ES2635302T3 - Unit for stacking Venetian blind slats on support structure and method for positioning a support structure in a unit for stacking slats - Google Patents

Abstract

Unit for stacking slats in a support structure for the production of Venetian blinds, such support structure (S) being provided with two uprights (P1, P2) and a plurality of connecting elements (T1, T2) to the slats, joined to the uprights and distributed along the longitudinal extension of the latter, the unit comprising: - at least one guide element for a slat (L), which defines a work plane (m) in which the lath (L ) slides supported along a longitudinal axis of motion (X), the lath being associated in said work plane (m) to connecting elements (T1, T2) of a support structure (S) positioned in a plane positioning (p) incident on the work plane (m), with the two uprights positioned on two opposite sides of the longitudinal axis (X); characterized in that it comprises means (30, 40) for moving the two uprights of the support structure (S) independently of one another causing them to slide parallel to a sliding direction (Q) incident on the work plane (m), being controllable said movement means (30, 40) as to progressively position the connecting elements (T1, T2) of each upright exactly in the work plane (m).

Description

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description

Unit for stacking Venetian blind slats on support structure and method for positioning a support structure in a unit for stacking slats

Aplioaoion field

This invention relates to a unit for stacking slats on a support structure for the production of Venetian blinds and a method for positioning a support structure in a unit for stacking slats of a Venetian blind.

Teonioa State

As is known, Venetian blinds are constituted by a plurality of slats, arranged parallel to each other and held in position by rope support structures. These structures are essentially of two types: "full ladder" (more simply "ladder") or "separate stairs" (more simply "semi-ladder").

A support structure of the "ladder" type is constituted by two parallel ribs (arranged in the direction of the height of the blinds) and a plurality of crossings that connect them to each other at regular distances. A ribbon is associated with each traverse, supported (if the traverse is individual) or inserted (if the traverse is double or multiple). Therefore, the two ribs serve as uprights for the slats.

A support structure of the "semi-ladder" type is constituted by two strands separated from each other and each provided with a plurality of rope eyelets, distributed at regular distances along a single cord. The support cords are positioned in pairs on opposite sides of the slats, generally transversely aligned. The cords are associated with the slats in the eyelets, in particular using clips or hooks fastened on the side edges of the slats themselves. Therefore, the two cords serve as uprights for the slats.

Both types of support structure are similar in that both have uprights, which are associated with the means of joining the slats, constituted by the crossbars (single or double) in the case of the staircase or by eyelets in the case of the semi-ladder. In both cases, the support structure must be positioned with respect to the slat so that each of the uprights is located on one of the two sides of the slat itself.

A Venetian blind is made by associating a plurality of slats with two or more longitudinally spaced support structures. Generally, this operation is automated using production systems comprising two or more stacking units along a slat sliding line. In particular, each stacking unit is suitable for positioning a support structure in a plane transverse to the slat sliding line, with the two uprights arranged laterally to the slats. As the slats are associated with the support structure, they are progressively stacked one on top of the other in a storage area for the already worked slats. With this movement, they sharply drag with them the entire support structure associated with them.

A stacking unit for producing a Venetian blind that uses a "ladder" as a support structure for the slats is described, for example, in EP 2677108 A1, WO 2014/009818 A1, EP 2677107 A1 in the name of the same applicant , and in documents EP 2253794 A2 and EP 2314822 A1

A stacking unit for producing a Venetian blind that uses a "semi-ladder" as a support structure for the slats is described, for example, in EP 2653646 A2 in the name of the same applicant.

From an operational point of view, it is crucial to be able to correctly position the support structure with respect to the work plane of the slats. In particular, it is essential that, after each lifting tiron of the support structure, the crossbars (in the case of the stairs) or eyelets (in the case of the semi-stairs) about to associate with the lath are positioned exactly on the work plan of the ribbon itself. In the case of the stairs, this means facilitating the insertion of the lath in the crossbars, while, in the case of the half-stairs, it means allowing the means of application of the hooks or clamps to not work in vain, but to apply effectively to the eyelets accurately.

The positioning of the crossbars or eyelets is linked to the movement imposed on the entire support structure by the progressive movement of the slats from the work plane to the storage area of the already worked slats.

However, this method of moving the support structure is not always able to ensure positioning.

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correct of the crossbars or eyelets with respect to the work plane of the slats. In fact, although the crossbars and the eyelets are arranged along the uprights with a regular step, in many cases the dimensional tolerance in the distribution of the eyelets and the crossbars is such that it significantly affects the final positioning of these elements. On the other hand, a support structure (either ladder or semi-ladder) is not rigid and is therefore subject to movements, tensions or loosening that, in fact, affect the actual position of the eyelets and crossings. In addition, two uprights of the same support structure may be subject to different stresses in the same stacking unit. This is inevitably reflected in the position of the crossbars and the eyelets with respect to each other and the work plane.

At present, due to the dimensional tolerances of the support structures and the different tensions that the stacking units can apply to the uprights, it is not possible to precisely and constantly control the positioning of the eyelets and crossbars. This adversely affects the quality of Venetian blinds.

Presentation of the invention

Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to totally or partially eliminate the drawbacks of the prior art cited above, providing a stacking unit on a support structure for the production of Venetian blinds that allows controlled positioning of this structure of support with respect to a slat work plane in such a way that the final position of the eyelets or crossbars about to be associated with a lath is not affected, or not significantly, by the dimensional tolerances of the support structure and / or for any tension applied to the structure itself.

A further purpose of this invention is to make available a stacking unit that can operate without distinction with support structures of the ladder and semi-ladder type.

A further purpose of this invention is to make available a stacking unit that is simple to manage.

An additional purpose of this invention is to make available a stacking unit that is simple and economical to produce.

A further purpose of this invention is to make available a method for positioning a support structure in a unit for stacking slats of a Venetian blind that allows controlled positioning of the support structure such that the final position of the eyelets or crossbars about to associate with a ribbon is not affected, or not significantly, by the dimensional tolerances of the support structure and / or by any tension applied to the structure itself.

Brief description of the drawings

The technical characteristics of the invention, in accordance with the purposes mentioned above, can be clearly understood from the claims listed below and their advantages will become more apparent from the detailed description that follows, made with reference to the drawings that accompany, that show one or more purely exemplary and non-limiting realizations, in which:

- Figures 1 and 2 respectively show a perspective view and a front orthographic view of a stacking unit according to a preferred embodiment of this invention, illustrated with several slats already associated with a support structure and with several components removed to highlight better the others;

- Figure 3 shows an orthogonal front view of a part of the stacking unit of Figure 1 according to the direction III indicated therein, without slats;

- Figures 4 to 10 are views of the stacking unit of Figure 3 showing in sequence - for a support structure of the semi-ladder type - the various steps to position the support structure with respect to a work plane slat when strips are progressively added to the stacking unit;

- Figure 11 shows a front view of the stacking unit of Figure 3, shown with a plurality of already worked slats placed in a storage area, an already worked slat placed in a temporary storage area and the work area of empty ribbon; Y

- Figure 12 shows a partially side perspective view of the stacking unit illustrated in Figure 11.

Detailed description

With reference to the accompanying drawings, reference number 1 indicates, in its entirety, a unit of

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stacking of slats on a support structure for the production of Venetian blinds according to the invention.

In particular, the stacking unit 1 is intended to be inserted - together with one or more identical units - in a more complex production system (not shown in the figures). More in detail, the unit 1 can be movably associated with a longitudinal support bar (not shown) at one end of which a slat production machine (not shown) is arranged.

Here and in the following description and claims, reference will be made to the stacking unit 1 in the use state. References to a lower or higher position should be understood in this regard.

In general, the support structure S with which the stacking unit 1 works is provided with two uprights P1, P2 and a plurality of connecting elements T1, T2 to the slats, joined to the uprights and distributed along the longitudinal extension of the latter.

The support structure S can be of the ladder type, in which the two uprights are connected to each other by means of crossbars (single, double or multiple) that constitute the connecting elements to the slats. The support structure S may be of the semi-ladder type (as shown, for example, in the accompanying figures), in which the two uprights are separated from each other, each provided with a plurality of eyelets constituting the connecting elements to the slats. The slat stacking unit according to the invention is, therefore, suitable for operating without distinction with support structures of the ladder or semi-ladder type.

According to a general embodiment of the invention, the stacking unit 1 comprises at least one guide element (not shown) for a strip L, which defines a work plane m on which the strip L slides supported along of a longitudinal axis of movement X. Preferably, this guide element is constituted by a laminar element rigidly secured to a support structure of the stacking unit 1.

Corresponding to the work plane m, the bar is associated with connection elements T1, T2 of a support structure S positioned in a positioning plane p incident in the work plane m, the two uprights being positioned on two opposite sides of the longitudinal axis X. To this end, the stacking unit is provided with devices for associating the slats L with the connecting elements of the support structure S. These devices can be of any type, provided they are suitable for this purpose. They are not described here because they do not constitute the core of this invention and are, in any case, known to a person skilled in the art. By way of example, in the case of a support structure of a semi-ladder type, the devices for associating the slats with the eyelets of the uprights can be those described in European Patent Application No. EP 2653646 A2 filed in the name of the same applicant and incorporated herein by reference. In the case of a support structure of the ladder type, the devices for associating the slats to the crossbars of the uprights can comprise, for example, means for divaricating the crossbars, well known to one skilled in the art.

Preferably, the stacking unit 1 comprises means 20 for positioning the support structure S in said positioning plane p incident on the work plane m, such that the two uprights are arranged on two opposite sides with respect to the longitudinal axis X .

Operationally, as will be seen in the following description, during the work the support structure S is made to slide on the positioning plane p along a sliding direction Q incident on the work plane m.

According to the preferred embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures, the positioning means 20 comprise, in particular, two guides 21, 22, separated from each other to receive each of the two uprights P1, P2 of the support structure S In the free space between the two guides, the connection elements T1, T2 of the structure S are progressively arranged as the support structure slides along the sliding direction Q, so that they are accessible for the operations of association with the slats.

In particular, as shown for example in Figures 2 and 3, each guide 21,22 has a limited longitudinal extension along the sliding direction Q and ends in the vicinity of the work plane with an upper end 21 ' , 22 '.

According to an essential aspect of this invention, the stacking unit comprises means 30, 40 for moving the two uprights P1, P2 of the support structure S independently of each other, causing them to slide parallel to the sliding direction Q before mentioned, incident on the work plane m. Operationally, these movement means 30, 40 are controlled, preferably by an electronic control unit (not illustrated in the accompanying figures), to progressively position the connecting elements T1, T2 of each upright exactly in correspondence with the plane of work m.

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The expression “exactly in correspondence with the work plane” must be interpreted in the sense that the connection elements are in the required position so that they can be correctly associated with the ribbon. This position depends on the characteristics of the devices intended to perform such operations. The adaptation is within reach of a technician in the field, simply deciding the position in which the connection element is to be stopped depending on the operational needs of the devices actually used.

Unlike the prior art, the independent and controlled movement of the two uprights of the support structure is able to ensure a correct positioning of the crossbars or eyelets (that is, the connection elements) with respect to the work plane of the slats . In fact, this method of positioning is not affected by dimensional tolerances in the distribution of eyelets and crossbars, since it allows a very precise local positioning. The positioning method according to the invention is not even significantly affected by the "non-stiffness" of the support structure and by any movement, tension or loosening to which it may be subjected. In addition, the independent positioning of the two uprights allows to remedy any differentiated tension between the two uprights.

There is practically no risk that the independent positioning of the two uprights can interfere with the operation of the stacking unit, determining misalignments on the sliding movement of the uprights and therefore of the support structure, and thus of jamming. On the contrary, independent positioning is a guarantee with respect to such events. For example, independent positioning allows to correct continuously, and in a controlled manner, any error in the initial load of the support structure, particularly in the case of semi-stairs, in which the two uprights are physically separated.

In any case, independent positioning works on support structures in which the connection elements (eyelets and crossbars) are made with a substantially regular pitch. Therefore, the intervention of the mobile means is essentially corrective and does not preclude the normal operation of the stacking unit. In any case, the elasticity of the uprights is able to absorb any irregularity between one side and the other with a compensation effect, even during work when one or more slats are already associated with the structure.

Therefore, the invention allows to precisely and constantly control the positioning of the eyelets and crossbars, significantly increasing the quality of the final product. This occurs in the case of both ladder and semi-ladder structures.

Preferably, the movement means 30, 40 comprise at least two different releasable gripping elements 31.41, constituted, for example, by controllable jaws suitable for holding the uprights.

These gripping elements 31, 41 are movable parallel to said sliding direction Q, independently of each other, on opposite sides with respect to the longitudinal axis of motion X. The two gripping elements 31, 41 preferably operate in correspondence with the plane of positioning p of the support structure so that each grip element 31, 41 can be applied to an upright P1, P2 of the support structure.

Preferably, each grip element 31, 41 is functionally associated with at least one sensor 32, 42 suitable for detecting the position of the connection elements T1, T2 of the respective pillar P1, P2 with respect to the work plane m. Operationally, the movement of each gripping element 31.41 is controlled by the respective sensor 32, 42 through, for example, the aforementioned control unit, which receives input signals from the sensors and is programmed to control and operate the grip elements.

Advantageously, as shown in particular in Figure 12, the at least one sensor 32, 42 mentioned above, preferably optical, is arranged below the work plane m at a predefined distance. Functionally, the movement of the gripping element 31, 41 is controlled in such a way that, after detecting the passage of a connecting element through the respective sensor 32, 42, the gripping element 31, 41 stops after having covered another section equal to the predetermined distance.

Operationally, as illustrated in the sequence of Figures 3 to 8, each grip element 31, 41 moves parallel to the sliding direction Q mentioned above between a grip start position (Figures 3, 4 and 8) and a final grip position (figure 5) in a cyclic manner, alternating forward and return movements. In the forward movement from the starting grip position to the final grip position (see Figures 4-5), the grip element grabs the respective upright to drag it with itself, while in the opposite return movement (figures 5-8) the grip element does not hold the stud, leaving it stopped.

According to a preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying figures, each grip element 31, 41 is slidably associated with a guide bar 33, 43 extending parallel to the sliding direction Q.

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Preferably, in the return movement, each grip element 31, 41 moves away from the respective pillar P1, P2 to avoid accidentally touching the connecting elements and / or the edge of the slats (see Figures 6-7). Advantageously, for this purpose, the gripping element 31,41 can be slidably associated with the guide bar 33, 43 by means of a carriage 34, 44. The gripping element is movably associated with the carriage so as to move transversely with respect to the carriage itself and thus to the guide bar and thus be able to move away from the upright during the return movement.

Advantageously, the stacking unit 1 comprises, for each upright P1, P2, means for blocking the movement of the uprights themselves. These locking means (not illustrated in the accompanying figures) are deactivated during the forward movement of the gripping element, at the same time as they are activated at least during the return movement to prevent the upright -in absence of the action exerted by the gripping element move from the position to which it was taken. In particular, the blocking means can be constituted by ratchets arranged in the guides 21,22 and driven by pneumatic or hydraulic pistons, whose intervention intensity is controllable. Depending on the intensity of actuation of the pistons, the ratchets can stop the sliding of the upright or block it completely.

In particular, each of the guides 21, 22, which are part of the positioning means 20, is formed to wrap the portion of the upright that is inserted therein, allowing only the connection elements T1 to protrude outwards substantially. , T2. Advantageously, as illustrated in Figures 3 to 8, each grip element 31.41 holds the respective upright in a section not covered by the guide 21,22 beyond the upper end 21 ', 22' and therefore above of the work plane m. In this way, there is no risk that the movement of the gripping elements will be obstructed or limited by the steric obstruction of the guides.

Advantageously, the stacking unit 1 comprises a magazine 10 in which the slats are deposited with a movement along the sliding direction Q mentioned above, after being associated with the support structure S.

Preferably, the movement of the slats in the loader 10 is carried out by lifting means 50, specifically dedicated to that function.

In particular, the magazine 10 defines a storage compartment 10a, 10b for slats placed above the work plane m. The lifting means 50 are suitable for raising the slats from the work plane m to the storage compartment 10a, 10b. Advantageously, the lifting means 50 are controlled by the electronic control unit already mentioned.

In particular, the movement means 30, 40 of the uprights impose a movement on the uprights P1, P2 in accordance with that of the slats L, that is, substantially parallel to the sliding direction Q.

According to a preferred embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures, the magazine 10 is formed by two first vertical support bars 11, 12, arranged on two opposite sides with respect to the longitudinal axis of motion X. Operatively, as shown by example in figure 11, the slats L are inserted between the two bars 11, 12 and supported in position by at least one pair of retractable brackets 13, 14 formed by two brackets placed at the same level, of which a first bracket fixed to a bar and a second plate attached to the other bar. Each pair defines a storage area. The plates, suitable for defining a stable support area for the slats, are of the retractable type if they are subjected to a push from below, to eliminate their hindrance. These retractable brackets are equipped with an automatic return to active position system, for example based on elastic means. In particular, the position of each mensula 13, 14 is adjustable in height along the respective bar 11, 12 by means of a manual adjustment wheel 36, 46.

Preferably, the storage area is divided into a temporary storage area 10a and a final storage area 10b formed at different levels. The temporary storage area 10a is formed at an intermediate level between the work plane m and the final storage area 10b.

Operationally, the temporary storage 10a temporarily stores each ribbon L as soon as it is associated with the support structure S before being moved to the final storage area 10b, where it is placed next to any other ribbon that may be present and already associated with the support structure S.

In this way, the temporary storage area 10a receives the ribbon newly associated with the support structure. As can be seen from the sequence of Figures 8-10, a ribbon is maintained in the temporary storage area until a new ribbon is associated with the support structure. At this point, the lath in the temporary storage area 10a moves to the final storage area 10b, where all the slats worked are stacked progressively. When the temporary storage area is released, it is possible to place a new ribbon in it. Preferably, the two movements take place simultaneously in a synchronized manner.

In the charger, the slats overlap each other in a compact configuration. At this stage, it is important that the portions of the uprights between one pair of crossbars and another are arranged externally to the slats,

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assuming a folded S shape (see figure 12). A field technician knows that, in some cases, due to incorrect positions assumed by the uprights during previous processing steps, it may happen that the uprights end up moving into the support structure, thus positioning themselves between a lath and another. This incorrect positioning of the uprights, in addition to not allowing a correct overlap between the slats in the loader, can impart a shape memory to the uprights themselves, so that during use they will tend to resume this incorrect position, at the expense of the functionality and aesthetics of the Venetian blind.

It has been found that dividing the stage of stacking the slats into two stages, that is, in a first stage of placing the lath in the temporary storage area and then a second stage from the temporary storage to the final storage area, reduces the Appearance, in the final product, of the uprights caught between two slats when they meet.

Operationally, the lath parking in the temporary storage area makes it possible to physically separate the stage of working lath, during which the lath is associated with a part of the support structure, and the stage of storing the worked lath, in which the The lath is placed next to the previously worked lath and the uprights assume the typical S-shape. Once worked, the lath is then not immediately placed next to the previous lath, but is left parked in the temporary storage area. After being worked, the uprights could have tensions related to the operations of association of the slats. In particular, during the association of the ribbon, a part of each amount is inserted into the respective guide, while the rest is arranged outside the guide. This can lead to a difference in tension in the section of the stud between one ribbon and another, and therefore induce tensions such that they cause an incorrect movement of the studs themselves in the folding stage. Otherwise, thanks to the lifting up and subsequent parking in the temporary storage area, before the start of folding, the entire amount is arranged outside the guide and all the accumulated residual stresses can be released. The amount - which is no longer supported by the guide and therefore less subject to external restrictions - is now freer to follow the normal S-shaped curve.

Preferably, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, the temporary storage area 10a is formed at a level higher than the upper end 21 'or 22' of each guide 21, 22 of the positioning means 20 of the structure of support S.

According to the preferred embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures, each storage area 10a, 10b is defined by a pair of brackets, associated with the first two bars 11, 12 and retractable within the respective bar, if subjected to A push from below. Preferably, the position of each plate 13, 14 is adjustable in height along the respective bar 11, 12 by means of a manual adjustment wheel 36, 46.

In particular, the first two vertical bars 11, 12 are positioned in a parallel plane and different from the positioning plane p of the support structure S.

Advantageously, the lifting means 50 of the slats comprise first and second lifting elements 51 and 52, movable parallel to said sliding direction Q respectively on two opposite sides of said longitudinal axis of motion X.

In more detail, the first and second lifting means 51 and 52 are operatively independent of each other and are supported by two second guide bars 33 and 43. The latter, in particular, are arranged in a parallel plane and distinct from the positioning plane p of the support structure S on two opposite sides with respect to the longitudinal axis of motion X.

Preferably, both the first lifting means 51 and the second lifting means 52 each comprise:

- an initial lifting device 51 ‘, 52’ suitable for lifting a bar from the work plane m to the temporary storage area 10a; Y

- a final lifting device 51 ’, 52’ ‘suitable for lifting a ribbon from the temporary storage area 10a to the final storage area 10b.

As illustrated in the accompanying figures, the stacking unit 1 is provided, on each of two opposite sides with respect to the longitudinal axis X, of a pair of elevators, formed by an initial lifting device 51 'or 52' and a final lifting device 51 '' or 52 ''.

In particular, the initial lifting device 51 'or 52' and the final lifting device 51 '' or 52 '' are slidably associated with the same second guide bar 33 or 43, which extends parallel to the sliding direction Q .

In more detail, each initial lifting device 51 ‘, 52’ is composed of a non-retractable mensula,

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while each final lifting device 51 ’, 52’ is made up of a retractable plate inside the relative bar when subjected to a push from below.

Preferably, the initial lifting device 51 ‘and 52’ and the final lifting device 51 ’52 and 52’ ’are kinematically integral with each other to ensure mutually synchronized movement. Thus, as can be seen from the sequence of figures 9 and 10, the movement of a ribbon L from the work plane m to the temporary storage area 10a can take place simultaneously with the movement of a worked ribbon L (worked in the immediately preceding cycle) from the temporary storage area 10a to the final storage area 10b, with a reduction in dead time.

As already mentioned above, the elevation of the slats is entrusted to the lifting means 50, specifically dedicated to this function, and is operationally separated from the movement of the uprights P1, P2. According to the underlying logic of this invention, the movement of the uprights is, in fact, entrusted to the mobile means 30 and 40.

Advantageously, in order to avoid operational interference between the two types of means, the lifting means 50 of the slats L have a coordinated movement with the movement means 30 and 40 of the uprights P1, P2, in the sense that The first ones are activated to follow the movement of the latter. Preferably, from an operational point of view, the movement of the slats depends on the movement of the uprights.

Operationally, the controlled movement of the uprights, coordinated with that of the slats, also has beneficial effects on the correct arrangement of the uprights with respect to the slats. In fact, thanks to the intervention of the movement means, which preferably act on the portions of the uprights above the slats that are worked, in the stacking stage in the loader, the uprights are "coupled" at least for one First section in the lifting path and held in position parallel to the sliding direction Q. This is advantageous because it reduces the risk that, in the initial stacking stage (which in the case illustrated in the accompanying figures coincides with the transition from the work plane m to the temporary storage area 10a), the uprights - subjected to tensions not always uniform - move from the direction of sliding Q to the space between two slats, with the risk of being then arranged between a ribbon and another at the end of the stack.

According to the preferred embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures, each releasable grip element 31, 41 is kinematically integral with the initial lifting device 51 'or 52' and with the final lifting device 51 '' or 52 '' operating on the same side of unit 1 stacking with respect to longitudinal axis X.

More in detail, this operative solution is realized by slidingly associating the gripping element 31, 41 with the same guide bar 33, 43 of the two lifting devices and moving the three elements (gripping element and the two lifting devices) with the same carriage 34 or 44 sliding along the guide bar. In particular, with this configuration, a single actuator can be used for the movement of both the gripping element and the two lifting devices. In particular, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, the common carriage 33, 43 is moved by a single actuator, which consists of a pneumatic piston 35, 45.

Advantageously, the guide bar 33, 43 in common between the gripping element and the two lifting devices can also be used as a vertical support bar of the loader on the same side with respect to the longitudinal axis X, with the advantage of the compactness of the stacking unit 1.

Preferably, to ensure that the slats are positioned correctly in the magazine 10 by passing the plates 13, 14 defining the two storage areas, the height position of the retractable plates 13, 14 of the magazine is adjusted such that the distance between the work plane m and the level of the intermediate storage area 10a and the distance between the two storage areas 10a and 10b are smaller than the passage between the connection elements T1, T2 of the support structure in use, taking due account of the dimensional tolerances of the passage. In this way, since the uprights and therefore also the slats are raised in height for a section equal in average to the step, it is certain that the slats are capable of passing the loader's plates and are positioned correctly.

Similarly, the distance between the initial lifting device 51 'or 52' and the final lifting device 51 '' or 52 '' is defined in such a way as to ensure the correct positioning of the slats in the two storage areas 10a and 10b.

The operation stages of the stacker 1 in relation to the positioning of a semi-ladder support structure (figures 4 to 10) in accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures are briefly described below.

In figure 4, the stacking unit 1 is in the initial condition: the semi-ladder has been positioned and a first bar was placed on the work plane m and here associated with the eyelets T1, T2. The gripping elements 31,41 have already grabbed the uprights P1, P2 in an external position to the guides 21, 22. The uprights move towards

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above, by means of the gripping elements 31, 41 and, at the same time, the lifting means 50 that act directly on the slat are also actuated to take it to the temporary storage area 10a. The movement of the gripping elements 31, 41 and therefore also of the lifting means 50 stops when the eyelets that follow immediately have arrived in correspondence with the work plane. The adjustment on two sides is independent of each other and is performed by detecting the position of the eyelets with optical sensors arranged below the work plane m at a predefined distance from it (figure 5). At this point, once the buttonhole of each stile that is to be associated with the lath has been correctly positioned, both grip elements 31, 41 are brought back to the starting point, following the reverse path, but distanced from the respective uprights (figures 6 - 8). At this stage, the locking means of the uprights are operated to prevent them from losing their position in the absence of the gripping elements. The cycle resumes as already described, with the only difference that, in this case, the temporary storage area 10a contains a ribbon (figure 9) and this is transferred to the final storage area (figure 10) after the activation of the gripping elements and lifting means. Figure 11 illustrates the situation after a series of cycles, when several slats have accumulated in the final storage area 10b.

The method for positioning a support structure S in a slat stacking unit for Venetian blinds according to the invention will now be described.

This method is generally applicable to a support structure S provided with two uprights P1, P2 and a plurality of connecting elements T1, T2 to the slats, attached to the uprights and distributed along the longitudinal extension of these last. In this way, the structure can be, without distinction, ladder or semi-ladder.

According to a general embodiment, the method comprises the following operational stages:

a) providing a stacking unit 1 of slats L according to the invention and, in particular, as described above;

b) move the two uprights P1, P2 of the support structure S independently of one another, causing them to slide parallel to the direction of sliding Q incident in the work plane m;

c) detect the position of the connection element T1, T2 that is approaching the work plane m;

d) controlling the movement imposed on each post P1, P2 by means of movement 30, 40 based on the position detected in step c) to stop said movement when the connecting element T1, T2 of the respective post P1 is positioned, P2 exactly on the work plane m.

In particular, step c) of detecting the position of the connecting element T1, T2 that is approaching the work plane is performed by the sensors 32, 42 already described.

In particular, step d) of control of the movement imposed on each amount P1, P2 by means of movement 30, 40 can be carried out with the help of an electronic control unit that receives input signals from the sensors and is programmed to control and actuate the means 30, 40 already described responsible for moving the uprights.

The advantages of this method have already been described in relation to the stacking unit and, for simplicity of exposure, will not be explained again.

The invention allows to obtain many advantages in part already described.

The stacking unit 1 and the positioning method according to the invention allow the controlled positioning of a support structure for slats with respect to a plane for working the slats in such a way that the final position of the eyelets or traverses that are going to being associated with a ribbon is not affected, or not significantly, by the dimensional tolerances of the support structure and / or by any tension applied to the structure itself.

The stacking unit 1 according to the invention can operate without distinction in support structures of both the ladder type and the semi-ladder type, since it requires that the support structure be applied in correspondence with the uprights, that is, in correspondence with the components present in both types of structures.

The stacking unit 1 is manageable through a normal PLC that is equipped with a normal electronic control unit, already used in traditional units. Therefore, unit 1 is simple to manage. In fact, operationally, it only requires the management of a plurality of actuators in function of the signals derived from two sensors suitable for detecting the position of two different connection elements with respect to a predefined fixed reference, with simple joint operating cycles.

Stacking unit 1 is also simple and economical to produce since, with respect to traditional units, it requires only the addition of simple and economical mechanical components that will be built and / or found in the market.

Therefore, the invention thus conceived reaches the predefined purposes.

Obviously, it can even assume, in its practical realization, forms and configurations different from those illustrated above without going out for that reason of the present scope of protection.

10

In addition, all the details can be replaced by technically equivalent elements and the dimensions, shapes and materials used can be any according to the needs.

Claims (25)

5 10 fifteen twenty 25 30 35 40 Four. Five fifty 55 60 65 claims 1. - Unit for stacking slats in a support structure for the production of Venetian blinds, such support structure (S) being provided with two uprights (P1, P2) and a plurality of connecting elements (T1, T2) to the slats, attached to the uprights and distributed along the longitudinal extension of the latter, the unit comprising: - at least one guide element for a lath (L), which defines a work plane (m) in which the lath (L) slides supported along a longitudinal axis of motion (X), the lath being associated in said work plane (m) to connection elements (T1, T2) of a support structure (S) positioned in a positioning plane (p) incident in the work plane (m), with the two uprights positioned on two opposite sides of the longitudinal axis (X); characterized in that it comprises means (30, 40) for moving the two uprights of the support structure (S) independently of one another causing them to slide parallel to a sliding direction (Q) incident on the work plane (m), being controllable said movement means (30, 40) as to progressively position the connecting elements (T1, T2) of each upright exactly in the work plane (m). 2. - Stacking unit according to claim 1, wherein the moving means (30, 40) comprise at least two different releasable gripping elements (31, 41) movable parallel to said sliding direction (Q), independently one on the other, on opposite sides of said longitudinal axis of motion (X), in said positioning plane (p) so that each gripping element (31, 41) can be applied to an upright (P1, P2) of the structure of support. 3. - Stacking unit according to claim 2, wherein each gripping element (31,41) is functionally associated with at least one sensor (32, 42) suitable for detecting the position of the connection elements (T1, T2 ) of the respective uprights (P1, P2) in relation to the work plane (m), the movement of the gripping element (31,41) being controlled by said at least one sensor (32, 42). 4. - Stacking unit according to claim 3, wherein said at least one sensor (32, 42), preferably optical, is placed below the work plane (m) at a predefined distance, the gripping element being controlled (31, 41) such that, after the sensor detects the passage of a connecting element, the movement of the gripping element (31, 41) stops, after having covered another section equal to said predefined distance. 5. - Stacking unit according to one or more of claims 2 to 4, in which each grip element (31, 41) moves cyclically parallel to said sliding direction (Q), between an initial grip position and a final grip position, the grip element (31.41) being applied, in the forward movement from said initial grip position towards the final grip position, to the respective upright (P1, P2), while in the movement opposite return the grip element (31,41) does not apply to the upright. 6. - Stacking unit according to claim 5, wherein each gripping element (31, 41) is slidably associated with a guide bar (33, 43) extending parallel to the sliding direction (Q) . 7. - Stacking unit according to claim 5 or 6, wherein, in the return movement, each grip element (31,41) is far from the respective amount (P1, P2). 8. - Stacking unit according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the gripping element (31, 41) is slidably associated with the guide bar (33, 43) by means of a carriage (34, 44) , said gripping element being movably associated with the carriage in order to be able to move transversely with respect to the carriage and thus to the guide bar (33, 43) and thus be able to move away from the upright during the return movement. 9. - Stacking unit according to one or more of claims 5 to 8, comprising, for each upright (P1, P2), means for blocking the movement of said uprights, said locking means being disabled during the return movement of the grip element. 10. - Stacking unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising means (20) for positioning the support structure (S) in said positioning plane (p) incident in the work plane (m), with two uprights on two opposite sides of the longitudinal axis (X), said positioning means (20) comprising two guides (21, 22), spaced apart from each other to receive each of the two uprights (P1, P2) of the support structure (S), progressively arranged connecting elements (T1, T2) of the structure (S) in the free space between the two guides gradually as the support structure slides in the sliding direction (Q). 11. - Stacking unit according to claim 10, wherein each guide (21, 22) has a limited longitudinal extension in the direction of sliding (Q) and ends next to the work plane with an upper end (21 ', 22 '), 5 10 fifteen twenty 25 30 35 40 Four. Five fifty 55 60 65 preferably each grip element (31.41) is applied in the respective amount in a portion not covered by the guide (21,22) beyond the upper end (21 ', 22') above the work plane (m). 12. - Stacking unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising a magazine (10) in which the slats (L) are deposited, once associated with the support structure (S) with a movement in said direction of sliding (Q), imparting the movement means (30, 40) to the uprights (P1, P2) a movement consistent with that of the slats (L). 13. - Stacking unit according to claim 12, wherein the magazine (10) defines a storage compartment (10a, 10b) for slats positioned on the work plane (m), the stacking unit (1) comprising (50) to raise the slats from the work plane (m) to the storage compartment (10a). 14. - Stacking unit according to claim 13, wherein the storage compartment (10) is made of two first vertical support bars (11, 12), positioned on two opposite sides of the longitudinal axis of motion (X), the slats (L) being inserted between said two bars (11, 12) and supported by at least one pair of retractable brackets (13, 14) that are connected to said two bars and define a storage compartment. 15. - Stacking unit according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the slat storage compartment is divided into a temporary storage compartment (10a) and a final storage compartment (10b) made at different levels, with the temporary storage compartment (10a) at an intermediate level between the work plane (m) and the final storage compartment (10b), each of the two storage compartments (10a, 10b) being preferably defined by a pair of plates which are associated with the first two bars (11, 12) and are retractable within the respective bar when subjected to a push from below. 16. - Stacking unit according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the two vertical bars (11, 12) are positioned in a plane parallel to and different from the positioning plane (p) of the support structure (S). 17. - Stacking unit according to one or more of claims 13 to 16, wherein the lifting means (50) comprise first and second lifting elements (51, 52), movable parallel to said sliding direction (Q ) respectively on two opposite sides of said longitudinal axis of motion (X). 18. - Stacking unit according to claim 17, wherein the first and second lifting means (51, 52) are operatively independent from each other and are supported by two second guide bars (33, 43) which are arranged in a parallel plane and different from the positioning plane (p) of the support structure (S) on two opposite sides of the longitudinal axis of motion (X). 19. - Stacking unit according to claim 15 or 16 and claim 17 or 18, wherein the first and second lifting means (51, 52) comprise an initial lifting device (51 ', 52') suitable for raise a bar from the work plane (m) to the temporary storage compartment (10a) and a final lifting device (51``, 52 '') suitable for raising a bar from the temporary storage compartment (10a) to the storage compartment (10b). 20. - Stacking unit according to claim 19, wherein the initial lifting device (51 ', 52') and the final lifting device (51 '', 52 '') are slidably associated with the same second guide bar (33, 43) extending parallel to the sliding direction (Q). 21. - Stacking unit according to claim 20, wherein the initial lifting device (51 ', 52') is composed of a non-retractable plate while the final lifting device (51 '', 52 '') is composed of a retractable mensula inside the relative bar when it is subjected to a push from below. 22. - Stacking unit according to one or more of claims 19 to 21, wherein the initial lifting device (51 ', 52') and the final lifting device (51 '', 52 '') are kinematically integral between sf to ensure a mutually synchronized movement. 23. - Stacking unit according to one or more of claims 13 to 22, wherein the lifting means (50) of the slats (L) have a coordinated movement with the movement means (30, 40) of the uprights (P1, P2). 24. - Stacking units according to claim 23, wherein each releasable gripping element (31, 41) is kinematically integral with the initial lifting device (51 ', 52') and with the final lifting device (51 ' ', 52' ') operating on the same side, the gripping element (31,41) being preferably slidably associated with the same second guide bar (33, 43) as the two lifting devices. 25.- Method for positioning a support structure (S) in a unit for stacking slats of a Venetian blind, such support structure (S) being provided with two uprights (P1, P2) and a plurality of connecting elements (T1 , T2) to the slats, attached to the uprights and distributed along the longitudinal extension of the latter, the method comprising the following operational stages: 5 a) arranging a stacking unit (1) of slats (L) according to one or more of the preceding claims; b) move the two uprights (P1, P2) of the support structure (S) independently of one another, causing them to slide parallel to the sliding direction (Q) incident on the work plane (m); 10 c) detect the position of the connection element (T1, T2) that approximates the work plane (m); d) control the movement imposed on each upright (P1, P2) by the movement means (30, 40) based on the position detected in step c) to stop said movement when the connecting element (T1, 15 T2) of the respective amount (P1, P2) exactly in the work plane (m).