EP3587136A1 - System and method for positioning printed products in connection with a display - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (100) which is preferably designed as a saddle stitcher. Essentially, this transport chain is roof-shaped in the upper region, along which one or more printed products (200, 600), preferably in the form of folded sheets, are transported astride, collected, and preferably stapled in an intermediate stapling station. Arranged in the transport direction of the printed products after the stapling station along the further course of the transport chain (110) is an adjustable stop (160) related to the printed product, which is operatively connected to at least means (130, 500) for conveying the printed products out. Due to the operative effect of these means, the printed product undergoes a change in direction with respect to the transport direction of the transport chain by or approximately 90 °, the printed product then preferably being fed to a cutting apparatus.

Description

Technical field

The present invention relates to a system, preferably designed as a saddle stitcher, which essentially consists of a transport chain which is roof-shaped in the upper region, along which one or more printed products, preferably designed as folded sheets, can be transported astride, collected, and preferably as a brochure in an intermediate stapling station, according to the preamble of claim 1.

This mode of transport can also be used on non-stapled, assembled printed products, which may also be in the form of a combination of folded sheets. These folding sheets are generally transported along the transport chain designed as a collecting chain to a stop point, and these folding sheets are then passed on from there via at least one feed device to a cutting apparatus in which the folded sheets or. the assembled brochure can be cut to size.

• Es müssen Kommunikationen zu übergeordneten Steuerungssystemen bestehen, welche die nötigen Daten aus dem Produktionsprozess zur Verfügung stellen;
• Die Produktionsmaschinen müssen so konstruiert sein, dass die nötigen Einstellungen "On-the-fly" (siehe Definitionsliste) für jeden Produktionstakt durchgeführt werden können.

This invention represents a further step in the field of digitization. The technical implementation is based on this, namely that a production machine is now available which can be operated down to a print run size = 1. So that such production machines can meet this requirement, it is necessary that at least the following requirements are met:

• There must be communications with higher-level control systems that provide the necessary data from the production process;
• The production machines must be designed in such a way that the necessary settings can be made "on-the-fly" (see definition list) for each production cycle.

definition list

• Falzbogen (Bogen): Ein Falzbogen, Teilprodukt des Druckbogens (beidseitig bedrucktes Papier) bestehend aus mehreren Bogenteilen.
• Broschüre: Druckerzeugnis bestehend aus mindestens einem oder mehreren Falzbogen.
• Heftklammer: Bestehend aus Draht, welcher in einem ersten Schritt diese Form erlangt
  
  , und dass durch die Broschüre gestossen und anschliessend umgebogen wird
  
  .
• Heftkopf: Schneidet und positioniert den Heftdraht und formt den Heftdraht zu einer Heftklammer.
• Heftvorgang: Vorgang bei dem mindestens eine Heftklammer durch die Broschüre gestossen und am anderen Ende geschlossen wird.
• Heftschlitten: Teil der Heftstation, auf welchem die Heftköpfe montiert sind.
• Heftstation: Heftet ein Produkt mittels einer Heftklammer, während der Heftschlitten sich im Gleichlauf mit der Transportkette, befindet.
• Produkt: Besteht aus mindestens einem Falzbogen, der zu einer Broschüre konfektioniert wird.
• Dickenvariabel: Aufnahme von Broschüren und / oder Bogenteile mit unterschiedlichen Dicken.
• Schneidapparat: Schneidsystem, welches über ein Vordermesser und zwei Seitenmesser verfügt und den Schnittprozess bestehend aus Frontschnitt und Kopf-Fussschnitt als Folgeschnitt ausführt.
• Sammelhefter: In einem Sammelhefter werden, meist mehrere Falzbogen auf einer Transportkette gesammelt, in der Heftstation geheftet und im Schneidapparat auf drei Seiten geschnitten.
• Sammelkette: Die Sammelkette besitzt eine Führungseinrichtung, deren oberer Abschnitt schneideförmig ausgebildet ist und deren Gratlinie die Transport- und Heftlinie festlegt, und eine im Wesentlichen dachförmige Auflage, auf der die Bogenteile rittlings transportiert werden.
• Auslage: Maschinenkomponente, welche die Produkte nach der Heftstation, in die Zuführung zum Schneidapparat, transportiert. In der Auslage findet ein Transport-Richtungswechsel um 90° statt, in Abhängigkeit des Standortes des Schneidapparates, nach vorne oder hinten.
• Produkt-Zuführung: Transportband, welches Produkte nach der Auslage in den Schneideapparat überführt. Das Transportband weist mechanische Anschläge auf, welche taktsynchron sich mit dem Schneideapparat bewegen.
• Auswurfphase, auswerfen: Mittels einer Vorrichtung, genannt Auswerfer, wird das Produkt soweit von der Sammelkette angehoben bis es von den Transportbändern in der Auslage erfasst und in derselben weitertransportiert wird.
• On-the-fly: Änderungen z.B. von Einstellungen, Positionen von Vorrichtungen etc. während des Betriebs möglich.
• MIS: In Zusammenhang mit dem Begriff "Industrie 4.0" sind in der Druckindustrie Begriffe wie z.B. "Finishing 4.0", "Print 4.0" oder "Web to Print" bekannt. Grundsätzlich ist die digitale Transformation vom IT-Bereich und Produktionstechnologie gemeint. Um diese Aufgaben zu lösen sind Management-Information-Systeme erforderlich.

Here are the most important terms used in the registration:

• Folded sheet (sheet): A folded sheet, partial product of the printed sheet (paper printed on both sides) consisting of several sheet parts.
• Brochure: Printed product consisting of at least one or more folded sheets.
• Staple: Consisting of wire, which attains this shape in a first step
  
  , and that the brochure is pushed through and then bent over
  
  ,
• Stapling head: cuts and positions the stapling wire and forms the stapling wire into a staple.
• Stapling process : Process in which at least one staple is pushed through the brochure and closed at the other end.
• Stapling carriage: part of the stapling station on which the stapling heads are mounted.
• Stapling station: staples a product using a staple while the staple carriage is in synchronization with the transport chain.
• Product: Consists of at least one folded sheet that is assembled into a brochure.
• Thickness variable: Admission of brochures and / or sheet parts with different thicknesses.
• Cutting device : Cutting system, which has a front knife and two side knives and carries out the cutting process consisting of front cut and head-foot cut as a follow-up cut.
• Saddle stitcher: Usually, several folded sheets are collected in a saddle stitcher on a transport chain, stapled in the stapling station and cut on three sides in the cutter.
• Collection chain: The collection chain has a guide device, the upper section of which is cut-shaped and whose ridge line defines the transport and stitching line, and an essentially roof-shaped support on which the sheet parts are transported astride.
• Delivery: machine component that transports the products after the stapling station into the feeder to the cutting device. A change of transport direction by 90 ° takes place in the delivery, depending on the location of the cutting device, forwards or backwards.
• Product infeed: Conveyor belt which transfers products to the cutting device after delivery. The conveyor belt has mechanical stops, which move isochronously with the cutting apparatus.
• Ejection phase, eject: Using a device called an ejector, the product is lifted from the collection chain until it is picked up by the conveyor belts in the delivery and transported further in the same.
• On-the-fly: Changes eg settings, positions of devices etc. possible during operation.
• MIS: In connection with the term "Industry 4.0", terms such as "Finishing 4.0", "Print 4.0" or "Web to Print" are known in the printing industry. Basically, the digital transformation is meant by the IT area and production technology. In order to achieve these objects are M anagement I nformation- S ystems required.

State of the art

With existing solutions, the printed products are simply ejected into the delivery (see definition list) and then guided from the delivery itself to a cutting device, where they are trimmed to size. Stabilization is only achieved (if at all) by holding the printed products in the belts. The force to change direction is only absorbed by the conveyor belts.

The following problems arise: Concerning center offset:

The horizontal position (center offset) of the printed products in the delivery is not "defined", i.e. that the printed products, due to their kinetic energy, slip more or less depending on the ejector. The position in the delivery can vary by +/- a few millimeters.

Regarding inclination:

The printed products still have kinetic energy in the transport direction at the time when the printed product reaches the delivery conveyor belts. This leads to a tilting, torque of the printed product itself, whereby a second moment is additionally and consciously (but unintentionally) exerted on the printed product by the second deflection in the delivery.

Regarding undefined transport phase:

The product has an unclearly defined position during the delivery.

Out DE102004011973 A1 shows a saddle stitcher with at least one stapling station for stapling sheets, the stapling station being arranged on a stapling carriage movable in the longitudinal direction of a gathering chain during the stapling process, and at least one ejector unit for ejecting the sheets is provided behind the stapling station in the transport direction. Accordingly, this saddle stitcher is characterized in that at least one acceleration and / or braking unit for accelerating and / or braking the sheets in the longitudinal direction to the ejector unit is arranged between the stitching carriage and the ejector unit. Accordingly, the ejector unit lifts the braked sheets from the collection chain. The sheets are collected and stapled in chronological order of this saddle stitcher, in order then to be gripped and lifted by the ejector unit, preferably in the braked state, in particular when the machine is at a standstill, to ensure that they can be lifted off. This is precisely what the invention seeks to remedy.

Out EP1593526 B1 results in a saddle stitcher for brochures, with a stapling machine, an output station that is gradually loaded with the brochures, a front cutting knife arrangement that defines a cutting plane for trimming the brochures along a respective target cutting line, and with transport components that operationally transport the brochures from the output station to the front cutting knife arrangement. There are sensors which emit signals defining the phase positions of the stapling machine and one of the transport means components. A control system processing these signals, which controls one of the transport components (brochure ejector; Trimmer feed) in such a way that, at a predetermined phase angle of the stapling machine, the respective target cutting line is located in the cutting plane regardless of the width of the respective brochure. This publication does not show any adjustments to a precisely timed "on-the-fly".

EP1153764 A2 is a saddle stitcher, which has at least the modules stapling carriage, saddle chain, stapling device, delivery and ejector. At least two of these modules each have their own drive and controllable motors are provided as the drive source. Each of these motors has a control unit which synchronizes the movement of one assembly with the movement of at least one other separately driven assembly. Here, too, it should be noted that no adjustments to a precise "on-the-fly" result.

Presentation of the invention

• Positionierung: Die Druckprodukte werden eindeutig in einer horizontalen Position, in Bezug auf die Transportrichtung (Sammelkette), definiert.
• Stoppen des Druckprodukts: Bei einer eventuell immer noch bestehenden kinetischen Energie (Remanenz-Geschwindigkeit) in Transportrichtung wird diese in unmittelbarem Bereich eines Anschlags vollständig eliminiert.
• Stabilisation: Das Druckprodukt wird während der Auswurfphase in die Auslage stabilisiert, d.h., ein mögliches Verkanten und/oder Kippmoment wird damit aufgefangen resp. unterdrückt.

The invention as a whole seeks to remedy this. The object of the invention, as characterized in the claims, is to meet the following criteria:

• Positioning: The printed products are clearly defined in a horizontal position in relation to the transport direction (collection chain).
• Stopping the printed product: If there is still kinetic energy (retentive speed) in the transport direction, this is completely eliminated in the immediate area of a stop.
• Stabilization: The printed product is stabilized in the delivery during the ejection phase, ie a possible tilting and / or tilting moment is absorbed or. suppressed.

All the underlying criteria of the task extend to the entire operational speed range of the system, to all format sizes and thicknesses of the printed products, and to the behavior of the respective paper material from which the individual folded sheets are made.

• Formatgrösse der Falzbogen;
• Maschinen-Geschwindigkeit;
• Mögliche, manuell eingegebene Offsets.

The object of the invention is achieved by operating with an automated, adjustable stop. This stop is positioned with an electric motor (typically a servo motor) horizontally and preferably parallel to the direction of transport. This position is defined by the control profiles implemented in the main control, such a position also being able to be changed accordingly for each differently designed printed product. Such positioning of the stop is dependent on important parameters which are continuously transmitted to the main control, namely at least the following:

• Size of the folded sheets;
• Machine speed;
• Possible, manually entered offsets.

Furthermore, sensors are installed in the immediate vicinity of the stop, or also integrated therein, which are capable of immediately recognizing a paper jam and triggering appropriate relief measures which also serve to protect the machine. Jam switches, camera systems, photocells, etc. are preferably installed for this purpose. In addition, sensors are also provided which serve as feedback for the position control of the printed product, preferably in the form of photocells, camera systems, etc.

The invention is basically characterized as follows:
The folded sheets or the brochure made from them (see definition list) lie on a saddle-shaped collection chain (see definition list) and they are transported towards the stop. Between the stapling machine and the delivery (see definition list), before reaching the stop, the drivers integrated in the collecting chain, which act on the rear edge of the folded sheets and, in operative connection with the collecting chain, ensure the targeted transport of the folded sheets, so that they then can continue to slide under the folded sheet through the progress of the collection chain.

This ensures that the printed product thus formed is no longer carried by the driver in its final transport phase, but rather solely by the friction or. Indicated by the saddle-shaped collecting chain. persistent force can be transported to the stop. It is also important that the printed product is opened by the triggered kinematics in this final phase, i.e. between the stitching machine and the delivery, so that the folded driver can pass underneath it without any problems, especially in those cases where the printed product is in use the display operation should experience a delay.

The stop according to the invention relates to the end positioning of the folded sheet, respectively. the brochure has a multiple function, namely that it actually exercises a certain nominal fixed stop position relative to the transported printed product as the end location, but not exclusively in the conventional manner as a fixed stop station. This means that the printed product is not transported in a horizontal transport movement to the fixed wall of the stop in order to then be completely braked there, but this stop simultaneously fulfills the function of counteracting the front edge of the printed product during the further dynamic transfer into the delivery serve to tilt or tilt it. So the attack fulfills through its special training and in active connection with the controlled transport of the printed product a double function, which is characterized in the immediate area of the stop by horizontally / vertically superimposed movements of this printed product.

These superimposed movements are to be understood as follows: On the one hand, there is a horizontal movement of the printed product (folded sheet or brochure) predetermined by the collecting chain, the kinematic energy of which is now not completely and abruptly destroyed by the stop, but the printed product becomes shortly before it becomes suspicious Impingement detected by the locally acting tools of the delivery and an ejector in operative connection and lifted away from the collection chain.

During this time interval, which is approaching zero, the printed product which is conveyed further in the horizontal direction still has a minimized remanence speed in the horizontal direction, which causes a full end nestling and subsequent sliding of the front edge of the ejected printed product along the wall of the stop. For this reason, this adopted, also dynamically adaptable, positioning of the stop with respect to the print product in each case also depends on the speed.

This sliding along the front edge of a folded sheet or brochure during the operation due to the dynamics of the transfer of the printed product caused by the delivery ensures that it cannot be tilted, so that it is perfectly aligned in terms of format during the subsequent trimming.

Thus, in the final phase of the positioning of the printed product, there is a coordinated, control-dependent interdependence between the horizontal movement of this printed product and its vertical transfer, the stop then, as already explained, performing a double function, namely on the one hand the final position ensure the introduced printed product, and on the other hand to prevent possible tilting during the vertical movement. The stop thus absorbs counter-movements which could lead to a tilting moment acting on the printed product, which could cause the printed product to tilt. These processes are operatively connected to a sword as a component of an ejector arranged on the underside of the collecting chain, which components are discussed in more detail below.

• Bei der Jobeinrichtung wird der Anschlag, in Abhängigkeit verschiedener Parameter wie Formatgrösse, Geschwindigkeit etc., auf die richtige Position gefahren.
• Eine solche Positionseinnahme des Anschlags kann auch während des Ausförderns fortlaufend vorgenommen werden.
• Während des Betriebs wird der Anschlag mit Sensoren (wie Photozellen, Kamerasysteme etc.) überwacht und wenn nötig "On-the-fly" (siehe Definitionsliste) via Steuerung nachjustiert.

The sequence of a cycle is as follows:

• When setting up the job, the stop is moved to the correct position depending on various parameters such as format size, speed, etc.
• Such an assumption of position of the stop can also be carried out continuously during the conveying out.
• During operation, the stop is monitored with sensors (such as photocells, camera systems etc.) and readjusted "on-the-fly" (see definition list) via the control if necessary.

The position-related setting of the stop and the continuous monitoring of the process are preferably carried out by stored control profiles, the main control being able to regulate according to adaptive principles. Furthermore, the main control is also able to provide a predictive / anticipatory regulation.

1. a) Insbesondere durch den Eigenantrieb (Servomotor) des Anschlags lässt sich für jedes Druckprodukt durch den "On-the-fly" Betrieb die perfekte Einstellung (siehe Definitionsliste) erstellen.
2. b) Die eingenommene operative Position des Anschlags ist im Wesentlichen von dem Format des herangeführten Falzbogens oder der Broschüre und von der Geschwindigkeit der Sammelkette abhängig. Diese eingenommene operative Position des Anschlags lässt sich, wie oben erwähnt, nach abgelegten Steuerungsprofilen steuerbar oder fortlaufend regelbar erstellen.
3. c) Aus fortlaufenden Rückmeldungen von Sensoren wie Photozellen, Kamerasysteme, etc., lässt sich die Position des Anschlags, darüber hinaus, im "On-the-fly"-Betrieb, fortlaufend verstellen.
4. d) Der Anschlag nimmt Gegenbewegungen des Druckprodukts auf, welche zu einem Kippmoment desselben führen könnten, womit sichergestellt wird, dass sich der Falzbogen, die Broschüre, oder das Druckprodukt allgemein, während des durch die Auslage durchgeführten Ausförderns eine maximierte formatabhängige und gezielte Lage einnehmen kann.
5. e) Der Anschlag definiert grundsätzlich die horizontale Endposition des Produkts hinsichtlich des durch die Auslage injizierten Ausförderns (auch Auswerfens genannt), wobei diese Position immer streng danach gerichtet ist, dass unabhängig der Formatgrösse (Minimum/Maximum-Format) des Falzbogens das Ausfördern immer ein mittiges Auswerfen gegenüber den operierenden Hilfsmitteln der Auslage, in unserem Fall vorzugsweise durch Transportbänder gebildet, sicherstellt.
6. f) Der Anschlag ist direkt oder indirekt zusätzlich mit entsprechenden Sensoren ausgestattet, welche auf Staukontrolle ausgerichtet sind, eine solche frühzeitig erkennen und durch interponierende regelnde Eingriffe auch entgegenwirken können, womit eine Beschädigung der Anlage verhindert oder die Zeit zur Pannenbehebung nachhaltig reduziert werden kann.

The advantages of the invention with regard to the stop, which also form an integral part of the subject of the invention, can essentially be explained as follows:

1. a) In particular through the self-propulsion (servo motor) of the stop, the perfect setting (see list of definitions) can be created for each printed product through the "on-the-fly" operation.
2. b) The operative position of the stop largely depends on the format of the folded sheet or brochure and on the speed of the collection chain. As mentioned above, this operational position of the stop can be created in a controllable or continuously adjustable manner according to stored control profiles.
3. c) From continuous feedback from sensors such as photocells, camera systems, etc., the position of the stop can also be continuously adjusted in "on-the-fly" operation.
4. d) The stop absorbs counter-movements of the printed product, which could lead to a tilting moment of the same, thereby ensuring that the folded sheet, the brochure, or the printed product in general, can assume a maximized, format-dependent and targeted position during the delivery carried out by the delivery ,
5. e) The stop basically defines the horizontal end position of the product with regard to the discharge injected through the delivery (also called ejecting), whereby this position is always strictly directed to the fact that regardless of the size (minimum / maximum format) of the folded sheet, the discharge always stops central ejection relative to the operating aids of the delivery, in our case preferably formed by conveyor belts.
6. f) The stop is directly or indirectly additionally equipped with appropriate sensors, which are geared towards congestion control, recognize it early on and can also counteract it by interposing regulating interventions, with which damage to the system can be prevented or the time for breakdown repair can be reduced permanently.

• Phase I.: Zunächst verharrt das vorzugsweise direkt oder indirekt motorbetriebene Schwert unterhalb der Auslage in einer neutralen Position ("Pos. Null"). Hier wartet das Schwert als Bestandteil des Auswerfers auf das Eintreffen des Befehls, "Trigger", zur Auslösung der Bewegungskinematik. Der Auswerfer startet sonach seine Bewegung an der "Trigger"-Position, um das Druckprodukt möglichst gleichbleibend in die Auslage zu schieben. Dieser Auslösepunkt ist von dem Produktformat, von der Geschwindigkeit der Sammelkette, und einer allfälligen manuellen Korrektur abhängig, insoweit als eine definierte oder laufend frei definierbare Geschwindigkeitsschwelle über- oder unterschritten wird, dazu führt, ob die nachfolgenden Phase II. oder III. eingeleitet werden.
• Phase II.: Oberhalb der Geschwindigkeitsschwelle richtet sich die Geschwindigkeit des Auswerfers an jene der Sammelkette, respektive der zu der Auslage gehörenden Transportbänder der Auslage. D.h., wird die Geschwindigkeit der Sammelkette erhöht, bewegt sich der Auswerfer (das Schwert) entsprechende schneller nach oben. Bei Reduktion der Geschwindigkeit der Sammelkette bewegt sicher der Auswerfer entsprechend langsamer.
• Phase III.: Unterhalb der Geschwindigkeitsschwelle ist das Bewegungsprofil gleichbleibend. Damit wird eine Mindestgeschwindigkeit des Auswerfers definiert, um die Übergabe des Druckprodukts an die Transportbänder der Auslage sicherzustellen.

The kinematics of a sword that is actively connected to the collecting chain plays an eminently important role in completing the previously described removal of the folded sheet / brochure. The following phases are important:

• Phase I .: First of all, the sword, which is preferably directly or indirectly motor-operated, remains in a neutral position below the delivery (“position zero”). Here, the sword, as part of the ejector, waits for the "trigger" command to trigger the movement kinematics. The ejector then starts its movement at the "trigger" position in order to push the printed product into the delivery as consistently as possible. This trigger point depends on the product format, the speed of the collection chain, and any manual correction, insofar as a defined or continuously freely definable speed threshold is exceeded or undershot, leads to whether the subsequent phase II. Or III. be initiated.
• Phase II .: Above the speed threshold, the speed of the ejector is directed towards that of the collection chain or the conveyor belts belonging to the delivery. Ie, if the speed of the collecting chain is increased, the ejector (the sword) moves up faster accordingly. If the speed of the collection chain is reduced, the ejector will move correspondingly slower.
• Phase III .: The movement profile remains constant below the speed threshold. This defines a minimum speed of the ejector in order to ensure the transfer of the printed product to the conveyor belts of the delivery.

1. a) Zum einen bewegt sich der Auswerfer bis zu einem Punkt, der als "Pos. Oben" bezeichnet wird. Diese "Pos. Oben" ist der obere Umkehrpunkt des Schwerts, von hier aus wird mit einer definierten oder laufend frei definierbaren Geschwindigkeit die Position, "Pos. Unten", angefahren.
2. b) "Pos. Unten" ist der untere Umkehrpunkt des Schwerts, von hier aus wird mit einer definierten oder laufend frei definierbaren Geschwindigkeit die Position 'Pos Null' angefahren.

As far as the ejector movements are concerned, the following positions can be distinguished:

1. a) On the one hand, the ejector moves to a point that is referred to as "Pos. Above". This "Pos. Above" is the upper reversal point of the sword, from here the position, "Pos. Below", is approached at a defined or continuously freely definable speed.
2. b) "Pos. Bottom" is the lower reversal point of the sword, from here the position 'Pos Zero' is approached at a defined or continuously freely definable speed.

The sword then takes on three fixed positions as part of the ejector, which are either predefined positions or continuously defined freely. In other words, "Pos. Abben" is the highest position of the sword, and it forms, as it were, its reversal point at which the transfer of the folded sheet to the conveyor belts of the delivery is completed. "Pos. Bottom" is the lowest position of the sword as a reversal point; the sword dips down to this position so as not to collide with the subsequent printed product on the collection chain. "Pos. Zero" represents the neutral position from which the sword comes into operation for the next printed product.

Order data from an MIS (see definition list) or from your own data system preferably lead to the activation of stored control profiles, which in particular record the format data of the individual folded sheets, that of the brochure, such as cut width and length and other data that are necessary for the qualitative implementation of the order are needed. The main control preferably also contains algorithms which continuously calculate the thickness of the brochures from the production of the individual folded sheets.

Based on these values, the main controller calculates the position of the sword and controls its movement, which is done mechanically via an ejector plunger, so that the operative position of this sword can always be precisely determined.

• Es wird mit einem dynamischen, variablen Auswerfzeitpunkt gearbeitet;
• Das dynamisch veränderbare Profil wird durch die Hauptsteuerung fortlaufend berechnet oder durch vorgegebene Tabellen eingegeben, wobei diese Werte entweder durch abgelegte Steuerungsprofile oder Algorithmen für eine dynamische Steuerung/Regelung abgestützt sind;
• Es greift fortlaufend eine auf optischen Messungen abgestützt Regelung ein, welche unmittelbar zu gezielten Korrekturen oder prädiktiven Steuerungen führt;
• Das Auswurf-Profil kann darüber hinaus durch "On-the-fly"-Dynamik veränderbar gestaltet werden;
• Die Steuerung/Regelung des ganzen Prozesses über alle involvierten Aggregate geschieht fortlaufend durch die Ermittlung von Dicken und Format der Druckbogen (Falzbogen) sowie durch die fortlaufend ermittelten Geschwindigkeiten der Transportkette (Sammelkette);
• Nach Bedarf lässt sich ein frei wählbares Profil implementieren, das völlig unabhängig anderer Parameter, wie z.B. Sammelkettengeschwindigkeit oder Auslage-Transportbändergeschwindigkeit, betrieben wird;
• Start-/Stopprampen verhalten sich frei programmierbar, situativ anpass- und regulierbar;
• Die involvierten Aggregate der Anlage lassen zu, dass sie auf nicht-lineare Bewegungsabläufe umprogrammiert werden können.

The advantages of the invention with regard to the operation of the sword and ejector, which also form an integral part of the subject matter of the invention, can essentially be explained as follows:

• A dynamic, variable ejection time is used;
• The dynamically changeable profile is continuously calculated by the main controller or entered using predefined tables, these values being supported either by stored control profiles or algorithms for dynamic control / regulation;
• A control system based on optical measurements continuously intervenes, which leads directly to targeted corrections or predictive controls;
• The ejection profile can also be made changeable by "on-the-fly"dynamics;
• The control of the entire process across all the units involved takes place continuously by determining the thickness and format of the printed sheets (folded sheets) and by the continuously determined speeds of the transport chain (collecting chain);
• If required, a freely selectable profile can be implemented, which is operated completely independently of other parameters, such as collection chain speed or delivery conveyor belt speed;
• Start / stop ramps are freely programmable, can be adjusted and regulated according to the situation;
• The units involved in the system allow them to be reprogrammed for non-linear movements.

In summary, the invention is about proposing a system which is designed as a saddle stitcher. The system essentially consists of a transport chain, which functions as a collecting chain, which is roof-shaped in the upper region, and along which one or more printed products, preferably designed as folded sheets, are straddled and transported. The transport chain preferably has an intermediately arranged stapling station, in which folding sheets which are generally placed on top of one another can be stapled to form a brochure. In the transport direction of the folded sheets, a foldable sheet-related adjustable stop is arranged after the stapling station along the further transport chain and is operatively connected to at least means for conveying out the folded sheets. These means consist at least of a display and an ejector, which in turn are operatively connected to each other. Due to the operative effect of these means, the folded sheets experience a change in direction relative to the transport direction of the transport chain by or approximately 90 °, these folded sheets or the brochure formed therefrom then preferably being fed to a cutting apparatus.

The adjustable stop has a stop wall arranged on the front opposite the transport direction of the transport route, which functions as a collecting chain, which fulfills a stop and alignment function in relation to the front edge of the folded sheets, the collecting chain also being equipped with foldable transport fingers. These fold in in the final phase of the stop process so that the collecting chain can pass under the spread folding sheet.

The delivery has a series of treadmills acting in parallel, which, in operative connection with an ejector operating on the underside of the ridge of the folded sheets, accomplish the removal of the folded sheets. The ejector itself is equipped with a protruding sword which conveys the folded sheets into the delivery through a vertical path from below.

The interdependent operation of the transport chain, stop, delivery, ejector, cutting apparatus is carried out by a main controller, this operation at least relating to the units of the system mentioned, which are operated by stored control profiles and / or by an adaptive and / or predictive control.

1. i) Durch einen Eigenantrieb lässt sich der Anschlag für jedes Falzbogenformat, bezogen auf dessen Endstellung, in Transportrichtung individuell einstellen;
2. ii) Die eingenommene Endposition des Anschlags steht im Wesentlichen in Abhängigkeit der Geschwindigkeit der Transportkette und des Formats des herangeführten Falzbogens;
3. iii) Der Anschlag definiert die horizontale Endposition des Falzbogens hinsichtlich des durch die operativen Hilfsmittel der Auslage injizierten Ausförderns, wobei diese Endposition danach so eingestellt wird, dass der Falzbogen unabhängig der jeweiligen Formatgrösse mittig zu den operativen Hilfsmitteln der Auslage ausgerichtet wird;
4. iv) Die einzunehmende operative Endposition des Anschlags wird durch abgelegte Steuerungsprofile gesteuert oder fortlaufend durch Sensoren, wie Photozellen, Kamerasysteme, geregelt;
5. v) Die eine falzbogenseitige Fläche des Anschlags wirkt stabilisierend gegen einen Kippmoment und/oder eine Schrägstellung des Falzbogens während des durch die operativen Hilfsmittel der Auslage und des Auswerfers durchgeführten Ausförderns desselben, wobei die operativen Hilfsmittel der Auslage aus Transportbändern bestehen, welche die Falzbogen falzseitig für den Weitertransport erfassen.

The operative connection between the stop and the display aids is carried out according to the following criteria:

1. i) The stop can be set individually for each folded sheet format in relation to its end position in the transport direction by means of a self-drive;
2. ii) The final position of the stop is essentially dependent on the speed of the transport chain and the format of the folded sheet being fed in;
3. iii) The stop defines the horizontal end position of the folded sheet with respect to the outfeed injected by the operational aids of the delivery, this end position being then set such that the folded sheet is aligned with the operational aids of the delivery regardless of the respective format size;
4. iv) The operative end position of the stop to be assumed is controlled by stored control profiles or continuously by sensors, such as photocells, camera systems;
5. v) The one surface of the stopper on the folding sheet side has a stabilizing effect against a tilting moment and / or an inclination of the folding sheet while it is being conveyed out by the operating aids of the delivery and the ejector, the operating aids of the delivery consisting of conveyor belts which the folding sheets on the folding side record the onward transport.

1. i) Ein Schwert als Bestandteil eines unterhalb der Auslage angeordneten und mit vorzugsweise einem eigenen Antrieb ausgestatteten Stössels des Auswerfers verharrt in einer neutralen Position ("Pos. Null"), bis zum Eintreffen eines von der Hauptsteuerung übermittelten Befehls, der die Auslösung ("Trigger") des Ausförderns des Druckprodukts einleitet;
2. ii) Der Auswerfer startet seine Bewegung von dieser "Trigger"-Position aus, um das Druckprodukt gleichbleibend in die Auslage zu überführen, wobei diese Auslösung zeitlich von der Geschwindigkeit der Transportkette, dem Format des jeweiligen Falzbogens, und einer allfälligen manuellen Korrektur abhängig ist, und wobei die Geschwindigkeit der Transportkette eine definierte oder laufend frei definierbare Geschwindigkeitsschwelle aufweist;
3. iii) Oberhalb der Geschwindigkeitsschwelle richtet sich die Geschwindigkeit des Auswerfers an jene der Transportkette und/oder an jene zu der Auslage gehörende Transportbänder, dergestalt, dass sich bei Zunahme der Geschwindigkeit der Transportkette die vertikale Bewegung des Auswerfers nach oben erhöht, und wobei bei Reduktion der Geschwindigkeit der Transportkette die vertikale Bewegung des Auswerfers nach oben entsprechen abnimmt;
4. iv) Unterhalb der Geschwindigkeitsschwelle ist das Bewegungsprofil des Auswerfers durch eine Mindestgeschwindigkeit gleichbleibend definiert, um die Übergabe des Falzbogens an die Transportbänder der Auslage sicherzustellen.

The stop itself is directly equipped with the corresponding sensors, which respond to a jam control in the flow of the folded sheets, and such information is then forwarded to the main control. The operative operative connection between the stop and the aids of the delivery for conveying the printed product in general is carried out according to the following criteria:

1. i) A sword as part of a ram of the ejector arranged below the delivery and preferably equipped with its own drive remains in a neutral position ("Pos. zero") until a command transmitted by the main control arrives that triggers the trigger ("trigger ") initiates the discharge of the printed product;
2. ii) The ejector starts its movement from this "trigger" position in order to transfer the printed product consistently into the delivery, this triggering being dependent on the speed of the transport chain, the format of the respective folded sheet, and any manual correction, and wherein the speed of the transport chain has a defined or continuously freely definable speed threshold;
3. iii) Above the speed threshold, the speed of the ejector is directed to that of the transport chain and / or to those conveyor belts belonging to the delivery, such that the vertical movement of the ejector increases as the speed of the transport chain increases, and whereby when the speed of the transport chain is reduced, the vertical movement of the ejector upwards decreases;
4. iv) Below the speed threshold, the movement profile of the ejector is consistently defined by a minimum speed in order to ensure the transfer of the folded sheet to the conveyor belts of the delivery.

With this kinematics, the sword belonging to the ejector moves to an upper turning point (pos. Above) when the folded sheet is conveyed out. Furthermore, the sword moves to a lower reversal point (pos. Bottom) after the folding sheet has been fed out. Furthermore, the sword adopts a neutral position (item zero) from the lower reversal point (item below).

Brief description of the figures

Figur 1

eine Gesamtansicht eines Sammelhefters;

Figur 2

eine Gesamtansicht einer Auslagevorrichtung mit einem angetriebenen Anschlag;

Figur 3

eine Gesamtansicht eines Sammelhefters, mit Steuerung-/Regelungs-Funktionen;

Figur 4

einen Auswerfer in Wirkverbindung mit einer Auslage.

The invention will be explained below with reference to the drawing, to which reference is expressly made with regard to all details that are essential to the invention and that are not detailed in the description. All elements which are not essential for the direct understanding of the invention have been omitted. Identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols in the various figures. The drawing shows:

Figure 1

an overall view of a saddle stitcher;

Figure 2

an overall view of a delivery device with a driven stop;

Figure 3

an overall view of a saddle stitcher, with control functions;

Figure 4

an ejector in operative connection with a display.

Ways of Carrying Out the Invention

Figure 1 shows an overall view of a saddle stitcher 100. Essentially, such a saddle stitcher consists of a centrally operating collection chain 110, which the transport of the folded sheets 200 or. the brochure 600 takes over. Such a collecting chain 110 has a guide device with an upper section which is formed in a pointed shape, that is to say in a roof shape, and whose ridge line defines the transport and stitching line on which the folded sheets 200 are transported astride. The individual folded sheets are made into a brochure in a stitching machine 120. The folded sheets lie on the saddle-shaped collecting chain, and they are transported from this direction to stop 160. Between the stapling machine 120 and a downstream delivery 130, before reaching the stop 160, the drivers integrated into the collecting chain (not shown in the drawing) fold, which act on the rear edge of the folded sheets and, in operative connection with the collecting chain, ensure the targeted transport of the folded sheets , backwards so that they can slide under the folded sheet as the collection chain moves. This ensures that the folded sheets in a brochure in the final transport phase are no longer directly affected by the driver, but only by the friction or. Indicated by the saddle-shaped collecting chain. persistent force is transported to the stop. The kinematics triggered on the individual folded sheets or in general on the brochure in this final phase is also important, namely that the printed product opens between the stapling machine and the delivery so that the folded driver can pass underneath the printed product without any problems, this also occurs in those Cases particularly to be borne if this printed product should be delayed during the ejector operation.

The stapling machine itself, which is not shown in detail, and which belongs to the prior art, has a staple made of wire, the wire being bent in a first step onto a downwardly acting U-shape, which is ideally suited for being pushed through the brochure and then to be bent. This process is accomplished by at least one stitching head that cuts and positions the stitching wire and forms it into a staple. The stapling process itself involves pushing at least one staple through the brochure and closing it at the other end. A staple carriage on which the stapling head is mounted also forms part of the stapling machine, and within this stapling station the printed product is stapled by means of the staple already mentioned while the staple carriage is traveling.

For the folded sheet 200 or brochure 600, the stop 160 with its predetermined stop plane 170 forms the end position of the transport on the collecting chain before the printed product mentioned is transferred to the delivery 130 and this is transferred from here via a product feed 140 into the cutting apparatus 150. This cutting device 150 functions as a cutting system, which preferably has a front knife and two side knives and carries out the cutting process consisting of a front cut and a head / foot cut as a subsequent cut.

The stop 160, which is preferably operated by a servo motor 161, fulfills a multiple function with regard to the final positioning of the brochure 600, namely that this stop per se exercises a fixed stop position in relation to the transported brochure in the very last final state, but not exclusively in the conventional manner as a fixed stop station. This means that the brochure is not transported in a horizontal transport movement to the front wall of the stop in order to be braked there completely, as is the case according to the prior art, but this stop simultaneously fulfills the function of the front edge of the stop in the transport direction To serve the brochure during the further dynamic transfer of the brochure into the delivery as an alignment aid against tilting or tilting of the same. The attack thus fulfills due to its special training and in active connection with the controlled transport of the brochure, it has a double function, which is characterized by superimposed horizontal / vertical movements of the brochure in the area of the stop.

These superimposed movements are to be understood as follows: On the one hand, there is a horizontal movement of the brochure specified by the collection chain, the kinematic energy of which is now not completely and abruptly destroyed by the stop, but the brochure becomes infinitesimal shortly before its impact by the ejector ejected from the collection chain and captured by the locally acting tools of the display.

During this time interval, which is approaching zero, the brochure conveyed in the horizontal direction still has a minimized retentive speed, which causes the end brochure to snuggle smoothly and then slide the front edge of the brochure along the wall of the stop. For this reason, this adopted, also dynamically adaptable positioning of the stop in relation to the respectively brought-in folded sheet is also dependent on the speed.

This vertically sliding movement of the front edge of the brochure along the wall of the stop during the transfer of the brochure into the delivery ensures that the brochure cannot be tilted, so that the brochure has a perfect format orientation during the subsequent cropping ,

Thus, in the final phase of positioning the brochure, there is a coordinated, control-dependent interdependency between the horizontal transport movement of the brochure and its vertical transfer, whereby the stop then, as already explained, performs that double function, namely to ensure the end position of the brochure on the one hand, and on the other possible tilting during the vertical conveyance of the same. Accordingly, the stop also takes up those counter-movements that could lead to a tilting moment of the brochure, which means that it can no longer tilt. These processes are operatively connected to a sword as part of an ejector arranged on the underside of the collecting chain, which will be discussed in more detail below.

Out Figure 2 the delivery 130 emerges in operative connection with the motor-driven 161 stop 160 already explained. This delivery is designed as a machine component that feeds the folded sheet, brochure or generally the printed products into the product feeder after the stapling station (see Figure 1 , Item 140) to the cutting device (see Figure 1 , Item 150). In the delivery itself, a transport direction change of preferably 90 ° takes place via the conveyor belts 131, depending on the location of the cutting apparatus. The operating stop 160 basically defines the horizontal end position of the brochure with regard to the conveying out carried out by the delivery, the delivery being operatively connected to an ejector (see Figure 4 ), whereby this position is always strictly based on the fact that regardless of the small format size 202 resp. the large format size 201 of the brochure always ensures that it is ejected in the middle relative to the operating aids of the delivery, that is to say the conveyor belts 131 arranged next to one another.

The Figure 3 shows essentially the same saddlestitcher as from Figure 1 , This system is supplemented with essential control systems, the data of which are transmitted to a central controller 400, which in turn mutually communicates 401 with an MIS system 410. This control processes all incoming data from all units involved in the processing of the print products, including the speed of the collection chain 110, and then ensures the targeted regulation of all units, in particular with regard to the operation of the transport chain, stop, delivery, ejector, depending on the format size of the respective printed product. The rivers shown here in the survey of operational Data for the controller 400 are not to be understood as numerus clausus. First of all, there is an optical control system 310 in the area of the stop plane 320 of the stop 160, which forwards the information 311 obtained to the controller 400. This is followed by a continuous interrogation of the ejector 500, the information 501 of which is also forwarded to the controller 400. Furthermore, device 300 carries out the continuous thickness measurement 301 of the folded sheets. The operational data can also be recorded for the stapling machine 120, for example. In addition, the controller 400 is in a reciprocal data flow system 401 with an MIS (Management Information System) 410, which system 410 in connection with the term "Industry 4.0" in the printing industry under the names such as "Finishing 4.0", " Print 4.0 "or" Web to Print "have become known. Basically, this means the digital transformation of the IT area and production technology. To solve these tasks, the MIS System 410 is used in particular.

This data and the continuous monitoring of the process ensure the correct setting and operation of the units participating in the saddle stitcher process. The integral control as such can be maintained by stored control profiles. The main controller is also able to implement regulation based on adaptive principles; Furthermore, the main control is also able to provide a predictive / anticipatory regulation.

Out Figure 4 shows an ejector device 500 which is operatively connected to the delivery 130 already described. The operation of this ejector device or more generally of this ejector 500 is as follows:
First, a sword 503 remains below the delivery 130 in a neutral position ("position zero"). This is where the sword 503 waits, which is coupled to an ejector plunger 502 and which primarily forms the components of the ejector. The ejector tappet 502 preferably has its own drive, and When the "Trigger" command arrives, the motion kinematics are triggered. The ejector 500, viewed as a complete unit, therefore starts its movement at the trigger position in order to generally transfer the printed product as uniformly as possible into the delivery. This "trigger" point mainly depends on the speed of the collection chain, the product format and any manual correction, in such a way that the subsequent phases are initiated, depending on whether a defined or continuously freely definable speed threshold is exceeded or undershot.

Above the speed threshold, the speed of the operative parts 502, 503 of the ejector 500 is directed to that of the collecting chain or the conveyor belts belonging to the delivery. This means that if the speed of the collecting chain is increased, the ejector moves up faster accordingly. When the speed of the collection chain is reduced, the ejector moves more slowly.

The movement profile remains constant below the speed threshold. This defines a minimum speed of the ejector to ensure that the folded sheet is transferred to the conveyor belts of the delivery in any case.

As far as the ejector movements are concerned, the following positions can be distinguished:
On the one hand, the ejector moves to a point that is referred to as "Pos. Above". This "pos. Top" is the upper reversal point of the sword 503, from here the position, "pos. Bottom", is approached at a defined or continuously freely definable speed.

"Pos. Bottom" is the lower reversal point of the sword, from here the position 'Pos Zero' is approached at a defined or continuously freely definable speed.

So takes the sword 503 resp. the plunger 502 of the ejector 500 has three fixed positions, which are either predefined positions, or are continuously freely defined. In other words, "Pos. Abben" is the highest position of the sword, and it forms, as it were, its reversal point at which the transfer of the folded sheet to the conveyor belts of the delivery is completed. "Pos. Bottom" is the lowest position of the sword as a reversal point; the sword dips down to this position so as not to collide with the subsequent folded sheet on the collecting chain. "Pos. Zero" represents the neutral position from which the sword comes into operation on the next folded sheet.

Claims (19)

System (100) preferably designed as a saddle stitcher, essentially consisting of a transport chain, which is roof-shaped in the upper area, along which one or more printed products, preferably formed by folded sheets, can be transported astride, collected, and optionally stapled in an intermediate stapling station, thereby characterized in that a stop (160) which is adjustable in accordance with the format of the printed product is arranged in the transport direction of the printed product (200, 600) after the optionally operating stapling station along the further course of the transport chain (110), that the stop is in operative connection with interdependently operating means (130, 500) accomplish timed and format-stabilized conveying out of the printed product, and that the format-stabilized printed product can then preferably be fed to a cutting apparatus (150). Installation according to claim 1, characterized in that a first means for the timely conveying out of the printed product consisting of one or more folded sheets consists of a delivery (130). Installation according to claim 1, characterized in that a second means for the timely conveying out of the printed product consisting of one or more folded sheets consists of an ejector (500). System according to claim 1, characterized in that when the printed product is conveyed out, a change in direction relative to the transport direction of the transport chain takes place by or approximately 90 °. System according to Claim 1, characterized in that the adjustable stop (160) has a stop plane (170) which is directed towards the transport direction of the transport path and which is opposite one another from the front edge of the or several folded sheets of existing printed product when it exerts a coordinated stop and alignment function. System according to claim 1, that the transport route is a collecting chain (110), which is equipped with foldable transport fingers for conveying the printed product consisting of one or more folded sheets. System according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the delivery (130) has a number of secondary transport belts (131) which are in operative connection with an ejector (500) arranged on the underside of the ridge of the printed product and which accomplish the discharge of this printed product. Installation according to claim 7, characterized in that the ejector (500) is equipped with a projecting sword (503), through which the printed product can be conveyed from below into the delivery (130). Method for operating the system according to one or more of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the interdependent operation of at least the transport chain (110), stop (160), delivery (130), ejector (500), cutting device (150) a main controller (400) is controlled. A method according to claim 9, characterized in that the interdependent operation of at least said units of the system is operated by stored control profiles and / or by an adaptive and / or predictive control. A method according to claim 9, characterized in that the main controller (400) is operatively connected to at least one management information system (410). Method for operating a system according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the operative connection between stop (160) and delivery (130) is carried out according to the following criteria: a) The stop for each printed product can be individually positioned in relation to its end position in the transport direction by means of a self-drive; b) The final position of the stop (160) is at least dependent on the format (201, 202) of the printed product being brought in and taking into account the speed of the transport chain; c) The stop defines the horizontal end position of the printed product with regard to the outfeed injected by the operative aids (131) of the delivery (130), the end position of the stop (160) being set so that the printed product, regardless of its format size, has a central position during the outfeed Assumes position opposite the arrangement of the aids (131) of the display (130); d) The operative end position of the stop to be assumed is controlled at least by stored control profiles or continuously by sensors, such as photocells, camera systems; e) The one printed product-related front wall (170) of the stop has a stabilizing effect against a tilting moment and / or inclination of the printed product during the conveying out carried out by the operative aids (131) of the delivery (130). A method according to claim 12, characterized in that the stop is coupled to a self-drive, that the stop ensures a precise positioning for each printed product by an "on-the-fly" operation. A method according to claim 12, characterized in that the operational aids of the delivery (130) consist of conveyor belts (131), which initially detects the printed product on the fold side and transports it further in accordance with the format. A method according to claim 12, characterized in that the stop is directly equipped with the corresponding sensors, which respond to a congestion control in the flow of the printed products, and such information is forwarded to the main controller. Method for operating a system according to claims 1 and 3, characterized in that the operational process sequences of the ejector (500) for conveying the printed product is carried out according to the following criteria: a) A sword (503) as part of an ejector (500) arranged below the delivery (130) and preferably equipped with its own drive remains in a neutral position ("Pos. zero") until a command transmitted by the main control unit arrives which initiates the triggering of the extraction; b) The ejector (500) starts the movement of its operative parts (502, 503) from this "trigger" position in order to transfer the printed product consistently into the delivery, this triggering being timed by the speed of the transport chain, the format of the Print product, and any manual correction is dependent, and wherein the speed of the transport chain has a defined or continuously freely definable speed threshold; c) Above the speed threshold, the speed of the ejector is directed to that of the transport chain and / or to those conveyor belts belonging to the delivery, such that as the speed of the transport chain increases, the vertical movement of the ejector increases, and at Reducing the speed of the transport chain reduces the vertical movement of the ejector upwards accordingly; d) Below the speed threshold, the movement profile of the ejector is consistently defined by a minimum speed in order to ensure the transfer of the printed product to the conveyor belts (131) of the delivery (130). A method according to claim 16, characterized in that the sword (503) belonging to the ejector (500) moves to an upper reversal point (item top) when the printed product is being conveyed out. A method according to claim 16, characterized in that the sword (503) belonging to the ejector (500) moves to a lower reversal point (item bottom) after the printing product has ended. A method according to claim 16, characterized in that the sword (503) belonging to the ejector (500) assumes the neutral position (item zero) from a lower reversal point (item below).

Images