Two-position web transfer system

Abstract

A web transfer system (100) includes a first winder (10) having a first core thereon and a second winder having a second core thereon. The web transfer system includes a reel changer carriage (30) movably mounted on the guide rail and in communication with a carriage actuator (34). A linkage (50) is pivotally mounted to the reel changer bracket and is movable between a first reel transfer position and a second reel transfer position. The linkage includes a laying roller (60) and an auxiliary arm (66). The auxiliary arm is pivotable between a retracted position and an extended position. An auxiliary idler roller (38) is rotatably mounted to the auxiliary arm (66). The feed roller (60) and the auxiliary idler roller (38) transfer the web (W) from the first core (10C) to the second core (20C).

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a non-provisional application of and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 350,938, filed on June 10, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a web transfer system and more particularly to a web transfer system having a stationary spindle and a centrally located web transfer assembly configured to transfer a web from one core to another in a continuous web production process and to accomplish the transfer substantially without a tail. Background Art

[0004] The turret winder winds the web of paper, paperboard and non-paper products (such as film and polyethylene) on the core and into a roll with uniform tension and density on the width of the web. The benefit of this type of winder is that it can wind pressure-sensitive materials at low winding pressures and low tensile strength products at low tension. Each winder is custom designed to meet the needs of the specific products to be produced and can operate continuously and intermittently. In order to be able to operate in a continuous mode, the turret winder utilizes various types of roll changers. The turret winder typically has a first core and at least a second core, and the second core is installed to rotate on the turret winder. During operation, the web of the sheet-like working material is wound on one of the first core and the second core. When the desired amount of working material has been wound on the core, the turret assembly is operable to index another core to the winding position.

[0005] Products, characteristics, speeds and widths vary from winder to winder and plant to plant. Therefore, the proper procedure for threading and attaching each specific product to the winder also varies from winder to winder.

[0006] In addition, many turret winders use pressure rolls (sometimes called ride rolls, wrap rolls, lay-up rolls, or convex-concave rolls) to wind the paper or film rolls. Typically, the lay-up roll is a straight beam (e.g., a cylindrical shaft, spindle, or tube) that applies pressure to the film as it is wound onto one or more cores to form one or more winding rolls that are positioned on the mandrel of the turret winder.

[0007] The disadvantages of turret winders are that they occupy a large space envelope and involve indexing very heavy rolls of film from one location to another, and produce a long web tail during the transfer process.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for an improved system for transferring a web from one core to another that addresses the aforementioned problems. Summary of the invention

[0009] A web transfer system is disclosed herein. The web transfer system includes a first winder fixedly mounted to a base. The first winder has a first spindle rotatable about a first spindle axis and a first core removably mounted on the first spindle, on which a web is wound. A second winder is fixedly mounted to the base and spaced apart from the first winder. The second winder includes a second spindle rotatable about a second spindle axis and a second core removably mounted on the second spindle. A roll changer bracket is movably mounted on a guide rail. A bracket actuator is in communication with the roll changer bracket. A linkage is pivotally mounted to the roll changer bracket about a linkage axis. The linkage is movable between a first roll transfer position and a second roll transfer position. The linkage includes a first spreading roller rotatably mounted to the linkage about a first rotation axis. A first auxiliary arm is pivotally mounted about a first rotation axis and is pivotable between a first retracted position and a first extended position. A first distal end of the first auxiliary arm has a first auxiliary idler roller rotatably mounted thereon. The second spreading roller is rotatably mounted to the linkage device around the second rotation axis, and the second auxiliary arm is pivotally mounted around the second rotation axis and can pivot between a second retracted position and a second extended position. The second distal end of the second auxiliary arm has a second auxiliary idler roller rotatably mounted thereon. Wherein the first spreading roller and the first auxiliary idler roller are configured to transfer the web material wound on the first core to the second core, and the second spreading roller and the second auxiliary idler roller are configured to transfer the web material wound on the second core to the first core.

[0010] In some embodiments, a web transfer system includes a first web cutter having a first web cutter arm pivotally mounted on a first web cutter axis and a first cutting edge positioned on a distal end of the first web cutter arm, the first web cutter pivoting between a retracted position and a cutting position for cutting the web.

[0011] In some embodiments, the web transfer system includes a second web cutter, wherein the second web cutter arm is pivotally mounted on the second web cutter axis and the second cutting edge is positioned on a distal end of the second web cutter arm, the second web cutter pivoting between a retracted position and a cutting position to cut the web.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first auxiliary idler roller is pivotable to a first extended position during cutting and transferring the web from the first core to the second core.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second auxiliary idler roller is pivotable to an extended position during cutting and transferring the web from the second core to the first core.

[0014] In some embodiments, a raised roller is pivotally mounted about a linkage axis, the raised roller being in rolling engagement with the web.

[0015] A method of transferring a web between two winder spindles is disclosed. The method comprises: providing a web transfer system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims; pivoting a linkage so that a second lay-up roller approaches a first core; moving a roll changer bracket away from the first core and toward a second core; pivoting a linkage so that the first lay-up roller approaches the second core; pivoting a first auxiliary arm so that a first auxiliary idler roller is in an engaged position; pivoting a second web cutter arm so that a second web cutter is in a cutting position; and cutting the web with a second cutting edge, thereby severing the web from the first core and transferring the web to the second core.

[0016] In some embodiments, the web is transferred to the second core substantially without a tail.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second web cutter arm pivots the second web cutter to a retracted position.

[0018] In some embodiments, the linkage pivots the first laydown roller to assist in winding the web onto the second core.

[0019] In some embodiments, the second core is filled with web material and the reel changer bracket faces away from the second core toward the first core.

[0020] In some embodiments, the linkage pivots the second laydown roller proximate to the first core.

[0021] In some embodiments, the second auxiliary arm pivots the first auxiliary idler roller into the engaged position.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first web cutter arm pivots the first web cutter to the cutting position.

[0023] In some embodiments, the web is cut with the first cutting edge, thereby severing the web from the second core and transferring the web to the first core.

[0024] In some embodiments, the web is transferred to the first core substantially without a tail.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first web cutter arm pivots the web cutter to a retracted position.

[0026] In some embodiments, the linkage pivots the second laydown roller to assist in winding the web onto the first core.

[0027] A web transfer system is disclosed herein. The system includes: a first winder, the first winder being fixedly mounted to a base, the first winder having a first spindle rotatable about a first spindle axis; a second winder, the second winder being fixedly mounted to the base and spaced apart from the first winder, the second winder having a second spindle rotatable about a second spindle axis; a roll changer bracket, the roll changer bracket being movably mounted on a guide rail; a bracket actuator, the bracket actuator being configured to actuate the roll changer bracket; a linkage device, the linkage device being pivotally mounted to the roll changer bracket about a linkage device axis, the linkage device being The linkage device comprises a first feed roller, the first feed roller being rotatably mounted to the linkage device around a first rotation axis; a first auxiliary arm, the first auxiliary arm being pivotally mounted around the first rotation axis so as to be pivotable between a first retracted position and a first extended position; and a first auxiliary idler roller, the first auxiliary idler roller being rotatably mounted on a first distal end of the first auxiliary arm; the first feed roller and the first auxiliary idler roller being configured to transfer a web wound on a first core on a first main shaft to a second core on a second main shaft.

[0028] In some embodiments, the web transfer system further includes: a second spreading roller, which is rotatably mounted to the linkage device about a second rotation axis; a second auxiliary arm, which is pivotally mounted about the second rotation axis so as to be pivotable between a second retracted position and a second extended position; and a second auxiliary idler roller, which is rotatably mounted on a second distal end of the second auxiliary arm.

[0029] In some embodiments, the second laydown roller and the second auxiliary idler roller are configured to transfer the web wound on the second core on the second spindle to another first core on the first spindle.

[0030] In some embodiments, the web transfer system further includes a first web cutter having a first web cutter arm pivotally mounted on a first web cutter axis and a first cutting edge positioned on a distal end of the first web cutter arm, the first web cutter pivoting between a retracted position and a cutting position for cutting the web.

[0031] In some embodiments, the web transfer system further includes a second web cutter having a second web cutter arm pivotally mounted on a second web cutter axis and a second cutting edge positioned on a distal end of the second web cutter arm, the second web cutter pivoting between a retracted position and a cutting position for cutting the web.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first auxiliary idler roller is configured to be in a first extended position during cutting and transferring the web from the first core to the second core.

[0033] In some embodiments, the second auxiliary idler roller is configured to be in the second extended position during cutting and transferring the web from the second core to the first core.

[0034] In some embodiments, the web transfer system further includes a raised roller pivotally mounted about the linkage axis, the raised roller configured for rolling engagement with the web.

[0035] A method of transferring a web between two winder spindles is disclosed. The method includes: providing a web transfer system; pivoting a linkage so that a second lay-up roller is proximate to a first core; moving a roll changer bracket away from the first core and toward a second core; pivoting a linkage so that the first lay-up roller is proximate to the second core; pivoting a first auxiliary arm so that a first auxiliary idler roller is in an engaged position; pivoting a second web cutter arm so that a second web cutter is in a cutting position; and cutting the web with a second cutting edge, thereby severing the web from the first core and transferring the web to the second core.

[0036] In some embodiments, the web is transferred to the second core substantially without a tail.

[0037] In some embodiments, the second web cutter arm pivots the second web cutter to a retracted position.

[0038] In some embodiments, the linkage pivots the first laydown roller to assist in winding the web onto the second core.

[0039] In some embodiments, when the second core is filled with web material, the reel changer bracket faces away from the second core towards the first core.

[0040] In some embodiments, the linkage pivots the second laydown roller closer to the first core.

[0041] In some embodiments, the second auxiliary arm pivots the first auxiliary idler roller into the engaged position.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first web cutter arm pivots the first web cutter to the cutting position.

[0043] In some embodiments, the method further includes cutting the web with the first cutting edge, thereby severing the web from the second core and transferring the web to the first core.

[0044] In some embodiments, the web is transferred to the first core substantially without a tail.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first web cutter arm pivots the web cutter to a retracted position.

[0046] In some embodiments, the linkage pivots the second laydown roller to assist in winding the web onto the first core. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] Referring now to the drawings, which are exemplary embodiments and in which like elements have like reference numerals:

[0048] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a dual position web transfer system of the present invention, showing the implementation of Figure 5 Step 1 and step 2;

[0049] Figure 2 yes Figure 5 Schematic diagram of step 2;

[0050] Figure 3 yes Figure 5 Schematic diagram of step 3;

[0051] Figure 4 yes Figure 5 Schematic diagram of step 4;

[0052] Figure 5 is a flow chart of method steps associated with transferring a web from a first core to a second core;

[0053] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of step 5;

[0054] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of step 6;

[0055] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of step 7;

[0056] Fig. 9 is a flow chart of method steps associated with transferring a web from a second core to a first core;

[0057] Fig.10 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of step 7;

[0058] Fig.11 yes Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of step 8;

[0059] Fig.12 yes Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of step 9;

[0060] Fig.13 yes Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of step 9;

[0061] Fig.14 yes Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of step 10;

[0062] Fig.15 yes Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of step 11;

[0063] Fig.16 yes Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of step 12;

[0064] Fig.17 is a schematic diagram of the second winder;

[0065] Fig.18 is a schematic diagram of the linkage, wherein the first spreading roller is in a first retracted position;

[0066] Fig.19 is a schematic diagram of the linkage device, wherein the first spreading roller is in a first extended position;

[0067] Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram of the linkage, wherein the second spreading roller is in a second retracted position; and

[0068] Fig.21 is a schematic diagram of the linkage device, in which the second spreading roller is in the second extended position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0069] like Figure 7 and Fig.15As best shown, the web transfer system is generally indicated by the reference numeral 100. The web transfer system 100 includes a first winder 10 fixedly mounted to a base. The first winder 10 has a first spindle 10X that is rotatable about a first spindle axis 10A. A first core 10C (e.g., a tube) is removably mounted on the first spindle 10X, wherein a web W (e.g., a continuous web of a polymer film, shown in bold dashed lines in the figure for clarity) is wound on the first core. The first spindle 10X is driven to rotate. When the first spindle 10X rotates, the first spindle rotates the first core 10C, which winds the web W on the first core 10C to form a wound web roll WW. The web transfer system 100 includes a second winder 20 fixedly mounted to a base. The second winder 20 is spaced apart from the first winder 10. The second winder 20 has a second spindle 20X rotatable around a second spindle axis 20A and a second core 20C (e.g., a tube) removably mounted on the second spindle 20X. The second spindle 20X is driven to rotate. When the second spindle 20X rotates, the second spindle rotates the second core 20C, which winds the web W on the second core 20C to form a wound web roll WW. The first spindle axis 10A is in a fixed relationship with the second spindle axis 20A and the base. Therefore, the first spindle 10X is rotatably mounted on a frame in a fixed relationship with the base, and the second spindle 20X is rotatably mounted on another frame in a fixed relationship with the base. The web is fed from a web handling and extrusion system (not shown) through rollers 11A, 31A and 31B (i.e., in the direction of arrow F). The web W is wound on the first core 10C in a direction indicated by an arrow D1 (eg, counterclockwise); and the web W is wound on the second core 20C in a direction indicated by an arrow D2 (eg, clockwise).

[0070] The web transfer system 100 includes a roll changer carriage 30 that is movably mounted on a guide rail 32 (e.g., a linear support rail) and is substantially centrally located between the first winder 10 and the second winder 20. A carriage actuator 34 (e.g., a rack and pinion drive that is connected to the torque shaft transverse to the machine and driven by a gear motor) is in communication with the roll changer carriage 30. A linkage 50 (e.g., a generally triangular linkage having three axis positions thereon) is pivotally mounted to the roll changer carriage 30 about a linkage axis 50A. The linkage 50 can be pivotally mounted about the linkage rotation axis 50A in a first roll transfer position P1 (see FIG. 1 ). Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 12 to 16 ) and the second roll transfer position P2 (see Figure 4 , Figures 6 to 8 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 ) between (e.g., rotating or pivoting).

[0071] like Figure 7 , Fig.15 and Figures 18 to 21 As best shown, the linkage 50 includes a first feed roller 40 that is rotatably mounted to the linkage 50 so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis 40A of the first feed roller 40. The first auxiliary arm 36 is pivotally mounted at a first proximal end 36P of the first auxiliary arm 36 so as to be rotatable about the first feed roller rotation axis 40A and to be retracted in a first retracted position R1 (see Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 8 and Figures 10 to 16 ) and the first extended position E1 (see Figure 6 , Figure 7 ) between the two.

[0072] The first distal end 36D of the first auxiliary arm 36 has a first auxiliary idler roller 38 rotatably mounted thereon.

[0073] The first auxiliary idler roller 38 is rotatable about the first auxiliary arm axis 36D.

[0074] like Figure 7 , Fig.15 and Figures 18 to 21 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the linkage 50 includes a second feed roller 60 rotatably mounted to the linkage 50 so as to be rotatable about a second feed roller rotation axis 60A. The second feed roller 60 is disposed on the linkage 50 a fixed distance from the first feed roller 40. A second auxiliary arm 66 is pivotally mounted at a second proximal end 66P of the second auxiliary arm 66 so as to be rotatable about the second feed roller axis 60A and to be retracted in a second retracted position R2 (see FIG. 1 ). Figures 1 to 4 , Figures 6 to 8 , Figures 10 to 13 and Fig.16 ) and the second extended position E2 (see Fig.14 and Fig.15 The second distal end 66D of the second auxiliary arm 66 has a second auxiliary idler roller 68 rotatably mounted thereon.

[0075] refer to Figure 18 to Figure 19 , the second auxiliary arm 66 can rotate around the second auxiliary arm axis 36D. The second auxiliary arm 66 pivots around the second spreading roller axis 60A to move the second auxiliary idler roller 68 from the second retracted position R2 to the second extended position E2. When in the second extended position E2, the second auxiliary idler roller 68 supports the web W so that the arc length of the web on the second spreading roller 60 is reduced compared to the retracted position, which makes the web W hang and helps the cutting edge 88 cut the web W. That is, the cutting edge 77 cuts the web W at the position where the web W hangs between the first core 10C and the second auxiliary idler roller 68.

[0076] The first spreading roller 40 and the first auxiliary idler roller 38 are configured to transfer the web W wound on the first core 10C to the second core 20C. When the web W is wound on the core 20C, the first spreading roller 40 applies pressure to the web. After the web W is transferred to the second core 20C, the second main shaft 20X rotates to rotate the second core 20C, which winds the web W on the second core 20C to accumulate the wound web WW. The first spreading roller 40 is biased on the wound web WW and deviates from the second core 20C as the wound web WW accumulates so as to apply a constant pressure to the wound web WW.

[0077] The second spreading roller 60 and the second auxiliary idler roller 68 are configured to transfer the web W wound on the second core 20C to the first core 10C. When the web W is wound on the first core 10C, the second spreading roller 60 applies pressure to the web. After the web is transferred to the first core 10C, the first spindle 10X rotates to rotate the first core 10C, which winds the web W on the first core 10C to accumulate the wound web WW. The second spreading roller 60 is biased on the wound web WW and deviates from the first core 10C as the wound web WW accumulates so as to apply a constant pressure to the wound web WW.

[0078] like Figure 7 and Fig.15 As best shown, the web transfer system 100 includes a first web cutter 70 having a first web cutter arm 72 pivotally mounted on a first web cutter axis 70A. The first web cutter has a first cutting edge 77 positioned on a distal end of the first web cutter arm 72. The first web cutter 70 is in a retracted position 70R (see Figures 1 to 4 , Figures 6 to 8 , Figures 10 to 14 and Fig.16 ) and cutting position 70C (see Fig.15 ) and in the cutting position, the web W is cut. In some embodiments, the first cutting edge 77 is held in a stationary position during the transfer of the web from one core to another, and the web is pulled through the cutting edge 77, where the core has an adhesive (e.g., tape or glue) on it. In some embodiments, the cutting edge 77 is movable (e.g., a traveling "zipper knife"). In some embodiments, the cutting edge 77 cuts the web in the air around the web W (i.e., where the web W is suspended), and in other embodiments, the web is cut against the second core 20C.

[0079] like Figure 7 and Fig.15As best shown, the web transfer system 100 includes a second web cutter 80 having a second web cutter arm 82 pivotally mounted on a second web cutter axis 80A. The second web cutter 80 has a second cutting edge 88 positioned on a distal end of the second web cutter arm 82. The second web cutter 80 is in a retracted position 80R (see Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 , Figures 10 to 16 ) and cutting position 80C (see Figure 7 ), in which the web W is cut. In some embodiments, the second cutting edge 88 is held in a stationary position during the transfer of the web from one core to another, and the web is pulled through the cutting edge 88. In some embodiments, the cutting edge 88 is movable (e.g., a traveling "zipper knife"). In some embodiments, the cutting edge 88 cuts the web in the air around the web W (i.e., in a position where the web W is suspended), and in other embodiments, the web is cut against the first core 10C.

[0080] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, during the process of cutting the web W and transferring the web from the first core 10C to the second core 20C, the first auxiliary idler roller 38 can be pivoted to the first extended position E1 without substantially tail (i.e., little or no excess or wasted web). That is, the first auxiliary arm 36 pivots around the first spread roller rotation axis 40A to move the first auxiliary idler roller 38 from the first retracted position R1 to the first extended position E1. When in the first extended position E1, the first auxiliary idler roller 38 supports the web W so that the arc length of the web on the first spread roller 40 is reduced compared to the retracted position, which causes the web W to hang and helps the cutting edge 88 cut the web W. That is, the cutting edge 88 cuts the web W at the position where the web W hangs between the second core 20C and the first auxiliary roller 38. The practicality of the web transfer system 100 is that the web transfer can be performed over a wide range of speeds from 10 FPM to the machine mechanical limitations allow (bearings, shafts, etc.), so that in some cases it may even reach 3000 FPM.

[0081] In some embodiments, during the process of cutting the web W and transferring the web from the second core to the first core 10C, the second auxiliary idler roller 68 can be pivoted to the extended position E2 (eg, Fig.14 ), with essentially no tail (ie, little or no excess or wasted web).

[0082] In some embodiments (e.g., Fig.15), the web transfer system includes a convex roller 55 (e.g., a dead-shaft roller or a roller having a convex outer surface or a stationary roller or a non-driven roller, see Figure 7 and Fig.15 ), the convex roller 55 is engaged with the web W in a rolling manner. In certain embodiments, the shaft 50S is fixed to the frame 30, and the convex roller 55 is mounted on the shaft 50S and has a bearing, and when the web W moves on the convex roller, the bearing allows the convex roller 55 to rotate on the linkage axis 50A. The linkage 50 also rotates on the same linkage axis 50A. The practicality of the convex roller 55 is to guide the web W between the pressure rollers to allow the web to be transferred between the first core 10C and the second core 20C. The convex roller 55 is located upstream of the spreading rollers 40, 60, and is used for spreading the web before the spreading rollers 40, 60 and winding. This helps to eliminate the wrinkles that may potentially be wound in the first core 10C and the second core 20C in the web W. If the web is not easy to wrinkle, then the convex roller 55 can be a straight cylindrical roller.

[0083] The present invention includes a method of transferring a web W between two winder spindles (eg, a first core 10C positioned on a first spindle 10X and a second core 20C positioned on a second spindle 20X) using a web transfer system 100. Figure 5 and Fig. 9 The method is illustrated by the flowchart presented in FIG.

[0084] Figure 5 Step 1 in includes preparing a first core 10C, which includes having an operator prepare the first core 10C with an incoming web W by adhering the web to the first core 10C using an adhesive applied to the first core 10C. It should be noted that the step of manually attaching the web to the core is only performed once during the start-up (threading) of the machine, when the web is not attached to the core 10C or 20C, but needs to be started on the core 10C to begin the process. The subsequent transfer of the web from the first core 10C to the second core 20C and from the second core 20C to the first core is automatically accomplished using the web transfer system 100 described herein. The first core 10C is made of plastic, fiber, steel, aluminum or a composite material. In Figure 1 1 shows the position states of the components of the web transfer system 100 for step 1. For example, the linkage 50 is shown in the first roll transfer position P1.

[0085] Figure 5Step 2 in is to be performed after the web material W is attached to the first core 10C in the completion step 1.Therefore, the upstream process of the web material is started, and the machine is accelerated to the process speed, so that the web material W is wound on the first core 10C.During step 2, the linkage 50 pivots so that the second spreading roller 60 can assist in winding the web material W on the first core 10C.The web material winding on the first core 10X can be completed by using the gear motor driver with position feedback to move the roll changer bracket 30 under the pressure roller (that is, spreading roller) "contact mode" or "gap following mode".The roll changer bracket 30 can also be actuated using a cylinder to carry out a full contact mode using air pressure.This can also be completed as a dual positioning system with a gear motor and a cylinder, wherein the gear motor is disengaged from the clutch system, thereby allowing the cylinder to take over without the resistance effect of gear reduction. During step 2, the second core 20C is prepared by applying adhesive (e.g., automatically) to the second core 20C on the second spindle 20X to receive the transferred web W from the first core 10C. Figure 1 and Figure 2 1 and 2. The states of the positions of the components of the web transfer system 100 for step 2 are shown in FIG. 4, for example, the linkage 50 is shown in the first roll transfer position P1.

[0086] When the first core 10C approaches its capacity to receive the web W (e.g., a predetermined roll diameter or weight), the transfer process is initiated manually or automatically, which includes Figure 5 Step 3, in which the roll changer bracket 30 turns away from the filled first core 10C and toward the second core 20C, as shown by arrow T1, and the linkage device 50 is maintained at the first roll transfer position P1, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 shown.

[0087] exist Figure 5 In step 4, the linkage 50 is pivoted to the second roll transfer position P2, and the roll changer bracket 30 and the linkage 50 cooperate to position the first lay-up roller 40 adjacent to the second core 20C, such as Figure 4 Reference Figure 18 to Figure 19, when in the first retracted position R1, the first auxiliary arm 36 is pivoted away from (e.g., at an oblique angle relative to) a first virtual plane V1 that passes between the first feed roller 40 and the second winder 20 when the first feed roller 40 is in close proximity to the second winder 20. When in the first retracted position R1, the first auxiliary idler roller 38 and the convex roller 55 are located on the same side of the first virtual plane V1. There is a second virtual plane V2 that passes through the first feed roller axis 40A of the first feed roller 40 and the second feed roller axis 60A of the second feed roller 60A. When in the first retracted position R1, the first auxiliary idler roller 38 and the convex roller 55 are located on the same side of the second virtual plane V2. There is a third virtual plane V3 that passes through the linkage rotation axis 50A of the linkage 50 and passes through the midpoint between the first feed roller axis 40A and the second feed roller axis 60A. When the first spread roller 40 is adjacent to the second core 20C, the first auxiliary idler roller 38 and the second core 20C are located on the same side of the third virtual plane V3.

[0088] exist Figure 5 In step 5, the first auxiliary arm 36 pivots the first auxiliary idler roller 38 to the first engagement position E1, thereby displacing the web W in the general direction of the arrow U1, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 Reference Figure 18 to Figure 19 , when in the first engagement position E1, the first auxiliary arm 36 is oriented to be substantially parallel to the first virtual plane V1. When in the first engagement position E1, the first auxiliary idler roller 38 and the convex roller 55 are located on the same side of the first virtual plane V1. When in the first engagement position E1, the first auxiliary idler roller 38 and the convex roller 55 are located on different sides of the second virtual plane V2. In some embodiments, when the first auxiliary idler roller 38 is in the first engagement position E1, the second auxiliary idler roller 68 is retracted and does not contact the web W.

[0089] exist Figure 5 In step 6, the second web cutter arm 82 pivots the second web cutter 80 to the cutting position 80C so as to cut the web W with the second cutting edge 88, as shown in FIG. Figure 7As shown. When the spreading roller 40 is in close proximity to the core 20C (there is a gap / space between the two, so the adhesive has not yet contacted the web W), the roll changer bracket 30 is moved toward the core 20C by the bracket actuator 34, allowing the spreading roller 40 to contact the second core 20C, and the adhesive that has been applied to the second core 20C adheres to the web W with the spreading pressure applied to the second core 20C, thereby pulling the web W to be wound on the second core 20C, resulting in the web W being pulled through the first cutting edge 77 and being cut off from the first core 10C and starting to be wound onto the second core 20C. The cutting described in the present invention is not limited, because a flying knife can be used and the adhesive used on the core after the knife is actuated through the web pulls the web, thereby assisting in attaching the severed web to a new core.

[0090] exist Figure 5 In step 7, the web W is wound on the second core 20C, and the second web cutter arm 82 pivots the second web cutter 80 to the retracted position 80R, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 During step 7, the first core 10C is prepared to receive the web W transferred from the second core 20C, in a manner similar to that described previously herein.

[0091] When the second core 20C approaches its capacity to receive the web W, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 As shown, the transfer process starts, which includes Fig. 9 Step 8, in which the reel changer bracket 30 moves away from the filled second core 20C and toward the first core 10C in the direction of arrow T2, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 and Fig.12 shown.

[0092] exist Fig. 9 In step 9, the linkage device 50 causes the second spreading roller 60 to pivot adjacent to the first core 10C, such as Fig.13 Reference Figure 20 to Figure 21 , when in the second retracted position R2, the second auxiliary arm 66 pivots away from (e.g., at an oblique angle relative to) a fourth virtual plane V4 that passes between the second spread roller 60 and the first winder 10 when the second spread roller 60 is adjacent to the first winder 10. When in the second retracted position R2, the second auxiliary idler roller 68 is located on the same side of the fourth virtual plane V4 as the convex roller 55. When in the second retracted position R2, the second auxiliary idler roller 68 is located on the same side of the second virtual plane V2 as the convex roller 55. When the second spread roller 60 is adjacent to the first core 10C, the second auxiliary idler roller 68 is located on the same side of the third virtual plane V3 as the first core 10C.

[0093] exist Fig. 9 In step 10, the second auxiliary arm 66 pivots the second auxiliary idler roller 68 to the engagement position E2, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 Reference Figure 20 to Figure 21 , when in the second engagement position E2, the second auxiliary arm 66 is oriented to be substantially parallel to the fourth virtual plane V4. When in the second engagement position E2, the second auxiliary idler roller 68 and the convex roller 55 are located on the same side of the fourth virtual plane V4. When in the second engagement position E2, the second auxiliary idler roller 68 and the convex roller 55 are located on different sides of the second virtual plane V2. In some embodiments, when the second auxiliary idler roller 68 is in the second engagement position E2, the first auxiliary idler roller 38 is retracted and does not contact the web W.

[0094] exist Fig. 9 In step 11 of the method, the first web cutter arm 72 pivots the first web cutter 70 to the cutting position 70C so as to cut the web W with the first cutting edge 77, as shown in FIG. Fig.15 shown.

[0095] exist Fig. 9 In step 12 of the method, the web W is wound onto the first core 10C, the first web cutter arm 72 pivots the web cutter 70 to the retracted position 70R, and the linkage 50 pivots the second laydown roller 60 to assist in winding the web W onto the first core 10C, as shown in FIG. Fig.16 shown.

[0096] Based on the foregoing steps, a method for transferring a web W between two winding machine spindles (e.g., a first core 10C positioned on a first spindle 10X and a second core 20C positioned on a second spindle 20X) using a web transfer system 100 includes pivoting a linkage 50 so that the second spreading roller 60 approaches the first core 10C, and when the first core 10C approaches full capacity, the roll changer bracket 30 turns away from the first core 10C and toward the second core 20C. The linkage 50 pivots so that the first spreading roller 60 approaches the second core 20C. The method includes pivoting the first auxiliary arm 36 so that the first auxiliary idler roller 38 is in an engagement position E1, and then pivoting the second web cutter arm 82 so that the second web cutter 80 is in a cutting position 80C. The method includes cutting the web W with a second cutting edge 88, thereby severing the web W from the first core 10C and transferring the web W to the second core 20C. As Fig.17As shown, the web W is transferred to the second core 20C with essentially no tail or with a short tail WT. For example, the tail WT can be less than 1 / 2" or approximately 1 / 4". The short tail is achieved by placing the tape T on the second core 20C in preparation for a roll change and by bringing the second cutting edge 88 into close proximity with both the second core 20 and the first spreading roller 40 (i.e., approximately 1 / 4") during the switching process. The first spreading roller 40 seals the tape T (on the second core 20) to the web W and then pulls the web W through the second cutting edge 88, which cuts off the web W. This creates a short tail WT with little or no folding back when winding begins. The short tail WT is advantageous because it does not interfere with the web W being wound on the core 20C.

[0097] The method includes pivoting the second web cutter arm 82 such that the second web cutter 80 moves to the retracted position 80R.

[0098] The method includes pivoting the linkage 50 so that the first laydown roller 40 assists in winding the web W onto the second core 20C.

[0099] When the second core 20C approaches full capacity of wound web W, the reel changer bracket 30 turns away from the second core 20C toward the first core 10C, and then the linkage 50 pivots the second laydown roller 60 adjacent the first core 10C.

[0100] The method further includes pivoting the second auxiliary arm 66 so that the first auxiliary idler roller 68 enters the engagement position E2, and then pivoting the first web cutter arm 72 so that the first web cutter 70 is in the cutting position 70C. The method also includes cutting the web W with the first cutting edge 77, thereby cutting the web W from the second core 20C and transferring the web W to the first core 10C. The web W is transferred to the first core 10C substantially without a tail. The first web cutter arm 72 pivots the web cutter 70 to the retracted position 70R. The linkage 50 pivots the second spreading roller 60 to assist in winding the web W on the first core 10C.

[0101] As will be clear to those skilled in the art, various modifications, adjustments and variations may be made to the aforementioned specific disclosures without departing from the scope of the invention claimed herein. Without departing from the scope of the invention, the various features and elements of the invention described herein may be combined in a manner different from the specific examples described or claimed herein. In other words, any element or feature may be combined with any other element or feature in different embodiments, unless there is an obvious or inherent incompatibility between the two, or is specifically excluded.

[0102] Various embodiments are described by the following clauses.

[0103] Item 1 - A web transfer system (100) comprising: a first winder (10) fixedly mounted to a base, the first winder (10) having a first spindle (10X) rotatable about a first spindle axis (10A) and a first core (10C) removably mounted on the first spindle (10X), a web (W) being wound on the first core; a second winder (20) fixedly mounted to the base and spaced apart from the first winder (10), the second winder (20) having a second spindle (20X) rotatable about a second spindle axis (20A) ) and a second core (20C) removably mounted on the second main shaft (20X); a roll changer bracket (30) movably mounted on the guide rail (32), a bracket actuator (34) connected to the roll changer bracket (30), a linkage device (50) pivotally mounted to the roll changer bracket (30) around a linkage device axis (50A), the linkage device (50) being movable between a first roll transfer position (P1) and a second roll transfer position (P2), the linkage device (50) comprising: (a) a first spreading roller (40) rotating around the first spreading roller rotation axis (40A) rotatably mounted to the linkage (50), a first auxiliary arm (36) pivotally mounted about the first feed roller rotation axis (40A) and pivotable between a first retracted position (R1) and a first extended position (E1), a first distal end (36D) of the first auxiliary arm (36) having a first auxiliary idler roller (38) rotatably mounted thereon; (b) a second feed roller (60) rotatably mounted to the linkage (50) about a second rotation axis (B), a second auxiliary arm (66) pivotally mounted about the second auxiliary arm The rotation axis (66B) is pivotally mounted and can pivot between a second retracted position (R2) and a second extended position (E2), and the second distal end (66D) of the second auxiliary arm (66) has a second auxiliary idler roller (68) rotatably mounted thereon; wherein the first spreading roller (40) and the first auxiliary idler roller (38) are configured to transfer the web material (W) wound on the first core (10C) to the second core (20C), and the second spreading roller (60) and the second auxiliary idler roller (68) are configured to transfer the web material (W) wound on the second core (20C) to the first core (10C).

[0104] Clause 2 - The web transfer system (100) of Clause 1, further comprising a first web cutter (70) having a first web cutter arm (72) pivotally mounted on a first web cutter axis (70A) and a first cutting edge (77) positioned at a distal end of the first web cutter arm (72), the first web cutter (70) pivoting between a retracted position (70R) and a cutting position (70C) for cutting the web (W).

[0105] Clause 3 - The web transfer system (100) of Clause 2, further comprising a second web cutter (80) having a second web cutter arm (82) pivotally mounted on a second web cutter axis (80A) and a second cutting edge (88) positioned at a distal end of the second web cutter arm (82), the second web cutter (80) pivoting between a retracted position (80R) and a cutting position (80C) for cutting the web (W).

[0106] Clause 4 - The web transfer system (100) of Clause 1, wherein the first auxiliary idler roller (38) is pivotable to the first extended position (E1) during cutting of the web (W) and transferring the web from the first core (10C) to the second core (20C).

[0107] Clause 5 - The web transfer system (100) of Clause 1, wherein the second auxiliary idler roller (68) is pivotable to an extended position (E2) during cutting of the web (W) and transfer of the web from the second core to the first core (10C).

[0108] Clause 6 - The web transfer system (100) of Clause 1, further comprising a raised roller (55) pivotally mounted about the linkage axis (50A), the raised roller (55) being in rolling engagement with the web (W).

[0109] Item 7 - A method for transferring a web between two winding machine spindles, the method comprising: providing a web transfer system (100) as described in any of the preceding items; pivoting the linkage device (50) so that the second spread roller (60) is close to the first core (10C); moving the roll changer bracket (30) away from the first core (10C) and toward the second core (20C); pivoting the linkage device (50) so that the first spread roller (60) is close to the second core (20C); pivoting the first auxiliary arm (36) so that the first auxiliary idler roller (38) is in the engagement position (E1); pivoting the second web cutter arm (82) so that the second web cutter (80) is in the cutting position (80C); and cutting the web (W) with the second cutting edge (88), thereby severing the web (W) from the first core (10C) and transferring the web (W) to the second core (20C).

[0110] Clause 8—The method of Clause 7, wherein the web (W) is transferred to the second core (20C) substantially without a tail.

[0111] Clause 9—The method of Clause 7, wherein the second web cutter arm (82) pivots the second web cutter (80) to the retracted position (80R).

[0112] Clause 10 - The method of Clause 7, wherein the linkage (50) pivots the first laydown roller (40) to assist in winding the web (W) onto the second core (20C).

[0113] Clause 11 - The method according to clause 10, wherein the reel changer bracket (30) faces away from the second core (20C) towards the first core (10C) when the second core (20C) is filled with the web (W).

[0114] Clause 12—The method of clause 11, wherein the linkage (50) pivots the second laydown roller (60) proximate to the first core (10C).

[0115] Clause 13—The method of clause 12, wherein the second auxiliary arm (66) pivots the first auxiliary idler roller (68) to the engaged position (E2).

[0116] Clause 14—The method of Clause 12, wherein the first web cutter arm (72) pivots the first web cutter (70) to the cutting position (70C).

[0117] Clause 15 - The method of Clause 13, cutting the web (W) with the first cutting edge (77), thereby severing the web (W) from the second core (20C) and transferring the web (W) to the first core (10C).

[0118] Clause 16—The method of Clause 15, wherein the web (W) is transferred to the first core ( 10C) substantially without a tail.

[0119] Clause 17—The method of Clause 16, wherein the first web cutter arm (72) pivots the web cutter (70) to the retracted position (70R).

[0120] Clause 18 - The method of clause 17, wherein the linkage (50) pivots the second laydown roller (60) to assist in winding the web (W) onto the first core (10C).

[0121] References in the specification to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", "some embodiments", etc. indicate that the embodiment may include a particular aspect, feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment must include the aspect, feature, structure, or characteristic. In addition, such phrases may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment mentioned in other parts of the specification.

[0122] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural references. Thus, for example, reference to "a plant" includes a plurality of such plants. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional elements. As such, this statement is intended to serve as a precondition for the use of exclusive terms (such as "alone", "only", etc.) in conjunction with the recitation of claim elements or the use of a "negative" limitation. The terms "preferably", "preferred", "preferred", "optionally", "may", and similar terms are used to indicate that the referenced items, conditions, or steps are optional (non-essential) features of the present invention.

[0123] The term "and / or" means any one, any combination of items, or all of the items associated with this term. The phrase "one or more" is readily understood by those skilled in the art, especially when read in the context of its use.

[0124] Each numerical value or measured value in this specification is modified by the term "about". The term "about" may refer to a change of ±5%, ±10%, ±20%, or ±25% of a specified value. For example, "about 50%" may have a change from 45% to 55% in some embodiments. For integer ranges, the term "about" may include one or two integers greater than and / or less than the integers listed at each end of the range. Unless otherwise specified herein, the term "about" is intended to include values ​​and ranges that are equivalent to the listed ranges in terms of the function of the composition or embodiment.

[0125] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, all numbers (including those representing the amounts of reagents or ingredients, properties such as molecular weight, reaction conditions, etc.) are approximate and should be understood to be optionally modified in all cases by the term "about". These values ​​can vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by those skilled in the art utilizing the teachings described herein. It should also be understood that such values ​​inherently contain variability necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

[0126] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, particularly with regard to providing a written description, all ranges listed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof, and individual values, particularly integer values, constituting the range. The ranges listed include each specific value, integer, decimal, or unit within the range. Any listed range can be easily identified as fully describing and enabling the same range to be decomposed into at least equal half, one-third, one-quarter, one-fifth, or one-tenth. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be easily decomposed into lower one-third, middle one-third, and upper one-third, etc.

[0127] As will also be understood by those skilled in the art, all language, such as "up to," "at least," "greater than," "less than," "more than," "or more," etc., are inclusive of the recited numbers, and such terms refer to ranges that can subsequently be broken down into sub-ranges as discussed above. In the same manner, all ratios recited herein also include all sub-ratios that fall within the broader ratios. Thus, specific values ​​recited for radicals, substituents, and ranges are for illustration only; they do not exclude other defined values ​​or other values ​​within defined ranges for radicals and substituents.

[0128] Those skilled in the art will also readily recognize that where members are grouped together in a common manner, such as in a Markush group, the present invention encompasses not only the entire group listed as a whole, but also each individual member of the group and all possible subgroups of the main group. In addition, for all purposes, the present invention encompasses not only the main group, but also the main group without one or more of the group members. Thus, the present invention contemplates the explicit exclusion of any one or more members of the listed groups. Thus, a condition may be applied to any of the disclosed classes or embodiments, whereby any one or more of the listed elements, types, or embodiments may be excluded from such classes or embodiments, for example, as used in an explicit negative limitation.

Claims

1. A web transfer system (100), comprising: a first winder (10) fixedly mounted to the base, the first winder (10) having a first spindle (10X) rotatable about a first spindle axis (10A); a second winder (20) fixedly mounted to the base and spaced apart from the first winder (10), the second winder (20) having a second spindle (20X) rotatable about a second spindle axis (20A), A roll changer bracket (30) movably mounted on a guide rail (32); a carriage actuator (34) configured to actuate the reel changer carriage (30); a linkage (50) pivotally mounted to the roll changer bracket (30) about a linkage axis (50A), the linkage (50) being movable between a first roll transfer position (P1) and a second roll transfer position (P2); a first spreading roller (40) rotatably mounted to the linkage (50) about a first rotation axis (40A); a first auxiliary arm (36) pivotally mounted about the first rotation axis (40A) and pivotable between a first retracted position (R1) and a first extended position (E1); as well as a first auxiliary idler roller (38) rotatably mounted on a first distal end (36D) of the first auxiliary arm (36), The first spreading roller (40) and the first auxiliary idler roller (38) are configured to transfer the web (W) on the first core (10C) wound on the first main shaft (10X) to the second core (20C) on the second main shaft (20X).

2. The web transfer system (100) of claim 1, further comprising: a second spreading roller (60) rotatably mounted to the linkage (50) about a second rotation axis (60A); a second auxiliary arm (66) pivotally mounted about the second axis of rotation (60A) so as to be pivotable between a second retracted position (R2) and a second extended position (E2); as well as A second auxiliary idler roller (68) is rotatably mounted on the second distal end (66D) of the second auxiliary arm (66).

3. The web transfer system (100) of claim 2, wherein: The second spread roller (60) and the second auxiliary idler roller (68) are configured to transfer the web (W) on the second core (20C) wound on the second main shaft (20X) to another first core (10C) on the first main shaft (10X).

4. The web transfer system (100) of claim 3, further comprising a first web cutter (70) having a first web cutter arm (72) pivotally mounted on a first web cutter axis (70A) and a first cutting edge (77) positioned on a distal end of the first web cutter arm (72), the first web cutter (70) being pivotable between a retracted position (70R) and a cutting position (70C) for cutting the web (W).

5. The web transfer system (100) of claim 4, further comprising a second web cutter (80) having a second web cutter arm (82) pivotally mounted on a second web cutter axis (80A) and a second cutting edge (88) positioned on a distal end of the second web cutter arm (82), the second web cutter (80) being pivotable between a retracted position (80R) and a cutting position (80C) for cutting the web (W).

6. The web transfer system (100) of claim 3, wherein: The first auxiliary idler roller (38) is configured to be in the first extended position (E1) during cutting of the web (W) and transfer of the web from the first core (10C) to the second core (20C).

7. The web transfer system (100) of claim 3, wherein: The second auxiliary idler roller (68) is configured to be in the second extended position (E2) during cutting of the web (W) and transfer of the web from the second core (20C) to the first core (10C).

8. The web transfer system (100) of claim 3, further comprising a raised roller (55) pivotally mounted about the linkage axis (50A), the raised roller (55) being configured for rolling engagement with the web (W).

9. A method of transferring a web between two winder spindles, the method comprising: Providing a web transfer system (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 8; Pivoting the linkage device (50) so that the second spreading roller (60) is close to the first core (10C); causing the reel changer bracket (30) to face away from the first core (10C) and toward the second core (20C); Pivoting the linkage device (50) so that the first spreading roller (60) is close to the second core (20C); Pivoting the first auxiliary arm (36) so that the first auxiliary idler roller (38) is in an engaged position (E1); pivoting the second web cutter arm (82) so that the second web cutter (80) is in the cutting position (80C); as well as The web (W) is cut with the second cutting edge (88), thereby severing the web (W) from the first core (10C) and transferring the web (W) to the second core (20C).

10. The method of claim 9, wherein: The web (W) is transferred to the second core (20C) substantially without a tail.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein: The second web cutter arm (82) pivots the second web cutter (80) to the retracted position (80R).

12. The method of claim 9, wherein: The linkage (50) pivots the first laydown roller (40) to assist in winding the web (W) onto the second core (20C).

13. The method of claim 12, wherein: When the second core (20C) is filled with the web (W), the reel changer bracket (30) faces away from the second core (20C) towards the first core (10C).

14. The method of claim 13, wherein: The linkage (50) causes the second spreading roller (60) to pivot close to the first core (10C).

15. The method of claim 14, wherein: The second auxiliary arm (66) pivots the first auxiliary idler roller (68) to the engagement position (E2).

16. The method of claim 14, wherein: The first web cutter arm (72) pivots the first web cutter (70) to the cutting position (70C).

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising cutting the web (W) with the first cutting edge (77), thereby severing the web (W) from the second core (20C) and transferring the web (W) to the first core (10C).

18. The method of claim 13, wherein: The web (W) is transferred to the first core (10C) substantially without a tail.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein: The first web cutter arm (72) pivots the web cutter (70) to the retracted position (70R).

20. The method of claim 19, wherein: The linkage (50) pivots the second laydown roller (60) to assist in winding the web (W) onto the first core (10C).

Images