Converter and compatible system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a converting machine (10) for producing flat packages or folding boxes from a sheet (1), the converting machine being configured to convey the sheet in a conveying direction (T). The converting machine comprises a first printing module (16) configured to print on one of a first side and a second side of the sheet (1) and a die-cutting module (18) comprising a die-cutting tool and a tool-holding cylinder configured to connect to a counter cylinder, the die-cutting module being configured to apply a cut line on the first side of the sheet. The converting machine further comprises a separate scoring module (19) having a scoring tool configured to apply a crease line on the second side of the sheet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a converter for manufacturing flat box packages or folding boxes. In particular, the present invention relates to the scoring and die-cutting modules of the converter.

Background Art

[0002] A converter equipped with a rotary die cutter can be configured to produce flat box packages or folding boxes. These converters are supplied with sheets that are printed, cut, and scored, and then form blanks that can be folded and assembled into three-dimensional boxes. The blanks are designed to be folded either manually or automatically in a folder-gluer.

[0003] Boxes often need to have printed motifs or patterns provided on the outer surface, inner surface, or both the inner and outer surfaces of the box.

[0004] The machine operator is thus required to adapt the configuration of the converter between different operations. Sometimes, the sheet may need to be turned over in order to print on both the inner and outer surfaces of the box.

[0005] When the type of box changes, it is often necessary to change the configuration of some of the modules within the converter, thereby changing the printing plate as well as the die-cutting tools that define the cut-out shapes and fold lines. Sometimes, it is also necessary to change the anilox cylinder in order to obtain a higher resolution or a higher ink supply and better adapt to the surface quality of the paper or cardboard.

[0006] The outer surface of the box is often the most important. However, for other purposes such as boxes for mail order and online shopping, it may be advantageous to provide boxes with individual outer surfaces and instead have a more refined and printed inner surface.

Prior Art Documents

[0007] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 3934902 [Patent Document 2] European Patent Application Publication No. 3445549 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2016 / 9256 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] Therefore, there is a need to provide a flexible method for printing on the inner and outer surfaces of a box using a converter, while reducing the need to change tools as the characteristics of the box change.

[0009] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the object of the present invention is to provide a flexible machine capable of adding printed motifs to both the inside and outside of a box. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a converter is provided for producing flat box packaging or folding boxes from a sheet, wherein the converter is configured to transport the sheet in the transport direction, and the converter is A first printing module configured to print on either the first or second side of a sheet, A die-cut module comprising a counter cylinder and a tool holding cylinder configured to be connected to a first die-cut tool on which a cutting blade is provided, and configured to add a cutting line to the first surface of a sheet, The converter further comprises a scoring module which includes a counter cylinder and a tool-holding cylinder configured to be connected to a scoring tool equipped with a creasing blade, the scoring module configured to add a creasing line to the second surface of the sheet.

[0011] The present invention is based on the understanding that a flexible converter can be provided when configured to add fold lines and cut lines to both sides of a sheet.

[0012] The first die-cutting tool may be configured to add only the cutting lines. The scoring module may be separate from the die-cutting module.

[0013] In one embodiment, the tool-holding cylinder of the die-cutting module is further configured to connect to a second die-cutting tool configured to add cut lines and crease lines to a first surface of a sheet. The die-cutting module may thus be selectively configured to further provide crease lines to the first surface of a sheet, and crease lines can be added to both sides of the sheet.

[0014] Therefore, the second tool is configured to provide both cutting lines and fold lines on the sheet.

[0015] In one embodiment, the scoring module can be disabled, and the die-cutting module is further configured to connect to a second die-cutting tool configured to add cut lines and crease lines on a first surface of a sheet, the crease lines being added to both sides of the sheet.

[0016] To be disabled means that the creasing tool is not in contact with the sheet. This can mean that the creasing tool is removed from the tool holding cylinder. Alternatively, the creasing tool is moved away from the sheet.

[0017] In one embodiment, the die-cutting module is positioned downstream of the scoring module in the transport direction. In this manner, waste cutting may be performed after the scoring process.

[0018] In one embodiment, the scoring module includes a structural frame having a first side frame portion and a second side frame portion, and the side frame portion is configured to receive the shafts of the tool holding cylinder and the counter cylinder.

[0019] In one embodiment, the tool holding cylinder of the die-cutting module is disposed vertically above the conveying path of the sheet.

[0020] In one embodiment, the tool holding cylinder of the scoring module is disposed vertically below the conveying path of the sheet.

[0021] The tool holding cylinder of the die-cutting module can thus be disposed vertically above the counter cylinder of the die-cutting module. Therefore, the tool holding cylinder of the scoring module can be disposed vertically below the counter cylinder of the scoring module.

[0022] In one embodiment, the tool holding cylinder of the scoring module includes a mounting bracket for attaching a scoring tool. The scoring tool is a die in the form of a sleeve and may be configured to be attached around the peripheral surface of the tool holding cylinder. In one embodiment, the scoring tool includes only a creasing blade.

[0023] The counter cylinder of the scoring module is provided with an elastic surface material configured to contact the creasing blade of the scoring tool.

[0024] In one embodiment, the first printing module is a flexographic printing module configured to print on the bottom surface of the sheet.

[0025] In another embodiment, the first printing module is a flexographic printing module configured to print on the upper surface of the sheet.

[0026] The first printing module may be an inkjet printing module.

[0027] In one embodiment, the converter further comprises a second printing module configured to print on a second surface of the sheet, which is different from the surface of the sheet printed by the first printing module.

[0028] In one embodiment, the converter further comprises a third printing module configured as an inkjet printing module and preferably configured to print on the upper surface of a sheet.

[0029] In one embodiment, the converter further comprises a transport system equipped with a plurality of vacuum transport means and a cut and scoring registration control system, the cut and scoring registration control system comprising a first sensor, a second sensor, a control unit, and a memory, The first sensor is located upstream of the scoring module at the first sensor location, and the second sensor is located upstream of the die-cutting module at the second sensor location. The cut and scoring registration control system is configured to determine the actual scorer position of the front leading edge of the sheet at the first sensor position from the detection time provided by the first sensor, and to define the actual position as the initial reference position for the sheet. The system is further configured to determine the corresponding die cutter reference position for the front leading edge at the second sensor position based on the initial reference position. The control unit is configured to extract the detection time of the front edge from the second sensor and determine the actual position of the front edge of the sheet at the second sensor position. The control unit is configured to determine the displacement distance from the difference between the actual die cutter position and the die cutter reference position, and the control unit is further configured to change the speed of at least one vacuum conveying means to provide longitudinal position correction to the sheet between the scoring module and the die cutting module.

[0030] The present invention also relates to a system, and the system is A converter comprising a first printing module configured to print on either the first or second side of a sheet, A die-cutting module equipped with a counter cylinder and a tool-holding cylinder, A scoring module comprising a counter cylinder and a tool holding cylinder, A first die-cutting tool, configured to be connected to the tool-holding cylinder of the die-cutting module and equipped only with a cutting blade, A second die-cutting tool, configured to be connected to the tool-holding cylinder of the die-cutting module, is provided with a cutting blade and a creasing blade, A first scoring tool configured to be connected to the tool holding cylinder of the scoring module and provided with a creasing blade, It is equipped with.

[0031] In one embodiment, a first printing module is configured to print on a first surface of a sheet, and the system further comprises a second printing module configured to print on a second surface of a sheet.

[0032] The present invention will now be described with reference to embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings as examples, where the same reference numerals are used for similar elements. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0033] [Figure 1a] This shows a flat box packaging. [Figure 1b] This shows a foldable box that can be obtained from a flat box packaging. [Figure 1c] This shows a sheet substrate used in the production of flat box packaging. [Figure 2] A schematic perspective view of a rotary die cutter configuration converter is shown. [Figure 3] A schematic perspective view of a part of the converter's transport system is shown. [Figure 4a] A schematic cross-sectional view of a converter according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 4b] A schematic cross-sectional view of a converter according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 4c] A schematic cross-sectional view of a converter according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 4d] A schematic cross-sectional view of a converter according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 5] A schematic perspective view of the flexographic printing assembly is shown. [Figure 6a] A schematic perspective view of the die-cut module is shown. [Figure 6b] Figure 6a shows a schematic perspective view and a partial cross-sectional view of the die-cutting module when the first tool is installed. [Figure 6c] Figure 6a shows a schematic perspective view and a partial cross-sectional view of the die-cutting module when the second tool is installed. [Figure 7a] A schematic perspective view of a folding module according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 7b] Figure 7a shows a schematic perspective view and a partial cross-sectional view of the folding module. [Figure 8a] A schematic cross-sectional view of a converter according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 8b] A schematic cross-sectional view of a converter according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 8c] A schematic cross-sectional view of a converter according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 8d] A schematic cross-sectional view of a converter according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram is shown illustrating an example of the registration displacement of a sheet in a cutting and folding module. [Figure 10] A schematic diagram of a registration control system in one embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] Referring to Figures 1a and 1b, a flat box packaging box 1" and a box 1' obtained from the flat box packaging box 1" after folding are shown. As seen in the figures, the flat box packaging box 1" includes fold lines 2 that allow it to be folded, and cut edges 4 that provide the overall shape of the box 1', and may further include cutouts 5 (for example, for handles). The flat box packaging box 1" is obtained from a sheet substrate 1, such as the one shown in Figure 1c. The sheet substrate 1 is a square or rectangular sheet and may be made from cardboard or paperboard.

[0035] The flat box packaging box 1'' in Figure 1a has a printed motif 6 on one side and can be produced in the converter 10 as shown in Figure 2. The converter 10 shown in Figure 2 is a rotary die-cutting machine 10. At the inlet position of the converter 10, the sheet substrate 1 is placed in the supply module 14 and transported through the converter 10 in the transport direction T to undergo a series of processes including printing, cutting, and folding of the sheet substrate 1. The transport direction T is defined from the inlet to the outlet of the converter 10. The sheet 1 is transported along the transport path P, which can be defined as the trajectory of the sheet 1 as it passes through the converter 10.

[0036] From the inlet of the converter 10 and downstream along the transport direction T, the converter 10 may include a pre-feeder 12, a supply module 14, a printing section 13 with multiple printing modules, a die-cut module 18, a bundle stacker module 20, and a palletizer breaker 22. The main operator interface 11 may be located near the converter 10.

[0037] Sheet 1 thus becomes a blank and then undergoes a transformation to become a flat box packaging box. Sheet 1 may comprise a plurality of juxtaposed blanks joined together by a fragile line. These lines can be broken in a palletizer breaker 22 to obtain separate flat boxes 1”. This is described, for example, in European Patent Application Publication No. 3934902 and European Patent Application Publication No. 3445549.

[0038] As is most commonly seen in Figures 3, 4a-4b and 8a, the converter 10 includes a conveying system 30 configured to convey the sheet 1 through the converter 10 in the conveying direction T. The conveying system 30 may comprise a plurality of separate conveying sections 32, referred to as conveying units 32. In particular, the conveying system 30 may comprise a plurality of conveying units 32, each comprising a vacuum conveying section 32. The vacuum conveying section 32 includes a conveying surface 36, a drive element such as an endless belt conveyor, and rollers 34 for conveying the sheet 1 through the converter 10. The vacuum conveying section 32 is operably connected to a conveying drive motor 33 that drives the rollers 34. The rollers drive the sheet 1 forward in the conveying direction T. Vacuum openings 38 are positioned around the rollers 34 to ensure that the sheet is in close contact with the rollers 34.

[0039] Referring to Figures 4a to 4d, embodiments of the converter 10 according to the present invention are shown. The converter 10 is configured similarly to the converter in Figure 2 and comprises a first printing module 16 and a die-cutting module 18. However, in the embodiments shown in Figures 4a to 4d, an optional bundle stacker module 20 and a palletizer breaker 22 are not shown. Additionally, the converter 10 further comprises a scoring module 19, which is separated from the die-cutting module 18. As is common to all embodiments shown in Figures 4a to 4d, the scoring module 19 is located between the printing modules 16, 17, 21 and the die-cutting module 18. Therefore, according to the present invention, the scoring process and the die-cutting process for the sheet 1 may be performed separately in different modules.

[0040] As shown in Figures 4a and 5, the first printing module 16 may be configured to print on the bottom surface 1b of the sheet 1. Thus, the first printing module 16 may be a flexographic printing module 16 configured to print on the bottom surface 1b of the sheet 1. The first printing module 16 comprises at least one printing assembly 40, which is provided with a printing cylinder 42 positioned vertically below a counter cylinder 44. In this manner, the sheet 1 passes between the counter cylinder 44 and the printing cylinder 44, and the printing cylinder 44 prints on the bottom surface 1b of the sheet 1.

[0041] The flexographic printing assembly 40 comprises a printing cylinder 42 having a mounting bracket 41, and a printing plate 43 can be mounted on the printing cylinder 42. The printing plate 43 is provided with a printing die configured to print a specific motif on a sheet 1. In the shown configuration, the printing cylinder 42 is pressed against the bottom surface 1b of the sheet 1. An anilox cylinder 45 is positioned near the printing cylinder 42 and is configured to absorb and transfer ink from a liquid supply device 37, such as a doctor blade chamber 37.

[0042] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 4b, the first printing module 16 may be configured to print on the upper surface 1a of the sheet 1. The first printing module 16 may also be a flexographic printing module. Thus, the first printing module 16 is provided with at least one printing cylinder 42 positioned vertically above the counter cylinder 44.

[0043] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 4c, the first printing module 16 may be a digital inkjet printing module configured to print on the upper surface 1a of the sheet 1.

[0044] In a more preferred embodiment, as shown in Figure 4d, the converter 10 comprises a first printing module 16 configured to print on the top surface 1a of the sheet 1, and a second printing module 17 configured to print on the bottom surface 1b of the sheet 1. The second printing module 17 may be located downstream of the first printing module 16 in the transport direction T. Optionally, the converter 10 further comprises a third printing module 21 in the form of an inkjet printing module 21. The inkjet printing module 21 is preferably configured to print on the top surface 1a of the sheet 1. The printing modules 16, 17 and 21 together form a printing section 13 in the converter 10.

[0045] As is most commonly seen in Figures 6a and 6b, the die-cutting module 18 comprises a tool-holding cylinder 46 and a counter cylinder 48. The tool-holding cylinder 46 of the die-cutting module 18 is provided with a mounting bracket 50 configured to engage with a tool 52 of different forms of die 52. As shown in Figure 6b, the first type of tool 52a may be provided only with a cutting blade 54. The cutting blade 54 is configured to add a cut line to the sheet 1. However, as shown in Figure 6c, it is also possible to mount a second type of tool 52b on the die-cutting module 18. The second type of tool 52b may be in the form of a cut and scoring die 52b that performs both a cutting process and a scoring process on the sheet 1. The cut and scoring die 52b thus combined comprises a cutting blade 54 and a creasing blade 56.

[0046] Therefore, the tool 52 may thus comprise a first tool 52a provided only with a cutting blade 54, and a second tool 52b provided with both a cutting blade 54 and a creasing blade 56. The second tool 52a may thus be configured to form all the cut lines and creasing lines on the sheet 1.

[0047] Preferably, the tool-holding cylinder 46 of the die-cutting module 18 is positioned vertically above the cooperating counter cylinder 48. This allows the waste material separated from the sheet 1 to fall below the transport path P due to the effects of gravity.

[0048] As shown in Figures 7a and 7b, the scoring module 19 comprises a tool-holding cylinder 60 and a counter cylinder 62. The scoring module 19 comprises a structural frame 70 having a first side frame portion 70a and a second side frame portion 70b, each configured to receive the shaft 69 of the tool-holding cylinder 60 and the shaft 71 of the counter cylinder 62.

[0049] The tool-holding cylinder 60 and the counter cylinder 62 may be driven at the same or similar tangential speed opposite to the direction of rotation. A motor 72 may be mounted on one of the first and second frames 70a, 70b to drive the tool-holding cylinder 60 and the counter cylinder 62.

[0050] The tool holding cylinder 60 is provided with at least one mounting bracket 61 for attaching a scoring tool 64, which is in the form of a scoring die 64. The scoring die 64 is preferably a cylindrical tubular sleeve.

[0051] The scoring tool 64 is equipped with a creasing blade 56 configured to add crease lines to the sheet 1.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the scoring die 64 may be in the form of two half-shells 64a, 64b. This allows the scoring die 64 to be mounted around the tool-holding cylinder 60 without removing the tool-holding cylinder 60 from the structural frame 70. The counter cylinder 62 may have an elastic surface, such as a polymer surface made of rubber or the like. In one embodiment, the scoring die 64 may be in the form of a cut and scoring die, performing both a cutting process and a scoring process on the sheet 1.

[0053] In one embodiment, the scoring die 64 may be configured to additionally provide perforations to the sheet 1. The perforations are fragile lines that partially separate blanks placed side by side on the sheet 1. The blanks can separate from each other when the fragile lines are broken.

[0054] The tool-holding cylinder 60 of the scoring module 19 and the tool-holding cylinder 46 of the die-cut module 18 are positioned on opposite sides of the conveying path P of the sheet 1. Therefore, the scoring die 64 of the scoring module 19 and the cutting die 52 of the die-cut module 18 are pressed against different sides of the sheet 1.

[0055] The scoring module 19 can be disabled so that no deformation process is performed on the sheet 1. This can be done by removing the scoring die 64 and optionally replacing it with a traction tool. When the scoring module 19 is disabled, the die-cut module 18 can be configured to perform both the scoring and die-cut processes on the sheet 1. Thus, the die-cut module 18 is provided with a second tool 52b that includes both a cutting blade 54 and a creasing blade 56.

[0056] The scoring module 19, when enabled, can be configured to perform a scoring process on sheet 1, while the die-cutting module 18 performs a die-cutting process on sheet 1. Therefore, the die-cutting tool may be configured to bring only the cutting blade 54 into contact with sheet 1.

[0057] Therefore, the folding direction of the flat box packaging box 1' can be selected, provided that both the scoring module 19 and the die-cutting module 18 are configured to add fold lines 2 on different surfaces of the sheet 1. The converter 10 can thus be configured to place the printed motif 6 on either the inner or outer surface of the final box 1'. This is done by changing the surface of the sheet 1 on which the fold lines 2 are added.

[0058] The combination of a first printing module 16 configured to print on the top surface 1a of sheet 1 and a second printing module configured to print on the bottom surface 1b of sheet 1 enables the production of a final box 1' having printed motifs 6 on both the inside and outside surfaces of the box 1'. Furthermore, in the combination of a separate scoring module 19 and a die-cutting module 18, the folding direction of the flat box packaging box 1'' can be selected. In this manner, the converter 10 provides the operator with complete flexibility when determining the use of the printing modules 16, 17 and the position of the printed motifs 6 (i.e., inside or outside).

[0059] The converter 10 according to the present invention is configured to allow selection of which printing modules 16, 17 print on the outside or inside of the box. In this manner, the converter 10 may have a high-resolution graphic anilox roll (e.g., an anilox roll with a small cell volume) on one of the printing modules 16, 17, and a different anilox configuration (anilox with a larger cell volume) on the other of the printing modules 16, 17.

[0060] Thus, the converter 10 can be configured for different types of boxes 1' based on the existing configuration of an anilox cylinder.

[0061] As shown in Figures 8a-8d, some of the modules of the converter 10 may be arranged in a fixed or mobile configuration. Fixed modules are fixedly connected to the workshop floor and may further have recessed machine access (such as a trench) located in the factory floor. The recessed access allows the operator to access machine parts from below. Mobile configurations can be designed by providing rollers to the modules so that they can be moved apart, allowing lateral access to machine parts.

[0062] As shown in Figures 8a and 8b, the scoring module 19 is provided with at least a roller 79 or slide rail that allows for lateral displacement in the transport direction T.

[0063] To transport the sheet 1 between the scoring module 19 and the die-cutting module 18, at least one vacuum transport unit 32 is positioned between them. Preferably, as shown in Figures 8a and 8b, a mobile separation vacuum transport means module 15 may be positioned between the scoring module 19 and the die-cutting module 18. It is also advantageous to provide the vacuum transport means module 15 with an inlet transport unit 32a and an outlet transport unit 32b. In this way, the horizontal length of the vacuum transport unit 32 can be longer than the length of the sheet 1, and the position of the sheet 1 can be corrected over a sufficiently long distance.

[0064] At least one transport unit 32 is positioned between the last flexographic printing modules 16, 17 and the scoring module 19 in the printing section 13. A vacuum transport unit 32 may be attached to the flexographic printing module. Depending on the required precision between the printed motif 6 and the fold line 2 on the sheet 1, an additional second transport unit 32 may be provided between the flexographic printing module and the scoring module 19.

[0065] In the converter 10 of the present invention, the scoring process and the die-cutting process can be separated, so it is advantageous to align the scoring process and the cutting process in order to achieve a "mechanically" functioning flat box packaging box 1" in which the folding lines and the edges to be cut are positioned precisely. Ideally, the printing, folding, and die-cutting processes are all performed on predetermined and calibrated positions on the sheet 1.

[0066] To control the alignment between the cutting process and the creasing process, the converter 10 may further include a cutting and scoring registration control system 80.

[0067] As shown in Figures 8a, 9, and 10, the cutting and scoring registration control system 80 may be provided to ensure longitudinal alignment of the sheet 1 between the scoring module 19 and the die-cut module 18. The longitudinal alignment of the sheet 1 is in the transport direction T. The cutting and scoring registration control system 80 comprises a first sensor S1, a second sensor S2, a control unit 82, and a memory 84. Sensors S1 and S2 may be optical sensors configured to detect the passage of the front leading edge 3 of the sheet 1.

[0068] The converter 10 may further include a registration control system 90 configured to position print motifs from different flexographic printing assemblies 40. The registration control system 90 may also position print motifs from a digital inkjet printing module.

[0069] The time it takes for the supply device 14 to discharge each sheet 1 varies. Therefore, the supply device 14 discharges each sheet 1 with a time difference from the theoretical discharge time. The theoretical discharge time defines the theoretical alignment position.

[0070] The vacuum transport unit 32 is positioned between each of the flexographic printing assemblies 40, the scoring module 19, and the die-cutting module 18. The vacuum transport unit 32 is configured to provide longitudinal correction to each sheet 1 based on inputs from sensors positioned upstream of the printing modules 16, 17, 21 and each of the printing assemblies 40, the scoring module 19, and the die-cutting module 18.

[0071] When providing the separate scoring module 19 and die-cutting module 18 according to the present invention, it is necessary to ensure high precision between the scoring process and the cutting process. If there is displacement between the cut lines that form the overall shape of the sheet 1 and the fold lines 2, the sheet 1 cannot be properly folded to form a three-dimensional box or packaging container 1'.

[0072] To provide high precision in the alignment between the scoring and cutting processes, a separate cutting and scoring registration control system 80 may be provided. The separate cutting and scoring registration control system 80 is independent of the print registration system 90. Therefore, the cutting and scoring registration control system 80 does not receive or adjust any initial print reference position from the print registration system 90. This has the advantage of providing improved accuracy by only adjusting the creasing and cutting processes relative to each other, without requiring displacement compensation from the printing section 13.

[0073] The first sensor S1 is positioned downstream of the printing modules 16, 17, and 21 and upstream of the scoring module 19. The first sensor S1 may be configured to detect the passage of the front leading edge 3 of the sheet 1. From the detection time 11 of the passage of the front leading edge 3 by the first sensor S1, the central control system 100 of the converter 10 determines the actual scorer position Pa_scorer. This actual scorer position Pa_scorer is determined at the sensor position P1 located at a distance Ds1 upstream of the scoring module 19. The actual scorer position Pa_scorer is the position at a specific moment in time.

[0074] The second sensor S2 is positioned downstream of the scoring module 19 and upstream of the die-cutting module 1. The second sensor S2 is positioned upstream of the die-cutting module 18 at a distance Ds2.

[0075] The vacuum transport section 32b is positioned downstream of the second sensor S2. This position corresponds to the correction distance Lc. This correction distance Lc extends from the second sensor position P2 to the outlet 35 of the vacuum transport section 32b.

[0076] From the detection time t2 of the front tip edge 3 provided by the second sensor S2, the central control system 100 of the converter 10 determines the actual die cutter position Pa of the front tip edge 3 at the position P2 of the second sensor S2.

[0077] The actual scorer position Pa_scorer is defined as the initial reference position Pref_scorer for the die-cut module 18. The initial reference position is a desired longitudinal position in the transport direction T at a given moment, where the sheet 1 should be aligned. Therefore,

[0078] [Mathematics 1] Pref_Scorer = Pa_Scorer

[0079] The corresponding reference position P_ref_die cutter of the die-cut module 18 can then be calculated by the following formula.

[0080] [Math 2] P_ref_die cutter = Pa_scorer + D3

[0081] Here, D3 is the distance between the first and second sensors S1 and S2.

[0082] In the second sensor S2, the displacement distance Δd is determined from the distance between the actual die cutter position Pa_die cutter and the reference position P_ref die cutter for the die cutter. Therefore,

[0083] [Mathematics 3] Δd = Pa_die cutter - P_ref_die cutter

[0084] The control unit 82 is configured to correct the speed of at least one vacuum conveying unit 32b located downstream of the second sensor S2. In this way, the longitudinal position of the sheet 1 can be corrected with respect to the angular position of the tool 52 in the die-cutting module 19. Therefore, a corresponding displacement correction Δc, corresponding to the removal of the displacement distance Δd, is provided by at least one vacuum conveying unit 32b. Thus,

[0085] [Mathematics 4] Δc = Δd

[0086] At least one vacuum conveying unit 32b located downstream of the second sensor S2 preferably includes another drive unit 33. In this way, the acceleration and conveying speed of the vacuum conveying unit 32b can be modified independently. Thus, the sheet 1 can obtain a correction Δc by accelerating or decelerating the sheet 1 over a correction distance Lc.

[0087] When an operator uses the converter 10 of the present invention, the converter 10 is partially configured (i.e., set up) based on the quality requirements of the final box 1'. These quality requirements typically include characteristics such as color codes and required resolution. The quality requirements may be specified in a PDF print file. The PDF print file shows the dimensions of the box 1' and the required size of the sheet 1 to be placed in the feeder. The print file also shows the colors, color order and the required anilox cylinder 45 for the box 1'.

[0088] The flexographic printing cylinders 42 within the flexographic printing modules 16,17, configured to print on the bottom surface of a sheet, have an anilox cylinder 45 mounted beneath the transport path P of the sheet 1. The anilox cylinder 45 mounted beneath the transport path P can be replaced with an automated system, such as that described in International Publication 2016 / 9256, the contents of which are incorporated in whole into this application. As described in International Publication 2016 / 9256, a carriage moves through the printing modules 16,17. Additionally, a storage space for the anilox cylinder 45 may be provided beneath each flexographic printing module.

[0089] The process of changing the anilox cylinder 45, which is located above the transport path P, within the flexographic printing module is more complex, as it often requires at least two operators and a pulley / crane.

[0090] According to this converter 10, the printing modules 16 and 17, configured to print sheet 1 from below, may be used to their advantage for high-resolution printing, regardless of whether the printing is inside or outside box 1'. In this way, the need to change the anilox configuration when changing from a high-resolution outside printing box to a high-resolution inside printing box is reduced. Instead, the operator simply changes the configuration of the scoring module 19 and the die-cut module 18 to determine which printing modules 16 and 17, and thus which group of anilox rolls, should be used for each side of sheet 1. Therefore, the folding direction of box 1' can be changed to change the printing position.

[0091] The converter interface 11 may be configured to display the actual configuration of each anilox roll in each printing module 16, 17. Optionally, the converter 10 may also display the characteristics of the anilox cylinder 45 available in the storage position. As previously described, the storage position may be located beneath each flexographic printing module 16, 17.

Claims

1. A converter (10) for manufacturing flat packaging or folded boxes (1') from a sheet (1), wherein the converter is configured to transport the sheet in the transport direction (T), and the converter is A first printing module (16) configured to print on one of the first and second surfaces of the sheet (1), The die-cut module (18) includes a counter cylinder (48) and a tool holding cylinder (46) configured to be connected to a first die-cut tool (52a) on which a cutting edge (54) is provided, and is configured to add a cutting line to the first surface of the sheet (1), The converter (10) further comprises a scoring module (19) which includes a counter cylinder (62) and a tool holding cylinder (60) configured to be connected to a scoring tool (64) on which a creasing blade (56) is provided, and the scoring module (19) is configured to add a creasing line (2) on the second surface of the sheet (1), A converter characterized in that the scoring module is deactivatable, and the die-cut module is further configured to be connected to a second die-cut tool (52b) configured to add cut lines and fold lines on the first surface of the sheet, wherein the fold lines can be added to both sides of the sheet.

2. The converter according to claim 1, wherein the die-cutting module (18) is located downstream of the scoring module (19) in the transport direction (T).

3. The converter according to claim 1, wherein the scoring module (19) comprises a structural frame (70) having a first side frame portion (70a) and a second side frame portion (70b), and the first and second side frame portions are configured to receive the shafts (69, 71) of the tool holding cylinder (60) and the counter cylinder (62).

4. The converter according to claim 1, wherein the tool holding cylinder of the die-cut module is positioned vertically above the sheet transport path (P).

5. The converter according to claim 4, wherein the tool holding cylinder of the scoring module is positioned vertically below the conveying path (P) of the sheet.

6. The converter according to claim 1, wherein the tool holding cylinder of the scoring module is provided with a mounting bracket for attaching the scoring tool (64).

7. The converter according to claim 6, wherein the scoring tool is a die in the form of a sleeve and is configured to be mounted around the circumferential surface of the tool holding cylinder.

8. The converter according to claim 1, wherein the scoring tool comprises only the creasing blade (56).

9. The converter according to claim 1, wherein the counter cylinder of the scoring module is provided with an elastic surface material configured to contact the creasing blade of the scoring tool.

10. The converter according to claim 1, wherein the first printing module (16) is a flexographic printing module configured to print on the bottom surface (1b) of the sheet.

11. The converter according to claim 1, wherein the first printing module (16) is a flexographic printing module configured to print on the upper surface (1a) of the sheet.

12. The converter according to claim 1, wherein the first printing module (16) is an inkjet printing module.

13. The converter according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising a second printing module (17) configured to print on a second surface of the sheet that is different from the surface of the sheet printed by the first printing module (16).

14. The converter according to claim 13, further comprising a third printing module (21) configured as an inkjet printing module and configured to print on the upper surface (1a) of the sheet (1).

15. The transport system (30) further comprises a plurality of vacuum transport units (32) and a cut and scoring register control system (80), the cut and scoring registration control system (80) comprises a first sensor (S1), a second sensor (S2), a control unit (82), and a memory (84), The first sensor (S1) is positioned upstream of the scoring module (19) at the first sensor position (P1), and the second sensor (S2) is positioned upstream of the die-cut module at the second sensor position (P2). The cut and scoring register control system is configured to determine the actual scorer position (Pa_scorer) of the front leading edge (3) of the sheet at the first sensor position from the detection time (t1) provided by the first sensor, and to define the actual position as the initial reference position (P_ref scorer) for the sheet, and the cut and scoring register control system is further configured to determine the corresponding die cutter reference position (P_ref die cutter) for the front leading edge at the second sensor position (P2) based on the initial reference position, The control unit is configured to extract the detection time (t2) of the front tip edge (3) from the second sensor and to determine the actual position (Pa_die cutter) of the front tip edge of the sheet at the second sensor position (P2). The converter according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to determine a displacement distance (Δd) from the difference between the actual die cutter position (Pa_die cutter) and the die cutter reference position (P_ref die cutter), and the control unit is further configured to change the speed of at least one vacuum transport section (32b) located downstream of the second sensor (S2) so as to provide longitudinal position correction (Δc) to the sheet between the scoring module and the die cutting module.

16. A converter comprising a first printing module (16) configured to print on one of the first and second sides of a sheet (1), A die-cutting module (18) is provided with a counter cylinder (48) and a tool holding cylinder (46), A scoring module (19) comprising a counter cylinder (62) and a tool holding cylinder (60), A first die-cutting tool (52a) is configured to be connected to the tool holding cylinder (46) of the die-cutting module and is provided only with a cutting blade, A second die-cutting tool (52b) is configured to be connected to the tool holding cylinder (46) of the die-cutting module and is provided with a cutting blade and a creasing blade, A first scoring tool (64) is configured to be connected to the tool holding cylinder (60) of the scoring module and is provided with a creasing blade, Equipped with, The first scoring tool is configured to add a fold line (2) on the second surface of the sheet (1), The second die-cutting tool (52b) is configured to add cutting lines and fold lines to the first surface of the sheet, The scoring module is deactivatable, and the fold lines can be added to both sides of the sheet.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the first printing module is configured to print on the first surface of the sheet, and the system further comprises a second printing module (17) configured to print on the second surface of the sheet.

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