall together. The stack 6 are already in the exposure of the lower Edge regions 13 in the exposure area 1 when slipping over the support surfaces 3 in clamping means 50 of another conveyor 40 and introduced by these after the exposure area grabbed by clamping and then by dismiss the foot elements 4.

    Figur 12 zeigt eine Weiterverarbeitung im Bereiche der freigelegten Kantenbereiche 13 von in Stapelauflagen 2 geklemmt gehaltenen Stapeln 6. Diese Stapel 6, die mindestens im Freilegungsbereich gegen unten gerichtet sind, werden durch eine Umlenkung 60 des Förderweges F der Stapelauflagen 2 und durch entsprechende Verschwenkung der Stapelauflagen 2 relativ zu diesem Förderweg in eine senkrechte Lage gebracht, in der die freigelegten Kantenbereiche 13 gegen oben gerichtet sind. In dieser Position der Stapel 6 werden die Stapelauflagen 2 zur Weiterverarbeitung der Stapel 6 durch einen Bearbeitungsbereich und einen Entlassungsbereich gefördert. Im Entlassungsbereich werden gefaltete Deckbogen 43 geöffnet und über die freigelegten Kantenbereiche gelegt. Im Entlassungsbereich werden die freigelegten Kantenbereiche 13 mit den darüber gelegten Deckbogen 43 von geeigneten Greifern erfasst und von den Fusselementen 4 entlassen (Stelle A). FIG. 12 shows a further processing in the areas of the exposed edge regions 13 of stacks 6 held clamped in stack supports 2. These stacks 6, which are directed against the bottom at least in the exposure area, are deflected 60 by the conveying path F of the stack supports 2 and by corresponding pivoting of the stack supports 2 brought relative to this conveying path in a vertical position, in which the exposed edge portions 13 are directed upwards. In this position of the stack 6, the stack supports 2 for further processing of the stacks 6 are conveyed through a processing area and a discharge area. In the discharge area, folded cover sheets 43 are opened and laid over the exposed edge areas. In the discharge area, the exposed edge regions 13 with the cover sheet 43 laid over are grasped by suitable grippers and released from the foot elements 4 (point A).

    Vor dem Auflegen der Deckbogen 43 können die freigelegten Kantenbereiche gegebenenfalls aufgerauht oder beschnitten und mit Klebstoff behandelt, nach dem Auflegen der Deckbogen 43 entsprechend gepresst werden. Es ist auch denkbar, mehr als einen Deckbogen 43 aufzulegen und die Mehrzahl von Deckbogen vor der Entlassung der Stapel 6 miteinander zu verheften.Before laying the cover sheet 43, the exposed edge areas may optionally roughened or trimmed and treated with glue after hanging up the cover sheet 43 are pressed accordingly. It is also conceivable, more than a cover sheet 43 hang up and the majority of cover sheet before discharge to hog the stack 6 together.

    Claims (15)

    1. Device for gathering flat articles into stacks (6) and for further processing the stacks (6), which device comprises a plurality of stack supports (2) and means for continuously conveying the stack supports (2) one behind the other along a conveying path (F), wherein the conveying path (F), for gathering the articles in a gathering zone leads past a row of feed points and for further processing leads through a processing zone and wherein, for carrying a stack of the articles, each one of the stack supports (2) comprises a supporting surface (3) extending substantially transverse to the conveying path and a foot element (4) arranged in the bottom zone of the supporting surface (3), characterized in that the foot elements (4) are designed and actively connected to the supporting surfaces (3) to be capable of being pressed against the supporting surfaces (3) and of being distanced from the supporting surfaces (3), that in an exposure zone (1) between the gathering zone and the processing zone, stack support means (10) being capable of moving in synchronism and substantially in the same direction with the stack supports (2) are provided, wherein, at the entrance to the exposure zone (1), the stack support means (10) are positioned immediately underneath the stack supports (2) and further downstream move away from the stack supports (2) in a downwards direction, and that in the exposure zone (1), control means are provided for bringing the foot elements (4) of stack supports (2) being conveyed past the entrance of the exposure zone (1) from their position pressed against the supporting surface (3) into their position distanced from the supporting surface (3) and, further downstream, back into their position pressed against the supporting surface (3).
    2. Device in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that the foot elements (4) are mounted on the supporting surfaces (3) in a swivelling manner.
    3. Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that a tension spring (21) is arranged between the foot element (4) and the supporting surface (3).
    4. Device in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that the stack supports are components of substantially V-shaped gathering pockets (2'), wherein the supporting surface (3) forms one of two pocket walls situated opposite one another and the foot element (4) closes off the distance between the pocket walls towards the bottom.
    5. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the stack support means (10) comprise individual stack support bases (11), which are coupled to a circulating conveying organ (12).
    6. Device in accordance with claim 5, characterized in that the stack support bases (11) comprise supporting surfaces oriented vertically to the supporting surfaces (3).
    7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the control means for driving the foot elements (4) comprise cam surfaces (23) cooperating with guide rollers (22) arranged on the foot elements (4).
    8. Device in accordance with one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the control means comprise active components for activating selected ones of the foot elements (4) of stack supports (2).
    9. Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that in the processing zone, further control means and further stack support means (10') with stack support bases (11') moving in the conveying direction and against the stack supports (2) are provided for bringing the foot elements (4) of stack supports (2) conveyed past from their position pressed against the supporting surface (3) to their position at a distance from the stack support (3) and further downstream back into their position pressed against the supporting surface (3), and that the foot elements (4) and the further stack support bases (11') are designed in such a manner, that they are able to mesh with one another.
    10. Device in accordance with one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that downstream of the exposure zone (1) means for changing the spatial orientation of the stack supports (2) are provided.
    11. Device according to claim 10, characterized in that the direction of the conveying path (F) of the stack supports (2) is changed downstream of the exposure zone (1).
    12. Device in accordance with one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that downstream of the exposure zone (1) means for swivelling the stack supports (2) relative to the conveying path (F) are provided.
    13. Device according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that in the processing zone, a means for laying a covering sheet (43) onto the exposed edge zones (13) is provided.
    14. Device in accordance with one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that in the further processing zone a further conveying means (40) with grippers (41) is arranged in such a manner, that the grippers take hold of the exposed edge zones (13) and thereupon are capable of being closed, and that for releasing the stacks (6), a further control means is provided for bringing the foot elements (4) after the stacks have been taken hold of by the grippers (41) from their position pressed against the supporting surface (3) into their position at a distance from the supporting surface (3).
    15. Device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that in the processing zone, a further conveying means (40) with pockets (42) is arranged in such a manner, that the exposed edge zones (13) are capable of being inserted into the pockets (42), and that for the release of the stacks (6) a further control means is provided for bringing the foot elements (4) following insertion of the exposed edge zones (13) into the pockets (42) from their position pressed against the supporting surface (3) into their position at a distance from the supporting surface (3).
    EP02405322A 2001-04-26 2002-04-19 Device for collating flat objects into stacks and for the further processing of the stacks Expired - Lifetime EP1254857B1 (en)

    Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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    CH7642001 2001-04-26
    CH7642001 2001-04-26

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    AT (1) ATE302731T1 (en)
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    CA2494260C (en) 2002-08-02 2012-10-09 Ferag Ag Conveyor-technology device
    CH697984B1 (en) * 2002-08-02 2009-04-15 Ferag Ag Conveyor-technology device.
    DE10303979B3 (en) * 2003-01-31 2004-07-08 Siemens Ag Letter stack compartment for mail sorting machine with driven displacement device infront of stacking point for rapid emptying of stack compartment
    PL1588971T3 (en) * 2004-04-22 2009-03-31 Ferag Ag Method and apparatus for handling of printed products
    US20050258019A1 (en) * 2004-05-20 2005-11-24 Tiberi Todd J Method and apparatus for moving objects
    EP1657199B1 (en) * 2004-11-12 2008-07-09 Müller Martini Holding AG Apparatus for handling of flat products, in particular print products
    CA2643990A1 (en) 2006-04-19 2007-10-25 Ferag Ag A method and device for adding in each case a supplement to folded or bound printed products
    DE102006049801A1 (en) * 2006-10-23 2008-04-24 Iwk Verpackungstechnik Gmbh Product stack delivery controlling method for packaging machine, involves beginning delivery cycle in such manner that cell of conveyor adopts predetermined relative position relative to product stack at end of delivery cycle
    US20100325229A1 (en) * 2008-02-08 2010-12-23 Verbal World, Inc. Methods and Apparatus for Exchange of Electronic Communications
    US20120103879A1 (en) * 2010-10-29 2012-05-03 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Sorting installation and sorting method with a plurality of holding apparatuses

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    US4479643A (en) * 1982-09-27 1984-10-30 Harris Graphics Corporation Method and apparatus for transferring newspapers from pockets to an overlapped stream
    US4721296A (en) 1986-05-27 1988-01-26 Harris Graphics Corporation Sheet material handling apparatus
    US5269504A (en) * 1989-06-10 1993-12-14 Idab Wamac Ab Insertion of supplements into newspapers
    DE59505081D1 (en) * 1994-11-18 1999-03-25 Grapha Holding Ag Process for the production of adhesive-bound books, brochures or the like products
    CH690576A5 (en) 1995-06-30 2000-10-31 Ferag Ag Apparatus for processing printing products.
    US5921538A (en) 1997-10-07 1999-07-13 Heidelberger Druckmaschinen Ag Apparatus and method for combined gathering and binding of sheet like articles
    US6447229B1 (en) * 2000-05-12 2002-09-10 Heidelberger Druckmaschinen Ag Device and method for preparing a book spine for binding
    CA2365149C (en) * 2000-12-27 2010-10-05 Ferag Ag Method and device for the gathering of flat articles

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    ES2247288T3 (en) 2006-03-01
    AU783529B2 (en) 2005-11-03
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    DK1254857T3 (en) 2005-12-19
    ATE302731T1 (en) 2005-09-15
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    CA2382982C (en) 2009-06-02
    US20020159874A1 (en) 2002-10-31

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