ES3019609T3 - Device and method for making ready a die for cutting - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for dressing (350) a processing tool (301) of a sheet metal processing machine (01), wherein at least one processing tool (301) can be positioned and dressed on a support surface (351) of the dressing device (350). (Automatic translation with Google Translate, no legal value)

Description

DESCRIPTION

Device and method of arranging a processing tool

The invention relates to a device for arranging a punching tool according to the preamble of claim 1 and to a method according to claim 7.

In packaging manufacturing, materials are processed in the form of webs or sheets. In various processing steps, the sheets are printed, stamped, slotted, perforated, die-cut, cut, stapled, glued, and folded to create packaging, for example.

To maximize the surface area of a sheet, several identical or different copies, for example, of a poster, a folding carton, or a piece of packaging, are generally printed on a common sheet and then die-cut. These copies are known as die-cuts. A sheet-fed processing machine can comprise several processing steps, such as printing, cutting, embossing, slotting, die-cutting, perforating, gluing, and/or stapling. Such sheet-fed processing machines often also feature inspection equipment. The sheets are generally processed and cut to size on processing machines with die-cutting and die-cutting equipment.

Such a processing machine is designed, for example, as a die-cutting, cutting, punching, embossing, and/or slotting machine. When such a processing machine is referred to hereinafter as a die-cutting machine and/or die-cutting machine, it also refers specifically to a cutting, punching, embossing, and/or slotting machine. In this regard, in the case of form-related systems, in addition to rotary die-cutting, there is also flatbed die-cutting, in particular flatbed die-cutting. In these, several sheets are processed successively by means of a cyclical repeating motion.

The use of rotary die-cutting machines enables significantly higher production speeds thanks to the continuous motion process. Rotary die-cutting machines can be equipped, for example, with a die-cutting unit, a slotting unit, an embossing unit, and a peeling unit. Such a rotary die-cutting system is known, for example, from WO 2017/089420 A2.

Manufacturing tolerances on tools or uneven load distribution during processing, particularly during die-cutting, can lead to wear on blades or tools with height differences. This results in uneven die-cutting pressure, for example, which can lead to an unclean die-cutting result. Die-cutting and/or grooving and/or stamping tools must be readjusted to compensate for defects and/or deviations. To achieve this, an agent is applied to the back of the respective processing tool. This is called processing tool dressing.

EP 2327521 A1 discloses, for example, a method for adjusting die-cutting tools in flatbed die-cutting. In flatbed die-cutting, the adjustment is usually carried out with special adhesive tapes and/or special adhesive strips, which compensate for unevenness and/or deviations and/or defects of the blades. The defects and/or deviations are compensated for by gluing behind the die-cutting and/or slotting blades. Due to the relatively high tolerances in the flatbed area, the die-cutting tool can be sufficiently aligned with the adhesive tape. This adhesive tape is available in various thicknesses. Alternatively, (arrangement) sheets with the required basic contour can be used for the adjustment to precisely apply the layers in order to match the cutting edge heights. (Arrangement) sheets made of paper, such as tissue paper, plastic, or the like, are used. These sheets are usually thin and pressure-stable and represent the entire contour of the required cutting edge.

Publication DE 10 2012 017 636 A1 relates to a method for determining the machine-specific rework requirement of a punching and stamping machine, in which a tool-specific rework requirement is read from a database. In this context, each tool type is assigned a rework requirement value or a rework requirement factor in the database.

Document DE 102013016755 A1 discloses an arrangement device for flatbed die-cutting and/or stamping machines, the arrangement being provided by targeted control of heating cartridges in a plurality of aluminum metal blocks arranged side by side in a matrix. The heating cartridges are controlled by a control unit via a bus system of a machine control system. Furthermore, memories are provided for this purpose, which have the finishing requirements as a function of the tool, and the heating cartridges in the respective metal blocks are thus controlled accordingly.

A system for compensating for misalignments due to defects in a die for die-cutting cardboard is known from the generic document EP 3342 568 A1. Height correction elements can be detected to project a digital representation of the digital file onto a pressure compensation plate of the die. EP 3342 568 A1 discloses a device for resurfacing a pressure compensation plate of a die. The pressure compensation plate is arranged either between the processing tool and the die or beneath the counter-pressure surface. In this way, the processing tool itself is resurfaced as indirectly as possible. A correction template, previously recorded by a camera, is projected onto the pressure compensation plate by means of a projector. The correction template corresponds to a representation of height-leveling adhesive tape (repair tape). Document DE 202013 100883 U1 also discloses a specification sheet for a steel strip punching tool.

Document EP 0418 768 A2 discloses a blanking plate, as well as a method for its production and a tool for carrying out the method. Negative tolerances arising from grinding the blanking edges can be compensated for by a layer of plastic, e.g., a two-component liquid phase, on the back of the blanking plate.

Differences in the processing contour and cutting edge height also occur during rotary die cutting. Due to the rotary process, the lower distortion caused by lower die pressures, and the high-precision finishing of cutting edge contours using CNC milling, the cutting edge tolerances that need to be corrected are significantly smaller. As a rule, layer thicknesses of 5-10 micrometers are sufficient for compensation.

The invention is based on the objective of creating a device and an arrangement method.

The objective is achieved according to the invention by the features of claim 1 or claim 7.

The advantages that can be achieved with the invention consist, in particular, in that the operator can have a faster and simpler setup. In this regard, a setup sheet behind the processing tool, in particular the die-cutting tool, can be dispensed with. The costly production and/or storage of the setup sheet, in addition to the costs of the processing tools, in particular the die-cutting and/or slotting tools, can be dispensed with. Not only does a setup sheet always have to be produced and/or archived, in addition to the costs of the tools, but it also deteriorates over time due to repeated use and must then be produced again at great expense and time. In particular, the invention is not limited to rotary processing methods, but is also particularly suitable for use in planar and cyclically controlled processing methods. Fixing also makes sense in flatbed die-cutting, as the use of fixing agents also eliminates the need for conventional fixing sheets. Larger deviations can also be compensated for depending on the use of the fixing agent.

Another advantage that can be achieved with the invention is, in particular, that the time required for setup is minimized and handling is improved. For this purpose, a digital processing contour is used. The digital processing contour of the processing tool can, for example, be determined from a preliminary processing phase, such as a preliminary die-cutting phase and/or a preliminary printing phase. After inspecting the processing tool and/or the processing result, areas can be marked on the digital processing contour. For the inspection, a sample sheet is processed, for example, or the contours of the processing tool are directly observed. This is done by an operator or is performed fully automatically by integrated inspection equipment. Marking is preferably performed at a control station, where the processing contour or cutting scheme is displayed, and the (setup) points to be readjusted are directly marked using input equipment. However, markings on mobile devices are also conceivable and useful. In principle, any digital input device can be used. This digital data can then be used in various ways to facilitate and, if necessary, automate the setup of the processing tool. For example, this data can also be saved and retrieved at any time. Particularly when setup sheets were used, the work result cannot/could not be saved and had to be produced again.

This is most easily achieved by coupling it with a projection device. The processing tool is placed in an oriented position, and the processing contour with markings is projected onto the back of the processing tool. An operator can quickly and easily identify the areas where a repair agent needs to be applied. This makes the repair points easy to identify. A short-throw projector is particularly suitable for this purpose, as it saves space. To further facilitate handling, a liquid repair agent is used. This can be cured, for example, by radiation, particularly UV radiation.

Additionally or alternatively, the digital data can be transmitted directly to a control system to control an actuator arm. Thus, for example, the actuator arm can apply the fixation agent fully automatically. For example, the controlled arm can communicate via a machine control system and receive signals, for example, from a quality control system. For example, such a quality control system is located in different areas of the die-cutting machine and/or can also be located, for example, on upstream machines, such as printers, and/or downstream machines, such as folders and/or gluers. In particular, it is possible to link different processes and boost automation. This eliminates time-consuming and/or inaccurate manual fixation.

This can save additional labor costs. For example, an operator would only have to select the desired UV layer thickness. The controlled arm does the rest automatically. Curing, for example, is also fully automated. In this embodiment, for example, spraying could be eliminated.

Another advantage that can be achieved with the invention is, in particular, that the processing tool is fixed directly on the processing machine. In another automated embodiment, the processing tool is removed from the processing machine semi-automatically and/or fully automatically, for example similar to an automatic plate changer on a printing press, and the fixing agent is applied fully automatically with the aid of digital data, for example, by the actuator arm. A processing tool, in particular a die-cutting plate, can be automatically coated with varnish in a spot manner and then cured directly on a plate changer, for example. It would then not be necessary to remove the die-cutting plate from the forming unit or the die-cutting tower, for example. In the case of a fully automatic plate changer, the operator does not even have to leave the control station. After curing, the plate can be inserted again using an automatic plate changer.

Another advantage that can be achieved with the invention is, in particular, that the repair is carried out using a varnish and/or varnish mixture that can be applied. Spray varnishes are typically used for surface and/or area application. This allows the operator to perform a repair more quickly and easily. Touch-up pencils can be used to apply precise lines in small areas. Preferably, such a varnish can be applied and then cured. In this regard, the waiting time for the varnishes to dry can be minimized by using radiation equipment, preferably with a large area. Preferably, such radiation equipment is attached to a fixed structure so that stray radiation can be avoided and better protection of the operator is guaranteed. In particular, faster curing and/or drying can be achieved over the entire surface. Preferably, this curing is carried out with UV light. This method has the advantage that the varnish can be applied with great precision and the curing can be carried out in a highly controlled manner. When the coating is cured using UV radiation, for example, a scratch-resistant layer is created that is sufficiently resistant to temperature and mechanical stresses for use in a die-cutting machine. In particular, thin layers with the required tolerances of 5–10 µm can be implemented. For example, the layer thickness can be adjusted depending on the mixing ratio of the coating, for example, with alcohol. This allows for layer thicknesses of between 5 and 15 µm to be implemented. UV coatings are preferably cured over a large surface area using a UV LED, which is preferably arranged in the array device. The array thus created can be very easily removed once curing and/or drying has been completed over the large surface area. Overall, this facilitates readjustment and/or adjustment and considerably simplifies the handling of the tools required. Furthermore, the array can be applied with great precision, and only the cutting edge contours that actually need to be adjusted can be adjusted. In the case of large-area patching, areas that already had sufficient cut quality are patched. This can be avoided. Furthermore, the finishes are scratch-resistant, mechanically durable, and resistant to the temperatures introduced into the die-cutting cylinder (heat-resistant). Rapid curing and/or drying minimize operator waiting time during patching.

Alternatively or additionally to the curable fixing agent, the fixing agent can be a dispersion consisting of a dispersion medium and a dispersed phase. The dispersion medium contains at least one solvent, preferably a highly volatile one. The dispersed phase consists of a finely dispersed solid. When the solvent evaporates, it remains behind and can be used for fixing. Very thin layers can thus be applied. The dispersion is particularly easy to apply with an applicator pen and can be applied automatically with an actuator arm. The dispersions are also characterized by a high proportion of highly volatile solvents. This makes it possible to minimize the drying time. For example, a drying time of just a few seconds can be achieved. A particularly preferred solvent for such a dispersion is a ketone, preferably methyl ethyl ketone (abbreviated as MEK). The solvent evaporates very quickly, resulting in rapid drying of the dispersion. In particular, the particles and/or pigments in the dispersion that remain behind form a robust layer that is resistant to scratches, pressure, and heat. The dispersion preferably has a high solvent content, at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, even more preferably 70%. By adjusting the solvent content, the thickness of the patch layer can be easily regulated. It is particularly advantageous to use a dispersion containing finely dispersed particles, particularly pigments. The patch dispersion is preferably an ink, more preferably an inkjet ink. The advantage of ink is that it is inexpensive and readily available. Furthermore, inkjet ink poses little danger to the operator. Radiation for drying can also be dispensed with. Particularly preferably, the ink can also be applied automatically using an inkjet printing device.

Another advantage that can be achieved with the invention is, in particular, that the processing tools, preferably the punching tools, can be inspected by a mobile device and detected defects can be automatically transmitted.

The errors can then be corrected automatically, for example, using the procedure described above.

The drawings show embodiments of the invention, which are described in more detail below.

They show:

Fig. 1 a side view of the processing machine in a preferred embodiment;

Fig. 2 an overview of the processing machine in a preferred embodiment in a plan view with preferred arrangements of the arranging device;

Fig. 3 shows an exemplary sheet with two die-cut pieces and residual pieces, where the two die-cut pieces are separated from each other by a core;

Fig. 4 shows another exemplary sheet with two die-cut pieces and residual pieces, where the two residual pieces are arranged side by side and contiguous;

Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a stack of sheets comprising several partial stacks;

Fig. 6 a schematic representation of a stack of blanks comprising several stacks of partial blanks, each of which is separated from the others, for example, by an interleaved sheet;

Fig. 7 a schematic representation of an individual partial stack of sheets;

Fig. 8 a schematic representation of a stack of blanks during unloading of blanks with an interleaved sheet;

Fig. 9 a perspective view of an array device in a preferred embodiment;

Fig. 10 a schematic representation of the array device in a further preferred embodiment;

Fig. 11 a representation of a UV varnish pen.

A processing machine 01 is preferably configured as a sheet-form processing machine 01, in particular as a die-cutter 01, more preferably as a rotary die-cutter 01, for processing at least one, preferably at least two, more preferably a plurality of, sheet-shaped substrates 02 or sheets 02. In the foregoing and hereinafter, per processing machine 01 and/or

Sheet processing machine 01 also means, in particular, die-cutting machine 01. The processing machine 01 has at least one unit 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400, preferably a plurality of units 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400. Preferably, the processing machine 01, in particular the sheet processing machine 01, preferably comprises at least one, preferably at least two, more preferably at least three, more preferably at least four, units 300; 400; 500; 600 configured as forming units 300; 400; 500; 600 for processing sheets 02, for example, at least one first forming unit 300 and/or at least one second forming unit 400 and/or at least one third forming unit 500 and/or at least one fourth forming unit 600.

By unit 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400 is preferably understood in each case a group of equipment which functionally cooperate, in particular to be able to carry out a preferably self-contained processing operation on at least one substrate 02. Preferably, a unit 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400 each comprises a machine section of the processing machine 01, which is preferably arranged so that it can be spatially separated at least partially from other machine sections.

Unless an explicit distinction is made, the term substrate 02, in particular sheet-shaped substrate 02, specifically sheet 02, will in this case basically include any flat substrate 02 that is present in sections, i.e. also a panel- or sheet-shaped substrate 02, i.e. also panels or sheets. The sheet-shaped substrate 02 or the sheet 02 defined in this way are made, for example, of cardboard and/or corrugated cardboard, i.e. sheets of cardboard and/or sheets of corrugated cardboard, or by sheets, panels or, where appropriate, sheets of plastic, cardboard, glass, wood or metal. More preferably, the sheet-shaped substrate 02 is paper and/or cardboard, in particular sheets of paper and/or sheets of cardboard. In particular, in the foregoing and hereinafter, the term sheet 02 refers both to sheets 02 that have not yet been processed by means of at least one unit 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400 and to sheets 02 that have already been processed by means of at least one unit 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400 and which may have been modified in this respect in their shape and/or their mass.

According to DIN 6730 (February 2011), paper is a flat material consisting essentially of fibers, mostly of plant origin, formed by draining a fibrous suspension over a sieve. This creates a fiber mat, which is then dried. The paper grammage is preferably a maximum of 225 g/m2 (225 grams per square meter). According to DIN 6730 (February 2011), board is a flat material consisting essentially of fibers of plant origin, formed by draining a fibrous suspension over a sieve or between two sieves. The fiber structure is compacted and dried. Board is preferably produced from cellulose by gluing or pressing. Board is preferably configured as solid board or corrugated board. The grammage of the board is preferably greater than 225 g/m2 (225 grams per square meter). Corrugated cardboard is paperboard manufactured from one or more layers of corrugated paper, glued to a layer or between several layers of another paper or cardboard, preferably smooth. In the preceding and following sections, the term "board" refers to a flat paper structure, preferably coated on one side, with a grammage of at least 150 g/m2 (one hundred and fifty grams per square meter) and at most 600 g/m2 (six hundred grams per square meter). Board preferably has a higher strength than paper.

A sheet 02 to be processed, preferably the at least one sheet 02, preferably has a grammage of at least 60 g/m2 (seventy grams per square meter) and/or at most 700 g/m2 (seven hundred grams per square meter), preferably at most 500 g/m2 (five hundred grams per square meter), more preferably at most 200 g/m2 (two hundred grams per square meter). Preferably, a sheet 02 to be processed, preferably the at least one sheet 02, has a thickness of at most 1.5 cm (one point five centimeters), preferably at most 1.0 cm (one point zero centimeters), more preferably at most 0.6 cm (zero point six centimeters). For example, the at least one sheet 02 has a thickness of at least 0.01 cm (zero point zero one centimeter), preferably at least 0.03 cm (zero point zero three centimeters).

The at least one substrate 02, in particular the at least one sheet 02, preferably has a sheet width, preferably parallel to a transverse direction A, of exactly at least 200 mm (two hundred millimeters), preferably at least 300 mm (three hundred millimeters), more preferably at least 400 mm (four hundred millimeters). The sheet width is preferably at most 1500 mm (one thousand five hundred millimeters), more preferably at most 1300 mm (one thousand three hundred millimeters), even more preferably at most 1060 mm (one thousand sixty millimeters). The sheet length, preferably parallel to a transport direction T, is, for example, at least 150 mm (one hundred and fifty millimeters), preferably at least 250 mm (two hundred and fifty millimeters), more preferably at least 350 mm (three hundred and fifty millimeters). Furthermore, the sheet length is, for example, a maximum of 1200 mm (one thousand two hundred millimetres), preferably a maximum of 1000 mm (one thousand millimetres), more preferably a maximum of 800 mm (eight hundred millimetres).

In the above and below, the term "blank" 03 preferably refers to the number of identical and/or different objects that are produced from the same piece of material and/or are arranged on a common carrier material, for example, a common sheet 02. A blank 03 is preferably the area of a sheet 02 that is configured as a product of the sheet-forming machine 01, in particular as an intermediate product for the production of a final product, and/or that is to be further processed, for example, to create a desired or required final product, and/or that is configured so that it can be further processed. Preferably, in this case, the desired or required final product, which is preferably produced by further processing of the respective blank 03, is a container, in particular a folding carton, or a label and/or a tag, in particular a label and/or a tag of a container. Preferably, the at least one sheet 02 has at least one die-cut part 03, preferably at least two die-cut parts 03, more preferably at least four die-cut parts 03, more preferably at least eight die-cut parts 03, for example twelve die-cut parts 03. Preferably, the at least two die-cut parts 03 of the at least one sheet 02 are connected to each other and/or to the respective adjacent die-cut part 03 in each case by at least one fastening point, preferably by at least two fastening points, more preferably by at least four fastening points.

A waste piece 04; 05; 06 is, in the above and below, the area of a sheet 02 that does not correspond to a punched-out piece 03. The collected waste pieces 04; 05; 06 are preferably referred to as scrap. A waste piece 04; 05; 06 is preferably configured and/or removable as an offcut and/or a peel-off part. During operation of the sheet-forming machine 01, preferably the at least one waste piece 04; 05; 06 is generated in at least one forming unit 300, preferably by at least one processing step of the respective sheet 02, for example, in at least one punching operation. During operation of the sheet-forming machine 01, preferably the at least one waste piece 04; 05; 06 is at least partially removed from the respective sheet 02 and thus separated, in particular, from the respective punched out pieces 03 of the sheet 02. At least one fourth forming unit 600 configured as a peeling unit 600 is configured, for example, such that it removes at least a first waste piece 04, in particular at least one scrap piece 04, and/or is configured to remove at least one scrap piece 04. At least one unit 1200 configured as a punched out piece separating unit 1200, in particular a punched out piece separating device 1200, is preferably configured such that it removes at least a second waste piece 06, in particular at least one gripping edge 06, and/or is configured to remove at least one gripping edge 06. For example, a sheet 02 comprises a waste piece 05 configured as a web 05. In particular, the blanks 03 are spaced apart from one another by the at least one web 05. Preferably, the at least one blank separation unit 1200 is designed to remove the at least one residual blank 05; 06, in particular the at least one web 05 and/or the at least one gripping edge 06.

The at least one substrate 02, in particular the at least one sheet 02, has several edges 07; 08; 09. In particular, an edge 07 configured as a leading edge 07 is oriented at the front of the sheet 02 in the transport direction T and arranged orthogonally to the transport direction A. In particular, the leading edge 07 is the edge 07 of the at least one sheet 02 which, for the transport of the at least one sheet 02, can preferably be gripped by at least one component of the sheet processing machine 01, in particular by at least one transport means of at least one transport system, and/or by which at least one component of the sheet processing machine 01, in particular by the at least one transport means of the at least one transport system, grips the at least one sheet 02. An edge 08 of the at least one sheet 02, configured as a trailing edge 08, is preferably arranged opposite the leading edge 07. More preferably, the leading edge 07 and the trailing edge 08 are arranged parallel to each other. In particular, the rear edge 08 faces rearward of the at least one sheet 02 in the transport direction T and is arranged orthogonally to the transport direction T. The sheet 02 further comprises two edges 09 designed as side edges 09. The two side edges 09 are preferably arranged parallel to the transport direction T. Preferably, the two side edges 09 are preferably arranged in each case orthogonally to the front edge 07 and/or the rear edge 08 of the sheet 02.

The at least one sheet 02 preferably has at least one printed image. In the above and below, the printed image describes a representation on the at least one sheet 02, which corresponds to the sum of all image elements, the image elements having been transferred and/or being transferable to the sheet 02 during at least one work step and/or at least one printing operation, for example before or during processing by the sheet processing machine 01. Preferably, the surface of the at least one sheet 02 has at least one unprinted area, in particular an unprinted edge area, which is preferably configured as the at least one residual piece 06 and/or the at least one gripping edge 06. For example, the at least one sheet 02 has the at least one gripping edge 06 on its leading edge 07 or on its trailing edge 08.

Preferably, the at least one sheet 02 has in each case at least one gripping edge 06 on both its leading edge 07 and its trailing edge 08.

The sheet 02 preferably has at least one printing mark 11, preferably at least two printing marks 11. In the above and hereinafter, a printing mark 11 is a mark, for example, for checking a register and/or preferably for aligning the at least one sheet 02 in the transport direction T and/or in the transverse direction A.

At least one stack 12 of sheets 02, or also called stack of substrates 12, preferably has a plurality of sheets 02, in particular the at least one sheet 02 and additionally a plurality of additional sheets 02. Preferably, the at least one stack 12 comprises at least 1,000 (one thousand) sheets 02, preferably at least 2,000 (two thousand) sheets 02 and, additionally or alternatively, preferably at most 15,000 (fifteen thousand) sheets 02, more preferably at most 10,000 (ten thousand) sheets 02, more preferably at most 8,000 (eight thousand) sheets 02. For example, the at least one stack 12 has a height of at least 100 mm (one hundred millimeters), preferably at least 200 mm (two hundred millimeters), more preferably at least 300 mm (three hundred millimeters) and, additionally or alternatively, at most 3,000 mm (three thousand millimeters), preferably at most 2,500 mm (two thousand five hundred millimeters), more preferably at most 2,000 mm (two thousand millimeters), more preferably not more than 1,600 mm (one thousand six hundred millimeters), more preferably not more than 1,300 mm (one thousand three hundred millimeters). Preferably, the at least one stack 12 comprises at least two partial stacks 13 of sheets 02, preferably at least four partial stacks 13, more preferably at least eight partial stacks 13. The at least one partial stack 13 of sheets 02, in particular a partial stack 13 comprising the at least one sheet 02, preferably describes a ream 13. According to DIN 6730, a ream 13 can be understood as a packaging unit of flat paper of the same type, i.e. unfolded paper unwound into sheets or sheets 02. The ream 13 preferably comprises at least 50 (fifty) sheets 02, more preferably at least 200 (two hundred) sheets 02, more preferably at least 400 (four hundred) sheets 02 and additionally or alternatively preferably at most 700 (seven hundred) sheets 02, more preferably at most 600 (six hundred) sheets 02, more preferably at most 500 (five hundred) sheets 02. Preferably, the at least one partial stack 13 has a height of at least 5 mm (five millimetres), preferably at least 10 mm (ten millimetres) and, additionally or alternatively, a height of at least 400 mm (four hundred millimetres), preferably at least 300 mm (three hundred millimetres), even more preferably at least 200 mm (two hundred millimetres).

Preferably, a stack of blanks 14 and/or a discharge stack 14 comprises a number of blanks 03 corresponding to the number of sheets 02 of a stack 12. Preferably, the at least one stack of blanks 14 has a height of at most 2,000 mm (two thousand millimeters), more preferably at most 1,600 mm (one thousand six hundred millimeters), more preferably at most 1,300 mm (one thousand three hundred millimeters). Preferably, a partial stack of blanks 16 comprises a number of blanks 03 corresponding to the number of sheets 02 of a partial stack 13.

A machine address B is preferably a B address pointing from a first unit 100 of the processing machine 01 to a last unit 700 and/or 1400 of the processing machine 01. In particular, the machine address B points from a unit 100, in particular a first unit 100 configured as a feed unit 100, to a last unit 700, in particular a unit 700 configured as a sheet unloading unit 700, and/or to a last unit 1400, in particular a unit 1400 configured as a die-cut unloading unit 1400. Preferably, the machine address B is a horizontal B address.

The transverse direction A is preferably a horizontal direction A. The transverse direction A is oriented orthogonally to the machine direction B. The transverse direction A is preferably oriented from an operator side of the processing machine 01 toward a drive side of the processing machine 01.

A vertical direction V is preferably the direction V which is arranged orthogonally to a plane encompassed by the machine direction B and the transverse direction A. The vertical direction V is preferably oriented perpendicularly from below and/or from a base of the processing machine 01 and/or from the lowest component of the processing machine 01 upwards and/or to the highest component of the processing machine 01 and/or to the upper cover of the processing machine 01.

The operator side of the processing machine 01 is preferably the side of the processing machine 01 parallel to the machine direction B from which an operator can at least partially and at least temporarily access the individual units 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400 of the processing machine 01, for example during maintenance work and/or changing of at least one forming tool.

The drive side of the processing machine 01 is preferably the side of the processing machine 01 parallel to the direction of the machine B that is opposite the operator side. The drive side preferably has at least some parts, preferably at least a large part, of a drive system. For example, an operator has and/or receives at least temporary access to the individual units 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400 on the drive side via at least one component of the processing machine 01.

The spatial area provided for the transport of the at least one substrate 02 within the processing machine 01, which the substrate 02 occupies at least temporarily when present, is the transport path. The transport direction T is preferably a direction T in which the at least one substrate 02 is transported when present at any point along the transport path. Preferably, the transport direction T points in the direction T in which the at least one substrate 02 is transported independently of vertical movements or vertical components of movements. In particular, the transport direction T within a unit 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400 points in the direction T, which points from a first contact of the at least one substrate 02 with this unit 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400 until a final contact of the substrate 02 with this unit 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400.

In the foregoing and hereinafter, the working width is the maximum width that the at least one substrate 02 may have in order to be able to be transported through the at least one unit 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400, in particular the respective units 100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400, of the processing machine 01 and/or to be able to be further processed with the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 of the processing machine 01. This therefore corresponds to the maximum width of the at least one substrate 02 which can be processed by the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 of the processing machine 01. The working width of the processing machine 01, in particular of the sheet-fed processing machine 01, is preferably at least 30 cm (thirty centimeters), more preferably at least 50 cm (fifty centimeters), even more preferably at least 80 cm (eighty centimeters), even more preferably at least 120 cm (one hundred and twenty centimeters) and even more preferably at least 150 cm (one hundred and fifty centimeters).

The processing machine 01 preferably comprises at least one unit 100 configured as a feed unit 100. The feed unit 100 is preferably configured as a feeder, more preferably as a sheet feeder, more preferably as a sheet feed unit.

The feed unit 100 is preferably configured as the first unit 100 of the processing machine 01 in the conveying direction T. The feed unit 100 is preferably configured to supply the at least one sheet 02 to the conveying path of the processing machine 01 and/or is configured such that it supplies the at least one sheet 02 to at least one unit 200; 300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200; 1400 arranged downstream of the feed unit 100 in the conveying direction T.

At least one unit 200 configured as a delivery unit 200 is preferably arranged downstream of the at least one feed unit 100 in the conveying direction T. Preferably, the at least one delivery unit 200 is configured to supply the at least one sheet 02, preferably the at least two sheets 02, more preferably a plurality of sheets 02, preferably sequentially to the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600. The at least one delivery unit 200 preferably has at least one device for detecting the at least one sheet 02. The at least one sheet 02 can preferably be oriented at least partially, preferably completely, by the at least one delivery unit 200 with respect to its position in the conveying direction T and/or in the transverse direction A.

Preferably, at least one, preferably at least two, more preferably at least three, more preferably at least four, for example exactly four, units 300; 400; 500; 600, each configured as a forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600, are arranged in the transport direction T downstream of the at least one feed unit 100 and preferably furthermore downstream of the at least one delivery unit 200. Preferably, the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 has at least one forming mechanism, preferably exactly one forming mechanism. Preferably, the at least one forming unit is designed as at least one embossing mechanism and/or at least one grooving mechanism and/or at least one punching mechanism, more preferably as a rotary punching mechanism, and/or at least one peeling mechanism. Preferably, in each case at least one of the forming units 300; 400; 500; 600 has at least one forming mechanism, preferably at least one embossing mechanism and/or at least one grooving mechanism and/or at least one punching mechanism and/or at least one peeling mechanism. The corresponding unit 300; 400; 500; 600 is then preferably designed as a punching unit and/or grooving unit and/or embossing unit and/or peeling unit. Preferably, the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 is configured to die-cut and/or cut and/or perforate and/or groove and/or stamp and/or groove the at least one sheet 02. For example, additionally or alternatively, the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 is designed to remove at least one residual piece 04 configured as a waste piece 04, from the at least one sheet 02. Preferably, the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600, preferably the at least one forming mechanism of the forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600, preferably has at least one plate cylinder and at least one counterpressure cylinder. Preferably, the at least one plate cylinder and/or the at least one counter-pressure cylinder is designed as a magnetic cylinder and/or has at least one lifter or processing tool 301, preferably, in particular in the case of the plate cylinder, at least one lifter with at least one tool 301 or processing tool 301. Preferably, the at least one plate cylinder and the at least one counter-pressure cylinder are designed to form at least one forming point, preferably exactly one. The forming point is preferably the area in which the at least one plate cylinder, on the one hand, and the at least one counter-pressure cylinder, on the other hand, are closest to one another. The at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600, preferably the at least one forming mechanism, more preferably the at least one plate cylinder, preferably has at least one tool 301 or processing tool 301. Preferably, the at least one tool 301 is preferably arranged in the area of the forming point in direct contact with the counterpressure cylinder, for example touching it at least in the absence of the at least one sheet 02.

The at least one sheet 02, which is processed by the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600, i.e. which is arranged on the conveying path in the conveying direction T downstream of the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600, preferably has at least one notch. The at least one notch is formed, for example, as a slot and/or groove and/or embossing and/or cutting and/or perforating and/or scoring and/or as a detached scrap piece 04. Preferably, the at least one notch, in particular if it is in the form of perforation and/or cutting, is designed such that it at least partially separates the at least one punched out piece 03 from the at least one waste piece 04; 05; 06 and/or of the at least one further blank 03 of the at least one sheet 02. Preferably, the at least one sheet 02, which is processed by the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600, i.e. which is arranged on the conveying path in the conveying direction T downstream of the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600, has at least one blank 03, preferably at least two blanks 03, more preferably at least four blanks 03; more preferably at least eight blanks 03, and at least one residual piece 04; 05; 06.

Preferably, at least one unit 700 configured as a discharge unit 700 is arranged in the conveying direction T downstream of the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600, preferably in the conveying direction T downstream of the at least two, more preferably of the at least four, more preferably downstream of all of the forming units 300; 400; 500; 600. For example, the discharge unit 700 has at least one chain conveyor system, for example with gripper bridges. In particular, the at least one unloading unit 700 is designed as a sheet unloading unit 700. Preferably, the at least one sheet unloading unit 700 is configured to deposit the at least one sheet 02 on at least one stacking base 17, for example at least one stacking base 17 configured as a pallet 17 or a conveyor belt or another type of stacking base. Preferably, the at least one sheet unloading unit 700 is configured to form at least one stack 12 of sheets 02 or at least one partial stack 13 of sheets 02, preferably on the at least one stacking base 17. The stack 12 or the partial stack 13 preferably comprises the at least one sheet 02 and others, preferably a plurality of sheets 02. At least one unit 800; 900; 1000, configured as a transport system 800; 900; 1000, preferably as a transfer system 800; 900; 1000, is preferably arranged in the transport direction T downstream of the at least one sheet discharge 700. Preferably, the at least one transfer transport system 800; 900; 1000 is configured to transport the at least one sheet 02 and preferably additionally further sheets 02, preferably the at least one stack 12 or the at least one partial stack 13, from the at least one sheet discharge 700 to the at least one unit 1100; 1200; 1400 located downstream in the transport direction T.

Preferably, in the conveying direction T, downstream of the at least one transfer conveying system 800; 900; 1000 and/or upstream of the at least one unit 1200 designed as at least one blank separating unit 1200, at least one unit 1100 designed as an intermediate orientation unit 1100 is arranged. Preferably, the at least one intermediate orientation 1100 is designed to orient and/or loosen the at least one partial stack 13, which preferably comprises the at least one sheet 02 and further sheets 02. Preferably, the at least one intermediate orientation 1100 has at least one stop, preferably at least two stops, against which the at least one partial stack 13 is oriented.

In the at least one further unit 1200, in particular the unit 1200 configured as at least one blank separation unit 1200, the blanks 03 are separated from the residual blanks 04; 05; 06, preferably the residual blanks 05; 06 that remain. Preferably, the residual blanks 04; 05; 06 are separated from the blanks 03 in partial stacks and/or in reams. Depending on the configuration of the blanks 03 and/or the residual blanks 04; 05; 06, in particular depending on the size of the residual blanks 04; 05; 06, the residual blanks 04; 05; 06, which are normally removed in a forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 located upstream, in particular in the detachment unit, can also be removed in the at least one blank separation unit 1200.

In particular, the at least one blank separating unit 1200 preferably has at least one blank separating mechanism 1201 and at least one support element 1202 designed as a conveyor belt 1202. During the separating process, the at least one blank separating mechanism 1201 generates and/or causes a shearing movement with a shearing force between the blanks 03, in particular the partial blank stacks 16 designed as partial blank stacks 16, and the residual blanks 04; 05; 06, in particular the residual blank stacks 04; 05; 06. By means of the at least one conveyor belt 1202, the residual blanks 04; 05; 06 are transported out of the at least one blank separation unit 1200 after the blank separation process and are introduced, for example, into a waste container 51 and/or into a shredding equipment 51.

Preferably, at least one unloading unit 1400 is arranged downstream of the at least one blank separation unit 1200. For example, at least one, preferably at least two, more preferably at least four, more preferably at least eight, blank stacks 16 are transported from the blank separation unit 1200 to the at least one unloading unit 1400 by means of at least one transport means 1401, for example at least one rake 1401. In the unloading unit 1400, the at least one, preferably at least two, more preferably at least four, more preferably at least eight, blank stacks 16 are accumulated on at least one stacking base 17, preferably at least one pallet 17, and/or are stacked to form at least one blank stack 14 and/or unloading stack 14. For example, said blank stack 14 It comprises at least two, more preferably at least four, more preferably at least eight, partial stacks of die-cut pieces 16. Preferably, between each partial stack of die-cut pieces 16 a sheet 02 is inserted as an interleaved sheet 02 to increase stability.

Preferably, the at least one forming mechanism of the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 of the forming units 300; 400; 500; 600 is designed as an embossing mechanism. Preferably, the forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 designed as an embossing mechanism has at least one plate cylinder designed as a die-cutting cylinder. Preferably, the at least one embossing mechanism is designed to produce at least one embossing and/or at least one Braille-like embossing on the at least one sheet 02. Preferably, the at least one embossing is raised or recessed relative to its surroundings on the surface of the sheet 02. For example, the at least one plate cylinder is designed to produce both at least one raised embossing and at least one recessed embossing. For example, different embossing patterns generated by the at least one embossing mechanism on the surface of the at least one sheet 02 have different heights.

Preferably, additionally or alternatively, the at least one forming mechanism of the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 of the forming units 300; 400; 500; 600 is configured as a slotting mechanism. Preferably, the forming mechanism configured as a slotting mechanism is configured to slot the at least one sheet 02. For example, the slotting mechanism is additionally configured to die-cut and/or score and/or perforate and/or emboss the at least one sheet 02. Preferably, the at least one slotting mechanism is configured to generate at least one fold, for example for at least one crease.

Preferably, additionally or alternatively, the at least one forming mechanism of the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 of the forming units 300; 400; 500; 600 is configured as a die-cutting mechanism. Preferably, the forming mechanism configured as a die-cutting mechanism die-cuts and/or perforates and/or grooves the at least one sheet 02.

Preferably, additionally or alternatively, the at least one forming mechanism of the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 of the forming units 300; 400; 500; 600 is configured as a die-cutting mechanism with at least one suction system. Preferably, the forming mechanism configured as a die-cutting mechanism with at least one suction system is configured to die-cut and/or perforate and/or score the at least one sheet 02, while removing at least one waste piece 04 from the at least one sheet 02. Preferably, the at least one waste piece 04 is completely separated from the at least one sheet 02 by processing in the at least one forming mechanism and is held on the plate cylinder by air, preferably suction air, and is blown into at least one suction box of the forming mechanism. In particular, waste pieces 04 which cannot be removed by other processing steps, for example, and/or which have an area of at most 0.25 cm2 (zero point twenty-five square centimeters), for example, can be removed from the at least one sheet 02. Preferably, when processing thin sheets 02 with a thickness of at most 0.3 cm (zero point three centimeters), the processing machine 01 has at least one forming unit 300 with at least one die-cutting mechanism with at least one suction system.

Preferably, additionally or alternatively, the at least one forming mechanism of the at least one forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 of the forming units 300; 400; 500; 600 is configured as a peeling mechanism. Preferably, the forming mechanism configured as a peeling mechanism is configured to remove at least one waste piece 04, preferably at least two waste pieces 04, more preferably at least four waste pieces 04, more preferably a plurality of waste pieces 04, from the at least one sheet 02, preferably by peeling and/or suction.

In a preferred embodiment, the processing machine 01, in particular when producing at least one label, for example at least one label for a plastic container, has at least one forming unit 400 with at least one die-cutting device and, for example, additionally a forming unit 300 arranged upstream of this forming unit 400 with at least one die-cutting device with at least one suction system. Preferably, the at least one sheet discharge 700 is arranged directly downstream of the forming unit 400 with the at least one die-cutting device, i.e., in particular, without a further forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 between them.

In another preferred embodiment, the processing machine 01, particularly when producing at least one further label, for example at least one paper label, has at least one forming unit 400 with at least one die-cutting device and, for example, additionally a forming unit 300 located upstream of this forming unit 400 with at least one die-cutting device with at least one suction system. Alternatively, for example, at least one forming unit 300 with at least one slotting device or with at least one embossing device is located upstream of the at least one forming unit 400 with the at least one die-cutting device. Preferably, the at least one sheet discharge 700 is arranged directly downstream of the forming unit 400 with the at least one die-cutting device, i.e., in particular, without a further forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 between them.

In another preferred embodiment, the processing machine 01, particularly for cardboard processing, has at least three forming units 300; 400; 500; 600. Preferably, the first forming unit 300 has at least one embossing mechanism or one slotting mechanism. Preferably, if the embossing mechanism is present in the first forming unit 300, it is arranged upstream of the second forming unit 400, which has the slotting mechanism. Downstream of the at least one forming unit 300; 400, which has the slotting mechanism, for example, the first or second forming unit 300; 400, there preferably follows a forming unit 400; 500 with at least one die-cutting mechanism. Preferably, the third or fourth forming unit 500; 600 has at least one peeling mechanism. Preferably, the forming unit 500; 600 with the at least one peeling mechanism is arranged directly downstream of the forming unit 400; 500 with the at least one punching mechanism, in particular without a further forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 between them. Preferably, the at least one sheet discharge 700 is arranged directly downstream of the forming unit 500; 600 with the at least one peeling mechanism, i.e., in particular, without a further forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600 between them.

The sheet processing machine 01 comprises at least one arranging device 350. The at least one arranging device 350 comprises at least one support surface 351. The at least one support surface 351 is preferably oriented horizontally or preferably with a slight inclination, in particular less than 45°, with respect to a horizontal plane.

The at least one array device 350 is arranged in a data-coupled manner with a digital processing contour 356 of the processing tool 301. Said digital processing contour 356 is preferably a diagram and/or contour obtained from a digital preliminary processing phase, from which the processing tool 301 was previously produced. Alternatively, a digital processing contour 356 can be created, for example, by scanning and/or recording the contour of the processing tool 356. Preferably, a digital preliminary phase file, in particular a digital preliminary phase file of a processing tool 301, can be retrieved by the at least one array device 350 and, in particular, can be used for the array. The processing contour 356 is preferably formed by lines on which height differences appear on the processing tool 301. These lines thus form the profiles of the planes/heights of the processing tool 301 and are useful for orientation during the array. The contour thus forms the framework for all areas that form the same height. The digital rough file is used to produce a processing tool 301, for example, using a CNC milling cutter. In addition, the digital processing contour 356 is used in the setup device 350 for setup. For this purpose, areas in which setup of a processing tool 301 is to be carried out are marked, for example, by at least one mark 357 on the digital processing contour 356. At least one mark 357 defines, in combination with the digital processing contour 356, at least one setup point 358. More preferably, setup points 358 are identified in this way. The areas in which setup of a processing tool 301 is necessary are determined by inspecting a test sheet and/or by inspecting the processing contour of the processing tool 301, preferably by means of inspection equipment and/or by evaluation by an operator. More preferably, an input device 360 and/or a display device 359 are additionally arranged in operative connection with the at least one array device 350. This input device 360 and/or optical display device 359 may be, for example, a mobile device, such as a tablet computer, or a stationary computer, for example a control station with, for example, a touch screen 360. On said input device 360 and/or optical display device 359, the digital processing contour 356, for example of a preliminary phase, can be displayed and, for example, markings 357 can additionally be entered. The at least one array device 350 has at least one display device 359 and/or an input device 360 for displaying the digital processing contour 356 and/or for entering markings 357 into the digital processing contour 356. In particular, the markings 357 can be projected together with the processing contour onto the surface of support 351 and/or on the back of the processing tool 301 by means of at least one projection device 353. For this purpose, the at least one arrangement device 350 has at least one projection device 353.

The processing contour and/or the cutting contour can now be adjusted and/or readjusted at the marked points, the marks 357, by means of the adjustment agent 361. The processing contours located at the marks 357 are points to be adjusted and/or to be adjusted. These points are referred to below as adjustment points 358. Preferably, the at least one mark 357, in combination with the digital processing contour 356, defines at least one adjustment point 358. A test sheet can be used to identify the points where the processing result, in particular the die-cutting result, is less than ideal. To this end, an operator can remove a sample sheet from the machine and inspect it at a control station, for example. The points to be retouched can be directly marked via a touchscreen 359.

An improper punching or processing result is due to defects and/or deviations in the production of the processing tool 301 or to wear of the processing machine 01. At the adjustment points 358, the defects are compensated by at least one adjustment agent 361. The at least one adjustment agent 361 compensates for defects and/or deviations in the tool geometry. In particular, this relates to defects and/or deviations of the processing tool 301 due to manufacturing inaccuracies and/or wear and/or erosion during production. Height differences and/or unevenness resulting from these defects and/or deviations must be compensated for or adjusted by the at least one adjustment agent 361. For this purpose, the at least one adjustment agent 361 is applied to and/or deposited on the processing tool. Preferably, the at least one processing tool has at least one point at which the at least one fixing agent 361 is to be applied and/or is applied. Said area and/or said point are referred to hereinafter as fixing point 358 and range, for example, from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Preferably, an fixing point 358 refers to a point at which the fixing agent 361 is present and/or is to be applied and which is not adjacent to another fixing point 358 with fixing agent 361.

The digitally processed contour 356 with the associated markings 357 can now be further processed in various ways. For example, it can be manually arranged using a support projection or further automated with actuator arms or fully automatic solutions.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one arranging device 350 preferably has side edges 355 and/or side walls 355. Preferably, the side edges 355 surround at least one side, more preferably three sides, of the support surface 351. The at least one support surface 351 has at least one orientation device 352, preferably a pin 352, more preferably two pins 352, for supporting the processing tool 301. A processing tool 301 is oriented on the support surface 351 by means of the at least one orientation device 352. For this purpose, the at least one processing tool 301 preferably has at least one pin hole 303. Preferably, two tabs 302 are arranged on the at least one processing tool 301, on which the at least one pin hole 303 is arranged and/or received. Due to the tabs 302, the pin hole 303 is arranged and/or received. Pin 303 can be arranged outside the processing surface and therefore does not impair the processing or punching result. For setup, the processing tool 301 is preferably placed on the support surface 351 with its rear side and/or side facing away from the processing contour. Setup is therefore carried out on the rear side of the processing tool 301 and/or on the side facing away from the processing contour. In this regard, an agent is applied, in particular, to the rear side to compensate for differences in the tool geometry, for example, to the front side on the processing contour. The setup agent 361 is applied to the rear side and/or on the side facing away from the processing contour. In particular, the relative distance of the processing tool 301 to a processing cylinder or, in the case of flatbed punching, to a punching platen is adapted. This responds to inaccuracies in the processing result, for example, the punching result. Any irregularities in the cylinder can also be compensated for in this way.

Furthermore, the at least one arrangement device 350 comprises at least one projection device 353. In a first embodiment, the at least one projection device 353 is arranged in the vertical direction V above the support surface 351. The at least one projection device 353 is preferably designed as a projector 353 and/or a projector gun 353. In a further preferred embodiment, the at least one projection device 353 is arranged at one of the side edges 355. In particular, the at least one projection device 353 is then arranged only immediately above the support surface 353 and a projection 356 can then be arranged so as to project onto the support surface 351 from the side and/or from an inclined position. In this embodiment, the at least one projection device 353 is designed as a short-throw projector 353. This eliminates the need for an elevated arrangement of the projection device 353 with a large distance from the support surface 351. The at least one projection device 353 is arranged and/or can project a projection onto the support surface 351 and/or, in particular, onto the rear of the at least one processing tool 301. A projection device 353 projects a processing contour and/or a cutting contour of the front of the processing tool 301 onto the rear during setup. Additionally or alternatively, markings 357 can be projected, for example, around the setup points 358 of a processing tool 301. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one setup device 350 is integrated into a control center of the processing machine 01.

In a first embodiment, in particular, at least one projection device 353 is arranged to retrieve the digital processing contour and is arranged to project onto the support surface 351 by means of the at least one digital processing contour and/or cutting contour. By means of the digital processing contour 356, the projection device 353 is arranged to project at least parts of the processing contour 356 onto the support surface 351 and/or, in the presence of the processing tool 301, onto the at least one processing tool 301, in particular the rear part. The at least one projection device 353 is additionally arranged to project the markings 357 onto the support surface 351 and/or, in the presence of the processing tool 301, onto the at least one processing tool 301. In particular, the at least one projection device 353 is arranged in operative connection with a computer and/or a control system. Preferably, at least one computer is operatively connected to a digital preliminary phase file, in particular to a digital preliminary die-cutting phase file, and/or the latter can be retrieved. The at least one projection device is arranged to project at least the digital preliminary die-cutting phase contour onto the support surface 351. When the processing tool is positioned, the processing contour and/or the cutting contour are projected onto the back so that they coincide with the front. In particular, an operator can then easily fix the processing tool 301 and apply the fixing agent 361 to the relevant fixing points 358.

As fixing agent 361, at least one agent is used that is liquid when applied. Preferably, a curable and/or dryable agent is used as fixing agent 361. Said fixing agent 361 is preferably curable and/or dryable by a chemical crosslinking reaction. Preferably, the at least one fixing agent 361 in the liquid state is a varnish and/or varnish mixture that can be converted to a solid state by crosslinking reactions. Curing relates in particular to a chemical structural change of the fixing agent 361. More preferably, said fixing agent 361 is an ink, for example an inkjet ink. The advantage of this type of inkjet ink is that it dries quickly and forms a dimensionally stable layer.

The at least one repair agent 361 is applied in a liquid state to each repair point 358 and is preferably cured and/or dried after application, preferably by radiation, more preferably by UV radiation. The at least one chemical crosslinking reaction, by which curing and/or drying occurs, can be initiated by UV radiation. This process and/or reaction is often referred to as photopolymerization. The repair agent 358 and/or the UV coating thus become very hard and scratch-resistant, and multiple applications are possible to achieve thicker layers. The repair agent 361 can be easily dried by irradiating the surface of the processing tool.

The at least one arrangement device 350 has at least one radiation device 354, preferably several, in particular two or four, radiation devices 354. The at least one radiation device 354 is preferably arranged to irradiate the support surface 351. For example, the radiation device 354 is arranged in a strip, which preferably covers the entire width of the support surface. For example, the at least one radiation device 354 can be moved, preferably along the entire support surface, by means of a roller device. In another preferred embodiment, the at least one radiation device 354 is flat and is arranged in a folding device 365. This can be closed and is then arranged parallel to the support surface 351. The at least one radiation device 354 then preferably irradiates the entire contact surface 351 at once. In another embodiment, several folding devices 365 are arranged on the arrangement device 350 and these cover different areas of the support surface 351. When the folding device 365 is folded down, the underlying support surface 351 is covered and this respective area of the support surface 351 is irradiated by the at least one radiation device 354. Preferably, four folding devices 359 are then arranged, each with one radiation device 354. When the four folding devices 365 are folded down, the entire support surface 351 is preferably irradiated and/or irradiated. By this surface irradiation, an arrangement agent 361 is rapidly cured. Preferably, the at least one radiation device 354 is designed as a UV radiation device 354, in particular a U<v>LED radiation device 354, and is arranged to emit UV radiation.

The at least one fixing agent 361 is preferably applied by means of a pen 362, preferably a varnish pen 362, more preferably a UV varnish pen 362. Said pen 362 preferably has a reservoir and a felt tip 364. The fixing agent 361 is transferred from the reservoir 363 to the at least one fixing point 361 via the felt tip 364, preferably by pressing the pen 362.

Each repair point 358, in which the at least one curable and/or dryable repair agent 361 is used, has at least one layer. This layer thickness with a single application is between 5 and 15 µm and thus corresponds to the precision required for the repair of processing tools 301 in rotary or flat processing methods. A more precise adjustment of the layer thickness can be determined by the mixing ratio of the at least one repair agent 361, in particular the lacquer mixture. The at least one repair agent 361 differs in terms of the alcohol content and the thickness tolerances after drying.

The thinnest layer with a comparatively high alcohol content produces a layer thickness of approximately 5 µm with a single application and is therefore exactly sufficient. Different mixing ratios can be used. The layer thickness could be increased by reducing the alcohol content.

Even in the cured state, this can be easily done by scraping, for example, with a spatula.

In another preferred embodiment, the at least one agent 361 is applied to the array points 358 via a robotic arm and/or via a, preferably controlled, actuator arm. The at least one actuator arm is arranged movably above the support surface 351 of the array device 350. Preferably, the at least one actuator arm is arranged so that it can be controlled by the digital processing contour 356 and the marks 357. For example, said actuator arm holds the pin 362 and applies the array agent 361 to the relevant array points 358 by means of a control system, the data of the processing contour together with the marks 357 being processed by a control system and converted into signals for the actuator arm. The actuator arm then applies the array agent 361 to the array points 358 without intervention and/or automatically.

In another preferred embodiment, the actuator arm has a nozzle from which the fixing agent 361 can be applied directly. In this embodiment, the pencil 362 can be dispensed with and the fixing agent 361 is pumped, for example, from a reservoir directly into the nozzle of the actuator arm and is metered there onto the at least one fixing point 358. Preferably, in this embodiment, a spraying device 353 can be dispensed with.

In another embodiment, the points to be corrected can be recognized on the processing tool 301 by a mobile device. For example, a preview of the processing contour and/or the cutting contour can be transferred to the terminal device via the digital preliminary processing phase so that an operator can mark adjustment points there. The data and/or markings 357 can then be transmitted to the arranging device.

In an even more automated embodiment, a processing machine 01 has a semi-automatic and/or fully automatic tool changer. The setting device is then arranged in operative connection with an automatic plate changer. A setting device 350 can be integrated into such an automatic tool changer. Preferably, the setting agent 361 is applied after the processing tool 301 has been removed from a plate changing device. For example, this can fully automatically cover the setting points 358 with the setting agent 361 and/or apply the setting agent 361. For example, a controlled actuator arm is also used in this case. The setting agent 361 is preferably applied in a forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600. For this purpose, the setting device is at least partially integrated into a forming unit 300; 400; 500; 600.

In another preferred embodiment, the processing machine has an inspection device for inspecting the processing result. This makes it possible to dispense with marking the processing contour even during the digital preliminary processing phase. In conjunction with the automatic tool changer and a controlled drive arm arranged thereon, fully automatic setup of the processing tool 301 can be achieved. In addition to the procedural steps already mentioned, the setup is described step by step below.

A processing tool 301 is repaired in a process comprising several steps. "Repairing" refers in particular to the readjustment and/or compensation of defects and/or deviations in the tool geometry by means of at least one repairing agent 361. To do this, the points on the processing tool 301 that are to be repaired must first be identified. As a rule, a sample sheet is processed for this purpose, in particular, it is die-cut. An operator and/or an inspection device evaluates the processing result using this sample sheet or a processing contour of the processing tool 301. Preferably, the at least one setup device 350 has at least one inspection device for inspecting a test sheet and/or the processing contour of the processing tool 301. Defects in the processing result are assigned to points on the processing tool 301. In particular, this is preferably done by means of a digital display on which the processing contour of the processing tool 301 is displayed using data from the digital preliminary step. On this processing contour, the points, in particular setup points 358, where the processing result is defective are marked with marks 357. Alternatively and/or additionally, defects can also be detected on the processing tool 301 directly, for example, by removing it from the processing machine 01 in an automatic plate changer. Preferably, this embodiment has a support surface 351, since the liquid fixing agent 361 is to be applied horizontally. Alternatively, the fixing agent 361 would have to be cured very quickly by the radiation device 354.

Preferably, the digital processing contour 356 with the marked array points 358 is stored and can be retrieved at any time, for example, when the array agent 361 is removed over time. Using a spatula, the cured array agent 361 can be easily removed from the back of the processing tool 301.

Additionally or alternatively, the fixing agent 361 is a drying agent such as a dispersion consisting of a dispersed phase and a dispersion medium. Particularly preferably, the dispersion has a proportion of dispersion medium of at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, even more preferably at least 70%, or more.

A volatile solvent is preferably used as a dispersion medium. The volatility of substances is usually specified in relation to the vapor pressure of diethyl ether. Volatility is also preferably specified as the evaporation rate according to DIN 53170. The time it takes for a substance to completely evaporate (evaporation time) is thus determined in relation to the time required for the diethyl ether to evaporate. A high evaporation rate means relatively slow evaporation, i.e., low volatility. A low evaporation rate means faster evaporation, i.e., relatively high volatility. Particularly preferred in this case, according to the literature, highly volatile solvents with an evaporation rate of less than 10 are preferred. In particular, the use of highly volatile solvents ensures a short drying time.

Particularly preferred solvents for the dispersion are solvents from the ketone group. They typically have evaporation rates between 1 and 5, more preferably between 2 and 3. A preferred solvent is, for example, acetone and/or butanone (often methyl ethyl ketone, MEK for short). Acetone and butanone are characterized by their high availability. Methyl ethyl ketone typically has an evaporation rate of 2.7, and acetone 2.1.

In a preferred embodiment, the dispersion has a proportion of at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, even more preferably at least 70% of methyl ethyl ketone. Preferably, the dispersion has a concentration of 60-75 percent by weight of butanone. The dispersion also preferably contains an additional 5-10 percent by weight of acetone. In addition, the dispersion may also contain a proportion, preferably less than 5%, of 1-methoxy-2-propanol.

The dispersed phase preferably consists of finely dispersed solid particles. Such particles are preferably in the form of pigments, particularly colored pigments. Preferred pigments are those used in inks, and particularly in inkjet inks, which contribute to coloration. For example, carbon black particles are used as pigments. Carbon black particles are characterized by their high availability. In particular, carbon black is the most widely used black pigment. Other pigments are used depending on the color of the dispersion or ink.

The dispersion is also preferably an ink, particularly an inkjet ink. Inkjet inks, in particular, have a high proportion of highly volatile solvents and/or highly volatile solvents. These inks primarily contain highly volatile ketones as solvents. In addition, solid pigments are finely distributed in the inks. These remain after the solvents evaporate. A particularly suitable ink and/or dispersion has a butanone content of between 60% and 75%. Such an ink also contains solid particles. These are usually coloring pigments, such as carbon black in the case of black ink. Such inks, particularly inkjet inks, are particularly suitable as fixing agents. After the solvents evaporate, the solids remain. These solids then form a layer thickness that can be used for fixing. The preferred layer thickness is between 2 micrometers and 15 micrometers. This layer is scratch-, heat-, and pressure-resistant. Preferably, the layer is approximately 1.5 micrometers thick. 4-5 micrometers with each application. A layer thickness of 4-15 micrometers can then easily be achieved with repeated applications.

The dispersion is applied to the arrangement point 358 for arrangement, preferably using the pen 362. As with the varnish, the dispersion is applied directly to the back of the processing tool 301. The highly volatile solvents in the dispersion evaporate quickly, leaving a layer with a film thickness. This occurs within a few minutes, preferably less than 30 seconds. The inkjet ink described above is preferably used for arrangement. A particular advantage of using ink is that existing inkjet systems can be used for arrangement. This makes the automation of arrangement particularly easy. An inkjet printing system simply needs to be installed on the contact surface 358 without extensive modifications, and arrangement can be easily achieved using digital pre-processing. A manually and/or automatically controllable inkjet printing system is used for this purpose. For example, such an inkjet printing system can comprise a continuous inkjet print head or have a drop-by-drop ejection system. In this case, the inkjet head can be controlled manually and guided to the desired position or integrated into the die-cutter's PLC control system via a fully automatic XY axis with a rotating head. In this case, the operator would mark the positions to be adjusted at the control station. The print head can then be moved over the corresponding area.

List of references

01 processing machine, sheet processing machine, die-cutting machine, rotary die-cutting machine

02 substrate, sheet, interleaved sheet

03 die-cut piece

04 residual piece, first, waste piece

05 residual piece, soul

06 residual piece, second, gripping edge

07 edge, front edge

08 edge, rear edge

09 edge, side edge

10-11 print mark

12 stack, stack of substrates

13 partial stack, ream

14 stacks of stamped parts, total, unloading stack

15-16 partial stack of blanks, partial stack of blanks

17 stacking base, pallet

51 waste container, shredding equipment

100 unit, power supply unit

200 unit, delivery unit

300 unit, forming unit, first

301 processing tool

302 tabs

303 pin hole

350 array device

351 support surface

352 orientation team, pin

353 projection equipment, projector, projector cannon, short throw projector

354 radiation equipment, UV radiation equipment, UV LED radiation equipment

355 sidewall, side edges

356 projection, processing contour

357 mark

358 fix point

359 display equipment

360 input equipment, touch screen

361 fixing agent, UV varnish

362 pencil, varnish pencil, UV varnish pencil

363 deposit

364 pressure piece, felt piece

365 folding equipment

400 unit, forming unit, second

500 unit, forming unit, third

600 unit, forming unit, fourth

601 processing tool

602 arrangement device

603 arrangement table

604 support surface

700 unit, unloading unit, sheet unloading

800 unit, conveyor system, transfer conveyor system

900 unit, transport system, transfer transport system

1000 unit, conveyor system, transfer conveyor system

1100 unit, intermediate orientation

1200 unit, blank separation unit, blank separation device 1400 unit, unloading unit, blank unloading

1401 means of transport, rake

A direction, transverse direction

B address, machine address

T address, transport address

V direction, vertical

Claims (12)

1. Arranging device (350) of a processing tool (301) of a sheet-fed processing machine (01), wherein the at least one processing tool (301) can be placed and arranged on a support surface (351) of the arranging device (350), wherein the arranging device (350) has at least one projection device (353), characterized in that the at least one support surface (351) has at least one orientation device (352) for supporting the processing tool (301), which is designed to orient the processing tool (301) on the support surface (351), because the arranging device (350) is arranged coupled by means of data technology with a digital processing contour (356) of the processing tool (301), because the at least one projection device (353) is arranged to project a projection onto the support surface (351), so that the projection device (353) projects during arrangement a processing contour and/or a cutting contour of the front part of the processing tool (301) onto the rear part. 2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one arranging device (350) has at least one actuating arm for applying arranging agent (361). 3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one arrangement device (350) has at least one display device (359) and/or at least one input device (360) for displaying the digital processing contour (356) and/or for entering marks (357) into the digital processing contour (356). 4. Device according to claim 3, characterized in that the at least one projection device (353) is arranged to additionally project the markings (357) onto the support surface (351) and/or, in the presence of the processing tool (301), onto the at least one processing tool (301). 5. Device according to claim 1 or 2 or 3 or 4, characterized in that the at least one projection device (353) is configured as a projector (353) and/or short-throw projector (353). 6. Device according to claim 1 or 2 or 3 or 4 or 5, characterized in that the arrangement device (350) is integrated into a control post of the processing machine (01). 7. Method for arranging a processing tool (301) of a processing machine (01) by means of at least one arranging device (350), wherein the at least one processing tool (301) can be placed and arranged on a support surface (351) of the arranging device (350), wherein the arranging device (350) has at least one projection device (353), wherein the arranging device (350) is arranged coupled by means of data technology with a digital processing contour (356) of the processing tool (301), wherein the digital processing contour (356) is used for arranging the processing tool (301), wherein the at least one projection device (353) is arranged to project at least parts of the processing contour (356) onto a rear part of the processing tool (301) and/or on a side of the processing tool (301) facing away from the processing contour, wherein the digital processing contour (356) is projected onto the processing tool (301) by means of at least one projection equipment (353). 8. Method according to claim 7, characterized in that arrangement points (358) are identified by means of the digital processing contour (356). 9. Method according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the at least one fixing agent (361) is applied in a liquid state and in that, for fixing, at least one fixing agent (361) is applied to the back and/or to the side facing away from the processing contour. 10. Method according to claim 7 or 8 or 9, characterized in that the areas in which the arrangement of a processing tool (301) is to be carried out are marked by at least one mark (357) on the digital processing contour (356) and in that at least one mark (357) defines, in combination with the digital processing contour (356), at least one arrangement point (358). 11. Method according to claim 7 or 8 or 9 or 10, characterized in that the at least one arranging agent (361) is applied and/or can be applied by the at least one actuator arm and in that the at least one actuator arm applies the at least one arranging agent (361) to the at least one arranging point (358) as a function of the digital processing contour (356) and the marks (357). 12. Method according to claim 7 or 8 or 9 or 10 or 11, characterized in that, in addition to the digital processing contour (356), at least one mark (357) is projected onto the support surface (351) and/or onto the processing tool (301) by means of the at least one projection device (301).