IT202100002513A1 - UNLOADING SYSTEM FOR BINDING STACKS WITH STACKING AREAS SEPARATE FROM TRANSIT AREAS - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

Technical field

The present invention relates to the bookbinding sector. Pi? specifically, this invention relates to the unloading of bookbinding articles in stacks.

Background

The background of the present invention? hereinafter introduced with the discussion of techniques related to its context. However, even when this discussion pertains to documents, deeds, artifacts and the like, it does not suggest or acknowledge that the techniques discussed are part of the prior art or are general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention.

The industrial production of books in corresponding bookbinding plants involves a series of operations which are carried out by corresponding bookbinding machines. For example, sewing machines (for bookbinding) sew together signatures in book blocks; the book blocks are then supplied to further bookbinding machines, which complete the production of the corresponding books, such as perfect binding machines (for bookbinding) which glue a sealing gauze and/or a soft cover to the book blocks.

The book blocks can be manually transferred between the different bookbinding machines, i.e. from stitching machines to perfect binding machines in this example. For this purpose, operators of the bookbinding plant unload the book blocks supplied by the sewing machines onto pallets, which are then transported to the perfect binding machines to be loaded therein.

Stacking machines, or simply stackers are available to facilitate the unloading of book blocks onto pallets. Each stacker stacks the book blocks supplied in succession by a corresponding stitching machine into stacks, so as to make more books available. easy for the operators to position them on the pallets. For this purpose, the stacker drops the book blocks one after the other into a stacking area, where they overlap each other; just a stack ? completed, it ? pushed from the stacking area onto a conveyor (unloading), such as a motorized roller conveyor, which conveys the stacks towards an unloading area of the same on the pallets.

In the case of bookbinding plants with more? sewing machines, pu? an (automatic) unloading system must be provided, which connects the corresponding stackers in sequence to each other to convey all the stacks towards a single unloading area of the same onto the pallets. In this case, a (transit) conveyor? connected between each pair of successive stackers in the sequence. For each stacker following the first in the sequence, a stop element ? arranged in the transit conveyor upstream of the stacker (just before the stacking area) to stop the stacks coming from the previous stacker while a (new) stack ? forming in the stacking area. Just such stack ? completed and free the stacking area, the stop element? disabled to allow the transit of a stack from the previous stacker through the stacking area.

However, any stoppage of the sewing machines (different from the one associated with the first stacker), as well as due to its configuration change, has repercussions on the entire unloading system. For example, if one of these sewing machines stop while a corresponding pile ? being formed in the stacking zone of the corresponding stacker, this stack blocks transit through the stacking zone. Thus, all stacks supplied by the stackers preceding in the sequence are stopped upstream of the stacker stacking zone of the stopped sewing machine. Consequently, once the transit conveyor downstream of each previous stacker is ? saturated, the corresponding sewing machine (previous) also stops.

There? it prevents the supply to the unloading area of the stacks of book blocks which could instead be supplied by the sewing machines preceding the stationary one, which are operating normally.

This situation can remain for a relatively long time, as long as? the sewing machine stops not ? restarted.

The above has a negative impact on the performance of the entire bookbinding plant, and therefore on the final cost of the corresponding books.

Furthermore, in bookbinding plants based on digital printing, books are generally produced in very small batches (limited to just one book). As a result, the needs have increased. to sort the book blocks of the different book production batches individually according to their type. However, in this case the exhaust system mentioned above ? not very efficient, as by conveying all the book blocks in the single unloading area it requires their subsequent separation.

Summary

A simplified summary of the present invention ? presented here in order to provide a basic understanding thereof; however, the sole purpose of this summary is to introduce some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to its following description more? detailed, isn't it ? to be interpreted as a? identification of its key elements n? as a delimitation of its scope.

In general terms, the present invention ? based on the idea of stacking bookbinding articles without interfering with their transit.

In particular, one aspect provides an unloading system for unloading bookbinding items in stacks. The unloading system comprises a sequence of stackers. Each stacker following the first comprises a stacking zone for stacking the bookbinding articles supplied by a corresponding bookbinding machine onto a transit zone of corresponding stacks thereby? not interfering with their transit.

A further feature provides a stacker for use in such a discharge system. A further aspect provides a bookbinding system including such an exhaust system.

A further aspect provides a corresponding method for collecting bookbinding articles in piles.

A further aspect provides a computer program (software) for implementing the method.

A further aspect provides a corresponding program product.

Pi? specifically, one or more aspects of the present invention are set forth in the independent claims and advantageous features thereof are set forth in the dependent claims, with the text of all claims ? incorporated herein by reference (with any beneficial features provided in respect of each specific aspect applying mutatis mutandis to every other aspect).

Brief description of the figures

The solution of the present invention, as well as further characteristics and advantages thereof, will be better understood with reference to the following detailed description, provided purely for indicative and non-limiting purposes, to be read in conjunction with the attached figures (in which, for simplicity?, corresponding elements are indicated with the same or similar references and their explanation is not repeated, and the name of each entity is generally used to denote both its type and its attributes, such as value, content, and representation). In this regard, ? expressly understood that the figures are not necessarily to scale (with some details that may be exaggerated and/or simplified) and that, unless otherwise indicated, they are simply used to conceptually illustrate the structures and procedures described herein. Furthermore, orientations and relative position references (such as upper, lower, lateral and so on) must be understood in relation to a condition of use of the corresponding entities. In particular:

FIG.1 shows an illustrative representation of a bookbinding plant in which the solution according to an embodiment of the present invention can be used,

FIG.2 shows an illustrative representation of a portion of an exhaust system of such a bookbinding plant in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,

FIG.3 shows a schematic representation of this portion of the exhaust system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, FIG.4 shows an illustrative representation of a bookbinding plant in which the solution in accordance with a further embodiment of the this invention can? be used,

FIG.5 shows an illustrative representation of a portion of an exhaust system of such a bookbinding plant in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,

FIG.6 shows a schematic representation of such a portion of the exhaust system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG.7A-FIG.7B show a flowchart related to an implementation of the solution according to an embodiment embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed description

With reference in particular to FIG. 1, ? shown is an illustrative representation of a bookbinding plant 100 in which the solution according to an embodiment of the present invention can be be used.

The 100 binding plant? used to produce books on an industrial level (or at least to perform some operations of the corresponding production process). For this purpose, the bookbinding plant 100 comprises the following components.

A plurality? of bookbinding machines I supply bookbinding items in succession. In the example in question, the bookbinding machines are three sewing machines (for bookbinding) 105a, 105b and 105c, which sew together blocks of signatures to form corresponding book blocks (not shown in the figure). In particular, the sewing machines 105a-105c are of the traditional type, that is, they open the signatures to be sewn already supplied ready (by folding a printed sheet one or more times); these sewing machines 105a-105c are typically used in the field of rotary printing (offset), in which books are produced in very large batches (for the production of books in large runs in an economic way). In this case, the signatures (the same for all the sewing machines 105a-105c) are supplied on pallets 110. An operator 115 takes the signatures from the pallets 110 and loads them into a collecting machine 120. The collecting machine 120 collects the signatures in succession from a series of its magazines (each loaded with signatures of the same type) in the blocks of signatures. A feed system 125 feeds the blocks of signatures to the sewing machines 105a-105c. An unloading system 130 unloads (automatically) the book blocks supplied by the sewing machines 105a-105c in piles (each formed by one or more book blocks). The exhaust system 130 comprises a plurality of stackers 135a, 135b and 135c corresponding to the sewing machines 105a, 105b and 105c, respectively (three in the example in question), which are connected in sequence to each other to convey the stacks towards a (common) unloading zone 140 (for example, near the harvesting machine 120 where the same operator 115 is located). For this purpose, a (transit) conveyor 145ab,145bc conveys the corresponding stacks between each pair of (previous) stacker 135a,135b and (next) stacker 135b,135c in the sequence. A conveyor (unloading) 145c conveys all the stacks from the last stacker 135c in the sequence to the unloading area 140. In the solution according to an embodiment of the invention, the stackers 135b, 135c (following the first) are configured for stack the book blocks without interfering with their transit (as detailed below); the first stacker 135a pu? be both standard and analogous to later stackers 135b,135c but used in a standard manner. In the unloading area 140, the operator 115 picks up the stacks supplied by the unloading system 130 and unloads them onto further pallets 150; the pallets 150 are then used to transport the book blocks to further bookbinding machines (not shown in the figure), which complete the production of the corresponding books (for example, perfect binding machines). Alternatively (not shown in the figure), the conveyor 145c conveys the stacks directly to such bookbinding machines. A corresponding control system 155a, 155b and 155c (for example, an industrial PC) controls each sewing machine 105a, 105b and 105c, respectively, and its stacker 135a, 135b and 135c, respectively. For example, each control system 155a-155c includes various units which are connected to each other via a bus structure (not shown in the figure), and in particular a microprocessor which provides the capacity? control system logic 155a-155c, a non-volatile memory (ROM) which contains basic code for starting the control system 155a-155c, a volatile memory (RAM) which is? used as working memory by the microprocessor, a mass memory for storing programs and data (for example, a solid state disk, SSD) and various controllers for corresponding peripherals, such as a control panel (for example, of the touch screen type , touch-screen) and a control module (driver) for removable memory devices (such as USB memory sticks).

Referring now to FIG. 2, ? shown is an illustrative representation of a portion of the exhaust system of such a bookbinding plant in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

In particular, the portion of the exhaust system ? relating to a generic subsequent stacker 135b, 135c.

A transit zone 205 ? provided for a (common) transit of the stacks formed by the stacker 135b, 135c or coming from the previous stackers in the sequence (not shown in the figure); in particular, the stacks transit through the transit zone 205 from one of its inputs 205i to one of its outputs 205o (aligned with each other), along a direction (of transit) indicated by the arrows in the figure. A (stacking) conveyor 210 conveys the book blocks supplied by the corresponding sewing machine (not shown in the figure) to a stacking area 215, where they are stacked in the corresponding stacks; the stacking area 215 ? arranged above the transit area 205, so as not to occupy it during the formation of the stacks and therefore allow the transit of any other stacks. For this purpose, the book blocks are dropped one on top of the other onto a support member, for example, a trap door 220, which is which can be opened to drop each stack from the stacking area 215 into the transit area 205. A condition detector 225 detects a condition of the stacking area 215, defined in accordance with the book blocks already? stacked at the moment. The conveyor 145ab,145bc ? connected to the input 205i to convey the stacks supplied by the previous stackers to the transit zone 205, along the same transit direction. A retaining element 230 ? used to stop the piles supplied by the conveyor 145ab, 145bc upstream of the transit zone 205 along the transit direction. A presence detector 235 detects the presence of each pile stopped by the stop element 230. The conveyor 145bc, 145c ? connected to the outlet 205o to convey the stacks along the same transit direction.

In the solution mentioned above, any stoppage of the sewing machines does not affect the rest of the exhaust system. In fact, if one of these sewing machines ? stop even while a corresponding pile ? in training in its stacker there? does not block transit through the corresponding transit zone.

Therefore, all stacks supplied by previous stackers in the sequence can continue to transit to the unloading area. Consequently, the stopped sewing machine does not impact in any way the sewing machines of the previous stackers which can continue to operate normally.

The above has a positive effect on the performance of the entire bookbinding plant, and therefore on the final cost of the corresponding books.

Referring now to FIG. 3, ? shown is a schematic representation of that portion of the exhaust system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

In the specific implementation of the figure, the transit zone 205 of the stacker 135a, 135b is defined by a (motorized) roller conveyor which transports the stacks therethrough, from the inlet 205i to the outlet 205o. The conveyor 210 supplies the book blocks coming from the sewing machine (not shown in the figure) to the stacking area 215, where they overlap each other on the trapdoor 220 (which book blocks, two in the figure, are indicated with the reference 305). The 225 condition detector ? implemented through a passage detector (for example, a photocell) which detects each book block 305 added to a (new) stack being formed and sends an addition signal to the corresponding control system (not shown in the figure), which updates by consequently a book block counter 305 of the stack being formed. The trap door 220 is located at a height from the transit area 205 greater than one thickness of the stacks, so as to allow their transit through the same (between the roller conveyor of the transit area 205 and the trap door 220). Normally, the 220 hatch? closed (as shown in solid line in the figure), so as to support the book blocks 305 which are stacked thereon during the formation of each stack; the trapdoor? open (as shown in the dotted line in the figure), so as to drop by force of gravity? the completed stack thereon (not shown in the figure) onto the transit zone roller conveyor 205. The conveyor 145ab, 145bc includes a roller conveyor (motorized) which pushes the stacks of book blocks supplied by the previous stackers (not shown in the figure). The stop 230 includes a retractable rake; when the rake ? raised above the roller table of the conveyor 145ab, 145bc it stops the stacks upstream of the transit area 205 (only one shown in the figure, indicated with the reference 310), while when the rake is ? lowered inside the roller table of the conveyor 145ab, 145bc it lets these piles 310 pass. The presence detector 235 comprises a sensor (for example, of the optical type), which is? intercepted by the stack 310, if any, stopped by the stop element 230. The conveyor 145bc, 145c also comprises a roller conveyor (motorized) which pushes the stacks towards the next stacker or the unloading area (not shown in the figure).

Referring now to FIG. 4, ? shown is an illustrative representation of a bookbinding plant 400 in which the solution according to a further embodiment of the present invention can be be used.

The bookbinding plant 400 differs from that of FIG.1 in that it comprises various sewing machines (three more in the example in question) 405a, 405a and 405c, which are now of the flat sheet type, i.e. which form the signatures to be sewn by folding corresponding (flat) sheets; these sewing machines 405a-405c are typically used in the field of digital printing, in which books are produced in batches of very small dimensions, at the limit of a single book (for production of books on request in a flexible way). In this case, the corresponding sheets (not shown in the figure) are supplied directly to each sewing machine 405a-405c individually (without a gathering machine and feed system) by one or more? operators (not shown in the figure). Furthermore, ? A different exhaust system 430 is provided. The exhaust system 430 comprises a plurality of? of several stackers 435a, 435b and 435c corresponding to the sewing machines 405a, 405b and 405c, respectively (three in the example in question), which are connected in sequence to each other to convey the stacks towards a plurality of unloading zones, for example, the same unloading zone 140 as above and another unloading zone 440 (opposite to the unloading zone 140 in this case). For this purpose, as above, the conveyors 145ab and 145bc convey the corresponding stacks between the pairs of stackers 435a-435b and 435b-435c, respectively, and the conveyor 145c conveys all the stacks from the stacker 435c to the unloading area 140. In addition , a further (unloading) conveyor 445a, 445b and 445c conveys the corresponding stacks from each stacker 435a, 435b and 435c, respectively, to a (collection) conveyor 445x, which conveys all these stacks to the unloading area 440. As above, in the unloading area 140, an operator (not shown in the figure) picks up the piles supplied by the conveyor 145c and unloads them onto the pallets 150; similarly, in the unloading area 440 the same operator or a further operator (not shown in the figure) picks up the stacks supplied by the conveyor 445x and unloads them onto (further) pallets 450. The pallets 150 and 450 are then used to transport the book blocks to various bookbinding machines (not shown in the figure), which complete the production of the corresponding books (for example, perfect binding machines and case-inserting machines, respectively). Alternatively (not shown in the figure), the conveyor 145c and/or the conveyor 445x directly convey the stacks to such bookbinding machines or one of them discharges them into a waste container. Each sewing machine 405a, 405b and 405c ? equipped as above with a control system 455a, 455b and 455c, respectively, which now controls the sewing machine 405a, 405b and 405c, respectively, its stacker 435a, 435b and 435c, respectively, and also the engagement of the corresponding conveyor 445a, 445b and 445c, respectively, on conveyor 445x.

Referring now to FIG. 5, ? shown is an illustrative representation of a portion of the exhaust system of such a bookbinding plant in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

In particular, the portion of the exhaust system ? relating to a generic stacker 435a, 435b, 435c (with the corresponding conveyor 145ab and 145bc which is present only in the case of the subsequent stacker 435b and 435c, respectively, while it is absent in the case of the first stacker 435a). The stacker 435a, 435b, 435c differs from that of FIG. 2 in that the transit area 205 has a further exit 505o, perpendicular to the exit 205o and to the entrance 205i. Furthermore, the transit zone 205 ? equipped with an exchange device for selectively sending the batteries (not shown in the figure) towards one of the two outputs 205o or 505o. The conveyor 445a,445b,445c ? connected to the outlet 505o to convey the corresponding piles along a direction (unloading) perpendicular to the transit direction of the conveyor 145ab, 145bc and the conveyor 145ab, 145bc, 145c, as indicated by the corresponding arrows in the figure.

Does this implementation add further flexibility? to the bookbinding plant. In particular, the proposed unloading system allows the books to be sorted directly, for example, for various subsequent processes; There? ? particularly useful (as in the field of digital printing) when books are produced in different types in very small batches.

Referring now to FIG. 6, ? shown is a schematic representation of that portion of the exhaust system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

In the specific implementation of the figure, the exchange device of the stacker 435a, 435b, 435c, indicated with the reference 605, is implemented through a series of (motorised) rollers which are interposed between the (motorised) rollers of the transit zone 205; the rollers of the exchange device 605 are oriented to act along the discharge direction of the conveyor 445a, 445b, 445c, perpendicularly to the transit direction of the conveyor 145ab, 145bc and of the conveyor 145ab, 145bc, 145c. The rollers of the switch device 605 are movable between a lowered condition and a raised condition. In the lowered condition (as shown in solid line in the figure), the rollers of the exchange device 605 are embedded in the rollers of the transit area 205, whereby they remain spaced from each stack 310 present therein; therefore, the rollers of the transit zone 205 push the stack 310 towards the conveyor 145ab, 145bc, 145c. In the raised condition (as shown in broken line in the figure), the rollers of the exchange device 605 protrude above the rollers of the transit area 205, thereby lifting each stack 310 present therein; therefore, the rollers of the exchange device 605 push the stack 310 towards the conveyor 445ab, 445bc, 445c.

A stop element 630 (for example, a similar retractable rake) ? used to stop stacks supplied by conveyor 445ab, 445bc, 445c upstream of conveyor 445x along the discharge direction. A presence detector 635 (for example, of the optical type) detects the presence of each stack stopped by the stop element 630. Similarly, a stop element 640 (for example, a similar retractable rake)? used to stop the piles supplied by the conveyor 445x upstream of the conveyor 445ab, 445bc, 445c along a direction (collection) towards the corresponding unloading zone (not shown in the figure). A presence detector 645 (for example, of the optical type) detects the presence of each pile stopped by the stop element 640.

Referring now to FIGS.7A-FIG.7B, ? shown is a flow chart relating to an implementation of the solution according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In particular, the diagram represents an exemplary process that can be used to unload the book blocks in stacks (in the corresponding portion of the unloading system relating to each stacker) with a method 700. Each block of the diagram can? correspond to one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logic function by a control program running on the control system of the corresponding sewing machine. For this purpose, the control program reads a configuration file, which contains configuration information of the sewing machine. In particular, this configuration information includes an indication of a speed? operating time of the sewing machine (for example, in terms of book blocks supplied per time unit), a size of the stacks (for example, in terms of the total number of book blocks) and a transit time of the stacks through the transit area , which configuration information is set by the operator via the control system touch-screen. The above software components (control program and configuration file) are typically stored on the mass memory and loaded (at least in part) into the control system working memory when the control program ? running (in addition to an operating system and any other application programs). The control program? initially installed on the mass memory, for example, from the unit? removable storage or from a network.

The process involves the continuous execution of a verification cycle. The cycle begins at block 703, where the control program detects the (current) condition of the stacker. The condition of the stacker ? defined by the number of book blocks stacked in it, as indicated by the corresponding counter (which is initialized to zero and incremented in response to each addition signal provided by the passage detector). The flow of activity? splits at block 706 in accordance with the stacker condition; for this purpose, the control program compares the book block counter with the size of the stacks (read from the configuration archive). If the book block counter ? equal to the size of the batteries, there? means that a stack ? completed in the stacker. In this case, the control program differs in block 709 according to the typology of the transit zone. If the transit area has only one exit, blocks 712-715 are executed, while if the transit area has two exits, blocks 718-730 are executed. Considering now block 712 (single output), the control program actuates the trap door to drop the stack into the transit area (opening the support element and then closing it to receive the book blocks of a subsequent stack); as a result, the control program resets the book block counter. In this way, at the block 715 the roller table of the transit area transports the stack until it reaches the transit conveyor of the next stacker or the unloading conveyor. On the other hand, considering block 718 (two outputs), the control program selects the output to which to send the pile present in the stacker. This selection can be performed according to various criteria, for example, according to the type of book blocks supplied by the sewing machine (as read from a barcode present on them via a corresponding reader upstream of the stacking area or set by the operator via the touchscreen of the sewing machine control system at the beginning of each processing batch), according to a quality indicator? of the book blocks of the stack (for example, determined by one or more? corresponding sensors) and so? Street; in this way, ? You can use different outputs for different types of book blocks (for example, different sizes, for soft or hardcover books, and the like), for book blocks that undergo different post-processing (for example, single book blocks to be sent directly to further bookbinding machines and stacks of multiple book blocks to be unloaded onto pallets), for acceptable or discarded book blocks, and so on? Street. Also in this case, the control program at block 721 actuates the trap door to drop the stack into the transit zone and resets the book block counter. The flow of activity? then divides at block 724 in accordance with the selected output. If the? Selected output ? along the transit direction, as above in block 727, the roller conveyor of the transit area transports the stack until it reaches the transit conveyor of the next stacker or the unloading conveyor. If, on the other hand, the? selected output ? perpendicular to the direction of transit, the control program at block 730 actuates the switching device to divert the stack transversely (by raising its rollers above the rollers of the transit area), so? to transport the stack until it reaches the corresponding (additional) discharge conveyor.

The process then continues to block 733 from block 715 or from block 730; the same point? also reached directly from block 706 if the book block counter ? (strictly) smaller than the size of the stacks, meaning that a stack is still forming in the stacker (or is it empty). At this point, the control program checks if a stack is ? present on the transit conveyor, stop upstream of the entrance to the transit area (as indicated by the corresponding presence detector). The flow of activity? it splits at block 736 in accordance with the outcome of this check. If so, the control program at block 739 checks an operating condition (current) of the sewing machine (for example, by interrogating it about it). The flow of activity? further divides at block 742 in accordance with the result of this verification. If the sewing machine responds to the control program that ? running, the control program at block 745 calculates a completion time which ? provided as a minimum to complete the stack in formation in the stacking area. The completion time? given by:

where Tc ? the completion time, Dp ? the size of the piles, Cb ? the book block counter (and therefore Dp-Cb ? the number of book blocks missing to complete the stack) and Vm ? the speed? operating mode of the sewing machine (read from the configuration archive). In this way, the completion time indicates the time required to complete the stack if the sewing machine continues to operate normally. The control program at block 748 compares the transit time (Tt) of the stacks through the transit zone (extracted from the configuration file) with the time for completion Tc of the stack being formed in the stacking zone. The flow of activity? splits at block 751 in accordance with the outcome of this comparison. If the transit time ? (strictly) less than the completion time, i.e., Tt<Tc, the process continues at block 754. The same point? also reached directly from block 742 if the sewing machine responds to the control program which ? stops (or does not respond within a maximum time, such as 0.1-1.0s), so it is not ? able at the moment to complete the forming stack in the stacking area. In both cases, there? does it mean that the pile present on the transit conveyor can? transit through the transit zone before the stack being formed in the stacking zone is completed. At this point, as above, the control program differs according to the type of transit area. If the transit zone has only one exit, blocks 757-760 are executed, while if the transit zone has two exits, blocks 763-775 are executed. Considering now block 757 (single output), the control program commands the stop element of the transit conveyor to let the pile stopped behind it pass (lowering the rack into the roller conveyor and raising it as soon as the pile has passed, so to stop any other stacks queued to it). In this way, at the block 760 the roller table of the transit area transports the stack until it reaches the transit conveyor of the next stacker or the unloading conveyor. On the other hand, considering block 763 (two outputs), the control program selects the output to which to send the pile present on the transit conveyor. This selection can be performed on the basis of various criteria similar to the above, for example, according to the type of book blocks supplied by the previous sewing machines (as read from a barcode present on the same through a corresponding reader upstream of the stop element or set by the operator via the touch-screen of the corresponding control systems at the beginning of each processing batch), according to a quality indicator? of the book blocks of the stack (for example, determined by one or more? corresponding sensors) and so? Street. Again, the control program at block 766 commands the stop member of the transit conveyor to let the stack stopped behind it pass. The flow of activity? then divides at block 769 according to the selected output. As above, if the selected output ? along the transit direction, at block 772 the transit area roller conveyor transports the stack until it reaches the transit conveyor of the next stacker or the unloading conveyor. If, on the other hand, the? selected output ? perpendicular to the direction of transit, the control program in block 775 actuates the exchange device to divert the pile transversally, so as to transport it until it reaches the corresponding (further) unloading conveyor.

Consequently, in the transit area of each stacker ? given priority? to the stacks formed in the corresponding stacking zone (since they are dropped into the transit zone as soon as possible after their completion). The stacks supplied by the previous stackers are instead allowed to pass towards the transit zone only when they can transit through it before the stack being formed in the stacking zone is completed, so what? it has no impact on its functioning and therefore on that of the corresponding sewing machine.

The process then continues to block 778 from block 760 or from block 775; the same point? also reached directly from block 736 if no stack ? present on the transit conveyor stop upstream from the entrance to the transit area or from block 751 if the transit time is ? equal to or greater than the completion time, that is, Tt?Tc. At this point, the control program differs again according to the type of transit area. If the transit zone has only one exit, the process returns to block 703 to repeat the same operations continuously. If, on the other hand, the transit area has two exits, the control program at block 781 checks whether a pile ? present on the unloading conveyor, stopped upstream of the collection conveyor (as indicated by the corresponding presence detector). The flow of activity? it splits at block 784 in accordance with the outcome of this check. In the affirmative case, the control program at block 787 commands the stop element of the unloading conveyor to let the stack stopped behind it pass (lowering the rack into the roller table and raising it as soon as the stack has passed, so as to stop any other stacks appended to it); in this way, the unloading conveyor transports the stack until it reaches the collection conveyor. The process then continues at block 790; the same point? also reached directly from block 784 if no stack ? present on the unloading conveyor stopped upstream of the collection conveyor. Similarly, the control program now checks if a stack is ? present on the collection conveyor, stopped upstream of the unloading conveyor (as indicated by the corresponding presence detector). The flow of activity? it splits at block 793 in accordance with the outcome of this check. In the affirmative case, the control program at block 796 commands the stop element of the collection conveyor to let the stack stopped behind it pass (lowering the rack onto the roller and raising it as soon as the stack has passed, so as to stop any other stacks appended to it); in this way, the collection conveyor transports the pile along it. The process returns to block 703 from block 796 (after the time required for the stack to pass the unloading conveyor) or directly from block 796 (if no stack is present on the collection conveyor stopped upstream of the unloading conveyor) to repeat the same operations over and over again.

Changes

Naturally, in order to satisfy contingent and specific needs, a person expert in the field can make numerous logical and/or physical modifications and variations to the present invention. Pi? Specifically, although this invention has been described in some detail with reference to one or more its embodiments, it is understood that various omissions, substitutions and changes in form and details so? as other embodiments are possible. In particular, different embodiments of the present invention can be put into practice even without the specific details (such as the numerical values) disclosed in the previous description to provide their more complete understanding; conversely, well-known features may have been omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the description with unnecessary detail. Furthermore, ? It is expressly understood that specific elements and/or method steps described in relation to each embodiment of the present invention may be incorporated into any other embodiment as a normal design choice. Furthermore, elements presented in the same group and different embodiments, examples or alternatives should not be interpreted as de facto equivalent to each other (but are separate and autonomous entities). In any case, any numerical value should be read as modified in accordance with applicable tolerances; in particular, unless otherwise indicated, the terms "substantially", "approximately" "approximately" and the like are to be understood as within 10%, preferably 5% and even more? preferably 1%. Furthermore, any range of numeric values should be understood as expressly specifying any possible number along the continuum within the range (including its endpoints). Are ordinal or other qualifiers merely used as labels to distinguish elements of the same name but do not connote per se? themselves no priority, precedence or order. The terms include, comprise, have, contain, entail and the like should be understood to have an open meaning and not exhaustive (i.e., not limited to the recited elements), the terms based on, dependent on, in accordance with, according to, according to and the like should be understood with a non-exclusive relationship (that is, with any additional variables involved), the term one/one should be understood as one or more? elements (unless expressly stated otherwise), and the term means for (or any functional formulation) should be understood as any structure suitable or configured to perform the relevant function.

For example, one embodiment provides a discharge system for discharging bookbinding items in stacks (each comprising one or more of the bookbinding items). However, each pile can? include any number of binding items (limited to just one) of any type (for example, book blocks, signatures, sheets, and so on).

In one embodiment, the exhaust system comprises a sequence of a plurality of of stackers for stacking the bookbinding articles supplied by corresponding bookbinding machines into corresponding stacks. However, stackers can be of any number for use with bookbinding machines of any type (see below), and can stack bookbinding items in any way (e.g., by dropping, pushing, picking/placing, etc.). via the binding articles one on top of the other).

In one embodiment, each successive of the stackers (other than a first of the stackers in the sequence) comprises a transit area for a transit of corresponding stacks. However, the transit area pu? be of any type (for example, roller conveyor, belt, belt and so on) for the transit of the piles in any way (for example, in a single direction, two or more directions, a single direction or both directions along every direction, and so on). Furthermore, this transit area can be implemented with a dedicated component of the stacker or simply with a corresponding portion of a conveyor common to all stackers.

In one embodiment, each successive stacker comprises a zone for stacking the corresponding binding articles into corresponding stacks disposed above the in-use transit zone thereby not interfering with the transit of the batteries. However, the stacking area can? be arranged in any position above the transit area (for example, at any height, in the center or on the side, and so on), with the first stacker that can? have the stacking area in the same location or in another location (even directly in the transit area).

In one embodiment, each successive stacker comprises a support member which is can be opened to drop each of the corresponding stacks from the stacking area into the transit area. However, this result can be obtained in any way (for example, through a trap door, a moving grate, and so on).

In one embodiment, each successive stacker comprises a condition detector for detecting a condition of the stacking area. However, the condition of the stacking area may be defined in any way (for example, by the number of binding items already stacked, the height of the stack in formation, and so on) and can? be detected in any way (for example, by detecting the passage of the bookbinding articles through an optical, mechanical or similar sensor, by measuring the height of the pile being formed through a mechanical, optical or similar sensor, by calculating the number of bookbinding articles in the stack forming in accordance with the operating speed of the bookbinding machine and so on).

In one embodiment, the exhaust system further comprises corresponding one or more? transit conveyors for successive stackers, each for conveying corresponding stacks from a previous one of the stackers in the sequence to the transit area of the corresponding next stacker. However, each transit conveyor pu? convey the stacks in any way (for example, by roller conveyor, belt, carpet and so on).

In one embodiment, the exhaust system further comprises corresponding one or more? stop elements for the transit conveyors, each to stop the corresponding stacks on the corresponding transit conveyor upstream of the corresponding transit zone. However, the piles can be stopped in any way (for example, by means of a mechanical element that prevents the advancement of the piles, such as a rake, peg and so on, an electric command that stops the conveyor, and so on) in any location upstream of the transit zone (e.g. directly before, at any distance, etc.).

In one embodiment, the exhaust system further comprises corresponding one or more? presence detectors for the stop elements, each for detecting a presence of the corresponding stacks stopped by the corresponding stop element. However, the presence of the batteries pu? be defined in any way (for example, only by that stop directly, by the total number of stacks stopped and so? on) and pu? be detected in any way (for example, directly by a sensor of any type such as optical, mechanical and the like, indirectly based on a previous operation of the stacker and the time required for the stacks to transit along the transit conveyor, and so on? ).

In one embodiment, the unloading system further comprises an unloading conveyor for conveying stacks from one last of the stackers in the sequence to a stack unloading zone. However, the exhaust conveyor pu? be of any type (both the same and different from the transit conveyors) and pu? convey the piles to an unloading area of any type (for example, for unloading the piles on pallets, for their direct transport to other bookbinding machines and so on).

In one embodiment, the exhaust system further comprises a control system. However, the control system pu? be of any type (for example, a computer, a microcontroller and the like of each bookbinding machine, of each stacker or unique to the entire unloading system, and so on).

In one embodiment, for each of the successive stackers the control system is configured to control the support element and the stop element in accordance with the condition of the stacking area, the presence of the corresponding stacks and a speed? current operation of the corresponding bookbinding machine. However, the control system pu? perform this operation in any way (for example, with different priorities, techniques to avoid critical blocks (deadlock) and/or individual blocks (starvation), and so on) in accordance with any definition of the condition of the stacking zone and the presence of the batteries (see above) and the speed? current operating speed of the binding machine (e.g., set operating speed and condition indicator, measured operating speed, set/measured operating speed defined by number of binding items supplied per time unit, frequency of operation, etc. ? Street).

Further embodiments provide additional advantageous features, which however can be omitted altogether in a basic implementation.

In one embodiment, for each of the successive stackers the control system is configured to cause a completion of each of the corresponding stacks in the stacking area. However, the completion of the stack can? be determined in any way (for example, when the number of binding items reaches the size of the stacks, when the stack height reaches its value, and so on).

In one embodiment, for each of the successive stackers the control system is configured to open the support member in response to the completion of each corresponding stack. However, this operation can? be performed in any way (for example, synchronously during corresponding verification cycles, asynchronously in response to corresponding signals, and so on).

In one embodiment, for each of the successive stackers the control system is configured to calculate a completion time of each of the corresponding stacks being formed in the stacking zone according to the condition of the stacking zone, a size of the corresponding stacks and the speed? current operation of the corresponding bookbinding machine. However, the completion time can? be calculated in any way (for example, based on the number of missing binding items, based on the missing height and size of the binding items, etc.).

In one embodiment, for each of the successive stackers the control system is configured to control the stop element in accordance with the completion time and with a transit time for the transit area of the corresponding stacks. However, this operation can? be performed in any way (for example, during corresponding verification cycles, continuously until? the completion time remains less than the transit time, both synchronously by interrogating the presence detector and asynchronously in response to the arrival of each stack to the stop element, and so on).

In one embodiment, for each of the successive stackers the control system is configured to control the detent to let through each of the corresponding stacks stopped by the detent in response to its presence and transit time less than the completion time. However, the stopped stacks can be passed in any way (for example, only one or all possible ones for each verification cycle, and so on).

In one embodiment, at least one or more? multiple stackers of the stackers comprises an outlet and a further outlet of the transit area (the outlet being connected to the discharge conveyor in the case of the last stacker or to the transit conveyor of the corresponding subsequent stacker otherwise). However, the two outputs can be arranged in any way (for example, with the output aligned and the further output perpendicular to the input, vice-versa, and so on); moreover, the?further output pu? be provided in all stackers, only in part of them or even in none.

In one embodiment, each multiple stacker comprises an exchange device for selectively sending the corresponding stacks to the output or further output. However, the exchange device pu? be of any type (e.g. motorized retractable roller based, push rake, turntable, etc.).

In one embodiment, the exhaust system comprises one or more? corresponding further unloading conveyors connected to the further output of the multiple stackers to convey corresponding stacks towards at least one further unloading area. However, the further unloading conveyors can be of any number (according to the multiple conveyors) and of any type (both the same and different with respect to the other conveyors); moreover, each further discharge conveyor can? be used to convey the corresponding stacks to any further unloading area (e.g. one area common to all stackers via a collection conveyor, different areas for groups of stackers via corresponding collection conveyors, corresponding different areas for stackers and so on).

In one embodiment, for each of the multiple stackers the control system is configured to control the switching device according to a type of each of the corresponding stacks. However, this operation can? be performed according to any type of stacks (for example, partial, different and/or additional to those mentioned above).

In one embodiment, the unloading system comprises a collection conveyor for conveying the corresponding stacks from the further unloading conveyors to the further unloading area. However, the collection conveyor can? be of any type (both the same and different from the other conveyors) or can? also be completely absent.

In one embodiment, the exhaust system comprises corresponding one or more? first further stop elements for the further unloading conveyors, each for stopping corresponding piles on the corresponding further unloading conveyor upstream of the collection conveyor. However, the first additional stoppers may be of any type (either the same or different from the stoppers) to stop the stacks at any location upstream of the collection conveyor (e.g., directly before, at any distance, and so on). ? Street).

In one embodiment, the exhaust system comprises corresponding one or more? second further stop members for the further unloading conveyors, each for stopping corresponding stacks on the collection conveyor upstream of the corresponding further unloading conveyor. However, the second further stop members may be of any type (either the same or different from the other stop members) to stop the stacks at any position upstream of the corresponding further discharge conveyor (e.g., directly before, at any distance and so on).

In one embodiment, the exhaust system comprises corresponding one or more? first further presence detectors for the first further retaining elements, each for detecting a first further presence of the corresponding stacks held by the corresponding first further retaining element. However, the first further presence detectors may be of any type to detect any first further presence of the stacks (either the same or different from the presence detectors). In one embodiment, the exhaust system comprises corresponding one or more? second further presence detectors for the second further stop elements, each for detecting a second further presence of the corresponding stacks stopped by the corresponding second further stop element. However, the second further presence detectors may be of any type to detect any second further presence of the cells (either the same or different from the other presence detectors).

In one embodiment, for each of the multiple stackers the control system is configured to control the first further detent and the second further detent in accordance with the first further presence and the second further presence of the corresponding stacks. However, this operation can? be performed in any way (for example, with a rotating policy, with different priorities both fixed and variable according to the type of piles, and so on).

In one embodiment, bookbinding machines are sewing machines. However, the sewing machines can be of any type (for example, of the traditional type and/or with flat sheets in both rotary and digital printing, which sew blocks of signatures with or without inserts, and so on).

In one embodiment, the binding items are book blocks each comprising a plurality of books. of signatures sewn together. However, book blocks can be of any type (for example, each formed by any number of signatures, which are open and/or formed by flat sheets in the bookbinding machine, and so on).

One embodiment provides a stacker for use in such an offloading system (wherein the stacker includes the transit zone, the stacking zone, the support member and the condition detector). However, the stacker can? also be marketed as a product on its own? standing.

One embodiment provides a bookbinding plant, which includes the above discharge system and bookbinding machines for delivering the corresponding bookbinding articles. However, the binding plant can? be of any type (for example, used in the field of rotary and/or digital printing, with any additional bookbinding machines upstream of the bookbinding machines, such as printers, folding machines, gathering machines and the like, and/or downstream of the unloading, such as perfect binding machines, trilateral trimming machines, boxing machines and the like, even none); moreover, the bookbinding machines can be in any number and of any type (for example, sewing machines, folding machines, perfect binding machines and so on).

In general, similar considerations apply if the unloading system, the stacker and the bookbinding plant each have a different structure, include equivalent components or have other operating characteristics. In any case, any of its components can? be separated into more elements, or two or more? components can be combined into a single element; moreover, each component pu? be replicated to support the execution of the corresponding operations in parallel. Also, unless otherwise noted, any interactions between different components generally need not be continuous, and can be continuous. be both direct and indirect through one or more? intermediaries.

One embodiment provides a method for discharging bookbinding items in stacks in the above discharging system. In one embodiment, the method comprises sensing the condition of the stacking zone of each successive stacker by the corresponding condition detector. In one embodiment, the method comprises detecting the presence of the corresponding stacks stopped by each stop element by means of the corresponding presence detector. In one embodiment, the method comprises controlling, for each successive stacker, the support element and the stopper element in accordance with the condition of the stacking zone, the presence of the corresponding stacks and the speed of the stacking. current operation of the corresponding bookbinding machine via the control system. However, the method pu? be performed in any way (with the same considerations above regarding the components of the exhaust system applying mutatis mutandis to the corresponding steps of the method).

In general, similar considerations apply if the same solution ? implemented with an equivalent method (using similar steps with the same functions of multiple steps or their portions, removing some non-essential steps or adding further optional steps); moreover, the steps can be performed in different order, in parallel or overlapping (at least partially).

One embodiment provides a computer program configured to cause the control system to perform the above method when the computer program performed on the control system. One embodiment provides a computer program product that includes one or more programs. computer readable storage media having program instructions collectively stored on the storage media, the instructions being readable by the control system to cause the control system to perform the same method. However, the program pu? be implemented as a module s? stand-alone, as an additional program (plug-in) for a pre-existing program (for example, a control program for each bookbinding machine) or even directly in the latter. In any case, similar considerations apply if the program ? structured differently, or if additional modules or functions are planned; similarly, memory structures can be of other types, or can be replaced with entities? equivalent (not necessarily consisting of physical storage media). The program can assume any form suitable to be used by the control system, with the ci? configuring the control system to perform the desired operations; in particular, the program pu? be in the form of external or resident software, firmware or micro-code (whether in object code or source code, for example, to be compiled or interpreted). Furthermore, ? You may provide the program on any computer-readable storage medium; the storage medium? any tangible support (other than transient signals per se?) that can? maintain and memorize instructions for use by the control system. For example, the storage medium can? be electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared or semiconductor; examples of such storage media are hard disks (where the program can be preloaded), removable disks, memory sticks (for example, USB) and the like. The program can be downloaded to the control system from the storage medium or via a network (e.g., the Internet, a wide area network and/or a local area network including transmission cables, optical fibers, wireless connections, network devices); a network adapter (or more) of the control system receives the program from the network and forwards it for storage in one or more? control system storage devices. In any case, the solution according to an embodiment of the present invention also lends itself to being implemented with a hardware structure (for example, through electronic circuits integrated in one or more chips of semiconductor material), or with a combination of suitably programmed or otherwise configured software and hardware.

Claims (10)

1. A discharging system (130;430) for discharging bookbinding items (305) into stacks (310) each comprising one or more stacks (310); of binding articles (305), whose unloading system (130;430) comprises: a sequence of a plurality? of stackers (135a-135c; 435a-435c) for stacking bookbinding items supplied by corresponding bookbinding machines (105a-105c; 405a-405c) into corresponding stacks (310), each successive of the stackers (135b-135c; 435b- 435c) other than a first of the stackers (145a;435a) in the sequence comprising: a transit zone (205) for a transit of corresponding stacks (310), a stacking zone (215) of the corresponding binding items (305) in the corresponding stacks (310) arranged above the transit zone (205) in d ?use with what? not interfering with the transit of the batteries (310), a support element (220) that can be opened to drop each of the corresponding stacks (310) from the stacking area (215) into the transit area (205), and a condition detector (225) for detecting a condition of the stacking area (215), and wherein the exhaust system (130;430) further comprises: corresponding one or more? transit conveyors (145ab-145bc) to successive stackers (135b-135c; 435b-435c), each to convey corresponding stacks (310) from a previous one of the stackers (135a-135b; 435a-435b) in sequence to the transit zone (205) of the corresponding later stacker (135b-135c; 435b-435c), corresponding one or more? stop elements (230) for the transit conveyors (145ab-145bc), each to stop the corresponding stacks (310) on the corresponding transit conveyor (145ab-145bc) upstream of the corresponding transit area (205), corresponding one or more? presence detectors (235) for the stop elements (230), each to detect a presence of the corresponding stacks (310) stopped by the corresponding stop element (230), an unloading conveyor (145c) for conveying the stacks (310) from one last of the stackers (135c;435c) in the sequence to an unloading area (140) of the stacks (310), and a control system (155b-155c; 455b-455c), for each of the successive stackers (135b-135c; 435b-435c) the control system (155b-155c; 455b-455c) being configured to control the support element (220) and the stop element (230) in accordance with the condition of the stacking zone (215), the presence of the corresponding stacks (310) and a speed? current operation of the corresponding bookbinding machine (105b-105c;405a-405c). 2. The unloading system (130;430) according to claim 1, wherein for each of the successive stackers (135b-135c;435b-435c) the control system (155b-155c;455b-455c) ? configured to cause a completion of each of the corresponding stacks (310) in the stacking area (215) and to open the support member (220) in response to the completion of each corresponding stack (310). 3. The unloading system (130;430) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein for each of the successive stackers (135b-135c;435b-435c) the control system (155b-155c;455b-455c) ? configured to calculate a completion time of each of the corresponding stacks (310) being formed in the stacking area (215) in accordance with the condition of the stacking area (215), a size of the corresponding stacks (310), and the speed? operating current of the corresponding bookbinding machine (105b-105c;105a-105c), and ? configured to control the stopper (230) in accordance with the completion time and a transit time for the transit area (205) of the corresponding stacks (310). 4. The unloading system (130;430) according to claim 3, wherein for each of the successive stackers (135b-135c;435b-435c) the control system (155b-155c;455b-455c) ? configured to control the stopper (230) to let through each of the corresponding stacks (310) stopped by the stopper (230) in response to its presence and transit time less than the completion time. 5. The exhaust system (430) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein one or more? multiple stackers of the stackers (435a-435c) comprises an outlet (205o) and a further outlet (505o) of the transit area (205), the outlet (205o) being connected to the discharge conveyor (145c) in the case of the ?last stacker (435c) or to the transit conveyor (145ab,145bc) of the corresponding next stacker (435b,435c) otherwise, and an exchange device (605) for selectively sending the corresponding stacks (310) to the output (205o) or to the further outlet (505o), and wherein the exhaust system (430) comprises one or more? corresponding further unloading conveyors (445a-445c) connected to the further outlet (505o) of the multiple stackers (435a-435c) to convey corresponding stacks (310) towards at least one further unloading area (440), for each of the multiple stackers (435a-435c) the control system (455a-455c) being configured to control the exchange device (605) in accordance with a type of each of the corresponding stacks (310). The unloading system (430) according to claim 5, wherein the unloading system (430) comprises a collection conveyor (445x) for conveying the corresponding stacks (310) from the further unloading conveyors (445a-445c) to the ?additional unloading area (440), corresponding to one or more? first further stop elements (630) for the further discharge conveyors (445a-445c), each to stop corresponding piles (310) on the corresponding further discharge conveyor (445a-445c) upstream of the collection conveyor (445x), corresponding one or more second further stop elements (640) for the further unloading conveyors (445a-445c), each to stop corresponding piles (310) on the collection conveyor (445x) upstream of the corresponding further unloading conveyor (445a-445c), corresponding one or more first further presence detectors (635) for the first further stop elements (630), each to detect a first further presence of the corresponding stacks (310) stopped by the corresponding first further stop element (630), and corresponding one or more? second further presence detectors (645) for the second further stop elements (640), each to detect a second further presence of the corresponding stacks (310) stopped by the corresponding second further stop element (640), for each of the multiple stackers ( 435a-435c) the control system (455a-455c) being configured to control the first further stop member (630) and the second further stop member (640) in accordance with the first further presence and the second further presence of the corresponding stacks (310). The unloading system (130;430) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the bookbinding machines (105b-105c;405a-405c) are sewing machines, the bookbinding items (305) being book blocks each comprising a plurality? of signatures sewn together. 8. A stacker (135b-135c;435b-435c) for use in the discharge system (130;430) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the stacker (135b-135c;435b-435c) comprises the transit area (205), the stacking area (215), the support element (220) and the condition detector (225). A bookbinding plant (100;400) comprising the discharge system (130;430) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and the bookbinding machines (105b-105c;405b-405c) for supplying the corresponding articles bookbinding (305). A method (700) for discharging bookbinding items (305) in stacks (310) into the discharging system (130;430) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the method (700) comprises: detect (703) the condition of the stacking area (215) of each successive stacker (135b-135c;435b-435c) by the corresponding condition detector (225), detecting (733) the presence of the corresponding stacks (310) stopped by each stop element (320) by means of the corresponding presence detector (235), and checking (706-730,736-775), for each subsequent stacker (135b-135c; 435b-435c), the support element (220) and the stop element (230) according to the condition of the stacking area, the presence of the corresponding stacks (310) and the speed? current operation of the corresponding bookbinding machine (105b-105c;405b-405c) via the control system (155b-155c;455b-455c).