STRIP CONTINUOUS SUPPLY METHOD AND APPARATUS

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a strip continuous supply method and apparatus suitably applied, for example, to a feeding apparatus of a rotary printing press.

2. Description of the Related Art

In a machine where a roll (a rolled web) is unwound and used, such as a rotary press, an automatic web splicing unit is used, whereby when a roll being currently unwound (an old web roll) is nearing its end, this roll is automatically spliced to a new roll (a new web roll), without stoppage of the operation of the machine, and the operation is continued.

With the automatic web splicing unit of an offset rotary press, the following procedure has been common practice: When the transport speed of the old web roll reaches a predetermined speed not lower than a low speed and when the length of the remaining web becomes a value corresponding to a predetermined time or less, a web splicing signal is issued. In response to this web splicing signal, the new web roll is moved to a web splicing standby position, and a paster unit (web splicing unit) is moved to a web splicing position. Also, the new web roll is rotated such that the peripheral speed of the new web roll equals the transport speed of the old web roll being unwound by a pre-drive device. In this state, web splicing is performed (see Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-96968).

However, when printing is started anew, the above-described automatic web splicing unit has encountered the following problems: The movement of the new web roll to the web splicing standby position, and the synchronization of the peripheral speed of the new web roll take time. During this period, the old web is unwound, and the length of the remaining paper in the roll becomes insufficient. At the time of printing (during printing-out), therefore, the paper remaining in the wound roll cannot be used as the old web roll, thus resulting in a waste. In other words, if the remaining roll having the insufficient length of the remaining paper is used as the old web roll, shutdown of the machine due to the absence of remaining paper is induced.

Under these circumstances, when printing is started newly, it has been customary practice to use a web roll of a certain size as the old web. However, at the start of new printing, adjustments for printing of a normal printing product, such as color matching and registration, have to be made. This has posed the problem that printing products obtained become wasted paper, thus causing wastes.

The present invention has been accomplished as a solution to the above-described problems. The present invention provides a strip continuous supply method and apparatus which enable even a remaining web roll of a small diameter to be used as an old web roll at the start of new printing, thereby achieving the effective use of printing materials and improved productivity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first aspect of the present invention is a strip continuous supply method of a strip continuous supply apparatus which includes a turret arm supporting a new web roll and an old web roll and supported pivotably, and a turret arm drive device for pivoting the turret arm, and which splices a strip of the new web roll to a strip of the old web roll and supplies the strip continuously, the strip continuous supply method comprising driving the turret arm drive device, before driving of a main unit, to pivot the turret arm, thereby moving the new web roll to a web splicing standby position.

A second aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply method according to the first aspect, further comprising moving a web splicing unit to the web splicing standby position before driving of the main unit, the web splicing unit including a pressing member for pressing the strip of the new web roll against the strip of the old web roll, and a cutting member for cutting the strip of the old web roll.

A third aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply method according to the first aspect, further comprising driving new web roll drive means such that a peripheral speed of the new web roll becomes equal to a transport speed of the strip unwound from the old web roll, when the main unit begins to rotate, the new web roll drive means being adapted to rotate the new web roll.

A fourth aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply method according to the second or third aspect, wherein when a rotational speed of the main unit is equal to or higher than a preset rotational speed, the new web roll is moved to the web splicing standby position, and the web splicing unit is moved to the web splicing standby position, and the new web roll drive means is driven such that the peripheral speed of the new web roll becomes equal to the transport speed of the strip unwound from the old web roll.

A fifth aspect of the present invention is a strip continuous supply apparatus which includes a turret arm supporting a new web roll and an old web roll and supported pivotably, and a turret arm drive device for pivoting the turret arm, and which splices a strip of the new web roll to a strip of the old web roll and supplies the strip continuously, further comprising a control device for driving the turret arm drive device, before driving of a main unit, to pivot the turret arm, thereby moving the new web roll to a web splicing standby position.

A sixth aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply apparatus according to the fifth aspect, further comprising a web splicing unit including a pressing member for pressing the strip of the new web roll against the strip of the old web roll, and a cutting member for cutting the strip of the old web roll, and wherein the control device moves the web splicing unit to the web splicing standby position before driving of the main unit.

A seventh aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply apparatus according to the fifth aspect, further comprising new web roll drive means for rotating the new web roll, and wherein the control device drives the new web roll drive means such that a peripheral speed of the new web roll becomes equal to a transport speed of the strip unwound from the old web roll, when the main unit begins to rotate.

An eighth aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply apparatus according to the sixth or seventh aspect, wherein when a rotational speed of the main unit is equal to or higher than a preset rotational speed, the control device moves the new web roll to the web splicing standby position, and also moves the web splicing unit to the web splicing standby position, and further drives the new web roll drive means such that the peripheral speed of the new web roll becomes equal to the transport speed of the strip unwound from the old web roll.

According to the strip continuous supply method and apparatus having the above-described features, even the remaining web roll of a small diameter can be used as the old web roll at the start of new printing. Thus, effective utilization of printing materials can be achieved, and increased productivity can be gained because of a reduction in the time taken for a web splicing motion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given hereinbelow and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the present invention, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic configurational view of a feeding apparatus (a strip continuous supply apparatus) showing an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an external view of an offset rotary press in the embodiment;

FIG. 3(a) is a control block diagram in the embodiment;

FIG. 3(b) is a control block diagram in the embodiment;

FIG. 3(c) is a control block diagram in the embodiment;

FIG. 4(a) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 4(b) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 4(c) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 5(a) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 5(b) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 5(c) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 5(d) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 6(a) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 6(b) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 6(c) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 7(a) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 7(b) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;

FIG. 7(c) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment; and

FIG. 7(d) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A strip continuous supply method and apparatus according to the present invention will be described in detail by an embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Embodiment

FIG. 1 is a schematic configurational drawing of a feeding apparatus (a strip continuous supply apparatus) showing an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an external view of an offset rotary press in the embodiment. FIGS. 3(a) to 3(c) are control block diagrams in the embodiment. FIGS. 4(a) to 4(c), FIGS. 5(a) to 5(d), FIGS. 6(a) to 6(c), and FIGS. 7(a) to 7(d) are flowcharts for web splicing control in the embodiment.

In an offset rotary press, as shown in FIG. 2, a web (strip) W continuously supplied from a feeding apparatus (strip continuous supply apparatus) 1 is first subjected to various printings during its passage through printing units 2. Then, the web W is heated and dried during its passage through a dryer 3, and is then cooled during its passage through a cooling device 4. Then, the web W is controlled in tension or changed in direction during its passage through a web path device 5 and a drag device 6, and is then cut to a predetermined shape and folded by a folder 7.

The feeding apparatus 1, as shown in FIG. 1, is a so-called automatic web splicing unit serving the following functions: A turret arm 11 is pivotally supported by an apparatus body 10 to be pivotable about a central portion of the turret arm 11. Also, new and old paper rolls (new and old web rolls) 12 and 13 are mounted at the opposite ends (A-side and B-side) of the turret arm 11. When the web W is unwound from the old paper roll 13, and the paper roll nears its end, the web W from the new paper roll 12 is spliced to be continuous with the old paper roll 13, and is sent to the printing unit 2. The state shown in FIG. 1 is a state where the old paper roll 13 being currently unwound nears its end, and the turret arm 11 is pivoted to move the next new paper roll 12 to a web splicing standby position.

The turret arm 11, as shown in FIG. 3 (b), is pivoted by a turret arm swing motor (turret arm drive device) 14, and its swing angle is detected by a rotary encoder 15 for the turret arm swing motor. A pre-drive device for rotationally driving the new and old paper rolls 12 and 13 is built in the turret arm 11, and the pre-drive device accelerates beforehand the new paper roll 12 moved to the web splicing standby position until, the surface speed (peripheral speed) of the new paper roll 12 equals the travel speed (transport speed) of the web W. In FIGS. 3(b) and 3(c), an A-side new paper roll drive motor 16 and a B-side new paper roll drive motor 18 are provided as the pre-drive device for driving the new paper roll 12 (new web roll drive device), and their rotational speeds are detected by a rotary encoder 17 for the A-side new paper roll drive motor and a rotary encoder 19 for the B-side new paper roll drive motor. The unwinding speed of the old paper roll 13 is detected by an old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder 81.

In the apparatus body 10, a web splicing unit (paster unit) 20 is provided to be rockable by a web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder 29. The web splicing unit 20 can rock from a throw-off position indicated by dashed double-dotted lines in FIG. 1 to a throw-on position indicated by solid lines in FIG. 1 with respect to the new paper roll 12 moved to the web splicing standby position. In a state where the web splicing unit 20 has moved to the throw-on position, the web W unwound from the old paper roll 13 is passed through a clearance between the new paper roll 12 and the web splicing unit 20, passed over a plurality of rolls 22 and 23, and paid out toward the printing unit 2.

The web splicing unit 20 is provided with a fixed roll 24 for guiding the web W, and is also provided with a pressure contact roller (pressing member) 25 and a cutter (cutting member) 26 such that they can move toward and away from the web W. As shown in FIG. 3(a), the pressure contact roller 25 is driven by a pressure contact roller drive air cylinder 27, and the cutter 26 is driven by a cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder 28. The web splicing unit 20 is also mounted with a glue position detection sensor 31 which detects a double-sided adhesive tape 30 (see FIG. 1) at the leading end of the web of the new paper roll 12.

The apparatus body 10 is also mounted with a new paper roll stop position detection sensor 32 and a distance measuring instrument 33 for measuring a new paper roll diameter, as shown in FIG. 3(a). The new paper roll stop position detection sensor 32 is provided in a direction crossing the transport path of the new paper roll 12 given by the turret arm 11, and detects the outer diameter of the new paper roll 12 at the web splicing standby position. A transmission type photosensor or the like is adopted as the new paper roll stop position detection sensor 32. The distance measuring instrument 33 for measuring the new paper roll diameter is provided at a position where it opposes the circumferential surface of the new paper roll 12 when the new paper roll 12 stops at a diameter measuring position, in order to measure the distance to the circumferential surface of the new paper roll 12 by use of an ultrasonic wave or light (laser).

The turret arm swing motor 14, the A-side new paper roll drive motor 16, the B-side new paper roll drive motor 18, the pressure contact roller drive air cylinder 27, the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder 28, and the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder 29 are drivingly controlled by a control device 40, as shown in FIGS. 3(a) to 3(c).

The control device 40 comprises CPU 41, ROM 42, RAM 43, input/output devices 44a to 44n, and an interface 45 connected by a BUS line 74. To the BUS line 74, there are connected a memory 46 for storing the new paper roll, a memory 47 for storing an A-side new paper roll diameter measuring position, a memory 48 for storing a B-side new paper roll diameter measuring position, a memory 49 for storing a new paper roll diameter measuring position, a memory 50 for storing the value of a turret arm swing position measuring counter, a memory 51 for storing the output of the distance measuring instrument for measuring the new paper roll diameter, a memory 52 for storing the new paper roll diameter, a memory 53 for storing a turret arm width, a memory 54 for storing an A-side web splicing standby reference position, a memory 55 for storing a B-side web splicing standby reference position, a memory 56 for storing a new paper roll web splicing standby position, a memory 58 for storing the output of an A/D converter connected to a printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder, a memory 59 for storing a current printing press rotational speed, a memory 60 for storing the output of an A/D converter connected to an old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder, a memory 61 for storing an old paper roll unwinding speed, a memory 62 for storing a new paper roll drive motor rotational speed during web splicing, a memory 63 for storing the output of an A/D converter connected to the rotary encoder for the A-side new paper roll drive motor, a memory 64 for storing the output of an A/D converter connected to the rotary encoder for the B-side new paper roll drive motor, a memory 65 for storing a current new paper roll drive motor rotational speed, a memory 66 for storing a pressure contact roller throw-on timing, a memory 67 for storing a cutter motion timing, a memory 68 for storing the value of an A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter, a memory 69 for storing the value of a B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter, a memory 70 for storing an A-side operating position, a memory 71 for storing a B-side operating position, a memory 72 for storing a new paper roll operating position, and a memory 73 for storing a printing press speed during web splicing.

To the input/output device 44a, there are connected a new paper roll selection button (1) 34 which is selected when the new paper roll (remaining paper roll) 12 is present on the A side of the turret arm 11, a new paper roll selection button (2) 35 which is selected when the new paper roll (remaining paper roll) 12 is present on the B side of the turret arm 11, a small-diameter mode switch 36, an input device 37 such as a keyboard, a display device 38 such as CRT or a display, and an output device 39 such as a printer or a floppy (registered trademark) disk drive.

To the input/output device 44b, the distance measuring instrument 33 for measuring the new paper roll diameter is connected via an A/D converter 75. To the input/output device 44c, the glue position detection sensor 31 and the new paper roll stop position detection sensor 32 are connected. To the input/output device 44d, there are connected the pressure contact roller drive air cylinder 27 (a valve 27a for this air cylinder 27), the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder 28 (a valve 28a for this air cylinder 28), and the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder 29 (a valve 29a, for this air cylinder 29).

To the input/output device 44e, a printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder 78 is connected via an A/D converter 76 and an F/V converter 77. To the input/output device 44f, an old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder 81 is connected via an A/D converter 79 and an F/V converter 80.

To the input/output device 44g, the turret arm swing motor 14 is connected via a turret arm swing motor driver 82. To the input/output device 44h, the rotary encoder for turret arm swing motor 15 is connected via a turret arm swing position measuring counter 83. The rotary encoder 15 for the turret arm swing motor is also connected to the turret arm swing motor driver 82.

To the input/output device 44i, the A-side new paper roll drive motor 16 is connected via an A-side new paper roll drive motor driver 84. To the input/output device 44j, the rotary encoder 17 for the A-side new paper roll drive motor is connected via an A/D converter 85 and an F/V converter 86. To the input/output device 44k, an A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 87 is connected. The rotary encoder 17 for the A-side new paper roll drive motor is also connected to the A-side new paper roll drive motor driver 84.

To the input/output device 44l, the B-side new paper roll drive motor 18 is connected via a B-side new paper roll drive motor driver 88. To the input/output device 44m, the rotary encoder 19 for the B-side new paper roll drive motor is connected via an A/D converter 89 and an F/V converter 90. To the input/output device 44n, a B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 91 is connected. The rotary encoder 19 for the B-side new paper roll drive motor is also connected to the B-side new paper roll drive motor driver 88. Also, the aforementioned glue position detection sensor 31 is connected to the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 87 and the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 91.

A printing press control device 92 and a remaining paper length meter 93 are connected to the interface 45. The remaining paper length meter 93 is a computing device which constantly monitors the remaining paper length of the old paper roll 13, and computes how many minutes will be taken as the remaining time until web splicing becomes necessary if the old paper roll 13 is unwound at the current web travel speed. Based on this computation, the remaining paper length meter 93 outputs a web splicing preparation start signal when the remaining time is not more than a preparation time. Its concrete features have already been rendered publicly known by Japanese Utility Model Registration No. 2568743. Thus, a detailed explanation for the remaining paper length meter 93 is omitted herein.

If, in web splicing (motion) control, a small-diameter mode is set, and the small-diameter mode is selected, the control device 40 moves the new paper roll (remaining paper roll) 12 to the web splicing standby position (swings the turret arm 11 priorly), and moves the web splicing unit 20 to the web splicing standby position, before start of printing, to eliminate wasteful paper feed. According to the control device 40, moreover, when the speed of the main unit becomes a slower speed (e.g., 8 rpm) or higher, the new paper roll (remaining paper roll) 12 is rotated to equate the peripheral speed of the new paper roll (remaining paper roll) 12 to the transport speed of the old paper roll 13 unwound by the pre-drive device (A-side new paper roll drive motor 16 or B-side new paper roll drive motor 18). As soon as the transport speed and the peripheral speed are synchronized, web splicing can be performed, and the new paper roll (remaining paper roll) 12 of the small diameter can be used.

Such web splicing control will be described in detail according to flow charts as FIGS. 4(a) to 4(c), FIGS. 5(a) to 5(d), FIGS. 6(a) to 6(c), and FIGS. 7(a) to 7(d).

In Step P1, it is determined whether the new paper roll selection button (1) 34 is ON or not. If ON, the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is overwritten with 1 in Step P2. Then, in Step P3, it is determined whether the new paper roll selection button (2) 35 is ON or not. If not ON in Step P1, the program shifts to Step P3.

If ON in Step P3, the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is overwritten with 2 in Step P4. Then, in Step P5, it is determined whether a printing press drive signal has been transmitted from the printing press control device 92. If YES in Step PS, the program shifts to Step P83 to be described later. If NO in Step PS, it is determined in Step P6 whether the small-diameter mode switch 36 is ON or not.

If ON in Step P6, the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is loaded in Step P7. If not ON in Step P6, the program returns to Step P1. Then, in Step P8, it is determined whether the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is 1. If YES, the A-side new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory 47, and stored into the memory 49 for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position, in Step P9. Then, in Step P10, the new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory 49 for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position. If NO in Step P8, the B-side new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory 48, and stored into the memory 49 for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position, in Step P11. Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P10.

Then, in Step P12, a normal rotation command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver 82. Then, in Step P13, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 is loaded, and stored into the memory 50. Then, if, in Step P14, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 reaches a value corresponding to the new paper roll diameter measuring position, the output of the distance measuring instrument 33 for measuring the new paper roll diameter is loaded, and stored into the memory 51, in Step P15.

Then, in Step P16, the diameter of the new paper roll is computed from the output of the distance measuring instrument 33 for measuring the new paper roll diameter, and stored into the memory 52. Then, in Step P17, the width of the turret arm is loaded from the memory 53. Then, in Step P18, it is determined whether the diameter of the new paper roll is equal to or larger than the width of the turret arm.

If YES in Step P18, the output of the new paper roll stop position detection sensor 32 is loaded in Step P19. Then, if, in Step P20, the output of the new paper roll stop position detection sensor 32 is ON, a stop command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver 82 in Step P21.

If NO in Step P18, the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is loaded in Step P22. Then, in Step P23, it is determined whether the value of the memory46 for storing the new paper roll is 1. If YES, the A-side web splicing standby reference position is loaded from the memory 54 in Step P24.

Then, in Step P25, the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from the memory 52 for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P26, the web splicing standby position for the new paper roll is computed from the A-side web splicing standby reference position and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory 56. Then, in Step P27, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 is loaded, and stored into the memory 50.

If NO in Step P23, the B-side web splicing standby reference position is loaded from the memory 55. Then, in Step P29, the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from the memory 52 for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P30, the web splicing standby position for the new paper roll is computed from the B-side web splicing standby reference position and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory 56. Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P27.

Then, if, in Step P31, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 has reached a value corresponding to the web splicing standby position for the new paper roll, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P21.

Then, in Step P32, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve 29a for the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder, whereafter in Step P33 the output of the A/D converter 76 connected to the printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder 78 is loaded, and stored into the memory 58.

Then, in Step P34, the current rotational speed of the printing press is computed from the output of the A/D converter 76 connected to the printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder 78, and stored into the memory 59. Then, in Step P35, it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the printing press is greater than zero, namely, whether the printing press has begun to rotate. If YES, the program shifts to Step P36. If NO, the program returns to Step P33.

Then, in Step P36, the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from memory 52 for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P37, the output of the A/D converter 79 connected to the old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder 81 is loaded, and stored into the memory 60. Then, in Step P38, the unwinding speed of the old paper roll is computed from the output of the A/D converter 79 connected to the old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder 81, and stored into the memory 61.

Then, in Step P39, the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is computed from the unwinding speed of the old paper roll and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory 62. Then, in Step P40, the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is loaded. Then, in Step P41, it is determined whether the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is 1.

If YES in Step P41, a rotational speed command for the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is outputted to the A-side new paper roll drive motor driver 84 in Step P42. Then, in Step P43, the output of the A/D converter 85 connected to the rotary encoder 17 for the A-side new paper roll drive motor is loaded, and stored into the memory 63. Then, in Step P44, the current rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor is computed from the output of the A/D converter 85 connected to the rotary encoder 17 for the A-side new paper roll drive motor, and stored into the memory 65. Then, in Step P45, it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the A-side new paper roll drive motor 16 is equal to the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor at the time of web splicing. If YES in Step P45, the program shifts to Step P46. If NO in Step P45, the program returns to Step P43.

If NO in Step P41, a rotational speed command for the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is outputted to the B-side new paper roll drive motor driver 88 in Step P47. Then, in Step P48, the output of the A/D converter 89 connected to the rotary encoder 19 for the B-side new paper roll drive motor is loaded, and stored into the memory 64. Then, in Step P49, the current rotational speed of the new paper roll. drive motor is computed from the output of the A/D converter 89 connected to the rotary encoder 19 for the B-side new paper roll drive motor, and stored into the memory 65. Then, in Step P50, it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the B-side new paper roll drive motor 18 is equal to the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor at the time of web splicing. If YES in Step P50, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P46. If NO in Step P50, the program returns to Step P48.

Then, if, in Step P46, a web splicing signal has been transmitted from the remaining paper length meter 93, the output of the glue position detection sensor 31 is loaded in Step P51. Then, if, in Step P52, the output of the glue position detection sensor 31 is ON, the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is loaded in Step P53. Then, in Step P54, it is determined whether the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is 1.

If YES in Step P54, a pressure contact roller throw-on timing is loaded from the memory 66 in Step P55. Then, in Step P56, the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 87 is loaded, and stored into the memory 68. Then, if, in Step P57, the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 87 has reached a value corresponding to the pressure contact roller throw-on timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve 27a for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P58.

Then, in Step P59, a cutter motion timing is loaded from the memory 67. Then, in Step P60, the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 87 is loaded, and stored into the memory 68. Then, if, in Step P61, the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 87 has reached a value corresponding to the cutter motion timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve 28a for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P62. Then, in Step P63, a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve 27a for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder.

If NO in Step P54, a pressure contact roller throw-on timing is loaded from the memory 66 in Step P64. Then, in Step P65, the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 91 is loaded, and stored into the memory 69. Then, if, in Step P66, the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 91 has reached a value corresponding to the pressure contact roller throw-on timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve 27a for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P67.

Then, in Step P68, a cutter motion timing is loaded from the memory 67. Then, in Step P69, the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 91 is loaded, and stored into the memory 69. Then, if, in Step P70, the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 91 has reached a value corresponding to the cutter motion timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve 28a for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P71. Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P63.

Then, in Step P72, a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve 28a for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder. Then, in Step P73, a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve 29a for the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder. Then, in Step P74, the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is loaded. Then, in Step P75, it is determined whether the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is 1.

If YES in Step P75, the A-side new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory 70, and stored into the memory 72 for storing the new paper roll operating position, in Step P76. Then, in Step P77, the new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory 72 for storing the new paper roll operating position. If NO in Step P75, the B-side new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory 71, and stored into the memory 72 for storing the new paper roll operating position in Step P78. Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P77.

Then, in Step P79, a normal rotation command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver 82. Then, in Step P80, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 is loaded, and stored into the memory 50. Then, if, in Step P81, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 has reached a value corresponding to the new paper roll operating position, a stop command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver 82 in Step P82. Then, the program returns to Step P1.

If YES in the aforementioned Step P5, the speed of the printing press during web splicing is loaded from the memory 73 in Step P83. Then, in Step P84, the output of the A/D converter 76 connected to the printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder 78 is loaded, and stored into the memory 58. Then, in Step P85, the current rotational speed of the printing press is computed from the output of the A/D converter 76 connected to the printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder 78, and stored into the memory 59.

Then, in Step P86, it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the printing press is equal to or greater than the speed of the printing press during web splicing (a preset speed; low speed). If YES, a determination is made in Step P87 as to whether a web splicing signal has been transmitted from the remaining paper length meter 93. Upon transmission of this signal, the program shifts to Step P88. If NO in Step P86, the program returns to Step P84.

Then, in Step P88, it is determined whether the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is 1. If YES, the A-side new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory 47, and stored into the memory 49 for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position, in Step P89. Then, in Step P90, the new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory 49 for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position. If NO in Step P88, the B-side new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory 48, and stored into the memory 49 for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position, in Step P91. Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P90.

Then, in Step P92, a normal rotation command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver 82. Then, in Step P93, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 is loaded, and stored into the memory 50. Then, if, in Step P94, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 has reached a value corresponding to the new paper roll diameter measuring position, the output of the distance measuring instrument 33 for measuring the new paper roll diameter is loaded, and stored into the memory 51, in Step P95.

Then, in Step P96, the diameter of the new paper roll is computed from the output of the distance measuring instrument 33 for measuring the new paper roll diameter, and stored into the memory 52. Then, in Step P97, the turret arm width is loaded from the memory 53. Then, in Step P98, it is determined whether the diameter of the new paper roll is equal to or greater than the turret arm width.

If YES in Step P98, the output of the new paper roll stop position detection sensor 32 is loaded in Step P99. Then, if, in Step P100, the output of the new paper roll stop position detection sensor 32 is ON, a stop command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver 82 in Step P101.

If NO in Step P98, the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is loaded in Step P102. Then, in Step P103, it is determined whether the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is 1. If YES, the A-side web splicing standby reference position is loaded from the memory 54 in Step P104.

Then, in Step P105, the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from the memory 52 for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P106, the web splicing standby position of the new paper roll is computed from the A-side web splicing standby reference position and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory 56. Then, in Step P107, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 is loaded, and stored into the memory 50.

If NO in Step P103, the B-side web splicing standby reference position is loaded from the memory 55 in Step P108. Then, in Step P109, the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from the memory 52 for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P110, the web splicing standby position of the new paper roll is computed from the B-side web splicing standby reference position and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory 56. Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P107.

Then, if, in Step P111, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 has reached a value corresponding to the web splicing standby position of the new paper roll, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P101.

Then, in Step P112, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve 29a for the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder. Then, in Step P113, the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from the memory 52 for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P114, the output of the A/D converter 79 connected to the old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder 81 is loaded, and stored into the memory 60. Then, in Step P115, the unwinding speed of the old paper roll is computed from the output of the A/D converter 79 connected to the old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder 81, and stored into the memory 61.

Then, in Step P116, the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is computed from the unwinding speed of the old paper roll and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory 62. Then, in Step P117, the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is loaded. Then, in Step P118, it is determined whether the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is 1.

If YES in Step P118, a rotational speed command for the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is outputted to the A-side new paper roll drive motor driver 84 in Step P119. Then, in Step P120, the output of the A/D converter 85 connected to the rotary encoder 17 for the A-side new paper roll drive motor is loaded, and stored into the memory 63. Then, in Step P121, the current rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor is computed from the output of the A/D converter 85 connected to the rotary encoder 17 for the A-side new paper roll drive motor, and stored into the memory 65. Then, in Step 122, it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the A-side new paper roll drive motor 16 is equal to the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing. If YES in Step P122, the program shifts to Step P123. If NO in Step P122, the program returns to Step P120.

If NO in Step P118, a rotational speed command for the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is outputted to the B-side new paper roll drive motor driver 88 in Step P124. Then, in Step P125, the output of the A/D converter 89 connected to the rotary encoder 19 for the B-side new paper roll drive motor is loaded, and stored into the memory 64. Then, in Step P126, the current rotational speed of the B-side new paper roll drive motor 18 is computed from the output of the A/D converter 89 connected to the rotary encoder 19 for the B-side new paper roll drive motor, and stored into the memory 65. Then, in Step 127, it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor is equal to the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing. If YES in Step P127, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P123. If NO in Step P127, the program returns to Step P125.

Then, in Step P123, the output of the glue position detection sensor 31 is loaded. Then, if, in Step P128, the output of the glue position detection sensor 31 is ON, the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is loaded in Step P129. Then, in Step P130, it is determined whether the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is 1.

If YES in Step P130, a pressure contact roller throw-on timing is loaded from the memory 66 in Step P131. Then, in Step P132, the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 87 is loaded, and stored into the memory 68. Then, if, in Step P133, the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 87 has reached a value corresponding to the pressure contact roller throw-on timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve 27a for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P134.

Then, in Step P135, a clutter motion timing is loaded from the memory 67. Then, in Step P136, the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 87 is loaded, and stored into the memory 68. Then, if, in Step P137, the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 87 has reached a value corresponding to the cutter motion timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve 28a for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P138. Then, in Step P139, a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve 27a for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder.

If NO in Step P130, a pressure contact roller throw-on timing is loaded from the memory 66 in Step P140. Then, in Step P141, the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 91 is loaded, and stored into the memory 69. Then, if, in Step P142, the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 91 has reached a value corresponding to the pressure contact roller throw-on timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve 27a for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P143.

Then, in Step P144, a cutter motion timing is loaded from the memory 67. Then, in Step P145, the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 91 is loaded, and stored into the memory 69. Then, if, in Step P146, the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter 91 has reached a value corresponding to the cutter motion timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve 28a for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P147. Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P139.

Then, in Step P148, a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve 28a for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder. Then, in Step P149, a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve 29a for the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder. Then, in Step P150, the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is loaded. Then, in Step P151, it is determined whether the value of the memory 46 for storing the new paper roll is 1.

If YES in Step P151, the A-side new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory 70, and stored into the memory 72 for storing the new paper roll operating position, in Step P152. Then, in Step P153, the new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory 72 for storing the new paper roll operating position. If NO in Step P151, the B-side new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory 71, and stored into the memory 72 for storing the new paper roll operating position, in Step P154. Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P153.

Then, in Step P155, a normal rotation command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver 82. Then, in Step P156, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 is loaded, and stored into the memory 50. Then, if, in Step P157, the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter 83 has reached a value corresponding to the new paper roll operating position, a stop command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver 82 in Step P158. Then, the program returns to Step P1.

In the present embodiment, a description has been offered of the feeding apparatus 1 which has the automatic web splicing device for continuously supplying the printing unit 2 with the web W unwound from the new and old paper rolls 12 and 13 supported at the opposite ends of the turret arm 11. In the feeding apparatus 1, as described above, before the main unit is driven, the turret arm swing motor 14 is driven to pivot the turret arm 11, whereby the new paper roll (remaining paper roll) 12 can be moved to the web splicing standby position. When printing is started anew, therefore, even a small-diameter remaining paper roll can be used stably as the old web roll, without causing shutdown of the main unit due to the absence of remaining paper. Accordingly, effective utilization of printing materials can be accomplished, and an increase in productivity can be achieved because of a reduction in the time taken for a web splicing motion.

Moreover, the web splicing unit 20, which has the pressure contact roller 25 and the cutter 26, can also be moved to the web splicing standby position before the main unit is driven. Thus, a further reduction in the time for the web splicing motion can be made, and the actions and effects of the present embodiment stated above are further enhanced.

Furthermore, control is exercised such that when the rotational speed of the main unit becomes equal to or higher than a slower speed, the peripheral speed of the new paper roll (remaining paper roll) 12 moved to the web splicing standby position is equated to the transport speed of the web W unwound from the old paper roll by the A-side new paper roll drive motor 16 and the B-side new paper roll drive motor 18 for rotating the new paper roll 12. Thus, a further reduction in the time for the web splicing motion can be made, and the actions and effects of the present embodiment stated above are further enhanced.

The strip continuous supply method and apparatus according to the present invention can be applied not only to an offset rotary press, but also to a web material supply apparatus in a machine such as a corrugator or a laminator.

The invention thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

STRIP CONTINUOUS SUPPLY METHOD AND APPARATUS

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