Method and apparatus for packaging signature bundles in paper or plastic film in a single stream of a conveyor

Abstract

 A group of consecutive bundles (10) of signatures is transported in a single stream on a conveyor (1) along the single path (1') passing at least one packaging station (5, 6, 5/6) configured for packaging bundles (10) selectively in paper (20) or plastic film (7). There is provided an input list with digital data with information about of the bundles (10) in the group of consecutive bundles are to be packaged only with paper and which bundles in the group of consecutive bundles to be packaged only with plastic film. In accordance with the input list, there is switched between packaging bundles only in paper or only in plastic film by the at least one packaging station (5,6).

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing packaged bundles of signatures on a conveyor. Especially, the present invention relates to a conveyor comprising only a single path with at least one packaging station for selectively packaging the bundles with either or all of two or more different materials, especially paper or plastic film, for example customized signature bundles.

Background of the Invention

[0002] In preparation processes for distribution of signatures, for example advertising material, magazines, newspapers with inserts, typically, the signatures are collated into bundles and wrapped in plastic film or, alternatively, in paper and, optionally, provided with a specific recipient address. The bundles may be individualised in dependence on the receiver and sorted according to demographic and/or geographic information. For example this sorting is done in order to satisfy the demands of geographical destination or even directed towards particular individual recipients, the latter including criteria as to interest, occupation and/or income. A prior art publication describing this is US6050057 by Buhrs-Zaandam.

[0003] The sorting and final packaging onto a pallet for further distribution may additionally be made in agreement with the correct postal distribution route in order to minimize efforts for the final delivery stage.

[0004] In order to provide fast and competitive delivery of such signature bundles, high-speed machines have been developed that can process between 10,000 and 30,000 bundles per hour. At this high speed, the process of collation and wrapping has to be performed very smoothly and with high precision in order not to disturb the flow of bundles through the machine. In order to assure such smooth operation, often, only one type of wrapping is used for a transport conveyer. This is explained in European patent application EP1681250 by CMC which with respect to earlier prior art refers to a wrapping machine with either paper, namely EP0480882 by CMC, or only plastic film, as in PCT/IB2004/003251 published as WO2005/035367 by CMC. Also the above mentioned patent US6050057 by Buhrs-Zaandam only refers to paper wrapping or plastic film wrapping but does not disclose the possibility to select paper or plastic film for providing selectively wrapped bundles.

[0005] However, as part of the requirements for individually customized collating and packaging, also the wrapping material may have to be tailored to the specific recipient. For this reason, prior art also contemplates signature collating machines where the bundles selectively can be packaged in plastic film or paper or not wrapped at all. In order to accomplish high speed processing, streams of bundles are divided into sub-streams for wrapping or for not wrapping, before the sub-streams are again merged for further processing. Examples of such disclosures are patents US5025610 by Quad/Tech, as well as US6269609 and US6415582 by Quad/Graphics. The patent US5706632 by Buhrs-Zaandam describes the option of having three sub-streams, one for paper, one for film, and one for no wrapping. The clear tendency is to divide main streams into sub-streams and merging these again, where the sub-streams are dedicated to wrapping or no wrapping or even with several sub-streams for different types of wrapping.

[0006] A different technical solution is found in US7325375 by Quad/Graphics, where different types of packages are provided into which the bundles are pushed, where the packaging and the products can be tailored to the recipient. However, this method of pushing products into packages is not suitable for high speed packaging and not practical for signature bundles of various sizes. For the latter, wrapping is more suitable. In this prior art document, wrapping itself is only mentioned as conventional wrapping with either paper or plastic film.

[0007] Providing information on the package of a printed product is disclosed in US8120811 where ablation printing in several steps is disclosed. A final wrapper can be used for wrapping the bundle of signatures in poly wrap and/or paper wrapping. It is not explained whether the signature bundles can be wrapped by a combination of film and paper or whether the wrapping can be done selectively by paper or film; also, no examples are given of how this can be accomplished, especially at high speed, and it is not disclosed whether the paper or plastic wrapping is performed in dependence of a customizing process.

[0008] Thus, the prior art seems not to advice a high-speed method for customized wrapping in film or paper tailored to the recipient, unless multiple sub-streams are provided.

Object of the Invention

[0009] It is therefore the objective of the invention to provide an improvement in the art. It is a further objective of the invention to provide an apparatus and method for customized packaging, for example wrapping, of signature bundles in either or all of two or more different wrapping materials, especially plastic film or paper tailored to the recipient without multiple sub-streams. Especially, the focus is on high-speed processing.

Description of the Invention

[0010] This objective is achieved with a method and apparatus for providing packaged bundles of signatures, for example advertising material, magazines, or newspapers with inserts, on a conveyor as described in the following.

[0011] The apparatus comprises a conveyor with a first location and a second location and only a single path of the conveyor between the first location and the second location, the second location being downstream of the first location with respect to a movement direction of the conveyor. Further, there is provided at least one packaging station, for example one packaging station or two or three or more packaging stations, between the first location and the second location. A group of consecutive bundles is transported in a single stream on the conveyor along the single path from the first location to the second location, such that each bundle arriving at the second location has also passed the first location and passed the at least one packaging station.

[0012] The at least one packaging station is configured for packaging bundles selectively in a first packaging material, for example paper, or a second packaging material that is different from the first packaging material, for example plastic film. There is provided an input list with digital data with information about which of the bundles in the group are to be packaged only with the first packaging material, for example paper, in order to provide a first subgroup where all bundles in the first subgroup are packaged with the first packaging material, for example paper, and which bundles in the group are to be packaged only with the second packaging material, for example plastic film, in order to provide a second subgroup where all bundles in the second subgroup are packaged with the second packaging material, for example plastic film. In accordance with the input list, the method comprises packaging bundles only in the first packaging material, for example paper, especially paper foil, or only in the second packaging material, for example plastic film, by the at least one packaging station.

[0013] For example, the apparatus comprises a control unit provided with digital data resembling an input list determining which bundles in the group to be packaged only with a first packaging material, for example paper, and which bundles in the group to be packaged only with a second packaging material, for example plastic film. The control unit is functionally connected to the at least one packaging station for packaging bundles only in the first packaging material, for example paper, or only in the second packaging material, for example plastic film, by the at least one packaging station in accordance with the input list. Thereby, the group of consecutive bundles are provided at the second location such that some selected bundles of the group are only packaged in the first packaging material, for example paper, and some other selected are only packaged in the second packaging material, for example plastic film. In other words, a first subgroup of the group of consecutive bundles is packaged only in the first packaging material, for example paper, and a second subgroup of the group of consecutive bundles is packaged only in the second packaging material, for example plastic film, by the at least one packaging station in accordance with the input list; thus, the group of consecutive bundles include the first and second subgroup at the second location.

[0014] In the following, for sake of illustration, the first and second packaging materials are mentioned to be paper and plastic film, respectively, but it is to be understood that the paper and plastic film can be substituted by other mutually different packaging materials, for example metal foil and/or textiles, if desired.

[0015] Advantageously, such a machine is capable of delivering bundles at the second location alternately in paper and plastic foil, although such regular configuration of a single stream of bundles would normally not occur. Typically, there are a number of bundles in the single stream, for example less than 10 or less than 5 bundles, that are wrapped in paper, followed by a number of bundles, for example less than 10 or less than 5 bundles, that are wrapped in plastic foil, which in turn is followed by another number of bundles, for example less than 10 or less than 5 bundles, that are wrapped in paper. The number of subsequent bundles that are wrapped alike is typically irregular and depends on the specific delivery data from input list.

[0016] As an example, the method comprises transporting in the single stream on the conveyor a first, a second, and a third bundle, wherein the second bundle immediately follows the first bundle, and the third bundle follows the second bundle with at most 10 other bundles between the second and the third bundle, wherein the first and the third bundle are packaged only in paper and therefore are part of the first subgroup, and wherein the second bundle is packaged only in plastic film and is part of the second subgroup. Likewise, the vice versa situation is an example, where the first and third are packaged in plastic film and the second bundle in paper.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method comprises selectively activating and deactivating the at least one packaging station for also providing unpackaged bundles as a third subgroup in the group of consecutive bundles at the second location; the third subgroup with the unpackaged bundles is provided at the second location in addition to the first subgroup, in which the bundles are packaged only in paper by the at least one packaging station, and the second subgroup, in which the bundles are packaged only in plastic film by the at least one packaging station.

[0018] Alternatively, the bundles arriving at the second location are only bundles packaged in paper by the at least one packaging station and bundles packaged in plastic film by the at least one packaging station; thus, each bundle is packaged by the at least one packaging station, and none of the bundles are not packaged. Thus, the third subgroup does not exist in this embodiment.

[0019] In some embodiments, the at least one packaging station comprises a first packaging station and a second packaging station, provided one after the other in the single conveyor path between the first location and the second location. The first packaging station is providing only paper, and the second packaging station is providing only plastic film, or vice versa. In such case, the group of consecutive bundles is transported as a single stream on the conveyor along the single conveyor path and past the first and the second packaging station. According to the input list, the first and second packaging station are activated and deactivated, respectively, for example by the control unit, thereby switching between packaging the bundles selectively in only one of the first and second packaging station.

[0020] For example, the first packaging station is a paper wrapper and the second packaging station is a plastic film wrapper, or vice versa.

[0021] As a further option, the apparatus can be configured to wrap a bundle in paper as well as plastic foil. For example, it is possible to wrap the bundle first with paper and then the same bundle with plastic foil in addition to the paper wrap. This would provide a fourth subgroup at the second location in addition to the first and second subgroup, and optionally in addition to the third subgroup of unpackaged bundles.

[0022] It should be pointed out that the term "a first and a second packaging station" does not limit the invention to only two packaging stations. It is to be understood as "at least one first and at least one second packaging station"; further packaging stations can be provided of the same type as the first packaging station and/or of the same type as the second packaging station, or even of a third, different type.

[0023] Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one packaging station comprises a single wrapper that can switch between paper and plastic film wrapping. For example, a specific packaging station of the at least one packaging station has means for wrapping with paper as well as means for wrapping with plastic film for being capable of selectively switching between paper and plastic film wrapping in the specific packaging station.

[0024] As a further alternative or addition, a plurality of such wrappers are provided, each wrapper being configured for switching between paper wrapping and plastic film wrapping.

[0025] As an even further alternative, the at least one packaging station provides paper envelopes or plastic film envelops into which the bundles are fed selectively. These envelops may be of different size in order to match the size of the bundles, for example individually customized bundles. If the envelops are made of plastic film, this film may be shrinkable and exposed to heat in order to shrink fit the plastic foil to the bundle. Typically, however, a wrapper is used for paper packaging and a wrapper for foil packaging.

[0026] In some embodiments, the paper packaging station is (or stations are) configured not to entirely cover the bundle with a paper cover, but rather provide a partial wrap as a folder around one edge of the bundle. Optionally, the paper is provided as a paper sheet and the method comprises folding the sheet around en edge of the bundle with a first part of the sheet being provided on the upper side of the bundle and another part of the sheet on the lower side of the bundle. For example, the sheet is folded with approximately one half on the upper side of the bundle and approximately one half on the lower side of the bundle.

[0027] Thus, it is to be understood that the term of wrapping a paper sheet "around" a bundle does not necessarily imply folding the sheet entirely around the bundle. The term also implies a partial wrapping, which is around one or more edges but not entirely around the bundle.

[0028] The film packaging station is (or stations are) typically configured to entirely wrap the bundle with a film around it. For example, the film is wrapped around the bundle, welded or glued into a sealed enclosure and, potentially, also exposed to heating for crimping of the film into a tight, sealed enclosure around the bundle.

[0029] Typically, a number of such bundles, for example between 5 and 50 or between 10 and 30 are assembled in a stacker with a band around the assembled stack. For example, such a stack could have a height of between 10 and 30 cm for convenient distribution. The assembled stack would typically contain some of the bundles packaged in paper (first subgroup) in addition to some bundles packaged in plastic film (second subgroup). Optionally, the assembled stack could in addition contain bundles that are packaged in paper as well as plastic (fourth subgroup) and/or additional bundles without packaging of paper or plastic at all (third subgroup).

[0030] The data of the input list is advantageously stored in a digital database. Optionally, the input list in the database contains information about the recipient, for example address, main interest, and special wishes, such as preferred type of packaging material. The data of the input list may contain digital, coded information as to whether to include or to avoid a certain signature for the customized bundles in the stream.

[0031] For example the method and apparatus of the invention is used for transporting the bundles at a conveyor speed of at least 10,000 or at least 15,000 or at least 20,000 bundles per hour along the single path and through the packaging process. This requires a smooth and quick functioning of the packaging stations, because the time for packaging, for example wrapping, is typically less than a second, because 2-4 bundles pass a packaging station per second.

[0032] In case that multiple packaging stations for paper are provided, for example 2, 3, 4, 5, or more paper packaging stations, the paper packaging stations can, optionally, be used mutually intermittently such that consecutive bundles are packaged by different paper packaging stations. This reduces the requirements for packaging speed of each single paper packaging station. Likewise, in case that multiple packaging stations for plastic are provided, for example 2, 3, 4, 5, or more plastic film packaging stations, the plastic film packaging stations can, optionally, be used mutually intermittently such that consecutive bundles are packaged by different plastic film packaging stations.

[0033] For example, there is provided a plurality of paper or plastic film packaging stations one after the other and which are operated at periods being a multiple of the period between arrival times of bundles. As an example, the most downstream packaging station starts packing while the preceding packaging station is waiting for packaging the next bundle. The plurality of packaging stations may be combined with acceleration and/or deceleration conveyor sections in order to have enough time for packaging, on the one hand, and for safeguarding a smooth continuation of the stream of packaged bundles.

[0034] Optionally, the group of multiple paper packaging stations are all identical, or some of the paper packaging stations in the group are identical. Optionally, the group of multiple plastic film packaging stations are all identical, or some of the plastic film packaging stations in this group are identical.

[0035] The height of a bundle is typically between 5 and 45 mm, for example with a maximum height of 50 mm. The weight of a bundle depends on the number and dimensions of the signatures. Typically, the weight is restricted to 3 kg or 2 kg, although normally, the weight rarely exceeds 1 kg. In some practical embodiments, the method comprises providing a selection of bundles in the single stream of bundles, wherein the selected bundles have a height of more than 25 mm; for example between 25 mm and 50 mm.

[0036] In some embodiments, the input list is provided with identification data and individual characteristics of a plurality of recipients of the bundles. Accordingly, the apparatus is programmed for selectively packaging the bundles in the first or second packaging material in dependence on the individual characteristics.

[0037] In some embodiments the input list comprises a sequence of identification data sorted in geographic distribution order resembling a delivery sequence for the group of consecutive bundles, and wherein the method comprises providing the group of consecutive bundles at the second location in agreement with the delivery sequence.

[0038] In some embodiments the method comprises collecting the group of consecutive bundles at a stacker in agreement with the delivery sequence with some bundles only packaged in paper and some bundles only packaged in plastic film.

[0039] In some embodiments a plurality of signature dispensers are provided upstream of the first location, and the method comprises selecting signatures from the plurality of signature dispensers for providing different, individualized bundles of signatures in the group of consecutive bundles, the selection of signatures for the bundles being dependent on the identification data and individual characteristics in the input list.

[0040] Optionally, a printer is providing identification data of recipients on the bundles. In a practical embodiment, the control unit is functionally connected to the printer for controlling selective printing of identification data of recipients on the bundles.

[0041] Optionally, the input list comprises a sequence of identification data sorted in geographic distribution order, resembling a delivery sequence for the group of consecutive bundles. Accordingly, the apparatus is programmed for providing the group of consecutive bundles at the second location in agreement with the delivery sequence.

[0042] Optionally, the apparatus comprises a stacker configured for collecting the group of consecutive bundles in agreement with the delivery sequence and with some bundles only packaged in paper and some bundles only packaged in plastic film, corresponding to the first and second subgroup, respectively. Optionally, the stacker also receives bundles from the third and fourth subgroup, such that a stack can contain bundles from all four subgroups. For example, the bundles are finally packaged from the stacker onto a pallet for further distribution. Advantageously, the bundles are provided at the stacker and/or on the pallet sorted and in agreement with the correct postal distribution route in order to minimize efforts for the final delivery stage.

[0043] In order to collate signatures in bundles, optionally, a plurality of signature dispensers are provided upstream of the first location. Signatures are selected from the plurality of signature dispensers and collated into bundles. The selection of signatures for the bundles is dependent on the identification data and individual characteristics in the input list. For example, the control unit comprises a computer program with a processing step for determining individualized selection of signatures from the dispensers in accordance with the input list. Thereby, different, individualized bundles are provided in the group of consecutive bundles, the selection of signatures for the bundles being dependent on the identification data and individual characteristics in the input list. Optionally, the input list comprises a sequence of identification data sorted in geographic distribution order resembling a delivery sequence for the bundles and the apparatus is programmed for providing the group of consecutive bundles at the second location in agreement with the delivery sequence.

[0044] Optionally, the apparatus comprises a stacker and the apparatus is configured for collecting the group of consecutive bundles in agreement with the delivery sequence and with some bundles only packaged in paper and some bundles only packaged in plastic film.

[0045] Optionally, a plurality of signature dispensers are provided upstream of the first location for selecting signatures from the plurality of signature dispensers and collating the signatures into bundles. The control unit may optionally comprise a computer program with a processing step for determining individualized selection of signatures from the dispensers in accordance with the input list for providing different, individualized bundles in the group of consecutive bundles, the selection of signatures for the bundles being dependent on the identification data and individual characteristics in the input list.

Description of the Drawing

[0046] 

FIG. 1

shows a principle of a finishing conveyor;

FIG. 2

shows a finishing conveyor line with stations for paper covers and film wrapping;

FIG. 3

shows the plastic film wrapper in greater detail;

FIG. 4

illustrates a paper wrapper in greater detail;

FIG. 5

shows a suction cup of the paper wrapper in greater detail;

FIG. 6

is s principal sketch of an optional bundle with paper wrap;

FIG. 7

is a principle sketch of an apparatus with a single packaging station;

FIG. 8

is a detailed drawing of the apparatus with a single packaging station in a) side view and b) perspective sectional view;

FIG. 9

is an enlarged section of the packaging apparatus during paper wrapping.

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0047] FIG. 1 shows a principle of an apparatus for providing packaged signature bundles 10, for example containing newspapers, journals, advertisements, or combinations thereof. The apparatus comprises a conveyor 1 with a single conveyor path 1' for continuous transport of signature bundles 10 in a single stream on the conveyor 1 along the single conveyor path 1'. A plurality of signature dispensers 4 are provided in the upstream part of the single conveyor path 1'. In the single conveyor path 1', between a first location 21 and a second location 22, a first packaging station 5, for example a paper wrapper, and a second packaging station 6, for example a plastic film wrapper, are provided one after the other. The first packaging station 5 provides a first packaging material, and the second packaging station 6 provides a second packaging material. For example, the first packaging material is paper and the second is plastic film, or vice versa.

[0048] Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 7, there may be provided a single packaging station 6/5 capable of selectively providing different types of packaging material. The difference between two stations 5, 6 with each either paper or plastic film wrapping and the single packaging station 5/6 capable of both paper and plastic wrapping is that the location where paper and plastic film is provided is the same location, namely in the space between a first set of a lower belt 2 and an upper belt 3 and an immediately consecutive set of a lower belt 2' and an upper belt 3'.

[0049] With reference to FIG. 1, a control unit 16 is provided with digital data resembling an input list determining which bundles 10 to be provided with the first or the second packaging material. The control unit 16 is functionally connected to the first 5 and second 6 packaging station in order to provide instructions to the first 5 and second 6 packaging station for selective wrapping of a bundle 10. Optionally, the control 16 unit may be programmed to select for each bundle one of the following:

• only the first package material,
• only the second package material,
• both the first package material and the second packaging material, or
• none of them.

[0050] Corresponding instructions are submitted for respectively activating or deactivating the first and second packaging stations 5, 6, as the bundles 10 pass by.

[0051] At the end of the single conveyor path 1', there is provided a stacker 11 for collecting the bundles as a preparation step for delivery of the packaged bundles to the recipients. A stack is typically assembled and a stabilizing band is arranged around the stack.

[0052] In some embodiments, the input list in the control unit 16 comprises identification data and individual characteristics of a plurality of recipients of the bundles 10. In this case, the bundles 10 are packaged in the first or second packaging material in dependence on the individual characteristics. A printing unit 17, for example an ink jet printer, provides identification data of recipients on the bundles. For example, the input list comprises a sequence of identification data sorted in geographic distribution order resembling a delivery sequence for the bundles 10. Once the bundles 10 arrive at the stacker 11, they are already in agreement with the delivery sequence ready for packing on a pallet and transport to the geographical area where the bundles are distributed.

[0053] FIG. 2 shows a practical example of a finishing conveyor 1 with a lower belt 2 and upper belts 3 between which bundles of signatures are to be transported. The transport direction 26 is from right to left. Signatures are collated from a plurality of signature dispensers 4, of which three are shown, although, there are typically more than three. As shown, the single conveyor path also extends upstream to a number of dispensers 4 for providing bundles of signatures.

[0054] During the collation, addition of a signature from a certain dispenser 4 to a bundle 10 of signatures is determined by data from a database in order to provide customized bundles. The database contains information about the recipient, for example address, main interest, and special wishes, such as type of packaging material. The data may contain coded information to include or to avoid a certain signature for the customized bundles in the stream.

[0055] The conveyor line is further equipped with two paper wrappers 5, and one film wrapper 6. Depending on the information from the database, a customized bundle 10 is wrapped in paper, or a bundle 10 is wrapped in plastic film. Although, the system allows both paper wrapping and subsequent plastic film wrapping of the same bundle, this is not desired in most situations. The paper wrappers 5 and the film wrapper 6 are provided as part of a single conveyor path that is transporting signature bundles after collation. The number of paper wrappers 5 can be more than the illustrated two paper wrappers for covering the bundles with papers. The number of plastic film wrappers 6 for providing plastic film around the bundle can also more than one.

[0056] Typically, a bundle 10 is either wrapped in paper or plastic film, although, in an alternative embodiment, it is also possible to let bundles in the stream pass through the packaging stations 5, 6 without paper packaging or film wrapping. Such bundles would arrive at the stacker and be stacked together with paper wrapped bundles and plastic foil wrapped bundles.

[0057] The paper wrappers 5 are typically configured not to entirely cover the bundle with a paper cover, but rather provide a partial wrap as a folder around one edge of the bundle. The film wrapper 6 is configures to entirely wrap the bundle with a film around it. For example, the film is wrapped around the bundle 10, welded or glued into a sealed enclosure and, potentially, also exposed to heating for crimping of the film into a tight, sealed enclosure around the bundle.

[0058] The speed of the transportation of the signatures is advantageously at least 10,000 bundles in an hour, for example at least 15,000, at least 20,000, or even at least 25,000 bundles per hour. This is a high speed and very demanding with respect to technology for smooth running of the bundles through the system. The switch between paper packaging, for example paper wrapping, and plastic film packaging, for example plastic film wrapping, must be precise and quick, and the paper packaging and the film packaging must be both quick enough for not causing a delay of the stream of bundles.

[0059] For this reason, the paper packaging stations can, optionally, be used mutually intermittently such that consecutive bundles are packaged by different paper packaging stations. In order to assure enough time for wrapping and secure a high speed stream, accelerating and/or decelerating conveyor sections may be provided in combination with the packaging stations.

[0060] FIG. 3 illustrates the film wrapper 6 in more detail. A role 7 of plastic film 12 is transported over an assembly 8 of rollers (rollers not shown) to a region 9 where the bundles pass between an upper belt conveyer 13 and a lower belt conveyer 14. The film extends across this region between the upper 13 and lower 14 belt conveyers. Thus, when the bundles pass through the region 9, they will be enclosed with film that is cut by a cutter 15 and subsequently welded, for example ultrasonic welded, or glued into a sealed enclosure. Guide belts 28 safeguard a proper transport of the plastic film 12. Optionally, after wrapping, the plastic film 12 is exposed to crimping in a subsequent heating station (not shown).

[0061] If a bundle 10 is not to be wrapped in film, the region 9 is not containing film 12, and the bundles can pass freely without film wrapping. In this case, the supply of film from the role is stopped after cutting with cutter 15.

[0062] FIG. 4 shows a paper wrapper 5 in greater detail. The paper wrapper 5 comprises a platform 18 on which a pile 19 of sheets 20 of paper for wrapping are provided. In order to wrap a bundle in paper, a sheet 20 is withdrawn from beneath the pile 19 by a number of suction arms 23 and then transported vertically downwards by rollers 24 such that the sheet has approximately equal parts above and below the level at which the bundles are transported. Typically, a bundle is between 5 and 50 mm high, and the vertical length of the vertical sheet is typically between 20 and 60 cm, depending on the height of the bundle and the size of the signatures 25 (see Fig. 6). For example, the paper sheets are A4 or A3 size. When the sheet 20 is in vertical orientation, a bundle is advanced to hit the sheet 20, and during further advancing the bundle, the sheet 20 is folded with approximately one half on the upper side of the bundle 10 and approximately one half on the lower side of the bundle 10. This is illustrated in Fig 6, where the height of the bundle 10 of signatures 25 is exaggerated for sake of illustration.

[0063] FIG. 5 illustrates the suction arm 23 in greater detail, where a suction cup 27 is provided on the end of the suction arm in order to pull a sheet 20 from the lower side of the pile 19.

[0064] When wrapping in plastic foil, the entire bundle is typically covered and the plastic film is welded or glued at the edges in order to seal the plastic film into a closed bag. The principle of the wrapper for plastic foil, as illustrated in FIG. 3 can be constructed similar to the paper wrapper, however, with the difference of not having such kind of suction arms 23 and a roll 7 instead of the pile 19 of paper sheets 20.

[0065] FIG. 7 illustrates an apparatus with a single packaging station 5/6 that has means 5', 6' for wrapping in a first material, for example paper, and a second material, for example plastic film. The packaging station 5/6 is a combination of the first packaging station 5 and the second packaging station 6 into a single packaging station 5/6.

[0066] The packaging station 5/6 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 8, where FIG. 8a is a side view and FIG. 8b an enlarged a perspective section of the apparatus of FIG. 8a. The single packaging station 5/6 is capable of selectively providing paper sheets 20 or plastic film for wrapping around signature bundles 10 that are transported between lower belts 2 and upper belts 3 between which bundles of signatures are to be transported. Signatures are collated from a plurality of signature dispensers 4, of which three are shown, although, there are typically more than three. Rollers 24, similar to the rollers 24 as illustrated in FIG. 4 are used to transport signature bundles 10 from a pile and in between the lower belts 2 and upper belts 3 for further transport to the single wrapping station, wherein the control unit 16, see FIG. 7, communicates with the packaging station 5/6 on whether to use paper sheets 20 or plastic film 12 or even a combination thereof.

[0067] FIG. 8b illustrates that the paper sheet 20 that is wrapped around the bundle 10 is not wrapped entirely around the bundle 10 but only partially around the bundle 10 by being bent around one edge only.

[0068] FIG. 9 illustrates the removal of a single sheet 20 of paper from the pile 19 by the action of the roller 24. The sheet 20 is being drawn in the space between the first set of belts 2,3 and the second set of belts 2', 3' in order to meet the bundle 10 that is transported into this space from the first set of belts 2,3 before continuing in the second set of belts 2', 3'. The partially withdrawn sheet 20 is also illustrated in FIG. 4.

Claims

1. A method for providing packaged bundles of signatures on a conveyor (1); wherein the conveyor (1) comprises a first location (21) and a second location (22) and only a single path (1') of the conveyor (1) between the first location (21) and the second location (22), the second location (22) being downstream of the first location (21) with respect to a movement direction of the conveyor (1), and at least one packaging station (5, 6) between the first location (21) and the second location (22); wherein the method comprises transporting a group of consecutive bundles (10) in a single stream on the conveyor (1) with a conveyor speed along the single path (1') from the first location (21) to the second location (22) such that each bundle (10) arriving at the second location (22) has also passed the first location (21) and passed the at least one packaging station (5, 6); characterised in that the at least one packaging station (5,6, 5/6) is configured for packaging bundles (10) selectively in paper sheets (20) or plastic film (12);
wherein the at least one packaging station comprises a first packaging station (5) and a second packaging station (6), provided one after the other in the single conveyor path between the first location and the second location; wherein the first packaging (5) station is providing only paper (20), and the second packaging station (6) is providing only plastic film (12), or vice versa; or wherein the at least one packaging station (5/6) comprises a specific packaging station (5/6) having means (5') for wrapping with paper sheets (20) as well as means (6') for wrapping with plastic film (12) for being capable of selectively switching between paper and plastic film wrapping in the specific packaging station; wherein
the method comprises providing an input list with digital data indicative for which bundles (10) in the group of consecutive bundles to be packaged only with paper (20) and which bundles in the group of consecutive bundles to be packaged only with plastic film (12); packaging a first subgroup of the group of consecutive bundles (10) only in paper and a second subgroup of the group of consecutive bundles only in plastic film by the at least one packaging station (5, 6, 5/6) in accordance with the input list and providing the group of consecutive bundles (10) including the first and second subgroup at the second location (22).

2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises selectively activating and deactivating the at least one packaging station (5, 6, 5/6) for also providing a third subgroup of unpackaged bundles as part of the group of consecutive bundles (10) at the second location (22) in addition to first and second subgroup.

3. A method according to claim 1, wherein the bundles (10) arriving at the second location (22) are only bundles from the first and second subgroups.

4. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one packaging station (5,6) comprises a first packaging station (5) and a second packaging station (6), provided one after the other in the single conveyor path between the first location and the second location; wherein the first packaging (5) station is providing only paper (20), and the second packaging station (6) is providing only plastic film (12), or vice versa; wherein the method comprises transporting the group of consecutive bundles (10) on the conveyor (1) along the single conveyor path (1') and past the first (5) and the second (6) packaging station; according to the input list activating and deactivating the first (5) and second (6) packaging station, respectively, and thereby switching between packaging the bundles (10) selectively at only one of the first (5) and second (6) packaging station.

5. A method according to claim 1, wherein a specific packaging station (5/6) of the at least one packaging station has means (5', 6') for wrapping with paper sheets (20) as well as means for wrapping with plastic film (12) for being capable of selectively switching between paper and plastic film wrapping in the specific packaging station (5/6).

6. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the method comprises transporting the group of consecutive bundles (10) past the at least one packaging station (5, 6) with a conveyor speed of at least 10,000 bundles per hour along the single path (1') and packaging the group of consecutive bundles at a speed of at least 10,000 bundles per hour by the at least one packaging station (5, 6).

7. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the method comprises transporting in the single stream on the conveyor (1) a first, a second, and a third bundle, wherein the second bundle immediately follows the first bundle, and the third bundle follows the second bundle with at most 10 other bundles between the second and the third bundle, wherein the first and the third bundle are packaged only in paper (20) and therefore are part of the first subgroup, and wherein the second bundle is packaged only in plastic film (12) and is part of the second subgroup, or vice versa.

8. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the paper is provided as a paper sheet and the method comprises folding the paper sheet around an edge of the bundle (10) with a first part of the paper sheet being provided on the upper side of the bundle (10) and another part of the paper sheet (20) on the lower side of the bundle (10).

9. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the method comprises providing the input list with identification data and individual characteristics of a plurality of recipients of the bundles (10), the individual characteristics containing information whether a bundle for a specific recipients should be packaged in the first (20) or second (12) packaging material; selectively packaging the bundles in in paper sheet (20) or plastic film (12) in dependence on the individual characteristics and providing identification data of recipients on the bundles.

10. An apparatus for providing packaged bundles of signatures on a conveyor (1); wherein the conveyor (1) comprises a first location (21) and a second location (22) and only a single path (1') of the conveyor (1) between the first location (21) and the second location (22), the second location being downstream of the first location with respect to a movement direction (26) of the conveyor (1), and at least one packaging station (5, 6) between the first location (21) and the second location (22); wherein the apparatus is configured for transporting a group of consecutive bundles (10) in a single stream on the conveyor (1) along the single path (1') from the first location (21) to the second location (22) such that each bundle (10) arriving at the second location (22) has also passed the first location (21) and passed the at least one packaging station (5, 6); characterised in that the apparatus comprises a control unit (16) provided with digital data resembling an input list determining which bundles (10) in the group of consecutive bundles to be packaged only with paper (20) and which bundles in the group of consecutive bundles to be packaged only with plastic film (12); the control unit (16) being functionally connected to the at least one packaging station (5, 6, 5/6) for packaging bundles (10) only in paper (20) or only in plastic film (12) by the at least one packaging station (5, 6, 5/6) in accordance with the input list and for thereby providing the group of consecutive bundles (10) at the second location (22) where some bundles of the group are packaged only in paper (20) and some only in plastic film (12);
wherein the at least one packaging station comprises a first packaging station (5) and a second packaging station (6), provided one after the other in the single conveyor path between the first location and the second location; wherein the first packaging (5) station is providing only paper (20), and the second packaging station (6) is providing only plastic film (12), or vice versa; or wherein the at least one packaging station (5/6) comprises means (5') for wrapping with paper sheets (20) as well as means (6') for wrapping with plastic film (12) for being capable of selectively switching between paper and plastic film wrapping in the specific packaging station.

11. An apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the at least one packaging station (5, 6) comprises a first packaging station (5) and a second packaging station (6), provided one after the other in the single conveyor path (1') between the first location (21) and the second location (22); wherein the first packaging station (5) is configured for providing only paper (20), and the second packaging station (6) is providing only plastic film (12), or vice versa; wherein the control unit (16) is configured for activating and deactivating the first (5) and second (6) packaging station according to the input list for thereby switching between packaging the bundles (10) selectively in only one of the first and second packaging station (5, 6), preferably the first packaging station (5) is a paper (20) wrapper and the second packaging station (6) is a plastic film (12) wrapper, or vice versa.

12. An apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the at least one packaging station comprises a specific packaging station (5/6) having means (5') for wrapping with paper sheets (20) as well as means (6') for wrapping with plastic film (12) for being capable of selectively switching between paper and plastic film wrapping in the specific packaging station.

13. An apparatus according to any one of the claims 10-12, wherein the conveyer (1) is configured for transporting the group of consecutive bundles (10) with a conveyor speed of at least 10,000 bundles per hour along the single path and configured for packaging at least 10,000 packaged bundles per hour.

14. An apparatus according to anyone of the claims 10-13, wherein the input list comprises identification data and individual characteristics of a plurality of recipients of the bundles, the individual characteristics containing information whether a bundle for a specific recipients should be packaged in paper (20) or plastic film (12); and wherein the apparatus is programmed for selectively packaging the bundles in paper (20) or plastic film (12) by the at least one packaging station (5, 6, 5/6) in dependence on the individual characteristics.

15. An apparatus according to claim 14 when dependent on claim 11, wherein the apparatus is configured for either selectively packaging the bundles (10) only by the first packaging station (5) or only by the second packaging station (6) according to the input list.

16. An apparatus according to anyone of the claims 10-15, wherein the apparatus comprises a printer (17); wherein the control unit (16) is functionally connected to the printer (17) for controlling selective printing of identification data of recipients on the bundles (10).

Drawing