Lift-and storage module, machine and system for handling folded layers and production method

Abstract

The invention relates to a folding machine with a material receiver. The folding machine comprises a lifting module and a movable storage module. The storage module can move horizontally towards or away from the lifting module. The lifting module is arranged downstream of the receiver in the receiving direction and includes a vertically positionable lifting plane for vertically positioning the plurality of folding layers. The storage module is arranged downstream of the lifting module during folding layer receiving and comprises at least two storage planes which are vertically arranged up and down and can be independently driven so as to store a plurality of folding layers. A removable storage module for folded layers is suitable for use as a storage module for a machine, comprising at least two storage planes arranged vertically one above the other and individually drivable to store a plurality of folded layers. The storage plane includes a driven second coupling element of the coupling device. The first coupling element of the coupling device is preferably part of the lifting module. The method can improve the working process in the post-press treatment field. The invention can be used, for example, in deep processing of printed products in production systems in the drawing industry.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a machine for folding, a machine for stapling or a machine for binding, the provision and operation of a system consisting of at least one machine for folding and at least one machine for stapling or a machine for binding, a lifting module, a movable storage module and a production method.

[0002] The invention belongs to the technical field of the graphic arts industry, in particular to the field of stapling or binding folded layers stacked together, or to the field of industrially manufacturing (folding and subsequent stapling or binding) products such as booklets, which preferably consist of paper, i.e. with high quality and high productivity. Background Art

[0003] From the field of post-press processing, folding machines, saddle stitching machines, perfect binders and thread binders are known. It is also known that in folding machines, the folded products are stacked on pallets, and then the products on the pallets are transported to other further processing machines (saddle stitching machines, perfect binders, thread binders) and further processed there.

[0004] DE10344026A1 and DE102014114952A1 respectively disclose further processing of printed products in a folding machine and then further processing directly on a saddle stitching machine. The products are transported from the folding machine to the saddle stitching machine via a fixed conveyor between the machines, such as an inclined roller table.

[0005] From the field of storage technology, a variety of devices for storing or storing objects are known.

[0006] CN205045337U discloses a fixed storage shelf, which has at least two storage planes arranged up and down for storing pallets. Each plane includes a driven roller for moving the pallet horizontally when entering or leaving the warehouse. The shelf has an integrated and fixed lifting device next to the plane, and the lifting device moves the pallet vertically to the height of the corresponding plane when entering the warehouse (and vice versa when leaving the warehouse), and for this purpose the lifting device includes a driving device. The lifting device also includes driven rollers for moving the pallet horizontally when entering and leaving the warehouse. It is not clear how the rollers are driven. The mobility of the shelf as a whole is not mentioned. The coupling and decoupling of the shelf and the lifting device are also not mentioned.

[0007] CN113525483A discloses a movable trolley, which has a centrally arranged storage unit and a loading unit and an unloading unit that can move together. The storage unit includes a plurality of storage planes arranged up and down. These storage planes are respectively designed as conveyor belts, and the conveyor belts have containers fixed thereon. The containers can be loaded and unloaded with goods, and for this purpose the containers are horizontally transferred to the corresponding loading unit or unloading unit. Both the loading unit and the unloading unit are designed as lifting devices. It is not clear how the corresponding conveyor belts are driven. The coupling and decoupling of the storage unit and the lifting device are not mentioned. Since there are two lifting devices, the structure of the trolley is very complicated, so it is estimated that the manufacturing cost is high. The coupling and decoupling of the storage unit and one of these lifting devices are not mentioned. Summary of the invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide an improvement over the prior art which makes it possible, in particular, to improve the workflow in the area of ​​post-press processing and, in particular, to reduce production and working times.

[0009] Solution of the object according to the invention

[0010] According to the present invention, the task can be solved by providing and operating a system consisting of at least one machine for folding and at least one machine for binding or bundling, a lifting module, a mobile storage module and a production method according to the preferred technical solution of the present invention, a machine for folding (folding machine for short), a machine for binding or a machine for binding (collectively referred to as a machine for binding or binding), in particular for saddle stitching (collecting folded layers and binding with thread or wire; referred to as a saddle stitching machine), a machine for glue binding or for thread binding (glue binding machine or thread binding machine).

[0011] Advantages and alternative embodiments of the invention can be derived from the further parts of the description and the drawings.

[0012] The machine for folding of the present invention has a material receiver for collecting folded layers, and is characterized in that the machine includes at least one lifting module and at least one movable storage module, wherein the storage module can move horizontally toward and away from the lifting module, the lifting module is arranged downstream of the material receiving device along the material receiving direction, the lifting module includes a vertically positionable lifting plane for vertically positioning multiple folded layers, the storage module is arranged downstream of the lifting module during the collection of the folded layers, the storage module includes at least two storage planes, which are vertically arranged up and down and can be driven separately, and are used to store multiple folded layers respectively.

[0013] The present invention provides a machine for stapling or bookbinding having a plurality of feeders for feeding folded layers respectively, the machine comprising a plurality of lifting modules and each lifting module comprising at least one movable storage module, wherein the storage module can move horizontally toward and away from the lifting module, a lifting module is arranged upstream of each feeder in the feeding direction, and the corresponding lifting module comprises a lifting plane that can be vertically positioned for vertically positioning a plurality of folded layers, and a storage module is arranged upstream of each lifting module during the feeding of the folded layers, and the storage module comprises at least two storage planes, which are arranged vertically up and down and can be driven individually for correspondingly taking out a plurality of folded layers.

[0014] The present invention also proposes the provision and operation of a system consisting of at least one machine for folding according to the present invention and at least one machine for stapling or binding according to the present invention, characterized in that a plurality of movable storage modules are provided, wherein the storage modules a) are coupled in sequence with the lifting modules of the folding machine during material collection, respectively receive folded layers from the lifting modules of the folding machine and store the received folded layers, and then b) are respectively decoupled from the lifting modules and transport the stored folded layers from the machine for folding to the machine for stapling or binding, and then c) are respectively coupled with the lifting modules of the machines in parallel during material feeding and output the transported folded layers in parallel to the corresponding lifting modules of the machines.

[0015] The present invention also proposes a lifting module for folding layers, which is suitable for use as a lifting module of a machine for folding, a machine for stapling or binding, or for use in the provision and operation of the system described in the present invention, characterized in that the lifting module includes a lifting plane capable of vertical movement for vertically positioning multiple folding layers, and the lifting plane includes a first coupling element for driving a coupling device.

[0016] The present invention also proposes a movable storage module for folding layers, suitable for use as a storage module for a machine for folding, for a machine for stapling or binding, or for use during the provision and operation of a system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the storage module comprises at least two storage planes, which are arranged vertically one above the other and can be driven individually for correspondingly storing multiple folding layers, and the storage planes comprise correspondingly driven second coupling elements of the coupling device.

[0017] The present invention also proposes a production method for manufacturing deep-processed printed products from folded layers, characterized in that a plurality of lifting modules according to the present invention and a plurality of storage modules according to the present invention are used, wherein each lifting module and each storage module are temporarily coupled to each other via a coupling device, wherein the coupling device includes a first coupling element of the lifting module and a second coupling element of the storage module.

[0018] Advantageous Configuration and Effects of the Invention

[0019] The invention advantageously improves the workflow in the area of ​​post-printing and in particular shortens production and working times.

[0020] The invention improves the workflow between machines that follow each other in the production process of a print shop, for example between a folder and a saddle stitcher / perfect binder / thread binder. Errors and delays in the workflow can be avoided. Operator intervention is reduced. Productivity is increased. The invention proposes a "module" concept for an autonomous print shop, especially when the movable storage module can move autonomously and automatically transport the folded layers from one machine to another.

[0021] According to the invention, a lifting module for vertical movement and positioning of a folding layer and a mobile storage module for horizontal movement and positioning of a folding layer are provided and used, for example in a (production) system network consisting of different machines. The storage module can temporarily store or cache the folding layer and transport it between the machines in the network. The storage module can be movable, for example rolling, while the lifting module is preferably arranged fixedly in the machine. The storage module and the lifting module can be coupled to each other, wherein a drive system is preferably provided for the storage element (revolving belt) of the storage module. The relevant motor can be arranged in the lifting module. No motor is required in the storage module, so it is lighter and less expensive.

[0022] In a printing shop with at least one folding machine and at least one further processing machine, such as a saddle stitcher, a perfect binder or a thread binder, a plurality of storage modules ("storage module pools") are preferably present. They can be used to transport folded layers between the machines. In addition, they can also temporarily store prefabricated folded layers until further processing. In this way, urgent jobs can also be temporarily stored. The design of the storage modules is preferably very simple and therefore very cost-effective, so that a company can purchase a large number of such storage modules.

[0023] The folded layers can be stacked on the storage plane of the storage module, i.e. arranged one above the other ("horizontal storage"). Preferably, a plurality of stacks are arranged side by side on each storage plane. Alternatively, the folded layers can be arranged in a row, i.e. side by side ("vertical storage") on the storage plane of the storage module. Thus, the storage module can be adapted to different delivery types of the folding machine (horizontal delivery, vertical delivery).

[0024] Expansion scheme of the present invention

[0025] The following describes preferred developments of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as developments). These embodiments can also be combined with one another if it is not technically impossible.

[0026] Machine expansion solutions

[0027] One development can be characterized in that the lifting plane has a conveying element for conveying the folded layers when depositing or removing them in the respective vertical position and a drive for the conveying element. The conveying element can be designed as a revolving belt. The belt can be driven, for example, including driven rollers. Stop or support elements for the folded layers or their stacks can also be arranged on the belt.

[0028] One development can be characterized in that each storage level has a conveyor element for conveying when depositing or removing folded layers. The conveyor element can be designed as a revolving belt. The belt can be driven indirectly, for example by a conveyor element of a lifting device. Stop or support elements for the folded layers or their stacks can also be arranged on the belt.

[0029] One development can be characterized in that each storage plane can be coupled to a lifting device to drive the storage plane individually. The corresponding conveying elements of the storage plane and the conveying elements of the lifting plane can be temporarily coupled, provided that they are in the same vertical position. In this way, the folded layer can be transported horizontally from the lifting plane to the storage plane (and vice versa). The two planes are preferably arranged in a vertical position at the same height, and the respective ends are close to each other.

[0030] One development can be characterized in that the lifting plane comprises a driven first coupling element of the coupling device, and each storage plane comprises a corresponding driven second coupling element of the coupling device. The coupling can be realized by a coupling element such as a gear or a friction wheel.

[0031] Expansion solutions for system provision and operation

[0032] An extended solution can be characterized by activating a warning device on the machine for stapling or bookbinding if the correct storage module is not placed on the correct feeder. For example, the warning can be implemented visually or acoustically. For example, the operator can be prompted by a red light and / or a loud sound that he has not moved the storage module to the correct lifting module. The operator can also be prompted to the correct position by other lights on another lifting module. The storage modules can also be numbered consecutively and equipped with transponders, so that when a storage module approaches a row of lifting modules, an indicator light (for example a green light) on the correct lifting module will be activated; in this way, the operator can quickly and easily find the correct lifting module. Alternatively, the storage modules can also be moved under computer control, which ensures that the correct storage module (with the expected folding layer) is placed in the right place at the right time.

[0033] One development can be characterized in that a plurality of storage modules can be docked simultaneously on a lifting module of the folding machine and loaded simultaneously or successively. It is also possible to feed a folded layer from one storage module to another downstream storage module.

[0034] One development can be characterized in that when a storage module is loaded, a counter is activated and accordingly counts how many folding layers or their stacks are stored. The count value can be stored and called up for checking when the storage module is unloaded.

[0035] A feature of an extended solution can be that a computer can be provided which monitors the loading of a plurality of storage modules and records which (possibly identical) folding layers and how many folding layers are stored in which storage module and on which storage plane (vertical position) and at which position on the storage plane (horizontal position). In this way, the computer can have a comprehensive understanding of which folding layers are currently temporarily stored at which position in the storage module pool, which helps to improve the workflow, especially in the case of a temporary change of tasks.

[0036] One development can be characterized by the use of different storage modules. For example, storage modules with different storage capacities can be provided for the folding layer. For example, such storage modules can have different lengths and / or different heights or different numbers of storage planes.

[0037] One development can be characterized by providing a plurality of lifting modules on the folding machine, so that a plurality of storage modules can be filled in parallel. The individual folding layers can be directed to different lifting modules via switches.

[0038] One development of the folding machine can be characterized in that the folding machine comprises a robot with a robot arm in the region of its delivery, the robot arm being configured to stack the folded layers or stacks of folded layers on a pallet. The folding machine can comprise a switch so that an operator or a control program can select whether the folded layers are fed to the lifting module or to the robot. For example, small batches of folded layers can be deposited or placed in the storage module by the lifting module, while larger batches of folded layers can be deposited or placed on a pallet by the robot.

[0039] Expansion plan for lifting modules

[0040] One development of the lifting module can be characterized in that the lifting plane comprises a movable belt for transporting the folded layers when they are being deposited or removed.

[0041] The feature of an expansion scheme can be that a plurality of storage modules can be docked on the lifting module at the same time, for example, different sides of the module. Then, these storage modules can be loaded in sequence or simultaneously if necessary.

[0042] Storage module expansion solution

[0043] One development can be characterized in that the storage planes each include a movable belt for transporting when depositing or removing the folded layer. The belt can have means for securely fixing the folded layer during transport, such as a stop oriented perpendicular to the belt.

[0044] A respective (transport) fixing plate can be suspended above each storage plane or each individual stack, which fixing plate can preferably be guided laterally on the storage module (e.g. on its side wall) for vertical movement. When filling (depositing) and emptying (removing) the storage module, the plate can be pushed into the upper position. When the storage module is moved, the plate can be placed on the stack: the plate is supported by its weight and can also be additionally loaded by springs if necessary. The upper position of the plate is preferably the same in each plane; the lower position is determined by the respective stack height. The plate can be moved vertically by hand. Alternatively, the plate can also be moved vertically by a drive device; the drive device is preferably arranged in the lifting module and is also coupled when the storage module is coupled to the corresponding lifting module. Before depositing the stack, all the existing plates of the storage module are moved upwards by the coupling device (if they are not already in the upper part), and after depositing, they are moved downwards to ensure safe transportation; before removing the stack, all the existing plates of the storage module are moved upwards by the coupling device; after removal, the plates preferably remain in the upper part.

[0045] One development can be characterized in that the storage plane of the storage module has no dedicated drive, for example a revolving belt.

[0046] Instead, the required drive means may be provided in the lifting module and may be used for both the lifting module and the storage module (eg a belt for rotating or circulating each of them).

[0047] One further development can be characterized in that the storage module can receive folding layers (or folding layer stacks) from different production jobs. This is particularly useful for production jobs with small batches.

[0048] One development can be characterized in that the storage module can be pushed by an operator from the folding machine to the machine for binding or stapling (or vice versa), or the storage module can be moved autonomously. For autonomous movement, the storage module is equipped with a drive. Such an autonomous storage module can be designed as an FTF (Automated Transport Automated Vehicle).

[0049] One development can be characterized in that two or more storage modules are coupled to one another and move together when moving between the folding machine and the machine for stapling or binding.

[0050] A further development may be characterized in that the storage module is mechanically docked with a lifting module of a folding machine or a machine for binding or stapling. If it is recognized that the correct storage module is not positioned on the lifting module, the mechanical docking may be prohibited or blocked.

[0051] One development can be characterized in that the storage module has a plurality of storage planes, the respective positions of which can be changed vertically, so that the distances between the storage planes can be adapted to different stack heights.

[0052] One embodiment can be characterized in that the storage plane of the storage module extends substantially horizontally or is oriented horizontally. This is particularly useful when storing horizontal folding layers. Alternatively, the storage plane can also have a certain inclination. This is particularly useful when storing vertical folding layers. Alternatively, the vertical folding layers can also be stored in boxes, which are then received substantially horizontally in the storage module and transported together with the storage module.

[0053] Expanded production methods

[0054] A feature of an extended solution may be that each folding layer or folding layer stack is provided with its own code. The code may be generated in one or more printing machines arranged upstream in the production process, or alternatively may be generated in the folding machine. The code may be a barcode or a QR code or a similar code, respectively, or alternatively may be an installed RFID chip or a similar code. The code may be used to uniquely identify each folding layer or folding layer stack. The identification may be used to ensure that no errors occur during the production process. For example, the placement of the wrong folding layer may be avoided.

[0055] A feature of an extended solution can be that the redundant folded layers on the binding or stapling machine are either discharged as waste or stored back in the storage module. The stored back folded layers can reach a waste container together with the storage module and be processed there.

[0056] The features and feature combinations disclosed in the above technical field, summary and development sections as well as in the following exemplary embodiments section (in any combination with one another) represent further advantageous developments of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0057] Figures 1 to 5 The preferred embodiments and extensions of the present invention are shown. In the figures, corresponding features are provided with the same reference numerals. For the sake of clarity, the repeated reference numerals in the figures are omitted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Figure 1The schematic cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment with a storage module, a lifting module and a folding machine or its delivery device is shown, and the storage process in operation is schematically shown. The storage of the folded layer 4 (from the machine 1 into one or more storage modules 40) is carried out according to Figure 1 The machine 1 (folding machine; only partially shown) comprises a delivery device 2 (also only partially shown) with a preferably horizontal delivery direction 3 for folded layers 4 or a stack of such folded layers / folded layer stacks 4 (horizontal delivery or horizontal storage). Such a machine 1 can be part of a system 20 consisting of different machines 1 and 10.

[0059] From the delivery 2 , the folded layer 4 arrives at the lifting module 30 or its lifting plane (or layer plate) 32 , which can be moved in a direction 93 (up and down) and can thus be positioned in a vertical position 92 when a drive 32 a is actuated.

[0060] The movable lifting plane 32 comprises a conveying element 33, which can preferably comprise a revolving belt 33a and rollers 33b for guiding the revolving belt. The conveying element 33 is driven, that is, there is a drive device 34, preferably a motor for one of the rollers 33b. It can be clearly seen below (about the description of the storage module) that this drive device 34 is also the drive device of the coupling device (in the coupled state).

[0061] The folded layer 4 reaches the storage module 40 (coupled in the docking area 53a) from the lifting module 30. The lifting module 30 is preferably fixedly arranged (in the receiving device 2 or alternatively as a part of the receiving device 2), while the storage module 40 is movably designed, preferably by wheels 43 and handles 44, so that the operator can move the storage module 40 toward the lifting module 30 and then move it away (see double-headed arrow 90).

[0062] The storage module 40 preferably comprises a plurality of storage planes 41 arranged one above the other for storing the folded layers 4, wherein each storage plane comprises a conveying element 42, preferably a revolving belt 42a and rollers 42b for guiding the revolving belt. Since the lifting plane 32 can be moved to different positions 92, the folded layers 4 can be supplied to different storage planes 41 via the lifting plane 32. Here, the supply takes place along the direction 91. This is preferably controllable, i.e., by a computer, for example Figure 3 The computer 70 shown in the figure controls the storage of the folded layers 4 according to the number of folded layers 4 to be stored and the storage capacity of the used storage module 40. The storage module is preferably completely filled; however, during the replacement operation, the storage module may also be only partially filled.

[0063] In order to establish a coupling between the storage module 40 and the lifting module 30, a (multi-piece) coupling device 50 is provided; the coupling device comprises a first coupling element 51 and a second coupling element 52. The first coupling element 51 is part of the lifting module 30; the second coupling element 52 is part of the storage module 40. For example, the two coupling elements can be designed as gears, which mesh with each other when the two modules 30 and 40 are coupled. On the storage module 40 side, each storage plane 41 can include a second coupling element 52, that is, the second coupling element itself can be multi-piece, for example including a plurality of gears. The lifting plane 32 can preferably be coupled to the storage plane 41 in each of its vertical positions 92: for example, the gear of the lifting plane can be coupled to the corresponding gear of the storage plane. Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 In the diagram, such gears are represented by filled circles.

[0064] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment with a storage module, a lifting module and a saddle stitch, perfect binder or thread binder or a feeder thereof is shown, and the removal process in operation is schematically shown. The machine 10 (saddle stitch, perfect binder or thread binder; only partially shown) comprises a feeder 11 (also only partially shown), the feed direction 12 of which for the folded layers 4 or the stacks of such folded layers / folded layer stacks 4 is preferably horizontal. The removal of the folded layers 4 (entering the machine 10 from one or more storage modules / 40) is carried out according to Figure 2 The process shown is carried out in the opposite order and direction to that of deposit.

[0065] The at least partially loaded storage module 40 can be decoupled from the operator and transported from the machine 1 (folding machine) to the machine 10 (saddle stitching machine, perfect binder or thread binder) and coupled there (docking area 53b). The decoupling is preferably achieved simply by moving the storage module 40 away from a predetermined position (e.g. away from a stop of the lifting module 30 of the machine 1); the coupling is achieved by moving the lifting module 31 to a predetermined position (e.g. towards a stop of the lifting module 31 of the machine 10).

[0066] The stack 4 of folded layers deposited in each case is moved onto the lifting plane 32 by means of the associated conveying elements 42 of the storage module 40 and the corresponding vertically positioned and coupled conveying elements 33 of the lifting module 31; the lifting plane is then moved upwards together with the stack 4; the stack 4 is then moved onto the feeder 11 (alternative names: feeder module or insertion module) or its conveying element 60 and finally into the machine 10 for further processing (or further treatment). The conveying element 60 can be designed to be removable, for example as a revolving belt 61. Stacks 4 that follow one another can be placed one on top of another on the feeder 11, provided that the individual folded layers are pulled in at the bottom.

[0067] Figure 3 A schematic top view of a preferred embodiment is shown with a plurality of storage modules, a plurality of lifting modules and a saddle stitcher, a perfect binder or a thread binder, and the removal process in operation is schematically illustrated.

[0068] It can be seen that a plurality of storage modules 40 are coupled ("docked") to a feeder 11 of the machine 10: for this purpose, the feeder 11 comprises a collection circuit 13 known per se, which guides the folded layers 5 removed and collected from the storage modules 40 to a further processing station 14 (direction of movement 91). It can also be seen that the feeder 11 and the lifting module 31 preferably move in a direction 94, which makes it easier for an operator to access the machine 10 or its collection circuit 13, for example in the event of a malfunction.

[0069] Each storage module 40 preferably comprises a respective first checking (or control) element 45a, and each lifting module 30 or 31 preferably comprises a respective second checking element 45b of the checking (or control) device 45. The checking elements 45a and 45b can communicate with each other and / or with a computer (e.g. computer 70) via contacts or preferably in a contactless manner (e.g. via RFID; remotely), wherein, for example, it can be identified which storage module should be placed on which lifting module; if it is identified that a certain storage module is not placed on the correct lifting module for the production process, the placement can be prohibited. The prohibition may include a warning (sound and / or visual). The prohibition may include a mechanical solution, such as a blocking device (not shown) that prevents docking. It is also possible to use a combination of warning and blocking.

[0070] Figure 4 A schematic top view of a preferred embodiment is shown, which has a plurality of storage modules, a plurality of lifting modules, a folding machine and a saddle stitching machine, a perfect binder or a thread binder, and schematically shows the depositing and removing processes in operation.

[0071] The exemplary system 20 shown comprises a folding machine 1 having a delivery device 2 and a delivery direction 3, a lifting module 30 and preferably a sensor 73 for detecting a passing stack of folded layers 4 and a counter 74 for counting the stacks of folded layers. The count can be used to identify when a docked storage module is full or when another storage module needs to be loaded.

[0072] Furthermore, the system 20 comprises a machine 10 , for example a saddle stitcher, perfect binder or thread binder, having a plurality of lifting modules 31 , a plurality of feeders 11 with a feed direction 12 and preferably also a collecting line 13 .

[0073] Finally, the system 20 comprises a "pool" of storage modules 40, which can be moved back and forth between the two machines 1 and 10, depending on the production situation. The operation or production of the system 20 can be monitored by a computer 70: the computer 70 is connected to the two machines 1 and 10 via corresponding connections 70 and 71, preferably wirelessly. In addition, the computer 70 also knows the loading status of the individual storage modules 40, that is, which folding layers 4 are stored in which modules 40. The computer can thus indicate to the operator which modules 40 (which can, for example, be numbered consecutively or coded by known means) must be docked at which module 30 at which point in time; this can be achieved, for example, by means of a display device on the module 30. If the modules 40 are optionally designed as FTFs ("automatic transport vehicles"), the production can be controlled autonomously, that is, without the need for an operator.

[0074] Figure 5 The schematic sectional view of a preferred exemplary embodiment is shown, which has a storage module, a lifting module and a folding machine or a delivery device thereof, and schematically illustrates the depositing process in operation. Figure 1 The storage in is horizontal, while Figure 5 The storage in is vertical.

[0075] Vertical storage makes sense if the upstream machine 1 itself comprises a delivery device for the vertical folded layers 4 and the downstream machine 10 allows the folded layers 4 to be stored vertically.

[0076] Vertical storage of folding layers 4, i.e. folding layers are not placed essentially vertically on top of each other (arranged in vertical stacks), but essentially horizontally, i.e. at a certain slope, adjacent to each other (arranged in horizontal stacks), can be advantageous, because more folding layers 4 can be stored per module 40 if necessary. However, a conveying device 42 suitable for this case may have to be additionally equipped with (front and possibly end) supports for a row of upright folding layers 4; in this case, the supports are, for example, adjustable to enable storage and removal.

[0077] List of reference numerals:

[0078] 1Machine or folding machine for folding

[0079] 2. Material receiving device

[0080] 3. Material receiving direction

[0081] 4 folding layers or folding layers stacked (horizontal)

[0082] 5 folding layers

[0083] 6 folding layers or folding layers stacked (vertical)

[0084] 10 Machines for stapling or binding (saddle stitching machines, perfect binding machines, thread binding machines)

[0085] 11 Feeder

[0086] 12 Feed direction

[0087] 13 Collection lines

[0088] 14 Further processing station (binding or perfect binding)

[0089] 20System consisting of folding machine and saddle stitching machine / perfect binder / line machine

[0090] 30 Lifting module of folding machine

[0091] 31 Lifting module for saddle stitching machine / binding machine / linear machine

[0092] 32 Lifting plane

[0093] 32a Lifting plane drive

[0094] 33 Transmission Components

[0095] 33a One rotary belt, multiple rotary belts

[0096] 33b Roller

[0097] 34 Drive device for conveying element

[0098] 35 Drive device for coupling device

[0099] 40 Storage Modules

[0100] 41 Storage plane

[0101] 42 Transmission Components

[0102] 42a One rotary belt, multiple rotary belts

[0103] 42b Roller

[0104] 43 rounds

[0105] 44 Handle

[0106] 45 Inspection device

[0107] 45a First inspection element

[0108] 45b Second inspection element

[0109] 50 Coupling device

[0110] 51 First coupling element

[0111] 52 Second coupling element

[0112] 53a Docking area in a folding machine

[0113] 53b Docking area in saddle stitching machine / perfect binder / line machine

[0114] 60 removable conveyor elements

[0115] 61 (removable) rotating belt

[0116] 70 Computer

[0117] 71 Connection with folding machine

[0118] 72 Connection with saddle stitching machine / perfect binder / linear machine

[0119] 73 Sensors

[0120] 74 Counter

[0121] 90 Movement direction of storage module

[0122] 91 Movement direction of folded layer / stack

[0123] 92 vertical position

[0124] 93 Lifting plane movement direction

[0125] 94 Direction of movement of lifting module and feeder (in service situation).

Claims

1. A machine for folding, having a receiver for collecting the folded layers, characterized in that: The machine (1) comprises at least one lifting module (30) and at least one movable storage module (40), wherein the storage module (40) is movable horizontally toward and away from the lifting module (30); The lifting module (30) is arranged downstream of the receiver (2) along the receiving direction (3), and the lifting module (30) includes a lifting plane (32) that can be positioned vertically for vertically positioning a plurality of folded layers (4); and The storage module (40) is arranged downstream of the lifting module (30) during the collection of the folded layers (4), and the storage module (40) includes at least two storage planes (41) arranged vertically one above the other and capable of being driven individually, for storing a plurality of folded layers (4) accordingly.

2. A machine for stapling or bookbinding having a plurality of feeders for feeding the folded layers accordingly, It is characterized in that The machine (10) comprises a plurality of lifting modules (31) and each lifting module (31) comprises at least one movable storage module (40), wherein the storage module (40) is movable horizontally toward and away from the lifting module (31); A lifting module (31) is arranged upstream of each feeder (11) in the feeding direction (12), and the respective lifting module (31) comprises a lifting plane (32) that can be positioned vertically for vertically positioning a plurality of folded layers (4); and During the feeding of the folded layers (4), a storage module (30) is arranged upstream of each lifting module (31), and the storage module (40) includes at least two storage planes (41) arranged vertically one above the other and capable of being driven individually, for correspondingly taking out multiple folded layers (4).

3. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The lifting plane (32) has a conveying element (33) for conveying when depositing or removing the folded layer (4) in the corresponding vertical position (92) and a drive device (34) for the conveying element (33).

4. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The storage planes (41) each have a transport element (42) for transporting the folded layers (4) when depositing or removing them.

5. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that In order to drive the storage planes (41) individually, the storage planes (41) are configured to be able to be coupled to the lifting planes (32) respectively.

6. The machine according to claim 5, characterized in that The lifting plane (32) comprises a driven first coupling element (51) of a coupling device (50), and each storage plane (41) comprises a corresponding driven second coupling element (52) of the coupling device (50).

7. Provision and operation of a system consisting of at least one machine for folding according to one of claims 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 and at least one machine for stapling or binding according to one of claims 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, characterized in that A plurality of movable storage modules (40) are provided, wherein the storage modules a) are sequentially coupled with the lifting modules (30) of the folding machine (1) during the material collection period, respectively receive folded layers (4) from the lifting modules (30) of the folding machine (1) and store the received folded layers (4), then b) are respectively decoupled from the lifting modules (30) and transport the stored folded layers (4) from the machine (1) for folding to a machine (10) for stapling or binding, and then c) are respectively coupled with the lifting modules (31) of the machine (10) in parallel during the material feeding period and output the transported folded layers (4) in parallel to the corresponding lifting modules (31) of the machine (10).

8. A lifting module for folded layers, suitable for use as a lifting module of a machine for folding, a machine for stapling or binding or for use in the provision and operation of a system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The lifting module (30, 31) comprises a lifting plane (32) capable of vertical movement for vertically positioning a plurality of folding layers (4); and The lifting plane (32) comprises a driven first coupling element (51) of a coupling device (50).

9. A lifting module according to claim 8, characterized in that The lifting plane (32) comprises a movable belt (33a) for conveying when depositing or removing the folded layer (4).

10. A removable storage module for folded layers, suitable for use as a storage module for a machine for folding, for a machine for stapling or binding or for use in the provision and operation of a system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The storage module (40) comprises at least two storage planes (41) arranged vertically one above the other and capable of being driven separately, for storing a plurality of folding layers (4) accordingly; and The storage plane (41) comprises a correspondingly driven second coupling element (52) of the coupling device (50).

11. The removable storage module according to claim 10, characterized in that: The storage planes (41) each comprise a movable belt (42a) for transporting the folded layers (4) when depositing or removing them.

12. A production method for manufacturing a further processed printed product from a folded layer, characterized in that A plurality of lifting modules (30, 31) according to claim 8 or 9 and a plurality of storage modules (40) according to claim 10 or 11 are used, wherein each lifting module (30, 31) and each storage module (40) are temporarily coupled to each other via a coupling device (50), wherein the coupling device (50) comprises a first coupling element (51) of the lifting module (30, 31) and a second coupling element (52) of the storage module (40).

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