Rotary cutting unit

Abstract

A rotary cutting unit is provided comprising (i) a frame, (ii) a rotary knife comprising a rotary cutting drum having a rotary cutting surface, the rotary cutting drum having a first axis of rotation. At least one knife member is anchored on the rotary cutting surface. The rotary cutting unit further comprises (iii) an anvil comprising an anvil portion having an anvil surface configured to directly contact the at least one knife member, the anvil portion having a second axis of rotation. A surface of a first load bearing structure on the rotary cutting drum and a surface of a second load bearing structure on the anvil are in contact with each other. These structures are preferably positioned on only one end of the cutting drum and anvil, thereby also providing a rotary cutting system comprising a plurality of rotary cutting units.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a rotary cutting unit comprising a rotating cutter and a rotatable anvil. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a rotary cutting unit for rotary die-cutting via rollers, the rotary cutting unit having a support structure on one side and an open frame. Background Technology

[0002] Certain structures and / or methods have been referenced in the following discussion. However, these references should in no way be construed as an admission that such structures and / or methods constitute prior art. The applicant expressly reserves the right to demonstrate that such structures and / or methods do not conform to the prior art as the subject matter.

[0003] An exemplary rotary cutting unit is known from U.S. Patent No. 6,244,148 and includes a rotary cutter that operates in relation to a rotary anvil. The rotary cutter has a generally cylindrical body having a cylindrical cutting surface and at least one blade member projecting from the surface. The diameter of a radially projecting peripheral portion of the blade member is larger than the diameter of the surface. A shaft supported in bearings is provided on each side of the rotary cutter. Between the shaft and the surface, i.e., on each side of the surface, a pair of annular abutment members are provided. The diameter of the abutment members is larger than the diameter of the surface to allow abutment against a pair of load-receiving portions of the anvil.

[0004] The anvil has an anvil portion and a pair of load-receiving portions. The anvil portion is adapted to cooperate with the blade assembly of a rotating cutting cylinder, while the load-receiving portions are configured to abut the blade assembly. Viewed in the axial direction of the anvil, the anvil is supported in bearings outside the anvil portion and outside the load-bearing portion.

[0005] Furthermore, the diameter of the abutment member is substantially the same as the diameter of the radially projecting peripheral portion of the blade member. The abutment member is adapted to abut and transfer loads such that a predetermined pressure is applied to the load-receiving portion of the anvil to achieve the desired cutting performance. Optionally, the abutment member can also transfer the rotation of the rotating blade cylinder to the anvil surface, causing it to rotate in the opposite direction to the rotation of the rotating blade.

[0006] The product is cut from a thin strip of material introduced between the rollers using a centrally located blade component.

[0007] Another example of a cutting unit is known from U.S. Patent No. 7,942,088. In the rotary cutting unit of the related technology in U.S. Patent No. 7,942,088, the rotary cutter is provided with a generally cylindrical hollow or solid body having a cylindrical surface and at least one blade member protruding from the surface. The diameter of the radially extending peripheral portion of the blade member is larger than the diameter of the surface. The rotary cutter is arranged on a spindle extending axially from each side of the rotary cutter and supported in a bearing, or is an integral part of the spindle. Axially, on each side of the surface, a pair of annular abutment members are provided. The diameter of the abutment members is larger than the diameter of the surface to allow abutment contact.

[0008] The anvil includes a shaft, an anvil portion, and a pair of load-transfer portions. The anvil portion is adapted to cooperate with the tool member of a rotating cutting tool, while the load-transfer portions are adapted to abut the adjacent surface of the rotating cutting tool. Furthermore, the diameter of the abutment member is substantially the same as the diameter of the radial peripheral portion of the tool member.

[0009] In the axial direction, on each side of the anvil portion, the shaft is rotatably arranged in a bearing, each bearing being surrounded by a non-rotating load-receiving member. The load-receiving members are axially arranged within the load-transfer portion, i.e., each load-receiving portion is axially located between the anvil portion and each load-transfer portion.

[0010] A pair of pneumatic cylinders apply an upward load to the load receiving member. The load is further transferred to the adjacent member via the load transfer section. The total upward load is greater than the weight of the anvil and sufficient to cause the anvil to bend towards the rotating tool. This improves cutting performance, especially in the axial center portion of the tool member. The load generates a counterforce at surface 8, which is transmitted to the bearing to generate force. The load causes the anvil to bend slightly upward. The load applied by the pair of pneumatic cylinders is adjusted by performing a cutting operation and checking the cutting results. If the cutting results are unsatisfactory, the pressure is increased or decreased until the cutting is uniform across the entire range of the rotating tool and the anvil.

[0011] Optimal cutting is achieved when the anvil is straight, i.e. when the line is straight, because the adjacent members and the blade members protrude to essentially the same degree above the surface and have constant cutting performance along the entire anvil portion.

[0012] For example, in current rotary cutting units, the width of the material that can be fed into the rotary cutting unit is limited by the separation distance between the structures on both sides of the rotary cutter and the anvil (i.e., in the longitudinal direction corresponding to the longitudinal orientation of the rotation axis). These structures form closed sides on both sides of the rotary cutter and the anvil. However, by supporting the rotary cutter and / or the anvil on one side, a side-open arrangement is formed, and material wider than the rotary cutter and the anvil can be fed through the rotary cutting unit. For example, a first width portion of a material such as a nonwoven material can be fed through the rotary cutting unit between the rotary cutter and the anvil, so that the nonwoven material is cut by the action of the blade member. A second width portion of the nonwoven material can extend through the aforementioned side-open arrangement, for example, it can hang outside the housing of the rotary cutter and the anvil.

[0013] In view of the above, there is a need for a rotary cutting unit and a rotary cutting system comprising multiple rotary cutting units, which eliminates one or more of the aforementioned limitations and disadvantages of the technology in the field of rotary cutting units. Summary of the Invention

[0014] The first object of this disclosure is to provide a rotary cutting unit comprising a frame and a rotary cutter. The rotary cutter includes a rotary cutting cylinder having a rotary cutting surface with a first axis of rotation. The first axis is positioned to coincide with the first axis of rotation. A first support structure is located at only one of a first end and a second end of the rotary cutting cylinder. At least one blade member is located on the rotary cutting surface. The rotary cutter unit also includes an anvil, the anvil including an anvil portion having an anvil surface configured to directly contact the at least one blade member, the anvil portion having a second axis of rotation. A second axis is positioned to coincide with the second axis of rotation. A second support structure is located at only one of a first end and a second end of the anvil portion. The rotary cutting unit also includes a first plurality of bearings supporting the first axis to rotate about the first axis of rotation. Furthermore, the rotary cutting unit includes a second plurality of bearings supporting the second axis to rotate about the second axis of rotation. The surface of the first support structure contacts the surface of the second support structure.

[0015] Optionally, along the first rotation axis, a first portion of the first shaft is located on one side of the rotating cutting drum, and a second portion of the first shaft is located on the second side of the rotating cutting drum.

[0016] Optionally, the first plurality of bearings includes two rotary tool bearings, the two rotary tool bearings including a first rotary tool bearing and a second rotary tool bearing, wherein the first rotary tool bearing is configured to support a first portion of the first shaft to rotate about a first rotation axis, and the second rotary tool bearing is configured to support a second portion of the first shaft to rotate about the first axis.

[0017] Optionally, along the second axis of rotation, the second axis is located on one side of the anvil portion, and the second load-bearing structure is spaced apart from the anvil portion.

[0018] Optionally, the second plurality of bearings includes two anvil bearings, each anvil bearing being configured to support a second shaft for rotation about a second axis. Along the second axis of rotation, a first anvil bearing of the two anvil bearings is located between the second load-bearing structure and the anvil portion, and the second load-bearing structure is located between the first anvil bearing of the two anvil bearings and the second anvil bearing of the two anvil bearings.

[0019] Optionally, the rotary cutter is coupled to a motor to be driven to rotate about a first rotation axis.

[0020] Optionally, of the first and second axes, only the first axis is directly supported by the frame.

[0021] Optionally, the anvil is connected to a motor to be driven to rotate about a second axis of rotation.

[0022] Optionally, of the first and second axes, only the second axis is directly supported by the frame.

[0023] Optionally, along the first rotation axis, the first shaft is located on one side of the rotary cutting drum, and the first support structure is spaced apart from the rotary cutting drum.

[0024] Optionally, the first plurality of bearings includes two rotary tool bearings, each rotary tool bearing being configured to support a first shaft for rotation about a first axis. Along the first axis of rotation, the first rotary tool bearing is located between a first support structure and a rotary cutting drum, and the first support structure is located between the first rotary tool bearing and the second rotary tool bearing.

[0025] Optionally, along the second rotation axis, the first part of the second shaft is located on one side of the anvil portion, and the second part of the second shaft is located on the second side of the anvil portion.

[0026] Optionally, the second plurality of bearings includes two anvil bearings, the two anvil bearings including a first anvil bearing and a second anvil bearing, wherein the first anvil bearing is configured to support a first portion of the second shaft to rotate about a second axis of rotation, and the second anvil bearing is configured to support a second portion of the second shaft to rotate about the second axis.

[0027] Optionally, the first pneumatic cylinder is configured to apply a first load to the first plurality of bearings.

[0028] Optionally, the first pneumatic cylinder is configured to apply a first load to a second plurality of bearings.

[0029] Optionally, the second pneumatic cylinder is configured to apply a second load to the first plurality of bearings.

[0030] Optionally, the rotary cutter is coupled to a motor to be driven to rotate about a first rotation axis.

[0031] Optionally, of the first and second axes, only the first axis is directly supported by the frame.

[0032] Optionally, the anvil is connected to a motor to be driven to rotate about a second axis of rotation.

[0033] Optionally, of the first and second axes, only the second axis is directly supported by the frame.

[0034] Optionally, the rotating cutter is positioned horizontally above the anvil.

[0035] Optionally, the anvil is positioned horizontally above the rotating tool.

[0036] Optionally, the first support structure is located on the far side of the rotary cutting drum.

[0037] Optionally, the first load-bearing structure is offset from the center of the rotating cutting drum.

[0038] Optionally, the first load-bearing structure includes multiple adjacent load-bearing substructures.

[0039] Alternatively, the bending effect is applied to either the rotating tool or the anvil.

[0040] A second objective of this disclosure is to provide a rotary cutting system comprising multiple rotary cutting units.

[0041] Optionally, the first rotary cutting unit among the plurality of rotary cutting units is positioned relative to the second rotary cutting unit among the plurality of rotary cutting units, such that the first axis of the rotary cutter of the first rotary cutting unit is coaxial with the first axis of the rotary cutter of the second rotary cutting unit.

[0042] Optionally, the first axis of the rotating cutter of the first rotary cutting unit is coaxial with the first axis of the rotating cutter of the second rotary cutting unit, thereby forming an integral axis spanning the first rotary cutting unit and the second rotary cutting unit.

[0043] Optionally, the integral anvil has a continuous anvil surface that rotates relative to a single axis of rotation.

[0044] Optionally, the integral anvil has a discontinuous anvil surface that rotates relative to a single axis of rotation. The discontinuous anvil surface includes a first anvil surface and a second anvil surface, wherein the first anvil surface is associated with a rotating tool of a first rotary cutting unit, and the second anvil surface is associated with a rotating tool of a second rotary cutting unit.

[0045] Optionally, the distance separating the first rotary cutting unit and the second rotary cutting unit can be adjusted by sliding.

[0046] Optionally, the anvil of the first rotary cutting unit and the anvil of the second rotary cutting unit are integrated.

[0047] Optionally, the rotating blade of each of the first and second rotary cutting units is fixed to the frame of its respective rotary cutting unit.

[0048] Optionally, the rotating blade of each of the first and second rotary cutting units is attached to a corresponding track on each of the corresponding frames of its rotary cutting unit, such that the distance separating the first and second rotary cutting units can be adjusted by sliding.

[0049] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages will be apparent, or will become apparent to those skilled in the art, upon review of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are encompassed in this specification, included within the scope of this disclosure, and protected by the appended claims. Nothing in this section should be construed as limiting those claims. Further aspects and advantages are discussed below in conjunction with embodiments of this disclosure. It should be understood that the foregoing general description of this disclosure and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory, and are intended to provide a further explanation of the claimed disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0050] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the subject matter and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the subject matter and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 1A This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0052] FIG. 1B This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0053] FIG. 1C This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0054] FIG. 2AThis is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0055] FIG. 2B This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0056] FIG. 3A This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0057] FIG. 3B This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0058] FIG. 3C This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0059] FIG. 3D This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0060] FIG. 4A This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0061] FIG. 4B This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0062] FIG. 5A This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0063] FIG. 5B This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0064] FIG. 6 This is a side view of a rotary cutting unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0065] FIG. 7A This is a side view of a rotary cutting system according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0066] FIG. 7B This is a side view of a rotary cutting system according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0067] FIG. 7C This is a side view of a rotary cutting system according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0068] FIG. 8 This is a side view of a rotary cutting system according to an exemplary embodiment of the subject matter.

[0069] FIGS. 1A-8The side view is taken along the feed direction of the material passing through the rotary cutting unit or system, and in each view, this direction is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotary tool and anvil.

[0070] For ease of viewing, in some cases only some named features in the figures are labeled with reference numerals. Throughout the figures and detailed descriptions, unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals should be understood to denote the same elements, features, and structures. For clarity, illustrative purposes, and convenience, the relative dimensions and descriptions of these elements may be adjusted. Detailed Implementation

[0071] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter described herein pertains.

[0072] When a range of values ​​is provided, such as a concentration range, percentage range, or ratio range, it should be understood that, unless the context explicitly specifies otherwise, every intermediate value between the upper and lower limits of that range, up to one-tenth of the lower limit unit, and any other specified value or intermediate value within that specified range, is included in the subject matter. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may be independently included within those smaller ranges, and these examples are also included in the subject matter, subject to any specific exclusion limits within the specified range. Where a specified range includes one or two limits, the range excluding one or both of these included limits is also included in the subject matter.

[0073] The following definitions list the parameters for the topic.

[0074] As used herein, the terms “about” and “approximately” are used interchangeably. “About” means ±1% of the numerical value of the number used in the claims and this disclosure. Therefore, “about” and “approximately” are used to provide flexibility to the endpoints of a numerical range by specifying that a given value can be “above” or “below” a given value. Thus, for example, a value of 50% is intended to encompass the range defined by 49.5%–50.5%.

[0075] As used in this disclosure, the term "major" means comprising at least 95% of the entities given in the claims, and also includes 95% of the features described in this disclosure.

[0076] When used throughout the disclosure, the term “generally” means “about,” “usually,” “near,” or “in the vicinity or range.”

[0077] As used in this disclosure, the terms “basic” or “substantially” refer to the complete or near-complete scope or degree of an action, characteristic, nature, state, structure, item, or result.

[0078] As used herein, the term "anvil" refers to a rigid structure having a flat top surface, which, for example, can be molded into the rotary cutting unit disclosed herein to form a working relationship with a rotary tool. The anvil can be constructed of any suitable size. The anvil can be made of one or more suitable materials, such as, but not limited to, steel, ceramic, bronze, copper, another suitable metal or metal alloy, or any desired combination thereof, thereby imparting considerable hardness.

[0079] As used in this disclosure, the term "bearing" refers to a physical element that restricts relative motion to only the desired type of motion and further reduces friction between moving parts. The unique design of a bearing determines the specific type of motion transmitted to the moving parts. A specific bearing design can, for example, facilitate free linear motion of the moving parts, or similarly grant free rotation about a fixed axis. Alternatively, bearings can prevent, suppress, or otherwise prohibit motion by specifically controlling the vector of normal loads and forces acting on the moving parts. Bearings facilitate desired motion by minimizing the effects of friction. Therefore, bearings are specifically classified according to a particular type of operation, a specific type of motion permitted, or a particular direction of loads and forces applied to the moving parts.

[0080] As used in this disclosure, the term "shaft" refers to a rotating rod on which a wheel, a pair of wheels, or other rotating component may be attached or fixed.

[0081] As used in this disclosure, the term "pneumatic cylinder" refers to a mechanical device that typically utilizes the power of compressed gas to generate force, thereby producing reciprocating (i.e., repeated backward and forward) linear motion. Once actuated, compressed gas (i.e., typically compressed air) enters a tube at one end of the piston and then applies force to the piston. This causes the piston to move. Like a hydraulic cylinder, the compressed gas forces the piston in the pneumatic cylinder to move in the desired direction. The piston is primarily a disc or cylinder. The piston rod transmits the force generated by the power of the compressed gas to the object that needs to be moved.

[0082] As used in this disclosure, the term "motor" refers to a mechanical or electrical device that produces motion.

[0083] As used in this disclosure, the term "knife component" means, for example, a knife, dagger, short sword, or any material substantially having a sharp blade, capable of cutting material applied to a rotary cutting unit to process the applied material.

[0084] As used herein, the term "rotary cutting unit" refers to a rotary cutting and processing entity comprising (i) a frame, and (ii) a rotary cutter including a rotary cutting roller having a rotary cutting surface and a first axis of rotation. At least one cutter member is anchored to the rotary cutting surface. The rotary cutting unit further comprises (iii) an anvil including an anvil portion having an anvil surface configured to directly contact the at least one cutter member, the anvil portion having a second axis of rotation.

[0085] As used in this disclosure, the term "rotary cutting system" includes a plurality of the aforementioned rotary cutting units.

[0086] FIGS. 1A-6 All are side views of the rotary cutting unit according to various exemplary embodiments.

[0087] refer to FIGS. 1A-2B Rotary cutting unit (e.g., FIG. 1A Rotary cutting unit 1 in FIG. 1B Rotary cutting unit 2 in FIG. 1C Rotary cutting unit 3 in FIG. 2A The rotary cutting unit 10 and FIG. 2B The rotary cutting unit 100 includes a frame 20, a rotary cutter 30, and an anvil 50. The rotary cutter 30 includes a rotary cutting drum 32 having a rotary cutting surface 34 and a first rotation axis 36, a first shaft 38 positioned to coincide with the first rotation axis, and a first support structure 40 located at only one end of the rotary cutting drum 32 (see [reference]). FIG. 1A ), and at least one blade member 42 located on the rotating cutting surface 34. In some embodiments, the first support structure 40 may be located on the distal side of the rotating cutting drum 32, such as FIG. 1A As shown. In other embodiments, the first support structure 40 is not located on the far side of the rotating cutting drum 32, but may be more towards the center of the rotating cutting drum 32, but still off-center, such as... FIG. 1B The first load-bearing structure 40 is shown. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first load-bearing structure 40 may include a plurality of smaller load-bearing substructures 44, which are arranged, for example, spaced apart from each other, such as... FIG. 1C The first load-bearing structure 40 shown has first and second load-bearing substructures 44. The embodiment is not limited to only two load-bearing substructures 44, and more load-bearing substructures 44 can be applied, including load-bearing substructures 44 of different widths (in the direction of the first rotation axis 36). The load-bearing substructures 44 can be used in place of any first load-bearing structure 40 disclosed herein.

[0088] The anvil 50 includes: anvil portion 52 having anvil surface 54 configured to directly contact at least one blade member 42 and a second axis of rotation 56; a second shaft 58 positioned to coincide with the second axis of rotation 56; and a second support structure 60 located at only one of a first end and a second end of the anvil portion 52. A first plurality of bearings 70 support the first shaft 38 for rotation about the first axis of rotation 36, and a second plurality of bearings 72 support the second shaft 58 for rotation about the second axis of rotation 56. The surface of the first support structure 40 contacts the surface of the second support structure 60.

[0089] Further reference FIGS. 1A-2B Along the first axis of rotation 36, a first portion of the first shaft 38 may be located on one side of the rotary cutting drum 32, and a second portion of the first shaft 38 may be located on a second side of the rotary cutting drum 32. The first plurality of bearings 70 may include two rotary tool bearings, each comprising a first rotary tool bearing and a second rotary tool bearing, wherein the first rotary tool bearing is configured to support the first portion of the first shaft 38 to rotate about the first axis of rotation 36, and the second rotary tool bearing is configured to support the second portion of the first shaft 38 to rotate about the first axis of rotation 36. Along the second axis of rotation 56, the second shaft 58 may be located on one side of the anvil portion 52, and the second bearing structure 60 may be spaced apart from the anvil portion 52. The second plurality of bearings 72 may include two anvil bearings, each anvil bearing configured to support the second shaft 58 to rotate about the second axis of rotation 56. Along the second axis of rotation 56, the first anvil bearing of the two anvil bearings may be located between the second load-bearing structure 60 and the anvil portion 52, and the second load-bearing structure 60 may be located between the first anvil bearing and the second anvil bearing of the two anvil bearings. The rotary cutting units 1, 2, 3, 10, 100 may include a first pneumatic cylinder 80 configured to apply a first load to the second plurality of bearings. Although described herein as a "pneumatic cylinder," hydraulic cylinders may be used in conjunction with pneumatic cylinders (e.g., some cylinders are pneumatic cylinders and others are hydraulic cylinders), or hydraulic cylinders may be used in place of pneumatic cylinders.

[0090] The rotary cutter 30 can be coupled to the motor 37 to be driven to rotate about a first axis of rotation. In this case, of the first axis 38 and the second axis 58, only the first axis 38 can be directly supported by the frame 20. Alternatively, the anvil 50 can be coupled to the motor 37 to be driven to rotate about a second axis of rotation. In this case, of the first axis 38 and the second axis 58, only the second axis 58 can be directly supported by the frame 20 (see [link to relevant documentation]). FIG. 5A ).

[0091] refer to FIG. 3AReferring to Figure 5, in the corresponding embodiments of the rotary cutting units 200, 250, 260, 270, 300, 350, 400, and 450, along the first rotation axis 36, the first shaft 38 may be located on one side of the rotary cutting drum 32, and the first support structure 40 may be spaced apart from the rotary cutting drum 32. The first plurality of bearings 70 may include two rotary tool bearings, each configured to support the first shaft 38 for rotation about the first axis 36. Along the first rotation axis 36, the first rotary tool bearing of the two rotary tool bearings may be located between the first support structure 40 and the rotary cutting drum 32, and the first support structure 40 may be located between the first rotary tool bearing and the second rotary tool bearing of the two rotary tool bearings. Along the second rotation axis 56, a first portion of the second shaft 58 may be on one side of the anvil portion 52, and a second portion of the second shaft 58 may be on a second side of the anvil portion 52. The second plurality of bearings 72 may include two anvil bearings, comprising a first anvil bearing and a second anvil bearing, wherein the first anvil bearing is configured to support a first portion of the second shaft 58 to rotate about a second axis of rotation 56, and the second anvil bearing is configured to support a second portion of the second shaft 58 to rotate about the second axis of rotation 56. The second load-bearing structure 60 may be integral with the anvil surface 54.

[0092] The rotary cutting unit may include one or more pneumatic cylinders configured to apply loads to one or more bearings. For example, the cutting unit may include a pneumatic cylinder associated with each bearing, or a pneumatic cylinder may be associated with more than one bearing, or a mixture of one-to-one and one-to-many associations of pneumatic cylinders with bearings may be used. Furthermore, some bearings may have associated pneumatic cylinders, while others may not. (Reference) FIGS. 3A-3B The rotary cutting units 200 and 250 may further include a first pneumatic cylinder 80 configured to apply a first load to one of the second plurality of bearings 72. (Reference) FIG. 3A , FIG. 3B and FIG. 6 The rotary cutting unit 500 may further include a second pneumatic cylinder 82 configured to apply a second load to different bearings of a second plurality of bearings 72. (Reference) FIGS. 4A-5B The rotary cutting units 300, 350, 400, and 450 may further include a first pneumatic cylinder 80 configured to apply a first load to a first plurality of bearings 70. In some embodiments, the rotary cutting unit may include an additional pneumatic cylinder configured to apply an additional load to a bearing that is not yet associated with the first or second pneumatic cylinder, for example, see [link to documentation]. FIG. 6The rotary cutting unit 500 has an additional pneumatic cylinder 84 configured to apply an additional load to one of the first plurality of bearings 70 of the rotary cutter 30.

[0093] refer to FIGS. 3A-3D , FIGS. 4A-4B and FIG. 6 In the rotary cutting units 200, 250, 260, 270, 300, 350, and 500, the rotary cutter 30 can be connected to a motor 37 to be driven to rotate about a first rotation axis 56. In this case, of the first axis 38 and the second axis 58, only the first axis 38 can be directly supported by the frame 20. (See reference) FIGS. 5A-5B In the rotary cutting units 400 and 450, the anvil 50 can be connected to the motor 37 to be driven to rotate about the second rotation axis 56. In this case, of the first axis 38 and the second axis 58, only the second axis 58 can be directly supported by the frame 20. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the driven axes 56 and 58 are interchangeable.

[0094] refer to FIGS. 1A-1C , FIG. 2A , FIG. 3A , FIG. 3C , FIG. 4A , FIG. 5A and FIG. 6 The rotating cutter 30 can be positioned horizontally above the anvil 50. (Reference) FIG. 1B , FIG. 2B , FIG. 3B , FIG. 3D , FIG. 4B and FIG. 5B The anvil 50 can be positioned horizontally above the rotating cutter 30. FIG. 6 The rotary cutting unit 500 can also be configured such that the anvil 50 is horizontally positioned above the rotary cutter 30. In the aforementioned figures, the base 90 of the frame 20 of the rotary cutting unit is oriented toward the ground and is located, for example, on a floor or suitable platform, and the horizontally positioned rotary cutter 30 or anvil 50 above it is positioned relative to the base 90.

[0095] refer to FIGS. 2A-2B The first pneumatic cylinder 80 can exert a bending effect (“positive offset anvil” or “PBA”) on the anvil 50 along the second axis of rotation 56 by applying loads to both sides of the second bearing structure 60 that presses against the first bearing structure 40. (See reference) FIGS. 3A-3B By applying loads to both sides of the first bearing structure 40 that presses against the second bearing structure 60, a bending effect can be applied along the first rotation axis 36 to the rotating tool 30 (“positive offset tool” or “PBC”). Reference FIGS. 3C-3D ,likeFIGS. 3A-3B The same PBC effect on the rotating cutter 30 shown can be applied to the first load-bearing structure 40, which has multiple load-bearing substructures. (Reference) FIGS. 4A-4B By applying a load to the first plurality of bearings 70 on the side of the tool via the first pneumatic cylinder 80, the PBC bending effect can be applied to the rotating tool 30 (“positive bias tool” or “PBC”), which allows for a greater than FIGS. 3A-3B A lower cutting height in the construction, FIGS. 3A-3B The first and second pneumatic cylinders 80 and 82 are shown on the second plurality of bearings 70 on the anvil side. FIGS. 4A-4B The design also allows the first load-bearing structure 40 to translate and rotate on the rotating cutter 30. FIG. 5A The second shaft 58 of the driven anvil 50, with FIG. 2B The opposite of its structure, FIG. 2B The first axis 56 has a driven rotary tool 30. FIG. 5B The second shaft 58 of the driven anvil 50 is, in conjunction with FIG. 2A The opposite of its structure, FIG. 2A The first axis 56 has a driven rotary tool 30. FIG. 6 It has a PBC effect on the rotating tool 30, such as FIG. 3A However, the third pneumatic cylinder 84 provides additional control over the amount of bending effect.

[0096] FIG. 2B It is similar to FIG. 2A The arrangement is reversed, but the positions of the rotating cutter 30 and the anvil are swapped, so that the rotating cutter 30 is arranged vertically below the anvil 50. FIG. 3B It is similar to FIG. 3A The arrangement is reversed, but the positions of the rotating cutter 30 and the anvil 50 are swapped, so that the rotating cutter 30 is arranged vertically below the anvil 50. FIG. 3D It is similar to FIG. 3C The arrangement is reversed, but the positions of the rotating cutter 30 and the anvil 50 are swapped, so that the rotating cutter 30 is arranged vertically below the anvil 50. FIG. 4B It is similar to FIG. 4A The arrangement is reversed, but the positions of the rotating cutter 30 and the anvil 50 are swapped, so that the rotating cutter 30 is arranged vertically below the anvil 50. FIG. 5B It is similar to FIG. 5A The arrangement is reversed, but the positions of the rotating cutter 30 and the anvil 50 are swapped, so that the rotating cutter 30 is arranged vertically below the anvil 50.

[0097] More than one rotary cutting unit can be combined to operate as a single rotary cutting system. For example, a rotary cutting system may include a first rotary cutting unit and a second rotary cutting unit. The first and second rotary cutting units can be positioned such that the side-open arrangement of the first rotary cutting unit is oriented toward the side-open arrangement of the second rotary cutting unit. In a rotary cutting system with this arrangement, a first portion of the material (e.g., a first edge region of the material) can be fed through the first rotary cutting unit between the rotary cutter and the anvil, where it is acted upon by the cutting member for cutting, and a second portion of the material (e.g., a second edge region of the material) can simultaneously be fed through the second rotary cutting unit between the rotary cutter and the anvil, where it is acted upon by the cutting member for cutting. The side-open arrangement of the first and second rotary cutting units provides space through which the material can pass in the feed direction when the first and second end regions of the material are processed by the respective rotary cutting units. FIGS. 7A-7C An example of a rotary cutting system is illustrated schematically, in which... FIG. 7A This is a side view of a rotary cutting system according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 7B This is a side view of a rotary cutting system according to another exemplary embodiment, and FIG. 7C This is a side view of a rotary cutting system according to yet another exemplary embodiment.

[0098] refer to FIGS. 7A-7C The rotary cutting systems 600, 650, and 660 may include the above-mentioned references. FIGS. 1A-6 The plurality of rotary cutting units 1, 2, 3, 10, 100, 200, 250, 260, 270, 300, 350, 400, 450, and 500 are described. A first rotary cutting unit 610 is positioned relative to a second rotary cutting unit 620, such that the first axis 38 of the rotary cutter 30 of the first rotary cutting unit 610 is coaxial with the first axis 38 of the rotary cutter 30 of the second rotary cutting unit 620. In an alternative embodiment, the first axis 38 of the rotary cutter 30 of the first rotary cutting unit 610 may be parallel to or even offset from the first axis 38 of the rotary cutter 30 of the second rotary cutting unit 620. (See reference...) FIG. 7A In the rotary cutting system 600, the distance separating the first rotary cutting unit 610 and the second rotary cutting unit 620 can be adjustable, for example, by sliding. (Reference) FIG. 7B In the rotary cutting system 650, the anvil 50 of the first rotary cutting unit 610 and the anvil 50 of the second rotary cutting unit 620 are integrated, thereby providing a single integrated anvil unit 750 spanning the first and second rotary cutting units 610 and 620. FIG. 7A In contrast to its structure, FIG. 7BThe integrated anvil 750 makes the distance between the first and second rotary cutting units 610, 620 non-adjustable. (Reference) FIG. 7C In the rotary cutting system 660, the anvil 50 of the first rotary cutting unit 610 and the anvil 50 of the second rotary cutting unit 620 are integrated, thereby providing an integrated anvil 750. FIG. 7B In contrast, the rotating blade 30 of each of the first and second rotary cutting units 610, 620 is suspended from the frame 20 on the track 770, which allows the distance separating the first rotary cutting unit 610 and the second rotary cutting unit 620 to be adjustable, for example by sliding.

[0099] In some embodiments, the integral anvil 750 has a continuous anvil surface that rotates relative to a single axis of rotation 630. FIG. 7B and FIG. 7C An example of an integral anvil with only one continuous anvil surface is shown. In other embodiments, the integral anvil has discontinuous anvil surfaces that rotate relative to a single axis of rotation 630, such as a first anvil surface and a second anvil surface, wherein the first anvil surface is associated with the rotating blade of the first rotary cutting unit 610 and the second anvil surface is associated with the rotating blade of the second rotary cutting unit 620. FIG. 8 It shows something similar to FIG. 7C An embodiment of the rotary cutting system 800, and an example of an integral anvil 750 having a discontinuous anvil surface in the form of a first anvil surface 805 and a second anvil surface 810.

[0100] Although this disclosure has been described in conjunction with embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that additions, deletions, modifications and substitutions not specifically described may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined in the appended claims.

[0101] The topics described herein sometimes illustrate that different components are contained within or connected to different other components. It should be understood that the architectures described in this way are merely exemplary, and many other architectures that achieve the same functionality can indeed be implemented. Conceptually, any arrangement of components that achieve the same functionality is effectively “associated” to achieve the desired function. Therefore, any two components combined here to achieve a particular function can be considered “associated” with each other to achieve the desired function, regardless of the architecture or intermediate components. Similarly, any two components so associated can also be considered “operably connected” or “operably linked” to each other to achieve the desired function, and any two components that can be so associated can also be considered “operably linked” to each other to achieve the desired function. Specific examples of operable linkage include, but are not limited to, physically matable components and / or physically interacting components, and / or wirelessly interactive components and / or logically interacting components, and / or logically interactive components.

[0102] In some cases, one or more components may be referred to herein as “constructed as,” “constructed by,” “constructible as,” “operable / operable to,” “adaptable / adaptable,” “capable of,” “compliant / compliant,” etc. Those skilled in the art will recognize that these terms (e.g., “constructed as”) can generally encompass active state components and / or inactive state components and / or standby state components, unless the context requires otherwise.

[0103] While specific aspects of the subject matter described herein have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, based on the teachings herein, changes and modifications may be made without departing from the subject matter and its broader aspects, and therefore, all such changes and modifications are covered within the true spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein in the appended claims. Those skilled in the art will understand that, generally, the terms used herein, particularly those used in the appended claims (e.g., the body of the appended claims), are generally intended as “open-ended” terms (e.g., the term “comprising” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “at least having,” the term “comprising” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” etc.).

[0104] Those skilled in the art will further understand that if there is an intent to introduce a particular number of claim statements, that intent will be explicitly stated in the claims, and the absence of such statements implies the absence of that intent. For example, to aid understanding, the appended claims may include the use of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim statements. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed as implying that a claim statement introduced by the indefinite article “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such an introductory claim statement to containing only one such claim statement, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and / or “an” should generally be interpreted as meaning “at least one” or “one or more”); the same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce claim statements.

[0105] Furthermore, even when the specific number of claims to which the claims are introduced is explicitly listed, those skilled in the art will recognize that such a statement should generally be interpreted as indicating at least the number listed (e.g., a simple statement of "two statements" without other modifiers generally indicates at least two statements, or two or more statements).

[0106] Furthermore, in cases where conventions such as "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." are used, this structure is generally intended to make the convention clear to those skilled in the art (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" will include, but is not limited to, systems having only A, only B, only C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). In cases where conventions such as "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." are used, this structure is generally intended to make the convention clear to those skilled in the art (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" will include, but is not limited to, systems having only A, only B, only C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). Those skilled in the art will further understand that conjunctions and / or phrases that generally indicate two or more alternative terms, whether in the specification, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibility of including one term, any one term, or both terms, unless the context otherwise requires. For example, the phrase “A or B” is often understood to include the possibility of “A” or “B” or “A and B”.

[0107] Regarding the appended claims, those skilled in the art will understand that the operations described herein can generally be performed in any order. Furthermore, although the various operational flows are presented sequentially, it should be understood that the various operations can be performed in a different order than that shown, or can be performed simultaneously. Examples of such alternating sequences may include overlapping, interleaving, interruption, reordering, ascending, preparatory, supplementary, simultaneous, reverse, or other different orders, unless the context otherwise indicates. Moreover, terms such as “in response to,” “involving,” or other past tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude such variations unless the context otherwise indicates.

[0108] Those skilled in the art will understand that the specific exemplary processes and / or apparatuses and / or techniques described above represent more general processes and / or apparatuses and / or techniques taught elsewhere herein (such as in the claims filed herein and / or elsewhere in this application).

[0109] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and not for limitation, and the true scope and spirit are indicated by the appended claims.

[0110] The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, accompanying drawings, and claims are not limiting. Other embodiments and modifications may be used without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter set forth herein.

[0111] Where a numerical range is provided, it should be understood that, unless the context explicitly specifies otherwise, every intermediate value between the upper and lower limits of the range, up to one-tenth of the lower limit unit, and any other specified value or intermediate value within the specified range, is included in this disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges, which may be independently included within a smaller range, are also included in this disclosure, subject to any specific excluded limits within the specified range. Where a specified range includes one or two limits, the range excluding one or both of these included limits is also included in this disclosure.

[0112] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, for clarity of concept, the components (e.g., operations), devices, objects, and accompanying discussions described herein are merely illustrative and various construction modifications are contemplated. Therefore, as used herein, the specific examples illustrated and the accompanying discussions are intended to represent their more general categories. In general, the use of any particular example is intended to represent its category, and the exclusion of specific components (e.g., operations), devices, and objects should not be considered as limitation.

[0113] Furthermore, for example, any sequence and / or temporal order of sequences in the systems and methods described in this disclosure is illustrative and should not be construed as limiting in nature. Therefore, it should be understood that process steps may be shown and described in sequence or temporal order, but they are not necessarily limited to being performed in any particular sequence or order. For example, steps in such a process or method can generally be performed in a variety of different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of this disclosure.

[0114] Finally, the publications and / or patents discussed herein are provided only for their publication prior to the filing date of this described disclosure. Nothing herein should be construed as an admission that the described disclosure is not entitled to precedence over such publications due to prior disclosures.

Claims

1. A rotary cutting unit, comprising: frame; Rotary cutting tool, the rotary cutting tool comprising: A rotary cutting drum having a rotary cutting surface and a first rotation axis. The first axis is positioned to coincide with the first rotation axis. A first bearing structure, located at only one of the first and second ends of the rotary cutting drum, and At least one cutting component, said at least one cutting component being located on the rotating cutting surface; Anvil, the anvil comprising: The anvil portion has an anvil surface and a second axis of rotation, the anvil surface being configured to directly contact the at least one blade member. The second axis, positioned to coincide with the second axis of rotation, and A second load-bearing structure is located on only one of the first and second ends of the anvil portion; A first plurality of bearings, the first plurality of bearings supporting the first shaft for rotation about the first axis of rotation; and The second plurality of bearings support the second shaft for rotation about the second axis of rotation. The surface of the first load-bearing structure contacts the surface of the second load-bearing structure.

2. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 1, wherein, Along the first axis of rotation: The first portion of the first shaft is located on one side of the rotating cutting drum; and The second portion of the first shaft is located on the second side of the rotating cutting drum.

3. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 2, wherein, The first plurality of bearings includes two rotary tool bearings, the two rotary tool bearings comprising: A first rotary tool bearing, configured to support the first portion of the first shaft for rotation about the first axis of rotation; and A second rotary tool bearing is configured to support the second portion of the first shaft for rotation about the first rotation axis.

4. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, Along the second axis of rotation: The second shaft is located on one side of the anvil portion; and The second supporting structure is spaced apart from the anvil portion.

5. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 3, wherein: The second plurality of bearings includes two anvil bearings, each anvil bearing being configured to support the second shaft for rotation about the second axis of rotation; and Along the second axis of rotation: The first anvil bearing of the two anvil bearings is located between the second load-bearing structure and the anvil portion; and The second load-bearing structure is located between the first anvil bearing and the second anvil bearing of the two anvil bearings.

6. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 5 further includes a first pneumatic cylinder configured to apply a first load to the second plurality of bearings.

7. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The rotary cutter is connected to a motor to be driven to rotate about the first rotation axis.

8. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 7, wherein, Of the first axis and the second axis, only the first axis is directly supported by the frame.

9. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The anvil is connected to a motor to be driven to rotate about the second rotation axis.

10. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 9, wherein, Of the first axis and the second axis, only the second axis is directly supported by the frame.

11. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 1, wherein, Along the first axis of rotation: The first shaft is located on one side of the rotating cutting drum; and The first supporting structure is spaced apart from the rotating cutting drum.

12. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 11, wherein: The first plurality of bearings includes two rotary tool bearings, each rotary tool bearing being configured to support the first shaft for rotation about the first axis of rotation; and Along the first axis of rotation: The first rotary tool bearing of the two rotary tool bearings is located between the first bearing structure and the rotary cutting drum; and The first load-bearing structure is located between the first rotary tool bearing and the second rotary tool bearing of the two rotary tool bearings.

13. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, Along the second axis of rotation: The first portion of the second shaft is located on one side of the anvil portion; and The second portion of the second shaft is located on the second side of the anvil portion.

14. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 13, wherein, The second plurality of bearings includes two anvil bearings, the two anvil bearings comprising: A first anvil bearing, configured to support the first portion of the second shaft for rotation about the second axis of rotation; and The second anvil bearing is configured to support the second portion of the second shaft for rotation about the second axis of rotation.

15. The rotary cutting unit of claim 12 further includes a first pneumatic cylinder configured to apply a first load to the second plurality of bearings.

16. The rotary cutting unit of claim 15 further includes a second pneumatic cylinder configured to apply a second load to the first plurality of bearings.

17. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 11-12, further comprising a first pneumatic cylinder configured to apply a first load to the first plurality of bearings.

18. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 11-12, wherein, The rotary cutter is connected to a motor to be driven to rotate about the first rotation axis.

19. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 18, wherein, Of the first axis and the second axis, only the first axis is directly supported by the frame.

20. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 11-12, wherein, The anvil is connected to a motor to be driven to rotate about the second rotation axis.

21. The rotary cutting unit according to claim 20, wherein, Of the first axis and the second axis, only the second axis is directly supported by the frame.

22. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The rotating cutter is positioned horizontally above the anvil.

23. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The anvil is positioned horizontally above the rotating cutter.

24. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The first support structure is located on the far side of the rotating cutting drum.

25. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The first supporting structure is offset from the center of the rotating cutting drum.

26. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The first load-bearing structure includes multiple adjacent load-bearing substructures.

27. The rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, A bending effect is applied to either the rotating cutter or the anvil.

28. A rotary cutting system comprising a plurality of rotary cutting units, each of the plurality of rotary cutting units comprising the rotary cutting unit according to any one of claims 1-27.

29. The rotary cutting system according to claim 28, wherein, The first rotary cutting unit among the plurality of rotary cutting units is positioned relative to the second rotary cutting unit among the plurality of rotary cutting units, such that the first axis of the rotary cutter of the first rotary cutting unit is coaxial with the first axis of the rotary cutter of the second rotary cutting unit.

30. The rotary cutting system according to claim 29, wherein, The first axis of the rotating tool of the first rotary cutting unit is coaxial with the first axis of the rotating tool of the second rotary cutting unit, thereby forming an integral axis spanning the first rotary cutting unit and the second rotary cutting unit.

31. The rotary cutting system according to claim 30, wherein, The integrated anvil has a continuous anvil surface that rotates relative to a single axis of rotation.

32. The rotary cutting system according to claim 30, wherein, The integral anvil has a discontinuous anvil surface that rotates relative to a single axis of rotation, said discontinuous anvil surface comprising: A first anvil surface, the first anvil surface being associated with the rotating blade of the first rotary cutting unit; and The second anvil surface is associated with the rotating blade of the second rotary cutting unit.

33. The rotary cutting system according to any one of claims 29-32, wherein, The distance separating the first rotary cutting unit and the second rotary cutting unit can be adjusted by sliding.

34. The rotary cutting system according to any one of claims 29-32, wherein, The anvil of the first rotary cutting unit and the anvil of the second rotary cutting unit are integrated.

35. The rotary cutting system according to claim 34, wherein, The rotating blade of each of the first and second rotary cutting units is fixed to the frame of its respective rotary cutting unit.

36. The rotary cutting system according to claim 34, wherein, The rotating blade of each of the first and second rotary cutting units is attached to a corresponding track on each of the corresponding frames of its rotary cutting unit, such that the distance separating the first and second rotary cutting units can be adjusted by sliding.

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