Flat Element Handling Arm for Automated Turnover in Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handling devices for flat elements in printing machines do not automate the process of turning flat elements over for dual-sided printing, requiring manual intervention and complicating the system layout, increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A device with a supporting structure and handling means, including an arm with articulated elements and vacuum suction cups, that can pick up, turn over, and position flat elements automatically on a printing machine's loading or unloading surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If existing handling devices are used for loading and unloading flat elements, then automation of loading and unloading is achieved, but manual intervention is still required for turning flat elements over
Solution Approach 1:
The handling device is designed to perform multiple functions: loading flat elements from the stack, unloading printed flat elements, and turning them over. The arm with suction cups can grip and reposition flat elements in different orientations, enabling the same device to handle both loading/unloading and overturning operations without requiring separate manual intervention or additional turning devices.
2Extent of automation
If separate turning devices are added to automate the overturning process, then full automation is achieved, but device complexity and system footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handling device integrates turning functionality into its existing structure. The arm with suction cups can reposition flat elements by lifting and rotating them, eliminating the need for separate turning devices. This multi-functional approach achieves full automation while maintaining simple system layout and avoiding additional infrastructure requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are used for loading, unloading, and turning, then each function is specialized, but the footprint and infrastructure costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines loading, unloading, and turning functions into a single integrated handling device. The arm with suction cups performs all three operations by coordinating its movement and gripping actions, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices and reducing the production line footprint to the space required for one compact unit.
4Device complexity
If flat elements are handled with frequent manual intervention, then system simplicity is maintained, but productivity and operational time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handling device operates autonomously to perform all handling operations including loading, unloading, and turning flat elements. The arm with suction cups automatically grips, repositions, and orients flat elements without requiring manual intervention, thereby increasing productivity and reducing operational time while maintaining system simplicity through a single integrated device.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device minimizes manual operations, reduces the footprint of the production line, and enables efficient automated loading, unloading, and overturning of flat elements, enhancing productivity and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
said arm (22) comprises a manipulating arm (38) and a support arm (25) provided with vacuum suction cups (30)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns a device for handling flat elements for a printing machine (M), the device comprising a supporting structure (12) defining a supporting surface (14) and at least one arm (22) provided with pick-up means (24), configured to grip a flat element and to move it between the supporting surface (14) and loading and unloading positions and to turn said flat element over if necessary.