EP2452904A2 - Device for transporting stacks of documents, in particular for security-relevant documents, to packaging stations - Google Patents

Abstract

The apparatus has a transport path (9), binding stations (1.1-1.3) of which the lower number is active, and a working conveyor (8). A controller controls the conveyor to transport the documents to selected binding station which carry out the binding process. A controllable transfer unit (3) is arranged at the upstream of a distributor (2). The controller sets the transfer unit to operating mode, based on the number and position of active binding stations and predetermined constant operation of the distributor.

Description

The invention relates to a device for transporting stacks of layers, preferably document or book blocks, in particular security-relevant documents, along a transport path to a plurality of provided for binding the stack, preferably arranged in series next to the transport path, Bindestationen, of which optionally only one A number is active, with a cyclically acting conveyor, which is designed to convey the stacks along the transport path, and with a control device for controlling the conveyor, wherein the conveyor has a distributor unit, which is designed to convey the stack along the transport path and further to transfer the stacks out of the transport path to a selected binding station and, after binding in the binding station, to transfer them again for continued transport along the transport path.

For passbooks and other security-related documents, the individual pages of paper that form the layers here are stitched together. Sewing takes place after stacking through numbered pages and thus after the formation of individual stacks, often selecting formats that make up not just one, but two or more, especially even, produce documents. The working speed of a binding station is limited and therefore has a decisive influence on the cycle time and thus the working or transport speed of the entire system, which is usually able but to drive with a much higher number of cycles and thus work or transport speed.

Therefore, several binding stations are used, which operate in parallel or simultaneously, and thus each binding station simultaneously performs binding on at least one stack or document. In order to further transport the stacks of upstream and thus upstream processing stations, in which in particular the layers are cut, collected and accumulated into stacks, to the binding stations and then in the bound state, the transport device mentioned above is provided. The apparatus includes a conveyor which conveys the stacks from an inlet where the stacks are picked up from the nearest upstream processing station along a preferably rectilinear transport path to the binding stations and then to the outlet where the stacks are for onward transport or further processing For example, be delivered to a discharge device. In order to feed the stacks to the binding stations, the conveying device has a distributing device which, on the one hand, conveys the stacks along the transport path into the section located in the area of the distributing device and, on the other hand, transfers the stacks out of the transport path to a selected binding station and after binding into the binding station again takes over the then bound stack from the binding station for continued transport along the transport path. In this case, the distribution device ensures a suitable distribution of the stack on the binding stations, so that substantially simultaneously a stack with possibly several benefits can be bound in each binding station. Preferably, the parallel-working binding stations are arranged in series next to the transport path, in particular in the immediate vicinity, so that the distributor unit can make the transfer of the stack to the binding stations and take over the bound stack of the binding stations in the shortest possible time.

The EP 1 155 873 A2 discloses a bookbinding system for distributing book blocks at at least two sewing stations, including a transport device for the book blocks, a collection station and a distribution device, and at least two sewing stations arranged parallel to the distribution device. The distributor device is designed as a friction roller conveyor, from which a swivel gripper takes one book block each and feeds it to a sewing station.

From the CH 503595 a machine arrangement for thread stitching of book blocks is known, which comprises a transport device for the book blocks, a collection station and a distribution device and four parallel to the distribution device arranged processing stations, two of which are adjacent to each other.

The DE 10 2007 002 090 A1 describes a device for feeding paper pages of security-relevant documents to a processing station, wherein for a later document certain paper page stacks are conveyed to the processing stations by means of a clocked transport device. For this purpose, a plurality of processing stations are arranged in a row next to a transport device, wherein the transport device has a controllable feed unit operating in the cycle method and a controllable distributor unit operating in the cycle method.

It happens again and again that one or more binding stops fail, so at least temporarily are not active. This is generally the case whenever a binding station is newly set up, for example when replacing a spent empty sewing thread bobbin with a new sewing thread bobbin. Also maintenance work and not least defects and resulting repair work lead to failures. Depending on the duration and extent of the failure, the process of the entire system may be more or less affected. Nevertheless, a failure should not lead to a complete interruption of production, but the device should be able to continue working continuously.

For this the beats DE 10 2007 002 090 A1 in that the supply device can be acted upon by a control unit in dependence on the number and the position of inactive binding stations with empty cycles. This control concept has the consequence that during an idle cycle a feed movement in the feed unit is omitted and thus the stacks are not transported further by the feed unit. In case of such a temporary. Standstill to avoid congestion, already profound changes in the operation of the upstream processing stations or Vormaschine must be made. This control concept thus has immediate and significant effects on the operation of the upstream processing stations or Vormaschine. In addition, this control concept also leads to an influence on the operation of the distributor unit.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve a device of the type mentioned in such a way that even in the event of failure of at least one binding station, an empty-cycle-free operation is still possible.

This object is achieved by a device for transporting stacks of layers, preferably document or book blocks, in particular security-relevant documents, along a transport path to a plurality of provided for binding the stack, preferably arranged in series next to the transport path, binding stations, of which optionally only a subordinate number is active, with a conveyor operating in a cycle, which is designed to convey the stacks along the transport path, and with a control device for controlling the conveyor, wherein the conveyor has a distributor unit, which is formed, the stacks along the transport path to promote and also to transfer the stack out of the transport path in each case to a selected binding station and to take over again after binding in the binding station for continued transport along the transport path, characterized in that the conveying device Furthermore, a controllable transfer unit arranged upstream of the distributor unit, which is designed to transfer the stacks from a feed unit transporting the stacks to the distributor unit, and the control unit sets the transfer unit to a dependent on the number and the position of the active binding stations operating mode, which is also adapted to a fixed predetermined constant operation of the distribution unit.

Accordingly, the device according to the invention is used to transport stacks of layers, preferably document or book blocks, in particular security-relevant documents, along a transport path to a plurality of bindings provided for binding the stacks, preferably arranged in series next to the transport path, of which, if necessary Only a minor number is active. For this purpose, the stacks are conveyed by a controllable conveyor along the transport path. Since the conveyor operates in the cycle, the transport takes place cyclically. The distributor unit, which is part of the conveyor, not only conveys the stacks along the section of the transport path running through the distributor unit, but also transfers each stack out of the transport path into a selected binding station, where it is then tied, and takes over binding in the binding station the then bound stack again for continued transport along the transport path. The transfer unit, which is arranged upstream of the distributor unit and is also part of the conveyor, transfers the stacks from a feed unit, which conveys the stacks, to the distributor unit and is set to an operating mode for this, which depends on the number and the position of the latter Bindestations that are active, depends and on the other to a fixed predetermined constant operation of the distribution unit is adjusted.

With the help of the invention, it is now possible that the entire system can then continue to work without any free-load and therefore continuously, if one or more binding stations fail or are not active. Independently of their arrangement, one or more binding stations can be switched off without a temporary standstill in the advancing movement of the stacks in the upstream processing stations or in the preceding machine. Accordingly, due to the measures according to the invention, even in case of failure or decommissioning of one or more binding stations the upstream Processing stations or Vormaschinen essentially continue to work with a correspondingly reduced constant production or transport speed or cycle number.

A further advantage of the invention is that the operation of the distributor unit is independent of whether all binding stations or only a part of the binding stations is active. The distribution unit thus requires no special control. Rather, a suitable constant operation can be selected for the distributor unit. This in turn contributes to a simplification of the device. A special control or regulating method, in particular depending on whether all binding stations or only a part of the binding stations are activated, is not required, which also contributes to the cost reduction.

These advantageous modes of operation are made possible by the inventive arrangement of a transfer unit between the feed unit and the distribution device, wherein the function of this transfer unit according to the invention is to adapt the transport of the stack from the feed unit in clock mode to a constantly running distribution unit, the operating mode and in particular the Clocking of the feed unit is derived from the number of active binding stations. While the distributor unit operates irrespective of whether all binding stations or only a part of the binding stations are active in a fixed constant operating mode, the transfer unit can be set to different operating modes, depending on the number and the position of the active binding stations, provided the operating mode the fixed predetermined constant operation of the distribution unit is adjusted. Thus, the transfer unit provided according to the invention effects a synchronization between the feed unit and the distributor unit.

Preferred embodiments and further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

Preferably, the operating mode of the transfer unit is set so that there is a dependent on the number and the position of the active binding stations and the fixed predetermined constant operation of the distribution unit speed profile results, with which the transfer unit transports the stacks from the feed unit to the distribution unit. In this case, the transfer unit is activated only when a stack is to be transported.

The distribution unit is set to a fixed predetermined constant operation, so that they do not need a control function of the number of active binding stations. Preferably, the fixed predetermined constant operation of the distributor unit is set so that a fixed predetermined constant velocity profile results, with which the distributor unit conveys the stacks at least along the section of the transport path passing through the distributor unit.

The distributor unit preferably operates in large cycles, which in each case define a preferably constant time interval between acceptance of a stack by the transfer unit and delivery of this stack then bound by the binding station, for example, to a downstream discharge device and subdivide it into a number of individual cycles corresponding to the number of existing binding stations irrespective of whether all binding stations or only part of the binding stations are active. For example, if three binding stations are provided, then the large clock is divided into three individual clocks. The large cycle preferably has a time duration that corresponds to the processing time in the binding station plus the stack change time. For example, when the number of single clocks of each large clock corresponding to the number of bind stations is three, the period of time may preferably be about 4.5 to about 6 seconds.

In a further preferred embodiment, the distributor unit for the simultaneous transport of all in the distributor unit stacks along the running through the distributor unit portion of the transport path on a conveyor which is operated either with a first conveying speed or at a second conveying speed, of which the second conveying speed is higher than the first conveying speed, whereby the time required for transferring a stack to a binding station and taking over a stack from a binding station is compensated accordingly.

The transfer of the stacks into the binding stations and the transfer from the binding stations takes a certain amount of time in which the distributor unit is not allowed to perform a feed movement along the transport path. However, the lost time must be anticipated by the distributor unit, so to speak, since otherwise the requirement that the upstream processing stations or Vormaschinen should continue to operate at a constant production speed or number of cycles, would not be met. This "Vorholzeit" is obtained by the fact that the conveying means of the distribution unit is operated at times with an increased second conveying speed. Preferably, the second conveying speed is about twice as high as the first conveying speed and preferably conveys the conveying means at the second conveying speed only during the last single clock of each large clock and in particular only during the second half of the last single clock of each large clock.

Conveniently, the conveying means of the distributor unit is stationary during a single cycle of each large clock and preferably during the first single clock of each large clock to use this period for the transfer of the stack to the binding stations and the acquisition of the bound stack from the binding station, wherein the transfer the binding stations and the takeover of the binding stations preferably takes place at about the same time.

The conveying means of the distributor unit may preferably comprise at least one paddle belt or chamber belt provided with transverse webs defining therebetween an open chamber for receiving a stack, the trailing web of a chamber engaging the trailing edge of a stack then subject this in the transport direction of a corresponding feed movement.

The already mentioned feeding unit can be part of an upstream closest processing station or pre-machine or can be assigned to the arrangement of the upstream processing stations or pre-machines as a whole. In this case, therefore, the feed unit forms an output-side interface of the upstream processing station (s) or pre-machine (s) for the conveyor device according to the invention and the transfer unit an input-side interface of the conveyor with respect to the upstream processing stations or Vormaschinen.

Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the feed unit is an assembly of the conveyor according to the invention and thus forms the input-side interface of the conveyor relative to the upstream processing stations or Vormaschinen. The feed unit can be controlled and operates in a clocking process, so that it feeds the batches cyclically to the transfer unit. In this embodiment, the feed unit is set to an operating mode dependent on the number and position of the active binding stations so that a substantially continuous transport of the stacks to the transfer unit takes place. In the present case, "continuous" transport is understood to mean primarily uninterrupted transport. Furthermore, in this context, it should additionally be noted that the transport usually takes place cyclically. Depending on the currently set operating mode of the feed unit then the operating mode of the transfer unit is set accordingly. The set operating mode of the feed device preferably has a speed profile which is dependent on the number and the position of the active binding stations and effects the substantially continuous transport of the stacks. Depending on the choice or setting of the speed profile, operation with different conveyor speeds is possible.

Conveniently, the feeder is operated in work cycles, which substantially coincide with the individual clocks of the distribution unit.

The feed unit can preferably have a conveying means which simultaneously subjects all the stacks in the feed unit to an advancing movement, the stacks in the feed unit being arranged in series along the transport path at essentially the same distance from one another. For this purpose, this conveyor may for example have a gripper carriage and / or a suction belt.

If all existing binding stations are active, the conveying means of the feed unit conveys at a conveying speed which substantially corresponds to or coincides with the first conveying speed of the conveying means of the distributor unit. In this case preferably promotes the conveyor of the feed unit only during the first half of each cycle, while preferably the second half of the power stroke for a reverse idle movement of the conveyor can be used without applying a stack. This is particularly advantageous for the case that the conveying means is designed as a lifting device which has at least one driven lifting element which is movable in the conveying direction and thereby engageable with a stack to transport it in the conveying direction, while in the second half of the Operating cycle it is disengaged from the stacks and is subjected to a return stroke opposite to the conveying direction before it is then brought back into engagement with one of the subsequent stack for its transport.

In the event that a binding station is not active, the conveying means conveys the feed unit approximately at half the conveying speed during a working cycle which coincides in time with the single cycle occurring within the large cycle of the distributor unit at a position corresponding to the position of the non-activated binding station. If, for example, the large cycle of the distributor unit comprises three individual clocks, since a total of three binding stations are present, and if, for example, the second binding station is not active and thus inoperative, the conveying speed of the conveyor of the delivery unit is reduced to about half during that operating cycle which coincides with the second cycle Single clock of each major clock of the distribution unit matches. in the Case of a decommissioning of a binding station thus the subsequent advance is performed on the feed unit and thus also in the upstream processing stations or Vormaschinen at about half speed and preferably twice the duration. Preferably, in this case, the conveying means of the feed unit also promotes during the subsequent power stroke at about half the conveying speed and in particular only during the second half of the work cycle in question and approximately during the first half of the subsequent power stroke.

The conveying means of the feeding unit may preferably comprise a paddle belt or chamber belt provided with transverse webs defining therebetween an open chamber for receiving a stack, the trailing web of a chamber coming into contact with the trailing edge of a stack then subject in the transport direction of a corresponding feed movement along the feed unit in the direction of the transfer unit.

Conveniently, the transfer unit works in large clocks, the individual clocks are adjusted according to the single clocks of the large clock of the distribution unit.

Preferably, the transfer unit is stationary in the first single clock of each large clock, which is particularly related in time with the transfer of the stack to the binding stations and the acquisition of the stack of the binding stations by the distribution unit.

Preferably, the transfer unit is optionally operated at a first conveying speed or a second conveying speed, wherein the second conveying speed is higher than the first conveying speed and preferably about twice as high as the first conveying speed.

In particular, if the number of individual clocks of each large clock is at least three according to the number of existing bind stations, the

Promote transfer unit with the first conveying speed during the first half of the second single clock of each major clock.

In particular, if the number of individual cycles of each large clock is at least three according to the number of existing binding stations, the transfer unit should only at the second conveying speed during the last single clock of each major clock, preferably during a portion of the last single clock of each major clock, especially during promote about the last quarter of the last single beat of each major clock.

If all existing binding stations are active, the transfer unit should convey at the first delivery speed during the last single cycle of each major cycle, preferably during a section of the last single cycle of each major cycle, in particular during approximately the first half of the last single cycle of each major cycle.

If each major clock corresponds to three individual clock cycles according to the number of existing bind stations, and if only the first and the last bind station are active, the handover unit stops during the remaining section of the last single clock of each major clock.

Finally, it should be noted at this point that alternatively also the binding stations as assemblies belong to the device according to the invention and thus can form their constituents.

Fig. 1

schematisch in perspektivischer Ansicht eine Vorrichtung gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführung der Erfindung mit drei Nähstationen in einer ersten Stufe eines Bearbeitungsprozesses, bei welchem alle drei Nähstationen aktiv sind,

Fig. 2 bis 4

eine Seitenansicht auf einen Abschnitt der Vorrichtung von Figur 1 im Bereich der Übergabeeinheit und der Verteilereinheit,

Fig. 5

die Ansicht eines Teils der Verteilereinheit in Transportrichtung,

Fig. 6

schematisch im Blockschaltbild eine Steuerungs- und Regelungseinrichtung für die Vorrichtung von Figur 1,

Fig. 7 bis 13

die Vorrichtung von Figur 1 in weiteren Stufen des Bearbeitungsprozesses, bei welchem alle drei Nähstationen aktiv sind,

Fig. 14

ein Geschwindigkeits-Zeit-Diagramm für verschiedene Komponenten der Vorrichtung von Figur 1 für den in den Figuren 1 und 7 bis 13 dargestellten Bearbeitungsprozess,

Fig. 15 bis 22

die Vorrichtung von Figur 1 in einzelnen Stufen eines Bearbeitungsprozesses bei Ausfall der zweiten Nähstation, und

Fig. 23

ein Geschwindigkeits-Zeit-Diagramm für verschiedene Komponenten der Vorrichtung für den in den Figuren 15 bis 22 dargestellten Bearbeitungsprozess.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

1 is a schematic perspective view of a device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention with three sewing stations in a first stage of a machining process in which all three sewing stations are active,

Fig. 2 to 4

a side view of a portion of the device of FIG. 1 in the area of the transfer unit and the distributor unit,

Fig. 5

the view of a part of the distributor unit in the transport direction,

Fig. 6

schematically a block diagram of a control and regulating device for the device of FIG. 1 .

Fig. 7 to 13

the device of FIG. 1 in further stages of the machining process, in which all three sewing stations are active,

Fig. 14

a speed-time diagram for various components of the device of FIG. 1 for in the FIGS. 1 and 7 to 13 illustrated machining process,

15 to 22

the device of FIG. 1 in individual stages of a machining process in case of failure of the second sewing station, and

Fig. 23

a speed-time diagram for various components of the device for in the FIGS. 15 to 22 illustrated machining process.

In the figures, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a device is shown which is used for binding stacks of layers for the production of bound documents. The layers consist of flat parts and preferably paper pages. Preferably, the illustrated device is used for binding document or book blocks, which are used in particular for the production of security-relevant documents, such as passports. The binding is done in the illustrated device by sewing together a predetermined number of layers, which together form a stack. The individual layers are printed and prepared so that they form the pages of a document or book after completion of the production. The stacks are also referred to as "benefits." following For simplicity, the term "book block" is used for the stacks, but is merely synonymous with all types of stacks.

The apparatus shown in the figures is part of a plant not shown in the figures for the production of books and other documents, in particular of security-related documents. In such a system, the individual layers or paper pages are first preprocessed in dedicated stations or pre-machines and in particular cut, isolated and grouped into homogeneous stacks or benefits, each of which consists of layers of the same type, which the same sides of form a book or document to be produced. After completion of the stack or book blocks they are transported in a row one behind the other to the apparatus shown in the figures, in which they are bound by sewing together the layers, which will be described in more detail below. After leaving the device shown in the figures, the book blocks bound so still undergo various downstream stations in which they are in particular laminated, embossed, folded and cut and, which is particularly important for passports, with a consecutive numbering by printing or using a laser beam be provided.

The device shown in the figures will now be described in detail.

As FIG. 1 can recognize, the apparatus in the illustrated embodiment, an arrangement of three sewing stations 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3. It should be noted that alternatively only two or more than three sewing stations can be used. Furthermore, a distributor unit 2 is provided, the function of which will be explained in detail below. Immediately adjacent to this distribution unit 2, the three sewing stations 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 are arranged in series next to each other. At the according to FIG. 1 right end of the distribution unit 2, a transfer unit 3 is arranged. At the according to FIG. 1 left End of the distributor unit 2 is followed by an outlet device 4. Furthermore, in FIG. 1 nor a feed unit 6 shown in the according to FIG. 1 right end of the transfer unit 3 connects, so that the transfer unit 3 is located between the feed unit 6 and the distribution unit 2. At least the distributor unit 2 and the transfer unit 3 together form a conveyor 8 in order to transport book blocks in sequence in the transport direction according to arrow A through the device. Representative of all book blocks shown lying on the transfer unit 3 book block is marked with the reference numeral "5". As in this context FIG. 1 can be seen, the feed unit 6, the transfer unit 3, the distribution unit 2 and the outlet device 4 are aligned with each other so that they form a substantially rectilinear transport path 9, along which the book blocks are moved in the transport direction A.

For reasons of simplified representation are in FIG. 1 the feed unit 6, the transfer unit 3, the distributor unit 2 and the outlet device 4 are each shown as a simple platform on which the book blocks rest and are moved in the transport direction A. In fact, however, these assemblies are provided with appropriate funding.

Thus, e.g. the conveying means of the distributor unit 2 preferably have a so-called chamber belt or paddle belt, which is designed as a conveyor belt which revolves endlessly in the transporting direction A. The paddle band is provided with transverse webs which each form an outwardly open chamber for receiving a book block between them, the trailing web of a chamber comes into contact with the trailing edge of a book block to then subject this in the transport direction A of a corresponding feed movement , But instead of webs, for example, cams or the like. be provided. In the same or similar manner, the conveying means of the feed unit 6 and the outlet device 4 can be designed.

Since the length of the transfer unit 3 in the transport direction A corresponds approximately to the length of a book block 5, is suitable for the transfer unit 3 as a subsidy Preferably, a slider or a gripper which comes into abutment with or into engagement with the trailing edge of a book block to then subject this in the transport direction A of a corresponding feed movement in the direction of the distributor unit 2. After movement over the entire length of the transfer unit 3, the slider or gripper is then removed from the transport path 10, for example, by being lowered below the transport path and returned to the upstream beginning of the transfer unit 3 before moving on to the next book block which has meanwhile been transferred to the transfer unit 3 subjected to a corresponding feed movement. As an alternative to the paddle belt described above, it is also conceivable to use corresponding slides, grippers or tongs as conveying means for the feed unit 6, but depending on the receiving capacity of the feeder, ie the number of book blocks to be simultaneously picked up, a corresponding number of behind one another sliders, grippers or pliers is provided, which are to be arranged in the transport direction A equidistant from each other, which is to be sized slightly larger than the length of a book block.

A preferred embodiment of the conveying means for the distribution unit 2 and the transfer unit 3 is exemplified in the FIGS. 2 to 5 shown.

The conveyor or the drive of the distributor unit 2 consists in the illustrated embodiment of a belt system with transport cams or webs. For this purpose, rollers 14 are endlessly circulating belts 10, 11 used, which may for example also be referred to as 'Paddelbänder'. As FIG. 5 can be seen, four juxtaposed endless circulating belts 10 and 11 are provided in the illustrated embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the band system is arranged in the distribution unit 2 above the transport path for the book blocks 5. The transport path section 9.2 ( FIG. 1 ) is formed by a support 12, on which the book blocks 5 rest in the distributor unit 2 and are subjected to a feed movement along the latter in the transport direction A.

For the application of the feed movement transverse webs or cams 10.1, 10.2 and 11.1, 11.2 are responsible, which are attached to the outside of the bands 10, 11. The attached to the bands 10 cams 10.1 and 10.2 are aligned with each other; The same applies to the cams 11.1 and 11.2 on the belts 11. However, in particular the FIGS. 2 to 4 can be seen, the cams 10.1, 10.2 of the bands 10 relative to the cams 11.1, 11.2 of the bands 11 are arranged offset. Of the four bands used in the illustrated embodiment, the band pair 10 is driven by a servomotor and the band pair 11 is driven by another servomotor. In particular FIG. 4 can be seen, it is the cams 10.1, 10.2 of the pair of belts 10 to sliding cams, which are thus brought into contact with the trailing edge of a book stack 5 to apply the book stack 5 with a feed movement in the transport direction A. In contrast, the pair of bands 11 is set relative to the relative position of the cams 11.1, 11.2 relative to the cams 10.1, 10.2 of the pair of strips 10 depending on the format, so that the cams 11.1, 11.2 can be brought into contact with the leading edge of a book block 5. In this way, the still unbound book blocks 5 are clamped during their transport in the distributor unit 2, so to speak, which ensures in particular during an acceleration or deceleration of the feed movement that the loose leaves of the unbound book block 5 can not slip. Both bands pairs 10, 11 move synchronously at all times (except for a format setting). Thus, the book blocks 5 are received during their transport in the distributor unit between a lower support 12 and the outside of the lower run of the pairs of belts 10, 11.

Above the lower run of the bands pairs 10, 11 a guide 16 is arranged, by means of which the bands 10, 11 are held in position transversely to the transport direction A. For this purpose, 16 corresponding recesses 16.1 are formed at the lower run of the band pairs 10, 11 opposite underside of the guide, in which the lower run of the bands 10, 11 is performed, such as FIG. 5 lets recognize. The cams 10.1, 10.2, 11.1, 11.2 of the bands 10, 11 run on their way along the lower run of the bands 10, 11 through at the Top of the pad 12 formed recesses 12.1, which also made FIG. 5 is apparent. As well as FIG. 5 can be seen, the bottom of the guide 16 is provided at its one lateral end with a slope 16.2. The end having this bevel 16.2 points in the direction of the sewing stations 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 arranged next to the distributor unit 2 (FIGS. Fig. 1 ) and thus lies adjacent to these sewing stations. During the movement of the book blocks 5 in the direction of the double arrow B for loading and unloading the sewing stations, the slope 16.2 is at the bottom of the guide 16 for guiding the book blocks 5 and in particular for easier insertion of the book blocks 5 in between the guide 16 and the lower Trum of the bands 10, 11 on the one hand and the top of the pad 12 on the other hand formed gap and thus for easier absorption back into the distribution unit. 2

In the illustrated embodiment according to the FIGS. 3 and 4 however, a gripper or slider 18 is used as the conveying means for the transfer unit 3, which is driven by a linear drive unit in the direction of the arrow F (Vorhub) according to the transport direction A or in the opposite direction according to the arrow R (return stroke). In the illustrated embodiment, the slider 18 has a bearing part 20 and a bearing on the bearing part 20 and in the direction of the distribution unit 2 and in the transport direction A resiliently biased clamping member 21. The bearing part 20 and the clamping part 21 are rake-shaped, so that the computing segments of the clamping part 21, not shown in the figures, can dip into recesses 22 in the bearing part 20 when the slider 18 is in the return stroke in the direction of the arrow R ( FIG. 4 ). As the FIGS. 2 to 4 can also be seen schematically, the transfer unit 3 on a support 24 on which a book block 5 rests and is advanced along this. The support 24 and the slider 18 are offset from each other, so that the slider 18 can be brought into contact with the trailing edge of a book block 5, to apply this with a feed movement in the transport direction A, when the slide 18 on the forward stroke in the direction of Arrow F is located as FIG. 3 lets recognize. After taking over a book block 5 of the transfer unit 3 in the distribution unit 2, the slider is lowered by the linear unit and during the return stroke in the direction of the arrow R to the upstream beginning or inlet of the transfer unit 3 is moved back to get there in contact with the trailing edge of a transferred from the feeder 6 to the transfer device 3 new book block 5.

As FIG. 1 Furthermore, the sewing stations 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 each have an inlet that is open to the distributor unit 2 and an outlet likewise directed to the distributor unit 2, which, viewed in the transport direction A, lies downstream of the inlet. Representing the two other sewing stations is only at the first sewing station 1.1 whose inlet with the reference numeral "1.1 E" and the outlet with the reference numeral "1.1 A" in FIG. 1 characterized. The sewing stations 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 operate in the illustrated embodiment in the transport direction ADh within the sewing stations 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, a book block is moved in the transport direction A, while he is simultaneously subjected to a sewing operation. For this purpose, corresponding funding is provided in the sewing stations 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3, which are not shown.

For loading a sewing station, a book block provided for this purpose is removed from the section 10.2 of the transport path 10 located in the distributor unit 2 and transferred to the corresponding sewing station by being drawn in and / or inserted through its inlet (eg 1.1E). After completion of the sewing process, the then sewn book block is ejected through the outlet (eg, 1.1 A) from the corresponding sewing station and taken over by the distribution unit 2 back to the transport path section 10.2. During the transfer from the transport path section 10.2 of the distributor unit 2 to a sewing station and during the transfer back from the sewing station to the transport path section 10.2, a movement of the book block takes place transversely to the transport direction A, which in FIG. 1 by a double arrow B and in the Figures 13 and 22 indicated by arrows B _E and B _A. Conveniently, the entry of a new book block and a sewn book block at a sewing station and preferably at all sewing stations substantially simultaneously. As FIG. 1 based on the arrangement of the outlet opposite As can be seen from the inlet, the path length traveled by the book block during a sewing operation within a sewing station is slightly more than the length of a book block, with a total space requirement of slightly more than twice.

For the transport of the book blocks between the Transportwegabschnitt 10.2 and the sewing stations 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 in the direction of the double arrow B corresponding devices are provided, as additional components of the distribution unit 2 and / or the sewing stations 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, said additional devices for reasons of clarity in the figures are not shown.

The feed unit 6 shown in the figures may be part of a processing station or foremachine located closest to the upstream or may be assigned as a whole to the arrangement of upstream processing stations or pre-machines. In such a case, therefore, the feed unit 6 forms an output-side interface of the upstream processing station (s) or pre-machine (s) to the conveyor 8, not shown in the figures, and the transfer unit 3 has an input-side interface of the conveyor 8 with respect to the upstream processing stations (not shown). advance machines. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the feed unit 6 forms a further assembly of the conveyor 8 and thus the input-side interface of the conveyor 8 relative to the upstream processing stations or Vormaschinen not shown.

The feed or transport of the book blocks along the transport path 9 takes place in a clocking process. For this purpose, the book blocks to be transported are arranged in a row one behind the other, wherein the distance of the leading edge of a book block from the leading edge of the adjacent (front or rear) book block a fixed path length equal to the pitch of the inlets or outlets of the sewing stations 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 is measured forms. As will be explained in more detail below, in certain operating states, the feed rate in the feed unit 6 lowered to half or less and doubled in the transfer unit 3. Also in the distribution unit 2, the feed rate along the Transportwegabschnittes 9.2 is temporarily increased to twice the value. However, operating states also occur in which at certain times the distributor unit 2, the transfer unit 3 or the supply unit 6 do not perform any feed or transport during a portion of a single cycle or during the entire single cycle. For the advancement of the book blocks along the transport path 9 in the transport direction A and for the transfer to the sewing stations 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 and the output from the sewing stations in the direction of the double arrow B and also for the sewing process within the sewing stations is a suitable control or regulation of need.

A control and regulating device 30 provided for this purpose is shown schematically in FIG FIG. 6 shown. In the FIG. 6 exemplary illustrated control and regulating device 30 has a first programmable control and regulation unit 31 and a second likewise programmable control and regulation unit 32. Preferably, these two control and regulation units 31, 32 consist of a programmable logic controller (PLC). As FIG. 6 can also be seen schematically, the first control and regulation unit 31 three servo controllers 34, 35 and 36 are assigned and the second control and regulation unit 32 is associated with a servo controller 37. The servo controller 37 of the second control unit 32 controls a servomotor 40 which is monitored by a rotary encoder 41 and by which the conveying means (not shown) of the feeding unit 6 is controlled accordingly. For switching this conveyor is also still one, preferably pneumatically operating, actuator 42 is provided, which is also controlled by the servo controller 37.

The conveying means of the transfer unit 3, the distribution unit 2 and the outlet device 4 are controlled by associated servo motors 40 which are controlled by the associated servo controllers 34, 35 or 36 and thereby monitored by rotary or position encoders 41. As FIG. 6 furthermore schematically can be seen, the distributor unit 2, two servomotors 40 are assigned, of which the one servomotor one pair of bands 10 and the other servomotor the other band-pair 11 (see. FIGS. 2 to 5 ) drives. In addition, a controlled by the servo controller 34, preferably pneumatically operating, actuator 44 of the transfer unit 3 is assigned, whereby the in FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrated slide 18 in an upper position for the forward stroke F ( FIG. 3 ) or a lower position for the return stroke R ( FIG. 4 ) is switched.

Also, the sewing stations 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 are controlled by the first control and regulation unit 31. For the intake into the inlet (eg 1.1 E) is for each sewing station 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 a corresponding, preferably pneumatically operating, actuator 45 and for the discharge from the outlet (eg 1.1 A), a corresponding, also preferably pneumatically operating, Actuator 46 is provided. As in FIG. 6 is also shown schematically, the second control and regulation unit 32 is shown remote from the first control and regulation unit 31. This is due to the fact that the controlled from this regulated feeder 6 in the illustrated embodiment does not belong to the conveyor 8, but is assigned as part of an upstream processing station or machine. Nevertheless, both control and regulating units 31, 32 communicate with each other via bus systems or other data lines, so that the operation of the feed unit 6 can be appropriately adjusted and coordinated with the operating state of the conveyor 8 in a manner to be described later.

The following are based on the FIGS. 1 and 7 to 13 the individual steps of the editing process of in FIG. 1 shown apparatus, wherein all sewing stations 1.1 to 1.3 are active and are thus in operation. In addition, it will still open FIG. 14 Reference is made in the loading and unloading of the sewing stations and for the distribution unit 2, the transfer unit 3 and the feed unit 6 in the form of a speed-time diagram, the speed profiles are shown, wherein for better understanding of the processing process in the FIGS. 1 and 7 to 13 shown stages the machining process are identified accordingly. For a better understanding of FIG. 14 It should also be noted that for the individual diagrams of the four operations or modules each marked with a "0" zero line is drawn and for the following explanation of the operation only the above the zero line shown graph, which is a positive speed of a corresponding Representing funding is of interest. In contrast, the graph shown below the respective zero line represents backward idle movements of the corresponding funding without applying a book block. Also in the diagram of FIG. 14 Any occurring accelerations or delays are disregarded.

Finally, it should be noted that for better understanding in the FIGS. 1 and 7 to 13 the book blocks are numbered from "1" to "16". Incidentally, in the FIGS. 7 to 13 the sake of clarity, individual reference numerals have been omitted, so that in so far on FIG. 1 is referenced.

In FIG. 1 the state is shown after a book block change has just taken place in and out of the sewing stations 1.1 to 1.3. The just sewn book blocks 4 to 6 are again on the transport path section 9.2 of the distributor unit 2, while the still unprocessed book blocks 7 to 9 have just been fed or inserted into the sewing stations 1.1 to 1.3. Furthermore, there is another unprocessed book block 10 in the transfer unit 3 and are four other unprocessed book blocks 10 to 14 in the feed unit 6. The also already sewn book blocks 1 to 3, however, are already in the outlet device 4. The seam in the already sewn book blocks is in the FIGS. 1 . 7 to 13 and 15 to 22 shown schematically as dashed center line. The distance from the book block to the book block, more precisely from the trailing edge of a book block to the trailing edge of an adjacent book block, in the transport path section 9.2 of the distributor unit 2 is denoted by "p" and is equal to the distance between the inlets or outlets of respectively two adjacent sewing stations, more precisely , from middle inlet or outlet of one sewing station to the middle inlet or outlet of the nearest adjacent sewing station. As FIG. 1 Furthermore, the distance from book block to book block in the feed unit 6 and from the book block 10 in the transfer unit 3 to the subsequent book block 11 in the feed unit 6 is in each case p / 2. These ratios remain constant regardless of the book block format.

As FIG. 14 It is in the state of FIG. 1 the unloading and loading of the sewing stations just finished, while the distribution unit 2, the transfer unit 3 and the feed unit 6 are respectively raised to a conveying speed, which is the same for these three modules and is referred to below as a simple or first conveying speed.

In the FIGS. 7 to 13 It is now shown how the processed book blocks are transported away by the distributor unit 2 and at the same time new unprocessed book blocks 10, 11 and 12 are conveyed in front of the inlets of the sewing stations. During this time, the book blocks 7 to 9 already in FIGS. 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 are subjected to a sewing operation and conveyed to the outlets of the sewing stations.

At this point, it should be noted that the distributor unit 2 operates in so-called large clock cycles X, where the large cycle X is a time interval from the delivery of a book block sewn from a sewing station from the distributor unit 2 until the next delivery of a book block sewn from a sewing station from the distributor unit 2 is defined and divided into a number of individual clocks Y ₁ to Y ₃ , which corresponds to the number of existing sewing stations, so that in the illustrated embodiment, the large clock X three single clocks Y ₁ , Y ₂ and Y ₃ includes. Preferably, in the illustrated embodiment, with a total of three existing sewing stations of the large clock X has a period of about 4.5 to about 6 seconds. In the other modules, however, only spoken of working cycles, but which correspond in time with the individual clocks Y ₁ , Y ₂ and Y ₃ correspond. In FIG. 14 is exemplified the operation over a period of 3 large clocks X or 9 single clocks shown.

While in FIG. 1 the operating state is shown directly at the transition from the first single clock Y ₁ to the second single clock Y ₂ , shows FIG. 7 the operating state by a quarter-cycle length later, where the distributor unit 2, the transfer unit 3 and the feed unit 6 are each still operated with the same simple conveying speed.

The in FIG. 8 shown operating state differs from that in FIG. 7 shown previous operating state in that the transfer unit is stopped while the feed unit 6 has been previously stopped. In contrast, the distributor unit 2 continues to run at a simple conveying speed. Thus, in the operating state according to FIG. 8 the book block 10 from the transfer unit ( FIG. 1 ) have been transferred to the distribution unit 2 and the other book blocks 11 to 15 by the dimension p / 2 nachgerückt accordingly so that now on the transfer unit 3, the book block 11 is located.

Since only the distributor unit 2 is running at a single conveying speed until the end of the second single cycle Y ₂ , during this period the acquired book block 10 is transported further by a further path length p / 2 and is now located in front of the outlet of the first sewing station 1.1. The same applies to the already sewn book blocks 5 and 6, which are now each before the outlet of the second and third sewing station 1.2, 1.3, while the book block 4 has left the distributor unit 2 and is now on the outlet device 4. This operating state is in FIG. 9 shown.

FIG. 9 shows a state exactly at the boundary between the second single-clock Y ₂ and the third single-clock Y ₃ . While at this time, the distribution unit 2 continues to operate at a single conveying speed, the transfer unit 3 and the feed unit 6 are raised again to a simple conveying speed, whereby the next book block 11 passes from the transfer unit 3 to the distribution unit 2, the book blocks 12 to 15 in the feed unit 6 move up accordingly and the book block 12 reaches the transfer unit 3. Of course, this also means that the book blocks 6 and 10 also continue to advance by p / 2. These operating conditions are in the characters 10 and 11 shown which the operating conditions according to FIGS. 7 and 8th basically correspond. In the state of FIG. 11 , which occurs in the middle of the third single clock Y ₃ , the feeder 6 has already been switched off again and the transfer unit 3 is switched off while the conveying speed of the distributor unit 2 is doubled. Also, in the last quarter of the third single cycle Y _3, the conveying speed of the transfer unit 3 is doubled in the same way. This has the consequence that the already located in the distribution unit 2 book blocks 10 and 11 are acted upon within half a single clock at twice the feed rate and thus with a feed corresponding to the path length p. Furthermore, the stitched book block 6 has been transferred from the distributor unit 2 to the outlet device 4. As FIG. 12 can recognize, the result of this transport process is now that before each inlet of the sewing stations 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 an unprocessed book block 10, 11, 12 is located.

In the meantime, the sewing process is completed at the book blocks 7 to 9 in the sewing stations and are now sewn book blocks 7 to 9 respectively at the output of the corresponding sewing station. FIG. 13 now shows the operating state where the still unprocessed book blocks 10 to 12 are retracted or inserted into the inlets of the sewing stations according to arrow B _E and the sewn book blocks 7 to 9 are issued from the outlets of the sewing stations according to arrow B _A. This already takes place in the first half of the first single clock Y _{1 of} a subsequent large clock X, such as FIG. 14 lets recognize.

As FIG. 14 can also be seen, the distributor unit 2 in each major cycle X the same speed profile, after which the distributor unit 2 is stationary in the first single clock and thus no feed along the Transportwegabschnittes 9.2 takes place in the second single clock and in the first half of the third single clock with a single conveying speed and in the second half of the third single clock is operated at twice the conveyor speed. Likewise leaves FIG. 14 recognize that the feed unit 6 has the same velocity profile in each work cycle, after which only one feed in the first half Each work cycle takes place while in the second half a return stroke opposite to the transport direction A takes place.

The FIGS. 15 to 23 show the same machining process with inactive second or middle sewing station 1.2. The correspond in the FIGS. 15 to 22 shown steps basically in the FIGS. 1 and 7 to 13 shown steps, but with the difference that now the second sewing station 1.2 failed or switched off and thus is not active. Also the speed-time diagram of FIG. 23 corresponds in terms of representation, structure and temporal relationships to the diagram of FIG. 14 , Also are in Fig. 23 (in the same place as for the FIGS. 1 and 7 to 13 in FIG. 14 ) in the FIGS. 15 to 22 marked stages in the illustrated speed-time diagram accordingly. Thus, in the following explanation of the steps of the machining process based on the FIGS. 15 to 22 at the same time too FIG. 23 Referenced.

A comparison of the diagram of Fig. 23 with the diagram of FIG. 14 already shows that in the first single cycle Y ₁ of each large cycle X, the velocity profile for the processes and assemblies shown is the same. Thus, loading and unloading of the sewing stations takes place in this single cycle, which in the present case is the case only for the first sewing station 1.1 and the third sewing station 1.3, since the second sewing station 1.2 is not active, and the distributor unit 2 is also stationary the transfer unit 3 no feed movement. Also in the same manner as in the full operation, the feeding unit 6 supports at single speed within a time period which is slightly shorter than the first half of the first individual stroke Y ₁ and promotes not during the subsequent remainder of the time period of the first individual stroke Y. ₁

Furthermore, a comparison between the diagrams of the Figures 14 and 23 recognize that the speed profile of the distribution unit 2 remains unchanged, regardless of whether all sewing stations are active and are thus in operation or whether one or more sewing stations are inactive. Thus, the operation of the distributor unit 2 is independent of whether all Sewing stations or only a part of the sewing stations is active. The distribution unit thus also requires no special control concept. Rather, the distribution unit 2 is set to a suitable constant operation. In the illustrated embodiment, with a total of three existing sewing stations 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3, such an operation provides that in the first single clock Y ₁ of each large clock X, the distributor unit 2 is stationary and thus generates no feed motion. This is necessary because the loading and unloading of the sewing stations takes place at that time. At the beginning of the second single clock Y ₂ , the distributor unit 2 is raised to a simple conveying speed. In this case, the distributor unit 2 generates a feed movement in the transport direction A along the Transportwegabschnittes 9.2 not only over the entire time period of the second single clock Y ₂ , but also during the first half of the subsequent third single clock Y ₃ , while in the second half of the third single clock Y _third the conveying speed is doubled, before the feed movement of the distributor unit 2 is then stopped again after expiration of the third single cycle Y ₃ .

The transfer of the book blocks into the sewing stations and the takeover of the sewn book blocks from the sewing stations requires a certain amount of time in which the distributor unit 2 is not allowed to perform an advancing movement in the transport direction A along the transport path section 9.2. This is the case during the first single clock Y ₁ of each major clock X. However, the 'lost' time must be anticipated or caught up by the distributor unit 2, so to speak, since otherwise the feed unit 6 and thus also the upstream processing stations or pre-machines can essentially no longer continue to work continuously. This, Vorholzeit 'is obtained in that the distributor unit 2 is operated in the second half of the third single clock Y ₃ and thus before the single clock Y _{1 of} the subsequent large clock X at twice the conveyor speed.

In FIG. 15 Now the state is shown after just a book block change in and out of the active sewing stations 1.1 and 1.3 is done. Since the second sewing station 1.2 is inactive, lie on the transport path section 9.2 of the distribution unit 2 with the book blocks 4 and 5, only two straight stitched book blocks from the previous cycle, while with the book blocks 6 and 7 according to the number of active sewing stations 1.2 and 1.3, only two unprocessed book blocks have been fed or pushed into the sewing stations. Because of the inactive middle second sewing station 1.2, the distance between the two consecutive book blocks 4 and 5 is twice as large on the transport path section 9.2 of the distributor unit 2 as in FIG FIG. 1 and is therefore 2p. As FIG. 23 can recognize, does not promote the feed unit 6 at this moment. For the rest, however, the in FIG. 15 shown operating state in FIG. 1 shown operating state.

The in FIG. 16 shown operating state differs from that in FIG. 7 shown operating state again by the fact that because of the inactive central sewing station 1.2, the distance between the two book blocks 4 and 5 continues to be twice as large and the feed unit 6 promotes finnicht. Incidentally, the description of the in FIG. 7 referenced operating state referenced.

Also a half cycle after the operating condition of FIG. 15 the feed unit 6 continues to generate no feed movement. This is in FIG. 17 so far recognizable as that the book block 9 has not yet moved to the funded by the transfer unit 3 on the distribution unit 2 book block on the transfer unit 3. Thus, in this step of the machining process with inactive middle sewing station 1.2, the transfer unit remains empty or unladen. As with the in FIG. 8 shown operating state, the distance between the two book blocks 5 and 8 p, while in contrast to the operating state according to FIG. 8 on the distributor unit 2, the front third book block is missing because of the failure of the second sewing station 1.2.

Already shortly after the in FIG. 17 ₂ , the feed unit 6 begins to feed again for the remaining part of the second half of the second single cycle Y ₂ , but only at about half the speed, as in FIG FIG. 23 can be seen. This leads to the fact that at the end of the second single clock Y ₂ on the feed unit 6 front book block 9 is already advanced to about one-third on the transfer unit 3. This condition is in FIG. 18 shown.

As FIG. 9 also shows FIG. 18 the state exactly at the boundary between the second single clock Y ₂ and the third single clock Y ₃ . Unlike the one in FIG. 9 As shown, the conveying means of the transfer unit 3 is still silent and thus generates no advancing movement and the feed unit 6 continues to operate at half the conveying speed, such as FIG. 23 lets recognize.

FIG. 23 It can also be seen that a quarter-cycle later within the third single cycle Y _3, the speed profiles compared to the state of FIG. 18 remained unchanged. This operating state is in FIG. 19 shown. In this state, a sewn book block 5 and a unprocessed book block 8 are received in the distributor unit 2, wherein in the instantaneous representation of FIG. 19 each of these two book blocks 5 and 8 is positioned approximately at the level between two adjacent sewing stations. Unlike in the operating state of FIG. 10 However, if no further book blocks are received by the distributor unit 2, and the transfer of the book block 9 to the transfer unit 3 is also not completed because of the feed unit 6, which is still working at half the conveying speed.

During the second quarter stroke within the last single cycle Y ₃ , the conveying means of the feed unit 6 is stopped again so that a continued feed movement in the feed unit 6 is interrupted, such as FIG. 23 lets recognize. Namely, at this time, the book block 9 has already been completely picked up by the transfer unit 3. The operating state shortly thereafter and thus after expiration of the first half of the last single cycle Y ₃ is in FIG. 20 shown. At this time, the feed unit 6 does not convey and generates no further feed movement, while the conveying means of the transfer unit 3 continues to generate no feed movement, as is apparent from FIG. 23 can be removed. FIG. 20 shows further that now the two book blocks 5 and 8 with a constant distance p from each other in the distribution unit 2 to the position opposite the inlets of the second sewing station 1.2 and the third sewing station 1.3 advanced.

As in operation with all sewing stations for the last quarter of the third or last single cycle Y _3, the transfer unit 3 is raised to about twice the value of the simple conveying speed and thus to about twice the conveying speed, while the conveying means of the feed unit 6 continues to produce no feed movement. As a result, the book block 9 has been completely transferred to the distributor unit 2 until the end of the third or last single cycle Y ₃ , especially since the distributor unit 2 also operates at twice the conveyor speed during the last half of the third single cycle Y ₃ . This condition is in FIG. 21 shown, which also shows that now the already stitched book block 5 has been delivered to the outlet device 4 and in the distribution unit of the still unprocessed book block 8 before the inlet of the last or third sewing station 1.3 and the just received from the transfer unit 3 book block. 9 is located before the inlet of the first sewing station 1.1. Since no further feed movement is generated by the feed unit 6 at this time, the transfer unit 3 initially remains unloaded in this step. After all, therefore, the operating state differs according to FIG. 21 from the operating state according to FIG. 12 merely in that in the distributor unit 2 the middle book block (in FIG. 12 numbered "11") is missing before the inlet of the inactive middle or second sewing station 1.2, which makes sense, since yes, this sewing station is out of service.

In the meantime, the sewing process at the book blocks 6 and 7 in the active sewing stations 1.1 and 1.3 has ended and the now sewn book blocks 6 and 7 are each at the exit of the corresponding sewing station. FIG. 22 now shows the operating state where the still unprocessed book blocks 8 and 9 are retracted or inserted into the inlets of the active sewing stations 1.1 and 1.3 and the sewn book blocks 6 and 7 are ejected from the outlets of these sewing stations. This already takes place in the first half of the first single clock Y _{1 of} a subsequent large clock X, such as FIG. 23 lets recognize. Since the beginning of this single cycle Y _1, the feed unit 6 is raised again to a simple conveying speed and thus exerts on the existing book blocks there 10 to 13 a corresponding feed movement, this has the consequence that the front book block 10 now on the

Transfer unit 3 advances. After all, the operating state differs according to FIG. 22 from the operating state according to FIG. 13 merely in that a loading and unloading process does not take place at the middle or second sewing station.

Like the one before with the FIGS. 15 to 23 explained example shows, in the case of a decommissioning of a sewing station, the feed unit 6 is driven in the meantime only at half the conveying speed. It can also be seen from the examples described above that it is the task of the transfer unit to adapt the feed movement of the book blocks from the feed unit 6 in clock mode to the constantly running distributor unit 2 in the manner of a synchronization, the timing of the feed unit 6 from the number of active Sewing stations is derived. In other words, in each case three pre-stroking cycles are carried out with three active sewing stations, two pre-stroking cycles with two active sewing stations and one pre-stroking cycle in the transfer unit 3 and the feed unit 6 in the case of an active sewing station, wherein the conveying speeds are adapted accordingly.

Finally, it should be noted that previously based on the FIGS. 1 and 7 to 14 described steps of a machining process involving all existing sewing stations and the basis of the FIGS. 15 to 23 described steps of a processing process when decommissioning a sewing station with each successive large clock X are cyclically repeated, which also the diagrams of Figures 14 and 23 can be seen.

Claims (15)

Device for transporting stacks of layers, preferably document or book blocks, in particular security-relevant documents, along a transport path (9) to a plurality of binding stacks, preferably in series next to the transport path (9), to a plurality of binding stations (1.1, 1.2 , 1.3), of which possibly only a subordinate number is active, with a conveyor operating in the cycle (8), which is adapted to convey the stack along the transport path (9), and with a control device (31, 32) for controlling the Conveying device (8), wherein the conveying device (8) has a distributor unit (2) which is designed to convey the stacks along the transport path (9.2) and also to transfer the stacks from the transport path (9.2) out to a selected binding station and after binding in the binding station to take over for continued transport along the transport path (9.2),
characterized in that the conveyor (8) further comprises an upstream of the distributor unit (2) arranged controllable transfer unit (3) which is adapted to transfer the stack of a stack transporting the feed unit (6) to the distributor unit (2), and the control device (31, 32) sets the transfer unit (3) to an operating mode which has a speed profile which is dependent on the number and the position of the active binding stations and adapted to a permanently predetermined constant operation of the distributor unit (2). Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the fixed predetermined constant operation of the distributor unit (2) at least for the transport of the stack along the transport path (9.2) has a fixed predetermined constant velocity profile, wherein the distributor unit (2) is formed, in large cycles ( X), where the large clock (X) is a time interval between acceptance of a batch and delivery of this then defined bound by a binding station stack and divided into one of the number of existing binding stations corresponding number of individual clocks (Y ₁ , Y ₂ , Y ₃ ). Apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a bi-directionally operable transverse transport conveyor is provided to simultaneously transfer unbonded stacks from the distributor unit (2) into active binding stations and bonded stacks from the binding stations to the distributor unit (2). Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, in which the distributor unit (2) has a conveying means (10, 11) for the simultaneous transport of all stacks in the distributor unit (2) along the transport path (9.2), characterized in that the conveying means (10 , 11) is selectively operable at a first conveying speed or at a second conveying speed, wherein the second conveying speed is higher than the first conveying speed to correspondingly compensate for the time required for transferring a stack to a binding station and taking over a stack from a binding station. Apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the distributor unit (2) has two conveying means (10, 11), of which the one conveying means (10) comprises a pair of outer chamber belts (10) with webs (10.1, 10.2) arranged transversely to the conveying direction. and the other conveying means comprises a pair of inner chamber belts (11) with webs (11.1, 11.2) arranged transversely to the conveying direction. Apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the second conveying speed is about twice as high as the first conveying speed. Apparatus according to claim 2 or 3 and according to claim 5 or 6, in particular in which the number of individual clocks (Y ₁ , Y ₂ , Y ₃ ) of each large clock (X) corresponding to the number of binding stations is at least three, characterized in that the Conveying means (10, 11) of the distributor unit (2) with the second conveying speed only during the last single clock (Y ₃ ), in particular during the second half of the last single clock (Y ₃ ) of each major clock (X), operable. Device according to at least one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the conveying means (10, 11) of the distributor unit (2) is adapted to rest during a single clock and in particular during the first single clock (Y ₁ ) of each large clock (X). Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, in which the conveyor device (8) has a cyclically controllable feed unit (6) for cyclically feeding the stacks, characterized in that the control device (31, 32) adjusts the feed unit (6) to one of the operation mode of operation of the transfer unit (3) set by the control device (31, 32) from the respective operating mode of the delivery unit (3). 6) and preferably the operating mode of the feed unit (6) set by the control device (31, 32) has a speed profile which is dependent on the number and the position of the active binding stations and effects the substantially uninterrupted transport of the stacks. Apparatus according to claim 9, in which the feed unit (6) has a conveying means for the simultaneous transport of all stacks in the feed unit (6), characterized in that the conveying means is operable at a conveying speed which corresponds to the first conveying speed of the conveying means (10, 11 ) of the distributor unit (2), if all existing binding stations are active. Apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the distributor unit (2) is designed to operate in large clocks (X), wherein the large clock (X) is a time interval between takeover of a stack and delivery this then bound by a binding station stack defined and in one of the number of existing binding stations corresponding number of individual clocks (X ₁ , Y ₂ , Y ₃ ) is divided, the feed unit (6) in with the individual clocks of the distribution unit (2) substantially coincident Working cycles is operable and the conveying means of the feed unit (6) is formed, for the case that a binding station is not active, to promote about only half the conveying speed during a power stroke, which coincides in time with that single clock (Y ₂ ), within the Large clock (X) of the distributor unit (2) at a position corresponding to the position of the non-activated binding station (1.2) appears, wherein preferably the conveying means of the feed unit (6) is further designed to promote even during the subsequent power stroke at about half the conveying speed. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distributor unit (2) is designed to operate in large cycles (X), wherein the large cycle (X) defines a time interval between acceptance of a stack and delivery of this then bound by a binding station stack and in one of the number of existing binding stations corresponding number of individual clocks (X ₁ , Y ₂ , Y ₃ ) is divided, and the transfer unit (3) is adapted to work in large clocks to the large clocks (X) of the distribution unit (2 ) and are divided into individual clocks corresponding to the individual clocks (Y ₁ , Y ₂ , Y ₃ ) of the large clock of the distributor unit (2), wherein preferably the conveying speed of the transfer unit (3) in the first single clock (X ₁ ) of each large clock (X) the distributor unit (2) is zero. Device according to claims 4 and 12, characterized in that the transfer unit (3) is operable selectively with a first conveying speed or a second conveying speed, the second conveying speed being higher than the first conveying speed and the second conveying speed of the conveying means (10, 11). the distributor unit (2) corresponds. Apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, in particular in which the number of individual clocks (Y ₁ , Y ₂ , Y ₃ ) of each large clock (X) corresponding to the number of existing and active binding stations is three, characterized in that the transfer unit (3) with the first conveying speed during the first half of the second single clock (Y ₂ ) and with the second conveying speed only during the last single clock (Y ₃ ) of each major clock (X) is operable. Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the transfer unit (3) is designed to perform during each large clock (X) only a number of feeds with the first and second conveying speed, as it corresponds to the number of active binding stations.

Images