JP2008120489A - Signature conveyance path switching structure and folding machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a folding machine having a plurality of conveyance paths and capable of reducing the number of sections requiring high precision in delivery when delivering a signature while delivering the signatures into a plurality of conveyance paths even if a plurality of signatures are overlapped. <P>SOLUTION: A deceleration cylinder 5 is provided with a first signature clamping device 20A and a second signature clamping device 20B. The first and second signature clamping devices 20A, 20B open the signatures held at a position in a first paper delivery path and a position in a second paper delivery path by a first cam 24X. A second cam 24Y makes a part of functions of the first cam 24 invalid to prevent the signature held by the second signature clamping device 20B at the position in the first paper delivery path from being opened when the number of overlapped signatures becomes two. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a signature transport path switching structure and a folding machine in a folding machine that folds a printed sheet.

  A printing machine that prints on continuous paper such as a rotary printing machine includes a folding machine that cuts the continuous paper after printing into a predetermined dimension and folds the continuous paper into a predetermined dimension. For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a sheet-like material conveyance path switching device applied to such a folding machine. The sheet-form conveyance path switching device includes a holding cylinder that holds a signature (a folded piece of paper that has been cut) delivered from a folding cylinder, and a first and a second that receive the signature from the holding cylinder. When the second conveying cylinder and the signature are overlapped, there are provided switching means for operating or not operating the holding means at the contact position between the folding cylinder and the holding cylinder. In this sheet-like material conveyance path switching device, the first and second conveyance cylinders are speed reduction cylinders, and are the last cylinders arranged in the conveyance path of the signature.

JP 2002-60128 A paragraph number 0012, FIG.

  In the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, signatures can be discharged from the first and second transport cylinders to two transport paths. In the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, signatures that are alternately folded into two transport paths can be discharged. However, when a plurality of signatures are stacked, the signatures can be discharged only to one transport path.

  Since the peripheral speed of the reduction cylinder is lower than the peripheral speed of the holding cylinder, the delivery of signatures from the holding cylinder to the reduction cylinder tends to be unstable. For this reason, in order to reliably deliver the signature from the holding cylinder to the reduction cylinder, high delivery accuracy is required, and high-precision adjustment is required. In the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, the number of speed reduction cylinders for receiving signatures from the holding cylinder is required for the number of conveyance paths, and thus the adjustment becomes complicated. Moreover, since the speed reduction drum is expensive, the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 causes an increase in the cost of the folding machine.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above, and in a folding machine having a plurality of conveyance paths, even when a plurality of signatures are stacked, the signatures are discharged to a plurality of conveyance paths, It is an object of the present invention to provide a signature transport path switching structure and a folding machine that can reduce places where high delivery accuracy is required when delivering a signature.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention receives a signature that has been printed and cut into a predetermined size and then folded into a predetermined shape, and the signature is fed into a first paper discharge path. Alternatively, a signature sorting unit that sorts and discharges the paper to the second paper discharge path, and is attached to the signature distribution unit, receives the signature at a predetermined receiving position, and reaches the first paper discharge path to the first paper discharge path. The first signature holding means for holding the signature and the signature sorting means, the signature is received at a predetermined receiving position, and either the first delivery path or the second delivery path is received. The first signature holding means for holding the signature to one side, the first signature holding means and the second signature holding means are opened at the position of the first paper discharge path. The signature opening portion and at least the second signature holding means are connected to the second paper discharge path. A second signature opening portion that opens at the position of the first signature opening portion, and stops the opening function of the first signature opening portion with respect to the second signature holding means in accordance with the number of stacked signatures. And a sorting destination switching means.

  This signature transport path switching structure includes a first signature holding means and a second signature holding means in a speed reduction drum that is a signature sorting means. The first signature holding means and the second signature holding means are opened at the position of the first paper discharge path, and at least the second signature holding means is the second. A second signature opening portion that is opened at the position of the sheet discharge path, and the opening function of the first signature opening portion with respect to the second signature holding means is stopped according to the number of signatures stacked. . As a result, a single reduction cylinder, which is the signature sorting means, can be used, so that it is possible to reduce the places where high delivery accuracy is required when delivering the signature. At the same time, in a folding machine having a plurality of conveyance paths, the signatures can be discharged to a plurality of conveyance paths even when a plurality of signatures are stacked.

  Further, like the signature transport path switching structure according to the present invention described below, the signature distribution destination switching means includes the first signature holding means and the second signature holding means as the first signature holding means. A first cam having an operating portion formed so as to be opened at a position of the paper discharge path and a position of the second paper discharge path; and the second signature holding means at the position of the first paper discharge path. And a second cam formed so as to maintain the state in which the signature is held.

  In addition, as in the signature transport path switching structure according to the present invention, the signature distribution destination switching means is configured so that the number of stacked signatures is one with respect to the second signature holding means. When the opening function of the first signature opening portion is made effective and the number of stacked signatures is plural, the opening function of the first signature opening portion with respect to the second signature holding means is set. It is preferable to configure to stop.

  Further, like the signature transport path switching structure according to the present invention, the signature released from the first signature holding means and the second signature holding means is transferred to the first discharge path. A first discharge mode that leads to the first discharge mode, and the signature released from the first signature holding means is guided to the first paper discharge path and released from the second signature holding means. There is provided a signature sorting guide capable of switching between a second discharge mode for guiding the signature to the second discharge path, and the first discharge mode and the second discharge mode are selected according to the number of stacked signatures. It is preferable to switch the discharge mode.

  Further, like the signature transport path switching structure according to the present invention, the signature released from the first signature holding means and the second signature holding means is transferred to the first paper discharge. A first rotating cam formed with an operating portion for operating the signature sorting guide to guide the path, and the second signature holding means holding the signature while holding the signature. A second rotating cam for operating the signature sorting guide to guide the signature held by the second signature holding means to the second paper discharge path when passing the position; You may make it have.

  In addition, as in the signature transport path switching structure according to the present invention, an operation unit that operates the signature sorting guide to guide the signature to the first paper discharge path; and A rotating cam formed with an operating portion for operating the signature sorting guide to be guided to the second paper discharge path, and changing the number of rotations of the rotating cam according to the number of overlapping signatures. You may comprise.

  Further, as in the signature transport path switching structure according to the present invention, when the number of signatures is one, the first discharge mode is set, and the number of signatures is plural. In this case, the second discharge mode is preferable.

  Further, the folding machine according to the present invention includes a folding cylinder that folds a printed signature that has been cut into a predetermined dimension into a predetermined dimension, a holding cylinder that receives the signature from the folding cylinder, and the signature. A signature path from the gripping cylinder to the first delivery path or the second delivery path by the signature delivery path switching structure. .

  Since this folding machine includes the signature transport path switching structure, a single reduction cylinder, which is a signature sorting means, is sufficient. As a result, it is possible to reduce places where high delivery accuracy is required when delivering signatures. At the same time, in a folding machine having a plurality of conveyance paths, the signatures can be discharged to a plurality of conveyance paths even when a plurality of signatures are stacked.

  The signature transport path switching structure and the folding machine according to the present invention is a folding machine having a plurality of transport paths, and even when a plurality of signatures are stacked, the signature is discharged to the plurality of transport paths. It is possible to reduce the places where high delivery accuracy is required when delivering.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited by the best mode for carrying out the invention (hereinafter referred to as an embodiment). In addition, constituent elements in the following embodiments include those that can be easily assumed by those skilled in the art, or substantially the same, so-called equivalent ranges.

  This embodiment is characterized by the following points. In other words, the folding machine includes a first signature holding means and a second signature holding means on a speed reduction cylinder which is a signature sorting means. The first signature holding means and the second signature holding means are opened at the position of the first paper discharge path, and at least the second signature holding means is the second signature holding means. A second signature opening portion that opens at the position of the sheet discharge path is provided, and the opening function of the first signature opening portion with respect to the second signature holding means is stopped according to the number of signatures stacked.

  FIG. 1-1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a folding machine according to the present embodiment. FIG. 1-2 is a schematic diagram for explaining the number of signatures to be stacked. The folding machine 1 is an apparatus that cuts the continuous paper W on which a predetermined image is printed by the printing machine 40 into a predetermined dimension and folds the continuous paper W into a predetermined dimension. The continuous paper W on which an image is printed by the printing machine 40 is hung on a guide needle 2N provided on the outer peripheral portion of the folding cylinder 2 and guided between the folding cylinder 2 and the saw cylinder 3 of the folding machine 1 and sawed. The sheet 3 is cut into a predetermined size by the cylinder 3 to form a sheet S0. The sheet S0 is folded between the folding cylinder 2 and the holding cylinder 4. Here, the sheet S0 cut and folded to a predetermined dimension is called a signature S. The signature S is held by a gripper claw 4N provided on the gripper drum 4 and conveyed to a reduction drum 5 which is a signature sorting means.

  When there is one sheet S0 hung on the guide needle 2N of the folding cylinder 2, the signature S is a single sheet as shown in FIG. When a plurality of sheets S0 hung on the guide needle 2N of the folding cylinder 2 are stacked (two sheets in the present embodiment), the signature S is a plurality of stacked sheets shown in FIG. 1-2 (two sheets in the present embodiment). It becomes. When a plurality of (for example, two) sheets S0 are hung on the guide needle 2N of the folding cylinder 2 to form a plurality of stacked signatures S, the continuous paper W is cut into a predetermined size by the saw cylinder 3 and the first sheet is cut. After the sheet S <b> 0, it passes through the holding cylinder 4 without making a signature S with the holding cylinder 4. Then, the continuous paper W is further hung on the first sheet S0 hung on the guide needle 2N of the folding cylinder 2 and drawn to a predetermined size, and the continuous paper W is cut by the saw cylinder 3. As a result, the two sheets S0 are overlaid. In this state, when the two sheets S0 are folded between the folding cylinder 2 and the holding cylinder 4, a two-layer signature S (see FIG. 1-2) can be obtained. Thus, if the said procedure is repeated according to the number of the signatures to pile up, it can be set as the signature S of several sheets.

  The signature S is delivered to the speed reduction drum 5 in a folded state. The reduction cylinder 5 is provided with a signature gripping claw 5N that constitutes a signature holding means. By holding the signature S with the signature gripping claw 5N, the signature is transferred from the gripping cylinder 4 to the reduction cylinder 5. S is delivered. Here, the speed reduction drum 5 rotates at a peripheral speed slower than the peripheral speed of the holding cylinder 4.

  The decelerating cylinder 5 distributes the signature S received from the holding cylinder 4 to the first discharge path 7J and the second discharge path 7K. When the signature S is distributed to the first paper discharge path 7J, the signature distribution guide 11 is moved in the direction of the arrow G2 (the signature distribution guide 11 is moved in the direction of the reduction drum 5). When the decelerating drum 5 rotates in this state, the signature S is guided by the signature sorting guide 11 to the first transport device 12J provided in the first paper discharge path 7J. When the holding of the signature S by the gripper nail 5N is released at the position of the first conveying device 12J, the signature S is delivered to the first conveying device 12J.

  When the signature S is distributed to the second paper discharge path 7K, the signature distribution guide 11 is moved in the direction of the arrow G1 (the signature distribution guide 11 is moved away from the speed reduction drum 5). When the reduction drum 5 rotates in this state, the signature S is conveyed toward the guide drum 6 through the signature sorting guide 11 and the reduction drum 5. Then, the signature S is held by a guide cylinder signature gripping claw 6N provided on the guide cylinder 6 and transferred from the reduction cylinder 5 to the guide cylinder 6. The signature S delivered to the guide cylinder 6 is released from holding by the guide cylinder signature gripper 6N at the position of the second transport device 12K provided in the second paper discharge path 7K, and the second transport device 12K. It is handed over to. In this way, the signature S is distributed to the first paper discharge path 7J and the second paper discharge path 7K.

  The signatures S distributed to the first paper discharge path 7J and the second paper discharge path 7K are respectively transferred to the first paper discharge impeller 9J and the second paper discharge by the first transfer device 12J and the second transfer device 12K. The paper is sent to the paper impeller 9K and temporarily stored, and then stored in the first stacker 10J and the second stacker 10K which are stacking devices. In the folding machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the first chopper folding device 8J and the second chopper folding device 8K are provided in the first paper discharge path 7J and the second paper discharge path 7K, respectively. The signature S folded by the trunk 2 is further folded. In addition, what is necessary is just to provide the 1st chopper folding apparatus 8J and the 2nd chopper folding apparatus 8K as needed.

  FIG. 2 is an explanatory view showing the arrangement of signature clamps on the reduction drum. FIGS. 3A and 3B are explanatory diagrams illustrating the configuration of the signature holding means included in the folding machine according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the reduction cylinder 5 has a total of four signature holding means (first signature clamping device) toward the circumferential direction of the reduction cylinder 5 with a central angle of 90 degrees. 20A, a second signature clamping device 20B, a third signature clamping device 20C, and a fourth signature clamping device 20D). Here, the first signature clamping device 20A corresponds to the first signature holding means, the second signature clamping device 20B corresponds to the second signature holding means, and the third signature clamping device 20C is the first signature holding device. 3, the fourth signature clamping device 20D corresponds to the fourth signature holding means.

  In the following description, the first signature clamping device 20A, the second signature clamping device 20B, the third signature clamping device 20C, and the fourth signature clamping device 20D are referred to as signature clamping devices as necessary. FIG. 3A shows the first signature clamp device 20A and the second signature clamp device 20B among the four signature clamp devices. Next, the configuration and operation of the signature clamping device (first and second signature clamping devices 20A and 20B) will be described with reference to FIGS.

  The signature clamping device is provided with a plurality of signature holding claws 5 </ b> N along the axial direction of the shaft 21. A crank 22 is attached to one end of the shaft 21. When the crank 22 is swung around the shaft 21, the claws 5N are opened and closed. When the signature holder claw 5N is closed, the signature S is sandwiched between the signature holder claw 5N and the reduction drum 5. When the signature gripping claw 5N is opened, the signature gripping claw 5N leaves the decelerating drum 5 and thus the signature S is opened. A structure for realizing this operation will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. In FIG. 3, the first signature clamping device 20A is taken as an example, but the basic configuration of the second to fourth signature clamping devices 20B to 20D is the same as that of the first signature clamping device 20A.

  In the first signature clamp device 20A, a cam follower (in this example, the first cam follower) is operated at the end of the crank 22 on the side opposite to the end to which the shaft 21 is attached. 23X) is attached. When the speed reduction drum 5 rotates, the first signature clamp device 20 </ b> A and the like attached thereto rotate with the speed reduction drum 5. Since the first cam follower 23X of the first signature clamping device 20A moves while in contact with the outer periphery of the first cam 24X during the rotation of the speed reduction drum 5, the first cam follower 23X follows the shape of the outer periphery of the first cam 24X. Will move.

  On the outer periphery of the first cam 24X, a recess is formed as the cam operating portion 24XR. Since the first cam 24X is substantially circular, the first cam follower 23X does not swing around the shaft 21 in a portion other than the cam operating unit 24XR. In this state, the signature holder claw 5N is in a closed state, and the signature S is sandwiched between the signature holder claw 5N and the reduction drum 5. When the first cam follower 23X comes to the position of the cam operating unit 24XR, the first cam follower 23X moves toward the inside of the first cam 24X. Then, the crank 22 to which the first cam follower 22 is attached swings around the shaft 21 toward the inside of the first cam 24X, that is, toward the inside of the reduction drum 5. As a result, the crank 22 swings around the shaft 21, so that the signature gripping claw 5N is opened and the signature S is released from the signature gripping claw 5N.

  The operation of the second signature clamping device 20B is the same as the operation of the first signature clamping device 20A described above, but the second signature clamping device 20A is adapted to the signature S in accordance with the number of signatures S stacked. Is switched to the first discharge path 7J or the second discharge path 7K. In the present embodiment, a cam (second cam 24Y) for this purpose is provided, and the second signature clamp device 20B is configured so that the second cam follower 23Y contacting the second cam 24Y is coaxial with the first cam follower 23X. I have.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in the present embodiment, the first signature clamp device 20 </ b> A and the second signature clamp device 20 </ b> B are opposed to each other, that is, provided at a central angle of 180 degrees. In the present embodiment, the first signature clamping device 20A and the second signature clamping device 20B are opposed to each other, that is, provided at a central angle of 180 degrees. And the 3rd signature clamp apparatus 20C and the 4th signature clamp apparatus 20D are provided facing (namely, the position of 180 degree | times with a central angle).

  The third signature clamp device 20C and the fourth signature clamp device 20D discharge the signature S only to the second discharge path 7K (see FIG. 1). Further, the first signature clamping device 20A ejects the signature S only to the first delivery path 7J. On the other hand, the second signature clamping device 20B is configured to be able to eject signatures S in both the first delivery path 7J and the second delivery path 7K. Accordingly, the sheet is discharged to either the first discharge path 7J or the second discharge path 7K.

  In the present embodiment, when the signature S is single, that is, when the number of the signatures S is one, the second signature clamp device 20B moves the signature S to the first paper discharge path 7J. Eject paper. When there are two signatures S, that is, when the number of signatures S is two, the second signature clamping device 20B has two sheets stacked on the second paper discharge path 7J. A signature transport path switching structure in which the signature S is discharged is adopted. Next, this signature conveyance path switching structure will be described. In the following description, please refer to FIG. 1 as appropriate.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the first and second signature clamping devices. FIGS. 5A to 5C are operation explanatory diagrams illustrating the operation of the signature sorting mechanism included in the folding machine according to the present embodiment. In the signature transport path switching structure according to the present embodiment, the signature sorting mechanism 24, which is a signature sorting destination switching means, includes a first cam 24X and a second cam 24Y. The first cam 24 </ b> X and the second cam 24 </ b> Y constituting the signature sorting mechanism 24 are disposed so as to be stationary with respect to the rotating reduction drum 5. The second cam 24Y is configured to be rotatable about the signature sorting mechanism axis Z (in the present embodiment, the same as the rotation axis Z of the reduction drum 5) by an actuator 28 which is a signature sorting mechanism operating means. The In this way, remote control and automatic control are possible by using the actuator 28.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the 1st cam follower 23X with which the 1st and 2nd signature clamp apparatus 20A and 20B are provided is in contact with the outer periphery of the 1st cam 24X. As shown in FIG. 5A, the outer periphery of the first cam 24X is provided with recesses at a plurality of locations (three locations in the present embodiment) in the circumferential direction. These become the 1st operation part 24X1, the 2nd operation part 24X2, and the 3rd operation part 24X3, respectively, and operate the 1st cam follower 23X with which the 1st and 2nd signature clamp devices 20A and 20B are provided, respectively. The first cam 24X has a substantially circular shape, and an arc having a radius r1 is formed between the portions where the first operating unit 24X1, the second operating unit 24X2, and the third operating unit 24X3 are formed.

  The first operation unit 24X1 is provided so that the signature clamping device (first and second signature clamping devices 20A and 20B) receives the signature S from the holding cylinder 4 (see FIG. 1). When the first cam follower 23X passes through the first operation unit 24X1, the signature gripping claws 5N of the first and second signature clamping devices 20A and 20B are opened and closed as described with reference to FIG. 3-2. At this time, the signature S is held by the gripper 5N, and the signature clamp device receives the signature S from the gripper cylinder 4.

  The second operation part 24X2 (corresponding to the first signature opening part in the claims) and the third operation part 24X3 (corresponding to the second signature opening part in the claims) are both folded. It is provided in order to release the signature S from the Ding clamp device. The second operation unit 24X2 is provided for the first and second signature clamping devices 20A and 20B to release the holding of the signature S and eject the signature S to the first ejection path 7J. When the first cam follower 23X passes through the second operating portion 24X2, the signature gripping claws 5N of the first and second signature clamping devices 20A, 20B are opened. At this time, the signature S is the signature gripping claw 5N. The signature S is discharged to the first discharge path 7J. The third operation unit 24X3 is provided so that the second signature clamp device 20B releases the signature S and discharges the signature S to the second delivery path 7K. When the first cam follower 23X passes through the third operation unit 24X3, the signature holder claw 5N of the second signature clamp device 20B is opened. At this time, the signature S is released from the signature holder claw 5N, The signature S is discharged to the second paper discharge path 7K.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the outer periphery of the second cam 24Y provided in the signature sorting mechanism 24 according to the present embodiment is in contact with the second cam follower 23Y provided in the second signature clamp device 20B. The second cam 24Y has a substantially sector shape including an arc having a radius r2, and the radius r2 of the arc portion of the second cam 24Y is equal to the radius r1 of the arc portion of the first cam 24X. For this reason, even if the second cam follower 23Y passes the outer periphery of the second cam 24Y, the second cam follower 23Y does not swing around the shaft 21. As a result, the signature holder claw 5N of the second signature clamp device 20B remains closed, and the signature S held by the signature holder claw 5N of the second signature clamp device 20B maintains the state as it is. . That is, the second cam 24Y is formed so as to maintain the state in which the second signature clamp device 20B holds the signature S at the position of the first paper discharge path 7J.

  In the present embodiment, when the number of signatures S is one, the discharge destination of the second signature clamp device 20B is the first discharge path 7J. When the discharge destination of the second signature clamp apparatus 20B is the first discharge path 7J, the second signature clamp apparatus 20B may be operated by the first cam 24X. That is, the actuator 28 arranges the second cam 24Y on the arc portion of the first cam 24X, and the first operating portion 24X1 and the second operating portion 24X1 formed on the first cam 24X with respect to the second signature clamping device 20B. All of the operating unit 24X2 and the third operating unit 24X3 are caused to function.

  Since the discharge destination of the first signature clamp device 20A is always the first discharge route 7J, the first signature clamp device 20A operates only the first cam follower 23X by the first cam 24X. Thus, all of the first operation unit 24X1, the second operation unit 24X2, and the third operation unit 24X3 formed on the first cam 24X are always functioned with respect to the first signature clamping device 20A. With the above configuration, when the number of signatures S is one, the first and second signature clamping devices 20A and 20B receive the signature S by the first operation unit 24X1 and fold it by the second operation unit 24X2. The holding of the signature S is released, and the signature S is discharged to the first paper discharge path 7J. In the third operating part 24X3, the signature gripping claws 5N of the first and second signature clamping devices 20A and 20B are opened, but at this time, the first and second signature clamping devices 20A and 20B are signatures. Since the signature S is discharged to the first discharge path 7J, there is no influence.

  When the number of signatures S is two, the discharge destination of the second signature clamp device 20B is the second discharge path 7K. When the second signature clamping device 20B is at the second delivery path 7K, the signature S is received from the gripper cylinder 4 when the second signature clamping device 20B is operated only by the first cam 24X. The operation and the operation of discharging the signature S to the second discharge path 7K can be realized. However, in this case, the first paper discharge path 7J exists in front of the second paper discharge path 7K (front of the speed reduction drum 5 in the rotation direction). For this reason, the second signature clamping device 20B uses the second operation unit 24X2 provided in front of the third operation unit 24X3 to discharge the signature S in the second delivery path 7K before the first signature S is discharged. The signature S is discharged through the paper discharge path 7J.

  In order to avoid this, as shown in FIG. 5B, the actuator 28 rotates the second cam 24Y toward the second operation portion 24X2 (in the direction of arrow E in FIG. 5B), and the second cam 24Y is moved to the second position. It arrange | positions to the 2nd operation | movement part 24X2 of 1 cam 24X. The second cam 24Y does not need to be operated by the actuator 28. When necessary, that is, when the signature S is discharged to a plurality of discharge paths when a plurality of signatures S are stacked, You may make it attach the 2nd cam 24Y to the position of the 1st action | operation part 24X1. In this way, the space and cost for providing the actuator 28 for driving the second cam 24Y can be reduced.

  As a result, for the second signature clamping device 20B, the function of the second operation unit 24X2 formed on the first cam 24X is stopped, and only the first operation unit 24X1 and the third operation unit 24X3 function. Let That is, when the first cam follower 23X of the second signature clamp device 20B passes through the second operating portion 24X2 of the first cam 24X, the second cam follower that contacts the second cam 24Y disposed in the second operating portion 24X2. 23Y (provided coaxially with the first cam follower 23X) stops the operation of opening the signature gripper 5N of the second signature clamp device 20B. As a result, the second signature clamping device 20B holding the two-fold signature S can pass the position of the first paper discharge path 7J while maintaining the state.

  When the speed reduction drum 5 further rotates and the second signature clamping device 20B holding the two-fold signature S reaches the position of the first paper discharge path 7J, the third operating portion 24X3 of the first cam 24X. Since the second cam 24Y does not exist, the third operating portion 24X3 of the first cam 24X functions with respect to the second signature clamp device 20B. Accordingly, both the first and second cam followers 23X and 23Y of the second signature clamp device 20B swing around the shaft 21 toward the inside of the first cam 24X. As a result, the second signature clamp device 20B can eject the signature S by opening the signature gripper 5N in the second delivery path 7K.

  In this way, by operating the second cam 24Y according to the number of signatures S to be stacked, a part of the function of the first cam 24X with respect to the second signature clamp device 20B is stopped, and the signatures S are stacked. The paper discharge destination of the second signature clamp device 20B is changed according to the number of sheets. As a result, not only when the number of signatures S is one, but also when the number of signatures S is increased (two in this embodiment), the first paper discharge path 7J and the second discharge are the same. Both paper paths 7K can be used. This suppresses an increase in the frequency of use of the conveyance device (for example, the first conveyance device 12J, see FIG. 1) provided in one paper discharge path, and equalizes both conveyance devices provided in both paper discharge paths. Can be used for As a result, it is possible to make the degree of wear of both the conveying devices approximately the same.

  In the present embodiment, since both the paper discharge paths are used, the stacking devices (first stacker 10J, second stacker 10K, see FIG. 1) provided in the respective paper discharge paths can be used. As a result, the frequency of collecting signatures from the stacking device can be reduced. Further, when the chopper folding device is used, the paper discharge path of one of both paper discharges is used, so that the interval between the signatures S sent to the chopper folding device can be made longer than when only one path is used. . As a result, there is a margin in the folding speed of the chopper folding device. Further, since the interval between the signatures S sent to the discharge impeller (the first discharge impeller 9J, the second discharge impeller 9K, see FIG. 1) can be increased, the signature S is discharged. There is also a margin in the timing of collection with the impeller. As described above, in the present embodiment, since both the paper discharge paths are used, there is room for processing after the signature S is discharged to the paper discharge path. Is reduced, and a decrease in durability of these devices can be suppressed.

  Next, operations of the third signature clamp device 20C and the fourth signature clamp device 20D (see FIG. 2) will be described. The third signature clamp device 20C and the fourth signature clamp device 20D discharge the signature S only to the second discharge path 7K. For this reason, the 3rd signature clamp apparatus 20C and the 4th signature clamp apparatus 20D are operated using the 3rd cam 25X shown to FIGS. 5-3.

  As shown in FIG. 5C, the outer periphery of the third cam 25X is provided with recesses at a plurality of locations (two locations in the present embodiment) in the circumferential direction. These become the 1st operation part 25X1 and the 2nd operation part 25X2, respectively, and operate the 3rd and 4th signature clamp devices 20C and 20D. The first operation unit 25X1 is provided for the third and fourth signature clamping devices 20C and 20D to receive the signature S from the gripper cylinder 4 (see FIG. 1). When the third and fourth signature clamping devices 20C and 20D pass through the first operation unit 25X1, as described with reference to FIG. 3-2, the third and fourth signature clamping devices 20C and 20D Since the signature holder 5N opens and closes, the signature holder S is held by the signature holder 5N at this time, and the third and fourth signature clamp devices 20C and 20D receive the signature S from the holder cylinder 4.

  The second operation unit 25X2 is provided to release the signature S from the third and fourth signature clamping devices 20C and 20D. The second operation unit 25X2 is provided for the third and fourth signature clamping devices 20C and 20D to release the signature S and discharge the signature S to the second delivery path 7K. When the third and fourth signature clamping devices 20C and 20D pass through the second operating portion 25X2, the signature gripping claws 5N of the third and fourth signature clamping devices 20C and 20D are opened. The signature S is released from the signature holder 5N, and the signature S is discharged to the second discharge path 7K. Next, the operation of the signature sorting guide 11 (see FIG. 1) will be described.

  FIGS. 6A and 6B are explanatory diagrams illustrating the operation of the signature sorting guide included in the folding machine according to the present embodiment. 6-3 is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the signature distribution guide with which the folding machine based on this embodiment is provided. The signature sorting guide 11 is configured to be swingable about the signature sorting guide support shaft 11S, and sorts the signature S into the first discharge path side EX1 and the second discharge path side EX2. . An arm 14 that swings the signature sorting guide 11 is attached to the signature sorting guide 11. One end of the arm 14 is attached to the signature sorting guide 11, and a cam follower 13 is attached to the other end.

  As shown in FIG. 6-3, the cam follower 13 has a first cam follower 13X and a second cam follower 13Y attached coaxially. The first cam follower 13X is in contact with a first rotating cam (hereinafter referred to as a first cam) 30 and the second cam follower 13Y is in contact with a second rotating cam (hereinafter referred to as a second rotating cam) 31. In addition, the 1st rotation cam 30 and the 2nd rotation cam 31 are attached coaxially, and synchronize with the reduction drum 5 (with the same rotation speed).

  When the signature S is discharged to the first discharge path 7J (see FIG. 1), the signature sorting guide 11 is moved in the direction of arrow G2 (the direction in which the signature sorting guide 11 approaches the speed reduction drum 5). As a result, the signature S is guided to the first discharge path side EX1 through the side opposite to the side where the signature sorting guide 11 faces the speed reduction drum 5. On the other hand, when the signature S is discharged to the second discharge path 7K (see FIG. 1), the signature sorting guide 11 is moved in the direction of the arrow G1 (the direction in which the signature sorting guide 11 is separated from the speed reduction drum 5). . As a result, the signature S passes between the signature sorting guide 11 and the speed reduction drum 5 and is guided to the second discharge path side EX2.

  In the present embodiment, the signature S released from the first signature clamping device 20A as the first signature holding means and the second signature clamping device 20B as the second signature holding means is used as the first signature clamping device 20A. There is a first discharge mode leading to the sheet discharge path 7J. The first discharge mode is a discharge mode when the number of signatures S is one. Further, the signature S released from the first signature clamp device 20A is guided to the first paper discharge path 7J, and the signature S released from the second signature clamp device 20B is guided to the second paper discharge path. There is a second discharge mode leading to 7K. The second paper discharge mode is a paper discharge mode when there are a plurality of signatures S (two in this embodiment). The signature sorting guide 11 according to the present embodiment can switch between the first paper discharge mode and the second paper discharge mode.

  In the present embodiment, the signature sorting guide 11 is operated by the first and second rotating cams 30 and 31 via the cam follower 13 and the arm 14. The first rotating cam 30 is formed with a plurality of recesses along the outer periphery, and the respective recesses become the first operating unit 30_1 and the third operating unit 30_3. The first operation unit 30_1 and the third operation unit 30_3 are disposed to face each other (that is, the angle with respect to the cam shaft Zc is shifted by 180 degrees).

  Further, a second operation unit 30_2 and a fourth operation unit 30_4 are provided between the first operation unit 30_1 and the third operation unit 30_3. The second operation unit 30_2 and the fourth operation unit 30_4 are convex portions with respect to the first operation unit 30_1 and the third operation unit 30_3 that are formed by recesses. Similar to the first operation unit 30_1 and the third operation unit 30_3, the second operation unit 30_2 and the fourth operation unit 30_4 are disposed to face each other (that is, the angle with respect to the cam axis Zc is shifted by 180 degrees). ).

  When the cam follower 13 comes to the position of the first operating part 30_1 and the third operating part 30_3 of the first rotating cam 30, the cam follower 13 moves toward the cam shaft Zc of the first rotating cam 30 (arrow in FIG. 6A). F2 direction). Then, the signature sorting guide 11 moves toward the speed reduction drum 5 (in the direction of arrow G2 in FIG. 6A), so that the signature S is guided to the first discharge path side EX1.

  Further, when the cam follower 13 comes to the positions of the second operating portion 30_2 and the fourth operating portion 30_4 of the first rotating cam 30, the cam follower 13 moves in a direction away from the cam shaft Zc of the first rotating cam 30 (FIG. 6). 1 arrow F1 direction). Then, the signature sorting guide 11 moves in a direction away from the speed reduction drum 5 (in the direction of arrow G1 in FIG. 6A), so that the signature S is guided to the second discharge path side EX2.

  When the number of signatures S is one, the first and second signature clamping devices 20A and 20B (see FIGS. 2 and 3-1) are both the first paper discharge path 7J (see FIG. 1). The signature S is discharged (first discharge mode). For this reason, the signature sorting guide 11 moves toward the reduction drum 5 at the timing when the first signature clamping device 20A and the second signature clamping device 20B open the signature S. Both the third and fourth signature clamping devices 20C and 20D (FIG. 2) discharge the signature S to the second discharge path 7K (see FIG. 1). For this reason, the signature sorting guide 11 moves in a direction away from the reduction drum 5 at the timing when the second signature clamp device 20C and the fourth signature clamp device 20D open the signature S.

  As shown in FIG. 2, since the first signature clamping device 20A and the second signature clamping device 20B are shifted by 180 degrees at the central angle, the signature sorting guide 11 rotates the reduction drum 5 by 180 degrees. What is necessary is just to move toward the deceleration cylinder 5 every time. As described above, the first rotary cam 30 rotates in synchronism with the speed reduction drum 5 (at the same rotational speed), so the first signature clamp device 20A and the second signature clamp device 20B open the signature S. The cam follower 13 may be positioned at the positions of the first operating unit 30_1 and the third operating unit 30_3 of the first rotating cam 30 in accordance with the timing of the operation.

  When the number of stacked signatures S is two, the first signature clamping device 20A ejects the signature S to the first delivery path 7J (see FIG. 1), and the second signature clamping device 20B Then, the signature S is discharged to the second discharge path 7K (see FIG. 1) (second discharge mode). When the signature sorting guide 11 is operated in the same way as when the number of signatures S is two, the timing at which the second signature clamp device 20B ejects the signature S to the second delivery path 7K. However, the signature sorting guide 11 moves so as to eject the signature S to the first delivery path 7J (in the direction of arrow G2 in FIG. 6A).

  For this reason, in the present embodiment, the second rotating cam 31 of the first rotating cam 30 has the radius r2 of the arc portion equal to the radius r1 of the second and fourth operating portions 30_2 and 30_4 of the first rotating cam 30. The function of the third operation unit 30_3 of the first rotary cam 30 is stopped by overlapping the third operation unit 30_3 (see FIG. 6-2). The second rotating cam 31 may be automatically overlapped with the third operation unit 30_3 of the first rotating cam 30 by using an actuator or the like as a driving unit. In this way, the movement of the second rotating cam 31 and the actuator 28 (see FIG. 4) that drives the second cam 24Y constituting the signature sorting mechanism 24 are linked to automatically control the switching of the discharge path. Can be realized. Note that the second rotating cam 31 may be attached to the third operating portion 30_3 of the first rotating cam 30 when necessary. If it does in this way, the space and cost which provide the drive means of the 2nd rotation cam 31 can be reduced.

  Here, the second rotating cam 31 is in contact with a second cam follower 13Y provided coaxially with the first cam follower 13X. For this reason, when the cam follower 13 comes to the position of the third operating portion 30_3 of the first rotating cam 30, the movement of the cam follower 13 toward the cam shaft Zc of the first rotating cam 30 is prevented by the second cam follower 13Y.

  With such a configuration, each time the reduction cylinder 5 rotates 360 degrees, the signature sorting guide 11 is switched between the first discharge path side EX1 and the second discharge path side EX2. As a result, when the number of the signatures S is two, when the second signature clamping device 20B holding the two signatures S passes through the signature sorting guide 11, the signatures are folded. The choke S passes between the signature sorting guide 11 and the speed reduction drum 5 and is guided to the second discharge path side EX2. As a result, when the number of stacked signatures S is two, the first signature clamping device 20A ejects the signature to the first delivery path 7J, and the second signature clamping device 20B The signature S can be discharged to the second discharge path 7K. Next, a modified example of the signature sorting guide provided in the folding machine according to the present embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing the operation of a modified example of the signature sorting guide provided in the folding machine according to the present embodiment. The signature sorting guide according to this modification is configured to be swingable around the signature sorting guide support shaft 11S by a rotating cam 32 driven by a motor 35 which is a signature sorting guide driving means. The rotary cam 32 includes a first operation unit 32_1 and a second operation unit 32_2. The radius of the first operating unit 32_1 is r3, the radius of the second operating unit 32_2 is r1, and r3 <r2. Further, the first operation unit 32_1 and the second operation unit 32_2 are arranged to face each other, that is, to be shifted by 180 degrees with respect to the cam shaft Zc.

  When the cam follower 13 comes to the position of the first operating part 32_1, the signature sorting guide 11 moves toward the speed reduction drum 5 (in the direction of arrow G2 in FIG. 7), and guides the signature S to the first discharge path side EX1. Further, when the cam follower 13 comes to the position of the second operating part 32_2, the signature sorting guide 11 moves in the direction away from the speed reduction drum 5 (in the direction of arrow G1 in FIG. 7) and folds to the second discharge path side EX2. Guide Ding S. The rotating cam 32 is provided with a driven pulley 34 coaxially with the cam shaft Zc. A drive pulley 36 is attached to the drive shaft of the motor 35. A belt 33 is hung on the drive pulley 36 and the drive pulley 36, and the motor 35 rotates the rotary cam 32 via the drive pulley 36, the belt 33, and the drive pulley 36.

  As described above, when the number of the signatures S is one, the discharge destination of the signature S is the first discharge path 7J and the second discharge path every time the reduction drum 5 rotates 90 degrees. Since the rotation cam 32 only needs to be switched to 7K, the rotation cam 32 may rotate at twice the number of rotations of the speed reduction drum 5. On the other hand, when the number of the signatures S is two, every time the speed reduction drum 5 rotates 180 degrees, the delivery destination of the signature S becomes the first delivery path 7J and the second delivery path 7K. Since it is only necessary to be switched, the rotary cam 32 may be rotated at the same rotational speed as that of the speed reduction drum 5. The rotational speed of the rotary cam 32 can be changed by adjusting the rotational speed of the motor 35. Further, a speed ratio variable mechanism may be provided between the motor 35 and the rotating cam 32, and the rotational speed of the rotating cam 32 may be changed by changing the speed ratio.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the first signature holding unit and the second signature holding unit are opened at the position of the first paper discharge path, and at least the second signature. A second signature opening portion for releasing the holding means at the position of the second paper discharge path, and the first signature opening portion with respect to the second signature holding means according to the number of stacked signatures. Stop the opening function. As a result, even when there are a plurality of signatures, a plurality of paper discharge paths can be used, so that there is room for processing after the signatures are discharged to the paper discharge path. As a result, the burden on the devices used for processing after paper discharge is reduced, and the durability of these devices can be suppressed from decreasing.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the number of signatures becomes plural by controlling the opening and closing of the first signature holding means and the second signature holding means provided in the signature sorting means which is a reduction drum. In this case, the paper is discharged to a plurality of paper discharge paths. As a result, even when signatures are distributed to a plurality of paper discharge paths and discharged, a single speed reduction cylinder is sufficient. Therefore, there is only one transfer between the holding cylinder and the speed reduction cylinder, which requires high delivery accuracy. That's it. As a result, it is possible to reduce the places where high delivery accuracy is required, and to reduce the labor of adjustment. Moreover, since the number of expensive deceleration cylinders can be reduced, the manufacturing cost of the folding machine can be reduced.

  In addition, the transfer between the gripping cylinder and the speed reduction cylinder is likely to be unstable, but in this embodiment, such an unstable transfer part can be reduced to one place, so that the signature should be changed. It can be stably distributed to a plurality of paper discharge paths. Furthermore, in this embodiment, since a mechanism for distributing signatures to a plurality of paper discharge paths can be incorporated, it is possible to improve the accuracy when the signatures are discharged to the paper discharge path. This improves the accuracy of work (for example, chopper folding) in the paper discharge path.

  As described above, the signature transport path switching structure and the folding machine according to the present invention are useful for switching the discharge destination of the signatures folded by the folding machine, and particularly high delivery when delivering the signatures. It is suitable for reducing the places where accuracy is required.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the folding machine which concerns on this embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining the number of sheets of signatures. It is explanatory drawing which shows arrangement | positioning of the signature clamp to a deceleration cylinder. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the signature holding means with which the folding machine which concerns on this embodiment is provided. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the signature holding means with which the folding machine which concerns on this embodiment is provided. It is the schematic which shows the structure of a 1st and 2nd signature clamp apparatus. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing which shows operation | movement of the signature distribution mechanism with which the folding machine which concerns on this embodiment is provided. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing which shows operation | movement of the signature distribution mechanism with which the folding machine which concerns on this embodiment is provided. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing which shows operation | movement of the signature distribution mechanism with which the folding machine which concerns on this embodiment is provided. It is explanatory drawing which shows operation | movement of the signature distribution guide with which the folding machine which concerns on this embodiment is provided. It is explanatory drawing which shows operation | movement of the signature distribution guide with which the folding machine which concerns on this embodiment is provided. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the signature distribution guide with which the folding machine which concerns on this embodiment is provided. It is explanatory drawing which shows operation | movement of the modification of the signature distribution guide with which the folding machine which concerns on this embodiment is provided.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Folding machine 2 Folding cylinder 3 Saw cylinder 4 Holding cylinder 5 Deceleration cylinder 5N Folding claw 6 Guide cylinder 7J 1st discharge path 7K 2nd discharge path 11 Folding distribution guide 11S Folding distribution guide support shaft 13 Cam follower 13X 1st cam follower 13Y 2nd cam follower 14 Arm 20A 1st signature clamp device 20B 2nd signature clamp device 20C 3rd signature clamp device 20D 4th signature clamp device 21 Shaft 22 Cam follower 22 Crank 23X 1st cam follower 23Y 2nd cam follower 24X 1st cam 24Y 2nd cam 24 Signature distribution mechanism 24X1 1st action part 24X2 2nd action part 24X3 3rd action part 25X 3rd cam 25X1 1st action part 25X2 2nd action part 30 1st rotation cam 30_1 1st operation | movement part 30_2 2nd operation | movement part 30_3 3rd Operation unit 30_4 Fourth operation unit 31 Second rotation cam 32 Rotation cam 32_1 First operation unit 32_2 Second operation unit 40 Printing machine

Claims (8)

A signature sorting means for receiving a signature which is printed and cut into a predetermined size and then folded into a predetermined shape, and sorts the signature into a first paper discharge path or a second paper discharge path; ,
First signature holding means attached to the signature sorting means, receiving the signature at a predetermined receiving position, and holding the signature to the first paper discharge path;
A second fold that is attached to the signature sorting means, receives the signature at a predetermined receiving position, and holds the signature to either the first discharge path or the second discharge path. Ding holding means,
A first signature opening portion that opens the first signature holding means and the second signature holding means at the position of the first paper discharge path; and at least the second signature holding means. A second signature opening portion that opens at the position of the second paper discharge path, and the first signature opening portion with respect to the second signature holding means according to the number of stacked signatures. Signature distribution destination switching means for stopping the opening function of
A signature transport path switching structure characterized by comprising: The signature distribution destination switching means is
A first operating portion is formed so as to open the first signature holding means and the second signature holding means at the position of the first paper discharge path and the position of the second paper discharge path. With cam,
A second cam formed so that the second signature holding means holds the signature at the position of the first discharge path;
The signature transport path switching structure according to claim 1, comprising: The signature distribution destination switching means is
When the number of stacked signatures is 1, enable the opening function of the first signature opening portion with respect to the second signature holding means,
3. The opening function of the first signature opening portion with respect to the second signature holding means is stopped when the number of stacked signatures is plural. Signature transport path switching structure. A first discharge mode for guiding the signature released from the first signature holding means and the second signature holding means to the first discharge path; and from the first signature holding means. A second discharge mode for guiding the opened signature to the first paper discharge path and guiding the signature released from the second signature holding means to the second paper discharge path. A signature sorting guide that can be switched between
The signature transport path switching structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first discharge mode and the second discharge mode are switched according to the number of stacked signatures. An operation unit is provided for operating the signature sorting guide to guide the signature released from the first signature holding means and the second signature holding means to the first paper discharge path. A first rotating cam
When the second signature holding means passes the position of the first paper discharge path while holding the signature, the signature held by the second signature holding means is moved to the second signature holding means. A second rotating cam for operating the signature sorting guide so as to guide it to the paper discharge path;
The signature transport path switching structure according to claim 4, wherein: An operation unit that operates the signature sorting guide to guide the signature to the first delivery path, and an operation unit that operates the signature sorting guide to guide the signature to the second delivery path. A rotating cam formed with a moving part;
5. The signature transport path switching structure according to claim 4, wherein the number of rotations of the rotary cam is changed in accordance with the number of signatures stacked. In the case where the number of stacked signatures is 1, the first discharge mode is set.
The signature transport path switching structure according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the second discharge mode is set when the number of the stacked signatures is plural. A folding cylinder that folds a signature that has been printed and cut to a predetermined dimension into a predetermined dimension;
A holding cylinder for receiving the signature from the folding cylinder;
The signature transport path switching structure according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The folding machine according to claim 1, wherein the signature from the gripping cylinder is distributed to the first discharge path or the second discharge path by the signature transfer path switching structure.

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