EP2411313B1 - Method for correcting an inclined position of a product exiting a gap of two folding rollers of a longitudinal folding machine and said longitudinal folding machine - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a method for correcting an inclined position of a product emerging from a folding nip of two folding rollers of a longitudinal folding apparatus according to the features of claim 1 and a longitudinal folding apparatus according to the preamble of claim 11.

Through the DE 10 2005 007 745 A1 a longitudinal folding apparatus is known, the folding table on each side of the folding knife a braking device, for. B. a brake brush is provided in order to prevent the product to be folded from coming into contact with the stop at full speed. Rather, the product should be braked in a defined manner via the braking device and aligned with the stop in a defined manner. Each brake brush is mounted on a holder and is adjustable via actuators, the two brake devices being connected in such a way that they can be moved away from the folding table together.

The DE 694 00 629 T2 discloses a longitudinal folding device with a folding knife and a stop delimiting the folding area on the folding table. Furthermore, a brush brake device with brushes is provided, a servo unit being provided for setting the brush pressure for each brush or brush group. Two sensor systems spaced apart transversely to the product direction are provided on both sides of the folding knife, which on a product path side each consist of a plurality of in the transport direction by z. B. 1 mm spaced detectors, as well as exist on the other side of the product path of an infrared source illuminating the respective sensor system. The measuring range of these sensor systems extends over an area lying in front of the stop and an area in front of it on the product side. About an evaluation of the degree of Cover and a distance from a stop and possibly the chronological sequence of the cover during the hemming process, a possibly incorrect braking effect can be identified and automatically corrected. A comparison of the distance between the stop and the product edge via the degree of coverage of the two sensor systems enables the front edge to be checked for inclined or incorrect alignment. By means of a control device containing the sensor systems, the effect of the braking device is adjusted depending on the display of the sensor device in such a way that the folding knife acts on each product when it is optimally aligned in the folding area, with the front edge facing the stop face so that the printed product does not damaged and accurately folded. The folding knife moves out of phase with the printed product feed, so that it moves downwards in order to come into engagement with the top of each printed product when it is completely in the folding area, with the front edge being directly on or very close to the stop face comes. In the DE 694 00 629 T2 it is also noted that for folders in which the braking effect is achieved solely by the folding knife, the braking effect can be regulated by changing the phase setting of its folding movement.

From the EP 2 017 210 A2 a longitudinal folding device and a method for operating the longitudinal folding apparatus is known, two speeds being determined one behind the other in the transport direction by means of two detector systems and the product to be folded longitudinally by a frictional connection exerted on the printed product, e.g. B. by the folding knife, is reduced from the first speed to the second speed while the printed product moves along a braking distance on the folding table. The point in time for a start of the frictional engagement braking the printed product, e.g. B. the first contact with the folding knife, is set as a function of a deviation which a determined actual value of the second speed of the printed product has from a predetermined setpoint value for this second speed. The aim here is to push the product against the stop To ensure deceleration and alignment.
The DE 198 56 373 A1 relates to an early warning system and method for detecting jams of printed signatures. For this purpose, sets of sensors are provided after the cross cutter of the cross folding apparatus and upstream of two longitudinal folding devices. If a tilt is detected, an error message is output and the printing press is braked or stopped.

Through the DE 100 63 528 A1 a method and a device for determining the accuracy of a fold position is disclosed, with markings printed on the imbricated flow being detected in the product display, the position of which is relative to the fold spine and a statement about the fold quality is to be made. This can serve as an aid for the operator in diagnosing errors and also enables feedback of the folding accuracy to the folder. In the event of errors such as oblique folding or protruding paper, measures to increase the folding accuracy can be initiated, such as B. a correction of a phase position from the folding knife to the folding jaw, a regulation of a speed of the transport element transporting the imbricated flow, or even switching off the printing machine.

In the DE 10 2004 058 647 A1 a pocket folding device with a sensor is disclosed, wherein the sensor or two sensors spaced transversely to the transport direction characterize the process of the impact of the leading workpiece edge. The sensor or sensors can be designed as a microphone, as an acceleration sensor, as a strain measuring strip, or in the form of ultrasonic sensors. In the latter case, it should be possible to generate orientation signals characterizing the orientation of a leading edge to be moved towards the pocket stop. Adjusting means for adjusting the orientation of the pocket stop are controlled by means of the measured values from the sensor or the sensors.

The DE 32 34 148 A1 relates to a method and a device for checking folded sheets for deviations between the fold line and the desired fold line as a function of the type area in pocket or knife folders. For this purpose, two sensors spaced transversely to the flow are provided in the flow of the folded products, which detect the distances between the fold marks applied to the product and the fold edge, with an evaluation unit calculating, displaying and displaying an average value deviation from the nominal value for length and angle deviations of the fold break from this information / or to control the machine. This enables specific correction of set machine values.

Through the DE 199 50 603 B4 a sheet feed of sheets to be printed into a printing unit of a sheet-fed printing machine is disclosed, whereby information about the position of a separated sheet to be fed to the printing unit is provided by means of two ultrasonic sensors spaced transversely to the flow before it is fed to the printing unit by a gripper. Here, an inclined position or a faulty double position can be identified, which is connected to a control and regulating device connected to the gripper.

The DE 195 04 769 A1 relates to a longitudinal folding apparatus, whereby first sensors are provided on the front wall of the stop or in recesses of the stop, which measure the distance of the front edge while the product to be folded is sliding towards it and a control circuit evaluates by comparison whether both halves are approaching at the same speed. If one side is closer to the stop, the brake arrangement assigned to this side is brought closer to the folding table in order to brake this side more strongly. Further sensors are provided for measuring a curling of the folded copy. These sensors measuring the waviness can, as optical sensors, detect the distance to the top of the product or, as strain gauges, the force exerted on them by the deformation of the top measure up. When a maximum value is exceeded, the position of the braking devices is changed.

The invention is based on the object of creating an improved method for longitudinally folding a product on a folding table of a longitudinal folding apparatus and a longitudinal folding apparatus suitable for this purpose.

The object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claims 1 and 11, respectively.

The advantages that can be achieved with the invention are, in particular, that a longitudinal folding device, also referred to as a "third fold" or "second longitudinal fold" in web-fed rotary printing presses, is created for higher performance and less manual intervention with good folding quality.

Here z. B. a lever folding knife system with sensor-controlled folding time regulation (z. B. folding time regulation of the folding knife) and / or a sensor-controlled inclination control (inclination correction by brushing), z. B. with four motorized brush systems that are integrated in an automatic control, application.

Particularly advantageous in terms of high folding quality and low risk of failure are precautions with regard to an optimal position when folding. This concerns the position on and / or under the folding table. The corresponding regulation or regulation make correct folding largely independent of influences such as tape wear, paper type, number of pages, ink application and / or surface finishing of the printed product.

An optimal adaptation to the requirements can be achieved by means of a control concept based on the operating modes and / or phases.

Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and are described in more detail below.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Schnittansicht eines Längsfalzapparates;

Fig. 2

eine schematische Seitenansicht eines Längsfalzapparates;

Fig. 3

eine schematische Draufsicht auf den Falztisch eines Längsfalzapparates;

Fig. 4

eine schematische Draufsicht auf den Falztisch eines Längsfalzapparates mit einem gerade einlaufenden Produkt;

Fig. 5

eine schematische Draufsicht auf den Falztisch eines Längsfalzapparates mit einem schräg einlaufenden Produkt;

Fig. 6

eine schematische Darstellung einer Steuereinrichtung;

Fig. 7

schematische Darstellungen von Regelungsstufen bzw. Betriebsweisen des Längsfalzapparates a), b) und c);

Fig. 8

Beispiel für eine Signalfolge des Triggermoduls zweier Sensorsignale;

Fig. 9

einen schematischen Längsquerschnitt durch den Falzapparat;

Fig. 10

eine schematische Darstellung einer Verfahrensweise zur Schräglagenkorrektur;

Fig. 11

eine perspektivische Darstellung einer vorteilhafte Ausführung des Längsfalzapparates;

Fig. 12

eine perspektivische Darstellung der Ausführung des Längsfalzapparates aus Fig. 11 mit abgeschwenkter Abbremsvorrichtung;

Fig. 13

eine Darstellung gemäß Fig. 12 aus einer anderen Perspektive;

Fig. 14

einen Längsschnitt der Ausführung des Längsfalzapparates aus Fig. 11;

Fig. 15

einen Querschnitt der Ausführung des Längsfalzapparates aus Fig. 11.

Show it:

Fig. 1

a schematic sectional view of a longitudinal folding apparatus;

Fig. 2

a schematic side view of a longitudinal folding apparatus;

Fig. 3

a schematic plan view of the folding table of a longitudinal folding apparatus;

Fig. 4

a schematic plan view of the folding table with a longitudinal folding apparatus an incoming product;

Fig. 5

a schematic top view of the folding table of a longitudinal folding apparatus with a product entering at an angle;

Fig. 6

a schematic representation of a control device;

Fig. 7

schematic representations of control stages or modes of operation of the longitudinal folding apparatus a), b) and c);

Fig. 8

Example of a signal sequence of the trigger module of two sensor signals;

Fig. 9

a schematic longitudinal cross-section through the folder;

Fig. 10

a schematic representation of a procedure for skew correction;

Fig. 11

a perspective view of an advantageous embodiment of the longitudinal folding apparatus;

Fig. 12

a perspective view of the execution of the longitudinal folding apparatus from Fig. 11 with the braking device pivoted away;

Fig. 13

a representation according to Fig. 12 from a different perspective;

Fig. 14

a longitudinal section of the execution of the longitudinal folding apparatus Fig. 11 ;

Fig. 15

a cross section of the execution of the longitudinal folding apparatus Fig. 11 .

Fig. 1 shows one designed as a longitudinal folder 01, or folder 01 for short Processing stage 01 in a simplified sectional view (without details such as brush systems described below), Fig. 2 in a simplified side view and Figs. 3 to 5 schematically in plan view. The longitudinal folding apparatus 01 comprises a folding table 02 or an upper side of the folding table 02, in which an elongated folding gap 06, in particular parallel to a first transport direction T1 of a product 03 entering the longitudinal folding apparatus 01 from an entry side 18, is provided. This product 03 or intermediate product 03 represents e.g. B. a possibly previously already longitudinally and / or transversely folded product section of a printed product printed in a web processing machine, preferably a printing machine, in particular a web-fed rotary printing machine.

Under the folding table 02 at the level of the folding gap 06 there is a pair of folding rollers 07 ( Fig. 1 , 2 and 3 ) arranged in such a way that they form a gap which is oriented parallel to the folding gap 06 and located directly below it. For folding the product 03, a folding knife 04 is also provided, which is also oriented parallel to the folding gap 06, which dips into the folding gap 06 by moving up and down and leaves it upwards again. For this purpose, pivotable levers 08, z. B. folding levers 08, which carry the folding knife 04. When the folding levers 08 are pivoted, the folding knife 04 can penetrate into the folding gap 06. In an end area of the folding table 02 and / or of the folding gap 06 there is a one-piece or segment-like stop device 09 delimiting the path of the product 03 in the active position, the stop surface facing a product 03 - one or more parts - essentially in a line transverse to the alignment of the rebate gap 06 runs.

In contrast to a rotating knife, the folding knife 04 is preferably in the form of one that can be moved up and down with respect to the folding table 02 relative to the folding table 02, e.g. B. pivotable, knife 04 executed. The knife 04 is z. B. mounted on the folding levers 08, which in turn are mounted pivotably about an axis 11 with respect to the folding table 02. In another embodiment, however, the knife 04 can also be used as a be arranged eccentrically on a continuously rotating body of revolution. It can also be arranged eccentrically on a rotating planet gear. In a preferred embodiment, however, the movement of the folding knife 04, regardless of its mechanical or physical characteristics, is mechanically driven by the drive of the upstream units (such as the drive of printing units and / or the drive of a cross folder and / or the drive of the folding process upstream conveyors) independent drive, in particular a drive means 17 independent of these units, e.g. B. a drive motor 17 is provided.

In the folding step, the product to be folded 03, z. B. printed product 03, from the folding knife 04 through the folding gap 06 into the gap between the two folding rollers 07, z. B. pressed folding nip and thereby folded lengthways, then conveyed by a belt system 19 either to a paddle wheel 21 and from there to a delivery device 22 or as shown in dashed lines, otherwise discharged.

The folding knife 04 is preferably driven via a cam gear. For this purpose, the folding knife 04 is arranged on the lever 08, which is at a pivot point, for. B. the axis 11, is pivotably mounted. The lever 08 can either be a lever arm 08 of a lever designed as a double lever with a second lever arm 12, or else be designed as a one-armed lever, the second lever 12 then being non-rotatably connected to the rotatably mounted axle 11. At the fulcrum remote end of the second lever 12 (or second lever arm 12) is a curved line of a rotatable body 13, for. B. a cam 13, cooperating stop 14, z. B. executed as rotatably mounted on the lever 12 roller 14, arranged. The cam 13 is rotatably mounted on a shaft 16, which can be driven in rotation either directly or via a transmission by the drive motor 17, which is only indicated schematically.

The cam 13 can preferably be one in relation to its axis of rotation have irregular and asymmetrical curved lines which, when rotated via the crank mechanism (levers 08 and 12), cause a corresponding movement of the folding knife 04. In the representation of the Fig. 1 the cam disc 13 is designed as a circular disc with a circular circumferential line, which, however, is arranged eccentrically on the shaft 16. Whatever the design of the cam 13, its rotation causes a defined up and down movement of the folding knife 04, whose movement profile is fixed when the shaft 16 or the drive motor 17 rotates constantly, but the speed for the sequence of this fixed movement profile is dependent from the drive speed of the shaft 16 or the drive motor 17 is variable. The knife 04 thus continuously moves through a periodically recurring movement profile during operation in its up and down movement, the phase length (period length) representing a complete up and down movement up to the next same phase position with the same direction of movement and its frequency as specified the drive speed of the shaft 16 or the drive motor 17 is determined and preferably changeable.

In a preferred embodiment, the folding knife 04 is thus mechanically independent of the longitudinal folding apparatus 01 upstream conveyor and / or production devices (such as conveyor or transport belts feeding the product 03 and / or printing units and / or an upstream transverse folding apparatus) , e.g. B. assigned own drive means 17. The drive means 17 can then be designed in the above-mentioned manner as a drive motor 17, which via a transmission, for. B. cam gear, an eccentric or a crank drive, the folding knife 04 clocked to a desired position of a product 03 on the folding table 02 lowers or raises. In a further development, the drive motor 17 via a mechanical drive connection, for. B. via a gear connection from the shaft 16, the folding rollers 07 driven in rotation. In addition, the paddle wheel 21 and / or possibly even the delivery device 22 could also be driven by the drive motor 17 via corresponding drive connections. However, the impeller 21 advantageously has its own, not shown Drive motor on. To fix the longitudinal folding apparatus 01 or its drive or drive motor 17, a holding brake can be provided, which with a non-rotatable with a motor shaft or the folding knife drive, z. B. the shaft 16 or the cam 13, connected brake disc acts together.

The drive 17 is controlled, for example, by a folding blade drive (and / or, if these are driven together, the folding roller drive) associated with Fig. 1 Control and / or regulating device 10 indicated only schematically as a box, or control device 10 for short, which using information detailed below regarding a speed V of the printing press or a conveyor line conveying the product 03 to and / or into the folder 01 and / or using information from sensors Sx (see below) controls the drive of the folding knife 04 in such a way that the movement of the folding knife 04 is synchronized with the product stream of the products 03 entering the longitudinal folding apparatus 01 in a desired manner and, if necessary, the synchronization in their relative phase position ΔΦ is or can be consciously varied or corrected (see below).

The folding knife 04 is preferably driven in the stationary operating state with respect to its folding frequency, synchronized with the product flow to be fed to the folding apparatus 01. With regard to its speed V, this synchronization can in principle be based on a speed V of the upstream printing press or its drives, e.g. B. on a unit of the printing press, on an upstream folder or on an upstream conveyor line that promotes the products 03. The basic synchronization with respect to the folding frequency, e.g. B. the speed of the drive motor 17, in a simpler embodiment, for example, via signal transmitters on upstream systems, eg. B. on a moving part of the conveyor line, or via the frequency of the incoming products 03 or, as described below, via an electronic master axis. All of this should first be generalized under the information made available to the control device 10 with regard to a Speed V must be understood. The setting and changing of a desired relative target phase position Δ bzw. _R or target relative position ΔΦ _R , z. B. target reference phase position ΔΦ _R , between folding blade movement and product entry can be done by relative phase change between the incoming product flow and the angular position Φ _{A of} the drive of the folding blade 04, in particular by "turning" the drive motor 17.

If drives of units of this printing machine are preferably driven synchronously via an electronic, in particular a so-called "virtual master axis", the at least speed-synchronous drive of the folding knife 04 is advantageously carried out on the basis of data, in particular data relevant to speed and / or angular position, from the electronic or virtual master axis. These data can be based on angular positions of a revolving master axis, on angular speeds and / or on a speed specification, which is specified in the Fig. 1 is indicated as a circumferential angular position t (t) or more generally as a speed V. These master axis data are, for. B. in a control module 23 assigned to the drive motor 17, for the direct control of the drive motor 17 or a control loop that regulates the position and / or speed of the drive motor 17. The control module 23 can be used as a purely software-based control process 23 within a sterile device containing several such or different control processes or as a structurally separate unit, e.g. B. with its own housing or as a plug-in card, as a so-called. Drive control 23 or as part of the same. This can also be decentralized and close to the drive (e.g. integrated in the drive control 23) or (partially) centrally arranged together with corresponding controls for other drives. Representatively, the control module 23 is shown in the figures as part of a control device designated overall with control device 10, the components of which are in a common control means, e.g. B. logic circuit arrangement (z. B. PLC) and / or data processing means (z. B. computer, PC), or in several, signal-technically interconnected control means, z. B. Logical circuits (e.g. PLCs) and / or data processing means (e.g. computer, PC) are provided.

The above-mentioned signal processing of the master axis data in z. B. the control module 23 and / or the control device 10 takes place, for example, taking into account a geometry-related offset value Δ (z. B. correction angle Δ) and / or gear factor G. The former (Δ) represents the relative phase position between z. B. the circumferential master axis angular position Φ (t) (or a position and / or clock generating unit) and the folding knife position for the correct folding time and the latter (G) brings the phase length (period length) of the master axis revolution or the following machine movement (product generation, e.g. by printing unit drive) and that of the folding knife movement in such a way that in a certain period of time the folding knife 04 runs through as many periods as products 03 can or should enter the longitudinal folder 01. An increase in the speed V, in particular the production speed V (or master axis speed d t (t) / dt) then synchronously causes a corresponding increase in the folding blade frequency. In addition to the synchronized speed V and phase length, however, as mentioned above, the relative phase position between the incoming product 03 and the phase position of the folding knife 04 is of considerable importance for the folding process. This is ensured by an above-mentioned offset value Δ, which z. B. can be determined and / or adjusted manually or automatically before or at the start of production, as can be done, for example, in the manner explained below. The above to be set target relative position ΔΦ _R goes z. B. in the offset value Δ or even corresponds to this in the event that no other geometrically caused offset variables are to be taken into account. The desired relative position ΔΦ _{R to} be set can be monitored and maintained via a control loop that compares and, if necessary, corrects the product flow (e.g. by means of an input-side sensor S0) and the folding knife phase position (e.g. on its drive).

A correspondingly synchronized operation with regard to a required relative position ΔΦ _{R to} be maintained can then take place, for example, as shown:
The longitudinal folding apparatus 01 or its folding knife 04 is driven by the drive motor 17 through the conveying section which is mechanically independent of the upstream products 03 conveying. If the relative phase position deviates, ie the actual relative position ΔΦ between the product phase position Φ _P , z. B. determined on an "input sensor", e.g. B. a sensor S0 at the entry point 18 or on the upstream conveyor line, and the angular position Φ _{A of} the folding knife drive, z. B. the drive or the drive motor 17, from the previously defined target relative position ΔΦ _R , a correction is made by a relative phase change between the conveyor drive and the folding blade drive, z. B. by relative rotation of the folding blade drive by a correction angle Δ. This can e.g. B. happen that the folding knife 04 driving drive motor 17 depending on the deviation time limited faster or slower than the speed V, z. B. the speed corresponding to the machine speed or the conveyor speed is operated until the target relative position ΔΦ _{R is} restored. In the case of the above-mentioned embodiment with an electronic master axis, for example, the offset value Δ is varied accordingly by a correction value in order to restore the setpoint relative position ΔΦ _R or the resulting setpoint angular position Φ ₃ . This inner control loop for maintaining a specified target relative position ΔΦ _R or target angular position Φ ₃ is shown in Fig. 6 not specifically shown. In order to maintain a target relative position ΔΦ _R , this control loop thus controls depending on the arrival time of the product 03 at a sensor provided for this purpose, e.g. B. by means of a sensor S0 upstream of the folding knife 04, the phase position of the folding knife 04, in particular its drive motor 17, relative to the product 03. For example, a signal representing the entry or exit of a product 03 is detected by means of the sensor S0, one for Time of the signal assumed angular position Φ _{A of} the drive motor 17 detected, z. B. from this motor angle position and a zero angle position of the drive motor 17, the actual relative position ΔΦ is determined, and this The actual relative position ΔΦ _{l is} compared with the required relative position ΔΦ _R , and if there is a discrepancy, as described above, a phase change is made by means of a correction angle Δ.

Preferably, as explained in more detail below, the longitudinal folding apparatus 01 is operated in production operation in such a way that the conveyed product 03 is first touched by the folding knife 04 while the product 03 is still moving on the folding table 02 and before the stop 09; (or 46, see below) is located.

At the start of production, a ("basic") synchronization of the folding blade phase with the product phase can be advantageous. Here z. B. initially conveyed a product 03 into an intended contact position on the folding table 02 at a lower set-up speed than a production speed, and after reaching the intended contact position with the conveyor line at rest, the drive or drive motor 17 of the folding blade 04 is rotated until the folding blade 04 is in the movement phase on the product 03 to this just touched or is about to touch (first contact). Here z. B. the assumed for the contact position angular position Φ _{A of} the folding knife drive or drive motor 17 as a zero angle position (for the Abfalzzeitpunkt) recorded, then with an active conveyor line z. B. detected an entry signal (or exit signal) of a product 03 in front of the folding table 02 or in front of the folding gap 06 by means of the sensor S0, the angular position Φ _{A of} the drive or drive motor 17 assumed at the time of the signal as the reference position Φ _R , and from the zero position and the reference position Φ _R, the predetermined relative position ΔΦ _R (target reference phase position ΔΦ _R ) for further operation is formed. This is then adhered to via the control loop mentioned above. In the case of an electronic master axis, this input is found in the offset value Δ (e.g. expressed as Δ (ΔΦ _R ) or represents this itself (Δ = ΔΦ _R ), the drive motor 17 taking into account this offset value Δ or this setpoint Relative position ΔΦ _R is operated according to angular position control.

This setpoint relative position ΔΦ _R assigned to the drive motor 17 (possibly via the offset value Δ) could then in principle be retained and held for a production run or even generally. However, a procedure explained in more detail below is advantageous, according to which the target relative position ΔΦ _R or the offset value Δ - and thus the folding time or the time and / or location of the first contact between product 03 and folding knife 04 on folding table 02 - close Control purposes of the folding process is specifically varied. This can then, for example, by adding a corresponding, positive or negative correction value kΔ already in the control module 23 or the drive controller 23, for example by changing the memory value for the setpoint relative position ΔΦ _R or the offset value Δ (as in Fig. 6 shown schematically), or by applying a corresponding correction value kΦ (not shown) to the target angular position Φ _S (T) generated by the control module 23 or the drive controller 23 for the time T. The determination of such a correction value kΔ; kΦ can, as explained in more detail below, in a control module 51 (possibly also just a software control process) directly from stored relationships with the production process related data M (z. B. production phase and / or speed and / or product strength and / or used Substrate) take place, e.g. B. can be read from stored tables or functions. The determination can preferably take place in a correspondingly designed process module 51 using the aforementioned data M relating to the production process and measured values relating to the folding process (e.g. phase positions and / or product positions). In Fig. 6 is the process module 51 in the z. B. as a drive controller 23 implemented control module 23, but can also be designed as an integrated or independent, but signal-technically connected to the control module 23 or the angle signal fed from the control module 23 to the drive motor 17 module. Ultimately, the target angular position Φ _S (T) in the correspondingly designed control device 10 is thus preferably derived from the master axis angular position Φ (t) using a possibly required gear factor G and an offset value Δ formed, the latter either by a correction values kΔ; kΦ variable specification for the relative position ΔΦ _R itself is varied or the variable specification for the relative position ΔΦ _{R is taken} into account separately in a different way in the algorithm for determining the target angular position Φ _S (T). As in Fig. 6 indicated, applies z. B. thus at time t = T: Φ _S (T) = Φ _S (Δ (Δ ₀ , ΔΦ _R (kΔ)), G, Φ (t = T)), where the ultimately effective overall offset value Δ is originally pure Contains the geometrically determined offset value Δ ₀ and the required and possibly corrected relative position ΔΦ _R.

In principle, this procedure can also be applied to a control of the drive that is based only on a speed or rotational speed setpoint specified by the master axis. In this case - which is not to be explained in more detail here - at least one reference angle signal per motor revolution and / or per folding knife cycle must be available for the phase adjustment. A variation of the relative phase position can then be achieved by a time-limited variation of the speed specification via a corresponding offset or correction value Δ; kΔ; kΦ take place.

The drive means 17 designed as a drive motor 17 is thus at least as a drive motor 17 which can be regulated with respect to its speed, e.g. B. electric motor formed. In an advantageous further development, it is designed as a stepping motor or even preferably as a drive motor 17 which can be regulated with regard to its rotational angle position. The design of the drive motor 17 as a drive motor 17 that can be regulated at least with regard to its speed or with regard to a relative change in position (defined steps) or preferably with regard to an absolute angular position is particularly advantageous with regard to the procedure (s) described below for setting and / or variation of the synchronization of folding blade movement with regard to the product position and / or changing operating parameters (e.g. machine speed, machine acceleration, product properties, etc.).

In an alternative, but less preferred embodiment, the drive of the folding knife 03 could be mechanically coupled to upstream conveying and / or production facilities (see above), but a relative speed and / or relative phase position compared to the upstream units, e.g. B. is designed to be changeable and controllable via a remotely operated steplessly variable in the gear factor in the drive branch for driving the knife 04. In this case, what is explained below for correcting the phase position (and / or speed) applies with the proviso that it is not a drive motor of the knife 04, but the gearbox that is controlled accordingly in order to set a relative speed and / or a relative phase position between the machine and the knife phase position or to change. The electronic master axis presented above would be brought about by the mechanical drive connection and would be omitted.

In an advantageous embodiment for the procedure described, the sensor S0, for. B. be provided in the first transport direction T1 in front of the folding gap 06, which is connected to the control device 10, and based on the product passage signals, the described basic triggering of the folding blade drive takes place. In contrast to this, however, one of the sensors or measurement locations or measurement points S1 to S4, S7 or S8 mentioned below, in particular possibly S3 and / or S4, could be used to process a corresponding signal in a manner described for sensor S0. This is then done z. B. as described by comparing the phase position of the sensor S0 or the alternatively used sensor, z. B. S3, passing or entering products 03 and the phase position of the folding knife drive, z. B. taking into account a certain machine speed and / or master axis position or speed. The relative position of these phases is constantly checked and compared with the target relative position ΔΦ _R. The processes regulating the folding time via the other (described below) can then be used as a correction value kΔ; kΦ with regard to the target relative position ΔΦ _R into account.

The described setting and triggering of the phase position of the folding knife 04 in relation to the product flow is preferably supplemented by one or more of the methods described below.

In order to ensure the most trouble-free operation possible and the most precise folding possible, measures are shown below, which are considered individually, but are particularly advantageous in combination with several of these measures. The measures relate to corresponding designs of the longitudinal folder 01 as well as procedures for operating the folder 01.

In an advantageous embodiment of the folding apparatus 01, an ideal folding time or an ideal folding location is ensured despite varying production speeds V and / or different products 03 (thickness, material) by a device and procedure for controlling the folding time explained below. For this purpose, at least a first and a second sensor S1; which detects the presence of the product 03 in the respective detection area (measurement location) on the folding table 02; S2 (or measuring location S1; S2) are provided, which, viewed in the first transport direction T1, are spaced from one another. At their outputs z. B. in each case between a presence and absence of the product 03 on by the relevant sensor S1; S2 monitored location S1; S2 distinguishable and a corresponding signal m1; m2 or measurement signal m1; m2, e.g. B. digitally as "1" or "0" or as at least with respect to. "Yes" or "No" dual evaluable signal, can be tapped. The two sensors to be evaluated S1; S2 or measuring locations S1; S2 are significantly spaced from one another in the first transport direction T1, but preferably adjacent to one another when viewed in the first transport direction T1, that is to say without the need for further measurement locations arranged in between. In comparison to photodiode arrays, line or area cameras, they therefore preferably do not have to provide any spatial resolution, but rather represent singular ones from one another spaced measurement locations S1; S2. They limit a so-called "capture area", the limits of which they monitor. They are not used in the context of e.g. B. of distance measurements to a stop or a speed measurement.

A first sensor S1 is provided directly on or immediately in front of the surface of the stop device 09 that acts as a stop surface or is at least arranged in such a way that it detects the presence of the product 03 on the folding table 02 at a measuring location S1 directly on or immediately in front of the stop surface. Sensor S1 or its measurement location S1 are not here at all, or z. B. at most 10 mm, preferably at most 5 mm in front of the effective surface of the stop device 09 as a stop surface. The sensor S1 or its measurement location S1 is preferably as close as possible at the same time, e.g. B. transversely to the first transport direction T1 at most by a distance a1 of 100 mm, advantageously at most 50 mm, preferably at most 15 mm from a preferably substantially vertical plane E extending through the longitudinal direction of the folding knife 04.

A second sensor S2 is preferably provided, which or its measurement location S2 viewed in the first transport direction T1, e.g. B. at least 3 mm, but at most a distance a1,2 of 20 mm, advantageously by a maximum of 10 mm, preferably by 3 mm to 8 mm, from the stop surface of the stop device 09 or from the first sensor S1 and / or across the first Transport direction T1 considered z. B. by a distance a2 of at most 50 mm, advantageously at most 20 mm, preferably at most 10 mm, from the plane E or, if the sensor S1 is present, from the sensor S1 or its measurement location S1.

In one embodiment of an operation of the longitudinal folding apparatus 01, the products 03 to be folded are z. B. held in a so-called "capture area" between sensor S1 and sensor S2. The rule principle applies here: Sensor S1 should / must not "see", ie the product 03 to be folded over must not be detected at measuring location S1 of the first sensor S1, and sensor S2 should see, that is, each product 03 to be folded should be before or at least during the folding at measuring location S2 of the second Sensor S2, at least briefly, are detected. This position is achieved by shifting the contact between folding knife 04 and product 03 over time and is maintained during this operating mode. This takes place in that the contact time or location relative to the product 03 to be folded (“folding time”), ie the relative phase position ΔΦ between the product entry and the folding knife phase position, is specifically changed. This is done with the above-described execution of the folding knife drive z. B. in that the drive, in particular the drive motor 17 when calculating the target angular position Φ _S (T), depending on the direction of the required change, a positive or negative, correction value kΔ1 (or kΦ1) is applied. This is done, for example, by a defined relative rotation of the cam 13, which is independent of upstream and / or the folding table 02 associated transport devices, such as. B. belts, is driven via the drive motor 17 by the above-mentioned target relative position ΔΦ _R or the offset value Δ containing or representing this with a corresponding correction value kΔ; (kΦ) is applied.

An advantageous embodiment of a stepwise regulation of the folding time for the longitudinal fold (e.g. also referred to as a third fold or as a second longitudinal fold) with partial or complete use of the above-mentioned devices is described below and with reference to FIG Fig. 7 explained:
In conventional operating mode, the products 03 become harder and harder against the stop 46 with increasing machine speed; (09) driven and from a critical speed V, the z. B. also depends on the nature of the product 03 is damaged.

The automatic start-up (especially synchronous with the upstream Web-fed rotary printing press z. B. via the electronic master axis) is in several, z. B. four, operating modes or levels divided.

A first mode of operation (stage) is, for example, an acceleration phase of the machine. Here, the production speed V and the associated frequency of the incoming products 03 z. B. increased along a predetermined curve or ramp. To counteract the damage mentioned above, in the acceleration phase, e.g. B. generally or from a lower limit speed V1 of the production speed V, z. B. from V1 = 5,000 copies / hour, the movement of the folding knife 04 is regulated so that the product contact of the folding knife 04 occurs earlier successively. In this first phase, the point of contact between the folding knife 04 and the product 03 is gradually and deliberately removed from the stop 46; (09) regulated away, d. H. a distance A between product 03 and stop 46; (09) at the point in time when the folding knife 04 touches down on the product 03 (first contact) is gradually and deliberately enlarged. This occurs repeatedly as soon as the sensor S1, e.g. B. photosensor S1, on or directly in front of the stop 46; (09) (see above) detects a leading edge of the product. The products 03 are consequently braked under the folding knife 04 without the stop 46; (09) to touch or at least without the stop 46; (09) to hit with significant velocity V. In this case, for different production speeds V, a later point in time for a lower production speed V and an earlier point in time of the first contact for a higher production speed V are regulated in such a way that no contact or at most contact of the stop 46; (09) without significant speed, i.e. H. a speed of essentially 0 m / s, e.g. B. less than 0.3 m / s, in particular less than 0.1 m / s.

This process is exemplary for three different speeds V, which are achieved one after the other during acceleration, in ascending order in the partial images 1., 2. and 3. der Figure 7a ) shown. It can be seen here that the product 03 increases with Speed V further from stop 46; (09) is removed. In this case, with increasing speed V (part 1, 2, 3), the folding drive or drive motor 17 is controlled in such a way that the contact occurs earlier and earlier relative to the position of the product 03 on the folding table 02. This is z. B. causes that as soon as the sensor S1, z. B. photosensor S1, on or directly in front of the stop 46; (09) (see above) a product leading edge detects the above-mentioned target relative position ΔΦ _R or the offset value Δ containing this with a correction value kΔ2; (kΦ2) is applied. The next time it is detected, the previously changed setpoint relative position Δ der _R or the changed offset value Δ containing this is again given the correction value kΔ2; (kΦ2) applied. This correction value kΔ2; (kΦ2) can be stored in a memory, e.g. B. in a memory of the control device 10, the control module 51 or a machine control, held and preferably changeable.

A second advantageous mode of operation (e.g. a second stage of a production cycle) ( Figure 7b )) describes z. B. a constant production speed V, for example below a certain second limit speed V2, z. B. V2 <45,000 copies / hour. As soon as the machine has reached this production speed (z. B. V2) and the sensor S1 at the stop 46; (09) no product 03 is detected, the time at which the folding knife 04 is used is the stop 46; (09) regulated, that is, for example, the folding knife drive is delayed (correction of the existing nominal relative position ΔΦ _R ). This is done again by successively applying the current target relative position ΔΦ _R with a, here z. B. negative, correction value kΔ3; (kΔ3). If the sensor S1 detects the stop 46; (09) is the product leading edge again, the then existing value of the correction angle Δ or the nominal relative position ΔΦ _{R is} retained when the drive motor 17 continues to be driven. In this operating mode, the product 03 touches the stop 46; (09) either just not yet or at least no significant speed, ie a speed of essentially 0 m / s, e.g. B. less than 0.3 m / s, in particular less than 0.1 m / s. It is advantageous if an additional manual correction of the folding knife position towards or away from the Stop 46; (09), ie a manual change of the target relative position ΔΦ _{R obtained can be} carried out. At a constant production speed V, e.g. B. less than V2, the product 03 is thus on or in the immediate vicinity of the stop 46; (09) positioned and folded. The product 03 then has no or only slight contact with the stop 46; (09).

In a second operating mode alternative to the second operating mode or in a third operating mode (e.g. a third stage of a production cycle) ( Figure 7c )) the production speed V is constant again. B. higher than the aforementioned limit speed V2, for example at least one limit speed V3, z. B. V3> = 45,000 copies / hours. The stop 46; (09) can be used here, e.g. B. pneumatically, be turned off. The folding position is determined by the sensor S1 at or directly in front of the stop 46; (09) and the second sensor S2, the z. B. about 5 mm from the stop 46; (09) sits, supervises. If the sensor S1 detects the stop 46; (09) a product leading edge is the contact point of the folding knife 04 z. B. by applying a correction value kΔ3 to the target relative position ΔΦ _R ; (kΦ3) based on the signals from sensor S1 from stop 46; (09) regulated away, ie the time of the first contact moved forward. If viewed in the first transport direction T1 in front of the first sensor S1 arranged sensor S2 over a defined time window .DELTA.T1, the z. B. can be dependent on the product cycle (speed), no more products 03 are detected, the contact point is again to the stop 46; (09), so z. B. the relative angular position of the drive, regulated again in the other direction. This is done by applying a correction value kΔ4 which acts in the opposite direction; (kΦ4). At production speeds V of at least V2, the product 03 is therefore positioned with its leading edge between the sensors S1 and S2 and folded. The stop 46; (09) can be switched on or preferably switched off.

Another, e.g. B. fourth operating mode (or stage), not shown, describes the braking of the machine, ie an operating mode with negative acceleration. At the When decelerating, the products 03 tend to lag behind, since the energy to drive the product 03 forward is constantly decreasing. Consequently, in this mode of operation, the point of contact with the stop 46; (09) regulated, ie, for example, the target relative position Δ korrig _R correspondingly corrected to the "rear", ie with a correction value kΔ5; (kΦ5) applied to the z. B. delayed the folding blade drive. This takes place, for example, as soon as the sensor S2 reaches the stop 09; (46) no more product 03 is recorded over a defined time window ΔT2 (e.g. greater than 5 s). If the production speed V falls below, for example, a limit speed V2, e.g. B. V2 <45,000 copies / hour, can comparable to the first operating mode, but with respect. Of the correction value with the opposite sign, are used, again evaluated, the sensor S1 here, however, the product edge regulated by successively subjecting the target relative position ΔΦ _R so that the application takes place when no product 03 is detected at the sensor S1 over a time window T3. The product 03 is in this mode of operation directly in front of or at the stop 46; (09) positioned.

The signals m1; m2 of the sensor S1, which detects the time of arrival and the products 03 at the stop 46; (09) monitors, and the second sensor S2, which the products 03 shortly before the first sensor S1 and before the stop 46; (09) monitored, on a z. B. digital input of a controller, e.g. B. a control loop of the drive control 23 or the o. G. Process module 51 are given. The signals m2 of the second sensor S2 and the signals m1 of the first sensor S1 are z. B. detected via a probe function of the control device on two probes.

The probe function for probe 1 and 2 is used e.g. B. set via an integrated PLC of the drive control 23 and takes place z. B. when the drive control 23 has reached the operating mode.

Preferably, the longitudinal folding apparatus 01, particularly advantageously in connection with one or more of the aforementioned embodiments, additionally has one or more devices and / or procedures for monitoring and correcting an inclined position of the product 03 to be longitudinally folded on the folding table 02 and / or an inclined position of one of the folding rollers 07 leaving longitudinally folded product 03 on ( Fig. 5 and 10 ).

To correct an inclined position of the product 03 to be longitudinally folded lying on the folding table 02, at least one braking device 24; is provided in the longitudinal folding apparatus 01 above the folding table 02; 36 are provided, which have at least two braking elements 31; arranged transversely to the first transport direction T1, in particular on both sides of the folding gap 06. 32; 33; 34 or groups 26; 27; 28; 29 of deceleration elements 31; 32; 33; 34 has which, in an advantageous embodiment, for. B. as brushes 31; 32; 33; 34 or groups of brushes 26; 27; 28; 29 are formed. When a product 03 passes through, these are able to brake it, in particular by means of friction.

Here, if at the same time the u. The device and procedure for correcting an inclined position of the longitudinally folded product 03 leaving the folding rollers 07 are used, one or more of the braking elements 31 provided for correcting the inclined position of the folding table 02; 32; 33; 34 or groups 26; 27; 28; 29 of deceleration elements 31; 32; 33; 34 apply for both purposes.

Preferably, at least two braking elements 31; arranged on both sides of the folding gap 06; 32 or groups 26; 27 of deceleration elements 31; 32 independently of one another in their distance from the folding table 02 or from the upper side of the folding table and / or from the product 03. In the case of two braking devices 24; 36, for the above-mentioned inclination correction on the folding table 02, braking elements 31; 32 or groups 26; 27 one Braking device 24 closer to the entry side.

The braking elements 31; 32; 33; 34 or groups 26; 27; 28; 29 of deceleration elements 31; 32; 33; 34 preferably have actuators 41; 42; 43; 44, e.g. B. drives 41; 42; 43; 44 on.

Independent of the aforementioned sensors S1 and S2, but particularly advantageous i. In connection with this, two sensors S3 and S4 (or measuring location S3; S4) that detect the presence of the product 03 on the folding table 02 are provided (see Fig Fig. 3 ), which or their measuring points S3; S4 viewed transversely to the first transport direction T1 from one another by a distance a3,4, e.g. B. are spaced apart by at least 100 mm, advantageously by at least 150 mm, preferably by 150 mm to 250 mm. The two sensors S3 and S4 or their measuring points S3; S4 are preferably arranged on both sides of a plane E extending through the longitudinal direction of the folding knife 04, in particular approximately equidistant from this plane E (ie up to a deviation of ± 10 mm). You or their measuring points S3; S4 are preferably arranged in the same alignment running perpendicular to the first transport direction T1 and / or perpendicular to the plane E. Furthermore, they can advantageously be arranged at essentially the same vertical distance a03, in particular a03 of 3 mm to 10 mm, from a product 03 lying on the folding table 02 between folding table 02 and sensor S3 or S4.

The two sensors S3; S4 or measuring points S3; S4, viewed in the first transport direction T1, are preferably at a distance aT1 from the position of the stop surface in the active state of the stop device 09; (46) arranged, which is at least 20 mm, advantageously at least 30 mm, preferably between 30 mm and 200 mm, in particular approximately 40 mm. However, viewed in the first transport direction T1, they are advantageously arranged in the area of the folding table 02, ie between the entrance area of the entry side 18 and the stop device 09 or the above-mentioned distance. Preferably they are oeiden sensors S3; S4 or measuring points S3; S4 viewed in the first transport direction T1 at a level in the area of the immersion length of the folding knife 04, in particular at the level of a braking device 36; 24, ie, for example, across the first transport device T1 viewed with the immersion length or a length L33 of braking elements 31; 32; 33; 34 arranged overlapping.

In the method for detecting an inclined position of a product 03 entering the folding table 03, the sensors S3 and S4 or their evaluation means detect a time offset when the leading product edge passes through. If there is a deviation Δt1 in the time offset from a target time offset, e.g. B. with several successive products 03, present, the drive begins 41 to 44, z. B. drive 41 or 42, the side on which the product edge is recognized first, "his" brush group 26; 27; 28; 29 or brushes 31; 32; 33; 34, in particular brushes 31 or 32; turn down. With a higher brush pressure on one side of the product, this side is held back more than the other and thus rotated slightly. If the changed braking effect then leads to an adjusted folding time, z. B. the above control of the folding time and regulates the required folding time through the control loop to maintain the target relative position ΔΦ _R by means of the product phase position detected by the sensor S0 and the angular position of the drive motor 17 or drive. Preferably, however, only one system is controlled at a time, then measured, and only then is another action started. Conversely, the drive 41 to 44, for. B. drive 41 or 42, the side on which the product edge is recognized as the second, "his" brush group 26; 27; 28; 29 or brushes 31; 32; 33; 34, especially brushes 31 or 32, up. Due to the lower brush pressure on one side of the product, this side is held back less than the other and the product 03 is thus also rotated slightly. If necessary, the time of folding is corrected as set out above.

The processing of signals m3 and m4 from sensors S3 and S4 takes place, for example by appropriate means in a control module 38 (possibly also just a software control process 38), briefly module 38, which z. B. can also be part of the control device 10 (as shown) or individually. The signals m3 and m4 of the sensors S3 and S4 are fed into this module 38, these signals m3 and m4 are evaluated, and a result in the form of an actuating signal is sent to one or more of the drives 41; 42; 43; 43, in particular drive 41 and / or 42, out.

The principle of tilt detection is z. B. implemented with the help of a trigger module. The module 38 has z. B. two signal inputs, e.g. B. inputs E1; E2, a pulse output A1 and a direction output A2. On the input E1 z. B. the sensor S3 for the detection on a first page and on the input E2 of the sensor S4 of the second side of the folder 01 is given. The pulse output A1 is set when input E1 (e.g. by signal m3) or input E2 (e.g. by signal m4) supplies a first signal. The pulse output A1 is reset when the other of the two inputs E2; E1 (e.g. by signal m4 or m3) subsequently supplies a signal. The direction output A2 supplies z. E.g. a signal if input E2 (e.g. by signal m4) was set before input E1 (e.g. by signal m3). Conversely, no signal is set. In Fig. 8 is an example of a signal sequence for the trigger module.

The pulse length of the pulse output A1 is preferably used as a measure for the detected product skew. The direction output A2 supplies the information on which side the product 03 was first detected. When the pulse output A1 supplies a signal, this is read in via a time measurement function of the measuring probe function of the module 38 and ultimately evaluated in a logic. The timing function delivers z. B. a unit of time in microseconds. This time is converted in the logic, for example, taking into account the time that a product 03 needs per mm of travel depending on the machine speed, into an indication in 1/100 millimeters.

From the information about the direction of the misalignment (direction output A2) and the converted measure for the misalignment (pulse output A1), a correspondingly large control signal is then sent to the actuator to be addressed, i.e. H. one of the drives 41 to 44, in particular one of the drives 41 or 42 of brushes 31; 32 issued.

To correct an inclined position of the longitudinally folded product 03 leaving the folding rollers 07, preferably at least two braking devices 24; are spaced apart from one another in the first transport direction T1 above the folding table 02 in the longitudinal folding apparatus 01; 36, namely a braking device 24 closer to the entry side and a braking device further away from the entry side; 36, are provided which, in a corresponding contact position, are able to decelerate a product 03 when it passes through, in particular via friction. The respective braking device 24; 36 has at least one braking element 31; 32; 33; 34 or at least one group 26; 27; 28; 29 of deceleration elements 31; 32; 33; 34, which in an advantageous embodiment z. B. as brushes 31; 32; 33; 34 is or are formed.

Preferably, at least one of the braking devices 24; 36 independently of the other of the braking devices 24; 36 variable in their distance from the folding table 02. For this purpose, the braking device 24 closer to the entry side is provided by at least one actuator 37, preferably by at least one z. B. designed as a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder pressure medium-actuated actuator 37, at a distance from the folding table 02, z. B. by a maximum of 50 mm, changeable and / or optionally brought into or out of contact with the product flow passing through ( Figs. 11-15 ).

Here, if the above-mentioned device and procedure for correcting an inclined position on the folding table 02 is used at the same time, one or more of the products 03 provided for correcting the inclined position of the product 03 leaving the folding rollers 07, in particular one or more of the entry side closer ones, can be used Braking elements 31; 32 or at least one group 26, in particular closer to the entrance; 27 of deceleration elements 31; 32 apply for both purposes.

The braking device 24 closer to the entry side can consist of a total of an effective area of the folding table 02, e.g. B. be arranged so that it can be swiveled out by more than 200 mm away from the folding table 02 ( Fig. 12 and 13 ).

At least one of the at least two braking devices 24; 36, preferably both braking devices 24; 36, have at least two braking elements 31; 32; 33; 34, e.g. B. Brushes 31; 32; 33; 34 or "stop brushes" 33 further away from the entry side; 34 and "central brushes" 31; 32, or at least two groups 26; 27; 28; 29 of deceleration elements 31; 32; 33; 34, e.g. B. brush groups 26; 27; 28; 29 or brush systems 26; 27; 28; 29 on.

The braking elements 31; 32; 33; 34 or groups 26; 27; 28; 29 of deceleration elements 31; 32; 33; 34 preferably have actuators 41; 42; 43; 44 on.

Preferably, especially in connection with the above-mentioned devices for monitoring and correcting an inclined position of the on the folding table 02, a total of at least four braking elements 31; 32; 33; 34 or at least four groups 26; 27; 28; 29, e.g. B. two braking devices 24; 36 each with two groups 26; 27; 28; 29 of deceleration elements 31; 32; 33; 34 is provided, the four braking elements 31; 32; 33; 34 or four groups 26; 27; 28; 29 each independently of one another by one actuator 41; 42; 43; 44 can be changed in their distance from the folding table 02. The first two groups 26; 27 show e.g. B each of four deceleration elements 31; 32, e.g. B. each with a length L31 in the first transport direction T1 of z. B. at least 100 mm, preferably at least 150 mm, in particular approximately 200 mm, the two second groups 27; 28 z. B. three braking elements 33 each; 34, e.g. B. each with a length L33 in the first transport direction T1 of z. B. at least 50 mm, preferably at least 70 mm, in particular about 90 mm.

At least one of the entry-side closer and one of the entry-side further deceleration elements 31; 32; 33; 34 or groups 26; 27; 28; 29 can be changed independently of one another in terms of their distance from the folding table 02 or from the product 03 arranged thereon, in particular by means of an actuator 41; 42; 43; 44, formed.

The (respective) actuator 41; 42; 43; 44 is e.g. B. as a motor, in particular as a servomotor or stepper motor, which (r) preferably via a gear, z. B. a screw drive, or in some other way on the braking elements 31 to be set; 32; 33; 34 or groups 26; 27; 28; 29 for adjusting the distance to the folding table 02 acts.

Independent of one or more of the sensors S0; S1; S2; S3; S4, but particularly advantageous i. Depending on some of these or with them, two sensors S5 and S6 (or measuring location S5; S6) which detect the presence of the longitudinally folded product 03 after passing through the folding gap 06, in particular under the folding table 02, are provided, which or their measuring point S5; S6 viewed in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of a folding roller 07 and / and to the longitudinal direction of the folding gap 06 and / or to the longitudinal direction of the folding knife 04 by a distance a5,6, z. B. are spaced apart by at least 80 mm, advantageously by at least 120 mm, preferably by 120 mm to 180 mm ( Fig. 9 ). The two sensors S5; S6 or measuring points S5; S6 are preferably at substantially the same vertical distance a5,6,02, e.g. B. 150 mm to 400 mm, in particular a maximum of 350 mm, to a surface of the folding table 02 that supports the product 03 before folding and / or in particular behind the folding rollers 07 when viewed in the product path. One of the two sensors S6; S5 or measuring point (s) S6; S5 is e.g. B. in a to the longitudinal direction of a folding roller 07 or to the longitudinal direction of the folding gap 06 or to Longitudinal direction of the folding knife 04 parallel direction viewed at most by a distance a6.09 of z. B. 120 mm, in particular at most 100 mm to a through the stop surface of the stop 09; (46) and / or the other sensor S5 is arranged at a distance from this plane of at least 150 mm, in particular at least 200 mm. The two sensors S5; S6 is the same distance from the position of the product 03 being passed.

As explained above, the entry-side and the entry-side remote braking element 31; 32; 33; 34 or at least one group 26; 27; 28; 29 such braking elements 31; 32; 33; 34 for straight folding, ie for correcting any inclined positions after the folding gap 06. Here, the exit of the folded product 03 under the folding table 02 is observed during production by the sensors S5 and S6 or at their measuring locations S5 and S6. If the folded product 03, e.g. B. with its leading edge, not guided out of the folding rollers 07 parallel to the folding roller axes, creases or tears on the outside of the product 03 can occur at high speeds. This can be done by more or less pressure on (or friction with) product 03 of all or individual braking elements 31; 32; 33; 34 (e.g. brushes 31; 32; 33; 34) or groups 26; 27; 28; 29 of deceleration elements 31; 32; 33; 34, e.g. B. brush groups 26; 27; 28; 29 to be corrected ( Fig. 10 ). A higher brush pressure, for example, of the front brush groups 28; 29 would cause the product end advancing with respect to the first transport direction T1 to be more strongly retained when passing through the folding rollers 07 and would therefore twist the folded product 03 in one direction and vice versa.

The processing of signals m5 and m6 of the sensors S5 and S6 takes place, for example, by appropriate means in a control or process module 39, briefly module 39, which z. B. can also be part of the control device 10 (as shown) or individually. In this module 39, the signals m5 and m6 are the Sensors S5 and S6 out, these signals m5 and m6 are evaluated, and a result in the form of an actuating signal to one or more of the drives 41; 42; 43; 43, in particular drive 43 and / or 44, out.

The evaluation can preferably be implemented with the aid of a trigger module in the same way as described above in connection with m3 and m4. Here are the above. Replace signals m3 and m4 with signals m5 and m6. From the information about the direction of the misalignment (e.g. again a direction output A2) and the converted measure for the misalignment (e.g. again a pulse output A1), a correspondingly large control signal is then sent to the actuator or actuators to be addressed ( e.g. as drives with assigned brushes), d. H. to one or more of the drives 41 to 44, here in particular the drives 43 and / or 44 (or generally the "drive" of a braking device 36, in particular the braking device 36 remote from the entry side).

In the procedure for correcting an inclined position of a product 03 emerging from the folding rollers 07, two sensors S5 and S6 spaced transversely to the second transport direction T2 detect a time offset Δt2 or a deviation Δt2 from a target time offset (e.g. zero seconds) when the leading product edge. As a result of the deviation Δt2 or the time offset Δt2, at z. B. several successive products 03, one of two deceleration elements 31; arranged on the folding table 02 in the first transport direction T1 at a distance from one another is now; 32; 33; 34 or one of two groups 26; arranged at a distance from one another in the first transport direction T1 on the folding table 02; 27; 28; 29 of deceleration elements 31; 32; 33; 34 moved further towards product 03 or further away from product 03. In principle, this can also be done by a sensor which has a field of view in order to be able to determine and evaluate the passage of the leading or trailing edge at at least two spaced measuring points (S5; S6).

The detection of an above-described inclination or inclination - on and under the folding table 02 - is carried out by means of two sensors z. B. Sensor S3 and S4 or sensor S5 and S6, which are arranged in pairs parallel to each other (see above) and one for the respective transport direction T1; T2 capture the transverse product edge, in particular the front edges of the products 03. Alternatively, however, this could also be the trailing edges.

For the skew compensation under the folding table 02 z. B. the entry side removed brushes 33, 34 (also called "stop brushes" 33; 34) pressed correspondingly hard on the product 03. The brushes 31; 32 (also called "middle brushes" 31; 32) are z. B. used only for the skew compensation on the folding table 02 described above. As soon as both middle brushes 31; 32 (or groups 26; 27) deliver a higher voltage value than a z. B. for the production previously set dressing value, the central brushes 31; 32 no longer lowered, but again a z. B. moved away from the folding table 02 definable distance. This ensures that the central brushes 31; 32 never press too hard on the product 03.

If the operator still recognizes skew in the product 03 despite the skew compensation automatically adjusted in the above-mentioned manner, a further development is advantageous, with manual intervention, e.g. B. using appropriate keys, in particular arrow keys, a keyboard or a display, is possible to further correct this possibly remaining misalignment. Using the two buttons, the product 03 can e.g. B. either on side I or on side II to stop 09, ie the braking effect of the brushes 31; 32; 33; 34 on the respective side I or II can be influenced. Another advantageous development is the possibility of manual intervention by the operator in order to improve the spreading behavior of the product 03 on the folding table 02. Here, for example, again using arrow keys on the above-mentioned keyboard, the central brushes 31; 32 (or the two groups 26; 27 closer to the entry side) closer to the folding table 02 or further away.

The two modules 38; 39 if both are provided, individually, but also in a common controller 54, z. B. a brush control 54, for example, be provided as processes in the same computing and / or storage means.

The permissible skewness of a product 03 on the folding table 02 can be fixed in an advantageous embodiment, e.g. B. to half a millimeter, but preferably changeable. Under the folding table 02 the permissible skew is z. B. 10 mm.

An embodiment of a device or a method with one or both of the above-mentioned inclination corrections, which is in connection with the above-mentioned device or method for controlling the folding time, is particularly advantageous. The folding time, ie the product distance from the stop 09, is advantageously monitored in parallel in every phase of operation, but at least during or directly following the above-mentioned corrective measures for inclined positions; (46) when first touching the folding process, in the manner described above. As soon as one or more brushes 31; 32; 33; 34 press on the product 03, this may affect the position of the product 03 on the folding table 02 during rebating. The product 03 remains behind and no longer comes far enough to the stop 09; (46). In this case, the above-described folding time regulation acting on the folding blade drive takes effect and compensates for this lag of the product 03 behind its target position by setting the target relative position ΔΦ _R by applying a corresponding correction value kΔ; (kΦ) is corrected (see above). In the case of single-stage folding timing control, the correction can be made by a correction value kΔ; (kΦ), in the case of multi-stage folding time control by the control strategy corresponding to the present phase and a corresponding correction value kΔx; (kΦx), with x = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. If the position of the product 03 falls short of the desired position due to stronger brush pressure, the first point of contact of the folding knife 04 with the Product 03 by applying a correction value kΔx; (kΦx) in the direction of the stop 09; (46) relocated, ie the folding knife drive is delayed at least for a short time. Conversely, if the position of the product 03 moves beyond the desired one due to lower brush pressure, the first point of contact of the folding knife 04 with the product 03 is activated by applying a correction value kΔx; (kΦx) shifted in the direction of the entry side 18, ie the folding knife drive accelerated at least briefly.

If the distance between the first point of contact of the folding knife 04 and stop 09; (46) is too small, there is a great risk that a blockage will occur in the area of the longitudinal folding apparatus 01. The first point of contact of the folding knife 04 is z. B. depending on the working frequency (cycles per hour) of the folding knife 04. A guide value for the safe first point of contact is z. B. at least 1 mm distance from the stop 09; (46) per 1,000 cycles / hour of work frequency.

The above Control of the brushes to correct the skew (on and / or under the folding table 02) is z. B. switched active from an operating frequency on the folding knife 04 of, for example, 20,000 cycles / hour. So that the brushes 31; 32; 33; 34 have immediate contact with the product 03, they can in an advantageous embodiment in an initial phase of the production to be carried out, z. B. at a speed V of z. B. <1,500 cycles / hour, on both sides of the folding gap 06 (e.g. on side I and side II) dressed separately relative to the product 03 to be folded, d. H. can be set or zeroed in their distance. The dressed value of each brush 31; 32; 33; 34 or brush group 26; 27; 28; 29 is retained until a production changeover that requires a new setting has been carried out on the fold or the operator manually resets or changes the dressing value.

The following is an advantageous device and procedure for the above setting or "dressing" of the brush 31; 32; 33; 34 or brush group 26; 27; 28; 29 set out.

Independent of one or more of the aforementioned sensors S1; S2; S3; S4; S5; S6, but particularly advantageous i. Depending on some of these or with them, two sensors S7 and S8 which detect the presence of the product 03 on the folding table 02 are provided, which or their measuring point S7; S8 viewed transversely to the first transport direction T1, from each other by a distance a7,8, z. B. by at least 100 mm, advantageously by at least 150 mm, preferably 150 mm to 250 mm, spaced, but are preferably arranged substantially symmetrically to the E plane. The two sensors S7; S8 or the measuring points S7; S8 on both sides of the plane E passing through the longitudinal direction of the folding knife 04, preferably arranged approximately equidistantly from it (up to ± 10 mm). The two sensors S7 and S8 or their measuring points S7; S8 are arranged in the same alignment running perpendicular to the first transport direction T1 and / or perpendicular to the plane E. They are, for example, at an essentially the same vertical distance a03, in particular 3 mm to 10 mm, from an on the folding table 02 between folding table 02 and sensor S7; S8 placed product 03. They or their measuring points S7; S8 viewed in the first transport direction T1, directly at or directly in front of, i.e. H. z. B. at most at a distance of 10 mm, preferably at most 5 mm from the position of the stop surface in the active state of the stop device 09; (46) arranged.

One of the two sensors S7; S8, in particular sensor S8, can be omitted. Instead of this measuring point S8, the two measuring locations S7; S8 for the dressing process against each other evaluating method an above mentioned measuring point also used elsewhere, z. B. the measuring point S1 of the above-mentioned sensor S1 arranged directly on the stop 09 can be used. The sensor S8 can be omitted here. Additionally or instead of this, the sensor S7 or its measurement location can be arranged in a position indicated by S7 ', which can have a substantially (up to ± 3 mm) same distance a1 from the plane E as the sensor S1, but on the other side II of level E is arranged.

So that products 03 of different strengths can be taken into account in different productions, the above mentioned. Regulations independently of the number of pages, paper weight, asymmetrical products 03 etc. work precisely, however, at least the central brushes 31; 32 or the corresponding groups 26; 27 before or at the start of production in their vertical basic setting, in particular the groups 26 and 27, individually set or "dressed": This is done, for. B. at a suitable speed, e.g. B. at a working frequency on the folding knife 04 of, for example, 2,000-25,000 cycles / hour.

This happens in the way that the brushes 31; 32; (33; 34) or groups 26 and 27 (and possibly 28 and 29) are initially moved into a position in which they have no contact with the product 03 passing through. Then one after the other z. B. each of the four brush systems 26; 27; 28; 29 shut down until the detected phase position of the passing product 03 changes, d. H. a delay compared to the previously observed product cycle can be seen. This phase change is z. B. by the sensors S7 for one side, z. B. side I, and sensor S8 (or alternatively S1) for the other side, e.g. B. Page II observed and recognized by an appropriate evaluation. The position of the brushes 31; 32; (33; 34) or groups 26 and 27; (28; 29), in which this change becomes visible for the first time, is the dressing position referred to above. This process is carried out successively for both sides I; II carried out. The determined dressing values are z. B. held in a memory device until they are possibly overwritten by new values.

For the sensors S0 to S8 mentioned, the information and display of their location or position in the folder 01 is synonymous to be understood as the location of the measurement location S0 to S8 so that at their exit or at their exits between the presence and absence of the product 03 can be distinguished at the measuring location S0 to S8 observed by the relevant sensor S0 to S8. The sensor S0 to S8 can thus also be arranged in the folder 01 in a position deviating from the illustration with the proviso that it monitors the relevant measuring location S0 to S8 or measuring point S0 to S8, identified above and in the figures by sensors S0 to S8. With the exception of the statements relating to the distance a03 to the product 03, the “location or position of the sensor” can thus be understood in general terms to be the “location or position of the measuring location or the measuring position” of the sensor S0 to S8 in question. For example, a sensor S0 to S4 shown arranged above the folding table 02 can also be arranged under or in the folding table 02 with appropriate precautions (such as an opening), provided that it monitors the relevant measuring location or measuring point.

The sensor or said sensors S0 to S8 is or are preferably optical sensors, e.g. B. light guide sensor (s), advantageously in the form of a reflection type, formed. An embodiment (in particular for sensors S1; S2; S3; S4; S7; (S7 ') and S8) with a convergent light beam, e.g. B. formed on a point focusable or focused light point, the diameter of the light point at the focal point at most 0.7 mm, advantageously at most 0.5 mm, and / or the focal length less than 20 mm, advantageously at most 10 mm. The sensors S5 and S6 can be of the same type with the same technical data, but also with a larger focal length, e.g. B. larger than 20 mm or possibly also be designed in the manner of a light barrier in deviation from the reflection type.

In comparison to photodiode arrays, line or area cameras, the sensors S0 to S8 mentioned do not have to be sensors providing spatial resolution, but preferably represent singular, spaced-apart measuring locations, since essentially only times of passage need to be determined and evaluated.

Nevertheless, a camera system would be conceivable in a more expensive solution for the above-mentioned area of application of the bevel corrections (on or under folding table 02), although - in contrast to z. B. the print quality evaluating systems - a camera with low to medium spatial resolution and / or only a black and white color, in combination with an evaluation software for the detection of a product edge and its evaluation with respect to a tilt would be sufficient.

In Figs. 11-15 an advantageous embodiment of the longitudinal folding apparatus 01 is shown in different views.

Such as B. in Fig. 4 As can be seen, the folding table 02 can have, in addition to stationary, ie fixed support areas 48, belts 49 which run parallel to the first transport direction T1 and transport the product 03. This can be upstream of a further, not shown transport device, for. B. a conveyor belt, through which the longitudinally folding products 03 are conveyed into the entrance area of the entry side 18 or up to the belts 49. As stated above, the folding knife drive is preferably mechanically independent and independently adjustable relative to the drive of the belts 49 and / or the upstream transport device.

On the folding table 02, in particular in an area closer to the end of the folding gap 06 further away from the entry side, the stop device 09 is provided, which is preferably designed for this purpose - e.g. B. at least in an active position - to limit the path of the product 03 along the transport direction T1.

The stop device 09 has an elongated stop element 46 or a plurality of stop elements 46 arranged side by side transversely to the first transport direction T1, the effective stop surface facing a product 03 formed by the one or more stops 46 essentially in a line perpendicular to the first transport direction T1 and / or to the longitudinal direction of the folding gap 06.

The one or more stop elements 46 is or are by at least one actuator 47, for. B. designed to be movable by a pneumatic or hydraulic drive 47. The one or more stop elements 46 can optionally be switched on or off, preferably brought into or removed from the movement plane of the product 03 with their effective surface and / or in the movement plane of the product 03 with their stop surface, optionally at a distance from the entry side 18 changeable. In this case, several or several groups of stop elements 46 can be moved by several actuators 47.

In an advantageous operating situation, the stop device 09 can then be switched off during the folding.

Reference number

01

Longitudinal folder, folder, processing stage

02

Folding table

03

Product, intermediate product, printed matter

04

Folding knives, knives

05

-

06

Rebate gap

07

Folding roller

08

Lever, folding lever, lever arm

09

Stop device, stop

10

Control and / or regulating device, control device

11

axis

12

Lever arm, lever

13

Body, rotatable, cam

14th

Stop, role

15th

-

16

wave

17th

Drive means, drive motor

18th

Entry side

19th

Belt system

20th

-

21st

Paddle wheel

22nd

Delivery device

23

Control module, control process, drive control

24

Braking device, near the entry side

25th

-

26th

Group, brush group, brush system (31)

27

Group, brush group, brush system (32)

28

Group, brush group, brush system (33)

29

Group, brush group, brush system (34)

30th

-

31

Deceleration elements, brush, central brush

32

Deceleration elements, brush, central brush

33

Braking elements, brush, stop brush

34

Braking elements, brush, stop brush

35

-

36

Braking device, remote from the entrance

37

Actuator

38

Control module, module, control process

39

Control module, module, control process

40

-

41

Actuator, drive

42

Actuator, drive

43

Actuator, drive

44

Actuator, drive

45

-

46

Stop, stop element

47

Actuator, drive, pneumatic or hydraulic

48

Support area

49

tape

50

-

51

Control module, process module

52

-

53

-

54

Control, brush control

A.

distance

E.

level

G

Gear factor

M.

Data, relevant to the machine

V

Speed, production speed

A1

Pulse output

A2

Direction exit

E1

entrance

E2

entrance

L33

length

L34

length

T1

first transport direction

T2

second transport direction

V1

Limit speed

V2

Limit speed

V3

Limit speed

I.

page

II

page

a1

distance

a2

distance

a03

distance

a1,2

distance

a5.6

distance

a5,6,02

distance

a6.09

distance

a7.8

distance

aT1

distance

Φ (t)

Angular position, circumferential, guide axis angular position

Φ _A

Angular position

Φ _S (T)

Target angular position

ΔΦ _R

Target phase position, relative, target relative position, target reference phase position

Δ

Offset value, correction angle, angle correction

kΔ

Correction value

Sx

Sensor, measuring location, measuring point, x = 0, 1, 2 ... 8

mx

Signal, measurement signal, x = 0, 1, 2 ... 8

Claims (15)

1. A method for correcting an inclined position of a product (03) exiting a gap of two folding rollers (07) of a longitudinal folding machine (01), wherein

   - the product (03) is conveyed on a folding table (02) from an entry point (18) along a first transport direction (T1), preferably parallel to the folding table plane, and is pressed into the nip between the rollers by a folding blade (04) that can be moved up and down relative to the folding table (02), then leaves the nip between the rollers and is transported in a second direction of transport (T2),

   - wherein the moment of passage of a leading or trailing product edge of the product (03) is detected at two measurement points (S5; S6) which are spaced apart from each other and arranged transversely to the second direction of transport (T2) of the product (03) to be folded,

   - based on the moments of passage detected at the two measurement points (S5; S6) and on commutation and/or data processing techniques, a deviation Δt2 between a time offset detected during the passage of the corresponding product edge at the two measurement points (S5; S6) and a nominal time offset is determined and analyzed,

   - and in the event that the deviation Δt2 exceeds at least the tolerance range, a measure is initiated by means of a control process (39) in order to act against the deviation Δt2, said measure being based on retaining the product (03) to a greater or lesser extent when passing the folding rollers (07) and/or on more or less friction between the braking elements (31; 32; 33; 34) and the product (03), characterized in that the moment of passage is detected at a product edge (3) of a product (3) folded lengthwise exiting the gap of the folding roller after passing the gap (06).
2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the measure is initiated only after the detection of a deviation Δt2 at a definable number of products (03) following one another.
3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that as a measure, a braking element (31; 32; 33; 34) arranged above the folding table (02) or a group (26; 27; 28; 29) of braking elements (31; 32; 33; 34) arranged above the folding table (02) is moved further towards the product (03) or further away from the product (03).
4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that as a measure, one of two braking elements (31; 32; 33; 34) arranged spaced apart from each other in a first transport direction (T1) or one of two groups (26; 27; 28; 29) of braking elements (31; 32; 33; 34) arranged spaced apart from each other in transport direction (T1) is moved further towards the folding table (02) or further away from the folding table (02).
5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that the distance of the other of the two braking elements (31; 32; 33; 34) or the other group (26; 27; 28; 29) is not changed in the process.
6. The method according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized in that as a measure, a brush pressure of at least one braking element (31; 32; 33; 34) configured as a brush (31; 32; 33; 34), in the active state interacting with the products (03) on the folding table (02) is varied.
7. The method according to claim 1 or 6, characterized in that as a measure, a varying of a braking action, in particular of a brushing action, occurs in a region of an advancing product half of the products (03) located on the folding table (02).
8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, by means of an increase in the brush pressure of one or more entry-side brushes (33; 34) or groups of brushes (28; 29) a retaining of the product end advancing with respect to the first transport direction (T1) is effected to a greater extent when passing the folding rollers (07), and as a result, a rotation of the product (03) leaving the nip of the folding rollers is effected.
9. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the evaluation of signals (m5; m6) obtained at the measurement points (S5; S6) occurs using a trigger circuit such that the time sequences of the signals (m5; m6), in particular their edges upon alternating status, are analyzed over time against each other, and based on a logic, both a measurement for the inclination of the product and information about the direction of the inclined position occur.
10. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that via the time difference of two signals (m5; m6) an impulse length is determined as a measurement for the tilt of the product and the direction of the inclined position is determined via the sequence of the two signals (m5; m6).
11. A longitudinal folding machine (01), in particular for performing the method according to one or several of claims 1 to 10, comprising a folding table (02), which can be fed a product (03) to be folded from an entry point (18) along a first direction of transport (T1) preferably parallel to the folding table plane, with a folding blade (04) that can be moved up and down relative to the folding table (02) and a gap between the rollers arranged beneath the folding table (02), characterized in that two sensors (S5; S6) detecting the presence of a longitudinally folder product (03) arranged on a transport path downstream of the gap are provided spaced apart from each other transversely to the second transport direction (T2) of the product (03) to be guided past, a control process (39) is provided, by means of which the signals (m5; m6) of these sensors (S5; S6) can be analyzed with respect to an inclined product position, and that at least one control element is provided, which can be adjusted on the basis of an output signal of the control process (39) for influencing an inclined product position, wherein at least one braking element (31; 32; 33; 34) that can be actuated by an actuator (41; 42; 43; 44), in particular variable in its braking action is provided as a control element.
12. The longitudinal folding machine according to claim 11, characterized in that the at least one braking element (31; 32; 33; 34) is arranged above the folding table (02) and is arranged interacting with the product (03).
13. The longitudinal folding machine according to claim 12, characterized in that a braking element (31; 32; 33; 34) that can be actuated is arranged such that in the active state during the folding process it is arranged in a region of an advancing product half interacting with the product (03) located on the folding table (02).
14. The longitudinal folding machine according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that a braking element (31; 32; 33; 34) that can be actuated is arranged such that in the active state during the folding process it is arranged in a region of a trailing product half interacting with the product (03) located on the folding table (02).
15. The longitudinal folding machine according to claim 14, characterized in that at least one braking element (31; 32; 33; 34) farther from the entry point that can be actuated is arranged in the region of an advancing product half and at least one braking element (31; 32; 33; 34) closer to the entry point that can be actuated is arranged in the region of a trailing product half, wherein the two braking elements (31; 32; 33; 34) are configured to be able to be actuated independently from each other.

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