Automatic cutting machine and method for cutting sheet material

Abstract

Sheet articles cutting machine (1) in which it comprises: a frame (2); a cutting plane (4) that is carried by the frame (2); cutting means (5) that are carried by the frame (2), for performing the cutting of sheet articles (10); first movement means (50) that are carried by the frame (2), for moving the cutting means (5); a first panel (B) to support sheet articles (10) and to be positioned on the cutting plane (4); a second panel (A) to support sheet articles (10) and to be positioned on the cutting plane (4); centering means (6) that are carried by the frame (2) and that are arranged to center the first panel (B) when the first panel (B) is being positioned on the cutting plane (4), so that it assumes a predetermined cutting position, and to center the second panel (A) when the second panel (A) is being positioned on the cutting plane (4), so that it assumes the aforementioned cutting position; handling means (7) that are carried by the frame (2) and that are configured: to lift the first panel (B) from the cutting position to a lifted position, which is located at a height allowing the positioning of the second panel (A) in the cutting position; and to lift the second panel (A) from the cutting position to the lifted position, which is located at a height allowing the positioning of the first panel (B) in the cutting position.

Description

[0001] AUTOMATIC CUTTING MACHINE AND METHOD FOR CUTTING SHEET MATERIAL

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention falls within the technical field of machines for cutting sheet articles.

[0005] DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

[0006] Computer numerical control (CNC) machines for cutting sheet articles are known, which comprise: a frame; a cutting plane that is carried by the frame and which in turn comprises a plurality of suction holes; a suction source that is connected to the suction holes; cutting means that are carried by the frame, for performing the cutting of sheet articles; movement means that are carried by the frame, for moving the cutting means.

[0007] To cut the sheet articles, an operator physically positions the sheet articles to be cut on the cutting plane.

[0008] The sheet articles resting on the cutting plane are held on the cutting plane by the suction source and subsequently cut automatically by the cutting means.

[0009] In such cutting machines, the cutting plane represents the surface on which the sheet articles are placed to be cut; therefore, during the loading phases of the sheet articles to be cut and the unloading of the cut sheet articles, a significant idle time occurs during which the machine is not operational.

[0010] The idle time associated with the loading and unloading operations drastically reduces the overall productivity of the cutting machine, potentially leading to a decrease of over 50% of its operating capacity. This represents a considerable limitation for the efficiency of the production process, especially in contexts where a high production capacity is required. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The purpose of the invention is to reduce this drawback.

[0012] The aforementioned purpose is achieved with a sheet articles cutting machine, according to claim 1.

[0013] Advantageously, the presence of the first panel and the second panel, configured to alternate in the cutting position, allows the loading and unloading operations of the first panel to be performed while the second panel is being processed, and vice versa. This eliminates the idle times of the cutting machine during the positioning of the sheet articles to be cut, significantly increasing the efficiency of the production process.

[0014] The centering means ensure that each panel is always correctly positioned in the predetermined cutting position. This minimizes positioning errors and contributes to obtaining sheet articles cut with precise and repeatable shapes.

[0015] The integration of the handling means allows the first panel and the second panel to be automatically lifted from the cutting position to the lifted position, reducing the need for manual intervention by the operator, who will be engaged in loading the sheet articles to be cut on the second panel and subsequently on the first panel.

[0016] The possibility of alternating the first panel and the second panel in the cutting position ensures that the machine can operate almost without interruptions, optimizing the use of the cutting means.

[0017] The present invention also relates to a method for cutting sheet articles according to claim 8.

[0018] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described below, in accordance with the claims and with the aid of the attached drawing tables, in which: figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a sheet articles cutting machine according to the present invention; figure 1A illustrates an enlarged view of detail C of figure 1 figure 1 B illustrates an enlarged view of detail D of figure 1 figure 1 C illustrates an enlarged view of detail E of figure 1 figure illustrates an enlarged view of detail F of figure 1 ; figure illustrates an enlarged view of detail G of figure 1 ;

[0020] ■ figure 1 F illustrates an enlarged view of detail H of figure 1 , to highlight the conformation of a cutting plane of the cutting machine according to the present invention;

[0021] ■ figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the sheet articles cutting machine of figure 1 , in which a first movement of handling means included in the same sheet articles cutting machine is highlighted; figure 2A illustrates an enlarged view of detail I of figure 2;

[0022] ■ figures 3-5, figures 7, 8, and figures 10-13 illustrate a succession of operating phases related to the sheet articles cutting machine of figure 1 ; figure 5A illustrates an enlarged view of detail J of figure 5 figure 5B illustrates an enlarged view of detail K of figure 5 figure 5C illustrates an enlarged view of detail L of figure 5 figure 5D illustrates an enlarged view of detail M of figure 5 figure 5E illustrates an enlarged view of detail N of figure 5 figure 5F illustrates an enlarged view of detail 0 of figure 5 figure 5G illustrates an enlarged view of detail P of figure 5 figure 6 illustrates a top view of the cutting machine illustrated in figure 5; figure 6A illustrates an enlarged view of detail Q of figure 6; figure 6B illustrates an enlarged view of detail R of figure 6; ■ figure 8A illustrates an enlarged view of detail S of figures 7, 8;

[0023] ■ figure 8B illustrates an enlarged view of detail T of figures 7, 8;

[0024] ■ figure 8C illustrates an enlarged view of detail U of figures 7, 8;

[0025] ■ figure 9 illustrates a top view of the cutting machine illustrated in figure 8;

[0026] ■ figure 9A illustrates an enlarged view of detail of figure 9;

[0027] ■ figure 9B illustrates an enlarged view of detail W of figure 9;

[0028] ■ figure 10A illustrates an enlarged view of detail S1 of figure 10;

[0029] ■ figure 14 illustrates a top view of the sheet articles cutting machine according to the invention, in which a variant of the handling means arranged in a non- operational position is highlighted;

[0030] ■ figure 14A illustrates an enlarged view of detail X of figure 14;

[0031] ■ figure 15 illustrates a top view of the sheet articles cutting machine of figure 14, in which the position of the handling means following the lifting of the first panel is shown;

[0032] ■ figure 15A illustrates an enlarged view of detail Y of figure 14;

[0033] ■ figure 16 illustrates a perspective view of detail Y from which the first panel has been removed to better highlight the conformation of a handling means.

[0034] The sheet articles (10), in this description, may be sheet articles (10) of one or more parts coupled to each other that define a “raw piece” to be cut.

[0035] In the field of processing leather, synthetic or technical materials, or fabrics, for the production of fashion accessories such as clothing, bags, belts, and footwear, it is necessary that some parts of such accessories be made by coupling the material forming the accessory with a second reinforcing or finishing material.

[0036] Given the complexity of obtaining a perfectly aligned positioning between the different materials during the coupling process, these articles are initially produced with portions exceeding the desired final shape, forming a “raw piece”. Subsequently, these excess portions are removed by using computer numerical control (CNC) cutting machines, in order to obtain articles with precise and finished shapes “net”.

[0037] However, it is specified that the cutting machine according to the invention may be used to cut any sheet article that can be placed resting on a first panel and on a second panel.

[0038] DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0039] With particular reference to the attached drawing tables, a sheet articles cutting machine has been indicated with (1 ), in which: it comprises a frame (2); a cutting plane (4) that is carried by the frame (2); it comprises cutting means (5) that are carried by the frame (2), for performing the cutting of sheet articles (10); it comprises first movement means (50) that are carried by the frame (2), for moving the cutting means (5); it comprises a first panel (B) to receive in support sheet articles (10) and to be positioned on the cutting plane (4) (fig. 3); it comprises a second panel (A) to receive in support sheet articles (10) and to be positioned on the cutting plane (4) (fig. 3); it comprises centering means (6) that are carried by the frame (2) and that are arranged to center the first panel (B) when the first panel (B) is in the positioning phase on the cutting plane (4), so that it assumes a predetermined cutting position, and to center the second panel (A) when the second panel (A) is in the positioning phase on the cutting plane (4), so that it assumes the aforementioned cutting position; the first movement means (50) are configured to move the cutting means (5) so as to cut the sheet articles (10) that are resting on the first panel (B), when the first panel (B) is in the cutting position, and so as to cut the sheet articles (10) that are resting on the second panel (A), when the second panel (A) is in the cutting position; it comprises handling means (7) that are carried by the frame (2) and that are configured: to lift the first panel (B) from the cutting position to a lifted position, which is located at a height suitable to allow the positioning of the second panel (A) in the cutting position; and to lift the second panel (A) from the cutting position to the lifted position, which is located at a height suitable to allow the positioning of the first panel (B) in the cutting position.

[0040] In the preferred embodiment, the frame (2) comprises a fixed plane (3).

[0041] The cutting plane (4), in an embodiment not illustrated, may coincide with the fixed plane (3).

[0042] The cutting plane (4), in the preferred embodiment, is part of the fixed plane (3).

[0043] As illustrated in figures 1 , 2, 3-5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10-14, 15, the cutting plane (4) is accessible by an operator through a front side (3a) of the fixed plane (3), allowing the positioning of the first panel (B) and the second panel (A).

[0044] The fixed plane (3) further comprises a rear side (3b) which is opposite the front side (3a), a right side (3c) and a left side (3d) which are opposite each other and are adjacent to the front side (3a) and to the rear side (3b).

[0045] The first panel (B) and the second panel (A), during the positioning phase, are partially resting on the portion of the fixed plane (3) that is adjacent to the cutting plane (4).

[0046] The fixed plane (3), in an embodiment illustrated in fig. 1 , may comprise two slots (31 ) which are opposite each other and each of which is positioned laterally to the cutting plane (4) near the right side (3a) and the left side (3b) of the fixed plane (3). The first movement means (50) may comprise a movable bar (51 ), (fig. 2).

[0047] The movable bar (51 ) may carry two opposite arms (52), each of which is inserted into one slot of the two slots (31 ).

[0048] Each arm (52) is configured to slide inside a corresponding slot with respect to a Y axis of the Cartesian reference system illustrated in fig. 1 . The cutting means (5) may be carried by the movable bar (51 ), which moves along the Y axis to position the cutting means (5) above the first panel (B) and the second panel (A).

[0049] The cutting means (5) carried by the movable bar (51 ) may be configured to move along an X axis and a Z axis of the Cartesian reference system illustrated in fig. 1 .

[0050] The horizontal movement of the cutting means (5) occurs along the movable bar (51 ) with respect to the X axis so as to position the cutting means (5) in correspondence with the sheet articles (10) resting on the first panel (B) and on the second panel (A).

[0051] The vertical movement of the cutting means (5) occurs with respect to the Z axis so as to position the cutting means (5) in a desired cutting position with respect to the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) positioned on the cutting plane (4) and, consequently, with respect to the sheet articles (10) resting on the first panel (B) and on the second panel (A).

[0052] The movement along the Y axis of the movable bar (51), and the relative movement of the cutting means (5) along the X and Z axes, are controlled by a computer numerical control (CNC) system, not illustrated.

[0053] The procedure for determining the profile to be cut on each sheet article (10) resting on the first panel (B) and on the second panel (A) may be performed automatically according to known technique, for example by means of a digital projector not illustrated.

[0054] The cutting means (5) may be manually activated by an operator.

[0055] The cutting means (5) may be automatically activated.

[0056] The sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) may comprise first sensors, not illustrated, carried by the frame (2) to detect the positioning of the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) in the cutting position to allow activation of the cutting means (5). The first sensors may be presence sensors. For example, the presence sensors may be contact sensors or proximity sensors.

[0057] La sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) may comprise advancement means, not illustrated, for example a plurality of small belts which are arranged near or at the cutting plane (4) to advance the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) on the cutting plane (4) when the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) are in the positioning phase.

[0058] Preferably, the first panel (B) is sized to be manually moved into the cutting position and the second panel (A) is sized to be manually moved into the cutting position.

[0059] Advantageously, the sizing of the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) is such that each of them can be easily manually handled, reducing the effort required of the operators.

[0060] Manual handling allows the operators to have direct control during the positioning of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A).

[0061] Furthermore, manual handling of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) may be faster than activating an automated system, especially in contexts where the operator is accustomed to the machine.

[0062] The possibility of rapidly alternating the first panel (B) and the second panel (A), thanks to their sizing and ease of handling, reduces idle times between one cutting operation and another, improving the operating efficiency of the cutting machine.

[0063] The first panel (B) and the second panel (A) are preferably sized to have dimensions equal to those of the cutting plane (4), so as to be positioned entirely on it in the preferred cutting position.

[0064] The first panel (B) and the second panel (A), in an embodiment not illustrated, may be sized to have dimensions smaller than those of the cutting plane (4). The first panel (B) and the second panel (A) may be sized within a range in which the width varies between 1000 mm and 1800 mm.

[0065] The first panel (B) and the second panel (A) may be sized within a range in which the length / depth varies between 500 mm and 900 mm.

[0066] Preferably, the cutting plane (4) comprises a plurality of suction holes (40) (fig. 1 F); the sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) comprises a suction source (not illustrated) that is connected to the suction holes of the plurality of suction holes (40) of the cutting plane (4); both the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) comprise (fig. 3, 5A-5C, 6A, 6B, 8A-8C, 9B, 14A, 15A): a framework (9); a planar element (90) that is carried by the framework (9) and that is air-permeable so that the sheet articles (10) resting on it can be stably held on it when the suction source is active.

[0067] The use of the plurality of suction holes (40) and the suction source allows a vacuum effect to be created which stabilizes the sheet articles (10) on the first panel (B) and on the second panel (A). This minimizes the risk of displacement of the sheet articles (10) to be cut during cutting, improving the precision of the operation.

[0068] The plurality of suction holes (40) may be configured in a regular matrix, with uniform spacing to ensure a homogeneous distribution of suction force.

[0069] The suction source may comprise a vacuum pump, not illustrated, with adjustable capacity.

[0070] The cutting machine may comprise an electronic control system allowing regulation of the vacuum intensity according to the characteristics of the material of the sheet articles (10) to be cut.

[0071] The framework (9), preferably made of rigid and light materials to ensure strength and ease of handling.

[0072] The framework (9) may be made of aluminium. The framework (9) may be made of plastic composites.

[0073] The framework (9) is preferably a frame.

[0074] The frame acts as a supporting element, ensuring rigidity and maintaining the planar element (90) in a stable position during positioning, cutting, and handling. Furthermore, a light frame for the framework (9) reduces the total weight of the first panel (B) and the second panel (A), facilitating manual handling.

[0075] The framework (9) is preferably a rectangular frame.

[0076] The framework (9) may have a closed tubular section or a U-shaped section.

[0077] The framework (9) may comprise handles, not illustrated, to facilitate manual handling.

[0078] The air-permeable planar element (90) allows the operators to place the sheet articles (10) easily on the first panel (B) and on the second panel (A), since they will be firmly held on the planar element (90) once the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) are in the cutting position following activation of the suction source.

[0079] The thickness of the planar element (90) may vary depending on the required permeability.

[0080] The air-permeable planar element (90) may be made, for example, of a material such as a porous composite, technical fabric, or micro-perforated metal. Preferably, the planar element (90) is made of felt.

[0081] The planar element (90) may be fixed to the framework (9).

[0082] The planar element (90) may be fixed to the framework (9), for example by gluing, ultrasonic welding, or other permanent fastening systems for applications that do not require frequent replacement.

[0083] Alternatively, the planar element (90) may be removably coupled to the framework For example, the planar element (90) may be removably coupled to the framework (9) through sliding guides (not illustrated) or interlocks (not illustrated) that allow quick removal and replacement.

[0084] Preferably, the sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) comprises a support plane (99) to temporarily receive and support the second panel (A) when the first panel (B) is in the cutting position, and to receive and support the first panel (B) when the second panel (A) is in the cutting position.

[0085] Advantageously, the support plane (99) allows the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) to alternate smoothly, reducing idle times between one cutting operation and another.

[0086] The operators, indeed, may position and prepare the second panel (A) and subsequently the first panel (B) resting on the support plane (99) while the first panel (B) with the sheet articles to be cut is in the cutting phase, improving process continuity.

[0087] The support plane (99) provides a stable surface on which to temporarily rest the first panel (B) and the second panel (A), preventing falls and facilitating their manual handling.

[0088] The support plane (99) may be arranged near the frame (2) of the cutting machine.

[0089] The support plane (99) may be arranged laterally to the frame (2).

[0090] The support plane (99) is preferably arranged in front of the frame (2).

[0091] The support plane (99) may be carried by the frame (2) of the cutting machine.

[0092] The support plane (99) may be fixedly connected to the frame (2) of the cutting machine.

[0093] The support plane (99) is preferably articulated to the frame (2) of the cutting machine so that it may assume a lifted position visible in figures 1 , 2, 3-5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10-13, in which the support plane (99) is aligned with the fixed plane (3), and a lowered position, not illustrated, in which the support plane (99) is parallel to the frame (2) of the cutting machine so that the operator may easily approach the cutting plane (4) for possible interventions on it or on the first panel (B) and on the second panel (A) positioned in the cutting position.

[0094] The support plane (99) may be sized to be compatible with the dimensions of the first panel (B) and the second panel (A), ensuring that both the entire first panel (B) and the entire second panel (A) may rest stably upon it.

[0095] The support plane (99) may comprise guiding elements (98) (fig. 1A, 1 B, 1 C) to guide the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) from the resting position on the support plane (99) to the cutting position on the cutting plane (4).

[0096] The operator, in fact, after positioning the sheet articles on the first panel (B) and on the second panel (A), proceeds to move it forward from the support plane (99) onto the cutting plane (4) with minimal effort.

[0097] The support plane (99), in the preferred embodiment illustrated in figures 1A-1 C, 5A, 5D, may shape guiding elements (98) as “L”.

[0098] Preferably, the centering means (6) comprise: a first abutment (60) that is carried by the frame (2), that is adjacent to the cutting plane (4), that shapes a notch (61 ), and that is arranged to abut a first side (a) of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A); a first protrusion (62) that is carried by the first panel (B) (fig. 6, 7, 8, 8B, 9) and that has a shape complementary to the aforementioned notch (61 ) (fig. 5F) to engage by shape with the same notch (61 ); a second protrusion (63) that is carried by the second panel (A) (fig. 5B, 6, 7) and that has a shape complementary to the aforementioned notch (61 ) to engage by shape with the same notch (61 ) (see figures 5B, 5F).

[0099] When the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) are positioned on the cutting plane (4), the corresponding first protrusion (62) and second protrusion (63) enter the notch (61 ). This shape coupling prevents misalignment during the cutting process.

[0100] The complementary conformation between the notch (61 ) and the first protrusion (62) and the second protrusion (63) present respectively on the first panel (B) and on the second panel (A) ensures that each panel, once positioned, always assumes the same predefined position on the cutting plane (4). This geometric coupling eliminates variations or alignment errors from one operation to the next, ensuring that the cutting of the sheet articles (10) is carried out with constant precision both when resting on the first panel (B) and on the second panel (A).

[0101] The operators may quickly position the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) without the need for additional measurements or manual adjustments, reducing preparation time and increasing efficiency.

[0102] The notch (61 ) may shape an inclined or tapered guide to facilitate insertion of the first protrusion (62) and the second protrusion (63) and to ease manual positioning of the first panel (B) and the second panel (A).

[0103] The notch (61 ), in the preferred embodiment, is shaped as a “V” recess (figure 1 E, 5F).

[0104] The notch (61 ) is preferably made centrally on the first abutment (60).

[0105] The first protrusion (62) may be fixed to the framework (9) of the first side (a) of the first panel (B).

[0106] The first protrusion (62), alternatively, may be in one piece with the framework (9) of the first side (a) of the first panel (B).

[0107] The second protrusion (63) may be fixed to the framework (9) of the first side (a) of the second panel (A).

[0108] The second protrusion (63), alternatively, may be in one piece with the framework (9) of the first side (a) of the second panel (A). Preferably, the first panel (B) comprises a second side (b) and a third side (c), which are opposite each other and are adjacent to its respective first side (a) (fig. 5); the second panel (A) comprises a second side (b) and a third side (c), which are opposite each other and are adjacent to its respective first side (a); the centering means (6) comprise a first lateral guide (64) and a second lateral guide (65), which are opposite each other and are arranged to abut respectively the second side (b) and the third side (c) of the first panel (B) and of the second panel

[0109] (A).

[0110] The first lateral guide (64) and the second lateral guide (65) allow the first panel

[0111] (B) and the second panel (A) to be aligned precisely, reducing the risk of positioning errors.

[0112] The first lateral guide (64) and the second lateral guide (65) cooperate with the notch (61 ) and the first protrusion (62) of the first panel (B) and the second protrusion (63) of the second panel (A) to guide and center the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) on the cutting plane (4).

[0113] This is particularly useful when the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) are used repeatedly, since it ensures that the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) are always in the same cutting position.

[0114] The first lateral guide (64) and the second lateral guide (65) may shape guiding bars.

[0115] In the preferred embodiment, the first lateral guide (64) and the second lateral guide (65) are carried by the handling means (7).

[0116] Alternatively, the first lateral guide (64) and the second lateral guide (65) may be fixed to the frame (2) of the cutting machine. More specifically, the first lateral guide (64) and the second lateral guide (65) may be fixed to the fixed plane (3) (see figures 14, 15). Preferably, the handling means (7) comprise: a gripping element (70) that shapes a slot (70a) that embraces a portion of the edge of the first panel (B) and that embraces a portion of the edge of the second panel (A) (fig. 2A); second movement means (8) (fig. 2, 7, 8, 8A) for moving along a horizontal direction allowing engagement and disengagement of the gripping element (70) from the edge portion of the first panel (B) and from the edge portion of the second panel (A), and along a vertical direction for lifting the first panel (B) and the second panel (A).

[0117] Advantageously, the automatic movement of the handling means (7), combined with the gripping ease provided by the gripping element (70), reduces transition times between lifting of the first panel (B) and lifting of the second panel (A), improving operating efficiency.

[0118] In the preferred embodiment, the gripping element (70) moves along a horizontal direction according to the Z direction of fig. 9B, and in the opposite direction, to embrace the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) on the first side (a).

[0119] The slot (70a) may have a complementary shape to the edges of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) in order to improve gripping.

[0120] The simple geometric shape of the slot (70a) allows effective and precise coupling without the need for complex adjustment or clamping systems.

[0121] In the preferred embodiment, the edge of the first panel (B) and the edge of the second panel (A) are identified in the framework (9) of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A).

[0122] The sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) may comprise second sensors, not illustrated, which are carried by the handling means (7) to detect the positioning of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) inside the slot (70a) of the gripping element (70).

[0123] The second sensors may be presence sensors. For example, the second sensors may be contact sensors or proximity sensors.

[0124] The second sensors may control the movement of the second movement means (8) along the horizontal direction to engage the gripping element (70) with the first panel (B) and with the second panel (A), and along the vertical direction to lift the first panel (B) and the second panel (A), and to lower the gripping element (70) following disengagement of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) from the gripping element (70).

[0125] The handling means (7) are preferably adjacent to the cutting plane (4).

[0126] The handling means (7) may be two handling means.

[0127] Preferably, the handling means (7) are sized to embrace the edge of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) at the sides of the first abutment (60).

[0128] In the preferred embodiment, the handling means are aligned with each other.

[0129] The gripping element (70) of one handling means preferably carries the first lateral guide (64).

[0130] The gripping element (70) of the other handling means preferably carries the second lateral guide (65).

[0131] Both the gripping element (70) of one handling means and the first lateral guide (64), and the gripping element (70) of the other handling means and the second lateral guide (65), may be arranged in an “L” configuration.

[0132] In the preferred embodiment, the second movement means (8) are, for example, a plurality of double-acting air pistons.

[0133] The second movement means (8) may be linear actuators. The second movement means (8) comprise: first actuators (83) (fig. 2A, 5E, 6A), for moving the handling means (7) along the horizontal direction; second actuators (84) for moving the handling means (7) along the vertical direction to lift the first panel (B) (fig. 2A, 8A, 10A).

[0134] The first actuators (83) and the second actuators (84), in the preferred embodiment, may be connected to the first lateral guide (64) and to the second lateral guide (65).

[0135] The first actuators (83) and the second actuators (84) may be connected to the gripping element (70) of the handling means (7).

[0136] In the preferred embodiment, the first lateral guide (64) and the second lateral guide (65) may cooperate with the guiding elements (98) provided on the support plane (99) to guide the first panel (B) from the resting position on the support plane (99) to the cutting position on the cutting plane (4) in the predefined cutting position.

[0137] The second movement means (8), as illustrated in figure 10A, specifically the rods of the second actuators (84), cooperate with the guiding elements (98) provided on the support plane (99) to guide the second panel (A) from the resting position on the support plane (99) to the cutting position on the cutting plane (4) in the predefined cutting position when the first panel (B) is lifted.

[0138] In a variant embodiment, illustrated in figures 14, 15, the handling means (7) may be opposite each other to move along a horizontal direction according to the direction of arrow Z1 of fig. 15A and in the opposite direction, to embrace the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) on the second side (b) and on the third side (c). In figures 14-16, the same reference numerals will be used to indicate parts identical to those described for the preferred embodiment, regardless of their arrangement.

[0139] In the variant embodiment illustrated in figures 14, 15, the cutting machine may comprise second abutments (97) carried by the handling means (7) to abut the edge of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) when they are in the cutting position.

[0140] The second abutments (97) may be fixed to the gripping element (70) of the handling means (7).

[0141] The second abutments (97), alternatively, may be in one piece with the gripping element (70) of the handling means (7).

[0142] The second abutments (97) and the gripping element (70) may be arranged in an “L” configuration (figures 14A, 15A, 16).

[0143] The fixed plane (3) of the frame (2) comprises a plurality of openings (32) (fig. 2A, 5G, 6B, 8A, 9B) in which the handling means (7) and the first lateral guides (64) and the second lateral guides (65) are arranged, for the preferred embodiment.

[0144] The handling means (7) and the second abutments (97) for the variant illustrated in figures 14-16 are also arranged in the plurality of openings (32).

[0145] It is specified that the movement of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) is preferably performed in a semi-automatic manner.

[0146] By “semi-automatic” movement it is meant that the positioning of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) in the cutting position is performed by an operator, and that the movement of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) to the lifted position is performed automatically by the handling means (7).

[0147] However, the movement of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) may be performed fully automatically. The automatic movement may be performed by robots according to known technique and the use of the first sensors and the second sensors.

[0148] It is also an object of the present invention a method for cutting sheet articles (10), wherein:

[0149] • it comprises the step of providing a sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims;

[0150] • the sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) operates cyclically, and each cycle comprises the following steps: a) positioning the first panel (B), on which sheet articles (10) to be cut are supported, in the cutting position (fig. 3); b) cutting the sheet articles (10) that are supported on the first panel (B) (fig. 4); c) lifting the first panel (B) from the cutting position to the lifted position (fig. 7); d) positioning the second panel (A), on which sheet articles (10) to be cut are supported, in the cutting position (fig. 10); e) removing the first panel (B) from the lifted position (fig. 11 ); f) cutting the sheet articles (10) that are supported on the second panel (A); g) lifting the second panel (A) from the cutting position to the lifted position; h) unloading from the first panel (B) the sheet articles (10) that have been cut and loading on the first panel (B) additional sheet articles (10) to be cut; i) removing the second panel (A) from the lifted position; j) unloading from the second panel (A) the sheet articles (10) that have been cut and loading on the second panel (A) additional sheet articles (10) to be cut.

[0151] The sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) operates cyclically, which means that the phases of cutting, lifting, and removal of the first panel (B) and of the second panel (A) are managed in a continuous cycle. This reduces waiting times between one cycle and the next, improving operating efficiency. Each phase is designed to operate sequentially without significant interruptions, optimizing the production capacity of the machine.

[0152] Using a first panel (B) and a second panel (A) for loading and cutting the sheet articles (10) allows reduction of machine downtime. While the first panel (B) is in the cutting phase, the second panel (A) may be loaded with additional sheet articles (10) to be cut. This approach enables an almost continuous working process and reduces the inactivity periods of the cutting machine.

[0153] Preferably, before step a), a preliminary step a*) is performed, wherein: loading on the first panel (B) the sheet articles (10) to be cut, to prepare the machine for the beginning of the cutting process.

[0154] Preferably, in the last cycle of the cutting machine, in place of step j), the method comprises the following steps: j*) unloading from the second panel (A) the sheet articles (10) that have been cut; k) removing the first panel (B) from the lifted position and unloading from the first panel (B) the sheet articles (10) that have been cut.

[0155] Preferably, step e) is performed before step f).

[0156] This preferential sequence of operations allows optimization of the cycle flow, ensuring that the first panel (B) in use is lifted and removed before proceeding with the cutting of the sheet articles (10) on the second panel (A). This is advantageous in terms of operational safety and reduces the risk of overlaps or interference between the lifting operations of the first panel (B) and the cutting of the sheet articles (10) on the second panel (A).

[0157] Preferably, step i) is performed before step b) of the subsequent cycle.

[0158] This preferential sequence also allows optimization of the cycle flow, ensuring that the second panel (A) in use is lifted and removed before proceeding with the cutting of the sheet articles (10) on the first panel (B). Also in this phase, advantageously, the risk of overlaps or interference is reduced between the lifting operations of the second panel (A) and the cutting of the sheet articles (10) on the first panel (B) of the subsequent cycle.

[0159] Preferably, step h) is performed at least during step f).

[0160] The step of unloading the sheet articles (10) cut from the first panel (B) and loading additional sheet articles (10) to be cut onto the first panel (B) (step h) during the cutting phase of the sheet articles (10) on the second panel (A) (step f) may further improve productivity, since the idle time between one cycle and the next may be minimized.

[0161] Preferably, step j) is performed at least during step b) of the subsequent cycle.

[0162] Also in this preferential sequence, the step of unloading the sheet articles (10) cut from the second panel (A) and loading additional sheet articles (10) to be cut onto the second panel (A) (step j) during the cutting phase of the sheet articles (10) on the second panel (A) (step f) may further improve productivity, since the idle time between one cycle and the next may be minimized. This implies that preparation work of the articles to be cut takes place while the cutting machine is engaged in the cutting cycle, making the process even more continuous.

[0163] It is understood that the above has been described by way of example and not limitation, and that any constructional variants are intended to fall within the protective scope of the present technical solution as claimed below.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) in which: it comprises a frame (2); it comprises a cutting plane (4) carried by the frame (2); it comprises cutting means (5) carried by the frame (2), for performing the cutting of sheet articles (10); it comprises first movement means (50) carried by the frame (2), for moving the cutting means (5); characterized in that: it comprises a first panel (B) to support sheet articles (10) and to be positioned on the cutting plane (4); it comprises a second panel (A) to support sheet articles (10) and to be positioned on the cutting plane (4); it comprises centering means (6) carried by the frame (2) and arranged to center the first panel (B) when the first panel (B) is being positioned on the cutting plane (4), so that it assumes a predetermined cutting position, and to center the second panel (A) when the second panel (A) is being positioned on the cutting plane (4), so that it assumes the aforementioned cutting position; the first movement means (50) are configured to move the cutting means (5) so as to cut the sheet articles (10) supported on the first panel (B) when the first panel (B) is in the cutting position, and to cut the sheet articles (10) supported on the second panel (A) when the second panel (A) is in the cutting position; it comprises handling means (7) carried by the frame (2) and configured: to lift the first panel (B) from the cutting position to a lifted position, located at a height allowing the positioning of the second panel (A) in the cutting position; and to liftthe second panel (A) from the cutting position to the lifted position, located at a height allowing the positioning of the first panel (B) in the cutting position.

2. Sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first panel (B) is sized to be manually moved to the cutting position, and the second panel (A) is sized to be manually moved into the cutting position.

3. Sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: the cutting plane (4) comprises a plurality of suction holes (40); it comprises a suction source connected to the suction holes of the plurality of suction holes (40) of the cutting plane (4); both the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) comprise: a framework (9); a planar element (90) carried by the framework (9) and air-permeable so that the sheet articles (10) supported on it can be stably held when the suction source is active.

4. Sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein it comprises a support plane (99) to temporarily support the second panel (A) when the first panel (B) is in the cutting position, and to temporarily support the first panel (B) when the second panel (A) is in the cutting position.

5. Sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the centering means (6) comprise: a first abutment (60) carried by the frame (2), adjacent to the cutting plane (4), shaping a notch (61 ) and arranged to abut a first side (a) of the first panel (B) and the second panel (A); a first protrusion (62) carried by the first panel (B) and having a shape complementary to the aforementioned notch (61 ) to engage by shape with thesame notch (61 ); a second protrusion (63) carried by the second panel (A) and having a shape complementary to the aforementioned notch (61 ) to engage by shape with the same notch (61 ).

6. Sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) according to claim 5, wherein: the first panel (B) comprises a second side (b) and a third side (c) opposed and adjacent to its respective first side (a); the second panel (A) comprises a second side (b) and a third side (c) opposed and adjacent to its respective first side (a); the centering means (6) comprise a first lateral guide (64) and a second lateral guide (65) opposed to each other and arranged to abut respectively the second side (b) and the third side (c) of the first panel (B) and the second panel (A).

7. Sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the handling means (7) comprise: a gripping element (70) shaping a slot (70a) that embraces a portion of the edge of the first panel (B) and a portion of the edge of the second panel (A); second movement means (8) for moving along a horizontal direction to engage and disengage the gripping element (70) from the edge portion of the first panel (B) and the edge portion of the second panel (A), and along a vertical direction to lift the first panel (B) and the second panel (A).

8. Sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) are sized within a range in which the width varies between 1000 mm and 1800 mm.

9. Sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first panel (B) and the second panel (A) are sized within a range in which the length / depth varies between 500 mm and 900 mm.

10. Method for cutting sheet articles (10), wherein: it comprises the step of providing a sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims; the sheet articles cutting machine (1 ) operates cyclically, and each cycle comprises the following steps: a) positioning the first panel (B), on which sheet articles (10) to be cut are supported, in the cutting position; b) cutting the sheet articles (10) supported on the first panel (B); c) lifting the first panel (B) from the cutting position to the lifted position; d) positioning the second panel (A), on which sheet articles (10) to be cut are supported, in the cutting position; e) removing the first panel (B) from the lifted position; f) cutting the sheet articles (10) supported on the second panel (A); g) lifting the second panel (A) from the cutting position to the lifted position; h) unloading the sheet articles (10) cut from the first panel (B) and loading additional sheet articles (10) to be cut onto the first panel (B); i) removing the second panel (A) from the lifted position; j) unloading the sheet articles (10) cut from the second panel (A) and loading additional sheet articles (10) to be cut onto the second panel (A).

11. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein step e) is performed before step f).

12. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein step i) is performed before step b) of the subsequent cycle.

13. Method according to any of claims 10 to 12, wherein step h) is performed at least during step f).

14. Method according to any of claims 10 to 13, wherein step j) is performed at least during step b) of the subsequent cycle.

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