Hub and storage modules, machines and systems, and production processes for handling folded layers

Abstract

A folding machine with a boom, characterized in that the machine (1) comprises at least one lifting module (30) and at least one mobile storage module (40), wherein the storage module is movable horizontally towards and away from the lifting module, that the lifting module is arranged downstream of the boom (2) in the extension direction (3) and comprises a vertically positionable lifting plane (32) for the vertical positioning of several folding layers (4), and that the storage module is arranged downstream of the lifting module during the extension of folding layers and comprises at least two vertically arranged and separately driveable storage planes (41) for the respective storage of several folding layers.A mobile storage module for folded layers, suitable for use as a storage module in a machine, characterized in that the storage module (40) comprises at least two vertically arranged and separately driveable storage levels (41) for storing multiple folded layers (4), and that each storage level comprises a driven second coupling element (52) of a coupling device (50). A first coupling element (51) of the coupling device (50) is preferably part of a lifting module (30, 31). The invention enables the workflow in the field of print finishing. The invention is used, for example, in a production system of the graphic arts industry for the finishing of printed products.

Description

invention

[0001] The invention relates to a folding machine, a stapling machine or a binding machine, the provision and operation of a system comprising at least one folding machine and at least one stapling machine or a binding machine, a lifting module, a mobile storage module and a production method according to the respective preamble of the independent patent claims. field of technology

[0002] The invention lies in the technical field of the graphic industry and there in particular in the field of stapling or binding of gathered folded layers or the industrial, ie high-quality and highly productive production (folding and subsequent stapling or binding) of products such as brochures, preferably from printed paper. State of the art

[0003] Folding machines, saddle stitchers, perfect binders, and thread binders are already familiar from the field of print finishing. It is also already known to stack folded products on pallets at the folding machine and transport them on the pallet to another finishing machine (saddle stitcher, perfect binder, thread binder) for further processing.

[0004] DE10344026A1 and DE102014114952A1 each disclose the further processing of printed products in a folding machine and, directly following, in a saddle stitcher. The products are transported from the folding machine to the saddle stitcher via a transport device arranged stationary between the machines, e.g., a slanted roller table.

[0005] In the field of storage technology, a wide variety of facilities for storing or saving objects are known.

[0006] CN205045337U discloses a stationary storage rack with at least two stacked storage levels for storing pallets. Each level comprises driven rollers for horizontally moving the pallets during storage or retrieval. The rack has an attached and stationary lifting device attached to the sides of the levels, which moves the pallets vertically to the height of the respective levels during storage (and vice versa during retrieval), for which purpose the lifting device comprises a drive. The lifting device also comprises driven rollers for horizontally moving the pallets during storage or retrieval. It remains unclear how the respective rollers are driven. The mobility of the rack as a whole is not addressed. Connecting and disconnecting the rack from the lifting device is also not addressed.

[0007] CN113525483A discloses a movable carriage with a centrally arranged storage unit and with a movable loading unit and a movable unloading unit. The storage unit comprises several storage levels arranged one above the other. These are each designed as conveyor belts with attached containers. The containers can be loaded and unloaded with goods, for which purpose they are conveyed horizontally to the respective loading unit or unloading unit. Both the loading unit and the unloading unit are designed as lifting devices. It remains unclear how the respective conveyor belts are driven. The coupling and uncoupling of the storage unit from the lifting devices is not addressed. Due to two lifting devices, the carriage has a complex structure, and its production is therefore presumably cost-intensive. The coupling and uncoupling of the storage unit from one of the lifting devices is not addressed. Technical task

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improvement over the prior art, which in particular makes it possible to improve the workflow in the field of post-press processing and in particular to reduce production and personnel times. Inventive solution to the problem

[0009] These objects are achieved according to the invention by a machine for folding (in short: folding machine), a machine for stapling or a machine for binding (together in short: machine for stapling or binding), in particular for saddle stitching (collecting folded layers and thread stitching or wire stitching; in short: saddle stitcher), for adhesive binding or for thread binding (adhesive binder or thread binder), the provision and operation of a system comprising at least one machine for folding and at least one machine for stapling or a machine for binding, a lifting module, a mobile storage module and a production method according to the respective preamble of the independent patent claims.

[0010] Advantageous and therefore preferred developments of the invention emerge from the subclaims as well as from the description and the drawings.

[0011] A folding machine according to the invention with a delivery unit for laying out folded layers is characterized in that the machine comprises at least one lifting module and at least one mobile storage module, wherein the storage module is movable horizontally towards and away from the lifting module, that the lifting module is arranged downstream of the delivery unit in the direction of delivery and that the lifting module comprises a vertically positionable lifting plane for the vertical positioning of a plurality of folded layers, and that the storage module is arranged downstream of the lifting module during the laying out of folded layers and that the storage module comprises at least two storage planes arranged vertically one above the other and which can be driven separately for the respective storage of a plurality of folded layers.

[0012] A machine according to the invention for stapling or binding with a plurality of feeders for the respective application of folded layers is characterized in that the machine comprises a plurality of lifting modules and at least one mobile storage module for each lifting module, wherein the storage modules are movable horizontally towards and away from the lifting modules, that a lifting module is arranged upstream of each feeder in the application direction and that the respective lifting module comprises a vertically positionable lifting plane for the vertical positioning of a plurality of folded layers, and that a storage module is arranged upstream of each lifting module during the application of folded layers and that the storage module comprises at least two storage planes arranged vertically one above the other and separately drivable for the respective removal of a plurality of folded layers.

[0013] The provision and operation according to the invention of a system comprising at least one folding machine according to the invention and at least one stapling or binding machine according to the invention is characterized in that a plurality of mobile storage modules are provided which a) are coupled one after the other to the lifting module of the folding machine during the laying out, each pick up folding layers from the lifting module of the folding machine and store the picked up folding layers, then b) are each uncoupled from the lifting module and transport the stored folding layers from the folding machine to the stapling or binding machine and then c) are coupled in parallel to a lifting module of the machine during the laying out and deliver the transported folding layers to the respective lifting module of the machine in parallel.

[0014] A lifting module for folded layers according to the invention, suitable for use as a lifting module of a folding machine, a stapling or binding machine or in the provision and operation of a system according to one of the preceding claims, is characterized in that the lifting module comprises a vertically movable lifting plane for the vertical positioning of a plurality of folded layers, and in that the lifting plane comprises a driving first coupling element of a coupling device.

[0015] A mobile storage module for folded layers according to the invention, suitable for use as a storage module of a folding machine according to the invention, a stapling or binding machine according to the invention or in the provision and operation of a system according to the invention, is characterized in that the storage module comprises at least two storage levels arranged vertically one above the other and separately drivable for the respective storage of a plurality of folded layers, and in that the storage levels comprise a respective driven second coupling element of a coupling device.

[0016] A production method according to the invention for producing further processed, printed products from folded layers is characterized in that a plurality of lifting modules according to the invention and a plurality of storage modules according to the invention are used, wherein one lifting module and one storage module are temporarily coupled to one another via a coupling device and wherein the coupling device comprises the first coupling element of the lifting module and a second coupling element of the storage module. Advantageous embodiments and effects of the invention

[0017] The invention advantageously makes it possible to improve the workflow in the field of post-press processing and, in particular, to reduce production and personnel times.

[0018] The invention improves the workflow in a print shop between consecutive machines in the production process, e.g., between folding machines and saddle stitchers / perfect binders / thread binders. Errors and delays in the workflow can be avoided. Operator intervention is reduced. Productivity can be increased. The invention can represent a "building block" for the concept of the autonomous print shop, especially if the mobile storage modules are moved autonomously and automatically transport the folded layers from one machine to another.

[0019] According to the invention, lifting modules for the vertical movement and positioning of folded layers and mobile storage modules for the horizontal movement and positioning of folded layers are provided and used, e.g. in a network of a (production) system comprising different machines. The storage modules can temporarily store or buffer the folded layers and transport them between machines in the network. While the storage modules are mobile, e.g. rollable, the lifting modules are preferably arranged stationary at the machines. Storage modules and lifting modules can be coupled to one another, preferably creating a drive train for storage elements (circulating belts) of the storage modules. An associated motor can be provided in the lifting module. Motors do not need to be provided in the storage modules, which makes them lighter and more cost-effective.

[0020] In a printing company with at least one folding machine and at least one other finishing machine, such as a saddle stitcher, a perfect binder, or a thread binder, several storage modules can preferably be present ("pool of storage modules"). These can be used to transport the folded sheets between the machines. Furthermore, they can also temporarily store pre-produced folded sheets until further processing. In this way, even urgent jobs can be interleaved. The storage modules are preferably very simple in design and therefore very cost-effective, allowing a company to purchase many such storage modules.

[0021] The folded layers can be arranged in stacks, i.e., one above the other, on the storage levels of the storage modules (“horizontal storage”). Preferably, several stacks are arranged side by side per storage level. Alternatively, the folded layers can be arranged in a row, i.e., side by side, on the storage levels of the storage modules (“vertical storage”). The storage modules can therefore be adapted to the different delivery types of the folding machine (horizontal delivery, vertical delivery). Further developments of the invention

[0022] Preferred developments of the invention (hereinafter referred to as "developments") are described below. These can also be combined with one another where not technically mutually exclusive. Further training of the machines

[0023] A further development can be characterized in that the lifting plane has a conveyor element for conveying the folded layers in the respective vertical position during storage or removal, and a drive for the conveyor element. The conveyor element can be designed as a circulating belt. The belt can be driven, e.g., comprising a driven roller. Stops or support elements for folded layers or stacks thereof can also be provided on the belt.

[0024] A further development can be characterized in that the storage levels each have a conveyor element for conveying the folded layers during storage or removal. The conveyor element can be designed as a circulating belt. The belt can be driven indirectly, e.g., via the conveyor element of the lifting device. Stops or support elements for folded layers or stacks of folded layers can also be provided on the belt.

[0025] A further development can be characterized in that the storage levels are each designed to be coupled to the lifting level for separate drive of the storage levels. A respective conveyor element of the storage level and the conveyor element of the lifting level can be temporarily coupled, provided they are located at the same vertical position. Folded layers can thus be transported horizontally from the lifting level to a storage level (or vice versa). The two levels are preferably arranged at the same vertical height and with their respective ends close to one another.

[0026] A further development can be characterized in that the lifting level comprises a driving first coupling element of a coupling device, and each storage level comprises a respective, driven second coupling element of the coupling device. The coupling can be achieved, for example, via gears or friction wheels as coupling elements. Further training in the provision and operation of a system

[0027] A further development can be characterized by a warning device being activated on the stapling or binding machine if the correct storage module is not positioned at the correct feeder. The warning can be visual or acoustic, for example. An operator can be signaled, for example, by a red light and / or a loud tone, that they have not moved the storage module to the correct lifting module. It can also be provided that the correct position is indicated to the operator by a different light on a different lifting module. It can also be provided that the storage modules are numbered and equipped with transponders in such a way that when a storage module approaches a row of lifting modules, an indicator is activated on the correct lifting module, for example a green light. In this way, the operator can find the correct lifting module quickly and easily.Alternatively, the storage modules can be moved under computer control, ensuring that the correct storage modules (with the expected fold positions) are positioned in the right place at the right time.

[0028] A further development can be characterized by the fact that several storage modules are docked to the lifting module of the folding machine and loaded simultaneously or sequentially. It can also be provided that folded layers are passed through a storage module and fed into another, downstream storage module.

[0029] A further development can be characterized by a counter being activated when loading a storage module, which counts how many folded layers or stacks are stored from it. The count value can be saved and retrieved for monitoring purposes when unloading the storage module.

[0030] A further development can be characterized by the provision of a computer that monitors the loading of multiple storage modules and logs which (possibly different) fold layers and, if applicable, in what quantity, have been stored in which storage module, if applicable, on which storage level (vertical position), and if applicable, at which position on a storage level (horizontal position). The computer thus has comprehensive knowledge of where in the pool of storage modules which fold layers are currently temporarily stored and can thus contribute to improving the workflow, especially during spontaneous job changes.

[0031] A further development can be characterized by the use of different storage modules. For example, storage modules with different storage capacities for folded layers can be provided. Such storage modules can, for example, have different lengths and / or different heights or different numbers of storage levels.

[0032] A further development can be characterized by the provision of several lifting modules on the folding machine, allowing several storage modules to be filled in parallel. The individual folded layers can be guided to the various lifting modules via a switch.

[0033] A further development of the folding machine can be characterized by the inclusion of a robot with a robot arm in the boom area, which is used to stack folded layers or stacks thereof onto pallets. The folding machine can include a diverter so that an operator or a control program can choose whether the folded layers are fed to the lifting module or the robot. For example, small runs can be stored in storage modules via the lifting module, and large runs can be stored or deposited onto pallets via the robot. Further training of the lifting module

[0034] A further development can be characterized in that the lifting level includes a movable belt for conveying the folded layers when storing or retrieving them.

[0035] A further development can be characterized by the fact that several storage modules can be docked to the hub module simultaneously, e.g., on different sides of the module. These storage modules can then be loaded one after the other or simultaneously. Further developments of the storage module

[0036] A further development can be characterized in that the storage levels each comprise a movable belt for conveying the folded layers during storage or removal. The belt can have means that enable the folded layers to be securely fixed during transport, e.g., stop surfaces oriented perpendicular to the belt.

[0037] A respective (transport) securing plate can be suspended above each storage level or above each individual stack. This plate can preferably be guided laterally on the storage module (e.g. on its side wall) for vertical movement. When filling (storing) and emptying (removing) the storage module, the plates can be pushed into an upper position. When moving the storage module, the plates can be placed on the stack: they rest on the stack with their weight and may also be spring-loaded. The upper position of the plates is preferably the same in each level; the lower position is determined by the respective stack height(s). The plates can be moved vertically by hand. Alternatively, the plates can be moved vertically by means of a drive; this drive is preferably arranged in the lifting module and is also coupled when the storage module is coupled to a respective lifting module.Before stacks are stored, all existing disks of the storage module are moved upwards via the coupling (if they are not already at the top), after storage they are moved downwards for transport security; before stacks are retrieved, all existing disks of the storage module are moved upwards via the coupling; after retrieval the disks preferably remain at the top.

[0038] A further development can be characterized by the fact that the storage module is equipped without its own drive for its storage levels, e.g. for its circulating belts.

[0039] A required drive can instead be provided in the lifting module and used for both the lifting module and the storage module (e.g. for the belts circulating there).

[0040] A further development can be characterized by the storage module storing folded sheets (or stacks of folded sheets) from different production orders. This is particularly useful for production orders with short runs.

[0041] A further development can be characterized by the storage module being pushed by an operator from the folding machine to the stapling or binding machine (or vice versa), or by the storage module being moved autonomously. For autonomous movement, a storage module must be equipped with a drive. Such an autonomous storage module can be designed as an AGV ("driverless transport vehicle").

[0042] A further development can be characterized in that two or more storage modules are coupled to one another and moved together when moving between the folding machine and the machine for stapling or binding.

[0043] A further development may be characterized by the storage module being mechanically docked to a respective lifting module of the folding machine or the stapling or binding machine. It may be provided to prevent or block mechanical docking if it is detected that the incorrect storage module is positioned on the lifting module.

[0044] A further development can be characterized by the storage module having multiple storage levels, each of which can be vertically adjusted. This allows the distance between the storage levels to be adjusted to varying stack heights.

[0045] A further development can be characterized by the storage levels of the storage module extending essentially horizontally or being horizontally aligned. This is particularly useful when storing stacks of horizontal folded layers.

[0046] Alternatively, the storage levels can be provided with an incline. This can be particularly useful when storing vertical folds. Alternatively, vertical folds can be stored in cassettes and these cassettes can be accommodated essentially horizontally in the storage modules and transported with them. Further training in the production process

[0047] A further development can be characterized by the individual folding layers or stacks of folding layers being provided with a respective code. The code can be generated in one (or more) printing presses upstream in the production process, or alternatively in the folding machine. The code can be a barcode or a QR code or similar, or alternatively an attached RFID chip or similar. The code can be used to uniquely identify the individual folding layers or stacks of folding layers. Identification can serve to ensure that no errors occur in the production process. For example, it can prevent the incorrect folding layers from being created.

[0048] A further development can be characterized by the fact that excess folded sheets are either ejected from the machine for stapling or binding as waste or stored in a storage module. Stored folded sheets can be transported with the storage module to a waste container for disposal.

[0049] The features and combinations of features disclosed in the above sections Technical Field, Invention and Further Developments as well as in the following section Exemplary Embodiments represent - in any desired combination with one another - further advantageous developments of the invention. Embodiments of the invention and figures

[0050] The Fig. Figures 1 to 5 show preferred embodiments of the invention and its further developments. Corresponding features are provided with the same reference numerals in the figures. Recurring reference numerals have been partially omitted for clarity.

[0051] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a sectional view of a preferred embodiment with a storage module, a lifting module and a folding machine or its boom, and schematically shows the storage process during operation. The storage of the folded layers 4 (from the machine 1 into one or more storage modules 40) takes place according to the Fig. 1. The machine 1 (folding machine; only partially shown) comprises a delivery device 2 (also only partially shown) with a preferably horizontal delivery direction 3 for folded layers 4 or stacks of such folded layers / stacks of folded layers 4 (horizontal delivery or horizontal storage). Such a machine 1 can be part of a system 20 comprising various machines 1 and 10.

[0052] The folded layers 4 pass from the boom 2 to a lifting module 30 or to its lifting plane 32, which can be moved in the direction 93 (“up and down”) when a drive 32a is actuated and can thus be positioned in vertical positions 92.

[0053] The movable lifting plane 32 comprises a conveyor element 33, which can preferably comprise a circulating belt 33a and rollers 33b for guiding the belt. The conveyor element 33 is driven, i.e., a drive 34 is provided, preferably a motor for one of the rollers 33b. Further below (in the description of the storage module), it will become clear that this drive 34 also represents (in the coupled state) a drive for a coupling device.

[0054] The folded layers 4 pass from the lifting module 30 to a storage module 40 (coupled in a docking area 53a). While the lifting module 30 is preferably arranged in a stationary manner (at the boom 2 or alternatively as part of the boom 2), the storage module 40 is designed to be mobile, preferably by providing wheels 43 and a handle 44, so that an operator can move the storage module 40 towards the lifting module 30 and away again (see directional double arrow 90).

[0055] The storage module 40 preferably comprises several storage levels 41 arranged one above the other for storing the folded layers 4, each of these levels comprising a conveyor element 42, preferably a circulating belt 42a and rollers 42b for guiding the belt. Since the lifting level 32 can move to different positions 92, it is possible to feed the folded layers 4 to the different storage levels 41 via the lifting level 32. The feeding takes place in the direction 91. This is preferably done in a controlled manner, ie a computer, e.g. the Fig. The computer 70 shown in Figure 3 controls the storage of the folded layers 4 according to the number of folded layer stacks 4 to be stored and the storage capacity of the storage modules 40 used. Preferably, the storage modules are filled completely; however, during a job change, it may also happen that a storage module is only partially filled.

[0056] To establish a coupling between a storage module 40 and a lifting module 30, a (multi-part) coupling device 50 is provided; this comprises a first coupling element 51 and a second coupling element 52. The first coupling element 51 is part of the lifting module 30; the second coupling element 52 is part of the storage module 40. The two coupling elements can be designed, for example, as gears that mesh when the two modules 30 and 40 are coupled. On the side of the storage module 40, each storage level 41 can comprise a second coupling element 52, i.e., the second coupling element can itself be multi-part, e.g., comprise several gears. The lifting level 32 can preferably be coupled to a storage level 41 in each of its vertical positions 92: thus, it can be provided, for example, that a gear of the lifting level couples with a respective gear of the storage level. In the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 and Fig. In Figure 5, such gears are shown as filled circles.

[0057] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a sectional view of a preferred embodiment with a storage module, a lifting module and a saddle stitcher, a perfect binder or a thread binder or their feeder and schematically the process of unloading during operation. The machine 10 (saddle stitcher, perfect binder or thread binder; only partially shown) comprises a feeder 11 (also only partially shown) with a preferably horizontal feed direction 12 for folded layers 4 or stacks of such folded layers / stacks of folded layers 4. The unloading of the folded layers 4 (from one or more storage modules 40 into the machine 10) takes place according to the Fig. 2; this process essentially takes place in the reverse order and in the reverse direction as during storage.

[0058] An at least partially loaded storage module 40 can be uncoupled by the operator and moved from machine 1 (folding machine) to machine 10 (saddle stitcher, perfect binder, or thread binder) and coupled there (docking area 53b). Uncoupling is preferably carried out simply by removing the storage module 40 from a predetermined position, e.g., away from a stop of the lifting module 30 of machine 1; coupling is carried out by moving it to a predetermined position on the lifting module 31, e.g., toward a stop of the lifting module 31 of machine 10.

[0059] Each stored folded layer stack 4 is moved to the lifting level 32 by means of the respective conveyor element 42 of the storage module 40 and the correspondingly vertically positioned and coupled conveyor element 33 of the lifting module 31. This then moves upwards with the stack 4; the stack 4 is then moved onto the feeder 11 (alternatively known as the feeder or insertion module) or its conveyor element 60, and finally into the machine 10 for further processing there. The conveyor element 60 can be designed to be extendable, e.g., as a circulating belt 61. Successive stacks 4 can be stacked on top of one another at the feeder 11, provided the individual folded layers are fed in from below.

[0060] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a top view of a preferred embodiment with several storage modules, several lifting modules and a saddle stitcher, an adhesive binder or a thread binder and schematically the process of unloading during operation.

[0061] It can be seen that several storage modules 40 can be coupled ("docked") to the feeder 11 of the machine 10. For this purpose, the feeder 11 comprises a known collecting section 13, which guides the folded layers 5 retrieved and collected from the storage modules 40 to a further processing station 14 (movement directions 91). It can also be seen that the feeders 11 and the lifting modules 31 are preferably movable in a direction 94, which facilitates the operator's access to the machine 10 or its collecting section 13, e.g., in the event of a malfunction.

[0062] It is preferably provided that each storage module 40 comprises a respective first control element 45a and each lifting module 30 or 31 a respective second control element 45b of a control device 45. The control elements 45a and 45b can communicate with each other and / or with a computer, e.g., the computer 70, via contacts or preferably contactlessly (e.g., via RFID; over a distance), whereby, for example, it is recognized which storage module should be placed on which lifting module; placement can be prevented if it is recognized that a storage module would not be placed on the correct lifting module for the production process. Preventing this can include a warning (acoustic and / or visual). Preventing this can include a mechanical solution, e.g., a lock (not shown) that blocks docking. Warning and lock can also be combined.

[0063] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of a plan view of a preferred embodiment with several storage modules, several lifting modules, a folding machine and a saddle stitcher, an adhesive binder or a thread binder and schematically the sequence of storage and retrieval during operation.

[0064] The exemplary system 20 shown comprises a folding machine 1 with a delivery unit 2 and a delivery direction 3, a lifting module 30, and preferably with a sensor 73 for detecting passing folded layer stacks 4 and a counter 74 for counting the stacks. Counting can be used to detect when a docked storage module is fully loaded or when another storage module needs to be loaded.

[0065] The system 20 further comprises a machine 10, e.g. a saddle stitcher, an adhesive binder or a thread binder, with several lifting modules 31, several feeders 11 with feeding directions 12 and preferably with a collecting section 13.

[0066] Finally, the system 20 comprises a "pool" of storage modules 40, which can be moved back and forth between the two machines 1 and 10 depending on production. The operation of the system 20, or rather, production, can be monitored and controlled by a computer 70: The computer 70 is connected, preferably wirelessly, to both machines 1 and 10 via respective connections 70 and 71. The computer 70 also knows the loading status of the individual storage modules 40, i.e., which folding layers 4 are stored in which modules 40. The computer can thus indicate to the operator which module 40 (these can, for example, be numbered or otherwise coded using known means) must be docked to which module 30 at what time; this can be done, for example, via display devices on the modules 30. If the modules 40 are optionally designed as AGVs ("driverless transport vehicles"), production can also be controlled autonomously, i.e., without the operator.

[0067] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a sectional view of a preferred embodiment with a storage module, a lifting module and a folding machine or its boom and schematically the process of storing during operation. While in Fig. 1 is stored lying down, is stored in Fig. 5 stored standing.

[0068] Vertical storage can be useful if the upstream machine 1 itself includes a delivery for vertical folded layers 4 and the downstream machine 10 allows the installation of vertically stored folded layers 4.

[0069] The upright storage of folded layers 4 - i.e., folded layers which are not essentially vertically stacked (arranged as vertical stacks), but essentially horizontally, possibly with an incline, next to one another (arranged as a horizontal stack) - can be advantageous, since more folded layers 4 can be stored per module 40. Conveyor elements 42 suitable for this purpose may, however, also need to be equipped with (front and, if applicable, end) supports for the row of upright folded layers 4; the supports may, for example, be adjustable to enable storage and retrieval. List of reference symbols 1 folding machine or folding machine 2 booms 3 Layout direction 4 folded layers or stacks of folded layers (lying) 5 fold layers 6 folded layers or stacks of folded layers (standing) 10 Machine for stapling or binding (saddle stitcher, perfect binder, thread binder) 11 investors 12 Docking direction 13 Collective route 14 Further processing station (stapling or perfect binding) 20 System consisting of folding machine and saddle stitcher / perfect binder / thread binder 30 lifting module(s) of the folding machine 31 lifting module(s) of the saddle stitcher / perfect binder / thread binder 32 lifting levels 32a Drive of the lifting level 33 Conveyor element 33a circumferential band, circumferential bands 33b rolls 34 Drive of the conveyor element 35 Drive of the coupling device 40 memory module(s) 41 storage levels 42 conveyor elements 42a circumferential band, circumferential bands 42b wheels 43 wheels 44 handle 45 Control device 45a first control element 45b second control element 50 coupling device 51 first coupling element 52 second coupling element 53a Docking area of ​​the folding machine 53b Docking area for saddle stitcher / perfect binder / thread binder 60 extendable conveyor element 61 rotating (extendable) belt 70 computers 71 Connection to the folding machine 72 Connection to saddle stitcher / perfect binder / thread binder 73 Sensor 74 points 90 Direction of movement of the storage module 91 directions of movement of folded layers / stacks 92 vertical position 93 Direction of movement lifting level(s) 94 Direction of movement of lifting module and feeder (in case of service) QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10344026A1

[0004] DE 102014114952A1

[0004] CN 205045337U

[0006] CN 113525483A

[0007]

Claims

[1] Folding machine with a delivery for laying out folded layers, characterized by , that the machine (1) comprises at least one lifting module (30) and at least one mobile storage module (40), wherein the storage module (40) is movable horizontally towards and away from the lifting module (30), that the lifting module (30) is arranged downstream of the boom (2) in the delivery direction (3) and that the lifting module (30) comprises a vertically positionable lifting plane (32) for the vertical positioning of several folding layers (4), and that the storage module (40) is arranged downstream of the lifting module (30) during the laying out of folded layers (4) and that the storage module (40) comprises at least two storage levels (41) arranged vertically one above the other and separately drivable for the respective storage of a plurality of folded layers (4). [2] Machine stapling or binding with several feeders for the respective application of fold layers, characterized by , that the machine (10) comprises several lifting modules (31) and at least one mobile storage module (40) for each lifting module (31), wherein the storage modules (40) are movable horizontally towards and away from the lifting modules (31), that each feeder (11) is preceded by a lifting module (31) in the feed direction (12) and that the respective lifting module (31) comprises a vertically positionable lifting plane (32) for the vertical positioning of several folded layers (4), and that a storage module (30) is arranged upstream of each lifting module (31) during the application of folded layers (4), and that the storage module (30) comprises at least two storage levels (41) arranged vertically one above the other and separately drivable for the respective removal of a plurality of folded layers (4). [3] Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the lifting plane (32) has a conveying element (33) for conveying during insertion or Storing the folded layers (4) in the respective vertical position (92) and having a drive (34) for the conveying element (33). [4] Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the storage levels (41) each have a conveying element (42) for conveying the folded layers (4) when they are stored or retrieved. [5] Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the storage levels (41) are designed to be coupled to the lifting level (32) for driving the storage levels (41) separately. [6] Machine according to claim 5, characterized by that the lifting level (32) comprises a driving first coupling element (51) of a coupling device (50) and each storage level (41) comprises a respective driven second coupling element (52) of the coupling device (50). [7] Providing and operating a system comprising at least one folding machine according to any one of claims 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 and at least one stapling or binding machine according to any one of claims 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, characterized by in that a plurality of mobile storage modules (40) are provided which a) are coupled one after the other to the lifting module (30) of the folding machine (1) during the laying out, each pick up folding layers (4) from the lifting module (30) of the folding machine (1) and store the picked up folding layers (4), then b) are each uncoupled from the lifting module (30) and transport the stored folding layers (4) from the machine (1) for folding to the machine (10) for stapling or binding and then c) are coupled in parallel to a respective lifting module (31) of the machine (10) during the laying out and deliver the transported folding layers (4) in parallel to the respective lifting module (31) of the machine (10). [8] Lifting module for folded sheets, suitable for use as a lifting module of a folding machine, a stapling or binding machine or in providing and operating a system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the lifting module (30, 31) comprises a vertically movable lifting plane (32) for the vertical positioning of several folding layers (4), and that the lifting plane (32) comprises a driving first coupling element (51) of a coupling device (50). [9] Lifting module according to claim 8, characterized by that the lifting plane (32) comprises a movable belt (33a) for conveying the folded layers (4) when they are stored or retrieved. [10] Mobile storage module for folded sheets, suitable for use as a storage module of a folding machine, a stapling or binding machine or in providing and operating a system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the storage module (40) comprises at least two storage levels (41) arranged vertically one above the other and separately drivable for the respective storage of a plurality of folded layers (4), and that the storage levels (41) comprise a respective driven second coupling element (52) of a coupling device (50). [11] Mobile memory module according to claim 10, characterized by that the storage levels (41) each comprise a movable belt (42a) for conveying the folded layers (4) when they are stored or retrieved. [12] Production process for producing further processed printed products from folded sheets, characterized bythat a plurality of lifting modules (30, 31) according to claim 8 or 9 and a plurality of storage modules (40) according to claim 10 or 11 are used, wherein one lifting module (30, 31) and one storage module (40) are temporarily coupled to one another via a coupling device (50), and wherein the coupling device (50) comprises the first coupling element (51) of the lifting module (30, 31) and a second coupling element (52) of the storage module (40).

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