Mechanism and method for performing cutting operations on format edges of at least one printed product formed with flap fold or cover

Abstract

To provide a mechanism capable of processing, without stopping the clock, even printed products spread with a flap fold or a cover.SOLUTION: In a mechanism for performing cutting operations on at least one open format edge of at least one printed product (A), a cutting station operable for carrying out front cut is provided with an intermediate station on an input side. The intermediate station is equipped with elements (E1, E2) for creating a spread (SP) of a flap fold (AKF) belonging to the printed product or of a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product. The first element (E1) has a configuration which, in operative connection with a translation (502) of the printed product, initiates the spreading of the flap fold or of the cover, and consolidates opening of the spreading. The second element (E2) has a configuration that allows the printed product to be transported, with the flap fold or cover spread, via a further translation (503) to the front cut location.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a mechanism for performing a cutting operation of the open format edges of at least one printed product, i.e. for trimming at least one of the top, front and bottom edges, according to the structure of the present application and as variously known in the prior art. In the following, reference is also made to a "three-side trimmer" commercially named by the applicant as "InfiniTrim".

[0002] The concept of "open format edge" is understood to mean the top, fore-edge and bottom parts (also called top edge, fore-edge and bottom edge) of a printed product, i.e. whether or not the printed product consists of individual pages or signatures and furthermore whether or not a final secondary processing of such a printed product has been carried out.

[0003] Here, in order to industrially produce printed products, also known as book blocks or brochures, in small or minimum runs of up to one copy, so-called three-sided paper cutters are used, which can cut several products of the same or variable format and thickness one after the other to the desired format with high clock output, without interruptions in production and with the best cutting quality.

[0004] In the case of a cutting mechanism with three cutting stations, the printed products, i.e. usually book blocks or brochures, are cut to the final format at the top, bottom and fore-edge with a given thickness. The printed products are bound in one unit at the spine in a proper manner. As a binding method, all known operating methods are considered, examples being thread stitching, perfect binding, saddle stitching, etc.

[0005] Newer generations of these three-edge trimmers are used either as stand-alone machines or in-line machines coupled to another manufacturing facility or production line, such as, for example, a perfect binder, among many others. [Background technology]

[0006] The task of this mechanism, also referred to below as "three-edge trimmer", is to trim the received printed product, usually a book block and / or a brochure (also generally referred to as the printed product), at the three open edges of the printed product or book block and / or brochure. This is done in that the book block or brochure is clamped in a press unit, preferably between press strips or press plates, immediately before the cutting operation and then cut to size via three cutting operations (top, fore-edge, bottom edge). The sequence of these cutting operations is not fixed in itself and may vary depending on the product.

[0007] Furthermore, three-side guillotines are known in which the book block is pressed and clamped between a press punch and a cutting cassette for the cutting operation. When the press punch is raised, the cut book block is removed and a new printed product to be cut is introduced. A centering mechanism brings the printed product into its defined position and it is then clamped by the lowering press punch. A knife moves with a swing cut towards the book and thus performs the cutting operation. After all edges have been cut off, the press punch is raised and the next work cycle can begin. This three-side guillotine configuration is however not suitable for a quick changeover of the format. The press punch and also the cutting cassette are tailored to the format to be processed and can only be exchanged or changed by stopping the machine.

[0008] Patent document 1 discloses a mechanism for performing a cutting operation on a printed product, which basically comprises a feed device, via which the printed product is transported to a first cutting station, and which also comprises a discharge device, via which the printed product is further fed after passing through a third cutting station, with a second cutting station arranged between the two, which performs a front edge cut. The printed product is thus transferred successively from one cutting station to the next, from a first cutting location, where a cutting operation for a first format edge of the printed product, which may be a top or bottom cut, is performed, to a second cutting location, where a front edge cut is performed, and then the printed product is transported to a third cutting location, where a cutting operation for a third format edge, which may be a bottom or top cut, from one cutting location to the next, on the basis of at least one transport unit, which has at least one catching means (gripper), by means of which the printed product is caught in a force-coupled manner at its back side and is transported from one cutting location to the next in such a way that it is fed in a suspended state. This is the main feature of the mechanism.

[0009] Further reference should be made as prior art to US Pat. No. 5,399,433, which is substantially based on US Pat. No. 5,399,433, which application has been further developed in such a way that the cutting operation on the edge is now performed with one cutting tool in at least one cutting location, and if necessary in all three cutting locations, and optionally after the first cutting operation on the edge, at least a second cutting operation on the edge can be performed subsequently. Taking as an example a subsequent second partial cut at the fore-edge of the printed product, i.e. at the second cutting location, the following method is adopted to achieve this additional partial cut: a) after the first partial cut has been performed, the printed product is briefly clamped in a force-locking manner by a gripper belonging to the transport unit of the transport device, and then a clamping device serving to perform a cutting operation on the printed product is slightly opened, so that the printed product is no longer restricted in movement by this clamping device, i.e. the printed product is now held in a suspended state by the gripper; b) in the meantime, the grippers belonging to the transport unit exert a force connection in situ on the printed product, whereby the printed product subsequently assumes a temporary local positioning when the clamping device is subsequently released; c) while the opening of the clamping device continues, a transport unit belonging to the transport mechanism moves the clamped printed product downwards by a defined amount, precisely the amount planned for the second partial cut, so that also for this subsequent cut the original plane of the knife remains unchanged; d) after the movement by the cutting amount has been carried out, the clamping unit of the clamping device again exerts a force connection on the printed product in time with the gripper of the transport unit; e) immediately before the start of the second partial cut, a pressing of the printed product by a preferably bar-shaped pressing unit in relation to the cutting location is carried out in a reintervening manner, the pressing unit exerting a final pressing on the printed product in the area of ​​the cutting plane; f) After completion of the second partial cut, the press unit returns in time coordination with the cutting tool, opens the clamping jaws or press strips of the clamping device, and the printed product is then fed further to the third cutting location by another transport unit of the transport mechanism.

[0010] To avoid unnecessary repetition of this process, please refer to FIG. 17 and the specification of US Pat. No. 5,999,333. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0011] [Patent Document 1] European Patent No. 3285978 [Patent Document 2] European Patent Application Publication No. 3482892 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0012] The problem underlying the present invention is to provide a mechanism configured as a three-side cutting machine, which starts from the above-mentioned protection rights but which has nevertheless been developed with an inventive step in such a way that in addition to the previously customary operation, the mechanism according to the invention can now also process printed products which are extended by at least one flap turn-up or cover, when required, without interrupting the clock. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] According to the invention, the cutting operation in the region of the front edge cut is important here, which, as already mentioned, is carried out on the one hand according to known operating modes, but on the other hand is newly extended by a flap fold or cover, and is characterized by a cutting operation in which the original configuration of the flap fold or cover must remain intact during the course of the front edge cut to be carried out, i.e., in which it is important to timely capture the printed product, which must not be cut off together, which would directly lead to the destruction of the printed product. This is achieved in that measures are taken before the front edge cut, which are aimed at maintaining the configuration of the underlying area of ​​the flap fold or cover as a whole. The remaining cutting operations, i.e. the top and bottom cuts, remain untouched and can be carried out within the normal framework.

[0014] In the case of a flap fold or cover, the particular configuration of the jacket of the printed product is at issue, the printed product having at least one configuration that is mounted facing inward or outward of the printed product, and when referring to printed products, printed products include books, brochures, magazines, etc.

[0015] That is, the point of the invention is to propose a mechanism and a method in which, on the one hand, the cutting operation performed during this front edge cut is basically performed as before, and, on the other hand, the invention proposes a mechanism and a method in which the flap fold or cover of the printed product is not affected by the front edge cut. In other words, one or more cutting operations during the front edge cut are performed in such a way that the flap fold or cover of the causal configuration is not subject to the cutting operation. This is achieved in that a pre-planned advantageous opening (spreading) of the flap fold or cover is introduced before the cutting operation and the magnitude of this opening (spreading) is maintained at least until the end of the cutting operation.

[0016] The reason why spreading is required even in the case of a pure cover, i.e. without a flap fold, is that the cover may be constructed with special dimensions relative to the fore-edge to be cut, which may be destroyed by the cutting operation, for example whenever the cover is purposely provided to be slightly recessed or slightly protruding relative to the edge to be cut.

[0017] The invention is based on a three-edge cutting machine and a method for operating the same, which allows for continuous processing of printed products of the same or different formats and thicknesses, i.e. cutting to a defined format size, with high cutting power and cutting quality, even when the printed products are formed with at least one flap fold or cover, and even when the flap fold or cover can be configured differently, for example, alone or on both sides and arranged facing inwards or outwards.Furthermore, further configurations according to the invention are therefore encompassed, which are directed to cutting printed products with flap folds or covers.

[0018] In the area of ​​the front edge cut, including the process when the printed product is equipped with at least one flap fold or cover, the invention allows for various translations and measures for the printed product, with the central feature being the passage of the printed product (also called book block or book body) before the front edge cut through an integrated intermediate station (intermediate station) which, on the one hand, is provided with elements for initiating and strengthening the opening of the flap fold or cover and, on the other hand, with further measures which can then be provided to maintain or even increase this opening up to the front edge cut.

[0019] In this case, it is essential for the invention that, when at least one flap or cover is present according to the invention, the front edge cut can still be carried out in the manner described above, and the measures introduced in such cases make it possible for the cutting operation to be carried out while 100% maintaining the predefined geometrical configuration of the flap or cover. It must therefore be ensured that the flap fold or cover remains untouched during this cutting operation, whether in a one-sided or two-sided design, and in terms of the flap fold, whether it is located inside, outside or both of the printed product, i.e. the elements according to the invention used ensure that the performance of the front edge cut is limited to the body of the printed product, which is to be observed separately from the cover of the printed product, and this can only be reliably achieved if the spreading of the flap fold or cover nevertheless occupies and maintains an effective and sustainable opening during the entire duration of this cutting operation, and when forming this spreading, it must be taken care of for quality reasons that the flap fold or cover does not undergo any residual folding or buckling, i.e. the spreading with respect to the substance always behaves reversibly with respect to shape and structure after the performance of the front edge cut.

[0020] During the translation of the book block to be carried out after the first cutting operation (top or bottom edge), the printed product in the meantime, i.e. upstream of the cutting operation for the front edge cut, passes through an intermediate station in which the flap flaps or covers are subjected to a softened spreading by the elements acting therein, thus providing the prerequisite for the flap flaps or covers to be continuously cut off during the front edge cut, the opening being such that the ends of the flap flaps or covers are softly lifted, i.e. spread, before the actual front edge cut, but only to the extent that no residual deformation of the structure of the flap flaps or covers occurs, the same also applies to the further transport of the flap flaps or covers in this cutting station. The goal of this procedure is that the original structure (elasticity) and properties of the flap flaps or covers are kept intact during this spreading, i.e. no residual deformation of the flap flaps or covers occurs at all.

[0021] In the case of three-side cutting machines which capture the printed product in a force-coupled manner along the transport section, i.e. from one cutting station to the next, an adapted translation of the printed product is basically carried out which maximizes its correspondence with the respective cutting operation, and here what should be emphasized in the context of the present invention is the translation of the printed product in an interactive relationship with the front edge cut.

[0022] This first translation, which is focused on here, concerns the transport of the printed product from the preceding cutting station towards the station performing the front edge cut, which transport can be carried out in various ways: a) On the one hand, this translation can be carried out in a stepped procedure, in which the printed product first travels from the location of the preceding cutting operation in a vertical or verticalized section up to the working height of an intermediate station provided at the beginning of the cutting station for the front edge cut, and then subsequently the printed product undergoes a horizontal translation and is first transferred to the intermediate station, which is provided with elements which can introduce or strengthen or increase the spreading of the flap fold or cover. This increase in spreading is envisaged in case the opening of the flap fold or cover resulting from this spreading is not sufficient to guarantee the final goal. b) On the other hand, such a translation can also be carried out in that the printed product is transported starting from the place of the preceding cutting operation, based on a path section between successive sectors in the form of a transverse hyperbola, to an intermediate station, whereupon the further course then again follows a).

[0023] The elements of the intermediate station provided for this purpose therefore have the function of introducing measures which are causally used to ensure that the integrity of the flap fold or cover is maintained throughout during the cutting process for the subsequent front edge cut, i.e., by suitable spreading, the flap fold and cover are preserved so that the subsequent cutting operation can be carried out successfully under optimal conditions, including in particular press technical measures which achieve optimal pressing of the printed product before and between the front edge cuts.

[0024] By introducing this spreading (opening when lifting and / or deflecting), in particular with respect to the flap fold or cover, it is desirable to provide a space situation in which the cutting operation can be carried out with the best possible clamping of the printed product in terms of force, preferably with a direct effect on the dynamics of the cutting device operated by at least one knife. For this purpose, the intermediate station consists of a body, preferably in the form of an opening fin, over the contour of which the printed product with the flap fold or cover (book block) is transported. This opening fin penetrates with its tip into the book block between the flap fold or cover and the printed product body, thereby introducing the dynamics that lead to the spreading opening. This tip first introduces a position-dependent opening, which provides the basis for the flap fold or cover to subsequently slide through the opening edge of the opening fin, thus introducing a defined opening of the flap fold or cover relative to the book block body, thus essentially providing the basis for the subsequent cutting operation now to be carried out reliably, independently of the dimensioning and configuration of the flap fold or cover.

[0025] In our case, the jacket of the printed product has various designs formed as flap folds or covers, the flap folds themselves may be arranged either towards the inside or towards the outside of the book block, and there may be such flap folds or covers on both sides of the book block. Regarding the opening of the cover, please see the explanation under paragraph 0016. The opening fin itself consists of the following: a) have an open edge that is initially disposed in the flow direction, the open edge extending horizontally, approximately horizontally or obliquely; b) having an opening blade following the opening edge and beginning with the opening blade in the form of an integrally molded edge; c) The opening point of the printed product is generally defined by the opening edge and the opening blade in their mutual interaction, and in particular this opening point is given when the printed product abuts against the opening fin and the opening of the flap fold or cover begins or is introduced.

[0026] The translation for the introduction and creation of the flap fold or cover opening can be performed continuously, i.e. without stopping before the opening edge of the first element, but by pausing just before said opening edge, thus providing the prerequisite for the introduction of the flap fold or cover opening to be assisted efficiently by a statically acting air jet, which can also be realised during the continuous transport of the printed product, i.e. without stopping before the opening edge, regardless of whether the cut or not yet cut part of the printed product is running towards the opening edge.

[0027] Furthermore, the intermediate station has a first element in the form of the already mentioned opening fin, which is used to introduce and strengthen the spreading of the flap fold or cover, in interaction with another element, preferably extending over the entire operational extent of the cutting station for carrying out the front edge cut, which is used to maintain and increase, if necessary, the initial spreading of the flap fold or cover, i.e. the opening fin firstly guides the spreading generated onto one or two rails extending parallel to each other in the area of ​​the front edge cut, which rails extend along the entire operational extent of the cutting station, as already explained above, and which run parallel to either side of the path of the printed product, so that printed products with two, i.e. double or double, flap folds or covers can also be processed.

[0028] The distance between the two parallel rails depends on the thickness of the respective printed product, which can be adjusted by a controlled unit, preferably only one rail achieving the required distance by means of a mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic or electrical drive. Nevertheless, it is also possible for both rails to assume the necessary motion control for forming the new distance, either simultaneously or with a phase shift, and in the latter case, it is further to be taken into account that this can result in a lateral shift of the pressing strips or pressing bars relative to the original cutting technical flow, and the motion control of both rails can be accommodated by these very pressing strips or pressing bars quantitatively compensating for the shift between the rails, so that a new adapted cutting plane of the printed product is defined, and such a correction can avoid a qualitatively less than optimal cutting quality.

[0029] These rails are essentially formed in the form of a convex or nearly convex trough and have the role of continuing the expansion induced by the opening fins and maintaining that degree of openness at least up to the fore-end cut, and the progression of the convexity or inclination of the rails may be configured such that such expansion can increase in strength up to the fore-end cut.

[0030] A multiple cut in a printed product having a flap fold or cover may also be part of the subject matter of the present invention, in which case it should be taken into account that for both configurations, during the first partial cut, depending on the circumstances, the initial spreading of the flap fold or cover may be omitted and is only used during the subsequent further cut of the flap fold or cover, in which case, for operational reasons, it is however easier to provide the spreading of the flap fold or cover from the very beginning with a sufficiently strong spreading, in which case the infrastructure of the cutting operation must be adapted accordingly to the process, so that as a variant, it can be taken into account without any particular problem for the printed product to be guided back to the previous opening fin after the first partial cut, whereby the spreading of the flap fold or cover is then carried out as described in more detail further above, with this flow ensuring that the physical integrity of the flap fold or cover is maintained.

[0031] By means of the three-sided cutter underlying here, which is integrated according to the invention with the unfolding of the flap fold or cover, new configurations of the printed product (flap fold, cover) can be processed and new types of printed products can be realized in operation both in large runs and in small runs (down to one copy), so that this operation is carried out with a consistent clock and without stops due to the continuous adaptation inside the machine when the format and thickness of the printed product differs, regardless of whether the cutting procedure is carried out in a single run or with multiple partial cuts.

[0032] In summary, the invention is characterized as follows and the problem is solved by an arrangement and a method in which a cutting operation is performed at at least one open format edge of at least one printed product, with respect to the arrangement comprising at least one feed device, which is in an interaction with a first cutting station, in which at least one cutting operation is performed on a first format edge present therein, and at least one discharge device, which is in an interaction with a last cutting station, in which a cutting operation for a second format edge of the printed product is performed, and between the first and last cutting operations at least one further intermediate cutting station is arranged, in which a cutting operation for a front edge cut of the printed product is performed.

[0033] The printed product itself is held during the cutting operation by at least one clamping device (sometimes also called a pressing device), which applies a pressing force interacting with the cutting device, the printed product is fed in a suspended state from one cutting station to the next by at least one transport unit having a gripping means for exerting a force, the cutting station operable for the front edge cut comprises at least one first element on the inlet side, the contour of which is such that it introduces an opening in the transport direction to the flap fold or cover of the printed product and also realizes an opening of the opening, which is set so that a subsequent front edge cut can generally be performed at this location without restrictions, whether at the location of the opening or at the location of the downstream originally intended cutting operation. In this way, in the case of a front edge cut performed directly at the cutting location where the opening occurs, the cutting operation is brought forward with respect to the original process. This would provide the advantage that the flap fold or the unfolding of the cover no longer has to be guided through further processing.

[0034] Nevertheless, starting from the three-side cutting machine extended according to the invention, in the case of printed products having an implemented flap fold or cover, at least one second element is arranged directly downstream of the first element, which at least takes over the spreading previously given by the first element and either maintains this spreading in terms of size up to the front edge cut or increases this spreading, in a regular or irregular progression, with the final purpose of performing the front edge cut operation with a sufficient safety distance relative to the flap fold or cover.

[0035] In normal cases, the printed product has at least one flap fold or cover, which can be either inwardly or outwardly configured. If the printed product has two flap folds or covers arranged on the book side (see paragraph 0016 above), reliable unfolding is only achieved if the elements provided for this are used on both sides of the printed product being conveyed. In such cases, which are usually the basic configuration of the mechanism according to the invention, two first elements and two second elements are arranged, which are arranged at a distance from each other and guided parallel, the degree of this distance being controlled by mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical means in such a way that a distance is provided depending on the respective thickness of the printed product, i.e. such a mechanism can therefore feed printed products of different thicknesses to the front edge cut without interruption. Such spacing adaptation is preferably achieved even when a flap fold or cover is present on one side, so that the printed product receives adequate lateral support as it is transported along the unused second element towards the front edge cut.

[0036] Concerning the form and operation of the opening bodies (formed as opening fins), reference is made here to paragraphs 0024-0030 in order to avoid unnecessary repetition. In particular, what is important here for this basic description of the invention is the description that the opening fins have a bifurcating opening blade which, at the beginning of its translation, penetrates into the printed product in the area of ​​the flap fold or cover, thus introducing a causal opening between the flap fold or cover and the printed product body. Another design of the opening fins has a flow-matched contour that gradually increases in the conveying direction, which contour ensures that the opening of the flap fold or cover is gently widened to a predetermined amount, up to an opening where the front edge cut can be performed without putting stress on the flap fold or cover. If it is desired that this initial spreading be maintained in the cutting station up to the further downstream fore-edge cut, the already mentioned second element intervenes, which extends along the conveying section and preferably has the form of a convex or approximately convex extending trough. This trough may have a regular extension in the conveying direction, so that the spreading provided by the opening fins is maintained up to the effective fore-edge cut. This trough may, however, have an extension designed for increased spreading, so that the initial spreading in the conveying direction is subjected to an increased opening, in which case there can be more free space for the flap turn-up or the cover when the fore-edge is cut. To support the trough, further guide plates may be provided.

[0037] Clamping devices for providing a clamping force, arranged in the second cutting station, act stationary on one side of the printed product while feeding on the other side. It is nevertheless possible that the clamping force can be realised by a feeding movement on both sides of the printed product. These clamping devices consist of individual press strips arranged vertically or approximately vertically in turn at least on the side of the printed product on which feeding takes place, which press strips are only used individually during unfolding, and during clamping of the printed product, fixed and / or movable press strips arranged directly in the area of ​​the cutting operation under the unfolded flap turn-up or cover act as part of a combination, which press strips finally provide the final press force for the cutting operation.

[0038] The mechanism further comprises a feed device which, as its name suggests, realizes a feed operation for receiving and orienting the conveyed printed product, which after orientation is carried out is fed directly to a first cutting operation arranged therein. The feed device preferably consists of a rotatable rake-like car which first receives the printed product with its spine down, clamps it by force action and transfers it by corresponding partial rotation to a position suspended with respect to the spine, in which a cutting operation is then carried out, after which the printed product is subsequently received by a transport unit and transferred to the next cutting operation.

[0039] The mechanism further comprises an ejector, the ejector operating within the environment of the third cutting operation and operating according to the following criteria: a) the discharge device is operated via a multi-part vehicle; b) the ejection device has a pressing device, the pressing device including at least one first pressing bar, at least one second pressing bar, and at least one third pressing bar, which apply a pressing force for the cutting operation; c) after the cutting operation at this third cutting location, the multi-part car performs a partial rotation, by which the printed products are transferred to an unloading position; d) At least one press bar is operated by a mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical drive.

[0040] The possible press forces for clamping the printed product for cutting and the provision of cutting forces for operating the cutting device at the corresponding cutting location can be provided by one and the same drive, regardless of whether the press bar acts directly or indirectly. Nevertheless, it is also possible for the generation of both forces to be carried out by separate drives, which thus results in operational advantages, i.e. each force can be provided separately.

[0041] According to the objective, the invention is further realized by a method for operating a mechanism for performing a cutting operation on at least one open format edge of at least one printed product, the method also comprising at least one feed device, which is in an interaction with a first cutting station, in which at least one cutting operation is performed on the first format edge ready for cutting there. The mechanism also comprises at least one discharge device, which is in an interaction with a last cutting station, in which a cutting operation for a second format edge of the printed product is performed, and between the first and last cutting operations at least one intermediate cutting station is arranged, in which a cutting operation for a front edge cut of the printed product is performed. During the cutting operation, the printed product is generally captured by at least one press device, which realizes that the required pressing force is applied for the operation of the cut device, and the printed product is fed from one cutting station to the next by at least one transport unit, in which a force-applying gripping means is integrated. The method further comprises the following process steps and components:

[0042] The cutting station operable for the front edge cut is supplemented on the inlet side by an intermediate station, which consists of at least one first element, the contour of which in the conveying direction is set in such a way that an opening of the jacket formed with a flap turn-up or cover of the printed product waiting to be processed there takes place, and directly downstream of the first element at least one second element is arranged which at least takes over the opening formed by the first element and transmits the opening up to the front edge cut, the degree of opening of which is increased by the second element if necessary, the increase being according to a regular or irregular progression.

[0043] With regard to the change in the expansion of the flap fold or cover sheet imparted by the first element, this pre-given expansion is taken over by a second element, preferably in the form of a trough formed convexly or approximately convexly, and the expansion is either preserved unchanged up to the front edge cut or is gradually enlarged in the course of the further transport section to the front edge cut, preferably by correspondingly designing the convexity of the trough, so that the printed product body is characterized by a larger free zone for the expansion of the flap fold or cover sheet in the area of ​​the front edge cut.

[0044] Regarding the configuration of the first element, the first element has an opening fin configuration, which is formed on the inlet side by an opening blade, which at the beginning of its translation with respect to the printed product penetrates between the flap fold or cover and the printed product body, so that an opening is introduced. Another configuration of the opening fin has a contour that gradually increases in the conveying direction, the flow-related configuration of the contour ensures that the opening of the flap fold increases seamlessly and gently to a predefined degree of opening, so that at least an opening is achieved that allows the front edge cut to be performed without load. If this initial opening represents a sufficient opening for the performance of the front edge cut without load, the opening is not further expanded along the second element, but if, on the other hand, this opening from the first element represents an insufficient opening, in such a case the second element intervenes, which is no longer designed merely to maintain the degree of opening, but can generate an increase in the degree of opening. This can be done, for example, by flexibly modifying the convex or nearly convex trough and / or the guide plate.

[0045] The first element, as already described above, takes the form of an opening fin, which essentially consists of an opening blade formed on the inlet side, which during its first translation penetrates into the printed product in the area of ​​the flap fold or cover, thereby introducing an opening of the jacket of the printed product, expanded by the flap fold or cover, which opening can then be further increased by further translation along the contour of the opening fin, since the contour of the opening fin is configured to be voluminous on the sides.

[0046] If it is desired to know the various dimensions of the flap fold or cover and the printed product and to ensure their processing in accordance with the clock, the method according to the invention also comprises, as already explained above in the mechanism according to the invention, two first elements and two second elements on either side of the printed product, which are connected to at least one drive in order to achieve a precise spacing between them depending on the thickness of the printed product to be processed. The intermediate space thus provided must correspond 100% to the thickness of the printed product, with a narrowly limited extra, so that the first and second elements can interact with each other to ensure a reliable unfolding of the flap fold or cover.

[0047] In general, however, in particular in the second cutting station where the fore-edge cut is performed, it is preferred that the press device arranged there, which applies a pressing force to the printed product, is stationary on one side, while on the other side the pressing can be performed by a feed movement. Nevertheless, it is also possible for the pressing force to be realized on both sides of the printed product by a feed movement. This press device consists of individual pressing strips which are arranged vertically or nearly vertically in sequence at least on the side of the printed product where the feeding takes place, and it is important that only pressing strips which do not cause damage to the flap turn-up or the cover are used above the spreading before the cutting operation. Under the spreading, sufficient space is now provided, where the printed product body is captured on both sides directly in the area of ​​the fore-edge cut by at least one fixed and / or movable pressing bar in each case for applying the final pressing force, so that in this case a reliable operation for the fore-edge cut to be performed is guaranteed.

[0048] In accordance with the objective, the present invention is further realized by a method for operating a mechanism for performing a cutting operation at at least one open format edge of at least one printed product, the important thing in this method being to be aware of and configure the fact that the transport can be accompanied by other implementations according to the present invention, some aspects of which can be carried over unchanged. The underlying mechanism here comprises at least one feed device, which is in an interactive relationship with a first cutting station, in which at least one cutting operation is performed on a first format edge present therein, and at least one discharge device, which is in an interactive relationship with a last cutting station, in which a cutting operation for a second format edge of the printed product is performed, and between the first and last cutting operations at least one further intermediate cutting station is arranged, in which a cutting operation for a front edge cut of the printed product is performed, the printed product is captured during the cutting operation by at least one press device, which in an interactive relationship with the cutting device exerts a press force on the printed product, and the printed product is fed from one cutting station to the next cutting station by at least one transport unit having a gripping means for exerting a force.

[0049] A cutting station operable for the front edge cut comprises at least one first element at the inlet side, the contour of which in the conveying direction is designed in such a way that an opening of the jacket formed with the flap turn-up or cover of the printed product fed thereto is introduced, and at least one second element is arranged directly downstream of the first element, which at least takes over the opening created by the first element and feeds it further in such a way as already explained above to maintain or increase the opening up to the front edge cut. If it is desired that the front edge cut is performed in a multi-cut, it is designed as an embodiment variant for the opening to be increased by the first and / or second element to such an extent that at the cutting station the front edge cut operation can be directly followed by the additional feeding of the trimmed off parts to be cut off.

[0050] Starting from the mechanism already described, another embodiment variant for performing multiple cuts in the front edge cut is provided in that the first cutting operation is performed without unfolding the flap fold or cover, i.e. as in the conventional case; after this first cut, which can be supplemented without problems by subsequent cuts, the printed product is guided back to an intermediate station having the first and second elements for unfolding, whereupon the final cutting operation of the front edge cut can then be performed.

[0051] The mechanism comprises a number of transport units, which are guided along a circular guide section, on which at least one printed product is loaded for a respective cutting operation, respectively individually in the area of ​​the various cutting stations, and after leaving the last cutting station, each transport unit is unloaded and guided back via the circular section to the first cutting station, so that it can receive the subsequent printed product there before or after the first cutting operation and guide it according to a predefined clock to the remaining cutting stations for carrying out the planned cutting operation, and in the case of such a transport configuration, it is possible without any problems to guide the respectively captured printed product, even when it is arranged in such a continuous structure by the transport units, directly to the central cutting station, where all cutting operations on the printed product can be carried out, so that all cutting operations are carried out in such a way that the movement dynamics of the force-producing press elements and the movement dynamics of the cutting device are coordinated with each other by a collision-free cutting flow.

[0052] In this central cutting station, moreover, measures for the spreading to be performed of the flap fold or cover belonging to the printed product are implemented, the means which generate this spreading during the front edge cut being based on the cutting operation which is performed in the center, do not behave in such a way as to interfere with the entire cutting process, these means occupying an assigned local positioning or being able to be temporarily switched on and off. In the case of such a configuration, it is clear that the spreading must directly provide an opening which the front edge cut leaves the flap fold or cover structure totally untouched.

[0053] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the figures belonging to the drawing. All elements that are not essential for a direct understanding of the invention have been omitted. In the following, the printed product will also be called a book block, which also includes other embodiments of the printed product, such as brochures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0054] [Figure 1] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating the translational motion of the transport unit and the gripper in the X and Y planes of the mechanism. [Diagram 2] This is an overall view of the three-side cutting machine, capturing a moment of the conveying unit. [Diagram 3] FIG. 11 is another view of the three-side cutting machine, showing another moment of the conveying unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 shows an entry device for a book block into a three-edge cutter. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a feed car as a feed device. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 shows a modular cutting device including three cutting stations. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a moment when the press strip is being used during front edge cutting. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a view showing another moment during operation of the press strip during the front edge cut. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a view of another moment in the operation of the press strip during the cutting operation in the front edge cut. [Figure 11] 11A-11C show various configurations of the flap fold and cover. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 shows the translation of the printed product through an intermediate station having elements causing spreading, which is provided at the second cutting station. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows one configuration of elements that are coupled together to cause spreading. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 illustrates the dynamics of unfolding coupled with clamping of a printed product. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a general view of the elements of the intermediate station showing how the printed product is guided for unfolding the flap turn-up or cover. [Figure 16]FIG. 13 is a block diagram of the flow during subsequent cutting operations at multiple cutting stations, with emphasis on the flow at the second cutting station for the front edge cut. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 shows a rotatable four-bracket system as a clamping and ejection device. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 illustrates the final clamping of the book block during the cutting operation. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 shows the progression of force development of various clamping elements during a cutting operation. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 illustrates a flush pusher exerting pressure vertically on a printed product. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 illustrates a flush pusher that exerts pressure horizontally on the printed product. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another transport configuration of the transport unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0055] 1 shows diagrammatically the translational movement of a transport unit belonging to a three-side cutting machine 100, which consists of two movable transport units 101, 102 for the printed product, which transport units interact with each other in operation, as will be explained in more detail in the following description of the remaining figures. The transport units have at their end grippers 103, 104 for the printed product, which have clamping jaws and which grip the printed product A to be cut (often called a book block, but this also implies other printed products, for example brochures) from the book spine A to the book block B. R The transport unit itself performs the following coordinated and control-assisted translational movements relative to the cutting locations 1, 2, 3 (also called cutting stations):

[0056] The first transport unit 101 actively receives the printed product A at the first cutting location 1 after the first cutting operation has been performed there. This printed product A is then transferred by the first transport unit to the second cutting location 2 and, after performing the discharge of this printed product, returns to its initial position at the first cutting location 1, where it is available to receive a new, subsequently delivered printed product A after the first cutting operation has been performed at the first cutting location 1. Meanwhile, the second transport unit 102 receives the printed product A immediately after the end of the cutting operation at the second cutting location 2 and transports this printed product A to the third cutting location 3, where the third cutting operation is performed. The second transport unit 102 then returns to the second cutting location 2. At the second cutting station 2 another printed product A, already delivered again by the first transport unit and already cut, is waiting to be picked up and transferred to the third cutting station 3 .

[0057] The translational movements of the transport units 101, 102 with the associated grippers 103, 104 encompass two or three planes of the system, i.e. in a first plane X the transfer of the printed product from one cutting station to the next is performed, and in a second plane Y the loading and unloading of the printed product is performed at each cutting station. Optionally, in this case also a third plane Z (not shown in detail) is used, in which, if necessary, a lateral adaptation (offset movement) to stationary clamping elements with respect to the printed product is performed at each cutting station of the three-side cutter 100.

[0058] In the following, the effect of the translational movement of the transport unit is explained on the basis of the gripper, since it best represents the process flow of a three-side cutter.

[0059] 2 and 3 show a three-dimensional view of the three-side cutter 100. nare fed in a horizontal position, spine-first and at approximately equal intervals, to the three-edge cutter 100 via a conveyor belt 110. An approximately uniform feeding of the book blocks is achieved either by a clocked feeding of the book blocks to the conveyor belt of the three-edge cutter, or the book blocks are introduced in front of the conveyor belt by devices known from the prior art.

[0060] In another embodiment, not shown in detail, the book blocks are fed to the transport belt 110 of the three-edge trimmer 100 at an irregular pitch. A clock control system ensures that the minimum pitch (the distance between the spine edge of the preceding book block and the spine edge of the following book block) is not exceeded.

[0061] A sensor, not shown in detail, detects the time when the book blocks arrive at the transport belt of the three-edge cutter. If the spacing between the book blocks is greater than a minimum pitch, the control reduces the speed of the translational movement of the three-edge cutter, so that the three-edge cutter is synchronized to the clock of the delivered book block. The control is programmed in such a way that an empty clock can be generated in the three-edge cutter if the pitch is greater than a maximum value.

[0062] Book Block A n The sheet is oriented on the conveyor belt 110 at the top or bottom by fixed stops. This orientation can be achieved by a conveyor section with a few conveyor rolls arranged slightly obliquely or by other measures known in the prior art. The remaining modules of the three-side cutting machine based on the illustration of Figures 2 and 3 are described in detail in the following figures.

[0063] A flush pusher 125 (see Figures 3 and 14) interacts with the infeed wheel 120 (feed device) and is used as a complement to the means already described, by which reliable positioning of the book block can be achieved against the multiple stop surfaces of the flush pusher 125.

[0064] A stop surface serves on the one hand as a basis for orienting the individual book blocks, stacks of book blocks or stacks of brochures with respect to the spine of the printed product against a fixed, predefined rest surface provided in the infeed car 120. On the other hand, it must be ensured that the top and / or bottom side of the printed product has a correspondingly downward positioning in the transport direction before the first cutting operation.

[0065] In the case of book blocks, this takes place in the sense that the format-specific reception of the printed product or products from the infeed car 120 by the transport clamping device 130 is controlled by sensors which respond in the area of ​​the top or bottom part to the overhanging flap fold or cover (jacket) or to the outer edge of the book block itself, thereby achieving that in the book block the edge zones to be cut there have an adjusted size.

[0066] In the case of a stacked set of individual brochures, in this case it is preferable to provide lateral means for ensuring uniform orientation of the cutting edge of the set, preferably prior to the first cutting operation.

[0067] The function of the infeed wheel 120 is therefore to pivot a flap-like movable rake-like guide relative to the book block so that the book block does not fan out, tip over or fall over in spine-down position after a rotation of 90°. The rake-like guide is connected to a clamping unit which clamps the book block briefly in spine-down position and is kinematically configured so that the rake-like guide can be moved into a position depending on the thickness of the book. The clamping unit then opens slightly again so that the book block orients itself according to gravity in such a way that the position of the spine of the book block is corrected relative to the stop surface of the infeed wheel. The clamping unit then closes again so that the book block is restrained in a defined position. This procedure, which is optimized in itself, therefore ensures that the spine of the book block occupies a defined position which is important for the following cutting operation.

[0068] Nevertheless, from a qualitative point of view, it is expedient if additional means are provided which can intervene when the action of gravity alone is no longer sufficient to guarantee the defined position of the spine of the book block relative to the corresponding stop surface which is sought to be achieved in the various configurations of the book block.

[0069] In this connection, it must be assumed that book blocks are usually wrapped with covers, which have a relatively large overhang on all sides (top, bottom, front edge) relative to the original book block body. Provision must also be made for cutting, especially when the book block is delivered with the completed flap flaps or covers towards the front, i.e. when it is important that the flap flaps or covers are not cut off when the front edge cut is carried out. This overhang does not in itself represent a limitation with respect to the cutting process, but may provide logistical advantages in the sense that, due to the uniformity of the format, a large bandwidth of different book block formats can be covered with the same cover size. It is therefore advisable to assume that a relatively large overhang is often used.

[0070] In order to achieve a reliable and defined position between the spine of the book block and the stop surfaces provided in the infeed wheel 120, even in the case of covers with large overhangs in the area of ​​the top, bottom and front edge, it is proposed to enhance the prior art with the aid of at least shape-wise suitable flush pushers 125, 126 (see figures 14 and 15) which, during the short period during which the clamping unit is opened to allow gravity to act on the book block, operate in such a way that the required pressing force is exerted directly or indirectly via the cover overhang on the book block, so that the spine of the book block is reliably placed on the corresponding stop surface or oriented laterally.

[0071] For this purpose, both cover overhangs of the book block on the front edge side are captured in the pressing plane by an optimally oriented angular brush comb (see Figures 14 and 15) or by another flexible means whose operation is controlled mechanically or pneumatically, so that the resulting pressing force is transmitted via the cover overhangs to the body of the book block A, which is thus ensured to rest on a stop surface located in the infeed car 120 or otherwise positioned horizontally.

[0072] In the example of the brush comb (see Figures 14 and 15), the material flexibility of the brush comb is achieved in such a way that the resulting free partial area of ​​the brush comb can additionally advance with a vertical or nearly vertical pressing movement between the two cover overhangs up to the front edge portion of the book block and thereby exert an additional or dominant pressing force there.

[0073] Basically, this pressing force is also available when it is important to be able to exert a laterally directed pressing force on the top or bottom parts of the printed products by suitable means in the form of another flush pusher 126 (see Figures 3 and 15) in order to achieve the formation of a uniform plane across all printed products of the set, so that the edges of the set can then be reliably detected by a sensor, thereby providing an optimal positioning in the transport bracket device 130 so that the subsequent cutting operation (top and bottom cuts) can be carried out in the correct dimensions.

[0074] In this regard, as can be seen from Fig. 4, the book block is pressed against a fixed stopper 111 in the conveying direction 112 by a number of slightly skewed conveying rolls 113 and then fed into the three-side cutting machine 100. The fixed stopper 111 may be formed with a belt that runs together, not shown in detail, or may exist only as a fixed plate. n then reaches a transfer position from where it is lifted, for example by a rotating infeed car 120, and brought by rotation into the operative position.

[0075] As can be seen in this respect from Fig. 5, during the first 90° rotation of the infeed car 120, which serves as a feeder for the subsequent movements, the flap-like movable rake-shaped guide 121 pivots towards the book block A, so that the book block A lies spine-down after the 90° rotation and can no longer be fanned out or turned over. The rake-shaped guide 121 is connected to a clamping unit 122, which briefly clamps the book block spine-down. In this case, the clamping unit is kinematically configured in such a way that the book block can be transferred by the rake-shaped guide 121 belonging to the clamping unit into a position depending on the thickness of the book. The clamping unit 122 then opens a little again, so that the book block A or its book block spine strikes the stop surface 123 of the infeed car 120 according to gravity and is then oriented there.

[0076] The clamping unit 122 then closes again, so that the book block is held in a defined position. The four-section infeed car 120 then rotates further by 90° each over two clocks and transfers the printed products to the suspended position for further transport and further processing. During this rotational movement, the first rake-like guide 121 and the second, also rake-like guide 124, which interacts with the first rake-like guide 121, are slightly pivoted away from the book block, so that the book block components are suspended vertically downwards only by gravity, while the book block is force-lockedly held by the clamping unit 122 at the book block spine. In this position, the open transport bracket (better visible in FIG. 2, reference 130) moves forward horizontally across the book block in the direction of the book block spine and receives the book block over a large area.

[0077] As can be seen in detail from Fig. 6, this transport bracket 130 consists of two clamping jaws 131, 132 which operate in such a way that one clamping jaw 131 performs no stroke, whereas the other clamping jaw 132 performs all stroke movements. Together, the two clamping jaws 131, 132 perform two different offset movements in terms of transport technology, which relate whether the printed product (book block, brochure, etc.) is thus transported normally or performs a free run. Optionally, for certain variable and / or inconsistent book block thicknesses, the strokes of the two clamping jaws 131, 132 can be configured individually and therefore undergo the same or different travels until the final pressing position is reached.

[0078] The transport bracket 130 is moved horizontally by a linear drive 133. A controlled drive, not shown in more detail, moves this transport bracket 130 to a receiving position that is precisely aligned with the book block in its position. The receiving position is always dependent in this case on the size of the cut-off to be made at the top or bottom edge of the book block. In the receiving position, the transport bracket 130 then closes and then clamps the book block therein with a large area between the front and back of the book block. Only the spine area of ​​the book block and the respective cut-off area to be cut are free. See the explanation of FIG. 18 for this. The clamping unit 122 (see FIG. 5) now opens and releases the spine of the book block. The transport bracket 130 then moves horizontally and transports the book block to a first cutting position (see also FIG. 1, reference 1). The first cutting position consists of a modularly constructed multiple cutting device.

[0079] Both clamping jaws 131, 132 may be operated according to the following criteria: each clamping jaw is in interaction with a drive, which operates for force-coupled clamping action, directly or indirectly; the clamping jaws controlled by the drive have adjustable and / or predictively controlled stroke and force-coupled profiles for any format characteristic of the printed product fed, so that the force-coupled capture performed by the clamping jaws of the printed product is designed symmetrically or approximately symmetrically with respect to the centerline of the printed product; the clamping jaws execute mutually coordinated uniform, non-uniform or adaptive speed profiles, at least during the operational period in which they exert a clamping action on the printed product; all clamping jaws which are part of the mechanism underlying the present application and which interact with each other, may be operated in this way.

[0080] As can be seen in this respect from Fig. 7, the modular cutting device 140 has three cutting stations, consisting of a first cutting station 141 arranged at cutting station 1 (see Fig. 1), a second cutting station 142 arranged at cutting station 2 (see Fig. 1) and a third cutting station 143 arranged at cutting station 3 (see Fig. 1). For each cutting operation, the book block is clamped by a press plate 145 and additionally by a press bar 144, so that the book block is clamped or pressed maximally during the cutting operation in the area between the transport bracket and the cutting edge by said press elements 144, 145. One knife 150b runs towards a fixed, diametrically arranged cutting strip, preferably along an obliquely applied cut.

[0081] Each press bar 144, i.e. directly interacts with a respective cutting device 140 formed by a cutting knife 150a, 150b, 150c, and the press bar 144 ensures that the necessary pressing force is exerted on the printed product for a clean cut.

[0082] Basically, two main variables play a key role for exerting the pressing force and for operating the cutting device. a) On the one hand, a force-related coupling occurs between the press bar and the cutting device, as is symbolically shown in Fig. 7 by reference number 250, i.e. the press bar force accordingly has a fixed value, and in this case the speed profile (press speed / acceleration) also typically progresses monotonically. b) A further variant, which is symbolically shown in FIG. 7 by the reference number 251, consists in decoupling the force exerted by the cutting knife and the force exerted by the pressing bar from each other, so that the pressing bar 144 operates autonomously in this case according to the following criteria:

[0083] The predetermined force boost on the press bar is carried out by boosting the corresponding torque on the servo motor by the servo drive. Based on the thickness measurement, the required optimum press force for the printed product is determined. This can be easily carried out by a stored control profile. Usually, a single calibration is sufficient to cover the predetermined thickness variability of the printed product, insofar as the differences in book block thickness within a job are relatively small, so that the underlying press force characteristic line can be considered constant.

[0084] On the other hand, it must be taken into account, however, that by optimizing the press stroke, a significant reduction in the press speed, especially the acceleration, can be achieved, especially in the case of stiff and / or thin printed products. What is advantageous, however, with this concept is that, independent of the production speed, the respective cutting device always works at a maximum speed, which in this case is not limited by the cutting speed, but by a limit determined by the mechanism. What is important is that, in addition, since the time required for the cutting process is always the same, extended cycle times are provided when the machine speed is low, especially with regard to the operational transport, orientation and pressing.

[0085] The two remaining cutting locations are operated by knives 150a and 150c, which follow roughly the same clamping and cutting philosophy as described above. In the first cutting station, the top area of ​​the book block is cut (see also FIG. 1). However, it is not excluded to start the first cutting operation in the base area of ​​the book block. This would, however, presuppose, in a particular configuration, the adaptation of the action points of the brackets and possibly of the cutting device 140. In this case, it is therefore necessary to enter into the thickness of the respective cut, all of which is related to the clamp A on the spine of the book. R (See Figure 1)

[0086] Returning to Figures 1, 2 and 3, during the cutting operation, a first gripper 103 is intervened which is movable both vertically (Y-plane, see Figure 1) and horizontally (X-plane, see Figure 1), the first gripper 103 being directed vertically towards the spine of the book block. After the first cut, the first gripper 103 receives the book block by its spine side, on which the transport bracket 130 opens. The transport bracket 130 then travels to a receiving position for the next book block. The first gripper 103 transports the book block vertically upwards (Y-plane) from this first cutting operation (Figure 1, reference 1) and then travels with an overlapping horizontal movement towards the second cutting position (Figure 1, reference 2).

[0087] The range of movement of the first gripper 103 in the vertical direction is controlled by the machine control as a function of the width of the book block cut, the range of movement of the gripper in the essentially horizontal direction relative to the book block can also be controlled separately if special gripping positions are to be achieved, for example if the format of the respective book block and the cut-off to be cut off require an asymmetric or nearly asymmetric clamping action or a clamping action conditioned by an offset centre of gravity.

[0088] In the second cutting position (Fig. 1, item 2) the book block is clamped between the fore-edge and the spine by a number of press strips belonging to a press strip set (Figs. 8-10, item 200). Fig. 10 shows the press strip set in a closed state, whereas Figs. 8 and 9 show the press strip set in a partially open state.

[0089] As can be seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, the individual press strips 200 1-n The press strips close from the top down at the spine of the book block, so that, as this pressing progresses, the air between the individual pages can be pushed out appropriately towards the cutting edge and at the same time the entire printed product is levelled. As can be further seen from FIG. 9, only as many pressing strips are used for the pressing process as there is space between the position of the gripper 103 with its respective clamping jaws 103a, 103b and the second cutting station 142 arranged at the second cutting location 2 (see FIG. 1). The same clamping jaws 104a and 104b (not shown in detail) belong to another gripper 104 (see FIG. 1), so that also a large-area pressing of the book block can be achieved. In the second cutting station 142, the fore-edge of the book block is cut, which is carried out in a similar manner as in the first and third cutting stations 141, 143 for the top and bottom edges.

[0090] Among the press strip set 200, the press strip 200 to be used 1-n However, after clamping the relevant book block with appropriate force at the second cutting location 2 (see FIG. 1, reference number 2) (this state can be seen from FIG. 10), the first gripper 103 can release the book block and return to its receiving position (cutting location 1, FIG. 1) for receiving the next book block.

[0091] 10, the final force-wise holding of the book block A during the cutting operation can be seen, which ensures that the cut with the illustrated knife 150b can be performed with high quality. 1-n Once the gripper 103 (see FIGS. 8, 9) has received the book block A from the gripper 103, a pressing bar (reference number 144) intervenes, which exerts a definite pressing force on the book block in the direct cutting area. This force must then dominate the other pressing forces so that the cut performed by the knife 150b guarantees a sharply cut cutting edge at right angles. The mechanism acting for the pressing force consists, on the other side of the book block, of a fixedly positioned stop 152 as part of a pressing plate 145 (see also FIG. 7), which is sometimes designed in such a way that the stop 152 can also perform a feed movement, meaning that the pressing of the pressing bar 144 against the book block can be driven via a pressing bolt 151. This pressing bolt 151 can be driven, for example, motor-, hydraulically or pneumatically, so that a predefined pressing force can be exerted on the book block.

[0092] The stopper 152 may in a derived embodiment be configured to be movable in order to take into account the thickness and / or material consistency of each supplied book block, in other words so that, for this purpose, the leading edge of the fed book block will not be disturbed. This dynamic adaptation of the stopper 152 may be performed by the machine control already mentioned.

[0093] The remaining press bars (see FIG. 7, reference number 144) at the remaining cutting locations 1, 3 also function on the same principle, exerting a pressing force in a vertical plane. Here too, it is important to ensure sharply cut cutting edges at right angles.

[0094] Book block, press strip 2001-n As soon as the book block is clamped by the clamping force, a second cutting operation (front edge cut) can be performed. After the end of this cutting operation, a second gripper 104 (see FIG. 1) which grips the book block is advanced to a predefined position, as in the case of the first gripper 103. The force switching position of the second gripper 104 depends on the dimensions of the book block to be processed, i.e. essentially on the quality assurance of the cut to be performed. The second gripper 104 is moved into a defined gripping position, so that a defined height of the book block is defined for the subsequent third cutting operation (see FIG. 1, reference 3).

[0095] The implementation of the process at the second cutting station 2 described here can be extended when it is important to perform the front edge cut in the book block with consideration of the expanded flap fold or the expanded cover, see in this regard Figures 12 to 16.

[0096] After the second cutting operation (front edge cut) has been performed, the press strip of the press strip set 200 opens. The second gripper 104 then grabs the printed product (book block, brochure, etc.) and first lifts it vertically from the cutting position, which then allows a horizontal translational transfer of the printed product and finally a vertical lowering of the printed product in the plane of the next cutting position (see Figs. 1, 2), where a third cut is performed (usually at the bottom edge of the printed product). During these vertical translations in the area of ​​at least one cutting position, the gripper loaded with at least one book block performs, if necessary, the necessary lateral offset movements with respect to the press surface of the clamping device as well as with respect to the position.

[0097] FIG. 11 shows the bandwidth of possible configurations when flap folds or covers are present that can be grasped by the mechanism and method of the present invention, showing the following configurations for flap fold configurations according to 401 a)-c) and 402 a)-c) and also for cover configurations according to 403 a)-c): a) Flaps located on the inside, 401: a) both sides; b) one side, left; c) one side, right b) Flaps located on the outside, 402: a) both sides; b) one side, left; c) one side, right c) Cover only, 403, i.e., without flap folds, but with the same underlying configuration: a) both sides; b) one side, left or c) right In all embodiments underlying the present invention, the expansion is carried out according to the same principle, so that continuous operation is guaranteed even when the embodiments are constantly changed. Any combination of the embodiment variants listed here is always possible.

[0098] 12 shows a process sequence when a book block A formed with a flap fold AKF or cover AU is brought into the area of ​​the opening fins 530 for the spreading SP, which is carried out in such a way that a load-free front edge cut can be carried out. The same procedure is carried out analogously at the flap fold or cover, whereby the following steps are hereby underlying for implementation: a) Via a translation 501 about a curve, the book block A coming from the edge cut at the first cutting location 1 (see FIG. 1) is conveyed via the underside of the opening fin 530 (for both elements, when the book block A corresponds to 401-403a)) towards the opening point 521 which is at the end of a relatively short section formed as an opening edge 520. The flap turn-up AKF or cover AU of the book block A is therefore in this position above the opening edge 520 and immediately before the opening blade 540. The book block body is always guided between the opposing opening fins when a flap turn-up or cover is formed on both sides. b) By further translation 502, the book block A is conveyed towards the fore-edge cut at the second cutting location 2 (also meaning cutting station). While the book block body AK (see also FIG. 14) of the book block A maintains its neutral position along the opening edge 520 against the spreading process induced by the opening fins, the flap folds AKF or covers are released by the opening fins 540 to spread apart from each other from the book block body, until a true spread is formed by further conveyance of the book block along the contour of the opening fins 530. c) When this opening is introduced to the flap fold or cover in relation to the book-block body AK, the opening process is assisted, if necessary, by at least one air jet driven from below with the goal of making the opening more sustainable, the degree of this performance depending primarily on the nature of the internal configuration of the book-block, i.e. whether the pages are tightly packed or loosely spread. d) Due to the further contour of the opening fins 530 in the conveying direction, the opening of the flap fold or cover is first maximized, the opening resulting from this being such that it provides the premise that the following cutting action only concerns the book block body, i.e. the original configuration of the flap fold or cover is accordingly maintained 100%. e) In order to guarantee the dynamics of the opening relative to the flap fold, a number of sensors are arranged in this area, which monitor whether the opening complies with predefined criteria and, if this is not the case, intervene with corrections in the further course of the translation, and, if this is not possible, first of all, for quality reasons, the corresponding book block is rejected, although in most cases this does not occur, since according to the invention the system has provisions for increasing the opening on the way to the front edge cut (see point f) and the explanation below in FIG. 16). f) by further translation 503, the book block is transported with a pre-defined flap fold or cover opening towards the front edge cut, downstream of the opening fin 530 there is a further guide 510 consisting of a convex or approximately convex shaped trough and / or guide plate, which ensures that the opening caused by the opening fin is at least maintained during the further transport process, or said guide is configured so that the degree of opening is increased, if necessary, up to the front edge cut, along which guide 510 also acts an air jet injector which can contribute to stabilizing and sustainably guiding the opened flap fold or cover. g) The pressing of the book block body in the area of ​​the front edge cut is performed by pressing strip 200 shown in Figs. 1-n Above the expanded flap fold or the expanded cover, for space reasons, the press strip 200 1-n8 to 10, which also applies to the interacting cutting device, in particular when an operational separation of the pressing forces between the press bar and the cutting device is provided. h) The achieved expansion is configured to result in 100% shape reversibility, so that after the front edge cut is performed, the original configuration of the flap fold and cover is restored without being compromised.

[0099] Fig. 13 shows the main aspects of the realization of the opening of the flap fold AKF or cover AU (see Figs. 11 and 14), which are the elements E1 and E2 (see Fig. 12), which are seen here symbolically in the conveying direction to the front edge cut. As can be seen in detail from this Fig. 13, the oppositely arranged opening fins 530 form a distance 560 from each other, which distance ensures the unhindered passage of the conveyed book blocks, and which can be varied by the feed unit 550 according to the respective thickness of the book blocks, but here operated with an additional distance of about 5% to the measured thickness, taking into account the fact that the book blocks are not always present in a compact body, in order to ensure a reliable passage of the book blocks.

[0100] This additional distance, which is narrow per se, is present or necessary whenever it is important to simultaneously capture the double flap fold or cover in the book block, i.e. to introduce an opening on both sides of the book block. The controlled guide feed unit 550 intervenes with both elements E1, E2 (see FIG. 12), i.e. with the opening fins 530 which form the causative opening, and with the guides 510 which are subsequently provided for maintaining or increasing this opening, in order to vary the separation 560. For an opened flap fold AKF or opened cover AU, a certain number of press strips 200 1-n The pressing of the book block A or the book block body AK is carried out by the action of the pressing strip, using also a pressing bar (see Figs. 10 and 14, symbols 152 and 144) which exerts a final pressing in the area of ​​the cutting operation.

[0101] Both opening fins 530 have mostly vertical faces 531 on the inside of the run 560, which face 531 extends over the entire length of the fin-like object, so that the book block A is brought through from below via translation 501 (see FIG. 12), and this type of feeding is performed up to the opening point 521 of both opening fins 530 (see FIG. 12). Sometimes the opening blade 540 may be formed with a slight side bend to introduce the opening of a particular book block, so that the opening blade 540 can more easily enter between the flap turn-up or cover and the book block body.

[0102] Figure 14 shows the state of the book block to be cut through the cutting section BS immediately before the cutting operation carried out in the second cutting station 2 designed for carrying out the front edge cut, the opening fin 530 as a constituent part of the element E1 (see Figure 12) representing the introduction to the unfolding of the flap fold AKF or cover AU, the illustration of the unfolding in this figure being in a different projection, which is taken only for reasons of understanding. For the subsequent element E2 with the guide 510, see Figures 13 and 15. In essence, this Figure 14 follows the operational process shown in Figure 10 with regard to the clamping of the book block. One important development of the subject matter of the invention nevertheless concerns here a new configuration of a book block with a flap fold or cover, in which the front edge cut is only carried out if the opening has a sufficiently large margin so that, for quality reasons, the flap fold or cover is not affected by the cutting operation, i.e. is not cut off all together.

[0103] A press strip 200 in active use, as shown in FIG. 1-n It is clear that the press strips are designed for the implementation of the front edge cut of a typical book block. Nevertheless, if a flap fold or cover is present, these press strips are used only partially, i.e. in sectors, and therefore can only exert their effective function to the extent that the unfolding of the flap fold AKF or cover AU permits, i.e. the unfolded flap fold and cover must not be caught in the cut BS of the book block body AK.

[0104] With respect to the cover AU, it can further be seen from this figure 14 that the cover AU is shown with a folded shape, which is the state when the grippers 103, 104 release or pivot away from the book block. Thus, as shown in detail in figure 14, the pressing strip 200 1-n’ The reduced use of the press strip 200 is only used above the flap fold AKF or the start point of the opening of the cover AU. 1-n’ It should be noted that the action of still only manifests itself, strictly speaking, on the unloaded side of the book block. In the case of such an arrangement, it is advantageous if the pressing strip performs active feed dynamics on both sides of the book block, i.e. so that the lateral free zone for the unfolding of the flap fold or cover is provided to be maximized. This also applies to the clamping associated with the cut in the area of ​​the cutting action by the cutting device (knife) 150b, the pressing bar 151 and the opposite stop 152, which itself is driven by a separate drive A3 during the dynamic feed.

[0105] The pressing force provided by the drive A1 at the second cutting station 2 (which also applies to the remaining cutting stations 1, 3 of the mechanism) for the execution of the front edge cut, for the clamping suitable for the cutting of the printed product by the press bar 151, and the cutting force provided by the drive A2 for the execution of the cutting operation by the cutting device 150b are performed by one common drive unit. Preferably, the pressing force provided by the drive A1 for the clamping suitable for the cutting of the printed product and the cutting force provided by the drive A2 for the execution of the cutting operation may nevertheless be performed by separate drive units. The latter arrangement has the advantage that the individual adaptation can be performed before operation or also continuously during operation.

[0106] FIG. 15 is a general view of the second cutting station 2 up to the front edge cut, from which the spreading can be seen to take place on the book block A, which is taken up in a force-coupled manner by the gripper 103 (see FIG. 1) and transferred to the opening fin 530 as part of the first element E1 (see 12), but only the spreading of the flap turn-up AKF or cover AU on one side of the book block. It is further shown that the arrangement for the spreading on both sides is provided. It is further shown here the place of action of the feed unit 550, which is responsible for the spacing of the opening fin 530 belonging to the first element E1 and the guide 510 (see FIG. 12) belonging to the second element E2. Instead of saying much about the operation of these elements E1, E2, reference is made to the explanation below FIG. 12. Press strip 200 1-n’ Instead of saying much about the operation of the engine, please refer to Figures 8-10 and 14. The rest will be obvious from Figure 15.

[0107] FIG. 16 shows in block diagram form the process flow for the execution of a typical single cut at each cutting station 1, 2, 3 and the flow for the execution of a second, possibly further, subsequent partial cut. As already partially explained above, the conveyed printed product A is oriented in the infeed car 120 in such a way that after the first cutting operation it is captured by the first transport unit 101 with its back side for the subsequent transport, for the directly following cutting operation. In the first cutting station 1, essentially the top edge of the printed product is then processed, although this does not in itself exclude the possibility that this first cutting operation corresponds to the bottom edge. For this first cutting operation, essentially the clamping device 130 and the pressing bar 144 are activated and the cutting knife 150a performs the cutting operation. For the flow that takes place in this first cutting station 1, please refer to the description of the preceding figures.

[0108] Already this first cut T 1-1At this time, a quality check 400 is carried out, which on the one hand focuses on the quality of the cut performed and, on the other hand, also checks whether the thickness of the cut off part corresponds to a predefined value. At the same time, the spine of the book block is also checked for damage. The means used for these checks include, on the one hand, contact and non-contact sensors, which are integrated to detect the actual state of the printed product (book block, brochure, etc.) after each cutting operation and transfer the information derived therefrom to the control unit, and, on the other hand, sensors of a newer generation, which ensure sensor-assisted production by allowing open-loop control, closed-loop control and optimization of quality-focused flows. These sensors must provide an excellent data quality for the quality checks underlying here and are preferably based on inductive and photoelectric technologies. In general, this means that the measured variable should be converted into an internal signal by the physical measuring principle of the sensor element. If necessary, separate electronic further processing can then take place, whereby the measured value is then provided at the output as an electrically and / or electronically usable signal.

[0109] The control unit performs a second partial cut T at the first cutting location 1. 1-2 If it is decided to perform the first cut, 1-1 A process-constrained repetition of the above is carried out, i.e. the necessary pressing of the printed product is carried out by the same means 130 and 144 and the cutting action is carried out by the same cutting knife 150a. Additionally, a coordinated kinematic procedure is added, which ensures that the additional cut-off part of the top edge of the book block A is fed against the fixed cutting knife 150a.

[0110] Therefore, the first partial cut T 1-1Afterwards, the book block A is briefly clamped by the clamping jaws of the gripper 103 of the transport unit 101 of the transport unit. Then, the clamping jaws 131, 132 belonging to the clamping device 130 (also called transport bracket) open slightly, so that the book block A is positioned in a pressure-free state with respect to said clamping jaws 131, 132. Meanwhile, the clamping jaws belonging to the gripper 103 of the transport unit 101 of the transport mechanism are now clamping the book block A with respect to the first partial cut T 1-1 At the location where the second partial cut T is performed, the clamping jaws exert a force coupling on the book block A, which, in interaction with the transport unit, provide a temporary local positioning for the book block A when the clamping jaws 131, 132 of the transport bracket 130 are open. During this interval, the open clamping jaws 131, 132 of the transport bracket 130 are retracted relative to the cutting knife 150a by a predetermined length amount, which is then equal to the length of the second partial cut T 1-2 After this length has elapsed, the clamping jaws of the gripper 103 of the transport unit 101 of the transport unit are adjusted open and the clamping jaws 131, 132 of the transport bracket 130 again exert a force connection on the book block A. These clamping jaws 131, 132 of the transport bracket 130 now clamp the clamped printed product A in the second partial cut T 1-2 , the book block A is advanced by the corresponding length amount so that it is thereby again transferred to the cutting position.

[0111] Then, the second partial cut T 1-2 Immediately before the start of the second partial cut T, pressing of the book block A by the press bar 144 relative to the cutting location continues, and the press bar 144 exerts a final pressing force against the book block. 1-2After completion of this cutting operation, the pressing bar 144 returns in time with the cutting knife 150a, on which the clamping jaws 131, 132 of the transport bracket 130 open and the book block A is then fed further by the transport unit 101 of the transport mechanism. During and after this cutting operation, the quality-checking sensor 400 continues to be used for checking until the sensor provided in the next cutting station takes over the quality check, thus ensuring that the quality is carried out according to uniform standards throughout all cutting operations. In a similar manner, the third cutting location 3 (T 3-1 ,T 3-2 etc.), which can be seen from the block diagram shown in FIG.

[0112] Furthermore, in the case of book blocks provided with flap folds or covers, at the second cutting location 2, where it is desired that the cutting operation is carried out via a plurality of partial cuts, the following is done: a) The initial spreading of the flap fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) via the elements (E1, E2) is carried out with an increased opening from the start, so that the subsequent planned cutting operation can be carried out without interference with the flap fold or the cover, specifically as follows: 2-1 After that, the book block A is briefly gripped by the gripper 103 of the transport unit 101, and then the press strip 200 1-n’ (see FIG. 14) opens slightly, so that the book block is positioned without pressure against the press strip. Meanwhile, the gripper 103 belonging to the support 101 is now pulling the previously performed first partial cut T 2-1 At the location of the book block, a force connection is exerted on the book block, which provides a temporary local positioning for the book block when the press strip is released. During this interval, the transport unit 101 together with the book block then makes a downward guided movement, the amount of which movement is determined by the position of the next partial cut T 2-2 It matches. b) Or the first partial cut is carried out according to the conventional process, i.e. the book block is guided directly to the cutting station, where the first partial cut is carried out, without the opening being formed by the elements E1, E2 (see FIG. 13). This is possible because the cutting device operates at a sufficiently large distance from the edge of the flap fold or cover, i.e. without influencing the formation of the flap fold or cover; moreover, such an operation does not affect all the pressing strips 200. 1-n (see FIG. 10) can be used. For the subsequent multi-cutting, the book block is then guided back in front of the intermediate stations E1, E2, where the unfolding of the flap fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) is carried out as explained above and thus provides the basis for the flow according to the invention. This guide back is shown in FIG. 16 by the loop S with the references to FIGS. 13 and 14.

[0113] Once the cutting operation has been performed at the third cutting location 3 (see FIG. 1), the rotatable ejector (four-bracket system) 160, and thus also the bracket 161, with the book block, moves away from the cutting device perpendicular to the knife movement. The rotatable four-bracket system 160 rotates by 90° during each clock (see FIG. 17).

[0114] The four-bracket system 160 visible in FIG. 17 shows in this context a position of the bracket 161 in a cutting position 162 in which the movable jaw 163 is still open. One further bracket is working in an ejection position 164. In this position the book block A can be removed. The functional form of the four-bracket system 160 ensures that the book block A is pressed between the movable jaw 163 and the fixed jaw 165 in a sustainable manner during the cutting process at the third cutting station 3 (see FIGS. 1, 7) and during the rotational movement of the four-bracket system. Furthermore, in one quadrant two states are provided for the bracket 161, namely, on the one hand, a completely closed state 166 and, on the other hand, a completely open state 167. This can be seen from the intermediately arranged position. The one or the other setting in this quadrant can be taken into account accordingly depending on the respective situation with regard to the space present during rotation.

[0115] An example of a take-off device may be a conveyor belt equipped with movable rolls for feeding the book blocks. Other mechanisms known in the art may also be provided.

[0116] From figure 18 it is possible to see the final clamping of the book block by the press bar 144 during the cutting operation, which corresponds in function to the clamping described under figure 10. The feed direction is marked with the reference number 170.

[0117] FIG. 19 shows the action of the various clamping elements (clamping devices) on the printed product. The action is exerted by the various clamping devices 103, 200, 144 with respect to the cutting station 2, where one clamping device consists of a pressing strip set 200. The pressing forces shown in the graph in the various clamping devices may be understood to be only qualitatively illustrated. The clamping force provided by the gripper 103 for the transport 210 of the printed product from one cutting station to the next is smaller than the clamping forces 200 and 144 with respect to the cutting station themselves, since this clamping force here only needs to be sufficient for a secure clamping action of the book block during transport. At the cutting station 2, the pressing strip 200 belonging to the pressing strip set is then applied. 1-nThe clamping force of the gripper 103 is simultaneously or subsequently increased, so that the clamping force of the gripper 103 is reduced 211 (reduction point) as soon as the final clamping force of the pressing strip on the book block is achieved. How much the clamping force of the gripper on the book block is reduced is adjusted individually and also depends on the weight of the respective book block. The final clamping force on the book block, which is important for the cutting quality, is then exerted by the already mentioned press bar 144, which occupies a position sufficiently parallel to the plane of the cutting knife. As can be seen from the force graph shown in FIG. 19, the press bar 144 preferably develops its maximum pressing force in an interaction relationship with the cutting operation, which is performed variably and with a phase shift 212 (working plane) with respect to the remaining clamping devices, which can be seen from the parallel interrupted lines 212a, 212b (phase shift intervals). As soon as the pressing force of the press bar 144 is ready, the knife performs the cutting operation 213. The pressing bar 144 then remains in the cutting plane 215 for still a short time, until the clamping force of the gripper is increased to such an extent that a reliable further transport 214 of the book block is guaranteed. The pressing force of the remaining elements 144, 200 then continues to decrease according to a certain decrease curve 217, so that the further transport plane 216 is resumed with the book block captured at its full value by the gripper 103. This dynamic also applies essentially to the gripper 104 belonging to the second transport unit 102 (see FIG. 1 ), in interaction with the clamping device operating there.

[0118] Furthermore, all the clamping elements 103, 104, 144, 200,... operating in the mechanism, which are directly or indirectly effective on the printed products or book blocks, are supplemented by hydraulically and / or pneumatically operated additional elements which are used as an aid for opening and closing the clamping elements. This means that the normally operating closing and opening mechanism of the clamping elements of the mechanism is routinely or optionally supplemented by further pneumatically and / or hydraulically operated additional elements which are capable of carrying out a maximized acceleration of the respective movement of the clamping elements in both directions, i.e. when closing and when opening, independently of the force coupling realized therein, where the emphasis here is on a uniform or exponential acceleration. It follows from this that these accelerations, taken together, lead to a sustainable shortening of the clock intervals at the individual cutting stations. This acceleration has a positive effect especially in grippers for transporting printed products, in which the plane of force introduction on the printed product for opening and closing movements differs in distance from the plane of force conversion, resulting in an adapted force development due to the system.

[0119] Moreover, this FIG. 19 symbolically shows how mutually coordinated identical, non-identical or adaptive speed and / or movement profiles of both pressing elements of one clamping device can also be configured for the pressing force exerted on one side of the pressing bar 144, in that the force supply for the knife 150b is no longer coupled with the force supply for the pressing bar 144, which exerts its pressing force autonomously on the book block, as is symbolically intended to be indicated by the reference number 251 (see also FIG. 7). The pressing force of the pressing bar is thus exerted on the book block according to an individual basis in this case. The speed profile of the pressing bar 144 can be switched to another mode immediately after the first contact with the book block. This also concerns the development of a force on the book block itself, which can be implemented to be gradually and monotonically increasing or decreasing depending on the settings. That is to say, if a certain bending is required in the force development of the pressing bar 144, for example towards the end of pressing, in order not to damage the possibly slightly thickened spine of the book block by indentation, this is achieved by the activation of a corresponding control profile, whereby, for example, a monotonically increasing force development is configured according to the progression of the curve when charging a capacitor. Correspondingly, it is possible without any problems to plan exponential force developments which can be used in between or across in this case.

[0120] Furthermore, EP 1 647 373 A1 is incorporated herein and forms part of the present specification, particularly as it is important to show how the coordination of the drives for providing the pressing force can be carried out in interaction with the process dynamics and knife dynamics in the cutting device.

[0121] Figure 20 shows the construction of a flush pusher 125 (see also Figure 3), which consists of a support plate 180 acting from above, which carries brush bodies 181, 182 on the printed product side, which exert pressure on a cover edge 183 at the front edge that projects from the printed product A so that the spine of the printed product coincides with the resting surface in the infeed wheel 120. A cover edge 184 is better visible under the references 185 and 186 (top or bottom side of the printed product A), since it is located in the same flush plane at the front edge. Both brush bodies 181 and 182 each consist of two partial brush bodies 181a, 181b; 182a, 182b, which are positioned at an angle to each other so that the respective cover edge portions are captured in a wedge shape and pressed downwardly in a correspondingly parallel manner, so that the cover edge portions do not suffer from harmful bulging.

[0122] Figure 21 shows the configuration of an alternative flush pusher 126 (see also Figure 3), which consists of a top- or bottom-acting receiving plate 190 which carries brush bodies 191, 192 on the printed product side, which exert pressure on the top- or bottom-side cover edges 184, 185 overhanging the printed product A, so that the printed product A is correspondingly positioned for the cutting operation. The overhanging cover edges are visible here in relation to a spine portion 193 of the printed product A. Both brush bodies 191 and 192 each consist of two partial brush bodies 191a, 191b; 192a, 192b which are angled relative to one another so that the respective cover edges are captured in a wedge shape by the brush bodies and the entire printed product body occupies a lateral positioning, so that the cover edges again do not suffer from harmful bulging.

[0123] Figure 22 shows another transport mechanism 300 for the printed product from one cutting location 1 to the next cutting location 2 and from the cutting location 2 to a third cutting location 3. The cutting operations performed at these cutting locations are the same as those described under Figure 1.

[0124] The main difference with the transport dynamics shown in FIG. 1 is that here at least three transport units with their respective grippers 101 / 103 are used for movement along a section 301 that is substantially similar to an ellipse. This functional circular section consists of a front track 303 and a rear track 304 that runs approximately parallel to each other, which merge into each other by a respective curve 305, 306 that runs in a circular manner. The front track is used to guide successive transport units linearly or approximately linearly along the cutting positions 1, 2, 3 with a constant clock. The number of transport units along this section depends on the maximum permissible clock number, i.e. each transport unit is responsible for receiving one printed product and guiding this printed product sequentially and without handover through the three underlying cutting positions 1, 2, 3. To maximize production, the clock is designed so that the transport units are closely successive and the mutual spacing depends on the time required for the individual cutting operations, so that typically more than three transport units can be used. A reduction in the number of transport units can be achieved, for example, if the transport units are accelerated along the rear track 304 between the last cutting location 3 and the first cutting location 1.

[0125] By taking such measures, it is possible to avoid reciprocating the transport unit and transferring the printed product at each cutting station between them (see FIG. 1). On the other hand, to keep productivity high, it is usually necessary to provide a larger number of circulating transport units 302a-302f, because the transport units require time to travel along the rear track 304.

[0126] For a better understanding, the transport units that are in use for operation are shown hatched, whereas the other transport units are not loaded, i.e. are moving downstream of the discharge device 160, i.e. are on their way to the feed device 120 for new receipt of printed products, respectively.

[0127] Such a transport variant characterized by an ellipse-like section 301 is preferably used for cutting in the middle of the printed product, i.e. when it is important to carry out the three cutting operations at a single cutting station, and therefore when the receiving of the printed product, the feeding of the printed product to the central cutting station and the subsequent ejection of the printed product are carried out by the same transport unit. Such a central cutting is advantageously as carried out in the above-mentioned second cutting station 2. Advantageously, in this case the transport unit in use should not return again to the feed device 120 via the front track 303, but should move forward via the rear track 304, so as not to disturb the production flow.

[0128] It is clear that in the case of one central cutting station, in order to cut all the format edges of the printed product, measures must be taken and the movements of the side knives and the associated press bars must be designed with a phase shift relative to the movements of the front edge knives and the associated press bars so that collisions between the dynamics of the clamping and cutting devices can be avoided.

[0129] When the printed product is formed with a flap fold or cover, opening means are arranged to cause an opening in the area of ​​the front edge cut to capture the flap fold or cover, and the opening means operate from a fixedly assigned local positioning or act to be temporarily switched on and off in a manner that does not interfere with the entire cutting process across all edges of the printed product.

[0130] The described three-edge cutting machine 100 according to the invention has the following advantages over known three-edge cutting machines: During the cutting process, the book block is pressed almost all over by the bracket or press strip set. Only in the area of ​​the spine does the book block have a free surface M1, which is used for capturing the book block itself. This does not present a problem as such, since the bound book block is well packed together in this area, and in the cutting area the press strips support the book block in the respective cutting station of the cutting device. The all-over pressing of the book block leads to a high cutting quality.

[0131] The full pressing is easily achieved without the web, the support elements or the support strip having to be adjusted in position according to the format, which allows high clock rates and therefore high output of the three-side cutter to be achieved.

[0132] With the three-side paper cutter according to the invention, the book block is transported in a suspended state to the individual cutting stations 141, 142, 143 (see FIG. 7), so that no measures are required to support the pages of the book block at the transfer points in the transport system. Since the book block is not transported lying down, the pages of the book are not bent between the transfer points when the support surface is not full, and therefore do not get stuck at the transfer points.

[0133] The three cutting stations 141, 142, 143 of the cutting device are arranged relative to one another in a U-shape, with the open side of the U facing downwards. The trimmings of the book block to be cut off are carried out against the inside of the U-shape in all three cutting operations in an interacting relationship with the press bar 144 (see FIG. 7 and in particular FIG. 10). This allows all three cut-off trimmings to be successfully "discharged" by a single trimming-disposal mechanism arranged below. These trimmings therefore fall downwards due to gravity without the addition of further auxiliary means. There they can be easily retrieved afterwards. This suspended transport position has been found to be optimal when it is important to perform the unfolding of the flap fold or cover in the second cutting station.

[0134] Good trimming disposal, whether for book blocks or brochures, is of great importance since in the industrial production of individual books, different formats are very often first produced at the three-edge trimmer, whereby the book blocks or their jackets are preferably adjusted to the largest final format, which of course leads to large trimming waste if the final format is small.

[0135] In the case of a three-sided trimmer with a cutting cassette and a press punch, the printed product is usually oriented at the top and bottom corners of the spine by two right-angle stops and at the front edge of the book block by one stop. When producing variable-format books, brochures, etc., covers of the same format are often used for a certain format range. However, if the thickness of the book block varies and the book is produced by a stitcher, the stitcher usually has a strong fixed edge treatment, so it is also assumed that the cover can be adjusted accordingly to the actual book block.

[0136] When the book block dimensions vary, the cover may overhang the book block by a greater or lesser amount. Typically, book blocks are manufactured with a fixed overhang on one side of the cover and a variable overhang on the other side. In the three-side trimmer of the present invention, the uncut book block or uncut brochure is oriented with the bottom or top edge and the spine edge treated. This makes the variable overhang of the cover irrelevant to the book block height and book width.

[0137] For each book block to be cut or each brochure to be cut, product data must be known in the three-side cutter control with which the necessary movements of the transport means can be calculated so that a cut book with the desired format is ultimately obtained. These data can then be transmitted to the control in a wide variety of ways.

[0138] Below, by way of example, some of the conventional possibilities are described: Each book block or each brochure is characterized by an identification feature. A feature reader at the entrance of the three-side cutter reads the identification feature (e.g. one- or two-dimensional barcode, RFID chip, symbol, image, etc.) and transmits the information ascertained from the identification feature to a control which determines the machine clock allocation. The ascertained information can, for example, represent the dimensions of the printed product to be cut or at the same time, it can locate the missing allocation and then automatically access a profile stored in a database.

[0139] In another system, the book block is fed to a three-edge cutter in a clocked fashion. With each clock, the three-edge cutter control is sent the information needed to cut the book block to the correct dimensions. Again, the data sent with the book block can be checked against a database.

[0140] Another possibility is that the three-edge cutter is supplied with data covering the sequence of the book blocks to be fed in. The three-edge cutter processes the book blocks fed in in a predetermined sequence, and deviations from the predetermined sequence are detected simultaneously and correspondingly realized in terms of control technology, which applies in particular when the plant is operated entirely according to the digital principle, i.e. when it is desired that different book block types are cut in succession also to different sizes.

[0141] During the production of covers with flap turn-ups, dimensional deviations may occur, as a result of which the distance between the fore-edge edge of the cut book block and the edge of the cover may vary in the finished printed product. It is therefore also possible for the cover attached to the book block to be measured by a sensor before or in the three-edge cutter. By measuring the width of the cover, which corresponds to the distance from the spine of the book to the edge of the cover that runs parallel to the spine of the book, the book block can be positioned and cut at the fore-edge cut depending on the measured cover width. The width of the cut book block may thereby deviate from the target value stored in the control, but the cover at the fore-edge cut will overhang the book block by the same amount or be flush with the book block in all cut-out books.

Claims

1. A mechanism for performing a cutting operation at the format edge of at least one printed product (A), said mechanism comprising at least one feed device (120) in interaction with a first cutting station (1) in which at least one first cutting operation on the edge is performed, and at least one discharge device (160) in interaction with a last cutting station (3) in which at least one further cutting operation on the edge is performed, wherein at least one further cutting station (2) in which at least one cutting operation for a front edge cut of the printed product is performed is arranged between the first cutting step and the last cutting step, said printed product has at least one pressing device capable of exerting at least one pressing force on said printed product in interaction with the cutting device for performing each said cutting operation, said printed product being transported from one cutting station to the next cutting station by gripping means (103, 104) acting in a force-coupled manner. The cutting station (2) can be transported by at least one transport unit (101, 102, ...) having a conveying unit (101, 102, ...) and can be operated to perform the front edge cut, and has an intermediate station on the inlet side, which is expanded by elements (E1, E2) forming an expansion (SP) of a flap turn-up part (AKF) belonging to the printed product or a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, said expansion being firstly by a loop of a first element (E1) in the conveying direction. by a first translation (502) of the printed product along its contour and secondly by a further translation (503) of the printed product along a second element (E2) in the conveying direction, the spreading (SP) caused by the first element (E1) being capable of propagating along the second element (E2) up to the front edge cut of the second cutting station (2), the front edge cut being made in a printed product body (AK) of the printed product (A) exposed under the spreading, A mechanism for performing a cutting operation at a trim edge of at least one printed product.

2. 2. The mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that at least the second element (E2) is arranged directly downstream of the first element (E1), and the second element (E2) is configured to maintain the spreading of the flap fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) performed by the first element (E1) up to the front edge cut (2), or the second element (E2) is configured to maintain or enhance the spreading caused by the first element up to the front edge cut.

3. 3. The mechanism according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the intermediate station used for the spreading (SP) of the flap turn-up (AKF) or the cover (AU) consists of at least two first elements and at least two second elements (E1, E2), which are arranged opposite each other, spaced apart from one another and extend parallel along the second cutting station (2), the spacing between the elements depending on the thickness of the printed products being conveyed through in each case, the spacing between the elements (E1, E2) can be varied by means of a mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical drive and the spacing between the elements can be achieved by means of drives operable on one or more sides in order to achieve a spacing suited to the printed products.

4. 2. The mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the first element (E1) is formed as an opening body, which has the form of an opening fin (530), which essentially consists of an inlet opening edge (520) and a downstream connected opening blade (540), which during the course of the second translation (502) first penetrates between the printed product body (AK) and the flap fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) and thus an opening can be introduced, which opening can be provided in the further course of the translation (502) such that the opening resulting from this allows the front edge cut to be performed in the printed product body (AK).

5. The open body (530) is configured as follows: a) said open body is generally composed of an opening fin (530), said opening fin (530) being composed of an opening edge (520) which extends initially horizontally or substantially horizontally in the conveying direction; b) said opening fin further comprises an opening blade (540) arranged behind said opening edge (520) in the conveying direction, said opening blade (540) penetrating between the printed product body (AK) and the flap turn-up or cover during the course of said translation of said printed product (A); c) the spreading, which is induced by the configuration of the flap turn-up or cover relative to the printed product body (AK) according to a) and b), can be induced, on the one hand, by the penetration of the opening blade (540) into the printed product, and, on the other hand, by the subsequent translation of the printed product over the contour of the substance of the opening fin, a reinforcement of the spreading; 5. The mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that

6. 2. The mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the second element (E2), connected downstream of the first element (E1), extends at least up to the execution of the pre-cutting in the second cutting station (2) and that the second element (E2) consists at least of a convex or approximately convex, regularly or irregularly extending trough and / or of an assigned guide plate.

7. A press device acting in the cutting station (2) performing the front edge cut has individual press strips (200) capable of exerting a pressing force on both sides of the printed product. １－ｎ’ 7. The mechanism according to claim 1 , wherein the individual pressing strips are arranged vertically or approximately vertically in sequence at least on one side of the printed product, at least one fixed and / or movable pressing strip applies the pressing force required for the process to the printed product (A), on the one hand on the printed product (A) itself above the spreading and, on the other hand, on the printed product body (AK) below the spreading, and for the final application of the pressing force in the area of ​​the cutting movement, at least one pressing bar (144) is present, which is in an interacting relationship with a stop (152) acting from the opposite direction.

8. The feed device comprises a rotatable rake-like wheel by which the printed product (A) can first be received with its spine facing down, which is clamped by a force coupling and, by corresponding partial rotation, the printed product is moved to the spine (A) during the further transport. Ｒ 2. The mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that it is transportable to a position in which it occupies a suspended position with respect to the cutting means (1) and in which at least the first cutting operation (1) can be performed.

9. 2. The mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the printed product (A) has a suspended position for the performance of the cutting operation via the cutting stations (1, 2, 3) and that in this position the printed product can be transported from one cutting station to the next.

10. The discharge device is in an interactive relationship with the third cutting station (3) and is operable according to the following criteria: a) the ejection system (160) is operable via a multi-part operating vehicle; b) said ejection device comprises a clamping device (161) consisting of at least one first jaw (163) and at least one second jaw (165) by means of which a pressing force can be exerted on said printed product (A) during the course of said cutting operation carried out in said third cutting station (3); c) after the cutting operation at the third cutting station (3), the multi-part car performs a partial rotation, by means of which the printed product (A) can be transferred to an unloading position; 2. The mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that

11. 2. The mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressing device at the cutting location is in the form of at least one pressing bar (144) by means of which a pressing force can be exerted directly on the printed product (A) or on the printed product body (AK) and that the pressing force can be provided by a mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical drive.

12. A mechanism according to claims 1 and 11, characterized in that providing the required pressing force acting on the printed product and providing the cutting force required to perform the cutting operation in the corresponding cutting station (2) can be performed by one and the same drive.

13. 12. An arrangement according to claims 1 and 11, characterized in that the provision of the required press force acting on the printed product and the provision of the cutting force required to perform the cutting operation in the corresponding cutting station (2) can be performed by separate drives (A1, A2, A3).

14. 10. The arrangement of claim 1, wherein the printed products to be cut comprise at least one complete book block, an individual brochure, or a plurality of stacked book blocks and / or brochures.

15. 2. The mechanism of claim 1, wherein the cutting operation that can be performed on the printed products is controllable such that same or variable format sizes having same or different thicknesses can be produced continuously and clockwise until the individual printed products are dispensed.

16. 2. The mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the first edge to be cut at the first cutting station (1) is related to the top portion of the printed product, the second edge to be cut at the second cutting station (2) is related to the fore-edge portion, and the third edge to be cut at the third cutting station (3) is related to the base portion, or the first edge to be cut at the first cutting station (1) is related to the base portion of the printed product, the second edge to be cut at the second cutting station (2) is related to the fore-edge portion, and the third edge to be cut at the third cutting station (3) is related to the top portion.

17. 17. The mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the press elements or the clamping devices (103, 104, 144, 200, ...) of the mechanism optionally comprise additional hydraulically and / or pneumatically operable add-on elements, which are incorporated and operate and act in such a way as to cause, during both the closing and opening steps, a uniform or exponential acceleration of the movement transferred by the press elements or the clamping devices to the printed product, while at least maintaining the original pressing force for realizing the required force coupling to the printed product.

18. A method for operating a mechanism for performing a cutting operation at a format edge of at least one printed product (A), said mechanism comprising at least one feed device (120) in interaction with a first cutting station (1) in which at least one first cutting operation on the edge is performed, and at least one discharge device (160) in interaction with a last cutting station (3) in which at least one further cutting operation on the edge is performed, and between said first and last cutting operations at least one further cutting station (2) in which at least one cutting operation for a front edge cut of said printed product is performed, and said printed product is fed by at least one pressing device which exerts at least one pressing force on said printed product in interaction with the respective cutting device for performing said cutting operation. the printed product is guided through at least one transport unit (101, 102, ...) with gripping means (103, 104, ...) acting in a force-coupled manner for transporting it from one cutting station to the next, the cutting station (2) operable for the front edge cut has an intermediate station on the inlet side, which intermediate station has at least one element (E1) for forming an opening (SP) of a flap turn-up (AKF) belonging to the printed product or of a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, the formation of the opening being effected by at least one translation (502) of the printed product along a contour of the element (E1) and the cutting operation for the front edge cut being effected on the exposed printed product body (AK) of the printed product (A) directly at the place where the opening is formed, A method of operating a mechanism that performs a cutting operation at a trim edge of at least one printed product.

19. A method for operating a mechanism for performing a cutting operation at the format edge of at least one printed product (A), said mechanism comprising at least one feed device (120) in interaction with a first cutting station (1) in which at least one first cutting operation on the edge is performed, and at least one discharge device (160) in interaction with a last cutting station (3) in which at least one second cutting operation on the edge is performed, said printing product having at least one pressing device for performing said cutting operation, each pressing device exerting at least one pressing force on said printing product in interaction with the cutting device, said printing product being conveyed by grippers acting in a force-coupled manner for transport from one cutting station to the next cutting station. The cutting station (2), which is guided through by at least one transport unit (101, 102, ...) having steps (103, 104, ...) and which is operable to perform the front edge cut, has an intermediate station on the inlet side, which has elements (E1, E2) for forming an opening (SP) of a flap turn-up part (AKF) belonging to the printed product or a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, said opening being firstly formed by a first element (E the cutting station (2) is effected by a first translation (502) of the printed product along the contour of the printed product (A) and secondly by a further translation (503) of the printed product along a second element (E2) in the transport direction, the spreading (SP) caused by the first element (E1) being guided along the second element (E2) up to the front edge cut along the second cutting station (2), the front edge cut being made in a printed product body (AK) of the printed product (A) exposed under the spreading. A method of operating a mechanism that performs a cutting operation at a trim edge of at least one printed product.

20. The unfolding of the flap fold or cover is performed as follows: a) guiding said printed product (A) via a first translation (501) from said first cutting station (1) to a first element (E1) of said intermediate station, said first element (E1) being substantially formed by an opening body in the form of an opening fin (530) designed for the formation of an opening, guiding said printed product via an opening edge (520) to an opening point (521) arranged at the end of said opening edge (520) and transitioning in the conveying direction to an opening blade (540); b) by subsequent further translation (502), guiding the printed product (A) through the contour of the entire opening body (530) so that in a first step the opening blade (540) penetrates between the flap turn-up (AKF) or cover (AU) and the printed product body (AK), thereby creating the opening (SP) between the parts (AKF, AU, AK) of the printed product (A); c) the continuation of the translation (502) according to b) guides the printed product (A) through further contours of the opening body (530) and thus the degree of spreading of the flap fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) relative to the printed product body (AK) is intensified, the spreading thus achieved fulfilling the prerequisite for the front edge cut (BS) to be performed without interference of the cutting operation on the flap fold or cover; e) after the end of the transport of the printed product through the opening body (530), the printed product is guided with the previously generated spreading towards the front edge cut on the basis of a further translation (503), the spreading being in an interactive relationship with the second element (E2) belonging to the intermediate station during the further transport towards the front edge cut, at least maintaining or increasing the original spreading along the second element (E2); f) said second element (E2) is formed at least from a convex or substantially convex, regularly or irregularly extending trough and / or an assigned guide plate; g) the achieved unfolding is designed in such a way that 100% shape reversibility occurs, in which the original configuration of the flap fold and the cover sheet reoccurs after the front edge cut is performed; 20. The method according to claim 19.

21. 20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that for the unfolding of the flap turn-up (AKF) or the cover (AU), the first and second elements (E1, E2) are present in the intermediate station at least in pairs, arranged opposite each other on either side of a threading guide (560) and extend parallel to one another along the intermediate station up to the front edge cut at the second cutting station (2), the spacing between the elements determined by the threading guide (560) respectively corresponds to the thickness of the printed product (A) to be conveyed through, and the adjustable spacing between the elements (E1, E2) is brought about by a mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical drive, and the drive (550) is connected to the first element (E1) and / or the second element (E2) to achieve the spacing.

22. 20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that when the printed product conveyed by the translation (501) is guided through the first element (E1) which performs the unfolding of the flap turn-up or the cover, it is temporarily stopped there or continuously conveyed, and in both cases the unfolding which is introduced and / or continued is assisted by at least one air jet.

23. 20. The method of claim 19, characterized in that the formation of the second element (E2) up to the front edge cut maintains or enhances the degree of opening of the flap fold or cover formed in the first element (E1).

24. The pressing device acting in the cutting station (2) exerts a combined pressing force acting on both sides on the printed product, the pressing device pressing individual pressing strips (200) which are arranged vertically or approximately vertically at least on one side of the printed product. １－ｎ’ ), and the press strip (200 １－ｎ’ 24. The method according to claim 19, wherein a number of pressing bars (144, 152) is adjusted and used above the spreading when cutting the front edge, and below the spreading, the pressing force required for the front edge cutting, directly or indirectly, is in an interacting relationship with the printed product body (AK), and the pressing force is exerted by at least one fixed and / or movable pressing bar (144, 152).

25. The feeding device (120) comprises a rotatable rake-shaped wheel, which is first rotated by a back (A Ｒ 20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that the printed product is captured with a spine tucked underneath, the printed product is clamped by force and transferred by corresponding partial rotation to a position in which the printed product has a suspended position relative to its spine for the further transport, in which the first cutting operation is carried out, and then the printed product is received by a transport unit in a still suspended state and transferred to a subsequent cutting station where a further cutting operation is carried out.

26. The ejection device (160) operates in an interactive relationship with the third cutting station (3), the third cutting station (3) being operated according to the following criteria: a) driving said ejection device (160) via a multi-part operating vehicle; b) said ejection device (160) comprises a clamping device (161) which comprises at least one first jaw (163) and at least one second jaw (165), said jaws (163, 165) exerting a pressing force on the printed product during said cutting operation; c) after the cutting operation at the third cutting station (3), the multi-part car performs a partial rotation, by which the printed product is transferred to an output position; 20. The method according to claim 19.

27. The mechanism comprises at least two transport units (101, 102) each having a gripper (103, 104), which transport the printed product to be cut from its spine (A Ｒ ) in a force-coupled manner, the two transport units are in operational interaction with one another and are driven relative to the cutting station (1, 2, 3) by the following controlled translational movement along a guide section: a) the gripper (103) of the first transport unit (101) grips the printed product in a force-coupled manner immediately after the first cutting operation has been performed at the first cutting station (1); b) the first transport unit (101) then transfers the captured printed product in a force-coupled manner to the second cutting station (2), where it is positioned for the performance of the second cutting operation (front edge cut), and the first transport unit then returns empty to the first cutting station (1) to receive again the subsequently delivered and already cut printed product; c) meanwhile, the gripper (104) of the second transport unit (102) receives the printed product immediately after the end of the cutting operation at the second cutting station (2) and transfers the printed product to the third cutting station (3), where the third cutting operation is performed, and thereafter ejects the printed product; d) the second transport unit (102) then returns empty to the second cutting station (2) where the subsequently fed printed product is already cut, and then the printed product is force-coupled and captured by the gripper (104) of the second transport unit (102) and transferred to the third cutting station (3) where the third cutting operation is carried out.

20. The method according to claim 19.

28. At each cutting station (1, 2, 3), the following pressing forces are exerted on the printed product before, during and after the respective cutting operation: a) exerting a pressing force on the printed product by means of the clamping jaws (103a, 103b; 104a, 104b) belonging to the grippers (103, 104), which pressing force is designed for the force-coupled transport of the printed product from one cutting station to the next cutting station; b) exerting a separate pressing force on the printed product by at least one first pressing device (130, 160 / 161, 200) acting at each cutting station, said pressing force being exerted on the printed product in a fixed position in the area of ​​each cutting operation; c) exerting a further pressing force on the printed product by at least one second pressing device (144, 152) at each cutting station, the pressing force of the second pressing device (144, 152) being realized directly in the area of ​​the respective cutting operation; 20. The method according to claim 19.

29. 29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that the exertion of the press force for realizing the required force coupling to the printed product is supplemented by means for additionally realizing a uniform or exponential acceleration for each movement.

30. A method for operating a mechanism for performing a cutting operation at the edge of at least one printed product (A), said mechanism comprising at least one feed device (120) by means of which the printed product is presented for further transport, and by means of which a discharge device (160) is present after the last cutting operation, and by which the cut printed product is removed, said mechanism comprising a number of transport units, said transport units being clocked and guided along a circulating closed guide section (301), each transport unit being individually loaded with at least one printed product, said printed products being guided by the same transport unit from one cutting station (1, 2, 3) to the next cutting station (1, 2, 3), each transport unit being guided in an unloaded state after the last cutting station and after the release of the cut printed product through the circulating closed guide section (301). The cutting station (2), which is guided back to receive the printed product fed to the first cutting station and is operable to perform a front edge cut, has an intermediate station on the inlet side, which has elements (E1, E2) for forming an opening (SP) of a flap turn-up part (AKF) belonging to the printed product or a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, said opening being formed by a first step of cutting the first element (E1) along the contour of the first element (E2) in the conveying direction. by a first translation (502) of the printed product and, in a second step, by a further translation (503) of said printed product along a second element (E2) in the transport direction, said spreading (SP) caused by said first element (E1) being propagated along said second element (E2) to said front edge cut of a second cutting station (2), said front edge cut being performed in a printed product body (AK) of said printed product (A) exposed below said spreading, A method of operating a mechanism that performs a cutting operation at a trim edge of at least one printed product.

31. A method for operating a mechanism for performing cutting operations at the format edge of at least one printed product (A), said mechanism comprising at least one feed device (120) by means of which said printed product is presented for further transport, and by means of which a discharge device (160) is present after the last cutting operation performed, and by which the cut printed product is removed, said mechanism comprising at least one transport unit, said transport unit being clocked and guided along a closed or open guide section, said transport unit individually loaded with at least one printed product is transferred directly to a central cutting station, in which all cutting steps on the printed product are performed, wherein the individual kinematic sequences of the press elements (144, 152) and the cutting devices (150a-c) are adapted to perform a collision-free cutting process. A method of operating a mechanism that performs a cutting operation at a trim edge of at least one printed product.

32. 32. The method according to claim 31, characterized in that the printed product is expanded by a flap fold or cover, and security when performing the front edge cut is provided by the caused spreading of the flap fold or cover, and the realization of the spreading is carried out directly around the central cutting station by at least one opening element (E1, E2), and the remaining cutting operation is performed unhindered in the central cutting station by temporarily switching on or off at least one opening element (E1, E2).

33. 32. The method according to claim 30 or 31, characterized in that the generated pressing force on the printed product and the provision of the respectively required cutting force for carrying out the local cutting operation are provided by one and the same drive.

34. 32. The method according to claim 30 or 31, characterized in that the generated pressing force on the printed product and the provision of the respectively required cutting force for carrying out the local cutting operation are provided by separate drives.

35. A method for operating a mechanism for performing cutting operations at the format edge of at least one printed product (A), said mechanism comprising at least one feed device (120) in interaction with a first cutting station (1) in which at least one first cutting operation on the edge is performed, and at least one discharge device (160) in interaction with a last cutting station (3) in which at least one second cutting operation on the edge is performed, said printing product having at least one press device for performing each of said cutting operations, said press device being arranged between said first and last cutting operations and at least one further cutting station (2) in which at least one cutting operation for a front edge cut of said printed product is performed, said printing product having at least one press device for performing each of said cutting operations, said press device being arranged between said first and last cutting operations and at least one discharge device (160) in interaction with said last cutting station (3) in which at least one second cutting operation on the edge is performed, said printing product having at least one press device for performing each of said cutting operations, said press device being arranged between said first and last cutting operations and at least one further cutting station (2) in which at least one cutting operation for a front edge cut of said printed product ... at least one press force is exerted on the printed product in an interactive relationship with a cutting station, the printed product is transported from one cutting station to the next by at least one transport unit (101, 102, ...) with gripping means (103, 104, ...) realizing a force coupling, the cutting station (2) for the front edge cut has an intermediate station on the inlet side, the intermediate station comprising elements (E1, E2) forming an opening (SP) of a flap turn-up (AKF) belonging to the printed product or of a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, the elements (E1, E2) serving to introduce, create, maintain or increase the opening of the flap turn-up or cover, the opening being carried out by the following process steps: a) via a first translation (501), said printed product (A) is guided from said first cutting station (1) to a first element (E1) in a second cutting station (2), said element being substantially in the form of an opening body (530) designed for the formation of an opening, said printed product being guided via an opening edge (520) belonging to said opening body up to an opening point (521) arranged at the end of said opening edge (520), said opening point (521) transitioning to an opening blade (540); b) by subsequent further translation (502), guiding the printed product (A) through the contour of the opening body (530) in a first step so that the opening blade (540) belonging to the opening body penetrates in an opening manner into the intermediate space between the flap turn-up (AKF) or cover (AU) and the printed product body (AK), thereby introducing the opening (SP); c) by continuing the translation (502) under b), guiding the printed product through further contours of the opening body (530), whereby the degree of opening of the flap fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) relative to the printed product body (AK) undergoes an intensification, whereby the opening achieved has an opening in which the cutting of the front edge cut (BS) is performed without interference with the flap fold or the cover; d) after the end of the translation (502) through the opening body (530), the printed product is guided with the previously performed spreading to the front edge cut on the basis of a further translation (503) through a second element (E2), the spreading being at least maintained or increased during this transfer; e) the achieved unfolding is designed in such a way that 100% shape reversibility occurs, in which the original configuration of the flap fold and the cover sheet reoccurs after the front edge cut is performed; A method of operating a mechanism that performs a cutting operation at a trim edge of at least one printed product.

36. 36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that the introduction and maintenance of the spreading of the flap fold (AKF) or of the cover (AU) in the area of ​​the opening (530) belonging to the first element (E1) is assisted by at least one air jet.

37. 36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that the formation of the second element (E2) along the cutting station (2) consists of a convex or substantially convex extending guide (510), which is configured in such a way that the pre-given spreading of the flap turn-up (AKF) or the cover sheet (AU) from the first element (E1) is maintained or enhanced in the course of the further translation (503) towards the front edge cut.

38. 38. The method according to claim 37, characterized in that the guide (510) belonging to the second element (E2) has the form of a regularly or irregularly extending trough and / or a form with assigned guide plates, which are used to support the flap folds and the flared ends of the cover, if necessary.

39. 36. A method according to claim 35, characterized in that at least one further air jet is applied to the spreading along the guide (510) belonging to the second element (E2) in order to maintain or increase the pre-given opening.

40. 36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that a local sensor is operated for quality assurance of the unfolding of the flap fold (AKF) or the cover (AU), said sensor monitoring the required characteristics of the unfolding until the front edge cut is performed.

41. The pressing of the printed product (A) in the area of ​​the front edge cut is performed by a pressing strip (200) operating at the cutting station (2). １－ｎ’ ) and at least a part of the press strip (200 １－ｎ’ ) is called by the press strip (200 １－ｎ’ 36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that the pressing or cutting forces introduced to the press bar and the cutting device are converted by a single drive or separate drives, wherein the pressing or cutting forces are arranged such that the pressing or cutting forces are brought into contact in the region above the expanded flap fold (AKF) or the cover (AU) and below the flap fold or the cover the pressing of the printed product body (AK) is realized by a movable or fixed press bar (144, 152) which performs a final pressing of the printed product body (AK) for carrying out the front edge cut in the cutting station (2).

42. A method for operating a mechanism for performing cutting operations at the format edge of at least one printed product (A), said mechanism comprising at least one feed device (120) in interaction with a first cutting station (1) in which at least one first cutting operation on the edge is performed, and at least one discharge device (160) in interaction with a last cutting station (3) in which at least one second cutting operation on the edge is performed, wherein at least one further cutting station (2) in which at least one cutting operation for a front edge cut of the printed product is performed is arranged between said first and last cutting operations, wherein at least one pressing device is used to perform said cutting operations, by which at least one pressing force is exerted on the printed product, and wherein the printed product is transported from one cutting station to the next cutting station by at least one transport unit (101) having gripping means (103, 104, ...) acting in a force-coupled manner. , 102, ...) and operable to perform the front edge cut, the cutting station (2) has an intermediate station on the inlet side, which has elements (E1, E2) for forming an opening (SP) of a flap turn-up (AKF) belonging to the printed product or a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, said opening being firstly by a first translation (502) of the printed product along the contour of a first element (E1) in the conveying direction and secondly by a loop of a second element (E2) in the conveying direction. a second translation (503) of the printed product along its contour, the degree of opening being maintained or increased along the second element (E2), at the end of which the front edge cut is performed in the exposed printed product body (AK), and in the case of subsequent multiple cuts, the initial opening of the flap turn-up or cover is initially increased to the extent that several free cutting operations are performed in succession in the same cutting station (2); A method of operating a mechanism that performs a cutting operation at a trim edge of at least one printed product.

43. A method for operating a mechanism for performing a cutting operation at the format edge of at least one printed product (A), said mechanism comprising at least one feed device (120) in interaction with a first cutting station (1) in which at least one first cutting operation on the edge is performed, and at least one discharge device (160) in interaction with a last cutting station (3) in which at least one second cutting operation on the edge is performed, wherein at least one further cutting station (2) is arranged between said first and last cutting operations in which at least one cutting operation for a front edge cut of said printed product is performed, wherein at least one pressing device is used to perform said cutting operations, respectively, by means of said pressing device at least one pressing force acting on said printed product, wherein said printed product is transported from one cutting station to the next cutting station by at least one transport unit (101, 102, ...) having grippers (103, 104, ...) acting in a force-coupled manner, and wherein at least one further cutting station (2) is arranged between said first and last cutting operations in which at least one further cutting operation for a front edge cut of said printed product is performed, wherein at least one pressing device is used to perform said cutting operations, wherein at least one pressing force acting on said printed product is exerted by said pressing device, wherein said printed product is transported from one cutting station to the next cutting station by at least one transport unit (101, 102, ...) having grippers (103, 104, ...) acting in a force-coupled manner, and wherein at least one further cutting station (2) is arranged between said first and last cutting operations in which at least one further cutting operation for a front edge cut of said printed product is performed, wherein ... The cutting station (2), which can be operated to cut off the printed product, has an intermediate station on the inlet side, which has elements (E1, E2) for forming an opening (SP) of a flap turn-up (AKF) belonging to the printed product or of a cover (AU) belonging to the printed product, said opening being carried out firstly by a first translation (502) of the printed product along the contour of a first element (E1) in the conveying direction and secondly by a second translation (503) of the printed product along the contour of a second element (E2) in the conveying direction, said opening being determined by the opening degree of the first element (E1), the edge cut is maintained or increased along the second element (E2), at the end of the second element (E2) the front edge cut is made in the now exposed printed product body (AK) and in the case of subsequent multiple cuts a first cutting operation is performed directly without introducing an opening, whereupon the printed product is guided back to the intermediate station, in which the opening of the flap turn-up or cover is provided for at least one subsequent cutting operation by use of the elements (E1, E2), A method of operating a mechanism that performs a cutting operation at a trim edge of at least one printed product.

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