Transfer device

Abstract

Provided is a transfer apparatus that transfers, in a transfer section, the surface shape of a transfer web or a transfer material to a transfer target object carried along a carrying surface, from the transfer web carried along a web route. The transfer apparatus includes: a gap adjustment mechanism that adjusts the size of a gap between the carrying surface and the web route in the transfer section; and a control device that controls the gap adjustment mechanism to adjust the size of the gap to a size corresponding to the thickness of the transfer target object.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a transfer device.

Background Art

[0002] Transfer devices are known that transfer a transfer material such as foil from a transfer web conveyed in a roll-to-roll manner to a transfer object such as a sheet. Also known is a transfer device that performs a process of transferring the surface shape of a transfer web to a transfer object by bringing into close contact a curable coat layer applied to the surface of the transfer object and the transfer web, and copying the surface shape formed by the irregularities on the surface of the transfer web onto the coat layer.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] As a result of intensive research on transfer devices, the inventors of the present invention have come to recognize that there is room for improvement in the management of the transfer section gap, which is the gap between the web path of the transfer web and the conveyance surface of the transfer object in the transfer section, in order to enhance the commercial value of the transfer device.

[0005] The present invention has been made in such a situation, and an exemplary object of one aspect thereof is to provide a transfer device with enhanced commercial value through appropriate management of the transfer section gap.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, a transfer apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention is a transfer apparatus that transfers a transfer material or the surface shape of a transfer web from a transfer web transported along a web path to an object to be transferred which is transported along a transport surface, in a transfer section, comprising: a gap adjustment mechanism for adjusting the size of the gap between the transport surface and the web path in the transfer section; and a control device for controlling the gap adjustment mechanism and adjusting the size of the gap to a size corresponding to the thickness of the object to be transferred. The gap adjustment mechanism allows for individual adjustment of the gap at two points in the width direction. ru. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, a transfer device with enhanced commercial value can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the printing system of an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the printing system of an embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows a partially cured varnish layer. [Figure 4] This is a diagram showing the foil stamping apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing the foil stamping apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 6] This figure shows a magnified view of the area surrounding the foil stamping section of the foil stamping apparatus in Figure 1. [Figure 7] Figure 4 shows the gap adjustment mechanism and its surroundings. [Figure 8] Figure 4 shows the gap adjustment mechanism and its surroundings. [Figure 9] Figure 4 shows the gap adjustment mechanism and its surroundings. [Figure 10] Figure 4 shows the gap adjustment mechanism and its surroundings. [Figure 11] Figures 11(a) to (f) show the operation of the foil stamping machine in chronological order when performing foil stamping. [Figure 12] Figures 12(a) to (c) show the operation of the foil stamping machine in chronological order when performing web mounting and replacement work. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, based on preferred embodiments. The embodiments are illustrative and not limiting, and not all features or combinations thereof described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the invention. The same or equivalent components, members, and processes shown in each drawing will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0011] Before describing the present invention in detail, let's outline it.

[0012] The gap between the transfer web and the transport surface of the object to be transferred in the transfer section must, of course, be large enough for the object to fit inside. However, if the gap is too large, the transfer web will not make contact with the object to be transferred, or the contact pressure between the transfer web and the object will be too low. If the gap is too small, the contact pressure between the transfer web and the object will be too high. In either case, poor contact can occur. As a result, transfer failure or transport failure may occur.

[0013] In contrast, the transfer apparatus of the present invention adjusts the size of the transfer section gap, which is the gap between the web path of the transfer web and the transport surface of the object to be transferred in the transfer section, to a size corresponding to the thickness of the object to be transferred. This makes it possible to achieve good transfer.

[0014] Also, when applying an ultraviolet-curable varnish to the transfer position of the transfer target and transferring a transfer material from the transfer web to the transfer target by utilizing the tackiness of the varnish, it is necessary to irradiate the transfer web with ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet light source unit in the transfer section to cure the varnish. The ultraviolet light source unit irradiates ultraviolet light from a relatively short distance from the transfer web, that is, a distance at which an amount of ultraviolet light necessary for curing reaches. When the ultraviolet light source unit is in this position, for example, when mounting or replacing the transfer web, the transfer web must be passed through a small gap between the ultraviolet light source unit and the conveyance surface of the transfer target, making the work difficult. Also, for example, when accessing a small gap between the ultraviolet light source unit and the conveyance surface of the transfer target for repair of a failure point or maintenance inspection, etc., the work is also difficult. That is, maintenance is also difficult.

[0015] In contrast, the transfer device of the present invention can raise not only the web path of the transfer web in the transfer section but also the ultraviolet light source unit. Thereby, web mounting / replacement work and maintenance become easier.

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described. In the following, a case where the transfer device is a foil pressing device, that is, a device for transferring foil to a transfer target will be described as an example, but it is not limited thereto, and the transfer device may be a device for transferring a transfer material other than foil to the transfer target. Further, the transfer device may be a device that performs so-called laminating processing for transferring the surface shape of the transfer web to the transfer target by bringing a curable coat layer and the transfer web into close contact with each other.

[0017] Figs. 1 and 2 are diagrams schematically showing a printing system 10 in which a foil stamping device 16 according to an embodiment is used. Fig. 1 is a side view, and Fig. 2 is a plan view. The printing system 10 is a device that performs predetermined printing on a sheet while conveying the sheet. The materials of the sheet are various, such as paper, cloth, resin, and metal. Hereinafter, the direction in which the sheet is conveyed (the direction from right to left in Figs. 1 and 2) is called the conveyance direction Y, and the direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction Y (the direction orthogonal to the paper surface in Fig. 1 and the vertical direction in Fig. 2) is called the width direction X. Also, regarding the width direction X, the right side when viewed in the conveyance direction Y from the upstream side is called the right side in the width direction X, and the left side is called the left side in the width direction X. Further, regarding the sheet, the downstream edge of the sheet in the conveyance direction Y is called the leading edge of the sheet, and the upstream edge is called the trailing edge of the sheet.

[0018] The printing system 10 includes a sheet feeding device 12 that feeds sheets one by one, an adhesive coating device 14 that applies adhesive to the sheets fed one by one, a foil stamping device 16 that performs foil stamping by transferring foil to the adhesive on the sheet using the tackiness of the adhesive, a stacker 18 that accumulates the sheets, and a control device 20 that integrally controls the printing system 10. The sheet feeding device 12, the adhesive coating device 14, the foil stamping device 16, and the stacker 18 are arranged in a row in this order from the upstream side (the right side in Figs. 1 and 2) in the conveyance direction Y. The control device 20 is connected to the sheet feeding device 12, the adhesive coating device 14, the foil stamping device 16, and the stacker 18 via a network 2.

[0019] The sheet feeding device 12 includes a feeder 22, a corona treatment unit 26, and a resist unit 24. The feeder 22 includes a table 28 and a suction head 30. Sheets are stacked on the table 28. The table 28 is configured to be able to move up and down. The suction head 30 feeds out the sheets stacked on the table 28 one by one in order from above.

[0020] The resist section 24 includes a resist reference guide 32 provided on one end in the width direction X (the right side in the width direction X in the illustrated example). The resist reference guide 32 has a guide surface 32a that is perpendicular to the width direction X and extends in the transport direction Y. The resist section 24 aligns the position of the sheet in the width direction X by abutting the sheet fed by the feeder 22 against the guide surface 32a.

[0021] The corona processing unit 26 includes an electrode 36 positioned above the transport path 34 and a dielectric roller 38 positioned below the transport path 34 so as to face the electrode 36 vertically. The corona processing unit 26 modifies the surface of the sheet fed by the feeder 22 by corona discharge between the electrode 36 and the dielectric roller 38. When the sheet is transported while being held in place by the air suction unit 40 on the transport path 34, the distance between the electrode 36 and the sheet becomes constant, and the corona discharge becomes stable. The air suction unit 40 generates negative pressure by arranging one of the suction ports of an exhaust blower (not shown), but it may also be configured to generate negative pressure by arranging a suction fan. The dielectric roller 38 may be rotatable or fixed relative to the housing of the corona processing unit 26. Furthermore, its shape is not limited to a roller shape as long as it generates corona discharge between itself and the electrode 36. The corona processing unit 26 may be positioned upstream of the resist unit 24.

[0022] The varnish coating apparatus 14 includes a sheet sensor 42, a pair of CCD sensors 44, at least one varnish dispensing unit 46, a semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48, and a full-curing ultraviolet lamp 50. The pair of CCD sensors 44, the varnish dispensing unit 46, the semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48, and the full-curing ultraviolet lamp 50 are arranged in this order from upstream. The CCD sensors 44 may be CMOS sensors. In the illustrated example, the varnish coating apparatus 14 includes three varnish dispensing units 46, but is not limited to this. The varnish coating apparatus 14 may include one varnish dispensing unit 46 that extends over at least the entire area requiring printing in the width direction X, or it may include two or four or more varnish dispensing units 46. The semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48 and the full-curing ultraviolet lamp 50 use LEDs that emit ultraviolet light, but other light sources such as incandescent bulbs or fluorescent lamps may be used as long as they emit ultraviolet light. It is desirable that the light sources have adjustable output.

[0023] The sheet sensor 42 detects the sheets fed from the paper feeder 12.

[0024] The varnish ejection unit 46 is a line-type inkjet head, although it is not particularly limited. The varnish ejection unit 46 is triggered by the detection of the leading edge of the sheet by the sheet sensor 42 and ejects UV-curable varnish according to the varnish ejection data, applying the UV-curable varnish to the sheet. The varnish ejection data indicates where on the sheet the varnish should be applied.

[0025] The sheets fed by the paper feeder 12 may have a background image and a plurality of registration marks that serve as a reference for identifying the position of the background image printed on them in advance. The varnish application device 14 applies varnish to the background image in accordance with varnish discharge data that defines the areas on the sheet to be varnished, so as to have a predetermined relationship with the background image. For example, the varnish may be applied so as to overlap the background image.

[0026] Here, the background image of the sheet may be misaligned or distorted. Therefore, when applying varnish in a manner that has a predetermined relationship with the background image, it is necessary to correct the varnish ejection data considering the misalignment and distortion. For example, the CCD sensor 44 may capture an image of the sheet triggered by the detection of the sheet by the sheet sensor 42, and the control device 20 may perform image analysis on the captured data from the CCD sensor 44 and correct the varnish ejection data of the area surrounded by the registration marks based on the difference from the theoretical position of the multiple registration marks. The method described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-083898, filed earlier by the present applicant, can be applied to this correction.

[0027] The semi-curing UV lamp 48 irradiates the varnish on the sheet with relatively suppressed ultraviolet light, causing the varnish to partially harden. Semi-curing means that the varnish is lightly hardened (for example, to a state where it can be further hardened) to the extent that its fluidity is reduced but it is not completely cured.

[0028] The partially cured varnish is fully cured in the foil stamping device 16. When foil stamping is not performed on the sheet, the partial curing UV lamp 48 is usually turned off or its output is set to a minimum. However, the partial curing UV lamp 48 may be used even when foil stamping is not performed. For example, if the varnish applied to the sheet is prone to bleeding, turning on the partial curing UV lamp 48 and partially curing it can help suppress bleeding.

[0029] The UV curing lamp 50 irradiates the varnish applied to the sheet with ultraviolet light to fully cure the varnish. When foil stamping (i.e., transferring foil) is performed on the sheet, the UV curing lamp 50 is turned off. Although not shown in the diagram, the UV curing lamp 50 has an exhaust port for exhausting the air around it. A fan is provided at this exhaust port to generate an exhaust flow. Upstream of the fan in the exhaust direction, with a gap between it and the fan, an ozone adsorption filter is provided to adsorb ozone generated by ultraviolet irradiation.

[0030] In other words, when foil stamping is performed on a sheet, the varnish is partially cured by the semi-curing UV lamp 48, and the semi-cured varnish is fully cured by the foil stamping UV lamp 66 of the foil stamping device 16. In this case, the full-curing UV lamp 50 is turned off. When the sheet is not foil-stamped, i.e., when only varnish is applied to the sheet, the varnish is fully cured by the full-curing UV lamp 50. In this case, the semi-curing UV lamp 48 and the foil stamping UV lamp 66 of the foil stamping device 16 are turned off. The semi-curing UV lamp 48 may not be turned off completely, but its output may be set to a minimum. As mentioned above, the semi-curing UV lamp 48 may be turned on even when foil stamping is not performed. In addition, an LED that emits ultraviolet light is used as the light source for the foil stamping UV lamp 66, but other light sources that emit ultraviolet light may be used.

[0031] Figure 3 shows varnish layers 100 and 102 applied to sheet S by varnish dispensing unit 46 and partially cured by semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48. 100a and 102a are cured portions, while 100b and 102b are uncured portions that are not fully cured. The cured portions 100a and 102a occupy the interior of varnish layers 100 and 102, respectively, while the uncured portions 100b and 102b occupy the surface layers of varnish layers 100 and 102, respectively. This is because the surface layers exposed to the outside air are less likely to harden due to oxygen inhibition.

[0032] Figures 3(a) and 3(b) both show a semi-cured state formed by suppressing the output of ultraviolet light to the extent that the varnish layers 100 and 102 do not fully harden. However, in Figure 3(a), the output of the semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48 is relatively stronger than in Figure 3(b), so the hardening of varnish layer 100 reaches closer to the surface than that of varnish layer 102. Therefore, varnish layer 100 has a more stable shape than varnish layer 102, and although the surface layer does not flow, it is not completely hardened and has a tacky state. On the other hand, varnish layer 102 has almost no tackiness in the surface layer compared to varnish layer 100 and is fluid, especially in the upper part. Therefore, even after semi-curing, the upper varnish flows, exhibiting a leveling effect that gradually flattens the top surface.

[0033] The semi-cured varnish is then fully cured by being irradiated with ultraviolet light again using the UV lamp 50 for full curing or the foil stamping device 16. Full curing means that all parts of the varnish layers 100 and 102 are completely cured. In the semi-cured state, most of the parts of the varnish layers 100 and 102 that are adhered to the sheet S are occupied by the cured parts 100a and 102a, so the adhesive joint is stable. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the varnish layers 100 and 102 from seeping onto the sheet S and spreading in the direction of the sheet surface (arrow A direction) before full curing, thus stabilizing the shape of the sheet S in the surface direction.

[0034] The position of the semi-curing UV lamp 48 may be configured to be movable along the sheet transport direction, and the distance from the varnish dispensing unit 46 may be adjusted. From the time the varnish is applied by the varnish dispensing unit 46 until it is semi-cured, the varnish spreads, and a higher leveling effect can be obtained. By adjusting the distance between the semi-curing UV lamp 48 and the varnish dispensing unit 46, the timing of stopping the varnish spread can be adjusted, and the balance between leveling and shape stability can be adjusted. If the varnish layer is thick, the varnish spreads more due to the larger volume of varnish, so it is better to bring the semi-curing UV lamp 48 closer to the varnish dispensing unit 46 to suppress the varnish spread earlier. If the varnish layer is thin, it is better to move the semi-curing UV lamp 48 away from the varnish dispensing unit 46 to allow sufficient leveling time. Also, if relatively sharpness is required for letters, etc., it is better to bring the semi-curing UV lamp 48 closer to the varnish dispensing unit 46 to suppress the varnish spread earlier.

[0035] The foil stamping device 16 transports the web (transfer web) 52 roll-to-roll. The web 52 is a foil-holding film in which foil (e.g., metal foil) is held on a film (substrate sheet). The foil stamping device 16 utilizes the tackiness of the semi-cured varnish on the sheet to adhere the foil held by the web 52 to the varnish. Then, with the foil held by the web 52 and adhered to the varnish on the sheet, ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the semi-cured varnish to which the foil is adhered using a foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 to fully cure the varnish. As a result, the adhesive force of the fully cured varnish to the foil becomes stronger than the force of the web 52 holding the foil. By separating the sheet and the web 52 in this state, the foil held by the web 52 can be transferred to the varnished portion on the sheet.

[0036] The stacker 18 stores the sheets discharged from the foil stamping machine 16.

[0037] The control device 20 is, for example, an information processing terminal such as a PC. The control device 20 accepts input regarding the definition of a print job. The control device 20 may also display a predetermined job management screen and accept input regarding the job definition through that job management screen. The job definition includes, for example, the number of sheets to be printed (number of copies), the sheet size of the sheets to be printed, varnish data, and whether or not foil stamping is performed. Based on the job definition, the control device 20 controls the paper feed device 12, the varnish application device 14, and the foil stamping device 16.

[0038] The control device 20 selects one of three modes, the first, second, or third, which differ in the combination of ultraviolet lamps used, in the process of irradiating the sheet from which varnish has been dispensed by the varnish dispensing unit 46 with ultraviolet light.

[0039] In the first mode, the sheet from which varnish has been dispensed by the varnish dispensing unit 46 is irradiated with ultraviolet light from the semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48 and the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66, and the main curing ultraviolet lamp 50 is turned off. In the second mode, the sheet from which varnish has been dispensed by the varnish dispensing unit 46 is irradiated with ultraviolet light from the semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48 and the main curing ultraviolet lamp 50, and the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 is turned off. In the third mode, the sheet from which varnish has been dispensed by the varnish dispensing unit 46 is irradiated with ultraviolet light only from the main curing ultraviolet lamp 50, and the semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48 and the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 are turned off.

[0040] The first mode is selected when foil stamping is performed in the foil stamping device 16. In other words, when foil stamping is performed on a sheet, the varnish is partially cured by the partial-curing ultraviolet lamp 48. The output of the partial-curing ultraviolet lamp 48 is relatively stronger than that of the second mode. As shown in Figure 3(a), the varnish layer has tackiness on the surface and its shape is stable. This tackiness is used to adhere the foil to the upper surface of the varnish layer in the foil stamping device 16. As shown in Figure 3(a), since the uncured state is only on the surface, even when the foil is adhered, the uncured portion is not crushed and spread in the direction of the sheet surface, and the shape of the varnish layer, especially the shape in the direction of the sheet surface, is stable. With the foil adhered to the varnish layer, the partial-cured varnish is fully cured by the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66, and the foil is reliably adhered to the varnish layer. As a result, a foil with a stable shape is obtained on the sheet after foil stamping.

[0041] The second mode is selected when foil stamping is not performed. In the second mode, the varnish on the sheet is partially cured by the semi-curing UV lamp 48. Then, it is fully cured by the full-curing UV lamp 50. The foil stamping device 16 only passes the sheet through; no foil stamping is performed. The stacker 18 discharges sheets with a varnish layer formed on the areas where varnish should be applied. The output of the semi-curing UV lamp 48 may be relatively weaker than that of the first mode. As shown in Figure 3(b), the varnish layer has a relatively large amount of uncured portion 102b remaining above the surface layer, while the portion adhered to the sheet S is almost entirely occupied by cured portion 102a, stabilizing the adhesive area. Therefore, the spreading of the varnish is suppressed, its shape is stabilized, and as it is transported to the full-curing UV lamp 50, the uncured portion of the varnish above flows, exhibiting a leveling effect that makes the top surface flat, resulting in a varnish layer with a smooth top surface.

[0042] Furthermore, in the second mode, the ultraviolet irradiation is divided between the semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48 and the full-curing ultraviolet lamp 50. Compared to the third mode, which uses a single light source for full curing, this mode allows for better dispersion of heat irradiation to the sheet by ultraviolet light and heat generated during the UV curing of the varnish. Therefore, it is possible to suppress problems such as heat-sensitive sheets curling or other deformation, or the underlying image discoloring or toner melting due to heat.

[0043] The third mode is selected when foil stamping is not performed. In the third mode, partial curing of the varnish on the sheet is not performed by the partial curing UV lamp 48, and only full curing is performed by the full curing UV lamp 50. The foil stamping device 16 simply passes the sheet through, and no foil stamping is performed. The stacker 18 discharges a sheet with a varnish layer of a predetermined shape formed at a predetermined position on the sheet. Since partial curing is not performed, the leveling effect during transport to the full curing UV lamp 50 is enhanced, resulting in a varnish layer with a smoother top surface. In the third mode, the partial curing UV lamp 48 may be set to a minimum output rather than being completely turned off.

[0044] By making the first, second, and third modes selectable, a device is obtained that can form a higher quality varnish layer even when simply applying varnish to a sheet.

[0045] The control device 20 selects a mode based on the definition of the input print job. If the print job includes foil stamping, the first mode is selected. If the print job does not include foil stamping, the second or third mode is selected.

[0046] The varnish layer obtained in the second mode has undergone a semi-curing process, which prevents the varnish layer from bleeding and spreading in the direction of the sheet surface. Therefore, it is particularly suitable for jobs that require avoiding spreading and stabilizing the shape of the varnish layer in the direction of the sheet surface.

[0047] For example, if the varnish layer is thick, the varnish is more likely to spread. Therefore, the second mode may be selected if the print job includes an area where the varnish layer is thicker than a predetermined thickness. Also, if the print job includes an object with a small area to be varnished, or if the minimum width of the varnish layer in the sheet direction is narrow, or if there are small gaps between adjacent varnish layers, the shape of the varnished area is likely to be distorted due to the spreading of the varnish layer. Therefore, the varnish data defining the varnish application area on the sheet in the print job is analyzed using image analysis, and the second mode may be selected if the area of ​​the object to be varnished is less than or equal to a predetermined value, the minimum width of the varnish layer in the sheet direction is less than or equal to a predetermined value, or the gaps between adjacent varnish layers are less than or equal to a predetermined value. Furthermore, if the print job includes a type of varnish, a type of sheet, or both, the second mode may be selected if the varnish or sheet is a type that is prone to spreading, or a combination thereof. If none of these conditions for selecting the second mode are met, the third mode, which provides excellent leveling performance, is selected. In the third mode, instead of completely turning off the semi-curing UV lamp 48, by minimizing its output, it is possible to achieve excellent leveling while slightly suppressing the spreading of the varnish and further improving the aesthetic appearance of the varnish layer.

[0048] The control device 20 may accept user input regarding which of the first, second, or third modes to select, and select the mode entered by the user. Alternatively, it may automatically select the first mode only if the print job includes foil stamping, and accept user input regarding which of the second or third modes to select if the print job does not include foil stamping. This is because while the first mode must be selected when performing foil stamping, there may be cases where the second or third modes need to be selected depending on the actual spread in the print. The control device 20 may also display the modes selected as candidates using the same algorithm as in the case of automatic selection as recommended modes on the user input screen.

[0049] The above is the basic configuration of the printing system 10.

[0050] As a variation, the printing system 10 may be equipped with a printer that prints a background image and registration marks on sheets instead of the paper feeder 12, and the sheets may be fed one by one from the printer.

[0051] Furthermore, the printing system 10 may also include, between the foil stamping device 16 and the stacker 18, a post-processing device for cutting and binding sheets, a second varnish coating unit for protecting the foil surface, a paper inserter for surface protection, a die-cutting machine for creating carton materials by cutting sheets into predetermined shapes, and a post-processing device for surface protection of paper inserts and the like.

[0052] Next, the configuration of the foil stamping apparatus 16 will be described in detail. Figures 4 and 5 show the foil stamping apparatus 16. Figure 4 is a perspective view, and Figure 5 is a side view. Figure 6 is a magnified view of the area around the foil stamping section (described later).

[0053] The foil stamping device 16 includes a plurality of transport rollers 54, an unwinding shaft 56, a winding shaft 58, a plurality of guide rollers 60, a first nip roller 62, a second nip roller 64, a foil stamping ultraviolet lamp (ultraviolet light source unit) 66, a first brake mechanism 68, a second brake mechanism 70, a gap adjustment mechanism 72, a sheet detection sensor 77, and a transport guide 106.

[0054] Multiple transport rollers 54 transport the sheet downstream in the transport direction while sandwiching it between paper-holding rollers and nip rollers 62, 64 (not shown).

[0055] The unwinding shaft 56 supports an unused roll of web (hereinafter referred to as the unwinding roll 74). The rewinding shaft 58 winds the used web 52, i.e., the film and any remaining foil on the film, into a roll. Hereinafter, the roll of web 52 wound by the rewinding shaft 58 will be referred to as the rewinding roll 76.

[0056] The unwinding shaft 56 and the rewinding shaft 58 are composed of friction shafts. These friction shafts include an outer ring that holds the paper tube that forms the core of the unwinding roll 74 and the rewinding roll 76, and a shaft core that rotatably holds the outer ring, and the holding torque, which is the resistance when the outer ring is rotated relative to the shaft core, is adjustable. When an external force acts to rotate the outer ring relative to the shaft core, if the rotational torque due to this external force is greater than the holding torque, the outer ring rotates relative to the shaft core, and if the rotational torque is less than the holding torque, the outer ring remains stationary relative to the shaft core. This holding torque can be changed by adjusting the air pressure filled inside the shaft.

[0057] The friction shaft has multiple outer rings in the axial direction, and its structure allows for different rotational speeds depending on their axial position (i.e., width direction X). Specifically, only a portion of the multiple outer rings may rotate while the others remain stationary, and furthermore, the rotational speeds of the rotating outer rings may differ. The outer ring has a sphere on its outer circumference that moves radially outward when torque is applied in the unwinding direction of the unwinding shaft 56 or the winding direction of the winding shaft 58, and bites into the paper tube, fixing the outer ring to the paper tube. When removing the paper tube, applying torque in the reverse direction to the paper tube causes the sphere to move radially inward, releasing the bite from the paper tube. However, if the reverse torque applied to the paper tube exceeds the holding torque, the outer ring rotates along with it, making it difficult to release the bite from the sphere and making it difficult to remove. To prevent this, the holding torque may be strengthened by increasing the air pressure when removing the paper tube.

[0058] The unwinding shaft 56 is set to a holding torque such that when a force acts on the web 52 in the foil stamping section F (the section between the first nip roller 62 and the second nip roller 64) where the web 52 and the sheet come into contact, causing the web 52 to rotate along with the sheet or the transport roller 54, and a force acts to pull the web 52 from the unwinding roll 74, the outer ring rotates relative to the fixed shaft core. When not transferring, the air pressure of the unwinding shaft 56 is increased, and the holding torque is made larger than when transferring. The holding torque of the winding shaft 58 is set to be smaller than the holding torque of the unwinding shaft 56, regardless of whether it is transferring or not, and the shaft core of the winding shaft 58 rotates driven by a drive source (not shown). Therefore, the web can be prevented from slackening both when transferring and when not transferring.

[0059] Multiple guide rollers 60, a first nip roller 62, and a second nip roller 64 define the transport path (hereinafter referred to as the web path) of the roughly U-shaped web 52 from the unwinding roll 74 to the winding roll 76. The second nip roller 64 is adjacent to the first nip roller 62 on the downstream side of the web path. The first nip roller 62 and the second nip roller 64 define a horizontally extending section of the web path. In this embodiment, this section corresponds to the foil stamping section F.

[0060] In the foil stamping section F, the foil is transferred from the web 52 to the semi-cured varnish on the sheet. During the transfer, the varnish on the sheet and the web 52 temporarily adhere to each other, so the web 52 is fed at the same speed as the sheet. Alternatively, the second nip roller 64 may be rotated to feed the web 52 at the same speed as the sheet. However, if a drive source is provided to rotate the nip rollers 62 and 64, and a speed difference in surface movement speed occurs between them and the opposing transport roller 54, a speed difference will occur between the web 52, which holds the foil and is in contact with the nip rollers 62 and 64, and the sheet, to which the foil is transferred and is in contact with the transport roller 54. This can cause wrinkles in the foil or a shift in the positional relationship between the foil and the sheet in the transport direction between the time the varnish on the sheet contacts the web 52 and the time the varnish hardens, resulting in a transfer failure. In contrast, in this embodiment, no drive source is provided to rotate the nip rollers 62 and 64. Instead, the nip rollers 62 and 64 rotate in response to the movement of the web 52, thereby suppressing transfer defects caused by wrinkles in the foil or misalignment between the foil and the sheet.

[0061] An encoder (not shown) for detecting its rotational speed is attached to at least one of the guide rollers 60. It is desirable that the guide roller 60 to which the encoder is attached uses a material with a high coefficient of friction on its surface to reduce slippage with the web 52. In the foil stamping section F, the foil on the outer surface of the web 52 comes into contact with the surface of the sheet or the transport roller 54, and moves downstream in the sheet transport direction by rotating together with these surfaces. The control device 20 calculates the actual moving speed of the web 52 based on the detection result from the encoder. The control device 20 further considers the outer diameter of the unwinding roll 74 detected by a laser sensor or the like (not shown) installed on the radially outside of the unwinding roll 74, and controls the rotational speed of the unwinding shaft 56 so that the theoretical feed speed of the web 52 from the unwinding roll 74 when the outer ring and the shaft rotate at the same speed is slower than the calculated actual moving speed of the web 52. In this case, the web 52 moves faster than the feed rate due to the rotation of the unwinding shaft 56. However, the outer ring of the unwinding shaft 56, which is made of friction shafts, rotates relative to the axial center including the drive input shaft. Because the outer ring rotates faster than the drive input shaft, the web 52 can be fed out at the same speed as the sheet's movement speed in the foil stamping section F while maintaining tension on the web 52. The unwinding shaft 56 may also be set to rotate at a predetermined rotational speed at all times such that the theoretical feed rate of the web 52 is slower than the actual movement speed, even when the outer diameter of the unwinding roll 74 is at its largest.

[0062] Furthermore, the control device 20 controls the rotation speed of the winding shaft 58 so that the winding speed of the web 52 by the winding roll 76 is faster than the movement speed of the web 52. At this time, the movement speed of the web 52 is slower than the winding speed caused by the rotation of the unwinding shaft 56, but the circumferential surface of the winding shaft 58, which is made of friction shaft, rotates relative to the drive input shaft, and the drive input shaft rotates freely relative to the circumferential surface. This allows the web 52 to be wound up at the same speed as the movement speed of the sheet in the foil stamping section F while maintaining the tension on the web 52.

[0063] The foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 is provided above the web path between the first nip roller 62 and the second nip roller 64. The foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 includes a light source (not shown) that emits ultraviolet light and a light source support 98 that supports the light source. The light source support 98 is supported by a lamp stopper 104 fixed to the housing of the foil stamping device 16. In particular, the hooking member 98a of the light source support 98 is supported by the lamp stopper 104.

[0064] The transport guide 106 has a flat upper surface 106a, which supports the sheet and guides the transport of the sheet.

[0065] The sheet detection sensor 77 is a sensor that detects the presence or absence of a sheet at the detection location, and based on the detection result, it can detect the timing of the leading edge and the trailing edge of the sheet passing through.

[0066] The gap adjustment mechanism 72 raises and lowers the first nip roller 62, the second nip roller 64, and the ultraviolet lamp 66 for foil stamping. The gap adjustment mechanism 72 may also raise and lower some of the guide rollers 60, for example, guide rollers 60 adjacent to the nip rollers 62 and 64.

[0067] For example, the gap adjustment mechanism 72 raises and lowers the nip rollers 62 and 64 to achieve good foil stamping, adjusting the gap G between the web path and the transport surface in the foil stamping section to a size corresponding to the thickness of the sheet to be foil stamped. The web path in the foil stamping section may be, for example, the path connecting the lower surface (the lowest part of the outer periphery) of the first nip roller 62. The transport surface may be the upper surface 106a of the transport guide 106, or the upper surface (the highest part of the outer periphery) of the transport roller 54 facing the nip rollers 62 and 64. Therefore, the size of the gap G may be the vertical distance between the nip rollers 62 and 64 and the transport guide 106 or the transport roller 54 facing the nip rollers 62 and 64.

[0068] When the nip rollers 62 and 64 descend, the travel path of the web 52 from the unwinding roll 74 to the winding roll 76 becomes longer. At this time, the circumferential surface rotates faster relative to the drive input shaft of the unwinding shaft 56, and the web 52 corresponding to the lengthened travel path is unwound. On the other hand, when the nip rollers 62 and 64 rise, the travel path of the web 52 from the unwinding roll 74 to the winding roll 76 becomes shorter. At this time, the circumferential surface rotates faster without the drive input shaft of the winding shaft 58 slipping, winding up the web 52 corresponding to the shortened travel path and preventing the web 52 from bending.

[0069] The first braking mechanism 68 applies a brake to prevent one of the multiple guide rollers 60 upstream of the first nip roller 62 (hereinafter also referred to as guide roller 60a) from rotating, or releases the brake to allow it to rotate. The first braking mechanism 68 is not particularly limited, but for example, it includes an electromagnetic brake provided on one end of the guide roller 60a in the axial direction (i.e., width direction X).

[0070] The second braking mechanism 70 applies a brake to prevent one of the multiple guide rollers 60 downstream of the second nip roller 64 (hereinafter also referred to as guide roller 60b) from rotating, or releases the brake to allow it to rotate. The second braking mechanism 70 is not particularly limited, but for example, it includes an electromagnetic brake provided on one axial end of the guide roller 60b.

[0071] When the brakes by the brake mechanisms 68 and 70 are released, the guide rollers 60a and 60b rotate in accordance with the moving web 52. When the brakes by the brake mechanisms 68 and 70 are applied, the guide rollers 60a and 60b cannot rotate, thus slowing the movement of the web 52.

[0072] In this embodiment, the winding shaft 58 rotates at a constant speed regardless of whether the sheet is passing through the foil stamping section F, how much web 52 remains, or how many unwinding rolls 74 there are. The rotational speed must be such that the tension of the web 52 is maintained even while the foil is being transferred. The speed of the sheet passing through the foil stamping section F is constant, and therefore the speed of the web 52 in the foil stamping section F, which moves along with the sheet, is also constant. Therefore, the rotational speed required to maintain the tension of the web 52 increases as the diameter of the winding roll 76 decreases. Consequently, the rotational speed of the winding shaft 58 must be such that sufficient tension is maintained even when the winding roll 76 has its minimum diameter. On the other hand, when the winding roll 76 has a large diameter, the torque required for winding increases, and the force pulling the foil due to inertia when stopped also increases. If there were no braking mechanism, that is, if the movement of the web 52 were only braked by the friction torque of the friction shafts of the unwinding shaft 56 and the winding shaft 58, the web 52 would continue to advance slightly even after the sheet has passed through the foil stamping section F. Since the advanced portion is wound up, this results in wasted foil. This tendency can be suppressed by lowering the rotational speed of the winding shaft 58, but as mentioned above, a rotational speed sufficient to maintain tension is required even when the winding roll 76 is at its minimum diameter, so the rotational speed cannot be reduced below that. In contrast, the presence of the braking mechanisms 68 and 70 allows the friction shafts and the braking mechanisms 68 and 70 to work together to immediately stop the feeding of the web 52, thereby preventing wasted foil.

[0073] Furthermore, the frictional force of the friction shaft of the winding shaft 58 is kept constant at all times, regardless of whether the sheet is passing through the foil stamping section F, how much web 52 remains, or how many unwinding rolls 74 there are. The friction shaft's strength can be adjusted mechanically, but because the frictional force is controlled by air, it has poor responsiveness. It is conceivable to increase the frictional force of the friction shaft when stopped, but even then, it takes time for the frictional force to become strong enough. If the frictional force of the friction shaft is kept strong at all times, instantaneous stopping might be possible, but since the winding shaft 58 is constantly rotating, the tension on the web 52 would become too strong, causing the web 52 to stretch. It is also conceivable to adjust the frictional force (air pressure) of the friction shaft according to the remaining amount of web 52. If the air pressure is increased as the remaining amount increases, malfunctions can be prevented regardless of the remaining amount of web 52. However, if there are multiple unwinding rolls 74 and the remaining amounts of each differ significantly, increasing the air pressure to match the larger diameter roll will cause excessive tension on the smaller diameter roll, causing the web 52 to stretch. In contrast, the presence of brake mechanisms 68 and 70 allows the movement of the web to be braked by an electromagnetic brake before it is wound onto the winding roll 76. This ensures that the brake is applied evenly regardless of the size of the diameter, and the brake can be released when transferring the foil. Therefore, even if there are multiple winding rolls 76, unnecessary feeding of the web 52 can be suppressed.

[0074] Next, the gap adjustment mechanism 72 will be described in detail. Figures 7 to 10 show the gap adjustment mechanism 72 and its surroundings. Figure 7 is a perspective view, Figure 8 is a side view seen in the width direction X, and Figures 9 and 10 are side views seen from the downstream side in the transport direction Y. Figure 9 shows the nip rollers 62, 64 and the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 in the lowered position for foil stamping, and Figure 10 shows the nip rollers 62, 64 and the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 in the raised position for web mounting and replacement work. That is,

[0075] The gap adjustment mechanism 72 comprises an electric cylinder (pressing part) 78, a nip roller support part 80, two stoppers 82, and two stepping motors 84.

[0076] The nip roller support section 80 includes an upper frame 86, a lower frame 88, a connecting frame 90, and two blocks 92. The upper frame 86 and the lower frame 88 are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction and extend in the width direction X so as to overlap in a plan view. The upper frame 86 is located above the transport guide 106, and the lower frame 88 is located below the transport guide 106. The connecting frame 90 extends in the vertical direction and connects the upper frame 86 and the lower frame 88 at one end in the width direction. The two blocks 92 are fixed to the lower surface of the upper frame 86, respectively, slightly to the right and slightly to the left in the width direction X. The two blocks 92 are located above the transport guide 106 and support both ends of the nip rollers 62, 64 by sandwiching them.

[0077] The electric cylinder 78 is located below the nip roller support section 80. The rod 78a of the electric cylinder 78 is connected to the lower frame 88 of the nip roller support section 80. The electric cylinder 78 raises and lowers the nip roller support section 80 and, consequently, the nip rollers 62 and 64.

[0078] Two stoppers 82 are provided on both sides in the width direction. The vertical position of the two stoppers 82 can be individually adjusted from each other by the corresponding stepping motors 84. Specifically, the rotational driving force of the stepping motors 84 is transmitted to the drive shaft (ball screw) 96 via the transmission belt 94. When the drive shaft 96 rotates, the stoppers 82 rise or fall according to the direction of rotation.

[0079] When the nip roller support section 80 is lowered, each of the two blocks 92 comes into contact with the corresponding stopper 82 and stops, preventing the nip roller support section 80 from descending any further. In other words, the vertical position of the stopper 82 determines the vertical position of the nip rollers 62 and 64, and consequently determines the size of the gap G.

[0080] When the nip roller support section 80 rises to a certain height, the upper surface of the upper frame 86 of the nip roller support section 80 comes into contact with the rubber feet 108 fixed to the lower surface of the light source support section 98 of the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66. When the nip roller support section 80 rises further, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 is lifted by being supported by the nip roller support section 80. In other words, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 moves away from the lamp stopper 104 and is no longer supported by the lamp stopper 104. When the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 is supported by the nip roller support section 80, it moves up and down together with the nip roller support section 80. In other words, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 in this embodiment can be retracted from the irradiation position (position in Figure 9) that irradiates ultraviolet light toward the sheet during foil stamping to a retracted position (position in Figure 10) that is further away from the transport surface than the irradiation position, and is located above the irradiation position.

[0081] The control device 20 controls the electric cylinder 78 and the two stepping motors 84 to adjust the size of the gap G to the target size. Specifically, when the gap G is to be reduced, the control device 20 controls the two stepping motors 84 to lower the two stoppers 82 to a vertical position corresponding to the target size of the gap G, and then controls the electric cylinder 78 to lower the nip roller support portion 80 so that it contacts the stoppers 82.

[0082] Furthermore, when increasing the gap G, the control device 20 controls the electric cylinder 78 to raise the nip rollers 62 and 64 to a position where the gap G is larger than the target size, then controls the two stepping motors 84 to raise the two stoppers 82 to a vertical position corresponding to the target gap G size, and then controls the electric cylinder 78 to lower the nip roller support section 80 so that it contacts the stoppers 82. It is also possible to push up the nip roller support section 80 by raising the two stoppers 82 with the two stepping motors 84, but considering durability, it is preferable not to put a load on the stepping motors 84 to push up the nip roller support section 80.

[0083] The above describes the detailed configuration of the foil stamping device 16. Next, the operation of the foil stamping device 16 will be explained.

[0084] Figures 11(a) to (f) show the operation of the foil stamping device 16 in chronological order when performing foil stamping (first mode).

[0085] Figure 11(a) shows the state in which the sheet S is waiting to reach the foil stamping section. In Figure 11(a), the leading edge of the sheet S has reached the sheet detection sensor 77. In Figure 11(a), the brakes are being applied by the brake mechanisms 68 and 70.

[0086] Sheet S1 is coated with varnish and is semi-cured. Sheet S1 has a front untreated area Rcf, a treated area Rc, and a rear untreated area Rcr. The front untreated area Rcf, the treated area Rc, and the rear untreated area Rcr are arranged in this order from the front side of sheet S. The front untreated area Rcf and the rear untreated area Rcr are not coated with varnish. The front untreated area Rcf is the area from the front of sheet S to the front of the treated area Rc. The rear untreated area Rcr is the area from the rear end of the treated area Rc to the rear end of sheet S. The treated area Rc is the area that includes the area coated with varnish. If there is one area coated with varnish, the treated area Rc is the area in the transport direction Y from the front to the rear end of that one area. If there are multiple areas coated with varnish, the treated area Rc is the area from the front of the area where the front end is located furthest downstream among those multiple areas to the rear end of the area where the rear end is located furthest upstream among those multiple areas.

[0087] In Figure 11(a), the size of the gap G is adjusted to a first size G1 (for example, 3 mm). This first size is such that even if a sheet S is present in the gap G, the web 52 cannot come into contact with the sheet S.

[0088] Figure 11(b) shows the point just before the leading edge of the processing range Rc of sheet S enters the foil stamping section F. In Figure 11(b), the size of the gap G is adjusted to a second size G2 (< first size G1). The second size G2 is the size of the gap G corresponding to the thickness of sheet S. The second size G2 is a size that allows sheet S to enter the gap G and allows the web 52 to contact sheet S with appropriate contact pressure to achieve good foil stamping. For example, the user may input the size of the gap corresponding to the thickness of sheet S, and the control device 20 may acquire this as the second size G2, or the control device 20 may calculate the second size G2 based on the sheet S thickness input by the user. Alternatively, the control device 20 may maintain correspondence information that associates various sheet thicknesses with appropriate gap G sizes corresponding to each of the various sheet thicknesses, and for example, a sensor for acquiring the sheet thickness is installed at an appropriate position to acquire the sheet thickness, and based on the acquired sheet thickness and the correspondence information, the size of the gap G corresponding to the sheet thickness is... A second size G2 may be specified. The size of the gap G, depending on the thickness of the sheet, may be the thickness of the sheet excluding the varnish.

[0089] The timing for adjusting the gap G from the first size G1 to the second size G2, that is, the timing for lowering the nip rollers 62 and 64, is determined by obtaining pulses using an encoder interposed in the drive mechanism of the transport roller 54, and counting pulse P1 after the sheet detection sensor 77 detects the leading edge of the sheet S. Pulse P1 is determined based on the length of the unprocessed leading edge range Rcf in the transport direction, which is obtained from the varnish data. Pulse P1 may be finely adjusted by user input depending on the finishing state. The size of the gap G may be adjusted so that it reaches the second size G2 just before the leading edge of the sheet S enters the foil stamping section F. However, in this case, the web 52 is unnecessarily fed and consumed unnecessarily. Therefore, it is preferable to adjust the size of the gap G so that it reaches the second size G2 just before the leading edge of the processing range Rc enters the foil stamping section F.

[0090] When the change in the size of the gap G from the first size G1 to the second size G2 begins, that is, when the nip rollers 62 and 64 begin to descend, the brake by the first brake mechanism 68 is released. The brake by the second brake mechanism 70 may be released substantially simultaneously with the brake by the first brake mechanism 68, but preferably it is released a certain time after the brake by the first brake mechanism 68 is released. The timing of releasing the brake by the second brake mechanism 70 may be, for example, the moment when the transition to the state shown in Figure 11(b) occurs. If the sheet enters the foil stamping section F with slack remaining in the foil in the state shown in Figure 11(b), a misalignment in the transport direction between the foil and the sheet may occur, and transfer defects may occur at the leading edge of the processing range Rc. Since the braking force by the second brake mechanism 70 is acting at the moment the nip rollers 62 and 64 descend and stop, the occurrence of slack due to the impact of the nip rollers 62 and 64 stopping is suppressed. By staggering the timing of the release of the brakes from the first brake mechanism 68 and the second brake mechanism 70, appropriate tension can be applied to the foil when the leading edge of the processing range Rc enters the foil stamping section F, thereby preventing transfer defects at the leading edge of the processing range Rc. Since the brake from the first brake mechanism 68 is released first and the brake from the second brake mechanism 70 is released later, it is possible to prevent the foil from being fed in the reverse direction when the nip rollers 62 and 64 descend.

[0091] As the sheet S moves further and enters the foil stamping section F, it adheres to the web 52 due to the tackiness of the semi-cured varnish, and the web 52 moves along with the sheet S as it moves on the transport roller 54.

[0092] Incidentally, when the gap G is at the second size G2, the control device 20 controls the electric cylinder 78 to press the nip roller support 80 against the stopper 82, i.e., downward. Specifically, the control device 20 controls the electric cylinder 78 so that the nip roller support 80 and, by extension, the nip rollers 62 and 64 continue to move with the position where the gap G is zero as the target position. As a result, the nip roller support 80 is pressed towards the stopper 82, and the nip rollers 62 and 64 are pressed downward. As a result, even when the sheet S is in the foil stamping section F, the nip rollers 62 and 64 do not move upward, the size of the gap G is maintained at the second size G2, the web 52 and the sheet S are in contact with appropriate contact pressure, and the web 52 can be reliably adhered to the sheet.

[0093] Figure 11(c) shows the moment just before the leading edge of the processing area Rc enters the ultraviolet irradiation range U of the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66. At this timing, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 starts to light up. The timing of the start of lighting up is determined by the timing when the sheet detection sensor 77 detects the leading edge of the sheet S and counts pulse P2. Pulse P2 is determined based on the length of the unprocessed leading edge area Rcf in the transport direction, which is obtained from the varnish data.

[0094] In Figure 11(d), the sheet S moves while in contact with the web 52. At this time, ultraviolet light is irradiated from the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 onto the semi-cured varnish on the sheet S. This irradiation fully cures the varnish. The fully cured varnish strongly adheres the foil of the web 52 to the sheet S. In Figure 11(d), the web 52 has already separated near the tip of the processing area Rc, but the foil adhered by the fully cured varnish remains in the area of ​​the varnish applied to the sheet S.

[0095] Figure 11(e) shows the moment immediately after the rear end of the processing area Rc exits the irradiation area U of the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66. At this timing, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 is turned off. The timing of the turn-off is determined by the time the sheet detection sensor 77 detects the leading edge of the sheet S and counts pulse P3. Pulse P3 is determined based on the lengths of the unprocessed leading edge area Rcf and the processed area Rc in the transport direction, which are obtained from the varnish data.

[0096] Figure 11(f) shows the point immediately after the rear end of the processing area Rc exits the foil stamping section F. In Figure 11(f), the brakes are applied by the brake mechanisms 68 and 70. The size of the gap G is also returned to the first size G1. The timing for returning the gap G from the second size G2 to the first size G1, i.e., the timing for raising the nip rollers 62 and 64, is the timing when the sheet detection sensor 77 detects the leading edge of the sheet S and counts pulse P4. Pulse P4 is determined based on the length of the unprocessed leading edge area Rcf and the processed area Rc in the transport direction, obtained from the varnish data. As the sheet S and web 52 separate, the movement of the web 52, which was pulled along by the movement of the sheet S, stops. The size of the gap G may be adjusted so that it reaches the first size G1 immediately after the trailing edge of the sheet S exits the foil stamping section F. However, in this case, the web 52 is unnecessarily fed and consumed unnecessarily. Therefore, it is preferable to adjust the size of the gap G so that it reaches the first size G1 immediately after the trailing edge of the processing range Rc exits the foil stamping section F.

[0097] The foil-stamped sheet S is discharged into the stacker 18 (see Figures 1 and 2), and the foil stamping process for sheet S is completed.

[0098] The operations shown in Figures 11(a) to (f) are repeated until the processing of the specified number of job data files is completed.

[0099] Figures 12(a) to (c) show the operation of the foil stamping device 16 in chronological order when performing web mounting and replacement work. In Figure 12(a), the size of the gap G is adjusted to the first size G1. From the state in Figure 12(a), the nip roller support part 80 (not shown in Figures 12(a) to (c)) and consequently the nip rollers 62 and 64 are raised to increase the gap G.

[0100] In Figure 12(b), the size of the gap G is the third size G3 (> the first size G1). At this time, although not shown in Figures 12(a) to (c), the nip roller support 80 is in contact with the rubber foot 108 of the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66.

[0101] If the nip roller support 80 is raised further, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 is also raised, as shown in Figure 12(c). In other words, if the size of the gap G is made larger than the third size G3, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 rises together with the nip rollers 62 and 64. To put it another way, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 rises together with the web path in the foil stamping section F. Figure 12(c) shows the state where the nip roller support 80 and the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 have risen to their highest positions, and the size of the gap G is the fourth size G4 (> third size G3). In the state shown in Figure 12(c), web mounting and replacement work, such as routing the web 52, is performed.

[0102] Once the web mounting and replacement work is complete, the state is returned to that shown in Figure 12(a). That is, the size of the gap G is returned to the first size G1. At this time, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 descends together with the nip rollers 62 and 64, i.e., along the web path in the foil stamping section F, until the gap G becomes the third size G3. When the size of the gap G becomes the third size G3, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 is supported by the lamp stopper 104 and stops descending any further.

[0103] According to this embodiment, the size of the gap G between the web path and the transport surface in the foil stamping section F is adjusted to a gap corresponding to the thickness of the sheet. This makes it possible to bring the web 52 and the sheet into contact with appropriate contact pressure, thereby achieving good foil stamping.

[0104] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when foil stamping, the nip rollers 62 and 64 are pressed downwards, and therefore, even when the sheet is in the gap G, the nip rollers 62 and 64 do not move upwards, maintaining the size of the gap G at the second size G2. As a result, the web 52 and the sheet S are in contact with appropriate contact pressure, and the web 52 can be reliably adhered to the sheet.

[0105] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the nip rollers 62 and 64, i.e., the web path in the foil stamping section F and the ultraviolet lamp 66 for foil stamping can be retracted upward, making it easier to mount and replace the web.

[0106] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the gap adjustment mechanism 72, which adjusts the size of the gap G by moving the nip rollers 62 and 64 up and down, can also move the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 up and down. This reduces the number of drive sources compared to the case where this is not possible, and thus reduces the cost of the foil stamping device 16.

[0107] The present invention has been described above based on embodiments. These embodiments are illustrative, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in combinations of these components and processing processes, and that such modifications also fall within the scope of the present invention. Such modifications will be described below.

[0108] In this embodiment, the web 52 moves by contacting the moving sheet S. However, if there is a separate drive for moving the web 52, the ultraviolet lamp 66 for foil stamping may be turned off while the web 52 is stopped, in accordance with the on / off timing of that drive.

[0109] Furthermore, although this embodiment describes an example in which one processing area Rc is formed on the sheet S, if the areas to be coated with varnish are far apart at the leading and trailing ends of the sheet S, multiple processing areas Rc may be set for a single sheet, with each area being treated as a separate processing area Rc, and the on / off control of the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 may be performed according to each processing area Rc. Specifically, the lamp may be turned on just before the leading end of the processing area Rc reaches the irradiation area U, and turned off immediately after the trailing end of the processing area Rc leaves the irradiation area U, and this control may be performed individually for each of the multiple processing areas Rc. By doing so, the time the sheet S is irradiated with ultraviolet light can be shortened, and problems such as deformation of the sheet S due to the heat of ultraviolet light can be suppressed.

[0110] Furthermore, if the processing range Rc located at the leading edge and the processing range Rc located further to the rear are adjacent in the transport direction, and the distance between the rear end of the processing range Rc at the leading edge and the leading edge of the processing range Rc at the rear is longer than the transport direction length of the foil stamping section F, the size of the gap G may be set as the first gap from immediately after the rear end of the processing range Rc at the leading edge leaves the foil stamping section F until immediately before the leading edge of the processing range Rc at the rear enters the foil stamping section F. Since the web 52 is not fed and stops while the first nip roller 62 and the second nip roller 64 are in the first gap, it is preferable to turn off the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 after the rear end of the processing range Rc at the leading edge leaves the irradiation range U and before the first nip roller 62 and the second nip roller 64 rise, and then turn it back on after the first nip roller 62 and the second nip roller 64 descend and before the leading edge of the processing range Rc at the rear enters the irradiation range U. By doing so, the length of the web 52 being sent can be reduced, leading to foil savings.

[0111] Furthermore, if the web 52 stops due to an emergency shutdown, jam, or other malfunction of the device, the curing ultraviolet lamp may be immediately turned off.

[0112] Furthermore, even if the ultraviolet light from the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 is shone on the web 52 while it is stopped, it can withstand it for a very short time. Therefore, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 may be turned on or off at a time when the irradiation time while it is stopped does not exceed a predetermined time.

[0113] Furthermore, although not specifically mentioned in the embodiment, the height positions of the two stoppers 82 may be adjusted individually. For example, the two stoppers 82 may be moved to a vertical position corresponding to the thickness of the sheet, and the height positions of the two stoppers 82 may be individually fine-tuned while observing the result.

[0114] Furthermore, the sheet is aligned in the width direction X on the resist reference guide 32, and the sheet is transported with the side on which the resist reference guide 32 is provided (the right side in the width direction in Figure 2) as the reference. Therefore, if the width dimension of the sheet is small, the sheet will pass through one side in the width direction but not the other side, which may cause an imbalance in the contact pressure between the web 52 and the sheet in the width direction. To address this, the user may input the width dimension of the sheet or obtain it using an appropriate sensor, and the height positions of the two stoppers 82 may be adjusted based on the width dimension of the sheet. For example, the control device 20 may raise the height position of the stopper 82 on one side in the width direction higher than the height position of the stopper 82 on the other side in the width direction so that the gap on one side in the width direction through which the sheet passes is larger than the gap on the other side in the width direction. Alternatively, the control device 20 may make the gap on one side in the width direction larger than the gap on the other side in the width direction when the width dimension of the sheet is less than or equal to a predetermined value.

[0115] Furthermore, the technical concept of the embodiment is not limited to the case where foil is transferred to a sheet. In other words, the object to which the foil stamping device 16 transfers the foil may be something other than a sheet.

[0116] Furthermore, the web 52 that holds the foil is usually created by vapor deposition, coating, or attaching metal or colorant to a base film to form a transfer layer, and this transfer layer becomes the "foil" which is the transfer material. In addition, a release layer, adhesive layer, etc. may be added to the transfer layer to improve adhesion and peelability from the base film during transfer. Furthermore, the long base sheet that carries the transfer material is not limited to film, but can be any material that can hold the transfer material and transfer it to the object to be transferred in the transfer section, such as a strip of woven fabric. On the other hand, the transfer material held by the web 52 and transferred in the transfer section such as the foil stamping section F is not limited to "foil," but can be a thin layer other than metal. It can also be an ink ribbon, in which the transfer material such as ink is coated onto the web, which is the base material. Furthermore, the long base sheet that carries the transfer material is not limited to film, but can be any material that can hold the transfer material and transfer it to the object to be transferred in the transfer section, such as a strip of woven fabric.

[0117] Furthermore, the transfer device is not limited to one that transfers a transfer material held by the web 52, but may also be a transfer device that performs a process called "laminated coating," in which a web with fine irregularities formed on its surface is brought into close contact with a varnish applied to the surface of the object to be transferred, and the shape of the irregularities is transferred to the varnish surface, thereby transferring the surface shape formed by the fine irregularities of the web to the object to be transferred. In laminate coating as well, if the gap G is too large relative to the thickness of the object to be transferred, the contact pressure between the web and the varnish will be too low, resulting in insufficient transfer of the surface shape, or no transfer at all. If the gap G is too small relative to the thickness of the object to be transferred, the object to be transferred will not be able to fit into the gap G, or even if it does fit, the varnish will spread and the shape of the varnish will be distorted. According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain a transfer device that does not have these problems and can appropriately transfer the surface shape.

[0118] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the electric cylinder 78 prevents the nip rollers 62 and 64 from moving upward even during transfer, maintaining a predetermined gap G, thus ensuring that the surface shape of the web 52 is reliably transferred to the varnish on the object to be transferred.

[0119] Any combination of the embodiments and modifications described above is also useful as an embodiment of the present invention. The new embodiments resulting from these combinations possess the combined effects of the respective embodiments and modifications. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the functions to be performed by each component described in the claims can be achieved by each component shown in the embodiments and modifications individually or in combination thereof. The embodiments described in the claims of the present application at the time of filing are transcribed below. [Aspect 1] A transfer apparatus that transfers a transfer substance or the surface shape of a transfer web from a transfer web transported along a web path to an object to be transferred, which is transported along a transport surface, within a transfer section, A gap adjustment mechanism for adjusting the size of the gap between the transport surface and the web path in the transfer section, A control device that controls the gap adjustment mechanism and adjusts the size of the gap to a size corresponding to the thickness of the material to be transferred, A transfer apparatus characterized by comprising: [Aspect 2] The transfer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device controls the gap adjustment mechanism so that the gap is maintained to a size corresponding to the thickness of the object to be transferred, even when the object to be transferred is in the gap. [Aspect 3] Includes a roller that defines the web path in the transfer section, The transfer apparatus according to embodiment 2, characterized in that the gap adjustment mechanism includes a stopper that positions the roller at a position corresponding to the thickness of the material to be transferred by restricting the movement of the roller toward the conveying surface, and a pressing part that presses a support part that supports the roller against the stopper. [Aspect 4] The transfer apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, characterized in that the gap adjustment mechanism allows the gap to be individually adjusted at two locations in the width direction. [Aspect 5] A resist reference guide is provided on one end in the width direction, which is used to position the object to be transferred in the width direction by bringing it into contact with the object to be transferred as it is transported to the transfer section. The transfer apparatus according to embodiment 4, characterized in that the control device controls the gap adjustment mechanism so that when the widthwise dimension of the object to be transferred is less than or equal to a predetermined dimension, one end of the gap in the widthwise direction becomes larger than the other end. [Aspect 6] In the transfer section, an ultraviolet light source unit is provided that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the web path from an irradiation position opposite to the transport surface, The transfer apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, characterized in that the ultraviolet light source unit can be retracted from the irradiation position to a retracted position that is further away from the transport surface than the irradiation position. [Aspect 7] The transfer apparatus according to embodiment 6, characterized in that the ultraviolet light source unit is movable between the irradiation position and the retracted position by the gap adjustment mechanism. [Aspect 8] The gap adjustment mechanism adjusts the size of the gap by raising and lowering the web path in the transfer section. When the size of the gap is less than or equal to the threshold, the ultraviolet light source unit is not supported by the gap adjustment mechanism and is maintained in the irradiation position without the raising or lowering of the web path. The transfer apparatus according to embodiment 7, characterized in that when the size of the gap exceeds a threshold, the ultraviolet light source unit is supported by the gap adjustment mechanism and moves up and down together with the web path. [Aspect 9] Equipped with a sensor capable of detecting the arrival of the material to be transferred into the transfer section, The transfer apparatus according to embodiment 8, characterized in that the control device controls the gap adjustment mechanism to adjust the gap to a gap larger than the gap corresponding to the thickness of the object to be transferred and smaller than the threshold until the sensor detects the arrival of the object to be transferred, and when the sensor detects the arrival of the object to be transferred, adjust the gap to a gap corresponding to the thickness of the portion to be transferred. [Aspect 10] The device comprises first and second rollers that define the web path in the transfer section, The first roller is positioned such that its axial direction coincides with the width direction. The second roller is positioned such that its axial direction coincides with the width direction, and the web path in the transfer section defined between it and the first roller is parallel to the conveying surface. The transfer apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, characterized in that the gap adjustment mechanism adjusts the size of the gap by adjusting the vertical positions of the first and second rollers. [Aspect 11] A web transport mechanism that transports the transfer web along the web path, A transfer material transport mechanism that transports the material to be transferred, In a transfer section where the transfer material of the transfer web or the surface shape of the transfer web is transferred to the object to be transferred, an ultraviolet light source unit irradiates ultraviolet light from an irradiation position opposite to the transport surface of the object to be transferred transport mechanism to the web path, The system includes a gap adjustment mechanism that adjusts the gap between the web path and the transport surface in the transfer section by raising and lowering the web path in the transfer section, The transfer apparatus is characterized in that the ultraviolet light source unit moves up and down together with the web path when the size of the gap exceeds a threshold. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 10 Printing system, 16 Foil stamping device, 52 Web, 60 Guide rollers, 62 First nip roller, 64 Second nip roller, 72 Gap adjustment mechanism, F Foil stamping section, G Gap, S Sheet.

Claims

1. A transfer apparatus that transfers a transfer substance or the surface shape of a transfer web from a transfer web transported along a web path to an object to be transferred, which is transported along a transport surface, within a transfer section, A gap adjustment mechanism for adjusting the size of the gap between the transport surface and the web path in the transfer section, A control device that controls the gap adjustment mechanism and adjusts the size of the gap to a size corresponding to the thickness of the material to be transferred, Equipped with, The transfer apparatus is characterized in that the gap adjustment mechanism allows the gap to be adjusted individually at two locations in the width direction.

2. The transfer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device controls the gap adjustment mechanism so that the gap is maintained to a size corresponding to the thickness of the object to be transferred, even when the object to be transferred is in the gap.

3. Includes a roller that defines the web path in the transfer section, The transfer apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the gap adjustment mechanism includes a stopper that positions the roller at a position corresponding to the thickness of the material to be transferred by restricting the movement of the roller toward the conveying surface, and a pressing part that presses a support part that supports the roller against the stopper.

4. A resist reference guide is provided on one end in the width direction, which is used to position the object to be transferred in the width direction by bringing it into contact with the object to be transferred as it is transported to the transfer section. The transfer apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the control device controls the gap adjustment mechanism so that when the widthwise dimension of the object to be transferred is less than or equal to a predetermined dimension, one end of the gap in the widthwise direction becomes larger than the other end.

5. In the transfer section, an ultraviolet light source unit is provided that irradiates ultraviolet light from an irradiation position opposite to the transport surface to the web path. The transfer apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the ultraviolet light source unit can be retracted from the irradiation position to a retracted position further away from the transport surface than the irradiation position.

6. The transfer apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the ultraviolet light source unit is movable between the irradiation position and the retracted position by the gap adjustment mechanism.

7. The gap adjustment mechanism adjusts the size of the gap by raising and lowering the web path in the transfer section. When the size of the gap is less than or equal to the threshold, the ultraviolet light source unit is not supported by the gap adjustment mechanism and is maintained in the irradiation position without the raising or lowering of the web path. The transfer apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that when the size of the gap exceeds a threshold, the ultraviolet light source unit is supported by the gap adjustment mechanism and moves up and down together with the web path.

8. Equipped with a sensor capable of detecting the arrival of the material to be transferred into the transfer section, The transfer apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the control device controls the gap adjustment mechanism to adjust the gap to a gap larger than the gap corresponding to the thickness of the object to be transferred and smaller than the threshold until the sensor detects the arrival of the object to be transferred, and when the sensor detects the arrival of the object to be transferred, adjust the gap to a gap corresponding to the thickness of the portion to be transferred.

9. The device comprises first and second rollers that define the web path in the transfer section, The first roller is positioned such that its axial direction coincides with the width direction. The second roller is positioned such that its axial direction coincides with the width direction, and the web path in the transfer section defined between it and the first roller is parallel to the conveying surface. The transfer apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the gap adjustment mechanism adjusts the size of the gap by adjusting the vertical positions of the first and second rollers.

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