Lifting and storage modules, machines and system and production method 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 claims. field of technology

[0002] The invention lies in the technical field of the graphic industry and there in particular in the area of ​​stapling or binding of assembled folded layers or the industrial, i.e. high-quality and high-productivity production (folding and subsequent stapling or binding) of products such as brochures, preferably made of printed paper. State of the art

[0003] Folding machines, saddle stitchers, perfect binders, and thread binders are already well-known in the field of print finishing. It is also already known to stack folded products onto 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] German patents DE10344026A1 and DE102014114952A1 each disclose the further processing of printed products in a folding machine and directly afterwards in a saddle stitcher. The transport of the products from the folding machine to the saddle stitcher is carried out in each case via a transport device arranged stationary between the machines, e.g. via an inclined roller table.

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

[0006] CN205045337U discloses a stationary storage rack with at least two stacked storage levels for storing pallets. Each level includes driven rollers for moving the pallets horizontally during storage or retrieval. The rack has an attached, stationary lifting device located laterally next to the levels. This lifting device moves the pallets vertically to the height of the respective levels during storage (and vice versa during retrieval). The lifting device includes a drive mechanism. The lifting device also includes driven rollers for moving the pallets horizontally during storage or retrieval. It remains unclear how the individual rollers are driven. The mobility of the rack as a whole is not addressed. Neither is the coupling and uncoupling of the rack from the lifting device.

[0007] CN113 525483 A discloses a movable carriage with a centrally arranged storage unit, 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 containers attached to them. The containers can be loaded and unloaded with goods, for which purpose they are conveyed horizontally to the respective loading or unloading unit. Both the loading and unloading units 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 the two lifting devices, the carriage has a complex design, and its manufacture is therefore presumably costly. 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 print finishing and in particular to reduce production and personnel times. Inventive solution to the problem

[0009] These problems are solved according to the invention by a folding machine (hereinafter referred to as a folding machine), a stapling machine or a binding machine (collectively referred to as a stapling or binding machine), in particular for saddle stitching (collecting folded layers and thread stitching or wire stitching; hereinafter referred to as a saddle stitcher), for adhesive binding or thread binding (adhesive binder or thread binder), the provision and operation of a system consisting of 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 claims.

[0010] Advantageous and therefore preferred embodiments of the invention are evident from the dependent claims as well as from the description and the drawings.

[0011] A folding machine according to the invention, with a boom for laying out folding 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 boom in the laying direction, and that the lifting module comprises a vertically positionable lifting plane for the vertical positioning of several folding layers, and that the storage module is arranged downstream of the lifting module during the laying out of folding layers, and that the storage module comprises at least two vertically arranged and separately driveable storage planes for the respective storage of several folding layers.

[0012] A machine according to the invention for stapling or binding with several feeders for the respective application of folded layers, is characterized in that the machine comprises several lifting modules and at least one mobile storage module per 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 several 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 vertically arranged and separately driveable storage planes for the respective unloading of several folded layers.

[0013] An inventive provision and operation of a system comprising at least one inventive folding machine and at least one inventive stapling or binding machine is characterized in that a plurality of mobile storage modules are provided, which a) are successively coupled to the lifting module of the folding machine during the setup process, each receiving folded layers from the lifting module of the folding machine and storing the received folded layers, then b) are each uncoupled from the lifting module and transport the stored folded 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 setup process and deliver the transported folded layers to the respective lifting module of the machine in parallel.

[0014] A lifting module according to the invention for folding layers, 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 one of the preceding claims, is characterized in that the lifting module comprises a vertically movable lifting plane for the vertical positioning of several folding layers, and 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 vertically arranged and separately driveable storage levels for the respective storage of several folded layers, and that the storage levels each comprise a driven second coupling element of a coupling device.

[0016] A production method according to the invention for manufacturing further processed, printed products from folded layers is characterized in that several lifting modules and several storage modules according to the invention are used, wherein one lifting module and one storage module are temporarily coupled to each other 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 forms and effects of the invention

[0017] The invention advantageously enables the workflow in the field of print finishing to be improved and, in particular, to reduce production and personnel times.

[0018] The invention improves the workflow in a printing plant between successive 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 an autonomous printing plant, particularly when the mobile storage modules are moved autonomously and the folded sheets are automatically transported 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, for example, in a combined (production) system consisting of various machines. The storage modules can temporarily store or buffer the folded layers and transport them between machines in the system. While the storage modules are mobile, e.g., on wheels, the lifting modules are preferably stationary at the machines. Storage modules and lifting modules can be coupled together, preferably creating a drive train for the storage elements (circulating belts) of the storage modules. An associated motor can be provided in the lifting module. The storage modules do not need to contain motors, making them lighter and more cost-effective.

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

[0021] The folded layers can be arranged in stacks, i.e., on top of each other, on the storage levels of the memory modules ("horizontal storage"). Preferably, several stacks are arranged side by side on each storage level. Alternatively, the folded layers can be arranged in a row, i.e., next to each other, on the storage levels of the memory modules ("vertical storage"). The memory modules can therefore be adapted to the different delivery modes of the folding machine (horizontal delivery, vertical delivery). Further developments of the invention

[0022] Preferred embodiments of the invention (hereinafter referred to as embodiments) are described below. These can also be combined with one another, unless technically precluded. Further training of the machines

[0023] A further development process can be characterized by the fact that the lifting platform includes a conveying element for transporting the folded layers in their respective vertical position during storage or removal, and a drive for the conveying element. The conveying element can be designed as a circulating belt. The belt can be driven, for example, by including a driven roller. Stops or support elements for folded layers or stacks thereof can also be provided on the belt.

[0024] A further development system can be characterized by the fact that each storage level has a conveying element for transporting the folded layers during storage or retrieval. The conveying element can be designed as a circulating belt. The belt can be driven indirectly, e.g., via the conveying element of the lifting device. Stops or support elements for folded layers or stacks thereof can also be provided on the belt.

[0025] A further development can be characterized by the fact that the storage levels, for separate driving of the storage levels, are each designed to be coupled to the lifting level. A respective conveying element of the storage level and the conveying element of the lifting level can be temporarily coupled, provided they are in 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 each other.

[0026] A further development can be characterized by the fact that the lifting level includes a driving first coupling element of a coupling device, and each storage level includes 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] Further training can be achieved by activating a warning device on the stapling or binding machine if the correct storage module is not positioned at the correct feeder. The warning can be visual or audible, for example. A red light and / or a loud tone can signal to the operator that they have not moved the storage module to the correct lifting module. Alternatively, the correct position can be indicated to the operator by a different light on another lifting module. The storage modules can also be numbered and equipped with transponders so that when a storage module approaches a series of lifting modules, an indicator light, such as a green light, is activated at the correct lifting module; this allows the operator to quickly and easily find the correct lifting module.Alternatively, the memory modules can be moved by computer control, ensuring that the correct memory modules (with the expected fold positions) are positioned in the right place at the right time.

[0028] Further training can be characterized by the fact that several storage modules are docked to the lifting module of the folding machine simultaneously and loaded concurrently or sequentially. It can also be designed to route folded layers through one storage module and feed them into another, downstream storage module.

[0029] A further training system can be characterized by the fact that a counter is activated when a storage module is loaded, and thus counts how many fold layers or stacks are stored from it. The count value can be saved and retrieved for verification when the storage module is unloaded.

[0030] Further training can be characterized by the inclusion of a computer that monitors and logs the loading of multiple memory modules, recording which (potentially different) fold layers, and if so, in what quantity, in which memory module, and if so, on which storage level (vertical position) and at which position on a storage level (horizontal position). In this way, the computer has comprehensive knowledge of where in the pool of memory modules which fold layers are currently temporarily stored and can thus contribute to workflow improvement, especially during spontaneous job changes.

[0031] Further training can be characterized by the use of different storage modules. For example, storage modules with varying capacities can be provided for folding layers. Such storage modules can, for example, have different lengths and / or heights, or different numbers of storage levels.

[0032] Further training can be characterized by the fact that the folding machine is equipped with several lifting modules, allowing multiple storage modules to be filled simultaneously. The individual folded layers can be guided to the different lifting modules via a diverter.

[0033] A further development of the folding machine can be characterized by the integration of a robot with a robotic arm within its boom area. This robotic arm is used to stack folded sheets or layers of these sheets onto pallets. The folding machine can also include a switch, allowing an operator or a control program to select whether the folded sheets are fed to the lifting module or the robot. For example, small print runs can be stored in storage modules via the lifting module, while large print runs can be stored or placed onto pallets by the robot. Further training courses for the hub module

[0034] Further training can be characterized by the fact that the lifting plane includes a movable belt for conveying when storing or removing the folded layers.

[0035] A further training system 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, if necessary. Further training for the storage module

[0036] A further development system can be characterized by the fact that each storage level includes a movable belt for conveying the folded layers during loading and unloading. The belt can have features that allow the folded layers to be securely fixed during transport, e.g., stop surfaces oriented perpendicular to the belt.

[0037] A (transport) securing plate can be suspended above each storage level or individual stack. For vertical movement, this plate is preferably guided laterally on the storage module (e.g., on its side wall). During filling (storage) and emptying (removal) of the storage module, the plates can be pushed into an upper position. When the storage module is moved, the plates can rest on the stacks: they are supported by 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 manually in a vertical direction. Alternatively, the plates can be moved vertically by means of a drive mechanism; this drive is preferably located in the lifting module and is also coupled to the respective lifting module when the storage module is connected.Before storing stacks, all existing disks of the storage module are moved upwards via the coupling (if they are not already at the top); after storing, they are moved downwards for transport protection; before storing stacks, all existing disks of the storage module are moved upwards via the coupling; after storing, the disks preferably remain at the top.

[0038] Further training 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] Further training can be characterized by the fact that the storage module can record folded sheets (or stacks of such folded sheets) from different production orders. This is particularly useful for production orders with small print runs.

[0041] Further training can be characterized by the fact that the storage module is pushed by an operator from the folding machine to the stapling or binding machine (or vice versa), or that the storage module moves autonomously. For autonomous movement, a storage module must be equipped with a drive. Such an autonomous storage module can be designed as an AGV ("automated guided vehicle").

[0042] Further training can be characterized by the fact that two or more storage modules are coupled together and moved together when moving between the folding machine and the machine for stapling or binding.

[0043] Further training can be characterized by the fact that the storage module is mechanically docked to a respective lifting module of the folding machine or the stapling or binding machine. It may be provided that mechanical docking is not permitted or is locked if it is detected that the wrong storage module is positioned on the lifting module.

[0044] A further development system can be characterized by the fact that the storage module has several storage levels, the respective positions of which in the vertical plane can be changed. In this way, the distance between the storage levels can be adjusted to varying stack heights.

[0045] Further training can be characterized by the fact that the storage levels of the storage module extend essentially horizontally or are horizontally oriented. This is particularly useful when storing stacks of horizontally folded layers.

[0046] Alternatively, the storage levels can be inclined. This can be particularly useful when storing vertically folded sheets. Alternatively, vertically folded sheets can be stored in cassettes, and these cassettes can be inserted into the storage modules and transported with them in a substantially horizontal manner. Further training in the production process

[0047] Further processing can be characterized by the fact that each folded layer or stack of folded layers is marked with a unique code. This code can be generated in one (or more) printing presses upstream in the production process, or alternatively, within the folding machine itself. The code can be a barcode, a QR code, or something similar, or alternatively, an attached RFID chip or similar technology. The code can be used to uniquely identify each folded layer or stack of folded layers. This identification can ensure that no errors occur in the production process. For example, it can prevent the incorrect folded layers from being applied.

[0048] Further training can be characterized by the fact that excess folded layers at the stapling or binding machine are either removed as waste paper or stored back in a buffer module. Stored folded layers can then be transported with the buffer module to a waste container and disposed of there.

[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 combination with each other – further advantageous developments of the invention. Exemplary embodiments of the invention and figures

[0050] The Figures 1 to 5The figures show preferred embodiments of the invention and its further developments. Corresponding features are identified by the same reference numerals in the figures. For clarity, some reference numerals that are repeated in the figures have been omitted.

[0051] Figure 1 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 illustrates the storage process during operation. The storage of the folded layers 4 (from machine 1 into one or more storage modules 40) is carried out according to the procedure shown in Figure 1. Figure 1The process shown is as follows. Machine 1 (folding machine; only partially shown) comprises a delivery unit 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 consisting of different machines 1 and 10.

[0052] The folding layers 4 are conveyed 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 platform 32 comprises a conveying element 33, which preferably includes a circulating belt 33a and rollers 33b for guiding the belt. The conveying element 33 is driven, i.e., a drive 34 is provided, preferably a motor for one of the rollers 33b. It will become clear below (in the description of the storage module) that this drive 34 also (in the coupled state) represents a drive for a coupling device.

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

[0055] The storage module 40 preferably comprises several stacked storage levels 41 for storing the folded layers 4, each of these levels comprising a conveying 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 preferably occurs in a controlled manner, i.e., a computer, e.g., the one in Figure 3 The computer 70 shown controls the storage of the folding layers 4 according to the number of folding layer stacks 4 to be stored and the storage capacity of the memory modules 40 used. Preferably, the memory modules are completely filled; however, during a job change, it can also happen that a memory 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, for example, be designed as gears which 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., comprising several gears. The lifting level 32 can preferably be coupled to a storage level 41 in each of its vertical positions 92: thus, for example, it can be provided that a gear of the lifting level couples with a respective gear of the storage level. In the Figures 2 , 3 and 5These gears are represented as filled circles.

[0057] Figure 2 Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment with a storage module, a lifting module, and a collating machine, a perfect binder, or a thread binder, or their feeders, and schematically illustrates the unloading process during operation. The machine 10 (collecting machine, 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 process shown in Figure 1. Figure 2 The process shown is essentially the reverse of the process and the reverse of the saving process.

[0058] A partially loaded storage module 40 can be detached by the operator and moved from machine 1 (folding machine) to machine 10 (collecting machine, perfect binder, or thread binder) and coupled there (docking area 53b). Detachment is preferably achieved simply by removing the storage module 40 from a predefined position, e.g., away from a stop of the lifting module 30 of machine 1; coupling is achieved by moving it to a predefined position at the lifting module 31, e.g., towards a stop of the lifting module 31 of machine 10.

[0059] Each stored stack of folded layers 4 is moved to the lifting level 32 by means of the corresponding conveying element 42 of the storage module 40 and the vertically positioned and coupled conveying 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 (alternative designation: feeder or insertion module) or its conveying element 60 and finally into the machine 10 for further processing. The conveying element 60 can be extendable, e.g., as a circulating belt 61. Successive stacks 4 can be placed on top of each other at the feeder 11, provided that the individual folded layers are drawn in from below.

[0060] Figure 3shows a schematic representation of a top view of a preferred embodiment with several storage modules, several lifting modules and a collating binder, a glue binder or a thread binder and schematically the process of unloading during operation.

[0061] It is evident that several storage modules 40 can be coupled ("docked") to the feeder 11 of the machine 10: For this purpose, the feeder 11 includes a known collection section 13, which carries the folded layers 5, retrieved and collected from the storage modules 40, to a further processing station 14 (directions of movement 91). It is also evident that the feeder 11 and the lifting modules 31 are preferably movable in one direction 94, which facilitates access to the machine 10 or its collection section 13 for the operator, 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 comprises 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 determined which storage module is to be placed on which lifting module; placement can be prevented if it is detected that a storage module would not be placed on the correct lifting module for the production process. Prevention can include a warning (acoustic and / or visual). Prevention can also include a mechanical solution, e.g., a lock (not shown) that blocks docking. Warning and lock can also be combined.

[0063] Figure 4shows a schematic representation of a top view of a preferred embodiment with several storage modules, several lifting modules, a folding machine and a collating stapler, a perfect binder or a thread binder and schematically the process of storing and retrieving data during operation.

[0064] The exemplary system 20 shown comprises a folding machine 1 with a boom 2 and a delivery direction 3, a lifting module 30, and preferably with a sensor 73 for detecting passing stacks of folded layers 4 and with a counter 74 for counting the stacks. The counting can serve to recognize 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 collating machine, a perfect binder or a thread binder, with several lifting modules 31, several feeders 11 with feeder directions 12 and preferably with a collating section 13.

[0066] System 20 comprises a pool of storage modules 40, which can be moved back and forth between machines 1 and 10 depending on production requirements. The operation of System 20, and thus production, can be monitored and controlled by a computer 70. The computer 70 is preferably wirelessly connected to both machines 1 and 10 via connections 70 and 71. The computer 70 also knows the loading status of each storage module 40, i.e., which fold layers 4 are stored in which modules 40. The computer can therefore display to the operator which module 40 (these can be numbered or otherwise coded using known methods) must be docked to which module 30 at any given time; this can be done, for example, via display devices on the modules 30. If the modules 40 are optionally configured as AGVs (automated guided vehicles), production can also be controlled autonomously, i.e., without operator intervention.

[0067] Figure 5 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 illustrates the storage process during operation. While in Figure 1 When stored lying down, it is in Figure 5 stored standing up.

[0068] Standing storage can be useful if the upstream machine 1 itself includes a boom for standing folded layers 4 and the downstream machine 10 allows the creation of standing stored folded layers 4.

[0069] Storing folded layers 4 in a standing position – i.e., folded layers that are not essentially stacked vertically on top of each other (arranged as vertical stacks), but essentially horizontally, possibly with an incline, next to each other (arranged as a horizontal stack) – can be advantageous, as more folded layers 4 can potentially be stored per module 40. Suitable conveying elements 42 may, however, need to be additionally equipped with (front and, if applicable, end) supports for the row of standing folded layers 4; these supports can, for example, be adjustable to facilitate loading and unloading. Reference symbol list

[0070] 1 Folding machine 2 Delivery head 3 Delivery direction 4 Folded layers or stacks of folded layers (horizontal) 5 Folded layers 6 Folded layers or stacks of folded layers (vertical) 10 Stitching or binding machine (collecting machine, perfect binder, thread binder) 11 Feeder 12 Feeding direction 13 Collecting section 14 Processing station (stapling or perfect binding) 20 System consisting of folding machine and collating machine / perfect binder / thread binder 30 Lifting module(s) of the folding machine 31 Lifting module(s) of the collating machine / perfect binder / thread binder 32 Lifting level(s) 32a Drive of the lifting level 33 Conveyor element 33a Circulating belt(s) 33b Rollers 34 Drive of the conveyor element 35 Drive of the coupling device 40 Storage module(s) 41 Storage level(s) 42 Conveyor elements 42 Circulating belt,Circulating belts 42b Rollers 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 at the folding machine 53b Docking area at the collating / perfect binder / thread binder 60 Extendable conveyor element 61 Circulating (extendable) belt 70 Computer 71 Connection to the folding machine 72 Connection to the collating / perfect binder / thread binder 73 Sensor 74 Counter 90 Direction of movement memory module 91 Directions of movement folding layers / stacks 92 Vertical position 93 Direction of movement lifting plane(s) 94 Direction of movement lifting module and feeder (in case of service)

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 thatthe machine (10) comprises a plurality of 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 folding layers (4), and that a storage module (30) is arranged upstream of each lifting module (31) during the application of folded layers (4), and in that the storage module (30) comprises at least two storage levels (41) arranged vertically one above the other and which can be driven separately for the respective removal of a plurality of folded layers (4).

3. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by thatthe lifting plane (32) has a conveying element (33) for conveying the folded layers (4) in the respective vertical position (92) when storing or retrieving them, and 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 one of claims 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 and at least one stapling or binding machine according to one of claims 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, characterized by 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) to the respective lifting module (31) of the machine (10) in parallel.

8. Lifting module for folding layers, 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 storing or retrieving them.

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 by thatthe storage module (40) comprises at least two vertically superimposed and separately drivable storage levels (41) for the respective storage of several folding layers (4), and that the storage levels (41) comprise a respective driven second coupling element (52) of a coupling device (50).

11. Mobile storage 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 storing or retrieving them.

12. Production processes for producing further processed printed products from folded sheets, characterized by thata 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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