U.S. patent application number 11/732422 was filed with the patent office on 2008-01-17 for pneumatic feed and separation system, substrate handling system, method for pneumatic feeding and separation of flat substrates, computer program product, memory medium.
Invention is credited to Werner Hubl, Harald Mayer.
Application Number | 20080012202 11/732422 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38514411 |
Filed Date | 2008-01-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080012202 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hubl; Werner ; et
al. |
January 17, 2008 |
Pneumatic feed and separation system, substrate handling system,
method for pneumatic feeding and separation of flat substrates,
computer program product, memory medium
Abstract
The invention relates to a pneumatic feed and separation system
(1) for flat substrates (3) such as papers and the like in a stack
(5, 5', 5''), and to a corresponding method. The system has: a rear
edge separating apparatus (10) for separation of a top substrate
(3) from the stack (5, 5', 5'') in the area of the rear edge (9) of
the stack (5, 5', 5'') in the transport direction (7), a transport
apparatus (20) for the top substrate (3) in the area of the front
edge (8) of the stack (5, 5', 5'') in the transport direction (7),
and a control unit (30). In order to ensure automatic adjustment of
the system, in particular automatically optimized operation of the
system, the invention provides that the rear edge apparatus (10)
and/or the transport apparatus (20) comprise/comprises an
automatically controllable pneumatic system--in particular with a
compressed-air-based separating unit and a suction-air-based
separating unit, in particular an automatically controllable
separating mechanism with a restraint function for substrates below
the top substrate (3), in particular a suction-air-based transport
unit--and an automatically controllable motor system. The control
unit (30) is designed for automatic presetting of
substrate-dependent parameter information--in particular at least
for the compressed-air-based separating unit, for the
suction-air-based separating unit, for the separating mechanism,
for the separating motor system and for the transport unit--and the
associated pneumatic system and/or motor system are/is designed for
automatic adjustment thereof on the basis of the parameter
information.
Inventors: |
Hubl; Werner; (Frittlingen,
DE) ; Mayer; Harald; (Bubsheim, DE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BACHMAN & LAPOINTE, P.C.
900 CHAPEL STREET
SUITE 1201
NEW HAVEN
CT
06510
US
|
Family ID: |
38514411 |
Appl. No.: |
11/732422 |
Filed: |
April 3, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
271/98 ;
700/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65H 3/48 20130101; B65H
3/50 20130101; B65H 3/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
271/098 ;
700/001 |
International
Class: |
B65H 3/08 20060101
B65H003/08 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 4, 2006 |
DE |
10 2006 016 100.9 |
Claims
1-39. (canceled)
40. Pneumatic feed and separation system for flat substrates in a
stack having: a rear edge separating apparatus for separation of a
top substrate from the stack in an area of a rear edge of the stack
in a transport direction; a transport apparatus for the top
substrate in an area of a front edge of the stack in the transport
direction; a control unit; at least one of the rear edge separating
apparatus and the transport apparatus comprising an automatically
controllable pneumatic system and an automatically controllable
motor system; and the control unit being configured for automatic
presetting of substrate-dependent parameter information for the
pneumatic system and the motor system, and being configured for
automatic adjustment on a basis of the parameter information.
41. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the
automatically controllable pneumatic system has an automatically
controllable separating pneumatic system with a
compressed-air-based separating unit and a suction-air-based
separating unit, and at least one of said units being controlled
automatically.
42. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the
rear edge separating apparatus has an automatically controllable
separating mechanism with a restraint function for substrates below
the top substrate.
43. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the
automatically controllable pneumatic system has an automatically
controllable transport pneumatic system comprising an automatically
controllable, suction-air-based transport unit.
44. Feed and separation system according to claim 43, wherein the
control unit is configured for automatic presetting of
substrate-dependent parameter information for at least one of the
compressed-air-based separating unit, the suction-air-based
separating unit, the separating mechanism, and the
suction-air-based transport unit.
45. Feed and separation system according to claim 44, wherein the
motor system has a plurality of motors, with each said motor being
associated with at least one of the compressed-air-based separating
unit, the suction-air-based separating unit, the separating
mechanism, and the suction-air-based transport unit.
46. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, having at
least one of a suction-air-based transport unit, a suction drum,
and a transport motor system for the top substrate.
47. Feed and separation system according to claim 41, wherein the
compressed-air-based separating unit has at least one loosening
nozzle and/or at least one separating nozzle.
48. Feed and separation system according to claim 41, wherein the
suction-air-based separating unit has at least one suction cup.
49. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the
separating apparatus has a restraint function and has at least one
sprung separating element comprising a leaf spring with strain
gauges.
50. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the
stack is arranged on a lifting table.
51. Feed and separation system according to claim 41, further
comprising a control bus, which is connected to the control unit,
for transmission of the parameter information for automatic
adjustment at least to the compressed-air-based separating unit, to
the suction-air-based separating unit, to a separating mechanism
and to a separating motor system.
52. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the
parameter information is stored in a variable form in a memory
module.
53. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, further
comprising an operator unit connected to the control unit for
selection and/or variation of at least one of a substrate type and
the parameter information.
54. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, further
comprising a monitoring sensor system connected to the control unit
for monitoring at least one of the feed operation, the separation
operation, and performance.
55. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the
substrate-dependent parameter information is based on the substrate
type.
56. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the
substrate-dependent parameter information is based on at least one
substrate characteristic selected from the group consisting of:
weight, thickness, bending strength, surface roughness, ripple,
static friction values, dynamic friction values, length, width,
temperature, moisture.
57. Feed and separation system according to claim 56, further
comprising a sensor system for recording said at least one
characteristic.
58. Feed and separation system according to claim 41, wherein the
parameter information comprises adjustment parameters which are
selected from the group consisting of: airflow rate and/or distance
between the compressed-air-based separating unit and the stack;
airflow rate and/or distance between the suction-air-based
separating unit and the stack; and distance between a separating
mechanism and the stack.
59. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the
parameter information comprises adjustment parameters, which are
selected from the group consisting of: height of a lifting table;
distance between the rear edge separating apparatus and the stack;
and distance between a stack side holder and the stack.
60. Feed and separation system according to claim 58, further
comprising a sensor system for recording at least one adjustment
parameters.
61. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, further
comprising a regulation module connected to the control unit for
demand-dependent adaptation of the parameter information and/or a
readjustment of adjustment parameters before and/or during feed
and/or separation operation.
62. Substrate handling system comprising a copying and/or printing
and/or scanning system and/or deformation system, having a feed and
separation system according to claim 40.
63. Method for pneumatic feeding and separation of flat substrates
from a stack using a pneumatic feed and separation system,
comprising: separating a top substrate from the stack in an area of
a rear edge of the stack in a transport direction; and transporting
the top substrate in an area of a front edge of the stack in the
transport direction, wherein the top substrate is separated and/or
transported pneumatically, and carrying out the separation and/or
transportation of the top substrate automatically and by motor
control, with substrate-dependent parameter information being
predetermined at least for the pneumatic separation, and
automatically adjusting the pneumatic feed and separation system by
the motor control on the basis of the parameter information.
64. Method according to claim 63, wherein the separating step
comprises separating the top substrate on the basis of compressed
air and/or suction air, with at least one separating step being
preset and being carried out automatically and with the motor
control.
65. Method according to claim 63, further comprising during
separation, restraining substrates below the top substrate that
have been adjusted automatically and by the motor control with said
restraining being readjusted automatically and by the motor
control.
66. Method according to claim 63, further comprising automatically
determining at least one substrate characteristic selected from the
group consisting of length, width, temperature, moisture, ripple,
static friction values, dynamic friction values.
67. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining
and automatically adjusting an upper distance between the top
substrate and a transport apparatus as a function of the substrate
by raising the stack and monitoring by sensors.
68. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining
and automatically adjusting an upper distance between the top
substrate and a rear edge separating apparatus as a function of the
substrate by lowering of the rear edge separating apparatus and
monitoring by sensors.
69. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining
and automatically adjusting an airflow rate of a
compressed-air-based separating unit as a function of the substrate
and monitoring the airflow rate passing through a loosening nozzle
by sensors.
70. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining
and automatically adjusting a lateral distance between a separating
mechanism in the form of a spring with a restraint function for
substrates under the top substrate, and a rear edge of the stack as
a function of the substrate as monitored by sensors using a strain
gauge and by spacing of the spring.
71. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining
and automatically adjusting an airflow rate of a
compressed-air-based separating unit as a function of the substrate
with the airflow rate flowing through a separating nozzle being
monitored by sensors.
72. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining
and automatically adjusting an airflow rate of a suction-air-based
separating unit as a function of the substrate with the airflow
rate of a suction cup being adjusted and/or readjusted
automatically and monitored by sensors.
73. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining
and automatically adjusting an airflow rate of a suction-air-based
transport unit as a function of the substrate with a suction vacuum
of a suction drum for the top substrate being adjusted and/or
readjusted automatically and being monitored by sensors.
74. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining
and automatically adjusting a drive for a mechanical transport unit
is as a function of the substrate, with a drive for extraction
rollers being adjusted and/or readjusted automatically and being
monitored by sensors.
75. Method according to claim 63, further comprising during feed
and/or separation operation, automatically adapting the parameter
information as required, and/or automatically readjusting
adjustment parameters at least for a compressed-air-based
separating unit, for a suction-air-based separating unit, for a
separating mechanism and for a separating motor system.
76. Method according to claim 75, further comprising automatically
readjusting a lateral distance between the separating mechanism and
a rear edge of the stack and/or an airflow rate of the
compressed-air-based separating unit by being matched to one
another on the basis of sensor monitoring of the separating
mechanism.
77. Computer program product having at least one program module by
means of which a pneumatic feed and separation system can be caused
to carry out a method according to claim 63.
78. Memory medium having a computer program product having at least
one program module by means of which a pneumatic feed and
separation system can be caused to carry out a method according to
claim 63.
Description
[0001] The invention relates to a pneumatic feed and separation
system for flat substrates such as papers and the like in a stack,
having: a rear edge separating apparatus for separation of a top
substrate from the stack in the area of the rear edge of the stack
in the transport direction, a transport apparatus for the top
substrate in the area of the front edge of the stack in the
transport direction, a control unit. The invention also relates to
a method for pneumatic feeding and separation of flat substrates
such as papers and the like from a stack using a pneumatic feed and
separation system, in particular having a feed and separation
system, as mentioned above, with a top substrate being separated
from the stack in the area of the rear edge of the stack in the
transport direction, and the top substrate being transported in the
area of the front edge of the stack in the transport direction. The
invention also relates to a computer program product and a memory
medium.
[0002] Pneumatic feed and separation systems of the type mentioned
initially have been found to be advantageous in particular in the
high-speed feed and separation area, in particular for rectangular
substrates in the form of sheets. These make it possible to feed
and separate sheet thicknesses of between 0.06 mm and 0.4 mm and
with a weight between about 40 and 360 gr/m.sup.2 and format sizes
of 11.5''.times.12'' (US letter size) up to 350 mm.times.508 mm (BB
format) at a throughput rate of up to 20 000 substrates or sheets
per hour. These are used in all substrate handling areas, for
example for copying, printing or scanning systems. The substrates
are normally stored in the form of a stack with a height of up to
several tens of centimeters, are fed to the feed and separation
system, and are then transported to a subsequent substrate handling
appliance.
[0003] A pneumatic feed and separation system of the type mentioned
initially is disclosed in DE 34 47 331. This achieves the
throughput rates mentioned initially with a quite satisfactory
quality, in its own right. However, the system must be manually set
to a specific substrate type before operation and, depending on the
environmental conditions, must be set to the characteristic of a
specific substrate. This has been found to be time-consuming and
possibly susceptible to errors since a not inconsiderable number of
adjustment parameters must be adjusted manually. This relates in
particular to the rear edge separating apparatus.
[0004] It is known from US 2002/0140157 for the height of a paper
stack relative to a separating pneumatic system to be monitored
with a sensor. In principle, this makes it easier to adjust a
system of the type mentioned initially. Further improvement beyond
this in the pneumatic feed and separation system mentioned
initially is, nevertheless, desirable.
[0005] This is the point of the invention, whose object is to
provide an apparatus, in particular a pneumatic feed and separation
system, for flat substrates such as papers and the like from a
stack, which is advantageously also suitable for the high-speed
range and the substrates mentioned initially, and in which
adjustment is simplified, in particular with initial adjustment
prior to operation being simplified, and with the operation being
optimized. A further object of the invention is to simplify a
method for pneumatic feeding and separation of flat substrates such
as papers and the like from a stack using a pneumatic feed and
separation system, in particular relating to adjustment, preferably
simplification of initial adjustment before operation, and/or
optimization of operation. A further aim is to specify an
appropriately improved substrate handling system.
[0006] With regard to the method, the object is achieved by the
invention by means of a method of the type mentioned initially in
which, according to the invention, the top substrate is separated
and/or transported pneumatically, preferably on the basis of
compressed air and suction air. Substrates below the top substrate
are preferably restrained. The stated method steps are carried out
automatically and by motor control. For this purpose,
substrate-dependent parameter information is predetermined at least
for the pneumatic, preferably compressed-air-based and
suction-air-based, separation and preferably for the restraint, and
the pneumatic feed and separation system is automatically adjusted,
by motor control, on the basis of the parameter information.
[0007] With regard to the apparatus, the object is achieved by the
invention by means of a pneumatic feed and separation system as
mentioned initially in which, according to the invention, the rear
edge separating apparatus and/or the transport apparatus
comprise/comprises an automatically controllable pneumatic
system--preferably a separating pneumatic system with a
compressed-air-based separating unit and a suction-air-based
separating unit, and preferably an automatically controllable
separating mechanism with a restraint function for substrates below
the top substrate--and an automatically controllable motor system.
Furthermore, the control unit is designed for automatic presetting
of substrate-dependent parameter information for the pneumatic
system and the motor system, preferably at least for the
compressed-air-based separating unit, for the suction-air-based
separating unit, for the separating mechanism and for the
separating motor system. The associated pneumatic system and/or the
motor system are/is designed for automatic adjustment at least
thereof, that is to say preferably of at least the
compressed-air-based separating unit, of the suction-air-based
separating unit, of the separating mechanism and of the separating
motor system, on the basis of the parameter information.
[0008] The invention also leads to a substrate handling system, in
particular a deformation system, a copying and/or printing and/or
scanning system, having a feed and separation system according to
the invention. A deformation, cutting and stamping system relates
in particular to a system (creasing system) for controlled bending
or creasing of substrates, in particular at their edges. It is also
possible to deliberately shape substrates, including
three-dimensional shaping, for example in order to produce book
jackets or folding bags.
[0009] The invention is based on the idea that a major
simplification in the adjustment process for a system of the type
mentioned initially can be achieved by automatic adjustment of it.
In this case, the invention has identified that, for effective
simplification of the adjustment process and at the same time in
order to achieve a state in which the feed and separation system is
in practice ready to operate, it is possible in a surprising manner
to design the pneumatic system and/or the motor system such that it
can be controlled automatically for the rear edge separating
apparatus and/or the transport apparatus. In particular, the
pneumatic system can be provided with an automatically controllable
compressed-air-based separating unit and with an automatically
controllable suction-air-based separating unit, and an
automatically controllable separating mechanism can be provided
with a restraint function for substrates under the top substrate,
and an automatically controllable separating motor system. This
concept for the invention ensures that the system is ready for
operation after the adjustment process, depending on the available
substrate or paper. For this purpose, according to the concept of
the invention, the control unit is able to preset
substrate-dependent, in particular paper-dependent, parameter
information for the pneumatic system and the motor system, in
particular at least for the compressed-air-based separating unit,
for the suction-air-based separating unit, for the separating
mechanism and for the separating motor system. The parameter
information can for this purpose be stored in the system, or can be
loaded in the system, for example in the form of a selection table,
in which a specific substrate or paper type is associated with
corresponding parameter information in the form of a set of
adjustment parameters for the units mentioned above. According to
the concept of the invention, the pneumatic system and the motor
system for the system itself are at least partially designed for
automatic adjustment on the basis of the parameter information. In
particular, at least the compressed-air-based separating unit, the
suction-air-based separating unit, the separating mechanism and the
separating motor system are designed for automatic adjustment on
the basis of the parameter information.
[0010] The concept of the invention has the major advantage that an
adjustment process for the system is very considerably simplified.
In particular, the concept of the invention means that there is in
practice no need for any prior adjustment process for the system.
For example, after selection of a specific substrate type or paper
type, the entire initial adjustment of the rear edge separating
apparatus is virtually completely automated. Instead of the
adjustment processes which normally have to be carried out
manually, the pneumatic system and the motor system of the system
itself based on the concept of the invention are designed for
automatic adjustment on the basis of the parameter information. In
other words, the system can be booted and/or started and preset,
according to the concept of the invention, on a
substrate-dependent, in particular paper-dependent basis, and is
then in a ready-to-operate state in which virtually no further
manual adjustment processes need preferably be carried out. In an
exceptional situation or other situations, the system
advantageously nevertheless ensures a manual adjustment
capability.
[0011] Advantageous developments of the invention can be found in
the dependent claims and specify, in detail, advantageous options
for implementation of the concept explained above for the purposes
of this object, as well as further advantages relating to it.
[0012] According to one preferred development of the invention, the
transport apparatus has an automatically controllable transport
pneumatic system with a suction-air-based transport unit for the
top substrate. This allows the transport apparatus to be adjusted
automatically, in addition to the rear edge separating apparatus.
The suction-air-based transport unit preferably has a suction drum
and/or some other suction-air-powered transport pneumatic system.
The transport pneumatic system is preferably associated with a
motor system, which can likewise be adjusted in an automated form.
Furthermore, a transport motor system which can additionally be
controlled automatically can advantageously be provided, for
example so-called extraction rollers.
[0013] The compressed-air-based separating unit preferably has at
least one, that is to say a number of loosening nozzles, and/or at
least one, that is to say a number of separating nozzles.
Separation of the top substrate can be achieved in a particularly
advantageous manner by fitting a separating nozzle above one or the
number of loosening nozzles. A separating nozzle makes it possible
to ensure that an air cushion is produced between the top
substrate, which has been loosened by a loosening nozzle, on the
one hand and the substrates located underneath it, on the other
hand.
[0014] The suction-air-based separating unit which, in particular,
has a lifting function, preferably has at least one, that is to say
a number of suction cups or suction caps, and/or other suction
means which, in particular, are in the form of pans. The top
substrate can therefore advantageously be raised in order to
separate it from the stack. A separating unit is preferably in each
case associated with a corresponding mechanism and/or motor system
for controllable adjustment and further operation in an automated
form.
[0015] The separating mechanism preferably has at least one sprung
separating element, preferably a leaf spring, which is able to
restrain the further substrates once the top substrate has been
raised beyond the resistance of the leaf spring. This makes it
possible to prevent so-called multiple feeds.
[0016] The stack is preferably arranged on a lifting table.
[0017] For transmission of the parameter information for the
initial adjustment at least to the compressed-air-based separating
unit, to the suction-air-based separating unit, to the separating
mechanism and to the separating motor system, the feed and
separation system has control lines which are connected in
particular to the control unit and are preferably part of a bus
system. For this purpose, the control unit, the pneumatic system
and the motor system have appropriate interfaces for coupling of a
control line. This allows data transmission in an effective
expedient manner, matched to the requirement, between the control
unit and the pneumatic system and motor system to be
controlled.
[0018] The parameter information is preferably stored in a memory
module. In particular, this is variable parameter information which
is stored in an accessible memory module. This has the advantage
that parameter information can be adapted and changed in the memory
module depending on the environmental conditions, for example
during operation.
[0019] The feed and separation system preferably has an operator
unit, which in particular is connected to the control unit, in
particular for selection and/or variation of the substrate type, in
particular of the paper type, and/or of the parameter information.
This has the advantage that this allows selection of, modification
to or addition to parameter information both manually and by the
control unit, for example the addition of new substrate types or
the like. For example, the parameter information can be made
available at the operator unit as a selection table.
[0020] The feed and separation system preferably has a monitoring
sensor system which is connected in particular to the control unit,
in particular a substrate path sensor and/or a multiple pulling-in
sensor. This is preferably used for monitoring of the feed and/or
separation operation. In principle, one development of the
invention provides for the capability for feed and/or separation
operation to be controlled specifically, to be precise by parameter
information being adapted for example by feeding the values
determined by the monitoring sensor system to the control unit, for
example in such a way that the throughput of the feed and
separation system is increased. If required, the throughput can
also be reduced, for example in a situation in which the aim is
matching to handling systems which have a lower throughput. By way
of example, this may be a printer or the like.
[0021] In one particularly preferred development of the invention,
the substrate-dependent, in particular paper-dependent, parameter
information is based on the substrate type, in particular paper
type. In the simplest case, this means that specific parameter
information for adjustment of the system can be made available by
the control unit relating to the selection of a substrate, in
particular a paper type, defined, for example, by the manufacturer.
For example, parameter information associated with a specific
substrate type or paper type can be stored in a selection
table.
[0022] Furthermore, it has been found to be advantageous for the
substrate-dependent, in particular paper-dependent, parameter
information to be based on the substrate characteristic, in
particular the paper characteristic, that is to say in addition to
or as an alternative to parameter information which, for example,
is stored in a selection table and is associated with a specific
substrate type, or paper type, it is also possible to provide
parameter information relating to the substrate characteristic, in
particular the paper characteristic. This allows the system to be
adjusted such that it is matched to the specific environmental
conditions. Preferred characteristics of the substrate or of the
paper are selected from the group comprising: weight, in particular
weight per unit area (g/m.sup.2), thickness, in particular paper
thickness, bending strength, surface roughness, ripple, static
and/or dynamic friction values, length, width, temperature,
moisture.
[0023] In one particularly preferred development of the invention,
the feed and separation system has a corresponding sensor system
for recording of one or more parameters relating to the
characteristics of the substrate.
[0024] For the purposes of one particularly preferred development,
the parameter information comprises adjustment parameters which are
selected from the group comprising:
[0025] airflow rate and/or distance between the
compressed-air-based separating unit, in particular pressure and/or
lateral and/or upper distance, between the compressed-air-based
separating unit and the stack,
[0026] airflow rate and/or distance between the suction-air-based
separating unit, in particular pressure and/or upper distance,
between the suction-air-based separating unit and the stack,
[0027] distance between the mechanical separating unit, in
particular height and/or lateral distance, between the mechanical
unit separating and the stack.
[0028] The above-mentioned adjustment parameters have been found to
be particularly critical, and can be measured well at the same
time. They are advantageously used for adjustment of the system on
the basis of the concept according to the invention. Surprisingly,
it has been found that the adjustment of these adjustment
parameters ensures complete adjustment of the system. In
particular, the system can be controlled completely automatically
by regulation of these adjustment parameters, with virtually no
further manual actions.
[0029] Furthermore, it has been found to be advantageous for the
parameter information to comprise further adjustment parameters,
which are chosen from the group comprising:
[0030] height of a lifting table, in particular height of the
substrates situated on the lifting table to a sensor positioned
absolutely,
[0031] distance, in particular the upper and/or lateral distance,
between the rear edge separating apparatus and the stack,
[0032] distance between a stack side holder and the stack.
[0033] According to one of the two above-mentioned developments,
the feed and separation system preferably has a sensor system for
recording one or more of the adjustment parameters, in particular
distance measurement devices, height sensors, air-pressure and
airflow rate sensors.
[0034] For the purposes of one particularly preferred development,
the feed and separation system has a regulation module, which is
connected in particular to the control unit, for demand-dependent
adaptation of the parameter information and/or readjustment of
adjustment parameters, in particular of at least the
compressed-air-based separating unit, the suction-air-based
separating unit, of the separating mechanism and of the separating
motor system during feed and/or separation operation. This has
advantages if the environmental conditions do change, in particular
if the sensor system mentioned above detects a change in one
environmental condition. This also has advantages if the feed and
separation power changes, in particular if the sensor system
mentioned above detects a change in the feed and separation power.
The regulation module allows adaptation of the parameter
information during operation, and this adaptation can still be used
for further operation runs in similar environmental conditions or
power states. The system can be readjusted automatically during
operation.
[0035] Further advantageous developments of the invention relating
to the method can be found in the dependent claims and, in detail,
indicate advantageous options for implementation of the method
according to the explained concept for the purposes of the
objective, as well as further advantages relating to this. The
invention also covers a computer program product for carrying out
the method, and a memory medium.
[0036] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described
in the following text with reference to the drawing. The aim of the
drawing is not necessarily to illustrate the exemplary embodiments
to scale but in fact the drawing is in a schematic and/or slightly
distorted form, in order to explain the invention. With regard to
supplements to the teaching which can be identified directly from
the drawing, reference is made to the relevant prior art. In this
case, it should be remembered that many modifications and changes
can be implemented with regard to the form and the detail of an
embodiment without departing from the general idea of the
invention. The features of the invention as disclosed in the
description, in the drawing and in the claims may be significant to
the development of the invention both individually and in any given
combination. The general idea of the invention is not restricted to
the exact form or the detail of the preferred embodiment
illustrated and described in the following text nor is it
restricted to a subject matter which would be restricted in
comparison to the subject matter claimed in the claims. When
dimension ranges are stated, values within the stated limits are
also intended to be disclosed as limit values, and then used and
claimed as required.
[0037] In order to assist understanding of the invention, one
preferred embodiment of the invention will now be explained with
reference to the figures of the drawing, in which:
[0038] FIG. 1: shows a system illustration of one particularly
preferred embodiment of a pneumatic feed and separation system
according to the concept of the invention;
[0039] FIG. 2: shows a schematic detailed illustration of one
particularly preferred embodiment of the pneumatic feed and
separation system according to the concept of the invention;
[0040] FIG. 3: shows a plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG.
2;
[0041] FIG. 4.1 to FIG. 4.6: show operating states of the pneumatic
feed and separation system as shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, during
loading of the paper stack, before feed and separation
operation;
[0042] FIG. 5.1 to FIG. 5.3: show operating states of the pneumatic
feed and separation system as shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 during
raising of the paper stack immediately before the start of feed and
separation operation;
[0043] FIG. 6.1 to FIG. 6.5: show operating states of the pneumatic
feed and separation system as shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 during
separation operation, with parameter information predetermined
automatically as a function of the paper;
[0044] FIG. 7.1 to FIG. 7.2: show operating states of the feed and
separation system as shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 during feed
operation with parameter information predetermined automatically as
a function of the paper.
[0045] As a system illustration, FIG. 1 shows, systematically, a
pneumatic feed and separation system 1 for flat substrates 3, in
the present case for papers, in a stack 5. The system 1 has a rear
edge separating apparatus 10 for separation of a top paper 3 from
the stack 5 in the area of the rear edge 9 of the stack 5 in the
transport direction 7. The system also has a transport apparatus 20
for the top substrate 3, in the area of the front edge 8 of the
stack 5 in the transport direction 7.
[0046] The rear edge separating apparatus 10 will be described in
more detail in conjunction with the following figures. The
transport apparatus 20 in the present case has a suction drum 21
(which is driven by a stepping motor which is not illustrated in
any more detail) as well as extraction rollers 23. The system 1
furthermore has a control unit 30. This is able in particular to
control the motor system and the pneumatic system of the rear edge
separating apparatus 10, and of the transport apparatus 20, via a
control bus 40. In order to control the pneumatic system, the
control unit 30 is also connected via the control bus 40 to a
pressure and vacuum unit 50. In the present case, the lifting table
60 can also be caused to raise and lower the stack 5, via a lifting
table motor 61, via the control unit 30 and by means of the control
bus 40. The control unit 30 is also connected to an external
operator unit 31 and/or to an internal operator unit 33. The
operator units 31, 33 allow parameter information for adjustment of
the system 1 to be selected and displayed via a mask 35 which is
provided by an appropriate computer program. Details about the
paper characteristic are already known to the system 1. A user can
use the selection mask 35 of the external control unit 31 or
internal control unit 33 to signal a standardized paper type to the
system 1, for which characteristics such as weight, thickness,
bending strength, surface roughness, area, length, width of the
paper are stored in an appropriate table. Further characteristics,
which are dependent on the environment, such as the ripple, static
and/or dynamic friction values of the paper, can be recorded via a
sensor system 70. Further sensors, which are not shown in FIG. 1,
can determine the temperature, the environmental humidity, etc. The
adjustment values which correspond to a paper type or paper
characteristic such as this, and to environmental conditions are
passed to the pneumatic system and motor system for the system 1,
that is to say the available parameter information is converted by
the controller 30 to adjustment parameters for the pneumatic system
and/or motor system for the rear edge separating apparatus 10 and
for the transport apparatus 20, and is passed on via the control
bus 40. The choice of a paper type and/or the view and/or statement
of characteristics of the paper as well as the currently specified
environmental characteristic can be provided by an operator with
the aid of software, using a selection mask 35, in the operator
unit 31, 33 or preferably in a computer which is connected to the
operator unit 31, 33. Transmission can take place in both
directions via a control bus 40 to the system 1, using either
serial or else parallel transmission. Bus systems such as those
which are known by the names V24, RS424, Centronics USB, or SCSI
are suitable for use for a control bus 40 or for other bus systems.
Furthermore, the selection mask 35 makes it possible to display the
separation and feed status for a user in terms of feed quality,
number of sheets already fed, feed rate, throughput rate and to
indicate multiple insertions that have occurred, as well as further
desired and expedient details. Furthermore, the system 1 has a
number of sensors, which are not shown in any more detail, for a
sensor system 70 which is used to monitor the system 1. The system
1 is supplied with electrical power via a power supply unit 80.
[0047] FIG. 2 shows the system 1 with details of the rear edge
separating apparatus 10, with symbols as in FIG. 1 and the same
reference symbols being used for the other parts of the system 1.
The rear edge separating apparatus 10 has an automatically
controllable separating pneumatic system with a
compressed-air-based separating unit, in the present case with a
plurality of loosening nozzles 11A and a plurality of separating
nozzles 11B. Furthermore, the automatically controllable separating
pneumatic system has a suction-air-based separating unit with a
plurality of suction caps 12. The rear edge separating apparatus 10
also has a controllable separating mechanism which, in the present
case, is in the form of a leaf spring 13. This is used to restrain
papers under the top paper 3. The nozzles 11A, 11B, like the
suction cup 12 and the suction drum 21, are connected via a valve
arrangement 51 with valves 51A and 51B to the reduced-pressure
generator 57 for the vacuum and pressure production unit 50. In a
corresponding manner, flexible suction tubes 15, 27 are passed to
the suction cup 12 (also referred to alternatively as a suction
cup) or suction drum 21, and a flexible pressure tube 14 is passed
to the nozzles 11A, 11B. The electromagnet 56 is in this case used
as a general means for switching on suction air for the suction cup
12. When the vacuum and compressed-air unit 50 is switched on, the
compressed air is available immediately via the compressor 53. The
suction air can be switched on or off by means of the electromagnet
(switch) 56. As soon as suction air is switched on--in the present
embodiment by disconnection of the electromagnet 56--the suction
air can be passed by the electromagnet 55 either to the suction cap
72 or to the suction drum 21.
[0048] Furthermore, the rear edge separating apparatus 10 has an
automatically adjustable and controllable separating motor system,
with the motor 16A being used for adjustment and readjustment of
the amount of air to the loosening nozzles, the motor 16B being
used for adjustment and readjustment of the amount of air to the
separating nozzle. The height position of the loosening nozzle 11A
can be adjusted and readjusted via a further motor--not illustrated
here. The automatically controllable separating motor system also
has a motor 17 for horizontal movement and a motor 18 for vertical
movement of the entire rear edge separating apparatus 10, and these
act via a suitable linkage 19. The horizontal movement process can
be carried out via a toothed rod, via a belt drive or via a cable
run.
[0049] In the present case, the rear edge separating unit 10 has a
compressed-air-based separating unit with one or more loosening
nozzles 11A and one or more separating nozzles 11B, in the present
case one separating nozzle 11B. The loosening nozzles 11A are
designed to loosen approximately 2 to about 30 sheets in the top
part of the stack 5, and are based on an air-powered nozzle
mechanism in order to reduce or cancel out the adhesion and
friction of the top sheets. These can stick to one another by
gravitation and/or static charging, which can occur during the
separating process.
[0050] Furthermore, a suction cup mechanism 12 is provided which is
controlled by reduced pressure in the feed cycle and first of all
sucks up the sheet 3 which is underneath it, and is therefore the
top sheet 3, in the stack 5, and is then drawn back with this
suction resistance into the guide in the suction cup plunger,
damped by a compression spring, with the top sheet 3 then being
raised through about 5 to about 20 mm.
[0051] Furthermore, the rear edge separating apparatus 10 has
separation, provided by means of a leaf spring 13, of the top sheet
3 at the rear edge 9 from the next sheet, with the fingers of the
leaf spring 13, which rest on the rear edge of the top sheet 3
before the suction process, sliding off the rear edge of the next
sheet while the top sheet is being lifted off the stack 5, in order
to restrain this next sheet together with the sheets located
underneath it.
[0052] Furthermore, the rear edge separating apparatus 10 has a
separating nozzle, which is placed centrally between the loosening
nozzles 11A, in order to produce an air cushion between the top
sheet 3 and the sheets underneath it.
[0053] The horizontal and vertical drive 17, 18 for the rear edge
separating module 10 is provided in order to position the rear edge
separating module 10 relative to the stack 5.
[0054] The sheet removal and transport device 20 comprises a
suction drum 21 which is driven by a stepping motor 22, is at a
fixed height and is arranged centrally above the sheet front edge
8. The top sheet 3 is sucked up from the stack 5 against the lower
face of the drum 21 by reduced pressure, which is applied via the
arrangement of suction nozzles on the drum lower face 21, and is
held continuously at this height. This sheet is conveyed
tangentially in the direction 7 of the exit rollers 23 by the force
of the reduced pressure and the friction of at least two friction
belts, which revolve on the drum 21, with the air cushion that is
produced by the separating nozzle 11B between the top sheet 3 and
the next sheet first of all raising this sheet above the separating
sheet 25, furthermore ensuring minimal frictional resistance
between the sheets, and thus allowing sheet movement with only a
small amount of slip with respect to the suction wheel
circumferential speed.
[0055] As part of a sensor system 70, distances between the rear
edge separating apparatus 10 and the stack 5 are detected via a
sensor 71 for indication of the top distance and a sensor 73 for
indication of a lateral distance. The sensor 75 records the
distance between the stack 5 and the suction roller 21.
[0056] FIG. 3 shows the pneumatic feed and separation system 1 from
FIG. 2 in the form of a plan view, using identical reference
symbols and symbols for the same parts in the system 1. In addition
to the height sensor 71, a lateral distance sensor 72A is also
provided for the paper stack 5 as part of the sensor system 70. The
lateral distance and thus the paper width can be measured via a
linear resistance of the distance sensor 72A, associated with the
paper width adjuster 72B. Part of the sensor system 70 is also a
weight-loaded stack height sensor 71, which has a counterweight on
the other side, symmetrically with respect to the sheet, above a
lever 74 which rests on the sheet 3.
[0057] The throughput of the system 1 can be monitored by a paper
path sensor 76 and a sensor 77 which records multiple inputs. The
output roller unit 23 accepts the sheet 3 transported over the
suction wheel 21 in a constant manner or on a sensor-controlled
basis, with this sheet 3 being guided in the transport direction 7
if required obliquely and/or with an offset over further roller
pairs (not illustrated here) to the output into the device for
processing the paper further, for example a printing, copying or
scanning device, which will not be described in any more detail
here.
[0058] The multiple sheet input sensor 77 (also referred to as a
multipick sensor) is fitted behind the output rollers 23 and is
able to identify a multiple input, either as an ultrasound detector
or as a thickness sensor, with the aid of strain gauges. Depending
on the chosen setting of the operator unit, this can immediately
stop the rest of the separation process and/or can signal this to
the user via the operator unit 31.
[0059] The pressure production and vacuum unit 50 has a compressor
53 and/or a reduced-pressure generator 57 in order to produce
compressed air for the rear nozzles 11A, 11B. A reduced-pressure
generator 57 for suction air is coupled to the compressor 53 and
can be switched on or off via the electromagnet 56.
[0060] When the suction air is switched on, this air can be passed
either to the suction cup 12 or to the suction drum 21 alternately
via the valve arrangement 51 with the aid of the further
electromagnet 55.
[0061] Part of the motor system for the transport apparatus 20 is
the motor 22--for the suction roller and the motor 24 for the
output rollers 23--both of which are preferably in the form of
stepping motors.
[0062] At the output of the system 1, a separating wall 25 and an
output paper guide 26 assist further transportation of the top
paper 3.
[0063] The system 1 rests on a base plate 2. The base plate 2
supports the system 1 which, apart from this, is held in a frame
4.
[0064] The process of loading the system 1 to the start of the
automated raising of the stack 5 is illustrated in FIG. 4.1 to FIG.
4.6. FIG. 4.1 shows the system 1 with the lifting table 60 empty.
The rear edge separating apparatus 10 is in an initial position.
The sensors of the sensor system 70 are in a neutral position.
[0065] In principle, a new paper type is selected on the operator
unit 31. The previous paper type may, for example, be confirmed.
After this, a control knob is operated on the drawer 6. The lifting
table 60 moves downwards and unlocks the lock for pulling out. The
rear edge separating unit 10 moves horizontally to the rear initial
position, and vertically to the initial position, that is to say
the uppermost possible position.
[0066] When a signal lamp on the drawer 6 illuminates, the drawer
can be pulled out as far as the stop. The paper width adjuster 72B
can be opened when the intention is to use wider paper than in the
past. After insertion of 10 to 15 sheets and before the entire
supply container is filled, the manual paper adjuster is moved in
to be flush with the width of the sheet thus also resulting--by
mechanical coupling in the present case--in the further side stops
72 of the stack side holder moving together. This is intended to
ensure that the paper does not bulge upwards. The paper width is in
this case automatically detected by the distance sensor 72A
adjacent to the paper width adjuster 72B of the stack side holder.
The distance sensor 72A of the sensor system 70 is able via an
associated linear electrical resistance, as explained above, to
indicate the width of a paper 3 by moving against the paper stack
5, manually or automatically. This distance sensor 72A is in the
form of an electrical slide resistance for paper-width measurement,
and is fitted in the base plate of the lifting table 60, parallel
to the stack width adjuster 72B. The side stop for the paper width
adjuster 72B is operated manually, while the other three side stops
72 are readjusted automatically. The paper sheet width is detected
automatically by the above-mentioned resistance slide, which is
mechanically coupled to the movement path of the side stop 72B and
indirectly measures the paper sheet width via the resistance.
[0067] When the system 1 is in the state shown in FIG. 4.2, the
paper sheet width is therefore already known. The paper container
in the drawer 6 is then completely filled. All of the papers in the
stack 5 should rest closely against the separating wall 25 in the
drawer 6. In this case, the maximum permissible paper stack height
is monitored via a marking and, if necessary, excess inserted paper
is removed again.
[0068] FIG. 4.2 shows the system 1 with the drawer 6 extended and
with a paper part stack 5' placed on the lifting table 60. After
being filled completely, the drawer 6 is pushed in again, and is
locked automatically. FIG. 4.3 shows the system 1 with the drawer 6
pushed in.
[0069] FIG. 4.4 shows the system 1 in the state from FIG. 4.1, but
on this occasion the paper part stack 5' is filled.
[0070] FIG. 4.5 shows a situation in which an upper paper stack 5''
is aligned manually with respect to the already mentioned
separating wall 25, matching a lower paper stack 5'', in order to
ensure that the rear edge 9 and the front edge 8 of the paper stack
5 have a uniform profile, as is illustrated in FIG. 4.6. In the
form shown there, the system 1 is ready, is booted and/or is
started, that is to say can be set for operation in an automated
form.
[0071] FIG. 5.1 to FIG. 5.3 show the automatic raising of the
lifting table 60 in the pneumatic feed and separation system 1.
[0072] FIG. 5.1 shows the paper stack 5 being moved up until the
distance sensor 75 which is associated with the transport apparatus
20 makes contact. The paper stack 5 is raised via the lifting table
60, which is driven by a motor 61. The motor 61 has an encoder disk
and is controlled by sensors which are able to raise the paper
stack 5 in steps of 0.5 mm up to a height which is above the stop
position of the distance sensor 75. The lifting table 60 raises the
paper stack 5 automatically to the lower face of the suction wheel
21. The distance sensor 75 is in the form of an opto-sensor and is
set such that, depending on the chosen substrate, it stops the
lifting table motor 61 when the distance between the top sheet 3 in
the stack 5 between the suction wheel lower face is about 11 mm to
5 mm.
[0073] With reference to the operating states illustrated in FIG.
5.1 to 5.3, the rear edge separating apparatus 10 is moved to an
initial position which is partially sensor-controlled and is
partially predetermined by the parameter information for the
controller 30. As explained, the controller 30 receives
substrate-specific adjustment parameters for the pneumatic system
and the motor system, which are stored as a table there, in a
memory area. As shown in FIG. 5.2, this is moved horizontally from
the initial position in the direction of the rear edge 9 of the
paper stack 5. The horizontal movement of the rear edge separating
apparatus 10 is stopped by operation of the distance sensor 73. The
number of steps which are carried out for horizontal movement by
the motor 17, which is in the form of a stepping motor, is a
measure of the paper length. The data relating to the paper length
and width is recorded by the controller 30. FIG. 5.2 accordingly
shows the system 1 having an operating state in which the rear edge
separating apparatus 10 is moved by means of the motor 17 for
horizontal movement until the distance sensor 73 comes into contact
with the rear edge 9 of the paper stack 5.
[0074] After this, the horizontal movement process as shown in FIG.
5.3 is slowed down by the motor 17 until the distance sensor 73
stops the motor 17 at a second stop point, governed by the
controller 30.
[0075] FIG. 6.1 to FIG. 6.5.1 show the system in operating states
which occur as a function of the parameter information which is
predetermined by the controller 30.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 6.1, the upper distance between a top
substrate 3 and a transport apparatus 20 is predetermined and
automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The distance
is monitored by sensors, and can also be readjusted.
[0077] FIG. 6.1 shows the system 1 in an operating state in which
the lifting table 60 has been raised once again, to be precise
until the distance sensor 71 makes contact relative to a null
position, which is predetermined by the distance sensor 75. This
means that the height position, as illustrated in FIG. 6.1, of the
top sheet 3 is determined relative to the suction roller 21 in the
form of encoder steps of the lifting table motor 61, on the basis
of the signal from the distance sensor 75.
[0078] As shown in FIG. 6.2, the upper distance between a top
substrate 3 and a rear edge apparatus 10 is predetermined and
automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The distance
is monitored by sensors and can also be readjusted.
[0079] The height position, as illustrated in FIG. 6.2, of the top
sheet 3 is determined relative to the suction cup 12 via the steps
of the motor 18, which is in the form of a stepping motor, for the
height position of the rear edge separating apparatus 10.
Furthermore, the suction force is adjusted for vertical raising of
the top sheet 3. Alternatively or additionally, an airflow rate can
also be applied to the suction cup 12 by means of the vacuum
pressure unit 50. Fundamentally, in this embodiment, the distance
of the suction cup 12 and the distance of the suction wheel 21 from
the paper surface of the top sheet 3 are predetermined by the
controller 30 as a function of the paper type, and are monitored by
the distance sensors 71, 75, that is to say the entire rear edge
separating apparatus 10, and therefore the suction cup 12 moves as
a function of the paper type to a distance of2 to 7 mm from the
paper surface of the top sheet 3. This distance is recorded
accurately via the distance sensor 71, which is in the form of an
incremental encoder.
[0080] Furthermore, the vertical position of the loosening nozzles
11A for the top 8 to 15 sheets is predetermined via the number of
steps of the motor 16A for the loosening nozzle 11A as a function
of the paper type, that is to say the vertical sheet position is
predetermined by the controller 30 as a function of the paper
type.
[0081] As shown in FIG. 6.3, the airflow rate of a
compressed-air-based separating unit is predetermined and
automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The airflow
rate is monitored by sensors, and can also be readjusted.
[0082] As shown in FIG. 6.3, overcoming the adhesion between the
top 8 to 30 sheets is controlled via the controller 30 via the
amount of compressed air to the loosening nozzles 11A in order to
loosen these sheets. In the present case, this is done via the
motor 16A, which uses a mechanical slide to control the amount of
air to the loosening nozzles 11A, while in the present case it is
also possible to do this by controlling the compressor 53. Both are
done via the controller 30.
[0083] As shown in FIG. 6.4, the airflow rate of a
compressed-air-based separating unit is predetermined and
automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The airflow
rate is adjusted, monitored by sensors, and can also be readjusted.
The airflow rate is monitored by sensors and can also be
readjusted.
[0084] The operating state shown in FIG. 6.4 illustrates flat
separation of the top sheet 3 from the next sheet on the basis of
an amount of compressed air which is predetermined by the
controller 30 and is dependent of the paper type for the separating
nozzle 11B. This can in turn be done by driving the compressor 53,
but preferably by adjustment, controlled by the motor 16B, of a
mechanical slide for the separating nozzle 11B.
[0085] As shown in FIG. 6.4.1 and FIG. 6.4.2, the lateral distance
between a separating mechanism in the form of a spring 13 with a
restraint function for substrates under the top substrate 3 and a
rear edge 9 of the stack 5 is predetermined and automatically
adjusted as a function of the substrate. The distance is monitored
by sensors, and can also be readjusted.
[0086] The restraint force for the next sheet is predetermined by
the controller 30 as a function of the paper type by means of the
spring 13. This is done by the length of the separating spring
fingers entering the paper surface with respect to the rear edge 9
of the stack 5. This is achieved via the actuating motor 13', which
is illustrated in FIG. 6.4.1(a), (b), (c) and FIG. 6.4.2(a), (b).
As can be seen in FIG. 6.4.2(a), (b) the fingers of the spring 13
rest with their tips 13A, 13B on the outer edge of the upper sheet
3. The motor 13' acts on a spring holder 13'', which can position
the spring 13 at a greater or lesser depth towards the rear edge a.
Furthermore, the spring 13 is provided with a strain gauge
13'''.
[0087] The lower FIG. 6.4.2(b) is varied in FIG. 6.4.1(a) to
6.4.1(c). While the air pressure from the nozzle forces the upper
paper 3 away, as illustrated in FIG. 6.4.1(b), the spring 13 holds
the next sheet in its position. As illustrated in FIG. 6.4.1(b),
the next sheet also remains in its position when the suction cup 12
raises the upper sheet 3. If the tips 13A, 13B of the fingers of
the spring 13 are raised excessively--as can occur as a result of
an excessively high air pressure or an excessively low penetration
depth of the spring 13--there is a risk of multiple insertions. In
this case, it can be expected that the next sheet will also be
raised above the tips 13A, 13B of the fingers. As is shown in FIG.
6.4.1(c), this can be avoided by means of a strain gauge 13''' for
an evaluation unit associated therewith, by means of which the
bending force of the spring 13 can be measured and can be signaled
to the controller 30. This strain gauge 13''' passes the strain on
the spring 13 as a voltage level via a measurement amplifier
(integrated in the controller 30) to an analog/digital converter
(likewise integrated in the controller 30), which makes these
signals available to the controller.
[0088] If a voltage level is overshot or undershot during the
raising of the top paper 3 above the spring tips 13A, 13B, it is
possible to determine as a function of the substrate whether the
top sheet 3 is being pulled correctly over the spring tips 13A, 13B
(stress/time diagram of the strain gauge in FIG. 6.4.3a) or whether
this has not been done, or has not been done correctly, as a result
of an incorrect setting.
[0089] By way of example, FIG. 6.4.3b shows a spring setting as a
stress/time diagram, in which the spring 13 extends too far into
the area of the top sheet 3. This can result in the sheet not
tearing off with the suction cup 12 when it is raised, so that the
spring 13 does not slide on the next sheet, but the paper is raised
with the spring 13 by the suction cup 12.
[0090] In a situation such as this, the spring 13 can be moved back
from the paper surface by the motor 13'', which then once again
leads to the top sheet 3 being pulled off as intended (FIG.
6.4.3a).
[0091] In consequence, the air ejected from both the loosening
nozzle 11A and from the separating nozzle 11B can be varied or,
preferably, the distance between the spring 13 and the rear edge 9
of the paper stack 5 can be varied. The latter is done by means of
the motor 13'. In principle, the distance between the spring 13 and
the rear edge 9 of the paper stack 5 is preset by the controller
30. If the paper is relatively soft, the spring 13 can enter the
sheet area to a deeper extent, and to a shallower extent if the
paper is relatively hard.
[0092] The settings which have been explained with reference to
FIGS. 6.1 to 6.4.2(b) are shown by way of example in Table 1 for
corresponding parameter information in the form of a paper matrix
for paper of a specific type: TABLE-US-00001 Initial setting MRSA
MRDA MRSP MRSS HAPOS 50 gsm 5 7 3 60 75 60 gsm 7 10 3 70 70 80
gsm/A4 -3 10 1 55 40 120 gsm 25 35 3 55 60 135 gsm 35 45 3 55 55
170 gsm 40 55 3 55 50 250 gsm -5 4 3 40 45 300 gsm 60 85 3 45 40 80
gsm/A3 9 15 4 55 65 250 gsm/A3 50 65 3 47 40 Unit MRSS Motor rear
edge separator spring initial setting MRSA Motor rear edge
separator nozzle air initial setting MRDA Motor rear edge separator
divide nozzle air initial setting MRSP Motor rear edge separator
side nozzle position initial setting MRHA Motor rear edge separator
height adjustment initial setting HAPOS Suction cup incremental
high sensor initial setting
[0093] The MRHA value in this case governs the operating state, as
is shown in FIG. 6.1 and FIG. 6.2. The MRSA and MRSP value in this
case governs an operating state as is shown in FIG. 6.3. The MRDA
value in this case governs an operating state as is shown in FIG.
6.4. The MRSS value in this case governs an operating state as is
shown in FIG. 6.4.1(a) to FIG. 6.4.2(b).
[0094] As is also shown in FIG. 6.4, the airflow rate and the
reduced pressure of a suction-air-based separating unit are
predetermined and automatically adjusted as a function of the
substrate. The airflow rate is automatically adjusted, monitored by
sensors, and can also be readjusted.
[0095] FIG. 6.4 also shows the top sheet 3 being lifted off via the
suction cups 12. The electromagnet 56 is deactivated for this
purpose, with reduced pressure being created in the form of a
chamber, in the reduced-pressure generator 57 when the compressor
50 is running. The reduced pressure is therefore passed to the
suction cups 12, with the electromagnet 55 likewise deactivated.
The reduced pressure at the suction cups 12 draws the top sheet 3
against the suction cups 12. As a result of the reduced pressure,
the pistons 54 are drawn into the associated suction cylinders and
thus, with the aid of the suction cups 12, raise the sheet 3 that
has been sucked up beyond the tips 13A, 13B of the spring 13 (FIG.
6.4.1(a) to (c)). The tips 13A, 13B of the spring 13 now project,
as already explained, over the rear edge 9 of the upper sheet 3,
and come to rest in the same position on the second sheet. This
prevents the second sheet and the subsequent sheets from likewise
being raised.
[0096] As the piston 54 is raised, the channelized airflow from the
separating nozzle 11B can raise the top sheet 3 into the sheet
center and to the level of the lower face of the suction wheel
21.
[0097] The weight of the weight-loaded distance sensor 71 in the
form of an analog switch and that of the lever 74, whose function
is to act as a balance weight (hold-down drag lever), ensure that,
in this case, the corners of the sheets remain together at the
sheet end area, and do not become loose. The separating nozzle 11B,
which is likewise supplied with compressed air, acts at this time
via a mechanical shutter 14, which is attached to the piston
54.
[0098] As shown in FIG. 6.5, the airflow rate of a
suction-air-based transport unit is predetermined and adjusted
automatically as a function of the substrate. A suction frame of
the suction drum 21 for the top substrate 3 is monitored by sensors
and can also be readjusted.
[0099] FIG. 6.5 shows the switching that takes place of the suction
air from the suction cups 12 to the suction wheel 21. This is done
by activation of the electromagnet 55. The reduced pressure in the
reduced-pressure generator 57 for the suction cups 12 is switched
off via the valve 51A, while it is switched on with the opening of
the valve 51B for the suction wheel 21.
[0100] The suction cups 12 therefore no longer continue to firmly
hold the top sheet 3 of the stack 5. The top sheet 3 of the stack 5
is thus drawn by the suction air against the suction wheel 21,
which is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 6.6.1.
[0101] As shown in FIG. 7.1, the rotating suction drum 21 therefore
moves the top sheet 3 with the reduced pressure transported via the
openings 28', and via friction rings 28, as far as the first roller
pair of the output rollers 23 of the paper path. All the sheets
which are subject to the airflow from the separating nozzle 11B
abut against the separating wall 25 and are therefore restrained,
in addition to the spring 13. The drive for the extraction rollers
23 is predetermined and automatically adjusted as a function of the
substrate. The drive is monitored by sensors and can be
automatically readjusted.
[0102] When the front edge of the first sheet 3 reaches the paper
path sensor 76, as shown in FIG. 7.2, in the paper path, then the
valve 51 is switched over again, by means of the controller 30, via
the electromagnet 55. The feed process can then start again, as
illustrated in FIG. 6.1. In this case, it should be remembered
that, after a number of sheets corresponding to about 0.5 to 1 mm
have been pulled off, the lifting table 60 is readjusted via the
motor 61.
[0103] The process described above allows automatic readjustment,
as required, of the following adjustment parameters, and
readjustment of the corresponding units during the feed process:
[0104] 1. The automatic horizontal position readjustment of the
entire rear edge separating device 10 can be readjusted for a
different sheet length, with the aim of ensuring that the spring 13
acts over a constant length on the sheet surface. This is
particularly relevant in the event of differences in the sheet
length for substrates composed of different paper cut batches, when
these are inserted as stack elements of different length. [0105] 2.
Automatic readjustment of the height position and/or of the amount
of compressed air to the loosening nozzles 11A can be carried out
for a different throughput time. This may be the case, for example,
when static charging increases in a dry environment. [0106] 3.
Furthermore, automatic readjustment of the amount of compressed air
for the separating nozzle 11B or separating nozzles can be carried
out for increasing adhesion, which may result from changes in the
feed parameters. As can be seen, this may be caused by a different
throughput time and/or bending of the spring 13, which can be
detected via the stress signals at the strain gauge 13''', and/or
the bending curve of the spring 13, which can be detected via the
stress signals at the strain gauge 13''', and/or the bending curve
of the spring 13, which can be detected via the stress signals at
the strain gauge 13'''. [0107] 4. In a corresponding manner,
automatic readjustment of the engagement depth of the separating
spring 13 with the separating fingers 13A, 13B on the top sheet 3
in the feed direction 7 is possible if a maximum stress is exceeded
at the strain gauge 13''', for example if the spring 13 is bent
excessively. Bending of the spring 13 can be identified by an
electrical voltage potential from a strain gauge 13''', which can
be fitted to a spring root, as shown in FIG. 6.4.2(a). Extreme
spring loading can also be compensated for by readjustment of the
airflow rate through the loosening nozzles 11A or the separating
nozzle 11B. The amount of compressed air for the separating nozzle
11B can also be readjusted in this way.
[0108] In summary, the particularly preferred embodiment makes it
possible for a controller 30 to adjust the feed system 1 depending
on the paper type used, and to operate it in an optimized manner.
In order to convert a substrate type selected by the user on the
operator unit 31, electrical setting values for the above-mentioned
components of the feed system 1 can be passed on via the control
bus 40 as a control signal. In detail, this relates to a lifting
table motor 61 as explained above, to a motor 17 for the horizontal
position 17 and to a motor 18 for the vertical position of the rear
edge separating unit 10, to a motor 13' for the horizontal position
of the spring 13, to a motor for controlling the amount of air for
the loosening nozzles 11A, to a motor for the amount of air for the
separating nozzle 11B, to a motor 16A, 16B for the height position
of the loosening nozzle 11A, and of the separating nozzle 11B.
[0109] Furthermore, the controller 30 allows specific application
of the suction air via the electromagnet 56, deflection of this
suction air via the electromagnet 55 either to the suction cups 12
or to the suction wheel 21, with this being done using the valves
51A and 51B, which can be switched alternately.
[0110] The controller 30 is designed to accept and process sensor
signals from the sensor system 70, in particular the distance
sensor 75 for a height at the suction drum of the distance sensor
71 for a height at the rear edge separating apparatus 10, the paper
path sensor 76 at the output of the paper path, the strain gauge
13''' at the spring 13, and the sensor 77, which is in the form of
a multipick sensor.
[0111] The controller 30 is also designed to control the amount of
compressed air for the rear separating nozzle 11B, to apply the
suction air to the suction cup 12 or the suction wheel 21, and to
switch the suction air from the suction cup 12 to the suction wheel
21.
[0112] The controller 30 is designed to accept and interpret the
status data from the sensor system 70 and to pass on feed-relevant
data to the external operator unit 31, or to an internal operator
unit 33.
[0113] In summary, the invention relates to a pneumatic feed and
separation system 1 for flat substrates such as papers and the like
in a stack 5, and to a corresponding method. The system 1 has: a
rear edge separating apparatus 10 for separation of a top substrate
3 from the stack 5 in the area of the rear edge 9 of the stack 5 in
the transport direction 7; a transport apparatus 20 for the top
substrate 3 in the area of the front edge 8 of the stack 5 in the
transport direction 7; and a control unit 30. In order to ensure
automatic adjustment of the system 1, in particular automatically
optimized operation of the system 1, the invention provides that
the rear edge apparatus 10 and/or the transport apparatus 20
comprise/comprises an automatically controllable pneumatic
system--in particular with a compressed-air-based separating unit
and a suction-air-based separating unit, in particular an
automatically controllable separating mechanism with a restraint
function for substrates below the top substrate 3, in particular a
suction-air-based transport unit--and an automatically controllable
motor system. The control unit 30 is designed for automatic
presetting of substrate-dependent parameter information--in
particular at least for the compressed-air-based separating unit,
for the suction-air-based separating unit, for the separating
mechanism, for the separating motor system and for the transport
unit--and the associated pneumatic system and/or motor system
are/is designed for automatic adjustment thereof on the basis of
the parameter information.
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