Tool changing system and sheet processing machine equipped with tool changing system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a tool change system (54) for a sheet converting machine (10), wherein at least one transport carrier (56) is capable of storing and transporting a plurality of tools (34) for the sheet converting machine (10). The system (54) further includes a lift device (58) attachable to the transport carrier (56) and adapted to move the transport carrier (56) across the platform (38) to at least one exchange position (46) where tools can be exchanged between the transport carrier (56) and the sheet converting machine (10). The system (54) further includes at least one alignment mechanism (60) configured to lock the transport carrier (56) at the at least one exchange position (46).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a tool changing system for a sheet processing machine and to a processing machine equipped with a tool changing system. [Background technology]

[0002] Sheeting machines are known in the art and are used to automatically cut packaging material such as paper, cardboard, or corrugated board into blanks that are then folded into outer boxes. Subtypes of sheeting machines are die-cutting machines or platen presses.

[0003] To process the sheets efficiently, sheet processing machines have a conveyor path divided into different work stations, each equipped with different tools suited to performing a specific task during sheet processing. As a rule, the tools used are configured to cut the sheet, remove the cut-out portion of the sheet, and collect the final cut sheet.

[0004] Not all tools are suitable for all cutting operations, so the operator must be able to change the specific tool between two different machining operations.

[0005] There are methods for changing tools and devices for carrying out these methods available. A typical device for handling and positioning tools in a cutting press is disclosed in EP 0 683 004. Another device for changing cutting tools is known from U.S. Pat. No. 5,573,488.

[0006] Heretofore, devices for tool changing in sheet processing machines have suffered from a number of drawbacks.

[0007] The most notable drawback is that the tool changing equipment is often bulky and involves complex equipment, often requiring two or more operators to properly handle such equipment.

[0008] Furthermore, known methods for performing tool replacement operations are often time-consuming, as they involve lengthy procedures involving multiple steps for tool replacement. No one-step approach for tool replacement is known.

[0009] Additionally, the use of equipment for tool changing sometimes involves the installation of costly permanent auxiliary systems. In other cases, the tool is carried by the operator, and if the tool is heavy, two operators are required to load the tool onto the machine.

[0010] Another drawback is that known devices only allow for one tool change at a time; it is not known to use one device to change multiple tools.

[0011] So far, these problems have not been resolved. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0012] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 0 683 004 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 5,573,488 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a tool changing system for a sheet converting machine that overcomes one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] This object is achieved by a tool changing system for a sheet processing machine. The tool changing system includes at least one transport carrier capable of storing and carrying a plurality of tools for the sheet processing machine. Preferably, the tools are mounted on wheels and adapted to transport the tools across a work site. The tool changing system also includes a lifting device, which is attachable or permanently attached to the transport carrier and adapted to lift the transport carrier from a floor adjacent to the platform and move the transport carrier across the platform to at least one exchange position where tools can be exchanged between the transport carrier and the sheet processing machine. The tool changing system also includes at least one alignment mechanism configured to lock the transport carrier in the at least one exchange position.

[0015] The gist of the present invention is to provide a tool changing system that is easy to use and can be operated by a single operator. This is achieved through the interaction of three main components: a transport carrier, a lifting device, and an alignment mechanism.

[0016] The transport carrier transports and stores multiple tools for changeover operations. Therefore, there is no need to reload the carrier during tool changeover, and the carrier can be loaded into the machine in a one-step method. This significantly reduces the downtime of the sheet processing machine.

[0017] The carrier is moved and lifted by the lifting device, allowing a single operator to carry out the replacement work. The weight of the carrier can be handled by the lifting device, so the operator does not need to lift the carrier by hand.

[0018] To accurately align the carrier at the tool change position, the present invention provides at least one alignment mechanism. The alignment mechanism has two functions: on the one hand, it ensures that the carrier is always in the correct position for tool change, and on the other hand, it locks the carrier in the tool change position to prevent displacement. This minimizes tool change time.

[0019] Stationary, permanent means such as a rail system for moving the carrier are not within the scope of this invention.

[0020] By "plurality of tools" it is meant that the transport carrier includes means for transporting and storing at least two or more tools, preferably three or four or more tools, more preferably four or five or more tools.

[0021] A "change position" is defined as a position in front of the sheet processing machine where an operator can change tools between the transport carrier and the machine. Preferably, the change position is located on a platform arranged adjacent to the machine. In particular, the change position is assigned to a work station of the sheet processing machine. Depending on the type of sheet processing machine, multiple change positions may be provided.

[0022] According to one embodiment, at least one transport carrier is a rack having at least one storage unit with a pair of horizontally arranged crossbars extending parallel to each other and defining a storage area between which tools for the sheet processing machine are slidably stored.

[0023] According to another embodiment, at least one transport carrier is a rack having a platform and at least one storage unit defining a storage area between which tools for the sheet processing machine can be stored and which can be slidably moved in and out of the sheet processing machine.

[0024] The advantage of providing storage areas is that the tools can be safely secured within the rack during transport. Because the tools are slidably stored in or on the storage areas, they can be slidably removed or inserted in the storage unit, facilitating replacement. Therefore, no additional auxiliary equipment is required to transport the tools from the rack to the machine or vice versa.

[0025] According to another aspect, the rack further comprises upper and lower frames, the frames being stacked one on top of the other. Each of the frames comprises at least one storage unit. The storage units of the upper and lower frames are adapted to mate with respective tool holder units of the sheet processing machine so that tools can be slidably exchanged between the storage units and the respective tool holder units when the transport carrier is locked in the first or second exchange position, respectively. In the at least one exchange position, the transport carrier is held at a distance above the bottom surface of the platform by a lift device.

[0026] The basic idea behind this embodiment is that the rack is divided into two different sections (frames), each capable of transporting and storing tools of different sizes assigned to different work stations of the sheet processing machine. Thus, one rack can be used to supply tools to different work stations, i.e., different loading units. The space required for storing tools is further reduced, as the tools can be stored in parallel in the upper and lower frames, one on top of the other. Thus, one rack can store all the tools related to a particular processing operation.

[0027] In particular, the upper and lower frames can be adapted to the size and dimensions of the tools to be held therein. For example, the upper frame can be configured to house and carry blanking tools, while the lower frame can be configured to house and carry waste removal tools. The tool arrangements can also be vice versa. In this case, the lower frame can be larger in size, i.e., wider and longer, than the upper frame.

[0028] The term "tool holder unit" is understood to mean a location or place in a sheet processing machine where the respective tools for the task at hand are placed. Each station of the sheet processing machine can have at least one tool holder unit. The tool holder units can also be located in different parts of the sheet processing machine.

[0029] Additionally, a single transport carrier can be used to transport tools of different sizes.

[0030] According to another embodiment of the invention, the rack comprises a plurality of storage units, the storage units being arranged in the rack at a vertical distance equal to the loading distance of the tools in the sheet processing machine.

[0031] Racks with vertical distances between storage units that are the same as the tool loading distances in the sheet converting machine allow for quick tool change or removal without having to rearrange the racks. Additionally, multiple tools can be changed or removed simultaneously.

[0032] According to another aspect of the invention, the rack further comprises a plurality of locking handles for locking the tools within the storage unit, each locking handle being switchable between an unlocked position and a locked position, in which the tools can be removed from the rack to the sheet converting machine, while in the locked position the tools are securely coupled to the rack.

[0033] The locking handle provides an easy to use and cost effective locking system that does not require sophisticated tooling equipment. Additionally, the provision of the locking handle allows a single operator to lock or unlock the tools in the rack.

[0034] In another aspect of the invention, the lifting device is a crane mounted on the platform of the sheet processing machine or on the floor adjacent to the platform. Stationary cranes are particularly suited to lifting heavy loads compared to mobile cranes.

[0035] The lifting device may include a controller and an input interface connected to each other, the input interface configured to receive input information that enables the controller to perform crane operations.

[0036] With the above system, the lifting device can be easily controlled by a single operator, the crane actually serving as mechanical support for the operator.

[0037] In principle, the input interface can be a control pad, where the operator can enter instructions for controlling the crane.

[0038] According to a further embodiment, the input interface and the control device are remotely connected. This allows the operator to control the crane without being on the platform. For example, the crane can be controlled from a separate monitoring station via a Bluetooth or W-LAN connection.

[0039] According to a preferred alternative, the lifting device does not have an electronic control: the crane is driven by compressed air, and the lifting or locking of the transport carrier position can be controlled by pneumatic valves operable by the operator on a control panel.

[0040] The lifting device may be adapted to lift and move a weight of a transport carrier having a length of at least 2 m and a weight of at least 100 kg. A crane configured to lift a transport carrier of the above specifications is particularly suitable for a tool changing system.

[0041] According to another preferred embodiment, the lifting device is a two-arm crane or bridge crane that is coupled to the transport carrier and configured to lift or lower the transport carrier along a vertical direction and to displace the transport carrier in three additional degrees of freedom, two of which are displacements parallel to the platform and one of which is rotation about a vertical axis.

[0042] The use of a bridge crane has the advantage that it is lower in height than other crane types and can be installed in locations with low ceilings.

[0043] According to another preferred embodiment, the crane is L-shaped and comprises a first crane arm pivotally attached to the crane body, the first crane arm having a free end located opposite the crane body and a second crane arm pivotally attached to said free end, the second crane arm having a free end located opposite the first crane arm and a connecting element pivotally attached to said free end, the connecting element being configured to attach to the transport carrier.

[0044] The crane is particularly suitable for lifting and transporting transport carriers from the floor adjacent to the platform, across the platform and towards the sheet processing machine.

[0045] Furthermore, it is preferred that the first crane arm is pivotable 360° around a longitudinal access arranged perpendicular to a plane parallel to the platform, the second crane arm is pivotable at least 300° around the longitudinal access in a direction opposite to the crane body, and the connecting element is pivotable 360° around the longitudinal access.

[0046] A two-arm crane or bridge crane is suitable for locking the transport carrier along the vertical direction while leaving three additional degrees of freedom unlocked.

[0047] According to a further embodiment, the bridge crane comprises a pair of beams extending parallel to one another, each beam including a longitudinal rail extending along the respective beam, the beams connected by a traveling bridge adapted to move parallel to the platform along the rail, and the bridge crane mechanism allows the transport carrier to move in a stable manner over the platform.

[0048] According to another embodiment, the traveling bridge is permanently attached to the transport carrier via rigid lifting arms, which improve the stability of the bridge crane during transport carrier movement.

[0049] According to a further embodiment, each beam is mounted on at least two support elements, in particular pillars, walls or scaffolding. The use of pillars as support elements is particularly preferred as it requires less space compared to other options. However, the use of scaffolding and walls increases the rigidity and stability of the bridge crane.

[0050] According to another embodiment, the bridge crane is rigidly attached to the floor and / or platform. The installation of the bridge crane is therefore very versatile and not limited to a specific location. For example, the bridge crane can be attached partly on the floor and partly on the platform. However, the bridge crane can also be attached only to the floor or to the platform. It is particularly preferred that the bridge crane is attached to the floor via supports around the platform.

[0051] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, a two-arm crane or bridge crane includes a positioning module having a command panel configured to automatically and / or manually control the movements of the crane. The control panel may be positioned at a radial distance from and rigidly coupled to a gripping unit, the gripping unit being configured to grip and hold a transport carrier.

[0052] The positioning module can be used by an operator to move the transport carrier to the exchange position. The combination of the gripping unit and the command panel in one module allows the crane's operation, i.e., the movement of the transport carrier, to be controlled by the operator close to the transport carrier, enabling precise positioning of the transport carrier at the exchange position. In particular, the constant radial distance between the control panel and the gripping unit means that the two units are rigidly coupled to each other, so the gripping unit always follows the movement of the control panel.

[0053] In this regard, manual means that the operator can move the command panel around the gripping unit simply by using physical force, without being actively supported by the force of a crane.

[0054] By automatic, it is meant that the crane uses its own power, for example hydraulic or pneumatic, to perform the operations.

[0055] According to a further embodiment, the command panel may be configured to control the vertical movement of the transport carrier.

[0056] According to a further embodiment, the control panel comprises an operating element configured as a deadman's switch, which, when activated, unlocks the crane's movement and allows the transport carrier to be moved manually according to three additional degrees of freedom. In other words, once the height of the transport carrier has been correctly adjusted, it can be moved horizontally by hand and pivoted about its vertical axis, allowing the operator to manually position and orient the transport carrier towards the processing station of the sheet processing machine.

[0057] In another aspect of the invention, the command panel provides at least one operating element that, when activated, enables the crane to perform a movement. In other words, the movement of the crane can be controlled by activating the operating element.

[0058] According to a further aspect of the invention, the operating element comprises at least -Move the crane vertically along the up and down direction; - opening and closing the gripping unit so that the gripping unit can be attached to the transport carrier; - Rotate the command panel 360° around the gripping unit; - rotating the first crane arm and the second crane arm about their respective axes of rotation; - Vertical movement of the command panel independently of the crane along the up and down direction; - Locking and / or unlocking the operation of the crane; It has a function.

[0059] In particular, the ability to rotate the command panel 360° around the transport carrier allows the operator to change their position simply by holding the command panel and moving around the transport carrier.

[0060] The ability to move the command panel vertically up and down independently of the crane allows the operator to grasp the command panel while standing on the platform.

[0061] By rotating the command panel 360 degrees around the gripping unit and rotating the first crane arm and second crane arm around their respective rotation axes, the carrier attached to the crane can be moved freely in all spatial directions.

[0062] Locking and unlocking motion is a security feature that allows the operator to easily stop motion of the crane if necessary.

[0063] According to another preferred embodiment, the alignment mechanism includes two interlocking elements configured to engage with each other, one of which is fixedly attached to the sheet converting machine, preferably to a housing of the sheet converting machine, and the other of which is fixedly attached to the transport carrier, preferably to a front side of the transport carrier.

[0064] This provides the advantage that the change position is preset by the position of one of the interlocking elements located on the sheet converting machine, and if required the change position can be changed by simply fitting one of the interlocking elements in a different position on the machine.

[0065] Two interlocking elements form a pair of interlocking elements. In principle, there can be more than two pairs of interlocking elements, in particular three or more pairs. Preferably, two pairs of interlocking elements are provided for each change position of the sheet processing machine.

[0066] According to another preferred embodiment, one of the two interlocking elements is a concave unit, preferably with a conical recess, and the other of the two interlocking elements is a mating unit, preferably a conical protrusion, configured to engage with the concave unit.

[0067] Therefore, the recessed unit and mating unit can be manufactured in a cost-effective manner. Furthermore, sheet converting machines can be easily retrofitted with such elements. The elements described above do not take up much space, as they require only a minimal amount of surface to which they must be attached.

[0068] Specifically, the recessed unit is assigned to the sheet processing machine and the mating unit is assigned to the carrier. By arranging the interlocking elements in this manner, simply pressing the transport carrier against the sheet processing machine causes the two interlocking elements to engage with each other, thereby locking the carrier in the exchange position.

[0069] The recessed unit and the mating unit can be made of a magnetic material, with one of them including at least one magnet. The at least one magnet is configured to attract the mating unit of the transport carrier into the recessed unit of the sheet processing machine, so that the mating unit of the transport carrier fits snugly into the recessed unit when the mating unit approaches the recess. The provision of the magnet also prevents displacement of the transport carrier when it is locked in the exchange position. In particular, unintended movement of the carrier can be prevented during the exchange procedure.

[0070] Generally, magnets provide a strong physical interconnection between the recessed unit and the mating unit, and also represent a simple and cost-effective means of preventing movement of the carrier when it is locked in the exchange position.

[0071] The magnets further preferably have sufficient magnetic force to prevent vibration of the lifting device when the carrier is locked in the exchange position.

[0072] When the carrier is fully loaded with tools, vibrations of several centimeters can occur between the crane and the lifting equipment. However, these vibrations prevent the tool from being accurately replaced at the replacement position. To prevent this, it is preferable to use magnets with sufficient magnetic force to strongly attach the carrier to the machine.

[0073] In another aspect of the invention, the transport carrier comprises at least one recessed unit and at least one balancing unit, the balancing unit having a dummy element formed as an abutment, the abutment having a conical shape, and both units are preferably arranged at the front side of the rack.

[0074] The invention further relates to a sheet converting machine for converting paper or cardboard, comprising a conveyor path for cutting sheets with different tools, a platform adjacent to the conveyor path, and a floor adjacent to the platform for storing transport carriers. The conveyor path comprises a housing including, in the following order: an introduction station for feeding sheets, a platen station for cutting the sheets, a waste discharge station for removing the cut sheets, and a blanking station for collecting the final cut sheets. The platform provides at least one change position for changing tools, the sheet converting machine further comprising a tool change system according to the above description.

[0075] The sheet converting machine according to the invention increases the productivity of such machines by reducing downtime during tool changes - see above for the advantages of the tool changing system.

[0076] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0077] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a sheet processing machine known in the prior art; [Figure 2] 1 is an isometric view of a sheet processing machine equipped with a tool changing system according to the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a transport carrier of the tool changing system of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a storage unit of the transport carrier of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a detailed view of the lock handle of the storage unit of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is a close-up view of another lock handle of the storage unit of FIG. 4. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a side view of a lifting device of the tool changing system of FIG. 2. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a top view of the mounting plate of the lifting device of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 8 is a side view of the lifting device of FIG. 7 with a deployment unit. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the arrangement unit of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] 3 is a cross-sectional and isometric view of an alignment mechanism of the tool changing system of FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 12] 3A and 3B are isometric and cross-sectional views of a balance unit of a transport carrier of the tool changing system of FIG. 2. [Figure 13] 3 is a top view of a sheet processing machine equipped with the tool changing system of FIG. 2. [Figure 14] FIG. 3 is a side view of the sheet processing machine and tool changing system of FIG. 2. [Figure 15] 14 is an isometric view of the transport carrier of the tool changing system of FIG. 13 locked in a first changing position. [Figure 16] FIG. 14 is an isometric view of the transport carrier locked in the second exchange position of the tool exchange system of FIG. 13. [Figure 17] 1 is an isometric view of a lifting device embodied as a bridge crane; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0078] 1 shows the basic elements of a sheet converting machine 10 known in the prior art. The sheet converting machine 10 includes a plurality of processing stations 11 arranged along a conveyor path 12. Both the processing stations 11 and the conveyor path 12 are enclosed within a housing 14 of the sheet converting machine 10.

[0079] The conveyor path 12 includes, in order, an introduction station 16 for feeding sheets, a platen station 18 for cutting the sheets, a waste discharge station 20 for removing the cut sheets, a blanking station 22 for collecting the final cut sheets, and a pickup station 24 for removing the collected sheets from the machine 10.

[0080] In principle, raw material sheets 26 are introduced by introduction station 16 and then further processed by platen station 18, which cuts the sheets 26 to the desired shape. A waste discharge station 20 removes cut sheets from the final cut sheet. A blanking station 22 then collects the final sheets 26 in a stack that can be removed from the sheet converting machine 10 through a pickup station 24 located adjacent to the blanking station 22.

[0081] For clarity, only some, but not all, of sheet 26 are numbered in Figure 1. Sheet 26 may be cardboard or paper.

[0082] To transport sheets 26 between processing stations 11, conveyor path 12 includes a conveyor belt 28 and a plurality of gripper bars 30 attached to conveyor belt 28. Conveyor belt 28 is arranged in a loop so that gripper bars 30 can traverse a path that passes successively through input station 16, platen station 18, waste discharge station 20, blanking station 22, and pickup station 24, before returning to input station 16. Conveyor belt 28 is driven by a chain drive 32 that can move sheets 26 attached to gripper bars 30 along conveyor path 12.

[0083] Furthermore, each of the processing stations 18, 20, 22 envisages at least one tool 34 that can be exchanged depending on the respective cutting operation.

[0084] In FIG. 2, the sheet processing machine 10 according to FIG. 1 is shown.

[0085] Adjacent to the sheet processing machine 10 is a workspace 36 where an operator can interact with the sheet processing machine 10. Additionally, the workspace 36 provides space for performing changes to the cutting tools 34 of the sheet processing machine 10.

[0086] The work space 36 includes a platform 38 positioned adjacent to the sheet processing machine 10. The platform 38 is circumferentially surrounded by a safety fence 40 that prevents equipment or personnel from falling from the platform 38.

[0087] An entrance for the operator is provided in the form of a staircase 42 located on one side of the workspace 36. The staircase 42 connects the platform 38 with a floor 44 adjacent to the platform 38 and forming the lower level. Both the floor 44 and the platform 38 present a flat, uniform surface. The floor 44 and the platform 38 are not modified with respect to features such as railings or channels.

[0088] For clarity, the bottom surface of platform 38 is depicted as transparent.

[0089] Located on platform 38 is at least one exchange location 46, which will be described in more detail below.

[0090] As noted above, the sheet processing machine 10 is positioned adjacent to and extends parallel to the platform 38. Side panels 47 of the housing 14 of the sheet processing machine 10 spatially separate the conveyor path 12, and particularly the work stations 11, from the platform 38.

[0091] To allow for the replacement of tools 34, each of the work stations 11 can be accessed by an operator from the platform 38 through a maintenance door 48. As shown in FIG. 2, the maintenance door 48 can be a rectangular opening that can be opened and closed by a sliding window 50.

[0092] The conveyor path 12 is further accessible through one of the main doors 52 adjacent to the floor 44. Through the main door 52, the stack of sheets 26 can be removed from the pickup station 24.

[0093] The sheet processing machine 10 further includes a tool changing system 54. The tool changing system 54 includes one transport carrier 56, a lift device 58, and an alignment mechanism 60.

[0094] The transport carrier 56, the lift device 58 and the alignment mechanism 60 are described in more detail below.

[0095] First, the transport carrier 56 will be described in detail.

[0096] In principle, the transport carrier 56 is movable over the platform 38 of the sheet processing machine 10 and is capable of storing and carrying a plurality of tools 34 for the sheet processing machine 10 .

[0097] FIG. 3 shows the basic mechanism of the transport carrier 56.

[0098] The transport carrier 56 comprises a rack 62 which can also be referred to as a frame.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the rack 62 includes four bottom bars 64 arranged perpendicular to one another, each extending substantially horizontally. The bottom bars 64 together form a rectangular bottom region 66 of the rack 62, which is provided with rollers 68 for moving the rack 62 across the platform 38 or floor 44.

[0100] However, this roller 68 can also be omitted, in which case the rack 62 can be moved simply with the aid of the lifting device 58.

[0101] Side bars 70 extend substantially vertically upward from each corner of rectangular bottom region 66 .

[0102] Each of the four side bars 70 in the illustrated embodiment is divided into an upper portion 71 and a lower portion 72. In principle, the lower portion 72 is displaced relative to the upper portion 71 by a predetermined lateral offset.

[0103] Each lower section 72 extends from a corner of the rectangular bottom region 66 to a horizontal support plate 73 and is connected to this support plate 73 .

[0104] The top portion 71 extends vertically from this support plate 73. The top and bottom portions 71, 72 of the side bars 70 may be welded to the support plate 73.

[0105] In the region of the support plate 73, an S-shaped connecting element 74 is further attached to the upper and lower parts 71, 72 of the side bar 70. In fact, the connecting element 74 bridges the support plate 73. The connecting element 74 is attached to each of the upper side bar 71 and the lower side bar 72 by means of two bolts.

[0106] Each of two of the side bars 70 is joined in pairs at the end of the top portion 71 opposite the bottom region 66 by a cross bar 76 .

[0107] Furthermore, each of the two crossbars 76 is joined by two reinforcing members 77, which connect the two crossbars 76 to form an upper end 78 of the rack 62. Each of the reinforcing members 77 extends vertically between the crossbars 76.

[0108] Additionally, each of the two side bars 70 is associated with a side 80 of the rack 62 .

[0109] Rack 62 has a front side 82 and a rear side 84 opposite front side 82. Thus, front side 82 and rear side 84 are not connected by side bars 70. In other words, each side 80 of rack 62 has a side bar 70 associated with front side 82 and a side bar 70 associated with rear side 84.

[0110] The front side 82 and rear side 84 are freely accessible to allow insertion or removal of tools 34 from the rack 62 .

[0111] Rack 62 therefore encloses a storage space 85 defined by bottom region 66 , sides 80 , front side 82 , rear side 84 , and top end 78 .

[0112] A plurality of storage units 86 are provided in the storage space 85.

[0113] One storage unit 86 includes a pair of oppositely disposed, horizontally positioned crossbars 88 extending parallel to one another and defining a receptacle 90 between which tools 34 for the sheet converting machine 10 are slidably stored.

[0114] Each crossbar 88 of the pair of crossbars 88 has two connection points, and each of the connection points is connected to one sidebar 70.

[0115] In the illustrated embodiment, there are a total of five equally spaced stacked storage units 86. Specifically, the storage units 86 are positioned in the rack 62 such that the vertical distance between them is equal to the stacking distance of the tools 34 in the sheet converting machine 10.

[0116] At least one of the pair of crossbars 88 has an L-shaped profile that includes a horizontally oriented support rail 91 with a wall extending vertically upward from it. The support rail 91 provides a flat, uniform surface on which the tools 34 can be slidably supported. The free end of the support rail 91 faces toward the storage space 85.

[0117] Furthermore, two of the pair of cross bars 88 may have the shapes described above.

[0118] However, it is preferred that only one crossbar 88 of a pair of crossbars 88 feature the above-described shape, while the other crossbar 88 is adapted to carry and store a particular tool 34. For example, the other crossbar 88 may include hooks, retainers, grooves, or supports, depending on the respective tool 34.

[0119] However, the shape of each crossbar 88 may vary depending on the tools 34 to be stored in the storage unit.

[0120] Additionally, the storage units 86 are positioned in the rack 62 such that the vertical distance is equal to the stack distance of the tools 34 in the sheet converting machine 10 .

[0121] In the illustrated embodiment, the rack 62 is comprised of an upper frame 92 and a lower frame 94. The frames are stacked on top of each other, and each of the frames 92, 94 includes at least one storage unit 86. In practice, the upper frame 92 includes three storage units 86, and the lower frame 94 includes two storage units 86.

[0122] The upper frame 92 is defined by the upper portions of the side bars 70, and the lower frame 94 is defined by the lower portions of the side bars 70. Because the lower portions 72 of the side bars 70 are each laterally offset relative to the upper portions 71 of the side bars 70, the lower frame 94 presents a larger horizontal cross section compared to the upper frame 92. Accordingly, the storage units 86 disposed on the lower frame 94 are larger, i.e., wider and longer, compared to the storage units 86 disposed on the upper frame 92.

[0123] In this manner, larger tools 34 can be stored in the lower frame 94 while smaller tools 34 can be stored in the storage units 86 of the upper frame 92 .

[0124] Therefore, tools 34 of different sizes can be carried and stored inside one rack 62.

[0125] 4 shows a single storage unit 86. The storage unit 86 may include two additional reinforcing elements 95 extending horizontally between a pair of crossbars 88. In this embodiment, the crossbars 88 are interconnected by two reinforcing elements 95 extending vertically between the crossbars 88.

[0126] The reinforcing elements 95 and crossbar 88 define a rectangular storage area 90 in which tools 34 can be slidably stored. One of the reinforcing elements 95, located on the rear side 84 of the rack 62, forms a hinge 96 so that tools 34 can only be removed from the front side 82 of the rack 62.

[0127] In principle, the storage unit 86 is of universal design and can be adapted to fit a variety of tools 34 .

[0128] A plurality of locking elements 97, 98 are envisioned for securely locking the tools 34 to the storage unit 86 during transport of the rack 62.

[0129] As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4, at least one crossbar 88 includes a locking hook 97 that can be fitted into an eyelet attached to one side of the tool 34, thereby securely attaching the tool 34 to the storage unit 86.

[0130] Another locking feature is a plurality of locking handles 98, each located at one of the four corners of the storage unit 86.

[0131] In practice, the locking handles 98 are attached to both cross bars 88 .

[0132] The lock handles 98 are shown in greater detail in Figures 5 and 6. In these figures, each lock handle 98 is actually a clamp lever 100.

[0133] Each lock handle 98 includes at least one lock block 102 configured to limit movement of the tool 34 within the storage unit 86. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 5, the lock block 102 may be formed as a hook-like element that engages with an upper side of a pin 103 on the tool 34.

[0134] The locking block 102 is fixedly attached to a sliding element 104 that is slidably attached to the crossbar 88. The locking block 102 and sliding element 104 may also be configured as one unitary element, as shown in the embodiment of FIG.

[0135] The locking bolt 106 extends substantially through the sliding element 104 and has one end that engages a channel 108 in the crossbar 88. The channel 108 extends substantially along the crossbar 88 and functions as a rail along which the sliding element 104 can move.

[0136] The opposite end of the locking bolt 106 is attached to a handle 110. Movement of the handle 110 causes subsequent movement of the locking bolt 106, causing the locking bolt 106 to either penetrate into or disengage from the groove 108.

[0137] In other words, the lock handle 98 can be switched to a release position or a fastening position. When the lock handle 98 is switched to the release position, the lock handle can be moved away from the tool 34, particularly away from the pin 103 of the tool 34. Thus, the tool 34 is released and can be removed from the rack 62. When the lock handle 98 is switched to the fastening position, movement of the lock handle 98 is prevented. Thus, the tool 34 is locked in the storage unit 86.

[0138] 6, the pin 103 of the tool 34 is sandwiched between two locking blocks 102. In this configuration, at least one locking block 102 is also configured as a sliding element 104, and the sliding element 104 and the locking block 102 are configured as one unitary component.

[0139] As can be seen in Figure 6, the locking handle 98 resides on a crossbar 88 that is not L-shaped, but rather this crossbar 88 comprises a groove 111 that extends substantially horizontally from the front side 82 to the rear side 84 of the rack. In effect, the groove 111 functions as a rail along which the sliding element 104 can move.

[0140] Specifically, the grooves 111 face towards the opposing crossbars 88 .

[0141] At least one of the locking blocks 102 , 104 includes a locking bolt 106 and a handle 110 attached to the locking bolt 106 , which interacts with a groove 111 .

[0142] The lift device 58 will now be described in detail.

[0143] The lift device 58 is attachable to the transport carrier 56 and is further adapted to lift the transport carrier 56 from the floor 44 adjacent to the platform 38 onto the platform 38 and move the transport carrier 56 across the platform 38 to an exchange position where the tool 34 can be exchanged between the transport carrier 56 and the sheet processing machine 10.

[0144] 7 shows such a lifting device 58. According to this embodiment, the lifting device 58 is configured as a crane 112.

[0145] The crane 112 is attached to the platform 38 via a mounting plate 116 .

[0146] The mounting plate 116 is shown in more detail in Figure 8. In principle, the mounting plate 116 is a flat metal plate with four openings 118 for attaching the metal plate to the platform 38 using, for example, bolts or screws.

[0147] The crane 112 includes a crane body 120 that is attached to a mounting plate 116. For example, the crane body 120 and the mounting plate 116 may be welded together or constructed as a single piece.

[0148] The crane body 120 extends substantially vertically upward from the mounting plate 116. A first crane arm 122 is attached to the end of the crane body 120 opposite the mounting plate 116.

[0149] The first crane arm 122 is L-shaped and pivotally attached to the crane body 120. By pivotally, we mean that the first crane arm 122 can pivot 360° about a longitudinal axis that is positioned perpendicular to a plane parallel to the platform 38.

[0150] Preferably, the first crane arm 122 is extendable and retractable along its longitudinal axis.

[0151] The first crane arm 122 has a free end located opposite the crane body 120, to which a second crane arm 124 is pivotally attached.

[0152] In contrast to the first crane arm 122, the second crane arm 124 can pivot 300° about the longitudinal access in the opposite direction from the crane body 120. In other words, the first crane arm 122 and the second crane arm 124 can pivot about the longitudinal access, thereby achieving a preferred degree of freedom of operation for moving the transport carrier 56 across the platform 38.

[0153] The second crane arm 124 has a free end located opposite the first crane arm 122, and to this free end is pivotally attached a connecting element 126. Preferably, the connecting element 126 is pivotable 360° about the longitudinal access.

[0154] To lift the transport carrier 56 , a linking element 126 is attachable to the transport carrier 56 , preferably to the upper end 78 of the rack 62 .

[0155] Preferably, the above-mentioned crane 112 includes a hydraulic system that enables the crane 112 to lift heavy loads. In particular, the crane 112 is adapted to lift and move the weight of a transport carrier 56 having a length of at least 2 m and a weight of at least 100 kg.

[0156] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, when the rack 62 is fully loaded with tools 34, each weighing at least 100 kg, the crane 112 can lift at least 500 kg, excluding the weight of the rack 62 itself.

[0157] The crane 112 further comprises a positioning module 200 configured to position the rack 62 of the transport carrier 56 in an exchange position. To this end, the positioning module 200 comprises a gripping unit 202 coupling the crane 112 to the transport carrier 56 and a command panel 204 controlling the operation of the crane 112 and the gripping unit 202.

[0158] The gripping unit 202 is coupled to the free end of the second crane arm 124. The free end is formed by a flange 206 which connects the second crane arm 124 to a vertically arranged bar 208 which extends substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the second crane arm 124. In practice, the above-mentioned connecting element 126 of the second crane 124 and the vertically arranged bar 208 have a common axis of rotation which is oriented perpendicular to a plane parallel to the platform 38.

[0159] The free end of the vertically arranged bar 208, located opposite the flange 206, is non-rotatably connected to the gripping unit 202. The gripping unit 202 therefore follows the rotational movement of the vertically arranged bar 208 about its axis of rotation.

[0160] Between the flange 206 and the gripping unit 202, a hinge 210 is attached to the central portion of the vertically oriented bar 208. The hinge 210 is free to rotate about a common rotation axis of the vertically oriented bar 208 and the second crane arm 124.

[0161] Extending from the hinge 210 is a further cross bar 212 oriented substantially perpendicular to the vertically disposed bar 208 .

[0162] A further cross bar 212 has a free end located opposite the hinge 210, which free end is fixedly attached to one arm of an L-shaped element 214. Attached to the other arm of the L-shaped element 214 is a command panel 204, with the front face of the command panel 204 facing away from the vertically oriented bar 208.

[0163] In other words, the command panel 204 is free to rotate a fixed radial distance around the vertically disposed bar 208 by the hinge 210 .

[0164] 10 shows details of the command panel 204. The command panel 204 includes a rectangular handle bar 216. In particular, the handle bar 216 is configured to allow an operator to grasp the command panel 204 with their hands.

[0165] In particular, the rectangular handlebar 216 comprises two substantially vertical grip bars 218 that extend parallel to one another and two substantially horizontal grip bars 220 that also extend parallel to one another. The vertically oriented grip bars 218 and the horizontally oriented grip bars 220 are connected to one another at their ends so that together they form the rectangular shaped handlebar 216, with the vertically oriented grip bars 218 forming the longitudinal sides of the rectangular handlebar 216.

[0166] Furthermore, the rectangular handlebar 216 contains two control modules 222 that provide electrical support for the control of the crane 112. The two control modules 222 have at least one operating element 224 located on the front side of the handlebar 216, which, when activated, makes it possible to effect movement of the crane 112.

[0167] As can be seen from FIG. 10, the operating element 224 can be a joystick or a button (bottom).

[0168] In particular, the joystick is configured as a deadman's switch such that when activated, the movement of the crane 112 is unlocked, but when deactivated, the movement of the crane 112 is locked, and the command panel 204 can be manually moved around the gripping unit 202.

[0169] Preferably, a control element 224 is located at each end of the vertically aligned gripping bar 218, allowing the operator to access the control element 224 from a variety of positions.

[0170] In principle, the control panel 204 includes at least - moving the crane 112 vertically along the up and down direction; - opening and closing the gripping unit 202 so that the gripping unit 202 can be attached to the transport carrier 56; - rotating the command handle 204 around the gripping unit 202 by 360°; - rotating the first crane arm 122 and the second crane arm 124 about their respective axes of rotation; - moving the command panel 204 vertically along the up and down direction independently from the crane 112; - locking and / or unlocking the operation of the crane 112; It has a function.

[0171] The above functions can be controlled and / or enabled by at least one operating element 224 .

[0172] The gripping unit 202 is shown in more detail in Figure 10. The gripping unit 202 is attached to the free end of a vertically oriented bar 208. In particular, the vertically oriented bar 208 is connected via a central hinge 226 to a central portion of a longitudinal central crossbar 228, which is oriented substantially perpendicular to the vertically oriented bar 208.

[0173] Each of the two opposite ends of the central crossbar 228 is connected to a central portion of a longitudinal gripping bar 230 .

[0174] Each of the two gripping bars 230 further includes two gripping elements 232. The gripping unit 202 has a total of four gripping elements 232.

[0175] Each gripping element 232 has a U-shaped profile and is fixedly attached to a gripping bar 230. The gripping bar 230 and one of the gripping elements 232 together define a free space 233 that can accommodate the upper cross bar 76 of the carrier 56.

[0176] Furthermore, each gripping bar 230 is provided with a power module 234 adapted to slide the gripping bar 230 along the longitudinal central crossbar 228, thereby enabling the gripping unit 202 to grip the rack 62 of the carrier 56 from two opposite sides, and the carrier 56 to be securely attached to the gripping elements 232.

[0177] The operation and control of the crane 112 is described in more detail below.

[0178] The operator can control the operation of the crane 112 by using the operating element 224 on the command panel 204. In a first step, the operator loads the carrier 56 with the tools 34 and brings it over the floor 44 toward the sheet processing machine. After loading the carrier 56, the operator can manually control the crane 112, specifically the gripping unit 202, via the command panel 204 and securely attach the rack 62 to the gripping unit 202. This operation can be performed while the operator is standing on the floor 44 next to the platform 38 (or from a podium). After the carrier is securely attached to the crane 112, the operator walks onto the platform and picks up the handle bar 216 on the command panel 204. Because the operating element 224 is located above the command panel 204, the operator can easily access the handle bar 216 while standing on the platform. The operator can then use the operating elements 224 on the command panel 204 to control the crane 112 to move the carrier 56 from the floor 44 to the upper platform 38. Then, with its vertical position locked by the crane, the operator manually controls the command panel 204 to move the carrier 56 to the exchange position. Once the carrier 56 is close to the machine, the operator can adjust the carrier's height (using the operating elements 224 on the command panel 204) to align the carrier's and machine's interlocking elements 128, 130 with one another. In other words, the operator can hold the command panel 204 and walk to the exchange position. Because the command panel 204 and the gripping unit 202 are rigidly connected to one another, the gripping unit 202, along with the attached carrier 56, naturally follows the operator's movements.

[0179] The alignment mechanism 60 will now be described in more detail.

[0180] In principle, the alignment mechanism 60 is configured to lock the transport carrier 56 in an exchange position in which the tool 34 can be exchanged between the transport carrier 56 and the machine 10 .

[0181] FIG. 11 shows the alignment mechanism 60 of the tool changing system 54 in greater detail.

[0182] In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment mechanism 60 includes two interlocking elements 128, 130 configured to engage with one another.

[0183] As can be seen in FIG. 11, one of the interlocking elements forms a recessed unit 128 and the other of the two interlocking elements forms a mating unit 130 .

[0184] First, the recessed unit 128 will be described.

[0185] The recessed unit 128 includes a connecting plate 132 which is connected to the housing 14 of the sheet converting machine 10 by bolts 134. For clarity, the housing 14 is not shown.

[0186] The link plate 132 is configured as a flat metal piece having at least two latches 135 for attaching metal bolts 134. A recess 136 extends substantially perpendicularly from the link plate 132 in a direction away from the housing 14 of the machine 10.

[0187] The recess 136 forms a bowl-like structure having a sidewall 140 circumferentially surrounding a circular bottom side 138 .

[0188] The bottom side 138 and side walls 140 provide a support 142 for receiving the mating unit 130 .

[0189] The side wall 140 slopes towards the center of the bottom side 138 to allow smooth engagement between the mating unit 130 and the recessed unit 128 .

[0190] The recessed unit 128 further comprises a magnet in order to securely engage the mating unit 130 with the recessed unit 128. More than one magnet may also be provided, for example two magnets.

[0191] It is also possible to place the magnet 144 on the back side of the metal plate, which serves as the bottom surface 138. The magnet 144 is therefore placed on the back side of the metal plate, opposite the support 142, and therefore does not come into direct physical contact with the mating unit 38 when the transport carrier 56 is locked in the exchange position.

[0192] For example, the at least one magnet 144 may be a neodymium magnet.

[0193] The counterpart unit 130 will be described in detail below.

[0194] The mating unit 130 is configured as a single front plate 146 that is L-shaped and attached to one side bar 70 of the transport carrier 56. In practice, the mating unit 130 is located on the front side 82 of the transport carrier 56.

[0195] For example, the L-shaped front plate 146 can be attached to the side bar 70 via the bolts 134. It is also possible to weld the front plate 146 to the side bar 70.

[0196] Essentially, the L-shaped front plate 146 has two limbs that extend perpendicular to each other.

[0197] One limb of an L-shaped front plate 146 is attached to the side bar 70 and the other limb projects laterally from the side bar 70 to provide a mounting portion 147 to which a mating member 148 is attached.

[0198] The mating member 148 is attached to the front plate 146 so as to face away from the side bar 70 .

[0199] In practice, the mating member 148 has a central bolt 134 passing through its body 149 and attaching this body 149 to a mounting portion 147 of the L-shaped front plate 146 .

[0200] The body 149 has a cylindrical shape and can extend perpendicularly away from the front plate 146 into a truncated cone perpendicular to its axis. The truncated cone is therefore located at the tip of the mating member 148 facing away from the front plate 146. The initial cylindrical shape is optional. This allows for a more robust locking of the rack, provided that the recessed unit 128 has a conical shape after the corresponding cylindrical shape.

[0201] The recessed unit 128 as well as the mating unit 130 are made from a magnetic material, for example both may be made from iron or its alloys.

[0202] Preferably, the mating unit 130 is fixedly mounted to the front side 82 of the rack 62. However, it is also possible for the mating unit 130 to be fixedly mounted to the housing 14 of the machine 10.

[0203] In a preferred embodiment, four mating units 130 are mounted on the front side 82 of the rack 62, and each of the two side bars 70 located on the front side 82 of the rack 62 includes two mating units 130.

[0204] However, it is also possible for the rack 62 to include only one of the mating units 130. In this case, it is preferable to arrange at least one balance unit 150 on the rack 62, as shown in FIG.

[0205] In principle, the balance unit 150 has the same mechanism as the counterpart unit 130 .

[0206] The difference is simply that a dummy element 152 is attached to the mounting portion 147 of the front plate 146 instead of the mating unit 148 .

[0207] The dummy element 152 is formed as an abutment part which may have a cylindrical shape, preferably a circular cylindrical shape, the free end of the abutment part facing away from the rack having a flat and uniform surface.

[0208] The dummy elements 152 can be made from a metal or metal alloy, however, it is preferred that the dummy elements 152 be made from a soft material such as an elastic polymer.

[0209] The balancing unit 150 acts as a kind of "dummy" counter element, ensuring that the carrier 56 can also be oriented relative to the housing 14 of the machine 10. This can be achieved simply by pressing the flat, uniform surface of the dummy element against the machine housing. Without the balancing unit 150, the rack 62 could be positioned at an angle relative to the housing 14 in the exchange position.

[0210] 13 to 16, the operating principle of the tool changing system 54 described above will be explained in more detail.

[0211] 13-16 show the case where two different transport carriers 56 are moved to different exchange positions, in fact a first exchange position 156 and a second exchange position 158 are shown.

[0212] As can be seen from FIG. 15, each transport carrier 56 is provided with four opposing units 130, and two opposing units 130 are attached to one side bar 70 located in front of the racket 62.

[0213] The exchange positions 156 , 158 are assigned to different work stations 11 of the machine 10 and are positioned in front of them on the platform 38 .

[0214] The first exchange position 156 is assigned to the blanking station 22 , while the second exchange position is assigned to the waste discharge station 20 .

[0215] Of course, if tools 34 at multiple work stations 11 need to be changed, the number of change positions will also increase.

[0216] 14 and 15, each of the change positions 156, 158 is equipped with two recessed units 128. Depending on the change operation and the respective work station where the tool 34 needs to be changed, the recessed units 128 can be located in different positions on the housing 14 of the sheet converting machine 10, as the position of the recessed units 128 determines the change position.

[0217] As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the recessed unit 128 is mounted in the side panel 47 of the housing 14 adjacent the maintenance access 48.

[0218] In practice, the two recessed units 128 are positioned above or below the opening of the maintenance door 48 .

[0219] In FIG. 14, a first change position 156 is assigned to a tool holder unit 160 of the sheet processing machine 10, while a second change position 158 is assigned to a tool holder unit 160 of the sheet processing machine 10.

[0220] Two recessed units 128 are assigned to each exchange position 156, 158, with the recessed unit 128 for the first exchange position 156 being positioned higher than the recessed unit 128 for the first exchange position 158.

[0221] When the transport carrier 56 is locked in one of the exchange positions 156 , 158 , at least one storage unit 86 of the transport carrier 56 corresponds to a tool holder unit 160 of the sheet converting machine 10 .

[0222] An exemplary tool change operation will now be described.

[0223] At the start of a tool change operation, the transport carrier 56 is stored on the floor 44, specifically in the parking position 154.

[0224] When the transport carrier 56 is in the parking position 154, an operator has free access to the transport carrier 56 to load the tools 34 required for the replacement operation into the transport carrier 56. After inserting the tools into the racks 62 of the transport carrier, the tools 34 are locked into the respective storage units 86 by rotating the locking handles 98 to the fastening position.

[0225] The operator then attaches the linking element 126 to the carrier 56. The crane 112 then lifts the transport carrier 56 from the parking position 154 on the floor 44 onto the platform 38.

[0226] When the transport carrier 56 is on the platform 38 , the crane 112 moves the transport carrier 56 across the platform 38 to one of the exchange positions 156 , 158 .

[0227] The crane 112 can move the transport carrier 56 across the platform 38 to the exchange position so that the transport carrier does not touch the platform 38 at any time. In this case, the crane 112 lifts the transport carrier from the parking position 154 directly to one of the exchange positions 156, 158.

[0228] It is also possible for the crane 112 to bring the transport carrier 56 from the parking position 154 onto the platform 38 and move the transport carrier 56 across the platform 38 so that the transport carrier 56 is in direct contact with the underside of the platform 38. In this approach, the crane 112 simply uses the rollers 68 of the transport carrier 56 to push the transport carrier 56 across the platform 38.

[0229] In either case, however, the transport carrier 56 is moved by the crane 112 to one of the exchange positions 156, 158 where tooling can be exchanged between the transport carrier 56 and the sheet converting machine 10.

[0230] There may be multiple change positions depending on the cutting operation and the tool that needs to be changed to perform that operation. In certain embodiments, there are two change positions 156, 158.

[0231] To align the transport carrier 56 with the sheet processing machine 10, the front side 82 of the transport carrier 56 is pressed against the housing 14 of the sheet processing machine 10. This action is performed by a crane 112.

[0232] When the mating unit 130 approaches the recessed unit 128, the magnets 144 inside each recessed unit 128 magnetically attract the mating unit 148 toward the support portion 142. As a result, the transport carrier 56 is locked in one of the exchange positions 156, 158.

[0233] Depending on the exact loading unit 160 and storage unit 86 that need to be matched, the transport carrier 56 may be lifted a vertical distance from the bottom of the platform 38. In the embodiment of Figures 13 to 16, both carriers 56 are lifted by a crane 112.

[0234] After locking the carrier 56 in the exchange positions 156, 158, the lock handle 98 is switched to the release position.

[0235] Finally, tools 34 can be slidably exchanged between storage unit 86 and tool holder unit 160 by a single operator.

[0236] Once the tool change operation is complete, the counter member 148 can be removed from the support 142 using the crane 112 .

[0237] The crane 112 then lifts the transport carrier 56 back to its parking position 154 on the floor 44 .

[0238] FIG. 17 shows another embodiment of the lifting device 58 .

[0239] In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting device 58 is a bridge crane 300 .

[0240] The bridge crane 300 includes a pair of beams 302 extending parallel to one another, each beam 302 including a longitudinal rail 304 extending therealong.

[0241] The beam 302 is connected by a traveling bridge 306 adapted to move parallel to the platform 38 along rails 304. Further, the bridge crane 300 includes a motor unit 308 adapted to move the traveling bridge 306 along the rails 304 of the beam 302.

[0242] In particular, the moving bridge 306 comprises a central beam 310 arranged perpendicular to the pair of beams 302, and a trolley unit 312 attached to the central beam 310, the trolley unit 312 being adapted to move along the central beam 310.

[0243] The traveling bridge 306 is permanently attached to the transport carrier 56 via a rigid lifting arm 314, which is a longitudinal bar attached to a trolley unit 312. In addition, the trolley unit 312 includes a means for raising and lowering the rigid lifting arm 314 along the vertical direction. For example, the trolley unit 312 may include a trolley drive 316 for raising and lowering the rigid lifting arm 314.

[0244] The free end of a rigid lifting arm 314, located opposite the trolley unit 312, is permanently attached to the transport carrier 56. In particular, the rigid lifting arm 314 is rotatably attached to the transport carrier 56 such that the transport carrier 56 can rotate about an axis aligned perpendicular to the platform 38. In Figure 17, only the top of the transport carrier 56 is shown to provide a better overview.

[0245] In particular, the transport carrier 56 and the rigid lifting arm 314 are formed together as one unitary piece.

[0246] Additionally, each beam 302 is mounted on at least two support elements. In the illustrated embodiment, each beam 302 is mounted on two posts 318.

[0247] Through the use of support elements, the bridge crane 300 is rigidly mounted on the floor 44 and / or platform 38 .

[0248] Additionally, the bridge crane 300 may include the positioning module 200 described above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0249] 10 Sheet processing machine 34 Tools 38 Platform 46 Exchange position 54 Tool Change System 56 Transport Carrier 58 Lifting device 60 Alignment mechanism

Claims

1. A tool changing system (54) for a sheet processing machine (10), comprising: at least one transport carrier (56) capable of storing and carrying a plurality of tools (34) for the sheet processing machine (10); a lift device (58) attachable or permanently attached to the transport carrier (56) and adapted to lift the transport carrier (56) off the floor (44) adjacent the platform (38) and move the transport carrier (56) across the platform (38) to at least one exchange position (46) at which tooling can be exchanged between the transport carrier (56) and the sheet converting machine (10); at least one alignment mechanism (60) configured to lock the transport carrier (56) in the at least one exchange position (46); A system comprising:

2. 2. The system (54) of claim 1, wherein the at least one transport carrier (56) is a rack (62) having at least one storage unit (86) with a pair of horizontally arranged crossbars (88) extending parallel to each other and defining a storage space (90) between which tools (34) for the sheet processing machine (10) are slidably stored.

3. 2. The system (54) of claim 1, wherein the at least one transport carrier (56) is a rack (62) having a platform and at least one storage unit (86) defining a storage space (90) between which tools (34) for the sheet processing machine (10) are slidably stored.

4. The rack (62) further comprises an upper frame (92) and a lower frame (94), the frames (92, 94) being stacked one on top of the other, each of the frames (92, 94) comprising at least one storage unit (86); the storage unit (86) of the upper frame (92) is adapted to mate with a tool holder unit (160) of the sheet processing machine (10), and the tool (34) can be slidably exchanged between the storage unit (86) and the tool holder unit (160) when the transport carrier (56) is locked in a first exchange position (156); 4. The system (54) of claim 2 or 3, wherein the storage unit (86) of the lower frame (94) is adapted to match the tool holder unit (160) of the sheet processing machine (10), and the tool (34) can be slidably exchanged between the storage unit (86) and the tool holder unit (160) when the transport carrier (56) is locked in the second exchange position (158).

5. 5. The system (54) of claim 2, 3 or 4, wherein the rack (62) comprises a plurality of storage units (86), the storage units (86) being arranged in the rack (62) at a vertical distance equal to a loading distance of the tools (34) in the sheet processing machine (10).

6. 6. The system (54) of claim 1, wherein the lifting device (58) is a crane (112) or bridge crane with two arms (122, 124), the crane with two arms (122, 124) or the bridge crane is coupled to the transport carrier (56) and configured to lift or lower the transport carrier (56) along a vertical direction and further to displace the transport carrier (56) in three additional degrees of freedom, two of which are displacements parallel to the platform (38) and one of which is rotation about a vertical axis.

7. 7. The system (54) of claim 6, wherein the crane (112) with two arms (122, 124) or the bridge crane (300) is adapted to lock the transport carrier (56) along a vertical direction while leaving three additional degrees of freedom unlocked.

8. The bridge crane (300) comprises a pair of beams (302) extending parallel to one another, each of the beams (302) comprising a longitudinal rail (304) extending along the respective beam (302); 8. The system (54) of claim 6 or 7, wherein the beam (302) is connected by a moving bridge (306) adapted to move along the rail (304) parallel to the platform (38).

9. The system (54) of claim 8, wherein the moving bridge (306) is permanently attached to the transport carrier (56) via a rigid lifting arm (314).

10. 10. The system (54) of claim 8 or 9, wherein each of the beams (302) is mounted on at least two support elements, in particular the support elements being columns (318), walls or scaffolding.

11. 11. The system (54) of claims 6 to 10, wherein the bridge crane (300) is rigidly mounted on the floor (44) and / or the platform (38).

12. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the crane comprises a first crane arm (122) that is L-shaped and pivotally attached to a crane body (120), the first crane arm (122) having a free end opposite the crane body (120) and a second crane arm (124) pivotally attached to the free end, the second crane arm (124) having a free end opposite the first crane arm (122) and a connecting element (126) pivotally attached to the free end, the connecting element (126) configured to attach to the transport carrier (56).

13. 13. The system (54) of claims 6 to 12, wherein the lifting device (58) includes a positioning module (200) having a command panel (204) configured to control vertical movement of the transport carrier (56).

14. 14. The system (54) of claim 13, wherein the command panel (204) comprises an operating element (224) configured as a deadman's switch, which, upon activation of the switch, unlocks the operation of the crane (112) and allows the transport carrier (56) to be manually moved according to the three additional degrees of freedom.

15. 15. The system (54) of claim 13 or 14, wherein the command panel (204) is configured to automatically and / or manually control the operation of the crane (112), the control panel (204) is positioned at a fixed radial distance from the gripping unit (202) and is rigidly connected to the gripping unit (202), and the gripping unit (202) is configured to grab and hold the transport carrier (56).

16. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the command panel includes a joystick assigned to a handlebar of the command panel, the joystick configured as a deadman's switch such that, when activated, the crane is unlocked from movement and, when deactivated, the crane is locked from movement, and the command panel can be manually moved.

17. The command panel (204) includes at least - moving said crane (112) vertically along the up-down direction; - opening and closing the gripping unit (202) so that it can be attached to the transport carrier (56); - rotating the command panel (204) around the gripping unit (202) through 360°; - rotating the first crane arm (122) and the second crane arm (124) about their respective axes of rotation; - vertically moving the command panel (204) along the up and down direction independently of the crane (112); - locking and / or unlocking the movement of said crane (112); 17. A system (54) according to claim 15 or 16, having the functionality.

18. The alignment mechanism (60) includes two interlocking elements (128, 130) configured to engage with each other; A system (54) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein one of the two interlocking elements (128, 130) is fixedly mounted on the sheet processing machine, preferably on a housing (14) of the sheet processing machine (10), and the other of the two interlocking elements (128, 130) is fixedly mounted on the transport carrier (56), preferably on the front side (82) of the transport carrier (56).

19. 19. The system (54) of claim 18, wherein one of the two interlocking elements (128, 130) is a concave unit (128) preferably having a conical recess (136), and the other of the two interlocking elements is a mating unit (130), preferably a conical protrusion (148), configured to engage with the concave unit (128).

20. At least one of the recessed unit (128) or the mating unit (130) comprises a magnet (144); 20. The system (54) of claim 18 or 19, wherein the magnet (144) is configured to attach the mating unit (130) of the transport carrier (56) to the concave unit (128) of the sheet processing machine (10), and displacement of the transport carrier (56) is prevented when the transport carrier (56) is locked in the at least one exchange position (156, 158).

21. 21. The system (54) of claim 20, wherein the transport carrier (56) comprises at least one concave unit (128) and at least one balance unit (150), the balance unit (150) having a dummy element (152) formed as an abutment, the abutment having a cylindrical shape, and both units (128, 150) are preferably arranged on the front side (82) of the rack (62).

22. A sheet converting machine (10) for converting sheet, paper, or cardboard (26), comprising: a conveyor path (12) for cutting the sheet, paper or cardboard (26) using different tools (34); a platform (38) adjacent to said conveyor path (12); a floor (44) adjacent said platform (38) for storing at least one transport carrier (56); Equipped with The conveyor path (12) comprises a housing (14) containing, in the following order: an introduction station (16) for feeding sheets; a platen station (18) for cutting the sheets; a waste discharge station (20) for removing the cut sheets; and a blanking station (22) for collecting the final cut sheets; The platform (38) provides at least one change position (46) for changing tools (34); 22. A sheet processing machine (10), further comprising a tool changing system (54) according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

Images