Device and method for carrying out cutting operation on specification edge of at least one printed product constructed with fold or cover

Abstract

In a device for carrying out a cutting operation on at least one specification edge of at least one printed product (A), a cutting station (2), which can be operated for pre-cutting, is provided on the input side with an intermediate station equipped with elements (E1, E2) for forming a fold (AKF) belonging to the printed product or an unfold (SP) belonging to a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, the first element (E1) has a design which introduces the expansion of the fold or cover and consolidates the expanded opening in operative connection with the translation (502) of the printed product, and wherein the second element (E2) has a design which introduces the expansion of the fold or cover and consolidates the expanded opening in operative connection with the translation (502) of the printed product. A printed product with unfolded folds or covers can be conveyed to the front cut via additional translation (503).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for performing a cutting operation of at least one open format edge of a printed product, i.e. for trimming at least one head edge, front edge, foot edge, according to an embodiment of the present application and as is also known in various ways from the prior art. In the following, the "three-knife trimmer" commercially known by the present applicant as "InfiniTrim" is also discussed.

[0002] The term “open format edge” is therefore understood to mean the head part, front part and foot part (also called head edge, front edge, foot edge) of a printed product, independently of whether the printed product consists of individual pages or of a folding mark (Signatur) and also independently of how the final mass production of such a printed product is carried out.

[0003] For the industrial production of printed products, which are currently also called book blocks or brochures, in small or minimum runs up to one run, so-called three-knife cutters are used which are able to cut products of the same or varying formats and thicknesses successively to the desired format with high cycle output and without interruptions in production, with the highest possible cutting quality.

[0004] In a cutting machine with three cutting stations, the printed products, usually book blocks or booklets, are cut to final size at the head edge, front edge and foot edge with a predetermined thickness. The printed products are bound as a unit on the spine. All known binding methods are possible, such as wire binding, adhesive binding, saddle binding, etc.

[0005] A newer generation of such three-knife cutting machines can be used as a stand-alone machine or as a machine connected to other production equipment or production lines, for example, one of the many is a gluing and binding machine. Background Art

[0006] Such devices (hereinafter also referred to as "three-knife cutters") have the task of cutting the provided printed products, i.e., mostly book blocks and / or brochures (also generally referred to as printed products), at their three open edges. This is done in that the book block or brochure is clamped between a clamping unit, preferably a pressure strip or a pressure plate, immediately before the cutting operation and is subsequently cut appropriately in three cutting operations (head edge, front edge, foot edge). The order of these cutting operations is not strictly predetermined per se and can also be changed depending on the product.

[0007] Furthermore, three-knife cutting machines are already known, in which the book block is pressed and fixed between a die and a cutting box for the cutting operation. When the die is raised, the cut book block is discharged and the new printed product to be cut is introduced. The printed product is brought into its position by means of a centering device and then clamped by the lowered die. The tool is moved by means of a vibration cutter, which is directed towards the book and thus carries out the cutting operation. After the cutting operation of all edges, the die is raised and the next working cycle can begin. However, this three-knife cutting machine embodiment is not suitable for fast format changes. The die and also the cutting box must be customized according to the format to be processed and can only be replaced or changed by stopping the machine.

[0008] From EP 3 285 978 B1 a device for performing cutting operations in connection with printed products is already known, wherein the device in principle has a feed device via which the printed products are transferred to a first cutting station, wherein the device also has a discharge device via which the printed products are further transported after passing a third cutting station, wherein a second cutting station for performing a preliminary cut is arranged between them. Thus, the printed product is transported from one cutting station to the next in such a sequence that it is transferred from a first cutting location (wherein a cutting operation for a first specification edge of the printed product, i.e., head cutting or foot cutting, is performed) to a second cutting location (wherein front cutting is performed), and subsequently the printed product is transported to a third cutting location (wherein a cutting operation for a third specification edge, i.e., foot cutting or head cutting, is performed), wherein the transport from one cutting location to the next cutting location is performed by means of at least one conveying unit, and wherein the conveying unit has at least one gripping device (gripper), with which the printed product is gripped on the spine side with force fit and transported in a suspended manner from one cutting location to the next cutting location, which is an essential feature of this device.

[0009] Furthermore, reference is made to the prior art EP 3 482 892, which is essentially based on the previous EP 3 285 978 B1, wherein this application has been further improved in such a way that an edge-related cutting operation is now performed by means of a cutting tool at at least one cutting location and, if required, at all three cutting locations, wherein, after the first edge-related cutting operation, at least one second, sequential edge-related cutting operation can optionally be performed. Taking the sequential second partial cutting at the front part of the printed product, that is, at the second cutting location as an example, in order to realize this additional partial cutting, the following is carried out: a) after the first partial cut has been carried out, the printed product is briefly clamped with a force fit by a gripper belonging to the transport unit of the transport device, and then the clamping device acting relative to the printed product is slightly opened for the cutting operation, so that the printed product is no longer restrained in movement by the clamping device, that is, the printed product is now held in a suspended manner by the gripper; b) intermediately, the gripper belonging to the conveying unit exerts a force fit on the printed product at this location, whereby the printed product then has a temporary local positioning when the clamping device is opened; c) While the clamping device remains open, the transport unit belonging to the transport device moves the clamped printed product downwards by an amount that is exactly the amount set for the second partial cut, so that the original plane of the knife remains unchanged for this sequential cut. d) after the movement of the cutting amount has been completed, a force fit is again applied to the printed product via the clamping unit of the clamping device in a time-synchronous manner with the gripper of the transport unit; e) immediately before the second partial cutting begins, pressing the printed product in a further interventional manner by means of a preferably rod-shaped pressing unit associated with the cutting location, which applies a final pressure to the printed product in the region of the cutting plane; f) After the second partial cut is completed, the clamping unit moves back in a time-coordinated manner with the cutting tool, the clamping jaws or pressure strips of the clamping device open, and the printed product is then transported on to the third cutting location via another transport unit of the transport device.

[0010] In order to avoid unnecessary repetition of the process, a representative reference Fig.17 and its description in EP 3 482 892 A2. Summary of the invention

[0011] The object of the present invention is to provide a device constructed as a three-knife cutting machine, which is based on the above-mentioned patent right, but is creatively improved in such a way that, in addition to conventional operation, the device according to the invention can now also process printed products extended with at least one fold (Klappenfalz) or cover when necessary (without interruption of the cycle).

[0012] According to the invention, as far as the cutting operation in the area of ​​the front cutting is concerned, as already mentioned, the front cutting can be performed according to the known operating mode on the one hand, but on the other hand, the front cutting is characterized by such a cutting operation, that is, in which, novel, it involves the expansion of the printed product with folding leaves or covers according to the beat clamping, but in the front cutting process to be performed, the folding leaves or covers must keep their original shape intact, that is, they are not allowed to be cut together, which will directly lead to their destruction. This is achieved in the following way, that is, before the front cutting, preventive measures are taken to completely maintain the shape of the base periphery of the folding leaves or covers. The remaining cutting operations, that is, the head cutting and the foot cutting remain unchanged, which can be performed in the usual way.

[0013] A flap or cover is a special embodiment of the envelope of a printed product which has at least one structure directed toward the inside or outside of the printed product, wherein the term printed product also includes books, brochures, magazines and the like.

[0014] According to the invention, in particular in the case of pre-cutting, on the one hand the cutting operation is carried out in principle as before, and on the other hand a device and a method are provided in which the fold or cover of the printed product is not touched by the pre-cutting. In other words, in the case of pre-cutting, the cutting operation(s) are carried out in such a way that the fold or cover is not affected in terms of its essential shape. This is achieved in that, before the cutting operation, an opening (spreading) of the fold or cover is introduced in advance and mainly, the size of which is maintained at least until the end of the cutting operation.

[0015] The reason why unfolding is also carried out in the case of a pure cover, i.e. without folds, is that the cover may be configured to have specific dimensions relative to the previously cut edge, which dimensions may be destroyed by the cutting operation, for example, this always occurs when the cover is intentionally set to be slightly tilted back or slightly protruding relative to the cut edge.

[0016] The basis of the invention is a three-blade cutter and a method for operating a three-blade cutter which can continuously process printed products of the same or different formats and thicknesses with high cutting performance and cutting quality, i.e. cut them to the format according to definition, even if the printed products are designed with at least one flap or cover, wherein these can also be designed differently, i.e., be arranged on one side or on both sides and be set inwards or outwards. Thus, further embodiments according to the invention are also covered for cutting printed products with flaps or covers.

[0017] In the case of a process involving the provision of a printed product with at least one flap or cover, various translation and countermeasures for the printed product are implemented according to the invention in the area of ​​the pre-cutting. The core of this is the countermeasure that the printed product (also called book block) passes through an integrated intermediate station (intermediate station) before the pre-cutting, which, on the one hand, is provided with elements for introducing and consolidating the unfolding of the flap or cover, but, on the other hand, provides countermeasures that can maintain or increase this unfolding until the pre-cutting.

[0018] It is important for the invention that the front cutting can be carried out in the manner described above in principle even if at least one flap or cover is present according to the invention. In this case, the precautions taken should ensure that the cutting operation can be carried out while maintaining the predetermined geometrical shape of the flap or cover 100%. Thus, if it should be ensured that, both in the case of a one-sided and in the case of a two-sided embodiment, in the case of a flap, whether it is arranged on the inside and / or outside of the printed product, the flap or cover remains untouched during the cutting operation, i.e., the elements used according to the invention ensure that the front cutting is limited to the printed product body considered separately from the cover of the printed product, this can only be reliably achieved if the opening of the flap or cover always has and maintains an effective and continuous opening during the entire duration of the cutting operation, wherein, when forming the opening, it should be ensured for quality reasons that the flap or cover is not folded or bent, i.e., the physical opening is reversible at any time in terms of shape and structure after the front cutting has been completed.

[0019] When the book block is translated after the first cutting operation (head or foot edge) has been completed, the printed product passes through an intermediate station, i.e. upstream of the cutting operation for the front cutting, in which the flap or cover is flexibly unfolded by the elements acting there, i.e. the preconditions are thus created that the flap or cover is excluded (together) from being cut during the front cutting, wherein the opening itself consists in flexibly lifting the end part of the flap or cover before the actual front cutting, i.e. unfolding, but to such an extent that permanent structural deformation of the flap or cover is prevented, wherein the same also applies to the further transport of the flap or cover within the cutting station. The aim of this approach is that the original structure (elasticity) and properties of the flap or cover remain intact during the unfolding, i.e. no permanent deformation of the flap or cover is caused.

[0020] In a three-blade cutting machine with a force-fitting clamping of the printed product along a transfer path, i.e. from one cutting station to the next, an adapted translation of the printed product is in principle provided which corresponds to the respective cutting operation to the greatest extent possible, wherein according to the invention emphasis is placed on the translation of the printed product which is effectively connected to the preceding cutting operation.

[0021] The first translation concerned here concerns the transfer of the printed product from the previous cutting station to the station where the pre-cutting is carried out, which can be performed in different ways: a) On the one hand, the translation can be realized in a segmented manner, in which the printed product, starting from the location of the previous cutting operation, first passes through a vertical or verticalized path until it reaches the working height of the intermediate station at the beginning of the cutting station for the previous cutting, and then the subsequent printed product is translated horizontally, first until it is transferred to the intermediate station, which is equipped with elements that can introduce or consolidate or enlarge the opening of the fold or cover. In order to ensure the final purpose, the enlargement of the opening is taken into account in the case where the opening of the fold or cover produced therefrom may be narrowed. b) On the other hand, this translation can also be achieved in that the printed product is transferred from the location of the previous cutting operation to the intermediate station according to a path in the form of a transverse hyperbola across a continuous interval, and the subsequent course then follows the one described in a).

[0022] The elements of the intermediate station provided for this purpose have accordingly the function of taking such precautions, namely, the precautions are essentially used to fully maintain the integrity of the fold or cover during the subsequent cutting process associated with the pre-cutting, that is, by suitable unfolding, not only the fold but also the cover is protected to such an extent that the cutting operation carried out at this time can be successfully completed under optimal conditions, especially when it includes pressing technical precautions for achieving optimal pressing of the printed product before and during the pre-cutting.

[0023] In particular, by introducing an opening (opening during lifting and / or deflection) in relation to the fold or cover, spatial conditions should be created such that the cutting operation can be carried out with an optimal force-related compression of the printed product, which directly affects the dynamics of the cutting device, which is preferably operated by at least one knife. For this purpose, the intermediate station consists of a body, preferably in the shape of an opening strut, on the contour of which the printed product (book block) with the fold or cover is conveyed. The opening strut projects into the book block with its tip between the fold or cover and the main body of the printed product and thereby introduces the dynamics of the opening that leads to the opening. Firstly, the tip is introduced in a position-dependent manner, thereby creating the prerequisites for the subsequent sliding of the fold or cover onto the opening edge of the opening strut, thereby introducing a defined opening of the fold or cover relative to the main body of the book block and thereby creating the prerequisites for the subsequent cutting operation to be carried out in principle independently of the size and shape of the fold or cover.

[0024] In the present case, the sub-packaging of the printed product has different designs for the configuration of a fold or a cover, wherein the fold itself can be arranged inwards or outwards from the book block, wherein such a fold or a cover can be present on both sides of the book block. The unfolding of the cover is explained in paragraph

[0015] . The opening brace itself consists of: a) an opening edge arranged at the beginning in the flow direction, which extends horizontally, quasi-horizontally or obliquely; b) The opening blade is arranged at the rear of the opening edge, and the opening brace starts with an opening blade with a sharp edge shape. c) The opening point of the printed product is usually defined by the opening edge and the opening blade which are operatively connected to one another, and in particular, is given when the printed product lies against the opening strut and the opening of the fold or cover begins or is initiated.

[0025] The translation for introducing the opening of the fold or cover and producing the opening can be carried out continuously, that is, without stopping in front of the opening edge of the first element, or it can also be achieved by temporarily stopping directly in front of the said opening edge, thereby creating the prerequisite for effectively assisting the introduction of the fold or the cover with the help of a static air jet, wherein the air jet can also be achieved while the printed product is continuously conveyed, that is, without stopping in front of the opening edge, regardless of whether the cut or not yet cut printed product part flows towards the opening edge.

[0026] In addition, the intermediate station is effectively connected to other elements by means of its first element in the form of the already described opening brace (which is used to introduce and consolidate the unfolding of the fold or cover), and the other elements preferably extend over the entire workflow of the cutting station for implementing the front cutting and, if necessary, are used to maintain and increase the initial unfolding of the fold or cover, that is, the opening brace first guides the resulting unfolding to one or two tracks extending parallel to each other in the area of ​​the front cutting, as already described above, which extend along the entire operating process of the cutting station, wherein the tracks extend parallel to both sides of the passage of the printed product in such a way that printed products with two, that is, two-sided or double folds or covers can also be processed.

[0027] The distance between the two parallel tracks depends on the thickness of the corresponding printed product, wherein this distance can be adjusted by a controlled unit and wherein preferably only one track is widened by a mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic or electrical drive, however it is also possible to carry out the necessary control of both tracks simultaneously or in a phase-shifted manner to form a new distance, wherein in the latter case it should also be taken into account that this may result in lateral displacement of the pressure strip or pressure rod compared to the initial process in terms of cutting technology, which can be compensated by the fact that the pressure strip or pressure rod compensates for the displacement of the guide rails with respect to each other in terms of quantity, thereby defining a new adapted printed product cutting plane in such a way that a qualitatively suboptimal cutting quality can be avoided by this correction.

[0028] In principle, the track can be constructed convexly or quasi-convexly in the form of a channel and has the task of taking over the expansion caused by the opening brace in a forward manner and at least maintaining the expanded opening degree until the front cut, wherein the convexity or inclination change process of the track can also be designed so that this expansion can be increasingly increased until the front cut.

[0029] Multiple cuts in printed products with folds or covers should also be part of the subject matter of the present invention, so it should be taken into account that for these two structures, the initial unfolding of the folds or covers can be omitted in certain cases during the first partial cut and only applied during another cut that is carried out sequentially, but in this case, for operational reasons, it is simpler to unfold the folds or covers from the beginning by unfolding them sufficiently large, so that the infrastructure of the cutting operation must be adapted accordingly to the process, so that it can undoubtedly be regarded as a variant that after the first partial cut, the printed product is guided back before the opening strut and then unfolded at this point, as described in detail above, whereby the integrity of the fold or cover body is reliably maintained through this process.

[0030] The three-blade cutting machine based here, which according to the invention should have integrated unfolding of the folding leaf or cover, can process new shapes of printed products (folding leaf, cover), wherein new types of printed products can also be realized in operation when printing large and small batches (small batches up to 1 piece), so that it can be operated in a completely cycled manner without stopping due to constant adaptation inside the machine when the printed product specifications and thicknesses are different, regardless of whether the cutting process is a single cut or is achieved by partial cutting.

[0031] In summary, the invention is characterized as follows, wherein, in terms of the object, the invention is realized by an apparatus and a method, in which a cutting operation is performed at at least one open standard edge of at least one printed product. In the apparatus, the apparatus has at least one feed device, which is operatively connected to a first cutting station, in which at least one cutting operation is performed on a first standard edge present there. In addition, the apparatus has at least one discharge device, which is operatively connected to a last cutting station, in which a cutting operation is performed on a second standard edge of the printed product, wherein at least one further intermediate cutting station is arranged between the first cutting operation and the last cutting operation, in which a cutting operation is performed on the front cutting of the printed product.

[0032] During the cutting operation, the printed product itself is clamped by at least one clamping device (sometimes also called a holding device), which is used to apply a holding force that is effectively connected to the cutting device, wherein the printed product is transported in a suspended manner from one cutting station to the next cutting station by at least one conveying unit with a gripping device for applying force, wherein the cutting station that can be used for front cutting is equipped with at least one first element on the input side, the contour of which allows it to guide the folding or cover unfolding of the printed product in the conveying direction, and is also implemented as required so that such an unfolding is produced here, that is, the opening of the unfolding makes it generally possible to perform subsequent front cutting without restrictions, whether at the same time as the unfolding location or downstream of the location of the initially set cutting operation. It can be seen from this that when the front cutting is carried out directly at the cutting location where the unfolding is produced, the initial setting is compared to bringing the cutting operation forward. This has the advantage that it is no longer necessary to guide the unfolding of the folding or cover by other actions.

[0033] However, based on the three-knife cutting machine expanded according to the present invention, in the case where the printed product has a supplementary fold or cover, the preset process is set in the following manner, that is, at least one second element is arranged directly downstream of the first element, and the second element at least takes over the expansion preset by the first element, maintains the size of the expansion until the front cutting, or the expansion becomes larger in a uniform or uneven change process, with the ultimate goal of performing the front cutting operation at a sufficiently large safety distance from the fold or cover.

[0034] In the normal case, the printed product has at least one fold or cover, wherein the fold can be designed to face inwards or outwards. If the printed product has folds or covers arranged on both sides of the book (see paragraph 0015 above), reliable unfolding can only be achieved if elements provided for this purpose are applied on both sides of the transported printed product. In this case, which generally represents the basic embodiment of the device according to the invention, two first and second elements are provided, which are arranged spaced apart from each other and guided in parallel, wherein the degree of the spacing is controlled by mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical means so that a distance corresponding to the corresponding thickness of the printed product is generated therefrom, that is, printed products of different thicknesses can be continuously transported to the front cutting by this mechanism accordingly. Preferably, such an adaptation of the distance should also be achieved when there is a single-sided fold or cover, whereby the printed product obtains appropriate lateral support when it is transported to the front cutting along the unused second element.

[0035] With regard to the shape and operation of the opening body (configured as an opening strut), in order to avoid unnecessary repetitions, reference is made to paragraphs

[0023] to

[0029] . Specifically, with regard to the basic description of the invention, the opening strut has a flexible opening blade, which, when the translation begins here, completely penetrates into the printed product in the area of ​​the fold or cover and thus introduces an essential expansion between the fold or cover and the printed product body. Another design of the opening strut has a contour that gradually increases in the conveying direction and meets the flow requirements, which ensures that the expansion of the fold or cover widens gently up to a certain value, up to such an opening, that is, in the case of which the front cutting can be carried out without loading the fold or cover. If the initial expansion is to be maintained within the cutting station until the subsequent front cutting, the second element mentioned above comes into play, which extends along the conveying path and preferably has a channel that extends convexly or quasi-convexly. The channel can have a uniform course in the conveying direction, so that the expansion produced by the opening strut can be maintained until the front cutting takes effect. However, the channel can also have a direction designed to increase the opening so that the initially opened opening becomes larger in the conveying direction, so that more free space can be provided with respect to the fold or cover when cutting forward. For auxiliary channel, guide plates can also be provided.

[0036] The clamping device arranged in the second cutting station for providing the pressing force acts statically on one side of the printed product, while on the other side the clamping device can be fed. However, it is also possible to generate the pressing force on both sides of the printed product by means of a feeding movement. The clamping device consists of individual vertically or quasi-vertically arranged pressure strips at least on the feed side of the printed product, which are applied individually during the unfolding, wherein during the direct pressing of the printed product within the scope of the cutting operation, the fixed and / or movable pressure strips arranged below the unfolded leaf or cover are part of the complex that finally applies the final pressing force for the cutting operation.

[0037] Furthermore, the device is equipped with a feed device which, as the name implies, performs a feed operation for receiving and orienting the fed printed products, wherein after orientation the printed products are directly conveyed to a first cutting operation arranged there. Preferably, the feed device consists of a rotatable, spool-like wheel which takes over the printed product which is first lying on the spine, clamps it by force, and transfers it into a hanging position relative to the spine by a corresponding partial rotation, whereupon the cutting operation is performed, wherein the printed product is subsequently taken over by the conveying unit and transferred to the next cutting operation.

[0038] Furthermore, the device consists of an output device which works within the scope of the third cutting operation and operates according to the following standards: a) The output device is operated by a multi-piece working wheel; b) the output device has a clamping device, which consists of at least one first and at least one second pressure rod and at least one second pressure rod, which apply a clamping force to the cutting operation; c) after the cutting operation at the third cutting location, the multi-part wheel performs a partial rotation, by which the printed product is transferred into the discharge position; d) At least one pressure rod is operated by a mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical drive.

[0039] The pressure force that can be generated for pressing the printed product in a manner suitable for cutting and the cutting force that is applied for the operation of the cutting device at the relevant cutting point can be provided by one and the same drive, regardless of whether the pressure bar works directly or indirectly. However, it is also possible to generate these two forces by separate drives, which then results in the operational advantage that each force can be applied separately.

[0040] In terms of purpose, the present invention is also implemented by a method for operating an apparatus for performing a cutting operation at at least one open standard edge of at least one printed product, wherein the method also includes at least one feed device, which is effectively connected to a first cutting station, in which at least one cutting operation is performed on a first standard edge to be cut there. In addition, the apparatus also has at least one output device, which is effectively connected to a last cutting station, in which a cutting operation is performed on a second standard edge of the printed product, wherein at least one intermediate cutting station is arranged between the first cutting operation and the last cutting operation, in which a cutting operation for the front cutting of the printed product is performed. During the cutting operation, the printed product is usually clamped by at least one clamping device, which applies the clamping force required for the operation of the cutting device, wherein the printed product is transported from one cutting station to the next cutting station by at least one conveying unit with an integrated force-exerting gripping device. The method also has the following process steps and structural schemes:

[0041] The cutting station that can be used for front cutting is supplemented by an intermediate station on the input side, which consists of at least one first element, the contour of which allows the printed product to be processed here to be unfolded in the conveying direction and constructed into a package with folds or covers, wherein at least one second element is arranged directly downstream of the first element, by which the second element at least takes over the unfolding formed by the first element and guides the unfolding further to the front cutting, wherein the opening degree of the unfolding is increased by the second element as required, either by a uniform or non-uniform direction.

[0042] With regard to the change in the unfolding of the fold or cover caused by the first element, the preset unfolding is taken over by a second element in the form of a channel, preferably constructed in a convex or quasi-convex manner, and the unfolding is either maintained in an unchanged manner until the front cut, or the unfolding is gradually increased until the front cut in a subsequent conveying path process, preferably by designing the convexity of the channel accordingly, so that the printed product body in the area of ​​the front cut is distinguished by a larger free area relative to the unfolding of the fold or cover.

[0043] With regard to the shape of the first element, the first element has the shape of an opening strut, which is formed on the input side by an opening blade, where at the beginning of the translation associated with the printed product, the printing blade extends between the fold or cover and the printed product in such a way that the opening is introduced. Another embodiment of the opening strut has a gradually increasing profile in the conveying direction, the flow-related shaping of which ensures that the opening of the fold increases continuously and gently to a certain opening degree, so that at least such an opening is achieved, that is, in the case of this opening, the front cutting can be carried out in a load-free manner. If the initial opening has an opening sufficient for carrying out the load-free front cutting, the opening is no longer allowed to continue to increase along the second element, but if the opening from the first element does not have an opening that is not enough, in this case the second element comes into play, which is no longer designed to only maintain the opening degree, but can increase the opening degree. This can be achieved, for example, by flexible variation of convex or quasi-convex channels and / or guide plates.

[0044] As already explained above, the first element has the form of an opening brace, which essentially consists of an opening blade constructed on the input side, by which the opening blade extends into the printed product in the area of ​​the fold or cover during a first translation, introducing an expansion of the printed product with an envelope of the fold or cover, and subsequently, by designing the contour of the opening brace to increase the volume on the side, the expansion can be further increased by continuing the translation along the contour of the opening brace.

[0045] If different sizes of folds or covers and printed products are to be detected and ensured to be processed in a clocked manner, as has already been explained above in the device according to the invention, the method according to the invention also has two first and two second elements on both sides of the printed product, which are coupled to at least one drive in order to achieve their spacing from one another exactly in accordance with the thickness of the printed product to be processed. The resulting gap must correspond 100% (with a very narrow margin) to the thickness of the printed product so that the first and second elements operatively connected to one another can ensure reliable unfolding of the folds or covers.

[0046] In general, but especially in the second cutting station for carrying out the front cutting, a holding-down device arranged there for providing a pressing force on the printed product should be present in a static manner on one side, while the holding-down can be achieved on the other side by a feed movement. However, it is also possible to apply the holding-down force on both sides of the printed product by a feed movement. The holding-down device consists of a single vertically or quasi-vertically rearwardly arranged holding bar at least on the feed side of the printed product, and before the cutting operation, it is important to use only holding bars above the unfolding that ensure that the fold or cover is not damaged. Now, sufficient space is created below the unfolding for clamping the printed product here directly in the area of ​​the front cutting on both sides by at least one fixed and / or movable holding bar in order to exert the final holding-down force, so that a reliable operation of the front cutting to be carried out is thus ensured.

[0047] In terms of the object, the invention is also realized by a method for operating an apparatus for performing a cutting operation at at least one open format edge of at least one printed product, which method can be designed by another embodiment according to the invention, but it should be noted that some aspects can remain unchanged. The apparatus proposed here has at least one feed device, which is operatively connected to a first cutting station, in which at least one cutting operation is performed on the format edge present there, and at least one discharge device, which is operatively connected to a last cutting station, in which a cutting operation is performed on the second format edge of the printed product, wherein at least one further intermediate cutting station is arranged between the first cutting operation and the last cutting operation, in which a cutting operation for the front cutting of the printed product is performed, wherein during the cutting operation, the printed product is usually clamped by at least one hold-down device, by which a hold-down force is exerted on the printed product in an operatively connected manner to the cutting device, wherein the printed product is transported from one cutting station to the next cutting station by at least one conveying unit with gripping means for exerting force.

[0048] The cutting station for pre-cutting is equipped at the input with at least one first element, the contour of which is such that a spread of the printed product introduced there, in the form of a package with a fold or cover, is introduced in the conveying direction, wherein at least one second element is arranged directly downstream of the first element, which takes over at least the spread formed by the first element and guides the spread further to the pre-cutting, either by maintaining the opening or by enlarging the opening, as explained above. If the pre-cutting is to be performed multiple times, it can be provided as an embodiment variant that the spread is enlarged by the first and / or second element to such an extent that the pre-cutting operation can be carried out directly and sequentially at the cutting location by adding the cut-off part to be cut.

[0049] In order to carry out multiple cuts at the front cutting position based on the device already described, it can be provided as a further embodiment variant that the first cutting operation is carried out without the fold or cover being unfolded, i.e. as is conventional; after this first cut (which can of course be supplemented by subsequent cuts), the printed product is then guided back to the intermediate station via the first and second elements for unfolding, and the final cutting operation of the front cutting can then be carried out.

[0050] The device has a plurality of conveyor units guided along a circular guide route, wherein each conveyor unit is individually loaded with at least one printed product for a corresponding cutting operation in the area of ​​different cutting stations, wherein each conveyor unit is guided back to the first cutting station via a circular route in an unloaded manner after leaving the last cutting station in order to accommodate subsequent printed products there before or after the first layer cutting operation and to be guided to the remaining cutting stations according to a determined cycle for future cutting operations, wherein in this conveyor configuration it can of course be provided that all cutting operations on the printed products can be carried out at the central cutting station in such a way that, even if the conveyor unit is designed to be cyclical, the correspondingly clamped products are guided directly to the central cutting station by the conveyor unit and all cutting operations are carried out there in such a way that the movement dynamics of the force-generating clamping element and the cutting device are coordinated with each other by a non-collision cutting process.

[0051] Furthermore, in the central cutting station, precautions are implemented for the unfolding of the fold or cover belonging to the printed product, wherein, due to the centrally performed cutting operation, the means for producing the unfolding during the pre-cutting do not hinder the entire cutting process, i.e., these means either have an assigned spatial location or can be temporarily connected and disconnected. It is obvious that in such a configuration, the unfolding must directly have such an opening, i.e., in the case of which the fold or cover remains completely untouched by the pre-cutting in its structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] The invention is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. All elements that are not essential for a direct understanding of the invention are omitted. The printed product is also referred to as a book block below, which also includes printed products of other embodiments, such as brochures. In the figure: Figure 1 The translational movement of the conveyor unit and the gripper in the apparatus within the X and Y planes is shown; Figure 2 shows an overall view of a three-knife cutting machine taken through a snapshot of the conveying unit, Figure 3Another view of the three-knife cutter is shown through another instantaneous snapshot of the conveyor unit; Figure 4 An entry device for bringing a book block into a three-knife cutting machine is shown; Figure 5 A push wheel is shown as the feeding means; Figure 6 A delivery fixture is shown; Figure 7 A modular cutting device comprising three cutting stations is shown; Figure 8 A snapshot of the moment when the bead is applied during the front cut is shown; Fig. 9 Another snapshot of the moment when the bead is running at the front cut is shown; Fig.10 Another snapshot of a moment when the batten is running during the cutting operation at the front cut is shown; Fig.11 Different designs of the fold and cover are shown; Fig.12 shows the translation of the printed product via the intermediate station at the second cutting station, while showing the elements that trigger the unfolding; Fig.13 The arrangement of the elements triggering the deployment is shown in a state connected to one another; Fig.14 The dynamics of the unfolding coupled with the compression of the printed product are shown; Fig.15 A general diagram showing the elements of the intermediate station, showing how the printed product is directed to unfold the flap or cover; Fig.16 A block diagram showing the flow of sequential cutting operations at cutting stations, wherein the flow at the second cutting station for front cutting is highlighted; Fig.17 A rotatable four-clamp system is shown as a clamping device and output device; Fig.18 The final compaction of the book block during the cutting operation is shown; Fig.19 shows the force development curves of different clamping elements during a cutting operation; Fig. 20 A flush block for applying pressure vertically to a printed product is shown; Fig.21 A flushing block for applying pressure horizontally to a printed product is shown; and Fig. 22 A further conveying configuration of the conveying unit is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Figure 1 The schematic diagram shows the translational movement of a conveyor unit belonging to a three-blade cutting machine 100, which is implemented by two movable conveyor units 101, 102 associated with the printed product, wherein, as will be explained in more detail later in the description of the remaining figures, the conveyor units are in operative connection. The conveyor units have grippers 103, 104 associated with the printed product at the end, with clamping jaws on the spine side A. R The printed products A to be cut (which are often referred to as book blocks, but also other printed products such as brochures) are taken in a clocked and force-locked sequence. The transport unit itself performs the following control-assisted translational movements coordinated with respect to the cutting locations 1, 2, 3 (also referred to as cutting stations):

[0054] After the first cutting operation is performed at the first cutting location 1, the first conveying unit 101 actively takes over the printed product A here. Subsequently, the printed product A is transferred to the second cutting location 2 by the first conveying unit, and after the delivery of the printed product is completed, the first conveying unit returns to the output position at the first cutting location 1 so as to be used here to retake over the printed product A subsequently delivered after the first cutting operation is performed at the first cutting location 1. During this period, the second conveying unit 102 immediately takes over the printed product A after the cutting operation at the second cutting location 2 is completed and transfers it to the third cutting location 3, where the third cutting operation is performed. Subsequently, the second conveying unit 102 returns to the second cutting location 2, where another printed product A delivered by the first conveying unit and cut is ready again to be picked up and transferred to the third cutting location 3.

[0055] The translational movement of the transport units 101, 102 with integrated grippers 103, 104 covers two or three planes of the system, i.e. in a first plane X, the translational movement is carried out by transferring the printed products from one cutting location to the next, and in a second plane Y, the loading and unloading of the printed products at the respective cutting locations takes place. Optionally, a third plane Z (not shown in detail) is then also used, in which, if required, a lateral adaptation (offset movement) relative to the static clamping elements associated with the printed products takes place at the respective cutting locations of the three-blade cutter 100.

[0056] The effect of the translational movement of the conveying unit is described below with reference to the gripper, since this best reflects the process sequence of the three-blade cutting machine.

[0057] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The three-knife cutting machine 100 is shown in 3D. nThe books are fed to the three-knife cutter 100 in a flat manner with the book block spine facing forward and at approximately equal intervals via a conveyor belt 110. The approximately uniform supply of book blocks is achieved either by clocking the book blocks to the conveyor belt of the three-knife cutter or by introducing them through a known device belonging to the prior art before the conveyor belt.

[0058] In another embodiment not shown in detail, the book blocks are fed to the conveyor belt 110 of the three-blade cutting machine 100 at irregular pitches. The clocking device ensures that the minimum pitch (the distance between the front spine edge and the spine edge of the next book block) is not exceeded.

[0059] The moment when the book block reaches the conveyor belt of the three-blade cutter is detected by a sensor (not shown in detail). If the distance of the book block is greater than the minimum step length, the speed of the translation movement of the three-blade cutter is reduced by the control, and the three-blade cutter is then synchronized with the cycle of the delivered book blocks. If the step length exceeds the maximum value, the control is programmed in such a way that it generates an empty cycle at the three-blade cutter.

[0060] The book block A is fixed on the conveyor belt 110 by a fixed stopper. n Orientation on the head or foot side. This can be achieved by a conveyor path with slightly inclined conveyor rollers or by other preventive measures known from the prior art. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The remaining modules of the three-knife cutting machine are shown in the figure.

[0061] Flush block 125 (see Figure 3 and Fig.14 ) is operatively connected to the push-in wheel 120 (feed device) and is intended to serve as a supplement to the measures already explained for reliably achieving a positioning of the book block relative to its stop surface.

[0062] On the one hand, in the case of individual book blocks, stacked book blocks or stacked booklets, this stop surface is the basis for the orientation of the spine of the printed product relative to the fixedly provided contact surface within the push-in wheel 120. On the other hand, it must be ensured that before the first cutting operation, the printed product has a corresponding downwardly directed positioning on the head side and / or foot side in the transport direction.

[0063] This occurs in the book block as soon as one or more printed products are passed through the transport clamp 130 from the format-related feedthrough of the push-in wheel 120 by a sensor which responds to the overhanging flap or cover (wrapping) or the outer edge of the book block itself in the head or foot part region. This ensures that the edge region cut off at this point in the book block has a defined size.

[0064] In the case of stacked packages consisting of individual booklets, lateral means should then preferably be provided before the first cutting operation, which ensure uniform orientation of the edges of the package on the side of the cutting location.

[0065] Correspondingly, the function of the push-in wheel 120 is to pivot the reversible, rake-shaped guide against the book block so that, after a 90° rotation, the book block lies flat on the spine and cannot fall apart and cannot fall over or tip over. The rake-shaped guide is coupled to a clamping unit, which briefly clamps the book block in a position lying on the spine and is designed in such a way in terms of movement that the rake-shaped guide can be transferred into a position that is dependent on the thickness of the book. Subsequently, the clamping unit is slightly opened again so that the book block is oriented in a corrected manner with the force of gravity in the position of its spine against the stop surface of the push-in wheel. Subsequently, the clamping unit is closed again, thus fixing the book block in a defined position. This inherently optimized approach thus ensures that the spine of the book block has a defined position, which is essential for the subsequent cutting operation.

[0066] In any case, it is qualitatively correct if additional measures are provided which can intervene when, in different book block designs, gravity alone is no longer sufficient to ensure the desired defined position of the book block spine relative to the associated stop surface.

[0067] In this context, it must be assumed that in most cases book blocks and covers are produced in batches, and that the covers have a relatively large overhang on all sides (head part, foot part, front part) relative to the original book block body. In particular, when the book block with the finished folds or covers is introduced in a forward-facing manner, that is, if simultaneous cutting is not permitted when carrying out the front cutting, measures related to cutting are also taken. The overhang itself does not constitute a restriction for the cutting process, but if large widths of different book block formats can be covered with the same cover size, this can bring logistical advantages due to the uniform format. It is accordingly assumed that relatively large overhangs are used in most cases.

[0068] In order to achieve a reliably defined position between the book block spine and the stop surface within the push-in wheel 120 even with a large overhang of the cover in the region of the head, foot and front part, and to enrich the prior art according to the invention, it is proposed that during the brief opening of the clamping unit, at least flushing sliders 125, 126 (see FIG. 1 ) of suitable dimensions are used in order to enable gravity to act on the book block. Fig.14 , Fig.15 ) is performed in such a way that the required pressing force is applied directly or indirectly to the book block via the cover overhang so that the spine of the book block rests securely on the corresponding stop surface or is oriented laterally.

[0069] For this purpose, the cover overhangs of the two front sides of the book block are brushed in the pressing plane with an optimally oriented angle (see Fig.14 , Fig.15 ) or by other forms of flexible mechanical or pneumatically controlled device gripping, so that the generated pressing force is transmitted to the main body of the book block A via the cover overhang, so that the book block is then securely attached to the stop surface arranged within the push-in wheel 120 or is otherwise positioned horizontally.

[0070] Brush (see Fig.14 , Fig.15 ), the flexibility of the material is achieved in such a way that the free part area of ​​the brush comb obtained can be additionally pushed toward the front part of the book block between the two cover overhangs by a vertical or quasi-vertical pressing movement, so that an additional or dominant pressing force can be applied here.

[0071] In principle, if it is involved, another smoothing block 126 (see Figure 3 and Fig.15 ) applies a laterally oriented pressing force to the head or foot part of the printed product, the pressing force can also be set, with the goal of achieving a uniform plane on all printed products in the package so that their edges can be reliably detected by sensors, so that optimal positioning within the conveying clamping device 130 can be generated, so that the subsequent cutting operations (head cutting and foot cutting) can be performed with precise dimensions.

[0072] As from Figure 4 In this regard, it is known that the book block is pressed against the fixed stop 111 in the conveying direction 112 by the slightly inclined conveying roller 113 and then conveyed to the three-blade cutting machine 100. The fixed stop 111 can be designed with a synchronous belt (not shown in detail) or simply as a fixing plate. n When the transfer position is reached, the book block is lifted from it, for example by a rotating push-in wheel 120 , and introduced into the operating position by rotation.

[0073] As from Figure 5In this regard, it can be seen that during the first 90° rotation of the push-in wheel 120, the push-in wheel fulfills the function of a feed device with respect to the subsequent operation. The reversible, rake-shaped guide 121 is pivoted inward against the book block so that the book block lies flat on the spine after the 90° rotation, so that the book block can no longer spread out or fall down. The rake-shaped guide 121 is coupled to a clamping unit 122, which briefly clamps the book block lying on the spine, wherein the clamping unit is designed in such a way in terms of movement that the book block can be transferred into a position related to the thickness of the book by the rake-shaped guide 121 belonging to the clamping unit. Subsequently, the clamping unit 122 is slightly opened again, so that the book block A or its book block spine hits the stop surface 123 of the push-in wheel 120 due to gravity and is then oriented there.

[0074] Subsequently, the clamping unit 122 is closed again, so that the book block is fixed in a defined position. Now, the four-part push-in wheel 120 is rotated further by 90° in two steps and the printed product is transferred to the now suspended position for further transportation and further processing. During this rotational movement, the first guide 121 in the shape of a stick and the second guide 124 in the shape of a stick operatively connected thereto are pivoted slightly away from the book block, so that the components of the book block are suspended vertically downwards solely by gravity, during which time the book block is held at the spine of the book block in a force-fitting manner by the clamping unit 122. In this position, the open transport clamp (in Figure 2 It can be clearly seen that the position 130) runs horizontally through the book block in the direction of the book block spine and takes over the book block over a large area.

[0075] As from Figure 6 It is known in detail in the document that the transport clamp 130 consists of two clamping jaws 131, 132, which are operated in such a way that one clamping jaw 131 does not perform a stroke, while the other clamping jaw 132 performs a complete reciprocating motion. The two clamping jaws 131, 132 jointly perform two different displacement movements, which are related in terms of transport technology, i.e., whether the printed product (book block, brochure, etc.) is then transported normally or performs an empty run. Optionally, in the case of a certain variable and / or non-constant book block thickness, it can be provided that the stroke of the two clamping jaws 131, 132 is individually designed, and accordingly, the same or different distances are traveled until the final pressing position is reached.

[0076] The transport clamp 130 can be moved horizontally by means of a linear motion device 133. A controlled drive, not shown in detail, moves the transport clamp 130 with precise position relative to the take-up position that corresponds to the book block. In this case, the take-up position always depends on the size of the cut-off at the head edge or foot edge of the book block. In the take-up position, the transport clamp 130 is then closed and clamps the book block over a large area between the front and the back of the book block. Only the spine area of ​​the book block and the corresponding cut-off area to be cut remain free. For this purpose, reference is made to Fig.18 Now, the clamping unit 122 (see Figure 5 ) opens and releases the book block spine. Subsequently, the transport clamp 130 moves horizontally and transports the book block to the first cutting position (see also Figure 1 , position 1), the first cutting position consists of a modularly constructed multi-blade device.

[0077] The two clamping jaws 131, 132 can also be operated according to the following criteria: Each clamping jaw is directly or indirectly operatively connected to a drive operated for a force-fitting clamping action. The clamping jaws guided by the drive have an adjustable and / or predictably regulated stroke and force-fitting profile for any specification features of the submitted printed product, so that the force-fitting gripping of the printed product by the clamping jaws is designed symmetrically or quasi-symmetrically with respect to the center line of the printed product. At least during the operating phase for applying the clamping action to the printed product, the clamping jaws implement a coordinated, uniform, non-uniform or adaptive speed profile. This operation can be provided for all clamping jaws operatively connected to each other as components of the device based here.

[0078] As from Figure 7 In this regard, it is known that the modular cutting device 140 comprises three cutting stations, which are composed of a cutting location 1 (see Figure 1 ) at the first cutting station 141, cutting location 2 (see Figure 1 ) at the second cutting station 142 and the cutting location 3 (see Figure 1 ) is formed by a third cutting station 143 at a position 144. For the corresponding cutting operation, the book block is pressed by a pressure plate 145 and additionally by a pressure rod 144 so that during the cutting operation, the book block is clamped or pressed to the greatest extent by the pressure elements 144, 145 in the area between the transport clamp and the cutting edge. The knife 150b is preferably moved along an oblique section toward a fixed knife strip arranged diametrically opposite.

[0079] The respective pressure bar 144 is therefore directly operatively connected to the respective cutting device 140 , which is formed by the cutting blades 150 a , 150 b , 150 c , wherein the pressure bar 144 ensures that the pressing force which is essential for a clean cut is exerted on the printed product.

[0080] In principle, there are two main variants for applying the contact pressure and for operating the cutting device: a) On the one hand, as in Figure 7 As symbolically indicated by position 250 in FIG. 1 , there is a force coupling between the pressure rod and the cutting device, ie the pressure rod force has a fixed value in each case, wherein the speed profile (pressing speed / acceleration) then also generally changes monotonically. b) As in Figure 7 As symbolically indicated by the position 251 in FIG. 1 , another variant is to decouple the force application of the cutting tool and the pressure rod from each other, so that the pressure rod 144 also operates autonomously according to the following criteria:

[0081] By building up a corresponding torque at the servomotor via the servo drive, a defined force is built up at the pressure bar. The required optimum contact pressure on the printed product is determined based on the thickness measurement, which can be easily done using stored control profiles. Usually, it is sufficient to carry out a single calibration for detecting a defined thickness change of the printed product, as long as the contact pressure characteristic curve used can be considered constant, because the differences between the thicknesses of the book blocks within a job are relatively small.

[0082] However, it must be taken into account that by optimizing the pressing stroke, in particular in the case of hard and / or thin printed products, a significant reduction in the pressing speed and in particular the acceleration can be achieved. However, in this solution, it is advantageous that, independently of the production speed, the corresponding cutting device(s) always operate at a maximum speed, which is not limited by the cutting speed but by a limit determined by the mechanism. It is also important that at slow machine speeds, in particular with regard to the transport, orientation and pressing operations, the available cycle time is longer, since the same amount of time is always required for the cutting process.

[0083] The remaining two cutting locations are operated by knives 150a and 150c, which basically follow the same pressing and cutting principle as explained above. In the first cutting station, the head area of ​​the book block is cut (see also Figure 1 ). However, it is not excluded that the first cutting operation starts in the foot area of ​​the book block, but in a certain configuration, this is determined by the adaptation of the clamp and the possible action point of the cutting device 140, wherein the intensity of the corresponding cutting must also be considered, all of which takes into account the form of clamping A on the spine side. R (See Figure 1 ).

[0084] Back to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3During the cutting operation, the movable, opened first gripper 103 is moved both in the vertical direction (Y plane, see Figure 1 ) and in the horizontal direction (X plane, see Figure 1 ), wherein the first gripper is directed vertically toward the book block spine. After the first cut, the first gripper 103 takes over the book block on the spine side, after which the transport clamp 130 opens. The first gripper then moves into the takeover position for the next book block. The first gripper 103 takes the book block from the first cutting operation ( Figure 1 , position 1) is transported vertically upwards (Y plane) and then by means of a superimposed horizontal movement towards the second cutting position ( Figure 1 , position 2) driving.

[0085] The movement path of the first gripper 103 in the vertical direction is controlled by the machine control as a function of the width of the book block to be cut, wherein the movement path of the gripper in the horizontal direction relative to the book block can usually also be controlled individually, i.e. when a specific gripping position is sought. This is the case, for example, if the format and the cut-off to be cut in the corresponding book block require an asymmetrical or quasi-asymmetrical or one-sided gravity-dependent clamping action.

[0086] At the second cutting position ( Figure 1 , position 2), through multiple layers belonging to the layering group ( Figure 8-10 , position 200) clamps the book block, using the pressure strip to clamp the book block between the front side and the spine side. Fig.10 The pressure strip group is shown in the closed state, while Figure 8 , Fig. 9 The pressure strip assembly is shown in a partially opened state.

[0087] As in Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As can be seen, a single layer 200 1-n The book block is closed successively from the top at the spine so that the air between the individual sheets can be pressed out in a targeted manner towards the cutting edge by the pressing process, while the overall smoothing of the printed product is achieved. Fig. 9 It is also known that only the position of the gripper 103 with the corresponding clamping jaws 103a, 103b and the second cutting location 2 (see Figure 1 ) between the second cutting station 142 at the same number of strips for the pressing process. The same clamping jaws 104a and 104b (not shown in detail) belong to another gripper 104 (see Figure 1), which in turn allows large-area compression of the book block. Now, in the second cutting station 142, the front side of the book block undergoes cutting, which is done in a similar manner to the first and third cutting stations 141, 143 for the head edge or foot edge.

[0088] 200 layering groups put into use 1-n The layering strip at the second cutting location 2 (see Figure 1 , position 2) with appropriate force to clamp the relevant book block (such as this from Fig.10 After that, the first gripper 103 can release the book block and move back to its takeover position (cutting location 1, Figure 1 ) is used to take over the next book block.

[0089] In addition, from Fig.10 The force-dependent final support of the book block A during the cutting operation is shown in order to ensure that the cutting can be carried out with high quality by means of the knife 150b shown. 1-n (See Figure 8 , Fig. 9 ) takes over the book block A from the gripper 103, then the pressure bar (position 144) intervenes, which applies the final pressure force to the book block in the direct cutting area. Here, this force must be dominant compared to the other pressure forces, so that the cutting performed by the knife 150b ensures a right-angled sharp cutting edge. On the other side of the book block, the device for applying the pressure force consists of a fixedly positioned stop 152, as a pressure plate 145 (see also Figure 7 ), which is sometimes designed in such a way that the stop can also perform an advance movement, in the sense of an oppositely arranged movable pressure rod 144, which can press the book block via a pressure screw 151. In order to apply a previously determined pressure force to the book block, the pressure screw 151 can be driven, for example, mechanically, hydraulically or pneumatically.

[0090] In a further embodiment, the stop 152 can also be designed to be movable in order to cover the thickness and / or body consistency of the respective book block being fed, in other words, in order to ensure that the front edge of the fed book block does not experience any obstruction. The dynamic adaptation of the stop 152 can be carried out by the machine control device already mentioned.

[0091] The remaining pressure bars at the remaining cutting locations 1 and 3 (see Figure 7 , position 144) also works according to the same principle, and now this pressure bar applies the pressing force on the vertical plane. Here, the goal is also to ensure the cutting edge of sharp right angles.

[0092] Once the book block passes the press strip 200 1-nAfter the cutting operation is finished, the second gripper 104 (see Figure 1 ) is moved forward to a position where the gripper clamps the book block, which is achieved in the same way as in the case of the presence of the first gripper 103. The force application position of the second gripper 104 depends on the size of the book block to be processed, that is, also on the quality assurance of the cut to be carried out. The second gripper 104 is transferred to a defined clamping position, thus preparing for the subsequent third cutting operation (see Figure 1 , position 3) fixes the specified book block height.

[0093] The process described here at the second cutting location 2 is extended by carrying out the front cutting while taking into account the unfolding of the folds or the unfolding of the cover in the book block. Figures 12 to 16 .

[0094] After the second cutting operation (front cutting) is performed, the pressure strips of the pressure strip group 200 are opened, and then the second gripper 104 grabs the printed product (book block, brochure, etc.), first lifts the printed product from the cutting position, so as to then transfer it to horizontal translation, and finally puts the printed product vertically in the plane of the next cutting position, in which the third cutting is performed (usually the foot edge of the printed product) (see Figure 1 , Figure 2 ). During the vertical translation in the region of at least one cutting position, the gripper loaded by at least one book block can, if necessary, also perform a lateral, position-required offset movement relative to the pressure surface of the clamping device.

[0095] Fig.11 The width of a possible embodiment in the presence of a fold or a cover is shown, which according to the invention can be detected by the device and method, thus involving the embodiment of the fold according to 401a)-c) and also the embodiment of the cover according to 403a)-c) of the following configuration: a) Inner fold 401: a) both sides; b) left side; c) right side. b) Outer fold 402: a) Both sides; b) Left side only; c) Right side only. c) Cover 403 only, ie without flaps, but based on the same configuration: a) two sides; b) one side on the left; c) one side on the right. In all embodiments proposed here, the same principle is used to develop, thereby ensuring continuous operation even when the embodiments are constantly changing. The embodiments listed here can be combined with each other at any time.

[0096] Fig.12The process sequence is shown when a book block A, which is constructed with a fold AKF or a cover AU, is introduced into the region of an opening strut 530 for unfolding SP, which is essentially achieved in order to be able to perform a load-free front cutting. The same procedure can be performed in the fold or cover. Here, it is performed based on the following steps: a) by translating 501 in the direction of the curve, so that the Figure 1 ) is transported to the opening point 521 via the lower side of the opening strut 530 (if 401-403a are satisfied, then for two elements), which is located at the end of the path that is relatively short and configured as the opening edge 520. Therefore, the fold AKF or cover AU of the book block A is located above the opening edge 520 and directly in front of the opening blade 540 in this position. When the fold or cover is configured on both sides, the main body of the book block is always guided between the opposite opening struts. b) By continuing the translation 502, the book block A is transported to the second cutting location 2 (also called cutting station) for front cutting. Fig.14 ) While maintaining its neutral position relative to the unfolding process caused by the opening strut along the opening edge 520, the folding leaf AKF or the cover is opened from the book block body in a mutually unfolding manner by the opening strut 540, and the book block is further conveyed along the contour of the opening strut 530, thereby forming a real unfolding. c) When an expansion in terms of the fold or cover is introduced relative to the book block body AK, the opening process is assisted as required by at least one air jet operating from below, with the goal of creating a sustainable expansion, wherein the extent of this effect depends primarily on the internal structure of the book block, that is, whether the pages are compact or loose. d) By means of the subsequent contour of the opening struts 530 in the conveying direction, the unfolding of the fold or cover is firstly maximized in such a way that the resulting opening creates the prerequisite that the subsequent cutting operation involves only the book block body through this unfolding, that is, the original shape of the fold or cover is accordingly maintained 100%. e) In order to ensure the dynamics of the unfolding with respect to the folding, sensors are often arranged in this area, which monitor whether the unfolding is in accordance with a predetermined standard and, if this is not the case, intervene in a corrective manner in the subsequent course of the translation and, if such a remedy is not possible, first isolate the relevant book block for quality reasons, wherein in most cases such a procedure does not occur, since according to the invention the system has countermeasures that can increase the unfolding on the way to the front cutting (see item f) and Fig.16 elaboration). f) by further translation 503, the book block is conveyed to the front cutting with the folds or covers unfolded in a preset manner, wherein there is a further guide 510 downstream of the opening strut 530, which consists of a convexly or quasi-convexly formed channel and / or guide plate, which ensures that at least the unfolding caused by the opening strut is maintained during the further conveying process, or the guide is designed to increase the degree of unfolding to the front cutting as required, wherein an air jet is also applied along the guide 510, which can contribute to stable and sustainable guidance of the unfolded folds or unfolded covers. g) By Figures 8 to 10 The pressure strip 200 shown in 1-n At least a portion of the pressure strip presses the body of the book block in the area before cutting. If, for space reasons, only a portion of the pressure strip is used above the unfolded flap or the unfolded cover, at least one pressure bar 144 that applies the final pressure to the body of the book block acts below the unfolding, so that the cutting device has the prerequisite for burr-free cutting. In the case of cutting operations with flaps or covers, the remaining course of the pressure strip on both sides of the book block also depends on the Figures 8 to 10 This also applies to the operatively connected cutting device, in particular when an operating pressure force separation is provided between the pressure rod and the cutting device. h) Design the unfolding so that, after the front cutting has been completed, 100% reversibility of the shape is achieved, ie the original design of the flap and cover is restored without destruction.

[0097] Fig.13 Shown with the foldout AKF or cover AU (see Fig.11 and Fig.14 ) are two elements E1 and E2 (see Fig.12 ), these two elements are summarized here by way of example in terms of the forward cutting conveyor. Fig.13 It is known in detail that the relatively arranged opening struts 530 form a spacing 560 with each other, the distance of which ensures unimpeded passage of the transported book block, wherein the spacing can be changed by the feed unit 550 according to the thickness of the corresponding book block, wherein, in order to ensure the safe passage of the book block, the distance is increased by about 5% relative to the measured thickness, it being noted that the book block does not always have a compact body.

[0098] This small increase in distance is always present and necessary when a double fold or cover is detected at the book block, i.e., the book block should be opened on both sides. To change the spacing 560, the feed unit 550 guided in a controlled manner acts on the two elements E1, E2 (see Fig.12), that is, on the opening struts 530 for forming the essentially expanded opening, and on the guides 510 which are then provided for maintaining or increasing the expanded opening. With respect to the expanded fold AFK or the expanded cover AU, by activating a certain number of pressing strips 200 1-n The book block A or the book block body AK is pressed, wherein together with the pressure strips, a pressure bar is also used to apply the final pressure within the scope of the cutting operation (see Fig.10 and Fig.14 , positions 152 and 144).

[0099] The two open struts 530 have a substantially vertical face 531 on the inner side of the channel 560, which extends over the entire length of the strut-type body. Thus, the struts 530 are continuously moved from below by translation 501 (see Fig.12 ) is introduced into the book block A, and this form of feeding can be carried out to the opening point 521 of the two opening diagonal braces 530 (see Fig.12 ) It may sometimes be provided that the opening blade 540 is designed to introduce a defined opening of the book block with a slight lateral curvature which can more easily reach between the fold or cover and the body of the book block.

[0100] Fig.14 The state of the book block to be cut by the cutting BS is shown immediately before the cutting operation at the second cutting location 2 designed for front cutting, wherein the opening strut 530 is used as the element E1 (see Fig.12 ) components reflect the introduction of the unfolding of the fold AKF or the cover AU, wherein in the figure, the unfolding is shown from different projections relative to the opening strut, wherein the illustration is only for understanding. With respect to the rear element E2 having the guide 510, reference Fig.13 and Fig.15 . Fig.14 Basically, it is aimed at Fig.10 However, an important improvement of the object of the invention relates to a new design of the book block with flaps or covers, in which, for reasons of quality assurance, the front cutting is only carried out when the opened opening has a sufficiently large margin so that the flaps or covers are not affected by the cutting operation, that is, are not cut together.

[0101] Obviously, according to Fig.10 The substantially arranged layer 200 1-n Designed for carrying out the front cutting of a common book block; however, when a fold or a cover is present, the pressure strip can only be partially, i.e. locally, put into use and accordingly the pressure strip can only play its effective role to such an extent that the fold AKF or the cover AU can be unfolded, i.e. the unfolded fold or cover must not be damaged by the cutting BS of the book block body AK.

[0102] About the cover AU, from Fig.14 It is also known that the cover is shown in a bent shape, which should represent the state when the grippers 103, 104 cancel or release the pressure on the book block. Accordingly, it should be noted that the pressure strip 200 is reduced only above the unfolded beginning of the fold AKF or the cover AU. 1-n’ Strictly speaking, it only works on the unloaded side of the book block. Fig.14 Detailed description is given in FIG. 1 . It is therefore advantageous in this design that the pressure strips achieve active feed dynamics on both sides of the book block so that the lateral free area for unfolding the folds or covers is available to the maximum extent possible. This also applies to the pressure that is important for cutting during the cutting operation, which is achieved by the cutting device (knife) 150b, the pressure rod 151 and the opposite stop 152, which itself is operated by a separate drive A3 during dynamic feed.

[0103] The pressing force provided by the drive A1 for pressing the printed product in a manner suitable for cutting by the pressure rod 151 and the cutting force provided by the drive A2 for performing the cutting operation by the cutting device 150b at the second cutting location 2 for performing the front cutting (also applicable to the remaining cutting locations 1, 3 of the device) are realized by a common drive unit. Preferably, however, the pressing force provided by the drive A1 for pressing the printed product suitable for cutting and the cutting force provided by the drive A2 for performing the cutting operation are realized by independent drive units. The advantage of the latter setting is that individual adaptation can be carried out before operation or also continuously during operation.

[0104] Fig.15 The overall view of the second cutting location 2 up to the front cutting is shown, wherein the unfolding process in the book block A can be seen from the figure, and the book block is gripped by the clamp 103 (see Figure 1 ) is clamped in a force-fitting manner and transferred to the opening strut 530 as a component of the first element E1 (see 12), wherein this only involves the unfolding of the fold AKF or the cover AU on one side of the book block. In addition, an arrangement for unfolding on both sides is provided. In addition, the action point of the feed unit 550 is shown here, which ensures that the opening strut 530 belonging to the first element E1 and the guide 510 belonging to the second element E2 (see Fig.12 ) interval. Regarding the operation of these elements E1, E2 Fig.12 of elaboration, but not much. 1-n’ For operation, refer to Figure 8-10 And 14, but not many. In addition, Fig.15 In itself is self-explanatory.

[0105] Fig.16The process flow for performing a normal single cut at each cutting location 1, 2, 3, as well as the process flow for realizing a second, possibly sequential, further partial cut, is shown in a block diagram. As has been partially explained above, the introduced printed product A is oriented in the push-in wheel 20 for the subsequent cutting operation, i.e., after the first layer cutting operation, the printed product is clamped on the spine side by the first conveyor unit 101 in the conveyor unit for further conveying, wherein in principle the head edge of the printed product is processed at the first cutting location 1, but it is not excluded that the first cutting operation may involve the foot edge. For the first cutting operation, in principle, the clamping device 130 and the pressure rod 144 are activated, wherein the cutting tool 150a performs the cutting operation. For the process in the first cutting location 1, reference is made to the explanation of the above figures.

[0106] In the first cut T 1-1 , a quality check 400 has been carried out, which on the one hand focuses on the quality of the cut achieved and on the other hand also checks whether the thickness of the cut-off portion corresponds to a previously determined value. At the same time, the integrity of the spine of the book block is also checked. The devices used for these checks include, on the one hand, contact and non-contact sensors, which completely detect the actual state of the printed product (book block, brochure, etc.) after each cutting operation and transmit the information derived therefrom to the control unit, and on the other hand also include a new generation of sensors, by which the processes of interest can be controlled, regulated, optimized according to quality, which ensures that production is carried out in a sensor-assisted manner. For the quality inspection proposed here, the sensor must have an excellent data quality and is preferably constructed based on inductive and optoelectronic technology. That is, in general, the measured parameters obtained by the physical measurement principle of the sensor element are converted into internal signals. Therefore, a separate electronic post-processing is provided as required, whereby the measured values ​​are provided as electrically and / or electronically usable signals at the outlet.

[0107] If at the first cutting location 1 the control device detects a second partial cutting T 1-2 , then the process basically repeats the first cutting T 1-1 , that is, the necessary pressing of the printed product is performed with the same means 130 and 144, and the cutting operation is performed with the same cutting tool 150a. In addition, a coordinated movement program should be added, which ensures that the cut-off portion of the head edge of the book block A to be additionally cut is pushed back relative to the fixed cutting tool 150a.

[0108] Accordingly, after completing the first partial cutting T 1-1Afterwards, the book block A is briefly clamped by the clamping jaws of the gripper 103 of the transport unit 101 in the transport unit, and then the clamping jaws 131, 132 belonging to the clamping device 130 (also called transport clamp) are slightly opened, so that the book block A is positioned pressure-free relative to the clamping jaws 131, 132. The clamping jaws of the gripper 103 of the transport unit 101 belonging to the transport device now perform the first partial cut T in the middle. 1-1 The book block A is temporarily partially positioned when the clamping jaws 131, 132 of the transport clamp 130 are opened. During this interval, the opened clamping jaws 131, 132 of the transport clamp 130 move backwards by a certain length relative to the cutting tool 150a, wherein the length corresponds to the second partial cutting T 1-2 At the end of the return length of the clamping jaws 131 , 132 of the transport clamp 130 , the book block A is again forcefully engaged by the clamping jaws 131 , 132 of the transport clamp 130 opening in a coordinated manner. The clamping jaws 131 , 132 of the transport clamp 130 now move the clamped printed product A forward for the second partial cut T 1-2 The relevant length value of the book block A is thus transferred to the cutting position again.

[0109] Then, in the second partial cutting T 1-2 Immediately before the start, the book block A is pressed by means of a pressure bar 144 which exerts a final pressure on the book block in relation to the cutting location. 1-2 After completion, the pressure rod 144 moves back in a time-coordinated manner with the cutting tool 150a, after which the clamping jaws 131, 132 of the transport clamp 130 open and the book block A is then transported further via the transport unit 101 of the transport device. During this cutting operation and also after the end of this cutting operation, the quality inspection sensor 400 is still used for inspection until the quality inspection is taken over by the sensor at the next cutting station, thereby ensuring that quality according to uniform standards is achieved in all cutting operations. Fig.16 As can be seen from the block diagram, the cutting operation (T 3- 1,T 3-2 etc.) in a similar manner.

[0110] Furthermore, in the case where the book block is provided with a fold or a cover, if the cutting operation is to be performed at the second cutting location 2 by multiple partial cutting, the following is performed at the second cutting location 2: a) Initially, the fold (AKF) or cover (AU) is initially opened by means of the elements (E1, E2) with an enlarged opening, so that the sequentially arranged cutting operations can be performed without interference from the fold or cover, specifically as follows: after the first partial cut T 2-1 After that, the book block A is briefly clamped by the gripper 103 of the transport unit 101, and then the pressure strip 200 1-n’ (See Fig.14 ) is slightly opened so that the book block is positioned relative to the pressure strip without pressure. Now, the gripper 103 belonging to the support device 101 is in the middle of the first partial cut T 2-1 The book block A is subjected to a force fit at the location where the pressure strip is opened, thereby giving the book block a temporary local positioning when the pressure strip is opened. Then, during this interval, the transport unit 101 with the book block moves downward in a guided movement, the magnitude of which is the same as the next partial cutting T 2-2 Consistent. b) Alternatively, a first partial cut is made according to a conventional process, that is, without passing through the elements E1, E2 (see Fig.13 ) is formed to be unfolded, the book block is guided directly to the cutting location, where the first partial cutting is performed. This is possible because the distance between the cutting device and the fold or cover end is set large enough, that is, the structure does not interfere; and in addition, this operation also results in that all the pressure strips 200 can be used. 1-n (See Fig.10 ). In order to carry out the sequential multiple cuts, the book block is then guided back in front of the intermediate stations E1, E2, whereupon the folding (AKF) or the unfolding of the cover (AU) takes place, as described several times above, and thus the prerequisites are created for the process according to the invention. Fig.16 In the Fig.13 , Fig.14 The loop S shows this return.

[0111] If at the third cutting location 3 (see Figure 1 ), the rotatable output device (four-clamp system) 160 and thus the clamp 161 with the book block moves away from the cutting device orthogonally relative to the knife movement. During each cycle, the rotatable four-clamp system 160 is rotated 90° (see Fig.17 ).

[0112] In this regard, from Fig.17 The four-gripper system 160 shown in FIG. 1 shows the position of the gripper 161 in the cutting position 162, in which the movable jaw 163 is still open. Another gripper is active in the output position 164. In this position, the book block A can be removed. The function of the four-gripper system 160 ensures that at the third cutting location 3 (see FIG. 1 ), the book block A can be removed. Figure 1 , Figure 7 ) and during the rotational movement of the four-gripper system, the book block A is continuously pressed between the movable jaw 163 and the fixed jaw 165. In addition, two states of the grippers 161 are provided in one quadrant, namely, completely closed 166 on the one hand and completely open 167 on the other hand, as can be seen from the centrally arranged position. One or other presettings can be purposefully considered in this quadrant according to the spatial conditions that exist during the rotation.

[0113] As the taking-out device, for example, a conveyor belt can be provided, which is equipped with movable rollers for transporting the book blocks. Other devices known from the prior art can also be provided.

[0114] from Fig.18 The final pressing of the book block by the pressing rod 144 during the cutting operation is known from FIG. Fig.10 The feed direction is marked by position 170.

[0115] Fig.19 The effect of different pressure elements (clamping devices) on a printed product is shown, which is applied by different clamping devices 103, 200, 144 with reference to the cutting location 2, wherein at this cutting location a clamping device consists of a pressure strip group 200. The pressure forces shown in the figure in the different clamping devices are also to be understood as merely qualitative representations. The clamping force of the gripper 103 provided for transporting the printed product from one cutting location 210 to the next cutting location is smaller than the clamping forces 200 and 144 associated with the cutting location themselves, since it is only sufficient to achieve a reliable clamping effect on the book block during transport. Thus, at the cutting location 2, the pressure strips 200 belonging to the pressure strip group are established simultaneously or sequentially. 1 -n The clamping force of the gripper 103 is thus reduced by 211 (drop point) as soon as the final clamping force of the pressure strip on the book block is reached. The degree of reduction in the clamping force of the gripper on the book block is adjusted individually and also depends on the weight of the respective book block. The final clamping force on the book block, which is important for the cutting quality, is then applied by the already mentioned pressure bar 144, which assumes a position completely parallel to the plane of the cutting tool. As can be seen from the Fig.19As can be seen from the force diagram, the pressure rod 144 preferably applies its maximum pressing force in an operatively connected manner to the cutting operation, which maximum pressing force is variable and has a phase shift 212 (action plane) relative to the remaining clamping devices, as can be seen from the parallel interruption lines 212a, 212b (phase shift intervals). As soon as the pressing force of the pressure rod 144 is ready, the tool performs the cutting operation 213. Subsequently, the pressure rod 144 also briefly remains in the cutting plane 215 until the clamping force of the gripper is established to such an extent that reliable further transport 214 of the book block is guaranteed. Subsequently, the pressing force of the remaining elements 144, 200 decreases sequentially according to a determined descending curve 217, so that the further transport plane 216 with the book block completely clamped by the gripper 103 is opened again. In principle, this dynamic behavior also applies to the second conveying unit 102 (see Figure 1 ) is a gripper 104 that is effectively connected to the clamping device working here.

[0116] In addition, all the clamping elements 103, 104, 144, 200 ... operating in the device (regardless of whether they act directly or indirectly on the printed product or the book block) are supplemented with built-in hydraulically and / or pneumatically operated additional elements, which serve as an aid to their opening and closing. This means that the normally operating closing and opening mechanism of the clamping elements of the device is fixedly or optionally supplemented with another pneumatically and / or hydraulically operated additional element, which is able to achieve the maximum acceleration of the corresponding movement of the clamping element in both directions, that is, not only when closing but also when opening, regardless of the force coordination achieved here, and a uniform or exponential acceleration is achieved here. It can be seen from this that the acceleration all leads to a continuous shortening of the beat interval at the individual cutting stations. In particular, the acceleration achieved has a positive effect in grippers for conveying printed products, in which the distance between the plane where the force is introduced into the printed product for the opening and closing movement and the plane where the force is applied is different, so that the system leads to an adaptive property development.

[0117] also, Fig.19 Symbolically, it is shown how the mutually coordinated uniform, non-uniform or adaptive speeds and / or movement curves of the two pressure elements of the clamping device can also be designed for the one-sided pressure application of the pressure rod 144, that is, the force provided to the knife 150b is no longer coupled to the force provided for the pressure rod 144, but the pressure rod independently applies its pressure force to the book block, as shown in position 251 (see also Figure 7) is shown symbolically. The force applied by the pressure rod to the book block can then be set according to individual criteria. After the first contact with the book block, the speed curve of the pressure rod 144 can be immediately changed to another mode. This also involves the force development on the book block itself, which can gradually increase or decrease monotonically according to the preset. That is, if a certain flexibility is required in the force development of the pressure rod 144 at the end of the pressing (for example, in order not to cause damage to the spine of the book block, which may be slightly thicker, like an embossing mark), this can be achieved by activating the corresponding control profile, for example, according to which a monotonically increasing force development is designed according to the curve when the capacitor is charged. Correspondingly, it is undoubtedly possible to set an exponential force development, which can be used in the middle or all the way.

[0118] Furthermore, publication EP 1 647 373 A1 shows an integral component of the present description, in particular with regard to how the drive for providing the contact pressure can be coordinated in the case of cutting means and tool dynamics in an operative connection with the process dynamics.

[0119] Fig. 20 The structure of the flush block 125 is shown (see also Figure 3 ). The flushing block consists of a receiving plate 180 acting from above, which carries brush bodies 181, 182 on the printed product side, which apply pressure to the cover end 183 that protrudes beyond the printed product A at the front side, so that the spine of the printed product is aligned with the contact surface within the push-in wheel 120. Since the cover end 184 is located in the same alignment plane at the front side, it can be seen more clearly through the positions 185, 186 (head side or foot side of the printed product A). The two brush bodies 181 and 182 are respectively composed of two partial brush bodies 181a, 181b; 182a, 182b that are angled with each other, so that the corresponding cover end is captured in a wedge shape and pressed down in parallel accordingly, so that no damaging arching of the cover end occurs.

[0120] Fig.21 Another flush slider 126 is shown (see also Figure 3 ) structure. The flushing block consists of a receiving plate 190 acting on the head side or the foot side, which carries brush bodies 191, 192 on the printed product side, which apply pressure to the cover ends 184, 185 that extend beyond the printed product A on the head side or the foot side, so that the printed product A is positioned accordingly for the cutting operation. Here, the overhanging cover ends can be seen relative to the spine part 193 of the printed product A. The two brush bodies 191 and 192 are each composed of two partial brush bodies 191a, 191b; 192a, 192b that are angled with each other in such a way that the brush bodies capture the corresponding cover ends in a wedge shape and the entire printed product body has a lateral positioning, so that no damaging bulging of the cover ends occurs.

[0121] Fig. 22 Another transport device 300 is shown for transporting printed products from one cutting location 1 to the next cutting location 2 and from there to a third cutting location 3. The cutting operation performed at the cutting location is similar to that of the Figure 1 Same as described.

[0122] According to Figure 1 The main difference in the transport dynamics of the 101 / 103 is that at least three transport units with corresponding grippers 101 / 103 are used in operation along an essentially elliptical path 301, wherein this functionally circular path consists of a front track 303 and a rear track 304 running essentially parallel, wherein the two tracks merge into each other via a circumferential bend 305, 306. The front track serves to guide the successive transport units in a linear or approximately linear manner along the cutting locations 1, 2, 3 in a clocked manner. The number of transport units along this path depends on the maximum permissible clock cycle number, that is, each transport unit is responsible for taking over a printed product and guides it in succession and without handover through the three proposed cutting locations 1, 2, 3, so that the clock cycle is designed in a way that maximizes the output, so that the transport units are closely connected and the distance between them depends on the time required for a single cutting operation, so that usually more than three transport units can be used. For example, a reduction in the number of transport units can be achieved when the transport units are accelerated along the rear track 304 between the last cutting location 3 and the first cutting location 1.

[0123] Thus, by means of this preventive measure, it is possible to avoid intermediate discharge and transfer of printed products at specific cutting locations by means of the reciprocating movement of the conveying unit (see Figure 1 On the other hand, in order to maintain a high output, a larger number of circulating conveyor units 302a-302f must usually be provided, since their travel on the rear track 304 takes time.

[0124] For a better understanding, the transport units in operation are shown shaded, while the other transport units are not loaded, ie are moving downstream of the discharge device 160 , ie are each on the path of the supply device 120 for taking over the printed products again.

[0125] This transport variant characterized by the oval path 301 is very suitable for centralized cutting of printed products, i.e., when three cutting operations are carried out at a single cutting location, and accordingly, when the printed products are taken over, transported to the central cutting location, and then discharged by one and the same transport unit. Such centralized cutting can advantageously be carried out within the second cutting location 2 described above. Advantageously, the transport unit put into use is not returned to the feed device 120 via the front track 303, but should continue to move via the rear provision 304 so that the production flow is not impeded.

[0126] Obviously, in the central cutting location, in order to cut all standard edges of the printed product, precautions must be taken. In order to avoid interference between the clamping and the dynamics of the cutting device, the movement of the lateral tool and the subordinate pressure rod must be designed to have a phase shift relative to the movement of the front tool and the subordinate pressure rod.

[0127] If the printed product is constructed with a fold or a cover, an opening device is arranged in the area of ​​the front cut in order to capture the fold or the cover for unfolding, which acts on all edges of the printed product in such a way that the entire cutting process is not hindered, so that the opening device either works from a fixed assigned spatial position or is temporarily connected and disconnected.

[0128] Compared with the known three-knife cutting machine, the three-knife cutting machine 100 according to the present invention has the following advantages: During the cutting process, the book block is pressed almost over its entire surface by means of the clamp or by means of the pressure strip assembly. Only in the area of ​​the spine does the book block have a free surface M1, which serves to catch the book block itself. This is not important in itself, since the bound book block is sufficiently secure in this area and within the corresponding cutting station of the cutting device, the pressure strip supports the book block in the cutting area. Pressing the book block over its entire surface achieves a high cutting quality.

[0129] This full-surface pressing is achieved in a simple manner. It is not necessary to adjust the tie rods, support elements or support strips according to the specifications. As a result, a high cycle number and thus a high power of the three-knife cutting machine can be achieved.

[0130] Since the book blocks are transported to the individual cutting stations 141, 142, 143 (see FIG. 1 ) in a suspended manner by the three-knife cutting machine according to the present invention, Figure 7 ), no precautions are required for supporting the book leaves of the book block in the transfer area of ​​the transport system. Since the book block is not transported lying flat, the book leaves will not bend in the case of an incomplete contact surface between the contact areas, so that the book leaves cannot hang at the transfer area.

[0131] The three cutting stations 141, 142, 143 of the cutting device are arranged in a U-shape with the open side of the U facing downwards. In all three cutting operations, the cut-off portion to be cut at the book block is in a manner facing the inside of the U-shape with the pressure rod 144 (see Figure 7 , and especially Fig.10 ) is effectively connected. Thus, with, for example, a single cut-out removal device arranged at the bottom, it is possible to successfully "discharge" all three cut-outs. The cut-outs thus fall downwards due to gravity without further aids and can then be easily collected there. When it comes to folding or unfolding the cover at the second cutting station, the suspended conveying state proves to be optimal.

[0132] Good cut-off removal, regardless of whether it is a book block or a booklet, is very important because in the industrial production of individual books, different formats are often produced only on three-blade cutting machines. In this case, the book block or its cover is preferably adapted to the largest final format, but this results in excessive cutting waste in terms of material in the case of smaller final formats.

[0133] It is common in three-blade cutting machines with a cutting box and a stamp to orient the printed product by means of two right-angled stops in the corners from the spine to the head side and from the spine to the foot side, as well as a stop from the front side of the book block. When producing books, brochures, etc. of varying formats, covers of the same format are usually used for a certain format range. Now, if the book block thickness varies and the book is produced by a binder (i.e., which usually has a strong fixed edge processing), it can also be provided that the cover can be adjusted accordingly with respect to the effective book block.

[0134] If the dimensions of the book block vary, the cover protrudes more or less relative to the book block. Usually, book blocks are produced with a fixed cover protrusion on one side and a variable cover protrusion on the other side. In the three-blade cutting machine according to the invention, the uncut book blocks or uncut booklets are oriented at the foot edge or head edge and the processed spine edge. As a result, changes in the cover protrusion have no effect on the book block height and book width.

[0135] For each of the book blocks to be cut or for each of the booklets to be cut, the production data of the three-knife cutting control must be known, from which the necessary movements of the conveying mechanism can be calculated so that the cut book with the desired format size is finally produced. Here, this data can be transmitted to the control device in different ways.

[0136] The following lists some of the common options by way of example. Each book block or each booklet is marked with an identification feature. A feature reader at the inlet of the three-blade cutting machine reads the identification feature (e.g. one-dimensional barcode or two-dimensional code, RFID chip, character, image, etc.) and transmits the information obtained therefrom to the control device which determines the machine cycle allocation. The information obtained can, for example, describe the size of the printed product after cutting or at the same time determine the missing allocation, for which the configuration files stored in the database are automatically used.

[0137] In another system, the book blocks are fed to the three-blade cutter in a clocked manner. With each clocked cycle, the three-blade cutter control is simultaneously supplied with the information required to cut the book blocks to the correct size. Here, too, the data supplied with the book blocks can be compared with a database.

[0138] Another option is to supply the three-blade cutter with data that record the sequence of the delivered book blocks. The three-blade cutter processes the delivered book blocks in a predefined sequence, with deviations from the predefined sequence being detected at the same time and correspondingly corrected in terms of control technology, which is particularly suitable if the entire system is operated according to the digital principle, that is, when different types of book blocks are to be cut to different sizes in succession.

[0139] When producing covers with folds, dimensional deviations may occur. Therefore, in the finished printed product, the distance between the front edge of the cut book block and the edge of the cover may change. Therefore, it is also conceivable to use a sensor to measure the cover connected to the book block before or in the three-blade cutter. By measuring the width of the cover (which corresponds to the distance from the spine to the edge of the cover extending parallel to the spine), the book block can be positioned and cut according to the measured cover width during the front cutting. Therefore, the width of the cut book block may deviate from the theoretical value stored in the control device, but in all finished books, the extension of the cover beyond the book block during the front cutting is the same or flush with the book block.

Claims

1. A device for performing a cutting operation at a standard edge of at least one printed product (A), wherein: The device comprises: at least one feeding device (120), which is operatively connected to a first cutting station (1), in which at least one first cutting operation related to an edge is performed; At least one output device (160) is operatively connected to a last cutting station (3), in which at least one further edge-related cutting operation is performed, wherein at least one further cutting station (2) is arranged between the first cutting process and the last cutting process, in which at least one cutting operation for front cutting of the printed product is performed, wherein, in order to perform the corresponding cutting operation, the printed product has at least one clamping device, by which at least one clamping force can be applied to the printed product in a manner operatively connected to the cutting device, wherein the printed product can be transported from one cutting station to a next cutting station by at least one conveying unit (101, 102, ...) with a gripping device (103, 104, ...) acting in a force-fitting manner. Cutting station, wherein a cutting station (2) capable of operating for performing the front cutting has an intermediate station on the input side, the intermediate station being extended with elements (E1, E2) for forming an unfolding (SP) of a fold (AKF) belonging to the printed product or a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, wherein the unfolding can firstly be performed by a first translation (502) of the printed product along the contour of the first element (E1) in the conveying direction, and secondly by a further translation (503) of the printed product along the conveying direction along the second element (E2), wherein the unfolding (SP) generated by the first element (E1) can be conveyed along the second element (E2) until the front cutting of the second cutting station (2), wherein the front cutting is performed at the printed product body (AK) of the printed product (A) exposed below the unfolding.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that At least the second element (E2) is arranged directly downstream of the first element (E1), and the second element maintains the unfolding (SP) of the fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) performed by the first element (E1) until the front cut (2), or the second element (E2) is designed so that the second element maintains or strengthens the unfolding produced by the first element until the front cut.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The intermediate station for the folding (AKF) or the unfolding (SP) of the cover (AU) consists of at least two first and at least two second elements (E1, E2), which are arranged opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other and extend parallel to the second cutting station (2), the spacing of the elements being dependent on the thickness of the corresponding printed product being guided, the spacing of the elements (E1, E2) being able to be varied by means of mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical drives, and the spacing of the elements being able to be achieved by means of drives that can be operated on one side or on multiple sides in order to achieve a distance that matches the printed product.

4. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The first element (E1) is constructed as an opening body, which basically has the form of an opening brace (530), which basically consists of an opening edge (520) on the input side and an opening blade (540) connected thereto, wherein the opening blade (540) first penetrates between the printed product body (AK) and the fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) during the second translation (502), thereby being able to introduce an unfolding, and the unfolded opening can be generated in the process of the translation (502) in such a way that the front cutting can be performed at the printed product body (AK) through the unfolding formed thereby.

5. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that The design of the opening body (530) is as follows: a) the opening body as a whole is composed of an opening diagonal brace (530), and the opening diagonal brace is initially composed of an opening edge (520) in the conveying direction, and the opening edge extends horizontally or quasi-horizontally; b) the opening strut furthermore consists of an opening blade (540) which is arranged behind the opening edge (520) in the conveying direction and which, during the translation of the printed product (A), intrudes between the printed product body (AK) and the fold or cover; c) The unfolding of the fold or the cover relative to the printed product body (AK) introduced by the construction scheme according to a) and b) can be introduced on the one hand by the penetration of the opening blade (540) into the printed product and on the other hand by the subsequent translation of the printed product via the main body contour of the opening brace to consolidate the unfolding.

6. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The second element (E2) following the first element (E1) extends at least until the front cutting is performed at the second cutting station (2), and the second element (E2) consists at least of a convexly or quasi-convexly formed, uniformly or non-uniformly extending channel and / or of an associated guide plate.

7. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that The holding down device acting in the cutting station (2) for performing the front cutting consists of a single holding bar (200 1-n’ ) by means of which a pressing force can be applied to both sides of the printed product, the pressing strip extending vertically or quasi-vertically and being arranged at a rear end on at least one side of the printed product, at least one fixed and / or movable pressing strip applying the necessary pressing force for the process on the printed product (A), on the one hand above the unfolding itself and on the other hand below the unfolding on the printed product body (AK), and in order to ultimately provide the pressing force within the scope of the cutting operation, there is at least one pressure rod (144) operatively connected to a stop (152) acting in the opposite direction.

8. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The feed device consists of a rotatable, roll-shaped wheel, by which a printed product (A) initially lying on the ridge can be taken over, the printed product being tensioned by force fit and being transferred by a corresponding partial rotation into a position in which the printed product has a relatively tight connection with the ridge (A) during further transport. R ) in a hanging position in which at least the first cutting operation (1) can be performed.

9. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that In order to carry out the cutting operation via the cutting stations (1, 2, 3), the printed product (A) has a hanging position and in which the printed product can be transported from one cutting station to the next.

10. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The output device is operatively connected to the third cutting station (3), and the output device can be operated according to the following criteria: a) the output device (160) can be operated via a multi-part operated wheel; b) the output device has a clamping device (161) consisting of at least one first (163) and at least one second jaw (165), by means of which a pressing force can be applied to the printed product (A) during the cutting operation performed at the third cutting station (3); c) After the cutting operation at the third cutting station (3), the multi-part wheel performs a partial rotation, by means of which the printed product (A) can be transferred into a removal position.

11. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The clamping device associated with the cutting location has the form of at least one pressure rod (144), through which a clamping force can be applied directly to the printed product (A) or the printed product body (AK), and the clamping force can be provided by means of a mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical drive.

12. The device according to claims 1 and 11, characterized in that The provision of the required pressing force effective for the printed product and the required cutting force for performing the cutting operation at the associated cutting station (2) can be achieved by one and the same drive.

13. The device according to claims 1 and 11, characterized in that The provision of the required pressing force effective for the printed product and the required cutting force for performing a cutting operation at the associated cutting station (2) can be achieved by means of separate drives (A1, A2, A3).

14. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The printed product to be cut consists at least of a continuous book block, of a single booklet or of a certain number of stacked book blocks and / or booklets.

15. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The cutting operation that can be performed on the printed product can be controlled in such a way that the same or variable format sizes with the same or different thicknesses can be produced continuously and in a cycled manner up to the output of individual printed products.

16. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The first edge to be cut at the first cutting station (1) relates to the head portion of the printed product, the second edge to be cut at the second cutting station (2) relates to the front portion of the printed product, and the third edge to be cut at the third cutting station (3) relates to the foot portion of the printed product, or the first edge to be cut at the first cutting station (1) relates to the foot portion of the printed product, the second edge to be cut at the second cutting station (2) relates to the front portion of the printed product, and the third edge to be cut at the third cutting station (3) relates to the head portion of the printed product.

17. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that The clamping element or clamping device (103, 104, 144, 200, ...) of the device is equipped with optionally additional elements that can be operated hydraulically and / or pneumatically, which are installed and operated in such a way that they cause a uniform or exponential acceleration of the movement achieved by the clamping element or clamping device onto the printed product during the closing process and during the opening process on the clamping element or clamping device, at least while maintaining the original clamping force for achieving the required force fit.

18. A method for operating an apparatus for performing a cutting operation at a format edge of at least one printed product (A), wherein: The device comprises: at least one feeding device (120), which is operatively connected to a first cutting station (1), in which at least one first cutting operation related to an edge is performed; At least one output device (160) is operatively connected to a last cutting station (3), in which at least one further cutting operation related to the edge is performed, wherein at least one further cutting station (2) is arranged between the first cutting operation and the last cutting operation, in which at least one cutting operation for front cutting of the printed product is performed, wherein, in order to perform the cutting operation, the printed product respectively has at least one pressing device, by which at least one pressing force is applied to the printed product in a manner operatively connected to the cutting device, wherein the clamping device (103, 104, ...) performs the transport of the printed product from one cutting station to the next, wherein the cutting station (2) capable of operating for the front cutting has an intermediate station on the input side, wherein the intermediate station is equipped with an element (E1) for forming an unfolding (SP) of a fold (AKF) belonging to the printed product or a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, wherein the unfolding is formed by at least one translation (502) of the printed product along the contour of the element (E1), and wherein a cutting operation in terms of front cutting is performed directly at the location where the unfolding is formed on the exposed printed product body (AK) of the printed product (A).

19. A method for operating an apparatus for performing a cutting operation at a format edge of at least one printed product (A), wherein: The device comprises: at least one feeding device (120), which is operatively connected to a first cutting station (1), in which at least one first cutting operation related to an edge is performed; At least one output device (160) is operatively connected to a last cutting station (3), in which at least one second cutting operation related to an edge is performed, wherein at least one further cutting station (2) is arranged between the first cutting operation and the last cutting operation, in which at least one cutting operation for front cutting of the printed product is performed, wherein, in order to implement the cutting operation, the printed product respectively has at least one clamping device, by which at least one clamping force is applied to the printed product in a manner operatively connected to the cutting device, wherein the printed product is transported from one cutting station to the next cutting station by at least one conveying unit (101, 102, ...) with a gripping device (103, 104, ...) acting in a force-fitting manner. Conveying, wherein a cutting station (2) capable of operating for performing the front cutting has an intermediate station on the input side, which is equipped with elements (E1, E2) for forming an expansion (SP) belonging to a fold (AKF) or a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, wherein the expansion is firstly performed by a first translation (502) of the printed product along the contour of the first element (E1) in the conveying direction, and secondly by a further translation (503) of the printed product along the second element (E2) in the conveying direction, wherein the expansion (SP) generated by the first element (E1) is guided along the second element (E2) until the front cutting along the second cutting station (2), wherein the front cutting is performed at the printed product body (AK) of the printed product (A) exposed below the expansion.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that The unfolding of the folding sheet or the cover is performed as follows: a) guiding the printed product (A) from the first cutting station (1) via a first translation (501) to a first element (E1) of the intermediate station, the first element (E1) being essentially formed by an opening body in the form of an opening strut (530) designed to form an opening, guiding the printed product via an opening edge (520) to an opening point (521) arranged at its end, which transitions into an opening blade (540) in the conveying direction; b) guiding the printed product (A) via the contour of the entire opening body (530) by means of a further translation (502) carried out in sequence, such that in a first step the opening blade (540) penetrates in an unfolding manner between the fold (AKF) or cover (AU) and the printed product body (AK), whereby an unfolding (SP) occurs between the mentioned parts (AKF, AU, AK) of the printed product (A); c) guiding the printed product (A) via a further contour of the opening body (530) by continuing the translation (502) according to b), thereby consolidating the extent of the unfolding of the fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) relative to the printed product body (AK), the unfolding thus achieved meeting the prerequisites for carrying out the front cutting (BS) without interfering with the fold or the cover during the cutting operation; e) after the transport of the printed product through the opening body (530) has been completed, the printed product with the previously produced spread is guided to the front cutting according to a further translation (503), wherein during the further transfer to the front cutting, the spread is effectively connected to a second element (E2) belonging to the intermediate station, wherein at least the original spread along the second element (E2) is maintained or strengthened; f) the second element (E2) is formed at least by a convexly or quasi-convexly formed, uniformly or non-uniformly extending channel and / or an associated guide plate; g) The unfolding achieved is designed in such a way that after the front cutting has been carried out, a 100% shape reversibility occurs, by which the original design of the fold and cover reappears.

21. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that In order to unfold the folded leaf (AKF) or the cover (AU), the first and second elements (E1, E2) exist at least in pairs within the intermediate station, so that they are arranged oppositely on each side of the passage (560) and extend parallel to each other along the intermediate station until the front cutting in the second cutting station (2), the spacing between the elements determined by the passage (560) corresponding to the thickness of the printed product (A) passed through, the adjustable spacing between the elements (E1, E2) is generated by a mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical drive, and the drive (550) for achieving the spacing is coupled to the first (E1) and / or second element (E2).

22. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that The printed product introduced by the translation (501) temporarily stops here or is directly conveyed while it is guided through the first element (E1) for performing the folding or unfolding of the cover, in both cases the introduction and / or continued unfolding is supported by at least one air jet.

23. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that The design of the second element (E2) maintains or reinforces the extent of the opening of the flap or cover formed in the first element (E1) up to the front cut.

24. The method according to one or more of claims 19 to 23, characterized in that A combined two-sided pressing force is applied to the printed product by a pressing device acting in the cutting station (2), the pressing device comprising a single vertically or quasi-vertically arranged pressing strip (200) at least on one side of the printed product. 1-n’ ) is composed of a number of pressure strips used in a coordinated manner above the unfolding in the front cutting, below the unfolding, the pressing force required directly or indirectly for the front cutting is effectively connected to the printed product body (AK), and the pressing force is applied by at least one fixed and / or movable pressure rod (144, 152).

25. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that The feeding device (120) consists of a rotatable wheel of a dough-like structure, which grabs the first flat ridge (A) R ), clamps the printed product by force, and transfers it to a position by corresponding partial rotation, in which, for further transportation, the printed product has a hanging position relative to the spine, in which the first cutting operation is performed, and then the printed product is continued to be taken over by the conveying unit in a hanging manner and is transferred to the next cutting station for performing another cutting operation.

26. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that The output device is operated in an operatively connected manner to the third cutting station (3), and the output device operates according to the following criteria: a) the output device (160) is operated via a multi-part working wheel; b) the output device has a clamping device (161) consisting of at least one first (163) and at least one second jaw (165), wherein during the cutting operation, a pressing force is applied by the jaws (163, 165) in relation to the printed product; c) After the cutting operation at the third cutting station (3), the multi-part wheel performs a partial rotation, by which the printed product is transferred into a removal position.

27. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that The device has at least two conveying units (101, 102) with a gripper (103, 104) on each side. R ) grip the printed product to be cut in a force-fitting manner, the two conveying units are operatively connected to each other and the conveying units are operated along a guide path relative to the cutting station (1, 2, 3) by a translational movement supported by the following control: a) after completing the first cutting operation at the first cutting station (1), the gripper (103) of the first conveying unit (101) immediately grips the printed product with force fit; b) the first conveyor unit (101) then transfers the force-locked gripped printed product to the second cutting station (2), where the printed product is positioned for a second cutting operation (pre-cutting), and the first conveyor unit then travels empty back to the first cutting station (1) where it re-takes over the already cut subsequent printed product; c) during which the gripper (104) of the second conveying unit (102) takes over the printed product immediately after the cutting operation at the second cutting station (2) is completed, and transfers the printed product to the third cutting station (3), where a third cutting operation is performed, and then the printed product is output; d) Subsequently, the second conveying unit (102) travels empty-handed back to the second cutting station (2), where the subsequent printed product that has already been cut is present; subsequently, the printed product is gripped by the gripper (104) of the second conveying unit (102) with force cooperation and transferred to the third cutting station (3), where a third cutting operation is performed.

28. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that At each cutting station (1, 2, 3) the following pressing forces are applied to the printed product before, during and after the respective cutting operation: a) applying a pressing force to the printed product via clamping jaws (103a, 103b; 104a, 104b) belonging to the gripper (103, 104), the pressing force being designed to transport the printed product from one cutting station to the next in a force-fitting manner; b) applying a further pressing force to the printed product by means of at least one first pressing device (130, 160 / 161, 200) acting at each cutting station, said pressing force being applied statically to the printed product within the scope of the respective cutting operation; c) applying a further pressing force to the printed product by means of at least one second pressing device (144, 152) provided at each cutting station, the pressing force of the second pressing device being realized directly within the scope of the respective cutting operation.

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that The application of the contact force to the printed product in order to achieve the necessary force fit is supplemented by means of which a uniform or exponential acceleration of the corresponding movement is additionally achieved.

30. A method for operating an apparatus for performing a cutting operation at a format edge of at least one printed product (A), wherein: The device has at least one feed device (120), by which printed products are provided for further transport, wherein after the last cutting operation performed, there is an output device (160), by which the cut printed products are discharged, wherein the device has a plurality of conveying units, which are guided in a clocked manner along a closed, circular guide path (301), wherein each conveying unit is individually loaded with at least one printed product, and the printed products are guided from one cutting station to the next cutting station (1, 2, 3) by the same conveying unit, wherein each conveying unit is guided back to the first cutting station after the last cutting station and after the cut printed products have been discharged in an unloaded manner via the closed, circular guide path (301) to accommodate the subsequent printed products, wherein In the embodiment of the present invention, a cutting station (2) capable of being operated for performing the front cutting has an intermediate station on the input side, which is equipped with elements (E1, E2) for forming an unfolding (SP) of a fold (AKF) belonging to the printed product or a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, wherein the unfolding is achieved in a first step by a first translation (502) of the printed product along the contour of the first element (E1) in the conveying direction, and in a second step by another translation (503) of the printed product along the conveying direction along the second element (E2), wherein the unfolding (SP) generated by the first element (E1) is conveyed along the second element (E2) until the front cutting of the second cutting station (2), wherein the front cutting is performed at the printed product body (AK) of the printed product (A) exposed on the lower side of the unfolding.

31. A method for operating an apparatus for performing a cutting operation at a standard edge of at least one printed product (A), wherein: The device has at least one feed device (120) by which printed products are provided for further transport, wherein after the last cutting operation performed there is an output device (160) by which the cut printed products are discharged, wherein the device has at least one conveying unit, which is guided in a clocked manner along a closed or open guide path, wherein a conveying unit individually loaded with at least one printed product is transferred directly to a central cutting station, in which the entire cutting process is carried out on the printed product, so that the individual kinematic processes of the pressing element (144, 152) and the cutting device (150a-c) are coordinated in such a way that they are carried out by a non-collision cutting process.

32. The method according to claim 31, characterized in that The printed product is extended by a fold or a cover, the security of which is provided by the unfolding of the fold or the cover when the front cutting is performed, and the realization of the unfolding is carried out directly in the area of ​​the central cutting station by at least one opening element (E1, E2), and the remaining cutting operations are carried out unimpeded at the central cutting station by temporarily connecting or disconnecting at least one opening element (E1, E2).

33. The method according to any one of claims 30 or 31, characterized in that The resulting pressing force on the printed product and the application of the correspondingly required cutting force for performing the partial cutting operation are provided by one and the same drive.

34. The method according to any one of claims 30 or 31, characterized in that The resulting pressing force on the printed product and the application of the correspondingly required cutting force for performing the partial cutting operation are provided by separate drives.

35. A method for operating an apparatus for performing a cutting operation at a standard edge of at least one printed product (A), wherein: The device comprises: at least one feeding device (120), which is operatively connected to a first cutting station (1), in which at least one first cutting operation related to an edge is performed; At least one output device (160) is operatively connected to a last cutting station (3), in which at least one second cutting operation related to the edge is performed, wherein at least one further cutting station (2) is arranged between the first cutting operation and the last cutting operation, in which at least one cutting operation for the front cutting of the printed product is performed, wherein, in order to perform the corresponding cutting operation, the printed product has at least one pressing device, by which at least one pressing force is effectively applied to the printed product in a manner operatively connected to the cutting device. The printed product is conveyed from one cutting station to the next by at least one conveying unit (101, 102, ...) with force-exerting gripping means (103, 104, ...), wherein the cutting station (2) for the front cutting has an intermediate station on the input side, which is equipped with an element (E1, E2) for forming an expansion (SP) of a fold (AKF) belonging to the printed product or a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, wherein the element (E1, E2) is used to introduce, generate, maintain or strengthen the expansion of the fold or cover, which is performed by the following process steps: a) guiding the printed product (A) from the first cutting station (1) to a first element (E1) within the second cutting station (2) via a first translation (501), the element being essentially in the form of an opening body (530) designed to form an opening, wherein the printed product is guided via an opening edge (520) belonging to the opening body to an opening point (521) arranged at its end, wherein the opening point (521) transitions into an opening blade (540); b) guiding the printed product (A) via the contour of the entire opening body (530) by a further translation (502) carried out in sequence, such that in a first step an opening blade (540) belonging to the opening body penetrates in an unfolded manner into the gap between the fold (AKF) or cover (AU) and the printed product body (AK), thereby introducing the unfolding (SP); c) guiding the printed product via a further contour of the opening body (530) by continuing the translation (502) according to b), whereby the extent to which the fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) is unfolded relative to the printed product body (AK) undergoes consolidation, wherein the unfolding thus achieved has an opening through which the cutting of the front cut (BS) is performed without disturbing the fold or the cover; d) after the translation (502) via the opening body (530) has ended, guiding the printed product with the previously completed spread to the front cutting according to a further translation (503) via a second element (E2), wherein during the transfer at least the spread opening is maintained or reinforced; e) The unfolding achieved is designed in such a way that, after the front cutting has been carried out, a 100% shape reversibility occurs, by which the original design of the fold and cover reappears.

36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that In the region of an opening body (530) belonging to the first element (E1), the introduction and continuation of the unfolding of the flap (AKF) or of the cover (AU) is supported by at least one air jet.

37. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that The construction scheme of the second element (E2) along the second cutting station (2) consists of a convexly or quasi-convexly extending guide (510), which is designed in such a way that a preset unfolding of the fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) from the first element (E1) is maintained or strengthened during a further translation (503) towards the front cutting.

38. The method according to claim 37, characterized in that The guide (510) belonging to the second element (E2) has the form of a channel extending uniformly or non-uniformly and / or associated guide plates, which serves to support the unfolded end of the flap or cover as required.

39. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that The unfolding is loaded along a guide (510) belonging to the second element (E2) with at least one further air jet for maintaining or strengthening the predetermined opening.

40. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that In order to ensure the quality of the unfolding of the fold (AKF) or the cover (AU), local sensors are operated which monitor the necessary characteristics of the unfolding until the pre-cutting is completed.

41. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that By operating the press strip 200 at the second cutting station (2) 1-n’ The printing product (A) is pressed at least in part in the area of ​​the pre-cutting, the calling of the pressure strip being coordinated so that it is arranged in the area above the unfolded fold (AKF) or cover (AU), on the lower side of the fold or the cover, the printing product body (AK) is pressed by a movable or fixed pressure rod (144, 152), in order to carry out the pre-cutting at the second cutting station (2), the pressure rod carries out the final pressure of the printing product body (AK), the pressure force or cutting force introduced into the pressure rod and the cutting device being realized by a single drive or by separate drives.

42. A method for operating an apparatus for performing a cutting operation at a standard edge of at least one printed product (A), wherein: The device comprises: at least one feeding device (120), which is operatively connected to a first cutting station (1), in which at least one first cutting operation related to an edge is performed; At least one output device (160) is operatively connected to a last cutting station (3), in which at least one second cutting operation related to the edge is performed, wherein at least one further cutting station (2) is arranged between the first cutting operation and the last cutting operation, in which at least one cutting operation for the front cutting of the printed product is performed, wherein for carrying out the cutting operation at least one pressing device is used in each case, by means of which at least one pressing force is effectively applied to the printed product, wherein the printed product is transported from one cutting station to the next cutting station by means of at least one conveying unit (101, 102, ...) with force-fitting gripping means (103, 104, ...), wherein the cutting station (2) for carrying out the front cutting can be operated On the input side there is an intermediate station equipped with elements (E1, E2) for forming an expansion (SP) of a fold (AKF) belonging to the printed product or a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, wherein the expansion is firstly performed by a first translation (502) of the printed product along the contour of the first element (E1) in the conveying direction, and secondly by a second translation (503) of the printed product along the contour of the second element (E2) in the conveying direction, wherein the opening degree of the expansion is maintained or increased along the second element (E2), wherein at the end of the second element (E2), the front cutting is performed at the free printed product body (AK), wherein, in the case of sequential multiple cutting, the initial expansion of the fold or cover is initially increased to such an extent that multiple free cutting operations are performed successively at the same cutting station (2).

43. A method for operating an apparatus for performing a cutting operation at a standard edge of at least one printed product (A), wherein: The device comprises: at least one feeding device (120), which is operatively connected to a first cutting station (1), in which at least one first cutting operation related to an edge is performed; At least one output device (160) is effectively connected to a last cutting station (3), in which at least one second cutting operation related to the edge is performed, wherein at least one further cutting station (2) is arranged between the first cutting operation and the last cutting operation, in which at least one cutting operation for front cutting of the printed product is performed, wherein, in order to perform the cutting operation, at least one clamping device is used respectively, by which at least one clamping force is effectively applied to the printed product, wherein the printed product is transported from one cutting station to the next cutting station by at least one conveying unit (101, 102, ...) with a force-fitting gripper (103, 104, ...), wherein the cutting station (2) capable of being operated for performing the front cutting has an intermediate station on the input side, which is equipped with a clamping device for forming Elements (E1, E2) for forming an unfolding (SP) of a fold (AKF) belonging to the printed product or of a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, wherein the unfolding is firstly performed by a first translation (502) of the printed product in the conveying direction along the contour of the first element (E1), and secondly by a second translation (503) of the printed product in the conveying direction along the contour of the second element (E2), wherein the degree of opening of the unfolding is maintained or increased along the second element (E2), wherein at the end of the second element (E2), the front cutting is performed at the now free printed product body (AK), and wherein, in the case of sequential multiple cutting, the first cutting operation is directly performed without introducing the unfolding, and the printed product is subsequently guided back to the intermediate station, in which the unfolding of the fold or of the cover is provided for at least one subsequent cutting operation by using the elements (E1, E2).

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