DE102009020753A1 - Print finishing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

A printing finishing machine (100) with a sheet conveying system for conveying sheets of flat material along a sheet conveying path between a sheet feeder and a sheet delivery, as well as with at least one arranged along the sheet conveying path workstation for performing a processing step of a print finishing process is characterized in that the sheet conveying system in a base machine ( 150) that the base machine in the region of at least one interface (155) along the sheet conveying path first coupling structures (158) for releasably coupling a replaceable finishing module (160, 160 ') to the base machine and that the base machine at least one replaceable on the base machine attachable finishing module (160, 160 ') is associated, which has to the first coupling structures corresponding second coupling structures (168).

Description

BACKGROUND AND STATE OF THE TECHNOLOGY

Field of the invention

The The invention relates to a printing finishing machine with a Sheet conveying system for conveying sheets Flat material along a curved conveyor section between a sheet feeder and a sheet delivery, as well as with at least a work station arranged along the sheet conveying path for performing a processing step of a printing finishing process.

Description of the related State of the art

printed matter are often processed today with the help of print finishing processes, special optical and / or haptic properties around the printed products to rent. To the z. B. in the advertising industry and in the field from product packaging heavily used post-press process to Print finishing includes, among other things, embossed foil printing using hot stamping, the cold foil transfer, too Called cold stamping, the relief embossing, the foil lamination and the coating of print products. Also by punching or steel engraving Print products can be finished. Special effects can often by combining several print finishing processes be achieved, for example, by a hot stamping partially metallized printed product subsequently by Relief embossing is still structured in three dimensions.

The Selection of the appropriate printing finishing process or a suitable Combination of several print finishing processes depends on the desired properties of the final product. Often It's about paying attention to the refined products to arouse or brand messages such as luxury, elegance and value to transport. Security applications may also be appropriate be, for. Holograms or other copy protection elements on securities, Banknotes or other printed matter. Furthermore can the print finishing z. B. also to improve the wear resistance used by printed matter.

So as diverse as the different print finishing processes are also the requirements regarding in a process too processing quantities. While, for example in the cigarette industry millions of cardboard sheets for Cigarette packs produced with the same print finishing process companies in the print finishing industry are frequent before the task, the print finishing in high quality for both large and medium and smaller To be able to offer series at competitive prices. One of the entrepreneurial tasks is to the equipment of the machine park to current and future expected order volumes and different print finishing processes adapt so that on the one hand all the requested print finishing technologies On the other hand, a sufficient capacity own machines is ensured.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Of the Invention is based on the object, a printing finishing machine to provide that in both small and medium or large companies of the print finishing industry one economical production of finished printed products high quality.

to To solve this problem, the invention provides a printing finishing machine with the features of claim 1 ready. Advantageous developments The invention are defined in the dependent claims specified. The wording of all claims becomes by reference to the content of the description.

The Print finishing machine has a sheet feeding system for Promotion of sheet-shaped substrate made of paper, Cardboard, plastic or other flat material along a curved conveyor line between a sheet feeder and a sheet delivery. The print finishing machine still has at least one at the bow conveyor line arranged workstation for performing a processing step a print finishing process. The print finishing machine stands out characterized in that the sheet conveying system in a base machine is arranged that the base machine in the range of at least one Interface along the sheet conveying path first coupling structures for detachable coupling of a replaceable finishing module to the base machine and that the base machine has at least one replaceable attachable to the base machine finishing module is assigned, which corresponds to the first coupling structures has second coupling structures.

An interchangeable finishing module is a factory assembled assembly with a plurality of cooperating components, which are combined in the finishing module into a functional unit and can be coupled in package to the base machine to form a workstation or detached from this without major disassembly effort. The finished with the help of the corresponding coupling structures on the base machine finishing module forms together a workstation with the associated elements of the basic machine. The basic machine provides a standardized interface for different print finishing technologies, while most or all specific for the respective print finishing process components are housed in the finishing module.

The Coupling structures to the base machine and the finishing module are preferred designed so that the cultivation of a finishing module to the Base machine not from the manufacturer of the print finishing machine must be made locally but at the end user by the operator of the Printing finishing machine or locally provided personnel can be made. This makes it possible for the End users of the print finishing machine even on-site that print finishing technology that can be determined with the help of the print finishing machine for a short or long period of time shall be. Once an order has been completed, the print finishing machine can without intervention of the manufacturer on site by substitution of a for a specific finishing technique designed finishing module against a designed for a different finishing technology Refinished conversion module for the new technology become. For companies that print finishing in contract manufacturing offer, this results in a maximum Flexibility, allowing a wide variety of jobs with the help of one and the same basic machine, each in combination with a finishing module or with several suitably selected ones Finishing modules, can be edited.

A easily detachable or producible connection between the Basic machine and a finishing module will in preferred embodiments achieved in that the first coupling structures and the second Coupling structures corresponding form-fitting elements for the production a correct position positive connection between a support structure the base machine and a support structure of a finishing module have. For example, on the support frame of a finishing module Pins o. The like. Be provided, in corresponding holes or recesses on the machine frame of the basic machine form-fitting engage to a correct position arrangement of the finishing module to ensure the basic machine.

The corresponding interlocking elements, the type of male and template can be designed to complement each other, preferably have mutually corresponding inclined surfaces, which allow the finishing module to be joined together with the basic machine using the inclined surfaces slips or slides in the correct position, even if the to be connected Parts in the final phase of the assembly not completely should be positioned correctly to each other. The corresponding ones Positive locking elements may, for example, conical, frustoconical or have pyramidal shaped projections, in the complementary recesses on the other component (machine frame the basic machine or finishing module).

at In some embodiments, the first coupling structures and the second coupling structures corresponding elements of a locking device, which allows the correctly aligned elements (Finishing module and basic machine) in the right-most position with each other to lock. Manually operated locking devices are possible. They are also automated locking devices possible to fast locking or unlocking to enable. Locking devices with pneumatic actuable locking elements can often particularly easy to the other control of the print finishing machine adapted and controlled by these. Alternatively they are also hydraulic locking devices or electromechanical actuatable locking devices possible.

If the first coupling structures and the second coupling structures comprise corresponding elements of a tensioning device, which makes it possible to brace the more or less correctly aligned modules (finishing module and base machine) against each other under the effect of a tension force, then it can be ensured that the forces used to form the Workstation leading compound does not loosen even in prolonged operation with possibly changing load. Although the tensioning device can be configured such that the finishing module is braced with the aid of the tensioning device with a clamping force acting in the direction of the base machine, in preferred embodiments it is provided that the tensioning device is configured such that it is stretched in the direction of an increase in distance between Basic machine and finishing module acts. In such embodiments, first the finishing module can be placed on the base machine in the correct position. Then suitable locking elements can be attached, the z. B. on the one hand on the machine frame of the base machine and on the other hand engage the finishing module form-fitting to lock the elements together. Then, if the clamping devices are actuated, which acts in the direction of an increase in distance between the elements to be joined together, then the coupling elements get under tension and there is a biased Verbin tion between basic machine and finishing module, which can not loosen automatically during operation of the device even with changing pressure stress.

Of the Print finishing machine may be associated with a crane assembly, to remove a finishing module from the base machine or to facilitate the placement of finishing modules on the base machine. A base element of the crane device can be fixedly mounted on the base machine be. Alternatively, building-proof or mobile crane devices or lifting devices are used, if they are available.

A Basic machine can be a single interface for coupling different Have finishing modules. This is compared to conventional Machines already a higher degree of flexibility created since the same basic machine by substitution of Finishing modules for different print finishing processes can be used.

A Single-stage printing finishing machine, for example, as a stamping foil machine be configured by the finishing module as embossing foil module is designed. It may alternatively also be a pure varnishing machine act when the finishing module designed as a Lackiermodul is. Is the finishing module designed as a relief embossing module, so can the printed product without further order of materials be structured in relief by relief embossing. This are just a few of many other single-head variants.

A further considerable increase in flexibility results in those embodiments in which the base machine has at least two interfaces along the sheet conveying path first coupling structures for releasably coupling each of a replaceable finishing module. If, for example, two interfaces arranged one behind the other in the material flow direction are provided, then a two-stage print finishing process can be run with it. Two-stage print finishing processes are known per se. For example, cold embossing is a two-stage print finishing process in which, in a first stage, an adhesive layer is applied to the surface of the printed matter at the locations provided for the film support for the transfer layer of an embossing film to be applied in the second stage, and in the second stage Film is taken at the locations where the adhesive was transferred in the first stage (see, for example, DE 692 07 751 T2 corr. EP 0 569 520 B1 or EP 0 578 706 B1 ).

One big advantage of using interchangeable finishing modules is that with several successively arranged interfaces the order of successively in one pass at the printing material sheet freely selected processing steps can be. For example, a basic machine with two Interfaces configured for a cold stamping process be by an upstream first finishing module for the targeted application of the adhesive is configured while a downstream second finishing module for the foil application is configured. However, it is also possible that to rebuild the same basic machine for other processes, for example, by adding a finishing module in the first workstation which is used for the stamping foil print is configured by hot stamping and that afterwards in a second finishing module a relief embossing or a painting or punching or perforating the by hot stamping already finished product takes place. It is understood that Here are just a few of many possible combinations two processing methods can be called.

A further increase the variety of possible uses results in embodiments in which the basic machine at three or more interfaces along the Bogenförderstrecke first coupling structures for coupling a replaceable finishing module has, for. For example, three, four, five, six, seven or eight or more interfaces. Such embodiments may both for one-step processes and for two-step, used three-stage or higher-level print finishing processes be by matching the appropriate interfaces with matching finishing modules be equipped or remain empty.

at In a three-stage process, this can be done in the sheet conveying direction first finishing module, for example, for applying a color coat or be designed for painting the substrate, the following second finishing module configured as a foil embossing module and a subsequent third refining module to carry out a stamping process or for embossing or painting or for drying the generated in previous process steps Be configured products. One in Materialdurchiaufsrichtung last Workstation can also be designed as a control station to For example, optically with the help of a camera or another optical sensor and / or with other sensors a quality control perform.

The provision of a basic machine with one or more standardized interfaces along a sheet conveying path also allows, if necessary, to couple at one of the interfaces a printing unit, which for example for a Dry offset process can be equipped with an anilox roller, an applicator roll, a plate roller and an interface-side blanket cylinder. The printing unit can, for. B. may be attached to the sheet feeder directly following first interface, so that the print finishing machine can also be used as a combined printing and finishing machine. In this case, unprinted output sheets from Bogenanle can be fed ger, which then both printed by a single machine, as well as subsequently can be finished. A printing unit can, for. B. also be followed by a Folienprägestation to overprint embossed motifs.

The Distribution of interacting elements between base machine and finishing module is in preferred embodiments so made that the base machine in an interface area has a transfer element of the sheet conveying system and that a finishing module in the area of the interface-side second coupling structures has an application-specific working element, wherein the coupling structures to the basic machine and the finishing module are designed in such a way that by the coupling of the finishing module to the base machine between the transfer element and the working element a working gap for performing a processing step of a print finishing process formed on a running through the working gap printing material sheet is. In this variant, all for the Arc transfer facilities provided in the basic machine, while the finishing modules only the application-specific Wear components.

alternative It is also possible that a finishing module in the field the interface-side second coupling structures an application-specific Working element and one for interacting with transfer elements the base machine trained, exchangeable transfer element between (remaining on the finishing module) replaceable transfer element and the working element a working gap for performing a processing step of a print finishing process formed on a running through the working gap printing material sheet is. In this case, the work gap limiting Elements are exchanged together with the finishing module. Sometimes, in this variant, the adjustment of the working gap easier than in variants where the separation between basic machine and finishing module passes through the working nip.

The application-specific work item, eg. B. a tool-bearing Cylinder of an embossing device, can firmly, d. H. only with larger dismantling costs removed, in the finishing module be mounted. For example, a rolling bearing of a Working cylinder firmly in a support structure of the finishing module be installed. In other variants, it is provided that the application-specific Working element interchangeable stored in the finishing module. This makes it possible, without decoupling the finishing module of the base machine to convert the workstation, for example within the same print finishing technique from one processing job to another next an adjustment of the configuration of the workstation make. For example, after replacing the work item other motifs and / or other layers of motifs are used.

A further increase in flexibility is possible if working tools, such as embossed motifs or the like, interchangeable are attached. In embodiments with a working cylinder As a working element, for example, a replaceable tool carrier sleeve be provided to embossing units provided thereon or Quickly use other print finishing tools as a group or to be able to exchange.

to Achieving high machining performance is in some embodiments provided that the transfer element is a rotating transfer cylinder is, whereby a fast sheet transport is possible. Furthermore, it can be provided that with the transfer element cooperating work element a rotating Ar beitszylinder is. When both the transfer element and the work item are stored substantially cylindrical or rotating, can the printing material sheets are finished in round-round technology.

It it is also possible that, for example, the work item as a linearly oscillating plate-shaped working element is configured with a cylindrical transfer element working together, creating print finishing in round-flat technique is possible.

The If necessary, the transfer element can be raised or lowered linearly be designed plate-shaped element, so that in conjunction with a plate-shaped working element print finishing can be performed in flat-flat technology.

If the working element provided on the finishing module is to perform a working movement during the print finishing process, an active drive is required for this purpose. Although it is possible, the drive element example To couple via gears with a driven element of the base machine, such as the transfer element, is provided in preferred variants, that the finishing module has a drive for a attached to the finishing module working element, said drive is independent of the drive system of the sheet conveying system controllable. In this case, a mechanical coupling between the working element and the transfer element can be dispensed with, thereby facilitating, above all, the coupling of a finishing element to the base machine. The synchronization of the working movements of transfer element and working element in the operation of the device can, for. B. by appropriate control signals by electrical means. The drive can z. B. a servo motor or a linear motor and possibly also a transmission, for. As an electrical transmission include.

In most print finishing processes, especially in foil stamping, it is important for achieving good quality results to precisely adjust the working gap formed between the working element and the transfer element, through which the sheet material to be finished passes, so that the operating conditions required for the printing finishing process can be achieved Work gap prevail. For example, when embossing foils, a sufficient embossing pressure must be generated in order to ensure a permanently durable and damage-free embossing. The working gap should be optimally adjusted under all possible operating conditions, for hot stamping, for example, under the influence of the heating of a stamping cylinder. For this purpose, it is provided in embodiments of finishing modules that the finishing module has an adjusting device for adjusting the position of the working element relative to a support structure of the finishing element. If the working element is a working cylinder rotatable about a rotation axis, a part of the adjusting device can be designed such that a displacement of the axis of rotation in the direction of the transfer element or away from it is possible. Suitable adjustment means for adjusting the printing gap or working gap in a stamping or printing device are, for example, in the EP 1 579 990 B1 described and can be used.

One Finishing module can be an adjustment for adjusting the Position of the working element across the sheet conveying section relative have the support structure of the finishing module. If that Working element is a working cylinder, which is rotatable about a rotation axis is stored, so the adjustment can be a shift cause the working cylinder parallel to the axis of rotation. hereby it is possible in a simple way, possible side registration errors by not exact transverse positioning of the working element to avoid the replacement of a finishing module.

The The invention also relates to a basic machine for constructing a printing finishing machine, which at least one arranged along a sheet conveying path Workstation for performing a processing step a print finishing process. The basic machine has a sheet conveying system for conveying sheets made of flat material along a sheet conveying section between a sheet feeder and a sheet delivery. The basic machine has continue in the area of at least one interface along the Bogenförderstrecke first coupling structures for releasable Coupling of a corresponding to the first coupling structures second coupling structures equipped, interchangeable finishing module to the basic machine.

The The invention also relates to corresponding finishing modules which specially designed for coupling to such a base machine are. In particular, the invention relates to a finishing module for Structure of a printing finishing machine, which at least one along a sheet conveying path arranged workstation for Performing a processing step of a print finishing process , wherein the finishing module together with elements of a a sheet conveying system containing basic machine of the printing finishing machine forms a workstation, with the base machine in the range at least an interface along the sheet conveying path first coupling structures for detachable coupling of a replaceable finishing module has to the base machine and the finishing module with the first Coupling structures corresponding second coupling structures Is provided.

advantageous Embodiments of basic machines and finishing modules are above and below in connection with different variants described by configurable print finishing machines.

The The foregoing and other features are excluded from the claims also from the description and the drawings, the individual Characteristics in each case alone or in several form sub-combinations in embodiments of the invention and be realized and advantageous in other fields as well represent protectable versions can.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

1 shows an embodiment of a single-stage print finishing machine in the ready-assembled state ( 1A ) and in the state with decoupled finishing module ( 1B );

2 shows details of a stamping plant in the area of the interface between the basic machine and the finishing module;

3 shows an embodiment of a two-stage print finishing machine for foil stamping followed by Relefprägung;

4 shows another embodiment of a two-stage print finishing machine for hot foil stamping with subsequent painting;

5 shows an embodiment of a three-stage embossing machine for cold embossing (two stages) with subsequent painting;

6 shows a schematic plan view of parts of a three-stage working print finishing machine with axially adjustable cylinder an embossing module;

7 shows an embodiment of a printing finishing machine whose base machine has eight interfaces for attaching finishing modules; and

8th shows a section of another embodiment of a modular design, multi-stage print finishing machine.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

1 shows in 1A a schematic side view of an embodiment of a printing finishing machine 100 , which is designed for a one-step hot stamping process and therefore can also be referred to as a hot stamping device. The hot embossing device is designed as a round-round machine or embossing rotary machine and set up for embossing sheet-like printing material made of paper, cardboard, plastic and / or another flexible sheet material by means of hot stamping. The hot stamping machine has a stamping unit 105 one to a horizontal axis of rotation 111 rotatable embossing cylinder 110 and a counter-pressure cylinder arranged underneath 120 comprises, which extends about a parallel to the axis of rotation of the embossing cylinder extending, horizontal axis of rotation 121 is rotatable. Between the embossing cylinder 110 and the impression cylinder 120 is at least in phases a working gap or embossing gap 115 educated.

As in 2 can be clearly seen, the outer circumference of the embossing cylinder by a replaceable tool sleeve 112 formed on the outside of heatable embossing tools 113 are attached, which can be heated by means of an integrated heater to temperatures above 100 ° C.

The material to be embossed, already provided with a printed sheet of material on a supply stack or feed pile shown on the right 132 be kept up with the side to be embossed and be in operation of the embossing device on an inclined feed table 133 in flaky arrangement via an intermediate transfer drum the impression cylinder 120 fed. Around the circumference of the impression cylinder are gripper systems which are adapted to grasp each leading edge of a sheet and to pull on the surface of the uniformly rotating impression cylinder. Before the gripping process finds an orientation of the printing material, z. B. with respect to the leading edge or on certain image layers instead. The printing material sheet hanging with its leading edge on the circumference of the impression cylinder 131 becomes in the shown direction of rotation from right to left through the embossing gap 115 guided and stamped during a stamping interval in a manner to be described later. After the Prague interval, the embossed material sheet is transferred to the display system shown on the left 135 passed, which extends to the periphery of the impression cylinder and includes a gripper system and belts or chains that promote the finished sheets of material sequentially on a storage stack, not shown.

in the Embodiment is a simple large impression cylinder shown. In other embodiments, a double-sized Counter-pressure cylinder may be provided.

At the Passing through the embossing gap (in the figure from the right to the left) has the surface of the material sheet to be printed on a speed that, depending on the material thickness of the printed sheet, essentially the peripheral speed the lateral surface of the continuously rotating impression cylinder equivalent.

During operation of the embossing device at least one embossing foil web 145 with the help of a film transport device 140 with a by driving of active control means of the film transport device precisely predetermined, changing web speed through the embossing gap 115 emotional. The very thin embossing foil web, whose typical thickness can be for example in the range between 10 .mu.m and 20 .mu.m, usually consists of a relatively tough carrier film made of plastic, on the front side of which a layer system with a thermally activatable separating layer, the actual embossing layer (for example color layer or Metal layer or hologram or image or the like) and a heat-activatable hot-melt adhesive layer is applied, which forms the front of the embossing foil wall facing the printing material.

The film transport device 140 , which can also be referred to as a film factory, allows the stamping foil web 145 outside of the embossing interval to lead slower than the material layer to be embossed, accelerate to material layer speed before the embossing interval and then decelerate again and retract against the main transport direction in a retraction phase. By means of this discontinuous film web movement with retraction phases it can be achieved that the transferred embossing units or ink layer areas can be arranged directly successively on the embossing film web, even if the embossing locations are much further apart on the printing material, whereby the film consumption can be minimized. During the embossing interval, the embossing unit is transferred to the material layer to be embossed under the influence of pressure and temperature. Devices for film acceleration and thus feasible methods are for example from the EP 0 718 099 B1 are known and will therefore not be described here.

A special feature of the print finishing machine is that the sheet transport facilities serving facilities of the sheet conveying system in a base machine 150 are arranged, while for the particular print finishing process (here hot stamping) required application-specific elements, in particular the film transport device 140 and the embossing cylinder 110 in a finishing module separate from the basic machine 160 are housed, which with relatively few steps at the installation of the base machine, for example, in a print finishing operation, exchange and optionally by a differently structured finishing module 160 ' can be replaced (cf. 1B ). For this purpose, the finishing module has a frame 152 the base machine separate and detachable support structure with side walls 162 in which z. B. the embossing cylinder and the elements of the film transport device are stored. Furthermore, the basic machine has 150 in the area of an interface 155 along the sheet conveying line first coupling structures 158 for releasably coupling the replaceable finishing module to the base machine, and the finishing module 160 has corresponding second coupling structures to the first coupling structures 168 which cooperate with the first coupling structures in order to be ready for operation ( 1A ) to ensure a stable fixation of the finishing module to the base machine and on the other hand to allow a quick and easy replacement of a finishing module ( 1B ). A crane system attached to the base machine 170 , for reasons of clarity, only in 1B is shown, thereby assisting the operator in the correct positioning of a finishing module for connecting the coupling structures or when removing a finishing module.

In the embodiment, the side walls belonging to the machine frame of the base machine have 152 At its the finishing module facing top recesses, in the corresponding jumps before at the lower sides of the side walls 162 the form-fitting engagement of the support structure of the finishing module to allow a correct position fixation of the finishing module to the base machine. With the help of pneumatically actuated locking elements, the attached finishing module is then automatically locked to the base machine.

The separation between the base machine and finishing module takes place in the embodiment in the region of the working gap (embossing gap), ie between the impression cylinder 120 , which is a transfer element of the sheet conveying system, and the embossing cylinder 110 ie the application-specific working element of the finishing machine on which the embossing tools are located.

To ensure that after a connection of the finishing module with the base machine of the embossing gap has the intended dimensions for the application, means for variable adjustment of the working gap are provided, which allow to change the position of the working element (embossing cylinder) of the finishing module relative to its support structure , Suitable facilities for this purpose are for example in the EP 1 579 990 B1 described.

2 shows essential elements of an embodiment that is particularly adapted to the interchangeability of the finishing module. The means for adjusting the working gap comprises a pair of races on each axial side of the working gap 181 . 182 , whose mutual distance is adjustable. The bearing element of the first race shown on the right 181 is fixed or immovable on the side wall 162 mounted the finishing module, but can also be stored transversely movable in other variants. The position of the bearing for the second race shown on the left 182 on the other hand is adjustable in the direction of a line connecting the axes of rotation of the races. The peripheral surfaces of the races roll on the one hand on the outer periphery of the impression cylinder outside of the intended for the transport of the material sheets inner region and on the other hand at one about the axis of rotation 111 the working cylinder rotatable race 185 from, which is rotatably mounted relative to the embossing cylinder and rotates in opposite directions to this during operation of the device. The outer diameter of this race 185 is smaller than the inner diameter of the embossing tools bearing plant convincing sleeve 112 , so that a replacement of the tool sleeve by pulling in the axial direction is possible.

For a replacement of the entire exchangeable embossing cylinder 110 this can be lifted upwards from the races and then removed from the finishing module.

The rotation of the embossing cylinder is by a housed in the finishing module, separate servo motor 114 causes, whose working movement is synchronized via electrical control signals with the working movement of the impression cylinder to ensure at least in phases a speed-matched synchronization of embossing cylinder and impression cylinder. However, the drive of the impression cylinder separate drive of the embossing cylinder also opens up correction options during printing. For example, the working cylinder can be controlled such that the peripheral speed of the working cylinder can deviate from the peripheral speed of the impression cylinder for a short time. A momentary delay or acceleration relative to the movement of the impression cylinder can be used to ensure the maintenance of a circumferential register. In this way, the registration can be improved during the engagement of the embossing tools and / or between the individual tool interventions.

The embossing cylinder or its race 185 In the embossing gap setting and during operation of the embossing device, a force F acting in the direction of the impression cylinder is permanently applied, so that any bearing play on the embossing cylinder is "pushed out" of the arrangement and the embossing tools work with the contact pressure provided for the process. In one embodiment, the embossing cylinder may for example be mounted on a rocker, which is loaded by a force element, such as a hydraulic cylinder, in the direction of the other cylinder. As a result, the maximum pressure force in the working gap is adjustable and the working gap can be in an emergency, z. B. at the inlet of a thick material section, open without damage. As a result, an overload protection is created.

A workstation having such a finishing module configured as a film embossing module thus provides four levels of flexibility in setting up a press finishing process. In a first step, individual embossing tools or tool groups on the tool carrying sleeve can be exchanged, removed or added. The second stage involves a simple tube replacement of the tool carrier sleeve 112 in order to adapt the workstation to other motifs and / or other motifs without replacing the finishing module or the working cylinder. A third level of flexibility is achieved by having the working cylinder 110 as a whole, so including the tool carrier sleeve and cylinder core, without dismantling the entire finishing module is removable from these removable by another cylinder. Finally, the fourth level of flexibility involves replacing the entire refining module with another refining module.

In the embodiment of 1 has the basic machine 150 only a single interface, so that a print finishing machine can be built with a single workstation. As in 1B indicated, instead of the refining module set up for the foil embossing 160 also another finishing module 160 ' be coupled, for example, a finishing module for a painting process. Alternatively, the machine z. B. with the help of appropriate modules as a blind embossing machine or for numbering or for the production of strips (eg hologram strips) or configured as a equipped with a camera system or other sensors quality assurance device for a good / bad selection.

At the in 3 schematically illustrated embodiment of a printing finishing machine 300 are elements that in the embodiment of 1 are identical or similar, with the same reference numerals, increased by 200 designated. In the printing finishing machine 300 has the basic machine 350 two successive in the transport direction of the sheet conveying system interfaces 355 . 356 each having first coupling structures for mounting a replaceable finishing module. At the sheet feeder immediately following first interface 355 is a finishing module 360 for embossing foil printing by means of hot stamping, while at the subsequent second interface 356 a finishing module 370 is coupled for a relief embossing on the already refined by hot stamping substrate. As a result, it is possible, for example, to structure the printing substrate three-dimensionally in the region of the motifs applied by means of hot embossing and / or outside thereof by producing raised and / or lowered regions.

The structure of the first workstation (hot stamping) essentially corresponds to the already described construction of the single-head variant of FIG 1 , The at the periphery of the impression cylinder 320 The printing material sheet guided through the embossing nip becomes, after hot embossing, another transfer cylinder 321 passed whose relevant for the transport of peripheral dimensions correspond to those of the impression cylinder. This passes the bows to a subsequent double-sized transfer cylinder 322 , which is another double-sized transfer cylinder 323 follows, which transfers the sheet to a subsequent single-sized transfer cylinder of the second workstation, from where the sheet via another simple-sized transfer cylinder to the circumference of the impression cylinder 355 is passed to the embossing workstation. That with the double-sized transfer cylinders 322 . 323 equipped intermediate module 325 The basic machine is a standardized transfer module that can be used to connect two consecutive groups of transfer elements to the work stations for the sheet transfer.

The finishing module 370 for the relief embossing has a single working cylinder 310 on whose circumference the relief embossing tools (raised patrices and / or recesses provided with matrices) are interchangeably mounted. The complementarily designed counter-pressure elements (dies / male) are on the circumference of the impression cylinder 355 replaceable mounted. Also the working cylinder 310 for the relief embossing is interchangeable, so that if necessary without decoupling the finishing module from the base machine 370 the second workstation for relief embossing can be converted to different embossing units and / or different positions of embossing locations. The structure of the finishing module 370 in terms of its own drive for the working cylinder and in terms of the pressure gap adjustment means may be similar or identical to that associated with 2 be described structure.

A basic machine equipped with two standardized interfaces for coupling interchangeable finishing modules can be converted without much effort to carry out other two-stage print finishing processes. 4 shows an example of a print finishing machine 400 on the in 3 shown basic machine 360 builds. At the first interface is as in the embodiment according to 3 an embossing module designed for hot stamping 360 coupled. The second workstation is set up for a painting step by adding a finishing module 470 is coupled in the form of a painting unit. The painting module can be designed, for example, for surface painting, spot painting or special painting.

In 5 is a print finishing machine 500 shown adapted for a three-stage print finishing process. She has a base machine 550 , the three standardized interfaces 555 . 556 . 557 with respective first coupling structures for the detachable coupling of finishing modules. Between the belonging to the respective workstations modules of the base machine are each transfer modules 525 . 526 arranged with two cooperating double-large transfer cylinders, which quickly overcome the conveyor line between successive workstations with simple means. The transfer modules lying between the first and the second workstation and the second and the third workstation are constructed essentially identically, as a result of which the construction of more complex multi-stage print finishing machines can be realized relatively inexpensively.

By selecting the type of finishing modules and the order chosen is the finishing machine 500 set up for a cold stamping process followed by painting. Cold stamping or cold foil stamping is a two-stage process for transferring an image-wise coating of a film onto a printing substrate. In the first stage, an adhesive layer (primer) is applied to the surface of the printing material at the locations provided for the film support, which is then pressed under pressure in a subsequent film embossing process to the transfer layer of an embossing film to be applied in the second stage and the thereby contained Color layer decreases according to the shape of the applied adhesive, so that the coating adheres to the splices and creates an image.

The first finishing module in the sheet transport direction 550 serves accordingly the adhesive application and is similar to a printing set constructed with the difference that the printed substance is an adhesive. At the second workstation is a finishing module 560 coupled for foil stamping. The finishing module may be similar or identical to that associated with 1 described finishing module for the hot stamping, but with the cold stamping the heater for the stamping tools is not used. It may also be provided a special film factory without heating. After image-wise coatings have been applied by cold stamping in the first two workstations, a lacquering of the already two-stage pre-finished printed products is carried out in the third workstation. The corresponding painting module 570 In structure and function essentially the painting module 470 out 4 which is why reference is made to the description there. Instead of the painting module 570 may be provided in another embodiment, for example, a module for the blind embossing or a module for the relief embossing.

A another three-head variant is set up one after the other Hot stamping step, a relief stamping step and perform a painting step.

In connection with 6 an advantageous feature of some embodiments of finishing modules is explained, which contributes to an increase in the quality of the finished products. The schematic 6 shows a plan view of a section of a Druckveredelungsma machine 600 with three in the conveying direction 620 successive workstations, wherein for the workstations in each case only the application-specific working cylinder mounted in the respective finishing modules 610A . 610B and 610C are shown. Here is the middle cylinder 610B the embossing cylinder of a foil embossing module with embossing tools mounted thereon. An integrated servo motor M forms the independent rotary drive of the working cylinder to this around its axis of rotation 611B to turn. The drive M further has means to move the cylinder as a whole parallel to the axis of rotation (double arrow), in this way the transverse position of the working cylinder relative to the side walls 652A . 652B So to adjust the support structure of the finishing module (shown in phantom). In this way, an exact page registration of the embossing units to be applied by foil embossing can be ensured with respect to the existing on the printing material print image.

The third working cylinder in the direction of passage 610C is also driven by an integrated servo motor M, in addition to an independent control of the rotational speed and a displacement of said working cylinder in the transverse direction along the axis of rotation 611C allowed. For machines with more than three workstations, all workstations following the first workstation can have such a page register setting capability. This variant of the page registration is of course also possible with differently configured print finishing machines. The integrated servomotor can be designed, for example, as a hollow shaft motor with an axially adjustable hollow shaft.

The Use of drives, in addition to the rotational drive of a working cylinder also an axial adjustment of the working cylinder parallel to his Allow rotation axis, regardless of the other features the present embodiments also in other printing finishing machines be used advantageously, in particular in such print finishing machines, which have a fixed structure, not from a basic machine and one or more refining modules. In particular, the use of such motors for page registration in printing process of all kinds represents a standalone Invention idea dar.

7 shows an example of a printing finishing machine 700 , their basic machine 750 has a total of eight in the sheet conveying direction successive standardized interfaces for attachment of suitable finishing modules. At the third interface following the sheet feeder 753 is a foil embossing module 760 coupled. Special modules for other print finishing processes can now optionally be coupled to the interfaces upstream of the conveying direction and to the downstream interfaces in order to enable a multi-stage print finishing process with up to eight possibly different processing stages. There are also combinations without foil stamping possible. 7 essentially serves as an example of the high flexibility that can be achieved by the new machine concept in the construction of print finishing machines. Of course, the number of interfaces is not limited to eight. Rather, a base machine can also provide more than eight interfaces, for example nine, ten, eleven, twelve or more interfaces, which is simplified in particular by a modular construction of the basic machine. In addition to the enhancement modules described herein, enhancement modules can also be used for numbering, for applying hologram strips, for producing perforations by punching, and for other finishing processes. Especially in connection with painting modules also finishing modules can be used, which allow drying of the applied paint layer by means of ultraviolet rays (UV dryer). Finally, a refining module may also be configured as a quality assurance module to perform, for example, with the aid of a camera or other optical or tactile sensors, an error analysis on the finished finished products in order to discharge any misprints from the material flow.

Based on the embodiment in 8th Further details on the modular design of a print finishing machine and on the releasable coupling between the basic machine and a finishing module will be explained. The drawing figure shows a section of a multi-stage printing finishing machine 800 with two standardized interfaces connected in series 855 . 856 each providing first coupling structures for releasable coupling of a finishing module. The basic machine has a modular design and has a basic module for each interface 851 . 852 upstream and downstream of a counter pressure cylinder attached to the base module 820 double-sized transfer cylinders 821 . 822 respectively. 823 Has. Successive base modules are in the area of an interface 853 bolted to form a stable unit. In the area of the interface, the sheet material between the upstream transfer cylinder 822 a previous workstation and a subsequent workstation transfer cylinder 823 to the next workstation.

At the interface designed for coupling a finishing module 855 of the base module shown on the right 851 is a finishing module 860 in the form of a two-part foil embossing module 860 attached. The finishing module 860 consists essentially of an embossing module to be coupled directly to the base machine 860A and a film transport module 860B which is in the area of an interface 865 detachable at the top of the embossing module 860A can be attached.

In the embossing module 860A is similar to the embodiment according to FIG 2 a replaceable working cylinder 810 with a replaceable tool carrier sleeve 812 rotatably mounted. Also in the embossing module are the races 881 . 882 the device for adjusting the between the working cylinder 810 and the impression cylinder 820 stored working gap stored. In the foil transport module 860B are the devices not shown in detail for transporting the stamping foil housed by the working gap. At its top there are eyebolts into which the transport hooks of a lifting device can engage.

The embossing module 860A or the entire foil embossing module 860 Can be easily detached from the base machine or attached to the base machine by an operator at the construction site of the base machine without large disassembly effort. For this the basic machine has 850 in the area of their interfaces 855 . 856 first coupling structures for releasably coupling a replaceable finishing module to the base machine, and the finishing module has correspondingly configured second coupling structures corresponding to the first coupling structures to provide a stable connection between the base machine and the finishing module. To the first coupling structures assigned to the basic machine 858 include frusto-conical, downwardly tapered receiving openings 871 , respectively at the top of the side wall of the base module in the area in front of and behind the impression cylinder 820 are arranged. In addition to the receiving opening is a accessible from the outside threaded hole for a retaining bolt 876 a locking device 870 ,

In the area of the underside of the finishing module there are corresponding second coupling structures 868 , These include a downwardly tapered, frusto-conical foot member 872 , the sen oblique lateral surfaces of the inclined wall surfaces of the receiving opening 871 are adapted so that between the lower end face of the foot member and the bottom surface of the receiving opening 871 a narrow gap remains when the foot member is seated in the receiving opening. The foot element is by a rotatably mounted on the underside of the embossing module clamping screw 873 supported, wherein the distance between the foot member and the support structure of the embossing module can be changed by turning the clamping screw. On the side of the support structure are two threaded holes for receiving retaining bolts 877 . 878 the locking device 870 , The locking device further comprises a substantially triangular retaining plate 880 with three through holes for the retaining bolts 876 . 877 . 878 ,

If a finishing module is to be attached to a dedicated interface of the base machine by means of these coupling devices, the procedure may be as follows. First, the height-adjustable foot elements 871 by appropriate rotation of the clamping screws 873 brought into a retracted position closer to the finishing module. Subsequently, the finishing module is placed by means of a crane device from above to the region of the interface that the frusto-conical foot elements are inserted into the designated frusto-conical receiving openings. If the finishing module is not exactly positioned yet, the corresponding beveled surfaces ensure that the finishing module slides into the correct position when it is set down and sits there in the correct position. Then the holding plate 880 attached from the outside and the retaining bolts 876 . 877 . 878 be through the openings provided in the retaining plate into the respective provided for them threaded holes on the side wall of the base module (retaining bolts 876 ) or on the side wall of the finishing module (retaining bolts 877 . 878 screwed in). The lateral screwing in can usually be done easily by hand, since the entire connection is not yet under tension. The retaining bolts can be tightened manually if necessary with little force. By attaching the holding plate, the base machine and the finishing module are locked together.

Subsequently, the clamping screw 873 With the help of a torque wrench turned so that the distance between foot element 872 and refining module (see double arrow). This directed at an increase in distance movement is limited by the locking device, since the holding plate now between the upper bolt 878 . 879 and the lower bolt 876 under tension. This counteracts the compressive stress generated by the clamping screw. After tightening the tensioning device with suitable torque, a prestressed fixed connection between the base machine and finishing module is made, the Vorspan tion is maintained by the static friction forces occurring in the area of the clamping device automatically and can be loosened again only by loosening the clamping screw. The biased connection remains virtually unlimited in operation, even if when using the machine in the region of the working gap sometimes considerable and temporally changing pressures occur. After production of the biased positive connection between the base machine and finishing module then the working gap between the impression cylinder 820 and working cylinder 810 set for the desired refining process. A corresponding, biased positive connection is also made in the upstream of the working gap arranged coupling structures, where there in the example an elongated plate 881 is used with two bolt holes.

The Solving the detachable connections essentially takes place in the reverse order of the work steps.

If the finishing module has a modular structure, the coupling structures in the area of the interface can 865 between the individual modules of the finishing module connected by respective coupling elements and detached from each other.

The Bias in the region of the coupling structures becomes in this embodiment set manually using passive clamping elements. It is also possible, automatically operated clamping devices provide, for example, actuated hydraulically or pneumatically can be.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• - DE 69207751 T2 [0017]
• EP 0569520 B1 [0017]
• - EP 0578706 B1 [0017]
• - EP 1579990 B1 [0030, 0054]
• EP 0718099 B1 [0050]

Claims (24)

Printing finishing machine with a sheet conveying system for conveying sheets of flat material along a sheet conveying path between a sheet feeder and a sheet delivery, as well as with at least one arranged along the sheet conveying path workstation for performing a processing step of a print finishing process, characterized in that the sheet conveying system is arranged in a base machine that the Base machine in the region of at least one interface along the sheet conveying path first coupling structures for releasably coupling a replaceable finishing module to the base machine and that the base machine is associated with at least one attachable attachable to the base machine finishing module, which has to the first coupling structures corresponding second coupling structures. A printing finishing machine according to claim 1, wherein a Finishing module is selected from a group, the following Refining modules contains: a foil embossing module with a film transport device for transport at least one Foil web through the working gap; a painting module for application a lacquer layer on the flat material; a relief embossing module for embossing the flat material; a punching module for perforating the sheet; a printing module for printing of the sheet having a substance adhered to the sheet, wherein the substance preferably an adhesive is; a numbering module; one Strip generation module for applying stripes to the sheet; one Quality assurance module; an ultraviolet drying module. A printing finishing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first coupling structures ( 158 . 858 ) and the second coupling structures ( 168 . 868 ) corresponding interlocking elements ( 871 . 872 ) for producing a correct-fit positive connection between a support structure of the base machine and a support structure of a finishing module. Printing finishing machine according to claim 3, wherein corresponding form-fitting elements ( 871 . 872 ) have corresponding inclined surfaces, which are formed so that the finishing module slides when assembled with the base machine by means of the inclined surfaces in a positionally correct position, wherein corresponding positive locking elements preferably have conical, frusto-conical or pyramid-shaped projections which in complementary recesses ( 871 ) intervene on the other component. Printing finishing machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling structures ( 158 . 858 ) and the second coupling structures ( 168 . 868 ) corresponding elements of a locking device ( 870 ) which is set up in the correct position of elements of the finishing module ( 860 ) and the basic machine ( 850 ) with each other. Printing finishing machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling structures ( 858 ) and the second coupling structures ( 868 ) corresponding elements of a clamping device, which is adapted to clamp the substantially correctly aligned elements (finishing module and base machine) to produce a clamping force against each other, wherein the clamping device is preferably configured so that in the tensioned state in the direction of an increase in distance between Basic machine ( 850 ) and finishing module ( 860 ) acts. Printing finishing machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the basic machine ( 150 ) a single interface ( 155 ) for coupling different finishing modules, or wherein the basic machine ( 350 . 450 ) along the sheet conveying section exactly two interfaces ( 355 . 356 ) having first coupling structures for releasably coupling each of a replaceable finishing module, or wherein the basic machine ( 550 . 750 ) has at three or more interfaces along the sheet conveying path first coupling structures for coupling in each case a replaceable finishing module. Printing finishing machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the basic machine ( 150 ) in the region of the first coupling structures ( 158 ) an interface ( 155 ) a transfer element ( 120 ) of the sheet conveying system and a finishing module ( 160 ) in the region of the interface-side second coupling structures ( 168 ) an application-specific working element ( 110 ), wherein the coupling structures on the base machine and the finishing module are designed so that by the coupling of the finishing module to the base machine between the transfer element ( 120 ) and the work item ( 110 ) a working gap ( 115 ) is formed for performing a processing step of a print finishing process on a printing material sheet running through the working gap. Print finishing machine according to one of preceding claims, wherein the application specific work item ( 110 ) interchangeable in the finishing module ( 160 ) is stored. Printing finishing machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein on the working element ( 110 ) of a finishing module work tools ( 113 ) are mounted interchangeably. Printing finishing machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a working cylinder ( 110 . 810 ) with an exchangeable tool carrier sleeve ( 112 . 812 ) is provided. Printing finishing machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer element comprises a rotationally mounted transfer cylinder (11). 120 . 820 ), wherein preferably a cooperating with the transfer element working element rotatably mounted working cylinder ( 110 . 810 ). Printing finishing machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the finishing module ( 160 ) a drive (M) for a on the finishing module ( 160 ) attached working element ( 110 ), this drive being controllable independently of the drive system of the sheet conveying system. Printing finishing machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the finishing module ( 160 ) an adjusting device for adjusting the position of the working element relative to a support structure ( 162 ) of the finishing module, wherein preferably the working element rotatable about a rotation axis working cylinder ( 110 ), and a part of the adjusting device for a displacement of the axis of rotation ( 111 ) in the direction of the transfer element ( 120 ) or constructed away from it. A printing finishing machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a finishing module comprises adjusting means for adjusting the position of the working element ( 610B . 610C ) Transversely to the sheet conveying path relative to the support structure of the finishing module has. A printing finishing machine according to claim 15, wherein the working element is a working cylinder rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation, and wherein the adjusting means is arranged for displacement of the working cylinder parallel to the axis of rotation, preferably a rotary drive (M) of the working cylinder (15). 610B . 610C ) Has means to the working cylinder parallel to its axis of rotation ( 611B . 611C ) to move. Printing finishing machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a finishing module ( 860 ) a plurality of detachably interconnected submodules ( 860A . 860B ), wherein an interface-side first sub-module the application-specific working element ( 810 ) contains. A printing finishing machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the printing finishing machine comprises a crane means 170 ) for lifting a finishing module ( 160 ) of the basic machine ( 150 ) and / or for placing a finishing module is assigned to the base machine, wherein preferably a base element of the crane device is fixedly mounted on the base machine. A base machine for constructing a printing finishing machine having at least one work station arranged along a sheet conveying path for performing a processing step of a printing finishing process, the base machine comprising a sheet conveying system for conveying sheet sheets along a sheet conveying path between a sheet feeder and a sheet delivery, and wherein the base machine is at least an interface ( 155 ) along the sheet conveying path first coupling structures ( 158 ) for the detachable coupling of a second coupling structures (2) corresponding to the first coupling structures ( 168 ), interchangeable finishing module ( 160 ) to the base machine. A base machine according to claim 19, wherein the base machine is in the region of the first coupling structures ( 158 ) an interface a transfer element ( 120 ) of the sheet conveying system intended to be used together with one on a finishing module ( 160 ), application-specific working element ( 110 ) after coupling of the finishing module to the base machine between the transfer element of the base machine and the working element of the finishing module a working gap ( 115 ) for performing a processing step of a print finishing process on a printing material sheet running through the working gap, wherein the base machine is preferably designed to construct a print finishing machine according to one of claims 1 to 18. Finishing module for constructing a printing finishing machine, which has at least one work station arranged along a sheet conveying path for carrying out a processing step of a printing finishing method, wherein the finishing module ( 160 . 860 ) together with elements of a basic machine containing a sheet conveying system ( 150 . 850 ) of the print finishing machine forms a work station, the base machine in the region of at least one interface along the sheet conveying path first Kopp structures ( 168 . 868 ) for releasably coupling the replaceable finishing module to the base machine and the finishing module ( 160 . 860 ) with second coupling structures corresponding to the first coupling structures ( 168 . 868 ) Is provided. The finishing module according to claim 21, wherein the finishing module has an application-specific working element in the region of the interface-side second coupling structures. 110 . 810 ), wherein the coupling structures on the base machine and the finishing module are designed such that by coupling the finishing module to the base machine between a transfer element ( 120 . 820 ) of the base machine and the working element of the finishing module a working gap ( 115 ) is formed for carrying out a processing step of a print finishing process on a printing material sheet running through the working gap. The finishing module according to claim 21 or 22, which is selected from a group comprising the following finishing modules: a film embossing module ( 160 . 868 ) with a film transport device for transporting at least one film web through the working gap; a painting module ( 160 ' ) for applying a lacquer layer to the sheet; a relief embossing module ( 370 ) for embossing the sheet; a punching module for perforating the sheet; a print module ( 550 ) for printing the sheet with a substance adhering to the sheet, the substance preferably being an adhesive; a numbering module; a strip generation module for applying stripes to the sheet; a quality assurance module; an ultraviolet drying module. The finishing module of claim 21, 22 or 23, wherein the finishing module for building a print finishing machine one of claims 1 to 18 is formed.