Print management device, conveyance management device, and printing system

Abstract

To reduce the number of workers in the process from a printer to a sheet processing machine. A printing master management device (201) is communicably connected to a conveyance management device (203) that manages a plurality of unmanned conveyance vehicles (20) that convey a stacker (1) in which sheets discharged from a printer (3) are stacked. The printing master management device (201) generates conveyance instruction information for conveying the stacker (1) in which the sheets discharged from the printer (3) are stacked from a sheet receiving position of the printer (3) to a sheet supply position of a next processing machine, based on job information in which manufacturing process steps for manufacturing a printed matter are registered, and transmits the conveyance instruction information to the conveyance management device (203).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a printing overall management device, a conveying management device, and a printing system. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a sheet stacking device that stacks paper discharged from a printing press onto a stacking tray and conveys it to an offline binding machine.

[0003] The sheet stacking device of Patent Document 1 reduces the burden on the operator to transfer the sheet to the paper feed section by lowering the stacking tray according to the weight of the sheet and keeping the upper surface of the stacking tray in a fixed position.

[0004] [Existing Technical Documents]

[0005] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-52971 Summary of the Invention

[0007] [The problem the invention aims to solve]

[0008] However, in the sheet stacking apparatus described in Patent Document 1, the operator is burdened because the operator moves the trolley or transfers it from the trolley to the paper feeding section.

[0009] The present invention was made in view of the following circumstances, and its object is to provide a printing overall management device, a conveying management device, and a printing system that can save manpower in the process from printing press to sheet processing machine.

[0010] [Technical means used to solve the problem]

[0011] A first aspect of the present invention is a printing overall management device communicatively connected to a transport management device, the transport management device managing multiple unmanned transport devices for transporting sheet stacking devices capable of stacking sheets discharged from a printing press, the printing overall management device being characterized by comprising: a processing unit that generates transport instruction information for transporting the sheet stacking devices, which are stacked with sheets discharged from the printing press, from a sheet receiving position of the printing press to a sheet supply position of the next processing machine, based on operation information registered for manufacturing process steps for producing printed matter; and a communication unit that sends the transport instruction information to the transport management device.

[0012] According to the aforementioned printing overall management device, a conveying instruction information is sent to the conveying management device to transport the sheet stacking device, which holds the sheets discharged from the printing press, from the sheet receiving position of the printing press to the sheet supply position of the next processing machine. Thus, an unmanned conveying device can be used to automatically move the sheet stacking device from the printing press to the processing machine that is the next process, achieving labor savings.

[0013] In the above-mentioned printing overall management device, at least one of the sheet size, sheet thickness, and number of sheets stacked by the sheet stacking device may also be included in the transport instruction information.

[0014] Since sheet size, sheet thickness, and number of sheets are information related to the weight of the sheet stacking device, the weight of the sheet stacking device can be estimated based on this information. Therefore, an unmanned transport vehicle suitable for transporting the sheet stacking device can be selected, and when transporting the sheet stacking device, the unmanned transport device can be moved with an appropriate acceleration or speed corresponding to the stacked weight.

[0015] In the above-mentioned printing overall management device, the conveying instruction information may also include processing machine identification information assigned to the processing machine and offset information of the sheet supply position in the processing machine.

[0016] The inventors have discovered that variations in the type of printing press or sheet processing machine, depending on its manufacturer or intended use, can hinder labor-saving practices. For example, in the case of sheet processing machines, the sheet feeding position sometimes differs depending on the type of machine. According to the aforementioned printing overall management device, since the transport instruction information includes both machine identification information assigned to the machine and offset information of the sheet feeding position within that machine, a sheet stacking device can be set at an appropriate feeding position based on the machine model. This enables a stable and smooth sheet feeding process.

[0017] In the aforementioned printing overall management device, the conveying instruction information may also include information related to the supply direction of the sheet for the processing machine.

[0018] By including information related to the feeding direction of the sheet for the processing machine in the conveying instruction information, the sheet can be supplied in an appropriate orientation corresponding to the processing specifications of each processing machine, even if the discharge direction of the sheet in the printing press is different from the feeding direction of the sheet in the processing machine.

[0019] In the aforementioned printing overall management device, the transport instruction information may also include information related to the orientation of the sheet discharged from the printing press to the sheet stacking device.

[0020] Because the conveying instruction information includes information related to the orientation of the sheets discharged from the printing press to the sheet stacking device, deformation of the sheets during conveying can be prevented by taking into account the orientation of the sheets stacked on the sheet stacking device. For example, from the viewpoint of preventing deformation of goods during acceleration and deceleration, the unmanned conveyor conveys the sheet stacking device in a direction that is the same as the length direction of the sheets as the direction of travel, thereby preventing deformation of the sheets during conveying.

[0021] In the above-mentioned printing overall management device, when multiple sheet stacking devices are required to perform a job, the conveying instruction information may also include at least one of the following: identification information of the multiple sheet stacking devices performing a job, the order of the sheet stacking devices stacking the sheets discharged from the printing press, and the order of the sheet stacking devices supplying the sheets to the next processing machine.

[0022] According to the above-mentioned printing overall management device, the operation can be performed smoothly even when the number of sheets in a single job exceeds the maximum stacking capacity of the sheet stacking device.

[0023] In the above-mentioned printing overall management device, the processing unit can also generate conveying instruction information for conveying the sheet stacking device (without stacking the sheets) to the sheet receiving position of the printing press based on the operation information.

[0024] According to the above-mentioned printing overall management device, the sheet stacking device can be automatically moved to the printing press, which can further reduce labor costs.

[0025] In the above-mentioned printing overall management device, the conveying instruction information may also include identification information assigned to the sheet stacking device respectively.

[0026] According to the above-mentioned printing overall management device, since the identification information of the sheet stacking device is included in the conveying instruction information, even when multiple sheet stacking devices are set up close, by performing a check based on the identification information, it is possible to prevent the erroneous conveying of sheet stacking devices that are not intended for conveying.

[0027] A second aspect of the present invention is a conveying management device for managing multiple unmanned conveying devices of a sheet stacking device capable of stacking sheets discharged from a printing press, characterized in that it comprises: an information acquisition unit that acquires at least one of battery information, operating information, and current location information of each of the unmanned conveying devices; a determination unit that, upon receiving conveying instruction information for conveying the sheet stacking device, determines any one of the unmanned conveying devices based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit and the conveying instruction information; and a communication unit that transmits the conveying instruction information to the determined unmanned conveying device, wherein the conveying instruction information includes at least one of the sheet size, sheet thickness, and number of sheets stacked by the sheet stacking device, identification information of the sheet stacking device, and identification information of the printing press or processing machine as the conveying destination of the sheet stacking device.

[0028] According to the conveying management device of this aspect, the conveying instruction information includes at least one of the following: sheet size, sheet thickness, and number of sheets stacked by the sheet stacking device; identification information of the sheet stacking device; and identification information of the printing press or processing machine that is the conveying destination of the sheet stacking device. For example, the sheet size, sheet thickness, and number of sheets are information related to the weight of the sheet stacking device, so the weight of the sheet stacking device can be estimated based on this information. Therefore, an unmanned conveyor suitable for conveying the sheet stacking device can be selected. Furthermore, when the identification information of the printing press or processing machine is included, the possibility of conveying the sheet stacking device to the wrong conveying destination can be reduced by using a verification device based on the identification information.

[0029] In the above-mentioned conveying management device, the conveying instruction information may also include information related to the travel path from the conveying source of the sheet stacking device to the conveying destination, as well as information on special points on the travel path. The special points may also include at least one of the following: floor inclination information, floor elevation difference information, temperature, humidity, air volume of the air conditioner, and air direction of the air conditioner.

[0030] According to the aforementioned conveying management device, information related to the travel path from the conveying source of the sheet stacking device to the conveying destination, as well as information on special points along the travel path, are sent to the unmanned conveying device. As a result, the unmanned conveying device adjusts its speed or acceleration, reconstructs the travel path, and changes the orientation of the stacker 1 relative to the travel direction based on the information of the special points, thereby suppressing deformation of the moving sheet material.

[0031] A third aspect of the present invention is a printing system comprising the above-described printing overall management device and the above-described conveying management device.

[0032] A fourth aspect of the present invention is a method by which a computer performs the following steps: generating conveying instruction information for conveying a sheet stacking device, which stacks sheets discharged from a printing press, to a sheet supply position of a processing machine for the next step, based on work information describing work information for manufacturing printed matter; and sending the conveying instruction information to a conveying management device that manages multiple unmanned conveying devices for conveying the sheet stacking device.

[0033] The fifth aspect of the present invention is a program for enabling a computer to function as the aforementioned printing overall management device.

[0034] [Invention Effects]

[0035] It can reduce manpower in the process from printing press to sheet processing machine. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the stacker of one embodiment of the present invention configured in a receiving position relative to the printing press.

[0037] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional view showing the stacker's configuration relative to the paper feed position of the folding machine.

[0038] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 Side view of the stacker and printing press.

[0039] Figure 4 This is a 3D diagram representing a stacker.

[0040] Figure 5 It means Figure 4 A top view of the stacker.

[0041] Figure 6 It means Figure 4 Side view of the stacker.

[0042] Figure 7 It means Figure 4 A 3D view of the stacker rack of the stacker in a tilted state.

[0043] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Side view.

[0044] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating an example hardware configuration of a stacker according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 10 This is a schematic structural diagram illustrating an example of the overall structure of a printing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating an example hardware configuration of a printing overall management device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 12 This is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the functions of a printing general management device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 13 This is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the functions of a conveying management device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing steps performed by the printing general management device, the stacker management device, and the transport management device in the printing process-related management system of a printing process according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing steps performed by the printing general management device, the stacker management device, and the conveying management device in the printing manufacturing management process of a management system related to processing steps according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 16 It is a top view showing the folding machine and stacker aligned at the paper feeding position.

[0052] Figure 17 This is a top view showing the state where the center line of the stacker is offset relative to the center line of the folding machine at the paper feeding position.

[0053] Figure 18 This is a side view showing the stacker stop in the lowered state at the paper feeding position.

[0054] Figure 19 This is a perspective view showing the stacker involved in Variation 1 in its configuration relative to the paper feed position of the crease press.

[0055] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the stacker involved in variation example 2.

[0056] Figure 21 It means Figure 20 This is a side view of the stacker. Detailed Implementation

[0057] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the printing overall management device, transport management device, and printing system of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] Figure 1 The printing system 200 of this embodiment (see reference) Figure 10The stacker (sheet stacking device) 1 included in the printing press 3 is configured in the receiving position PS1 where it receives paper (sheet) S from the printing press 3.

[0059] After stacking a specified number of sheets of paper S printed by printing press 3, stacker 1 moves to... Figure 2 The paper feeding position (supply position) of the paper folding machine (processing machine) 5 shown is PS2.

[0060] For example, Figure 1 As shown, printing press 3 is a digital printing press, which receives data from printing press management device 204 (see reference 7) via communication unit 7. Figure 10 The job information is used to print on paper S. Further details of the job information will be described later.

[0061] A paper discharge port 3b is formed on the back side 3a of the printing press 3 to discharge the printed paper (sheet) S out of the printing press 3. The printing press 3 prints the paper S and discharges the paper S from the paper discharge port 3b to the shelf section 10 of the stacker 1. In addition, the printing press 3 counts the number of printed sheets and sends the count to the printing press management device 204. Furthermore, when the count reaches the number of sheets printed contained in the job information, a job completion signal and a job ID as job identification information are sent to the printing press management device 204.

[0062] like Figure 3 As shown, the stacker 1 is rectangular in top view and includes a base 12. Feet 14 are fixed at each of the four corners of the base 12. Each foot 14 is erected on the floor surface FL and supports the weight of the stacker 1. The vertical dimension of each foot 14 is the length of an unmanned transport vehicle 20 that can be folded under the base 12 to form a low-floor configuration. The unmanned transport vehicle 20 transports the stacker 1 by lifting the base 12 from below. Therefore, the stacker 1 does not have a self-propelled travel mechanism. The unmanned transport vehicle 20 includes wheels 20a, according to the transport management device 203 described later (see reference). Figure 10 Follow the instructions and proceed along the prescribed path.

[0063] A stacker ID (identification information) 13 is fixed on the lower surface of the base 12. The stacker ID 13 contains inherent identification information that can identify the stacker 1. The stacker ID 13 can be an IC chip or a two-dimensional barcode, etc.

[0064] A main body 16 is provided on the rear R side of the base 12, extending vertically upward from the base 12. The main body 16 supports one end of the shelf section 10 in a cantilevered state. A communication section 18 is provided on the upper part of the main body 16.

[0065] like Figure 3As shown, the shelf section 10 of the stacker 1 includes a stacking rack 22 for directly stacking papers S, and a lifting platform 24 located below the stacking rack 22. The stacking rack 22 is a rectangular plate-like body when viewed from above. A stop 26 and a paper width guide 28 are provided on the stacking rack 22.

[0066] The stop 26 is a rod-shaped body erected vertically upwards from the stacking rack 22, located on the rear R side of the stacking rack 22. For example... Figure 1 As shown, two stoppers 26 are arranged side-by-side in the width direction of the stacking rack 22. The width direction of the stacking rack 22 refers to the direction orthogonal to the length direction of the stacking rack 22, which connects the front (F) and rear (R). The leading edge of the paper S discharged from the printing press 3 abuts against the stoppers 26, thereby positioning the paper S in the discharge direction.

[0067] like Figure 4 As shown, the lower end of each stop 26 is inserted into a stop travel groove 30 formed on the stacking rack 22. The stop travel groove 30 is formed in a straight line along the length of the stacking rack 22. Each stop 26 reciprocates along the stop travel groove 30.

[0068] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the lower end of the stop 26 is fixed to a bracket 32 ​​extending along the width direction of the stacking rack 22. Sliding guide shafts 34 are inserted through both ends of the bracket 32 ​​in the width direction. The sliding guide shafts 34 are fixed to the sides of the stacking rack 22 and extend along the length direction of the stacking rack 22. The bracket 32 ​​is guided by the sliding guide shafts 34 to move back and forth.

[0069] A feed screw 36 is mounted at the center of the bracket 32 ​​in the width direction. The feed screw 36 is rotated about an axis by a positioning motor 38 fixed to the rear R side of the stacker 22. The positioning motor 38 can be controlled by the stacker control unit 40 (see reference). Figure 4 The feed screw 36 is rotated in both directions according to the command of the positioning motor 38. The positioning of each stop 26 fixed on the bracket 32 ​​is achieved by rotating the feed screw 36 in the length direction.

[0070] like Figure 6 As shown, on one side of the rear R-side of each stop 26, upper and lower racks 26a are provided in the vertical direction. Pinions 42 mounted on the stacking frame 22 mesh with each of the upper and lower racks 26a. Each pinion 42 is connected to a rotating shaft 44 (see reference). Figure 5 The stacker is connected to the up-and-down moving motor 46. The up-and-down moving motor 46 rotates the pinion 42 forward and backward via the shaft 44, causing the stops 26, each equipped with an up-and-down rack 26a, to move up and down. The up-and-down moving motor 46 is controlled by the stacker control unit 40 (see reference 46). Figure 4 )conduct.

[0071] like Figure 3 As shown, the paper width guide 28 is a rod-shaped body erected vertically upwards from the stacking rack 22, positioned F further forward than the stop 26. Figure 1 As shown, two paper width guides 28 are provided on both sides of the paper S in the width direction.

[0072] like Figure 4 As shown, the lower end of each paper width guide 28 is inserted into a paper width guide travel groove 48 formed on the stacking rack 22. The paper width guide travel groove 48 is formed in a straight line along the width direction of the stacking rack 22. Each paper width guide 28 reciprocates along the paper width guide travel groove 48.

[0073] like Figure 5 As shown, the lower ends of each paper width guide 28 are fixed to a bracket 50 extending along the length of the stacking rack 22. Sliding guide shafts 52 are inserted through both ends of each bracket 50 in the width direction. The sliding guide shafts 52 are fixed to the sides of the stacking rack 22 and extend along the width direction of the stacking rack 22. The bracket 50 is guided by the sliding guide shafts 52 to move back and forth.

[0074] A feed screw 54 is installed at the center of each bracket 50 along its length. The feed screw 54 is rotated about its axis by a positioning motor 56 fixed to the stacker 22. The positioning motor 56 can be adjusted according to the stacker control unit 40 (see reference). Figure 4 The paper width guides 28 fixed on the bracket 50 are positioned in the width direction by rotating the feed screw 54 using the positioning motor 56.

[0075] like Figure 6 As shown, the stacker 1 includes a tilting mechanism 60 that raises and tilts the front F side of the stacking rack 22 relative to the lifting platform 24. That is, it tilts the paper S with the end side (i.e., the open side) facing upwards, without the stop 26 and each paper width guide 28. Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the tilting mechanism 60 includes a direct-acting cylinder 62 fixed to the front F side end of the lifting platform 24, and a rod 64 that reciprocates in the vertical direction via the direct-acting cylinder 62. The direct-acting cylinder 62 is electrically powered and controlled by the stacker control unit 40 (see reference). Figure 4 Control. The front end (upper end) of lever 64 is rotatably fixed to stacking rack 22 via pivot pin 66. The base end 22a on the rear R side of stacking rack 22 is rotatably fixed to lifting platform 24 via pivot pin 68. Pivot pin 68 is mounted on the upper end of arm 70 erected from lifting platform 24. By tilting mechanism 60, stacking rack 22 rotates about pivot pin 68 and tilts relative to lifting platform 24.

[0076] The lifting platform 24, viewed from above, is a rectangular plate-like structure, for example... Figure 6 As shown, the base end 24a of the rear R is movably connected to the main body 16. Specifically, the base end 24a of the lifting platform 24 is fixed to a chain 72 disposed within the main body 16 via a bracket. The chain 72 is loop-shaped and wound between upper and lower sprockets 74 respectively disposed within the main body 16. Figure 5 As shown, when viewed from above, each sprocket 74 is respectively located at both ends of the shaft 76 extending in the width direction. Therefore, two chains 72 are respectively provided on the left and right sides of the main body 16 in the width direction, and upper and lower sprockets 74 are provided relative to each chain 72.

[0077] like Figure 6 As shown, a lifting mechanism 77 is provided within the main body 16. The lifting mechanism 77 includes a lifting platform motor 78. The lifting platform motor 78 is controlled by the stacker control unit 40 to rotate in both directions. The rotational output of the lifting platform motor 78 is transmitted to the worm gear (lifting mechanism) 82 via a synchronous belt 80. The worm gear 82 causes the wheel 84 to rotate, thereby rotating the spur gear 86 that meshes with the teeth of the wheel 84. The spur gear 86 is fixed on the rotating shaft 76, and the rotating shaft 76 and the sprocket 74 are rotated by the spur gear 86, thereby driving the chain 72 and raising and lowering the lifting worktable 24.

[0078] A wheel 88 is provided on the lower side of the base end 24a of the lifting platform 24, and the wheel 88 travels along the front surface 16a of the main body 16. As a result, the lifting platform 24 can be raised and lowered relative to the main body 16 in a cantilevered state.

[0079] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, a power receiving head (power receiving device) 90 is provided at the front F of the stacker 1. The power receiving head 90 is fixed to the front end 12a of the base 12. One end of the power supply cable 92 is electrically connected to the power receiving head 90, and the other end of the power supply cable 92 is connected to the battery 94 (see reference) inside the main body 16. Figure 4 Electrical connection.

[0080] Battery 94 is, for example, a lithium-ion battery, and has a battery management device 97 (see reference). Figure 9 The battery management device 97 manages the charging status of the battery 94 and outputs battery information to the stacker control unit 40.

[0081] The power receiver 90 is in the receiving position PS1 (refer to...) Figure 1 ) or paper feed position PS2 (refer to Figure 2The power receiving head 90 is positioned opposite the power supply head 96 at a predetermined location. The power receiving head 90 is powered by the power supply head 96, for example, in a non-contact manner. The power supply head 96 is positioned corresponding to the stop position of the stacker 1 relative to the printing press 3 or the folding machine 5. The power supply head 96 has a power socket 96a, which is connected to a nearby power source. Furthermore, the power supply method is not limited to non-contact; it can also be contact-based. Additionally, the location of the power supply head 96 is not limited to its proximity to the printing press 3 or the folding machine 5; it can also be appropriately positioned at a predetermined stop position of the stacker 1.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 has a transport management device 203 (refer to) on its upper surface, which serves as a higher-level device. Figure 10 The communication unit 101 and ID reading unit 105 communicate with each other. The ID reading unit 105 reads the stacker ID13 fixed on the lower surface of the base 12. The communication unit 101 and ID reading unit 105 can communicate with the unmanned transport vehicle control unit 103 that controls the unmanned transport vehicle 20.

[0083] A lifting platform 20b is provided on the upper part of the unmanned transport vehicle 20. The lifting platform 20b raises the stacker 1 from the floor FL, and the unmanned transport vehicle 20, in this state, transports the stacker 1 to a designated position. When the unmanned transport vehicle 20 reaches the destination position, the lifting platform 20b is lowered, causing the feet 14 of the stacker 1 to touch the ground on the floor FL, thus positioning the stacker 1 in the designated position. For example, after positioning the stacker 1 in the designated position, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 moves away from under the stacker 1 to the next destination. The travel schedule of the unmanned transport vehicle 20 is controlled by the transport management device 203. Figure 10 The unmanned transport vehicle 20 moves according to the transport instruction information received from the transport management device 203.

[0084] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of stacker 1. (e.g.) Figure 9 As shown, the stacker 1 includes a stacker control unit 40. The stacker control unit 40 includes, for example, a CPU 120, a storage unit 121 for storing programs executed by the CPU 120, and a main memory 122 that functions as a working area when each program is executed. The storage unit 121 is, for example, a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or flash memory.

[0085] As an example, a series of processes used to implement the various controls described above are stored in the storage unit 121 in the form of a program. The CPU 120 reads this program into the main memory 122 and performs information processing and arithmetic operations, thereby realizing various controls. Alternatively, the program can be provided in a manner that is pre-installed in the storage unit 121, in a state provided by means of storage on a computer-readable storage medium, or transmitted via wired or wireless communication. Computer-readable storage media include magnetic disks, optical disks, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, semiconductor memories, etc.

[0086] Additionally, the stacker 1 includes a communication unit 18, which is used to communicate with the stacker management device described later (see reference). Figure 10 The stacker control unit 40 and the communication unit 18 communicate with the printing press 3 and various processing machines (e.g., folding machine 5, creasing machine 6). The stacker control unit 40 and the communication unit 18 are connected via a bus. The communication unit 18 sends various information to the designated sending destination according to the instructions from the stacker control unit 40, and outputs the information received from each device to the stacker control unit 40.

[0087] For example, the communication unit 18 has a communication function for establishing communication according to various communication standards corresponding to the communication destination. As an example, communication with the printing press 3 and various processing machines (e.g., folding machine 5, creasing machine 6, etc.) is conducted using short-range communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), while communication with the stacker management device 202 (see reference 18) located at a relatively distant position is conducted using short-range communication. Figure 10 ) or as its superior system printing overall management device 201 (refer to Figure 10 Communication with the stacker management device 202 and the printing overall management device 201 can be conducted using wide area communication (e.g., wireless LAN). Furthermore, communication with each stacker management device 202 and the printing overall management device 201 can also be based on specific communication protocols used in the printing industry.

[0088] In addition, the stacker control unit 40 is connected to the aforementioned positioning motors 38 and 56, the up-and-down movement motor 46, the direct-acting cylinder 62, and the lifting platform motor 78 via a bus, and controls these components. Specifically, the stacker control unit 40 receives work information from the stacker management device 202 or the printing overall management device 201, and controls the aforementioned motors 38, 46, 56, 78, and the direct-acting cylinder 62 based on the work information.

[0089] Additionally, the stacker control unit 40 is connected to the battery management device (microcomputer) 97 that manages the battery 94 via a bus. The stacker control unit 40 receives battery information (such as remaining battery capacity) from the battery management device 97 and, for example, transmits this battery information to the stacker management device 202 (see reference 18) via the communication unit 18. Figure 10 ).

[0090] Figure 10 This is a schematic structural diagram illustrating an example of the overall structure of the printing system 200, which includes the stacker 1 and the unmanned transport vehicle 20 described above.

[0091] like Figure 10 As shown, the printing system 200 includes a printing overall management device 201, a stacker management device 202, a conveying management device 203, a printing press management device 204, and a processing machine management device 205 as a management system 210. The management devices 201 to 205 constituting the management system 210 may also be structures capable of communicating with each other.

[0092] Additionally, the printing system 200 includes a stacker 1 managed by a stacker management device 202, an unmanned transport vehicle 20 managed by a transport management device 203, a printing press 3 controlled by a printing press management device 204, and various processing machines managed by a processing machine management device 205. Figure 10 In the example, folding machine 5 and creasing machine 6 are shown as processing machines.

[0093] The printing overall management device 201 is configured to communicate with the stacker management device 202, the transport management device 203, the printing press management device 204, and the processing machine management device 205, and to perform overall management of the printing system 200 based on information from these management devices. Details of the printing overall management device 201 will be described later.

[0094] The stacker management device 202 is configured to communicate with each of the multiple stackers 1 and is a management device for managing each stacker 1. The stacker management device 202 has, for example, stacker management information associated with stacker ID, operating status, current location information, operation information, and battery information. The operating status is "operating status" when a job has been assigned and "standby status" when no job has been assigned. The current location information registers the stacker's location information. This location information can be coordinate information, or, in the case of paper receiving or feeding, the current location can be determined by associating it with the ID of the printing press 3 or processing machine. The operation information includes cumulative operating time, elapsed time since the last operation, etc. Battery information includes, for example, battery charge rate or remaining battery capacity. The stacker management device 202 communicates with each stacker 1 at predetermined intervals, receives operating status, current location information, operation information, and battery information from each stacker 1, and updates the stacker management information based on this information.

[0095] When the job ID and job information are received from the printing overall management device 201, the stacker management device 202 determines which stacker 1 to perform the job based on the aforementioned stacker management information. For example, the stacker management device 202 has a defined evaluation formula that includes parameters such as the elapsed time since the last run, the remaining battery capacity, and the distance between the device specified in the job information (e.g., printing press 3, folding machine, etc.) and the current position. Then, the stacker management device 202 substitutes the aforementioned parameters of each stacker 1 in "standby mode" into the evaluation formula according to the stacker management information, thereby calculating an evaluation value. The stacker with the highest evaluation value is then selected as the stacker to perform the job. Alternatively, the parameters in the evaluation formula can be weighted according to their importance.

[0096] The transport management device 203 is a management device that manages the operation of multiple unmanned transport vehicles (unmanned transport devices) 20. The transport management device 203 is configured to communicate with each unmanned transport vehicle 20. Each unmanned transport vehicle 20 is assigned its own unmanned transport vehicle ID. Further details about the transport management device 203 will be described later.

[0097] The printing overall management device 201, the conveying management device 203, and each unmanned conveyor vehicle 20 each store indoor map information. Therefore, the unmanned conveyor vehicles can move to the desired location according to instructions from the printing overall management device 201 and the conveying management device 203. Furthermore, the coordinate information may also record the positions of the printing press 3 and various processing machines (e.g., folding machine 5, creasing machine 6, etc.).

[0098] The printing press management device 204 is a management device for the printing press 3. For example, when it receives job information from the overall printing management device 201, the printing press management device 204 outputs the job information to the printing press 3. Additionally, when it receives a job completion signal from the printing press 3, it outputs a job completion signal to the overall printing management device 201. Furthermore, the printing press management device 204 can also store operating information and fault detection data of the printing press 3. This information is useful during maintenance and inspection.

[0099] The processing machine management device 205 is a management device for the processing machine that performs processing steps downstream of the printing press 3. Figure 1 In the illustration, a paper folding machine 5 and a creasing machine 6 are shown as examples of processing machines, but the processing machines are not limited to this example. Furthermore, the processing machine management device 205 can also store operating information and anomaly detection data for each processing machine.

[0100] In addition, Figure 10The illustration shows a printing system 200 comprising two stacking machines 1, three unmanned transport vehicles 20, one printing press 3, a paper folding machine 5, and a creasing machine 6. However, the number of these devices is not limited to the arrangement shown in the illustration. That is, at least one arbitrary device is required.

[0101] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the print summary management device 201 according to this embodiment. Figure 11 As shown, the printing overall management device 201 includes a computer, and includes, for example, a CPU 211, a storage unit 212, a main memory 213, a communication unit 214, an input unit 215, and a display unit 216.

[0102] CPU 211 controls the printing system 200 as a whole by means of an OS (Operating System) stored in a storage unit 212 connected via a bus, and performs various processes by executing various programs stored in the storage unit 212.

[0103] Storage unit 212 includes, for example, ROM (Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), flash memory, etc., storing, for example, an operating system such as Windows (registered trademark) for overall control of the printing system 200, applications for printing operations, and various data or files. In addition, storage unit 212 stores programs for implementing various processes and various data required for implementing these processes.

[0104] The main memory 213 is composed of writable memory such as flash memory and RAM (Random Access Memory), and is used as a working area for reading the execution program of the CPU 211 and writing data based on the execution program.

[0105] The communication unit 214 functions as an interface for connecting to a network to communicate with another device and send and receive information.

[0106] The input unit 215 is, for example, a user interface such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel, used by the user to give instructions to the printing overall management device 201.

[0107] The display unit 216 may have a display screen, for example, composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display screen, which displays the results of application software programs executed by the CPU 211.

[0108] Alternatively, the input unit 215 and the display unit 216 may be configured to be connected to the printing overall management device 201 via a network or the like, enabling remote input operations and remote display.

[0109] Furthermore, the hardware configurations of the stacker management device 202, conveyor management device 203, printing press management device 204, and processing machine management device 205 are largely the same as those of the overall printing management device 201. That is, each of the management devices 202 to 205 has a CPU, main memory, storage unit, communication unit, input unit, and display unit. In addition, the input unit and display unit can also be configured to be remotely operated.

[0110] Next, the functions of the printing summary management device 201 according to this embodiment will be described. As an example, a series of processes for implementing the various functions described later are stored in the form of a program. Figure 11 In the storage unit 212 shown, the CPU 211 reads the program into the main memory 213 and performs information processing and arithmetic to realize various functions. Alternatively, the program can be provided in a manner that is pre-installed in the storage unit 212, in a state stored on a computer-readable storage medium, or transmitted via wired or wireless communication. Computer-readable storage media include magnetic disks, optical disks, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, semiconductor memories, etc.

[0111] Figure 12 This is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the functions of the printing overall management device 201. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the printing overall management device 201 includes, for example, a storage unit 212, a job management unit 222, a processing unit 223, and a communication unit 214.

[0112] The storage unit 212 stores a job management list. The job management list is a list that records the manufacturing schedule of printed materials produced by the printing system 200. For example, for each job ID (job identification information) assigned to a printed material, the job information, such as the manufacturing process steps used to manufacture the printed material and the job status, is recorded in the job management list.

[0113] Job information is the various information required to manufacture printed materials, including paper information and job information.

[0114] Paper information includes, for example, paper size, paper thickness, number of sheets printed, number of sheets that make up the printed matter, and number of copies of the printed matter produced.

[0115] The job information includes the manufacturing process steps of the printed material, as well as the IDs of the printing presses used in the manufacturing process and their setting parameters.

[0116] For example, in the case of paper folding after printing, the manufacturing process steps are recorded in the order of printing press 3 and paper folding machine 5. Additionally, setting parameters such as shelf height and guide position are recorded as operation information, associated with the printing press ID of printing press 3. Furthermore, processing specifications and paper feed position offset information for each paper folding machine ID are recorded, associated with the paper folding machine ID of paper folding machine 5.

[0117] Furthermore, as the aforementioned work information, JDF, described in a standard format in the field of printing technology, can be used, for example.

[0118] For each manufacturing process of printed materials (such as "printing", "folding", etc.), the work status is recorded as "completed", "in progress", "not completed", etc.

[0119] The job management unit 222 performs operations such as adding, updating, and deleting jobs stored in the storage unit 212. For example, when accessed via the input unit 215 (see...) Figure 11 When the communication unit 214 receives a request to manufacture a new printed matter, the job ID is assigned to the printed matter that received the request, and the job information is registered in the job management list, thereby updating the job management list.

[0120] Furthermore, when a job completion signal is received via the communication unit 214, the job management unit 222 updates the job status in the job management list based on the job completion signal. This allows for the identification of completed jobs, incomplete jobs, and jobs in progress, and for jobs in progress, it allows for the determination of which process the job has reached. Thus, the progress of jobs can be managed.

[0121] In addition, the Operations Management Department 222 can also change the processing order of the jobs (job IDs) with the status of "incomplete" on the printing machine 3 in the Operations Management List according to the operation progress of the paper folding machine 5, the creasing machine 6, and other processing machines.

[0122] For example, in any processing machine (e.g., a paper folding machine), if the number of jobs to be processed exceeds a certain quantity, or the number of sheets of paper to be processed exceeds a certain number, the execution order of the jobs can be changed so that jobs not involving that processing machine (e.g., the paper folding machine), i.e., jobs where printing machine 3 is in an "incomplete" state, are executed first. This reduces the amount of printed semi-finished products and improves production efficiency.

[0123] The processing unit 223 generates instruction information to be sent to each management device 202-205 based on the job management list. Each management device 202-205 operates the various managed devices according to the instruction information, enabling the printing processing steps in the printing system 200 to be carried out stably and smoothly based on the job information. Furthermore, the series of processing steps performed by the processing unit 223 will be described later.

[0124] The communication unit 214 sends various instruction information generated by the processing unit 223 to the sending destination specified by the processing unit 223, and outputs information received from various management devices 202 to 205 to the processing unit 223.

[0125] Figure 13 This is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the functions of the transport management device 203 in this embodiment.

[0126] The transport management device 203 includes a storage unit 231, an information acquisition unit 232, a determination unit 233, and a communication unit 234.

[0127] Storage unit 231 stores transport management information such as unmanned transport vehicle ID, working status, current location information, operation information, and battery information.

[0128] The operating status is "running" when a stacker is currently assigned for transport, "standby" when no stacker is assigned, and "charging" when charging. The location information of the unmanned transport vehicle 20 is recorded as current location information. Operating information includes, for example, cumulative running time and elapsed time since the last run. Battery information includes, for example, battery charge rate or remaining battery capacity.

[0129] In addition, the various information that constitutes the above-mentioned transmission management information is just one example; some of this information can be registered, and other parameters can be added to the registration.

[0130] The information acquisition unit 232 communicates with each unmanned transport vehicle 20 at predetermined intervals to acquire the aforementioned battery information, current location information, and operation information, and updates the transport management information stored in the storage unit 231.

[0131] Upon receiving delivery instruction information from the printing management unit 201, which includes the stacker ID, location information, and delivery destination information of the stacker to be delivered, the determination unit 233 determines any one of the unmanned delivery vehicles 20 for delivering the stacker 1 based on the delivery management information stored in the storage unit 231. For example, the delivery management unit 203 has a defined evaluation formula that includes parameters such as the elapsed time since the last operation, the cumulative operating time, the remaining battery capacity, and the distance to the location information of the stacker 1 to be delivered. Then, the parameters of the unmanned delivery vehicle 20 currently in "standby mode" obtained from the delivery management information are substituted into the evaluation formula to calculate an evaluation value. The unmanned delivery vehicle 20 with the highest evaluation value is then selected as the unmanned delivery vehicle to execute the delivery instruction information. Furthermore, the parameters in the evaluation formula can also be weighted according to their importance.

[0132] The communication unit 234 establishes communication with the unmanned transport vehicle 20 and with the printing general management device 201, thereby enabling mutual communication.

[0133] Next, the printed matter manufacturing management process performed by the management system 210, which includes the above-described printing general management device 201, will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0134] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the sequence of processes performed by the printing general management device 201, the stacker management device 202, and the transport management device 203 in the printing manufacturing management process of the management system 210, which is mainly related to the printing process. Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing steps performed by the printing general management device 201, the stacker management device 202, and the transport management device 203 in the printing manufacturing management process of the management system 210, which is mainly related to the processing steps.

[0135] like Figure 14 As shown, firstly, the overall printing management device 201 determines the job ID (SA1) for starting printed material production based on the job management list. Then, the determined job ID and the job information associated with that job ID are sent to the stacker management device 202 and the printing press management device 204 (see reference). Figure 10 (SA2). The printing press management device 204 sends the received job ID and job information to the printing press 3. The printing press 3, having received the job ID and job information, enters a standby state until it receives a readiness-to-complete signal from the stacker 1.

[0136] On the other hand, when receiving the job ID and job information from the overall printing management device 201, the stacker management device 202 determines the stacker 1 (SA3) to be assigned the job based on the stacker management information, and sends the stacker information, including the stacker ID and current location information of the determined stacker 1, to the overall printing management device 201 (SA4) in association with the job ID. Furthermore, the stacker management device 202 sends the job ID and job information to the determined stacker 1. Additionally, the stacker management device 202 changes the working status of the stacker 1 assigned the job to "running status" in the stacker management information.

[0137] Stacker control unit 40 of stacker 1 (refer to) receives job ID and job information Figure 9 The lifting platform motor 78 is controlled according to the work information. The lifting platform motor 78 operates, positioning the lifting platform at a height set according to the type of printing press 3. This allows for the appropriate reception of paper ejected from the printing press 3 during printing. Furthermore, the stacker control unit 40 controls the positioning motors 38 and 56, and the vertical movement motor 46. This positions the stop member 26 in the front-rear direction and the paper width guide member 28 in the width direction, corresponding to the size of the paper S specified in the printing operation.

[0138] On the other hand, Figure 14 When the stacker information and job ID are received from the stacker management device 202, the printing overall management device 201 generates transport instruction information based on the received stacker information, job ID, and job information, and sends it to the transport management device 203 (SA5). The transport instruction information includes the current position information of the stacker 1, the stacker ID, and the receiving position PS1 of the printing press 3.

[0139] Based on the conveying instruction information and the conveying management information, the conveying management device 203 determines the unmanned conveyor 20 to be used for conveying the stacker 1, and sends conveying instruction information (SA6) to the determined unmanned conveyor 20. In addition, the conveying management device 203 changes the working status of the unmanned conveyor 20 to "running status" in the conveying management information.

[0140] Upon receiving the transport instruction information, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 moves the stacker 1 to the receiving position PS1 of the printing press 3 according to the transport instruction information. Alternatively, when the unmanned transport vehicle 20 arrives at the stacker 1, the ID reading unit 105 reads the stacker ID 13 and checks whether the stacker ID contained in the transport instruction information matches the stacker ID read by the ID reading unit 105. By performing such a verification process, for example, even when multiple stackers 1 are arranged close together, the stacker 1, which is the object of the transport instruction, can be reliably moved.

[0141] When the unmanned transport vehicle 20 positions the stacker 1 at the receiving position PS1 of the printing press 3 according to the transport instruction information, it sends a transport completion signal to the stacker 1 and also sends a transport completion signal and its own unmanned transport vehicle ID to the transport management device 203. Alternatively, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 can also send the transport completion signal to the stacker 1 via the transport management device 203 and the stacker management device 202. Furthermore, the communication between the unmanned transport vehicle 20 and the stacker 1, as described below, can be either direct between the two or indirect via the transport management device 203 and the stacker management device 202.

[0142] Upon receiving a delivery completion signal and the unmanned transport vehicle ID (SA7), the delivery management device 203 sends a delivery completion signal (SA8) to the printing summary management device 201. Additionally, the delivery management device 203 acquires the battery information of the unmanned transport vehicle 20 that received the delivery completion signal and determines whether the remaining battery capacity is below a predetermined lower limit. If the remaining battery capacity is below the lower limit, the device sends a charging instruction to the unmanned transport vehicle 20 to guide it to a charging station and changes the delivery management information's operating status to "charging state." If the remaining battery capacity exceeds the lower limit, the operating status is changed to "standby state."

[0143] On the other hand, for example, the stacker 1, having received a delivery completion signal from the unmanned transport vehicle 20, sends a readiness completion signal to the printing press 3. Additionally, the battery 94 of the stacker 1 (see reference...) Figure 9 Power is received from the power supply head 96 located near the printing press 3 via the power receiving head 90 as needed.

[0144] When the ready-to-be-completed signal is received from the stacker 1, the printing press 3 begins printing based on the job information received from the printing press management device 204. A printing start signal is sent to the printing press management device 204. The printing press management device 204 manages the status. Furthermore, the printing press management device 204 can send a printing start signal to the overall printing management device 201.

[0145] A sensor for detecting discharged paper is installed near the paper discharge port 3b of the printing press 3. The printing press 3 counts the number of sheets printed based on the detection signal from the sensor and sends the count to the stacker 1. The stacker control unit 40 of the stacker 1 controls the motor 78 for the lifting platform based on the count and the paper thickness obtained from the job information. As a result, the lifting platform descends according to the stack count and can receive the discharged paper from the printing press 3 at the appropriate position.

[0146] When the printing press 3 detects that the count has reached the number of prints specified by the job information, it sends a printing job completion signal to the stacker 1 and the printing press management device 204 configured at the receiving position PS1.

[0147] Stacker control unit 40 of stacker 1 (see reference) Figure 9 Upon receiving a signal indicating the printing job is complete, the control motor 78 lowers the lifting platform to its original position. Then, the stacker control unit 40 controls the direct-acting cylinder 62 to tilt the stacking rack 22 at a predetermined angle for conveying it to the next processing machine. For example, as... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the tilting mechanism 60 of the stacker 1 makes the front F side of the stacking rack 22 higher than the rear R side. As a result, when the stacker 1 moves forward F by the unmanned transport vehicle 20, it can prevent the papers S stacked on the stacking rack 22 from flying off and falling from the open side where the stop 26 or each paper width guide 28 is not provided.

[0148] On the other hand, when a printing job completion signal is received from the printing press 3, the printing press management device 204 sends the printing press ID, job ID and printing job completion signal to the printing overall management device 201.

[0149] When a printing job completion signal is received (SA9), the printing overall management device 201 updates the job management list by changing the status of the printing process for that job ID in the job management list to "completed" (SA10). Then, the process returns to step SA1, where the next job ID to be executed is determined from the job management list. The printing process for the next job ID is then executed, and the aforementioned processing is performed on the determined job.

[0150] Additionally, when the printing job completion signal is received as described above ( Figure 15 (SB1) The printing overall management device 201 determines the processing machine (e.g., folding machine 5) to perform the processing operation based on the operation information associated with the operation ID that received the printing operation completion signal, and sends the processing machine ID, operation ID, and operation information (SB2) to the processing machine management device 205. In addition, at this time, the stacker ID of the stacker 1 that is feeding paper can also be sent to the processing machine.

[0151] Upon receiving this information, the machine management device 205 sends the job ID, job information, and stacker ID to the machine identified by the machine ID (e.g., folding machine 5). For example, upon receiving the job ID and job information, the stacker 5 performs a reset based on the job information and enters the standby state for that job until the stacker 1 moves to the paper feed position PS2 configuration.

[0152] Additionally, the printing overall management device 201 generates transport instruction information for moving the stacker 1, positioned at the receiving position PS1 of the printing press 3, to the paper feeding position of the folding machine 5, and sends this information to the transport management device 203 (SB3). In addition to the stacker ID and the stacker's current position information, the transport instruction information may also include information about the paper stacked in the stacker ID (e.g., paper size, paper thickness, number of sheets). Furthermore, the transport instruction information may also include offset information relative to the paper feeding position of the folding machine 5. Additionally, the transport instruction information may also include information related to the paper feeding direction relative to the folding machine 5 (e.g., longitudinal or transverse direction). Furthermore, the position information of the receiving position PS1 of the printing press 3 may be used as the stacker's current position information.

[0153] The transport management device 203 determines the unmanned transport vehicle 20 to transport the stacker 1 based on the transport instruction information and the transport management information, and sends transport instruction information (SB4) to the determined unmanned transport vehicle 20. Upon receiving the transport instruction information, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 moves the stacker 1 from the receiving position PS1 of the printing press 3 to the paper feeding position PS2 of the folding machine 5 according to the transport instruction information. Alternatively, when the unmanned transport vehicle 20 reaches the position of the stacker 1, the ID reading unit can read the stacker ID 13 and verify whether the stacker ID contained in the transport instruction information matches the stacker ID read by the ID reading unit 105.

[0154] Furthermore, during transport by the unmanned transport vehicle 20, the stacking rack 22 in the stacker 1 is tilted at a predetermined angle. This prevents the papers S stacked on the stacking rack 22 from scattering and falling off the open sides without the stop 26 or the paper width guides 28 during travel, thus enabling stable travel.

[0155] Furthermore, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 can adjust its acceleration or speed during transport based on the paper information contained in the transport instruction information. For example, the stack weight of the papers stacked by the stacker 1 can be estimated based on the number of sheets, paper size, and paper thickness. The unmanned transport vehicle 20 adjusts its acceleration or speed based on the total weight of the stacker 1 obtained from this information, thereby achieving stable movement. In addition, the transport management device 203 can also estimate the stack weight of the paper based on paper information such as the number of sheets, and include the estimated stack information in the transport instruction information sent to the unmanned transport vehicle 20.

[0156] The unmanned transport vehicle 20 moves the stacker 1 to the paper feeding position PS2 of the folding machine 5. Based on the information related to the paper feeding direction of the folding machine 5 contained in the transport instruction information, the configuration direction of the stacker 1 is controlled so that the paper feeding direction of the stacker 1 is appropriate. Thus, even if the discharge direction of the sheet in the printing press 3 is different from the paper feeding direction of the sheet in the folding machine 5, the stacker 1 can be set in an appropriate orientation so as to be an appropriate paper feeding direction corresponding to the paper feeding direction of the folding machine 5.

[0157] Furthermore, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 adjusts the position of the centerline CL1 of the stacker 1 relative to the centerline CL2 of the folding machine 5 when viewed from above, based on the offset information contained in the transport instruction information. For example, the positional relationship between the centerline CL1 of the stacker 1 and the centerline CL2 of the folding machine 5 varies depending on whether the folding machine 5, which is located on the centerline CL2 relative to the mounting position of the folding knife (not shown), is at the center of the paper or offset from the center of the paper.

[0158] For example, if the folding machine 5, with its blade positioned on the center line CL2, deviates from the center of the paper at the desired folding position, the center line CL1 of the stacker 1 needs to be aligned with the corresponding paper feed position PS2. Since the paper feed position PS2 varies depending on the folding machine 5, the paper size, and the desired folding position, the conveying instruction information sent to the unmanned conveyor 20 includes offset information related to the paper feed position PS2.

[0159] For example, when the unmanned transport vehicle 20 has a zero offset, such as Figure 16 As shown, stacker 1 is positioned so that its centerline CL2 coincides with the centerline CL1 of stacker 1 when viewed from above. Furthermore, when the offset of the unmanned transport vehicle 20 is not zero, it adjusts its position according to this offset, as follows: Figure 17 As shown, the stacker 1 is positioned such that the center line CL1 of the stacker 1 is offset relative to the center line CL2 of the folding machine 5.

[0160] When the unmanned transport vehicle 20 configures the stacker 1 at the paper feeding position PS2 corresponding to the offset information, it sends a transport completion signal to the stacker 1 and sends a transport completion signal and its own unmanned transport vehicle ID to the transport management device 203.

[0161] If the conveying management device 203 receives the conveying completion signal and the unmanned conveyor ID (SB5), it sends the conveying completion signal (SB6) to the printing overall management device 201.

[0162] Additionally, the transport management device 203 acquires the battery information of the unmanned transport vehicle 20 that has received the transport completion signal, and determines whether the remaining battery capacity is below a predetermined lower limit. As a result, if the remaining battery capacity is below the lower limit, it sends a charging instruction to the unmanned transport vehicle 20 to guide it to a charging station, and changes the transport management information's operating status to "charging state." Conversely, if the remaining battery capacity exceeds the lower limit, it changes the operating status to "standby state."

[0163] On the other hand, the stacker control unit 40 of the stacker 1, which receives the delivery completion signal from the unmanned transport vehicle 20, controls the direct-acting cylinder 62 to return the stacking rack 22 to a horizontal state. Furthermore, the stacker control unit 40 obtains information about the processing steps (such as the height information of the lifting platform) from the operation information already received from the stacker management device 202, and controls the up-and-down movement motor 46 and the lifting platform motor 78 according to the obtained information.

[0164] Therefore, the lifting platform motor 78 operates to position the stacking rack 22 at the paper feeding height position set according to the type of paper folding machine 5. Then, the stacker control unit 40 activates the up-and-down movement motor 46 (see reference...) Figure 6 ) work, such as Figure 18 As shown, the stop 26 of the stacker 1 is displaced downwards. This is to prevent the paper separator 5a of the folding machine 5 from interfering with the stop 26.

[0165] Additionally, as needed, the battery 94 of the stacker 1 receives power from the power supply head 96 located near the origami machine 5 via the power receiving head 90.

[0166] When the stacker control unit 40 completes positioning and is ready to feed paper to the folding machine 5, it sends a ready-to-complete signal to the folding machine 5. When the ready-to-complete signal is received from the stacker 1, the folding machine 5 determines whether the upper surface of the stacker 1's lifting platform is detected by an upper surface detection sensor (not shown) located near the paper feed port of the folding machine 5.

[0167] As a result, without detecting the upper surface, the folding machine 5 sends a command to the stacker 1 to raise the lifting platform. The stacker control unit 40 then controls the lifting platform motor 78 to raise the platform. This operation continues until the upper surface of the lifting platform is detected by the upper surface detection sensor. Then, when the upper surface detection sensor detects the upper surface of the lifting platform, the folding machine 5 determines that the stacker 1's lifting platform is positioned correctly and begins folding based on the work information received from the processing machine management device 205.

[0168] Additionally, before starting a job, the folding machine 5 can obtain the stacker ID of the stacker 1 and perform a verification process to check whether the obtained stacker ID matches the stacker ID associated with the next job ID. By performing such a verification, it can be confirmed whether the stacker consistent with the next job is configured at the paper feed position PS2.

[0169] A sensor is installed near the paper discharge port of the folding machine 5 to detect the discharged paper. The folding machine 5 counts the number of sheets processed based on the detection signal from the sensor. The number of sheets processed is sent from the folding machine 5 directly or via the processing machine management device 205 and the stacker management device 202 to the stacker 1. The stacker control unit 40 controls the lifting platform motor 78 according to the relationship between the remaining number of sheets and the height of the paper supply section of the folding machine 5, moving the lifting platform to an appropriate height position according to the progress of processing.

[0170] Then, when the count is detected to have reached the number of sheets to be processed as specified by the job information, the folding machine 5 sends a processing job completion signal to the stacker 1 and the processing machine management device 205 configured at the paper feeding position PS2.

[0171] When a processing operation completion signal is received, the stacker control unit 40 of stacker 1 controls the lifting platform motor 78 to lower the lifting platform to its moving position. Additionally, stacker 1 sends the processing operation completion signal and its own stacker ID to the stacker management device 202. When the processing operation completion signal is received (SB7), the stacker management device 202 changes the operating status of the received stacker ID to "standby state" (SB8).

[0172] On the other hand, when the processing machine management device 205 receives the processing operation completion signal from the folding machine 5, it sends the folding machine ID, the operation ID and the processing operation completion signal to the printing overall management device 201.

[0173] If a processing job completion signal is received (SB9), the printing overall management device 201 updates the job management list by changing the status of the processing step for that job ID in the job management list to "completed" (SB10). Then, processing returns to step SB1 and enters a standby state until the next printing job completion signal is received. Alternatively, if a printing job completion signal has already been received, subsequent processing is performed.

[0174] As described above, this embodiment achieves the following effects.

[0175] For example, the printing overall management device 201 generates a transport instruction to transport the stacker 1, which is stacked with the paper S discharged from the printing press 3, from the receiving position PS1 of the printing press 3 to the paper supply position PS2 of the next processing machine (e.g., folding machine 5), and sends it to the transport management device 203. As a result, the stacker 1 can be automatically moved from the printing press 3 to the processing machine that is the next process using the unmanned transport vehicle 20, thus achieving labor saving.

[0176] Furthermore, by including at least one of the sheet size, sheet thickness, and number of sheets being stacked in the conveying instruction information, the weight of the stacker 1 can be estimated based on this information. Therefore, taking into account the weight of the stacker, a suitable unmanned conveyor 20 for conveying the stacker 1 can be selected. Furthermore, during the conveying of the stacker 1, stable movement can be achieved by setting an appropriate speed or acceleration based on this paper information.

[0177] Furthermore, by including the processor identification information assigned to the processor and the offset information of the sheet supply position in the processor in the conveying instruction information, even if the sheet supply position varies depending on the type of processor, paper size, and folding shape, the stacker 1 can be set at the appropriate paper supply position according to the desired folding position. As a result, a stable and smooth sheet supply can be achieved.

[0178] In addition, based on the job information, a transport instruction is generated to transport the stacker 1 with unstacked paper to the receiving position PS1 of the printing press 3, so that the stacker 1 can be moved to the printing press 3 automatically, which can further reduce labor costs.

[0179] In addition, by including the stacker ID in the delivery instruction information, for example, even when multiple stackers 1 are close to the setup, it is possible to prevent the wrong delivery of stacker 1 that is not the intended delivery object by performing a check based on the stacker ID.

[0180] Furthermore, by including information related to the supply direction of paper S to the aforementioned processing machine in the conveying instruction information, even if the discharge direction of paper S in printing press 3 is different from the supply direction of paper S in the processing machine, paper S can be supplied in an appropriate orientation corresponding to the processing specifications in each processing machine.

[0181] The present invention has been described above using embodiments, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. Various changes or modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the spirit of the invention, and the manner in which such changes or modifications are applied is also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0182] Furthermore, the various processing flows described in the above embodiments are also examples. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be changed.

[0183] In the above embodiment, communication occurs between the printing overall management device 201 and each management device 202-205, but the functions of management devices 202-205 can also be included in the printing overall management device 201. Furthermore, communication between the unmanned transport vehicle 20 and the printing overall management device 201 is conducted via the transport management device 203, but information can also be exchanged directly between the unmanned transport vehicle 20 and the printing overall management device 201 without going through the transport management device 203. Similarly, information can also be exchanged directly between other management devices, such as the stacker machine 1, the printing machine 3, various processing machines, and the printing overall management device 201.

[0184] In addition, any one of the management devices can also have the functions of other management devices. For example, the processing machine management device 205 can also have the functions of the stacker management device 202 and the conveyor management device 203.

[0185] <Variation Example 1>

[0186] In the above embodiments, a paper folding machine 5 has been described as an example of a processing machine that feeds paper from the stacker 1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, as Figure 19 As shown, the present invention can also be applied to the crease press 6 as a processing machine. That is, when the crease press 6 is registered as a downstream process of the printing press 3 in the work information, the crease press 6 can be stably fed with paper by performing the same processing as described above.

[0187] In addition, in the case of the crease machine 6, for example, the stacker control unit 40 of the stacker 1 controls the motor 78 of the lifting table according to the relationship between the number of stacked sheets of paper S and the height of the paper supply unit of the crease machine 6, and adjusts the lifting table to an appropriate height position according to the progress of processing.

[0188] <Variation Example 2>

[0189] In the above embodiment, the movement of the stacker 1 is carried out by the unmanned transport vehicle 20, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, as Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown, casters 110 can also be provided on each of the feet 14 of a portion of the stacker 1, allowing the stacker 1 to move without the use of the unmanned transport vehicle 20. In this case, a handle 112 is provided on the upper rear side of the main body 16 for the operator to transport the stacker 1. The stacker 1 is supported by caster stops 110a (see reference) mounted on the casters 110. Figure 20 It is positioned at a fixed location such as receiving position PS1 or paper feeding position PS2.

[0190] In this configuration, a stacker ID13 is installed on the lower surface of the base 12 on the front F side, and an ID reader 114 is installed near a processing machine such as a printing press 3 or a folding machine 5. The data received by the ID reader 114 is sent to the control unit of the processing machine such as the printing press 3 or the folding machine 5.

[0191] Alternatively, a traveling motor or other traveling device can be installed on the stacker 1 to enable it to move on its own.

[0192] Alternatively, the tilt angle of the stacking rack 22 of the stacker 1 during its movement can be changed according to the amount of paper S stacked. For example, the tilt angle is increased when the amount of paper S stacked is small compared to when it is large.

[0193] The tilt angle of the stacker 22 can also be varied according to the magnitude of the acceleration (including deceleration as negative acceleration) of the stacker 1 during its movement. For example, when the acceleration of the stacker 1 is large, the tilt angle is increased compared to when it is small.

[0194] <Variation Example 3>

[0195] In step SB3 or step SB4 above (refer to...) Figure 15 The transport instruction information sent in the printer may also include information related to the orientation of the paper S discharged from the printer 3 to the stacker 1, i.e., the stacking direction of the paper S in the stacker 1. For example, the transport instruction information may also include information indicating whether the paper S is stacked longitudinally or laterally on the stacker 1.

[0196] The unmanned transport vehicle 20 can also transport the stacker 1 with the length direction of the paper S as the direction of travel, based on the information related to the orientation of the paper S contained in the transport instruction information.

[0197] For example, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 may also be equipped with a rotating mechanism that allows the stacker 1 to rotate about a vertical axis. This rotating mechanism allows the stacking direction of the stacker 1 to rotate about a vertical axis relative to the travel direction of the unmanned transport vehicle 20. The rotating mechanism may include, for example, a turntable mounted on the upper part of the unmanned transport vehicle 20 and supporting the stacker 1, a rotating shaft that rotatably supports the turntable about a vertical axis relative to the main body of the unmanned transport vehicle 20, and a rotary motor that rotates the rotating shaft about a vertical axis.

[0198] Thus, since the conveying instruction information includes information related to the stacking direction of the paper S in the stacker 1, the unmanned conveyor 20 can convey the stacker 1 in a direction that is the same as the length direction of the paper S. As a result, deformation of the sheet material during conveying can be prevented.

[0199] <Variation Example 4>

[0200] The transport instruction information sent by the transport management device 203 to the unmanned transport vehicle 20 may also include information on the travel route of the unmanned transport vehicle 20 and information on special points along the travel route. Special points include at least one of the following: floor inclination information, floor elevation difference information, temperature, humidity, air conditioning airflow, and air conditioning airflow direction.

[0201] The unmanned transport vehicle 20 can also adjust its speed or acceleration, or reconstruct its route, based on information about specific points on the route contained in the transport instruction information.

[0202] For example, when there is an inclination of more than a predetermined angle relative to the direction intersecting with the direction of travel, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 can also reconstruct the path that meanders in the inclination interval, or rotate the orientation of the stacker 1 relative to the direction of travel so that the length direction of the paper S stacked on the stacker 1 in front of the inclination interval becomes the same as the inclination direction.

[0203] Furthermore, even when there is a downward slope in the direction of travel, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 can also reconstruct a detour path to avoid the downward slope. Additionally, as... Figure 8 As shown, when the stacking rack 22 in the stacker 1 is tilted at a predetermined angle, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 can also travel in the downward tilting section while adjusting the stacking tilt of the paper S, thereby reducing the difference between the downward tilting angle and the tilting angle of the paper S. For example, the unmanned transport vehicle 20 can also travel in the downward tilting section by rotating the orientation of the stacker 1 by 180 degrees, thereby reducing the difference between the downward tilting angle and the tilting angle of the paper S.

[0204] Additionally, when the route is inclined, it is possible to travel at a lower speed than usual in the inclined section.

[0205] In addition, when there is a difference in floor level, for example, when there are stacked papers S in stacker 1, a detour path can be constructed so that the paper S can pass directly when there are no stacked papers S.

[0206] Furthermore, paper S is susceptible to the effects of temperature and humidity, such as moisture absorption under high humidity, condensation under rapid temperature changes, static electricity under low humidity, or the scattering of paper scraps. Typically, temperature and humidity are adjusted at the printing site. However, for example, if the travel path included in the transport instruction information received from the transport management device 203 involves movement across buildings (movement of paper from the warehouse to the processing site), it is possible to pass through areas where temperature or humidity is not adjusted. In such cases, for example, if paper S is stacked in the stacker 1, the travel path can be reconstructed to move only in areas where humidity or temperature is adjusted. Alternatively, if no paper S is stacked in the stacker 1, the path can be passed through areas where temperature or humidity is not adjusted without changing the path. Additionally, for example, since some types of paper S are not easily affected by temperature or humidity (e.g., resin film), it can be determined whether a path change is necessary based on the type or state of the paper S stacked on the stacker 1.

[0207] In addition, if the air volume of the air conditioner is greater than the specified value, the path that detours in the area with strong air volume can be reconstructed, or the orientation of the stacker 1 can be rotated in front of the area so that the main body 16 of the stacker 1 is in the upwind direction.

[0208] Thus, since the conveying instruction information includes information about the travel path from the conveying source of the stacker 1 to the conveying destination, as well as specific points along that path, the unmanned conveyor 20 can adjust the conveying speed or acceleration, reconstruct the travel path, and adjust the orientation of the stacker 1 based on factors such as floor tilt. This helps to suppress deformation of the moving paper S.

[0209] <Variation Example 5>

[0210] In the above embodiments, an example was given of a job requiring one stacker 1, but there are also cases where multiple stackers 1 are needed to perform a job. For example, if the number of sheets of paper in a job is set to 5000 and the maximum stacking capacity of stacker 1 is 3000 sheets, two stackers 1 are required. In this case, the stacker management device 202 determines the multiple stackers 1 to perform the job. The printing overall management device 201 generates transport instruction information based on the information of the multiple stackers 1 determined by the stacker management device 202. At this time, the stacker IDs of the multiple stackers 1 performing a job may also be included in the transport instruction information.

[0211] Furthermore, depending on the specific operation, there are operations where paper is fed sequentially starting from the last sheet discharged from printing press 3 to the next processing machine. In this case, it is necessary to change (reverse the arrangement) the order of the stackers 1 for stacking the sheets S discharged from printing press 3 and the order of the stackers 1 for feeding paper to the next processing machine. To address this, the delivery instruction information sent from the printing control unit 201 can include at least one of the order of stackers 1 for stacking the sheets S discharged from printing press 3 and the order of stackers 1 for feeding paper S to the next processing machine. Thus, even if the order of stackers 1 for stacking the sheets S discharged from printing press 3 differs from the order of stackers 1 for feeding paper to the next processing machine, paper S can still be supplied smoothly.

[0212] By including such information in the transport instruction information, the job can be executed smoothly even when the number of sheets in a single operation exceeds the maximum stacking capacity of stacker 1.

[0213] In the above embodiments and variations, paper was used as an example as the medium conveyed by the stacker 1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention can be applied to sheet-like media such as resin films.

[0214] Alternatively, a rotating mechanism can be provided to rotate the stacking rack 22 about a vertical axis, and the stacker control unit 40 can be used to rotate the stacking rack 22 about a vertical axis. The rotating mechanism is provided, for example, between the stacking rack 22 and the lifting platform 24, and includes a pivot that supports the stacking rack 22 about a vertical axis relative to the lifting platform 24, and a rotary motor that rotates the stacking rack 22 about the pivot.

[0215] By having a rotating mechanism, after receiving paper S from printing press 3, the stacking rack 22 can be rotated 90° and brought close to sheet processing machines such as folding machine 5, and paper S can be supplied while it is still 90° rotated from the moment of receipt. Alternatively, as described above, instead of the rotating mechanism that rotates the stacking rack 22, the orientation of the paper S can be changed by rotating the stacker 1 as a whole using unmanned transport vehicle 20.

[0216] Figure label:

[0217] 1. Stacker (paper stacking device)

[0218] 3. Printing press

[0219] 3a Back

[0220] 3b Paper feed port

[0221] 5. Paper folding machine (processing machine)

[0222] 5a Paper Separator

[0223] 6. Folding machine (processing machine)

[0224] 7 Ministry of Communications

[0225] 10. Partition Section

[0226] 12 bases

[0227] 12a Frontend

[0228] 13 Stacker ID (Identification Information)

[0229] 14. Feet

[0230] 16 Main body

[0231] 16a Front Surface

[0232] 18 Ministry of Communications

[0233] 20. Unmanned transport vehicles (unmanned transport devices)

[0234] 20a wheels

[0235] 20b Lifting Platform

[0236] 22 Stacking racks

[0237] 22a base end

[0238] 24 Lifting Platform

[0239] 24a base end

[0240] 26 Stopping components

[0241] 26a Upper and lower racks

[0242] 28 Paper width guide

[0243] 30 Stopper travel groove

[0244] 32 brackets

[0245] 34 Sliding guide shaft

[0246] 36 Feed screw

[0247] 38 Positioning motor

[0248] 40 Stacker Control Unit

[0249] 42 small gears

[0250] 44 pivots

[0251] 46. ​​Up and down moving motor

[0252] 48 Paper width guide groove

[0253] 50 brackets

[0254] 52 Sliding guide shaft

[0255] 54 Feed screw

[0256] 56 Positioning motor

[0257] 60 Tilting Mechanism

[0258] 62 Direct-acting cylinder

[0259] 64 strokes

[0260] 66 Resale

[0261] 68 fulcrum pins

[0262] 70 Arm

[0263] 72 Chains

[0264] 74 Sprocket

[0265] 76 pivots

[0266] 77 Lifting Mechanism

[0267] 78 Electric motor for lifting platform

[0268] 80 Synchronous Belt

[0269] 82 Worm Gear (Lifting Mechanism)

[0270] 84 rounds

[0271] 86 Spur Gear

[0272] 88 wheels

[0273] 90 Power receiving head (power receiving device)

[0274] 92 Power supply cable

[0275] 94 batteries

[0276] 96 power supply head

[0277] 96A power socket

[0278] 97 Battery Management Device

[0279] 101 Ministry of Communications

[0280] 103 Unmanned Conveyor Control Department

[0281] 105 ID Reading Department

[0282] 110 casters

[0283] 110a Caster Wheel Stop

[0284] 112 Handle

[0285] 114 ID Reading Department

[0286] 120 CPU

[0287] 121 Storage Department

[0288] 122 Main Memory

[0289] 200 Printing System

[0290] 201 Printing Overall Management Device

[0291] 202 Stacker Management Device

[0292] 203 Conveying Management Device

[0293] 204 Printing Press Management Device

[0294] 205 Machining Machine Management Device

[0295] 210 Management System

[0296] 211 CPU

[0297] 212 Storage Department

[0298] 213 Main Memory

[0299] 214 Ministry of Communications

[0300] 215 Input Section

[0301] 216 Display Section

[0302] 222 Operations Management Department

[0303] 223 Processing Department

[0304] 231 Storage Department

[0305] 232 Information Acquisition Department

[0306] 233 Determination Department

[0307] 234 Ministry of Communications

[0308] CL1 (Stacker) Centerline

[0309] CL2 (folding machine) centerline

[0310] F (base) front

[0311] FL floor surface

[0312] PS1 receiver location

[0313] PS2 paper feed position (supply position)

[0314] R (base) rear

[0315] S paper

Claims

1. A printing overall management device communicatively connected to a conveying management device, the conveying management device managing multiple unmanned conveying devices of a sheet stacking device capable of stacking sheets discharged from a printing press, the printing overall management device being characterized in that it comprises: The processing unit generates conveying instruction information based on the operation information registered for the manufacturing process steps used to manufacture printed materials, for conveying the sheet stacking device, which stacks the sheets discharged from the printing press, from the sheet receiving position of the printing press to the sheet supply position of the next processing machine via one of the unmanned conveying devices. And a communication unit that sends the transport instruction information to the transport management device, wherein the transport instruction information includes information relating to the orientation of the sheet discharged from the printing press to the sheet stacking device.

2. The printing overall management device according to claim 1, wherein, The conveying instruction information includes at least one of the sheet size, sheet thickness, and number of sheets stacked by the sheet stacking device.

3. The printing overall management device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The conveying instruction information includes machine identification information assigned to the processing machine and offset information of the sheet supply position in the processing machine.

4. The printing overall management device according to claim 1, wherein, The conveying instruction information includes information related to the paper feeding direction of the sheet stacking device to the processing machine.

5. The printing overall management device according to claim 1, wherein, When multiple sheet stacking devices are required to perform a job, the conveying instruction information includes at least one of the following: identification information of the multiple sheet stacking devices performing a job, the order in which the sheet stacking devices stack the sheets discharged from the printing press, and the order in which the sheet stacking devices supply the sheets to the next processing machine.

6. The printing overall management device according to claim 1, wherein, Based on the job information, the processing unit generates transport instruction information for transporting the sheet stacking device (without stacked sheets) to the sheet receiving position of the printing press.

7. The printing overall management device according to claim 1, wherein, The conveying instruction information includes identification information assigned to each of the sheet stacking devices.

8. A conveying management device for managing multiple unmanned conveying devices of a sheet stacking device capable of stacking sheets discharged from a printing press, characterized in that, include: The information acquisition unit acquires at least one of the battery information, operating information, and current location information of each of the unmanned transport devices. The determining unit, upon receiving conveying instruction information for conveying the sheet stacking device, determines any one of the unmanned conveying devices based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit and the conveying instruction information; And a communication unit that sends the conveying instruction information to the determined unmanned conveying device, wherein the conveying instruction information includes at least one of the following: the sheet size, sheet thickness and number of sheets stacked by the sheet stacking device, the identification information of the sheet stacking device, and the identification information of the printing press or processing machine that is the conveying destination of the sheet stacking device, wherein the conveying instruction information includes information related to the orientation of the sheets discharged from the printing press to the sheet stacking device.

9. The conveying management device according to claim 8, wherein, The conveying instruction information includes information related to the travel path from the conveying source of the sheet stacking device to the conveying destination, as well as information on special points on the travel path, including at least one of floor inclination information, floor elevation difference information, temperature, humidity, air conditioning airflow, and air conditioning airflow direction.

10. A printing system, characterized in that, include: Printing overall management device according to any one of claims 1 to 7; And the conveying management device according to claim 8 or 9.

11. A method by which a computer performs the following steps: generating conveying instruction information based on job information for conveying a sheet stacking device, in which sheets discharged from a printing press are stacked, to a sheet supply position of a processing machine for the next step via an unmanned conveyor, the job information describing job information for manufacturing printed matter; including information related to the orientation of the sheets discharged from the printing press to the sheet stacking device; and sending the conveying instruction information to a conveying management device that manages a plurality of unmanned conveyors conveying the sheet stacking device.

12. A computer program for enabling a computer to function as a printing management device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

Images