EP1857288A2 - Device for coating objects - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has a transport medium, which is designed as endless flexible band (12). The band rotates in vertical level, and mounting plates for the objects (22), which are decorated, are provided at the external surface. The mounting plates are formed as flexible sections, made of plastic, connected with the band. The mounting plates are provided with an opening connectable to a vacuum source in a manner that the low-pressure affects an object which rests on the respective mounting plate.

Description

The invention relates to a device for coating, in particular decorating, objects which are transported along a linear transport path, which is linear at least over a partial section of its extension, using at least one transport means by the treatment stations.

Such in US 6,082,256 The disclosed apparatus uses augers for transporting the objects, each of which is positioned on a carriage-like support which is moved by the auger along a particular guide through the treatment stations. This known device is characterized by a precise alignment of the objects to be printed to the respective printing unit, so that even in multi-color printing, in which several partial printing images are successively applied to the object and join together to form a complete print image, an excellent print quality is achievable.

The invention is based on the object, a device of the type described above in such a way that on the one hand in terms of manufacture and use is noticeably less expensive than known devices, on the other hand, if required, a very good quality of the applied print image.

This object is achieved by applying the teaching of claim 1.

The endless band can be made of sheet steel, but also of other suitable material, for. B. organic or other plastic or rubber, possibly by deposits, for. B. carbon fibers is reinforced.

The combination of the flexible band with the flexible supports in the form of simple sections of soft material, eg. As film material made of polyurethane, represents a significant advance over the prior art, and in particular because the existing in the prior art complex car-shaped brackets are not needed and so the masses to be moved are significantly reduced. It is achieved even with gradual transport a quiet machine running. The wear is much lower. The replacement of wearing parts, so in particular the cheap brackets can be done without much time. Overall, the invention allows a considerable simplification of both the device and the operational sequence, without this being at the expense of accuracy and thus the print image quality. The invention thus enables the application of coatings and the production of high quality printed images or other decorations with much less effort than in known machines.

The portion of the tape between the feeding station, in which the objects to be treated are placed on the tape, and the removal station, in which the treated objects are removed from the tape, can be provided with a substantially flat feed device for the vacuum arranged below this tape be, the belt during its Vortranssports at least on sections of this feeder slide and can be held and supported by this, while another section during the transport movement the band can preferably be advanced in synchronism with this. The band may be provided with through openings by means of which a connection is made between the feeder and the areas on top of the band in which the holders are located.

The latter can also be provided with openings in such a way that the negative pressure is effective at least at subregions of the underside of the generally planar object lying on the holder. These openings may be formed by simple holes or similar openings in the foil representing the holder. However, an embodiment is preferred in which the holder consists of at least two film sections or the like, which are arranged at a small distance from each other such that at least one of the openings located in the band in the region of at least one gap opens, in the holder a Well, which is covered by the lying on the holder object. In this way, without any additional effort on the object, a larger area is created, at which the negative pressure is effective.

Fig. 1

eine stark schematisierte Seitenansicht der derzeit bevorzugten Ausführungsform,

Fig. 2

die dazugehörige Draufsicht,

Fig. 3

eine Teilansicht in Draufsicht etwa in Richtung des Pfeiles III,

Fig. 4

einen Schnitt nach der Linie IV-IV der Fig. 3,

Fig. 5

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Einrichtung für den Antrieb des Bandes, bei der Teile weggelassen sind,

Fig. 6

eine stark schematisiert Draufsicht der dem oberen Bandabschnitt zugeordneten Einrichtung zur Herstellung einer Verbindung zwischen Halterungen und einer Unterdruckquelle und zur Stützung des Bandes,

Fig. 7

eine der Fig. 6 entsprechende Ansicht eines Teilbereiches der Einrichtung in größerem Maßstab in einer ersten relativen Endposition zweier zusammenwirkender Abschnitte der Einrichtung,

Fig. 8

eine der Fig. 7 entsprechende Darstellung der beiden Abschnitte in deren zweiter relativer Endposition,

Fig. 9

die perspektivische Ansicht des Abschnittes der Einrichtung gemäß Fig. 6, welcher der Station zugekehrt ist, in welcher die zu bedruckenden Objekte auf das Band gelegt werden,

Fig. 10

die perspektivische Ansicht eines Teilabschnittes des in Fig. 9 dargestellten Abschnittes.

In the drawing, a presently preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. Show it:

Fig. 1

a highly schematic side view of the currently preferred embodiment,

Fig. 2

the corresponding plan view,

Fig. 3

a partial view in plan view approximately in the direction of arrow III,

Fig. 4

a section along the line IV-IV of Fig. 3,

Fig. 5

a perspective view of the device for driving the tape, in which parts are omitted,

Fig. 6

a highly schematic plan view of the upper band portion associated means for establishing a connection between brackets and a vacuum source and for supporting the band,

Fig. 7

6 is a view corresponding to FIG. 6 of a portion of the device on a larger scale in a first relative end position of two interacting sections of the device, FIG.

Fig. 8

7 shows a representation corresponding to FIG. 7 of the two sections in their second relative end position,

Fig. 9

6 shows the perspective view of the section of the device according to FIG. 6, which faces the station in which the objects to be printed are placed on the belt;

Fig. 10

the perspective view of a portion of the portion shown in Fig. 9.

The illustrated in the drawing printing machine 10 is provided for printing on CDs, without the invention being limited thereto. As a means of transport a circulating in the vertical plane endless belt 12 is provided, which is guided in the usual manner by two idler pulleys 14, 16 such that the two located between the idler pulley belt sections 18, 20 are substantially horizontal. The upper band section 18, the treatment stations are assigned, which will be described in more detail below.

The objects to be printed 22 are placed on the tail pulley 14 associated end of the upper band portion 18 in the station A on this and removed in the station K at the tail pulley 16 associated end of the upper band portion 18 of the latter after they on their way from printed first end to the second end of the upper band portion 18 and / or treated in any other way, in particular have been coated. Thus, the upper band portion 18 moves in the direction of arrow 24th

The band 12 may be an endless steel band, which is sufficiently flexible and z. B. has a thickness of 0.4 mm. The band can also be made of any other suitable material, eg. As plastic, exist, which has the required properties z. B. in terms of strength, flexibility and dimensional stability and by means of z. B. carbon fibers can be reinforced.

The tape is provided with holders 26 for receiving CDs and similar shaped objects, each comprising at least a portion of a layer of soft material, e.g. As a film made of polyurethane and are preferably secured on the side of the belt by means of gluing, which forms the upper or outer surface 27 of the band in the upper band portion 18. Thus, the brackets 26 come with the pulleys 14, 16 is not in contact. In the embodiment shown in the drawing, the holders have a shape adapted to the objects to be printed on such that they are formed substantially circular and can consist of several preferably annular sections, which form the respective holder in their entirety. The brackets can, however, with differently shaped objects, eg. As credit cards, smart cards or similar objects, have a different shape.

Each holder 26 may consist of five annular sections 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d, 28e consist (Fig. 3), each leaving a small annular distance of z. B. 1 mm concentric with each other and glued to the outer surface 27 of the belt 12 are such that the distance between two adjacent brackets 26 in the running direction of the tape is 150 mm. In the region of the distances, which form openings in the form of circumferential groove-like depressions 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d in the respective holder 26, the outer surface 27 of the band 12 is not covered. The position of the inner groove-shaped recess 30d is selected so that a spacer ring 31, which is attached to the non-printing side of the CD at this, engages in this groove-shaped recess 30d when the CD is on the holder 26. Therefore, this groove-shaped depression is also somewhat wider. In this case, the arrangement is preferably made such that the spacer ring does not come into contact with the surface of the strip 12, ie the CD is carried exclusively or at least predominantly by the holder formed by the sections 28a-e. The thickness of the support formed by the sections 28a-e may be 0.36 mm, although other thicknesses are possible.

In the area bounded by the sections openings 30 a, 30 b, 30 c, 30 d, 30 e open in the band 12 mounted through small holes 32 on the surface 27 having a diameter of z. B. about 1 mm and in a manner to be described with a vacuum source in combination. The vacuum generated in this way in the groove-shaped depressions 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d, 30e, which are covered on the upper side by the objects 22 lying on the holder and thus closed on the upper side, acts on the side of the object facing the band, so that The latter is pressed by the atmospheric pressure in a conventional manner against the belt and held in position relative to the belt 12. The formation of the film including the arrangement of the openings for the negative pressure thus largely corresponds to the U.S. Patent 6,820,553 described principle, the disclosure of which is included in this application.

As is usual with such conveyor belts, the belt 12 can be moved by means of at least one of the two deflection drums 14, 16 be, which in turn is driven by an electric motor, preferably a torque motor. In the embodiment shown in the drawing, the use of an electric linear motor for the drive of the belt 12 is preferred because it allows the rotational movement in a simple way, the synchronization of the linear movement of the belt 12 carried object and the rotational movement of the at least one pressure cylinder whose peripheral speed with should match the linear velocity of the object. The drive of a printing machine by means of a linear motor is in U.S. Patent 6,478,485 whose disclosure content is included in this application.

The stepwise movement of the belt is effected by the reciprocable part of the linear motor, which may be provided with magnets to avoid a supply of electrical energy to this part. On the reciprocating part of the linear asynchronous motor, a first pair of grippers is mounted, the two grippers 36a, 36b are arranged opposite to each other such that each of the two grippers detected during the advance of the tape in the direction of arrow 24, an edge region of the upper band section to to take the tape 12 during the forward movement. After completion of the transport step, whose length corresponds to the distance between two consecutive brackets 26, the gripper pair is released from the belt and brought back by the movable part of the linear motor in the starting position shown in Figures 1 and 2 for the next transport step.

At the beginning and at the end of each transport step there may be an acceleration or deceleration phase, between which there is a movement phase at a constant speed, during which expediently the rotation printing can take place. Other treatment operations, such as printing the objects by screen printing, drying the objects or the like. During the standstill phase, the between two transport steps is carried out. However, it is also possible, for example, the drying of the applied ink z. B. by means of UV lamps during a transport step, during the standstill of the tape or perform both during the transport step and during the standstill of the tape. Furthermore, it is also possible to carry out the printing by means of screen printing during a transport step, in which case, however, the screen printing unit would have to be moved synchronously with the tape and the object carried by it. On the other hand, it is also possible to carry out the printing of the objects by means of rotary printing during the standstill of the objects, ie between two transport steps, in which case the rotary printing unit would then have to be linearly movable.

Notwithstanding the embodiment shown in the drawing, a continuous transport of the belt is possible, which could be done using two linear motors, which alternately with overlapping motion sections, transport the belt.

In stepwise transport and use only a first pair of grippers 36a, 36b, a second gripper pair with two grippers 38a, 38b is provided in the embodiment shown in the drawing, which are analogous to the first pair of grippers 36a, 36b opposite each other associated with the upper band portion 18 and opposite each other Edge regions of the tape 12 can capture and so hold the tape during the periods between two consecutive transport steps and fix it in position so that during the stoppage phases, the band 12 and the objects each carried by him do not change their position. This second gripper pair 38a, 38b is thus stationary in the sense that it does not participate in the transport steps of the belt.

Of the two jaws of each gripper 36a, 36b and 38a, 38b of both gripper pairs only the lower jaw is movable in each case, to open and close the respective gripper. The upper jaws are each stationary in the sense that they are not movable to open and close the respective gripper. In this case, the arrangement is such that the band is located with its edge regions in the immediate vicinity of the upper jaw, if necessary guided by this, so that vertical movements of the edge regions under the influence of the opening or closing gripper can be at least largely avoided ,

The first pair of grippers 36a, 36b is mounted on a carriage 40, on which also the movable part of the linear motor, not shown in the drawing is mounted, which causes the reciprocating movements of the carriage 40 and the forward movement in the direction of arrow 24, the band 12 takes along. The stationary part of the linear motor is supported by the machine frame 41. The reciprocations of the carriage 40 are limited by two stops fixed to the machine frame 41, of which the first stop 42 limits the movement of the carriage 40 in the transport direction 24 and the second stop 44 limits the movement of the carriage in the opposite direction. At each end of the carriage 40, a shock absorber 46 and 48 is mounted, which cooperates in the respective end position with the first or second stop. The stops 42, 44 and the shock absorbers 46, 48 have only an auxiliary function, because the movement of the carriage, at least in the transport direction 24 preferably in response to the movements of the printing units, in particular the impression cylinder, can be regulated, which also in the functional terms of the Printing unit - or any other treatment station - dependent movement phases can be controlled using a computer program. The stops 42, 44 thus provide essentially additional security, in particular in those operating phases, for example when starting the machine, if not all parts of the same perform their functions in the usual manner in normal operation.

The carriage 40 is provided with a base plate 50 (Figure 5) to which the two grippers 36a, 36b are mounted so as to be slightly transverse to the upper band portion 18, ie transverse to the direction of movement 24 thereof, substantially parallel to the plane This band section are displaced. For this purpose, each of the two grippers 36a, 36b may be associated with a transverse direction running shoe 52a or 52b, in each of which a short strip portion 54a and 54b is guided, with which the respectively associated gripper 36a and 36b is firmly connected. These guide means may be arranged on the front in the transport direction 24 side of the respective gripper 36a, 36b. At the other, so in the transport direction 24 rear side of the respective gripper, a further guide may be present, which has a predominantly a support function and is each provided with a roller 56 a, 56 b, which is supported by a stand 58 a, 58 b, as the guide shoes 52, 54 is attached to the upper side of the base plate 50. Each gripper 36a, 36b is provided on its rear side in the direction of transport 24 with a parallelepiped-shaped extension 60a, 60b, the lower boundary surface of which runs substantially tangentially to the respectively associated roller 56a, 56b and is supported thereon. Since the extent of the movements of each gripper transversely to the tape longitudinal direction is very small and makes up a few millimeters, the two extensions can be made relatively narrow.

The above-described transverse mobility of the two grippers takes into account the fact that the belt can undergo certain transverse displacements during the transport movement. Although this can be counteracted by appropriate adjustment of at least one of the deflection drums, which are mounted correspondingly adjustable. However, there may be, albeit slight, such deviations anyway. The should, if required by the transversely movable arrangement of the gripper to be taken into account to prevent by the gripper noticeable forces acting on the band, which do not run in the longitudinal direction of the same.

Each of the two transporting the belt 12 causing grippers 36a, 36b may be associated with a guide roller 62 which cooperates with a stationary guide surface 64 which is mounted on the machine frame. The arrangement is made such that the guide roller 62 in the course of the return movement of the carriage 40 against the transport direction 24 to the starting position for the next transport step in any case then comes into contact with the guide surface 64 when the respectively associated gripper 36a and 36b at the end of the preceding transport step and thus assumes an extreme position at the end of any transverse movement which may be taking place in which a further transverse displacement would not be possible. The interaction of the guide roller 62 and guide surface 64 then has the consequence that the associated gripper is moved in the course of the return movement in a middle position between the two extreme positions transverse to the transport direction of the tape so that it in the following transport step, if necessary, depending on the respective Position of the belt 24 can be moved in the respectively required of the two possible directions.

Below the upper band portion 18, a plate-shaped device 68 is arranged, which serves on the one hand to establish a connection between the holders located at the upper band portion and a vacuum source and on the other hand support the upper band portion 18 and contribute to its leadership.

Since the conveyor belt 12 is not rigid, but flexible, it may be necessary, at least in certain areas of the upper band portion 18, which is assigned in the embodiment shown in the drawing at least a portion of the treatment stations A - K, the upper band section support so that forces can be exerted on the objects lying on the belt, which are absorbed by a support means, so that an undue deformation of the tape and uncontrolled movements of the objects are prevented under the action of these forces.

In the embodiment shown in the drawing, this immediately below the upper band portion 18 provided means 68 is provided with a support plate assembly consisting of three longitudinally of the belt successively arranged support plates 68a, 68b, 68c, of which the central support plate 68b in the horizontal plane in Transport direction 24 of the upper band portion and opposite thereto reciprocally movable, while the other two support plates are arranged stationary (Figures 1 and 6). The device 68 may be dimensioned transversely to the transport direction 24 so that it supports the band portion 18 substantially in the area in which the objects transported by the band are located.

Below each support plate 68a-c, a U-profile section 70a, 70b, 70c extending in the longitudinal direction of the belt section 18 is attached in each case such that the respective support plate 68a-c has a vacuum channel bounded by a U-shaped section and connected to a vacuum source 71 on the top covers and largely closes (Fig. 4).

Each support plate may be provided on its side facing the belt section 18 with a flat support or layer 69 (Figures 9 and 10) made of a material, e.g. As plastic, with low friction coefficient. This support 69 may be provided on the upper side with longitudinally extending, upwardly open groove-shaped recesses 72a, 72b, 72c, 72d, which are attached for example by means of milling or molding. The upper band portion 18 may rest on the support plates 68a-c and so the top of the support plates or their respective support 69 attached groove-shaped recesses 72a - d close the top and thus form longitudinal channels.

The groove-shaped recesses 72a-d may extend on each support plate 68a-c over their entire or nearly entire length, wherein they should each be closed at the ends near the ends of the support plates. However, it has proven expedient to subdivide the groove-shaped recesses 72a-d into groove sections 72a ', 72b', 72c ', 72d', which are each arranged in a row in the longitudinal direction of the band section 18 at intervals from one another. A total of four extending in the longitudinal direction of the belt groove-like recesses or rows of groove portions may be provided such that on each side of the belt extending along the row of openings 34, 35 in holder 26 and band 12, two rows of recesses or groove sections are present which extend substantially symmetrically to the center line of the upper band portion 18. A convenient attachment of the groove portions 72a ', 72b', 72c ', 72d' is shown in the drawing, in particular Figs. 3, 9 and 10. The groove sections of at least two rows are arranged offset from each other in the longitudinal direction such that, taking into account the placement of the holes 32 in the belt for the passage of the negative pressure is a guarantee that in any position of a support carrying an object during transport from the station A to the station K, an exposure of the respective object by negative pressure takes place, which is the respective circumstances, such as the forces acting on the object justice and ensures sufficient fixation of the object on its holder.

The configuration of the groove-shaped recesses in the form of the groove sections 72a ', 72b', 72c ', 72d' also has the advantage that the channels formed by these groove sections can be better sealed by the latter covering band and Also, the size of the forces caused by the negative pressure acting on the belt and determine the friction between the belt and support plates with respect to their intensity can be influenced, for example by appropriate dimensioning of the distances between the individual groove portions 72a '- c' a series of groove sections and hence the length of the latter.

In each support plate 68a-c are preferably provided vertical channels 74 which connect the respective section of the vacuum channel 71 with the groove sections 72a'-d '(FIG. 4). These channels 74 may have a diameter of, for example, 1 - 2 mm. They are also arranged in longitudinal rows due to their assignment to the groove sections.

Also, the through holes 32 provided in the band 12 for passing the negative pressure are arranged in rows 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d (FIG. 3) such that each row of groove portions 72a'-d 'has a series of holes 32. FIG is associated so that a pressure prevailing in these groove sections negative pressure can continue through the band and thus enters the region of the openings 30 a - d in the respective holder 26 in the upper band section. In the region of the distances between the individual groove sections 27a '- 27d' of a row, the connection between the groove sections and the respective associated holes 32 in the band is interrupted or at least greatly reduced, whereby, as already mentioned, care must be taken that then another row of groove portions 27a'-d 'and an associated row of holes 32 maintains the action of the negative pressure on the underside of the object.

The middle support plate 68b and carried by this portion 70b of the vacuum channel 21 forming the U-profile take part in the reciprocating movements of the linear motor and thus also of the carriage 40 such that the movement the support plate 68b takes place in the transport direction 24 of the belt in synchronism with the movement of the latter. This ensures that in the support plate 68b associated stations D - G, in which the treatment, in particular the printing of the objects by means of rotary printing during the transport step, an adequate support of the tape and thus of the object is ensured without a relative movement between Band and support plate would occur. The latter is also advantageous because so during the transport step and thus the treatment, the relative position between the groove portions 72 a '- d' in the support plate 68 b, the holes 32 in the band 12 and the openings 30 a - d in the brackets, through which for the fixation of the object on the respective holder required negative pressure on the underside of the object is brought to act, remains unchanged.

The synchronous movements of the support plate 68b with the carriage 40 and the movement of the upper band portion 18 in the transport direction 24 can be achieved in a simple manner in that the support plate 68b is connected to the carriage 40 and thus entrained by the latter. This connection is made by a Mitnehmerständer 76 (Fig. 1), which mounted on the upper side of the base plate 50 and with its base 50 facing away from the end of the base plate 50 supported by the support plate 68b U-profile portion 70b is attached, which the central portion of the vacuum channel 71 forms. The Mitnehmerständer 76 is located in the region below the rotary printing station G. Its vertical extent is chosen so that the upper boundary of the support plate 68b is at a level which allows the upper band portion 18 is supported by the support plate 68b.

For reasons of clarity, support plate arrangement 68 and entrainment stand 76 are not shown in FIG. 5. However, the feather key 78 can be seen on the upper side of the base plate 50, on which the Mitnehmerständer 76 is placed to to pinpoint its position.

The middle support plate 68b extends from the rotary printing station G opposite to the transport direction 24 to the rotary printing station D, wherein it is supported in the region of the printing stations D to F by a stationary stand 78a, b, c on the upper side with a shoe 80a, 80b, 80 c provided on which the lower boundary of the central portion 70 b of the vacuum channel, if necessary rests on friction-reducing intermediate elements. By this arrangement it is achieved that also the forces exerted by the printing cylinders of stations I - III forces are derived via the stand 78a, 78b, 78c directly into the machine frame.

The two in the transport direction before and behind the reciprocating support plate 68b arranged stationary support plates 68a and 68c are in the same or in a similar manner on the upper side with the groove portions 30a ', 30b', 30c ', 30d' provided by the upper band portion 18th are closed on the top side. Below the two stationary support plates, a vacuum channel 71 is also provided in each case, which can be formed in a corresponding manner, ie by a U-profile section.

Figures 6-8 show the interaction of the movable center support plate 68b with the two stationary support plates 68a, 68c. The two stationary support plates 68a, c are bifurcated at their respective end region facing the middle support plate 68b such that they are each provided with two lateral tine-like extensions 82a, 82b, each with a central extension 83 at each end of the reciprocating Support plate 68b cooperate telescopically. 6 and 7, the middle support plate 68 is shown in the end position, which corresponds to the position of the drive carriage 40 of FIG. 5, in which the drive carriage its the deflection drum 14 facing the end position occupies. Fig. 8 shows the opposite end position of the reciprocating support plate 68b.

FIGS. 7 and 8 further show that in the end regions in which the extensions 83 of the middle support plate 68b respectively overlap with the fork-like extensions 82a, 82b of the two stationary support plates 68a, 68c, the longitudinal vacuum channels or groove section overlap the extensions are each assigned so that the two middle rows, which are formed by the groove portions 72c ', 72d', each extend along the middle extensions 83, 84 of the middle support plate 68b or continue on this, whereas the two outer rows 72a, 72d each extending to near the end of the respective associated fork-like extension (see also Fig. 9). Starting from the position of the parts shown in FIG. 7, an object located in the overlapping area of the extensions 83, 82a, 82b would first be subject to the application of the negative pressure which is supplied through the groove sections of all four rows 72a-d. In the course of the movement from the position according to FIG. 7 into that of FIG. 8, increasing portions of the object would only be exposed to the negative pressure supplied by two rows of recesses until the end position shown in FIG. 8 is reached. The possibly occurring reduction of the contact pressure, by which the object is fixed in its position on the respective holder 26 and thus the upper band portion 18, can be taken into account that in these two transition areas for the supply of negative pressure no treatments on the object or only such treatments are carried out, which do not transmit forces to the object, for example a contactless drying by means of UV lamps.

Of course, it would also be possible to use a lower negative pressure in the areas of the extensions 83 and 82a, 82b that are narrower in comparison to the other width of the support plates bring to. In general, however, this is not necessary if the changed negative pressure conditions in the two transitional areas are taken into account in the manner described.

The supply of the negative pressure into the groove sections of the central extensions 83 on the middle support plate 68b and the fork-shaped extensions 82a, 82b on the stationary support plates 82a, 82b takes place via channels arranged within the respective support plate or the associated extensions, so that the U Profile sections 70a-c do not extend into the respective overlap region.

In general, it is expedient to connect the vacuum channel 71 of at least one of the U-profile sections 70a, 70c of the stationary support plates 68a, 68b to the vacuum source, in which case the connection of the U-profile sections 70a, 70b, 70c to each other through pipe sections 86 (FIG , 7, 8), for example, attached to the front ends of the U-shaped section 70b of the reciprocating central support plate 68b and telescopically cooperating with openings at the associated ends of the U-profile sections 70a, 70c of the stationary support plates 68a, 68c. 9 shows the hole 88 in the end face 89, facing the middle support plate 68b, of the first stationary support plate 68a in the transporting direction 24, in which the tube section 86 engages in a reciprocatingly displaceable sealing manner.

9 further shows that the first stationary support plate 86a in the transport direction 24 is provided with a replaceable partial section 90 shown in FIG. 10, whose upper side receiving and supporting the upper tubular section 18 has groove sections 72a '- d' in the manner described above. provided for the supply of negative pressure. The interchangeable embodiment takes into account the fact that in the area, this interchangeable portion 90th occupies, in the embodiment shown in the drawing can be a screen printing station, in which ink on the support plate and possibly in the lines serving as negative pressure recesses, etc., so that at certain intervals cleaning the plate is required. This can be done more easily if the part to be cleaned can be easily removed from the machine and replaced if necessary.

An additional measure can be explained with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, which can serve to influence the extent of the effectiveness of the negative pressure supplied by the recesses 72a-d as a function of the respective conditions. Thus, the two components shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 show additional ventilation channels 92 on the upper boundary surface of the friction-bearing support 69 carrying the groove-like recesses 72a-d or groove sections 72a'-72d 'for the vacuum. These ventilation channels 92 are like the recesses 72a - d or groove sections 72a '- d' bounded on the upper side by the tape lying on the support plates. In contrast to the recesses 72a-d connected to a vacuum source, the ventilation channels are connected to the atmosphere. For this purpose, it is sufficient simply to let it open into the open, as can be seen for example in FIG. These additional ventilation channels 92 may, depending on the particular circumstances to achieve the same purpose, namely z. As the influence of friction between the belt and the support plate, also be provided on the other support plates.

The additional arrangement of ventilation ducts can also influence the extent of the forces caused by the negative pressure which fix the objects on the respective support. 10 shows that, for example, the middle region of the exchangeable subsection 90, which is assigned to a screen printing station in its installed state, does not have any ventilation channels, so here the negative pressure is effective to the full extent and thus securely fixes the object during the printing process. In the two immediately adjacent areas of the transport of the object takes place from or to the next treatment station. For this purpose, it is necessary that the upper band portion 18 slides on the top of the support 69 with the - stationary - support plate 68a. By attaching the ventilation channels, the conditions can be adjusted so that on the one hand by the negative pressure is still a sufficient fixation of lying on the respective support object is ensured, on the other hand, however, the band outside the actual printing station - or another station in which a particular secure fixation of the object is required - is not pressed to the extent against the surface of the plate 69, as would be the case without the ventilation ducts.

Thus, by arranging such ventilation ducts at the respectively suitable locations along the support plate arrangement 68, care can be taken that the forces required for fixing the objects on the associated support can be set as a function of the respective requirements, thus also reducing the energy expenditure for to keep the advance of the band 12 as small as possible. Such ventilation channels can thus be provided at such areas along the transport path between deflecting drum 14 and guide drum 16, in which no additional forces acting on the objects.

Where the ventilation channels are present, z. B. prevents the negative pressure over the entire width of the support plate on the bottom, so the support plate facing side of the belt comes to act and counteracts during the transport steps in the stationary support plates of the advancement of the upper band portion 18 by causing large frictional forces. In the area of the middle support plate 68b, this does not matter because they are synchronous with the tape is moved forward. However, the middle support plate 68b moves back to its original position during standstill of the belt between two transport steps, and this must also be done against the effect of frictional forces between the belt and the center support plate.

The illustrated in the drawing embodiment of a printing machine for printing CDs and similar information carriers is used in such a way that the objects to be printed in the station A is placed on each holder 26 located there. This is done by means of known transfer devices, which take the CD by means of a suction gripper from a stack and put individually on each in the station A located bracket and also position it at the same time. A precise alignment of the CD to the holder is carried out in a known manner by a mandrel, which is arranged movable up and down in the station A and is guided by the located in the band 12 and in the holder 26 openings 35 and 34 respectively. The procedure is such that the mandrel, not shown in the drawing is moved immediately after completion of the executed by the belt 12 respective transport step in its operative position in which it extends through the two openings 35 and 34. The carried by the suction pad object is guided when placed on the holder with its central opening 37 on the mandrel, so that it is aligned on reaching the end position on the holder to this and thus to the band and occupies a certain position, which the reference position for all later measures to align the ribbon and the printing can represent. The laying and the final alignment of the CD for mounting takes place between two transport steps of the belt 12, wherein the object is held by the moment of impact on the holder of the effective at this negative pressure, so that the mandrel in time before the start of the subsequent transport step in a position can be withdrawn, in which he is outside the range of movement of the band and with this moving parts is located. The stationary support plate 68a may be provided with a hole 98 for the passage of the mandrel.

After two transport steps along the linear transport path defined by the upper band section, the CD arrives at the screen printing station B, where a primer is applied to the resting CD between two transport steps, via an intermediate station in which, if necessary, any further processing or checks are carried out another job is applied by screen printing. This screen printing station B can be assigned to the already discussed subsection according to FIG. In the course of further transport steps, the CD reaches the starting position for the first rotation printing - z. B. by means of offset - in the station D. During the previous transport and also in the lying between the stations B and D station C applied in the screen printing station B color can be dried. This can also take place - if necessary in addition - during the transport steps.

The printing in the station D takes place in the course of a transport step, during which the linear speed of the CD and thus of the belt 12 correspond to the peripheral speed of those sections of the printing cylinder 91 which carry the print image to be transferred. In the course of the following transport steps, the application of further partial printing images in the stations E, F, G, which in the majority of cases then complete to form a complete print image, whose quality in particular from the exact assignment of the individual printing images to each other and thus to the orientation of the respective object depends on the individual rotary printing units. The optionally required after each application of a partial print image drying the ink can be done during transport to each next printing station, but also in case of need in a lying between two successive printing stations drying station, which is still shown separately.

During the printing operations in the rotary printing stations, the central support plate 68b is advanced in synchronism with the tape and the object carried thereby so that there is no relative movement between the object and the support plate on the other hand. This applies to all rotary printing stations.

After passing through the last rotary printing station G, drying is again carried out in station H before the object is then checked in station J with regard to the quality of the printed image. This usually happens between two transport steps. In the station K immediately in front of the tail pulley 16, the printed CD from each holder located in this station using known means, for. B. a suction pad, removed and generally stacked in a magazine. These manipulations are familiar to any person skilled in the art, so that they require no special explanation here. In the station K may optionally additional funds z. B. be provided in the form of controllable ventilation devices, which cause an influence on the pressure conditions to facilitate the removal of the objects from the belt.

It is of course possible, depending on the respective requirements, to provide the device with fewer treatment stations or also additional treatment stations. Ultimately, this depends on the particular requirements, which can also determine the length of the conveyor belt and the associated facilities. Further, the feeder or support plate assembly can be reciprocated in its entirety in the longitudinal direction of the tape and forth.

The transport causing grippers 36a, 36b are in the transport direction 24 just before the removal station, at least behind the printing stations arranged (Fig. 1 and 2), so that the upper band portion 18 is claimed over most of its length during transport clearly to train , Also that Band between the transport steps holding gripper 38a, 38b can be arranged in the transport direction 24 shortly before the removal station his.

In order to detect the position of the tape 12 and thus the position of the respective object, the tape is provided with markings in the form of triangular openings 93, which make it possible to perform a position determination both in the longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction. For this purpose, the device is provided with at least one sensor 94, which detects at least one of the markings. Thus, it is possible to determine the respective length of the band before each start of operation using one of the markings 93 and a sensor 94 and, for example, to detect changes in the length due to temperature influences. Depending on this, then the respective length of the transport step can be determined and controlled by computer.

Practice has shown that the band often does not run exactly straight, but lateral deviations in the order of a few millimeters learns. These deviations can be compensated as far as possible by corresponding likewise computer-controlled adjustment of the axis 96 of one or possibly also of the two deflection drums 14, 16. In order to meet all the requirements with regard to the print image quality, it may be expedient to compensate any remaining deviations by the fact that the individual printing units, in the present case, in particular the rotary printing units, are moved transversely to the longitudinal course of the strip to determine the position the respective CD to ensure a precise relative orientation of the object to the printing unit. It is possible for this purpose to associate each printing unit, which depends on such accuracy, with such a sensor 94 and to determine its positioning individually for each printing unit or at least for more than one printing unit. In general, however, it is sufficient in normal operation, the position of the tape and so that the object in front of the printing unit of the first rotary printing station, so for example to detect before the printing station D to compare in the computer with a reference value and then to determine the positioning of the following printing units using the result of this comparison computer controlled, since the lateral offset of the moved up the upper band section with the transport movement from station to station. In the embodiment shown in the drawing and the screen printing station B, which is arranged in the transport direction 24 in front of the rotary printing stations, a sensor 94 is assigned. In this case, it would be sufficient in normal operation, if necessary, to detect the position of the tape and thus of the object in front of the screen printing unit and then to position the following rotary printing units in a computer-controlled manner in accordance with the procedure described above. Again, the way in which the relative orientation between the respective printing unit and object is determined by the particular circumstances existing.

Although the invention is described above in the context of printing on CDs and similar general circular objects, which are often provided with a central opening, the invention is not limited to the printing of such objects. It can also be printed, coated or otherwise treated other objects, in particular differently shaped and dimensioned objects, the contour of which can be used for accurate positioning of the CD. This can be done via a sensor, but possibly also via a device which detects the object at its periphery or parts thereof to hang it on the tape.

The same applies to the methods used for printing and coating the objects. Methods other than those mentioned in the application, such as screen printing and offset printing, may also be used.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

press

12

tape

14

Umlenktrommel

16

Umlenktrommel

18

Upper band section

20

Lower band section

22

object

24

transport direction

26

bracket

27

Outer surface of 12

28a - e

Subsections of 26

30a, 30d

Openings in the form of groove-like depressions

31

Spacer ring on 22

32

Holes in 12th

33a - d

Rows in which holes 32 are arranged

34

Central hole in 26

35

Opening in 12th

36a, 36b

transport claw

37

Central hole in 22

38a, 38b

holding grippers

40

carriage

41

machine frame

42

First stop

44

Second stop

46

First shock absorber

48

Second shock absorber

50

Base plate of 40

52a, 52b

guide shoe

54a, 54b

ledge portion

56a, 56b

role

58a, 58b

stand

60a, 60b

Extension on the gripper 36a and 36b

62

leadership

64

guide surface

68

Means for supporting 18 and for supplying negative pressure to 26

68a - c

support plate

69

edition

70a-c

U-profile section

71

Vacuum channel

72a - d

groove-shaped recess

72a '- d'

groove

74

Vertical channel

76

Mitnehmerständer

78a - c

stand

80a - c

shoe

82a, b

Forked extension

83

Middle extension

86

pipe section

88

Hole in 89

89

Front side of 68a

90

component

91

pressure cylinder

92

ventilation ducts

93

Breakthroughs in 12

94

sensor

96

axis

Claims (29)

Apparatus for coating, in particular printing on objects, which are transported along a transport path using at least one transport means by the treatment stations, characterized in that the transport means as an endless flexible belt (12) is formed, which rotates in a vertical plane and on its outer surface (27) is provided with holders (26) for the objects to be decorated (22) and the holders are formed as connected to the band flexible portions of plastic and band (12) and holder (26) with at least one connectable to a vacuum source opening (32 or 30a-d) are provided such that the negative pressure acts on an object lying on the respective holder. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the band (12) consists of sheet steel. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the band (12) consists of plastic. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the holder (26) consists of at least two sections (28a-e), which are arranged leaving a distance (30a-d), and at least one in the band (12) befindliches hole (32 ) is arranged in the region of the at least one distance between two sections of the holder. Apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the holder (26) consists of at least two concentrically arranged sections (28a-e). Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one holder (26) is fixed by means of adhesive to the belt. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the band is associated with at least one linear electric motor whose in the transport direction (24) of the belt (12) movable part with at least one transporting gripper (36a, b) is connected, which with the belt (12) is such that the movement of the linear motor in a direction (24) leads to a synchronous entrainment of the belt, and the at least one transport gripper during the opposite movement of the movable part of the linear motor out of engagement with the belt (12). Apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that two at least in the direction of movement of the belt (12) synchronously movable transport grippers (36a, b) are provided, which are opposite to each other with one of the two longitudinal edge regions of the belt (12) can be brought into connection , Apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the movable part of the linear motor is supported by a carriage (40) on which the at least one transporting gripper (36a, b) is mounted. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one holding gripper (38a, b) is provided which is engageable with the stationary belt (12) in such a way that it secures the stationary belt in its respective position against a change in position. Apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that two holding grippers (38a, b) are provided, which are arranged opposite to each other such that they are each engageable with one of the longitudinal edge regions of the band in connection. Device according to claims 7 and 10, characterized in that the band (12) is always in engagement with at least one of the two gripper pairs (36a, b; 38a, b). Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that at least below the belt section (18), which carries the objects (22), a supply device (68) for the negative pressure is arranged, which on the one hand to the vacuum source connected and on the other hand with the openings (32 and 30a-d in band (12) and holder (36) is connectable to bring the negative pressure to the bracket facing side of the object thereon (22) to act. Apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that the feed device (68) is divided into at least two sections (68a-c), of which at least one in the longitudinal direction of the belt (12) is arranged back and forth movable, wherein the at least two sections are formed overlapping each other at their mutually associated end portions such that a bracket located in the overlap region (36) without interruption with the vacuum line at least one of the two sections (68a-c) of the feeder is connected. Device according to claim 14, characterized in that the two mutually overlapping end portions of two sections (68a-c) with at least one narrower, extending in the longitudinal direction of extension (82 b; 83) are provided, and the projections of both end portions are arranged side by side and each Section has at least one supply line for negative pressure. Device according to Claim 15, characterized in that the end region of one of the sections (68a-c) has a longitudinally extending narrow middle extension (83) and the end section of the respective other section having two lateral, longitudinally extending fork-like extensions (82a, b). is provided, which laterally surround the central extension of the first portion, wherein the central extension and lateral extension of the second end region have at least one extending in the longitudinal direction of the tape supply line for negative pressure. Apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that the flat feed device (68) for the negative pressure on the upper side with parallel to the transport direction of the belt (12) extending groove-shaped recesses (72a-d) is provided, which are covered by the band and connectable to the vacuum source and the attached in the band and located in the area of the respective holder in each case an opening (32) is arranged so that it can be connected to at least one of the groove-shaped recesses. Apparatus according to claim 17, characterized in that on each side of the center of each holder (26) at least one longitudinal groove-shaped recess (72a-d) is provided. Apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that each of the longitudinally extending groove-shaped recesses (72a-d) is interrupted and thus at least two in each case one longitudinal row arranged groove portions (72a '- d') arise. Apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that the groove portions (72a '- d') are arranged so that at least some groove sections of two longitudinal rows are arranged offset from each other in the longitudinal direction and overlap each other. Device according to claims 16 and 17, characterized in that two rows of groove portions (72a '- d') are arranged on each side of the center of each support (26)) and the two middle rows are in the central extension (83) of the end portion of the one section and of the two outer rows one each in one of the fork-shaped sections (82 a, b) continues. Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that at least the reciprocating portion (68b) of the feed device (68) for the negative pressure at the same time as a support for the tape (12) located thereon is formed with the objects (22). Apparatus according to claim 22, characterized in that the reciprocating portion (68b) is in the area of such treatment stations (AD) in which a significant pressure is exerted on the objects. Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the movable portion (68b) of the vacuum supply means is connected to the movable part of the linear motor. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the band (12) for determining its position and the position of the at least one object carried by it (22) is provided with at least one mark (93) which detects by at least one sensor (94) and in a computer is compared with a reference position, and depending on the result of the comparison, the relative position of at least one treatment device (AD) is aligned with the at least one object (22) on the belt (12). Apparatus according to claim 25, characterized in that the markings as recesses (93) in the band (12) are formed. Apparatus according to claim 25, characterized in that the relative alignment of the belt (12) with the at least one object (22) located thereon in the longitudinal direction of the belt by corresponding movement of the belt in the transport direction (24) and / or in the opposite direction. Device according to Claim 25, characterized in that the relative orientation of the strip (12) is related to the at least one object (22) located thereon. transverse to the longitudinal direction of the belt (12) by corresponding displacement of the at least one treatment device (AD) relative to the belt (12) and the object (22) thereon. Apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that an additional influencing of the position of the belt (12) transversely to the transport direction (24) thereof by appropriate adjustment of at least one of the deflection drums (12, 14) takes place in dependence on the result of the comparison.

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