System for supporting a roller

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a system (1) for supporting a roll (R), comprising an unreeling machine (10) having a first support structure (Sa) for supporting a roll (R) of material and a moving device for moving the first support structure (Sa) and / or the roll (R) supported thereby. The system (1) further comprises a device (100) for supporting and transporting the at least one reel (R) and assisting in loading it into the unwinder (10), and a coupling device (150) between the unwinder (10) and the device (100). Wherein the apparatus (100) and the unreeling machine (10) are structurally independent of each other and are detachably connected to each other by means of coupling means (150), the apparatus (100) being adapted to switch from a free configuration to a coupled configuration. According to the winding drum supporting system provided by the invention, the winding drum can be conveniently transported and easily assembled on the unwinding machine, and meanwhile, the winding drum supporting system has a simple structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a system for supporting a roll, for example for transporting and subsequently unwinding a roll of material to be cut and then feeding it into a cutting machine. The following description is made with reference to this field of application, for the purpose of simplifying the exposition only. Background Art

[0002] As is known, there is a kind of cutting machine which can automatically cut parts of materials according to a predetermined cutting path, wherein the materials are moved from a loading area to a cutting chamber and finally to a collection area by a conveyor belt.

[0003] Typically, the material to be cut is initially rolled into a roll, which must then be unrolled and placed on a conveyor belt in order to undergo the above-described cutting operation.

[0004] There are therefore operators responsible for unwinding the rolls and arranging the unwound portions onto the conveyor belt of the above-mentioned type of machine, as well as for aligning the rolls during the unwinding process.

[0005] For this purpose, there are suitable unwinders, connected at the input end to the above-mentioned cutting machine, which are able to feed the material to be cut, initially wound up in a coil.

[0006] However, it is worth noting that many known unwinding machines are complex in structure, bulky, and inconvenient to use.

[0007] In many known solutions, at least two operators are required to collect the reels from the reel support warehouse and assemble them on the unwinder.

[0008] All this makes the assembly and replacement phases of the reels complicated and expensive, especially when it comes to multiple reels arranged in a reel stand warehouse.

[0009] In general, therefore, there is the problem of transporting the reels to be unwound and assembling them on the unwinder, and neither the known unwinders nor the existing reel support warehouses can ensure this in a simple manner, these operations always requiring several operators and complex operations.

[0010] The technical problem of the present invention is to provide a reel support system with structural and functional characteristics to overcome the limitations and drawbacks that still affect known solutions, in particular allowing easy transport and assembly of the reel on the unwinder, while having a simple structure. Summary of the invention

[0011] The solution of the invention is to provide an auxiliary device that can be connected to an unwinder (even an already existing unwinder) and can transport multiple reels, by simply bringing the auxiliary device close to the unwinder and, once the approach procedure has been carried out, connecting it to the unwinder by moving the structure supporting the reel of the device (for example, by rotating a rotatable turntable structure) until the reel that is desired to be unwound reaches a suitable position on the unwinder (hereinafter referred to as the "operating position") and then connecting it to the unwinder by a simple connection. In this way, it is possible to switch from a structure in which the reel is mounted on a passive component (for example, the above-mentioned turntable structure, which can perform a simple rotational movement to mount the reel on the unwinder) to a structure in which the component becomes an active component through the connection to the unwinder, which can cause the reel to perform a determined movement, such as aligning the unwinding part.

[0012] Based on the above solution ideas, the above technical problems are solved by a system for supporting a reel, the system comprising

[0013] - an unwinding machine or unwinder comprising a first supporting structure for supporting a roll of material, the first supporting structure being used to support and unwind said roll of material in an unwinding direction, and movement means for moving the first supporting structure and / or the roll supported thereby;

[0014] - an apparatus for supporting and transporting at least one reel and facilitating its loading into an unwinder, said apparatus comprising a second supporting structure comprising at least one housing element for at least one respective reel, said second supporting structure being configured (movable) for moving at least one reel supported thereby from a common initial position towards an operating position at the first supporting structure of the unwinder; and

[0015] - coupling device between unwinder and equipment,

[0016] wherein the device and the unwinder are structurally independent of each other and are detachably connectable to each other by means of a coupling device, whereby the device can be switched between a free configuration, in which the device is not connected to the unwinder, and a coupled configuration, in which at least one housing element for the reel is connected to the first support structure of the unwinder and is integral therewith, and

[0017] Therein, in the coupling configuration, the moving device of the unwinder is suitable for moving the reel in the operating position (in other words, at least one housing element of the device is configured to be moved by the moving device of the unwinder in the coupling configuration so as to move the reel in the operating position).

[0018] More specifically, the present invention also includes the following additional features which may be used alone or in combination as desired.

[0019] Said optional functionalities are defined in dependent claims 2-20.

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, at least one housing element of the drum of the device may comprise a rod adapted to be inserted into the core of the drum, the rod extending along the longitudinal axis and configured to move with the movement of the second support structure.

[0021] According to one aspect of the invention, the second supporting structure of the device may comprise holding means for holding the rod.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, the second supporting structure of the device may comprise a pair of discs on which the holding means of the rod are arranged, the rotation of said discs causing the movement of the rod.

[0023] According to one aspect of the invention, the retaining device may be in the form of a clamping structure which may be switched from an open configuration in which the rod may be removed from the second support structure to a closed configuration around the rod so that the rod is clamped.

[0024] According to one aspect of the invention, the retaining means may comprise a bearing, the configuration of the bearing allowing the reel to rotate during the unwinding process when the device is connected to the unwinder in a coupled configuration.

[0025] According to one aspect of the invention, the rod can perform a sliding movement along its own longitudinal axis. In particular, by said sliding movement, the rod can be transferred from a configuration in which the second support structure can move (e.g. rotate) without abutting against any part of the unwinder, to a configuration in which the rod abuts against a stop part of the unwinder.

[0026] According to one aspect of the invention, the second support structure of the apparatus may comprise a plurality of housing elements for a corresponding plurality of reels, the housing elements being adapted to be moved together by movement of the second support structure.

[0027] Thus, when it is desired to unwind a particular roll from the plurality of rolls, the second support structure of the apparatus is moved (eg rotated) until the desired roll reaches an operating position close to the unwinder.

[0028] In particular, according to one aspect of the present invention, a plurality of reels may be connected to a second supporting structure of the apparatus by respective retaining means for accommodating the plurality of reels.

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, a second support structure of the device is rotatable about a rotation axis, said second rotatable support structure being configured to perform a rotational movement in which the housing elements of the reel (all together) move towards and away from an operating position of the unwinder first support structure.

[0030] According to one aspect of the invention, the coupling means may comprise a recess formed in the first support structure of the unwinder and may comprise a portion of a housing element of the second support structure of the device adapted to engage with the recess, the recess being of a complementary shape thereto.

[0031] According to one aspect of the invention, the portion of the housing element may be an end of a rod, the end being configured to be inserted into a groove formed in the first support structure of the unwinder, the end and the groove being, for example, hexagonal.

[0032] According to one aspect of the invention, the device may comprise means for manually moving the second support structure, such as a crank capable of imparting a rotational movement to said second support structure.

[0033] According to one aspect of the present invention, the second support structure of the device may include a stop element, which is configured to prevent the housing element of the device and the first support structure of the unwinder from disengaging (disconnecting) in a coupled configuration, and to prevent the housing element and the second support structure of the device from disengaging (coming out / disconnecting) in a free configuration.

[0034] According to one aspect of the invention, the stop element may be a pair of rings arranged on the rod and configured to mechanically engage the clamping structure so that, when the clamping structure is in a closed configuration, it prevents (e.g. at a certain point) the rod from moving along its longitudinal axis precisely because the rings collide with the body of the clamping structure when the rod moves.

[0035] According to one aspect of the invention, the clamping structure may comprise a central portion and a side portion located to one side of the central portion, wherein at least one ring is arranged on the rod so as to close between the central portion and the side portion when the clamping structure is in a closed configuration and the device and the unwinder are in a coupled configuration.

[0036] According to one aspect of the invention, at least one housing element of the device can be configured to be moved by movement means of the unwinder in a coupled configuration, thereby allowing movement of a reel housed therein and in an operating position.

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, the moving device of the unwinding machine can be configured to allow its first support structure to translate in a direction substantially transverse to the advancing direction, so that in a coupled configuration, the shell element of the roll can move as a whole with the first support structure in the transverse direction (in particular, the entire second support structure moves in the transverse direction).

[0038] Additionally or alternatively, according to one aspect of the invention, the movement device of the unwinder can be configured to allow the housing element of the reel to rotate when the device is connected to the unwinder in a coupled configuration, thereby allowing the reel to be unwound or rewound by said rotation (in this case, only the rod moves, in particular the reel, in the operating position, while the other parts remain passive).

[0039] According to one aspect of the present invention, the unwinding machine may include:

[0040] - a base on which the first support structure is mounted, the first support structure being movable in translation relative to the base;

[0041] a dancer element configured to maintain the tension state of the unwinding portion of the reel, which is engaged in the operating position, when the unwinder and the device are connected to each other in the coupled configuration;

[0042] - a measuring device for measuring the position of the tension adjusting element, configured to detect the tension state of the reel based on the position; and

[0043] - a measuring device for measuring the transverse position of the unwound portion of the roll (for example for detecting the position of the unwound roll edge relative to the transverse direction in order to verify the alignment).

[0044] Embodiments of the invention will be described below by way of non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, from which features and advantages of the system according to the invention will become apparent. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] In these drawings

[0046] - Figure 1 is a perspective view of the system of the present invention;

[0047] - Figure 1bis yes Figure 1 a perspective view of the system, highlighting the multiple reels;

[0048] - Figure 2 showing a perspective view of an unwinder of a system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] - Figure 3A and Figure 3B showing details of the system of the present invention in a first or free configuration; and

[0050] - Figure 4A and Figure 4B Details of the system of the invention are shown in a second or coupled configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] With reference to the drawings, a roll support system designed in accordance with the present invention is schematically indicated generally by reference numeral 1 .

[0052] It is worth noting that these figures are schematic diagrams and are not drawn to scale, but are drawn to emphasize the important features of the invention. In addition, in the figures, different elements are depicted in a schematic manner, and their shapes vary depending on the desired application. It is also worth noting that in the figures, the same reference numerals are associated with elements of the same shape or function. Finally, specific features described with respect to one embodiment in the figures are also applicable to other embodiments shown in other figures.

[0053] It should also be noted that unless otherwise expressly stated, method steps may be reversed if necessary.

[0054] Furthermore, positional references used in this description, including indications such as lower or upper, below or above or similar phrases, always refer to the operational configurations represented in the figures and in no case shall be given a limiting value. In any case, when referring to components of the apparatus of the present invention in an operational position, such references may be used in practice by those skilled in the art.

[0055] In order to facilitate the following description of the system 1 , two orthogonal directions are illustrated as examples: direction D (which will be identified as the unwinding direction of the roll) and direction T (which will be identified as the direction transverse to the unwinding direction).

[0056] The system 1 of the present invention allows for the support, transport and subsequent unwinding of a roll of material (here indicated by R) on a conveyor belt of a cutting machine used to manufacture various components. Essentially, the system 1 provides a combination of an unwinder (or unwinding machine) and auxiliary equipment, which overall assist in feeding the material to be cut, wound in a roll, into the cutting machine (the latter is not illustrated in the figure as it is not the purpose of the present invention).

[0057] The material of the roll R can be any material used in the textile field for mass production of parts (footwear, leather goods, car interiors, clothing, etc.). Obviously, the invention is not limited to the types of materials and applications described above, but many other applications are possible.

[0058] Reference Figure 1 The system 1 first comprises an unwinder or unwinding machine 10, which comprises a first supporting structure (here indicated by the reference numeral Sa) for the reel R to be unwound (for simplicity, Figure 1bis The reel R is highlighted in FIG. 1 . The first support structure Sa is used in particular for supporting and unwinding the reel R in an unwinding direction D.

[0059] Figure 2A perspective view of the unwinder 10 is shown, in which its main components can be seen. It should be noted that the first support structure Sa is not limited to a specific shape; for example, in the embodiment shown in the figure, it includes a pair of columns or shoulders 12 extending vertically from the base 11, thereby forming a horseshoe-shaped structure, but in other embodiments, there may even be only one column (for example, the right column), thereby forming an L-shaped structure; generally speaking, the first support structure Sa acts as a frame supporting the main components of the unwinder 10, and can have a variety of configurations.

[0060] The unwinding machine 10 also comprises movement means which can move the first supporting structure Sa or the reel R supported thereby, either on command of an operator or automatically in certain cases.

[0061] For example, there are first movement means configured to allow translation of the first support structure Sa in the transverse direction T so as to allow alignment of the unrolled portion of the reel R. This alignment operation is essential for a correct cutting, since during the unwinding process folds or surface defects may form that must be corrected by the alignment procedure. In this way, it can be controlled manually by an operator or automatically.

[0062] As for manual control, the unwinder 10 includes a control system (not shown in the figure because it is conventional, such as a joystick) configured to generate control commands based on manual input from an operator to control the movement of the moving system.

[0063] In one embodiment, the first support structure Sa may be configured to move along a guide rail formed in the base 11, such as by a motor and a worm gear.

[0064] In addition, a second moving device is provided, configured to allow the roll R to rotate to control its unwinding and / or rewinding. As a non-limiting example, there may be a motor operably coupled to a gear system, the gear system being driven to rotate by the motor and configured to control the rotation of the roll R.

[0065] Even in this case, the command may be manual (eg, via the aforementioned joystick) or automatic.

[0066] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited by the type of moving device and the mode of operation. What is important is that the unwinding machine 10 can impart a determined movement to the roll 10 at the appropriate time.

[0067] Suitably, the system 1 also includes a service apparatus (here indicated by reference numeral 100 ) for supporting and transporting the reel R and assisting in loading or assembling the reel R on the unwinder 10 .

[0068] The device 100 comprises a supporting structure of its own on which a plurality of reels R are mounted (in a basic embodiment, the device 100 can be configured for a single reel R, but preferably for a plurality of reels R, and the following examples will refer to the latter case). This structure is referred to herein as a "second supporting structure Sb" to distinguish it from the first supporting structure Sa of the unwinder 10. In particular, the second supporting structure Sb comprises a plurality of housing elements or supporting elements (indicated as a whole by the reference numeral 110) for a corresponding plurality of reels R; as will be described in detail below, the housing elements 110 comprise in particular rods and associated supports on which the reels R are arranged.

[0069] The second support structure Sb of the device 100 is mounted on a frame F provided with wheels (indicated by reference numeral Fw) which allow the frame F to be moved. In this way, the device 100 can be brought close to the unwinder 10 in order to assemble the reel R thereon.

[0070] Suitably, the second support structure Sb is movable relative to the frame F so as to move the reel R supported by it to the operating position P of the first support structure Sa of the unwinding machine 10 (in particular, as will be described in detail later, it is a rotating structure that enables the various reels to rotate together so as to move the reel of interest to the operating position where it can be unwound). In this way, once the device 100 is placed in a position close to the unwinding machine 10, the reel R on the device 100 can be moved to the operating position P of the unwinding machine 10. It should be noted that the term "operating position P" refers to a working position in the unwinding machine 10, at which the reel R can be unwound and moved.

[0071] In addition, there is a coupling device (generally indicated by reference numeral 150) between the unwinding machine 10 and the device 100, which can connect the two machines and fix the reel R to be unwound to the unwinding machine 10.

[0072] Therefore, the device 100 and the unwinding machine 10 are structurally independent of each other and can be detachably connected to each other via a coupling device 150, so that the device 100 can switch from a free configuration in which it is not connected to the unwinding machine 10 to a coupled configuration, in which one of the housing elements 110 of the reel R is connected to the first supporting structure Sa of the unwinding machine 10 and forms an integral part therewith.

[0073] As will be explained in detail below, the connection between the apparatus 100 and the unwinder 10 provides the above-mentioned operational connection between the housing element 110 (ie the rod) and the first support structure Sa, as well as a more rigid connection between the frame F of the apparatus 100 and the base 11 of the unwinder 10 .

[0074] The device 100 thus acts like a roll holder carriage, capable of supporting a certain number of rolls R and transporting them towards the unwinder 10, and can also be constrained on said unwinder 10 in order to switch from a passive configuration to an active configuration.

[0075] In fact, it is worth noting that, according to the advantages of the present invention, once the auxiliary device 100 is connected to the unwinding machine 10, its housing 110 for the roll R can move integrally with the unwinding machine 10, so that it can move with the unwinding machine 10, for example, they can follow the first support structure Sa in translation, or they can be dragged in rotation (i.e. they can follow the above-mentioned movement).

[0076] In the coupling configuration described above, the movement means of the unwinder 10 are thus able to move the reel R in the operating position P (the reel being in any case always retained in the device 100 ).

[0077] More specifically, in the coupled configuration, one of the housing elements 110 of the device 100 can be moved by movement means of the unwinder 10 , so that the reel R situated on said housing can be moved in the operating position P.

[0078] In this way, due to the coupling with the unwinder 10 , the reel R becomes the active reel, while the other reels in the device 100 remain passive (ie they are not moved by the moving means of the unwinder 10 ).

[0079] More specifically, in one embodiment, the rolls R that are not connected to the unwinding machine 10 (i.e., the rolls R that are not in the working position P) remain passive in terms of the unwinding movement (i.e., they are not affected by the operation of the second moving device of the unwinding machine 10), while they are also moved by the first moving device of the unwinding machine 10, and by moving the rolls R in the working position P in the lateral direction, they also move (i.e., they translate) the entire second support structure Sb.

[0080] However, other configurations may be provided in which the reel R is completely passive, even if the configuration described here is characterized by its simplicity.

[0081] As mentioned above, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the housing element 110 of the reel R of the device 100 comprises various rods (indicated by 110a) inserted into the core of the reel R for supporting the reel R. The rods 110a extend along the longitudinal axis LL and are configured to be movable with the movement of the second support structure Sb of the reel holding bracket to which they are connected.

[0082] In addition, the second support structure Sb further comprises a holding device 110b for holding the rod 110a, which will be described in detail below.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second support structure Sb is in the shape of a rotating structure rotatably mounted on the frame F, such as a rotatable turntable structure equipped with a rod 110a. The rotation axis of the rotating turntable is represented as axis HH.

[0084] More specifically, the second supporting structure Sb of the device 100 includes a pair of disks 120a and 120b, on which a retaining device 110b is arranged for firmly retaining the rod 110a; in this way, the rotation of the disks 120a and 120b causes the movement of the rod 110a, thereby causing the associated roll R to move toward the operating position P of the unwinding machine 10.

[0085] It should be noted that although a non-limiting example with six rods is shown in the figure, the present invention is not limited to this and any number of rods can be provided as needed and / or required; in fact, any number of retaining devices 110b for corresponding rods 110a can be assembled on the discs 120a and 120b, depending on the size of the reel R, etc.

[0086] Suitably, the discs 120a and 120b are adapted to accommodate a number of retaining means 110b, for example by providing a series of grooves and notches to secure these retaining means 110b to the disc surface. Thus, it is easy to mount the retaining elements 110b, the number of which, as previously mentioned, will vary depending on the size of the reel R. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the retaining elements protrude radially from the discs 120a and 120b.

[0087] like Figure 3A-3B and Figures 4A-4B As shown, the holding device 110b is a clamping structure, which is shaped to accommodate the corresponding rod 110a. In particular, the clamping structure is configured to switch from an open configuration, in which the rod 110a is free and removable, to a closed configuration; in the closed configuration, the clamping structure surrounds the rod 110a, thereby clamping it. Even though the present invention is not limited to this specific structure, the opening and closing movement of the clamping structure can also be guided by a spring or the like.

[0088] In one embodiment, the retaining means 110b, in particular the clamping structure described above, may include suitable bearings in order to allow the rod 110a clamped thereby to rotate when the device 100 is connected to the unwinder 10 in a coupled configuration, thereby achieving rotation of the reel R during the unwinding process.

[0089] It is worth noting that the retaining means 110b may be considered as part of the housing element 110, since they constitute the actual housing of the reel R together with the rod 110a, according to a non-limiting point of view of the present invention.

[0090] In order to achieve an operational coupling between the device 100 and the unwinding machine 10, each rod 110a can perform a sliding movement (for example, it can slide a few centimeters) along its longitudinal axis LL. Thanks to this sliding movement of the rod 110a, it is possible to switch from a configuration in which the second rotating support structure Sb can rotate without abutting against any part of the unwinding machine 10 (for example, according to the reference in the figure, when all the rods are retracted to the left), to a configuration in which one of the rods abuts against a stop element (indicated by reference 15) of the unwinding machine 10 (for example, still according to the local reference in the figure, when one of the rods is pushed to the right). The abutment of one of the rods 110a against the stop element 15 prevents the rotation of the second support structure Sb and indicates that the rod has reached the operating position P, that is, the unwinding position of the reel R it holds.

[0091] Figure 3A-3B to Figures 4A-4B This related aspect of the invention is shown, wherein Figure 3A-3B shows a configuration in which all rods 110a are arranged so that the second rotating support structure Sb can rotate freely, while Figures 4A-4B The configuration is shown in which one of the rods 110a is pushed along its own longitudinal axis LL towards a column 12 of the unwinder 10 (ie to the right according to the reference in the figure) so that one end 110a' of the rod 110a abuts against the stop element 15 during rotation of the second rotating support structure Sb.

[0092] To facilitate movement of the rods 110a, each rod 110a includes a gripping element or handle 110p that an operator may grasp.

[0093] In summary, in an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the second support structure Sb of the device 100 is rotatable about its own rotation axis HH, which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis LL of the rod 110a. In this way, the second rotating support structure Sb of the device 100 is configured to perform a rotational movement, wherein the rod 110a (supporting each reel R) moves towards or away from the operating position P of the first support structure Sa of the unwinding machine 10.

[0094] As for the coupling device 150, which enables the operative connection between the device 100 and the unwinder 10, its structure is particularly simple, but very effective.

[0095] In particular, on the one hand, a groove 150r is provided in the first supporting structure Sa of the unwinding machine 10 (especially in the column 12 to which the rod is pushed, i.e., the right column in the figure), and on the other hand, the end 110a' of one of the rods 110a is inserted into the groove 150r so as to realize its connection with the unwinding machine 10 and make it an integral whole.

[0096] More specifically, the end 110a' of the rod (which may include a suitable nut, for example) and the groove 150r have complementary shapes, which allow them to be securely connected together, for example, they may be hexagonal, but are obviously not limited to this particular shape.

[0097] Thus, once the rod 110a abuts the stop element 15, its end 110a' can be inserted into the groove 150r, so that the mechanical engagement between these parts ensures the combination of the housing element of the reel R with the unwinding machine 10. Due to this engagement, the reel R can be converted from a passive configuration to an active configuration, in which it can be dragged and moved by the unwinding machine 10.

[0098] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the coupling means 150 may also comprise lower coupling means 1501 which allow the frame F of the device 100 and the unwinder 10 , in particular the base 11 thereof, to be connected, thus ensuring a higher mechanical stability of the entire system 1 .

[0099] In one embodiment of the invention, the device 100 further comprises means for allowing manual movement of the second support structure Sb, such as a crank 160 capable of generating a rotational motion. However, it should be noted that the invention is not limited to such a manual configuration, and an electric device for rotating the turntable may also be provided.

[0100] In order to prevent the rods 110a from sliding out, a stop element 140 is also provided to prevent these rods 110a from being disengaged (in particular separated) from the first support structure Sa of the unwinder 10 in the coupled configuration, thereby firmly holding the system 1 in the coupled configuration. The fixing device 140 can also be used to prevent these rods 110a from being disengaged from the second rotating support structure Sb of the device 100 in the free configuration, in particular to prevent the rods 110a from sliding out of the rotating turntable.

[0101] More specifically, if Figure 3A-3B and Figures 4A-4B As shown, the stop element 140 is in the form of an annulus keyed to each rod 110a, specifically a pair of rings spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis LL.

[0102] In one embodiment of the invention, the ring is configured to engage with the clamping structure, so that when it is in the closed configuration, the clamping structure abuts with one of the rings through a portion thereof, thereby preventing the rod 110a from moving in its longitudinal direction LL, in particular when the system 1 is in the coupled configuration (i.e. when the end 110a' of the rod 110a is inserted into the groove 150r). To this end, the clamping structure 110b arranged on the disk 120a (i.e. the left disk in the example figure) includes, in addition to a central part for accommodating the rod 110a, a side part 110bl (e.g. wing-shaped or side spike-shaped) arranged on one side of the central part. Therefore, the side part 110bl of the clamping structure acts as a blocking system, which is shaped so that when the clamping structure is closed on the rod, one of the rings is enclosed therein and inside the central part, thereby preventing the rod 110a from moving because the surface of the ring abuts against the side part 110bl.

[0103] It should be noted that although the figure shows that only one disc (ie, the left disc 120a) includes a clamping structure with a blocking side portion, the present invention is not limited to this, and both discs may include a clamping structure configured as described above.

[0104] In one embodiment, there are two rings spaced apart from each other, so that the first ring 140a (the right ring according to the reference in the figure - i.e. the innermost ring) can prevent the rod 110a from escaping (or sliding out) from the turntable when it is in a free configuration. In this way, once the second ring 140b (i.e. the left ring - i.e. the outermost ring) is engaged by the clamping structure, in addition to preventing the rod 110a from escaping from the turntable when it is in a free configuration, it can also prevent the rod 110a and the unwinder 10 from disengaging when it is in a coupled configuration.

[0105] More specifically, the first ring 140a only acts as a lock in the free configuration, because during the sliding of the rod 100a (especially during the sliding to the left, as shown in the figure), it abuts against the clamping structure, thereby preventing the above movement and preventing the rod 110a from sliding out, while the second ring 140b, in addition to acting as a simple lock in the free configuration, also engages with the side 110bl of the clamping structure in the above manner when the system is in the coupled configuration.

[0106] In other words, in one embodiment, when the device 100 is disconnected from the unwinder 10, the rod 110a can slide freely longitudinally, but it will not fall because, as described above, the rings 140a and 140b limit its movement. In addition, when the rod 110a is pushed completely to the right so that its end is inserted into the groove 150r, thereby constraining it to the unwinder 10, the ring 140b (with suitable guide holes) is configured to make the clamping element rise, thereby raising its side 110bl (in the shape of a nail), and the clamping element will fall by itself under the guidance of the spring. Therefore, when the rod 110a is completely to the right, it is still blocked. In order to make it slide to the left again (thereby disconnecting it from the unwinder 10), we need to manually lift the side 110bl, thereby opening the clamping element. Therefore, when the rod is inserted into the groove 150r in the active mode and is therefore constrained to the unwinder 10, the locking mechanism acts as an anti-reversal mechanism.

[0107] Thus, retaining device 110b (i.e., the aforementioned clamping structure) has a dual function: in addition to accommodating the circular body of rod 110a, it can also cooperate with rings 40a and 40b to prevent the rod from falling (in addition, when rod 110a is constrained on unwinder 10, the rings can also engage with spike-shaped side portions 110bl).

[0108] As is clear from this description, the coupling between the device 100 and the unwinding machine 10 is very advantageous. In fact, in the coupled configuration, the housing elements of the reel R as well as the rod 110a can be moved integrally with the first support structure Sa of the unwinding machine 10, for example, they can be moved in the transverse direction T when the first movement means are driven to align the unwinding portion of the reel.

[0109] Obviously, other movement modes may also be provided, not only by a movement of the first support structure Sa of the unwinder 10 , but also by a unilateral movement of the rod 110 a and / or the reel R.

[0110] Likewise, when the device 100 is connected to the unwinder 10 in a coupled configuration, the reel R can also be rotated, so that the reel R can be unwound or rewound by the rotation.

[0111] In any case, the reel R can be made active by a simple connection to the unwinder 10 , so as to be moved by the movement means of the unwinder 10 .

[0112] In one embodiment, in order to achieve the actual movement of the reel R, it is necessary to provide a fixing element 110r on the reel R, the fixing element 110r being configured, for example, to be arranged around the rod 110a supporting the reel R, while abutting against the inner surface of the reel R, in particular the core of the reel R. As shown in the non-limiting example in the figure, the body of the fixing element 110r comprises a through hole for connecting it to the rod 110a (wherein the diameter of the hole is substantially consistent with the diameter of the rod). In fact, it should be noted that there is a certain gap between the reel R and the rod, and the fixing element 110r is constrained to the rod 110a on the one hand (for example, inserted by sliding around the rod 110a or constrained thereto in any other suitable way), and on the other hand, in contact with the inside of the reel R (for example, abutting against the core of the reel R), so as to remain constrained thereto by mechanical interference; in this way, the fixing element 110r is integral with the reel R and its movement causes a corresponding movement of the reel R.

[0113] As described above, in one embodiment, the fixing element 110r has a tapered portion, also referred to as a "pulling cone", which is inserted into the core of the reel R to perform mechanical fixing, but it should be noted that the fixing element 110r is not limited to a specific shape.

[0114] Finally, still refer to Figure 2 For the sake of completeness, certain aspects of the unwinder 10 will be described below.

[0115] As mentioned above, the unwinding machine 10 includes a base 11 , and the first supporting structure Sa is arranged on the base 11 and can perform translational movement relative to the base 11 .

[0116] Furthermore, the unwinding machine 10 comprises a reference element 13 for maintaining the tension state of the unwinding portion of the roll R. In general, the purpose of the reference element 13 is to create a bracket for the unwinding portion of the roll between the roll itself and the conveyor belt of the cutting machine, always ensuring that the excess portion of the roll is not in tension and is substantially bent, thereby reducing the tension state of the material to be cut. The reference element 13 can be, for example, a movable tensioning element (as shown in the figure), or any other object to which a roll portion can be engaged, or a measuring device for measuring the position of the tensioning element.

[0117] In one embodiment of the invention, the tension adjustment element (also indicated by reference numeral 13 ) is movably received in a suitable guide track G formed in the support column 12 .

[0118] As shown in the figure, there is a measuring device for measuring the position of the tension adjusting element 13 along the guide rail G so as to detect the tension state of the roll R based on its position; in particular, a control unit C communicating with the measuring device and the moving device of the unwinding machine 10 can be provided, and the control unit C is configured to control the latter so as to unwind the roll R when the position of the tension adjusting element 13 along the guide rail G is different from the reference position corresponding to the optimal tension.

[0119] Even though the invention is not limited thereto, other solutions are possible (eg the use of other types of sensors, the presence of encoders), the measuring device may also comprise a sensor arranged inside the column 12 for detecting the position of the tension adjustment element 13 .

[0120] Obviously, the present invention is not limited to the above configuration, and the tension adjustment element may not be provided.

[0121] Then there is a photoelectric cell 13f and an associated reflector for detecting the position of the edge (offcut) of the unwinding material of the roll R and, if necessary, starting the left-right translation movement of the first support structure Sa of the unwinding machine 10 and, therefore, also the left-right translation movement of the roll R of the device 100. In this way, the unwinding material can be kept automatically aligned with the cutting machine. The photoelectric cell 13f is part of the measuring device for measuring the transverse position of the roll R, in particular the edge of the unwinding portion, for subsequent alignment.

[0122] The first supporting structure Sa constitutes the load-bearing structure of the unwinder 10, suitable for supporting its main components. In one embodiment, it is equipped with wheels 14, preferably equipped with a blocking system, to facilitate its movement.

[0123] Conclusion and advantages of the present invention

[0124] In summary, the present invention solves the shortcomings of the prior art by providing the above-mentioned system, thereby excellently overcoming the technical problems.

[0125] Advantageously, a system is obtained which greatly simplifies the transport and assembly of reels on the unwinder, since it is no longer necessary to collect the individual reels from the reel-holding bracket and mount them on said unwinder (which requires the collaboration of at least two operators), but rather the reel-holding bracket is first transported to the unwinder, then the rotating support structure for supporting the reel is moved (for example rotated) and finally the rod is inserted into the hole on the unwinder after reaching the desired position.

[0126] Thus, the device facilitates loading of the reel onto the unwinder, its coupling means making the reel active, which can then be moved by the moving means of the unwinder.

[0127] As mentioned above, the turntable structure is rotatably mounted on its supporting frame, so the reels to be unwound can be simply selected. These reels do not need to be collected and installed on the unwinder. Just simply rotate the turntable until the required reel reaches the operating position and then perform the above-mentioned simple mechanical coupling.

[0128] Therefore, no reel is transferred from the passive reel holding carriage to the active unwinder, since the reel is never detached from the reel holding carriage: in other words, once the reels are connected to the rotatable disc of the turntable, they are no longer removed but translated along their axis to be connected to the unwinder. The presence of only one operator is therefore sufficient to move the equipment.

[0129] Even a clutch system for the securing lever is particularly advantageous since it can be easily connected and disconnected using only the operator's fingers.

[0130] Essentially, the system allows a single operator to carry out all the assembly, transport and unwinding operations of the roll in a simple and safe manner, all with an extremely simple mechanical structure of the equipment.

[0131] Obviously, those skilled in the art may make several changes and modifications to meet occasional and special needs, all of which fall within the scope of protection of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system (1) for supporting a roll (R), comprising: - Unwinding machine (10), comprising: a first supporting structure (Sa) for supporting a roll of material (R), said first supporting structure being configured to be able to support and unwind said roll of material (R) in an unwinding direction (D), and - moving means configured to move said first supporting structure (Sa) and / or said reel (R) supported thereby, The system (1) further comprises: - a device (100) for supporting and transporting at least one reel (R) and facilitating its loading into the unwinding machine (10), the device (100) comprising a second supporting structure (Sb) comprising at least one housing element (110) for at least one respective reel (R), the second supporting structure (Sb) being configured to move the reel (R) supported thereby towards an operating position (P) of the first supporting structure (Sa) of the unwinding machine (10); and - a coupling device (150) configured to couple the unwinder (10) and the device (100) to each other, wherein the device (100) and the unwinding machine (10) are structurally independent of each other and can be detachably connected to each other via the coupling device (150), the device (100) being suitable for switching from a free configuration, in which the device (100) is not connected to the unwinding machine (10), to a coupled configuration, in which at least one housing element (110) of the reel (R) is connected to the first supporting structure (Sa) of the unwinding machine (10) and is integral therewith, and Therein, in the coupled configuration, the movement device of the unwinding machine (10) is suitable for moving the reel (R) in the operating position (P).

2. A system (1) according to claim 1, wherein at least one housing element (110) of the reel (R) of the device (100) includes a rod (110a), which is suitable for being inserted into the core of the reel (R), and the rod (110a) extends along the longitudinal axis (LL) and is configured to be movable with the movement of the second support structure (Sb).

3. System (1) according to claim 2, wherein the second supporting structure (Sb) of the device (100) comprises holding means (110b) for holding the rod (110a).

4. A system (1) according to claim 3, wherein the second supporting structure (Sb) of the device (100) includes a pair of disks (120a, 120b), the retaining device (110b) of the rod (110a) is arranged on the disks (120a, 120b), and the rotation of the disks (120a, 120b) causes the movement of the rod (110a).

5. A system (1) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the retaining device (110b) is in the shape of a clamping structure, which is configured to switch from an open configuration to a closed configuration so that the rod (110a) is clamped, in which the rod (110a) can be removed from the second supporting structure (Sb), and in which the clamping structure surrounds the rod (110a) in the closed configuration.

6. A system (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the retaining device (110b) comprises a bearing, which is configured to allow the roll (R) to rotate during its unwinding process when the device (100) is connected to the unwinding machine (10) in a coupled configuration.

7. The system (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: The rod (110a) is suitable for sliding movement along its own longitudinal axis (LL) and is configured to move, through the sliding movement, from a configuration in which the second support structure (Sb) is suitable for movement, such as rotation, without abutting against any part of the unwinding machine (10), to a configuration in which the rod (110a) abuts against a stop element (15) of the unwinding machine (10).

8. A system (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the second support structure (Sb) of the device (100) comprises a plurality of housing elements (110) for a corresponding plurality of reels (R), the housing elements being adapted to move together with the movement of the second support structure (Sb).

9. System (1) according to claims 3 and 8, wherein a plurality of rods (110a) are connected to the second supporting structure (Sb) of the device (100) by respective retaining means (110b) for accommodating the plurality of reels (R).

10. A system (1) according to claim 9, wherein the second support structure (Sb) of the device (100) is rotatable around a rotation axis (HH), and the rotatable second support structure (Sb) is configured to perform a rotational movement, during which the housing element (110) of the reel (R) moves toward and away from the operating position (P) of the first support structure (Sa) of the unwinding machine (10).

11. The system (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the coupling device (150) comprises: - a groove (150r) formed in the first supporting structure (Sa) of the unwinder (10); as well as - a portion (110a') of the housing element (110) of the second support structure (Sb) of the device (100), the portion (110a') being adapted to engage with the recess (150r), the recess (150r) being of a shape complementary thereto.

12. A system (1) according to claims 2 and 11, wherein the portion (110a') of the housing element (110) is the end of the rod (110a), which is configured to be inserted into the groove (150r) formed in the first support structure (Sa) of the unwinder (10), the end and the groove being, for example, hexagonal.

13. A system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the device (100) comprises a device (160) configured to allow manual movement of the second support structure (Sb), such as a crank capable of imparting rotational movement to the second support structure (Sb).

14. A system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the second supporting structure (Sb) of the device (100) includes a stopping device (140) configured to prevent the housing element (110) of the device (100) and the first supporting structure (Sa) of the unwinding machine (10) from disengaging in a coupled configuration, and to prevent the housing element (110) and the second supporting structure (Sb) of the device (100) from disengaging in a free configuration.

15. A system (1) according to claims 5 and 14, wherein the stopping device (140) is a pair of rings (140a, 140b) arranged on the rod (110a) and configured to abut against the clamping structure so as to prevent the rod (110a) from moving along its longitudinal axis (LL) when the clamping structure is in the closed configuration.

16. A system (1) according to claim 15, wherein the clamping structure includes a central part and a side part (110bl) arranged on one side of the central part, and wherein at least one of the rings (140a, 140b) is arranged on the rod so as to close between the central part and the side part (110bl) when the clamping structure is in a closed configuration and when the device (100) and the unwinder (10) are in a coupled configuration.

17. A system (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 16, wherein the at least one housing element (110) of the device (100) is configured to be moved by the moving device of the unwinding machine (10) in the coupled configuration, thereby allowing the reel (R) housed therein and in an operating position (P) to be moved.

18. A system (1) according to claim 17, wherein the moving device of the unwinding machine (10) is configured to allow its first support structure (Sa) to translate along a transverse direction (T) substantially transverse to the unwinding direction (D) so that in the coupled configuration, the housing element (110) of the reel (R) moves together with the first support structure (Sa) along the transverse direction (T).

19. A system (1) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the moving device of the unwinding machine (10) is configured to allow the housing element (110) of the roll (R) to rotate when the device (100) is connected to the unwinding machine (10) in a coupled configuration, thereby allowing the roll (R) to be unwound or rewound by the rotation.

20. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the unwinder (10) comprises: - a base (11) on which the first supporting structure (Sa) is arranged, the first supporting structure being movable in translation relative to the base (11); - a slack-adjusting element (13) configured to maintain the tension state of the unwinding portion of the reel (R) engaged in the operating position (P) when the unwinding machine (10) and the device (100) are connected to each other; - a measuring device for measuring the position of the tension adjusting element (13), configured to detect the tension state of the reel (R) according to the position; as well as - Measuring means for measuring the transverse position of the unwinding portion of said reel (R).

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