Safety system for a port module of a converting machine

Abstract

A safety system for an inlet module or for an outlet module of a converting machine. The safety system comprises a scanning system arranged to determine a volume of the stack in a scanning zone, and the safety system comprises a presence detection system for detection of an intruding object into a safety zone. The presence detection system comprises an immaterial shield which is movable to be transitioned between: a first position of the scanning zone, and; a second position of the scanning zone, which are respectively at an upstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone and a downstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone, wherein upstream and downstream are defined in respect of a direction of travel of the conveyor system.

Description

[0001] SAFETY SYSTEM FOR A PORT MODULE OF A CONVERTING MACHINE

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a safety system for a loading module or an exit module of a converting machine. In particular, the converting machine is for processing of sheet material, the loading module is for inlet of a stack of sheet material for processing, and the exit module is for outlet of a stack of processed sheet material.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Converting machines are used in the production of blanks including as packaging elements for cardboard boxes or other similar arrangements. To form said blanks, the machines are configured to process sheet material by one or more of: printing, cut-to-shape; forming lines of weakening; folding; glueing, or; other suitable process.

[0006] The sheet material is supplied by a loading module to the converting machine, often as one or more stacks on a pallet. Said stacks are transported to the loading module by means of a conveyor system. The formed blanks are supplied by an exit module of the converting machine, often as one or more stacks on a pallet. Said stacks are transported from the exit module by means of a conveyor system.

[0007] The converting machine is provided with safety devices such as light barriers. Various safety systems have been proposed, for example, static barriers and light curtains. However, as sheets and processed blanks are transported into and out from the converting machine, there is a risk that an operator may enter into a safety zone without generating a safety signal and machine shutdown.

[0008] However, a said systems commonly do not protect around the stack as it moves or in advance of movement.

[0009] SUMMARY

[0010] In view of the prior art, it is an object of the present disclosure to provide an improved safety system for a loading module or an exit module of a converting machine. This object may be solved by a safety system according to claim 1 . The present disclosure provides safety system for a port module (e.g. a loading module or an exit module) of a converting machine, the converting machine for processing of sheet material (e.g. for the processing of blanks or for the forming of blanks), the port module for inlet (in the case of a loading module) or for outlet (for an exit module) of a stack of sheet material (e.g. blanks) to be process or which has been processed respectively.

[0011] A safety system for a port module of a converting machine configured for processing of sheet material, the port module for inlet or for outlet of a stack of sheet material to be processed or which has been processed respectively, the port module comprising: a scanning system arranged to determine a volume of the stack in a scanning zone, a conveyor system for conveyance of said stack of sheet material between the scanning zone and a transportation zone and; the safety system comprising a presence detection system for detection of an intruding object into a safety zone, wherein the presence detection system comprises an immaterial barrier which is movable to be transitioned between: a first position of the scanning zone, and a second position of the scanning zone, which are respectively at an upstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone and a downstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone.

[0012] The present disclosure provides safety system for a port module (e.g. a loading module or an exit module) of a converting machine, the converting machine for processing of sheet material (e.g. for the processing of blanks or for the forming of blanks), the port module for inlet (in the case of a loading module) or for outlet (for an exit module) of a stack of sheet material (e.g. blanks) to be process or which has been processed respectively. module).

[0013] In embodiments the port module comprises: a conveyor system for conveyance of said stack of sheet material between a scanning zone and a transportation zone (a loading table for a loading module and a loading area for an exit module) and; a scanning system arranged to determine a volume of the stack in the scanning zone. By implementing the port module with volumetric scanning of the stack, a stack volume can be determined before its transfer.

[0014] In embodiments, the safety system comprises a presence detection system for detection of an intruding object into a safety zone. In embodiments, the presence detection system is movable to transition the safety zone between: a first position of the scanning zone, and; a second position of the scanning zone, which are at an upstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone and a downstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone respectively, wherein upstream and downstream are defined in respect of a direction of travel of the conveyor system.

[0015] The first position can be seen as a position furthest from the load table, and the second position can be seen as a position closer to load table.

[0016] By implementing a safety zone that can transition over the full volume of the stack (e.g. over ends or around a corner), it may be ensured that a human operator has not entered the scanning zone, and the scanning zone may therefore be secured ready for transfer of the stack.

[0017] As used herein the term safety system may refer to an arrangement for implementation with the port module of the converter machine, which is designed to provide safety to humans (e.g. an operator) and or machines in proximity to the converter machine or components associated therewith.

[0018] As used herein the term presence detection system may refer to an arrangement to provide a safety zone around / in proximity to the stack of the port module, and which determines if an object has entered into the safety zone.

[0019] As used herein the term safety zone may refer to a bounded volume located within a scanning system. The safety zone is closed off by an immaterial barrier which is movable, e.g. to change its geometric position relative to the stack, as opposed to being switchable from an active state to an inactive state in a fixed position. The immaterial barrier can thus be configured to move and change the position of the safety zone. When the immaterial barrier is in the first position, the safety zone may include the scanning zone.

[0020] As used herein the term object may refer to a human object, e.g. a body or a hand / arm / foot of a human. As used herein the term scanning system may refer to an arrangement operable to scan a volume of the stack. In such a way, the shape and dimensions of the stack can be determined and compared to a predetermined geometry of stack. In such a way, it can be determined that only a stack is present in a scanning volume.

[0021] As used herein the term first position may refer to a portion, e.g. a first end, of the scanning zone which is upstream of the stack in the scanning zone. As used herein the term second position may refer to a portion, e.g. a second end, of the scanning zone which is downstream of the stack in the scanning zone. Specifically, the first position may be a distal position and the second position may be a proximal position, where proximal and distal are defined relative the transportation zone, which adjoins the scanning zone and is downstream thereof. The first and second position may be rotational and / or translationally linked.

[0022] As used herein the term transportation zone may refer a component of the port module which is arranged for transportation of the stack therefrom. In the case of a loading module, it may comprise a loading table. In the embodiment of an exit module, it may comprise a loading area.

[0023] As used herein the term volume may refer to a volumetric quantity of the stack, including an exact volume or a representative quantity, e.g. one or more side lengths of the stack.

[0024] In embodiments, the presence detection system includes a proximity sensor system for detection of an object entering into the safety zone. By implementing a proximity sensor to determine if an object has entered into the safety zone the safety system may have improved safety.

[0025] As used herein the term proximity sensor system may refer to an arrangement of one or more sensors arranged to determine a proximity of the object to or in the safety zone. Examples of which include a proximity sensorthat emits radio waves, including a radar system, with an emitter and receiver; an optical system, which is based on a light emitter and detector, and; an infra-red sensor system.

[0026] In embodiments, the proximity sensor system implements the safety zone to include a movable virtual shield in a 2-dimensional plane (e.g. it is planar). Such an arrangement may conveniently cover off faces of the stack.

[0027] In embodiments, the presence detection system comprises a movable positioning mechanism to move the proximity sensor system to move the safety zone between the first position and the second position. In embodiments, the movable positioning mechanism is arranged to move the proximity sensor system to translate and / or rotate the safety zone, e.g. to provide said movement. Translation and / or rotational movement may be conveniently implemented with a suitable actuation system, e.g. a solenoid or electrical motor.

[0028] In embodiments the presence detection system is arranged to transition the safety zone from the first position to the second position in an inactive mode in advance of a stack moving to the scanning zone.

[0029] In embodiments the presence detection system is arranged to transition the safety zone from the first position to the second position in an active mode downstream of a stack as the stack is conveyed to the scanning position. By implementing the electrical circuitry to control the presence detection system to move the safety zone downstream and in front of the stack as it is moved into the scanning sone, a pathway of said stack may be made safe / cleared. In embodiments, the safety zone may remain in operative proximity of the moving stack.

[0030] As used herein the term operative proximity may refer to the safety zone being a predetermined distance from the stack, including as the stack is moving on the conveyor system, such that an object can not enter into a pathway of the stack, e.g. 5 cm - 20 cm in front of a front face or other face of the stack.

[0031] As used herein the term inactive mode may refer to a muted proximity sensor system, in which the emission and / or object detection feature is inactive. As used herein the term active mode may refer to the proximity sensor system operable to detect an object in the safety zone.

[0032] In embodiments, the presence detection system is arranged to transition the safety zone from the second position to the first position in an active mode to move over the stack in the scanning zone to determine an object in proximity to the stack. By implementing the electrical circuitry to control the presence detection system to move the safety zone over the stationary stack, the stack may be made safe / cleared. In embodiments, the electrical circuitry executes said step subsequent to scanning.

[0033] In embodiments, the presence detection system is arranged to transition the safety zone from the first position to the second position in an active mode upstream of a scanned stack as the stack is conveyed to the transportation zone. By implementing the electrical circuitry to control the presence detection system to move the safety zone upstream of and behind of a back face of the stack as it exits the scanning sone, said stack may be made safely escorted from the scanning zone. In embodiments, the safety zone may remain in operative proximity of the moving stack.

[0034] In embodiments, the presence detection system is arranged to transition the safety zone from the first position to the second position in an inactive mode subsequent to the scanned stack being conveyed to the transportation zone. In embodiments, the presence detection system is arranged to retain the safety zone in the first position an inactive mode subsequent to scanning of the stack as the scanned stack is conveyed to the transportation zone.

[0035] In embodiments, the safety system comprises control circuitry / electrical circuitry to determine a position of the stack on the conveyor system. In embodiments, the electrical circuitry, based on said determined position, determines a stack in the scanning zone and triggers volume determination by the scanning system.

[0036] The electrical circuitry may determine a position of the stack based on various suitable arrangements including: the provision of a signal from a sensor system to determine a stack position (e.g. a proximity sensor / load cell), and / or a position of the stack on the conveyor system may be determined by a speed of the conveyor system; other suitable arrangements e.g. a camera system with image recognition.

[0037] In embodiments, the safety system comprises a barrier arrangement arranged to restrict access to one or both side faces of a stack on the conveyor system. A physical barrier may prevent side entry into the safety zone, whilst the presence detection system precents frond and back access.

[0038] The present disclosure provides a port module of a converting machine comprising the safety system of any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0039] In embodiments, the port module comprises a conveyor system for conveying of said stack of sheet material between a scanning zone and a transmission zone. In embodiments, the conveyor system is arranged as a first conveyor for transfer of the stack to the scanning zone and a communicatively coupled second conveyor for transfer of the stack to the transfer zone.

[0040] In embodiments, the port module comprises a scanning system arranged to determine a volume of the stack in the scanning zone. In embodiments, the scanning system is arranged to scan a planform (e.g. a top face) and at least one side face of a stack in the scanning zone.

[0041] The present disclosure provides a converting machine comprising the port module of any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein. In embodiments, the electrical circuitry is implemented as one or more processors, which are configured to implement control of the automated unit to execute the disclosed steps. The processors may execute program code stored on electronic memory and / or may execute programable logic, e.g., as a logic array, gate array, structured array etc.

[0042] The present disclosure provides a method of implementing a safety zone of a presence detection system for detection of an intruding object into said safety zone of a port module of a converting machine, the method may implement any feature of the safety system and / or port module of any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0043] In embodiments, the method comprises conveying a stack of sheet material with a conveyor system to a scanning zone; sensing a volume of the stack in the scanning zone with a scanning system, and; moving a presence detection system to transition the safety zone between: a first position of the scanning zone, and; a second position of the scanning zone, which are at an upstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone and a downstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone respectively, wherein upstream and downstream are defined in respect of a direction of travel of the conveyor system.

[0044] The present disclosure provides electrical circuitry or a computer program (e.g. machine-readable code) executable on one or more processors to control the safety system to perform the method and / or another method disclosed herein.

[0045] The present disclosure provides a method of retrofitting a safety zone to an existing port module of a converting machine. The method may implement any feature of the safety system and / or port module of any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein. In embodiments, the method comprises arranging a presence detection system to be movable to transition the safety zone between: a first position of the scanning zone, and; a second position of the scanning zone, which are at an upstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone and a downstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone respectively, wherein upstream and downstream are defined in respect of a direction of travel of the conveyor system.

[0046] The preceding summary is provided for purposes of summarizing some embodiments to provide a basic understanding of aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, the abovedescribed features are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Moreover, the above and / or proceeding embodiments may be combined in any suitable combination to provide further embodiments. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following Detailed Description of Embodiments, Brief Description of Figures, and Claims.

[0047] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0048] Aspects, features and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments in reference to the appended drawings in which like numerals denote like elements.

[0049] Figure 1 is a block system diagram showing a system comprising; a converting machine; a loading module; a safety system, and; a stack of blanks.

[0050] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a converting machine of the system of figure 1.

[0051] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a loader module of the converting machine of the system of figure 1 .

[0052] Figures 4 to 7 are perspective views showing various states of a stack of blanks being displaced from an outlet of the converting machine to a loading area of the exit module of the system of figure 1 .

[0053] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing an alternative embodiment of the safety system.

[0054] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0055] Before describing several embodiments of the system, it is to be understood that the system is not limited to the details of construction or process steps set forth in the following description. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure that the system is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways.

[0056] The present disclosure may be better understood in view of the following explanations:

[0057] As used herein the term “system” may refer to an arrangement that includes hardware comprising a converting machine for repetitively executing a formation process in a predefined manner for the formation of a blank, and may include electrical circuitry as part of a control system to control the converting machine. The system may comprise a port module to transmit a stack of blanks from an outlet / to an inlet of the converting machine. As used herein the term “converting machine” may refer to hardware for executing a formation process for full or partial formation of the blank. The hardware may be arranged as modules, e.g. in distributed in series or as a single unit. The converting machine may be configured to at least partially form the blank from sheet material. The converting machine includes a tool which is manipulated / driven for repetitive mechanical engagement with the sheet material to at least partially form said blank during the formation process. The converting machine may include or be associated with a port module. The stack may be provided on a pallet. As used herein the term “formation process” may refer to a process executed by the converting machine on the sheet material to at least partially form the blank.

[0058] As used herein the term port module may refer to an arrangement of the converting machine which is either: a loading module to load a stack of sheet material (e.g. blanks) to the converting machine for processing, or; an exit module to transfer a stack of processed sheet material (e.g. blanks) from the converting machine. As used herein the term loading module may refer to a dedicated module or a sub-component of the converting machine, which is arranged for transmission of a stack (including a plurality thereof) to the converting machine. The loading module may transmit the stack on a pallet, with the palleted stack being formed by the converting machine. The stack may be transmitted to a loading table, e.g. for lifting of the stack to an inlet of the converting machine. As used herein the term exit module may refer to a dedicated module or a sub-component of the converting machine, which is arranged for transmission of a stack (including a plurality thereof) from an outlet of the converting machine. The exit module may transmit the stack on a pallet, with the palleted stack being formed by the converting machine. The stack may be transmitted to a loading area, e.g. for shipping or for further processing of the stack.

[0059] As used herein the term “stack arrangement” or “stack” may refer to an arrangement of one or more stacks of blanks. The stack may be arranged on a pallet, palletizing can be implemented by the converting machine. One or more stacks can be arranged on a pallet, e.g. side by side. A pallet of a stack of blanks can be 0.5 - 2 m in heigh and weight 150 - 250 kg.

[0060] As used herein the term “sheet material” may refer to a paperboard, cardboard, fibreboard or other material sheet from which the blank formed. As used herein the term “paperboard” or “cardboard” may refer to paper pulp-based board. A thickness of the material may be greater than 0.30 mm and / or a grammage of a grammage above 250 g / m2, hence to distinguish the material from paper. Paperboard may be single-ply or multi-ply. As used herein the term “fibreboard” may refer to wood product that is made out of wood fibres or a kraft-based paperboard. It may include a kraft-based paperboard or corrugated fiberboard.

[0061] As used herein the term “blank” may refer to any object formed by the formation process of the converting machine. The blank may be a planar arrangement of sheet material from which an object such as a packaging element may be formed, for example by one or more of folding, cutting and gluing. The blank itself may be partially folded and / or glued. The blank may be formed from paperboard, cardboard, fibreboard, or other suitable material.

[0062] A used herein the term “conveyor system” may refer to an arrangement for transmission of a stack, with a suitable mechanical arrangement, e.g. rollers and / or a belt.

[0063] As used herein, the term "electrical circuitry" or "circuitry" or "control electrical circuitry" may refer to one or more hardware and / or software components, examples of which may include: one or more of an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) or other programable logic; electronic / electrical componentry (which may include combinations of transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors etc); one or more processors (e.g. circuitry structure of the processor); a non-transitory memory (e.g. implemented by one or more memory devices), that may store one or more software or firmware programs; a combinational logic circuit; interconnection of the aforesaid. The electrical circuitry may be located entirely at one component of the system, or distributed between a plurality of components of the system (e.g. a server system and / or external device) which are in communication with each other over a computer network via communication resources.

[0064] As used herein, the term "processor" or "processing resource" may refer to one or more units for processing, examples of which include an ASIC, microcontroller, FPGA, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), state machine or other suitable component. A processor may be configured to execute a computer program, e.g. which may take the form of machine readable instructions, which may be stored on a non-transitory memory and / or programmable logic. The processor may have various arrangements corresponding to those discussed for the circuitry, e.g. on-board or distributed as part of the system. As used herein, any machine executable instructions, or computer readable media, may be configured to cause a disclosed method to be carried out, e.g. by the system or components thereof as disclosed herein, and may therefore be used synonymously with the term method, or each other. As used herein, the term "computer readable medium / media" or "data storage" may include any medium capable of storing a computer program, and may take the form of any conventional non-transitory memory, for example one or more of: random access memory (RAM); a CD; a hard drive; a solid state drive; a memory card; a DVD. The memory may have various arrangements corresponding to those discussed for the circuitry.

[0065] As used herein, the term "communication resources" or "communication interface" may refer to hardware and / or firmware for electronic information transfer. The communication resources / interface may be configured for wired communication (“wired communication resources / interface”) or wireless communication (“wireless communication resources / interface”). Wireless communication resources may include hardware to transmit and receive signals by radio and may include various protocol implementations e.g. the 802.11 standard described in the Institute of Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and Bluetooth™ from the Bluetooth Special Interest Group of Kirkland Wash. Wired communication resources may include; Universal Serial Bus (USB); High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) or other protocol implementations. The converting machine may include communication resources for wired or wireless communication with an external device and / or server system.

[0066] As used herein, the term "network" or "computer network" may refer to a system for electronic information transfer between a plurality of apparatuses / devices. The network may, for example, include one or more networks of any type, which may include: a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN); a telephone network (e.g. a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and / or a wireless network); a local area network (LAN); a metropolitan area network (MAN); a wide area network (WAN); an Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) network; a private network; the Internet; an intranet; personal area networks (PANs), including with Bluetooth a short-range wireless technology standard.

[0067] As used herein, the term “external device” or "external electronic device" or “peripheral device” may include electronic components external to the converting machine, e.g. arranged at a same location or remote therefrom, which communicate therewith over a computer network. The external device may comprise a communication interface for communication with the machine and / or a server system. The external device may comprise devices including: a smartphone; a PDA; a video game controller; a tablet; a laptop; or other like device.

[0068] As used herein, the term “server system” may refer to electronic components external to converting machine, e.g. arranged at a same location or remote therefrom, which communicate therewith over a computer network. The server system may comprise a communication interface for communication with the converting machine or the external device. The server system can include: a networked-based computer (e.g. a remote server); a cloud-based computer; any other server system.

[0069] Referring to figure 1 a system 2 comprises: a converting machine 4; blanks 6 arranged as a stack 8; a loading module 10; a safety system 12 and; electrical circuitry 14.

[0070] Referring to figures 1 and 2, the converting machine 4 processes sheet material (not illustrated) to the blanks 6 and arranges the blanks 6 as a stack 8.

[0071] Referring to figures 1 and 3, the loading module 10 is for loading of the stack 8 of sheet material 6 and comprises a conveyor system 16 for transmission of said stack 8 to a loading table 18 of the converting machine 4, via a scanning zone 20 of a scanning system 22 arranged to determine a volume of the stack, as will be discussed. In variant emblements, which are not illustrated, the scanning system many be omitted. The safety system 12 is arranged as part of the loading module 10 of the converting machine 4, and ensures safe transmission of the stack 8, as will be discussed.

[0072] The converting machine 4 implements a formation process under the control of the electrical circuitry 14 to provide the stack 8 of blanks 6. An exit module (not illustrated) transfers the stack 8 to a loading area. The converting machine 4, exit module and loading module 10 are controlled by the electrical circuitry 14. The electrical circuitry 14 is arranged at the converter machine 4. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated the electrical circuitry may be distributed over one or more components of the system, including an external device and / or a server system.

[0073] The conveyor system 16 conveys the stack 8 in a longitudinal direction 100. The stack 8 is supported in a plane defined by the longitudinal direction 100 and a lateral direction 102, which is perpendicular to a depth direction 104. As best seen in figure 4, the stack 8 comprises a front wall 110, back wall 112 and side walls 114. The front wall 110 is at a greater longitudinal position on the conveyor system 16 than the back wall 112. The conveyor system 16 is arranged as a first conveyor for transfer of the stack to the scanning zone 20 and a communicatively coupled second conveyor for transfer of the stack to the loading table 18. Downstream and upstream are defined in respect of the direction of movement of the conveyor 16, hence an upstream position has a lesser longitudinal position than a downstream position.

[0074] Referring to figure 2, a converting machine 2 in the configuration of a rotary die-cutter 2 is illustrated. The rotary die-cutter machine 2 comprises a plurality of different work modules which print, cut and crease the sheets 6. From the inlet of the converting machine 2 and in the direction of transportation T of the sheets 6, the converting machine 2 may comprise a loading module 10, a feeder module 11 , a printing module 13 comprising a plurality of flexographic printing modules 14, a converting module 15 in the form of a die-cutting module, and a palletizer module 16. The converting machine 2 further comprises a main control circuitry, and an operator interface may also be provided in the proximity of the converting machine 6.

[0075] The direction of transportation T is defined from the inlet to the outlet of the converting machine 2. Hence, the direction of transportation T extends from the loader module to the delivery module.

[0076] Referring to figures 4 - 6, the safety system 12 comprises a presence detection system 24 that erects an immaterial safety barrier 26 . Within the context of this application, the immaterial safety barrier 26 can also be referred to as a virtual shield 26. The presence detection system 24 is movable to transition between: a first position (figures 4, 7), which is distal of the scanning zone 20, and; a second position (figures 5, 6), which is proximal the scanning zone 20. The first position is nearest the back face 112 of the stack 8 in the scanning zone 20 but separated therefrom in the counter longitudinal direction 100. The second position is nearest the front face 110 of the stack 8 in the scanning zone 20 but separated therefrom in the longitudinal direction 100. Proximal and distal are defined in the longitudinal direction 100 relative the load table 18.

[0077] A safety zone 27 is partially defined by the immaterial safety barrier 26. The safety zone is further defined by lateral barriers 44. The lateral barriers 44 may be physical barriers, such as fences, or immaterial barriers. The immaterial barrier is configured to move and change the position of the safety zone 27. When the immaterial barrier is in the first position, the safety zone may include the scanning zone.

[0078] The presence detection system 24 is configured for detection of an intruding object (not illustrated) into the safety zone 27. In the event an object penetrates the safety zone 27 the presence detection system 24 determines a breach of the immaterial safety barrier 26. In response to the determination of said breach the electrical circuitry 14 may control one or more of: a hard stop of the conveyor system 16; a notification via a user interface, e.g. a visual and / or audible notification.

[0079] The presence detection system 24 comprises a proximity sensor system 28 for detection of said object entering into the safety zone 27.

[0080] In a first example, the proximity sensor system 28 is a radar system, with an emitter and receiver to emit and receive radio waves to determine whether an object has entered the safety zone 27. In other examples, other suitable sensors are implemented, e.g. a camera system or infra-red sensors.

[0081] The proximity sensor system 28 may be visualised (as shown in figure 4) as creating, a virtual shield 26 in a 2-dimensional plane to close off the safety zone 27. The virtual shield 26, is herein a plane defined by the lateral direction 102 and the depth direction 104).

[0082] The presence detection system 24 comprises a movable positioning mechanism 30 to move the proximity sensor system 32 between the first position and the second position.

[0083] In a first example, the movable positioning mechanism 30 is implemented by translation. As can be seen in figures 4 - 6, the movable positioning mechanism 30 comprises a translational movable support 32, which is driven to translate in the longitudinal direction 100 by a drive system 34. In figures 4 and 6, the safety zone 26 is shown in the first position. In figure 5 the safety 26 is shown in the second position.

[0084] In a second example illustrated in figure 8, the movable positioning mechanism 30 is implemented by rotation. As can be seen in figure 8, the movable positioning mechanism 30 comprises rotationally movable supports 32 which are driven to rotate about an axis aligned to the depth direction 104 by a drive system 34. The drive system 34 can be a suitable rotary actuator. In figure 8 the safety zone 26 is shown in the second position, hence aligned to the side face 114 of the stack 8. In the first position (not illustrated) the virtual shield 26 is aligned to the back face of the stack 12 and is therefore rotated though 90 degrees compared to the second position.

[0085] In this particular example, the load table (not illustrated) is arranged to extend from the scanning zone 20 in the counter lateral direction 102, hence the conveyor system 16 turns though 90 degrees.

[0086] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, the movable positioning mechanism 30 is implemented with other movement actions, including a combination of rotation and translation, e.g. as a combination of the first and second examples.

[0087] For the movable positioning mechanism 30 examples, the electrical circuitry 14 controls the movable positioning mechanism 30 to position the virtual shield 26 as required, for example to move between the first and second positions. Moreover, the electrical circuitry 14 can determine a position of the stack 8 on the conveyor system 16 and implement the safety zone 26 to move with and remain in operative proximity / downstream to the stack 8 (e.g. the front face 110 or rear face 112) based on said determined position. The electrical circuitry 14 can determine a position of the stack 8 on the conveyor system 16 based on various suitable arrangements including:

[0088] A) the provision of a signal from a sensor system (not illustrated) to determine a position of the stack 8 on the conveyor system 16

[0089] B) a speed of the conveyor system 16;

[0090] D) a camera system with image recognition;

[0091] E) other suitable arrangements, e.g. other proximity sensors or motion tracking systems.

[0092] Referring to figures 4 and 5, the electrical circuitry 12 is configured to transition the virtual shield 26 from the first position (figure 4) to the second position (figure 5) in an active mode downstream of a stack 8 as the stack is conveyed to the scanning position 20. In particular, the virtual shield 26 can remain downstream and in front face 110 of the stack 8 (e.g. in operative proximity thereto) as it is moved into the scanning zone 20. In this manner a pathway of said stack 8 may be made safe / cleared.

[0093] Referring to figure 5, the electrical circuitry 12 is configured to determine a stack 8 in the scanning zone 20 and trigger volume determination by the scanning system 22.

[0094] Referring to figures 6 and 7, subsequent to volumetric scanning, the electrical circuitry 12 is configured to transition the virtual shield 26 from the second position (figure 6) to the first position (figure 7) preferably in an inactive mode to move over the stack 8 in the scanning zone 20. In this manner the scanning zone 20 is secured while the virtual shield 26 is transferred back to the first position and then reactivated to erect the virtual shield 26 at the first position upstream of the stack 8.

[0095] As best seen in figure 4, the safety system 12 comprises a barrier arrangement 44 as sides of the safety zone 27. In this manner a human can not access the sides 114 of the stack 8 on the conveyor system 16.

[0096] The safety zone 27 therefore comprises a bounded volume in the depth direction 104 defined by the barrier arrangement 44 and the virtual shield 26.

[0097] The scanning system 22 may be arranged as four sensors arranged at vertices of a rectangle at an elevated depth 104 above the stack 8 in the scanning zone 20. In variant embodiments, other arrangements may be implemented, e.g. as a triangle. A method of implementing a virtual shield 26 of a presence detection system 24 of a loading module 10 for a converting machine 4 comprises:

[0098] Step 1 : referring to figure 4, a stack 8 is conveyed by the conveyor system 16 in the longitudinal direction 100 to the scanning zone 20.

[0099] As the stack 8 approaches the scanning area 20, the virtual shield 26 may move in the active mode from the first position (as shown in figure 4) to remain downstream an in operative proximity of the stack 8 and towards the second position. In this way the pathway of the stack 8 is made safe. Alternatively, the virtual shield 26 may be moved to the second position in advance of the stack 8 and before the stack enters into the scanning zone 20. The first position can be seen as furthest from the load table, and the second position can be seen as closer to load table.

[0100] Step 2: referring to figure 5, with the virtual shield 26 in the second position and active, the scanning system 22 scans the stack 8 to determine its volume.

[0101] Step 3: referring to figure 6, subsequent to successful scanning, the stack 8 is conveyed by the conveyor system 16 to the loading table 18. The successful scanning may be determined from a determined shape of the stack 8 corresponding to a predefined shape. Hence a correspondence to dimensions of the stack 8 present in the electrical circuitry 14. Prior to movement of the stack 8 the virtual shield 26 transitions from the second position over the stack 8 to the first position (as shown in figure 6). In this step, the scanning system 22 secures the safety zone 27 and is configured to detect any intrusion. The virtual shield 26 is preferably performing the transition in an inactivated mode. In this way the stack 8 is ensured as safe before it is moved. The virtual shield 26 then remains in the first position during movement of the stack 8. Alternatively, the virtual shield may 26 transition to the second position to remain proximal the rear face 112 of the stack to escort it to the loading table 18, including as part of step 1 .

[0102] The process is then repeated for the next incoming stack 8 on the conveyor system 16.

[0103] Variants of the above method are to be contemplated, including those that may be introduced by the various embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the safety zone may rotate between positions. Moreover, whilst the safety system has been described in combination with a port module arranged as a loading module, it will be appreciated that the safety system along with its described variants can be applicable to a port module configured as an exit module, in such an example, the loading table is alternatively a transportation zone, and the scanning system and zone are adjacent to the transportation zone.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A safety system for a port module of a converting machine configured for processing of sheet material, the port module for inlet or for outlet of a stack of sheet material to be processed or which has been processed respectively, the port module comprising: a scanning system arranged to determine a volume of the stack in a scanning zone, a conveyor system for conveyance of said stack of sheet material between the scanning zone and a transportation zone and; the safety system comprising a presence detection system for detection of an intruding object into a safety zone, wherein the presence detection system comprises an immaterial barrier which is movable to be transitioned between: a first position of the scanning zone, and a second position of the scanning zone, which are respectively at an upstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone and a downstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone.

2. The safety system of claim 1 , wherein the presence detection system includes a proximity sensor system for detection of an object in the safety zone.

3. The safety system of claim 2, wherein the proximity sensor implements radio waves to determine proximity of the object to the safety zone.

4. The safety system of either of claims 2 or 3, wherein the proximity sensor system implements the immaterial barrier to a movable virtual shield in a 2-dimensional plane to close off the safety zone.

5. The safety system of any of claims 2 to 4, wherein the presence detection system comprises a movable positioning mechanism to move the proximity sensor system to move the safety zone between the first position and the second position.

6. The safety system of claim 5, wherein the movable positioning mechanism is arranged to move the proximity sensor system to translate and / or rotate the immaterial barrier.

7. The safety system of any preceding claim, wherein the presence detection system is arranged to transition the immaterial barrier from the first position to the second position inan active mode downstream of a stack as the stack is conveyed into the safety zone to the scanning position.

8. The safety system of any preceding claim, wherein the presence detection system is arranged to transition the immaterial barrier from the second position to the first position in an inactive mode to move over the stack in the scanning zone to close off the entry of the safety zone.

9. The safety system of any preceding claim, wherein the presence detection system is arranged to transition the immaterial barrier from the first position to the second position in an active mode upstream of a scanned stack as the stack is conveyed to the scanning zone.

10. The safety system of any preceding claim comprising electrical circuitry to: determine a position of the stack on the conveyor system, and; based on said determined position, determine a stack in the scanning zone and to trigger volume determination by the scanning system.11 . The safety system of any preceding claim comprising a barrier arrangement arranged to restrict access to one or both side faces of a stack on the conveyor system.

12. A port module of a converting machine comprising the safety system of any of claims 1 to 10, the converting comprising: a conveyor system for conveying of said stack of sheet material between a scanning zone and a transmission zone, and / or; a scanning system arranged to determine a volume of the stack in the scanning zone.

13. The port module of either of claims 11 or 12, wherein the conveyor system is arranged as a first conveyor for transfer of the stack to the scanning zone and a communicatively coupled second conveyor for transfer of the stack to the transfer zone.

14. The port module of any of any of claims 11 to 13, wherein the scanning system is arranged to scan the scanning zone.

15. A converting machine comprising the port module of any of claims 11 to 14.

16. A method of implementing a safety zone of a presence detection system for detection of an intruding object into said safety zone of a port module of a converting machine, the method comprising: conveying a stack of sheet material with a conveyor system to a scanning zone; sensing a volume of the stack in the scanning zone with a scanning system, and; moving a presence detection system to transition the safety zone between: a first position of the scanning zone, and; a second position of the scanning zone, which are at an upstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone and a downstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone respectively, wherein upstream and downstream are defined in respect of a direction of travel of the conveyor system.

17. A method of retrofitting a safety zone to an existing port module of a converting machine, the port module comprising a scanning system arranged to determine a volume of the stack in the scanning zone, the safety system comprising a presence detection system for detection of an intruding object into a safety zone, the method comprising: arranging a presence detection system to be movable to transition the safety zone between: a first position of the scanning zone, and; a second position of the scanning zone, which are at an upstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone and a downstream position with respect to a stack in the scanning zone respectively, wherein upstream and downstream are defined in respect of a direction of travel of the conveyor system.

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