Machine for processing web material with threading device and related method

Abstract

In order to thread a web material in a converting line, a system is provided having a first continuous flexible member (17) and a second flexible member (19). An anchoring element (31) to which a leading edge of the web material can be secured can be transferred from one of the two flexible members to the other in order to facilitate the threading operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This document discloses improvements to production lines for converting web material and related methods. The described embodiments relate to improvements to systems for threading web material in a conversion production line and specifically in the winding unit of a rewinder arranged in the conversion production line. Background Technology

[0002] In production lines used for converting web materials, whenever a conversion of new material begins, the leading edge of the web material needs to be introduced into the path along the conversion production line. This process of introducing the leading edge of the web material is known in the industry as "threading."

[0003] Typically, threading operations are required in the paper conversion industry, such as for the production of linseed rolls. Threading operations are necessary when the web material breaks unexpectedly, or when the parent reel of the web material is used up and must be replaced with another parent reel, and the production line does not provide a system for joining the tail edge of the used reel's web material to the leading edge of the new reel's web material.

[0004] In some cases, the web material consists of two or more layers, which can be supplied from one or more master rolls. In this case, when threading is required, the two layers are threaded separately, taking into account that the changeover production line typically has different paths for the two layers.

[0005] Various devices have been provided for threading. For example, WO-2018092167 discloses a threading device in which a continuous strip is provided along a threading path between the inlet of the rewinder and the winding unit of the rewinder. The strip is configured such that the leading edge of the web material can be anchored to the strip. The strip is driven along a closed path until a pair of rollers form a gap. An initial portion of the web material (its head anchored to the strip) is inserted into the gap between the two rollers. A blade disposed downstream of the gap and adjacent to the strip cuts the initial edge of the web material, thereby separating the initial edge of the web material from the strip as the web material advances due to the traction force exerted by the strip. The blade is arranged along the path of the strip such that the web material anchored to the strip passes between the blade and one of the two rollers. The blade works in conjunction with a mating blade formed on the roller.

[0006] To thread two layers, WO2018092167 discloses a configuration in which the arrangement of the strip and blade is doubled: a strip and blade are provided for each layer, arranged on opposite sides of the threading path. This increases cost and significantly complicates the rewinding machine, even because the threading strips present on both sides in this case can obstruct access to other parts of the machine. Furthermore, the disclosed system does not allow threading of more than two layers.

[0007] These and other known threading systems require pulling the front portion of the web material beyond the effective width of the conversion line.

[0008] Therefore, it would be advantageous to provide a threading system that can completely or partially overcome one or more of the disadvantages of existing threading systems.

[0009] In some existing devices, an operator must intervene by hand to insert the web material into the gap formed by a pair of rollers on the conversion line, which introduces a considerable risk of crushing accidents. To minimize these accidents, complex safety procedures are often in place, which complicate the conversion line and significantly increase the time required to guide the web material along the entire conversion line.

[0010] It would be useful to provide an automated threading system that allows for the complete or partial resolution of one or more drawbacks of existing threading devices. Summary of the Invention

[0011] According to one aspect, a machine for converting web material is disclosed herein, the machine comprising: a web material advance path and a threading device adapted to introduce the leading edge of the web material into the web material advance path. The machine may be a rewinding machine, an embossing-laminating machine, a printing machine, or another machine for processing or converting web material.

[0012] The web material can be a single-layer or multi-layer web material.

[0013] According to the embodiments disclosed herein, the threading device includes a first continuous flexible member and a second flexible member. The first continuous flexible member defines a threading path from an upstream position to a downstream position relative to the threading direction of the web material, and a return path. The second flexible member may be a continuous flexible member, but in some embodiments, it may consist of a discontinuous flexible member, i.e., it may have an open end.

[0014] The machine further includes at least one web material anchoring element, which can be reversibly and alternately constrained to the first flexible member and the second flexible member. A means for transferring the anchoring element from the first flexible member to the second flexible member is arranged in a transfer position along a portion of the path of the first flexible member, in which the first flexible member is adjacent to the second flexible member. The transfer means is used to transfer the anchoring element from one of the two flexible members to the other to perform at least one step of the threading process.

[0015] The aforementioned machine can be a rewinding machine arranged in a web production line conversion line, and the web production line conversion line includes an embossing-laminating machine upstream of the rewinding machine. The embossing-laminating machine may include: a first inlet for a first layer of the web material; a second inlet for a second layer of the web material; and outlets for the first and second layers.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first continuous flexible member extends from a first inlet of the embossing-lamining machine toward the rewinding machine. A third flexible member extends from a second inlet of the embossing-lamining machine to the outlet. At the outlet of the embossing-lamining machine, a second means for transferring the anchoring element from the third flexible member to the first flexible member is arranged, the second means being positioned in a second transfer position along a portion of the path of the first flexible member, in which the first flexible member is adjacent to the third flexible member. The first flexible member then extends to the rewinding machine.

[0017] In another embodiment, a fourth continuous flexible member extends from the first inlet of the embossing-lamining machine toward the rewinding machine. A second means for transferring the anchoring element from the third flexible member to the fourth flexible member is arranged at the outlet of the embossing-lamining machine. The second means is positioned in a second transfer position along a portion of the path of the fourth flexible member, in which the first flexible member is adjacent to the third flexible member. A third means for transferring the anchoring element from the fourth flexible member to the first flexible member is arranged between the outlet of the embossing-lamining machine and the winding unit of the rewinding machine. The third means is positioned in a third transfer position along a portion of the path of the fourth flexible member, in which the fourth flexible member is adjacent to the first flexible member.

[0018] To facilitate the transfer of the anchoring element from one flexible member to another, the anchoring element may include at least one connecting member adapted to reversibly and alternately connect the anchoring element to one or the other of the flexible members.

[0019] In some embodiments, the anchoring element comprises a sheet having a first side and a second side, from which the connecting member protrudes. The layered shape of the anchoring element facilitates its passage along the threading path through the machine. In particular, the sheet may be made of a plastic material. Advantageously, the sheet may have a very low thickness (typically no more than 3 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 1 mm) and typically has a thickness capable of passing through a gap defined between rollers pressed against each other to clamp the web material.

[0020] In some embodiments, the connecting member includes at least one rod, and preferably two rods, each rod having two end expansions positioned on two opposite sides of the anchoring element, the end expansions being adapted to engage in shaped slots in the first and second flexible members. This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it facilitates the transfer of the anchoring element.

[0021] The possibility of providing another type of connecting member cannot be ruled out. For example, the anchoring element may be constrained to one or more of the flexible members by means of a magnetic system. In other embodiments, snap-fit, bayonet, screw, or other types of connecting members may be provided, wherein the device is adapted to deactivate and activate the connecting member.

[0022] As mentioned, the machine with the threading device inserted can be a rewinding machine, for example, for producing rolls or sections of tissue paper. The rewinding machine includes a winding unit arranged upstream of the transfer position along the threading path.

[0023] Other features and embodiments of the machine and the threading device are described below and in the appended claims, which form part of this specification.

[0024] According to another aspect, a method for introducing web material or lamination into a machine for converting or processing web material is disclosed herein.

[0025] In one embodiment, a method is provided for threading web material into a machine for processing web material, the method comprising the following steps:

[0026] The leading edge of the web material is joined to an anchoring element, which can be reversibly constrained to a first continuous flexible member, wherein the first continuous flexible member defines a guide path from a first upstream position to a second downstream position relative to the web material's direction of travel in the machine, and a return path.

[0027] The leading edge of the web material is inserted through the machine along the threading path until the second downstream position;

[0028] In a transfer position, the anchoring element to which the web material is anchored is transferred from the first flexible member to the second flexible member, wherein a portion of the path of the first flexible member is arranged adjacent to the path of the second flexible member.

[0029] According to another aspect, a method for threading web material into a rewinding machine including a winding unit is disclosed herein, the method comprising the following steps:

[0030] The leading edge of the first layer of web material is joined to an anchoring element, which can be reversibly constrained to a first continuous flexible member, wherein the continuous flexible member defines a threading path and a return path relative to the threading direction of the web material from the inlet of the rewinder to a position downstream of the winding unit.

[0031] The leading edge of the first layer is inserted into the winding unit along the threading path until the transfer position is reached by moving the anchoring element with the aid of the first flexible member;

[0032] In a transfer position, the anchoring element anchored to the first layer is transferred from the first flexible member to the second flexible member, wherein a portion of the path of the first flexible member is arranged adjacent to the path of the second flexible member;

[0033] The first layer of the web material is cut off to begin winding the roll in the winding unit.

[0034] According to another aspect, a method for threading two web materials into an embossing-laminating machine is disclosed herein, the method comprising the following steps:

[0035] The leading edge of the first layer of the web material is joined to a first anchoring element that can be reversibly constrained to a first flexible member, the first flexible member defining a threading path from the first inlet of the embossing-lamining machine to the outlet of the embossing-lamining machine;

[0036] The leading edge of the first layer of the web material is guided from the first inlet of the embossing-laminating machine to the outlet of the embossing-laminating machine by the first anchoring element constrained to the first flexible member;

[0037] The leading edge of the second layer of the web material is joined to another anchoring element that can be reversibly constrained to another flexible member, which defines a threading path from the second inlet of the embossing-lamining machine to the outlet of the embossing-lamining machine;

[0038] The leading edge of the second layer of the web material is guided from the second inlet to the outlet by the other anchoring element constrained to the other flexible member;

[0039] Transfer the other anchoring element from the other flexible member to the first flexible member;

[0040] The first flexible member is used to transfer the anchoring element, which is constrained by the first layer and the second layer, and the other anchoring element toward the downstream station of the embossing-lamination machine.

[0041] Other embodiments of the method according to the invention will be described in detail below and defined in the appended dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0042] The invention will become clearer from the description and accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the invention by way of non-limiting example. More specifically, in the drawings:

[0043] Figure 1 A side view of a production line for converting web material in one embodiment;

[0044] Figure 2 For including the embossing-lamination machine Figure 1 An enlarged view of the production line section;

[0045] Figure 3 For including the rewinding machine Figure 1 An enlarged view of the production line section;

[0046] Figures 4A-4H The steps of the threading procedure in one embodiment;

[0047] Figure 5 For the leading edge of the layer during the threading process;

[0048] Figure 6A and 6B This is an isometric view of the transfer device in one embodiment from two different angles;

[0049] Figure 7 for Figure 6A , 6B Side view of the transfer device;

[0050] Figure 8 According to Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of line VIII-VIII;

[0051] Figures 9A-9E A schematic diagram of the transfer procedure of the anchoring element from the first flexible member to the second flexible member via the transfer device;

[0052] Figure 10 The basis for anchoring elements Figure 11 A plan view of line XX;

[0053] Figure 11 According to Figure 10 The side view of line XI-XI; and

[0054] Figure 12A-12J This is a step in the threading procedure in another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0055] The following describes a conversion production line, namely a processing line for web materials (particularly, such as tissue paper). In the illustrated embodiment, the web material is a material comprising at least two layers, which is wound to form a roll; however, the possibility of using web materials comprising a single layer or more than two layers cannot be excluded. In the illustrated conversion production line, an unwinding machine, an embossing-laminating machine, and a rewinding machine are arranged sequentially. The threading device or threader device of the present invention is used to thread the web material layers in the embossing-laminating machine and in the rewinding machine. In other embodiments, in the conversion production line, several machines may be arranged upstream of the rewinding machine, one or more of which may use the same threading device, or additional threading devices, for threading one or more layers forming the web material. In other embodiments, the embossing-laminating machine may be omitted.

[0056] Generally speaking, the production line described below illustrates how one or more threading devices and related methods of the present invention can be advantageously used to thread web material layers in different machines and for different purposes, which may be arranged sequentially relative to each other.

[0057] In the following description and in the appended claims, reference will be made to web material and one or more layers comprising said web material. As is known to those skilled in the art, typically (e.g., in the production of tissue paper), said web material may consist of one or more layers, which are combined and processed together in each machine of the production line. In other cases, multiple layers may be processed so as to at least partially follow separate paths, for example in an embossing-laminating machine. The threading device may be used in the same machine or in the same production line to thread different numbers of layers depending on the type of product to be produced by the production line. Therefore, in this specification and the appended claims, in some cases, reference will be made to web material, and in other cases, reference will be made to one or more layers of web material. Unless otherwise stated, the term "web material" is generally also used to refer to a single layer of multilayer web material or a single-layer web material.

[0058] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 , 2 Section 3 illustrates production line 1 for converting web material, relating only to the initial portion of the web material of interest in this specification. In the example shown, the conversion production line is for converting manufactured cotton paper master rolls into cotton paper rolls of suitable commercial dimensions. The conversion production line includes... Figures 1 to 3 The additional stations downstream of those shown are specifically used for cutting rolls to the desired axial length and for packaging. These additional stations are known in themselves and will not be described as they are irrelevant to the illustrative description of the invention.

[0059] The conversion production line 1 includes an unwinding machine 3 for unwinding the web material master roll B. The web material of the master roll B may consist of a single layer or several layers (e.g., two layers), which are initially supplied along two separate paths, as described below. In other embodiments not shown, the unwinding machine 3 may include several stations for simultaneously or sequentially unwinding more than one master roll.

[0060] exist Figure 1 In web materials, which may consist of a single layer or several layers, are typically indicated by N. Unless otherwise stated, the term "web material" may be used to refer to a complete web material that may consist of several layers arranged side by side, as well as a single layer that may be joined to other layers to form a multilayer web material.

[0061] The path of the web material is usually indicated by P.

[0062] Assuming that, in the illustrated example, the master roll B contains two layers V1 and V2, which separate at a point on path P to proceed toward the embossing-laminating machine 5 along two separate paths. The embossing-laminating machine 5 is known in itself and will not be described in detail unless useful for a better understanding of the invention. The embossing-laminating machine 5 includes two embossing units 5A and 5B that emboss the two layers V1 and V2 separately from each other. The two layers V1 and V2 are then bonded together in the lamination roll gap and exit from the exit of the embossing-laminating machine 5, for example, by gluing.

[0063] Therefore, the embossing-lamination machine 5 includes a first inlet for supplying layer V1 to the first embossing unit 5A and a second inlet for supplying layer V2 to the second embossing unit 5B.

[0064] As described in more detail below, in the illustrated embodiment, the embossing-lamination machine 5 includes a new threading system that allows the leading edges of layers V1 and V2 to be threaded (i.e. inserted) into two inlets, through two embossing units 5A and 5B, and up to the outlets of the two layers V1 and V2.

[0065] Downstream of the embossing-lamination machine 5 is a rewinding machine 7, which winds the web material N into segments or rolls, the segments or rolls having a diameter equal to the diameter of the finished product and an axial length equal to a multiple of the length of the finished roll. Downstream of the rewinding machine is a cutting device (not shown), which cuts the segments or rolls into individual small rolls, which are then packaged in a packaging station (not shown).

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, the rewinding machine 7 includes a winding unit 9 to which web material N is supplied along path P for winding into a roll. Upstream of the winding unit 9 along path P of the web material N, a perforator 10 may be arranged to generate transverse perforations along the web material to separate the web material into individual sheets that can be separated from each other during use.

[0067] In some embodiments, the winding unit 9 may include peripheral winding members. As known to those skilled in the art, the term "peripheral winding" is used to indicate winding obtained by maintaining the rotation of a forming roll by means of a plurality of motor-driven winding members that contact the cylindrical surface of the roll and transmit rotational torque to the roll through friction. For example, the winding members may include a plurality of motor-driven belts and / or a plurality of winding rollers, as in... Figure 3 It is indicated by 9.1, 9.2 and 9.3.

[0068] The roll formed in the rewinding machine 7 is supplied to a downstream station (not shown) via a chute 11.

[0069] To introduce web material into the conversion line 1 at the start of processing or, for example, in the event of accidental breakage of the web material, a threading device is provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the threading device is adapted to guide the web material through the embossing-lamination machine 5 and the rewinding machine 7. The components for threading the web material through the rewinding machine 7 are described first below, followed by those for threading the web material through the embossing-lamination machine 5.

[0070] Typically, threading devices are used to insert all the layers of material forming the web one after another.

[0071] refer to Figures 3 to 4H This document describes the main components of the threading device for inserting one or more layers of web material through the rewinder 7 up to the winding unit 9.

[0072] The threading device, generally indicated by 15, includes, for example, a first flexible member 17 in the form of a strip. The first flexible member 17 is a continuous flexible member that runs along a closed path and forms a threading path 17.1 and a return path 17.2. The threading path extends from a point upstream of the embossing-laminating machine 5 to a point downstream of the winding unit 9 along the general direction of travel of the web material N along the conversion production line 1, wherein the general direction of travel is indicated by FN. More specifically, the threading path 17.1 extends from the entrance of the rewinder to a region downstream of the winding unit 9, and particularly to a position downstream of the rewinder 7 and externally relative to the rewinder 7. The return path or branch 17.2 typically extends to a height above the threading path or branch 17.1.

[0073] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in particular, the threading path 17.1 follows approximately the path P of the web material N as it is inserted into the conversion line 1. The threading path 17.1 and return path 17.2 of the first flexible member 17 are defined by a plurality of pulleys arranged on one side of the conversion line, one or more of which are motor-driven.

[0074] Furthermore, the threading device 15 includes a second flexible member 19, which, for example, includes a belt. For purposes illustrated below, the two flexible members 17, 19 have substantially the same structure. In the illustrated embodiment, the second flexible member is also a continuous flexible member, i.e., it moves along a closed path; however, this is not strictly necessary, as explained below. The closed path of the second continuous flexible member 19 is particularly in... Figures 4A-4H As can be seen in the text.

[0075] Along each of the paths of the first flexible member 17 and the second flexible member 19, two corresponding portions 17.3 and 19.1 are provided in which the two flexible members 17 and 19 are arranged side by side relative to each other. The two portions 17.3 and 19.1 are defined between two pairs of guide pulleys, respectively labeled 21, 23 and 25, 27. A transfer position 29 is defined between pulleys 21, 25 and 23, 27, in which an element 31 for anchoring the web material is transferred from the first flexible member 17 to the second flexible member 19, the element 31 being reversibly constrained to one or the other of the flexible members 17 and 19.

[0076] exist Figure 10 and 11 The anchoring element 31 is shown in detail in the image, while Figures 5 to 9B This illustrates how the anchoring element cooperates with the flexible members 17, 19 to pull the web material layer along the threading path and how the anchoring element is transferred from one of the two flexible members 17, 19 to the other.

[0077] In particular, such as Figure 9A , 9B 9C and Figure 10 As shown, the anchoring element 31 comprises a sheet 32 ​​made of, for example, a plastic material. In the illustrated embodiment, the sheet 32 ​​has a quadrilateral shape, and preferably a parallelogram shape with two longer sides and two shorter sides. Connecting members for attaching the anchoring element 31 to the first continuous flexible member 17 and the second continuous flexible member 19 are constrained to the sheet 32.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting member includes a pair of rods 33, 35 that pass through sheet 32 ​​and protrude from a first surface 32.1 and a second surface 32.2 of sheet 32. Each rod includes two corresponding end expansions 33.1, 33.2 and 35.1, 35.2 that protrude relative to the two surfaces 32.1 and 32.2 of sheet 32. The central portions of rods 33, 35 between the corresponding end expansions are indicated by 33.3 and 35.3.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, two rods 33, 35 are arranged near one of the two short sides of the sheet 32, and more precisely near the two vertices of the parallelogram. Along the opposing shorter sides, the sheet 32 ​​has members for engaging the leading edges of the layers to be threaded. In the illustrated embodiment, such engaging members include a notch or slot 37 through which the leading edge of layer V can be inserted.

[0080] Figure 5The relative position of the continuous flexible member 17 with respect to the general-purpose roller R is schematically shown. The general-purpose roller R is along the path P of the conversion production line 1, in which the first continuous flexible member 17 is arranged, defining the web material N. Figure 5 As shown, a continuous flexible member 17 is arranged on one side of the production line, outside the effective portion of the roller R, which guides the web material N, i.e., each layer V that makes up the web material N.

[0081] The initial portion V0 of each layer V (ending at the leading edge LT and to be threaded into the conversion line 1) is generally triangular with a sloping initial edge Bi. Through the threading operation described in more detail below, the leading edge LT and the initial portion V0 must be traversed along the entire path P of the web material N until the initial portion V0 is brought outside and beyond that path. As described in detail below, the initial portion V0 is discarded before the manufacture of the rolls made from the web material begins.

[0082] To thread each layer V of the web material N, a corresponding anchoring element 31 is used, which is pulled along the threading path of the first flexible member 17 and transferred to the second flexible member 19, as in Figure 6A , 6B It is shown in detail in 7, 8, 9A-9E and described below.

[0083] First, it should be noted that each of the two flexible members 17, 19 has a plurality of slots 41 extending along the longitudinal direction of the flexible members 17, 19. The slots 41 are arranged in pairs, and each has a narrower portion 41.1 and a wider portion 41.2. The lateral dimension of the narrow slot portion 41.1 allows the thinner central portions 33.3 and 35.3 of the rods 33, 35 to pass through, but does not allow the end expansions 33.1, 33.2 and 35.1, 35.2 to pass through. The lateral dimension of the wide slot portion 41.2 also allows the end expansions 33.1, 33.21, 35.1, 35.2 of the rods 33, 35 to pass through.

[0084] The transfer device 51 is arranged in a transfer position 29 defined between wheels 25 and 27. In some embodiments, the transfer device 51 may have a forming plate 53 on which the first flexible member 17 can slide, or the forming plate 53 may selectively contact the flexible member and move away from the flexible member by movement according to arrow f51. A bracket for securing the transfer device 51 to one side (not shown) of the changeover production line 1 is indicated by 55.

[0085] Figure 6B and 7 China and Figures 9A-9ESensors 57 and 58, specifically shown in the procedure, are associated with the transfer device 51. Sensors 57 and 58 can be capacitive, magnetic, optical, or any other type of sensor, adapted to detect the presence of the end expansions of rods 33 and 35, and are used to manage the step of transferring the anchoring element 31 from the flexible member 17 to the flexible member 19. Sensors 57 and 58 can be associated with a control unit (indicated by 59) Figure 6B (The interface shown in the figure and omitted in the rest of the figures for simplicity) The control unit also manages the movement of the continuous flexible members 17, 19.

[0086] exist Figures 9A-9E The procedure for transferring the anchoring element 31 from the continuous flexible member 17 to the continuous flexible member 19 is shown in detail in these figures. For clarity, the flexible members 17 and 19 are shown spaced apart from each other.

[0087] exist Figure 9A In the process, according to arrow f17, the anchoring element 31, which moves with the first flexible member 17, reaches the position of the sensor 57. The sensor 57 detects that the rod 35 of the anchoring element 31 has arrived and controls the flexible member 17 to stop, while the second flexible member 19 continues to move in the direction matching the forward movement of the first flexible member 17 according to arrow f19. Figure 9A In this position, the transfer device 51 pushes the rods 33 and 35 toward the second flexible member 19 such that when the second flexible member 19 passes through the two slots 41 along the position of the rods 33 and 35, the end expansions of the rods 33 and 35 facing the second continuous flexible member 19 enter the wider portion 41.2 of the two slots 41. Figure 9B This allows the second flexible member 19 to continue advancing, and the rods 33 and 35 to enter the narrower slot portion 41.1. Figure 9C This prevents the anchoring element 31 from being removed from the second continuous flexible member 19. The second flexible member 19 continues to advance at a speed higher than the first flexible member 17 (which may remain stationary), causing the rods 33, 35 of the anchoring element 31 to disengage from the narrower portion 41.1 of the slot 41 of the first continuous flexible member 17. Figure 9D At this point, the two flexible components 17 and 19 begin to move forward at the same speed. Figure 9E And because the paths of the flexible members 17 and 19 diverge downstream of the pulleys 23 and 27, the anchoring element 31 remains attached to the second flexible member 19 and moves away from the first flexible member 17 along the path of the second flexible member 19.

[0088] When the leading edge of a layer is engaged to an anchoring member, the above operation allows the leading edge to be transferred from one flexible member to another. As will become clear from the following description, this allows for various embodiments of the method for threading web material into the winding unit 9 of the rewinding machine 7. The same transfer criteria can be applied to thread multiple layers through the embossing-laminating machine 5, as described below.

[0089] The use of the above structures and methods in other machines that form or convert production lines cannot be ruled out, such as unwinding machines, printing machines, rolling machines, embossing-laminating machines, and various machines or equipment that typically require transferring the leading edge from one flexible component to another. Specific applications to embossing-laminating machines will be described below.

[0090] For details, please refer to the following text. Figures 4A to 4H The procedure describes a first embodiment of the threading of the web material N, more precisely, the layers V constituting the web material N, through the rewinder 7 up to the winding unit 9. In this embodiment, in addition to the components described herein, an abutment member 61, such as an abutment roller, is arranged along the threading path of the first flexible member, the abutment member 61 being adapted to cooperate with one of the winding rollers of the winding unit 9. In the illustrated embodiment, the abutment roller 61 is adapted to cooperate with a winding roller 9.3, which is supported by a pair of movable arms 9.4 pivoting about an axis 9A, such that the winding roller 9.3 is alternately in a winding position and an auxiliary position, in which the winding roller 9.3 cooperates with the abutment roller 61.

[0091] Furthermore, a device 63 for cutting the web material (i.e., the individual layers V constituting the web material) is arranged along the threading path of the first flexible member 17 between the abutment roller 61 and the transfer position 29. In the illustrated embodiment, the cutting device 63 includes a pair of counter-rotating rollers 63.1, 63.2, at least one of which is motor-driven; preferably, both rollers 63.1, 63.2 are driven by a motor at a suitably controlled speed.

[0092] The reverse rotating rollers 63.1 and 63.2 can be adapted to generate transverse pre-break lines on layer V of the web material N (which is threaded along the threading path). For example, the reverse rotating rollers 63.1 and 63.2 can be provided with a piercing blade and an anvil-blade.

[0093] The universal layer V is threaded as follows, whereby the universal layer V can be layer V1 or layer V2 of the web material N, or a single layer of a single web material. The initial edge of layer V is anchored to a suitable, operator-accessible location on the changeover production line 1, as shown below. Figure 5Anchoring element 31 is shown. For example, the leading edge LT of layer V can be anchored to the corresponding anchoring element 31 upstream of the embossing-laminating machine 5 so that the layer can also be passed through the embossing-laminating machine before reaching the rewinding machine 7.

[0094] The first flexible member 17 is advanced along the threading path until it reaches and passes the winding unit 9, as shown. Figure 4A As shown by the dashed line in the diagram. Until the threading path of the winding unit 9 approximately coincides with the path P of the web material N during normal operation of the conversion production line 1.

[0095] In the subsequent steps ( Figure 4B In this step, the anchoring element 31 advances further along the threading path past the pair of rollers 63.1, 63.2 that form the cutting device 63. During this step, the two rollers 63.1, 63.2 are spaced apart from each other so that the leading edge LT of layer V passes through the gap between them. Figure 4B In the diagram, anchoring element 31 is schematically shown downstream of the roll gap between the rolls 63.1 and 63.2 of the web material cutting device 63.

[0096] In the aforementioned step, the winding roller 93 can also be positioned to interact with the abutment roller 61 by rotating the arm 94 supporting the winding roller 93. Thus, the winding roller 93 and the abutment roller 61 form a clamping gap. If the winding roller 93 (which is motor-driven) is driven to rotate at a circumferential speed equal to the speed of the first flexible member 17, layer V is supplied through the clamping gap formed between the abutment roller 61 and the winding roller 93 without being jerked.

[0097] Subsequently ( Figure 4C As the rollers 63.1 and 63.2 of the cutting device 63 approach each other, layer V is clamped between them and begins to rotate in opposite directions, as... Figure 4C As indicated by the arrows, layer V advances between them. Anchoring element 31 advances with first flexible member 17 toward transfer position 29.

[0098] exist Figure 4D The diagram illustrates the step of cutting layer V using a cutting device 63. For this purpose, rollers 63.1 and 63.2 stop or decelerate to stretch layer V of the web material between a clamping roll gap included between rollers 63.1 and 63.2 and an anchoring element 31, which reaches transfer position 29 in this step. The two edges obtained by cutting layer V are... Figure 4DThe sections are shown as L1 and L2. Cutting is aided by forming pre-fracture lines (e.g., perforation lines) using rollers 63.1 and 63.2. However, the possibility of using other layer-cutting methods cannot be ruled out, such as by means of blades arranged between rollers 63.1 and 63.2 and transfer position 29, which can act on the web portion stretched between anchoring element 31 and the pair of rollers 63.1 and 63.2. In this case, the pair of rollers 63.1 and 63.2 may not have pre-fracture members.

[0099] exist Figure 4E The following steps are shown, wherein the anchoring element 31 has been positioned as described above. Figures 9A-9E The procedure of the type shown is transferred from the first flexible member 17 to the second flexible member 19. Figure 4E In this position, the anchoring element 31 can be stopped, while the cut layer V is supplied by means of rollers 63.1, 63.2 rotating in opposite directions. The winding roller 9.3 remains in contact with the abutment roller 61. Therefore, layer V is held under tension and guided. Layers that have advanced beyond the pair of rollers 63.1, 63.2 are collected in the collection system 65, such as... Figure 4E As shown in the diagram. Layer V continues to advance until the entire initial portion of the triangle of layer V (i.e., the portion where the inclined edge Bi is located) passes through the winding unit 9 (as shown in the diagram). Figure 5 ).

[0100] The collection system 65 and the transfer position 29 are advantageously located outside the rewinding machine 7, for example above the gluing device 67, which is arranged downstream of the rewinding machine 7 to receive the rolls or sections L of the wound web material N (shown in dashed lines because they are not present in the production line during the threading step). The gluing device is used to seal the outer web edge of the rolls or sections L.

[0101] To begin winding the first roll or section, layer V in winding unit 9 must be cut. For this purpose, a cutting system (not shown) can be used, which is provided in rewinder 7. The web material typically needs to be stretched to allow the cutting system to operate. For this purpose, winding roller 9.3 can work in conjunction with abutment roller 61. By appropriately controlling the circumferential speed of winding roller 9.3 to synchronize with the cutting system (not shown) of rewinder 7, the web material is cut at the desired point, thereby forming the leading edge of the web material to be wound into the first roll or section. Rewinder 7 can be adapted to produce rolls with or without a winding core in a manner known per se.

[0102] exist Figure 4F The image shows the trailing edge L3 obtained upstream of the winding roller 9.3. The layer between the edge L3 and the collection system 65 is completely unloaded into the collection system by rollers 63.1 and 63.2 for removal by the operator, while the rewinder 7 is ready to begin producing the roll. Figure 4GThe subsequent steps are shown, where edge L3 has reached rollers 63.1 and 63.2 and winding roller 9.3 returns to the winding position, in which winding roller 9.3 works in conjunction with rollers 9.1 and 9.2 to produce a roll or section of material L. Figure 4H In the middle, the unloading of layer V into the collection system 65 has been completed, and rollers 63.1 and 63.2 have moved away from each other again. Winding rollers 9.1, 9.2, and 9.3 are in the winding position. The conversion line 1 can be operated to produce rolls or sections L that are conveyed to the gluing unit 67, while the operator can safely remove the waste web material accumulated in the collection system 65. The operator can also release the anchoring element 31 from the second flexible member 19 and return it to the entrance of the conversion line or the embossing-laminating machine 5 for use when new threading is required.

[0103] The possibility of transferring the anchoring element 31 from the second flexible member 19 to the first flexible member 17 and then transferring the anchoring element 31 upstream of the embossing-lamination machine 5 via the first flexible member 17 cannot be ruled out. For this purpose, it is possible to perform... Figures 9A-9E The operation shown in the program is the opposite of the operation.

[0104] If the web material N comprises several layers, each of the layers can be threaded in a procedure similar to that described above. In this case, two layers can be threaded toward the rewinding machine 7, each layer simultaneously along its respective path. In many cases, the paths are different in the region upstream of the embossing-laminating machine 5, but coincide downstream of the embossing-laminating machine 5. Layers V1 and V2 are typically threaded in a staggered manner, i.e., so that they do not reach the rewinding machine 7 simultaneously but are spaced apart along the first flexible member 17. In this case, two separate anchoring elements 31 are constrained to the first flexible member 17 at two points spaced apart from each other, and the leading edge of the corresponding one of the layers to be threaded is fixed to each of these anchoring elements 31.

[0105] Therefore, when threading two layers, there is a step where the first flexible member 17 simultaneously but spatially staggers the threading of the layers. In a subsequent step, after cutting the first layer ( Figure 4D Before that, the second layer is passed through the flexible member 17, while the leading edge of the first layer is engaged with the second flexible member 19, which remains substantially stationary.

[0106] For example, it can be set to, from Figure 4CIn this state, the first layer being threaded remains intact and is fed towards the collection system 65 by rollers 63.1 and 63.2, while the anchoring element 31 with its leading edge is transferred to the second flexible member 19. Once the leading edge of the first layer has been transferred to the second flexible member 19 using the anchoring element 31, the second flexible member 19 can remain stationary, while the second flexible member 17 continues to advance the second anchoring element 31 with its leading edge anchored to the second layer until the threading of the leading edge of the second layer is completed. In this step, two layers are supplied simultaneously, the difference being that the first layer, which has been threaded using the stationary anchoring element 31, is deposited in the collection system 65, while the second layer advances until the threading is complete.

[0107] The second anchoring element 31 with the leading edge of the second layer is managed in the same way as the anchoring element with the leading edge of the first layer, and the two layers are cut together before the winding operation begins, so that the portions of the two layers downstream of the point where they are cut upstream of the winding roller 9.3 are discarded into the collection system 65 by means of rollers 63.1, 63.2.

[0108] exist Figures 4A-4H In another embodiment of the method shown, the winding roller 9.3 can be positioned at a distance from the abutment roller 61, thus preventing the formation of a clamping gap. Therefore, layers V1 and V2 pass over the roller 9.3, which is driven to rotate at a circumferential speed equal to the forward speed of the layers. Once all layers have been threaded, the roller 9.3 can approach the abutment roller 61, thereby forming a clamping gap, and thus the layers can be cut in the winding unit 9, as... Figure 4F As shown in the image.

[0109] In another embodiment, rollers 63.1 and 63.2 may remain close together throughout the entire duration of threading, with the layer sandwiched between them.

[0110] The threading operation can be further facilitated by associating the anchoring element 31 with one or more force sensors. For example, the force sensors can be integrated into the rods 33, 35 or applied to other locations on the anchoring element. In some embodiments, the force sensors may have a layered shape and can be applied to the sheet 32. Typically, one or more force sensors associated with the anchoring element 31 can be configured and arranged to detect tensile stresses exerted by the layers attached to the anchoring element 31 during the threading step. One or more force sensors may be powered by a battery system mounted on the respective anchoring element and transmit information wirelessly. This allows for the detection of sudden changes in tension applied to the anchoring element 31. A sudden and significant change in tensile stress (which may change from normal operating values ​​to virtually zero) can be a sign that a layer has broken or detached from the anchoring element during the threading operation. If this occurs, the operator can be notified immediately, rather than having to wait until the anchoring element 31 reaches the end of the threading path and is visible from outside the machine to notice the problem.

[0111] exist Figure 12A-12J Different embodiments of the threading method are shown in the procedure. The same reference numerals indicate components that are the same as or equivalent to those previously described. By way of example only, the path of the first flexible member 17 relative to... Figures 4A-4H The paths are slightly different, but they operate in roughly the same way. Furthermore, in this case, rollers 63.1 and 63.2 have the sole purpose of advancing the layers forming the web material toward the collection system 65, but they may not have the purpose of cutting the layers (which is not necessary in the described embodiment).

[0112] exist Figure 12A In the middle, the first layer V1 is inserted by means of the first anchoring element 31A attached to the first flexible member 17. Figure 12A In this configuration, the first anchoring element 31A has moved past the winding unit 9 and toward the transfer position 29. The two rollers 63.1 and 63.2 are spaced apart to allow layer V1 to pass through. In another embodiment (not shown), the two rollers 63.1 and 63.2 may approach each other, thus forming a gap for pulling layer V1. In this case, the two rollers 63.1 and 63.2 must rotate in opposite directions at a circumferential speed equal to the speed of layer V1. The second flexible member 19 may be temporarily stationary.

[0113] exist Figure 12BIn this process, the first anchoring element 31A has moved past the pair of rollers 63.1 and 63.2, pulling the first layer V1 together with the pair of rollers 63.1 and 63.2. Simultaneously, the winding roller 9.3 can move to a position engaging with the abutment roller 61. After the first anchoring element 31A passes through the gap between rollers 63.1 and 63.2, rollers 63.1 and 63.2 can be brought abutted against each other to clamp layer V1 between them, as... Figure 12C As shown in the diagram. Therefore, in this step, layer V1 is clamped at two points: between the winding roller 9.3 and the abutment roller 61, and between the two rollers 63.1 and 63.2.

[0114] In the following Figure 12D In the process, the first anchoring element 31A has reached the transfer position 29, and the first anchoring element 31A can be transferred from the first flexible member 17 to the second flexible member 19 to advance along the flexible member by a given segment until it is outside the transfer position 29 and stops there. Figure 12E This state is illustrated in the diagram: the anchoring element 31A is stationary on the stationary second flexible member 19. In this step, rollers 63.1 and 63.2 (with layer V1 clamped in the gap they form) rotate to advance layer V1 toward the collection system 65. The rotational motion of the counter-rotating rollers 63.1 and 63.2 is synchronized with the forward motion of the first flexible member 17, and the second anchoring element 31B, to which the second layer V2 is attached, is constrained to the first flexible member 17. The second layer V2 is... Figure 12E It is still not visible in the middle.

[0115] exist Figure 12F In the middle, the second anchoring element 31B has moved downstream of rollers 63.1 and 63.2, pulling the leading edge of the second web V2 together with rollers 63.1 and 63.2. Along the threading path 17.1, layers V1 and V2 are adjacent to each other and in contact, and both move toward the collection system 65 at the same speed.

[0116] exist Figure 12G In this process, the second anchoring element 31B has reached the transfer position 29 and has been transferred from the first flexible member 17 to the second flexible member 19 according to the procedure described above. For this purpose, the second flexible member 19 can perform a limited forward movement (not visible in the figure). In another embodiment, not shown, the transfer of the anchoring element 31B from the first flexible member 17 to the second flexible member 19 can be prevented. In this case, the anchoring element 31B remains on the flexible member 17 near the transfer station 29.

[0117] After reaching the stated position, the second anchoring element 31B, the anchoring element 31A, and the second flexible member 19 can remain stationary, while the first flexible member 17 continues to move forward. Figure 12A), thereby supplying the first layer V1 and the second layer V2 into the collection system 65 until the inclined edge Bi of the second layer V2 ( Figure 5 The first flexible member 17 and the second flexible member 19 can remain stationary, and the first layer V1 and the second layer V2 can be supplied through a pair of rollers 63.1, 63.2 and through a pair of rollers consisting of a winding roller 9.3 and an abutment roller 61.

[0118] At this point, when the two layers V1 and V2 that normally form the web material to be wound into a roll are fully laid on at least the winding roller 9.1, the two layers V1 and V2 are cut by the cutting system (not shown) of the rewinder 7. (Refer to the above...) Figures 4A-4H As described in the procedure, in said step, layers V1 and V2 can be stretched by winding rollers 9.3 acting in conjunction with abutment roller 61. Figure 12I In the middle, layers V1 and V2 have been cut, forming two edges L3. The downstream portions of layers V1 and V2 at edges L3 are pulled by rollers 63.1 and 63.2 and unloaded into collection system 65, see [link to system]. Figure 12J .

[0119] At this point, the rewinding machine 7 has begun producing rolls or sections of material L to be unloaded toward the gluing device 67, while the operator can remove the web material accumulated in the collection system 65 and retrieve the anchoring elements, manually releasing the anchoring elements from the second flexible member 19 and removing the residual layers V1, V2 from the anchoring elements. When new threading is required, the retrieved anchoring elements 31A, 31B are reused, wherein the anchoring elements 31A, 31B are moved to one side of the entrance of the embossing-laminating machine or to any other suitable point where they are engaged to the flexible member 17 or any other flexible member of the threading device (and then transferred from that other flexible member to the flexible member 17).

[0120] In the illustrated embodiment, the conversion production line 1 includes an embossing-laminating machine 5, and a threading device can also be used to thread the layers through the embossing-laminating machine. If such a unit is not present in the production line, the threading device can be used to thread the layers simply through a rewinding machine. If other machines (e.g., printing machines) are located upstream of the rewinding machine 7, the threading device can be used to insert the layers through said other machines.

[0121] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 2 The following describes a method for threading two layers V1, V2 through an embossing-laminating machine. In the example shown, a first continuous flexible member 17 extends upstream of the embossing-laminating machine, and more specifically extends in the inlet path of the first layer V1 in the embossing-laminating machine 5.

[0122] The third flexible member 18 is associated with the embossing-lamination machine 5. The third flexible member 18 is constructed with slots of similar shape to the flexible members 17 and 19 in a manner similar to that of the flexible members 17 and 19, so as to allow the anchoring elements 31, 31A, 31B to be transferred from one flexible member to another.

[0123] The third flexible member 18 extends upstream of the second inlet of the embossing-laminating machine 5, where the second layer V2 is inserted. At the outlet of the embossing-laminating machine 5, two flexible members 17 and 18 have corresponding portions arranged side-by-side relative to each other in a transfer position 30, in which the anchoring element 31B is transferred from the third flexible member 18 to the first flexible member 17 for the purposes described below. A transfer device 52 is arranged in the transfer position 30, which can be configured as the transfer device 51 described above.

[0124] for Figure 2 The arrangement described and shown allows the two layers V1, V2 to be threaded into the embossing-laminating machine 5 as follows: The operator can attach anchoring element 31A to flexible member 17 upstream of the embossing-laminating machine 5 and secure the leading edge of layer V1 to anchoring element 31A. Furthermore, the operator can attach a second anchoring element 31B to a third flexible member 18 upstream of the embossing-laminating machine 5. By advancing flexible members 17, 18 along their respective threading paths, the two leading edges of layers V1, V2 can then reach the two embossing rollers 5.1, 5.2 (…). Figure 2 The distance between and exceeding the gap defined between the embossing roller 5.1 and the corresponding pressure roller 5.3 reaches the transfer position 30. Here, the anchoring element 31B can be utilized with... Figures 9A-9E The process shown and equivalent to that described above involves the transfer from the third flexible member 18 to the first flexible member 17. The transfer is performed such that the two anchoring elements 31A, 31B are positioned at a distance on the first flexible member 17 suitable for subsequent threading operations as described earlier in the rewinding machine 7. The possibility of transferring anchoring element 31B in transfer station 29 to superimpose the two anchoring elements 31A, 31B onto the first flexible member 17 cannot be ruled out, thereby facilitating the threading of layers V1 and V2 in a downstream processing station of the embossing-laminating machine 5.

[0125] exist Figure 5The diagram shows a configuration in which the first continuous flexible member 17 extends from an upstream position of the embossing-laminating machine 5 to a downstream position of the winding unit 9 of the rewinding machine 7. However, while currently preferred, this is not the only way to perform threading. For example, it can be configured such that layers V1 and V2 are inserted into the embossing-laminating machine 5 by means of two corresponding continuous flexible members, each inserting layers V1 and V2 individually, and then the anchoring element is transferred from the two corresponding continuous flexible members to the continuous flexible member 17, in which case the continuous flexible member 17 extends from a downstream position of the embossing-laminating machine 5 to a downstream position of the winding unit 9 of the rewinding machine 7.

[0126] The described threading system is effective even when more than two layers need to be threaded (each layer having a different path at least up to the exit of the embossing-laminating machine 5), or when the embossing-laminating machine 5 can be configured to manufacture different products requiring different types of layers. In this case, it is necessary to have several flexible members and one or more transfer stations 29, which can thread the individual layers in a suitable manner relative to the desired product, and the transfer stations 29 are used to transfer anchoring elements from one flexible member to another to thread the layers along one or more desired paths. In this way, starting from a formula that can be selected from an operator panel typically present in a changeover production line, the layers required to form the web material N can be automatically threaded along a pre-established path without operator intervention.

[0127] The described system allows for quick and safe threading operations, thereby minimizing the need for manual actions and operator access to the hazardous areas of the machines forming the changeover production line 1.

[0128] The following clauses define certain specific aspects of the machines, conversion production lines, and methods according to the invention.

[0129] Clause 1. A machine for processing web material, comprising: a web material advance path and a threading device, the threading device being adapted to guide the leading edge of the web material into the web material advance path; wherein the threading device comprises:

[0130] A first continuous flexible member defines: a threading path from an upstream position to a downstream position relative to the threading direction of the web material; and a return path;

[0131] Second flexible component;

[0132] At least one web material anchoring element, said at least one web material anchoring element being reversibly and alternately constrained to the first flexible member and the second flexible member; and

[0133] A means for transferring the anchoring element from the first flexible member to the second flexible member, the means being arranged in a transfer position along a portion of the path of the first flexible member, wherein the first flexible member is adjacent to the second flexible member.

[0134] Clause 2. The machine according to Clause 1, wherein the second flexible member is a continuous flexible member.

[0135] Clause 3. The machine according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the anchoring element includes at least one connecting member adapted to reversibly and alternately connect the anchoring element to the first flexible member and the second flexible member.

[0136] Clause 4. The machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, wherein the anchoring element comprises a sheet having a first side and a second side, and the connecting member protrudes from the sheet.

[0137] Clause 5. A machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, wherein the connecting member comprises at least one rod and preferably two rods, each rod having two end expansions positioned on two opposite sides of the anchoring element, the end expansions being adapted to engage in shaped slots of the first flexible member and the second flexible member.

[0138] Clause 6. The machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet includes a slot adapted to engage the leading edge of the web material.

[0139] Clause 7. The machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, wherein the machine is a rewinding machine including a winding unit arranged upstream of the transfer position along the threading path.

[0140] Clause 8. The machine according to Clause 7, wherein the transfer position is arranged outside the rewinding machine.

[0141] Clause 9. A machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, wherein a system for collecting an initial portion of the web material threaded along the machine is associated with the threading path; wherein the collecting system may be arranged along the path of the first flexible member between the winding unit and the transfer position.

[0142] Clause 10. The machine described in one or more of the preceding clauses includes a web material cutting device.

[0143] Clause 11. The machine according to Clause 10, wherein the web material cutting device is arranged between the winding unit and the transfer position.

[0144] Clause 12. The machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, wherein the web material cutting device includes a web material clamping device.

[0145] Clause 13. The machine according to Clause 12, wherein the clamping device includes a pair of counter-rotating members that form a roller gap suitable for clamping the web material.

[0146] Clause 14. The machine according to Clause 13, wherein the web material cutting device includes a component for forming a pre-break line of the web material, and wherein the cutting device is preferably adapted to stretch the web material between the web material cutting device and the anchoring element.

[0147] Clause 15. A machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, comprising means for removing an initial portion of the web material, the means being arranged between the winding unit and the cutting device and transferring the web material into the collection system; wherein the removal means may be composed of or include the web material cutting device.

[0148] Clause 16. The machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, wherein a web material stretching member is arranged between the winding unit and the cutting device.

[0149] Clause 17. The machine according to Clause 16, wherein the stretching member, preferably the abutment roller, and one of the winding rollers of the winding unit work together, the one of the winding rollers preferably being a winding roller having a movable axis, the winding roller and the abutment element being adapted to form a web material clamping gap.

[0150] Clause 18. A machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, wherein a web material pulling device is arranged along the path of the first flexible member between the winding unit and the transfer position, the web material pulling device preferably comprising a pair of counter-rotating rollers defining a web material clamping and pulling roller gap, the web material pulling device preferably being adapted to distribute the web material into the collection system.

[0151] Clause 19. A machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, comprising a first path for a first layer of the web material and a second path for a second layer of the web material, wherein a first flexible member extends at least partially along the first path and a second flexible member extends at least partially along the second path; wherein the first path and the second path converge toward the transfer position.

[0152] Clause 20. The machine as described in Clause 19, wherein the machine is an embossing-lamination machine.

[0153] Clause 21. A web material conversion production line comprising a rewinding machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, and upstream of the rewinding machine comprising another machine, the other machine comprising: a first inlet for a first layer of the web material, a second inlet for a second layer of the web material; and outlets for the first and second layers; wherein a first continuous flexible member extends from the first inlet of the other machine toward the rewinding machine; wherein a third flexible member extends from the second inlet of the other machine to the outlet of the other machine; and wherein, at the outlet of the other machine, another means for transferring the anchoring element from the third flexible member to the first flexible member is arranged, the other means being positioned in a second transfer position along a portion of the path of the first flexible member, wherein the first flexible member is arranged adjacent to the third flexible member.

[0154] Clause 22. A web material conversion production line comprising a rewinding machine according to one or more of the preceding clauses, and upstream of the rewinding machine comprising another machine including: a first inlet for a first layer of the web material, a second inlet for a second layer of the web material; and outlets for the first and second layers; wherein a third flexible member extends from the second inlet of the other machine to the outlet; wherein a fourth flexible member extends from the first inlet of the other machine toward the rewinding machine; wherein a second means for transferring the anchoring element from the third flexible member to the fourth flexible member is arranged at the outlet of the other machine, the second means being positioned in a second transfer position along a portion of the path of the fourth flexible member, in which the fourth flexible member is adjacent to the third flexible member; and wherein a third means for transferring the anchoring element from the fourth flexible member to the first flexible member is arranged between the outlet of the other machine and the winding unit of the rewinding machine, the third means being positioned in a third transfer position along a portion of the path of the fourth flexible member, in which the fourth flexible member is adjacent to the first flexible member.

[0155] Clause 23. The production line according to Clause 21 or 22, wherein the other machine includes an embossing-lamination machine.

[0156] Clause 24. A method for threading web material into a web material conversion machine, comprising the following steps:

[0157] The leading edge of the web material is joined to an anchoring element, which is adapted to be reversibly constrained to a first continuous flexible member, wherein the first continuous flexible member defines a guide path from a first upstream position to a second downstream position relative to the web material's direction of travel in the machine, and a return path.

[0158] The leading edge of the web material is inserted through the machine along the threading path until the second downstream position;

[0159] In a transfer position, the anchoring element to which the web material is anchored is transferred from the first flexible member to the second flexible member, wherein a portion of the path of the first flexible member is arranged adjacent to the path of the second flexible member.

[0160] Clause 25. The method according to Clause 24, wherein the machine is a rewinding machine including a winding unit, and wherein the second position is arranged downstream of the winding unit relative to the direction of travel of the web material in the threading path.

[0161] Clause 26. The method according to Clause 25 further includes the step of cutting the web material to begin winding a roll in the winding unit.

[0162] Clause 27. The method according to Clause 26, wherein the step of cutting the first layer is performed by stretching the web material between the anchoring element and the clamping member arranged between the winding unit and the transfer position.

[0163] Clause 28. The method according to one or more of Clauses 24 to 27 includes the step of advancing the web material by means of a pulling device, wherein the anchoring element to be transferred to the second flexible member is held in a substantially stationary position.

[0164] Clause 29. The method according to one or more of Clauses 24 to 28 includes the step of collecting an initial portion of the web material in a collection system arranged upstream of the transfer location.

[0165] Clause 30. The method according to one or more of Clauses 25 to 29, wherein the step of cutting the web material includes the following steps:

[0166] Weaken the web material along the transverse pre-fracture line; and

[0167] Stretch the web material until it breaks along the transverse pre-fracture line.

[0168] Clause 31. The method according to one or more of Clauses 24 to 30, wherein the web material comprises at least a first layer, and wherein the method further comprises the following steps:

[0169] The leading edge of the second layer of the web material is joined to a second anchoring element, the second anchoring element being reversibly constrained to the first flexible member; and

[0170] The leading edge of the first layer, which engages with the second flexible member, is held in a substantially stationary position, and the leading edge of the second layer is advanced along the guide path until the transfer position, thereby moving the second anchoring element by means of the first flexible member, wherein the second anchoring element is constrained to the first flexible member.

[0171] Clause 32. The method according to one or more of Clauses 24 to 31, wherein the web material is stretched between the winding unit and the abutment element, the abutment element being arranged along the path of the first flexible member between the winding unit and the transfer position.

[0172] Clause 33. The method according to Clause 32, wherein the web material is stretched by clamping the web material between the abutment element and the winding roller of the winding unit.

[0173] Clause 34. The method according to one or more of Clauses 24 to 33, wherein the transfer location is arranged outside the rewinding machine.

[0174] Clause 35. The method according to Clause 24, wherein the machine includes a first path for the web material and a second path for a second layer of the web material, the web material including at least a first layer, wherein the first path and the second path for the first layer and the second layer of the web material converge toward the transfer position; and wherein the method further includes the following steps:

[0175] The leading edge of the second layer is joined to another anchoring element suitable for reversibly constraining to the second flexible member, wherein the second flexible member is a continuous flexible member and defines a second threading path and a return path, the second threading path being along the path for the second layer of the web material; and

[0176] Insert the leading edge of the second layer through the machine along the second insertion path until the transfer position is reached.

[0177] Clause 36. A method for threading two layers of web material into a conversion machine, preferably an embossing-lamination machine, the method comprising the following steps:

[0178] The leading edge of the first layer of the web material is joined to a first anchoring element adapted to be reversibly constrained to a first flexible member, the first flexible member defining a pass-through path from the first inlet of the machine to the outlet of the machine;

[0179] The leading edge of the first layer of the web material is guided from the first inlet of the machine to the outlet of the machine by the first anchoring element constrained to the first flexible member;

[0180] The leading edge of the second layer of the web material is joined to another anchoring element, which is adapted to be reversibly constrained to another flexible member, which defines a threading path from the second inlet of the machine to the outlet of the machine;

[0181] The leading edge of the second layer of the web material is guided from the second inlet to the outlet by the other anchoring element constrained to the other flexible member;

[0182] Transferring the other anchoring element from the other flexible member to the first flexible member; and

[0183] The anchoring element and the other anchoring element are transferred towards a downstream station of the machine via the first flexible member, wherein the first layer and the second layer are constrained to the anchoring element and the other anchoring element.

[0184] Clause 37. A method for threading web material into a rewinding machine including a winding unit, the method comprising the steps of:

[0185] The leading edge of the first layer of web material is joined to an anchoring element, which is adapted to be reversibly constrained to a first continuous flexible member, wherein the continuous flexible member defines a threading path and a return path relative to the threading direction of the web material from the inlet of the rewinder to a position downstream of the winding unit.

[0186] The leading edge of the first layer is inserted into the winding unit along the threading path until the transfer position is reached by moving the anchoring element with the aid of the first flexible member;

[0187] In a transfer position, the anchoring element with the first layer attached is transferred from the first flexible member to the second flexible member, wherein a portion of the path of the first flexible member is arranged adjacent to the path of the second flexible member; and

[0188] The first layer of the web material is cut off to begin winding the roll in the winding unit.

[0189] Clause 38. The method according to Clause 37, wherein the web material comprises at least a second layer, and wherein the method further comprises the following steps:

[0190] The leading edge of the first layer, which engages with the second flexible member, is held in a substantially stationary position. The leading edge of the second layer is advanced along the threading path to the transfer position by means of the first flexible member to move the second anchoring element, wherein the second anchoring element is constrained to the first flexible member.

[0191] Clause 39. The method described under Clause 37 includes one or more of the features of Clauses 24 to 34.

Claims

1. A machine for converting web material, comprising: A web material advance path and a threading device, the threading device being adapted to guide the leading edge of the web material into the web material advance path; The threading device includes: A continuous first flexible member, the first flexible member defining: a threading path from an upstream position to a downstream position relative to the threading direction of the web material; and a return path; Second flexible component; At least one web material anchoring element, said at least one web material anchoring element being reversibly and alternately constrained to the first flexible member and the second flexible member; and A transfer device for transferring the web material anchoring element from the first flexible member to the second flexible member, the transfer device being arranged in a transfer position along a portion of the path of the first flexible member, in which the first flexible member and the second flexible member are adjacent.

2. The machine according to claim 1, wherein, The second flexible member is a continuous flexible member.

3. The machine according to claim 1, wherein, The web material anchoring element includes at least one connecting member adapted to reversibly and alternately connect the web material anchoring element to the first flexible member and the second flexible member.

4. The machine according to claim 2, wherein, The web material anchoring element includes at least one connecting member adapted to reversibly and alternately connect the web material anchoring element to the first flexible member and the second flexible member.

5. The machine according to claim 3, wherein, The web material anchoring element includes a sheet having a first side and a second side, and the connecting member protrudes from the sheet.

6. The machine according to claim 4, wherein, The web material anchoring element includes a sheet having a first side and a second side, and the connecting member protrudes from the sheet.

7. The machine of claim 1, wherein the machine is configured as a rewinding machine including a winding unit arranged upstream of the transfer position along the threading path.

8. The machine according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the machine is configured as a rewinding machine including a winding unit arranged upstream of the transfer position along the threading path.

9. The machine according to claim 7, wherein, The transfer location is located outside the rewinding machine.

10. The machine according to claim 8, wherein, The transfer location is located outside the rewinding machine.

11. The machine according to claim 7 or 9, wherein, A collection system for collecting the initial portion of the web material threaded along the machine is associated with the threading path; and the collection system is arranged between the winding unit and the transfer position.

12. The machine according to claim 11, comprising a web material cutting device.

13. The machine according to claim 12, wherein, The web material cutting device is arranged between the winding unit and the transfer position.

14. The machine according to claim 13, wherein, The web material cutting device includes a pair of counter-rotating members that form a roller gap suitable for clamping the web material.

15. The machine of claim 11, further comprising a web material cutting device adapted to remove an initial portion of the web material between the winding unit and the web material cutting device and to transfer the initial portion of the web material to the collection system.

16. The machine according to claim 12, wherein, A web material stretching member is arranged between the winding unit and the web material cutting device.

17. The machine according to claim 7 or 9, wherein, A web material pulling device is arranged along the path of the first flexible member between the winding unit and the transfer position.

18. The machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a first path for a first layer of the web material and a second path for a second layer of the web material, wherein the first flexible member extends at least partially along the first path and the second flexible member extends at least partially along the second path, and wherein the first path and the second path converge toward the transfer position.

19. The machine of claim 18, wherein the machine is configured as an embossing-lamination machine.

20. The machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, 7 and 9, wherein, Associated with the web material anchoring element is at least one tension sensor, which is used to detect the tensile stress applied by the layer anchored to the web material anchoring element during the threading step.

21. The machine of claim 16, further comprising an abutting element that interacts with one of the winding rollers of the winding unit; the winding rollers and the abutting element being adapted to form a web material clamping gap.

22. The machine of claim 17 further includes a pair of counter-rotating rollers defining the gap between the web material clamping and pulling rollers.

23. The machine according to claim 14, wherein, The web material cutting device is adapted to stretch the web material between the web material cutting device and the web material anchoring element.

24. A web material conversion production line, comprising a rewinding machine according to claim 7 or 9, and upstream of the rewinding machine comprising an embossing-laminating machine; wherein the embossing-laminating machine comprises: A first inlet for the first layer of the web material, and a second inlet for the second layer of the web material; For the outlets of the first and second layers; The continuous first flexible member extends from the first inlet of the embossing-lamination machine toward the rewinding machine; The third flexible member extends from the second inlet of the embossing-laminating machine to the outlet of the embossing-laminating machine; and wherein, at the outlet of the embossing-laminating machine, another means for transferring the web material anchoring element from the third flexible member to the first flexible member is arranged, the other means being positioned in a second transfer position along a portion of the path of the first flexible member, in which the first flexible member is arranged adjacent to the third flexible member.

25. A web material conversion production line, comprising a rewinding machine according to claim 7 or 9, and upstream of the rewinding machine comprising an embossing-laminating machine; wherein the embossing-laminating machine comprises: A first inlet for the first layer of the web material, and a second inlet for the second layer of the web material; For the outlets of the first and second layers; The third flexible member extends from the second inlet of the embossing-lamining machine to the outlet of the embossing-lamining machine; the fourth flexible member extends from the first inlet of the embossing-lamining machine toward the rewinding machine; a second device for transferring the web material anchoring element from the third flexible member to the fourth flexible member is arranged at the outlet of the embossing-lamining machine, the second device being positioned in a second transfer position along a portion of the path of the fourth flexible member, in which the fourth flexible member is adjacent to the third flexible member; and a third device for transferring the web material anchoring element from the fourth flexible member to the first flexible member is arranged between the outlet of the embossing-lamining machine and the winding unit of the rewinding machine, the third device being positioned in a third transfer position along a portion of the path of the fourth flexible member, in which the fourth flexible member is adjacent to the first flexible member.

26. A method for threading web material into a web material conversion machine, comprising the following steps: The leading edge of the web material is joined to a first anchoring element, the first anchoring element being adapted to be constrained to a continuous first flexible member, wherein the first flexible member defines a guide path from a first upstream position to a second downstream position relative to the web material advance direction in the web material conversion machine, and a return path; The leading edge of the web material is inserted along the threading path through the web material conversion machine until the second downstream position; In a transfer position, the first anchoring element, to which the web material is anchored, is transferred from the first flexible member to the second flexible member, wherein a portion of the path of the first flexible member is arranged adjacent to the path of the second flexible member.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein, The web material conversion machine is a rewinding machine including a winding unit; wherein the second downstream position is arranged downstream of the winding unit in the threading path relative to the direction of travel of the web material.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising the step of collecting an initial portion of the web material in a collection system arranged upstream of the transfer location.

29. The method of claim 27, further comprising the step of advancing the web material by means of a pulling device, wherein the first anchoring element to be transferred to the second flexible member is held in a stationary position.

30. The method of claim 28, further comprising the step of advancing the web material by means of a pulling device, wherein the first anchoring element to be transferred to the second flexible member is held in a stationary position.

31. The method according to claim 27, wherein, The step of cutting the first layer is performed by stretching the web material between the first anchoring element and the clamping member arranged between the winding unit and the transfer position.

32. The method according to claim 28, wherein, The step of cutting the first layer is performed by stretching the web material between the first anchoring element and the clamping member arranged between the winding unit and the transfer position.

33. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The step of cutting the first layer is performed by stretching the web material between the first anchoring element and the clamping member arranged between the winding unit and the transfer position.

34. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 33, wherein, The step of cutting the web material includes the following steps: Weaken the web material along the transverse pre-fracture line; and Stretch the web material until it breaks along the transverse pre-fracture line.

35. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 31, wherein, The web material comprises at least a first layer, and the method further comprises the following steps: The leading edge of the second layer of the web material is joined to a second anchoring element, the second anchoring element being reversibly constrained to the first flexible member; and The leading edge of the first layer is kept stationary and engaged with the second flexible member by means of the first anchoring element, and the leading edge of the second layer is advanced along the guide path by means of the first flexible member to the second anchoring element until the transfer position.

36. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 33, wherein, The web material is stretched between the winding unit and the abutment element, which is arranged along the path of the first flexible member between the winding unit and the transfer position.

37. The method of claim 27, wherein, The web material conversion machine includes a first path for the web material, the web material comprising at least a first layer, and a second path for a second layer of the web material, wherein the first path and the second path for the first and second layers of the web material converge toward the transfer location; and wherein the method further includes the following steps: The leading edge of the second layer is joined to another anchoring element suitable for reversibly constraining to the second flexible member, wherein the second flexible member is a continuous flexible member and defines a second threading path and a second return path, the second threading path being along the second path of the second layer for the web material; Insert the leading edge of the second layer along the second threading path through the web material conversion machine until the transfer position.

38. The method of claim 28, wherein the method further comprises the step of cutting the web material to begin winding it into a roll in the winding unit.

39. The method according to claim 36, wherein, The web material is stretched by clamping it between the abutting element and the winding roller of the winding unit.

40. The method according to claim 28, wherein, The collection system is located outside the rewinding machine.

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