Web transport device and web transport method

Abstract

To provide a web transport device and a web transport method that can prevent a clamp-type holding mechanism from interfering with other members when switching a transport path of a web.SOLUTION: A web transport device includes: a raw fabric shaft for holding a raw fabric roll; a transport mechanism for transporting a web unwound from the raw fabric roll; a switching device for switching a web transport path between a first transport path and a second transport path; a holding mechanism for clamping and holding the web on the transport path; a first winding shaft that winds up the web transported along the first transport path; and a second winding shaft that winds up the web transported along the second transport path. The holding mechanism includes a first holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the first transport path, and a second holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the second transport path. When switching the transport path, the switching device linearly moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism in a direction non-parallel to a transport direction of the web.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD The present disclosure relates to a web transport apparatus and a web transport method. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Web transport devices that transport a web unwound from a web roll are known, and include a defective part removal device that removes defective parts from a web such as a plastic film or a metal film.

[0003] The web transport device includes a web shaft, a first winding shaft, and a second winding shaft. The web transport device winds the web unwound from a web roll held on the web shaft onto the first winding shaft or the second winding shaft. For example, the device winds non-defective webs that do not contain defective portions onto the first winding shaft, and winds defective webs that contain defective portions onto the second winding shaft. The web transport path is switched by a switching device. When switching the web transport path, the switching device moves a holding mechanism that holds the web.

[0004] In a typical web transport device, the switching device is a rotary switching device that moves the holding mechanism by rotating it. In a rotary switching device, if the holding mechanism body is thick, there is a problem that the holding mechanism may interfere with other components, such as other holding mechanisms located upstream of the holding mechanism, when it rotates. To avoid this problem, a suction-type holding mechanism that has a relatively thin holding mechanism body and holds the web by suction is used as the holding mechanism.

[0005] However, suction-type holding mechanisms are functionally insufficient for flattening stiff webs, and are not suitable for high-tension conveyance, webs that warp, or conveying multiple webs of different widths on the same line. For this reason, clamp-type holding mechanisms that clamp and hold the web are more appropriate. However, it is difficult to reduce the thickness of the clamp-type holding mechanism itself, and as mentioned above, they interfere with other components when rotating. For this reason, it is difficult to adopt clamp-type holding mechanisms as holding mechanisms in general web conveying devices. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-27814 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-244200 [Patent Document 3] Patent No. 3108193 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2-95658 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a web transport device and a web transport method that can prevent a clamp-type holding mechanism from interfering with other members when switching the web transport path. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An embodiment of the present disclosure relates to the following [1] to

[16] .

[0009] [1] A roll shaft for holding a roll of raw material; a conveying mechanism that conveys the web unwound from the raw web roll; a switching device that switches the transport path of the web between a first transport path and a second transport path; a holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the transport path; a first winding shaft that winds up the web transported along the first transport path; a second winding shaft that winds up the web transported along the second transport path, the holding mechanism includes a first holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the first transport path, and a second holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the second transport path, The web transport device, wherein the switching device linearly moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism in a direction non-parallel to the transport direction of the web when switching the transport path.

[0010] [2] A roll shaft for holding a roll of raw material; a conveying mechanism that conveys the web unwound from the raw web roll; a switching device that switches the transport path of the web between a first transport path and a second transport path; a holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the transport path; a first winding shaft that winds up the web transported along the first transport path; a second winding shaft that winds up the web transported along the second transport path, the holding mechanism includes a first holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the first transport path, and a second holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the second transport path, The web transport device, wherein the switching device moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism in a direction perpendicular to the web transport direction when switching the transport path.

[0011] [3] The web conveying device described in [1] or [2], wherein the holding mechanism includes a third holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web upstream of the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism.

[0012] [4] The web conveying device according to [3], further comprising a cutting device that cuts the web between the third holding mechanism and the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism.

[0013] [5] The web conveying device described in [4], further comprising a first joining device that joins the web between the third holding mechanism and the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism.

[0014] [6] A web conveying device as described in [5], wherein the cutting device and the first joining device are retracted to positions where they do not interfere with the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism when the switching device moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism.

[0015] [7] A second joining device is provided to join the web in the first transport path, the first joining device joins the web from a first surface, The web conveying device according to [5] or [6], wherein the second joining device joins the web from a second surface opposite to the first surface.

[0016] [8] A web conveying device described in any of [1] to [7], wherein the holding mechanism includes a fixed plate and a support plate that supports the web and moves toward the fixed plate to clamp the web between the fixed plate and the support plate.

[0017] [9] The web conveying device described in [8], wherein the support plate includes a clamping portion that faces the fixed plate and clamps the web together with the fixed plate, and a work table portion for performing work on the web.

[0018]

[10] The fixing plate is made of an elastic material, The web conveying device according to [9], wherein the support plate is made of a metal material.

[0019]

[11] The fixing plate is made of an elastic material, The clamping portion is made of an elastic material, The web transport device according to [9], wherein the work table portion is made of a metal material.

[0020]

[12] A work table is provided adjacent to the support plate and used to perform work on the web, The fixing plate is made of an elastic material, The support plate is made of an elastic material, The web conveying device according to [8], wherein the work table is made of a metal material.

[0021]

[13] A detection device for detecting a mark provided on the web is provided, The web transport device according to any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein the switching device switches the transport path based on the detection result of the detection device.

[0022]

[14] The web transport device according to any one of [1] to

[13] , wherein the web is composed of a laminate including a metal layer.

[0023]

[15] A first conveying step of conveying the web unwound from the raw web roll along a first conveying path toward a first winding shaft; a first holding step of clamping and holding the web by a first holding mechanism in the first transport path; a switching step of switching the transport path of the web from the first transport path to a second transport path toward a second winding shaft; a second holding step of clamping and holding the web by a second holding mechanism in the second transport path; a second transport step of transporting the web through the second transport path, The web transport method, wherein the switching step linearly moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism in a direction non-parallel to the web transport direction.

[0024]

[16] A first conveying step of conveying the web unwound from the raw web roll along a first conveying path toward a first winding shaft; a first holding step of clamping and holding the web by a first holding mechanism in the first transport path; a switching step of switching the transport path of the web from the first transport path to a second transport path toward a second winding shaft; a second holding step of clamping and holding the web by a second holding mechanism in the second transport path; a second transport step of transporting the web through the second transport path, The web transport method, wherein the switching step moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism in a direction perpendicular to the web transport direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] According to the present disclosure, when switching the transport path of the web, it is possible to prevent the clamp-type holding mechanism from interfering with other members. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a web transport apparatus according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is an enlarged schematic view showing the switching device and the holding mechanism in FIG. 1 and their surroundings. FIG. [Figure 3] 3 is a further enlarged schematic view showing the holding mechanism of FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the holding mechanism of FIG. 3 holds the web. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a defective portion detection step. [Figure 6] 1A to 1C are schematic diagrams illustrating a web transport method according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] 1A to 1C are schematic diagrams illustrating a web transport method according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] 1A to 1C are schematic diagrams illustrating a web transport method according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] 1A to 1C are schematic diagrams illustrating a web transport method according to an embodiment. [Figure 10]1A to 1C are schematic diagrams illustrating a web transport method according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a schematic diagram showing a rotary switching device that rotates a clamp-type holding mechanism. FIG. [Figure 12] 12 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the holding mechanism of FIG. 11 when it is rotated. FIG. [Figure 13] 10 is a schematic diagram showing a rotary switching device that rotates a suction-type holding mechanism. FIG. [Figure 14] 14 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the holding mechanism of FIG. 13 when it is rotated. FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the holding mechanism of FIG. 3. [Figure 16] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing another modified example of the holding mechanism of FIG. 3. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below is an example of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In this specification, terms such as "substrate," "sheet," and "film" are not distinguished from one another solely based on differences in name. For example, the concept of "substrate" includes members that may be called sheets or films. "Surface" refers to a surface that coincides with the planar direction of the target plate-like member when viewed holistically and comprehensively. The normal direction used with respect to a plate-like member refers to the normal direction to the surface of the member. As used in this specification, terms such as "parallel," "orthogonal," and "straight line," as well as length and angle values that specify shape, geometric conditions, and their degrees, are interpreted without being bound by strict meanings, but rather include a range within which similar functions can be expected.

[0028] In this specification, when multiple upper limit candidates and multiple lower limit candidates are listed for a certain parameter, the numerical range of the parameter may be constructed by combining any one upper limit candidate with any one lower limit candidate. For example, consider a description that reads, "Parameter B is, for example, A1 or greater, or may be A2 or greater, or A3 or greater. Parameter B is, for example, A4 or less, or may be A5 or less, or A6 or less." In this case, the numerical range of parameter B may be A1 or greater and A4 or less, or A1 or greater and A5 or less, or A1 or greater and A6 or less. Furthermore, the numerical range of parameter B may be A2 or greater and A4 or less, or A2 or greater and A5 or less, or A2 or greater and A6 or less. Furthermore, the numerical range of parameter B may be A3 or greater and A4 or less, or A3 or greater and A5 or less, or A3 or greater and A6 or less.

[0029] In the drawings referred to in this embodiment, the same parts or parts having similar functions are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and repeated explanations thereof may be omitted. Furthermore, the dimensional ratios of the drawings may differ from the actual ratios for the convenience of explanation, and some components may be omitted from the drawings.

[0030] A web transport device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the web transport device 1 according to the embodiment. The web transport device 1 is a device that transports a web W unwound from a web roll R. The web transport device 1 may be, for example, a defective part removal device that removes defective parts from the web W.

[0031] The web W is long. That is, the web W has a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction. The "longitudinal direction" means the direction along the longest edge of the web W when the web W is spread out. The "transverse direction" means the direction in which the web W has the shortest length when the web W is spread out. The longitudinal direction corresponds to the winding direction of the web W in the raw roll R. The transverse direction corresponds to the width direction of the web W. The transverse direction may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. In the web transport device 1, the web W is transported along the longitudinal direction. That is, the longitudinal direction corresponds to the transport direction of the web W in the web transport device 1. The web W also has a thickness direction. The "thickness direction" means the normal direction of the web W when the web W is spread out. The thickness direction is perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction.

[0032] The longitudinal dimension of the web W is, for example, 10 m or more, may be 100 m or more, or may be 1000 m or more. The longitudinal dimension of the web W is, for example, 10,000 m or less, may be 1000 m or less, or may be 100 m or less. The lateral dimension of the web W is, for example, 0.03 m or more, may be 0.3 m or more, or may be 3 m or more. The lateral dimension of the web W is, for example, 3 m or less, may be 1 m or less, or may be 0.5 m or less. The thickness dimension of the web W is, for example, 4 μm or more, may be 40 μm or more, or may be 400 μm or more. The thickness dimension of the web W is, for example, 2,000 μm or less, may be 200 μm or less, or may be 20 μm or less.

[0033] The web W may be composed of a laminate including a metal layer. The web W may be a packaging film having gas barrier properties. A thin metal layer included in the laminate of the web W may have gas barrier properties. The web W may be, for example, a food packaging film.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 1, the web transport device 1 includes a web shaft 3, a transport mechanism 10, a switching device 20, a holding mechanism 30, a first winding shaft 5, and a second winding shaft 7.

[0035] The raw fabric shaft 3 holds the raw fabric roll R. The raw fabric roll R is formed by winding up the web W in a roll shape. That is, the raw fabric roll R is formed by winding the web W around the raw fabric shaft 3.

[0036] The transport mechanism 10 transports the web W unwound from the raw web roll R. The transport mechanism 10 may include a plurality of transport rollers 11. A transport path 12 of the web W by the transport mechanism 10 includes a common transport path 13, a first transport path 14, and a second transport path 15.

[0037] The common transport path 13 is a transport path of the web W from the raw web roll R to a holding mechanism 30 (or a cutting position by a cutting device 40) (to be described later). The web W unwound from the raw web roll R is first transported along the common transport path 13.

[0038] The first transport path 14 is a transport path of the web W from the holding mechanism 30 (or the cutting position by the cutting device 40) to the first winding shaft 5. The web W transported along the first transport path 14 heads toward the first winding shaft 5 and is then wound up by the first winding shaft 5.

[0039] The second transport path 15 is a transport path of the web W from the holding mechanism 30 (or the cutting position by the cutting device 40) to the second winding shaft 7. The web W transported along the second transport path 15 heads toward the second winding shaft 7 and is then wound up by the second winding shaft 7.

[0040] The switching device 20 switches the transport path 12 of the web W between a first transport path 14 and a second transport path 15. Fig. 2 is an enlarged schematic view showing the periphery of the switching device 20 and the holding mechanism 30 in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the switching device 20 supports the holding mechanism 30 (a first holding mechanism 31 and a second holding mechanism 32, which will be described later).

[0041] The switching device 20 is configured to be movable linearly in a direction Dz non-parallel to the transport direction Dw of the web W. The angle formed between the movement direction Dz of the switching device 20 and the transport direction Dw of the web W is, for example, 75 degrees or more, or may be 80 degrees or more, or 85 degrees or more. The angle formed between the movement direction Dz of the switching device 20 and the transport direction Dw of the web W is, for example, 105 degrees or less, or may be 100 degrees or less, or 95 degrees or less. The movement direction Dz of the switching device 20 may be a direction perpendicular to the transport direction Dw of the web W. The switching device 20 may be configured to be movable in the direction Dz perpendicular to the transport direction Dw of the web W.

[0042] The switching device 20 moves in the above-mentioned direction Dz to switch the transport path 12 of the web W between the first transport path 14 and the second transport path 15. When the transport path 12 of the web W is the first transport path 14, the switching device 20 switches the transport path 12 of the web W from the first transport path 14 to the second transport path 15. When the transport path 12 of the web W is the second transport path 15, the switching device 20 switches the transport path 12 of the web W from the second transport path 15 to the first transport path 14.

[0043] When switching the transport path 12 of the web W, the switching device 20 moves the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32 linearly in a direction Dz non-parallel to the transport direction Dw of the web W. Alternatively, when switching the transport path 12 of the web W, the switching device 20 moves the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32 in a direction Dz perpendicular to the transport direction Dw of the web W.

[0044] The holding mechanism 30 clamps and holds the web W in the transport path 12 of the web W. The holding mechanism 30 is a so-called clamp-type holding mechanism. FIG. 3 is a further enlarged schematic view of the holding mechanism 30 in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing a state in which the holding mechanism 30 in FIG. 3 holds the web W. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the holding mechanism 30 includes a fixed plate 35 and a support plate 36.

[0045] The fixed plate 35 is fixed at a position facing the support plate 36. The fixed plate 35 has a width dimension that is longer than the dimension of the web W in the short side direction.

[0046] The support plate 36 supports the web W. The support plate 36 faces the fixed plate 35. The support plate 36 is configured to be movable toward the fixed plate 35. The support plate 36 moves toward the fixed plate 35 and sandwiches the web W between the support plate 36 and the fixed plate 35. The movement direction of the support plate 36 may be a direction Dz perpendicular to the conveying direction Dw of the web W.

[0047] The support plate 36 may be configured to be driven by a cylinder (not shown) housed in the holding mechanism main body 37 and move toward the fixed plate 35. Alternatively, the support plate 36 may be configured to be driven by a drive motor (not shown) housed in the holding mechanism main body 37 and move toward the fixed plate 35. As described above, since the cylinder, drive motor, etc. are housed in the holding mechanism main body 37, the thickness of the holding mechanism main body 37 becomes thick.

[0048] The thickness dimension a of the holding mechanism body 37 is, for example, 50 mm or more, or may be 80 mm or more, or 100 mm or more. The thickness dimension a of the holding mechanism body 37 is, for example, 500 mm or less, or may be 300 mm or less, or may be 150 mm or less.

[0049] The support plate 36 may include a clamping section 38 and a work table section 39. The clamping section 38 faces the fixed plate 35 and clamps the web W together with the fixed plate 35. The work table section 39 is a section for performing work on the web W. The work table section 39 is used, for example, as a work table when joining the cut web W by a first joining device 41 described below.

[0050] The fixed plate 35 may be made of an elastic material such as rubber. This increases the coefficient of friction between the fixed plate 35 and the web W, allowing the holding mechanism 30 to firmly hold the web W. The support plate 36 may be made of a metal material such as iron or stainless steel. This makes it possible to prevent the web W from wrinkling when working on it.

[0051] 1 and 2, the holding mechanism 30 includes a first holding mechanism 31 and a second holding mechanism 32. The first holding mechanism 31 is disposed on the first transport path 14. The first holding mechanism 31 clamps and holds the web W on the first transport path 14. The second holding mechanism 32 is disposed on the second transport path 15. The second holding mechanism 32 clamps and holds the web W on the second transport path 15. As described above, the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32 are supported by the switching device 20.

[0052] 1 and 2, the holding mechanism 30 may include a third holding mechanism 33. The third holding mechanism 33 is arranged on the common transport path 13. The third holding mechanism 33 clamps and holds the web W on the common transport path 13. The third holding mechanism 33 is arranged upstream of the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32. The third holding mechanism 33 clamps and holds the web W upstream of the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32.

[0053] When the transport path 12 of the web W is the first transport path 14, the third holding mechanism 33 may be located adjacent to the first holding mechanism 31 in the transport direction Dw of the web W. When the transport path 12 of the web W is the second transport path 15, the third holding mechanism 33 may be located adjacent to the second holding mechanism 32 in the transport direction Dw of the web W.

[0054] In this case, the distance d (see FIG. 3) between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first holding mechanism 31 (or the second holding mechanism 32) is, for example, 0.1 mm or more, or may be 0.5 mm or more, or 0.8 mm or more. The distance d is, for example, 10 mm or less, or may be 5 mm or less, or may be 1.5 mm or less.

[0055] The first winding shaft 5 is disposed downstream of the first transport path 14. The first winding shaft 5 winds up the web W transported along the first transport path 14. The first winding shaft 5 winds up and collects the web W transported along the first transport path 14. When the web transport device 1 is a defective part removal device, non-defective parts of the web W that do not contain defective parts may be transported along the first transport path 14, wound up by the first winding shaft 5, and collected.

[0056] The second winding shaft 7 is disposed downstream of the second transport path 15. The second winding shaft 7 winds up the web W transported along the second transport path 15. The second winding shaft 7 winds up and collects the web W transported along the second transport path 15. When the web transport device 1 is a defective part removal device, defective products including defective parts of the web W may be transported along the second transport path 15, wound up by the second winding shaft 7, and collected.

[0057] 1 and 2, the web transport device 1 may include a cutting device 40, a first joining device 41, a second joining device 42, and a detection device 50.

[0058] The cutting device 40 is disposed between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first and second holding mechanisms 31 and 32. More specifically, when the transport path 12 of the web W is the first transport path 14, the cutting device 40 is located between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first holding mechanism 31. When the transport path 12 of the web W is the second transport path 15, the cutting device 40 is located between the third holding mechanism 33 and the second holding mechanism 32.

[0059] The cutting device 40 cuts the web W between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first and second holding mechanisms 31 and 32. When the transport path 12 of the web W is the first transport path 14, the cutting device 40 cuts the web W in a state in which it is sandwiched and held by the first holding mechanism 31 and the third holding mechanism 33. When the transport path 12 of the web W is the second transport path 15, the cutting device 40 cuts the web W in a state in which it is sandwiched and held by the second holding mechanism 32 and the third holding mechanism 33.

[0060] The cutting device 40 may include, for example, a cutter. The cutting device 40 may cut the web W with the cutter. The cutting device 40 may include, for example, a high-power laser irradiation device. The cutting device 40 may cut the web W with a high-power laser beam.

[0061] The first joining device 41 is disposed between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first and second holding mechanisms 31 and 32. More specifically, when the transport path 12 of the web W is the first transport path 14, the first joining device 41 is located between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first holding mechanism 31. When the transport path 12 of the web W is the second transport path 15, the first joining device 41 is located between the third holding mechanism 33 and the second holding mechanism 32.

[0062] The first joining device 41 joins the web W between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first and second holding mechanisms 31 and 32. The first joining device 41 joins the ends of the web W cut by the cutting device 40. When the transport path 12 of the web W is the first transport path 14, the first joining device 41 joins the leading end of the web W clamped and held by the third holding mechanism 33 to the trailing end of the web W clamped and held by the first holding mechanism 31. When the transport path 12 of the web W is the second transport path 15, the first joining device 41 joins the leading end of the web W clamped and held by the third holding mechanism 33 to the trailing end of the web W clamped and held by the second holding mechanism 32.

[0063] The first joining device 41 may include, for example, a tape application device. The first joining device 41 may join the web W by applying tape. The first joining device 41 may use the work table portion 39 of the support plate 36 when applying the tape. That is, the first joining device 41 may apply the tape to the web W on the work table portion 39 of the support plate 36.

[0064] The cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 may be supported by a support mechanism 43. The support mechanism 43 may be configured to be movable. For example, the support mechanism 43 may be configured to be movable in a direction Dz perpendicular to the conveying direction Dw of the web W. This allows the support mechanism 43 to move the cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 closer to or farther away from the web W. Therefore, for example, when the cutting device 40 cuts the web W or when the first joining device 41 joins the web W, the cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 can be moved closer to the web W. Furthermore, when the cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 are not in use, the cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 can be moved farther away from the web W.

[0065] Furthermore, for example, the support mechanism 43 may be configured to be movable in a direction Dx parallel to the conveyance direction Dw of the web W. The support mechanism 43 may move in the above-mentioned direction Dx when the switching device 20 moves the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32. In this way, the cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 may retreat to positions where they do not interfere with the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32 when the switching device 20 moves the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32.

[0066] The second joining device 42 is disposed on the first conveying path 14. The second joining device 42 is disposed downstream of the first holding mechanism 31. The second joining device 42 joins the web W on the first conveying path 14. The second joining device 42 joins the portions of the web W joined by the first joining device 41 from the second surface (back surface). That is, the first joining device 41 joins the web W from the first surface (front surface), and the second joining device 42 joins the web W from the second surface opposite the first surface. The second joining device 42 may join the web W in a state where it is held by the holding mechanism 30 disposed opposite the second joining device 42. The second joining device 42 may include, for example, a tape application device. The second joining device 42 may join the web W by applying tape.

[0067] The detection device 50 is disposed on the common transport path 13. The detection device 50 is disposed upstream of the holding mechanism 30. That is, the detection device 50 is disposed between the web shaft 3 and the holding mechanism 30. The detection device 50 detects a mark M provided on the web W. The mark M may be provided on the web W in advance in a process prior to the main process in which the web W is transported by the web transport device 1. For example, the mark M may be printed on the web W by an inkjet device. The mark M may be associated with a positional relationship with a defective portion B on the web W. The positional relationship between the defective portion B on the web W and the mark M may be associated in a previous process, a defective portion detection process.

[0068] 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the defective portion detection process. As shown in FIG. 5, in the defective portion detection process, an inspection camera 51 detects a defective portion B on the web W transported in the transport direction Dw. A mark detection camera 52 detects a mark M on the web W. The inspection camera 51 and the mark detection camera 52 are synchronized, and the mark detection camera 52 detects the mark M located immediately before the defective portion B detected by the inspection camera 51. An encoder 53 synchronized with the inspection camera 51 and the mark detection camera 52 calculates coordinate information (X, Y) of the defective portion B based on the mark M detected by the mark detection camera 52. In this way, the positional relationship between the defective portion B and the mark M is determined.

[0069] The switching device 20 may switch the transport path 12 of the web W based on the detection result of the detection device 50. That is, as described above, the positional relationship between the defective portion B and the mark M is associated in the previous process, and therefore the position of the defective portion B on the web W can be determined from the mark M detected by the detection device 50. Therefore, the switching device 20 can determine the position of the defective portion B on the web W from the detection result of the detection device 50, and if the defective portion B is present, switch the transport path 12 of the web W from the first transport path 14 to the second transport path 15. As a result, non-defective parts of the web W that do not contain the defective portion B can be transported to the first transport path 14 and wound up by the first winding shaft 5 for collection, and defective parts of the web W that contain the defective portion B can be transported to the second transport path 15 and wound up by the second winding shaft 7 for collection.

[0070] The switching of the conveying path 12 by the switching device 20 may be performed automatically by a control device (not shown) or manually by an operator.

[0071] The web transport apparatus 1 may not include one or more of the cutting device 40, the first joining device 41, the second joining device 42, and the detection device 50. For example, if the web transport apparatus 1 does not include the cutting device 40, the cutting of the web W may be performed manually by an operator. Also, for example, if the web transport apparatus 1 does not include the first joining device 41 and the second joining device 42, the joining of the web W may be performed manually by an operator. Also, for example, if the web transport apparatus 1 does not include the detection device 50, the detection of defective portion B on the web W may be performed visually by an operator.

[0072] Next, a web transport method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 6 to 10. The web transport method is a method of transporting a web W unwound from a raw web roll R using the above-described web transport device 1. The web transport method may be, for example, a defective part removal method of removing defective parts from the web W.

[0073] The web conveying method includes a first conveying step, a detecting step, a first holding step, a cutting step, a switching step, a second holding step, a joining step, and a second conveying step.

[0074] First, a first transport step is performed. In the first transport step, as shown in Fig. 6, the web W unwound from the raw web roll R is transported along a first transport path 14 toward the first winding shaft 5. The web W is transported by a plurality of transport rollers 11 of a transport mechanism 10. Here, the web W is not held by a holding mechanism 30. The web W transported along the first transport path 14 is taken up by the first winding shaft 5 and collected.

[0075] Next, the detection process is carried out. In the detection process, the detection device 50 detects the mark M provided on the web W. As described above, the mark M is associated with a positional relationship with the defective portion B on the web W. Therefore, the position of the defective portion B on the web W can be determined from the mark M detected by the detection device 50. In this detection process, if the mark M corresponding to the defective portion B on the web W is detected, the subsequent processes may be carried out.

[0076] Next, a first holding step is performed. In the first holding step, as shown in Fig. 7, the web W is clamped and held by the first holding mechanism 31 in the first transport path 14. Here, the web W may be clamped and held by the third holding mechanism 33 in the common transport path 13. The clamping of the web W by the first holding mechanism 31 and the clamping of the web W by the third holding mechanism 33 may be performed simultaneously.

[0077] Next, a cutting process is carried out. In the cutting process, the web W is cut between the first holding mechanism 31 and the third holding mechanism 33, as shown in Fig. 7. The web W is cut by the cutting device 40 while being held by the first holding mechanism 31 and the third holding mechanism 33. Here, the web W may be held by the first holding mechanism 31 and the third holding mechanism 33 in a high-tension state. The web W may be cut by a cutter of the cutting device 40 or by a high-power laser beam.

[0078] Next, a switching process is performed. In the switching process, as shown in Fig. 8, the transport path 12 of the web W is switched from the first transport path 14 to the second transport path 15 toward the second winding shaft 7. The switching of the transport path 12 of the web W is performed by a switching device 20. As shown in Fig. 8, the switching device 20 moves in the above-mentioned direction Dz, whereby the transport path 12 of the web W is switched from the first transport path 14 to the second transport path 15.

[0079] In the switching process, the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32 are moved in the direction Dz described above. That is, in the switching process, the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32 are moved linearly in the direction Dz non-parallel to the transport direction Dw of the web W. Alternatively, the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32 are moved in the direction Dz perpendicular to the transport direction Dw of the web W.

[0080] 8, the cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 are retracted to positions where they do not interfere with the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32. The support mechanism 43 may move in a direction Dx parallel to the conveyance direction Dw of the web W, thereby retracting the cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 to positions where they do not interfere with the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32.

[0081] Next, a joining process is performed. In the joining process, as shown in FIG. 9, the web W is joined between the second holding mechanism 32 and the third holding mechanism 33. Here, the cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 move from the retracted position to their original position (work position). The web W is joined by the first joining device 41 while being held by the second holding mechanism 32 and the third holding mechanism 33. The first joining device 41 may join the leading end of the web W clamped and held by the third holding mechanism 33 to the trailing end of the web W clamped and held by the second holding mechanism 32. The web W may be joined by the first joining device 41 by applying tape on the work table portion 39 of the support plate 36.

[0082] Next, the second conveying step is performed. In the second conveying step, as shown in Fig. 10, the web W is conveyed along the second conveying path 15. The web W is conveyed by a plurality of conveying rollers 11 of the conveying mechanism 10. Here, the web W is not held by the holding mechanism 30. That is, when the second conveying step is performed, the hold of the web W by the second holding mechanism 32 and the third holding mechanism 33 is released. The web W conveyed along the second conveying path 15 is taken up by the second winding shaft 7 and collected.

[0083] Thereafter, the transport path 12 of the web W may be switched from the second transport path 15 to the first transport path 14 in a similar manner. Subsequently, the web W may be spliced by the first joining device 41 between the first holding mechanism 31 and the third holding mechanism 33. Next, downstream of the first holding mechanism 31 on the first transport path 14, the second joining device 42 may splice the portions joined by the first joining device 41 from the second surface (back surface). That is, the first joining device 41 may splice the web W from the first surface (front surface), and the second joining device 42 may splice the web W from the second surface opposite to the first surface. Then, the process may return to the first transport step described above, and the above steps may be repeated.

[0084] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described.

[0085] In a typical web transport device, as shown in FIG. 11 , the switching device 20′ is a rotary switching device that rotates and moves the holding mechanism 30. The rotary switching device 20′ has a first arm 21′ that supports a first holding mechanism 31 and a second arm 22′ that supports a second holding mechanism 32. The first arm 21′ and the second arm 22′ are each pivotally supported on a rotation shaft 23′. The first arm 21′ and the second arm 22′ have the same length. When switching the web transport path, the rotary switching device 20′ rotates the first arm 21′ and the second arm 22′ by an angle θ around the rotation shaft 23′, thereby rotating the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32. Here, the angle θ is the angle between the first arm 21′ and the second arm 22′.

[0086] However, when such a rotary switching device 20′ rotates a clamp-type holding mechanism 30, there is a risk that the holding mechanism 30 may interfere with other components during rotation, as shown in Fig. 12. In the example shown in Fig. 12, the first holding mechanism 31 supported by the first arm 21′ interferes with (collides with) the third holding mechanism 33 positioned adjacent to the first holding mechanism 31 during rotation.

[0087] Interference of the holding mechanism 30 in the rotary switching device 20' is affected by the thickness of the holding mechanism main body 37. That is, such interference can occur when the holding mechanism main body 37 is thick. In the rotary switching device 20', the condition for preventing interference of the holding mechanism 30 is expressed by the following (Equation 1).

[0088]

number

[0089] Here, L represents the distance from the rotation axis 23' to the end (the end located on the opposite side from the rotation axis 23') of the holding mechanism 30 (first holding mechanism 31 or second holding mechanism 32). a represents the thickness dimension of the holding mechanism main body 37. d represents the distance between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first holding mechanism 31 (or second holding mechanism 32). The position where the first arm 21' and the second arm 22' support the holding mechanism 30 is the center position in the thickness direction of the holding mechanism main body 37.

[0090] By solving the above (Equation 1) for a, we obtain the following (Equation 2).

[0091]

number

[0092] In this (Equation 2), for example, if L = 300 mm and d = 1 mm, then a < 49 mm. Because the clamp-type holding mechanism 30 has a cylinder and a motor inside the holding mechanism body 37, it is difficult to make the holding mechanism body 37 thin, and even a thin one has a thickness dimension a of about 80 mm. For this reason, the clamp-type holding mechanism 30 cannot satisfy the condition of (Equation 2) above.

[0093] For this reason, a typical web transport device uses a suction-type holding mechanism 30' as the holding mechanism, as shown in FIG. 13. The suction-type holding mechanism 30' holds the web W by suction using multiple suction holes provided in a holding mechanism main body 37'. The suction-type holding mechanism 30' does not have a cylinder or motor inside the holding mechanism main body 37', so the thickness of the holding mechanism main body 37' can be made thin. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 14, the holding mechanism 30' can be prevented from interfering with other components when it rotates. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the first holding mechanism 31' and the second holding mechanism 32' are prevented from interfering with the third holding mechanism 33 when it rotates.

[0094] However, the suction-type holding mechanism 30' is functionally insufficient for flattening stiff webs, and is not suitable for high-tension conveyance, webs that tend to warp, or situations where multiple webs of different widths are conveyed on the same line.

[0095] In contrast, according to the present embodiment, when switching the transport path 12 of the web W, the switching device 20 moves the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32 linearly in a direction Dz non-parallel to the transport direction Dw of the web W. Alternatively, when switching the transport path 12 of the web W, the switching device 20 moves the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32 in a direction Dz perpendicular to the transport direction Dw of the web W. As a result, even if the web transport device 1 employs a clamp-type holding mechanism 30 with a thick holding mechanism body 37 as the holding mechanism, it is possible to prevent the clamp-type holding mechanism 30 from interfering with other components when switching the transport path 12 of the web W. Therefore, the web transport device 1 can employ the clamp-type holding mechanism 30 as the holding mechanism.

[0096] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, by using the clamp-type holding mechanism 30, the web W can be held with high tension, and even a stiff web W can be held so as to be flat. Furthermore, since the web W can be held with high tension, there is no need to reduce the tension of the web W when holding it, and the web W can be transported with high tension. As a result, the web W can be transported without meandering, and the winding quality of the web W can also be improved.

[0097] Furthermore, in the case of a warped web W, the suction-type holding mechanism 30' may be unable to hold the web W because the end of the web W curls and floats up during cutting. Furthermore, in a situation where multiple webs W of different widths are transported on the same line, when a web W whose width is smaller than the suction width (the arrangement width of the suction holes) is transported, the holding force of the suction-type holding mechanism 30' may be significantly reduced. In contrast, according to this embodiment, by using the clamp-type holding mechanism 30, it is possible to hold the web W even when a warped web W or multiple webs W of different widths are transported on the same line.

[0098] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the holding mechanism 30 includes a third holding mechanism 33 that clamps and holds the web W upstream of the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32. This allows the web W to be firmly held by the two holding mechanisms 30, namely the third holding mechanism 33 and the first holding mechanism 31 or the second holding mechanism 32, and the web W can be held with high tension.

[0099] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the web transport device 1 includes a cutting device 40 that cuts the web W between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first and second holding mechanisms 31 and 32. This allows the cutting device 40 to quickly cut the web W when switching the transport path 12 of the web W. Therefore, the transport path 12 of the web W can be quickly switched.

[0100] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the web transport device 1 includes a first joining device 41 that joins the web W between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first and second holding mechanisms 31 and 32. This allows the first joining device 41 to quickly join the cut web W after the transport path 12 of the web W is switched. Therefore, after the transport path 12 of the web W is switched, the web W can be quickly transported toward the first winding shaft 5 or the second winding shaft 7.

[0101] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the switching device 20 moves the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32, the cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 retreat to positions where they do not interfere with the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32. This makes it possible to avoid the first holding mechanism 31 and the second holding mechanism 32 interfering with the cutting device 40 and the first joining device 41 when switching the transport path 12 of the web W.

[0102] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the web transport device 1 includes a second joining device 42 that joins the web W on the first transport path 14, the first joining device 41 joining the web W from a first surface, and the second joining device 42 joining the web W from a second surface opposite the first surface. This improves the joining strength of the web W and prevents the web W from peeling off.

[0103] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the support plate 36 of the holding mechanism 30 includes a work table portion 39 for performing work on the web W. In this manner, the holding mechanism 30 can also serve as a work table for, for example, a joining work by the first joining device 41.

[0104] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the fixing plate 35 of the holding mechanism 30 is made of an elastic material. This increases the coefficient of friction of the fixing plate 35 with respect to the web W, allowing the holding mechanism 30 to firmly hold the web W. Furthermore, the support plate 36 of the holding mechanism 30 is made of a metal material. This prevents the web W from wrinkling when the first joining device 41 or the like is working on the work table 39.

[0105] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the web transport device 1 includes a detection device 50 that detects a mark M on the web W, and the switching device 20 switches the transport path 12 for the web W based on the detection result of the detection device 50. Because the positional relationship between the mark M and a defective portion B on the web W can be associated with the mark M, the position of the defective portion B on the web W can be determined from the mark M detected by the detection device 50. Thus, the switching device 20 can determine the position of the defective portion B on the web W from the detection result of the detection device 50, and if a defective portion B is present, switch the transport path 12 for the web W from the first transport path 14 to the second transport path 15. Therefore, non-defective webs W that do not contain the defective portion B can be transported to the first transport path 14 and wound up by the first winding shaft 5 for collection, while defective webs W that contain the defective portion B can be transported to the second transport path 15 and wound up by the second winding shaft 7 for collection.

[0106] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the web W is made of a laminate including a metal layer. A web W having such a configuration is particularly prone to warping. According to this embodiment, by using the clamp-type holding mechanism 30, even such a web W that is prone to warping can be properly held.

[0107] As described above, according to this embodiment, when switching the transport path of the web, it is possible to prevent the clamp-type holding mechanism from interfering with other members.

[0108] The above-described embodiment can be modified in various ways. Below, modified examples will be described with reference to the drawings as necessary. In the following description and the drawings used in the following description, parts that can be configured similarly to the above-described embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used for corresponding parts in the above-described embodiment. Duplicate descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, if it is clear that the effects obtained in the above-described embodiment can also be obtained in modified examples, the description of those effects may be omitted.

[0109] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the holding mechanism 30 of FIG. 3. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the support plate 36 of the holding mechanism 30 is made of a metal material. However, as shown in FIG. 15, the clamping portion 38 and the work table portion 39 of the support plate 36 may be made of different materials. For example, the clamping portion 38 may be made of an elastic material, and the work table portion 39 may be made of a metal material. By making the clamping portion 38 of an elastic material, the coefficient of friction between the clamping portion 38 and the web W can be increased, and the web W can be more firmly held between the clamping portion 38 and the fixed plate 35. Furthermore, by making the work table portion 39 of a metal material, the occurrence of wrinkles in the web W can be suppressed when the first joining device 41 or the like works on the work table portion 39.

[0110] 15, a portion of the work table portion 39 may extend into an area facing the fixed plate 35. Furthermore, although not shown, a portion of the clamping portion 38 may extend into an area not facing the fixed plate 35. In other words, the clamping portion 38 may be a portion that mainly plays a role in clamping the web W together with the fixed plate 35, and the work table portion 39 may be a portion that mainly plays a role in performing work on the web W.

[0111] Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram showing another modified example of the holding mechanism 30 of Fig. 3. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the support plate 36 of the holding mechanism 30 includes a clamping portion 38 and a work table portion 39. However, as shown in Fig. 16, a work table 60 for performing work on the web W may be provided adjacent to the support plate 36. The work table 60 is a separate element different from the support plate 36. The work table 60 is used, for example, as a work table when the cut web W is joined by the first joining device 41.

[0112] 16, one work table 60 may be arranged adjacent to the support plate 36 of the third holding mechanism 33, and another work table 60 may be arranged adjacent to the first holding mechanism 31 (or the second holding mechanism 32). Furthermore, these work tables 60 may be arranged between the third holding mechanism 33 and the first holding mechanism 31 (or the second holding mechanism 32). In other words, one work table 60 may be arranged downstream of the third holding mechanism 33, and another work table 60 may be arranged upstream of the first holding mechanism 31 (or the second holding mechanism 32).

[0113] The work table 60 may have a configuration similar to that of the holding mechanism 30. For example, like the support plate 36, the work table 60 may be configured to be driven by a cylinder (not shown) or a drive motor (not shown) and to be movable in the same direction as the movement direction of the support plate 36.

[0114] In this case, the support plate 36 of the holding mechanism 30 may be made of an elastic material, and the work table 60 may be made of a metal material. By making the support plate 36 of an elastic material, the coefficient of friction of the support plate 36 with respect to the web W can be increased, and the web W can be held more firmly between the support plate 36 and the fixed plate 35. Furthermore, by making the work table 60 of a metal material, it is possible to prevent wrinkles from occurring in the web W when the first joining device 41 or the like works on the work table portion 39.

[0115] The components disclosed in the above-described embodiment and the above-described modified examples may be combined as appropriate as necessary. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 1. Web conveying device 3 Raw shaft 5 First winding shaft 7 Second winding shaft 10. Transport mechanism 12 Transport Route 14 First transport route 15 Second transport route 20 Switching Device 30 Retention mechanism 31 First holding mechanism 32 Second holding mechanism 33 Third holding mechanism 35 Fixed plate 36 Support plate 38 Clamping part 39 Workbench 40 Cutting device 41 1st joining device 42 Second joining device 50 Detection Device 60 Workbench M mark R Raw material roll W Web

Claims

1. a raw material shaft for holding the raw material roll; a conveying mechanism that conveys the web unwound from the raw web roll; a switching device that switches the transport path of the web between a first transport path and a second transport path; a holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the transport path; a first winding shaft that winds up the web transported along the first transport path; a second winding shaft that winds up the web transported along the second transport path, the holding mechanism includes a first holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the first transport path, and a second holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the second transport path, The web transport device, wherein the switching device linearly moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism in a direction non-parallel to the web transport direction when switching the transport path.

2. a raw material shaft for holding the raw material roll; a conveying mechanism that conveys the web unwound from the raw web roll; a switching device that switches the transport path of the web between a first transport path and a second transport path; a holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the transport path; a first winding shaft that winds up the web transported along the first transport path; a second winding shaft that winds up the web transported along the second transport path, the holding mechanism includes a first holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the first transport path, and a second holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web in the second transport path, The web transport device, wherein the switching device moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism in a direction perpendicular to the web transport direction when switching the transport path.

3. The web transport device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the holding mechanism includes a third holding mechanism that clamps and holds the web upstream of the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism.

4. The web transport apparatus of claim 3 , further comprising a cutting device that cuts the web between the third holding mechanism and the first and second holding mechanisms.

5. The web transport apparatus of claim 4 , further comprising a first joining device that joins the web between the third holding mechanism and the first and second holding mechanisms.

6. The web conveying device of claim 5, wherein the cutting device and the first joining device are retracted to positions where they do not interfere with the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism when the switching device moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism.

7. a second joining device that joins the web in the first transport path; the first joining device joins the web from a first surface, The web transport device according to claim 5 , wherein the second joining device joins the web from a second surface opposite to the first surface.

8. The web conveying device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the holding mechanism includes a fixed plate and a support plate that supports the web and moves toward the fixed plate to clamp the web between the fixed plate and the support plate.

9. 9. The web transport device according to claim 8, wherein the support plate includes a clamping portion that faces the fixed plate and clamps the web together with the fixed plate, and a work table portion for performing work on the web.

10. The fixing plate is made of an elastic material, The web transport apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the support plate is made of a metal material.

11. The fixing plate is made of an elastic material, The clamping portion is made of an elastic material, The web transport apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the work table portion is made of a metal material.

12. a work table provided adjacent to the support plate for performing work on the web; The fixing plate is made of an elastic material, The support plate is made of an elastic material, The web transport apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the work table is made of a metal material.

13. a detection device for detecting a mark provided on the web, The web transport device according to claim 1 , wherein the switching device switches the transport path based on a detection result of the detection device.

14. 3. The web transport device according to claim 1, wherein the web is made of a laminate including a metal layer.

15. a first conveying step of conveying the web unwound from the raw web roll along a first conveying path toward a first winding shaft; a first holding step of clamping and holding the web by a first holding mechanism in the first transport path; a switching step of switching the transport path of the web from the first transport path to a second transport path toward a second winding shaft; a second holding step of clamping and holding the web by a second holding mechanism in the second transport path; a second transport step of transporting the web through the second transport path, The web transport method, wherein the switching step linearly moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism in a direction non-parallel to the web transport direction.

16. a first conveying step of conveying the web unwound from the raw web roll along a first conveying path toward a first winding shaft; a first holding step of clamping and holding the web by a first holding mechanism in the first transport path; a switching step of switching the transport path of the web from the first transport path to a second transport path toward a second winding shaft; a second holding step of clamping and holding the web by a second holding mechanism in the second transport path; a second transport step of transporting the web through the second transport path, The web transport method, wherein the switching step moves the first holding mechanism and the second holding mechanism in a direction perpendicular to a transport direction of the web.

Images