Sheet stack apparatus with suction air conveyor

Abstract

A sheet stacking device (31) includes multiple suction conveyor belts (52) for conveying sheets along a conveyor surface (TS) and a stacking support platform (53) for receiving vertically stacked sheets. The lower branch of the conveyor belt is located above the stacking support platform and is driven by a motor to convey the sheets fed in along the conveyor surface by suction. The sheets are stopped by stop members (82) mounted on a functional block (81) and stacked on the stacking support platform. The functional block (81) is movable longitudinally according to the length of the sheets to be stacked and supports a steering device (90) for guiding the lower branch of the conveyor belt, thereby forming an accommodating space above the conveyor surface for accommodating the stop members. The cross section (101) of the stop members (82) has a continuous profile and protrudes below the conveyor surface to reliably stop the sheets conveyed by the conveyor belt.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a sheet stacking device with a suction conveyor belt.

[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to a sheet stacking apparatus as defined in the preamble of the independent claim, comprising a suction conveyor belt and a stacking support for holding vertically stacked items, wherein the conveyor belt includes a lower branch disposed above the stacking support, and the conveyor belt is driven by a motor to traction a sheet along the conveying surface “TS” by suction, the sheet being stopped by a stop member supported by a functional block; wherein the functional block is movable along the conveying direction to adjust the stop position according to the length of the sheet. Background Technology

[0003] Such devices have been disclosed in European Patent EP 4 363 234 of the applicant TECNAU LLC, and the present invention makes significant improvements to them.

[0004] In this TECNAU patent, the stop member for feeding the sheet material is mounted on a support block and includes a transverse plate with multiple stop fins on its lower part. The fins extend from the lower branch of the conveyor belt, forming a vertical alignment surface for the stacked material and are positioned between the conveyor belts to adjust the longitudinal position according to the length of the sheet material to be stacked. The device also includes a compensation mechanism and a pressure crossbar. The compensation mechanism adjusts the height of the stack support platform according to the height of the stacked sheets, while the pressure crossbar acts on the stacked material during stacking to stabilize it and provides the compensation mechanism with a stack height detection function.

[0005] The sheet stacking equipment using the above structure operates at high speed and reliability, and can handle large-sized sheets with different stiffnesses and sliding characteristics, making it particularly suitable for medium- to high-grammage sheets. However, for extremely thin sheets, discontinuities in the stop fins may cause frontal damage and other appearance defects at the leading edge of the stacked sheets, as well as the risk of misalignment or jamming. Furthermore, the action of the pressure crossbar, the adjustment process of the compensation mechanism, and the operation process for specific types of sheets can all potentially cause other problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One object of the present invention is to provide a stacking device with a suction conveyor belt, which can process various types of sheet materials with very different properties at high speed and reliably, including medium-weight sheet materials and low-weight sheet materials.

[0007] To achieve this objective, according to the characterizing portion of the independent claim, the sheet stacking equipment includes a steering device mounted on a functional block for guiding a lower branch of the conveyor belt, thereby forming an accommodating space above the conveyor surface upstream of a stop member; wherein the stop member is disposed within the accommodating space and has a cross-section protruding below the conveyor surface to stop the sheet conveyed by the conveyor belt, and wherein the cross-section of the stop member has a continuous profile for stopping the leading edge of the sheet. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The features of the invention will become clearer from the following description, given by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A conventional frontal schematic perspective view of the sheet stacking apparatus of the present invention; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A partial side sectional view of the device shown; Figure 2a It shows Figure 2 Enlarged detail image of the middle part; Figure 3 express Figure 1 A schematic top-view perspective view of some functional units of the device shown; Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic bottom-view perspective of the functional units shown; Figure 5a and Figure 5b for Figure 2 Enlarged view of some components; Figure 6 for Figure 3 A schematic exploded view of some components; Figure 6a , Figure 6b and Figure 6c It shows Figure 6 Some details of the middle component; Figure 7 and Figure 7a for Figure 3 Further schematic diagrams of some components in the middle section; Figure 7b for Figure 4 A schematic bottom view of the middle part; Figure 8 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b and Figure 8c It shows Figure 2 Enlarged view of some components of the device shown; Figure 9 Indicating the calibration phase Figure 8 A schematic diagram of some components; Figure 10 express Figure 1 A schematic top-view perspective view of other functional units of the device shown in a specific operating state; Figure 11 It shows another working state. Figure 10 The unit shown; and Figure 12 It shows another working state. Figure 2 The component shown. Detailed Implementation

[0009] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The sheet stacking device, labeled 31, receives paper sheets 32 fed in by an external device at its front end along direction F. The stacked sheets, in the form of stacks 33 or packages, are conveyed to an external processing device via a conveyor belt "CB" through the discharge port "OG" at the rear end.

[0010] The stacking device 31 belongs to the device type with reference number 21 in the aforementioned patent EP 4 363 234 (hereinafter referred to as the "Patent"), which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0011] In summary, the stacking device 31 includes an alignment section 34 at the front end, a stacking and unloading section 36 at the rear end, an electronic control unit 37, a button panel 38, a control panel “CP”, a compressed air generator 39, and sensing elements (not shown) arranged along the sheet path.

[0012] Similar to segment 31 in the aforementioned patent, alignment segment 34 aligns sheet 32 ​​on the corresponding receiving surface and conveys the sheet to stacking and discharge segment 36.

[0013] The stacking and discharge section 36 includes a conveying and placement unit 41 (similar in structure to unit 41 in the aforementioned patent) adjacent to the alignment section 34, and a collection and discharge unit 42 (similar in structure to unit 42 in the aforementioned patent) located below unit 41.

[0014] An improvement of the invention is that the alignment section 34 includes a series of alignment rollers 43 for aligning the edges of the sheet 32, enabling alignment even when the sheets are fed side-by-side. Subsequently, the fed sheets are conveyed along the direction "F" on the receiving surface, which is horizontal during use, to the stacking and unloading section 36 with an appropriate sheet spacing.

[0015] The conveying and placement unit 41 includes an input roller 51 and a conveyor belt 52 for receiving the fed sheet and positioning it above the stack 33 along the conveying surface "TS". The collecting and discharging unit 42 includes a stack support 53 and a compensation mechanism 54, which are similar in structure to the stack support 46 and compensation mechanism 47 in the aforementioned patent.

[0016] The stacking support platform 53 functions identically to the stacking support platform in the aforementioned patent, serving to receive stacked sheets and transport the stacked sheets 33 to the conveyor belt "CB". The compensation mechanism 54 drives the support platform 53 to move vertically according to the number of stacked sheets. The collecting and discharging unit 42 can also directly discharge the fed sheets 32 without stacking through the rear inspection port "DTG", which is basically aligned with the conveyor surface "TS".

[0017] In the conveying and placement unit 41, the input roller 51 ( Figure 2 , Figure 5a , Figure 5b It includes an active roller 56 and a pressure roller 57 that mesh with each other on the inlet surface that is coplanar with the receiving surface of the alignment section 34.

[0018] The drive roller 56 and pressure roller 57 are rotatably mounted on the frame 58 of unit 41 and driven by the feed motor 59 via pulleys and a transmission belt to drive the sheet 32 ​​forward in the direction "F". The feed motor 59 is controlled by the electronic control unit 37.

[0019] The conveyor belt 52 extends horizontally and has a corresponding upper branch 61 and a lower branch uniformly designated 62. The lower branch is positioned above the stack support 53, and its outer surface forms a conveyor surface "TS" for feeding the sheet 32. This conveyor surface is horizontal in use and is located below the inlet surface between rollers 56 and 57.

[0020] The conveyor belt 52 has holes along its longitudinal direction and is connected to one or more transverse air ducts 69 located above the lower branch 62. The upper part of each air duct 69 is connected to a series of suction fans 71. The lower surface of the air duct 69 is provided with a conveyor belt guide groove with suction ports, which is suitable for applying suction force to the sheet 32.

[0021] The conveyor belt 52 is tensioned by a drive roller 56, front rollers 72 and 73 respectively positioned vertically, and rear rollers 74 and 76 respectively positioned vertically, all of which are rotatably mounted on the frame 58. The front rollers 72 and 73 respectively turn the conveyor belt 52, which meshes with the roller 56, upward and downward, while the roller 74 and roller 72 together define the upper branch 61 in the horizontal direction.

[0022] Specifically, the conveyor belt section between the input roller 51 and the front roller 72 slopes downwards, guiding the sheet 32 ​​fed from roller 51 toward the conveyor surface "TS". The rear roller 76 and the front roller 73 together define the lower branch 62 that constitutes the conveyor surface "TS". A return roller 77 is also rotatably mounted on the frame 58 for tensioning the conveyor belt 52, and the return roller 77 is located at an intermediate position between roller 74 and the rear lower roller 76.

[0023] Sufficient vertical spacing is provided between the upper branch 61 and the lower branch 62 of the conveyor belt 52 to accommodate the air duct 69 with the suction fan 71 and other components of the conveying and placement unit 41.

[0024] Advantageously, a spring plate 78 and a compressed air nozzle 79 are provided downstream of the input roller 51, the compressed air nozzle 79 being connected to the compressed air generator 39 via a corresponding solenoid valve. When the nozzle 79 is activated by airflow, the spring plate 78 and the nozzle 79 act on the downward inclined section of the conveyor belt 52, promoting the separation of the fed sheet from the conveyor belt and the release of the sheet from the input roller 51.

[0025] In a known manner, the guide members of the conveyor belt 52 are formed on the side of a hollow cylinder corresponding to the reference numeral. The hollow cylinder is rotatably mounted on a corresponding shaft on the frame 58 via bearings. The guide members have a slightly convex (crown-shaped) profile, which provides a self-centering effect for the moving conveyor belt 52.

[0026] Driven by the feed motor 59, the conveyor belt 52 is driven by the drive roller 56. Relying on the adhesion force generated by the suction, the sheet 32 ​​is pulled in along the lower branch 62 and placed on the stack support platform 53 or the top sheet of the stack 33 that is being formed.

[0027] Functional blocks and stop components

[0028] The stacking device 31 includes a functional block 81 in the conveying and placement unit 41, which is similar in structure to the functional block 50 in the aforementioned patent. The functional block 81 is equipped with a corresponding stop member 82 for feeding the sheet 32.

[0029] Functional block 81 also supports a sensing device 83 for detecting the topmost stacked sheet of the stack. The sensing device 83 includes multiple sets of sensing rollers 84 and electronic sensors 85.

[0030] Function block 81 ( Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5b , Figure 7 It includes a horizontal bar 86, side members 87r and 87l located on both sides of the horizontal bar 86, and a horizontal profile 88.

[0031] The horizontal bar 86 is used to support the stop member 82, while the transverse profile 88 is used to support the sensing roller 84 and is mounted in front of the horizontal bar 86.

[0032] Side members 87r and 87l are slidably connected to and locked with two side guides 89r and 89l, such that the distance between the stop member 82 and the input roller 51 can exceed the length of the sheet 32.

[0033] One or more air ducts 69 (the number of which depends on the length of the sheets to be stacked) are installed on a side structure that can slide along the side guides 89r, 89l and can be selectively positioned at a different distance from the input roller 51 depending on the length of the sheets.

[0034] The positioning of function block 81 and air duct 69 can be done manually or by means of a motor drive, and can optionally be controlled according to the detected sheet length.

[0035] To avoid the problems existing in existing stacking equipment, this equipment 31 adopts an innovative and efficient technical solution for the control of the stop member 82 and the compensation mechanism 54.

[0036] Advantageously, the stacking device 31 provides a continuous stop profile for the stop member 82, while also providing a steering device 90 for the lower branch of the conveyor belt carried by the functional block 81, thereby forming a receiving space above the conveyor surface "TS" for accommodating the stop member 82.

[0037] Specifically, the steering device 90 includes an intermediate roller 91 ( Figure 2 , Figure 5b , Figure 8 ), guide roller 92 and realign roller 93 are used to guide the lower branch 62 of conveyor belt 52. Rollers 91, 92 and 93 are rotatably mounted between the side members 87r and 87l of functional block 81, forming a loop in conveyor belt 52, thereby creating a receiving space 94 for accommodating stop member 82.

[0038] The fixed lower front roller 73 and the movable intermediate roller 91 jointly guide the working section 95 of the lower branch 62 to extend along the conveying surface "TS" to achieve sheet traction. The deflector roller 92 is located above the intermediate roller 91 and together with the intermediate roller 91 guides the upward deflector section 96 of the lower branch, thereby forming an accommodating space 94 above the stack support platform 53 at an adjacent position downstream of the roller 91.

[0039] The realigning roller 93 and the intermediate roller 91 are positioned at the same height, and together with the guide roller 92, guide the downward turning section 97 of the lower branch. Finally, the realigning roller 93 and the rear lower roller 76 together guide the end section 98 of the lower branch 62 to extend along the conveyor surface "TS". Specifically, the guide roller 92 is positioned in the middle region between the intermediate roller 91 and the realigning roller 93, defining a roughly inverted U-shaped structure of the loop, which defines the accommodating space 94.

[0040] The stop member 82 includes a plate 99, the transverse section 101 of which is located adjacent to the intermediate guide roller 91 downstream, inside the accommodating space 94, upstream of the horizontal bar 86, and protrudes downward from the conveying surface “TS”. This section 101 is used to stop the moving sheet 32 ​​and simultaneously define a vertical alignment surface “AS” for the forming stack 33.

[0041] During the stacking process, the sheet 32 ​​moves forward under the combined action of the input roller 51 and the conveyor belt 52. However, before its leading edge contacts the transverse section 101, the sheet has already detached from the input roller 51, and the movement until the stop is entirely accomplished by the conveyor belt 52 through adhesion.

[0042] Advantageously, the transverse section 101 has a continuous profile that can form an abutment against the leading edge of the stacked sheets 32.

[0043] This continuous stop surface design avoids the problems of the comb-type stop structure in the aforementioned patent, especially the problem of sheet leading edge damage during high-speed operation, as well as the problem of being unable to handle thin / extremely thin paper (<60gsm) due to stacking jamming that also occurs during low-speed operation.

[0044] Intermediate guide roller 91 ( Figure 7 , Figure 7a , Figure 7b , Figure 8 , Figure 8a The conveyor belt 52 is supported by multiple pulleys 102, which protrude outward from a shaft 103 that can rotate between the side members 87r and 87l of the functional block 81. The cross section of the transverse profile 88 is generally L-shaped, and its lower surface has a rounded front edge that serves as a sliding surface for the lower branch of the conveyor belt. The transverse profile 88 also has comb-shaped longitudinal extensions 104 on both sides of the pulleys 102.

[0045] The longitudinal extension 104 serves as a guide for feeding the leading edge of the sheet until the sheet abuts against the cross section 101 of the stop member 82. Advantageously, the longitudinal extension 104 is inclined downward to gradually bring the leading edge of the stacked sheet closer to the stack 33 near the stop position.

[0046] Similar to the device 21 in the aforementioned patent, the sheet stacking device 31 can also achieve both neat blocks and staggered blocks in stacking.

[0047] For this purpose, device 31 includes a misalignment stop 111 installed within accommodating space 94, and a misalignment actuator 112, for example, electrically driven. The cross-section 113 of the misalignment stop 111 also has a generally continuous profile and is positioned in the direction “F” behind the cross-section 101 of stop member 82. Stop member 82 and its cross-section 101 can be lifted by misalignment actuator 112 so that the stacking sheets abut against the cross-section 113 of misalignment stop 111, thereby forming a stacking surface misaligned relative to the alignment surface “AP”.

[0048] Specifically, the plate 99 of the stop member 82 is guided by a guide 114 that is vertical during use. Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 It is slidably mounted and fixed to the front surface of the transverse horizontal bar 86. The misalignment stop 111 includes a crossbeam positioned behind the horizontal bar 86. When the device 31 is set to the straight-through non-stacked mode of the sheet 32, the misalignment stop 111 can be lifted by the bar 116.

[0049] Advantageously, the stop member 82 has a sloping lower surface in cross section 101. When the stop member 82 is lifted by the misalignment actuator 112, this lower surface can be aligned with the lower surface of the longitudinal extension 104, enabling smooth stacking even when forming misaligned blocks.

[0050] In the stacked device 31, the sensor device 83 ( Figure 2 , Figure 5b , Figure 8c In conjunction with the compensation mechanism 54, it ensures that the sheet stacking conditions are optimal regardless of the number of stacked sheets. Specifically, the distance between the conveyor surface "TS" and the last sheet of the forming stack 33 can be kept constant in an optimized manner.

[0051] Stacking height compensation

[0052] According to another feature of the invention, in the sensor device 83, the sensing roller 84 ( Figure 5b , Figure 6 , Figure 6b , Figure 8 , Figure 8a It is laterally positioned between the lower branches 62 of the conveyor belt and rotatably mounted on the inverted U-shaped bridge support 121. The bridge support 121 is hinged by a pin 122, which is mounted on the transverse profile 88 via a sensing block 123. The upper part 124 of the bridge support 121 is located above the roller 84.

[0053] The lower sector of the sensing roller 84 protrudes from the lower surface of the profile 88 through the corresponding window 126. Figure 6b , Figure 7b , Figure 8a The sensing springs (consisting of torsion springs 127 mounted on pin 122) act on the bridge support 121 to apply sensing pressure to the roller 84, and in the resting state, the bridge support 121 abuts against the travel stop 128.

[0054] A series of opposing rollers 129 are provided above the sensing roller 84, and the opposing rollers 129 are rotatably mounted on the intermediate support 131. The support 131 is fixed on a common shaft 133 and can be adjusted angularly via a set screw 132. The shaft 133 is rotatably mounted on the profile 88 via a support 134 and serves as the mounting shaft for two torsion springs 136, which push the opposing rollers 129 against the upper part 124 of the bridge-type support 121.

[0055] The transverse profile 88, together with the sensing roller 84, the opposing roller 129, the common shaft 133 and related components, constitute a sensing assembly. This sensing assembly can be easily removed from the functional block 81 for maintenance via the left and right knobs 137r and 137l. The knobs 137r and 137l are used to fix the two ends of the transverse profile 88 to the side members 87r and 87l of the functional block 81.

[0056] During the commissioning phase of the stacking device 31, the stroke stop 128 can be adjusted using a special tool to keep all sensing rollers 84 aligned. In addition, the angular position of the intermediate support 131 can be adjusted so that the opposing rollers 129 are in contact with the upper part 124 of the bridge support 121.

[0057] During the stacking process, the sensing roller 84 can be moved upward from the stacked sheet according to the thickness (0.07-0.5 mm) of the sheet being stacked within the sensing area. This movement is transmitted to the opposing roller 129 via the upper part 124 of the bridge-type support 121, and then drives the common shaft 133 to rotate via the intermediate support 131, causing the baffle 141 to rise upward. If the sheet 32 ​​is thicker in a certain sensing area, the rotation of the common shaft 133 is driven by the sensing roller 84, which has the largest lifting amplitude in that thicker area.

[0058] The sensing action of the sensing roller 84 on the stacked sheets is achieved by the combined force of the torsion spring 127 acting on the sensing roller 84 and the torsion spring 136 acting on the common shaft 133 via the opposing roller 129. The torsion spring 127 has two functions: first, to maintain stable contact between the sensing roller 84 and the sheet 32 ​​in areas where the sheet thickness is thinner; second, to hold the sensing roller 84 against its corresponding travel stop 128 when there are no sheets or gaps between them.

[0059] In actual operation, the sheet 32 ​​may have defects (bulges, creases, uneven ink thickness, etc.), which the sensing roller 84 detects by lifting. The sensing roller 84 encountering the largest defect is lifted more than the other sensing rollers, further lifting the opposing roller 129 above it through the upper part 124 of the bridge-type support 121. This further causes the shaft 133 to rotate and the baffle 141 to rise. At the same time, the other opposing rollers will disengage from the upper part 124 of the bridge-type support, which is kept in a low position, while the corresponding sensing roller 84 remains in contact with the sheet under the action of the spring 127.

[0060] In sensor device 83, electronic sensor 85 ( Figure 8c This is a laser emitter / receiver similar to that in the aforementioned patent. In the stacking device 31, the target detection area of ​​the sensing device includes a baffle 141 fixed on the shaft 133, which swings horizontally with the movement of the sensing roller 84 driven by the feed sheet and the corresponding movement of the opposing roller 129.

[0061] Advantageously, the material collection and discharge assembly 42, excluding the stack support platform 53, Figure 2 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 In addition, it also includes a starting support platform 151, which is used to ensure the optimal stacking effect of the first layer of sheet material 33, and at the same time accelerate the switching speed between finished package output and subsequent stacking.

[0062] In summary, the stack support platform 53 includes a frame 152 located below the conveying and stacking assembly 41, two lateral shafts 153 and 154 rotatably supported on the frame 152, a plurality of functional discharge blocks 156 carried on the frame 152, and discharge motors 157 for driving the shafts 153 and 154.

[0063] Functional discharge block 156 ( Figure 2a The conveyor has a long, rectangular, hexahedral structure, with functional discharge blocks spaced apart laterally. Each functional discharge block includes a beam 158, two end pulleys 159 and 160 keyed to shafts 153 and 154, an intermediate idler roller 161, and a long conveyor belt 162 tensioned between the pulleys 159 and 160. The upper sector of the pulleys 159 and 160 of each discharge block 156 is tangent to the upper surface of the beam 158. The upper section of the conveyor belt 162 rests on the upper surface of the beam 158, while the lower section is deflected upwards by the idler roller 161.

[0064] The combination of the upper sections of each conveyor belt 162 forms the support surface "BS" of the stack 33 being formed, and is supported by the beam 158. During the unloading process of the stacking equipment 31, the conveyor belt 162 is driven by the motor 157 to run in the direction "F" and slides above the upper surface of the beam 158.

[0065] The stack support platform 53 can be vertically moved between the reference position "RP" and the discharge position "DP" via a pair of vertical guides 163l and 163r. Figure 9 The high reference position "RP" corresponds to the working state after the initial stage without sheet material. The discharge position "DP" is the lowest position of the stack support platform 53, at which time the support surface "BS" is basically coplanar with the lower edge of the discharge port "OG" and the conveyor belt "CB".

[0066] A baffle 164 is vertically mounted downward at the rear of the frame 152. When the stack support 53 is in the reference position "RP", the discharge port "OG" is blocked by the baffle 164; when the support 53 is in the discharge position "DP", the discharge port "OG" is fully open.

[0067] For the case where the sheet material passes through without stacking, the stack support platform 53 can also be moved to a high overtravel position. At this time, the support surface "BS" is tangent to the lower branch 62 of the conveyor belt and is coplanar with the conveyor surface "TS" corresponding to the rear inspection port "DTG".

[0068] As mentioned earlier, depending on the number of stacked sheets, the compensation mechanism 54 will drive the stack support platform 53 to descend from its current position, and after the stacked sheets 33 are stacked, it will descend to the discharge position "DP". At the discharge position "DP", the discharge motor 157 drives the upper section of the conveyor belt 162 to run, and transports the stacked sheets 33 through the discharge port "OG" to the conveyor belt "CB" for further processing.

[0069] The compensation mechanism 54 includes a pair of ball screw assemblies with splined shafts 166 and 167, and corresponding nuts 168 and 169. Nuts 168 and 169 are fixed to the side of the frame 152, while the lower ends of the splined shafts 166 and 167 are rotatably supported on the transverse plate 171 and driven to rotate by the compensation motor 172 via a drive belt and pulley. The compensation motor 172 is also controlled by the electronic control unit 37.

[0070] The starting support platform 151 includes a frame 179 positioned below the alignment section 34, a multi-fork support 181 mounted to slide on the frame 179, a series of forks 182 mounted on the multi-fork support, an actuation mechanism 183 for driving the multi-fork support, and a starting compensation mechanism 184 for the frame 179.

[0071] The fork arm 182 can be inserted between the functional discharge blocks 156 and is actuated by the fork arm actuation mechanism 183 controlled by the electronic control unit 37, switching between a retracted configuration and an insertion configuration. In the retracted configuration, the fork arm is retracted onto the frame 179 below the alignment section 34. In the insertion configuration, the fork arm extends from the frame 179 and can be inserted between the functional discharge blocks 156 of the stack support 53.

[0072] In summary, the fork arm actuation mechanism 183 includes two pulleys 187 and 188 rotatably supported at the front and rear center positions of the frame 179, a shift belt 189 tensioned between the pulleys 187 and 188, and a fork arm actuation motor 191. The multi-fork arm support 181 engages with the upper section of the shift belt 189 to drive the fork arm 182 to move between a retracted configuration and an inserted configuration.

[0073] The initiation compensation mechanism 184 is used to adjust the height of the frame 179 with multi-fork arm support according to the height of the stacked sheets. This mechanism 184 is similar in structure to the compensation mechanism 54, including the initiation compensation motor 192 and the lead screw nut conversion mechanism, which will not be described in detail here for the sake of simplicity.

[0074] During the startup phase, the stack support 53 is in the reference position "RP", and the fork arm 182 is in an insert configuration, located above the upper section of the conveyor belt 162. Therefore, the fork arm 182 constitutes a temporary support for the alternative belt 162, and its surface condition is optimized for stacking the first layer of sheets in the stack.

[0075] When the stack reaches a preset height (e.g., 10 sheets), the fork arm 182 is positioned slightly below the support surface BS, and the forming stack 33 rests on the conveyor belt 162. The electronic control unit 37 can activate the actuation mechanism 183 to move the fork arm 182 to a retracted configuration, and simultaneously actuate the compensation mechanism 184 to adjust the height of the stack support platform 53 during operation according to the number of stacked sheets exceeding the preset height.

[0076] According to one feature of the invention, the stacking device 31 is equipped with a fixed reference based on a "mechanical zero point" height for sheet stacking, and a software control system for height compensation of the stack support platform 53 or the start support platform 151. The "mechanical zero point" height corresponds to the height of the conveyor surface "TS" of the sheet 32 ​​at the point where it is tangent to the conveyor belt 52 guided by the intermediate roller 91. The software control system can adjust the height compensation parameters of the stack support platform 53 or the start support platform 151 based on the operating conditions of the device 31.

[0077] As needed, calibration tools (standard blocks) 196 can be used. Figure 9 The sensor device 83 is calibrated to correctly set the initial reading corresponding to the height of the "mechanical zero point".

[0078] The calibration tool 196 includes an L-shaped profile with a comb-like vertical section 197 and a flat base 198. The vertical section 197 can be inserted between the conveyor belts 52 and engages with the front of the profile 88, while the base 198 raises the sensing roller 84 to the "mechanical zero point" height, facilitating the operator to correctly set the sensor zero point. Once the calibration tool 196 is removed, the sensing rollers 84 return to their initial position against the travel stop 128, and the resulting displacement "X" is the initial reading of the sensor device 83.

[0079] Therefore, the electronic sensor 85 measures the deviation value "X" relative to the previous measurement value by reading the target detection area formed by the baffle 141. Subsequently, the measurement value is corrected by the software for the amount of descent of the support platform on which the stack is formed, thereby forming a process control closed loop.

[0080] More specifically, the operator can use the control panel "CP" to set the "theoretical step distance" for the descent of the stack support 53 and the starting support 151, for example, 0.15 mm, based on the paper thickness settings. The operator also sets the "theoretical reference position" for the sensor readings, including "zero," "negative," or "positive." For example, if the setting is "zero," the descent of the support will keep the sensor 85 reading near zero, thus ensuring that the stack forming position is always close to the "mechanical zero point," maintaining an average compression of the forming stack 33.

[0081] If the set value is greater than zero, the support platform will attempt to maintain the sensor reading at that set value as it descends, resulting in greater compression of the stack (the position of sensing roller 84 is above the "mechanical zero point"). If the set value is less than zero, the support platform will maintain the sensor reading at that set value as it descends, resulting in less compression of the stack (the position of sensing roller 84 is below the "mechanical zero point").

[0082] During the stacking process, the software system also samples every n values ​​measured by sensor 85 and calculates the average value. This average value is used to correct the "theoretical step distance" set by the operator. The resulting "average corrected step distance" optimizes the descent of the stack support or start support, ensuring that the sensor readings remain close to the set value. Therefore, this descent will be the expected descent for the last sheet fed into the stack that is being formed.

[0083] The "average corrected step distance" will also be displayed on the control panel for operators to view, thus providing visual feedback on the step distance currently being applied by device 31.

[0084] To accommodate various paper types and sizes, operator-set parameters can be saved as reusable recipes, ensuring operational repeatability.

[0085] The operation process of the sheet stacking equipment 31 is as follows: According to the longitudinal dimensions of the sheet 32 ​​to be stacked ( Figure 1 , Figure 2 The operator positions function block 81 and air duct 69 at a program-set distance from input roller 51. Simultaneously, the operator uses control panel CP to set the quantity of sheets 32 to be stacked, the number of sheets per block during misaligned stacking (if necessary), sheet characteristic parameters, "theoretical step distance," and "average corrected step distance." The operator can also set the number of sheets stacked on fork arm 182 during the startup phase, thereby determining the reference position "RP."

[0086] In the initial stage, the stack support platform 53 ( Figure 3 The port is empty and in reference position RP. The discharge port "OG" is closed by baffle 164. The start support platform 151 is in the high position "mechanical zero point" state, and the fork arm 182 is in the insertion configuration, between the blocks 156 of the stack support platform 53, to receive the fed-in sheet to be stacked.

[0087] The electronic control unit 37 starts the feed motor 59, which drives the input roller 51 to rotate, and at the same time makes the conveyor belt 52 run at a conveying speed slightly higher than the sheet feeding speed.

[0088] After sheet 32 ​​is fed out from alignment section 34, input roller 51 drives the sheet forward steadily along the inclined section of the conveyor belt. The sheet bends and is guided downward until its leading edge contacts the fork arm 182 of the starting support platform 151. Subsequently, under the action of input roller 51 and with the assistance of lower branch 62 of conveyor belt 52, the sheet bends again and is guided horizontally.

[0089] The first sheet 32 ​​continues forward until its leading edge passes through the air duct or the first air duct 69. Here, suction from the air duct 69, through the opening in the guide groove, and through the holes in the conveyor belt 52, draws the sheet upward and adheres it to the lower branch 62 of the conveyor belt 52. Subsequently, the sheet continues forward due to suction from the channel, the subsequent components in front of the opening, and the positive traction of the coupled input roller 51.

[0090] If the equipment 31 includes multiple air ducts 69, after the sheet 32 ​​is lifted by the first air duct, the adhesion between the sheet and the conveyor belt 52 will be further enhanced as the sheet passes in front of the other air ducts.

[0091] Once the trailing edge of the sheet leaves the input roller 51, the forward movement of the sheet 32 ​​is entirely driven by the conveyor belt 52, with adhesion provided by the one or more air ducts 69; simultaneously, the spring sheet 78 and the compressed air flow from the nozzle 79 assist the sheet in restoring its flat configuration.

[0092] As the first sheet 32 ​​moves along the conveyor belt 52, its leading edge contacts the sensing roller 84. The sensing roller rises according to the sheet thickness, causing the baffle 141 to rise as well. Finally, the sheet is stopped by the cross-section 101 of the stop member 82, and the conveyor belt 52 slips on the sheet. While waiting for the next sheet 32 ​​to be stacked, the feed motor 59 remains running, and the input roller 51 and the conveyor belt 52 continue to operate.

[0093] The first sheet 32 ​​is introduced into the conveying and placement unit 41, so that in response to the feedback signal of the laser emitter / receiver 85 to the position of the target detection area 141, the compensation motor 192 is activated via the command of the electronic control unit 37, so that the starting support platform 151 is lowered to a height corresponding to the "theoretical step distance" and "theoretical position".

[0094] The new sheet 32 ​​fed in from the input roller 51 is also bent and guided downward by the input roller 51 and the inclined section of the conveyor belt, but its leading edge will meet the previous sheet. Under the pushing action of the input roller 51, the inclined section of the conveyor belt and the insertion roller 73, the new sheet is bent and guided horizontally, inserted between the lower branch 62 of the conveyor belt and the portion of the previous sheet still attached to the branch 62.

[0095] The new sheet 32 ​​continues to advance above the previous sheet until its leading edge reaches the position of the air duct or the first air duct 69 and contacts the lower surface of the air duct. At this point, the portion of the previous sheet is no longer held by the suction of the air duct and falls onto the surface of the fork arm 182; while the new sheet adheres to the branch 62 of the conveyor belt 52 and is pulled by the conveyor belt. Subsequently, the new sheet continues to advance due to the adsorption of the channel and other subsequent components in front of the air duct 69, while the previous sheet gradually settles on the fork arm 182, becoming the first sheet of the stack 33.

[0096] Once the trailing edge of the new sheet 32 ​​has disengaged from the input roller 51, its forward movement is entirely driven by the conveyor belt 52, with adhesion provided by the one or more air ducts 69. Assisted by the spring sheet 78 and compressed airflow, the new sheet tends to regain its flattened shape, with its trailing edge resting on the previous sheet. Sequentially, the new sheet drives the sensing roller 84 to rise according to its thickness, followed by the rise of the baffle 141. Finally, the sheet is stopped when its leading edge contacts the cross section 101 of the stop member 82, and the moving conveyor belt 52 slips on the sheet.

[0097] After the new sheet 32 ​​is introduced into the conveying and stacking unit 41, under the control of the electronic control unit 37 and the feedback of the sensor device 83, the compensation motor 192 is restarted, causing the starting support platform 151 to descend to the height corresponding to the set parameters.

[0098] The subsequent sheet stacking process is consistent with the second sheet described above. The stack 33 is gradually formed, and any corrections are made to the descent of the starting support 151 based on the "average correction step".

[0099] When the number of sheets reaches the planned stacking height during the start-up phase, the fork arm 182 is positioned slightly below the support surface "BS", and the forming stack 33 is placed on the conveyor belt 162. Subsequently, the electronic control unit 37 activates the fork arm drive motor 191 to switch the fork arm to a retracted configuration, allowing the stacking support platform 53 to receive subsequent sheets to be stacked.

[0100] At this time, the forming stack 33 is placed on the support surface "BS" formed by the conveyor belt 162. The stacking process of the sheet 32 ​​continues according to the support stage of the fork arm 182 described above, while the height compensation of the stacking support platform 53 is performed by the compensation mechanism 54. Specifically, for a newly fed sheet 32, the electronic control unit 37 starts the compensation motor 172, which drives the stacking support platform 53 to descend according to the set parameters and the correction value based on the "average correction step".

[0101] If a staggered stacking function is provided, after a set number of sheets constituting each block have been stacked, the electronic control unit 37 activates the staggered actuator 112 to lift the stop member 82. The staggered stop member 111 replaces the transverse section 101, thereby determining the alignment plane of the staggered blocks.

[0102] During the stacking process, the continuous profile of the transverse section 101 or 113 of the stop member 82 can prevent the impact of the fed sheet 32 ​​and the leading edge deformation or sheet curling caused by the sudden movement of the conveyor belt 52 (which leads to paper stacking and jamming problems when subsequent sheets are fed in).

[0103] Therefore, precise detection of the thickness and defects of the stacked sheets 32 can prevent the undulations of the already stacked sheets from causing deviations in the height of the starting support platform 151, thus avoiding other jamming risks associated with newly fed sheets to be stacked. Furthermore, precise detection of the thickness and defects of the sheets to be stacked can prevent the undulations of the already stacked sheets from causing errors in the height positioning of the starting support platform 151, thereby further avoiding the risk of jamming risks associated with newly fed sheets to be stacked.

[0104] When the total number of sheets 32 to be stacked is reached, the electronic control unit 37 temporarily stops the feeding of new sheets and simultaneously starts the compensation motor 172 to move the stack support platform 53 from the final stacking position to the discharge position "DP". The support surface "BS" of the conveyor belt 162 is coplanar with the conveyor belt "CB", and the baffle 164 is located below the discharge port "OG", so the discharge port is not obstructed at all.

[0105] Subsequently, the electronic control unit 37 starts the discharge motor 157, which drives the upper branch of the conveyor belt 162 to move in the direction "F", thereby moving the stacked material 33 ( Figure 12 It is conveyed onto the conveyor belt "CB" and distributed to the user equipment.

[0106] During the material discharge stage, the electronic control unit 37 actuates the start compensation mechanism 184 and the fork arm actuation mechanism 183 to move the start support platform 151 to the high position of the "mechanical zero point" state, and the fork arm 182 is in the retracted configuration. At the same time, the feeding of new sheet material is restarted, and the forming of new stacked material begins, thereby reducing the standby time.

[0107] Once the stacked material 33 has finished unloading, the electronic control unit 37 stops the motor 157 and simultaneously starts the compensation motor 172, driving the spline shafts 166 and 167 to rotate in the opposite direction to the descent direction, raising the stacked material support platform 53 to... Figure 3 The reference position “RP” indicates that a new stacking operation is about to begin, at which point the support surface “BS” is located below the fork arm 182.

[0108] In a specific working condition where the sheets pass straight through without stacking, the operator uses the lifting rod 116 to lift the stop member 82 and the misalignment stop member 111, and inputs a straight-through command to the electronic control unit 37 via the control panel to activate the compensation mechanism 54 and the discharge motor 157. The starting support platform remains in a high position, but the fork arm 182 is in a retracted configuration, located below the alignment section 34.

[0109] The compensation mechanism 54 raises the stack support platform 53 to the overtravel position. At this time, the support surface "BS" is tangent to the lower branch 62 of the conveyor belt 52, which corresponds to the rear maintenance port. At the same time, the discharge motor 157 drives the conveyor belt 162 to run.

[0110] After the fed sheet turns downwards by the input roller 51, it moves forward along the conveyor surface "TS" under the continuous action of the working section 95 (which also has a suction function) and the end section 98 of the lower branch 62 of the conveyor belt, as well as the drive of the upper branch of the conveyor belt 162, and reaches the inspection port "DTG".

[0111] Of course, without departing from the principles of the present invention, the actuation method and structural details of the sheet stacking device can be widely varied relative to the content described and illustrated above by non-limiting examples, without departing from the protection scope of the present invention.

[0112] For example, the accommodating space for accommodating stop members and misalignment stop members can also be achieved by offset devices other than intermediate rollers and guide rollers.

[0113] If the function of straight-through, non-stacking sheet material is not required, the structure of the functional block and the path of the conveyor belt can be simplified, requiring only intermediate rollers and guide rollers to form the accommodating space. In this variant, the end section of the lower branch of the conveyor belt is guided by the rear roller at a height above the guide roller, thus eliminating the need for straight-through sheet material conveying.

[0114] According to a variant, sheet thickness control can employ an equivalent structure in which the torsion spring 127 can be omitted, and the sensing action of the sensing roller 84 on the sheet 32 ​​is entirely achieved by the torsion spring 136 or other elastic device acting on the common shaft 133.

[0115] In another variant, an intermediate element for transmitting motion between the sensing support 121 and the common shaft 133 is implemented, for example, via a single rocker arm that is angularly adjustable on the common shaft, with its rounded end engaging with the upper portion 124 of the corresponding sensing support 134.

[0116] List of reference numerals

[0117] 104 Longitudinal extension

[0118] 62 Lower Branch

[0119] 73 front lower roller

[0120] 76 Lower Rear Roller

[0121] 181 Multi-wishbone support

[0122] 168 nuts

[0123] 169 Nuts

[0124] 111 Misalignment stop component

[0125] 112 Misaligned Actuator

[0126] 116 Misalignment rod

[0127] 164 baffle

[0128] 32 Paper Sheets

[0129] 122 Support pin

[0130] 99 Stop plate

[0131] 57 Pressure Rollers

[0132] 159 pulley

[0133] 160 pulley

[0134] 187 pulley

[0135] 188 pulley

[0136] 102 pulley

[0137] 38 Button Panel

[0138] 93 Realign the rollers

[0139] "RP" reference location

[0140] 77 Return Roller

[0141] 87r Function Block Right Side Component

[0142] 89r right-side guide

[0143] 83 Sensing Devices

[0144] 84 sensing rollers

[0145] 121 Sensing Roller Support

[0146] 127 Sensing Torsion Spring

[0147] 31 Sheet Stacking Equipment

[0148] 158 side members

[0149] 166 Splined Switch

[0150] 167 Splined Switch

[0151] 78 Spring Sheets

[0152] 33. Stacks or packs

[0153] 53 Stacking support platform

[0154] "AS" stack alignment surface

[0155] 36 Stacking and Discharge Sections

[0156] 184. Activate the compensation mechanism.

[0157] 151 Start-up support platform

[0158] 192 Start the compensation motor

[0159] 82 Stopping components

[0160] 71. Suction Fan

[0161] 152 Support Platform Frame

[0162] “BS” support surface

[0163] 134 Support component

[0164] 98 Conveyor belt end section

[0165] 124 Upper part of support component

[0166] 136 Torsion Spring

[0167] 123 Sensing Block

[0168] 41 Conveying and Placing Unit

[0169] “TS” conveyor surface

[0170] “TS” conveyor surface

[0171] 69. Horizontal air duct

[0172] 86 Horizontal horizontal bar

[0173] 88 Horizontal Profiles

[0174] 101 Cross-section

[0175] 153 Support Platform Transverse Axis

[0176] 154 Support Platform Lateral Shaft

[0177] 61 Upward Branch

[0178] 72 Front upper roller

[0179] 74 Rear Upper Roller

[0180] 96 Upward Turning Section

[0181] 141 baffle

[0182] 163 Vertical guide components

[0183] 197 Vertical section of calibration tool

[0184] 126 Sensing Roller Window

Claims

1. A sheet stacking apparatus, comprising: Multiple suction conveyor belts (52) for conveying sheets (32) along the conveying surface (TS); a stop member (82) for stopping the sheets conveyed by the conveyor belts (52); and a functional block (81) for supporting the stop member (82). The functional block (81) is movable along the sheet conveying direction to adjust the stop position according to the sheet length, characterized in that... A steering device (90) is mounted on the functional block (81) for guiding the lower branch (62) of the conveyor belt (52) to form an accommodating space (94) above the conveyor surface (TS) upstream of the stop member (82); The stop member (82) is disposed within the accommodating space (94) and has a cross section protruding below the conveying surface (TS) to stop the sheet conveyed by the conveyor belt; The stop member (82) has a continuous cross-section and is used to stop the front edge of the sheet.

2. The sheet stacking equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steering device (90) includes a plurality of intermediate rollers (91) and a plurality of steering rollers (92) for the conveyor belt (52), the intermediate rollers (91) and the steering rollers (92) being rotatably mounted on the functional block (81).

3. The sheet stacking equipment according to claim 2, wherein, The intermediate roller (91) and the front lower roller (73) guide the working section (95) of the lower branch (62) of the conveyor belt along the conveying surface (TS) to achieve sheet traction; and wherein the steering roller (92) is located above the intermediate roller (91) and guides the steering section (96) of the lower branch (62) to form the accommodating space (94) downstream of and adjacent to the intermediate roller (91).

4. The sheet stacking equipment according to claim 3, wherein, The lower branch (62) of the conveyor belt (52) is guided rearward by a plurality of rear lower rollers (76), and the device (31) is characterized by further comprising a plurality of realigning rollers (93) rotatably mounted on the functional block (81), wherein the realigning rollers (93) together with the steering rollers (92) guide the lower branch (62) of the conveyor belt, and the rear lower rollers (76) guide the end section (98) of the lower branch (62) of the conveyor belt (52) back to the conveyor surface (TS) and align it with the working section (95).

5. The sheet stacking equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The intermediate roller (91), the turning roller (92), and the realigning roller (93) together define a generally U-shaped segment of the accommodating space (94).

6. The sheet stacking equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The intermediate roller (91) is composed of a pulley (102) protruding outward from a common shaft (103). The functional block (81) supports the stop member (82) upstream of the common shaft (103) and includes side members (87r, 87l) for supporting the common shaft (103) and a transverse profile (88) having a generally L-shaped cross section. The transverse profile (88) has longitudinal extensions (104) on both sides of the pulley (102) for guiding the leading edge of the fed sheet (32) to the cross section of the stop member (82).

7. The sheet stacking equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The device also includes an electronic control unit (37), a sensing device (83) for detecting the height of the stacked sheets (32), and a compensation mechanism (54) for adjusting the height of the stack support (53) according to the stacked sheets (32), wherein the sensing device (83) includes a series of sensing rollers (84) mounted on the transverse profile (88) near the stop member (82), protruding from the corresponding window (126) of the transverse profile (88), interposed between those lower branches (62) of the conveyor belt (52), and configured to engage with the stacked sheets (32) in the corresponding sensing area.

8. The sheet stacking equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device includes a misalignment stop (111) and a misalignment actuator (112), wherein the misalignment stop (111) is mounted within the accommodating space (94) and has a continuous cross section disposed behind the cross section of the stop member (82); and wherein the stop member (82) is liftable by the misalignment actuator (112) to allow stacked sheets (32) to abut against the cross section of the misalignment stop (111) to define a misaligned stacking surface offset relative to the alignment surface.

9. The sheet stacking apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an electronic control unit (37), a sensing device (83) for detecting the height of the stacked sheets (32), and a compensation mechanism (54) for adjusting the height of the stack support platform (53) according to the stacked sheets (32), characterized in that, The sensing device (83) includes: A series of sensing rollers (84) are located between the lower branches (62) of the conveyor belt (52), near the stop member (82), and are configured to engage with the stacked sheets (32) in the corresponding sensing areas. A series of sensing supports (121) rotatably support the sensing roller (84), and the sensing supports (121) are capable of moving independently; A series of intermediate elements (129, 131) are disposed above the sensing roller (84) and configured to cooperate with the sensing support (121); A common shaft (133) is used to fix the intermediate support (131) in the angular direction and is rotatable; and An elastic device (136) is configured to apply a tension force via the common axial sensing support (121) to enable the sensing roller (84) to sense within the sensing area; wherein, The sensing roller (84) and its respective sensing support (121) can be lifted from the stacked sheet (32) according to the sheet thickness in the sensing area; In response to the lifting of the sensing roller (84), the intermediate elements (129, 131) can be displaced by the sensing support (121), and the common shaft (133) rotates; and, The sensing device (83) provides information to the electronic control unit (37) for controlling the compensation mechanism (54) in response to the rotation of the common shaft (133) determined by the large lifting amount of the sensing roller (84).

10. The sheet stacking equipment according to claim 9, characterized in that, The device also includes a sensing spring (127) acting on the sensing support (121), wherein the intermediate elements (129, 131) include corresponding opposing rollers (129) and their intermediate support (131), wherein the opposing rollers (129) are rotatably supported on the intermediate support (131), and the intermediate support (131) is fixed on the common shaft (133).

11. The sheet stacking apparatus according to claim 1, comprising an electronic control unit (37), a compensation mechanism (54) for the stack support platform (53), and a sensing device (83) for detecting the height of the stack relative to a reference surface, wherein, The compensation mechanism (54) adjusts the height of the stack support platform (53) according to the stacked sheets (32). The device (31) is characterized by providing a fixed reference for the stacking of the sheets (32) as a "mechanical zero point" height, and a software control system for height compensation of the stack support platform (53), wherein... The "mechanical zero point" height corresponds to the height of the conveying surface "TS" of the sheet (32), and the software control system allows adjustment of the height compensation of the support platform; and wherein, The sensing device (83) can be calibrated by means of a calibration tool (196) to correctly set the initial reading corresponding to the height of the "mechanical zero point".

12. The sheet stacking apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The amount of descent of each fed sheet (32) is determined by a reference value that can be set according to the thickness of the sheet (32) and an increase or decrease correction value, thereby causing a corresponding change in the degree of compression of the stack (33); the current descent value is monitored to obtain an average value, and the average value is used to update the reference value.

13. The sheet stacking apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an input roller (51) for feeding the sheets (32) to be stacked, wherein, The input roller (51) includes a drive roller (56), and the conveyor belt (52) is tensioned between the drive roller (56), the rear rollers (74, 76), and the front rollers (72, 73), wherein the front rollers (72, 73) include a front lower roller (73) for the lower branch (62) of the conveyor belt; and wherein the feed sheet (32) exiting from the input roller (51) is turned toward the stack support (53) via an inclined section of the conveyor belt between the drive roller (56) and the front lower roller (73), the device (31) being characterized in that the device includes a spring sheet (78) and a compressed air nozzle (79), wherein the spring sheet (78) is disposed between the inclined sections of the conveyor belt, and / or the nozzle (79) is activating to spray compressed air into the inclined section of the conveyor belt to facilitate separation of the feed sheet (32) from the conveyor belt and release of the feed sheet (32) from the input roller (51).

14. The sheet stacking equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device includes one or more air ducts (69) and a suction fan (71), wherein the one or more air ducts (69) are arranged laterally above the lower branch (62) of the conveyor belt (52) and define a guide area of ​​the lower branch (62), the conveyor belt (52) has holes along the longitudinal direction, and wherein the one or more air ducts (69) support the suction fan (71) and have suction ports in the guide area for applying suction force to the fed sheet (32) and causing the conveyor belt (52) to pull the fed sheet (32) by adhesion.

15. The sheet stacking apparatus (31) according to claim 1, wherein the stack support platform (53) comprises a plurality of elongated conveyor belts (162) for supporting the stacked sheets (32) and support members (158) for the conveyor belts, characterized in that, The device includes a multi-arm support (181), an actuation mechanism (183) for actuating the multi-arm support (181), and a start-up compensation mechanism (184), wherein, The multi-fork arm support (181) includes a series of forks (183) that can be inserted between supports (158) for the conveyor belt (162); During the startup phase, the fork arm (183) and the startup compensation mechanism (184) are controlled by the electronic control unit (37) to position the fork arm (183) above the upper branches of the conveyor belt (162) and between the upper branches, thereby replacing the conveyor belt (162) as a temporary support for the stack (33) that is being formed. The activation compensation mechanism (184) is used to adjust the height of the multi-fork support (181) according to the stacked sheets (32) until a preset stacking height is reached, wherein the forks (183) are located below the conveyor belt (162); and wherein, When the preset stacking height is reached and the fork arm (183) is located below the conveyor belt (162), the electronic control unit (37) controls the fork arm actuation mechanism (184) to pull the fork arm (183) out of the conveyor belt and restores control of the compensation mechanism (54) to adjust the height of the stack support platform (53) according to the stacked sheets (32) that exceed the preset stacking height.

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