Web storage and method for buffering a strip

Abstract

This invention relates to a fabric storage device and method for cushioning strips. The fabric storage device includes a first set of cushioning rollers and a second set of cushioning rollers, wherein the first set of cushioning rollers and the second set of cushioning rollers define a meandering first cushioning path between the first set of cushioning rollers and the second set of cushioning rollers. The fabric storage device also includes a first annular drive element for driving the first set of cushioning rollers and the second set of cushioning rollers. The fabric storage device further includes a third set of cushioning rollers and a fourth set of cushioning rollers, which are coaxial with the first set of cushioning rollers and the second set of cushioning rollers, respectively, and define a meandering second cushioning path between the third set of cushioning rollers and the fourth set of cushioning rollers. The fabric storage device also includes a second annular drive element for driving the third set of cushioning rollers and the fourth set of cushioning rollers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a fabric storage device and method for cushioning strips, and particularly to a fabric storage device and method for strips used in tire forming. Background Technology

[0002] A fabric storage device is used to temporarily store, accumulate, or buffer a certain length of strip between continuous input and discontinuous output. For example, the fabric storage device can be placed between an extruder for extruded continuous strip and a cutter for cutting the continuous strip into fixed-length components for tires. The fabric storage device includes two sets of rollers that can move toward and away from each other to change the buffering capacity of the device. As the strip is conveyed through the fabric storage device, the rollers rotate passively together with the strip.

[0003] The strip may deform due to the forces generated in the fabric storage device. In particular, when a relatively thin or uncured strip is fed over the rollers, the inertia that causes the rollers to move, however small, must be overcome, potentially inducing tension in the strip. To address this problem, it is known to provide a liner of relatively strong material to the strip, which reinforces the strip along its path through the storage device. After the strip leaves the storage device, the strip and liner separate, and the liner is collected in a waste bin.

[0004] KR 2003-0042666 A acknowledges that thin strips are sensitive to small factors that cause material deformation. The patent proposes using a chain that drives the rollers at the correct speed, thereby eliminating tension in the strip and preventing strip deformation due to external forces. The patent also discloses a twisted belt arranged in a loop along the strip's path and used as a liner to prevent direct contact between the strip and the rollers.

[0005] The capacity of the fabric storage device according to KR 2003-0042666 A is limited to a single buffer path formed by its annular loop. The capacity of the fabric storage device can only be increased by increasing the length of the single buffer path and thereby increasing the total floor space of the fabric storage device.

[0006] NL 2001509 C2 discloses a fabric storage device having: at least two passively and freely rotatable rollers and a return roller on each shaft, the rollers forming two consecutive buffer paths; and return rollers for returning the strip from the first buffer path to the second buffer path. In this way, the capacity of the fabric storage device can be doubled. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In the fabric storage device according to NL 2001509 C2, the increased length of the buffer strip means that the friction and / or inertia between the buffer roller and the strip will have a stronger effect on speed differences and tension compared to a single buffer path in KR 2003-0042666A.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a fabric storage device and method for cushioning strips, wherein the capacity of the fabric storage device can be increased while mitigating the negative effects of friction and / or inertia.

[0009] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a fabric storage device for a cushioning strip, wherein the fabric storage device includes: a first retainer and a second retainer, wherein at least one of the first retainer and the second retainer is movable in a cushioning direction toward and away from the other of the first retainer and the second retainer to change the cushioning capacity of the fabric storage device, wherein the fabric storage device further includes: a first set of cushioning rollers and a second set of cushioning rollers, the first set of cushioning rollers and the second set of cushioning rollers being held by the first retainer and the second retainer respectively, wherein the first set of cushioning rollers and the second set of cushioning rollers define a cushioning zone along the first set of cushioning rollers and the second set of cushioning rollers. The fabric storage device further includes: a first annular drive element for driving a first set of buffer rollers and a second set of buffer rollers; a third set of buffer rollers and a fourth set of buffer rollers coaxial with the first set of buffer rollers and the second set of buffer rollers, respectively, defining a second annular drive element for driving the third set of buffer rollers and the fourth set of buffer rollers; and a second annular drive element for driving the third set of buffer rollers and the fourth set of buffer rollers.

[0010] By guiding the strip along a first buffer path, then transferring the strip from the first buffer path to a second buffer path, and then guiding the strip along the second buffer path, the capacity of the fabric storage device can be significantly increased. For example, the capacity can be doubled. It is even conceivable to have a third or additional buffer path to further increase the capacity of the fabric storage device.

[0011] By providing a first annular drive element for driving the buffer roller associated with the first buffer path and a second annular drive element for driving the buffer roller associated with the second buffer path, the negative impact of increased capacity on friction and / or inertia can be mitigated. The first and second annular drive elements can be configured to extend or travel along the first and second buffer paths, respectively, and behave more or less in the same manner as the strip in each of the corresponding buffer paths. Therefore, the speed at which each buffer roller is driven can be maintained equal to or approximately equal to the speed of the strip at the corresponding buffer roller. Thus, the strip does not need to overcome the inertia of the buffer rollers and can be conveyed along the first buffer path of the fabric storage device and subsequently along the second buffer path without excessive tension being applied to the strip.

[0012] Thus, despite the increased capacity, the cloth storage device according to the invention is suitable for cushioning fairly long, fragile or deformable strips, such as rubber strips used in tire molding, without applying excessive tension to the strips.

[0013] Moreover, since the tension is reduced or almost non-existent, the strip can be cushioned without the need for a lining to support it.

[0014] Preferably, the fabric storage device includes: a plurality of first shafts for mounting a first set of buffer rollers and a second set of buffer rollers, wherein the fabric storage device further includes: a plurality of second shafts for mounting a third set of buffer rollers and a fourth set of buffer rollers, wherein the plurality of first shafts are hollow, and wherein each of the plurality of second shafts extends concentrically through a corresponding first shaft of the plurality of first shafts. Thus, the third set of buffer rollers can be mounted coaxially relative to the first set of buffer rollers. Similarly, thus, the fourth set of buffer rollers can be mounted coaxially relative to the second set of buffer rollers. Therefore, the second buffer path can be at least partially a copy of the first buffer path.

[0015] More preferably, the fabric storage device includes: a first set of buffer wheels and a second set of buffer wheels, which are respectively connected to a plurality of first shafts and a plurality of second shafts, wherein a first annular drive element is arranged to engage with the first set of buffer wheels, and a second annular drive element is arranged to engage with the second set of buffer wheels. The buffer wheels can effectively convert the annular motion of the annular drive element into rotation of the corresponding shaft, thereby driving the corresponding buffer roller.

[0016] Most preferably, the first and second retainers extend in a plane of the fabric storage device parallel to the buffer direction, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth sets of buffer rollers are located on a first side of the fabric storage device plane, and wherein the first and second sets of buffer wheels are located on a second side of the fabric storage device plane opposite to the first side. Thus, the first and second shafts can extend from the side of the fabric storage device plane where the buffer rollers are positioned, through the corresponding retainers, to protrude from the other side of the fabric storage device plane where the buffer wheels are positioned, thereby effectively preventing interference between the drive mechanism for driving the buffer rollers and the buffer mechanism for the buffer strip.

[0017] In another embodiment, the fabric storage device includes: a first driver for driving one of a first annular drive element and a second annular drive element; and a connecting member for connecting the first annular drive element to the second annular drive element. Therefore, only one driver is needed to drive both the first and second annular drive elements.

[0018] Preferably, the connecting member includes a third annular drive element. The third annular drive element can effectively transmit the motion of the first annular drive element to the second annular drive element, that is, using a coaxially mounted connecting wheel.

[0019] In another embodiment, the fabric storage device further includes a tension balancer for balancing the tension between the first and second annular drive elements. The tension balancer can offset and / or absorb tolerances in the annular drive elements, for example, due to wear and / or elongation.

[0020] In an embodiment combining the aforementioned tension balancer and the aforementioned buffer wheels, the tension balancer includes one or more guides movable in a direction having at least a component in the buffering direction, wherein at least one buffer wheel from a first set of buffer wheels and / or a second set of buffer wheels is mounted to the one or more guides to move together with the one or more guides in the buffering direction. Therefore, tension and / or absorption tolerances can be generated in the buffering direction.

[0021] In an embodiment combining the aforementioned guides and connecting members, the connecting member is coupled to one or more guides, wherein at least a portion of the weight of the connecting member pulls the one or more guides downward in a cushioning direction. Therefore, the connecting member can perform the functions of interconnecting and tensioning the ring drive elements. Thus, one ring drive element can tension another. Consequently, the tension in one ring drive element can remain the same or substantially the same as the tension in another ring drive element, regardless of any elongation.

[0022] In another embodiment, the fabric storage device further includes one or more dampers for damping the first and / or second annular drive elements. This reduces and / or counteracts minute vibrations and / or fluctuations in the annular drive elements.

[0023] In another embodiment, the first and second retainers extend in a storage device plane parallel to the buffer direction, wherein the storage device further includes a conveying member for conveying the strip from the first buffer path to the second buffer path along a conveying path extending inclined to the storage device plane. Thus, the conveying member can effectively deflect and / or guide the strip from the plane containing the first buffer path toward the plane containing the second buffer path.

[0024] Alternatively, the conveying component includes a set of conveyor rollers for receiving the strip from the first buffer path and outputting the strip into the second buffer path, wherein the set of conveyor rollers is positioned at an angle relative to the plane of the fabric storage device. During the transition from one of the buffer rollers associated with the first buffer path to one of the conveyor rollers and / or during the transition from one of the conveyor rollers to one of the buffer rollers associated with the second buffer path, the strip may be slightly twisted.

[0025] Alternatively or concurrently, the fabric storage device includes a conveyor that extends inclined to the plane of the storage device and / or parallel to the conveying path. The conveyor may contact the strip at several locations along the conveying path to ensure effective deflection and / or guidance of the strip along the conveying path. For example, the conveyor may be a roller conveyor or a wire conveyor. Preferably, the conveyor includes an annular belt. Continuous friction may be generated between the annular belt and the strip to ensure effective deflection and / or guidance of the strip along the conveying path.

[0026] In another embodiment, the fabric storage device includes a second drive for driving the conveyor. Since it may be difficult to drive the conveyor with the same annular drive element as the buffer roller, a separate drive can be provided to control the speed of the conveyor and / or the conveyor roller, due to the inclined orientation of the conveyor relative to the plane of the fabric storage device. The second drive can be electronically synchronized with the first drive to reduce or prevent speed differences.

[0027] In another embodiment, the first buffer path and the second buffer path are parallel or substantially parallel. Therefore, the buffer paths can be compactly stacked one in front of the other. This allows for the addition of a buffer path to the first buffer path without significantly increasing the total footprint of the fabric storage device.

[0028] In another embodiment, the first and second annular drive elements are chains. The chains can be effectively engaged by sprockets.

[0029] In another embodiment, the first and second retainers are movable relative to each other along the cushioning direction to change the cushioning capacity of the fabric storage device. Because the two retainers can move toward each other, a more ergonomic loading position can be obtained to manually load the strip into the fabric storage device.

[0030] In another embodiment, the fabric storage device further includes an extra-long collector for collecting and releasing the extra length of the first and second annular drive elements due to changes in the buffer capacity of the fabric storage device. Therefore, the length of the portion of the annular drive element extending along the first and second buffer paths can be kept the same as the length of the strip extending along the respective buffer paths, thereby ensuring that the respective annular drive element behaves at least along the buffer paths in the same manner as the strip.

[0031] Preferably, the extra-long collector is located only on one side of the first buffer path in the buffer direction. A considerable portion of the extra-long drive element, and preferably all or the entire extra-long length of the drive element, can be collected only at one end of the storage device. In other words, on the other side of the first buffer path and / or at the other end of the storage device, there are no parts of the storage device responsible for collecting the drive element. Therefore, more space in the storage device can be used for the buffer strip. Thus, the capacity of the storage device can be increased. Alternatively, the resulting storage device can be more compact while maintaining the same capacity. More specifically, the storage device can be more ergonomically mounted because the distance between the relatively moving retainers and / or the mounting position of the retainers can be improved.

[0032] Alternatively, the extra-long collector is located on the side of the first set of buffer rollers opposite to the second set of buffer rollers in the buffer direction. Therefore, the extra-long collector does not interfere with the second set of buffer rollers and / or the second retainer.

[0033] In another embodiment, the first set of buffer rollers is positioned above the second set of buffer rollers, with the extra-long collector positioned above the first set of buffer rollers. With the extra-long collector positioned overhead, a portion of the buffer strip of the fabric storage device can be positioned closer to the ground, i.e., within easy reach of the operator for loading the fabric storage device.

[0034] In another embodiment, the extra-long collector includes a first set of collector wheels and a second set of collector wheels defining a meandering first collector path between the first and second sets of collector wheels, extending alternately along the wheels in the first and second sets of collector wheels, wherein a first annular drive element extends along the first collector path. The first collector path can be used to temporarily collect and subsequently release the extra-long length of the first annular drive element in substantially the same manner as a first buffer path for buffer strips.

[0035] Preferably, the extra-long collector includes a third set of collector wheels and a fourth set of collector wheels defining a meandering second collector path between the third and fourth sets of collector wheels, along which a second annular drive element extends. The second collector path can be used to temporarily collect and subsequently release the extra-long length of the second annular drive element in substantially the same manner as the second buffer path used for the buffer strip.

[0036] More preferably, the fabric storage device includes: a plurality of third shafts for mounting the first set of collector wheels and the second set of collector wheels, wherein the fabric storage device further includes: a plurality of fourth shafts for mounting the third set of collector wheels and the fourth set of collector wheels, wherein the plurality of third shafts are hollow, and wherein each of the plurality of fourth shafts extends concentrically through a corresponding third shaft among the plurality of third shafts. Thus, the third set of collector wheels can be mounted coaxially relative to the first set of collector wheels. Similarly, thus, the fourth set of collector wheels can be mounted coaxially relative to the second set of collector wheels. Therefore, the second collector path can be at least partially a copy of the first collector path.

[0037] Alternatively, the first collector path and the second collector path may be parallel or substantially parallel. Therefore, the collector paths can be compactly stacked one in front of the other. This allows for the addition of collector paths to the first collector path without significantly increasing the total footprint of the storage device.

[0038] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for cushioning a strip using a fabric storage device according to any embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the method includes the following steps:

[0039] - Guide the strip along the first buffer path through the storage cloth device;

[0040] - Transfer the strip from the first buffer path to the second buffer path;

[0041] - The guide strip passes through the second buffer path;

[0042] - The first set of buffer rollers and the second set of buffer rollers are driven by the first annular driving element; and

[0043] - The third and fourth sets of buffer rollers are driven by the second ring drive element.

[0044] The method relates to a practical embodiment of the cloth storage device according to the first aspect of the present invention, thereby having the same technical advantages, which will not be repeated below.

[0045] Preferably, the method further includes the following steps:

[0046] - The buffer capacity of the cloth storage device is changed by moving at least one of the first and second retainers toward and / or away from the other of the first and second retainers in the buffering direction; and

[0047] - In response to changes in buffer capacity, the extra length of the first and second ring drive elements is collected and / or released using an extra-long collector.

[0048] Alternatively, the strip can be guided through the fabric storage device without using a support layer that supports the strip relative to the cushioning roller. Since there is no lining, the cushioning process can be cheaper and / or more durable due to less waste.

[0049] Whenever possible, the various aspects and features described and illustrated in the specification may be applied individually. These individual aspects, particularly those described in the appended dependent claims, may be subject to the divisional patent application. Attached Figure Description

[0050] The invention will be explained based on exemplary embodiments shown in the schematic drawings, in which:

[0051] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An isometric view of the front side of the cloth storage device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention at its maximum capacity is shown;

[0052] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The basis for minimum capacity is shown respectively. Figure 1 and Figure 2 An isometric view of the front side of the cloth storage device;

[0053] Figure 5 It shows according to Figure 1 An isometric view of the rear side of the cloth storage device; and

[0054] Figure 6 A rear view of an alternative fabric storage device according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0055] Figure 1 A fabric storage device 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown. The fabric storage device 1 is used to temporarily accumulate or buffer strips S between a continuous extrusion process of an extruder (not shown) and a discontinuous cutting or application process. Strips S can be used in tire forming. In this example, strip S is a rubber strip that is wound or folded around the sharp edge of a buffer layer to prevent the sharp edge from cutting into other parts of the tire. Alternatively, strip S can be used to form tire components by strip winding.

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, the fabric storage device 1 includes a base 10 for placing the fabric storage device 1 on the ground (i.e., the factory floor) and a frame or column 11 erected from the base 10. The fabric storage device 1 also includes a first retainer 21 and a second retainer 22, which are movable relative to each other (i.e., towards and away from each other) along the column 11 in a buffering direction B. The first retainer 21 and the second retainer 22 may include rod-like bodies extending transversely to or perpendicular to the buffering direction B. In this exemplary embodiment, the buffering direction B is parallel to or substantially parallel to the column 11. Preferably, the buffering direction B is vertical or substantially vertical. The first retainer 21 and the second retainer 22 extend in a fabric storage device plane A parallel to the buffering direction B.

[0057] The fabric storage device 1 is provided with a first set of buffer rollers 41 and a second set of buffer rollers 42, which are held or mounted to them by a first retainer 21 and a second retainer 22, respectively. Preferably, the buffer rollers in the first set of buffer rollers 41 are distributed at equal intervals above the first retainer 21. The first set of buffer rollers 41 and the second set of buffer rollers 42 define a first buffer path P1 between them, which is meandering, i.e., the buffer rollers in the first set of buffer rollers 41 travel or extend alternately between the buffer rollers in the second set of buffer rollers 42. The first buffer path P1 coincides with or substantially coincides with a first portion of the path of the strip S traveling through the fabric storage device 1. The first buffer path P1 extends in a first buffer plane parallel to the plane A of the fabric storage device.

[0058] The fabric storage device 1 also includes a plurality of first shafts 40 for mounting a first set of buffer rollers 41 and a second set of buffer rollers 42 to a first retainer 21 and a second retainer 22, respectively. The first shafts 40 extend transversely to or perpendicular to the plane A of the fabric storage device. Each buffer roller in the first set of buffer rollers 41 and the second set of buffer rollers 42 is fixed to a corresponding first shaft 40 so as to rotate together with said first shaft 40. The first shafts 40 are hollow.

[0059] like Figure 2As shown, the fabric storage device 1 also includes a third set of buffer rollers 43 and a fourth set of buffer rollers 44. These rollers are held or mounted to the device by a first retainer 21 and a second retainer 22, respectively, to define a second buffer path P2 between them. This second buffer path P2 meanders, i.e., it alternates between the buffer rollers in the third set of buffer rollers 43 and the buffer rollers in the fourth set of buffer rollers 44. The second buffer path P2 coincides with or substantially coincides with the second portion of the path along which the strip S travels through the fabric storage device 1. The second buffer path P2 extends in a second buffer plane parallel to the plane A of the fabric storage device and spaced apart from the first buffer plane.

[0060] The fabric storage device 1 also includes a plurality of second shafts 50 for mounting a third set of buffer rollers 43 and a fourth set of buffer rollers 44. Each of the plurality of second shafts 50 extends concentrically through a corresponding first shaft 40 of the plurality of first shafts 40. The second shaft 50 protrudes from the first shaft 40 to support the third set of buffer rollers 43 and the fourth set of buffer rollers 44. Each of the third set of buffer rollers 43 and the fourth set of buffer rollers 44 is fixed to a protruding portion of a corresponding second shaft 50 so as to rotate together with said second shaft 50.

[0061] Therefore, the third set of buffer rollers 43 and the fourth set of buffer rollers 44 can be coaxially mounted or positioned relative to the first set of buffer rollers 41 and the second set of buffer rollers 42, respectively. Thus, the second buffer path P2 can be a copy of the first buffer path P1, preferably extending parallel to each other in the first buffer plane and the second buffer plane, respectively.

[0062] The fabric storage device 1 also includes a conveying member 9, which is used to convey the strip S along a conveying path T that extends inclined to the plane A of the fabric storage device from... Figure 1 The first buffer path P1 shown transmits to, as... Figure 2 The second buffer path P2 is shown. The conveying member 9 includes a set of conveying rollers 91 for receiving the strip S from the first buffer path P1 and outputting the strip S into the second buffer path P2. The set of conveying rollers 91 is positioned obliquely relative to the plane A of the fabric storage device. During the transition from the last of the buffer rollers 41 associated with the first buffer path P1 to one of the conveying rollers 91, and during the transition from one of the conveying rollers 91 to the first of the buffer rollers 43 associated with the second buffer path P2, the strip S is slightly twisted.

[0063] The conveying component 9 also includes a conveyor 92 that extends at an angle to the plane A of the fabric storage device, particularly parallel to or substantially parallel to the conveying path T. In this exemplary embodiment, the conveyor 92 includes an annular belt.

[0064] The fabric storage device 1 also includes an intermediate member 3 for guiding the strip S into and out of the storage device 1, i.e., into the first buffer path P1 and out of the second buffer path P2. The intermediate member 3 may include a rod-like body extending transversely to or perpendicular to the buffer direction B. The intermediate member 3 is positioned relative to the base 10 such that it extends at a height H above the ground, which is in the range of 50 cm to 180 cm, preferably 100 cm to 180 cm, and more preferably 120 cm to 160 cm. Alternatively, when the intermediate member 3 is positioned higher, the platform can be used for ergonomic access. The fabric storage device 1 is provided with an entry roller 31 and an exit roller 32, which are held by the intermediate member 3 to guide the strip S into the first buffer path P1 and out of the second buffer path P2, respectively.

[0065] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A first retainer 21 and a second retainer 22 are shown in a first external position and a second external position, respectively, which are maximally spaced from the intermediate member 3 in the buffer direction B.

[0066] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the first retainer 21 and the second retainer 22 after they have been moved toward each other in the buffer direction B to a first loading position and a second loading position, respectively. These first and second loading positions are as close as possible to, directly adjacent to, and / or located on, the opposite side of the intermediate member 3. In these loading positions, the strip S can be conveniently guided along the first buffer path P1 and the second buffer path P2 at an ergonomic height H for the operator. Specifically, the operator does not need to reach up and down a long distance to manually load the strip S into the fabric storage device 1.

[0067] like Figure 5 As shown, the fabric storage device 1 also includes a first annular drive element 51, which extends at least partially alongside the first buffer path P1 to drive the first set of buffer rollers 41 and the second set of buffer rollers 42. In other words, the first drive element 51 extends in a loop, and at least a portion of the loop extends alongside the first buffer path P1. The first drive element 51 has a constant or substantially constant length. The first annular drive element 51 is schematically represented by a dashed line.

[0068] The fabric storage device 1 is provided with one or more first drivers 55, which are used to move the first annular drive element 51 at the same or approximately the same speed as the strip S (i.e., based on the speed of the strip S at the inlet and / or outlet of the first buffer path P1 and / or based on the extrusion speed of the extruder and / or based on the speed of the strip S at the downstream station (i.e., the cutter). Using more than one first driver 55 at different locations along the first buffer path P1 can reduce loosening of the first annular drive element 51 due to tolerance accumulation. The first annular drive element 51 runs along the first buffer path P1 in the same direction as the strip S and eventually leaves the first buffer path P1. Then, the first annular drive element 51 returns to the beginning of the first buffer path P1 through another part of the fabric storage device 1 to complete the loop.

[0069] In this exemplary embodiment, the first annular drive element 51 is a chain. Alternatively, a drive belt, timing belt, etc., can be used. The fabric storage device 1 includes a first set of buffer wheels 71, particularly sprockets, which engage with the first annular drive element 51 to be driven by it. Each buffer wheel in the first set of buffer wheels 71 is coaxially mounted to or rotates with a corresponding buffer roller in the first set of buffer rollers 41 and the second set of buffer rollers 42, or one of the inlet roller 31 and the outlet roller 32. In particular, the first set of buffer wheels 71 are coaxially held on a plurality of first shafts 40 with the first set of buffer rollers 41 and the second set of buffer rollers 42.

[0070] When the first set of buffer rollers 71 is driven to rotate by the first annular drive element 51, the first set of buffer rollers 41, the second set of buffer rollers 42, the inlet roller 31, and the outlet roller 32 also rotate. The diameter of the first set of buffer rollers 71 is selected to support the first annular drive element 51 with the same or approximately the same radius as the radius of the strip S supported on the first set of buffer rollers 41, the second set of buffer rollers 42, and the inlet roller 31.

[0071] The fabric storage device 1 also includes a second annular drive element 52, similar to the first annular drive element 51, which extends at least partially alongside the second buffer path P2 to drive the third set of buffer rollers 43 and the fourth set of buffer rollers 44. The second annular drive element 52 travels along the second buffer path P2 in the same direction as the strip S and eventually exits the second buffer path P2. Then, the second annular drive element 52 returns to the starting point of the second buffer path P2 via another part of the fabric storage device 1 to complete the loop. The second annular drive element 52 is schematically represented by a solid line.

[0072] In this exemplary embodiment, the second annular drive element 52 is a chain, just like the first annular drive element 51. Alternatively, a drive belt, timing belt, etc., can be used. The fabric storage device 1 includes a second set of buffer wheels 72, particularly sprockets, which engage with the second annular drive element 52 to be driven by it. Each buffer wheel in the second set of buffer wheels 72 is coaxially mounted to and / or rotates with a corresponding buffer roller in the third set of buffer rollers 43 and the fourth set of buffer rollers 44, as well as an exit roller 32. In particular, the second set of buffer wheels 72 are coaxially held on a plurality of second shafts 50 with the third set of buffer rollers 43 and the fourth set of buffer rollers 44.

[0073] By comparison Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 5 As can be seen, the first set of buffer rollers 41, the second set of buffer rollers 42, the third set of buffer rollers 43, and the fourth set of buffer rollers 44 are located on the first side of the fabric storage device plane A, and wherein the first set of buffer wheels 71 and the second set of buffer wheels 72 are located on the second side of the fabric storage device plane A opposite to the first side. In particular, a plurality of first shafts 40 and a plurality of second shafts 50 extend through the corresponding retainers 21, 22 to the other side of the fabric storage device plane A. Each second shaft 50 extends through and protrudes from a corresponding first shaft 40 so as to carry a corresponding buffer wheel in the second set of buffer wheels 72 in a coaxial relationship with the corresponding buffer wheel in the first set of buffer wheels 71 on the corresponding first shaft 40.

[0074] like Figure 5 As shown, in this exemplary embodiment, the fabric storage device 1 includes a connecting member 80 for connecting the first annular drive element 51 to the second annular drive element 52. Alternatively, the second annular drive element 52 may be driven by one or more dedicated drivers (not shown) of its own, which may be electronically connected, for example via a control unit, to one or more first drivers 55 to operate at the same speed or at slightly different speeds.

[0075] In this example, the connecting member 80 includes a third annular drive element 53, preferably a chain, which engages with two first connecting wheels 81, particularly sprockets, which are coaxially connected to one buffer wheel of the first set of buffer wheels 71 and one buffer wheel of the second set of buffer wheels 72, so as to rotate together with the corresponding buffer wheels 71, 72. The third annular drive element 53 is schematically represented by dashed lines. In this example, the first annular drive elements 51 and the second annular drive elements 52 are connected with a 1:1 transmission ratio. Alternatively, unequal transmission ratios can be selected, for example, for stretching or compressing the strip S in the second buffer path P2.

[0076] In this exemplary embodiment, the connecting member 80 further includes one or more second connecting wheels 82, preferably sprockets, which guide the third annular drive element 53 along a U-shaped path.

[0077] The fabric storage device 1 also includes a tension balancer 8 for balancing the tension between the first annular drive element 51 and the second annular drive element 52. In this example, the tension balancer 8 includes a guide 85 for each annular drive element 51, 52. The guide 85 is movable in a direction having at least a component or vector component in the buffer direction B. In particular, the guide 85 is movable above a track 86 mounted to the intermediate member 3. One of the first set of buffer wheels 71 and the second set of buffer wheels 72 is mounted to the guide 85 to move together with the guide 85 along the buffer direction B. Preferably, a connecting member 80 is coupled to each guide 85, wherein at least a portion of the weight of the connecting member 80 pulls the guide 85 downward along the buffer direction B.

[0078] Since it may be difficult to drive the conveyor 92 using the first annular drive element 51, a separate second drive 56 can be provided to control the speed of the conveyor 92 due to the inclined orientation of the conveyor relative to the plane A of the fabric storage device. The fabric storage device 1 may also include a fourth annular drive element 54, preferably a chain, which connects the conveyor 92 and the conveyor roller 91 so that they can all be driven by the same second drive 56. The fourth annular drive element 54 is schematically represented by solid lines.

[0079] The strip S enters the fabric storage device 1 at an entry speed V1 (i.e., at the entry roller 31) and exits the fabric storage device 1 at an exit speed V2 (i.e., at the exit roller 32). The buffering capacity of the fabric storage device 1 can be changed by relatively moving the first retainer 21 and the second retainer 22 along the buffering direction B. The rate of capacity change is schematically shown by a speed arrow V3 parallel to the buffering direction B. Because the first annular drive element 51 and the second annular drive element 52 travel along the first buffering path P1 and the second buffering path P2 of the strip S, and behave more or less in the same manner as the strip S, the speed at which each of the multiple sets of buffer rollers 41-44 is driven is equal to or approximately equal to the speed of the strip S at the corresponding buffer roller. In other words, the first annular drive element 51 and the second annular drive element 52 will automatically cause each of the multiple sets of buffer rollers 41-44 to change its rotational speed in response to changes in the capacity of the fabric storage device 1. Specifically, each of the multiple sets of buffer rollers 41-44 can be automatically driven at the correct speed by the first annular drive element 51 and the second annular drive element 52 in response to changes in the entry speed V1, exit speed V2, capacity change speed V3 and the position of the corresponding buffer roller in the fabric storage device 1.

[0080] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The storage device 1 at its maximum capacity is shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The same fabric storage device 1 at its minimum capacity is shown. It should be understood that the lengths of the first buffer path P1 and the second buffer path P2 when the fabric storage device 1 is at its maximum capacity are significantly longer than the lengths of the first buffer path P1 and the second buffer path P2 when the fabric storage device 1 is at its minimum capacity. The lengths of the first annular drive element 51 and the second annular drive element 52, respectively traveling along the first buffer path P1 and the second buffer path P2, change by the same amount, while the total length of the first annular drive element 51 and the second annular drive element 52 remains the same. At the minimum capacity of the fabric storage device 1, a considerable amount of extra length from the first annular drive element 51 and the second annular drive element 52 needs to be temporarily collected. Therefore, the fabric storage device 1 is provided with an extra-long collector 6 for collecting and releasing (or unloading) the extra-long first annular drive element 51 and the second annular drive element 52.

[0081] According to the invention, the extra-long collector 6 is located only on one side of the first buffer path P1 in the buffer direction B. In this specific case, the extra-long collector 6 is located on the side of the first set of buffer rollers 41 opposite to the second set of buffer rollers 42 in the buffer direction B. In other words, the extra-long collector 6 is located above the first buffer path P1, the first set of buffer rollers 41, and / or the first retainer 21, i.e., at or near the top of the fabric storage device 1. The technical advantage of this is that the extra length is collected only at one end of the fabric storage device 1. The resulting fabric storage device 1 can be more compact and / or more ergonomic. In particular, when the extra-long collector 6 is located at or near the top of the fabric storage device 1, a portion of the buffer strip S of the fabric storage device 1 can be closer to the ground. Conveniently, the aforementioned height H of the intermediate member 3 above the ground can be obtained, so that the strip S can still be ergonomically loaded into the fabric storage device 1 despite the presence of the extra-long collector 6.

[0082] like Figure 5As shown, the extra-long collector 6 includes a first set of collector wheels 61 and a second set of collector wheels 62, which define a meandering first collector path C1 between them. In other words, the first collector path C1 travels or extends alternately along the wheels in the first set of collector wheels 61 and the wheels in the second set of collector wheels 62. Clearly, the first collector path C1 coincides with or substantially coincides with the path traveled by the first annular drive element 51 through the extra-long collector 6. More specifically, the first collector path C1 (similar to the first buffer path P1) includes a plurality of second segments extending between the collector wheels in the first set of collector wheels 61 and the second set of collector wheels 62. Each second segment is double-tangent to a pair of collector wheels interconnected with it. More specifically, each second segment extends as an external tangent between a pair of collector wheels in the first set of collector wheels 61 and the second set of collector wheels 62.

[0083] Preferably, the first set of collector wheels 61 and the second set of collector wheels 62 are sprockets that can engage with a first annular drive element 51 in the form of a chain.

[0084] The first set of collector wheels 61 is held or mounted to the first retainer 21. The extra-long collector 6 also includes a collector frame 60, which is arranged to remain stationary in the buffer direction B while the first retainer 21 moves. Preferably, the collector frame 60 is mounted to the post 11 at or near the top of the cloth storage device 1. The second set of collector wheels 62 is mounted to the collector frame 60. The first set of collector wheels 61 and the second set of collector wheels 62 are respectively mounted to the first retainer 21 and the collector frame 60 via a plurality of third shafts 65. Similar to the first shaft 40, the third shafts 65 are hollow.

[0085] As the first retainer 21 moves along the buffer direction B, the first set of collector wheels 61 moves away from or toward the second set of collector wheels 62. Therefore, the relative movement between the first set of collector wheels 61 and the second set of collector wheels 62 along the buffer direction B defines the increase or decrease in the length of the first annular drive element 51 in the extra-long collector 6 (i.e., in the first collector path C1). This relative movement is generated by the movement of the first retainer 21 along the buffer direction B. In contrast, the relative movement of the first retainer 21 and the second retainer 22 along the buffer direction B defines the increase or decrease in the length of the first annular drive element 51 in the first buffer path P1; therefore, the change in distance between the first retainer 21 and the second retainer 22 during their respective relative movements is twice the change in distance between the first retainer 21 and the collector frame 60.

[0086] To collect all excess length generated due to the storage device 1 being at minimum capacity, the number of collector wheels in the first set of collector wheels 61 is twice the number of buffer wheels in the first set of buffer wheels 71. Alternatively, the number of second segments is twice the number of first segments. Therefore, as the first retainer 21 moves along the buffer direction B, the length of the first annular drive element 51 increases or decreases relative to the number of second segments, which is twice the number of first segments. This allows the first collector path C1 to collect excess length of the first annular drive element 51 (which is equal to or approximately equal to the decrease in the length of the first annular drive element 51 extending along the first buffer path P1 when the storage device 1 is at minimum capacity) and conversely release or unload excess length (which is equal to or approximately equal to the increase in the length of the first annular drive element 51 extending along the first buffer path P1 when the storage device 1 moves toward maximum capacity). In other words, by using only the movement of the first holder 21 along the buffer direction B, the first collector path C1 can increase or decrease by the same amount as the first buffer path P1 decreases or increases due to the relative movement of the first holder 21 and the second holder 22 along the buffer direction B.

[0087] The extra-long collector 6 also includes a third set of collector wheels 63 and a fourth set of collector wheels 64, which define a meandering second collector path C2 between them, similar to the first collector path C1. The second collector path C2 travels or extends along or extends along the wheels in the third set of collector wheels 63 and the fourth set of collector wheels 64. Clearly, the second collector path C2 corresponds to or substantially corresponds to the path traveled through the extra-long collector 6 by the second annular drive element 52.

[0088] The third set of collector wheels 63 and the fourth set of collector wheels 64 are arranged coaxially with the first set of collector wheels 61 and the second set of collector wheels 62 on a plurality of fourth shafts 66, respectively. The fourth shafts 66 extend concentrically within and / or through the third shaft 65. Thus, the second collector path C2 may be a copy of the first collector path C1, preferably extending parallel to each other.

[0089] The length of the second collector path C2 can be increased or decreased in the same manner and / or simultaneously as the length of the first collector path C1. This allows the second collector path C2 to collect excess length of the second annular drive element 52 (which is equal to or approximately equal to the reduction in the length of the second annular drive element 52 extending along the second buffer path P2 when the storage device 1 is at minimum capacity), and conversely release or unload excess length (which is equal to or approximately equal to the increase in the length of the second annular drive element 52 extending along the second buffer path P2 when the storage device 1 moves toward maximum capacity).

[0090] Figure 6 An alternative fabric storage device 101 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown, which differs from the aforementioned fabric storage device 1 only in that its balancer 108 has a rotatable guide 185 for each annular drive element 51, 52. Each guide 185 is movable about a rotation axis R like a seesaw and carries one of the buffer wheels 71, 72 from a corresponding set of buffer wheels and a first connecting wheel 81 located on the opposite side of the rotation axis R. In this example, each guide 185 is supported by a central hinge member 186 located at the rotation axis R. The guides 185 are interconnected by connecting members 80 in the form of a third annular drive element 53, which engages the two first connecting wheels 81. The first annular drive element 51 engages with the guide 185 carrying the first buffer wheel 71, and the second annular drive element 52 engages with the guide 185 carrying the second buffer wheel 72. Therefore, when the guide 185 associated with the first annular drive element 51 is pulled upward along the component of the buffer direction B due to the tension in the first annular drive element 51, the seesaw movement of the first guide 185 is transmitted through the third annular drive element 53 to another guide 185, which responds to its own seesaw movement to release the tension in the second annular drive element 52 in the upward direction. As a result, the tension between the first annular drive element 51 and the second annular drive element 52 can be canceled out.

[0091] The alternative fabric storage device 101 is also provided with one or more dampers 188, such as cylinders or springs, to dampen minor vibrations or fluctuations in the annular drive elements 51, 52. In this example, one or more dampers 188 are configured to support corresponding guides 185. One or more dampers 188 may alternatively be associated with one or more buffer wheels 71, 72. One or more dampers 188 can also be applied in a similar manner to the fabric storage device 1 of the foregoing embodiments.

[0092] Now refer to Figures 1 to 6 Here is a brief discussion of the method for using the aforementioned cloth storage devices 1 and 101 to buffer the strip S. Specifically, the method includes the following steps:

[0093] - Guide strip S along buffer path P1 through storage cloth device 1;

[0094] -Transfer stripe S from the first buffer path P1 to the second buffer path P2;

[0095] - The guide strip S passes through the second buffer path P2;

[0096] - Each buffer roller in the first group of buffer rollers 41 and the second group of buffer rollers 42 is driven by the first annular drive element 51; and

[0097] - Each of the third set of buffer rollers 43 and the fourth set of buffer rollers 44 is driven by the second annular drive element 52.

[0098] During the aforementioned steps, the method may further include the following steps:

[0099] - The buffer capacity of the cloth storage device 1 is changed by moving at least one of the first retainer 21 and the second retainer 22 toward and / or away from the other of the first retainer 21 and the second retainer 22 in the buffer direction B; and

[0100] - In response to a change in buffer capacity, the extra length of the first annular drive element 51 and the second annular drive element 52 is collected and / or released using the extra length collector 6.

[0101] In order for the initial guide strip S to pass through the storage cloth device 1 along the first buffer path P1 and the second buffer path P2, the first retainer 21 and the second retainer 22 can be moved toward each other along the buffer direction B to the first loading position and the second loading position, respectively. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown. Subsequently, the strip S can be manually guided through the fabric storage device 1 along the first buffer path P1 and the second buffer path P2, while the first retainer 21 and the second retainer 22 are conveniently positioned at an ergonomic working height adjacent to the intermediate member 3 (i.e., directly above and below the intermediate member).

[0102] The aforementioned fabric storage device 1 has the advantage that the speed difference between the strip S and the fabric storage device 1, and therefore the tension in the strip S, can be minimized. In particular, the force applied to the strip S can be reduced or prevented to such an extent that the strip S can be guided through the fabric storage device 1 without a liner (i.e., in direct contact with the rollers of the fabric storage device 1). This is particularly relevant for thin or hot strips (such as rubber strips used in tire molding), as these strips can easily deform. Because there is no liner, the cushioning process is cheaper and more durable, as there is less waste.

[0103] It should be understood that the above description is included to illustrate the operation of preferred embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Many variations that still fall within the scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the above discussion.

[0104] In summary, the present invention relates to a fabric storage device 1 and a method for a cushioning strip S. The fabric storage device 1 includes a first set of cushioning rollers 41 and a second set of cushioning rollers 42, wherein the first set of cushioning rollers 41 and the second set of cushioning rollers 42 define a meandering first cushioning path P1 between them. The fabric storage device 1 also includes a first annular drive element 51 for driving the first set of cushioning rollers 41 and the second set of cushioning rollers 42. The fabric storage device 1 also includes a third set of cushioning rollers 43 and a fourth set of cushioning rollers 44, which are coaxial with the first set of cushioning rollers 41 and the second set of cushioning rollers 42, respectively, defining a meandering second cushioning path P2 between them. The fabric storage device 1 also includes a second annular drive element 52 for driving the third set of cushioning rollers 43 and the fourth set of cushioning rollers 44.

[0105] List of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0106] 1. Cloth storage device

[0107] 10 bases

[0108] 11 columns

[0109] 21 First Holder

[0110] 22 Second Holder

[0111] 3 Intermediate components

[0112] 31 Entering the roller

[0113] 32. Exit from roller

[0114] 40 First Axis

[0115] 41 First set of buffer rollers

[0116] 42 Second set of buffer rollers

[0117] 43 Third set of buffer rollers

[0118] 44 Fourth group of buffer rollers

[0119] 50 Second Axis

[0120] 51 First Ring Drive Element

[0121] 52 Second Ring Drive Element

[0122] 53 Third Ring Drive Element

[0123] 54 Fourth Ring Drive Element

[0124] 55 First Driver

[0125] 56 Second Drive

[0126] 6 Extra Long Collectors

[0127] 60 Collector Framework

[0128] 61 First set of collector wheels

[0129] 62 Second group of collector wheels

[0130] 63 Third group of collector wheels

[0131] 64. Fourth group of collector wheels

[0132] 65 Third Axis

[0133] 66 Fourth Axis

[0134] 71 First set of buffer wheels

[0135] 72 Second set of buffer wheels

[0136] 8. Tension Balancer

[0137] 80 Connecting components

[0138] 81 First connecting wheel

[0139] 82 Second connecting wheel

[0140] 85. Guide

[0141] 86 orbits

[0142] 9. Conveying components

[0143] 90 Teleportation Frame

[0144] 91 Conveyor Roller

[0145] 92 Conveyor

[0146] 101 Alternative fabric storage device

[0147] 108 Tension Balancer

[0148] 185 Guide

[0149] 186 Hinge component

[0150] 188 damper

[0151] A. Storage device plane

[0152] B Buffer Direction

[0153] C1 First Collector Path

[0154] C2 Second Collector Path

[0155] H height

[0156] P1 First Buffer Path

[0157] P2 Second Buffer Path

[0158] S-band

[0159] T teleportation path

Claims

1. A take-up device for a cushion strip, wherein, The fabric storage device includes: a first retainer and a second retainer, wherein at least one of the first retainer and the second retainer is movable in a cushioning direction toward and away from the other of the first retainer and the second retainer to change the cushioning capacity of the fabric storage device, wherein the fabric storage device further includes: a first set of cushioning rollers and a second set of cushioning rollers, the first set of cushioning rollers and the second set of cushioning rollers being held by the first retainer and the second retainer respectively, wherein the first set of cushioning rollers and the second set of cushioning rollers define a meandering first buffer between the first set of cushioning rollers and the second set of cushioning rollers, extending alternately along the cushioning rollers in the first set of cushioning rollers and the cushioning rollers in the second set of cushioning rollers. The fabric storage device further includes: a first annular drive element for driving the first set of buffer rollers and the second set of buffer rollers; a third set of buffer rollers and a fourth set of buffer rollers coaxial with the first set of buffer rollers and the second set of buffer rollers, respectively, defining a meandering second buffer path between the third set of buffer rollers and the fourth set of buffer rollers, extending alternately along the buffer rollers in the third set of buffer rollers and the buffer rollers in the fourth set of buffer rollers; and a second annular drive element for driving the third set of buffer rollers and the fourth set of buffer rollers.

2. The take-up device of claim 1, wherein, The fabric storage device includes: a plurality of first shafts for mounting the first set of buffer rollers and the second set of buffer rollers, wherein the fabric storage device further includes: a plurality of second shafts for mounting the third set of buffer rollers and the fourth set of buffer rollers, wherein the plurality of first shafts are hollow, and wherein each of the plurality of second shafts extends concentrically through a corresponding first shaft of the plurality of first shafts.

3. The take-up device of claim 2, wherein, The fabric storage device includes: a first set of buffer wheels and a second set of buffer wheels, which are respectively connected to the plurality of first shafts and the plurality of second shafts, wherein the first annular drive element is arranged to engage with the first set of buffer wheels, and the second annular drive element is arranged to engage with the second set of buffer wheels.

4. The take-up device of claim 3, wherein, The first retainer and the second retainer extend in a fabric storage device plane parallel to the buffer direction, wherein the first set of buffer rollers, the second set of buffer rollers, the third set of buffer rollers and the fourth set of buffer rollers are located on a first side of the fabric storage device plane, and wherein the first set of buffer rollers and the second set of buffer rollers are located on a second side of the fabric storage device plane opposite to the first side.

5. The cloth storage device according to claim 1, wherein, The fabric storage device includes: a first driver for driving one of the first annular driving element and the second annular driving element; and a connecting member for connecting the first annular driving element to the second annular driving element.

6. The cloth storage device according to claim 5, wherein, The connecting component includes a third annular drive element.

7. The cloth storage device according to claim 1, wherein, The fabric storage device further includes a tension balancer, which is used to balance the tension between the first annular drive element and the second annular drive element.

8. The take-up device of claim 3, wherein, The fabric storage device further includes a tension balancer for balancing the tension between the first annular drive element and the second annular drive element, wherein the tension balancer includes one or more guides that are movable in a direction having at least a component in the buffer direction, wherein at least one of the first set of buffer wheels or the second set of buffer wheels is mounted to the one or more guides to move together with the one or more guides in the buffer direction.

9. The cloth storage device according to claim 8, wherein, The fabric storage device includes: a first driver for driving one of the first annular drive element and the second annular drive element; and a connecting member for connecting the first annular drive element to the second annular drive element, wherein the connecting member includes a third annular drive element, wherein the connecting member is connected to the one or more guides, wherein at least a portion of the weight of the connecting member pulls the one or more guides downward in the cushioning direction.

10. The cloth storage device according to claim 1, wherein, The cloth storage device further includes one or more dampers, which are used to dampen the first annular drive element or the second annular drive element.

11. The supply according to claim 1, wherein, The first retainer and the second retainer extend in a storage device plane parallel to the buffer direction, wherein the storage device further includes a conveying member for conveying the strip from the first buffer path to the second buffer path along a conveying path extending inclined to the storage device plane.

12. The cloth storage device according to claim 11, wherein, The conveying component includes a set of conveying rollers for receiving the strip from the first buffer path and outputting the strip to the second buffer path, wherein the set of conveying rollers is positioned at an angle relative to the plane of the fabric storage device.

13. The supply apparatus of claim 11, wherein, The fabric storage device includes a conveyor that extends at an angle to the plane of the fabric storage device.

14. The take-up device of claim 13, wherein, The conveyor includes a ring belt.

15. The take-up device of claim 13, wherein, The fabric storage device includes a second drive for driving the conveyor.

16. The supply according to claim 1, wherein, The first buffer path and the second buffer path are parallel.

17. The supply apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The first ring drive element and the second ring drive element are chains.

18. The supply according to claim 1, wherein, The first retainer and the second retainer are movable relative to each other along the buffer direction to change the buffer capacity of the cloth storage device.

19. The supply according to claim 1, wherein, The fabric storage device further includes an extra-long collector for collecting and releasing the extra length of the first and second annular drive elements caused by the change in the buffer capacity of the fabric storage device.

20. The take-up device of claim 19, wherein, The extra-long collector is located only on one side of the first buffer path in the buffer direction.

21. The cloth storage device according to claim 19, wherein, The extra-long collector is located on the side of the first set of buffer rollers opposite to the second set of buffer rollers in the buffer direction.

22. The take-up device of claim 19, wherein, The first set of buffer rollers is located above the second set of buffer rollers, wherein the extra-long collector is located above the first set of buffer rollers.

23. The take-up device of claim 19, wherein, The extra-long collector includes a first set of collector wheels and a second set of collector wheels, which define a meandering first collector path between the first set of collector wheels and the second set of collector wheels, extending alternately along the wheels in the first set of collector wheels and the wheels in the second set of collector wheels, wherein the first annular drive element extends along the first collector path.

24. The cloth storage device according to claim 23, wherein, The extra-long collector includes a third set of collector wheels and a fourth set of collector wheels, which define a meandering second collector path between the third set of collector wheels and the fourth set of collector wheels, extending alternately along the collector wheels in the third set of collector wheels and the collector wheels in the fourth set of collector wheels, wherein the second annular drive element extends along the second collector path.

25. The take-up device of claim 24, wherein, The fabric storage device includes: a plurality of third shafts for mounting the first set of collector wheels and the second set of collector wheels, wherein the fabric storage device further includes: a plurality of fourth shafts for mounting the third set of collector wheels and the second set of collector wheels, wherein the plurality of third shafts are hollow, and wherein each of the plurality of fourth shafts extends concentrically through a corresponding third shaft among the plurality of third shafts.

26. The cloth storage device according to claim 24, wherein, The first collector path and the second collector path are parallel.

27. A method for buffering a strip using the supply of the apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The method includes the following steps: - Guide the strip along the first buffer path through the storage cloth device; - Transfer the strip from the first buffer path to the second buffer path; -Guide the strip through the second buffer path; - The first set of buffer rollers and the second set of buffer rollers are driven using the first annular drive element; and - The third and fourth sets of buffer rollers are driven by the second annular drive element.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein, The method further includes the following steps: - The buffer capacity of the cloth storage device is changed by moving at least one of the first retainer and the second retainer toward or away from the other of the first retainer and the second retainer in the buffering direction; and - In response to the change in buffer capacity, the extra length of the first ring drive element and the second ring drive element is collected or released using an extra-long collector.

29. The method according to claim 27, wherein, The strip is guided through the fabric storage device without using a support layer that supports the strip relative to the buffer roller.

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