EP3085502A1 - Method for operating an apparatus for performing cutting operations of open formatcards of a printed product - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a device for performing cutting operations on at least one open format edge of at least one printed product, the device being in operative connection with a print product-related delivery device for the first cutting operation and with a print product related request device operating after the last cutting operation. Each edge-related cutting operation is feasible with at least one cutting device. The print product (A) is transferable from a first cutting location (1), in which the cutting operation takes place for a first form edge of the printed product, to a second cutting location (2), in which the cutting operation for a second form edge takes place. The print product after the cutting operation performed at the second cutting location is transferred to a third cutting location (3) in which the cutting operation for a third form edge takes place. The transfer of the printed product from one cutting location to the next is carried out by at least one transport unit (101, 102, ....), wherein the transport unit has at least one means which detects the printed product on the backside and is conveyed hanging from one cutting location to the next.

Description

Technical area

The present invention relates to a method for operating a device for carrying out cutting operations open format edges of at least one printed product, namely for the trimming of at least one head, front, foot edge according to the preamble of claim 1.

The term "open format edges" is thus understood to mean head, front and foot parts of the printed product, regardless of whether this is composed of individual pages or signatures.

For the industrial production of printed products, preferably book blocks or brochures, in small or small editions, one operates with a three-knife trimmer, which is able to follow the same or variable formats and thicknesses with high cycle performance with the highest quality cut to the desired formats to cut.

In three cutting stations, the book blocks or brochures are cut to the final format at the head, foot and front for a given thickness. The book blocks or brochures have a binding on the back. Suitable bindings are all known methods, such as; Thread stitching, perfect binding, saddle stitching, etc., into consideration.

The three-knife trimmer should be able to be used both as a solo machine and as a machine in a line network with other production machines.

State of the art

The task of the device, hereafter referred to as a three-knife trimmer, is to cut the printed products, ie mostly book blocks and / or brochures, at the three open sides. This is done by clamping the book block or booklet (hereafter referred to as the book block) at a standstill between press bars or press plates and three cutters trimming the three above-mentioned pages of the book block. The cutting devices can be designed as counter-knife units in which two blades cut as a pair of scissors or as blade units with cutting strips, in which a knife cuts against a plastic strip and easily penetrates into the plastic strip in the end position.

In the case of such three-knife trimmers, the head and foot trimming is usually carried out in a first phase and the front trimming is carried out in a second phase. The order is not mandatory, it can be the other way around. Furthermore, it is possible to perform on the book block only the head and foot section or only the front section, which is needed for example for the production of English brochures.
There are Dreischneiderausführungen in which the book block between the first cut phase (eg: head and foot section) and the second cut phase (eg: front section) stops still and there are versions in which the book block is transported in between.

Three trimmers have become known in which the book blocks are pressed and held for cutting between press dies and cutting cassettes. When the press die is raised, the cut book block is ejected and the new book block to be cut is introduced. By means of a centering device, the book block is brought into position and then clamped by the lowering pressing ram. The knives move in one Swing against the book and cut the open sides. After cutting all sides of the punch is raised and the next cycle can begin. This three-cutter design is not suitable for a quick format change. The punch and also the cutting cartridge are tailored to the format to be processed and can only be replaced by stopping the machine.

In the DE 10 2011 105 253 A1 discloses a three-knife trimmer, in which the blades cut against cutting edges or counter blade, the book block is held at head and Fußschnitt and the front section by pressure strips next to the knives. In the format-dependent variable free space between the cutting bars, or counter knives on the one hand and the space between the pressure bars on the other hand, a plurality of zigzag-shaped support webs for supporting the book block is arranged during cutting. With such a three-knife trimmer, a good cut quality can be achieved because the book block is pressed or supported with the pressure bars and the zigzag-shaped support webs during cutting.

However, with this solution, it should be remembered that the book block can attach to the zigzag-shaped supporting webs during loading and unloading in the cutting position. This circumstance will be added DE 10 2011 105 253 A1 counteracted by the transport system consists of a lower belt and a top belt, the two belts for the book block transport against each other are driven together slightly so that the book block can not attach to the support webs of the cutting table level or the press level. With such a book block transport, however, takes place that at different book block thickness only a book block in the transport system can be transported. This limits the allowable thickness difference from book block to book block because there are several book blocks in the transport system. Particularly in three-knife trimmers in which the cut takes place in two stations, transporting the thickly varying book block with the described transport system is problematic. With greatly varying book block thicknesses, it is therefore necessary to transport only one book block within the transport system. However, this limits the capacity of such a three-knife trimmer, ie the three-knife trimmer can only be operated with a low number of cycles (power).

In the DE 10 2011 105 253 A1 are further three knives listed that define a state of the art. However, all of them are not able to meet the requirements for a short changeover time associated with the requirement of a high quality cut.

In EP 1 504 860 A1 a three-knife trimmer is disclosed in which the book blocks to be trimmed are detected by a positioning device and fed to the cutting devices with a feed device. There are a plurality of spaced-apart cutting devices are provided, in which the book block are positioned by the delivery device successively each for a side section. In each cutter, a side cut is made on the positioned print product. From the positioning device, the aligned book blocks are moved with an intake gripper by a linear stroke in a transition position, wherein the orientation of the book block is not changed. The delivery of the book blocks is done with a multiple planetary gear. For positioning of the book blocks in the cutting devices adjustable control gates are provided. The device allows easy and quick changeover to other formats. Each cutting device consists of a frame-fixed lower blade and a top blade to which a press plate is coupled via a guide and a pneumatic cylinder. The press plate clamps the book block before cutting between the press plate and the stationary lower knife. The book block is not a large area, but only in the cutting area pressed by the press plate and the lower blade, and the feed device. The areas of the book block that are not pressed tend to "sag" and therefore may result in insufficient cut quality. This is especially the case when soft and / or thin paper is used for the book blocks.

With the JP 2012-218114 A A three-knife trimmer is introduced, which can process different book formats in the sequence and in which the outer sides of the book are not damaged. On a moving part, a gripping unit for gripping the back of the printed product is mounted, the gripping unit having a reference surface for positioning the spine of the printed product. With a Positionieraktuator the moving member is moved by a controller in a vertical plane and positioned correctly for the cutting operations on the three open sides of the printed product, so that the, moving in the horizontal direction, cutting knife can cut the printed product. At the reference surface of the chuck and a vertical abutment surface, the printed product is aligned, thereby enabling the controller, together with the format data, to approach the positions required for the respective cut and to properly position the printed product for the cut.

The disadvantage of this three-knife trimmer is the limited ability to vary the book format. Due to the fact that one clamping unit holds the printed product for all three sections, the clamping unit has to be designed substantially smaller than the smallest printed product to be processed. If the printed product has a much larger format, then the plates, which are additionally used to support the printed product during cutting, must be provided with a large area of exception. A large exception, however, has a detrimental effect on the quality of cut.

For the front section, the clamping unit can dive more or less deeply into the exception area of the plates. The printed matter is properly supported only when the gripping unit is inserted deeply into the exception area of the plates. So that the printed product, without replacement of the plates, sufficiently supported can be editable, only a small book width difference with the three-knife trimmer.

Presentation of the invention

The present invention is based on the object to propose a method for operating a device designed as a three-cutter, which is able to continuously process printed products of the same or different formats and thicknesses with high cutting performance and quality of cut, ie by definition to cut to size. The inventive three-knife trimmer and its operation are also suitable for trimming stacked brochures according to the same procedure as is the case with a book block.

Accordingly, the three-knife trimmer is used for trimming open format edges, also called side edges of printed products, such as books, brochures, magazines. For the sake of simplicity, the term "printed product", selectively "book block" or "booklet" will be used hereinafter ,

By means of the three-knife trimmer according to the invention and its operation, a secure processing of very small runs up to the minimum number of pieces 1 without stoppages due to a change from one to the next format can be provided. Thus, the three-cutter can be supplied with book block formats of different sizes and / or the production of book blocks can be processed by different sections to be cut off at the edges.

In accordance with the present invention, the present invention is accomplished by a method in which the print product is transferred from a first cutting location in which the first side cutting operation occurs to a second cutting location in which the second side cutting operation takes place Print product after the cutting operation performed at the second cutting location, a third cutting location, in which the cutting operation for a third side edge takes place, is supplied, wherein the transfer of the printed product from one cutting location to the next is accomplished by at least one transport unit.

In order to keep the economy high in the operation of the inventive three-knife trimmer, the format change takes place during the course of the machine, preferably during the period of time that is available for the loading and unloading of the printed product.

The conversion from one format to the next has to be done accurately, so that every cut print product meets the requirements for dimensional accuracy.

After the inventive operation of the three-knife trimmer can be used even with a run of a printed copy, the aim of the invention must be seen in the fact that the copy only once available is cut 100% reliable.

Another significant advantage of the invention is the fact that the three-knife trimmer is simple and is operated reliably, so that its operation can be done even by auxiliary personnel.

By the inventive method in the operation of the three-cutter is ensured that the dimensional accuracy of the cut printed product and its straight, parallel and rectangular cuts are guaranteed against the front and back surface of each printed product.

The inventive method in the operation of the three-cutter thus ensures a high quality of cut even with larger print product thicknesses by the Print product maximized over the entire surface is clamped by at least one clamping device between the first and last page, during which the cutting operations at the upcoming open side edges, so that in this cutting operation, the risk of a quality-reducing "nose" can be excluded. The full-surface detection of the printed product can be achieved if required by a plurality of press plates, or recordable by segmented press plates, or individually operable pressing elements.

In this case, the printed products are lying, fed to the back bound by a method ahead and with approximately the same pitch on a conveyor belt to the three-knife trimmer. The approximately uniform pitch is given either by a clocked supply of the printed products to the conveyor belt of the three-knife trimmer, or such feeding is produced by known devices and methods in front of the conveyor belt.

In another embodiment, the printed products with an irregular pitch are fed to the conveyor belt of the three-knife trimmer. A clocking device ensures that minimal divisions (distance between the leading book spine edge and the spine edge of the subsequent product) are not undershot. A sensor detects when the printed product arrives at the conveyor belt of the three-knife trimmer.

If the spacing between the printed products is greater than the minimum spacing, it may be provided as the first preferred variant that the printed products located within the three-cutter process are finished, and then the infeed is resumed. As a further option, it can be provided that the control reduces the speed of the three-knife trimmer and synchronizes the three-knife trimmer to the cycle of the printed product. If the division then exceeds a maximum dimension, then it can also be optionally provided that the controller generates empty cycles on the three-knife trimmer.

• Übernahme des Druckproduktes durch den Greifer des Supports nach Abschluss der ersten Schneidoperation am ersten Schneidort.

The transport unit consists essentially of at least one support, which is equipped at the end with at least one print product-related gripper, wherein the gripper detects the printed product to be trimmed spine side, and wherein the support / gripper compared to the cutting locations following control-supported translational movements are based:

• Takeover of the printed product by the gripper of the support after completion of the first cutting operation at the first cutting location.

Transfer of this printed product by the same support / gripper to the second cutting location after cutting operation at the first cutting location.

Transfer of the same print product by the same support / gripper to the third cutting location for the third cutting operation after the cutting operation at the second cutting location, and thereafter,

Returning the support / gripper to the starting position for a new takeover of a subsequently delivered printed product after the first cutting operation has been completed at the first cutting location.

• Der erste Greifer des ersten Supports übernimmt das Druckprodukt nach erfolgter erster Schneidoperation am ersten Schneidort.

The transport unit may also consist of two print product-related supports, each with a gripper, which also capture the printed product to be trimmed on the spine side, these supports with the associated grippers in operative operative connection to each other, and wherein the supports and grippers with respect to the cutting locations following control-supported translational movements are based :

• The first gripper of the first support accepts the printed product after the first cutting operation at the first cutting location.

The first support / gripper transfers this printed product to the second cutting location, positions there the printed product for the execution of the second cutting operation and then returns to the starting position at the first cutting location, where the renewed takeover of a nachgeliefert printed product, after this the first cutting operation on the first Cutting location was performed.

In the meantime, the second gripper of the second support picks up the printed product immediately after the cutting operation is completed at the second cutting location and transfers it to the third cutting location where the third cutting operation takes place.

After that, the second support with the second gripper returns to the second cutting location, where there is already a printed product replenished by the first support / gripper and already trimmed, which is then guided to the third cutting location.

Both when operating with one and two supports, the head part is cut at the first cutting location, the front part at the second cutting location, and the foot portion of the printed product at the third cutting location.

This procedure is in the three-cutter itself, in particular as regards the processing sequence of the first and third cutting location, not mandatory, according to which it must always be at the head circumference in the first circumcision, but it is readily possible at the first cutting the foot section and then edit the head section at the third cutting location, wherein at the second cutting location as before, the circumference of the front part of the printed product is carried out to make this optimally related to the present invention based on translational movements.

Whether the head or foot section is machined at the first cutting location depends on how the feed of the printed product to the three-knife trimmer is scheduled, i.e., whether the reading front side of the printed product is directed up or down on the conveyor belt. In both cases, the back edge of the printed product remains in transit to the three-cutter prior. If such a change (head / foot section) is made, then it must be ensured that appropriate control-technical precautions are taken for the sections to be cut off, in particular when head and foot sections with different section lengths are to be processed.

• Eine erste Ebene (X), welche durch die Überführung des Druckproduktes von einem Schneidort zum nächsten charakterisiert ist;
• Eine zweite Ebene (Y), welche durch die Ladung und Entladung des Druckproduktes am jeweiligen Schneidort charakterisiert ist;
• Eine dritte Ebene (Z), welche durch eine laterale Anpassung (Offset-Bewegung) des Supports/Greifers gegenüber den stationären druckproduktbezogenen Klemmvorrichtungen am Schneidort charakterisiert ist, wobei diese laterale Anpassung fest vorgegeben ist, oder optional gesteuert zur Einsatz gelangt kann.

The translational movements of the gripper or the gripper therefore detect two resp. three levels of work, namely:

• A first plane (X) characterized by the transfer of the printed product from one cutting location to the next;
• A second plane (Y) characterized by the charge and discharge of the printed product at the respective cutting location;
• A third plane (Z), which is characterized by a lateral adjustment (offset movement) of the support / gripper relative to the stationary pressure-product-related clamping devices at the cutting location, this lateral adaptation being fixed, or optionally controlled, being used.

The gripper itself is end equipped with pressure-product-related jaws, said gripper resp. the support (s) at the cutting locations have an additional translatory degree of freedom in all the above-mentioned planes (X, Y, Z). The seizure of the respective printed product is maximized at its center of gravity, and / or the seizure of the printed product as a function of the sections to be cut off at the open side edges (head, Front, foot) coincides with the best possible geometric location, with the latter possibility a medium to strong deviation from the theoretical center of gravity of the printed product is possible.

The cutting stations of the three-knife trimmer are in operative connection with at least one stationary, quasi-stationary or movable force-acting clamping device, which is responsible for the basic detection and generation of the pressing force on the printed product to be trimmed, this clamping device is tuned to the format size of the printed product, so a Has optimized fixed contact surface, or in the course of operation by simultaneous adjustments to the respective format sizes of the printed product is adjustable.

The exercise of force, so the force to be introduced, such a clamping device on the printed product during the cutting operation acts force predominantly against the exerting of the jaws of the gripper closing force on the printed product, such that this fixed during the entire cutting operation by the outgoing force of the respective clamping device remains positioned.

The closing force of the jaws of the gripper, as far as it remains at the location of the cutting operation, does not affect the pressing force of the clamping device and its vectors on the printed product. This means that the pressing force of the clamping device relative to the closing force of the jaws of the gripper behaves absolutely effective and Kräftprädominant.

At least one clamping device within the three-knife trimmer can consist of two clamping plates which execute at least one force-exerting closing movement relative to one another. Furthermore, at least one further clamping device can be made of individual composite pressure bars at a suitable cutting location, which force the pressing force on the pressing surfaces of the printed product exercise, these pressure bars in their entirety form a pressure strip battery.

• Während einer ersten 90° Drehung der Zustellvorrichtung wird eine klappbare rechenartige Führung gegen den Buchblock geschwenkt, dergestalt, dass dieser nach der 90° Drehung auf dem Rücken liegt und gegen eine Auffächerung und/oder Umfallen geschützt ist. Die rechenartige Führung ist mit einem innerhalb der Zustellvorrichtung wirkenden Klemmaggregat gekoppelt, welche den Buchblock in einer auf dem Rücken liegenden Stellung kurzfristig klemmt. Dieses Klemmaggregat ist kinematisch so gestaltet, dass die rechenartige Führung in eine buchblockdickenabhängige Position überführt wird. In dieser Lage vollführt das Klemmaggregat eine kleine Öffnung, so dass sich der Buchblock, der Schwerkraft folgend, an seinem Rücken gegen eine Anschlagfläche innerhalb der entsprechenden Station der Zustellvorrichtung ausrichtet. Dann schliesst das Klemmaggregat erneut, worauf der Buchblock in einer definierten Position für die weiteren Prozesse gehalten wird.

According to the invention, first of all a delivery device (also called insertion wheel or star-shaped wheel because of its design) is directly in operative connection with the first cutting operation at the first cutting location. Basically, this delivery device is multi-part, preferably, it has the shape of a four-part wheel, with other divisions are possible. If the promotion of a coherent book block, so the operation of such a multi-part delivery device is the following:

• During a first 90 ° rotation of the feed device a hinged rake-like guide is pivoted against the book block, such that it lies after the 90 ° rotation on the back and is protected against fanning and / or falling over. The rake-like guide is coupled to a clamping unit acting within the feed device, which clamps the book block in a lying on the back position short term. This clamping unit is kinematically designed so that the rake-like guide is transferred to a book block thickness-dependent position. In this position, the clamping unit performs a small opening, so that the book block, following gravity, aligns at its back against a stop surface within the corresponding station of the delivery device. Then the clamping unit closes again, whereupon the book block is held in a defined position for the further processes.

The delivery device, so the insertion wheel rotates on it by two bars by 90 ° on and brings the book block in a now hanging position. During this rotational movement, the first rake-like guide and an operatively connected second guide are pivoted away from the book block, such that the freestanding pages or signatures of the book block hang vertically downwards solely by gravity, during which the book block in the region of its back through said Clamping unit is held.

• Während einer ersten 90° Drehung der Zustellvorrichtung wird eine klappbare rechenartige Führung gegen die Broschüren geschwenkt, dergestalt, dass die Broschüren nach der 90° Drehung dann auf ihren Rücken liegen und so gegen eine Auffächerung und/oder Umfallen geschützt sind. Die rechenartige Führung ist mit einem innerhalb der Zustelleinrichtung wirkenden Klemmaggregat gekoppelt, welche die Broschüren in einer auf dem Rücken liegenden Stellung kurzfristig klemmt, dass dieses Klemmaggregat kinematisch so gestaltet ist, dass die rechenartige Führung in eine dickenabhängige Position überführt wird. Danach öffnet das Klemmaggregat nochmals ein wenig, so dass sich die Broschüren der Schwerkraft folgend, an ihren Rücken gegen eine Anschlagfläche innerhalb der Zustellvorrichtung ausrichten und/oder während dieses Vorganges zusätzliche mechanische und/oder vibrationsauslösende Mittel eingreifen, welche die Broschüren zu einem formateinheitlichen Block ausrichten. Dann schliesst das Klemmaggregat erneut, worauf die Broschüren in einer definierten Position gehalten werden.

The method for operating the delivery device of the device according to the invention for printed products, which consist of one or more brochures, can also be formed by such a multi-part delivery device, the functioning of this delivery device then being the following:

• During a first 90 ° turn of the feed device, a hinged rake-like guide is pivoted against the booklets, such that the booklets are then on their backs after the 90 ° turn and are thus protected against fanning out and / or falling over. The rake-like guide is coupled to a clamping unit acting within the feed device, which clamps the brochures in a position lying on their backs for a short time, that this clamping unit is kinematically designed so that the rake-like guide is transferred into a thickness-dependent position. Thereafter, the clamping unit opens a little again, so that the brochures following gravity, align their backs against a stop surface within the delivery device and / or engage during this process additional mechanical and / or vibration-triggering means which align the leaflets to formateinheitlichen block , Then the clamping unit closes again, whereupon the brochures are held in a defined position.

The delivery device rotates by two bars by 90 ° and brings the booklets in a now hanging position. During this rotational movement, the first rake-type guide and an operatively second guide are pivoted away from the booklets so that the freestanding pages or signatures of the brochures hang vertically downwards solely by gravity, while the booklets are in the region of their backs through the clamping unit being held.

On the other hand, in the region of the first cutting location, this feeding device is in operative operative connection with a movable plate equipped with clamping plates Transport clamp, which performs the function of the clamping device, and which takes over the printed product from the feed device according to the above-described kinematics, and this the first cutting operation supplies.

A flush valve is in operative connection with the delivery device, and is intended to supplement the already explained measures to achieve a secure positioning of the book block against the stop surfaces.

An abutment surface is used on the one hand both in individual books as well as in a stack of brochures for the orientation of the back side of the printed products against a fixed predetermined contact surface within the delivery device basis. On the other hand, it must be ensured that the head and / or foot of the printed products before the first cutting operation, a corresponding hanging elongated positioning of the printed products in the flow direction is ensured.

In individual books, this happens insofar as the format-moderate takeover of the individual book is guided by the delivery device by the transport clamping device of a sensor which responds to the outer edge of the overhanging envelope. of the book block in the area of the head, resp. footparty aligned. This ensures that the chip cut there in the book block has a coordinated size.

In a stacked package of individual brochures, lateral means, preferably further leveling pushers, will be provided prior to the first cutting operation to ensure uniform horizontal alignment of the cutting edge edges of this package.

In summary, the function of the delivery device is therefore to pivot a foldable, rake-like running guide against the printed product, so that this after a 90 ° rotation, lying on his back, not fanned and can not fall over. The rake-like guide is coupled to a clamping unit, which clamps the printed product in a lying on the back position short term and is kinematically designed so that this rake-like guide can be converted into a thickness-dependent position. Thereafter, the clamping unit opens a little again, so that the back of the printed product, following the gravity, gets the opportunity to align itself with the stop surface of the delivery device. Then the clamping unit closes again, whereupon the printed product is held in a defined position.

This procedure, which is optimized in itself, thus guarantees that the back sides of the printed products assume a defined position, which is decisive for the following cutting operations.

Nevertheless, it is appropriate from a qualitative point of view, if additional measures (flush valves, which act in the vertical and horizontal direction of the printed product) are provided, which should intervene in those cases, if in different embodiments of the printed product, in particular with regard to the back, the use of the Gravity alone is not enough to ensure the desired defined position of the printed product in general with respect to the associated stop surface.

In this context, it must be assumed that the printed products, in particular the book blocks, are in most cases finished with an envelope which has a relatively large overhang from the enclosed body on all sides (head, foot, front). This overhang does not imply any limitations on the cutting process, but must be detected with additional sensors for accurate trimming of the printed product within the various cutting operations. Due to logistical aspects, it is advantageous to operate with the same envelope sizes as possible, thus covering a wide range of different book block formats can. So it can be assumed that the majority operates with a relatively large overhang.

In order to achieve the secure defined position between the book block back page and the stop surface within the delivery device even with envelopes with a large overhang in the area of the head, foot and front sections, i. process-specific, is proposed for enrichment of the prior art according to the invention, during the short opening of the clamping unit to use the gravitational force on the printed product, in addition, as already mentioned, intervened with at least one adequate flush valve, which provides the necessary pressure force via the envelope overhangs can exert directly or indirectly on the enclosed printed product, so that at least the back side of the printed product rests securely on the associated stop surface.

For this purpose, the two front cover overhangs of the book block are detected by an optimally oriented in the Andruckebene system of brush combs or by other flexible mechanical or pneumatically driven means so that the resulting pressure force can be transferred via Umschlagüberhänge on the body of the printed product, such that this then rests securely on the scheduled within the delivery device stop surface.

Using the example of a brush comb whose material flexibility is selected so that the free resulting portion of the brush comb between the two Umschlagüberhängen by the vertical or quasi-vertical pressure movement can additionally penetrate to the front of the book block to unfold there an additional or primary pressure force can ,

Basically, this procedure can also be provided when it comes to an adequate lateral pressure force on the head or foot section of the printed product to form a uniform level, even if the package consists of different leaflets, so that then this uniform edge of the printed product is registered by a sensor, and the cutting operations are then controlled accordingly.

According to the invention, the clamping device at the second cutting location, as already mentioned above, is the operation with pressing strips which are arranged on both sides of the pressing surfaces of the printed product, and which pressing strips simultaneously or subsequently press the printed product from at least one side.

The number of operatively used pressure bars on both sides is determined in each case depending on the format size of the processed print product control technology, and it is also possible that the released for use pressure bars for the exercise of the pressing force on the printed product perform a counter-directed movements be it with equal force, be it through a controlled graduated development of force, with the same or different movement profiles.

With a subsequent action of the pressure bars on the printed product, the pressing action, i. the Presskraftentfaltung, with the first pressure bar in the region of the back of the printed product to then continue continuously by a subsequenten or semi-consecutive sequence to approximately in the area of the edge to be cut.

Subsequent control of the pressure bars along the format of the printed product also causes the air trapped between the sides or signatures of the printed product to be continuously squeezed out until a complete thickness consistency of the block is achieved. Only then, in particular, can the cutting operations directed at the front edge of the printed product be successfully carried out. This procedure can also be carried out in the other cutting operations with appropriate clamping devices. Regardless of which type of clamping device is used, whether by means of clamping plates or pressing bars, the printed product is additionally pressed in the immediate vicinity of the cutting operations by the use of pressing bars, thus achieving the ultimate optimum conditions for the cutting operation.

In the area of the third cutting operation at the third cutting location, another force-exerting clamping device is used, which is constructed according to a four-clamp system, wherein a different subdivision is also possible. In order not to trigger linguistic conflicts with the previously discussed clamping devices, we will speak here of a four-clamp system. This four-staple system can simultaneously, directly or indirectly, fulfill the function of a print product related requester.

• Die für die dritte Schneidoperation in das Vierklammersystem eingebrachten Buchblocks oder Broschüren werden während des Schneidvorganges am dritten Schneidort zwischen einer zum Vierklammersystem gehörenden beweglichen Klemmbacke und einer festen Klemmbacke gepresst.

This four-clamp system in the procedural operation of the three-knife trimmer, which can accommodate both book blocks and brochures and can provide further processing, is operated according to the following criteria:

• The book blocks or booklets inserted into the four-staple system for the third cutting operation are pressed during the cutting operation at the third cutting location between a movable jaw belonging to the four-staple system and a fixed jaw.

After performing a cutting operation at this third cutting location, the rotatable four-staple system moves 90 ° during each cycle, and thus also a staple with the book block or leaflets orthogonal to the knife movement at the third cutting location away from the knife. In this position, the book block or brochures are then removed from the four-staple system and transferred to a conveyor belt.

The cutting operations in the cutting locations of the three-knife trimmer are carried out with respect to the trimming of the individual open side edges of the printed product, each with an individually driven cutting device, wherein at least one cutting device is operated with a single-acting cutting blade.

This cutting device is preferably of modular design, and it consists of at least three cutting stations for the cutting of the head-front and foot edge, which cutting stations are arranged U-shaped with the open side down. The operation in the cutting operations is then in operative connection with at least one locally arranged pressing beam, wherein the pressing beam acts against the inner planes of the U-shape. Due to this U-shaped configuration, the cut sections of the book block or brochures all fall down.

• Während der einzelnen Schneidoperation wird das Druckprodukt in verschiedentlich ausgebildeten Klemmvorrichtungen (Klemmplatten oder Pressleistenbatterien), unter zusätzlicher Presseinwirkung durch die bereits erwähnten Pressbalken, so dass das Druckprodukt bei jeder Schneidoperation nahezu vollflächig erfasst wird. Einzig im Bereich des Rückens wird das Druckprodukt nicht erfasst. Dies ist unkritisch, weil die jeweils zum Einsatz gelangenden Rückenbindung (Fadenheftung, Klebebindung, Sammelheftung, etc.) das Druckprodukt in diesem Bereich genügend zusammenhält, während die zum Einsatz gelangenden Klemmplatten oder Pressleisten das Druckprodukt integral genügend stützen. Dieses vollflächige Pressen des Druckproduktes im Zusammenwirken mit den zum Einsatz gelangenden Pressbalken sind die Voraussetzungen für eine hohe Schnittqualität.

Moreover, the operation of the three-knife trimmer according to the invention has the following advantages over the known three-knife trimmers:

• During the individual cutting operation, the printed product is formed in variously formed clamping devices (clamping plates or pressure bar batteries), with additional press action by the already mentioned pressing bars, so that the printed product is almost completely recorded during each cutting operation. Only in the area of the back the printed product is not recorded. This is not critical, because the respectively used back binding (thread stitching, adhesive binding, saddle stitching, etc.) sufficiently holds together the printed product in this area, while the clamping plates or pressure strips used to support the printed product integrally sufficient. This full-surface pressing of the printed product in conjunction with the pressing beams used are the prerequisites for a high quality of cut.

Accordingly, the inventive almost full-surface pressure of the printed product is achieved in the simplest way. It is not necessary to provide format-dependent webs, support elements or support strips. As a result, a high power density can be achieved at high cycle rates during operation of the inventive three-knife trimmer.

Since the printing product is transported hanging to the individual cutting stations of the cutting device by the operation of the inventive three-cutter, no support of the sides of the printed product is necessary at the transfer points in the transport system.

So because the printed products are not transported horizontally, the book pages do not bend at not full-surface contact surfaces between the support points, and thus they can not attach to the intended transfer points.

The three cutting stations of the cutter are U-shaped with the open side of the U facing down. The cut off section length at the edges, so on the open sides of the printed product takes place in all three cutting operations (head, foot, front) against the inside of the U-shape. This can be operated with a single disposal facility, after which all accumulating sections can be "promoted" together. The sections fall down by gravity without further aids, where they can be globally collected or continuously transported away.

A good section disposal is of great importance because in the industrial production of individual printed products (book blocks) the different formats are very often produced only on the three-knife trimmer. In this case, the printed products are fed to the three-cutter in a size which is matched to the largest final format, which naturally leads to large sections to be cut off in the case of small end formats.

However, in three-knife trimmers with cutting cassettes and press dies, it is customary to align the printed product with two right-angled stops in the corners of spines to the head side and spine to the foot side, as well as a stop from the book block front side. When creating variable-size printed products (book blocks), envelopes of the same size are usually used for a particular size range.

If the thickness of the printed products now varies within a certain frame and if these are produced by a fixed edge processing, the envelope on the uppermost side of the printed product is not the same size as on the last side of the same. If the height of the printed product varies, then the envelope is more or less dependent on the printed product. Typically, the printed products are made with a solid overhang of the envelope on one side and a variable overhang on the other side. For such products, the alignment of the book block is inappropriate, as in the three-cutter with cutting cassettes and press dies.

In contrast, during operation of the inventive three-knife trimmer, the still uncut printed product is aligned at the foot or head edge and the back edge. Thus, the variable projections of the envelope in terms of width, and possibly also the height of the printed product play no role.

For each printed product to be cut, the three-cutter control product data must be known, from which the necessary movements of the transport organs can be calculated so that at the end a cut print product is produced, which has the desired format dimensions.

• Jedes Druckprodukt ist mit einem Identifikationsmerkmal ausgerüstet. Ein Merkmalleser am Eingang des Dreischneiders liest das Identifikationsmerkmal (z.B.: ein- oder zweidimensionaler Barcode, RFID Chip, Zeichen, Bild, etc.) und übermittelt die Informationen aus dem Merkmal mit der Maschinentaktzuordnung an die Steuerung. Das Merkmal kann die notwendigen Informationen, welche die geschnittenen Druckprodukt-Dimensionen abbilden, enthalten, oder die fehlenden Informationen können aus in einer Datenbank abgelegten Steuerungsprofilen ergänzt werden.

These data can be transmitted to the controller in a variety of ways. Here are some examples of options:

• Each printed product is equipped with an identification feature. A feature reader at the entrance of the three-knife trimmer reads the identification feature (eg: one or two-dimensional barcode, RFID chip, character, image, etc.) and transmits the information from the feature with the machine cycle allocation to the controller. The feature may include the necessary information that maps the cut print product dimensions, or the missing information may be supplemented from control profiles stored in a database.

In another system, the printed products are clocked fed to the three-knife trimmer. With each cycle, the three-cutter control is provided with the information necessary to cut the printed product to the correct dimension. Here, too, data supplied with the printed product can be supplemented by data from a database.

Another possibility is to make the data known to the three-knife trimmer with an order of the printed products before their feeding takes place. The three-knife trimmer processes the next data set in the given order with each printed product being fed. The feeding of the printed products must be done in the right order. For control, a feature reader can be used in addition, which controls the order.

As already mentioned above, the printed products lying, with the machined side (thread stitching, perfect binding, saddle stitching, etc.) are advanced and fed with approximately the same pitch via a conveyor belt to the three-knife trimmer. The approximately uniform pitch is either given by a clocked delivery of the printed products to the conveyor belt of the three-knife trimmer, or it is produced by prior art devices and methods in front of the conveyor belt.

In another embodiment, the printed products with an irregular pitch are fed to the conveyor belt of the three-knife trimmer. A clock device ensures that minimal divisions (distance from the spine edge to the spine edge of the next product) are not undershot. A sensor detects when a book block arrives at the conveyor belt of the three-knife trimmer. If the distance between the book blocks is greater than the minimum spacing, it can be provided as the first preferred variant that the printed products located within the three-cutter process are finished and then the infeed is resumed.

As a further option, it can be provided that the control reduces the speed of the three-knife trimmer and synchronizes the three-knife trimmer to the cycle of the printed product. If the division exceeds a maximum dimension, then it can also be optionally provided that the control generates empty cycles on the three-knife trimmer, as has already been explained above in connection with the operation of the delivery device.

Short description of the drawing

The invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawing. All elements not essential to the instant understanding of the invention have been omitted. In the following, the printed product is generally referred to as a book block, which then has room to respond to other types of printed products, such as brochures.

Figur 1

Translationsbewegungen der Supporte und Greifer innerhalb der X-und Y-Ebenen;

Figur 2

eine Gesamtansicht des Dreischneiders mit einer Momentaufnahme der Supporte;

Figur 3

eine weitere Ansicht des Dreischneiders mit einer weiteren Moment-aufnahme der Supporte;

Figur 4

Einlaufvorrichtung für die Buchblocks in den Dreischneider;

Figur 5

ein Einschubrad als Zustellvorrichtung;

Figur 6

eine Transportklammer;

Figur 7

eine modulare Schneidvorrichtung beinhaltend die drei Schneidstationen;

Figur 8

eine Momentaufnahme beim Betrieb der Pressleisten;

Figur 9

eine weitere Momentaufnahme beim Betrieb der Pressleisten;

Figur 10

eine weitere Momentaufnahme während der Schneidoperation;

Figur 11

ein drehbares Vierklammersystem als Klemmvorrichtung und Ausforderungsvorrichtung;

Figur 12

die ultimative Anpressung des Buchblocks anlässlich der Schneidoperation;

Figur 13

Verlauf der Kräfteentfaltung verschiedener Klemmelemente während einer Schneidoperation;

Figur 14

einen Bündigschieber für die vertikale Druckausübung auf das Druckprodukt;

Figur 15

einen Bündigschieber für die horizontale Druckausübung auf das Druckprodukt;

In the drawing shows:

FIG. 1

Translational movements of the supports and grippers within the X and Y planes;

FIG. 2

an overall view of the trimmer with a snapshot of the supports;

FIG. 3

another view of the Dreischneider with another snapshot of the supports;

FIG. 4

Inlet device for the book blocks in the three-knife trimmer;

FIG. 5

a Einschubrad as a delivery device;

FIG. 6

a transport bracket;

FIG. 7

a modular cutter including the three cutting stations;

FIG. 8

a snapshot of the operation of the pressure bars;

FIG. 9

another snapshot when operating the pressure bars;

FIG. 10

another snapshot during the cutting operation;

FIG. 11

a rotatable four-staple system as a clamping device and reeling device;

FIG. 12

the ultimate press of the book block during the cutting operation;

FIG. 13

Course of the development of forces of various clamping elements during a cutting operation;

FIG. 14

a flush valve for the vertical pressure application to the printed product;

FIG. 15

a flush valve for horizontal pressure on the printed product;

Embodiments of the invention

• Der erste Support 101 übernimmt aktiv das Druckprodukt A nach erfolgter erster Schneidoperation am ersten Schneidort 1. Sodann überführt der erste Support dieses Druckprodukt A zu dem zweiten Schneidort 2, und kehrt nach vollzogener Abgabe des Druckproduktes zur Ausgangsposition am ersten Schneidort 1 für die erneute Übernahme eines nachgelieferten Druckproduktes A zurück, dies nachdem die erste Schneidoperation am ersten Schneidort 1 durchgeführt worden ist. Zwischenzeitlich übernimmt der zweite Support 102 das Druckprodukt A unmittelbar nach beendeter Schneidoperation am zweiten Schneidort 2 und überführt dieses Druckprodukt zu dem dritten Schneidort 3, wo die dritte Schneidoperation stattfindet. Danach kehrt der zweite Support 102 zu dem zweiten Schneidort 2 zurück, wo bereits wieder ein von dem ersten Support beigebrachtes und bereits beschnittenes weiteres Druckprodukt A zur Abholung und Überführung zu dem dritten Schneidort 3 bereit steht.

FIG. 1 1 schematically shows the translational movements of a transport unit belonging to a three-knife trimmer 100 whose movements are carried out by two printed product-related movable supports 101, 102, these supports being in operative operative connection with one another, as will be explained in more detail later in the description of the remaining figures. The supports have at the end pressure-product-related grippers 103, 104 with clamping jaws which capture the printed product A to be trimmed on the spine side A ^{R in} succession. The supports themselves carry out the following coordinated control-supported translational movements in relation to the cutting locations 1, 2, 3, also called cutting stations:

• The first support 101 actively takes over the printed product A after the first cutting operation at the first cutting location 1. The first support then transfers this printed product A to the second cutting location 2, and returns to the starting position 1 at the first cutting location 1 for a new takeover of the printed product nachgeliefert printed product A, this after the first cutting operation has been performed at the first cutting location 1. In the meantime, the second support 102 accepts the printed product A immediately after the cutting operation at the second cutting site 2 has been completed, and transfers this printed product to the third cutting site 3 where the third cutting operation takes place. Thereafter, the second support 102 returns to the second cutting location 2, where already again provided by the first support and already trimmed further printed product A for picking up and transfer to the third cutting location 3 is ready.

The translational movements of the supports 101, 102, with the connected grippers 103, 104, detect two resp. three levels, namely, in the first level X is performed by the transfer of the printed product from one cutting location to the next; in the second plane Y, the charge and discharge of the printed product at the respective cutting location is completed. Optionally, a third plane Z (not shown in detail) is then used in which, as required, a lateral adaptation (offset movement) takes place relative to the printed product-related stationary clamping elements at the respective cutting location of the three-knife trimmer 100.

In the following, the effect of the translational movements of the supports on the grippers will be described, since they best reflect the operations of the trimmer.

FIGS. 2 and 3 show the three-knife trimmer 100 in a 3D representation. The book blocks A "are laid, with the book block back in front and with approximately equal pitch, via a conveyor belt 110 to the three-knife trimmer 100. The approximately uniform pitch is either given by a clocked feeding of the book blocks to the conveyor belt of the trimmer, or it is made by the State of the art known devices produced before the conveyor belt.

In another embodiment, not shown, the book block with an irregular division of the conveyor belt 110 of the three-cutter 100 are supplied. A clock device ensures that minimal divisions (distance from one leading book edge to the book back edge of the next book block) are not undershot.

By a sensor not shown in detail that time is detected in which a book block arrives at the conveyor belt of the three-knife trimmer. If the distance between the book blocks is greater than the minimum spacing, the controller will change the speed reduces the translation movements of the three-knife trimmer, whereupon the three-knife trimmer is synchronized to the clock of the delivered book block. If the pitch exceeds a maximum dimension, the controller is programmed so that it is capable of generating empty cycles on the three-knife trimmer.

The book blocks A ⁿ are aligned on the conveyor belt 110 by a fixed stop on the head or foot side. This can be done by a transport route with slightly skewed transport rollers, or by other methods known from the prior art methods.

The remaining modules of the trimmer according to the instructions in the FIGS. 2 and 3 are described in detail in the following figures.

A flush valve 125 (See Figures 3 and 14 ) is in operative connection with the insertion wheel 120 (delivery device), and should serve as a supplement to the measures already explained, in order to achieve a secure positioning of the book block with respect to its abutment surfaces.

An abutment surface is used on the one hand both in individual book block as well as in a stack of brochures for the alignment of the back side of the printed products against a fixed predetermined contact surface within the insertion wheel 120 basis. On the other hand, it must be ensured that the head and / or foot of the printed products before the first cutting operation have a corresponding hanging longitudinal positioning in the flow direction.

In book blocks, this happens insofar as the format-moderate adoption of the individual book is controlled by the insertion wheel 120 by the transport clamping device 130 by a sensor which responds to the outer edge of the overhanging envelope. of the book block itself in the area of the head, resp. appealing to a foot party. This ensures that the edge zone cut there has a coordinated size in the book block.

In a stacked package of individual leaflets, lateral means should then preferably be provided prior to the first cutting operation, which ensure a uniform alignment of the cutting edge edges of this package.

The function of the insertion wheel 120 is therefore to pivot a hinged, rake-like running guide against the book block, so that this after a 90 ° rotation, lying on his back, not fanned and can not fall over. The rake-like guide is coupled to the clamping unit, which clamps the book block in a lying on the back position short term and is kinematically designed so that this rake-like leadership can be converted into a buchdickenabhängige position. Thereafter, the clamping unit opens a little again, so that the book block, following gravity, gets the opportunity to align itself on its book block back side against the stop surface of the insertion wheel. Then the clamping unit closes again, whereupon the book block is held in a defined position.

This procedure, which is optimized in itself, thus guarantees that the book block back side assumes a defined position, which is decisive for the following cutting operations.

Nevertheless, it is from a qualitative point of view, if additional measures are provided, which should intervene in those cases when using different embodiments of the book block, in particular the book block back, the use of the gravity component alone is not enough to the desired defined position of the book block back page against the Ensure appropriate stop surface.

In this context, it must be assumed that the book blocks are usually made up with an envelope, which faces a relatively large overhang on all sides (head, foot, front) having the original book block body. This overhang in itself forms no restrictions on the cutting process, but offers logistical advantages because of its unification, insofar as a large range of different book block formats can be recorded with the same envelope size. So it can be assumed that the relatively large overhang will be used by a majority.

In order to accomplish the secure defined position between the book block back side and the stop surface within the insertion wheel 120, even in the case of envelopes with a large overhang in the region of the head, foot and front parts, it is proposed to enrich the state of the art during the short opening of the clamping unit, to allow gravity to act on the book block, at least one flush valve 125, 126 (See Figures 14 . 15 ) in an adequate form to use, which can exert the necessary pressure force on the cover overhangs directly or indirectly on the book block, so that the book block back side rests securely on the associated stop surface or is aligned laterally.

For this purpose, the two front cover overhangs of the book block of in the pressure plane angle optimally aligned brush combs (see Figures 14 . 15 ) or detected by other flexible mechanical or pneumatically controlled means, so that the resulting pressing force transmits via envelope overhangs on the body of the book block A, such that it then rests securely on the disposed within the insertion wheel 120 stop surface or otherwise positioned horizontally.

Using the example of a brush comb (see Figures 14 . 15 ) whose material flexibility is achieved so that the free resulting portion of the brush comb between the two Umschlagüberhängen by the vertical or quasi-vertical pressure movement additionally penetrate to the front of the book block can, in order to develop there an additional or predominant pressure force.

In principle, this pressure force can also be provided when it is a matter by a suitable means in the form of another flush valve 126 (see Figures 3 and 15) to exert a lateral pressure force on the head or foot section of the printed product in general, with the aim of the formation of a uniform level over all the printed products of the package, so that this edge can then be reliably detected by a sensor in order to create that optimal positioning within the transport clamp device 130, so that the subsequent cutting operations (head and foot) can be performed properly.

As in this regard FIG. 4 As can be seen, the book blocks are pressed by slightly skewed transport rollers 113 in the transport direction 112 against a fixed stop 111 and then transported on to the three-knife trimmer 100. The fixed stop 111 may be formed with a revolving belt not shown in detail or even as a solid plate.

The book block A ⁿ then pass into a transfer position, from which they are raised, for example, by a rotating Einschubrad 120 and brought by rotation in position.

As in this regard FIG. 5 As can be seen, during a first 90 ° rotation of the insertion wheel 120, which fulfills the function of a delivery device against a subsequent operation, a hinged, rake-like guide 121 is pivoted against the book block A, so that the book block after the 90 ° rotation, on the back lying, not fanning and can not fall over. The rake-type guide 121 is coupled to a clamping unit 122, which clamps the book block in a lying on the back position short-term, and is kinematically designed so that the rake-like guide 121 in a buchdickenabhängige Position can be transferred. Thereafter, the clamping unit 122 opens a little again, so that the book block A, following the gravity, gets the opportunity to align itself at its book block back against the stop surface 123 of the insertion wheel 120. Then the clamping unit 122 closes again, whereupon the book block is held firmly in a defined position. The four-part insertion wheel 120 now rotates for two cycles by 90 ° each and ensures the printed product generally in a now hanging position for further processing. During this rotational movement, the first rake-like guide 121 and a second rake-type guide 124 operatively associated therewith are pivoted slightly away from the book block so that the pages of the book block hang vertically downwards solely by gravity while the book block is passing through the book block back the clamping unit 122 is held.

In this position moves an open transport bracket (clearly visible in FIG. 2 , Pos.130) horizontally in the direction of the book block back over the book block and takes over this large area.

As detailed in this regard FIG. 6 As can be seen, this transport clamp 130 consists of two jaws 131, 132. Preferably, the transport clamp operates so that the one jaw 131 performs no stroke, while the other jaw 132 makes the entire stroke. Together, the two jaws 131, 132 drive two different offsets, which are related to whether the printed product is being transported in general or an empty run is being made. Optionally, with certain variable and / or inconsistent book block thicknesses, it may be provided that the stroke of the two clamping jaws 131, 132 of the transporting clip 130 is designed individually, ie that identical or different paths are taken until the final pressing position is completed.

The transport clamp 130 can be moved horizontally by a linear motion device 133. A not shown in detail controlled drive moves the transport clamp 130 positionally accurate against a book block compliant transfer position. This takeover position is always dependent on the section to be cut off, which is to be made on the top or bottom of the book block. Then, in the transfer position closes the transport bracket 130 and thereby pinches the book block between its front and back surfaces over a large area. Only the back area and the section area of the book block to be cut off remain free. For this purpose, the description of FIG. 12 directed.

The clamping unit 122 (see FIG. 5 ) opens now and releases the book block back. The transport clamp 130 then moves horizontally and transports the book block in the first cutting position (see also FIG. 1 , Pos. 1) of a modular multi-cutting device.

The two jaws 131, 132 can also be operated according to the following criteria: Each jaw is directly or indirectly in operative connection with a drive operating for the non-positive clamping action. The guided by the drives jaws have adjustable and / or predictively controlled lifting and adhesion profile on any Formatausprägung of the submitted print product, so that the force applied by the jaws force detection of the printed product with respect to the center line is designed for symmetry or quasi-symmetry. The jaws perform at least during the operative phase for exerting the clamping action on the printed product a mutually tuned uniform, non-uniform or adaptive velocity profile. This operation can be provided for all operatively connected jaws, which are part of this application.

As in this regard FIG. 7 As can be seen, the modular cutter 140 includes three cutting stations extending from a first station 141 at the cutting site 1 (see FIG FIG. 1 ), a second station 142 at the cutting location 2 (see FIG. 1 ) and a third station 143 at the cutting location 3 (see FIG. 1 ) consist. For the respective cutting operation of the book block by a pressing plate 145 and in addition with pressed a pressing bar 144, such that the book block by clamping bars 144 and the already mentioned press plates in the area between the transport clamp and the cutting edge during the cutting operation maximally clamped resp. is pressed. A knife 150b preferably moves in an oblique section against a per se fixed cutting bar.

The remaining two cutting locations are operated by the knives 150a and 150c, which follow substantially the same pressing and cutting philosophy. In the first cutting station 141, the head portion of the book block is cut (see also FIG FIG. 1 ). However, it is not excluded to start the first cutting operation with the foot portion of the book block, but in some configurations this would necessitate an adjustment of the operating location of the staple and possibly the cutter 140 as well as the width of the portions, on the basis of maintaining the spine side clamp A ^R (see FIG. 1 ).

Returning to FIGS. 1 . 2, 3 engages during the cutting operation in vertical (Y-plane, see FIG. 1 ) as well as in the horizontal direction (X-plane, see FIG. 1 ) a movable, open first gripper 103, wherein in the vertical direction, the gripper is directed against the book block back. After the first cut, the first gripper 103 takes over the book block on the back and the transport clamp 130 opens. This transport clamp then moves to the takeover position for the next book block. The first gripper 103 transports the book block from this first cutting operation ( FIG. 1 , Pos. 1) vertically upwards (Y-plane) and moves by a superimposed, horizontal movement in the second cutting position ( FIG. 1 , Pos. 2).

The moving distance of the first gripper 103 in the vertical direction is controlled by the machine control depending on the width of the cut book block, and also the moving distance of the gripper can be controlled individually in the horizontal direction with respect to the book block, as if a special gripping position is sought. For example, if the format and the sections to be cut in the respective book block an asymmetric or quasi-asymmetric or a one-sided focus-related clamping effect necessary.

In the second cutting position ( FIG. 1 , Pos. 2), the book block is formed by a plurality of pressure strips, the pressure bar to a battery ( Fig. 2, 3rd , Pos. 200), with which the book blocks are clamped between the front and the back. In FIG. 2 the pressure bar battery appears in the closed state while in FIG. 3 the pressure bar battery are shown in the open state.

As in the FIGS. 8 and 9 it can be seen, close the individual pressure bars 200 ^1-n , starting at the book bridges, one after another, so that the air between the individual sheets can be selectively pressed against the direction of the cutting edge, at the same time there is a smoothing of the printed product as a body. How out FIG. 9 then well, close only as many pressure bars, as between the position of the gripper 103 with the respective jaws 103a, 103b and the second cutting station 142 at the second cutting location 2 (see FIG. 1 ) Can find space. The same jaws 104a and 104b (not shown in detail) are the other gripper 104 (see FIG. 1 ). This in turn achieves a large-area pressing of the book block. In the second cutting station 142, the front side of the book block is now cut, this is done in an analogous manner as in the first and the third cutting stations 141, 143 for head resp. Foot side.

After the used pressure bars 200 ^{1-n of} the pressure bar battery 200 the relevant book block at the second cutting location 2 (see FIG. 1 , Pos. 2) has clamped, like this FIG. 10 shows, the first gripper 103 can let go of the book block and in its takeover position (cutting location 1, FIG. 1 ) for the next book block.

Furthermore goes out FIG. 10 the ultimate force-related support of the book block A on the occasion of the cutting operation to ensure that the cut can be carried out with high quality by means of the knife 150b shown. So if the used pressure bars 200 ^1-n (see the FIGS. 8, 9 ) have taken over the book block A from the gripper 103, so grip pressing bar (Pos. 144), which exercise the immediate contact force on the book block in the immediate cutting area. In this case, this force must be designed predominantly with respect to the pressing force exerted by the pressure bars, so that the cut carried out by knife 150b enables a cutting edge which is sharpened at right angles. The pressing device consists of a fixed stop 152 as part of a press plate 145 (see also FIG. 7 ) on one side of the book block and from an opposite movable press beam 144 on the other side, which is pressed against the book block by a press stud 151.

The stopper 152 may also be made movable in a further embodiment to take into account the thickness and / or thickness consistency of the book block recessed from above, in other words, for the purpose that the leading edges of the inserted book block can not be pushed open. This dynamic adaptation of the stop 152 can be done by the already mentioned machine control.

For example, the press stud 151 for the press beam 144 may be driven by a motor, hydraulic, or pneumatic, thus exerting the predetermined pressing force on the book block.

By the same principle also the other press beams work (see FIG. 7 , Pos. 144) at the other cutting locations 1, 3, which now provide the exercise of the pressing force in the vertical plane. Again, it is about ensuring a right-angled sharply cut cutting edge.

Once the book block is kept clean by the pressure bars 200 ^1-n , then the second cutting operation (front cut) can be performed. After completion of the cutting operation, a second gripper 104 moves (see FIG. 1 ) in the position above the pressure bar battery and engages the book block in an analogous manner as was the case with the first gripper 103. The position of the second gripper 104, in which he clamps the book block is dependent on the cut book block height. The controller brings the second gripper 104 into the previously calculated gripping position, so that by the third cutting operation (see FIG. 1 , Pos. 3) on the book block, the correct book block height arises.

After the second cutting operation (front cut) is carried out, the pressure bar battery 200 opens and the second gripper 104 moves the printed product through a vertical (out of the cutting position), then horizontal (feed to the next cutting position) and finally back to the cutting position for the vertical movement third circumcision (foot part) continues (see FIGS. 1 . 2 ).

In the case of vertical movements in the region of at least one cutting position, the loaded gripper in question still performs, as required, a lateral offset movement with respect to a clamping surface of the clamping device.

If the cutting operation is at the third cutting location 3 (see FIG. 1 ) carried out, the rotatable Entforderungsvorrichtung (four-clamp system) 160 moves according to FIG. 11 and thus also the clip 161 with the book block orthogonal to the knife movement away from the knife. The rotatable four-clamp system 160 rotates 90 degrees during each stroke.

The end FIG. 11 in this regard, the position of the clip 161 in the cutting position 162 at which a movable jaw 163 is still open. Another bracket acts within the demand position 164. In this position, the book block A can be removed. The operation of the four-clamp system 160 ensures that the Book block A during the cutting process at the third cutting location 3 (see FIGS. 1 . 7 ) and the rotational movement of the four-clamp system is sustainably pressed between the movable jaw 163 and the fixed jaw 165. Furthermore, within one quadrant, two states of the bracket 161 can be seen, namely a completely closed 166 and completely open 167 intermediate position. Specifically, one or the other variant can be considered within this quadrant, according to the prevailing space available during the rotation.

As a sampling device may for example be a conveyor belt, which is equipped for the promotion of the book block with movable rollers. Other devices known in the art may also be provided.

Out FIG. 12 shows the ultimate pressure of the book block by pressing bars 144 during the cutting operation. Such contact pressure corresponds to the effect of those under FIG. 10 has been described. The infeed direction is marked Pos. 170.

FIG. 13 shows the interdependence of the various pressing elements (clamping devices) on the printed product, which, based on the cutting location 2, is exerted by the various clamping devices 103, 200, 144, wherein at this cutting location the one clamping device 200 consists of a pressure bar battery 200. The clamping forces of the various clamping devices in the diagram must also be understood only qualitatively. The clamping force of the gripper 103, which is provided for the transport 210 of the printed product from one cutting location to the next, is smaller in comparison with the cutting location-related clamping forces 200 and 144 per se, since this is only a force which is only for the secure clamping action of the printed product during transport must be sufficient. At the cutting location 2, the clamping force of the pressure bars 200 ^1-n belonging to the pressure strip battery is then built up simultaneously or subsequently, so that the contact force of the gripper 103 immediately decreases 211 (acceptance point), as soon as the final clamping force of the Anpressleisten is reached on the printed product. The extent to which the contact force of the gripper decreases to the printed product is set individually and also depends on the weight of the respective printed product. The final clamping force on the printed product, which is important for the qualitative cutting quality, is then exerted by the already mentioned pressing bar 144, which assumes its position fully parallel to the plane of the cutting blade. As from the force diagram according to FIG. 13 As can be seen, the pressing bar 144 preferably deploys the greatest clamping force, which is variably and phase-shifted 212 (engaging plane) with respect to the other clamping devices, as shown by the parallel lines of interruption 212a, 212b (phase shift interval). Once the pressing force from the pressing bar 144 is reached, the knife performs the cutting operation 213. Thereafter, the pressing bar 144 remains briefly in the cutting plane 215 until the contact force of the gripper has built up so far that a secure onward transport 214 of the printed product is ensured. Thereafter, the clamping forces of the remaining elements 144, 200 after a certain decrease curve 217 subsequent from, so that the further transport plane 216 is open again with the fully grasped by the gripper 103 printed product. In principle, this dynamic also applies to the second support 102 (see FIG. 1 ) belonging gripper 104 in operative connection with the respective clamping devices.

FIG. 14 shows the configuration of a flush valve 125 (see also FIG. 3 ). This consists of a receiving plate acting from above 180, which carries printed product side brush body 181, 182, which exert pressure on the front over the printed product A protruding end turns 183, so that the back of the printed product coincides with the support surface within the insertion wheel 120. Since the turnup ends 184 lie in front of the same alignment plane, they can be seen better under the positions 185 and 186 (on the head or foot of the printed product A). Both brush bodies 181 and 182 each consist of two partial brush bodies 181a, 181b; 182a, 182b, which is angular stand each other, such that the respective turnup end is detected in a wedge shape and can be pressed parallel down accordingly, so that the turn-ends experienced no harmful bulge.

FIG. 15 shows the configuration of another flush valve 126 (See also FIG. 3 ). This consists of one of the side (head or foot side) acting receiving plate 190 which carries printed product side brush body 191, 192, which exert pressure on the head or foot side over the printed product A projecting turnup ends 184, 185, so that the printed product A for the cutting operations are positioned accordingly. The overhanging ends are shown here in relation to the back part 193 of the printed product A. Both brush body 191 and 192 each consist of two part brush bodies 191 a, 191b; 192a, 192b, which are at an angle to each other, in such a way that the respective end of the envelope of the brush bodies detected in a wedge shape and the entire printed product body can be positioned laterally according to specification, so that the turn ends do not experience any harmful bulge.

• Während dem Schneiden ist der Buchblock in Klammern oder der Pressleistenbatterie nahezu vollflächig gepresst. Einzig in einem Bereich des Buchrückens weist der Buchblock eine Freifläche M₁ auf. Dies ist unkritisch, weil die Bindung den Buchblock in diesem Bereich genügend zusammenhält und im Schnittbereich die Pressleisten innerhalb der jeweiligen Schneidstation der Schneidvorrichtungen den Buchblock stützen. Das vollflächige Pressen des Buchblocks führt zu einer hohen Schnittqualität.

The described three-knife trimmer 100 according to the invention and its operation have the following advantages over the known three-knife trimmers:

• During cutting, the book block in staples or the pressure bar battery is almost completely pressed. Only in one area of the spine does the book block have an open space M ₁ . This is not critical because the binding holds the book block together in this area sufficiently and support the book block in the cutting area, the pressure bars within the respective cutting station of the cutting devices. The full-surface pressing of the book block leads to a high quality of cut.

The full-surface pressing is achieved in a simple manner. No webs, support elements or support strips need to be adjusted depending on the format. As a result, a high number of cycles and thus a high performance of the three-knife trimmer can be achieved.

As with the inventive three-cutter and its operation of the book block hanging to the individual cutting stations 141, 142, 143 (see FIG. 7 ) is transported, at the transfer points in the transport system no support of the pages of the book block is necessary. Since the book blocks are not transported horizontally, the book pages do not bend at not complete contact surfaces between the support points, which they can not attach to the transfer points.

The three cutting stations 141, 142, 143 of the cutting device are arranged U-shaped with the open side of the U down against each other. The section of book block to be cut is operative in all three cutting operations in association with the pressing bars 144 (see FIG FIG. 7 , and particularly FIG. 10 ) against the inside of the U-shape. Thereby, it is possible with a single lower side arranged section disposal means, all three cut sections successfully "auszufördern". Namely, these sections fall down by gravity without further aids.

A good section disposal, regardless of whether it is book blocks or brochures, is therefore of great importance, because in the industrial production of individual books, the different formats are very often produced only on the three-knife trimmer. The book blocks are fed to the three-knife trimmer in a size adapted to the largest final format, which leads to large cutting sections in the case of small end formats.

For three-knife trimmers with cutting cassettes and press dies, it is customary to align the book block with two right-angled stops in the corners of spines to the top and spine to the bottom, as well as from the front of the book block. In the production of format variable books, brochures, etc. envelopes of the same format are usually used for a certain format area. If the thickness of the book block now varies and the books are bound with binders having fixed edge processing, the envelope on the top of the book is not the same size as on the last page of the book.

If the book block height varies, depending on the envelope, the book is more or less in front of the book. Typically, the book blocks are made with a solid overhang of the envelope on one side and a variable overhang on the other side.

For such products, the alignment of the book block is inappropriate, as in the three-cutter with cutting cassettes and press dies.

In the trimmer and its operation according to the invention, the uncut book block or the uncut booklets are aligned at the foot or head edge and the processed back edge. Thus, the variable projections of the envelope in the book block height and the book width play no role.

For each book block to be cut or for each booklet to be cut, the three-cutter control product data must be known, from which the necessary movements of the transport organs can be expected, so that at the end a cut book is produced, which has the desired format dimensions.

These data can be transmitted to the controller in a variety of ways. Here are some examples of options. Each book block or booklet is equipped with an identification feature. A feature reader at the entrance of the three-knife trimmer reads the identification feature (eg: one- or two-dimensional barcode, RFID chip, character, image, etc.) and transmits the information from the feature with the machine cycle map to the controller. The feature may include the necessary information mapping the cut print product dimensions, or the missing information may be supplemented from a database.

In another system, the book blocks are clocked fed to the three-knife trimmer. With each cycle, the three-cutter control is supplied with the information necessary to cut the book block to the correct dimension. Again, data supplied with the book block can be supplemented with data from a database.

Another possibility is to make the data known to the three-knife trimmer with an order of the book blocks before the book blocks are fed. The three-knife trimmer processes the next record in the given order with each book block being fed. The feeding of the book blocks must be done in the right order. For control, a feature reader can be used in addition, which controls the order.

Claims (25)

A method of operating means for performing cutting operations on at least one open form edge of at least one printed product, said means being operatively associated with a print product related delivery device for the first cutting operation and a print product related request device operating after the last cutting operation, each edge related cutting operation comprising at least a cutting device, characterized in that the printed product (A) is transferred from a first cutting location (1) in which the cutting operation is carried out for a first form edge of the printed product to a second cutting location (2) in which the cutting operation for a second format edge takes place, that after the cutting operation has been carried out at the second cutting location, the printed product is transferred to a third cutting location (3), in which the cutting operation for a third format k Ante takes place, and that the transfer of the printed product from one cutting location to the next by at least one transport unit (101, 102, ....) is accomplished, and that the transport unit has at least one means which detects the printed product on the back side to it from a Cutting location to the next hanging to carry. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the printed product to be trimmed consists of at least one contiguous book block, individual leaflets or a number of stacked leaflets. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the printed products before and / or after the cutting operations equal or variable format dimensions have the same or different thickness dimensions. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the first edge to be trimmed at the first cutting location (1) the head part, that the second edge to be trimmed at the second cutting location (2) the front end, and that the third edge to be trimmed at the third cutting location (3 ), that the first edge to be trimmed at the first cutting location (1) is the foot part, that the second edge to be trimmed at the second cutting location (2) is the front part, and that the third edge to be trimmed at the third cutting location ( 3) concerns the head of the printed product. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the delivery device for the positional alignment of a book block (A) formed as a printed product in the form of a multipart Einschubrades (120), which is operated according to the following criteria: a) During a first 90 ° rotation of the push-in wheel (120), a folding rake-like guide (121) against the book block (A) performs a pivotal movement, such that the book block (A) after the 90 ° rotation on the back (A ^R ), whereby it is secured against fanning out and / or falling over; b) The rake-like guide (121) is coupled to a clamping unit (122), by which the book block (A) is clamped in a lying position on the back short term, said clamping unit is kinematically operated so that the rake-like guide (121) is transferred to a book block thickness-dependent position; c) Thereafter, the clamping unit (122) opens a little again, so that the book block back (A ^R ), following the gravity, according to a stop surface (123) within the insertion wheel (120) aligns; d) Thereafter, the clamping unit (122) closes again, whereupon the book block (A) has a defined position; e) The Einschubrad (120) then rotates by two cycles by 90 ° on and transferred the book block (A) opposite the cutting locations (1, 2, 3) in a now hanging position; f) During this latter rotational movement, the first rake-like guide (121) and an operatively connected second guide (124) are pivoted away from the book block, wherein the book block (A) in the region of at least a portion of its back (A ^R ) by the clamping unit (122 ), while the part of the book block (A) released by the guides (121, 124) is suspended vertically downwards solely by gravity. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the delivery device for printed products, which consists of at least one booklet, has the form of a multipart Einschubrades (120), which is operated according to the following criteria: a) During a first 90 ° turn of the push-in wheel (120), a foldable rake-like guide (121) makes a pivotal movement against the booklet, such that the booklet lies on the back (A ^R ) after the 90 ° turn, bringing it is secured against fanning out and / or falling over; b) The rake-like guide (121) is coupled to a clamping unit (122) by which the booklet is clamped in a lying on the back position short term, this clamping unit is kinematically operated so that the rake-like guide (121) in a buchblockdickenabhängige Position is transferred; c) Thereafter, the clamping unit (122) opens a little again, so that the booklet back, following gravity, after a stop surface (123) within the insertion wheel (120) is aligned; d) Thereafter, the clamping unit (122) closes again, whereupon the booklet has a defined position; e) The insertion wheel (120) continues to rotate on it by two clocks by 90 ° and transfers the booklet opposite the cutting locations (1, 2, 3) in a now hanging position; f) During this rotational movement, the first rake-like guide (121) and an operatively second guide (124) are pivoted away from the booklet, the booklet being held in the region of at least a portion of its spine (A ^R ) by the clamping assembly (122) while the portion of the booklet released by the guides (121, 124) depends vertically downwards solely by gravity. Method according to one of claims 5, 6, characterized in that, when the clamping unit (122) is open, additional means act from above (125) and / or from the side (126), which directly or indirectly press book blocks or brochures for short-term printing Ensure their end position relative to the stop surface (123) or a predetermined position in the horizontal direction exercise. Method according to one or more of Claims 1, 5, 6, characterized in that the feed device (120) is in operative operative connection with a movable clamping device (130) equipped with clamping plates (131, 132) in the region of the first cutting location (1), which takes over the printed product from the feeding device (120), whereupon the printed product is fed to the first cutting operation. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the transport unit consists essentially of two print product related supports (101, 102) each with a gripper (103, 104), that the grippers capture the printed product to be trimmed on the backside (A ^R ), that the two Supports / grippers are in operative operative connection with each other, and that the supports / grippers are based on the following control-supported translational movements in relation to the cutting locations (1, 2, 3): a) The first gripper (103) of the first support (101) takes over the printed product after the first cutting operation at the first cutting location (1); b) The first support then moves with this printed product to the second cutting location (2), positioned there the printed product for performing the second cutting operation and then goes back empty to the first cutting site (1), where the re-take a brought and already on this cutting location (1) processed printed product takes place; c) Meanwhile, the second support (102) / gripper (104) picks up the printed product at the second cutting location (2) immediately after the cutting operation is completed there and transfers it to the third cutting location (3) where the third cutting operation is performed; d) Thereafter, the second support (102) / gripper (104) returns empty to the second cut location (2) where a replenished print product is again trimmed, whereupon the second support (102) / gripper (104) re-closes with this print product the third cutting location (3) drives, in which the third cutting operation is performed. Method according to one of claims 1, 9, characterized in that the grippers (103, 104) are equipped at the end with clamping jaws (103a, 103b; 104a, 104b) acting on the printed product such that at least one gripper loaded with a printed product is in the range at least a cutting location (1, 2, 3) before and / or after the cutting operation at least one targeted lateral offset movement relative to a pressing surface of at least one local clamping device (103, 104, 130, 160/161, 200, 144) performs. Method according to one or more of claims 1, 9, 10, characterized in that by the jaws of the respective gripper (103, 104) the respective printed product symmetrical, quasi-symmetric, asymmetric or maximized at the center of gravity and / or in dependence of the cut off Section lengths of the edges is detected. Method according to one or more of claims 1 9-11, characterized in that at least one gripper (103, 104) at at least one cutting location (1, 2, 3) before and / or after the respective cutting operation, a positioning further movement in at least a plane opposite to a stationary pressing surface of a clamping device performs. Method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the requester (160) acts on the third cutting location (3) and is operated according to the following criteria: a) The request device is operated by a multi-part operating wheel; b) The request device comprises a clamping device (161), which consists of at least a first jaw (163) and a second jaw (165), with which jaws on the printed product (A) on the occasion of the cutting operation, a clamping action is exerted; c) After the cutting operation, the multi-piece wheel performs a partial rotation, by which the printed product is brought into the discharge position. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the one cutting device (150 ac) at each cutting location (1, 2, 3) in operative connection with a respective stationary or quasi-stationary clamping device (130, 161, 200, 144) that the Clamping device exerts at least one pressing force on the printed product to be cut, that the clamping device has single or multiple acting controllable to at least one clamping jaw belonging pressing surfaces, that the clamping device is adapted to the format size of the printed product, or in the course of operation by simultaneous adjustments to the respective format sizes of the printed product is adjusted. Method according to one or more of Claims 1-14, characterized in that force-applying clamping devices (103, 104, 130, 160/161, 200, 144) which are in operative connection with each other at each cutting location (1, 2, 3) are used in that the clamping force of the gripper (103, 104) intended for transporting the printed product from one cutting location (1, 2, 3) to the next one is smaller than that of the first force-applying clamping devices (130, 160/161, 200) Clamping devices (130, 160/161, 200) on the printed product a Apply clamping force, which is smaller than a second cutting site-related clamping device (144) fails. A method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that move the jaws of at least one clamping device to each other according to the following criteria: a) Each jaw is directly or indirectly in operative connection with an operating for the non-positive clamping effect drive, wherein the guided by the drives jaws run adjustable and / or predictively controlled lifting and traction profile on any Formatausprägung the present printed product; b) that the non-positive motion profile executed by the jaws the print product is detected symmetrically or quasi-symmetrically with respect to the center line; c) that at least during the operative phase for exerting the clamping force on the printed product by the jaws, a mutually tuned uniform, non-uniform or adaptive speed and / or motion profile is performed. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that at each cutting site before, during and after the cutting operation, the following pressing forces act on the printed product: a) A pressing force on the printed product is exerted by the gripper jaws (103a, 103b, 104a, 104b) belonging to the gripper (103, 104), which pressing force is designed for transporting the printed product from one cutting location to the next; b) A further pressing force on the printed product is exerted by a first clamping device (130, 160/161, 200) acting at each cutting location, which pressing force acts stationary on the printed product in the region of the respective cutting location; c) A further pressing force on the printed product is formed by a second clamping device (144) acting at each cutting location, which pressing force acts directly in the area of the respective cutting location. A method according to claim 17, characterized in that a first clamping device (130) acts on the first cutting location (1), that a further first clamping device (200) acts on the second cutting location (2) that a further first clamping device (160/161) on third cutting location (3) acts, and that at each cutting location (1, 2, 3) additionally acts in each case the second clamping device (144). A method according to claim 17, characterized in that a first clamping device (200) which is operated at least at the second cutting location (2) consists of individual vertically or quasi-vertically downstream pressure bars (200 ^1-n ) that the pressure bars on the one Side of the printed product are firmly positioned, while the pressure bars run on the other side of the printed product, the non-positive pressing movement, A method according to claim 17, characterized in that a first clamping device (200), which is operated at least at the second cutting location (2) consists of individual vertically or quasi-vertically downstream pressure bars (200 ^1-n ) that the pressure bars on both sides of the printed product to perform a uniform force on the printed product or quasi-uniform directional non-positive pressing movement. A method according to claim 17, characterized in that a first clamping device (200), which is operated at least at the second cutting location (2) consists of individual vertically or quasi-vertically downstream pressure strips (200 ^1-n ) that arranged on both sides of the printed product Pressure bars exercise non-positive pressing movements whose movements are designed for symmetry or quasi-symmetry with respect to the center line of the printed product. Method according to one or more of claims 17-21, characterized in that in a Subsequent pressing movement of the pressure bars (200 ^1-n ) on the printed product whose pressing action begins with the first pressure bar in the region of the back of the printed product to then continuously through the Use of the remaining pressure bars to continue approximately in the plane of the edge to be cut. A method according to claim 22, characterized in that by the subsequent control of the pressure bars from the back of the printed product starting up to the edge to be cut, the trapped between the signatures of the printed product air is pressed continuously. Method according to one of claims 1-23, characterized in that the cutting operation is carried out with respect to the individual format edges of the printed product by an individually operating cutting operation at the respective cutting location (1, 2, 3). A method according to claim 24, characterized in that at least one cutting operation is operated with a single-acting cutting blade.

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