EP3248920A1 - Method for cutting and connecting two strips end-to-end, halted in an unwinding machine, cutting and connection device and machine provided with such a device allowing said method to be carried out - Google Patents

Abstract

The subject of the present invention is a method for cutting and connecting two butt and stub strips, namely a first strip (2a) providing the supply and a second strip (2b) of replacement in a machine. unwinding device comprising a cutting and connecting device comprising two connection assemblies (1a, 1b) arranged symmetrically with respect to a cutting and connecting plane (P). It consists in producing, from such a device, steps for preparing the second strip and then immobilizing the strips in said plane, cutting them simultaneously and transversely, and releasing the cut portions (20b, 21a). ) not to connect, and butt connection of their cut parts (20a, 21b) to be connected. It also relates to a cutting and connecting device and a machine for carrying out said method.

Description

The present invention relates to the field of machines for unwinding strip materials from reels for feeding unrolling machines, especially forming machines such as printing machines, cutters or folder-gluers, and for object a method of cutting and connecting two strips end to end and stopping in a machine unwinding and cutting and connecting device for carrying out said method. It also relates to a unwinding machine equipped with such a device.

A unrolling machine generally comprises two reel members respectively carrying a finishing web reel, i.e. a web feeding a downstream converting machine and a reel of new tape intended to be connected end-to-end. end with the finishing band at the end of the course of the latter to ensure the continuity of the strip supply downstream of the machine.

In known unrolling machines, the connection of the finishing strip with the beginning of the new strip is generally performed during a temporary stop of the unwinding machine, the finishing strip, to ensure the continuity of the unwinding during this provisional period, passing in a tape reserve disposed between the output of the unwinding machine and the downstream processing machine.

Among the known unrolling machines we know, by the document FR-A-2618769 a unrolling machine essentially consisting of two reel towers capped at their upper part by a bridge structure for receiving a tape accumulator and by two stationary tape connection assemblies, also known as connecting boxes or connecting half-cassettes, each dedicated to a reel-holder tower, that is to say to a unwinding or replacement strip wound on the reel mounted on such a reel-carrying tower, and mounted movable in translation, transversely to the strip under the bridge structure.

The connection assemblies are mounted in opposition, each under the bridge structure, movably transverse to the latter, by means of horizontal rails secured to said structure and projecting forwardly with respect to the latter, and are fixed in translation each with the corresponding tower, in order to follow all the movements of the corresponding tower.

On the face facing the opposite connection assembly, each connection assembly has a plate provided, on the one hand, with a transverse slit inclined with respect to the horizontal, in which is mounted, displaceable by means of a actuator or linear motor, a cutting device, and, secondly, several rows of air suction holes, or clamps, these holes or clamps being arranged, on the one hand, from and other of the slot and, on the other hand, parallel to the lower edge of the plate, which is further mounted along one of its horizontal edges, preferably along its lower edge, pivotally on the box, the pivot axis of the plate simultaneously forming the support of return rollers of the strip to unroll.

The connection assemblies have a width greater than the greatest possible width of the strips to be unrolled and their plate are, on the one hand, symmetrical with respect to a vertical plane passing between the boxes and, on the other hand, each loaded on its inner face by a pivoting device about the axis.

Simultaneous actuation of the displacement device of each plate has the effect of causing said plates to pivot about their axis, and of making an intimate application of the central planes enclosing the transverse slots of said plates with the interposition of the finishing and new bands, as well as of their adhesive butt joint.

This unrolling machine makes it possible to cut and connect precisely between the finishing and new belts with great accuracy with a short interruption of the unwinding device, requiring downstream accumulation.

However, these known unrolling machines do not fully meet the new production requirements that impose higher speeds with a guarantee of perfect connection.

The document FR 2 930 534 proposes a device of cut and sticking end to end making it possible to reduce the time of connection while guaranteeing a perfect connection. Such a device is provided for a unwinding machine comprising two coils and consisting essentially of two reel elements carrying said coils and capped at their upper part by a bridge structure which can receive a strip accumulator and by two sets of connection strips at a standstill, each assigned to a reel holder element and arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis of unwinding strips or plane containing said axis. In such a device, each connection assembly, also known as a connection box or a half-connection cassette, comprises a station for preparing and transferring a seal, a holding and cutting device for the new band or of the finishing band and possibly means for moving the band connection assemblies towards and away from each other.

However, in a machine of the type of that of the document FR 2 930 534 , the joint preparation and transfer device is complex and the machine requires a transfer system to be able to access behind the moving web. In addition, a machine of this type requires moving apart or moving away, by translation or rotation, from one another, the two connection assemblies, to carry out the preparation step, in order to create a zone of sufficiently large passage between said sets and / or around them to allow the passage of an operator so that the latter can achieve the preparation. It results from this spacing or removal, the need to provide a large range of deflection area which results in a large size of the machine.

The document FR 2,332,115 relates to a two-band butt-joining apparatus for putting a new web at the end of a finishing web and having web ends to be joined by a web are located in the same plane and separated by a short distance. It comprises clamping means comprising a clamping piece comprising an end-to-end control bar and cutting and assembly means mounted on carriages movable along an elongated bar. It also includes an accumulation device to temporarily stop the band during the connection time.

However, a device of the type disclosed by the document FR 2332 115 or the method implemented by such an apparatus requires the use of a coil positioning device so that the new band is always on the same side of the unwinding tape. In addition, this type of device requires a second cut to cut a thin strip at the end of the new strip and remove it in order to leave room for the adhesive for the end-to-end connection. On the other hand, in this type of apparatus, the connection is made with a single adhesive or seal, that is to say only with a single piece of adhesive tape, applied on one of the sides or faces of the strips This does not allow for an efficient and strong connection for a thick material because, by passing on a guide roller or driving the tape, the adhesive can be damaged or torn off.

The object of the present invention is to overcome at least one of these drawbacks by proposing a method of cutting and connecting two butt strips and stopping in a machine to unroll, a device for cutting and connecting two end-to-end and stop belts for a machine for unrolling which makes it possible to carry out said method, and a machine for unrolling equipped with such a device, making it possible in particular to obtain a simpler preparation and a reduced bulk of the device; of the machine while ensuring that the connection is kept intact.

1. A/ pendant le déroulement de la première bande :
   • a/ engager la seconde bande entre les ensembles de raccordement pour la placer et la maintenir dans une position de préparation dans laquelle ladite seconde bande s'étend, de part et d'autre, en amont et en aval de la ligne de coupe,
   • b/ placer, à l'extérieur des ensembles de raccordement, une pièce de ruban adhésif ou analogue sur au moins l'un des supports d'application déplacé(s) à l'extérieur à cet effet,
   • c/ immobiliser la seconde bande dans le plan de coupe et de raccordement,
2. B/ à l'arrêt du déroulement de la première bande au moins dans sa partie aval :
   • le cas échéant, réaliser l'étape b/ et/ou l'étape c/ dans le cas où celles-ci ne sont pas réalisées dans la phase A/,
   • d/ immobiliser la première bande dans le plan de coupe et de raccordement,
   • e/ couper simultanément et transversalement les deux bandes suivant la direction et la ligne de coupe, ce qui a pour effet de séparer chaque bande en deux parties de bande, à savoir, d'une part, une partie de bande aval coupée située en aval de la ligne de coupe et, d'autre part, une partie de bande amont coupée située en amont de la ligne de coupe et reliée à sa bobine,
   • f/ maintenir l'immobilisation, dans le plan de coupe et de raccordement, de la partie de bande amont coupée de la seconde bande et de la partie de bande aval coupée de la première bande dans le plan de coupe et de raccordement,
   • g/ dégager, par déplacement ou enroulement de bande, la partie de bande aval de la seconde bande et la partie de bande amont de la première bande pour libérer la zone de raccordement comprenant le bout de la partie de bande aval de la première bande et le bout de la partie de bande amont de la seconde bande à raccorder entre elles,
   • h/ transférer, dans la zone de raccordement, la ou les deux pièces de ruban adhésif, simultanément ou successivement, en l'appliquant sur l'un des côtés, ou en les appliquant chacune d'un côté, des bouts respectifs des parties de bandes amont et aval coupées à raccorder pour réaliser le raccordement des deux bandes entre elles avec l'une ou les deux pièces de ruban adhésifs en vue de former une nouvelle bande d'alimentation.

For this purpose, the method of cutting and connecting two butt and stop strips in a unwinding machine comprising a cutting and connecting device and two reel elements, one of the reel elements carrying a reel able to unroll a first band supplying the web of the machine and the other reel-carrying member carrying a reel able to unroll a second band forming a replacement band, each band having two opposite longitudinal edges and two opposite sides, said cutting and connecting device comprising two connection assemblies arranged symmetrically with respect to a cutting and connecting plane and being able to cut simultaneously and transversely the two strips in said plane along a direction and a cutting line crossing successively the two longitudinal edges of each strip, perpendicularly or at an angle to them, each connection assembly comprising a mobile application support,
characterized in that it consists in producing, by means of said cutting and connecting device and of said machine supplied with webs by said coils, the following steps according to the two phases A / and B /:

1. A / during the course of the first band:
   • a / engaging the second band between the connection assemblies to place it and maintain it in a preparation position in which said second band extends, on both sides, upstream and downstream of the section line,
   • b / placing, outside the connection assemblies, a piece of adhesive tape or the like on at least one of the application supports moved externally for this purpose,
   • c / immobilize the second band in the cutting and connecting plane,
2. B / at the end of the first band at least in its downstream part:
   • if necessary, carry out step b / and / or step c / in the case where these are not performed in phase A /,
   • d / immobilize the first band in the plane of section and connection,
   • e / simultaneously cutting and transverse the two strips in the direction and the cutting line, which has the effect of separating each strip into two parts of the strip, namely, on the one hand, a cut downstream part of downstream band of the cutting line and, on the other hand, a portion of upstream cut strip located upstream of the cutting line and connected to its coil,
   • f / maintain the immobilization, in the cutting plane and connection, of the cut-off strip portion of the second strip and the cut-off strip portion of the first strip in the section plane and connection,
   • g / disengaging, by tape displacement or winding, the downstream band portion of the second tape and the upstream tape portion of the first tape to release the connection area comprising the end of the downstream tape portion of the first tape and the end of the upstream band portion of the second band to be connected together,
   • h / transfer, in the connection area, the one or two pieces of adhesive tape, simultaneously or successively, by applying it on one of the sides, or by applying each on one side, respective ends of the parts of upstream and downstream strips cut to connect to make the connection of the two strips together with one or both pieces of adhesive tape to form a new feed band.

The device for cutting and connecting two strips end-to-end and stopped, according to the present invention, for unwinding machine, allowing the implementation of the method according to the invention, said machine comprising said cutting device and connection and two reel members each adapted to carry a reel capable of unwinding a first web supply strip of the machine or a second web forming a replacement web, said cutting and connecting device comprising two connection assemblies arranged symmetrically with respect to a sectional and connecting plane and the two reel elements being disposed on either side of said plane, is essentially characterized in that it comprises a transverse section system comprising a cutting member and displacement means adapted to move said cutting member in the cutting and connecting plane in a direction and a line of c cross-section, substantially perpendicular or oblique with respect to the longitudinal edges, having the effect of simultaneously cutting the two strips, maintained in the state of immobilization in said plane, crossing successively their respective two longitudinal edges, and in that each connection assembly, dedicated to one or the other of said strips, comprises an adhesive application system comprising an application support adapted to hold a piece of adhesive tape or the like and moving means for the application able to move the corresponding application support from a waiting position in the corresponding connection assembly to an application position of said piece of adhesive tape located in the cutting and connecting plane and conversely , a first immobilization system adapted to immobilize the first band in said cutting plane and connection, and a second immobilization system adapted to hold the second strip in a preparation position and to immobilize the latter in the cutting and connecting plane, and a release system making it possible to release, after cutting, by moving or wrapping the strip, the cut strip portions and not intended to be connected to allow the choice to apply one or two pieces of adhesive tape by moving the two opposing application supports.

The unwinding machine, according to the present invention, comprising a cutting and connecting device and two reel elements each capable of carrying a reel able to unwind a first web supplying the machine with webbing or a reel capable of unrolling a second web forming a replacement web, is characterized in that said cutting and connecting device consists of a web cutting and connecting device according to the present invention and, preferably, in that it comprises a strip accumulator situated downstream of the cutting and connecting device and being able to be filled with a given length of first strip, before stopping and stopping the latter in the cutting and connecting device, and to ensure the continuity of the downstream supply during connection and immobilization of the first band in said device.

• la figure 1 montre une vue en coupe longitudinale du dispositif de coupe et de raccordement monté dans une machine à dérouler, selon la présente invention, dans une orientation verticale, dans l'étape de déroulement de la première bande formant la bande déroulante et finissante et de mise en attente de la seconde bande formant la nouvelle bande de remplacement à raccorder à ladite première bande, dans la position de préparation de ladite seconde bande, chaque ensemble de raccordement étant équipé d'un système redresseur de courbure de bande ,
• la figure 2 montre le dispositif de coupe et de raccordement représenté sur la figure 1, dans l'étape d'immobilisation de la première bande et de la seconde bande dans le plan de coupe et de raccordement, et dans l'étape de la coupe transversale desdites bandes,
• la figure 3 montre le dispositif de coupe et de raccordement représenté sur la figure 1, dans l'étape d'immobilisation de la partie de bande aval coupée de la première bande et d'immobilisation de la partie de bande amont coupée de la seconde bande à raccorder entre elles bout à bout, et dans l'étape de dégagement, par soulèvement, de la partie de bande aval coupée de la seconde bande et le dégagement de la partie de bande amont de la première bande par enroulement de cette dernière autour de sa bobine,
• la figure 4 montre le dispositif de coupe et de raccordement représenté sur la figure 1, dans l'étape de redressement de la courbure incurvée de la première bande,
• la figure 5 montre le dispositif de coupe et de raccordement représenté sur la figure 1 dans l'étape de raccordement avec les pièces de rubans adhésifs ou analogues appliqués et fixés chacune, en s'étendant de part et d'autre da la ligne de coupe, sur l'un des côtés opposés des deux parties de bandes aval et amont respectivement des première et seconde bande immobilisées dans le plan de raccordement,
• la figure 6 montre le dispositif de coupe et de raccordement représenté sur la figure 1 dans un mode de réalisation sans système redresseur de courbure de bande,
• la figure 7 montre le système redresseur de courbure de bande et du système d'application d'adhésif du dispositif de coupe et de raccordement représenté sur la figure 1,
• la figure 8 montre les moyens d'immobilisation amont du second système d'immobilisation de chaque ensemble de raccordement du dispositif de coupe et de raccordement représenté sur la figure 1.

The invention will be better understood, thanks to the following description, which refers to a preferred embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example, and explained with reference to the attached schematic drawings, in which:

• the figure 1 shows a longitudinal sectional view of the cutting and connecting device mounted in a unwinding machine, according to the present invention, in a vertical orientation, in the unwinding step of the first strip forming the pull-down and finishing strip and setting waiting for the second band forming the new replacement band to be connected to said first band, in the preparation position of said second band, each connection unit being equipped with a band curvature rectifier system,
• the figure 2 shows the cutting and connecting device shown on the figure 1 in the step of immobilizing the first band and the second band in the cutting and connecting plane, and in the step of cross-cutting said strips,
• the figure 3 shows the cutting and connecting device shown on the figure 1 in the step of immobilizing the cut down web portion of the first web and immobilizing the cut web portion of the second web to be joined together end-to-end, and in the disengaging step, by lifting, the cut-off strip portion of the second strip and the disengagement of the upstream strip portion of the first strip by winding the strip around its coil,
• the figure 4 shows the cutting and connecting device shown on the figure 1 in the recovery step of the curved curvature of the first band,
• the figure 5 shows the cutting and connecting device shown on the figure 1 in the step of connecting with the pieces of adhesive tapes or the like applied and each fixed, extending on either side of the line of cut, on one of the opposite sides of the two downstream and upstream strip portions respectively first and second band immobilized in the connection plane,
• the figure 6 shows the cutting and connecting device shown on the figure 1 in one embodiment without a tape curvature rectifier system,
• the figure 7 shows the straightening system of the tape curvature and the adhesive application system of the cutting and connecting device shown in FIG. figure 1 ,
• the figure 8 shows the immobilization means upstream of the second immobilization system of each connection assembly of the cutting and connecting device shown in FIG. figure 1 .

The figures show the implementation of the method of cutting and connecting two strips end-to-end and stopping in a unwinding machine comprising a cutting and connecting device, according to the present invention, and two reel elements. .

According to the present invention, one of the reel-carrying elements carries a reel 3a able to unroll a first web 2a supplying the machine web feed and the other reel-carrying member carrying a reel 3b able to unroll a machine. second band 2b forming a replacement band, each band 2a, 2b having two opposite longitudinal edges and two opposite sides.

Still in accordance with the present invention, the cutting and connecting device comprises two connection assemblies 1a, 1b arranged symmetrically with respect to a cutting and connecting plane P and is capable of simultaneously and transversely cutting the two strips 2a, 2b into each other. said plane in a direction and a line of section successively passing through the two longitudinal edges of each strip, perpendicularly or at an angle to them. In addition, each connection assembly comprises a mobile application support 50a, 50b.

The two reel-carrying elements, namely a first reel carrier and a second reel carrier, can be arranged, as is the case in the accompanying figures, on either side of the cutting and connecting plane P or, in a variant, not shown in the accompanying figures, on the same side but with return rollers located on either side of the latter.

1. A/ pendant le déroulement de la première bande 2a :
   • a/ engager la seconde bande 2b entre les ensembles de raccordement 1a et 1b pour la placer et la maintenir dans une position de préparation dans laquelle ladite seconde bande s'étendant, de part et d'autre, en amont et en aval de la ligne de coupe (figure 1),
   • b/ placer, à l'extérieur des ensembles de raccordement, une pièce de ruban adhésif ou analogue sur au moins l'un des supports d'application 50a et 50b déplacé(s) à l'extérieur à cet effet,
   • c/ immobiliser la seconde bande dans le plan de coupe et de raccordement P,
2. B/ à l'arrêt du déroulement de la première bande 2a au moins dans sa partie aval :
   • le cas échéant, réaliser l'étape b/ et/ou l'étape c/ dans le cas où celles-ci ne sont pas réalisées dans la phase A/,
   • d/ immobiliser la première bande 2a dans le plan de raccordement P (figure 2),
   • e/ couper simultanément et transversalement les deux bandes 2a et 2b suivant la direction et la ligne de coupe, ce qui a pour effet de séparer chaque bande en deux parties de bande, à savoir, d'une part, une partie de bande aval 20a ou 20b coupée située en aval de la ligne de coupe et, d'autre part, une partie de bande amont 21a ou 21b coupée située en amont de la ligne de coupe et reliée à sa bobine 3a ou 3b (figure 2),
   • f/ maintenir l'immobilisation, dans le plan de coupe et de raccordement, de la partie de bande amont 21b coupée de la seconde bande 2b et de la partie de bande aval 20a coupée de la première bande 2a (figure 3),
   • g/ dégager, par déplacement ou enroulement de bande, la partie de bande aval 20b de la seconde bande 2b et la partie de bande amont 21 a de la première bande 2a pour libérer la zone de raccordement comprenant le bout de la partie de bande aval de la première bande 2a et le bout de la partie de bande amont de la seconde bande 2b à raccorder entre elles (figure 3),
   • h/ transférer, dans la zone de raccordement, les deux pièces de ruban adhésif 6a et 6b, simultanément ou successivement, en l'appliquant sur l'un des côtés, ou en les appliquant chacune d'un côté, des bouts respectifs des parties de bandes amont et aval 20a et 21b coupées à raccorder, c'est-à-dire sur au moins l'un des côtés opposés des extrémités libres desdites parties, pour réaliser le raccordement des deux bandes entre elles avec l'une ou les deux pièces de ruban adhésifs 6a et/ou 6b en vue de former une nouvelle bande d'alimentation (figure 4 et figure 5).

Still according to the present invention, the method consists in producing, by means of said cutting and connecting device and of said machine supplied with webs by said coils, the following steps according to the two phases A / and B /:

1. A / during the course of the first band 2a:
   • a / engaging the second strip 2b between the connection assemblies 1a and 1b to place it and hold it in a preparation position in which said second strip extends, on both sides, upstream and downstream of the line cutting ( figure 1 )
   • b) placing, outside the connection assemblies, a piece of adhesive tape or the like on at least one of the application supports 50a and 50b moved externally for this purpose,
   • c / immobilize the second band in the cutting and connecting plane P,
2. B / stopping the unfolding of the first band 2a at least in its downstream part:
   • if necessary, carry out step b / and / or step c / in the case where these are not performed in phase A /,
   • d / immobilize the first band 2a in the connection plane P ( figure 2 )
   • e / cut simultaneously and transversely the two strips 2a and 2b in the direction and the cutting line, which has the effect of separating each strip into two band parts, namely, on the one hand, a downstream band portion 20a or 20b cut downstream of the cutting line and, on the other hand, an upstream strip portion 21a or 21b cut upstream of the cutting line and connected to its coil 3a or 3b ( figure 2 )
   • f / maintain the immobilization, in the cutting plane and connection, of the upstream band portion 21b cut from the second band 2b and the downstream band portion 20a cut from the first band 2a ( figure 3 )
   • g / disengaging, by displacement or band winding, the downstream band portion 20b of the second band 2b and the upstream band portion 21a of the first band 2a to release the connection area comprising the end of the downstream band portion of the first band 2a and the end of the upstream band portion of the second band 2b to be connected together ( figure 3 )
   • h / transfer, in the connection zone, the two pieces of adhesive tape 6a and 6b, simultaneously or successively, by applying it to one of the sides, or by applying each on one side, respective ends of the parts upstream and downstream strips 20a and 21b cut to connect, that is to say on at least one of the opposite sides of the free ends of said parts, to make the connection of the two strips together with one or both adhesive tape pieces 6a and / or 6b to form a new feed tape ( figure 4 and figure 5 ).

It will be understood that, by symmetry, at the end of the connection process illustrated in the accompanying figures where the coil 3a able to unwind the first strip 2a to supply the machine is carried by the first reel holder (not shown) located on one side of the cutting and connecting plane P (to the left thereof) and where the reel 3b adapted to unroll the second band 2b forming the replacement band is carried by the second reel holder located on the other side of said plane (to the right of the latter), in a next connection process, the coil 3a able to unwind the first strip 2a to ensure the strip supply of the machine will be carried by the second coil holder and conversely the coil 3b fit to unroll the second band 2b forming the replacement band will be carried by the first reel holder.

In addition, it will be noted that in step e /, the inclination of the section line with respect to the longitudinal edges of the strips 2a, 2b to be cut can be determined as a function of the material of said strips. For example, with a material such as paper, it can be preferably determined a substantially perpendicular inclination and with a material such as cardboard it can be realized a more or less inclination. More particularly, it has been observed, in tests carried out by the present applicant, that the thicker the material, the greater the inclination with respect to said strips should be important to obtain a cut as efficient as possible, both cutting speed than 'in cutting quality.

In a preferred embodiment of step h /, the or each piece of adhesive tape 6a or 6b can be transferred into the connection zone in a single translatory or rotational movement from a waiting position in the corresponding connection assembly to a connection position located in the connection area in the cutting and connecting plane P ( figures 4 and 5 ).

Preferably, as can be seen on the figures 4 and 5 in step g /, the clearance of the downstream band portion 20b cut off from the second band 2b can be achieved by a downstream movement ( figures 4 and 5 ) or lateral (not shown) of said downstream strip portion 20b cut.

In step g /, the clearance of the upstream strip portion 21a cut from the first strip 2a can be achieved by a winding (represented by E on the figure 3 ) of the latter around its coil 3a ( figure 3 ) and / or, in a form not shown, by the gravity and / or blowing and / or by any other suitable means of release. In the case of a release by gravity, in particular in a vertical position of the device according to the present invention, the portion of upstream strip 21a cut off will be released by moving naturally, after cutting, by its weight falling under the effect of gravity (component of the force of gravity). The winding of the upstream band portion 21a to achieve the clearance thus allows a total clearance of the strip portion 21 has cut the first strip 2a outside the cutting device and connection.

In a particular embodiment, if one refers to the figure 4 it can be seen that the method can consist, from a cutting and connecting device, according to the present invention, each connection assembly 1a or 1b may further comprise, as we shall see later, a system a tape bend rectifier 11a or 11b having a rectifying contact element 110a or 110b ( figures 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 7 ), in step h / and in the case where the first band 2a and / or the second band 2b are curved with their opposite sides having a convex curvature, to successively transfer, in the connection zone, the two pieces of ribbon adhesive 6a and 6b, namely, in a first step, according to the orientation of the convexity of the curvature, the piece of adhesive tape 6a or 6b carried by the application support 50a or 50b located on the side of the convex curvature, and straightening the curvature of the first band 2a and / or the second band 2b, to make the latter as flat as possible by coming into contact with pressure on the other side opposite portions of cut strips 20a and 21b to connect first and second strips 2a and 2b, by means of the other rectifying contact element 110a or 110b opposite, then, optionally, in a second step, the other piece of ribbon adhesive 6a or 6b to finalize the connection.

The appended figures, as already mentioned in part in the description of the process above, show that the cutting and connecting device, according to the present invention, of two butt strips and machine stop unwinding and allowing the implementation of the method according to the present invention, said machine comprising said cutting and connecting device and two reel members each adapted to carry a reel 3a or 3b capable of unwinding a first strip 2a ensuring the web feed of the machine or a second band 2b forming a replacement band, comprises two sets of connection 1a and 1b arranged symmetrically with respect to a section plane and connection P.

According to the present invention, such a cutting and connecting device comprises a transverse cutting system 4 comprising a cutting member 40 and moving means 41 able to move said cutter member in the cutting and connecting plane P in accordance with a direction and a cross-sectional line, substantially perpendicular or oblique with respect to the longitudinal edges, having the effect of simultaneously cutting the two strips 2a and 2b, maintained in the state of immobilization in said plane, crossing successively their two edges longitudinal dimensions.

• un système d'application d'adhésif 5a ou 5b comprenant un support d'application 50a ou 50b apte à tenir une pièce de ruban adhésif 6a ou 6b ou analogue et des moyens de déplacement aptes à déplacer le support d'application 50a ou 50b correspondant depuis une position d'attente située dans l'ensemble de raccordement correspondant jusqu'à une position d'application, de la pièce de ruban adhésif 6a ou 6b, située dans le plan de coupe et de raccordement P et inversement,
• un premier système d'immobilisation 7a ou 7b, 8, 10a ou 10b, 10c apte à immobiliser la première bande 2a dans le plan de coupe et de raccordement,
• un second système d'immobilisation 9a ou 9b, 10a ou 10b, 10c apte à maintenir la seconde bande 2b dans une position de préparation et à immobiliser cette dernière dans le plan de coupe et de raccordement P,
• un système de dégagement 3a, 12a ou 12b permettant de dégager, après la coupe, par déplacement ou enroulement de bande, les parties de bandes 21a et 20b coupées et non destinées à être raccordées pour permettre au choix de l'opérateur l'application d'une ou deux pièces de ruban adhésif grâce au déplacement de l'un ou des deux supports d'application 50a et 50b opposés.

Still in accordance with the present invention, each connection assembly 1a or 1b, dedicated to one or the other of said strips 2a or 2b, comprises:

• an adhesive application system 5a or 5b comprising an application support 50a or 50b adapted to hold a piece of adhesive tape 6a or 6b or the like and displacement means able to move the corresponding application support 50a or 50b from a waiting position located in the corresponding connection assembly to an application position, the piece of adhesive tape 6a or 6b, located in the cutting and connecting plane P and vice versa,
• a first immobilization system 7a or 7b, 8, 10a or 10b, 10c able to immobilize the first band 2a in the cutting and connecting plane,
• a second immobilization system 9a or 9b, 10a or 10b, 10c able to maintain the second band 2b in a preparation position and to immobilize the latter in the cutting and connecting plane P,
• a release system 3a, 12a or 12b making it possible, after cutting, to disengage, by means of displacement or winding of the strip, the portions of strips 21a and 20b that are cut and not intended to be connected in order to allow the choice of the operator to apply one or two pieces of adhesive tape by moving one or both of the opposing application supports 50a and 50b.

In a preferred embodiment, the displacement means for the application 51a, 52a, 51b, 52b may be able to move the corresponding application support 50a, 50b in a single translational or rotational movement from its position. waiting towards its application position.

In the case where the displacement means for the application 51a, 52a, 51b, 52b are able to move the corresponding application support 50a, 50b in a single rotational movement, said displacement means for the application may consist, as can be seen in the figures and more particularly on the figure 7 , in a lever system which can comprise, on the one hand, a drive rod 51a, 51b on which can be fixed the corresponding application support 50a, 50b and which can be adapted to pivot about a first pivot 510a , 510b parallel to the cutting plane and P connection and, secondly, an actuator 52a, 52b adapted to act on said rod to achieve its pivoting. If necessary, said actuator may consist of a jack comprising a rod 520a, 520b hinged at its end to said connecting rod around a second pivot 521a, 521b, while the body 522a, 522b of the jack can be pivotally mounted around a third pivot 523a, 523b parallel to said first and second pivots.

In the case where the displacement means for the application 51a, 52a, 51b, 52b are able to move the corresponding application support 50a, 50b in a single translational movement, said displacement means for the application may consist, in a manner not shown in the figures, in an actuator, for example, of the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder type.

Note that in the case where the displacement means for the application 51a, 52a, 51b, 52b are able to move the support application 50a, 50b corresponding in a single rotational movement, this embodiment requires less space or clearance to implement it with another means of displacement, in particular by translation, which allows to put all elements in a smaller and less bulky space.

Each adhesive application system 5a, 5b may further comprise displacement means for the preparation 53a, 54a or 53b, 54b able to move the corresponding application support 50a or 50b from a preparation position located at the outside of the cutter and connection device, that is to say in particular outside the connection assembly 1a or 1b corresponding, and provided to receive, that is to say to receive manually or automatically to the using a gripping means and not shown laying, a piece of adhesive tape 6a or 6b to the waiting position in the corresponding connection assembly 1a, 1b and vice versa (all figures and in particular figure 7 ).

The displacement means for the preparation 53a, 54a or 53b, 54b may be able to move the application support 50a or 50b, which may for example be in the form of a bar, corresponding in a translational movement parallel to the plane In addition, said displacement means for the preparation 53a, 54a or 53b, 54b may consist of a slide system comprising a slide 53a or 53b fixed on the displacement means for the application 51a, 52a or 51b, 52b extending parallel to the cutting and connecting plane P and a movable portion 54a or 54b, forming a slide, fixed on the corresponding application support 50a or 50b, where appropriate the slide 53a or 53b being fixed on the drive rod 51a or 51b (see in particular the figure 7 ).

Each application support 50a or 50b may comprise an external application face against which the piece of adhesive tape 6a or 6b concerned may be applied. In addition, in the case where the displacement means for the application 51a, 52a, 51b, 52b are able to move the corresponding application support 50a, 50b in a single rotational or pivoting movement, the outer face of application of each support which is parallel to the cutting and connecting plane P in the application position can be inclined, in the waiting position, due to rotation, with respect to the cutting and connecting plane P, and maintain this inclination in the preparation position by the aforementioned translational movement, which facilitates the installation and application of the piece of adhesive tape 6a or 6b concerned by the operator outside connection sets or simplify the operation of the cutting and connecting device, unlike a system that would maintain an orientation of the outer face of application parallel to the cutting plane and connection or would require a change of orientation of said face between the waiting position where it would be parallel to the cutting plane and connection and the position of preparation.

On the other hand, it should be noted that in the case where a single tape of adhesive tape 6a or 6b is applied, it may be preferably provided to activate the two opposing application supports 50a and 50b, one of the application supports 50a or 50b having the function of supporting the adhesive tape paper 6a or 6b and the other application support 50a or 50b not comprising paper tape 6a or 6b having the function of forming a counterpart of 'application.

The first immobilization system 7a or 7b, 8, 10a or 10b, 10c of each assembly may comprise first downstream immobilization means 7a, 7b able to carry out a holding pressure, preferably a holding pressure by clamping, on the downstream portion of the first strip 2a located downstream of the cutting line and, if appropriate, upstream immobilizing means 10a, 10b, 10c able to carry out a holding pressure, preferably a clamping holding pressure, on the upstream band portion 21a of the first band 2a located upstream of the section line.

In a preferred embodiment, the downstream immobilization means 7a, 7b may form first downstream immobilization means and the cutting and connecting device may further comprise second downstream immobilization means 8 able to carry out a pressure. additional support on the first band 2a downstream of said first downstream immobilization means.

The second immobilization system 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 10c may comprise, on the one hand, downstream immobilization means 9a, 9b able to carry out a holding pressure, preferably a clamping holding pressure, on the downstream band portion 20b of the second band 2b, preferably at its free end, to hold the latter in the preparation position and, on the other hand, upstream immobilization means 10a, 10b, 10c able to carry out a holding pressure, preferably a clamping holding pressure, on the upstream band portion 21b of the second strip 2b located upstream of the cutting line for immobilizing said second strip 2b in the cutting and connecting plane P and for keeping its upstream band portion 21b cut in said plane for its connection with the downstream band portion 20a cut from the first band 2a. If appropriate, preferably, said upstream immobilizing means of the second band 2b can also form the upstream immobilization means of the first band 2a.

The upstream immobilizing means 10a, 10b, 10c of the second immobilization system 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 10c may be able to carry out a clamping holding pressure and may comprise for this purpose, on the one hand, a holding lateral plate 100a, 100b movable having a holding lateral face 101a, 101b parallel to the cutting and connecting plane P and an actuator 102a, 102b able to act on said holding lateral plate to move it in translation in a perpendicular direction to said cutting and connecting plane P and, secondly, a central holding plate 10c common to the two connection assemblies 1a, 1b and comprising two opposite central holding faces 100c, 101c and each respectively arranged opposite the one of the lateral support faces 101a, 101b of one of the lateral holding plates 100a, 100b, so that it is possible to carry out gripping holding pressures, under the action of said action on the two opposite sides of the second band 2b, where appropriate on the two opposite faces of the first band 2a, passing between one of the front holding faces 101a or 101b and one of the central faces of 100c or 101c and held tight between them to immobilize it in its corresponding part (see in particular the figure 8 ).

Each holding actuator 102a or 102b may be of the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder type and may comprise a rod connected at its free end to the face 103a or 103b of the corresponding lateral retaining plate 100a or 100b opposite its holding side face 101a or 101b.

Each connection assembly may further comprise a tape bend rectifier system 11a or 11b including a tape bend rectifying member 110a or 110b having a face contact 111a or 111b, preferably with a smooth surface, and an actuator 112a or 112b adapted to act on the latter to move it from a rest position to a working position, substantially in the plane of section and connection P, with its contact face 111a or 111b extending, preferably symmetrically, on either side of the section line, in which working position it is able to come into contact with pressure on one of the sides portions of cut strips 20a and 21b to connect first and second strips 2a and 2b. The side on which the contact face 111a or 111b comes into contact is that which is opposite to their side having a convex portion in the case where said strip portions have a curved shape, so as to make them as flat as possible to avoid any connection problems later.

The belt curvature rectifying element 11a or 11b may furthermore form a counterpart for cutting and may comprise for this purpose a slot forming a passage for the cutter 40.

The cutting member 40 may consist of a blade having a cutting edge extending transversely to the cutting and connecting plane P, preferably substantially perpendicular to the latter. More particularly, the cutting blade will be chosen with a shape and / or a material adapted to the material to be cut. In other variants, not shown, of the cutting member 40, it may consist, for example, in a rotary blade, a laser beam or a high pressure jet.

The clearance system 3a, 12a or 12b may comprise, on the one hand, means for the downstream clearance 12a or 12b of the downstream strip portion 20b cut off from the second strip 2b, which is not intended to be connected, the said downstream clearance means 12a. or 12b being able to release said downstream band portion 20b of the second band 2b by a driving effect in displacement of the latter downstream and, on the other hand, upstream clearance means 3a of the band portion upstream 21a of the first band 2a not intended to be connected. The upstream clearance means may consist of the coil 3a capable of unwinding the upstream strip portion 21a cut from the first strip 2a and / or in gravity and / or blowing means and / or in any other means capable of disengaging the upstream band portion 21a of the first band 2a of the connection zone. The downstream clearance means 12a or 12b of each downstream clearance system 12a or 12b may comprise a displacement drive plate 120a or 120b, preferably a sheet, preferably oriented substantially perpendicularly to the cutting and connecting plane P, having two opposite sides, namely a downstream side and upstream side, displacement guiding means 123a, 123b, preferably in translation or pivoting from upstream to downstream and actuating means 121a, 122a or 121b, 122b able to act on said plate to move it downstream, preferably with a translational and / or pivoting movement ( figures 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 ).

Such displacement guiding means 123a or 123b may consist, preferably, in a hinge allowing pivotal movement ( figures 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 ) or, not shown, in sliding elements for guiding the plate in translation downstream or upstream parallel to the cutting plane and connection P.

Such actuating means 121a, 121b or 122a, 122b of the clearance means 12a or 12b of each cutting and connecting assembly 1a or 1b may comprise an actuator 122a or 122b, for example of the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder type, the rod terminates with a contact piece and thrust 121a or 121b coming into contact with the upstream side of said plate so as to carry a thrust downstream of the latter at the exit of the rod. The contact piece 121a or 121b does not necessarily need to be attached to the articulating drive plate 120a or 120b or hinged thereto. Indeed, in a vertical orientation of the cutting plane and connection P retraction of the rod will naturally result in the effect of gravity a downward movement of the plate to its rest position. In the case where the orientation of the cutting plane and connection P is different and can not benefit from this gravity effect, the present invention may provide for attaching or articulating the rod to said plate or may provide a means of reminder to automatically bring back under the effect of the restoring force the plate towards its rest position when the rod is retracted ( figures 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 and 6 ).

Thus, in operation ( figures 4 and 5 ), and after having folded or folded, preferably substantially perpendicularly to the cutting plane and connection P, the downstream strip portion 20b cut from the second strip 2b on the downstream side of said plate, the displacement of the latter to the downstream will involve with it the downstream movement of the part of the downstream band 20b cut off from the connection zone.

The unrolling machine according to the present invention comprises a cutting and connecting device and two reel-carrying elements each able to carry a reel 3a able to unroll a first web 2a providing the belt feed of the machine or a suitable reel 3b unrolling a second band 2b forming a replacement band.

According to the present invention, in such a machine, the cutting and connecting device consists of a cutting and connecting device according to the present invention.

Still in accordance with the present invention, such unwinding machine may further comprise a tape accumulator located downstream of the cutting and connecting device and being able to be filled with a given length of first tape 2a, before stopping. and immobilizing the latter in the cutting and connecting device, and ensuring the continuity of the downstream power supply during connection and immobilization of the first band 2a in said device.

Such a tape accumulator, not shown, which cap the connection assemblies, for example by a bridge structure, or being located downstream thereof, will be filled before stopping and immobilization of the first band 2a upstream of the accumulator, for example of the type described in the document FR 2 930 534 , makes it possible to ensure the continuity of the power supply during the connection which stops the unwinding of the first band 2a supplying the machine.

It will be understood that the method according to the present invention which can be implemented from such a machine according to the present invention can also be implemented in a machine, conventional or according to the present invention, comprising no battery accumulator. bandaged.

Each reel holder may be located on one side or the other of the cutting and connecting plane P as is the case in the accompanying figures or on the same side as the other reel holder, with rollers of referred to on both sides of the plan.

• une meilleure accessibilité pour l'engagement ou l'enfilage de la seconde bande dans l'étape a/,
• un temps de cycle réduit,
• une compacité du dispositif de coupe et de raccordement, et de la machine à dérouler équipée dudit dispositif,
• une réduction des pièces constituant le dispositif de coupe et de raccordement et la machine à dérouler,
• une meilleure accessibilité pour la maintenance,
• un maintien de la première bande 2a et de la seconde bande 2b possible au plus près de la ligne de coupe,
• raccordement au choix avec une seule pièce de ruban adhésif appliqué sur l'un des côtés (ou faces) opposé(e)s des deux bandes à raccorder ou deux pièces de ruban adhésif appliquées chacune sur l'un(e) desdit(e)s côtés (ou faces) opposé(e)s, quel que soit l'épaisseur de la ou desdites pièces de ruban adhésif ou analogue ainsi appliquées,
• continuité de l'alimentation durant le raccordement et l'immobilisation de la première bande 2a.

Thus, the cutting and connecting method, the cutting and connecting device and the machine comprising the latter have at least the following advantages or have the effect of enabling:

• better accessibility for engaging or threading the second band in step a /,
• a reduced cycle time,
• a compactness of the cutting and connecting device, and the unwinding machine equipped with said device,
• a reduction of the parts constituting the cutting and connecting device and the unwinding machine,
• better accessibility for maintenance,
• a maintenance of the first band 2a and the second band 2b possible closer to the section line,
• optional connection with a single piece of adhesive tape applied to one of the opposite sides (or sides) of the two strips to be connected or two pieces of adhesive tape each applied to one of them s opposite sides (or faces), irrespective of the thickness of the one or more pieces of adhesive tape or the like thus applied,
• continuity of the power supply during connection and immobilization of the first band 2a.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment (s) described (s) and shown in the accompanying drawings. Modifications are possible, particularly from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims (20)

A method of cutting and connecting two butt and staple belts in a unwinding machine comprising a cutting and connecting device and two reel elements, one of the reel-carrying members carrying a reel (3a ) able to unwind a first strip (2a) providing strip supply of the machine and the other reel carrying member (3b) capable of unwinding a second strip (2b) forming a replacement strip, each strip (2a, 2b) having two opposite longitudinal edges and two opposite sides, said cutting and connecting device comprising two connecting assemblies (1a, 1b) arranged symmetrically with respect to a cutting and connecting plane (P) and being suitable simultaneously and transversely cutting the two strips (2a, 2b) in said plane along a direction and a section line successively crossing the two longitudinal edges of each strip, perpendicularly or at an angle relative to the latter, each connection assembly comprising a mobile application support (50a, 50b),
characterized in that it consists in producing, by means of said cutting and connecting device and of said machine supplied with webs by said coils, the following steps according to the two phases A / and B /: A / during the course of the first band (2a): - a / engage the second band (2b) between the connection assemblies (1a, 1b) to place it and maintain it in a preparation position in which said second band extends, on both sides, upstream and downstream of the cut line, - b / place, outside the connection assemblies, a piece of adhesive tape or the like on at least one of the application supports (50a, 50b) moved externally for this purpose, - c / immobilize the second band in the cutting plane and connection, B / stopping the unfolding of the first band (2a) at least in its downstream part: if necessary, carry out step b / and / or step c / in the case where these are not carried out in phase A /, d) immobilizing the first band (2a) in the connection plane (P), - E / cut simultaneously and transversely the two strips (2a, 2b) along the direction and the cutting line, which has the effect of separating each strip into two parts of the strip, namely, on the one hand, a part of cut downstream strip (20a, 20b) located downstream of the cutting line and, on the other hand, an upstream cut strip portion (21a, 21b) located upstream of the cutting line and connected to its coil (3a, 3b) f / maintaining immobilization, in said plane, of the upstream band portion (21b) cut off from the second band (2b) and the downstream band portion (20a) cut off from the first band (2a), g / disengaging, by moving or winding the web, the downstream web portion (20b) of the second web (2b) and the upstream web portion (21a) of the first web (2a) to release the web connection area comprising the end of the downstream band portion of the first band (2a) and the end of the upstream band portion of the second band (2b) to be interconnected, - h / transfer, in the connection area, the one or two pieces of adhesive tape (6a, 6b), simultaneously or successively, by applying it on one of the sides, or by applying each one on one side, respective ends of the upstream and downstream strip portions (20a, 21b) cut to be joined to effect the connection of the two strips together with one or both pieces of adhesive tape to form a new feed band. Cutting and connecting method according to Claim 1, characterized in that , in step h /, the or each piece of adhesive tape (6a, 6b) is transferred into the connection zone in a single translational movement or rotation from a waiting position in the corresponding connection assembly to a connection position in the connection area in the cutting and connecting plane (P). Cutting and connecting method, according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that , in step g / the clearance of the downstream strip portion (20b) cut from the second strip (2b) is achieved by a downstream or lateral displacement of said downstream strip portion (20b) cut. Cutting and connecting method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that , in step g /, the clearance of the upstream strip portion (21a) cut from the first strip (2a) is made by winding the latter around its coil (3a) and / or by gravity and / or by blowing and / or by any other suitable means of release. Cutting and connecting method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it consists of a cutting and connecting device of which each connection assembly (1a, 1b) further comprises a straightening system (11a, 11b) having a rectifying contact element (110a, 110b), in step h / and in the case where the first band (2a) and / or the second band (2b) are curved with one of their opposite sides having a convex curvature, to successively transfer, in the connection area, the two pieces of adhesive tape (6a, 6b), namely, in a first step, according to the orientation of the convexity of the curvature, the piece of adhesive tape (6a, 6b) carried by the application support (50a, 50b) located on the convex curvature side, and straightening the curvature of the first band (2a) and / or the second band (2b), to make the latter as flat as possible by coming in pressure contact on the other opposite side of the cut strip portions (20a) and (21b) connecting first and second strips (2a, 2b) by means of the other rectifying contact element (110a, 110b) opposite, then, possibly, in a second step, the other piece of tape (6a, 6b) to finalize the connection. Device for cutting and connecting two strips end-to-end and stop for unwinding machine, allowing the implementation of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, said machine comprising said cutter and connection device and two reel members each adapted to carry a reel (3a, 3b) adapted to unwind a first web (2a) providing strip supply to the machine or a second web (2b) forming a replacement web, said device cutting and connecting device comprising two connection assemblies (1a, 1b) arranged symmetrically with respect to a cutting and connecting plane (P),
cutting and connecting device characterized in that it comprises a transverse section system (4) comprising a section (40) and displacement means (41) adapted to move said cutting member in said following a direction and a cross-sectional line, substantially perpendicular or at an angle to the longitudinal edges, having the effect of simultaneously cutting the two strips (2a, 2b), maintained in the state of immobilization in said plane, passing successively through their respective longitudinal edges, and in that each connection assembly (1a, 1b), dedicated to one or the other of said strips (2a, 2b), comprises an adhesive application system (5a, 5b) comprising an application support (50a, 50b) adapted to hold a piece of adhesive tape (6a, 6b) or the like and displacement means for the application (51a, 52a, 51b, 52b) adapted to move the corresponding application support (50a, 50b) from a waiting position in the corresponding connection assembly to a position d application of said piece of adhesive tape, situate in said plane and vice versa, a first immobilization system (7a, 7b; 8, 10a, 10b, 10c) adapted to immobilize the first band (2a) in said plane and a second immobilization system (9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 10c) adapted to hold the second band (2b) in a position for preparing and immobilizing the latter in said plane and a release system (3a, 12a, 12b) for disengaging, after cutting, by moving or winding the strip, the portions of strips (21a, 20b) cut and not intended to be connected to allow the choice to apply one or two pieces of adhesive tape by moving the two opposite application supports. Cutting and connecting device, according to claim 6, characterized in that the displacement means for the application (51a, 52a, 51b, 52b) are able to move the corresponding application support (50a, 50b) in accordance with a only translational movement or rotation from its waiting position to its application position. Cutting and connecting device, according to claim 7, characterized in that the displacement means for the application (51a, 52a, 51b, 52b) are able to move the corresponding application support (50a, 50b) according to a only rotational movement and in that said moving means for the application consist of a lever system comprising, on the one hand, a driving rod (51a, 51b) on which is fixed the application support (50a , 50b) corresponding and being able to pivot about a first pivot (510a, 510b) parallel to the cutting and connecting plane (P) and, on the other hand, an actuator (52a, 52b) adapted to act on said rod to pivot, if necessary, said actuator consisting of a cylinder having a rod (520a, 520b) articulated at its end to said connecting rod about a second pivot (521a, 521b) while the body (522a, 522b) of the cylinder is pivotally mounted about a third pivot (523a) , 523b) parallel to said first and second pivots. Cutting and connecting device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that each adhesive application system (5a, 5b) further comprises displacement means for the preparation (53a, 54a, 53b, 54b) adapted to move the corresponding application support (50a, 50b) from a preparation position located outside said cutting and connecting device and arranged to receive a piece of adhesive tape (6a, 6b) until at the standby position located in the corresponding connection assembly (1a, 1b) and vice versa. Cutting and connecting device according to claim 9, characterized in that the displacement means for the preparation (53a, 54a, 53b, 54b) are able to move the corresponding application support (50a, 50b) in a movement parallel to the cutting and connecting plane (P) and in that said displacement means for the preparation (53a, 54a, 53b, 54b) consist of a slide system comprising a slide (53a, 53b) fixed on the moving means for application (51a, 52a, 51b, 52b) extending parallel to the cutting and connecting plane (P) and a movable portion (54a, 54b) forming a slider secured to the support of application (50a, 50b) corresponding, where appropriate the slide (53a, 53b) being fixed on the drive rod (51a, 51b). Cutting and connecting device according to any one of claims 6 to 10, characterized in that the first immobilization system (7a, 7b, 8, 10a, 10b, 10c) of each set comprises first means of downstream immobilization (7a, 7b) able to carry out a holding pressure, preferably a clamping holding pressure, on the downstream part of the first strip (2a) situated downstream from the cutting line and, where appropriate, upstream immobilization means (10a, 10b, 10c) capable of carrying out a holding pressure, preferably a holding pressure by clamping, on the upstream portion of the first strip (2a) located upstream of the section line. Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the downstream immobilization means (7a, 7b) form first downstream immobilization means and in that it further comprises second downstream immobilization means (8) capable of performing additional holding pressure on the first web (2a) downstream of said first downstream immobilizing means. Cutting and connecting device according to any one of claims 6 to 12, characterized in that the second immobilization system (9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 10c) comprises, on the one hand, immobilization means downstream (9a, 9b) adapted to perform a holding pressure, preferably a clamping holding pressure, on the downstream band portion (20b) of the second band (2b), preferably at its free end, for maintain the latter in the preparation position and, secondly, upstream immobilization means (10a, 10b, 10c) adapted to perform a holding pressure, preferably a clamping holding pressure, on the band portion upstream (21b) of the second web (2b) located upstream of the cut line for immobilizing said second web (2b) in the cutting and connecting plane (P) and for keeping its upstream web portion (21b) cut off in said plane, if necessary said means of immobilization upstream of the second band (2b) also forming the upstream immobilization means of the first band (2a). Cutting and connecting device according to claim 13, characterized in that the upstream immobilization means (10a, 10b, 10c) of the second immobilization system (9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 10c) are capable of performing a holding pressure by clamping and comprise for this purpose, on the one hand, a movable holding side plate (100a, 100b) having a holding side face (101a, 101b) parallel to the cutting and connecting plane (P) and an actuator (102a, 102b) adapted to act on said holding lateral plate to move it in translation in a direction perpendicular to said cutting and connecting plane (P) and, on the other hand, a central holding plate (10c ) common to the two connection assemblies (1a, 1b) and comprising two opposite central holding faces (100c, 101c) and each respectively arranged in view of one of the lateral holding faces (101a, 101b) of one of the lateral holding plates (100a, 100b). Cutting and connecting device according to any one of claims 6 to 14, characterized in that each connection assembly further comprises a tape curvature rectifier system (11a, 11b) comprising a tape curvature rectifying element ( 110a, 110b) having a contact face (111a, 111b), preferably with a smooth surface, and an actuator (112a, 112b) adapted to act on the latter to move it from a rest position to a position of working, substantially in the plane of section and connection (P), with its contact face extending, preferably symmetrically, on either side of the section line, in which it is adapted to come into contact with pressing on one side of the cut portions (20a, 21b) to connect first and second strips (2a, 2b). A cutting and connection, according to claim 15, characterized in that the band bending straightener (11a, 11b) further forms a matching section and in that it comprises a slot forming a passage for the cutting member (40). Cutting and connecting device according to any one of Claims 6 to 16, characterized in that the cutting element (40) consists of a blade having a cutting edge extending transversely to the cutting and connecting plane ( P), preferably perpendicular to the latter or a rotating blade or a laser beam or a high pressure jet. Cutting and connecting device according to any one of Claims 6 to 17, characterized in that the clearance system (3a, 12a, 12b) comprises, on the one hand, means for the downstream clearance (12a, 12b). the downstream web portion (20b) cut off from the second web (2b) not intended to be connected, said downstream disengagement means being adapted to disengage said downstream web portion (20b) from the second web (2b) by an effect driving the latter downstream and on the other hand, upstream clearance means (3a) of the upstream band portion (21a) of the first band (2a) not intended to be connected, said upstream disengagement means consisting of the coil (3a) able to unroll the upstream strip portion (21a) cut off from the first strip (2a) and / or in gravity and / or blowing means and / or at all other means capable of releasing the upstream band portion (21a) of the first band (2a) of the connection zone. Cutting and connecting device according to Claim 18, characterized in that the downstream clearance means (12a, 12b) of each clearance system (3a, 12a, 12b) comprise a displacement drive plate (120a, 120b). ), preferably a metal sheet, preferably oriented substantially perpendicularly to the cutting and connecting plane (P), having two opposite sides, namely a downstream side and an upstream side, displacement guiding means (123a, 123b), preferably in translation or pivoting from upstream to downstream and reciprocally and actuating means (121a, 122a or 121b, 122b) able to act on said plate to move it downstream, preferably with a movement of translation and / or pivoting. Unwinding machine comprising a cutting and connecting device and two reel elements each capable of carrying a reel (3a) capable of unrolling a first web (2a) supplying the belt feed of the machine or a reel (3b) adapted to unroll a second band (2b) forming a replacement band, characterized in that said cutting and connecting device consists of a cutting and connecting device according to any one of claims 6 to 19, in that it comprises a strip accumulator located downstream of the cutting and connecting device and being able to be filled with a given length of first band (2a), before stopping and immobilizing the latter in the cutting device and connection, and to ensure the continuity of the downstream power supply during connection and immobilization of the first band (2a) in said device.

Images