KR20220146629A - contact cleaning device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a contact cleaning apparatus for a sheet substrate having a curved leading edge. The contact cleaning apparatus comprises: an elastomeric cleaning roller; an air supply manifold constructed and arranged to direct air toward a contact area on the elastomeric roller; and a conveyor carrying the sheet substrate to be cleaned towards the elastomeric cleaning roller, wherein the air supply manifold directs a stream of air onto the leading edge of the curved sheet such that the sheet is flattened at the point of contact with the cleaning roller and and/or constructed and arranged to direct onto the contact area of the elastomeric cleaning roller. A contact cleaning apparatus for a sheet substrate having a curved leading edge comprising a planarization means is also disclosed. The flattening means is disposed proximate the first conveyor and is configured to operatively engage the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate such that the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate is flattened at the point of contact with the elastomeric cleaning roller.

Description

contact cleaning device

This application claims the benefit of British Patent Application No. GB2002942.7, filed on March 1, 2020 and British Patent Application No. GB2101993.0, filed on 12 February 2021. The entire contents of British Patent Application No. GB2002942.7 and British Patent Application No. GB2101993.0 are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

Field

The present invention relates to a contact cleaning apparatus for a sheet substrate having a curved leading edge. In particular, but not limited to, the present invention relates to a contact cleaning apparatus for a sheet substrate having a curved leading edge comprising flattening means operatively engaged with the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate. The present invention also relates to an air supply manifold that directs air onto the surface of the sheet substrate at the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate and/or onto the elastomeric cleaning roller prior to reaching the leading edge of the sheet substrate.

Contact cleaning is used to clean the surface of a substrate or sheet. Once the substrate has been cleaned, it is used in a variety of sophisticated processes, including the manufacture of electronic devices, photovoltaic cells, and flat panel displays. Typically, a contact cleaning apparatus consists of a rubber or elastomeric cleaning roller used to remove contaminant particles from a substrate surface, and an adhesive roll used to remove contaminant particles from the cleaning roller.

In operation, the contact cleaning roller is in contact with at least the upper surface of the substrate to remove debris by means of an adhesion removal mechanism such as van der Waals force and adhesion force. An intrinsic property of the material used to form the contact cleaning roller is that it attracts debris and adheres the debris to the surface of the contact cleaning roller. The contact cleaning roller pulls the contaminant particles away from the substrate surface in such a way due to the van der Waals force of the attraction between the contaminant particles and the roller. As a result, conventional contact cleaning rollers can ensure effectiveness in removing contaminant particles by maximizing contact with the substrate surface.

Contact cleaning devices for thin sheet technology, eg copper foil or thin polymer, require an elastomeric cleaning roller to be driven at a predetermined speed and then cleaned by an adjacent adhesive roll. Such thin sheet technology as used herein is known as a sheet substrate.

When the leading edge of a new thin sheet substrate reaches the elastomeric cleaning roller, the sheet substrate typically has a curved leading edge. There is a fear that such a curved leading edge collides with the elastomeric cleaning roller, causing the sheet substrate to wrinkle and damaging a portion of the sheet substrate, rendering the portion of the sheet substrate unusable. Damage to the leading edge reduces process efficiency and may cause machine failure or damage.

In another scenario, a sheet substrate may be wound onto an elastomeric cleaning roller, and the machine must be stopped to remove the roller from the sheet substrate and restart the machine. Also, the efficiency of the cleaning process is significantly reduced.

In certain circumstances, the sheet substrate is rigid due to its relative thickness or intrinsic material properties. Additionally or alternatively, the sheet substrate has, for example, a curvature in a plurality of directions, which reinforces the curved leading edge. In this way, the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate resists deformation, increasing the risk of machine failure or damage.

It is an object of the present invention to alleviate some of the aforementioned disadvantages.

According to the invention, there is provided a contact cleaning device according to the appended claims.

In a first aspect of the present invention, a contact cleaning apparatus for a sheet substrate having a curved leading edge comprises:

an elastomeric cleaning roller and a first conveyor conveying the sheet substrate to be cleaned towards the elastomeric cleaning roller, the elastomeric cleaning roller being disposed to receive the sheet substrate from the first conveyor and engage the sheet substrate includes,

The contact cleaning apparatus also includes flattening means disposed proximate the first conveyor, the flattening means operative with the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate such that the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate is flattened at the point of contact with the elastomeric cleaning roller. is configured to engage.

In a particular embodiment, the flattening means comprises a guide disposed opposite the first conveyor, the guide comprising: a curved tip of the sheet substrate such that the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate is flattened at the point of contact with the elastomeric cleaning roller configured to contact and engage the leading edge.

In this way, the guides are arranged to abut against the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate as it is conveyed towards the elastomeric cleaning roller. That is, the guide may flatten the curved leading edge by deflecting or deforming the curved leading edge before it is received in the contact region of the elastomeric cleaning roller. The exit region of the guide is preferably provided proximate to the elastomeric cleaning roller, such that it operatively precedes the contact zone by only a short distance. However, the exit area of the guide may be located at any suitable point along the first conveyor.

Advantageously, the contact cleaning apparatus can planarize a wide range of sheet substrates. In particular, the device has been found by the inventors to be effective for flattening the curved leading edge of a sheet substrate that is hard or resistant to deformation. That is, the apparatus can flatten the curved leading edge of a sheet substrate having a thickness reaching 6 mm or more.

In certain embodiments, the guide is provided at an angle with respect to the first conveyor, the guide and the first conveyor being configured to provide guidance of the curved leading edge as the curved leading edge approaches the contact area. In certain embodiments, the guide comprises a second conveyor, the second conveyor being angled relative to the first conveyor to provide guidance of the curved leading edge.

In this way, the guide abuts the curved leading edge such that the leading edge is directed or guided towards the first conveyor. The second conveyor is positioned at any suitable angle relative to the first conveyor to provide adequate guidance. In this way, the angle can be selected based on the sheet substrate and contact cleaning operating conditions. For example, the angle may be selected based on one or more of the material properties of the sheet substrate, the operating speed of the contact cleaning apparatus, or the space within the apparatus to place the second conveyor.

In certain embodiments, the guide or second conveyor may be positioned at any suitable angle from substantially perpendicular to substantially parallel to the first conveyor. That is, the angle of the guide or the second conveyor with respect to the first conveyor is selectably adjustable between vertical and parallel. In this way, the orientation of the guide, eg the second conveyor, can be adjusted to optimize processing of a sheet substrate having a curved leading edge to a desired deformation range.

In certain embodiments, the second conveyor contacts and engages the first conveyor. In this way, the second conveyor guides the curved leading edge onto the first conveyor. In certain embodiments, the second conveyor may apply pressure to the curved leading edge. That is, the second conveyor may provide a nip effect with the first conveyor.

In a particular embodiment, the second conveyor is driven. In this way, the second conveyor can not only direct the curved leading edge towards the elastomeric cleaning roller, but also actively engage the curved leading edge to provide a guiding effect. In certain embodiments, the second conveyor is driven due to contact engagement with the first conveyor. In a particular embodiment, the second conveyor is provided with a separate drive device.

In certain embodiments, the flattening means comprises an air supply manifold, wherein the air supply manifold directs a stream of air such that the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate is flattened at the point of contact with the elastomeric cleaning roller, the curvature of the sheet substrate. is operable to direct onto the contact area and/or onto the leading edge. According to another aspect of the present invention, a contact cleaning apparatus for a sheet substrate having a curved leading edge is provided. The contact cleaning apparatus includes an elastomeric cleaning roller and an air supply manifold, the air supply manifold being constructed and arranged to direct air over a contact area on the elastomeric cleaning roller. The contact cleaning apparatus also includes a conveyor that carries the sheet substrate to be cleaned towards the elastomeric cleaning roller. The air supply manifold is operable to direct a stream of air onto the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate and/or onto the contact zone such that the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate is flattened at the point of contact with the elastomeric cleaning roller. do.

In certain embodiments, the contact zone comprises a boundary layer of air around the surface of the elastomeric cleaning roller. In certain embodiments, the contact zone extends to at least partially surround the elastomeric cleaning roller. Thus, when the air stream from the air supply manifold is directed to the contacting zone, the air stream forms an increased boundary layer.

As used herein, a "contact zone" is the portion of the contact cleaning apparatus where the leading edge of the sheet substrate engages the elastomeric cleaning roller. More specifically, the contact zone is an area including a location where the leading edge of the sheet substrate comes into contact with the elastomeric cleaning roller or the air boundary layer therearound. As will be appreciated, such locations may refer to one or more points or regions along the surface of the elastomeric cleaning roller or its air boundary layer, depending on the cross-machine shape of the leading edge.

As used herein, a “boundary layer” is a layer of air that forms on the surface of an elastomeric cleaning roller.

As used herein, “flattened” means that the leading edge of the sheet substrate is oriented such that it is properly received by the elastomeric cleaning roller for cleaning. That is, as the contact zone is approached, the sheet substrate leading edge is flattened or substantially flattened to be received by the elastomeric cleaning roller in a manner that provides effective cleaning.

As used herein, an "increased boundary layer" is a layer having a temporary increase in thickness as measured on a radius from the center of the elastomeric cleaning roller.

Thus, in use of the device, the leading edge of the sheet substrate is deflected by the air flow into the contact zone. In this way, the leading edge of the sheet substrate is oriented to be received by the elastomeric cleaning roller for cleaning. The sheet substrate is flattened into the plane of subsequent portions of the sheet substrate so that the airflow and/or boundary layer nip the elastomeric roller without damaging the sheet substrate, such as sticking of the sheet substrate to the roller, or incorrect engagement with the elastomeric cleaning roller. Allows for smooth transport of the sheet substrate into the

In certain embodiments, the increased boundary layer extends around the elastomeric cleaning roller to the nip gap. In this way, the leading edge of the sheet substrate can be further biased by the increased boundary layer to flatten the sheet and enter the nip gap between the elastomeric cleaning rollers.

The airflow can be activated just before the leading edge reaches the elastomeric roller so that there is a substantial increase in the boundary layer.

Thus, air is directed towards the contact area of the elastomeric cleaning roller by the air supply manifold.

In certain embodiments, the air supply manifold is operable to direct air directly onto the leading edge of the curved sheet to flatten the sheet as it approaches the elastomeric cleaning roller. The flattening of the sheet ensures that the sheet enters the contact zone rather than engages other parts of the contact cleaning apparatus, such as process rollers or other elastomeric cleaning rollers. In this way, the flattening of the leading edge can avoid wrinkling of the sheet substrate due to the leading edge not being accurately engaged with the elastomeric cleaning roller. Thus, the contact cleaning apparatus does not need to be stopped during the cleaning process. Moreover, the device does not require additional setup time to ensure that the leading edge is correctly engaged with or received by the elastomeric cleaning roller.

Alternatively or additionally, the air supply manifold is operable to direct air onto the elastomeric cleaning roller. More specifically, the air supply manifold is operable to direct air to the contact area of the elastomeric cleaning roller. In these embodiments, an increased boundary layer is formed on the surface of the elastomeric cleaning roller. As the leading edge of the sheet substrate contacts the increased boundary layer, the curvature at the leading edge is eliminated or significantly reduced, flattening the sheet substrate in the contact zone.

In certain embodiments, air flow from the air supply manifold is selectively activated. In this way, air flow is provided only when the leading edge of the sheet substrate reaches the elastomeric cleaning roller. In this way, the airflow provides a temporary increase in the boundary layer thickness, forming an increased boundary layer, thereby improving the efficiency of the device.

In certain embodiments, the air supply manifold is operable to direct air towards the contact zone at an adjustable angle relative to a reference plane that extends perpendicularly through the axis of rotation of the elastomeric cleaning roller. More specifically, the adjustable angle is selectable between parallel and perpendicular to the reference plane.

In certain embodiments, the adjustable angle is selected with respect to and fixed relative to a reference plane extending perpendicularly from the axis of rotation of the elastomeric cleaning roller prior to operation of the device. Any angle is selectable within the range from parallel to a plane extending perpendicularly from the axis of rotation of the elastomeric cleaning roller to perpendicular to that plane. The angle is selected based on any one or more of the speed of the conveyor, the material of the sheet substrate, and the like.

In certain embodiments, the air supply is directed tangentially onto the elastomeric cleaning roller in the contact zone.

In certain embodiments, the air supply manifold is operable to direct air towards the contact area at an adjustable angle relative to the conveyor surface. More specifically, the adjustable angle is selectable between perpendicular to the conveyor surface and parallel to the conveyor surface.

In certain embodiments, the elastomeric cleaning roller includes a pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers. A pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers are disposed opposite each other to form a nip gap through which the sheet substrate is transported.

In certain embodiments, the contact cleaning apparatus includes a plurality of pairs of elastomeric cleaning rollers, the elastomeric cleaning rollers constructed and arranged to provide at least one cleaning surface for the sheet substrate between each pair of rollers. .

In certain embodiments, each elastomeric cleaning roller is cleaned by an adjacent adhesive roll.

In a particular embodiment, the air supply manifold includes a manifold including openings spaced apart from one another. More specifically, the manifold includes spaced apart air feed openings for evacuating air from the manifold.

In certain embodiments, the manifold is tubular.

In certain embodiments, the manifold includes a plurality of spaced apart pin holes.

In certain embodiments, the manifold is made of a metal or plastic material. Other suitable materials are known to those skilled in the art.

In certain embodiments, the air supply manifold is operatively coupled to an air source. The air source is operable to deliver air to the air supply manifold.

In certain embodiments, a contact cleaning apparatus includes a sensor constructed and arranged to detect a leading edge of a sheet substrate.

In certain embodiments, the sensor is operatively coupled to the air source. In use of the device, the sensor detects the leading edge of the sheet substrate and causes the air source to supply air to the air supply manifold. The air supply manifold then directs air onto the leading edge of the sheet substrate and/or onto the contact area of the elastomeric cleaning roller.

In certain embodiments, a supply of air directed to the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate straightens the sheet in front of the contact area of the elastomeric cleaning roller. Thus, incorrect engagement of the sheet substrate with the elastomeric cleaning roller is prevented. In addition, wrinkling of the sheet or winding of the sheet substrate around the elastomeric cleaning roller is also prevented. In addition, the air functions to facilitate transport of the sheet substrate through the cleaning apparatus.

In certain embodiments, air directed over the contact area of the elastomeric cleaning roller creates an increased boundary layer over the surface of the elastomeric cleaning roller. In this way, the air ensures that the sheet substrate is cleaned by the elastomeric cleaning roller surface without contact.

In certain embodiments, the air is supplied in pulse form from the air supply manifold. More specifically, the pulse is generated when the sensor detects the leading edge of the sheet substrate adjacent the elastomeric cleaning roller. Each air pulse flattens the leading edge as it approaches the contact area.

In certain embodiments, airflow through the airflow manifold is activated by a sensor detecting a curved leading edge of the sheet substrate at a predetermined distance from the contact zone. Additionally or alternatively, air flow through the air flow manifold is deactivated when the leading edge engages the contact zone. In this way, the airflow is used to flatten the curved leading edge only when the leading edge approaches the contact area. Airflow is provided only when the curved leading edge is within the operating range of the airflow manifold. Thus, the air flow provided by the air source is efficiently utilized.

In certain embodiments, the conveyor is constructed and arranged to feed the sheet substrate to the contact zone.

In certain embodiments, the sheet substrate is a film. More specifically, the film is a thin film. More specifically, the film is a copper foil or thin film polymer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiments of the present invention will be described below by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.
1 shows a schematic diagram of a contact cleaning apparatus in a first configuration with the air supply to the airflow manifold turned off;
2 shows a schematic diagram of the contact cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 in a second configuration;
3 shows a schematic diagram of the contact cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 in a third configuration;
Fig. 4 shows a schematic view of the contact cleaning apparatus of Fig. 1 in a fourth configuration;
5 shows a schematic diagram of a contact cleaning apparatus in a first configuration with an air supply to the airflow manifold turned on according to an embodiment;
6 shows a schematic view of the contact cleaning apparatus of FIG. 5 in a second configuration;
7 shows a schematic view of the contact cleaning apparatus of FIG. 5 in a third configuration;
8 shows a schematic diagram of another exemplary contact cleaning apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

In the following detailed description, specific terms are used only for convenience and are not intended to be limiting. The terms “right”, “left”, “bottom”, “top”, “before”, “after”, “top”, “bottom” and “bottom” indicate directions in the drawings to which they refer, and It relates to the assembly and mounting of components. The terms “inward,” “inward,” “outward,” and “outward,” respectively, refer to a direction toward and away from a defined centerline or geometric center (eg, a central axis) of the element being described, and the specific The meaning will readily emerge from the context of the detailed description.

Also, as used herein, the terms "connected", "attached", "coupled", "mounted" refer to direct connection between two members with no other member interposed therebetween as well as direct connection. , is intended to include indirect connections between members with one or more other members interposed therebetween. The term includes the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

Also, unless otherwise specified, the use of ordinal numbers such as "first", "second", "third", etc. is merely intended to refer to different examples of similar objects, and the objects being described are not temporally or spatially ranked. are not intended to imply that they must be in the order given or in any other manner.

Like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout.

Referring first to FIG. 1 , a contact cleaning apparatus 1 is shown. The contact cleaning apparatus includes a first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers and a second pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers. The first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers includes a first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 and a second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 mounted in the path of a conveyor 16 . Conveyor 16 is driven by two conveying rollers 12 , 14 to convey substrate 80 (ie, sheet 80 ) along conveyor 16 . The first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 is long and generally cylindrical in shape and is mounted on a holder (not shown) having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the plane of the drawing, the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 having its It rotates freely about the axis of rotation. The first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 includes a silicone resin elastomeric layer in this particular example, although other materials are also contemplated. The second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 has a generally cylindrical shape and includes a silicone resin elastomer layer. The second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 is mounted on a holder (not shown) having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the plane of the drawing and parallel to the axis of rotation of the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24, about the axis of rotation. The second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 rotates freely. The first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 and the second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 are arranged such that the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 and the second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 are directed in opposite directions about each axis of rotation. They are mounted in contact with each other to rotate. The first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 rotates counterclockwise while the second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 rotates clockwise.

A first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 and a second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 are mounted to receive the substrate from the conveyor. Once the substrate has been received, both the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 and the second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 are placed in contact with the surface of the substrate 80 . The first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 is disposed to contact the top surface of the substrate 80 . The second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 is disposed to contact the lower surface of the substrate 80 . The substrate 80 has a curved end 82 closest to the roller.

The second pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers includes a third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 and a fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 mounted downstream of the first pair of rollers in the path of the conveyor 16 . The third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 is long and generally cylindrical in shape and is mounted on a holder (not shown) having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the plane of the drawing, the third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 having its It rotates freely about the axis of rotation. The fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 is mounted on a holder (not shown) having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the plane of the drawing and parallel to the axis of rotation of the third elastomeric cleaning roller 34, about the axis of rotation. The fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 rotates freely. The third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 and the fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 are arranged such that the third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 and the fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 are opposite to each other about their respective rotational axes. They are mounted in contact with each other to rotate. The third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 rotates clockwise while the fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 rotates counterclockwise.

A third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 and a fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 are mounted to receive substrates from the first and second elastomeric cleaning rollers 24 , 26 . Once the substrate has been received, both the third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 and the fourth elastomeric cleaning roller are placed in contact with the surface of the substrate 80 . The third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 is disposed to contact the top surface of the substrate 80 . The fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 is disposed to contact the lower surface of the substrate 80 . The first pair of rollers 24 , 26 and the second pair of rollers 34 , 36 are respectively provided with nip gaps through which the substrate 80 will be conveyed.

The sheet substrate 80 to be cleaned is disposed on the surface of a conveyor 16 , which conveys the sheet substrate 80 from left to right in FIG. 1 . Substrate 80 passes continuously between the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers and the second pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers. That is, the substrate 80 first passes between the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 and the second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 . The first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 rotates counterclockwise while the second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 rotates clockwise, moving the substrate 80 to the right.

A first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 contacts the top surface of the substrate 80 and removes debris therefrom. The intrinsic polarity of the material used to form the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 attracts debris from the top surface of the substrate 80 and adheres the debris to the surface of the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 . Since the relative attractive force between the surface of the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 and the debris is greater than the attractive force between the debris and the surface of the substrate 80 , it is possible to remove the debris.

The second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 rotates clockwise. The second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 is in contact with the underside of the substrate 80 to remove debris therefrom. The intrinsic polarity of the material used to form the second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 attracts debris from the lower surface of the substrate 80 and adheres the debris to the surface of the second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 . Since the relative attractive force between the surface of the second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 and the debris is greater than the attractive force between the debris and the surface of the substrate 80 , it is possible to remove the debris.

Substrate 80 is then received by a second pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers. The substrate 80 passes between the third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 and the fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 . The third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 rotates clockwise while the fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 rotates counterclockwise, moving the substrate 80 to the right.

A third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 contacts the underside of the substrate 80 to remove debris therefrom. The intrinsic polarity of the material used to form the third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 attracts debris from the lower surface of the substrate 80 and adheres the debris to the surface of the third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 . Since the relative attractive force between the surface of the third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 and the debris is greater than the attractive force between the debris and the surface of the substrate 80 , it is possible to remove the debris.

The fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 rotates counterclockwise. A fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 contacts the top surface of the substrate 80 and removes debris therefrom. The intrinsic polarity of the material used to form the fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 attracts debris from the upper surface of the substrate 80 and adheres the debris to the surface of the fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 . Since the relative attractive force between the surface of the fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 and the debris is greater than the attractive force between the debris and the surface of the substrate 80 , it is possible to remove the debris. The second pair of contact cleaning rollers are configured to remove any additional debris not removed by the first pair of contact cleaning rollers.

A first adhesive roll 20 and a second adhesive roll 22 are also provided. Adhesive rolls 20, 22 are generally cylindrical in shape, have an axis of rotation perpendicular to the plane of the drawing and parallel to the axis of elastomeric cleaning rollers 24, 26, 34, 36, and have a body onto which the adhesive is applied. and the adhesive rolls 20 and 22 rotate freely about its rotation axis. The first adhesive roll 20 includes a paper base and an adhesive on the base layer. The second adhesive roll 22 includes a paper base and an adhesive on the base layer.

The first adhesive roll 20 rotates against a first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 and a fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 36 . In this way, the surfaces of the first and fourth cleaning rollers 24 and 36 and the first adhesive roll 20 are formed so that debris removed from the upper surface of the substrate 80 is transferred to the first adhesive roll 20 . close enough The adhesion between the first adhesive roll 20 and the debris on the first and fourth elastomeric cleaning rollers 24, 36 is such that the debris is retained on the surface of the first or fourth elastomeric cleaning roller 24, 36. Greater than adhesion, debris can be displaced.

The second adhesive roll 22 rotates against a second elastomeric cleaning roller 26 and a third elastomeric cleaning roller 34 . In this way, the surfaces of the second and third cleaning rollers 26 , 34 and the second adhesive roll 22 are formed so that debris removed from the lower surface of the substrate 80 is transferred to the second adhesive roll 22 . close enough The adhesion between the second adhesive roll 22 and the debris on the second and third elastomeric cleaning rollers 26, 34 is such that the debris is retained on the surface of the second or third elastomeric cleaning roller 26, 34. Greater than adhesion, debris can be displaced.

The contact cleaning apparatus 1 is provided with an air supply manifold 40 fluidly coupled to an air supply (not shown). The air supply manifold 40, shown in schematic cross section, is provided in the form of a cylinder with holes. In the illustrated embodiment, one of the apertures 42 is shown. A plurality of holes 42 may be provided in the form of pin holes spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis Z of the manifold 40 .

An air supply (not shown) is configured to supply air to the air supply manifold so that the air can be exhausted through apertures 42 . An air manifold 40 is mounted at a position located upstream of the first pair of contact cleaning rollers 24 , 25 to direct an air stream onto the sheet substrate 80 . More specifically, the air manifold 40 directs a stream of air onto the sheet substrate 80 before the sheet substrate 80 engages the contact regions of the surfaces of the first and second elastomeric cleaning rollers 24, 26. configured to discharge. This operation will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7 . Alternatively or additionally, the air supply manifold 40 is configured to discharge an air stream onto the contacting zone on the surface of the elastomeric rollers 24 , 26 .

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3 , a substrate 80 is conveyed along a conveyor 16 towards a first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 24 , 26 . The curved leading edge 82 of the substrate 80 tends to point upwards away from the conveyor 16 , causing the substrate 80 to be non-flat.

In the examples shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the air supply manifold is in an inactive state and no air is supplied. Elastomer cleaning rollers are typically driven at very high speeds to facilitate cleaning. As a result, as shown in FIG. 3 , the curved leading edge 82 of the substrate 80 collides with the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 .

As shown in FIG. 4 , due to the high impact velocity, the substrate 80 is crumpled against the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 . In the absence of the air supply, the curved edge of the substrate 80 is wound around the first elastomeric cleaning roller 24 . Accordingly, the substrate 80 will jam or fail the device instead of passing between the first and second elastomeric cleaning rollers 24 and 26 . The device 1 then has to undergo repair and maintenance.

Hereinafter, an operation of the contact cleaning apparatus 101 using the above-described air manifold 40 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7 . The contact cleaning apparatus 101 is substantially the same as the contact cleaning apparatus 1 of FIGS. 1 to 4 . Referring first to FIG. 5 , a sheet substrate 180 is conveyed along a conveyor 116 driven by conveying rollers 112 and 114 . A free leading edge 182 of the substrate 180 approaches the first pair of contact cleaning rollers 124 , 126 .

Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , air is discharged from the air outlet 142 of the air supply manifold 140 along the direction indicated by the arrow 144 as a whole. Accordingly, the air stream is directed towards the contact area of the first elastomeric cleaning roller 126 . The air stream is directed onto the curved leading edge 182 of the sheet substrate 180 as it approaches the contact area. In this example, air is directed over the curved leading edge 182 of the substrate 180 to flatten the substrate 180 .

Additionally or alternatively, air may be expelled onto the air outlet 142 onto the area of contact between the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 124 , 126 and the curved leading edge 182 of the substrate 180 . have. It is also contemplated that the air stream may be directed towards a location upstream of the contacting zone. In this way, when the curved leading edge 182 of the sheet substrate 180 is conveyed towards the contact area, the sheet substrate 180 moves toward the first and second pairs of elastomeric cleaning rollers 124 , 126 , 134 , Substrate 180 may be planarized prior to being cleaned by 136 .

By directing air into the contact area of the first pair of elastomeric rollers 124 , 126 , the air boundary layer around the second elastomeric roller 126 is temporarily increased. In this example, the increased boundary layer flattens the leading edge of the sheet substrate 180 at the contact zone. As a result, the sheet substrate 180 is correctly oriented to be received and cleaned by the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers.

Substrate 180 may be planarized at any point upstream from elastomeric cleaning rollers 124 , 125 , 134 , 136 .

In certain embodiments, the air is supplied at an angle of 20 degrees with respect to a reference plane that extends perpendicularly from the axis of rotation of the second elastomeric cleaning roller 126 . The angle may be a fixed angle.

The angle of air supply from the outlet 142 of the air manifold 140 will depend on the speed at which the substrate 180 is transported into the cleaning zone. The angle may be varied by any number of fixed angles between perpendicular and parallel to the reference plane. It is contemplated that the air may be supplied at different angles, such as an angle between vertical and horizontal with respect to the reference plane.

In some examples, the angle of the air manifold outlet may vary with respect to the surface of the reference plane.

In some examples, the air stream of the contact cleaning apparatus can be selectively activated. In this way, the air stream can only operate when the leading edge approaches the contact zone. Once the leading edge is engaged with the contact zone, an air supply is no longer required to ensure correct operation of the device. Accordingly, the air stream is deactivated as the remainder of the sheet substrate is carried through the contact zone.

In some examples, the contact cleaning apparatus is provided with a detection sensor (not shown). The detection sensor detects the leading edge of the substrate on the conveyor to activate the air stream as the leading edge of the substrate approaches the contact zone. For example, when the leading edge of the substrate is detected by the sensor, the controller communicates with the air supply to deliver air to an air supply manifold, which also supplies air through the outlet.

In some examples, the air stream may exit in a pulsed form through the outlet of the manifold. Optionally, the pulsed air stream can be selectively activated, for example, using a detection sensor to detect the leading edge of a substrate on a conveyor.

Referring now to FIG. 8 , there is shown another exemplary contact cleaning apparatus 201 for a sheet substrate having a curved leading edge in accordance with aspects of the present invention. In the case of the same configuration as in the previous example, the reference numbers are the same except that the leading digit is "2".

Accordingly, the example of FIG. 8 shows that a first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers are provided, the first pair being first and second resilient mounted to receive a sheet substrate 280 from a first conveyor 216 . polymer cleaning rollers 224 and 226 . A flattening means is disposed proximate to the first conveyor 216, and the flattening means is arranged such that the curved leading edge 282 is flattened at the point of contact with the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224, 226. configured to operatively engage the curved leading edge 282 of 280 .

In the example shown in FIG. 8 , the flattening means is a second conveyor 296 . The second conveyor 296 is provided adjacent to the first conveyor 216 . The second conveyor 296 operatively engages the curved leading edge 282 of the sheet substrate 280 such that the curved leading edge 282 is flattened at the point of contact with the second elastomeric cleaning roller 226 . is composed

The first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224 , 226 are substantially identical to the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 24 , 26 of the other examples described herein. A first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224 and 226 are each rotatably mounted on a holder (not shown) to receive a substrate from a conveyor.

A second pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 234 and 236 are provided downstream of the first pair of rollers. The second pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 234 , 236 of the example shown in FIG. 8 are substantially identical to the second pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 34 , 36 of other examples described herein. Each of the second pair of rollers is rotatably mounted on a holder (not shown). The second pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 234 , 236 are arranged to receive the sheet substrate 280 from the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224 , 226 .

The first conveyor 216 is driven by first and second conveying rollers 212 , 214 . In this way, the first conveyor 216 is adapted to transport the sheet substrate 280 thereon. The first and second conveying rollers 212 , 214 of the first conveyor 216 are disposed in opposite end regions of the first conveyor 216 .

The second conveyor 296 is driven by first and second conveying rollers 292 , 294 disposed in opposite end regions of the second conveyor 296 . A first conveying roller 294 is disposed proximate to both the first conveyor 216 and the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224 , 226 . A second conveying roller 294 is disposed remote from the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224 and 226 .

The first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224 and 226 and the second pair of rollers 234 and 236 are respectively provided with nip gaps through which the substrate 280 will be conveyed.

The contact cleaning apparatus 201 includes a first adhesive roll 220 and a second adhesive roll 222 . The first and second adhesive rolls 220, 222 are mounted to dislodge debris from the first and second pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224, 226, 234, 236 in a manner similar to other examples described herein. and placed.

In use, first conveyor 216 is driven by first and second conveying rollers 212 , 214 . The first conveyor 216 is driven in direction D2 such that the surface area supporting the sheet substrate 280 moves towards the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224 , 226 . In this way, as the sheet substrate 280 is conveyed on the first conveyor 216 , the sheet substrate 280 moves in the direction D1 towards the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224 , 226 .

In use, the second conveyor 296 is driven by first and second conveying rollers 292 , 294 . The second conveyor 296 is driven in direction D3 such that the surface of the second conveyor 296 engaging the curved leading edge 282 moves towards the first conveying roller. In this way, the surfaces engaging the curved leading edge 282 move towards the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers.

The second conveyor 296 is disposed at an angle to the first conveyor 216 . Due to this relative positioning, the second conveyor 296 is provided in contact engagement with the first conveyor 216 in proximity to the first pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers 224 , 226 . That is, the first and second conveyors 216 , 296 provide a nip gap through which the substrate 280 will be conveyed.

The relative angular orientation of the first and second conveyors 216 , 296 is such that the first and second conveyors 216 , 296 as the curved leading edge 282 moves towards the first pair of cleaning rollers 224 , 226 . ) to guide the curved leading edge 282 . That is, due to the decreasing gap between the first and second conveyors 216 , 296 , the curved leading edge is flattened as it approaches the first and second conveyors 216 , 296 . As a result, the curved leading edge can be conveniently and easily flattened before being accepted by the elastomeric cleaning roller.

In a particular example, the flattening means is any guide operable to engage and flatten the curved leading edge as it moves on the first conveyor. A suitable guide may include an appropriately beveled, curved or profiled surface to provide flattening of the curved leading edge as the curved leading edge moves on the first conveyor. Additionally or alternatively, the guide may comprise ridges, projections or ribs selectively oriented in the direction of movement of the curved leading edge.

In certain instances, the guide may be provided with a surface treatment or coating. In this way, the guide can provide a guiding effect with low friction between the guide and the curved leading edge.

In certain instances, the flattening means, such as a guide or a second conveyor, may be selectively adjustable. In this way, the flattening means can be arranged at various positions and angles with respect to the first conveyor.

Throughout this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "contains" and their derivatives mean "including, but not limited to," and the terms include other moieties, additives, It is not intended (not intended to) to exclude components, integers or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular includes the plural meaning unless the context requires otherwise. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating the plural as well as the singular, unless the context requires otherwise.

A feature, integer, characteristic, compound, chemical moiety or group described in connection with a particular aspect, embodiment, or illustration of the invention is, unless incompatible, any other aspect described herein; It should be understood that the embodiments or examples are applicable. All features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract and drawings) and/or all steps of any method or process so disclosed are combinations of at least some of those features and/or steps that exclude each other. Can be combined in any combination except for. The present invention is not limited to the detailed configuration of any of the foregoing embodiments. The invention relates to any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract and drawings), or any of the steps of any method or process so disclosed. may be extended to new steps or any novel combination of

Those skilled in the art will understand that the foregoing embodiments have been described by way of example only and not in any limiting sense, and that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. will be. Various modifications to the detailed configuration as described above are possible.

Claims (19)

A contact cleaning apparatus for a sheet substrate having a curved leading edge, comprising:
elastomeric cleaning rollers;
a first conveyor conveying the sheet substrate to be cleaned towards the elastomeric cleaning roller; and
flattening means disposed proximate the first conveyor
includes,
wherein the elastomeric cleaning roller comprises a contact zone disposed to receive and engage the sheet substrate from the first conveyor;
and the flattening means is configured to operatively engage the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate such that the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate is flattened at the point of contact with the elastomeric cleaning roller. According to claim 1,
The flattening means includes a guide disposed opposite the first conveyor, wherein the guide is curved such that the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate is flattened at the point of contact with the elastomeric cleaning roller. and a contact cleaning device configured to contact and engage the leading edge. 3. The method of claim 2,
wherein the guide is provided at an angle with respect to the first conveyor, the guide and the first conveyor being configured to provide guidance of the curved leading edge as the curved leading edge approaches the contact area. Phosphorus contact cleaning device. 4. The method of claim 3,
and the angle of the guide with respect to the first conveyor is selectably adjustable between vertical and parallel. 5. The method of claim 3 or 4,
wherein the guide comprises a second conveyor, wherein the second conveyor is disposed at an angle relative to the first conveyor to provide guidance of the curved leading edge. 6. The method of claim 5,
and the second conveyor contacts and engages the first conveyor. 7. The method according to claim 5 or 6,
and the second conveyor is driven. According to claim 1,
The flattening means comprises an air supply manifold, wherein the air supply manifold directs a stream of air such that the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate is flattened at the point of contact with the elastomeric cleaning roller, the curvature of the sheet substrate. A contact cleaning device operable to direct onto a polished leading edge and/or onto the contact zone. A contact cleaning apparatus for a sheet substrate having a curved leading edge, comprising:
elastomeric cleaning rollers;
an air supply manifold constructed and arranged to direct air over the contact area on the elastomeric cleaning roller; and
A conveyor carrying the sheet substrate to be cleaned towards the elastomeric cleaning roller
wherein the air supply manifold directs a stream of air onto the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate and/or such that the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate is flattened at the point of contact with the elastomeric cleaning roller. and wherein the contact cleaning device is operable to direct onto the contact area of the elastomeric cleaning roller. 10. The method according to claim 8 or 9,
The elastomeric cleaning roller includes an axis of rotation, the air supply manifold operable to direct air onto the curved leading edge of the sheet substrate at an adjustable angle relative to a reference plane extending perpendicularly through the axis of rotation and and/or operable to direct onto the contact area of the elastomeric cleaning roller. 11. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 10,
wherein the air supply manifold comprises a tubular manifold comprising spaced apart air feed openings from each other. 12. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 11,
wherein the air stream is selectively activated. 13. The method of claim 12,
a sensor disposed to operatively detect a leading edge of the sheet substrate prior to engaging the contact zone, wherein in response to detecting the leading edge, the sensor operatively activates the air stream. contact cleaning device. 14. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 13,
and the adjustable angle of the air supply manifold is selectable between perpendicular to the reference plane and parallel to the reference plane. 15. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 14,
and the adjustable angle is selected and fixed relative to the reference plane prior to actuation of the contact cleaning device. 16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15,
wherein the elastomeric cleaning rollers include a pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers disposed oppositely to define a nip gap through which the sheet substrate will be conveyed. 17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16,
wherein the elastomeric cleaning roller comprises at least a pair of elastomeric cleaning rollers, the elastomeric cleaning rollers constructed and arranged to provide at least one cleaning surface for the sheet substrate between each pair of rollers. cleaning device. 18. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 17,
wherein each elastomeric cleaning roller is cleaned by an adjacent roll of adhesive. 19. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18,
and the contact zone extends to at least partially surround the elastomeric cleaning roller.

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