Device for setting numbering units to a specific value of a character string to be printed by a numbering unit

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (10) for setting numbering units (100), in particular mechanical numbering units (100), to a specific value of a character string to be printed by a numbering unit (100), wherein the device (10) is designed as a device (10) which is separate from the numbering unit (100). This relates in particular to the setting of numbering units (100) which are used to print an individual character string onto a security document. The present invention makes it possible to speed up the setting of numbering units (100) to a specific value, in particular a starting value, of a character string to be printed, and reduces the frequency of errors. The device (10) is brought into contact with the numbering unit (100) as required. The device (10) preferably has mechanical engagement elements (14) in order to enable the print wheels (108) of a numbering unit (100) to be actuated and set when the device (10) is in mechanical contact with the numbering unit (100).

Description

[0001] Title

[0002] Device for setting numbering machines to a specific value of a character sequence to be printed by a numbering machine

[0003] Description

[0004] The present invention proposes a device for setting numbering machines, in particular mechanical numbering machines, to a specific value of a character string to be printed by a numbering machine. This device is also referred to below as a setting aid.

[0005] The present invention relates to a setting aid for numbering machines used to print a substrate, in particular a security document, with a customized character string. This is particularly a setting aid for mechanical numbering machines.

[0006] Known numbering machines for printing a substrate, in particular a security document, with a character string generally comprise a plurality of type wheels arranged next to one another, each of the type wheels having printing surfaces spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction, engravings being arranged on the printing surfaces for generating a character.

[0007] Such numbering machines are known, among others, from EP 0 718 112 Al, DE 295 01 349 Ul, DE 44 46 273 Al, DE 10 2006 052 183 Al and DE 10 2011 100 847 Al.

[0008] Numbering machines are used primarily for applying, and in particular printing, a security feature to security documents. In this context, the numbering machine can also be referred to as a numbering printing machine or a printing machine.

[0009] In particular, known numbering machines are used to apply serial numbers to security documents, especially banknotes. Other known uses for the numbering machines in question here include the application of individual character strings to passports, tax stamps, security labels, and other security documents such as certificates.

[0010] In a common arrangement, a numbering mechanism is mounted reversibly—that is, fixedly but detachably as required—on a retaining ring of a numbering machine (printing press). The numbering mechanism is located on the outside of the retaining ring, and the mechanism's type wheels are located on the side facing away from the retaining ring. The retaining ring is generally mounted on a numbering shaft of the numbering machine. Furthermore, the numbering mechanisms are located on the outside of the retaining ring.

[0011] The sheet to be printed (in particular, a sheet of paper with banknotes to be numbered) is then fed to the numbering machine. In the numbering machine, the retaining ring, with the numbering units fixed to the outside of the ring, rolls onto the sheet to be printed. The individual security documents are each provided with a security feature, in particular a serial number, by the individual numbering units. Generally, a plurality of retaining rings are provided per numbering shaft and a plurality of numbering units per retaining ring, namely distributed around the circumference of the retaining ring.

[0012] The numbering mechanism can be divided into two parts, with an upper and a lower part (upper and lower parts). The lower part can be firmly but removably attached to the retaining ring, particularly via a clamp.

[0013] Such numbering machines are known, among others, from the present applicant's patent documents WO 2022 / 053109 A1, WO 2022 / 053110 A1, and WO 2022 / 053111 A1. The content of these documents is hereby incorporated by reference into the present disclosure.

[0014] Numbering machines can be designed as either vertical or horizontal numbering machines. A vertical numbering machine applies a character string to the document that extends in the circumferential direction of the retaining ring. A horizontal numbering machine applies a character string to the document that extends perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the retaining ring.

[0015] The choice of a vertical or horizontal numbering device depends on the orientation in which a character string must be applied to the document. Many banknotes bear both a vertical and a horizontal serial number, so both of the above-mentioned numbering devices or types can be used in production. Other banknotes bear only vertical or horizontal serial numbers.

[0016] There are numbering machines that are used to print a security document with a character sequence that deviates from a linear alignment. Such character sequences are particularly forgery-proof. Corresponding numbering machines are known from the present applicant's patent documents DE 10 2015 212 059 B4 and EP 3 121 026 B1. The content of these documents is hereby incorporated into the present disclosure by reference.

[0017] Numbering machines generally have a mechanism that advances the set serial number by one unit at a desired position after each printing process, or with each rotation of the machine and the retaining ring, so that the next document can be printed with a free or subsequent serial number. To do this, the relevant type wheel of the numbering machine is usually rotated by one position, namely by a mechanical action due to and during the rotation of the machine on the retaining ring. Such numbering machines are called mechanical numbering machines.

[0018] Before starting a printing series, e.g. the planned printing of a large number of paper sheets, each with a plurality of banknote blanks, each with an individual serial number, all numbering units (a numbering machine) used must be set to the correct starting value of the character string (here: the serial number).

[0019] Motor-driven numbering machines are known that can perform this necessary adjustment independently, possibly via a data connection, without external mechanical intervention. However, these motor-driven numbering machines are less compact than the mechanical numbering machines mentioned above, and are also significantly more expensive and therefore less common.

[0020] Until now, mechanical numbering machines had to be individually and manually adjusted to the correct starting value of the number sequence to be printed. This can be done by operating (turning) the individual type wheels of each numbering machine with the operator's fingers. Alternatively, the type wheels can be manually operated using a non-scratch tool, such as a plastic stylus.

[0021] Currently, an operator needs approximately one hour to set the correct numbering scheme for banknote production, for example, during a production changeover or in the event of a fault. This requires approximately 30-45 minutes to set up the up to 90 numbering machines, and approximately 15 minutes for inspection and initial test prints.

[0022] The greatest source of danger here is the human factor, where errors can arise due to distraction, lack of concentration, or negligence, among other things. If the error isn't noticed in time, a large number of costly security documents will be incorrectly numbered. These misprints must then be securely destroyed to prevent future misuse.

[0023] The present invention is based on the object of overcoming the disadvantages resulting from the prior art.

[0024] The present invention is further based on the object of accelerating the setting of numbering machines, in particular mechanical numbering machines, to a specific value, in particular a starting value, of a character string to be printed and thereby reducing the error frequency.

[0025] This object is achieved by a device for setting numbering machines, also referred to here as a setting aid, according to claim 1.

[0026] This provides a device for setting numbering machines, in particular mechanical numbering machines, to a specific value of a character sequence to be printed by a numbering machine, wherein the device is designed as a device separate from the numbering machine.

[0027] Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0028] According to the invention, a device is proposed which is designed as an adjustment aid for numbering machines.

[0029] The invention provides a separate adjustment device for numbering machines. The device is designed as a separate device from the numbering machine and can be brought into contact with the numbering machine as needed.

[0030] Preferably, the setting aid has mechanical engagement elements in order to actuate the type wheels of a numbering machine, in particular to be able to rotate or twist and adjust them when the setting aid is in mechanical contact with the numbering machine.

[0031] The engagement elements mentioned can engage directly into a type wheel, for example into suitable recesses, edges, projections, etc., of the type wheel.

[0032] However, an indirect actuation of a type wheel by an engagement element is also possible, insofar as an engagement element can act on another element, which in turn is connected to the type wheel integrally or in a form-fitting or non-positive manner.

[0033] With the device according to the invention, a numbering machine can be set to a specific value very quickly and without the previous error frequency.

[0034] The aspects of the invention are discussed in further detail below, with reference being made in part to non-limiting advantageous refinements, developments, exemplary embodiments, and embodiments of the invention. The features of the previously discussed and subsequent advantageous refinements, developments, exemplary embodiments, and embodiments can be implemented individually or in any desired combination, thereby creating further advantageous refinements of the invention.

[0035] Throughout the present discussion of refinements, developments, exemplary embodiments, and embodiments of the device according to the invention, methods and uses of the device according to the invention are also described. These methods and uses are expressly also within the scope of the present invention.

[0036] The features of advantageous developments of devices according to the invention described above and below can also be implemented in a corresponding manner in methods and uses according to the invention, either individually or in any desired combination, thereby creating even further advantageous embodiments of the invention. The same applies in the reverse case, i.e., features of advantageous developments of methods and uses according to the invention can also be implemented in a corresponding manner in devices according to the invention.

[0037] Preferably, the device for setting a character sequence to be printed by a numbering device can be brought into contact with the numbering device to be set manually or automatically, and in particular can be brought into mechanical contact.

[0038] Further preferably, the device for setting a character string can be brought into contact with the printing side of a numbering machine or can be placed on the printing side, wherein the printing side of a numbering machine is understood to be the side to which the engravings of the numbering machine that can currently be printed on a substrate are aligned.

[0039] In a further advantageous embodiment, the adjustment aid has a mechanical stop and / or a magnet for precise positioning of the device relative to an adjacent numbering machine. Alternatively or additionally, a sensor can be implemented to check the relative positioning.

[0040] The device is particularly preferably suitable for setting numbering machines with a plurality of type wheels arranged next to one another, each of the type wheels having printing surfaces spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction, engravings for generating a character being arranged on the printing surfaces, the setting aid having mechanical engagement elements in order to actuate, in particular to rotate, and to set the type wheels of the numbering machine directly or indirectly by means of the engagement elements when the setting aid is in mechanical contact with the numbering machine.

[0041] In a further advantageous embodiment, an engagement element is designed such that it can engage between adjacent printing surfaces of a type wheel and thus actuate the type wheel. In particular, an engagement element can engage an engraving cone of the type wheel, with the printing surface usually being arranged on the upper side of the engraving cone. An engagement element can preferably be designed such that it can be used to perform a substantially tangentially oriented translatory movement relative to a type wheel to be actuated. This is in particular a periodically executed lifting movement, specifically in particular as an alternating pushing and pulling movement. Contact by the engagement element is preferably made substantially tangentially, and the axis of the lifting movement can preferably be inclined upwards by approximately 60% relative to the horizontal.

[0042] An engagement element of the device is preferably designed in the form of a pin, a bow, a sickle, a wheel, or a gear. The engagement elements can preferably be made of a non-scratch material, e.g., plastic.

[0043] Particularly preferably, a drive, in particular an electromagnetic drive, is assigned to an engagement element of the device for actuating a type wheel of a numbering machine. The electromagnetic drive can in particular be formed by a lifting magnet. This can preferably be a monostable or bistable lifting magnet. A bistable lifting magnet must be switched twice for a lifting period, a monostable lifting magnet once. Therefore, a spring can preferably be assigned to a monostable lifting magnet to return to its initial position.

[0044] Within the device, an engagement element with a drive can be provided for each type wheel of a numbering machine to be adjusted.

[0045] For a space- and cost-saving design, an engagement element can alternatively be provided for each type wheel of a numbering machine to be adjusted, with two or more adjacent engagement elements being mechanically combined and equipped with a single common drive. In particular, the ends of the engagement elements facing away from a type wheel to be adjusted can be held or mounted together.

[0046] Particularly in connection with the aforementioned embodiment, a further development is advantageous in which an engagement element has a decoupling function, with which the engagement element can be removed from the associated type wheel of an adjacent numbering unit, so that engagement with and actuation of this type wheel by the engagement element is no longer possible. Thus, even with a common drive for several adjacent engagement elements, individual switching of individual type wheels of a numbering unit can be achieved.

[0047] More preferably, such a decoupling function can be provided by a decoupling actuator, in particular wherein the decoupling actuator is an electromagnetic actuator. Particularly preferably, an engagement element can be specifically removed from the corresponding type wheel by electromagnetic action and thus decoupled.

[0048] In a further advantageous development, the setting aid comprises means, in particular optical means, and in particular a camera, for recognizing the currently set character sequence of a numbering device arranged adjacent to the device.

[0049] In a further preferred embodiment, the device is designed to set a complete character string scheme one after the other for successive numbering machines and thereby to transmit this character string scheme to a plurality of numbering machines.

[0050] Preferably, the device comprises a control and / or regulation unit.

[0051] The device preferably comprises an input and display unit for operating and monitoring the device, in particular wherein the input and display unit is formed separately from the device. In particular, such a unit can be designed as a separate tablet with a touchscreen and corresponding input and display options. The unit can also include a power supply and / or corresponding data interfaces.

[0052] Preferably, the adjustment aid comprises a wireless or wired connection to an electrical power supply.

[0053] Further preferably, the device comprises a wireless or a wired data interface.

[0054] Particularly advantageous is an embodiment of the adjustment aid with two opposing handles for a user to place the device on a numbering machine with both hands. As an alternative to the aforementioned embodiments, a gear-shaped engagement element can also be implemented. A gear-shaped engagement element can preferably be provided with regular recesses on the outer circumference, so that a positive connection with the engraving cones of a type wheel of a neighboring numbering machine can be established. Such an engagement element is preferably rotatably mounted in the device according to the invention, in particular comparable to the arrangement of type wheels in the numbering machine to be adjusted.

[0055] Preferably, the device according to the invention is not just a mechanical but a mechatronic adjustment aid for numbering machines.

[0056] Preferably, the setting aid is designed as a self-contained device for automatically setting an adjustable character sequence or a numbering scheme on a mechanical numbering machine.

[0057] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the device is designed to recognize the currently set number / engraving of a numbering machine - in particular one arranged adjacently - and, more preferably, to adjust the individual type wheels of the numbering machine accordingly to the desired number based on this constellation.

[0058] In a further advantageous aspect, the device is designed to set the character sequence of a numbering machine - in particular one arranged adjacently - but subsequently also to check that this number has also been set correctly.

[0059] In a further advantageous development, the device is designed to set a complete numbering scheme one after the other in successive numbering units, which for this purpose are optionally arranged consecutively adjacent to the device, and to thereby transmit this numbering scheme to a plurality of numbering units.

[0060] Preferably, the device guides and supports an operator through the process of transferring a numbering scheme to a plurality of numbering machines. This may include, in particular but not exclusively: setting the current number (character string) for the current numbering machine, checking the set number, displaying the next numbering machine to be converted, and identifying the number currently set for the next numbering machine.

[0061] In a further preferred embodiment, a number (character string) or a numbering scheme is set directly on or in the setting aid, or is set externally via software with a user interface, for example on a tablet or laptop, and then transferred to the device.

[0062] In the case of a mechatronic adjustment aid, particularly according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, the probability of errors in adjusting numbering machines can be completely eliminated compared to manual adjustment. The time required to adjust a numbering machine can be reduced by at least half, and even more when adjusting multiple numbering machines with a complete numbering scheme.

[0063] Particularly preferably, the device according to the invention also has one, any selection of, or all of the features listed below:

[0064] - means, in particular optical means, for detecting the currently set character sequence of an adjacent numbering device;

[0065] - an internal power supply, in particular a battery, in particular a rechargeable battery;

[0066] - a wired power and / or data connection, in particular a USB socket;

[0067] - a wireless data interface, in particular a Bluetooth interface;

[0068] - a receiving unit for a wireless power supply, in particular a QI receiver;

[0069] - engagement elements which are provided for actuating type wheels of a numbering machine, in particular wherein the engagement elements are arranged such that they can actuate the type wheels of a numbering machine arranged adjacent to the device;

[0070] - a motor drive for engagement elements intended to rotate type wheels of a numbering machine;

[0071] - one or more control elements, in particular knobs or buttons;

[0072] - a display, especially a touch display, or a screen. Figures

[0073] In addition to the advantageous refinements, developments, and exemplary embodiments of the teaching already discussed, further exemplary embodiments of devices according to the invention, illustrated in the drawings within the scope of Figures 1 to 9, are explained in more detail below. However, the examples discussed with reference to the drawings do not limit the invention to the examples shown. The discussion of the exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings also generally illustrates preferred refinements and developments of the teaching.

[0074] Further developments of the advantageous embodiments and exemplary embodiments described above with features of the exemplary embodiments below, just like further developments of the exemplary embodiments described below with features of the embodiments and exemplary embodiments described above, expressly form further advantageous embodiments of the invention and are thus part of the present disclosure.

[0075] With regard to the following explanation of the figures, it should be noted that, for reasons of clarity, some reference symbols already shown in previous figures and explained above have not been repeated in subsequent figures and / or are not explained again in these subsequent figures. For the explanation of such reference symbols and the associated technical features, reference is therefore made in full to the respective description of the corresponding preceding figures to avoid repetition.

[0076] They show:

[0077] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the device according to the invention for setting numbering machines (setting aid) for numbering machines, which is being placed on a numbering machine for a setting process,

[0078] Figure 2 shows the process of placing the setting aid from Fig. 1 on the numbering machine in a frontal view,

[0079] Figure 3 shows the situation from Fig. 2 in a side view, Figure 4 shows a top plan view of the adjustment aid from Figs. 1 to 3,

[0080] Figure 5 is a schematic side view of a second embodiment of the device according to the invention, here with a separate input and display unit, during the setting of a numbering machine,

[0081] Figure 6 shows on the left the front view and on the right the rear view of a third embodiment of the device according to the invention, which is mounted on a numbering machine,

[0082] Figure 7 shows a partial representation of a fourth embodiment of the device according to the invention during the setting of a numbering machine,

[0083] Figure 8 shows in three schematic individual representations an embodiment of an engagement element of a device according to the invention when actuating a type wheel of a numbering machine, and

[0084] Figure 9 shows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of an engagement element, here with a decoupling function.

[0085] Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 show the placement of an embodiment of a device 10 according to the invention for setting numbering machines (hereinafter predominantly referred to as setting aid 10) on an exemplary numbering machine 100 in various representations. Fig. 4 shows a top plan view of the setting aid 10.

[0086] The numbering unit 100 could also be referred to as the upper part of a numbering unit 100. The numbering unit 100 is intended to be reversibly and quickly secured and releasably connected to a lower part (not shown here) arranged on the retaining ring of a numbering machine via a clamping mechanism. Such numbering units 100 are the subject of the present applicant's publications WO 2022 / 053109 A1, WO 2022 / 053110 A1, and WO 2022 / 053111 A1.

[0087] In the numbering machine 100, two diagonally opposite tension levers 1021, 1022 are arranged in a tiltable manner. The tension levers 1021, 1022 extend essentially vertically and have an actuating portion 1023 for the user at the top and a hook portion 1024 at the bottom for engagement with a lower part on the retaining ring (not shown) of a numbering machine (not shown).

[0088] At least one spring 104 acts between the numbering mechanism 100 and the tensioning levers 1021, 1022, which pretensions a tensioning lever 1021, 1022 in a suitable manner.

[0089] The numbering unit 100 comprises the numbering mechanism 106 with the type wheels 108.

[0090] By actuating the clamping levers 1021, 1022 against the force of the spring 104, the user can pivot the clamping levers 1021, 1022 away from the lower part (not shown) and thus very quickly remove the numbering device 100 from the lower part and thus from the retaining ring.

[0091] The underside of the numbering mechanism 100 has a plurality of lugs 110 which serve to engage with and center relative to a lower part or a retaining ring.

[0092] The type wheels 108 of the numbering unit 100 are arranged here such that they print a character string on the document to be printed (not shown) that extends perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the retaining ring (not shown). Therefore, this is a horizontal numbering unit 100.

[0093] The device according to the invention is designed here as a separate setting device, namely setting aid 10, for numbering machines 100.

[0094] The illustrated embodiment of the setting aid 10 is a device separate from the numbering machine 100, which can be brought into contact with the numbering machine 100 as needed. This is illustrated in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. The setting aid 10 has been placed on the printing side 112 of the numbering machine 100 or is currently being placed thereon.

[0095] The printing side 112 of the numbering unit 100 is the side of the numbering unit 100 on which the engravings 114 currently being printed are visible. In the arrangement of Figs. 1 to 3, this is the top side of the numbering unit 100. According to the orientation of the figures, the setting aid 10 has mechanical engagement elements 14 (not shown in detail) on or in its underside 12 in order to actuate and adjust the type wheels 108, possibly via the engravings 114, of the numbering unit 100 when the setting aid 10 is in mechanical contact with the numbering unit 100.

[0096] For this purpose, the setting aid 10 is simply placed on the printing side 112 of the numbering machine 100 in order to then actuate and set the type wheels 108 in a suitable manner with its engagement elements 14.

[0097] The illustrated embodiment of the device according to the invention is not just a mechanical, but a mechatronic setting aid 10. This is designed as a self-sufficient device for automatically setting an adjustable character sequence or a numbering scheme on a mechanical numbering machine 100.

[0098] The illustrated setting aid 10 is configured to detect the currently set character string (e.g., number) of a neighboring numbering machine 100. For this purpose, the setting aid 10 comprises optical means 16 (not shown in detail) for detecting the currently set character string of the numbering machine 100.

[0099] Furthermore, the setting aid 10 comprises on the top side 18 several operating elements 20, here as buttons 22. A operating element 20 can preferably serve, among other things, for: setting character strings, switching between different display information, starting or ending a setting process, establishing a data connection with an external computer or network, etc.

[0100] Furthermore, a display 24 is located on the top side 18. Here, a range of information can be displayed, in particular: the currently set character sequence of the numbering machine 100, the character sequence to be set by the setting aid 10, information on data exchange with an external computer or network connected via an interface, information on a numbering scheme to be set for a plurality of numbering machines 100, information on the battery charge level, etc. Fig. 5 shows a schematic side view of a second embodiment of the device 10 according to the invention, here with a separate input and display unit 26, during the setting of a numbering machine 100.

[0101] The adjustment aid 10 is mounted here on a numbering machine 100 to be adjusted. To ensure accurate positioning of the adjustment aid 10 relative to the numbering machine 100, the adjustment aid 10 is equipped with sensors 28 for detecting their relative positions. Furthermore, a magnet 30 allows the device 10 to be precisely positioned on the numbering machine 100.

[0102] Optical means 16, namely a camera 32, capture the character sequence currently set on the numbering machine 100 via the underside 12 of the device 10.

[0103] To actuate, namely rotate or twist, each type wheel 108 of the numbering mechanism 100, the setting aid 10 has an engagement element 14, to which a drive 34 is assigned. This is an electromagnetic drive 34, which imposes a translational stroke on the engagement element 14. The engagement element 14 engages the type wheel 108 essentially in a tangential orientation.

[0104] Openings 38 for dissipating the waste heat (indicated by arrows) of the drives 34 are formed in the housing of the adjustment aid 10.

[0105] The adjustment aid 10 further comprises a control and regulation unit 36. This is connected, among other things, to the drive 34 and the camera 32. On the other hand, the control and regulation unit 36 ​​is connected to a separately implemented input and display unit 26 for operation and control of the device 10 by an operator.

[0106] The input and display unit 26 has a display 24 and several control elements 20, namely buttons 22. All relevant information for the operator can be displayed on the unit 26 or accessed via a touch display 24. Furthermore, the entire operation of the device 10 is possible via the unit 26. The unit 26 is implemented here in the form of a tablet.

[0107] The unit 26 has magnets that allow it to be attached to a system (e.g., a numbering machine). The connection between the control and regulation unit 36 ​​and the input and display unit 26 is shown here as a wired connection; alternatively, a wireless data connection can be implemented.

[0108] Fig. 6 shows the front view on the left and the rear view on the right of a third embodiment of the device 10 according to the invention, which is mounted on a numbering machine 100. The engagement elements 14 of the setting aid 10 engage with the respective opposite type wheels 108.

[0109] Particularly noticeable here are two opposing handles 42 of the device 10 for the two-handed placement of the device 10 on a numbering machine 100 by a user. The setting aid 10 has been placed here in a precisely fitting manner on the numbering machine 100 to be set, which is supported by a stop 44 of the device 10.

[0110] This embodiment features various control elements 20, namely buttons 22, and optical signals 46, on the front panel within the user's field of vision. A fan 48 dissipates the waste heat from the drives 34.

[0111] In the rear view shown on the right, the camera 32 can be clearly seen, which records the set character sequence of the numbering machine 100.

[0112] Fig. 7 shows a partial representation of a fourth embodiment of the device 10 according to the invention during the setting of a numbering machine 100. Here, in a perspective representation of the setting aid 10, primarily the engagement elements 14 together with drives 34 and their interaction with the type wheels 108 of a numbering machine 100 to be set are shown.

[0113] This device 10 is suitable for adjusting a numbering machine 100 with a plurality of type wheels 108 arranged side by side, each of the type wheels 108 having printing surfaces 116 spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction, engravings 114 being arranged on the printing surfaces 116 for generating a character, namely when the printing page 112 is pressed with the printing surfaces 116 facing upwards into or onto a substrate to be printed.

[0114] For setting the numbering unit 100, the setting aid 10 has mechanical engagement elements 14 in order to directly actuate the type wheels 108 of the numbering unit 10 by means of the engagement elements 14, namely to rotate them, and to set them when the setting aid 10 is in mechanical contact with the numbering unit 100, as is the case here.

[0115] An engagement element 14 is designed here such that it can engage between adjacent printing surfaces 116 of a type wheel 108 and thus rotate the type wheel 108. The printing surfaces 116 are each formed on an engraving cone 118, so that an engagement element 14 engages between adjacent engraving cones 118.

[0116] An engagement element 14 has the shape of a flat arch or a sickle, and has - in this illustration bottom left - an edge with which it can engage between the engraving cones 118 and thus push and rotate the type wheel 108 to the left.

[0117] The engagement element 14 is further designed such that it executes a substantially tangentially oriented translational movement relative to the type wheel 108 to be actuated.

[0118] Here, a drive 34, namely an electromagnetic drive 34, is assigned to an engagement element 14 for actuating a type wheel 108. The electromagnetic drive 34 comprises three adjacently arranged lifting magnets 50, which can move the engagement elements 14 back and forth in a lifting movement. The lifting axis is inclined upwards by approximately 60° relative to the horizontal and engages the type wheels 108 essentially tangentially.

[0119] The drive 34 pushes an engagement element 14 forward, whereby the engagement element 14 shifts the engraving cone 118 resting against the front edge of the engagement element 14 to the left until the type wheel 108 is rotated one position further. Then the drive 34 moves back, and the engagement element can engage the next engraving cone 118.

[0120] Furthermore, an engagement element 14 is provided for each type wheel 108 of the numbering mechanism 100. However, here all adjacent engagement elements 14 are mechanically combined (mounted together) and equipped with a single common drive 34 consisting of three solenoids 50. This saves space, since a separate solenoid 50 does not have to be provided for each engagement element 14. On the other hand, it is then advantageous to provide a decoupling function (see Fig. 9) for engagement elements 14; otherwise, the set of type wheels 108 could only ever be rotated together.

[0121] Of course, depending on the space available and the required drive 34, each engagement element 14 can be equipped with its own drive 34, so that each type wheel 108 can then be adjusted individually and in a targeted manner without any problem.

[0122] Fig. 8 shows in three schematic individual or detailed representations an embodiment of an engagement element 14 of a device 10 according to the invention during the actuation of a type wheel 108 of a numbering machine 100.

[0123] Here, it is particularly clearly visible how the engagement element 14 engages with its front edge between two adjacent printing surfaces 116 of the type wheel 108. To do this, the edge of the engagement element 14 rests against the back of an engraving cone 118 and pushes this, and thus the entire type wheel 108, forward, or rotates it about its axis of rotation. In other words, the engagement element 14 engages in the recess of the type wheel 108 between two adjacent engraving cones 118.

[0124] The electromagnetic drive 34 performs a periodic stroke movement along the arrow shown, namely purely translationally back and forth.

[0125] The engagement element 14 has the shape of a sickle in order to be able to contact an engraving cone 118 as long and as effectively as possible in view of the circular design of the type wheel 108 and its rotational movement.

[0126] The engagement element 14 contacts the type wheel 108 essentially tangentially, furthermore the stroke axis of the drive 34 is pivoted upwards here at an angle 52 of 60° relative to the horizontal.

[0127] The drive 34 pushes the engagement element 14 forward until the print wheel 108 has been rotated one position (one printing surface 116). Then the drive 34 retracts, and the engagement element 14 can engage the next engraving cone 118.

[0128] The middle illustration of Fig. 8 shows a front view of the drive 34. Here, it is clearly visible that two lifting magnets 50 form the core of the drive 34. The right-hand illustration illustrates the displacement of the engagement element 14, which is possible perpendicular to the stroke axis. This is necessary because the point of engagement of the engagement element 14 on the engraving cone 118 cannot be stationary during the rotation of the type wheel 108 with respect to the stroke axis of the drive 34. The movable mounting of the engagement element 14, indicated by the arrows, with a spring 54 on one side and a stop 56 on the other side, takes this circumstance into account.

[0129] Fig. 9 shows the schematic representation of a further embodiment of an engagement element 14, here with a decoupling function.

[0130] This configuration is particularly advantageous for cases where multiple engagement elements 14 are assigned to a common drive 34. In order to be able to switch individual type wheels 108 and not all together, even with a common drive 34, a solution is preferable in which the engagement elements 14 of type wheels 108, which are not to be rotated, can be decoupled either from the drive 34 or from the type wheel 108.

[0131] Here, a metallic pin 58 is formed on the top side of the engagement element 14. A coil 60 can then electromagnetically attract the pin 58 when the current flow is switched on, so that the entire engagement element 34 is pulled upward and thus away from the type wheel 108. Even if the drive 34 now executes strokes, this engagement element 14 is then ineffective because it no longer engages the type wheel 108. Thus, the engagement element 14 is effectively decoupled.

[0132] List of reference symbols

[0133] 10 Device for setting numbering machines, setting aid

[0134] 12 Bottom (adjustment aid)

[0135] 14 engagement element

[0136] 16 optical means

[0137] 18 Top (adjustment aid)

[0138] 20 Control element

[0139] 22 Button (control element)

[0140] 24-inch display

[0141] 26 Input and display unit

[0142] 28 Sensor

[0143] 30 Magnet

[0144] 32 Camera (optical means)

[0145] 34 Drive (engaging element)

[0146] 36 Control and regulation unit

[0147] 38 Opening (in the housing of the adjustment aid)

[0148] 42 Handle

[0149] 44 stop

[0150] 46 optical signal

[0151] 48 fans

[0152] 50 lifting magnet

[0153] 52 angle (drive)

[0154] 54 Spring (engaging element)

[0155] 56 Stop (engaging element)

[0156] 58 pin (engaging element)

[0157] 60 Coil (engaging element)

[0158] 100 numbering machine

[0159] 1021, 1022 Clamping lever 1023 Actuating section (clamping lever) 1024 Hook section (clamping lever) 104 Spring

[0160] 106 Numbering mechanism

[0161] 108 Type wheel

[0162] 110 Nose

[0163] 112 printed pages (numbering machine)

[0164] 114 Engraving (Type Wheel)

[0165] 116 Print area (type wheel)

[0166] 118 engraving cones

Claims

Claims 1. Device (10) for setting numbering machines (100), in particular mechanical numbering machines (100), to a specific value of a character sequence to be printed by a numbering machine (100), wherein the device (10) is designed as a device (10) separate from the numbering machine (100).

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the device (10) for setting a character sequence to be printed by a numbering device (100) can be brought into contact, in particular into mechanical contact, with the numbering device (100) to be set, manually or automatically.

3. Device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the device (10) for setting a character sequence can be brought into contact with the printing side (112) of a numbering machine (100) or can be placed on the printing side (112), wherein the printing side (112) of a numbering machine (100) is understood to be the side to which the engravings (114) of the numbering machine (100) that can currently be printed on a substrate are aligned.

4. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by a mechanical stop (44) and / or a magnet (30) for the precise positioning of the device (10) relative to an adjacently arranged numbering machine (100).

5. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the device (10) is suitable for setting numbering units (100) with a plurality of type wheels (108) arranged next to one another, each of the type wheels (108) having printing surfaces (116) spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction, engravings (114) for generating a character being arranged on the printing surfaces (116), the setting aid (10) having mechanical engagement elements (14) in order to actuate, in particular to rotate, and to set the type wheels (108) of the numbering unit (100) directly or indirectly by means of the engagement elements (14) when the setting aid (10) is in mechanical contact with the numbering unit (100).

6. Device (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that an engagement element (14) is designed such that it can engage between adjacent printing surfaces (116) of a type wheel (108) and thus actuate the type wheel (108).

7. Device (10) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that an engagement element (14) is designed such that a substantially tangentially oriented translatory movement can be carried out with it relative to a type wheel (108) to be actuated.

8. Device (10) according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that an engagement element (14) is designed in the form of a pin, an arc, a sickle, a wheel, or a gear.

9. Device (10) according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that a drive (34), in particular an electromagnetic drive (34), is assigned to an engagement element (14) for actuating a type wheel (108).

10. Device (10) according to one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that an engagement element (14) with a respective drive (34) is provided for each type wheel (108) of a numbering machine (100) to be adjusted.

11. Device (10) according to one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that an engagement element (14) is provided for each type wheel (108) of a numbering machine (100) to be adjusted, wherein two or more adjacent engagement elements (14) are mechanically combined and equipped with a single common drive (34).

12. Device (10) according to one of claims 5 to 11, characterized in that an engagement element (14) has a decoupling function with which the engagement element (14) can be removed from the associated type wheel (108) of an adjacently arranged numbering unit (100), so that no engagement with and no actuation of this type wheel (108) by the engagement element (14) is possible any longer.

13. Device (10) according to claim 12, characterized in that the decoupling function is provided by a decoupling actuator, in particular wherein the decoupling actuator is an electromagnetic actuator.

14. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized by means, in particular optical means (16), and in particular a camera (32), for recognizing the currently set character sequence of a numbering machine (100) arranged adjacent to the device (10).

15. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the device (10) is designed to set a complete character string scheme one after the other in successive numbering machines (100), and thereby to transmit this character string scheme to a plurality of numbering machines (100).

16. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized by a control and / or regulating unit (36).

17. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized by an input and display unit (26) for operating and monitoring the device (10), in particular wherein the input and display unit (26) is formed separately from the device (10).

18. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized by a wireless or a wired connection to an electrical power supply.

19. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized by a wireless or a wired data interface.

20. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized by two opposite handles (42) for placing the device (10) on a numbering machine (100) with both hands by a user.

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