Hybrid blanking frame, blanking system and sheet processing machine

Abstract

The invention generally relates to a hybrid blanking frame for a sheet processing machine, a blanking system, and a sheet processing machine. The hybrid blanking frame includes a peripheral frame surrounding an interior space. A movable lever is mounted between opposite side frame portions of the peripheral frame. The hybrid blanking frame is configured to support a full sheet feed arrangement, a cutter arrangement, and a fast lock blanking arrangement.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a hybrid blanking frame for a sheet processing machine, a blanking system, and a sheet processing machine, and more particularly to a full-sheet and blanking processing machine. Background Art

[0002] In sheet processing machines, sheets are processed in various ways. For example, sheets can be printed, cut, or die-cut to create some desired blanks from the sheets. Due to the printing and / or die-cutting processes, the sheets include blank portions and waste portions. At the stripping station, the waste is typically at least partially discharged. In the subsequent blanking station, the sheets are received and / or at least partially separated and / or when the sheets are partially or fully removed, the waste around the blanks keeps them together. Then, the blanks or sheets are collected and prepared for further processing, while the waste portions are removed from the machine. During the blanking process, in order to perform the separation process, a dedicated support surface can be applied, providing through-holes that can be used for the separation process. Given the different shapes of the blanks, the support surface needs to be interchangeable to be used for customizing the corresponding patterns, thus reliably achieving the separation of the blanks.

[0003] Another processing technique involves a cutting machine device configured to separate a customized portion of the sheets in a stack of sheets along at least one side frame of the stack, typically at the front portion where the sheets are transported by the clamping bars. To this end, a support surface needs to be provided so that the cutting machine device can handle all the sheets in the stack of sheets in a similar manner. For example, all the sheets need to be aligned relative to each other.

[0004] In addition, in some cases, it is more desirable to be able to supply full sheets to a specific machine station and, subsequently, further deliver them to additional downstream machine stations.

[0005] Therefore, in known sheet processing machines, in view of the different processing techniques described, different corresponding frames are used to distinguish from each other to provide the corresponding support structures, namely a first frame with a full-sheet feeding arrangement, a different second frame with a cutting machine arrangement, and a different third frame with a quick-locking blanking arrangement.

[0006] Due to the need for various different frames, the complexity of the sheet processing machine is high because only one frame is used at a time. The remaining frames must be stored separately, thus increasing the total space required. In addition, due to the need for different frames, the production cost is high. For example, since three dedicated frames must be produced separately, the return on investment is slow. In addition, the downtime of the sheet processing machine is long because, for different purposes, the frames must be interchangeable relative to each other. Since these frames need to be brought onto and taken out of the machine platform, this can pose possible personal safety hazards.

[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for a frame, a blanking system, and a sheet processing machine that can avoid or at least reduce the disadvantages according to the prior art. Advantageously, the downtime of the processing machine with a frame can be shortened, thereby improving the overall production efficiency of the machine. In addition, it is desirable to improve the usability of the frame and the processing machine while reducing production costs. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The subject matter of the independent claims meets the corresponding needs. Preferred embodiments are indicated in the dependent claims and the following description, where each embodiment may represent an aspect of the present disclosure individually or in combination.

[0009] An overview of certain embodiments disclosed herein is set forth below. It should be understood that presenting these aspects is merely to provide a brief overview of these specific embodiments, and these aspects are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure may include various aspects that may not be set forth below.

[0010] According to one aspect, there is provided a hybrid blanking frame for a sheet processing machine. The hybrid blanking frame includes a peripheral frame that encloses an internal space. Movable rods are mounted between opposite side frame portions of the peripheral frame. The hybrid blanking frame is configured to support a full-sheet feeding arrangement, a cutting machine arrangement, and a quick-lock blanking arrangement.

[0011] The full-sheet feeding arrangement includes a combined first mounting mechanism for mounting a removable front rod at the front frame portion, mounting a removable rear rod at the movable rod, and mounting removable side guides parallel to the side frame portions to receive a sheet in the internal space defined by the removable side guides, the rear rod, and the front rod.

[0012] The cutting machine arrangement includes a front frame portion configured to receive a template rod, and at least the template rod and the movable rod establish a support surface to receive a sheet.

[0013] For the quick-lock blanking arrangement, at least the front frame portion of the peripheral frame and the movable rod establish a support for a blanking grid plate, and wherein the quick-lock arrangement includes plate guide pins that extend at least from the front frame portion and the movable rod.

[0014] Accordingly, a single hybrid blanking frame is provided, which can be used for all the different purposes mentioned above. In other words, the single hybrid blanking frame is multi-functional, in the sense that all the required frame-related purposes can be achieved with just a single frame. Thus, the production cost is reduced as three separate frames are no longer needed. In addition, since there are no longer unused frames, storage space is saved. Time is also saved, resulting in reduced downtime of the sheet processing machine with the frame, thus improving the overall production efficiency. Moreover, there is no need to change the entire frame for different purposes.

[0015] These advantages are achieved because the hybrid blanking frame includes a peripheral frame, which is configured such that the entire frame can be prepared for all different purposes. That is, for the full-sheet feeding setting and for the cutter setting, additional components (expansion components) can be installed, and for the quick-lock blanking setting, plate guide pins are installed if they do not interfere with the additional components, or these plate guide pins can be retained or even fixed. Accordingly, if the additional components are removed, the plate guide pins can be used to appropriately attach the blanking grid plate.

[0016] Substantially, while providing different settings, the complexity of the frame is quite low. Thus, the manageability of the frame is high. In addition, since there is no longer a need to consider different frames for different purposes, the single hybrid blanking frame provides the possibility of standardizing the sheet processing machine with respect to the frame. Thus, the sheet processing machine can be specifically adapted to the design of the hybrid blanking frame. Moreover, untrained personnel can operate the frame safely with only little training. For the full-sheet feeding setting, the front bar, the rear bar, and the side guides define the corresponding areas according to the size of the sheet received by the setting.

[0017] The template bar can be regarded as a component that specifies a particular shape according to which one or more sheets are processed by the cutter device. This means that the template bar defines the shape according to a part of one or more sheets, where this part is separated from the remaining part of the corresponding sheet by the cutter device, and usually a part of the waste remains attached to the blank, which may be the part that engages with the clamping bar of the sheet processing machine for transporting the sheet. That is, the cutter device can be regarded as a component configured for edge trimming of one or more sheets such that the part specified by the template bar is separated from the remaining part of the corresponding sheet, and the waste part that engages with the clamping bar is released.

[0018] The blanking grid plate can be regarded as a support structure configured to separate the blanks of the sheet. This means that in a stamping process or a similar process, several blanks can be prepared in the sheet. In the meantime, the remaining part of the blank of the sheet represents the waste part, which is usually removed at the stripping station, and then the blanks need to be separated. This mainly occurs at the stripping station. At the blanking station, the blanks are separated and / or the residual waste used for transporting the sheet is removed, or the sheet is delivered as such. The blanking grid plate provides a support surface on which the sheet is arranged. The blanking grid plate can include one or more through holes so that the blanks can be guided through the through holes to separate different types from each other. Usually, the blanking grid plate can include a wooden material or can be made of metal. However, since different blanks usually include different shapes, such as blanks for different packages, the through hole pattern provided by the blanking grid plate also needs to be adjusted. Accordingly, different blanking grid plates are usually applied in view of different blanks. Therefore, the quick replaceability of the blanking grid plate is preferred because the operating efficiency of the sheet processing machine can be improved thereby. Therefore, the quick-locking blanking setting provides the ability to install the blanking grid plate in a simple but reliable manner, while using this hybrid blanking frame, the time required for different blanking grid plates to be interchangeable with each other is very short.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the detachable side guide is configured to engage with or be mounted at the mounting arm extending from the front frame part. In another embodiment, the detachable side guide can be configured to engage with the side frame part. Optionally, the front frame bar can include a screw lock mode configured to receive the template bar in a cutting machine setting.

[0020] Preferably, for the quick-locking blanking setting, the front bar, the rear bar and the side guides of the full-sheet feeding setting are detachable. This means that the complexity of the hybrid blanking frame for the quick-locking blanking setting is particularly low. No specific extension parts are required to ensure the quick-locking blanking setting. During the quick-locking blanking setting, if these bars and guides do not interfere with the quick-locking blanking setting, they can be partially or completely retained attached.

[0021] Optionally, the first distance between the side guides can be adjusted by a first linear drive. Accordingly, the hybrid blanking frame can be adjusted along the first axis in view of the size of the sheet. Therefore, the application range is improved.

[0022] Preferably, the second distance between the front frame part and the movable bar can be adjusted by a second linear drive. Therefore, the hybrid blanking frame can be adjusted along the second axis according to the sizes of different sheets. The second axis is oriented perpendicular to the first axis. Therefore, the hybrid blanking frame provides an even larger application range.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first axis may correspond to the width of the sheet, while the second axis may correspond to the length of the sheet. Accordingly, the first axis corresponds to the width of the internal space surrounded by the peripheral frame, and the second axis corresponds to the length of the internal space.

[0024] Optionally, each linear drive may be configured such that the distance that can be adjusted by the respective linear drive can vary continuously. That is, the respective linear drive is not limited to discrete positions but can provide a continuous travel path. Accordingly, the hybrid blanking frame in view of its length and / or width can be adjusted to the desired dimensions with high precision.

[0025] Preferably, each linear drive includes a safety clutch. For example, the safety clutch may include a locking wheel for blocking the respective linear drive. In order to be able to operate the linear drive, the operator may need to unlock the locking wheel and hold the locking wheel in the unlocked position. Thus, unnecessary movement of the linear drive can be prevented.

[0026] In some embodiments, the quick-lock blanking arrangement further includes at least one centering pin for centering the blanking grid plate. Accordingly, the proper orientation of the blanking grid plate relative to the hybrid blanking frame can be ensured in a simple manner by the centering pin.

[0027] Optionally, the front frame portion includes a front groove, while the movable rod includes a rear groove. The front groove and the rear groove may be configured to receive the clamp of the blanking grid plate. The orientation of the blanking grid plate can be ensured by the respective pins of the quick-lock blanking arrangement, while the clamp can assist in holding the blanking grid plate. Thus, the blanking grid plate can resist external forces to a greater extent. For example, such external forces can be applied to the blanking grid plate during the separation process of the blank.

[0028] Preferably, the hybrid blanking frame includes an interface for the sheet support device. If the front rod is installed, the interface can be automatically activated. In a sheet processing machine, the sheet is usually moved using a support device, such as a clamping rod. In order to open the clamping rod so that the carried sheet is released therefrom, interaction with an opening device is required. For this purpose, the interface is configured to open the clamping rod. Specifically, due to the interaction with the clamping rod, the interface is arranged such that the released sheet is properly arranged in view of the orientation of the released sheet on the hybrid blanking frame or its support surface.

[0029] In some embodiments, the combined first mounting mechanism includes a rod guide pin extending into the internal space of the frame, which is used to support at least one of the following: the front rod, the rear rod, and the side guide. Accordingly, since the rod guide pin ensures the proper alignment of the respective components, the installation of the front rod, the rear rod, and the side guard can be simplified.

[0030] Optionally, the combined first mounting mechanism includes a magnetic connection for supporting at least one of the following: a front rod, a rear rod, and a side guide. Thus, since the magnetic connection already provides a stable mounting connection to at least some extent, it is possible to mount one of these components with a reduced number of screws. Additionally, by reducing the number of screw connections required, the time needed to mount these connections is shortened. Accordingly, the operating efficiency of the sheet processing apparatus having the hybrid blanking frame is improved.

[0031] Preferably, the combined first mounting mechanism includes a releasable compression fitting for mounting the side guide to the mounting arm. The releasable compression fitting allows the side guide to be mounted in a quick manner. In other words, in view of the side guide, screw connections can be avoided. Accordingly, time for the specific mounting mechanism of the side guide is saved.

[0032] In some embodiments, for the full-sheet feeding arrangement and the cutter arrangement, the support blocks and / or support stoppers can be mounted at the detachable front rod and the detachable rear rod. For these arrangements, using the support blocks and / or support stoppers can better define the support surface. Thus, proper alignment of at least one sheet can be ensured.

[0033] Optionally, the frame includes a lock for locking the frame to the sheet processing machine. A movable indicator indicating the current setting of the frame is configured to cover the lock. Thus, since the lock needs to be unlocked, unnecessary disassembly of the hybrid blanking frame from the sheet processing machine is avoided. Additionally, by using the movable indicator to cover the lock, first, the current setting can be directly and clearly indicated to the operator, and second, an additional safety mechanism needs to be established before the frame is disassembled from the sheet processing machine. Accordingly, unnecessary interference with the sheet processing machine can be avoided at an improved safety level.

[0034] According to another aspect, a blanking system is provided. The blanking system includes the hybrid blanking frame as described above. Additionally, the blanking system includes a blanking grid plate mounted to the hybrid blanking frame. This means that the hybrid blanking frame is prepared according to the quick-locking blanking setting, and the corresponding blanking grid plate is attached thereto.

[0035] According to a further aspect, a sheet processing machine is provided that includes the hybrid blanking frame as described above or the blanking system as described above.

[0036] All features and embodiments disclosed in any aspect of the present disclosure can be combined individually or in any (sub)-combination with any of the remaining aspects of the present disclosure (including each of its preferred embodiments), provided that the resulting feature combination is reasonable to those skilled in the art. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] When combined with the accompanying drawings, the above aspects and further advantages of the claimed subject matter will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description. In the drawings,

[0038] - Figure 1 is a schematic view of a sheet processing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0039] - Figure 2 is a schematic view of a hybrid blanking frame provided according to a full-sheet feeding arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0040] - Figure 3 is a schematic view of a front frame portion of a hybrid blanking frame according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0041] - Figure 4 is a schematic view of a magnetic connection provided by a hybrid blanking frame according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0042] - Figure 5 is a schematic view of a side guide used in conjunction with a full-sheet feeding arrangement,

[0043] - Figure 6 is a schematic view of a first linear drive of a hybrid blanking frame according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0044] - Figure 7 is a schematic view of a second linear drive of a hybrid blanking frame according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0045] - Figure 8 is a schematic view of a safety clutch of the second linear drive,

[0046] - Figure 9 is a schematic view of a support block mounted to a hybrid blanking frame according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0047] - Figure 10 is a schematic view of a lock and a movable indicator of a hybrid blanking frame according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0048] - Figure 11 is a schematic view of a hybrid blanking frame provided according to a quick-lock blanking arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0049] - Figure 12 is a schematic view of a front frame portion of a hybrid blanking frame according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0050] - Figure 13 is a schematic view of a blanking system according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0051] - Figure 14 is a schematic view of a front frame portion of a hybrid blanking frame according to an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0052] - Figure 15 Schematic diagram of a hybrid blanking frame and a template rod set according to a cutting machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed implementation manners

[0053] The following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings (wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements) is intended to describe various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and is not intended to represent only a single embodiment. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided only as an example or illustration and should not be construed as superior to or having an advantage over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the claimed subject matter to the exact forms disclosed. Various modifications to the described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. Therefore, the described embodiments are not limited to the embodiments shown and should be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0054] All features disclosed herein with respect to the example embodiments and / or the accompanying drawings can be combined with the features of aspects of the present disclosure, including the features of its preferred embodiments, individually or in any sub-combination, as long as the resulting feature combination is reasonable to those skilled in the art.

[0055] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a sheet processing machine 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] The sheet processing machine 10 includes a loading station 12, an embossing station 14, a waste discharging station 16, a blanking station 18, and a discharging station 20. Stacks of sheets 22 are provided at the loading station 12. The sheets 22 are then conveyed through the sheet processing machine 10 using a chain drive 24 having clamping rods 26.

[0057] At the embossing station 14, the sheets 22 are processed such that blanks are prepared in each sheet 22. In some embodiments, die-cutting devices, creasing devices, etc. can also be used in this regard.

[0058] At the subsequent waste discharging station 16, the sheets 22 are arranged and tools are applied to discharge waste portions especially between the blanks. However, generally the sheets are held together, for example, by scoring points and / or frame waste portions, and are further transported to the blanking station 18.

[0059] The sheet 22 is then conveyed to the blanking station 18 and is typically arranged on a frame and, according to the illustrated embodiment, on a hybrid blanking frame 28. According to the illustrated embodiment, the hybrid blanking frame 28 is used in conjunction with specific setups (such as a full-sheet feeding setup, a cutting machine setup, or a quick-lock blanking setup). For example, according to the quick-lock blanking setup of the hybrid blanking frame 28. At the downstream discharge station 20, the stacked blanks 34 or sheets can be removed from the sheet processing machine 10 via the output 36.

[0060] The hybrid blanking frame 28 according to the present invention is multifunctional and can be used in the blanking station 18 for different purposes.

[0061] Figure 2 is a schematic view of the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to the full-sheet feeding setup according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] The hybrid blanking frame 28 includes a peripheral frame 38 that encloses an internal space 40. Typically, the sheet 22 is arranged within the internal space 40 or in a space vertically aligned therewith.

[0063] According to the illustrated embodiment, the peripheral frame 38 includes a front frame portion 42, a first side frame portion 44, a second side frame portion 46, and a rear wall portion 48 that at least partially enclose the internal space 40. The rear wall portion 48 according to the illustrated example is provided by a movable rod 50 mounted between the opposing side frame portions 44, 46. Typically, the peripheral frame 38 has a rectangular shape. The side frame portions 44, 46 extend from the front frame portion 42 to the end wall portions 51 of the peripheral frame 38. The front frame portion 42 and the end wall portions 51 extend between the opposing side frame portions 44, 46. The movable rod 50 is oriented parallel to the end wall portions 51.

[0064] Depending on the setup of the blanking frame, the support surface 52 may be at least partially established by the front frame portion 42 and the rear frame portion 48. The support surface 52 can also be established by additional components (such as the side frame portions 44, 46). Typically, a portion of the support surface 52 extends in two directions that are perpendicular to each other. While the hybrid blanking frame 28 is typically positioned in the sheet processing machine 10 such that the peripheral frame extends in a horizontal plane, the surface normal of the support surface 52 is oriented perpendicular to this horizontal plane and is thus oriented according to the vertical direction. In the full-sheet setup, the corresponding elements may not establish a horizontal support but rather define a space to accommodate the sheet.

[0065] The hybrid blanking frame 28 includes an interface 54 for interacting with the clamping bars 26 of the chain drive 24. Due to the interaction between the interface 54 and the clamping bars 26, the clamping bars 26 can be opened, for example, in the full-sheet setting, such that the sheet 22 carried by the respective clamping bars 26 is released from the clamping bars 26 and arranged on or in the hybrid blanking frame 28. In the cutter setting, this function may not be activated, i.e., the "cut-off waste" is transported further in the machine.

[0066] The hybrid blanking frame 28 includes a first linear drive 56 and a second linear drive 58.

[0067] As shown, in the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to the full-sheet feeding setting, the front bar 60 is mounted at the front frame portion 42. Additionally, in this case, the rear bar 62 is mounted at the movable bar 50 that forms the rear wall portion 48. Further, the side guides 64, 66 are mounted at the mounting arm 67. The mounting arm 67 extends from the front frame portion 42 parallel to the side frame portions 44, 46. Accordingly, the front bar 60, the rear bar 62, and the side guides 64, 66 define the internal space 40 of the hybrid blanking frame 28 prepared according to the full-sheet feeding setting.

[0068] By means of the first linear drive 56, the distance between the opposing side guides 64, 66 can be adjusted. The second linear drive 58 can be used to adjust the distance between the front frame portion 42 and the rear wall portion 48. Accordingly, the size of the hybrid blanking frame 28 can be adjusted according to the sheet 22 to be processed.

[0069] Furthermore, the hybrid blanking frame 28 includes a lock 68 that can be used to lock the hybrid blanking frame 28 to the sheet processing machine 10. Accordingly, unnecessary disassembly of the hybrid blanking frame 28 from the sheet processing machine 10 can be prevented.

[0070] Figure 3 is a schematic view of the front frame portion 42 of the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] According to the illustrated embodiment, the hybrid blanking frame 28 includes a plurality of bar guide pins 70 for assisting the installation procedure of the front bar 60 and the rear bar 62. A portion of the front frame portion 42 of the peripheral frame 38 is shown here, where the bar guide pins 70 extend from the front frame portion 42 in the horizontal direction into the internal space 40 perpendicular to the surface normal of the support surface 52. Similar bar guide pins 70 are provided in the movable bar 50, which assist the installation procedure of the rear bar 62 to the movable bar 50. With the aid of the bar guide pins 70, proper positioning of the front bar 60 and the rear bar 62 can be achieved in a convenient manner.

[0072] Figure 4Schematic diagram of the magnetic connection 72 provided by the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The peripheral frame 38 is shown here before the installation of the front rod 60. The magnetic connection 72 is provided on the inner surface 74 of the front frame part 42 that defines the internal space 40. The front rod 60 includes a material that can be used together with the magnetic connection 72, so that the installation procedure of the front rod 60 is simplified. Therefore, the number of screw connections required for installing the front rod 60 can be reduced, enabling the installation procedure to be achieved in a shorter time.

[0073] Optionally, similar magnetic connections 72 can also be provided in the corresponding surfaces of the movable rod 50 and / or the mounting arms 67, making the installation of the rear rod 62 and the side guides 64, 66 more convenient.

[0074] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the side guide 64 used together with the full-sheet feeding arrangement.

[0075] In the current case, the side guide 64 includes two mounting parts 76. The hybrid blanking frame 28 includes mounting arms 67 for mounting the corresponding side guides 64, 66. Each mounting arm 67 has a receiving hole 80, which includes a shape complementary to the combined shape of the mounting parts 76 of the side guides 64, 66. Accordingly, the mounting parts 76 can extend through the receiving hole 80. In addition, the hybrid blanking frame 28 includes a compression fitting 82 that at least partially extends into the receiving hole 80. With the aid of the compression fitting 82, the mounting parts 76 can be squeezed in the receiving hole 80. Accordingly, the side guide 64 is locked to the mounting arm 67 of the hybrid blanking frame 28. Since the compression fitting 82 can be operated reliably and quickly, the installation procedure of the side guides 64, 66 is very convenient.

[0076] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the first linear drive 56 of the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] The first linear drive 56 includes a gauge 84, enabling the distance between the opposing side guides 64, 66 to be continuously adjusted. In this regard, the front frame part 42 of the peripheral frame 38 includes corresponding threads along which the mounting arms 67 and thus also the side guides 64, 66 can move relative to each other. Therefore, a high precision of the adjustment procedure is ensured.

[0078] Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the second linear drive 58 of the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Like the first linear drive 56, the second linear drive 58 also includes a gauge, enabling the distance between the front frame part 42 and the movable rod 50 to be continuously adjusted. In particular, the movable rod 50 can be driven along a thread 86 established in the side frame parts 44, 46 relative to the front frame part 42.

[0079] Accordingly, the size of the internal space 40 can be adjusted by adjusting the positions of the side guides 64, 66 and the movable rod 50 according to the needs of the sheet 22 to be processed.

[0080] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the second linear drive 58 includes a safety clutch 88. Figure 8 is a detailed schematic view of the safety clutch 88 of the second linear drive 58. The safety clutch 88 includes a locking wheel 89 that is coupled to a blocking arm 90 that is rotatable relative to a support shaft 92. A clamping portion 94 of the blocking arm 90 can engage a gear member 96 such that movement of the gear member 96 is prevented if the safety clutch 88 is not released and activated. Accordingly, unnecessary movement of the movable rod 50 relative to the front frame portion 42 can be reliably prevented.

[0081] Optionally, the safety clutch 88 can also be included in the first linear drive 56.

[0082] Figure 9 is a schematic view of a support block 98 mounted to the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The hybrid blanking frame 28 includes a plurality of screw seats for mounting the support block 98. For example, the support block 98 (also referred to as a fine adjustment rod) mounted to the inner surface 100 of the movable rod 50 that defines the internal space 40 is shown herein. With the aid of the support block 98, the support surface 52 can be better defined. In other words, each support block 98 can horizontally and vertically provide a support area for, for example, the sheet 22, the template rod, or the blanking grid plate. For example, when the support block also defines the internal space, this can contribute to a full-sheet feeding arrangement. However, generally the support block 98 is optional. Basically, whether they are needed also depends on the components to be installed and their own mechanical stability.

[0083] The movable rod 50 further includes a rear slot 101 in which a clamp can be received, and the clamp is attached to a blanking grid plate as will be explained later. Similarly, the front frame portion 42 can also include a front slot.

[0084] Figure 10 is a schematic view of a lock 68 and a movable indicator 104 of the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The lock 68 is mounted at a corner 102 of the hybrid blanking frame 28 established between the front frame portion 42 and the side frame portion 46. If the hybrid blanking frame 28 is mounted to the sheet processing machine 10, the lock 68 is configured to establish a mechanical connection with the sheet processing machine 10.

[0085] The movable indicator 104 indicates the current setting of the hybrid blanking frame 28 and is movable such that the lock 68 can optionally not be evaluated without removing the indicator 104.

[0086] Therefore, in this regard, since it is necessary to unlock the lock 68, it is possible to prevent the hybrid blanking frame 28 from being unnecessarily removed from the sheet processing machine 10.

[0087] Figure 11 It is a schematic view of the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to the quick-lock blanking setting according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] According to the quick-lock blanking setting, the hybrid blanking frame 28 is prepared by removing the front rod 60, the rear rod 62 and the side guides 64, 66. Depending on the dimensions of the rods and guides, they can also be left in the hybrid blanking frame. Still, by means of the second linear drive 58, the distance between the front frame part 42 of the peripheral frame 38 and the movable rod 50 can be adjusted as needed.

[0089] Figure 12 It is a schematic view of the front frame part 42 of the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] When prepared according to the quick-lock blanking setting, the hybrid blanking frame 28 typically operates in combination with the blanking grid plate. The blanking grid plate is carried by the support surface 52. To properly position the blanking grid plate, the hybrid blanking frame 28 includes a centering pin 106 and additional plate guide pins 108. The centering pin 106 and the plate guide pins 108 extend perpendicular to the top surface 109 of the front frame part 42. This means that the centering pin 106 and the plate guide pins 108 are oriented parallel to the surface normal of the support surface 52.

[0091] Figure 13 It is a schematic view of the blanking system 110 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The blanking system 110 includes a hybrid blanking frame 28 and a blanking grid plate 112.

[0092] Typically, the blanking grid plate 112 can be mounted to the blanking grid frame 28 using a fixture attached to the blanking grid plate 112 itself. The fixture can be received by a slot provided by the hybrid blanking frame 28, such as Figure 9 the rear slot 101 shown.

[0093] In addition, the blanking grid plate 112 includes cutouts 114 or seats that can be aligned with the centering pin 106 and the plate guide pins 108. Accordingly, the proper alignment of the blanking grid plate 112 relative to the hybrid blanking frame 28 is ensured in a very convenient manner.

[0094] Due to the interaction between the slots of the hybrid blanking frame 28 and the clamps of the blanking grid plate 112, as well as between the cutouts 114 and the centering pins 106 and the plate guiding pins 108, the blanking grid plate 112 can be reliably attached to the hybrid blanking frame 28, eliminating any screw connections. Thereby, preparing the hybrid blanking frame 28 enables the installation of the blanking grid plate 112 to be safely achieved and requires only very little time.

[0095] In addition, the blanking grid plate 112 includes through holes 116 such that blanks of the sheet 22 can be separated.

[0096] Figure 14 is a schematic view of the front frame portion 42 of the hybrid blanking frame 28 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] In the surface 109 of the front frame portion 42, when preparing according to the setting of the cutting machine, a screw locking pattern 118 is provided for mounting the template bar used with the hybrid blanking frame 28. This means that in the front frame portion 42, a number of screw seats 120 are provided according to the predetermined screw locking pattern 118.

[0098] Figure 15 is a schematic view of the hybrid blanking frame 28 and the template bar 122 according to the setting of the cutting machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] The template bar 122 is located on the support surface 52. To mount the template bar 122, the screw locking pattern 118 is used. Optionally, the centering pins 106 and / or the plate guiding pins 108 can also be used to mount the template bar 122.

[0100] The template bar 122 defines a fracture edge 124. By means of the template bar 122, a cutting machine device can be used to separate the portion corresponding to the fracture edge 124 of one or more sheets 22 arranged on the hybrid blanking frame from the remaining portion of the respective sheet 22. In this regard, the sheet 22 can be prepared before performing the separation procedure. For example, a printing press can be used to perforate the sheet 22 according to the shape of the fracture edge 124.

[0101] Therefore, the current hybrid blanking frame 28 is multifunctional and can be used according to different settings. Advantageously, only a single frame is required to provide these different settings. Thus, compared with the case of using different frames for different settings, the manufacturing cost of the hybrid blanking frame 28 is reduced, and the production efficiency of the corresponding sheet processing machine 10 having the hybrid blanking frame 28 is increased.

[0102] This application may refer to quantities and numbers. Unless otherwise specified, these quantities and numbers should not be regarded as restrictive, but rather as examples of possible quantities or numbers relevant to this application. Also in this regard, this application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" means any number greater than one, such as two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about", "approximately", "close to", etc. indicate plus or minus 5% of the stated value.

[0103] Although this disclosure has been illustrated and described with respect to one or more embodiments, other those skilled in the art will make equivalent changes and modifications after reading and understanding this specification and the drawings. Additionally, although a particular feature of this disclosure may be disclosed in only one of several embodiments, that feature may be combined with one or more other features of other embodiments, which may be desirable and advantageous for any given or particular application.

Claims

1. A hybrid blanking frame (28) for a sheet processing machine (10), comprising a peripheral frame (38) surrounding an internal space (40), wherein, A movable rod (50) is mounted between opposite side frame portions (44, 46) of the peripheral frame (38), wherein the hybrid blanking frame (28) is configured to support a full-sheet feeding arrangement, a cutting machine arrangement, and a quick-lock blanking arrangement. Wherein the full-sheet feeding arrangement includes a combined first mounting mechanism for mounting a detachable front rod (60) at the front frame portion (42), mounting a detachable rear rod (62) at the movable rod (50), and mounting detachable side guides (64, 66) parallel to the side frame portions (44, 46) to receive a sheet (22) in an internal space (40) defined by the detachable side guides (64, 66), the rear rod (62), and the front rod (60). Wherein the cutting machine arrangement includes the front frame portion (42) configured to receive a template rod (122), and at least the template rod (42) and the movable rod (50) establish a support surface (52) to receive the sheet (22). And wherein, for the quick-lock blanking arrangement, at least the front frame portion (42) of the peripheral frame (38) and the movable rod (50) establish support for a blanking grid plate (112), and wherein the quick-lock arrangement includes plate guide pins (108) that at least extend from the front frame portion (42) and the movable rod (50).

2. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to claim 1, wherein, The detachable side guides (64, 66) are configured to engage with mounting arms (67) extending from the front frame portion (42).

3. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, For the quick-lock blanking arrangement, the front rod (60), the rear rod (62), and the side guides (64, 66) of the full-sheet feeding arrangement are removable.

4. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The front frame rod includes a screw lock mode (118) configured to receive a template rod (122) in the cutting machine arrangement.

5. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A first distance between the side guides (64, 66) can be adjusted by a first linear drive (56).

6. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A second distance between the front frame portion (42) and the movable rod (50) can be adjusted by a second linear drive (58).

7. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, Each linear drive (56, 58) includes a safety clutch (88).

8. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The quick-lock blanking arrangement further includes at least one centering pin (106) for centering the blanking grid plate (112).

9. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The front frame portion (42) includes a front slot, and wherein the movable rod includes a rear slot (101), and the front slot and the rear slot are configured to receive clamps for mounting the blanking grid plate (112).

10. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The hybrid blanking frame (28) includes an interface (54) for a sheet support device, and wherein if the front rod (60) is installed, the interface (54) is automatically activated.

11. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The combined first mounting mechanism includes a rod guide pin (70) extending into the interior space (40) of the hybrid blanking frame (28), the rod guide pin (70) being configured to support at least one of: the front rod (60), the rear rod (62), and the side guides (64, 66).

12. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The combined first mounting mechanism includes a magnetic connection (72) configured to support at least one of: the front rod (60), the rear rod (62), and the side guides (64, 66).

13. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The combined first mounting mechanism includes a releasable compression fitting (82) for mounting the side guides (64, 66) to the mounting arm (67).

14. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, For the full-sheet feeding arrangement and the cutting machine arrangement, support blocks (98) and / or support stoppers may be mounted at the removable front rod (60) and the removable rear rod (62).

15. The hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The hybrid blanking frame (28) includes a lock (68) for locking the hybrid blanking frame (28) to the sheet processing machine (10), and wherein a movable indicator (104) indicating the current setting of the hybrid blanking frame (28) is configured to cover the lock (68).

16. A blanking system comprising a hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of the preceding claims and a blanking grille plate (112) mounted to the hybrid blanking frame (28).

17. A sheet processing machine (10) comprising a hybrid blanking frame (28) according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

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