EP1557364A1 - Method and device for picking up and transporting flexible and flat products - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves the use of a product feed stack (2), a separating device (1) and at least one transport element that separates products stabilized on only one side and feeds them to a handover point (19). The transport element has a movement direction essentially parallel to the plane of the stack running from a free area of the product to a stabilized area, whereby the transport element of the leading product passes under the feed stack and engages in force-locking manner on its remote side. An independent claim is also included for a device for implementing the inventive method.

Description

The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for separating and Further transport of flexible, flat products according to the preambles of independent claims.

The prior art discloses various methods and devices for separating of labels and single sheets and their subsequent transport, among others under the name investor, known. Such investors, in particular those for single sheets, are usually designed to be a single product by means of suction organs remove and / or grippers from a stack of sheets and then promote to a transfer point, where another step can be performed. Such investors are usually for a specific product processing optimized and can not readily for others Products or in any machine context.

The present invention is particularly intended (regionally) adhesive-coated labels which can be detached from one another and further transported and the technical characteristics associated with these products, and To solve difficulties according to the invention. In particular since the year 1980 self-adhesive, removable labels or labels ("sticky notes" or adhesive having paper sheets), i.a. under the brand name post-it®, known in the market and have since been used for a variety of purposes.

WO 96/39331 shows a device for applying self-adhesive labels from a Label dispenser, in which labels from a donor roll through a radially projecting Transfer agent drum are transferred to moving products. Takeover and The labels are delivered by a corresponding control of vacuum grippers, which the peripheral ends of the transfer means are provided. In this solution, the individually captured labels tangentially conveyed away from the corresponding donor belt. A precise, reliable and gentle separation of stacked labels is not demonstrated.

A device and a method of the type described are known from EP 0 988 246. The there disclosed solution contains a stack holder for receiving self-adhesive, removable product inserts. At the bottom of the stacker holder are Separation devices (plate-shaped slide, tuyere) provided which the Replacement of a single product supplement should accomplish. The detachment takes place in such a way that the adhesive-free part of a product supplement is substantially perpendicular to the Next product supplement is moved away and then the so separated Product insert by a rotating drum parallel to the sheet plane and essentially are deducted tangentially as in WO 96/39331. In contrast to WO 96/39331 The labels are here during the promotion by means of clamping grippers instead of vacuum grippers held.

From CH 684 589 another investor is known, which allows inserts by means of adhesive to apply on sheet. Unlike the two devices mentioned above here the supplements (or printed sheets) will be added later, i. after their separation during their promotion, provided with adhesive. For this purpose is a rotating Conveyor drum with several mounted on the periphery, planetary driven Drum drums provided. Again, the sheets are pulled off parallel to their peeling Side surfaces i. (based on the driver drums) tangential pulling off the Sheet from the stack. This device requires because of the adhesive addition in Transport and because of the necessary size of the driver drums, which on the Product size must be coordinated, a large overall construction. In addition, the Adhesive addition during transport technically complex, claimed cycle time and leads to additional maintenance costs.

Another solution for feeding labels is EP 0 897 871. Here are labels handed over from a punched tape form. The labels have to be long before they are taken over separated by rotating vacuum gripper and during the rotation also with Adhesive be provided so that they can be applied to corresponding products. Two structurally different, but from the label transfer principle corresponding devices are also known from DE-OS 28 43 418 and US 4,293,365. Those devices however, the labels are each taken from a stack. Both devices are by rotating labels each label taken from the label stack on one Gluing device passed and then applied to the associated product.

The devices known from the prior art thus each have one or more the following disadvantages: As far as the adhesive application on the transport of Label dispenser to the delivery point, are disadvantages in the cycle time, additional Maintenance costs and larger size to accept. The isolation and Assumption of the products to be transferred, namely labels, is only for adhesives-free Products solved, whereby also restrictions of the stack holder are accepted here must (takeover only possible on the top of the stack, limitation of the stack height, elaborate control or separation device). As far as adhesive-coated labels or products are to be separated, are either special features of the donor medium to take care of (donor rolls and the like) or take over from stacks is only unreliable or with restrictions possible.

In particular, in EP 0 988 246 a singling by means of there in larger stacks provided singling means are no longer reliably guaranteed and the for Off-take necessary forces are highly dependent on the bearing pressure on the lowest Product insert, properties of the adhesive may vary depending on the adhesive used the shearing motion when removing a product supplement to product impairments (Smearing, folds, deposits) or adverse effect on the bond yourself (especially shearing off or partially removing the adhesive). Accordingly complex control or control devices and possibly one additional sensors required. For larger adhesive areas is a separation no more at all or only with very small intermediate stacks with limited Pad pressure possible.

From EP 1 086 914 the Applicant of the present invention proposes a device for Transport of u.a. Printed products known which such products from a pile isolated, by rotating about an axis supporting elements and holding organs, which by a Separator be supported, a printed matter in this way from one below this stack lying stack and transport to a delivery point. in the Difference to the above-mentioned prior art, this solution basically different singulation principle, which is much more reliable and also Adhesive-coated printed products without degradation quickly and accurately can singulate. However, that device is limited insofar as the Stack feed from below and that a control engineering and constructive Additional expenses arise if separation and subsidies are not separate funds should be formed or the stack feed to be placed elsewhere.

Against this background, it is an object of the invention, a method and an apparatus to create a reliable separation of flexible, flat products, in particular also partially adhesive-coated products, and their Further transport allows, with a spatially arbitrary arrangement of the stacking device and a reliable separation with low design, maintenance and Control effort is possible.

The invention is based on an essential idea of the invention that singulation, Stripping and transport (per product) are carried out by a single element, the Product stacks at a single point or on a single edge of the products stabilized static or quasistatic agent - all other edges / areas of the Products are completely free or are made exclusively by dynamically changing elements, where appropriate, using, supporting or stabilizing the inertia of the products. This Concept is combined according to the invention with the advantages having principle that the Removing a product takes place in such a way that the removal direction or the Do not peel off the product as in the majority of the prior art fixed, stabilized or adhesive coated area (hereinafter "stabilized area") to free areas, but in a substantially opposite direction, i. towards free area to stabilized area. In addition, at the present Invention specifically causes the separation, as mentioned above, by a single Element is done by this both the singulation and removal as well as the entire Promotion process up to a transfer point by pushing back and subsequently capturing the initially facing away from the product.

The inventive method is preferably suitable for separating and transporting adhesive paper (adhesive) sheets or slips. Here are the Products supplied with a product supply stack of a separating device. These has at least one conveying element, which stabilized on only at a partial area Separates products and promotes the latter to a transfer point. The conveyor element is in Effective range moves on a stacking plane substantially parallel direction of movement. This runs from a free area of the products to a stabilized area of the Products, wherein the conveying element undercuts the foremost product of the feed stack and this subsequently detected on its opposite side. In doing so, the products are in the Essentially moved in the same direction of movement or pushed back, wherein the Part of the foremost product at its stabilized edge a force experiences perpendicular to the stack level. Only in a final phase of singling do they experience Produce a component of motion in their longitudinal direction and are characterized by Stack detached. During the pushing back to the detection of the product come different side surfaces of the conveyor element with the initially facing away from the Product in active contact.

The underrun of the products by the conveying element is preferred with a with the Introduced conveyor element concurrent initiating element, this in Movement direction is arranged in front of the conveying element. To the free edges of the Stabilize products, these are preferably alternately by a Initiation element and a conveying element dynamically supported.

In the last phase of the singling out, it is preferred to use an aid which is movable Parts may contain and the conveying element in overcoming the release force in definitive singling of the foremost product from the stack.

In preferred embodiments, the separating device can be a Transfer device downstream, which uses the isolated products (possibly by more than one axis) and to the products of destination or further Submit promotional areas. A takeover device that will be used for this purpose is known from EP 1'106'550.

The control of the recording and release of the products by the separation and Conveying device is preferably carried out by means of a pneumatic system, wherein in one certain time at certain openings of the conveyor air escapes and at the same time air can be sucked in at other openings of the same conveying means. The Pneumatic system can be designed so that timed over the same openings Air can be sucked or ejected.

The conveyor element according to the invention runs along an endless path, preferably a circular path, and has a flattened geometry, which has a kidney-shaped shape with a can have acute-angled, leading edge. This moves in the direction of stabilized edge of the product, which, after passing through the conveying element was, is then transferred, so that the beginning of the conveyor element facing away Side of the product is now attached to this and by this for further promotion can be.

The initiating agent or agents are preferably opposite to the direction of rotation of the Propulsion elements driven by an associated axis and so roll on the The first product they are to lift off, so that they do not exert any adverse effect on to carry out the products in their longitudinal direction. The former preferably have one circular segment-shaped geometry with a curved outer surface and suction or other Retaining means.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Seitenansicht der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung mit einem Zuführstapel und einer Übernahmevorrichtung;

Fig. 2a-2f

eine schematische Bildsequenz des erfindungsgemässen Verfahrens und der Funktionen der einzelnen Vorrichtungselemente;

Fig. 3

einen Schnitt durch eine erfindungsgemässe Vereinzelungsvorrichtung entlang einer Ebene durch die Hauptdrehachse;

Fig. 4

eine Ansicht der erfindungsgemässen Vereinzelungsvorrichtung;

Fig. 5

eine schematische Darstellung des Anhebe- und Vereinzelungsprozesses eines Druckbogens.

Reference to the following figures, embodiments of the invention will be explained in more detail. Show it:

Fig. 1

a schematic side view of the inventive device with a feed stack and a transfer device;

Fig. 2a-2f

a schematic image sequence of the inventive method and the functions of the individual device elements;

Fig. 3

a section through a separating device according to the invention along a plane through the main axis of rotation;

Fig. 4

a view of the inventive separation device;

Fig. 5

a schematic representation of the lifting and separating process of a sheet.

Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of the inventive device for Separation and transport of flexible, flat products 5, with a product feed stack 2, a separating or conveying device 1 and one of these Downstream transfer device 20. The skilled artisan recognizes that under the hereinafter used general term "products" means any products, which are flexible and flat, but at the same time a certain material strength have, so that explained in more detail below Umlege- and separation process is feasible and that the products isolated by gripping bodies and transported may be smaller than the products themselves. Such products are preferably printed or unprinted single sheets or order cards and the like, preferably with at least one redetachable, area-wise adhesive bond. The set forth invention is also suitable for products such as flat Sample bags or other product supplements.

The schematically shown, at least partially isolated and already in the transport products 5.1 to 5.3 are supplied from the feed stack 2. Of the Feed stack is here above the singulation and conveyor 1 (hereinafter briefly arranged as "separating device") arranged and with respect to the vertical inclined. The feed stack has guide surfaces 21, 22 which feed the stack Lead and support products. By means of a stabilizing means 25, the stack 2 or whose foremost product 5.1 is stabilized or supported on one of its edges 31. It's closed Note that this stabilization by a static means, such as a stop or a protruding ridge, or else can be done by a quasi-static means. By quasi-static means is to be understood here a device which the edge 31 of the foremost product 5.1 permanently supported but for the purpose of friction reduction may contain moving parts. In the embodiment shown, this can be here quasistatic stabilizer 25 as one or more rotatable discs or as one Roller be formed. In this way it is achieved that the edge 31 in the idle state, such as with a purely static agent, permanently supported or stabilized, when removing the the foremost product 5.1 but a Mitbewegung the stabilizer 25 takes place, so the frictional forces on the edge 31 are minimized. A reduction of the final Withdrawal force could alternatively be achieved with controlled stabilizers, but this meant a machine-technical overhead.

Of essential importance for the invention is the fact that the direction of rotation D ₁ , in the embodiment shown here in the counterclockwise direction, runs against the stabilized edge 31. In other words, as regularly practiced in the prior art, the singulating device is not moved so that stripping occurs substantially parallel to the surface of the product away from the stabilized edge 31 ("tangential stripping") but becomes the direction of rotation D ₁ chosen just opposite, so that the product in the direction of free edge 32 (see also Figure 5) moves to the stabilized edge and thus undergoes an everting or Umlegevorgang. This process will be described in detail below. It may already be pointed out at this juncture that this separation principle also differs principally from principles with planetary opposing extraction elements, such as in CH 684 589, for example, or with counter-rotating take-off rolls in a main direction of movement, as for example in EP 0 988 246 (FIG. 8). In those solutions, although the separating device is moved in accordance with the direction of rotation D ₁ , this relative movement to the products is reversed by opposing means, so that the functionally effective extraction means in turn result in a conventional removal of the stabilized edge away. A transfer of the product to be separated on a short path of movement under temporary deformation of the product, as intended by the present invention, can not be done.

The separating device has a plurality of rotating, multifunctional conveying elements 10.1 to 10.3. These conveying elements 10 have a common main axis of rotation 9, about which the former rotate counterclockwise (direction D1). Intermittently with these conveying elements 10 a plurality of initiating elements 11.1 to 11.3 are arranged. These initiation elements 11 have, like the conveying elements 10, the same main direction of rotation D ₁ about the axis of rotation 9, but are additionally rotatable in opposite directions about their associated, secondary axis of rotation 12.1 to 12.3. These secondary axes of rotation 12 are equally spaced from the main axis of rotation 9 and move accordingly on a common circular path. By the opposite direction of movement D ₂ is caused to unwind the initiating means substantially on the outside of a foremost product 5.1 and thereby no train is applied parallel to the side surface of the product to be lifted. In other words, only a lifting of the free edge 32 of the product takes place, but no relative movement to the next product in the area of the stabilized edge 31.

At a transfer point 19, the products 5 are transferred to a transfer device 20. This is designed here as a rotating around a rotational axis 23 in a clockwise direction in the direction of rotation D ₃ disc with radially projecting suction members 24.1 to 24.3. Preferably, the suction members 24 have a larger in comparison with the conveying elements 10 suction, so that the transfer is easily possible. Alternatively, an active transfer by controlling the holding means on the conveyor elements 10 is possible. By suitable tuning of these means in the area of the transfer point, a continuous detachment of the products from the conveyor elements 10 can be achieved.

Below the feed stack 2, a tool 3 is arranged, which supports the removal of the products in the last phase. In this embodiment, this aid is designed as a rotary body which rotates in opposite directions to the direction of rotation of the conveying elements in the direction of rotation D ₄ about an axis 4. The rotary body 3 has here two peripheral contact surfaces 8.1, 8.2, which cooperate with a respective conveyor element 10. By a clamping action between this pressure surface 8.1 or 8.2 and the conveying element 10 ensures that the respective product 5 is correctly detached from the stack. Namely, in the case of products which have an adhesive coating on the stabilized edge 31, the effect is to overcome the existing adhesive and frictional forces and to detach the product precisely and gently.

With reference to the figures 2a to 2f, the process of Vereinzeins and Weiterertransportierens explained in more detail. In this case, the method according to the invention is based on a time sequence shown in more detail and in particular the multifunctionality of the conveying elements and the inventive dynamic supports or additional stabilizing explained.

In the state shown in Figure 2a, there is a first initiation element 11.1 below the feed stack 2 and contacts the lowest product 5.1 of the stack in the area his free edge. In this position, the initiating element 11.1 has a support function for the stack 2, as this, moreover, exclusively at the lower edge 31 by a freely rotatable roller is supported, which forms the stabilizing agent 25 here. The free edge 32 of the lowest product 5.1 is thus by the initiating element 11.1 in this Timing stabilized dynamically. The initiating element 11.1 has (in the side view) a circular segment-like geometry, with respect to the main axis of rotation 9 outside lying and functionally essential surface 13.1 has a curvature. This vault will formed so that this outer surface 13.1 as a result of the combination movement of Initiation agent rolls around the axes 12.1 and 9 on the bottom of the product 5.1. The paraphrase as "essentially circular-segment-shaped geometry" must not be restrictive be understood. In addition to typically rounded edges, modifications are possible as long as the movement path according to the invention can be described and the mutual movement of initiating element 11 and conveying element 10 according to the invention is ensured (see. for example, Figure 2c, 2d).

A first conveying element 10.1 is arranged following the initiating element 11.1 in the direction of rotation D ₁ and is not yet in function here. Incidentally, the construction corresponds to that of FIG. 1. The initiating means 11.1 has one or more suction bores or openings 14.1 emerging on the outer surface 13.1. The suction bore 14.1 shown here is located at the edge of the free edge 32 and by an appropriate control causes this edge 32 is detected by building a negative pressure in the suction bore 14.1 in this phase and thereby held non-positively.

In the next moment shown in FIG. 2b, the separating device has moved by almost 20 ° in the direction of rotation D ₁ . The initiating means 11.1 has in the meantime undergone a clockwise rotation about its axis 12.1 in the direction of rotation D ₂ . The free edge 32 of the bottommost product 5.1 retained by the initiating element 11.1 was correspondingly lifted off the bottom of the stack and is now at a distance from the free edge of the next product 5.2. The conveyor element 10.1 is still without functional effect. It can be seen that the initiation element continues to support the stack 2, now due to its movement at the bottom of the stack a little further from the guide surface 22, which guides the free edges of the products of the stack 2.

The following Figure 2c shows that the separating device rotated by another approximately 20 ° in the direction of rotation D ₁ . The initiating element 11.1 is now so far rotated about its axis of rotation 12.1 in the direction of rotation D ₂ , that the product 5.1 is lifted to a large extent from the stack 2 against bottom and was already released at its free edge 32 from the initiating element 11.1. The product 5.1 is stabilized in this position essentially only at its edge 31. The initiation element 11.1 lifted due to its circular segment-like geometry from the stack 2 and no longer supports it. However, it is clearly visible from the figure that now the conveying element 10.1 in the direction of rotation D ₁ so far further rotated that it now supports the stack 2 from below at the free edges on its outer surface 16.1. In this way, according to the invention, the dynamic support of the free edges 32 of the supplied products 5 is effected. Initiating elements 11 and conveying elements 10 are arranged intermittently in such a way that alternately each one initiating element 11 or a conveying element 10 dynamically stabilize the stack on the free sides. Due to inertia of the stack, it is possible that this dynamically changing stabilization experiences short-term pauses or that during the transition to the subsequent dynamic stabilization element for a short moment both elements participate in the stabilization.

The conveyor element has (in side view) a flattened, kidney-shaped geometry. The correspondingly longer side surface 16.1 is relative to the main axis of rotation 9 against directed outside and the short side surface 17.1 is radially inward. According to the kidney shape These are the two surfaces, namely the functionally significant external surface 16.1, curved. The outer surface is here by a uniform radius defined, the shortest distance between the main axis of rotation 9 and the lowest Product of the stack 2 corresponds. The two connecting these surfaces 16.1 and 17.1 Surfaces 18a and 18b in turn extend at an acute angle with respect to one of Rotary axis 9 outgoing radial line, so that the surfaces 18a and 18b with the outer surface 16 of the conveyor elements 11 converge at an acute angle and this way at their lateral Ends 34a and 34b have a wedge shape. This wedge shape allows the Conveying elements 10, as seen in Figure 2c, during the movement of the Initiation elements 11 between the raised bottom product 5.1 and the rest of the Stack 2 are introduced. The lowermost product 5.1 thus squeezed out is replaced by the Surface 18a or prevented by the short surface 17.1 on springing back against the stack 2, which is particularly important if the products 5 have a high intrinsic stability have and / or adhere to the stabilized edge 31 over a large area. The Conveying element thus according to the invention has different functional surfaces or edges and ends up. An acute-angled end 34a serves to undermine one to be singled Product 5.1, an elongated area 16.1 for detecting the product and a another surface 18a together with the end 34a the pushing back and flipping the Product 5.1.

During the further rotation of the separating device 1 to the states, as shown in FIGS. 2d and 2f, the transfer of the product 5.1 is initiated, wherein in each case a state during a further rotation of the device is represented by approximately 20 ° in the direction of rotation D ₁ . In the position according to FIG. 2d, the conveying element 10.1 is inserted between the lowest product 5.1, which is furthermore supported on the stabilized edge 31, thereby supporting the stack 2 at the free edges in the area of the guide surface 22. During the rotational movement of the device in the direction of rotation D ₁ , the outer surface 16.1 of the conveyor element 10.1 rolls on the bottom of the second lowermost product 5.2 and penetrates ever deeper between the two products 5.1 and 5.2. Thanks to the continuous rotation and the geometry of the initiating means 11, there are no collisions between it and the conveying element 10 (cf., inter alia, motion paths in FIGS. 2d to 2e). By ejecting air at the openings 26 of the conveyor element 10 according to the invention undesirable frictional forces between stack 2 and conveyor can be avoided and an optimized function can be achieved even at high processing speeds. At the same time, the lowermost product 5.1 is pushed first downwards and then more and more towards the stabilized edge 31. Decisive for this is first the short surface 17.1 and / or the leading surface 18a of the conveying element 10.1 and, in the position according to FIG. 2e, the edge or the end 34a and / or the long, outer surface 16.1. During the movement path of the conveying element 10.1 shown in FIGS. 2e to 2f, the lowermost product 5.1 is first bent only slightly downwards, but then more and more bulged until an S-shaped deformation of the product 5.1 is present in FIG. 2f. This deformation results from the inventive movement direction of the conveying element 10 in the direction of the free edge 32 to the stabilized edge 31. In this embodiment, it can be clearly seen that kinematics and geometry of the elements 10, 11 allow the inventive detachment of the products 5 and support (such only slightly bent orientation of the product between the elements 10, 11 in the direction of the axis according to Figure 2e). It is of essential importance for the mode of operation here that the conveying element 10 has a double function in the process section shown in FIGS. 2c to 2f. On the one hand, the conveyor element 10 serves to (temporarily) stabilize the stack in the region of the free edges (dynamic support of the second lowest product), on the other hand, the transfer of the foremost product 5 is effected by the same conveying element. Furthermore, the person skilled in the art recognizes that in this case the suction means (openings 26) which are arranged on the outer edge 16.1 do not suck in air at this stage (but prefer to expel air), since otherwise not the lowermost product but the second lowest product is detected would. In other words, here the conveying element exercises a plurality of functions, partly simultaneously, partly sequentially one after the other, it becoming clear in this embodiment that these are sequentially in a first phase the following: (a) Dynamic support of the stack (see Figure 2c); (b) dynamically supporting the stack and lifting the bottom product (see Figure 2d); (c) dynamically supporting the stack and continuously transferring the product (see Figures 2e and 2f).

However, the product 5.1 is not yet complete in the state shown in FIG. 2f isolated, but still - albeit largely detached from this - the Assigned feed stack and at its stabilized edge 31 by the stabilizing agent 25 supported. To explain the second phase of the singulation, reference is made to FIG. 2a directed. There is the lowest product, now provided with the reference numeral 5.1 ', in recognizable in his next position. Over a first (comparatively small) area 33.1 now lies in the stacking position overhead side of the product of the outer surface 16.1 ' of the conveying element 10.1 '.

In this area 33.1, the product is now suctioned (see reference 26 in Figure 2d to 2f and below explanations to Figure 3) or other holding organs detected. During further rotation into the position shown in Figure 2b, the product is 5.1 ' continuously applied to the outer surface 16.1 'and in addition by further suction 26 firmly held.

Figure 2b shows that upon further rotation of the separating device 1 in the direction of rotation D _{1 of} the rotary body (aid 3) is synchronized so that its first contact surface 8.1 the delivery element 10.1 'is applied and in this way between these two parts a clamping gap is formed, the forms a conveying means for the intermediate product 5.1 '. Instead of a rotary body, another aid 3 can be provided which supports the separation in its last phase in terms of force.

By this arrangement it is achieved that from the position shown in Figure 2b to Figure 2c the product 5.1 'is detected with sufficient force to completely release it from the stack and optionally detaching the adhesive bond to the subsequent product 5.1 because the forces acting on the product 5.1 'in this phase are essentially are transverse to the suction means 26. Otherwise, this force might become one unwanted relative movement between the product 5.1 'and conveyor element 10.1' lead. In this phase of complete detachment of the product 5.1 'from the stack 2 and from Subsequent product 5.1 is the stripping force by the quasistatic stabilizer 25, which is formed here by a freely rotatable roller, the occurring Frictional forces on the stabilized edge 31 minimized. In addition, due to this role, as a result their suitably chosen diameter, the product is both carefully managed and the force vector can be favorably influenced during detachment.

It can easily be seen that in this second phase of the singulation, an optimum force diagram with respect to the peeling in the area of the stabilized edge 31 is achieved. Due to the bending effect in the area of the stabilized edge (see Figures 2a to 2c) there is a continuous detachment of the product 5.1 'with a force in the direction of the arrow F ₁ , so that there any adhesive areas are gently removed, without an unfavorable shearing across would be caused to the direction of arrow F ₁ . In this way, products containing adhesives, in particular sticky notes and the like, even at high processing speed can be separated and gently separated from each other.

In the final phase of the separation optimal separation with a force vector in the direction of the arrow F _{1 is} achieved, last but not least supported by a rotation and guidance by means of the roller 25. After complete release of the edge 31 '(Figure 2c) of the product 5.1 'This is further promoted by the nip 28 and so optimally applied to the outer surface 16.1' and detected by the suction 26.

In the further promotion (Figures 2d and 2e) the product is 5.1 'then completely off the clamping gap 28 is conveyed out and finally is only through the conveyor element 10.1 'or detected by the suction means 26 and can at a transfer point 19 to a Further conveyor (see Figure 1) or directly to a printed product or another Subject to be transferred. The detachment is preferably carried out by a control of Aspirating means 26 or by suitable transfer means, such as e.g. through a stronger one Force acting suction organs of a transfer device 20 (Figure 1). This one shown suction means 26 can also by others a positive connection with the promotional products 26, e.g. by means of that take advantage of electrostatic adhesion.

With reference to Figures 3 and 4, the structure of the separating device 1 and the Desired control of the detection of the products described in more detail. FIG. 3 shows a Section through the separating device 1 along a plane E (see Figure 4), through the Main axis of rotation 9 is running. A cylindrical base member 40 is rotatable by means of ball bearings 41 around the geometric axis 9a, mounted on the main axis of rotation 9. FIG. 4 shows a Front view of the separating device 1. Corresponding components are the same Reference number marked.

The section shown in Figure 3 shows a conveying element 10 which is rigidly connected to the base member 40 by means of screws 35.1, 35.2 (see Figure 4). At its periphery, the base member 40 has a toothing 42. A toothed belt 45 driven by a conventional drive (not shown) engages in this toothing 42 and effects the circulation of the separating device in the counterclockwise direction as explained with reference to the preceding figures (see the direction of rotation D ₁ in FIG. An initiating element 11 is arranged on a rotation axis 12. This axis of rotation 12 is rotatably supported by ball bearings 46 in the base member 40. The drive of the axis of rotation 12 via a pinion 36 which engages here in an internal toothing of the stationary housing 15. In other embodiments, of course, in a known manner, a translation for this drive or a location-dependent control of the rotational speed can be provided.

The explained with reference to the above description sucking and releasing the Products by the conveyor element 10 and the lifting of the products by the Initiation element 11 is in a manner known in the art by means of a pneumatically operated pneumatic system causes. About a compressed air pipe 48 is the Pneumatic system Compressed air supplied centrally. Several holes 49 serve as distribution channels the compressed air to the conveyor elements 10 and the initiating element 11. In places where the air should flow in rotating components, air distribution chambers are provided. Such Luftverteilkammer 47.3 is provided for example in the region of the main axis of rotation 9. The Residual air is, unless an outlet on the elements 10, 11 takes place on the Vent ports 50 removed. The individual components of the separating device 1 are, where necessary, by means of seals 55, of which only a few by way of example with a reference numeral are sealed airtight against each other, so that the necessary pressure build-up in Pneumatic system can be done.

About the compressed air pipe 48, the system is constantly pressurized. This air flows via the distribution channels, optionally by an adjustable throttle (not shown) adjustable, to the openings 26.1 to 26.5 on the outer surface 16 of the conveyor element 10 or to the openings 14.1 to 14.3 on the outer surface 13 of the initiating element 11. When starting up the system there is a continuous pressure build-up in the system and at the openings 26 and 14 exits compressed air. The distribution channels point for the conveying element 10 a first injector manifold 51 and for the initiating element 11 a second Injector 52 on. These Injektorverteiler 51, 52 are each a stationary here Control curve 53 and 54 controlled so that air to respective distribution chambers 47.1 and 47.2 the conveying elements 10 and initiating elements 11 passed and these via the openings 14, 26 is ejected. Depending on the respective cam 53, 54 is in others Areas (or at certain times) of the air flow diverted so that a Vacuum in the distribution chambers 47.1 and 47.2 arises and thereby sucking on the Openings 26 and 14 is effected. The control cams 53, 54 are by means of adjusting elements 44th adjustable. The thus controlled Injektorverteiler 51, 52 serve in this way, to the openings 14, 26 during certain periods and / or in some areas Outflow of air ("rejects of the product") and at other intervals or in other areas to suction the air ("collection of the products") to effect. To this The air distribution in the pneumatic system can be precisely controlled by mechanical means.

The person skilled in the art recognizes that, if required, the individual distribution chambers 47.1, 47.1 '(FIG. 4), of which only one is visible in the sectional view of Figure 3, for the openings 26th can be controlled sequentially. Thus, a portion of the openings 26 at the Outer surface 16 of the conveyor element 10 suck in air and thus capture a product, while at other openings 26 air is expelled and thus the product is released controlled. With reference to the illustrated in Figures 2a to 2f Rotational positions this means e.g. the following: (a) expelling air through the openings the conveyor element 10.1 (Figures 2a to 2f); (b) drawing in air at the leading end Openings and expulsion of air at the trailing openings of the conveying element 10.1 '(Figure 2a); (c) suction of air at all openings of the conveyor element 10.1 '(Figure 2b to 2f); (d) discharging air at the leading openings and drawing in air at the trailing openings of the conveyor element 10.1 "(Figure 2c); (e) expelling air at all openings of the conveyor element 10.1 "(Figure 2d to 2f).

In an analogous manner, the air supply in the initiating elements 11 in time or be controlled depending on location.

In special applications, the sheet products can also be one of a rectangular shape have different geometry. The invention also allows that such products are separated. The stabilization does not take place then necessarily at an "edge", but can via suitable stabilizing means 25 so be achieved that only a one-off stabilization of the accessible areas, e.g. is effected by one or more freely rotating balls. The guide surfaces 21, 22 in this case are suitably replaced by bars or other guide profiles. Optionally, the guide surfaces may also contain movable means which Reduce frictional forces.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, in the vicinity of the free edges of the Products 5 in the stack 2, a guide element 37 (in Figures 2a to 2c and 2f schematically shown). This serves to ensure that at high processing speeds and / or possible deformations of the free edges 32 of the products 5, ensured is that the conveyor elements 10 exactly between the lowest and second lowest product 5.1, 5.2 retract and not undesirably include the following product or damage (see schematically illustrated positions of the guide element 37 in the figures).

It is also achieved that the initiating elements 11 in their approach to the Stack this in the right position to support, with the guiding element not this hampered (Figures 2a and 2b). Here are the geometries described in the invention of the elements 10, 11 to bear (essentially circular segment-shaped geometry or Kidney shape), which allow the intended movement of the guide element and at the same time the describe necessary movement curves. This guide element 37 may e.g. as controlled Finger be formed, or as a deformable plastic plate, which at Passage of the conveyor elements 10 passively undergoes elastic deformation and so the second least product retains until the respective element 10, 11 according to the invention dynamic support or stabilization in the right place causes.

In another embodiment not shown here, the initiating agent may also be referred to as be formed stationary, controlled element, not with the conveyor elements 10th co-rotates. Another design alternative provides for initiating element 11 directly to arrange the conveyor elements 10. In this case, at the leading end 34a (Figure 2d) of the Conveying element 10 provided pivotable support members, which undercut the feed stack and lift off the lowest product. Once the conveyor element its dynamic Stabilization can exercise, the support member is back or in the conveying element pivoted.

It is also possible, in particular for larger products, to close the orbit of the Periphery of the conveying elements 10 and initiating elements 11 on one of a circular path to run a different curve, e.g. by elements running in guide rails. Even with such an embodiment, the conveying element 10 has a flattened Geometry and is arranged on the separating device 1 so that a to detecting product 5 by a leading side 18a or edge 34a (see Figure 2c) of the Conveying element 10 moves in the direction against the stabilized edge 31 of the product 5 and, as described in more detail below with reference to FIG 5, isolated. In addition, can the conveying element 10 may also be designed in several parts, and for example of two separate, be formed directly behind one another parts.

The invention makes it possible, the feed stack basically in any spatial Position to arrange, in particular above the separating device, and yet a exact and at high processing speed running separation of products perform. In a preferred variant of the inventive method is each time when refilling the feed stack 2 with additional products each First coated with (additional) adhesive, so that the last product of the The rest of the stack and the first product of the refill stick together. In this way can unwanted interference due to friction or adhesion differences between the Products of the various sub-stacks are avoided.

With reference to Figure 5, the inventive separation of with an adhesive coated products. The conveyor 10, in this figure only schematically indicated, does not move here on a circular path, but on an elliptical orbit and becomes analogous to the above description during this movement path pivoted. In this way, its functional side surfaces or edges come in desired moment with the products in operative contact.

A stack 2 of adhesive-coated on one side products 5 is lying here arranged. The adhesive 6 is attached to the top of the products and is here through a dash-dotted line indicated. The adhesive has the property that the individual Products, e.g. Sticky notes, are detachable from each other, without causing adhesive residue stay visible. The adhesive can be applied to the intended products on which the Product is attached, in turn be removable or have a permanent liability. The products are coated on the adhesive-coated side by a stabilizing agent 25 (cf. Figure 1) stabilized.

At a first position P1, the free edge 32 of a first product 5 is slightly raised. At this moment, the conveying element is not yet in operative contact with this product or the stack 2. In a next position P2, a conveying element 10 undercuts the product 5 'and displaces it in the direction of movement V ₁ . By this displacement in the direction from the free edge 32 to the stabilized edge 31, the product is lifted from the stack and is strongly supported in position P3 by the conveyor element 10. At the stabilized edge 31, the product is still lying flat, ie the adhesive of the subsequent product still fixes the product 5 'to be removed. The person skilled in the art recognizes that the dynamic stabilization of the stack 2, which is arranged horizontally in this exemplary embodiment, is of importance here only insofar as it requires a counterforce to lift off the foremost (here the uppermost) product.

At position P4, the product 5 'is already strongly lifted and the actual transfer of the product is initiated. As can be seen, the adhesive-coated part of the follower product 5 "is now loaded by a force perpendicular to the product stack in the direction of the arrow V ₂ and a detachment of a part of the adhesive layer begins, but the product 5 'to be lifted moves itself in the process Substantially continues in the direction of the arrow V ₁ , ie parallel to the stack level 7. By this movement, the adhesive is not sheared parallel to the stack level 7, but it is the product 5 'continuously detached from small-area portions of the adhesive of the follower product 5 ". A movement component in the longitudinal direction V _{3 of} the product (substantially perpendicular to the stacking plane 7) experiences this only in the last phase of the separation, approximately at position P5.

In the following position P5, the product 5 'is largely replaced by the subsequent product 5 " and is only at its outermost edge by the stabilizer 25 (not here shown) and a residual area of adhesive held. In this position the product has assumed an S-shape, which allows the conveying element 10, the product 5 ' detected at its originally remote, lower side 27 by holding means.

The product 5 ', now firmly held, and further pushed back in the direction of V ₁ and comes immediately before its definitive release from the stack in the position P _6th The product is detected here over a larger area by the conveyor element 10 and is detached from the stack 2 at position P7. The entire lifting and removing process is effected by the conveying element 10, which moves in the direction V ₁ , wherein only in the last phase from position P5, the conveying element to overcome the release or release forces according to the invention by an additional aid, preferably a rotary body (see Figure 1) is supported. Essential here is the fact that the product is not only pushed back by the conveying element 10, but that the product is initially undercut by the latter (P2, after being raised by an initiating agent), at its originally remote side surface 27 (P4 to P7 ), finally folded (about P5 to P6) and further conveyed by the same element 10 (P7). This multifunctionality of the conveyor element not only allows a precise separation at high speed, but it is at the same time a comparatively small design effort necessary. It can also clearly be seen in FIG. 5 that even in the last phase of the singulation (P6 / P7) the product is moved in the direction V ₁ and only the adhesive-coated region has an actual component of movement in the direction V ₂ . It can be seen that a separation of adhesive-coated products is effected by means of the device 1 or the conveying elements 10 according to the invention, without the adhesive-coated areas coming into contact with a separating element. Even during the conveying on, the adhesive-coated area is not impaired.

As far as the products in the feed stack are such that their adhesive side on the side facing away from the product is attached, the singulator is 1 preferably a transfer device 20 (see Figure 1) downstream, which the adhesive coated products on the products of determination (in Figure 1 schematically with 56 indicated), printed products or other objects, applied and thereby for this perceives a turning effect. Initially, the products 5 are only on one edge or on a portion stabilized and free at the remaining areas, i. can in this free Raised areas from the pile.

Claims (18)

Method for separating and further transporting flexible, sheet-like products, in particular paper sheets containing adhesive, with a product supply stack (2), a separating device (1), at least one conveying element (10), which separates into products (5) which are stabilized at only one subregion and conveys them to a transfer point (19), characterized in that the conveying element (10) has a direction of movement (V ₁ ) substantially parallel to the stacking plane (7), which moves from a free region of the products (5) to a stabilized region of the Products (5) extends, wherein the conveying element underflows the foremost product (5) of the feed stack (2) and subsequently detected non-positively on its opposite side (27). A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the products (5) are moved substantially in the direction of movement (V ₁ ), wherein portions of the product at a stabilized edge (31) experience a force perpendicular to the stacking plane (7) and only in one last phase of separation (P5 to P7) the products undergo a component of motion in the longitudinal direction (V ₃ ) of the products, Method according to one of the claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the product (5) for the purpose of underrun by the conveying element (10) by means of a co-rotating with the conveying element (10) initiating element (11) is raised. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that alternately an initiation element (11) and a conveying element (10) dynamically support the feed stack (2). Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conveying element (10) cooperates in the last phase of the separation of a product (5) with an aid (3) for overcoming the release force. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the products are supported at their stabilized areas (31) by means of a stabilizing means (25) with moving parts, which causes a reduction of the frictional forces in the last phase of the singling. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the products (5) of a separating device (1) downstream transfer device (20) are passed, which applies the products and applied to determination products (56). Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that by means of a pneumatic system (47, 48, 49, 50) air via openings (14, 26) on the conveyor elements (10) and initiating means (11) controlled exits or is sucked in, phased At one part of the openings (26) of a conveyor (10) air exits and at another part of the openings (26) of the same conveying means (10) air is sucked. Method according to Patent Claim 8, characterized in that the air distribution in the pneumatic system (47, 48, 49, 50) is controlled by means of control cams (53, 54) in temporal or local dependence, with time and / or regions of air being supplied via the openings (47). 14, 26) is ejected or sucked. Apparatus for carrying out the method according to claim 1 with a product supply stack (2), a separating device (1), at least one conveying element (10), which is isolated on only part of a region stabilized products (5) and this to a transfer point (19) promotes, characterized in that the conveying element (10) rotates along an endless path and has a flattened geometry and on the separating device (1) is arranged such that a product to be detected (5) by a leading side or edge (18 a, 34 a ) of the conveying element (10) in the direction against a stabilized edge (31) of the product (5) moves, thereby transferred, is detected by the conveying element (10) and further transported. Apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the conveying element (10) has a flattened, kidney-shaped geometry, continuously revolves around a main axis of rotation (9) and at a radially outer, longer side surface (16.1) several a positive connection with the products to be conveyed ( 5) inducing organs (26). Device according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that in front of the conveying element (10) an initiating means (11), which is moved along its movement path, is arranged for initially lifting a product (5) from the stack (2). Device according to Patent Claim 11, characterized in that the initiating means (11) is driven counter to the direction of rotation of the conveying elements (10) about an axis (12). Device according to one of the claims 10 to 13, characterized in that in the region of the stabilized edge (31) of the foremost product (5) of the feed stack (2) a means (3) supporting the separation by means of the conveying means (10) is arranged. Device according to one of the claims 10 to 14, characterized in that the initiating means (11) have a substantially circular segment-shaped geometry. Device according to one of the claims 10 to 15, characterized in that the separating device (1) comprises a pneumatic system (47, 48, 49, 50) provided with openings (14, 26) on the conveying elements (10) and initiating elements (11). is connected so that at these openings (14, 26) exits controlled air or is sucked. Device according to one of the claims 10 to 16, characterized in that in the region of the free edge (32) of the product to be separated (5.1), a guide element (37) for supporting the respective subsequent product (5.2) is arranged. Device according to Patent Claim 16, characterized in that the pneumatic system (47, 48, 49, 50) contains injector distributors (51, 52) which can be controlled by means of control cams (53, 54) in such a way that air is supplied over time and / or regions Openings (14, 26) expelled or sucked.

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