MXPA98007875A - Apparatus to match matches with termination lines on a transport sheet - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus for registering or matching signs with termination lines on a transported sheet, the apparatus comprising: means for transporting a sheet in a first direction, means for applying separate signs to the sheet at intervals of predetermined repetitions at a first speed, means for sensing the position of the signs on the sheet, means for imparting termination lines to the sheet at a second speed, the means for imparting finishing lines comprise at least one rotating knife , and a trimming roller, the finishing lines include a first plurality of cutouts and a second plurality of perforations intermediate to the cutouts, the cutouts define the leading and trailing edges of the sheet and coincide with the perforations, the finishing lines are in separate relation to the signs, a means to determine the position of one of the means to impart the lines of termination or means or signs of application, a means for comparing the position of the signs on the sheet with respect to the position of one of the means for imparting termination lines or the means for applying the signs to the sheet for, in this way, generate an error signal, and a means to adjust the separated relationship between the signs and the termination lines by adjusting either the first speed or the second speed while maintaining the coincidence between the cutouts and the perforations, the adjustment based on the signal of err

Description

APPARATUS FOR MATCHING SIGNS WITH TERMINATION LINES ON A TRANSPORTED SHEET FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the operation of matching signs with termination lines on a sheet. The finishing lines can be perforations or a cut where a first sheet ends and a second sheet starts, the sheets are typically presented in the form of a roll. The signs can be visual, for example inks printed or engraved, or can be functional, for example an adhesive.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Sheets for home use are well known in the art. Normally it is desired to decorate these sheets, for example by printing. The impression imparts an aesthetically pleasing pattern to the leaf. Alternatively, the sheet can be engraved to impart an aesthetically pleasing pattern that is also appreciable by touch. These sheets are typically processed continuously, then cut into discrete sections, as desired. This cut in discrete sections can be done at the point of use, as is the case in which the consumer separates a sheet from the rest of the sheets in a line of P676 termination. For this purpose, the termination line typically comprises a weakened line, for example with perforations. Alternatively, the web can be cut into discrete portions before reaching the point of use. This arrangement is usually found in individual tissues that are cut during manufacturing and are purchased by the consumer as discrete units. It has been relatively easy in the prior art to match the signs of the sheets with the transverse direction of the machine while the sheets are transported in a continuous manner during manufacture. However, it is more difficult to match the signs in the direction of the machine and it is particularly difficult to match the signs with the finishing lines. One way in which the above difficulty has been solved is by preserving the length of the sheet during the continuous path of the sheet between the point at which the signs are applied and the point at which the weakened lines are formed on the sheet. relatively short size. However, this approach does not provide feasibility in the manufacturing process, requires very small equipment and simply can not be carried out when the modules needed to impart the weakened lines or to apply the signs themselves P676 comprises a continuous weft path that is large enough to cause an inadequate separation between the signs and the weakened lines. Another attempt to solve this difficulty has been to keep the length of the trajectory relatively short, between the point where the last signs and the termination lines are applied or imparted, respectively, to the continuous sheet and at the point in the one that the continuous sheet is cut to separate it into a discrete unit at the point of manufacture. This approach works well when discrete leaf sections of relatively short size are desired, for example on individual napkins for the table. However, this approach can not be used when a relatively longer sheet length is desired, for example, in a roll product, such as toilet paper or paper towels. This difficulty is due to the cumulative error that occurs along the entire length of the continuous sheet between the point where the signs are applied and the perforation lines are imparted to the sheet. For example, if a mismatch of 0.001 inches occurs in the first repeat unit of the web, then the mismatch will be 1 inch after 1,000 sheets. For example, referring to Figure 1, P676 The cumulative error of discrete napkins, each with a length in the machine direction of 12 inches, is approximately 0.125 inches. Inversely, the cumulative error of the prior art in 700 inches of continuous sheet, for example the approximate length of a typical roll of paper towels, is approximately 0.5 inches. This increasing cumulative error makes it impossible to use the processes of the prior art in the manufacture of these rolls of paper towels. A still greater problem is presented in the prior art when the original roll is finished and a new roll is started. The original roll is the largest roll of product that is subsequently converted into several individual sheets by the apparatus and process that are revealed here. The different original or starting rolls have different properties that affect the transport of the sheet through the device. For example, the amount of tension in the sheet as it travels through the apparatus often varies greatly from roll to roll. As these properties vary, the coincidence of the signs with the termination lines also varies. This variation of the match or record must be taken into account in the manufacturing process. Each vertex of the two graphs in Figure 1P676 represents a cutout, where the sheet is cut into a discrete unit, separating it from the successor sheet. The greater the length of the paper towel sheet the greater the cumulative error in the sheet. In the sense used herein "unit" is defined as the portion of the sheet that is discrete in the form in which it is delivered to the consumer, for example, a single paper napkin or a single roll of paper towels or toilet paper. It will be evident that the length of the toilet paper or the paper towels are significantly greater than the length of a discreet table napkin. The cumulative error will of course be greater in the toilet paper or in the paper towels, in an amount proportional to the difference in the length of the sheet. Consequently, the approaches that are feasible when dealing with discrete articles of a relatively short unit length, are not sufficient to solve the registration difficulties that occur in longer leaf sections. The sheet triams are defined as the length of the product, taken in the direction of the machine, as presented to the consumer. For example, the sheet length of a discrete napkin or of a tablecloth is the length of the machine direction of a sheet or a tablecloth. The sheet length of a roll of perforated paper towels is the length in the machine direction of the entire roll, taken from the point of attachment with cardboard core to the seal of the roll tail. Therefore, an object of the invention is to provide a mechanism for solving the problems associated with the mismatch or registration between the signs and the finishing lines, in products having large unit lengths and, more particularly, in paper products. that are rolled in a center, presented to the consumer in the form of a roll. It is also another object of the invention to provide adjustment of this spacing while the sheet is being transported during manufacture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The invention comprises an apparatus for matching or putting into register signs with termination lines on a sheet. The record is presented while the sheet is being transported through the device. The apparatus comprises means for transporting a sheet in a first direction and means for applying signs to the sheet from a system that is movable relative to the sheet. The apparatus further comprises a means or for imparting termination lines to the sheet. The apparatus also comprises a means for adjusting the separate relationship between the signs and the termination lines. The adjustment can be made by changing the phase of the signs or the finishing lines on the sheet. Preferably, the termination lines comprise perforations extending in a direction generally orthogonal to the transport direction. In one embodiment, the apparatus may comprise a transport mechanism for transporting the sheet through the apparatus and a knife imparting a finishing line to the sheet, as it is being transported. The apparatus may also comprise a system for applying signs to the sheet, the signs are sized to fit between adjacent lines of termination and are placed in a separate relation thereto. One of the systems for applying the signs and the blade is adjusted in relation to the blade as it is transported, so that the separation of the signs with respect to the lines of termination can be adjusted while the blade is being transported. In another embodiment, the invention comprises a process for registering signs and termination lines on a moving sheet. The process comprises the step of providing a generally flat sheet. The blade is transported at a first speed. The signs are applied to the sheet from a means to apply signs and that is mobile in relation to the sheet at a second speed. The lines of completion are imparted to the sheet, preferably, from a movable blade relative to the blade, at a third speed. The process finally comprises the step of varying one of the first, second or third speeds to adjust or preserve the predetermined separation. In another embodiment, the invention comprises a sheet having signs and termination lines in register or registration with the signs. The sheet generally comprises a flat sheet transportable in a first direction and the signs are applied to the sheet as it is transported. The sheet also comprises termination lines that are in separate relation to the signs, when they are observed in the first direction. The separate relationship can be observed in the first direction when the sheet is transported. This variation allows the termination lines and signs to either approach or separate, without interrupting the transport of the sheet. In another embodiment, the sheet may have a principal address coincident with the address of the manufacturing machine. The blade has a length, taken in the main direction, of at least 500 inches. The sheet also includes signs and lines of termination, the signs and lines of termination are separated from each other. The separate ratio is conserved to a tolerance of ± 0.125 inches over the entire length of the leaf. Preferably, the tolerance is conserved within the range of ± 0.063 inches.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a graphical representation of the cumulative error in the separation between signs and termination lines in table napkins of discrete length (lower abscissa) and roll paper towels (upper abscissa). Figure 2 is a fragmentary top plan view of a sheet according to the present invention, the sheet being part of a canvas having at least two roll positions. Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of an apparatus according to the present invention, having control signals designated by a dotted line and mechanical connections designated by a solid line.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Referring to Figure 2, the sheet 14 according to the present invention is generally flat, soft and absorbent. Sheet 14 is useful for applications such as toilet paper, paper towels, tablecloths, P676 napkins, etc. The sheet 14 is preferably wound into a roll. The sheet 14 is cellulose and preferably paper. The sheets according to the present invention can be made according to commonly assigned United States Patents Nos. 4,191,609 issued March 4, 1980 to Trokhan; 4,637,859 granted on January 20, 1987 to Trokhan and 5,245, 025 granted on September 14, 1993 to Trokhan et al., The descriptions of which are considered hereby incorporated by reference. As illustrated in the above patents, the sheet 14 is preferably manufactured with a continuous process, subsequently cut into discrete units according to the way in which the final product will be distributed to the consumer. Discrete units include roll products (eg, paper towels and toilet paper) and individual sheets (eg, table napkins). The sheet 14 is presented to the consumer as an individual unit having a sheet length. The product of preference is presented to the consumer as a roll, wound in a spiral around a center thus producing a paper product wound around a center. The paper rolled in the center has a length taken in the main direction or first direction. The signs 30 and the lines of P676 termination 20 are placed in spaced relationship through sheet 14. Signs 30 may be intermediate or abutting on termination lines 20. The length of a sheet 14 is its unfolded dimension taken in a first direction. The first direction is coincident with the machine direction for the sheet 14, during its manufacture and while it is in continuous form. The first address is also the main direction of the length of the sheet. The layers or folds forming the sheet 14 do not separate when determining their length. The front and rear edges 16, 18 of the sheet 14 are defined by the termination lines 20. The termination lines 20 are the lines separating the sheet 14, as presented to the consumer, in discrete units, if this separation It has not been done at the time of manufacture. Typical termination lines 20 include both perforations 21 and cutouts 22. Perforations 21 are weakened lines that allow the sheet 14 to be separated into discrete units, as needed by the consumer. The cutouts 22 separate an individual sheet 14 from the adjacent sheet 14 in the manufacturing process or terminate a roll and initiate the next roll in the manufacturing process. Fit P676 coinciding with each finishing line is a leading edge and a trailing edge 16, 18 of the sheet 14, the leading edge 16 is in front of the trailing edge 18 in the manufacturing process. Preferably, the termination lines 20, and in particular the perforations 21, are oriented in the transverse direction to the machine and are transverse to the first transport direction of the sheet 14. Alternatively, it will be recognized that the termination lines may be used. 20 that have a diagonal orientation or that have any other separation relationship in the machine direction. Two longitudinal edges 28 connect to the leading edge and the trailing edge 16, 18. The longitudinal edges 28 are oriented substantially in the longitudinal direction or first direction. While the embodiment of Figure 2 shows the longitudinal edges 28 as straight and parallel and the leading and trailing edges 16, 18 as straight and parallel, anyone skilled in the art will recognize that depending on the arrangement used to cut the longitudinal edges 28 of the When cutting the sheet 14, the longitudinal edges 28 need not be straight or parallel as shown in the preferred embodiment. Similarly, the front and rear edges 16,18 do not P676 need to be straight and parallel as shown. The sheet 14 is transported through the apparatus 10 by any suitable means. Typically, the blade 14 is pulled through the apparatus 10 under tension. The tension can be applied to the blade 14 by winding it around a rotating reel. The rotating reel may be cylindrical and be driven by an electric motor at a predetermined angular velocity. A suitable electric motor is a direct current synchronous motor that supplies approximately 30 horsepower at 3000 rpm. A particularly preferred motor is obtained from Reliance Electric Co. of Cleveland, Ohio. Placed juxtaposed to the leading and trailing edges 18 of the sheet 14 and oriented generally in a second direction, which is within the plane of the sheet 14, and in a generally orthogonal to the first direction, the signs 30 are found. The signs 30 are separated from the termination lines 20 so that a separate relationship is formed between them. The separate relationship is predetermined and can be adjusted during manufacturing. The indicia 30 can be aesthetically pleasing and printed either in a single color or in various colors. Alternatively, the indicia 30 may be highlighted or recorded. Preferably, clues 30 apply to the P676 blade 14 while it is being transported through apparatus 10, which is described below. The indicia 30 can be applied to the sheet 14 by any means known in the art, suitable for applying indicia 30 at predetermined repetition intervals. In a preferred embodiment, the indicia 30 are printed on the sheet 14 from a rotating cylinder. The rotating cylinder is driven around a central axis at a predetermined angular velocity. Suitable printing processes known in the art include printing by engraving and flexographic printing. An appropriate apparatus 10 for applying the indicia 30 to the substrate is disclosed in commonly assigned Patent 5,213,037 and issued on May 25, 1993 to Leopardi, II, the description of which is considered incorporated herein by reference. The printing cylinder 34 or any other means for applying the signs 32 to the blade 14 can be driven by any suitable means, for example by an electric motor. A suitable electric motor is a direct current synchronous motor that supplies approximately 25 to 125 horsepower at a predetermined angular speed of 1700 to 1800 rpm. If you want to engrave the signs 30 on sheet 14, any engraving technique well known in this area P676 is adequate. Suitable etching techniques include those described in U.S. Patents assigned in a community manner to Nos. 3,414,459 issued December 3, 1968 to Wells; 3,556,907 granted on January 19, 1971 to Nystrand, and 5,294,475 granted on March 15, 1994 to McNeil, the descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference. In an alternative embodiment, the signs 30 can impart functional properties to the sheet 14 instead of visually or aesthetically pleasing properties. In this embodiment, the signs 30 may comprise adhesive, for example, in the form in which it is used to join two layers together and form a sheet 14 having a double thickness. Alternatively, the functional indicia 30 can be used to change the properties to a portion of the sheet 14 relative to another portion of the sheet 14. For example, the adhesive used to bond the glue of a product rolled in a center to the periphery of the product, could be applied to the sheet 14, likewise the adhesive used to join the leading edge of a sheet 14 to the center, around which the sheet 14 is wound. Alternatively, the known additives that increase the softness, wet strength, temporary strength wet, hydrophobic / hydrophilic or functionally affecting any other property of sheet 4, P676 may be applied to it. A device that can be used in the intermittent operation and suitable for applying functional signs 30, for example adhesive, to the sheet 14, is disclosed in United States Patent 5,143,776 commonly assigned and granted the 1st. September 1992 to Givens, the exhibition of which is incorporated here as a reference. Typically, the means for applying the signs 32 needs only to be able to apply the signs 30 in a separate relation in the first direction and apply the signs 30 to a frequency that provides the signs 30 at predetermined repetition intervals. The signs 30 can be applied by any suitable system. A suitable system comprises a rotating cylinder, driven to rotate about a central axis. In addition to the indicia 30 applied to the repetition intervals separated in the first direction and in separate relation to the termination lines 20, the signs 30 may be juxtaposed with one or both longitudinal edges 28. If each of the leading edges, rear and longitudinal 28 have signs 30 juxtaposed therewith, an edge or border is formed on the sheet 14. This limit can define and improve the appearance or functionality of the sheet. Referring to Figure 3, the lines of P676 termination 20 can be applied by any suitable means for imparting termination lines 20 to the sheet 14. The appropriate means should also apply the termination lines 20 at a frequency that provides predetermined repetition intervals. As mentioned before, the termination lines 20 can completely separate the web into discrete units or can provide weakened lines, for example perforations 21. Suitable means for imparting the termination lines 20 include blades which, in general, are orthogonal to the termination lines 20 and form them generally orthogonal to the first transport direction of the sheet 14, where they define the adjacent front and rear edges 18 of the successive sheets 14. A suitable means for imparting the termination line comprises a rotary blade 36 driven around a central axis at a predetermined angular velocity on a perforating roller. Of course, one of the rotating blades 36 can be driven on a common arrow, as is well known in the art. A rotating blade 36 suitable for imparting perforations 21 to the blade 14 is disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent 5,114,771 issued May 19, 1992 to Ogg et al., The disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference .

PS76 If the termination line is trimmed, this can be achieved by two rotating rollers juxtaposed with each other, a trimmer roller and a support roll 48, as is well known in the art. Of course, even if the finishing lines 20 which are the subject of the present invention are perforations 21, the apparatus 10 most likely will comprise a cutting roller 46 and a supporting roller 48 for separating the adjacent sheets, each with a plurality of perforations 21. A particularly preferred embodiment of the cutting and supporting rollers 48 is disclosed in commonly assigned Patent 4,919,351 and issued on April 24, 1990 to McNeil, the description of which is considered incorporated herein by reference. The rotary blade 36 or any other means for imparting the termination lines 20 to the blade may also be driven by any suitable means, for example by an electric motor, as set forth above. If a piercing blade and a cutting blade are used in the apparatus 10, these can be driven by independent motors or by a common motor. In general, two types of engines are used with the apparatus 10 of the present. The first type of motor is described above. This type comprises one or more drive motors that impart angular velocity to one or more P676 rotary components of the apparatus 10. This first type of motor is generally more powerful and of adjustment thicker than the second type of motor. The first type of motor is connected to the rotary component via a differential 50. In general, the drive or traction motor also transports the blade 14 through the apparatus 10, due to the angular velocity imparted to the blade 14 by the rotating components of the apparatus 10. The differential 50 comprises a mechanical impeller capable of altering the angular velocity of the output shaft 52, within a resolution of at least 0.001 percent of the angular velocity of the baseline of the output shaft 52 Preferably, this resolution is conserved in a range of ± 4 percent of the angular velocity in baseline of the output arrow 52. Typically, the output arrows 52 have an angular velocity of 200 to 1500 rpm. The difference 50 provides angular adjustment of less than 1 rpm. The differential 50 comprises an output arrow 52 coupled to the rotating component. The output arrow 52 rotates with respect to a case 54 of the differential 50, which encloses and is rotatably mounted on the output arrow 52. An appropriate phase differential 50 is distributed by Andantex, Inc. of Wanamassa, New Jersey with the epicyclic unit Model No. SA30.

P676 The second type of motor is a correction motor, typically a servomotor. This second type of motor drives the box 54 of the differential 50, so that the angular velocity of the box 54 is superimposed with the angular velocity of the input arrow 21. This overlap results in a very precise and well-controlled angular velocity at the output arrow 52. The connection motors are typically approximately 2 to 4 horsepower. The connection motors can be precisely and accurately adjusted to a particular angular speed, independent of the angular speed of the drive or traction motor. In addition, as the angular velocity of the drive or drive motor changes, compensation can be made by the correction motor as the sheet 14 is transported through the apparatus 10, without interruption of the sheet transportation. The compensation can also be given as the sheet 14 is transported through the apparatus 10, without interruption of the sheet transportation, changing the tension of the continuous screen, or any other factor that changes the space ratio between the termination lines 20 and the signs 30. The termination lines 20 and the signs 30 can be imparted and applied to the sheet, respectively, in P676 any desired order. However, the last of the termination lines 20 or the signs 30 to be imparted or applied to the sheet 14 constitutes the operation controlled by the apparatus 10 to preserve the spaced relationship between them. By way of example, the signs 30 are applied to the sheet. Then, the termination lines 20 are imparted to the sheet. If the sheet 14 has both the perforations 21 and the cutout, typically the perforations 21 are imparted before trimming. In the system described above, in which the signs are applied first, the desired space of the termination lines 20 in relation to the signs 30, is achieved and retained by adjusting the placement of the termination lines 20, rather than by adjusting the positioning of the signs 30. The apparatus 10 may comprise, in particular, a blade length correction motor 45. The blade length correction motor 45 controls the angular velocities of the drill roll, trimmer roll 46 and support roll. If the product is delivered as a product with rolled center, as for example it is common in toilet paper and paper towels, the sheet length correction motor 45 can also control the angular speed of the indexing turret and the functions load centers of said turret. The turret P676 wraps the product around the center and executes other auxiliary functions for the winding on the center, such as center load on an axis, apply adhesives to the center, cut out the sheet, apply final sealing adhesive to the end of the sheet, etc. . A preferred system having a blade length correction motor 45 is illustrated in commonly assigned U.S. Patent 4,687,153, issued August 18, 1987 to McNeil, the disclosure of which is considered incorporated herein by reference. A differential 50 is located functionally intermediate between the blade length correction motor 45 and the mechanisms for imparting the finishing lines 20 of the sheet. The apparatus 10 also comprises mechanisms for determining the position of the mechanisms for imparting the termination lines 20 or mechanisms for applying the signs 30 to the sheet 14, whichever occurs later in the manufacturing process. A typical mechanism for determining the position is a position resolver 38 attached to the rotating blade 36, or another component, such as a printing cylinder 34, to be controlled in response to an error signal. An appropriate position resolver 38 is capable of determining the angular position within at least 0.1 degrees. A preferred position resolver 38 has P676 4,096 pulses per rotation. An appropriate position resolver 38 is available from Reliance Electric Co. of Cleveland, Ohio with Model No. M / N 57C360 and is typically designed by the motor that drives the rotating component from which the signal is taken. The solver can be used in conjunction with an input resolver module, which is available from Reliance Electric with Part No. M / N 57C411. If desired, the position resolver 38 can be replaced by an encoder, by having one of these, the appropriate control logic is used, as is well known within the technology. The apparatus 10 also comprises mechanisms for perceiving the position of the signs 30 of the sheet. Preferably, the determination is made by perceiving the difference in the coefficient of reflectance between the signs 30 and the sheet. These two mechanisms 40 must be provided to perceive the position. Preferably, the mechanisms are located on opposite sides of the sheet, in matching locations taken in a direction transverse to the machine. Each of these mechanisms determines the position of the signs 30 and their respective side of the sheet. The positions of the signs 30 are compared in terms of bias and the bias of the direction transverse to the machine is corrected as necessary, using the P676 means well known in technology, such as misalignment rollers or other members that can influence the path length. In order to maintain the desired space ratio described above, the two positions of the signs 30 perceived on the opposite sides of the sheet are averaged and a single position is used when generating the error signal. Of course, the signs 30 can not provide an adequate contrast with the sheet, in this case a registration mark 31 can be applied to the sheet 14 to be in register with the signs 30. If the registration mark 30 is applied to the sheet, preferably applied to the sheet cutout. The trimming refers to that portion of the sheet at the outer edges that is removed last from the portion of the sheet 14 that is presented to the consumer. Since the cut is not presented to the consumer, the match mark 31 can be of any size and shape suitable to indicate its position to the mechanisms of perception. Preferably, the match mark 31 is printed on the sheet 14 with the same printing plate used to print the signs 30, or any other part thereof that is already known. In this way, the desired space of the signs 30 in relation to the termination lines 20 is also known. The desired space can be zero, where the 31 mark of P676 record (or the portion of the signs 30 detected by the perception mechanism) matches the termination lines 20. Alternatively, the registration mark 31 (or portion of the signs 30 detected by the perception mechanisms) may be deviated in any direction from the termination lines 20. The apparatus 10 may also have a signal comparator 44. The signal comparator 44 is capable of subtracting two input signals to produce an error signal. The first input signal for the signal comparator 44 is the actual space between the signs 30 (or the coincidence mark 31) and the termination lines 20. The input signal can be provided in seconds, based on the distance between the signs 30 and the termination lines 20 and the speed at which the sheet 14 is transported through the apparatus 10. A suitable signal comparator is a Reliance Electric AutoMax Processor Module consisting of the photosensor resolver and the input cards for the resolver. The second input signal for the signal comparator 44 is the position of the mechanism for imparting the termination lines 20 to the sheet 14. The signal comparator 44 subtracts two input signals to produce an error signal. When the error signal exceeds a preset value, the apparatus 10 makes the correction. The value P676 preset is the desired space between the signs 30 (or coincidence mark 31) and the termination lines 20. The preset values suitable for use with the present invention are more less 0.125 inches (for a total limit of 0.25 inches) and preferably plus 0.063 inches (for a total limit of 0.125 inches) over the total length of the sheet 14. For making the correction, the apparatus 10 activates the appropriate motor, such as the blade length correction motor 45. The appropriate motor adjusts the placement of the termination lines 20 on the sheet, so that the termination lines 20 can be brought closer or further away from the signs 30, thereby changing the space ratio between them. This correction occurs while the sheet 14 is transported through the apparatus 10 and without interruption of transportation. This movement correction is feasible since the appropriate motor is adjusted while rotating at a predetermined angular velocity. In an alternative embodiment, the mechanism for changing the space ratio between the signs 30 and the termination lines 20 can be any mechanism that changes the length of the path of the sheet 14 between the mechanisms 32 to apply the signs and the mechanisms for imparting the termination lines 20. The path length of the sheet 14 can be changed by using a roller P676 guide moving in a direction having a component orthogonal to the machine direction, as indicated by arrow 61, and preferably orthogonal to the path of sheet 14 in the particular position of guide roller 60. The guide rollers 60 are well known in the trawl systems, and are available from Fife Company and Mount Hope Company. Alternatively, the path length of the blade can be changed by deflecting the frame 11 with air jets and other non-contacting mechanisms. Other mechanisms to change the path length of the blade is to change the length of the blade 14 within the path. By using this mechanism, the tension applied to the blade 14 (by a traction motor) is changed as the blade 14 is transported between the mechanisms for imparting the termination lines 20 and the mechanisms for applying the signs 32. The tension of the sheet can be changed along this portion of the apparatus 10, as is well known within the technology, by using rollers driven in intermediate positions to these mechanisms, or by steadily increasing the drag of the sheet 14 through of the apparatus 10 (for example when using a traction motor). Still another mechanism to change the space ratio between signs 30 and termination lines 20 P676 comprises changing the angular velocity of either one or both mechanisms to impart the termination lines 20 or the mechanisms for applying the signs 32. This can be accomplished by discrete adjustments to the phases of these mechanisms on a basis of needs, with the instantaneous value of the error signal discussed above. A person with normal skill in technology will recognize that any of the three foregoing mechanisms for changing the space ratio between the signs 30 and the termination lines 20 can be collectively considered as the mechanisms for changing the phase of the lines 20 of termination in relation to signs 30 or vice versa. The phase change is carried out by changing the phase of one or both mechanisms to impart the termination lines 20 or the mechanisms for applying the signs 32. During operation, the sheet moves relative to the apparatus 10, preferably to the maintaining the apparatus 10 in a stationary condition and pulling the sheet 14 through the apparatus 10 in the direction of the machine. The blade 14 can be pulled through the apparatus 10 with a motor that drives any suitable roller (s) that frictionally attach to the blade 14 as it is pulled through the apparatus 10. The traction motor is used, P676 typically, along with a traction correction motor for this purpose. Preferably, the first step executed by the apparatus 10 is to apply the signs 30 to the sheet. The signs 30 can be applied by a rotating printing cylinder 34 having a predetermined angular velocity, as used in flexographic or engraving printing. The rotating printing cylinder 34 is preferably actuated independently of the traction motor and the traction correction motor used to transport the sheet 14 through the apparatus 10. The signs 30 may include the coincidence marks 31 or a point in the signs 30 that are presented to the consumer and that are optically visible. The second step executed by the apparatus 10 is the detection of the signs 30 (or the coincidence mark 31). The detection is carried out by means of a photocell 41, based on the difference of the reflectance coefficient between the signs 30 and the base. For precision, the photocell is preferably located just before the rotating blade 36. The third step executed by the apparatus 10 is to impart the finishing lines of the sheet. The termination lines 20 are placed on the sheet 14 in a space relation with the signs 30. The space is P676 at the first address or address of the machine. The finishing lines 20 are preferably perforations 21, but can also be a cutout 22. The lines 20 are preferably oriented in the transverse direction of the machine. The fourth step executed by the apparatus 10 is the determination of the position of the perforations 21, or other termination lines 20. This determination is made by knowing the position of the rotating blade 36 that imparts the perforations 21 to the blade 14. The position of the rotary blade 36 is given by a resolver 38 that determines the position of the rotating blade 36 and, therefore, , the perforations 21 are imparted with the rotating blade 36. The difference in position between the signs 30 and the perforations 21 is determined by a signal comparator 44. This difference constitutes an error signal. If the difference exceeds a pre-established limit in any direction, the correction is made. The correction can be made by adjusting the angular speed of the traction correction motor, the blade length correction motor 45, the rotating blade 36, or the rotating printing cylinder 34. Preferably, the correction is made by adjusting the angular velocity of a blade length correction motor 45.

P676 The blade length correction motor 45 controls the angular velocity of the rotating blade 36 which imparts the perforations 21, as well as the cutting roller 46 and the supporting roller 48, as well as the downstream functions of the apparatus 10. Particularly, the correction is preferably made by adjusting the angular speed of the rotating blade 36 relative to the speed of the sheet. This angular velocity increases or decreases, as necessary, until the error signal appears within the preset limit. In a preferred embodiment, the sheet 14 according to the present invention is presented to the consumer as a rolled center or a rolled paper product. This product is suitable for use as paper towels, absorbent towels, etc. The sheet 14 may have a length in the principal direction of at least 500 inches, preferably at least 700 inches, and more preferred of at least 900 inches, and much preferred of at least 1100 inches. Intermediate to the termination lines 20, which define the length of the sheet, there may be a plurality of terminating lines 20 that provide a weak line. Preferably, these weak lines comprise the P676 perforations 21. The perforations 21 may be spaced in a distance of about 4.0 to 20 inches, with a preferred spacing of about 4.5 to 14 inches, and more preferred with a spacing of about 12.0 to 12.5 inches. The perforations 21 are generally oriented in the transverse direction of the machine and are generally orthogonal to the conveying direction of the sheet 14 through the apparatus 10. Preferably, but not necessarily, the perforations 21 extend across the width of the product. , measured between the longitudinal edges 28 of the sheet. In this embodiment, the signs 30 are maintained in a space relationship with the perforations 21. Preferably, the signs 30 are in register between the perforations 21 and juxtaposed with the leading edge and the trailing edge of the sheet. In this way, the symmetry of the sheet is obtained from the center line in the transverse direction of the machine. Optionally, the signs 30 may be in register with the longitudinal edges 28 of the sheet 14 to also achieve the symmetry of the sheet from the centerline of the machine direction. Of course, a person skilled in the art will recognize that several sheets may be made in parallel in accordance with the present invention. When using P676 multiple roller positions as known in the art. In this process, a single continuous web 11 having a width several times greater than the web 14 presented to the consumer, is transported through the apparatus 10. As used herein, "continuous web" consists of an integral plurality of web pages one with another that are transported simultaneously through the apparatus 10, in parallel in the transverse direction of the machine. Subsequently, the frame 11 is cut or cut, in the direction of the machine, into individual sheets. The flange is also removed from the longitudinal edges 28 of the weft 11, as described above with respect to the single widths of the sheet. The multiple signs 30 and the multiple termination lines 20 are imparted to the sheet 14 in parallel through the width of the frame 11. Subsequently, the screen 11 is cut or split into individual sheets, as desired. Of course, a person with normal skill in the art will recognize that within this mode, the mechanisms for perceiving the position 40 of the signs 30 on the sheet 14 will be in a spaced relation in the cross machine direction. If desired, a plurality of additional mechanisms may be added to sense the position 40 of the signs 30 in the intermediate positions across the width of the frame 11.

P676 Of course, a person with normal skill in the technology will recognize that it may be desired to adjust that the frame 11 is in coincidence with the transverse direction of the machine. If the frame 11 is not in coincidence with the transversal direction of the machine it causes bias in the aforementioned space ratio. One can compensate for skewing by adjusting the path length of the frame, by using the mechanisms well known in the technology. For example, curved rollers, curved shaft rollers having fixed and variable radii of curvature, guide rollers, Mount Hope rollers, etc., can be used to change the path length of a portion of the weft 11, or even a individual sheet, in relation to the balance of frame 11 or sheet 14.

P676

Claims (20)

1. CLAIMS 1. An apparatus for registering or coinciding signs and termination lines on a transported sheet, the apparatus comprising: means for transporting a sheet in a first direction; means for applying separate signs to the sheet in predetermined repetition intervals and at a first speed; a means for imparting termination lines to the sheet at a second speed, the termination lines are in separate relation to the signs; and a means for adjusting the separate relationship between the signs and the termination lines by adjusting one of the first speed and the second speed.
2. 2. An apparatus for registering or matching signs and termination lines on a sheet, the sheet is transported in a first direction, the apparatus comprises: a transport mechanism for transporting the sheet through the apparatus; a blade that imparts a finishing line to the blade, the finishing line is generally orthogonal to the first transport direction of the blade, whereby the blade has a leading edge and a trailing edge P676 defined by the termination lines; a component for applying signs to the sheet, the signs are dimensioned to fit within the front and rear edges and are placed in separate relation to each other, one of the components and the blade are adjustable in relation to the sheet as it is transported in the first direction, whereby the separation of the signs in the first direction with respect to the leading and trailing edges can be adjusted while the sheet is being transported.
3. 3. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the means for transporting the sheet comprises a rotating reel.
4. 4. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the means for applying the separated signs comprises a rotating cylinder. An apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the means for applying the separate signs comprises a printing cylinder. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sheet has two longitudinal edges connecting the leading and trailing edges, the means for applying the separate signs applies the signs juxtaposed to at least one of the leading edge and the trailing edge and by at least one of the longitudinal edges. P676 7. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sheet has two longitudinal edges that connect to the front and rear edges, the means for applying the separate signs applies the signs juxtaposed to one of the leading edges, rear edge and the two longitudinal edges. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the means for adjusting the separate relationship between the signs and the termination line adjusts the frequency at which the termination lines are imparted to the sheet. An apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the means for imparting the termination lines comprises a rotating blade driven through a central axis at a predetermined angular velocity. 10. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the angular velocity of the rotating blade is adjusted, thereby adjusting the phase of the signs relative to the termination line. 11. An apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the adjustment of the angular velocity is made in response to an error signal, the error signal designates the difference between the separation of the signs in relation to the termination lines, as which is actually presented on the sheet and a desired separation of the signs in relation to the termination line. P676 12. An apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the error signal is generated from a signal comparator comparing the position of the rotating blade and the signs applied to the blade. 13. An apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the signal comparator receives first and second input signals, the first input signal is generated by a position resolver that indicates the position of the rotating blade. 14. An apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the second input signal indicates the separation between the termination lines and the signs. 15. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the means for adjusting the separate relationship between the signs and the termination line adjusts the frequency at which the signs are applied to the sheet. 16. An apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the means for applying the signs comprises a rotating cylinder driven around a central axis at a predetermined angular velocity. 17. An apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the angular velocity of the rotating cylinder is adjusted, thereby adjusting the phase of the signs with respect to the termination lines. 18. An apparatus according to claim 2, in P676 where the signs are applied to a first predetermined frequency and the termination lines are applied to the sheet at a second predetermined frequency, one of the first and second frequencies are adjusted, whereby the separation is adjusted in response to the adjustment in one of the first and second frequencies. An apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the blade is rotatable and driven by a motor and the system for imparting the signs is rotatable and driven by a motor, the first frequency and the second frequency are adjusted by changing the rotational speed of one of the engines. 20. An apparatus according to claim 19, further comprising means for detecting the separation between the signs and the termination lines. P676