IT202300006207A1 - INTERFOLDING MACHINE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF PAPER MATERIAL IN PACKS OF INTERFOLDED SHEETS - Google Patents

Description

INTERFOLDING MACHINE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF PAPER MATERIAL IN PACKS OF INTERFOLDED SHEETS

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention falls within the technical sector concerning the production of paper material in packets of interleaved sheets, that is with the sheets folded in a zigzag pattern with respect to each other, that is, enclosing at each fold a flap of the previous sheet and a flap of the following sheet, such as for example packets of paper handkerchiefs, paper napkins, paper towels, and the like.

In this technical sector, the production process involves feeding at least one continuous strip of paper material, unwound from a reel, and then making transverse incisions, or transverse pre-fracture lines, on the continuous strip in such a way as to obtain, transversally to the continuous strip, a succession of sheets separated from each other or joined by the pre-fracture lines.

The sheets are then folded in an interleaved manner with respect to each other to form a stack of sheets, known in the industry as a ?log?.

When the stack of interleaved sheets reaches the preset height (i.e. the desired number of folded sheets) for the product type, the formed stack of sheets is separated from the next stack of interleaved sheets being formed.

The stack of interleaved sheets thus formed, i.e. the ?log?, is separated from the next stack being formed and is then transferred onto a conveyor belt.

The conveyor belt transports the ?log? to a cutting station, where a series of cross-cuts are made in the ?log? to obtain individual bundles that will constitute the final products.

The equipment designed to perform these operations is known as interleaving machines.

There are different types of interfolding machines depending on the way in which the sheets must be folded and interleaved to create the final packages: for example, Z or W folding, with 3 or 4 panels, or L or V folding with 2 panels, where the term panel refers to each folded sheet. There are interfolding machines that use a single continuous ribbon of paper material, from which the individual sheets are then obtained to be folded in an interleaved and interleaved manner with respect to each other, or the use of two continuous ribbons of paper material from which two respective series of sheets are obtained to be partially superimposed on each other and folded in an interleaved and interleaved manner with respect to each other.

Interfolding machines include cutting means for making transverse incisions, or transverse pre-fracture lines, on continuous webs of paper material to obtain the succession of sheets that must then be folded and interleaved with respect to one another, i.e. in an interleaved manner.

Usually, such cutting means comprise at least one roller, which can be rotated around its axis, and which is provided on its lateral surface with suitable cutting elements to cut the paper material web as it unwinds around the roller.

The interfolding machines also include folding groups that are configured to fold the sheets, obtained by cutting or scoring continuous strips of paper material, in an interfolded manner to form successive stacks of interfolded sheets.

The folding groups essentially comprise a pair of counter-rotating rollers which are designed to perform a partial overlap between successive sheets coming from the cutting means, and folding elements (known as "folding fingers") which must intercept the overlapping sheets to perform the relative folding in an interleaved manner.

There are interfolding machines in which the pair of counter-rotating rollers exerts an attraction and adhesion action, and therefore releases the sheets, due to their partial overlapping, by means of a suction system, while in other interfolding machines the counter-rotating rollers exert a gripping and releasing action on the sheets, due to their partial overlapping, by means of a system of gripping elements of the pincer type.

There are also interfolding machines in which the transverse incisions on the continuous strips of paper material, to obtain the sheets, and the folding of the sheets in an interfolded manner are carried out by means of a single cutting and folding unit comprising a pair of counter-rotating rollers having, on their relative lateral surfaces, cutting elements and a suction system, to retain and then release the sheets to create their partial overlapping, and folding elements (?folding fingers?) which must intercept the overlapping sheets to perform the relative folding in an interleaved manner, i.e. interfolded.

In all the types of interfolding machines described above, there are support tables, arranged underneath the folding groups, to receive and support the stack of folded sheets being formed until the desired height is reached, and separation elements, to separate the formed stack (i.e. the ?log?) from the next stack of sheets being formed.

Below the interfolding machine, there is a conveyor belt, designed to receive the formed stack (the ?log?) from the support tables, and then transport the formed stack (the ?log?) outside the interfolding machines, making the ?log? exit from one side of the machine, up to a cutting station where the ?log? is cut transversely to obtain single packets.

In order to increase productivity, i.e. the number of packets that can be obtained from a ?log? in a unit of time (e.g. per minute), a consolidated practice is to use continuous ribbons of paper material that are as wide as possible, with a consequent corresponding increase in the length of the rollers used in the cutting groups and in the folding groups, as well as of the conveyor belt used to receive the formed ?log? and transport it outside the machine.

In this regard, some types of interleaving machines have a width of over 3 metres, for example up to 3.50, 3.60 metres, consequently the cutting rollers and the folding rollers can also reach a length of these dimensions.

However, this type of interleaving machine may have some drawbacks.

First, given the considerable length of the ?log? being formed, the conveyor belt will take a certain amount of time to be able to completely transport it laterally out of the interleaving machine.

Consequently, the rotation speed of the cutting rollers and the rotation speed of the folding rollers, for the formation of the stack of interleaved sheets (i.e. the ?log?), i.e. the number of cycles per minute of the machine, must be set according to the time required for the conveyor belt to transport the ?log? laterally out of the machine, in order to free up the space necessary to receive the next ?log?.

To maintain a high number of cycles per minute, it is therefore necessary to increase the speed of the conveyor belt drive, but this can have repercussions on the ?log?, even causing it to flake off.

Furthermore, the folding rollers, especially those that hold and release the sheets by means of a suction system, and which are therefore internally hollow to allow them to be connected to a suction source, having a considerable length, can be subject to bending stresses that can flex them, with consequent repercussions on the correct interfolded folding of the various sheets, and also compromise the correct functioning of the interfolding machine.

The aim of the present invention is therefore to propose an interleaving machine capable of overcoming the above-mentioned drawbacks.

In particular, the purpose of the invention is to propose an interfolding machine, which can be designed to include any type of cutting and folding group, to perform the interfolded folding of a succession of sheets cut from one or two continuous strips of paper material also having a large width, in the order of over 3 metres, and such as to allow for maintaining high operating cycles.

The above-mentioned objects are achieved by means of an interfolding machine for the production of paper material in packets of interfolded sheets in accordance with the content of the claims.

The features of preferred, but not exclusive, embodiments of the interleaving machine proposed by the present invention will be set forth in the following description made with reference to the attached drawing tables in which:

- figure 1 illustrates, according to a schematic perspective view, the interleaving machine of the invention in a first possible preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment;

- figure 2 illustrates, schematically and according to a perspective view, some components of the interleaving machine;

- figure 3 illustrates, schematically and with a perspective view, the interleaving machine of the invention, based on a second possible embodiment;

- figure 4 illustrates, schematically and according to a perspective view, the interleaving machine of the invention, according to a further possible embodiment;

- figure 5 represents a schematic side view of some parts of the interfolding machine proposed by the present invention, in which the parts relating to the cutting and folding groups have not been represented in detail;

- figure 6 represents a view according to a longitudinal vertical section plane of the interfolding machine of the invention, according to a possible embodiment, in which the parts relating to the cutting and folding groups have not been represented in detail;

- figure 7 represents the perspective view of figure 6;

- figure 8 represents a view according to a longitudinal vertical section plane of the interfolding machine of the invention, according to a possible operating mode, in which the parts relating to the cutting and folding groups have not been represented in detail;

- figure 9 illustrates, according to a perspective view, the interfolding machine of the invention, sectioned according to a longitudinal vertical section plane, according to a further possible embodiment, in which the parts relating to the cutting and folding groups have not been represented in detail;

- figure 10 represents a front view of the interleaving machine of figure 9, in a possible operating configuration;

- figure 11 represents a schematic side view of the interleaving machine of the invention according to a further possible embodiment, in which the parts relating to the cutting and folding groups have not been represented in detail;

- figure 12 represents a perspective view of the interfolding machine of the invention of figure 11, sectioned according to a longitudinal vertical section plane, in which the parts relating to the cutting and folding groups have not been represented in detail;

- figure 13 represents a front view of the interleaving machine of figure 12;

- figure 14 represents a front view of the interleaving machine of figure 13 in a particular operating phase;

- figures 15 and 16 illustrate, according to respective perspective views taken from different angles, the interleaving machine of the invention based on a further possible embodiment;

- figure 17 represents a side view of the interleaving machine of the invention, in a possible embodiment comprising a first typology of cutting and folding groups;

- figure 18 represents a perspective view of the interleaving machine of the invention of figure 17, sectioned according to a longitudinal vertical section plane;

- figure 19 illustrates, schematically and according to a perspective view, a significant component present in the folding group of the interfolding machine of the invention shown in figures 17 and 18;

- figures 20 and 21 represent respective partial sectional views, taken according to different transversal section planes, of the component shown in figure 19; - figure 22 represents, according to a schematic lateral view, and in section, the components of the cutting and folding group that may be present in the interfolding machine of the invention shown in figures 17 and 18;

- figure 23 represents, in a schematic manner and with a partially sectioned lateral view, the components of another type of cutting and folding groups that may be present in the interfolding machine of the invention; - figure 24 represents, in a schematic manner and with a partially sectioned lateral view, the components of a further other type of cutting and folding groups that may be present in the interfolding machine of the invention.

With reference to the attached drawing tables, the reference (100) indicates the interleaving machine for the production of paper material in packets of interleaved sheets, which is the object of the present invention, as a whole.

The interfolding machine (100) is configured to be fed with at least one continuous belt (N1, N2) of paper material and comprises a cutting and folding unit (TP); support tables (T, T1, T2); separation elements (S, S1, S2), and a transport system (C), which is arranged below the support tables (T, T1, T2).

The interleaving machine (100) is equipped with cutting means (R) (see for example figures 1, 2, 3, and 4) which are arranged and configured to longitudinally cut the at least one continuous strip (N1, N2) of paper material and divide the at least one continuous strip (N1, N2) of paper material into two parts and obtain a first part of continuous strip (N1A, N2A) of paper material and a second part of continuous strip (N1B, N2B) of paper material.

For example, the cutting means (R) may comprise at least one circular knife (R1) and at least one contrasting counter-roller (R2), arranged oppositely and on the opposite side of the at least one circular knife (R1) with respect to the at least one continuous strip (N1, N2) of paper material that must be cut and divided into two parts.

The interleaving machine (100) is designed so that the cutting and folding group (TP) is configured:

to receive the first part of continuous tape (N1A, N2A) of paper material and the second part of continuous tape (N1B, N2B) of paper material;

to make incisions in the first part of a continuous strip (N1A, N2A) of paper material and obtain a first series of sheets and to make incisions in the second part of a continuous strip and obtain a second series of sheets; to fold the first series of sheets in an interleaved manner and to fold the second series of sheets in an interleaved manner.

The interfolding machine (100) can be configured so that the cutting and folding group (TP) is made according to various possible embodiments usually used to perform incisions and folding of sheets in an interfolded manner.

In this regard, in figures 6-16 the cutting and folding group (TP) has not been illustrated in detail of its parts, as it can be made according to any of the preferred embodiments illustrated in figures 17 to 24, which will then be described subsequently in the following.

The cutting and folding group (TP) can also be made according to other typologies usually used in interfolding machines in addition to those described below and illustrated in figures 17 to 24.

The particular embodiment of the cutting and folding group is not in fact related to the peculiar and salient aspects of the present invention.

The interleaving machine (100) is then constructed so that:

a first set of support tables (T1) of the support tables (T, T1, T2) are configured to receive the interleaved folded sheets of the first set of sheets and to form a first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets and that a first set of separation elements (S1) of the separation elements (S, S1, S2) are configured to separate such first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets from a subsequent forming stack of interleaved folded sheets of the first set of sheets;

a second set of support tables (T2) of the support tables (T, T1, T2) are configured to receive the interleaved folded sheets of the second set of sheets and to form a second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets and that a second set of separation elements (S2) of the separation elements (S, S1, S2) are configured to separate such second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets from a subsequent forming stack of interleaved folded sheets of the second set of sheets.

Furthermore, the interleaving machine (100) is constructed so that the transport system (C) is configured to comprise:

a first transport group (C1), arranged below the first series of support tables (T1) and a second transport group (C2), arranged below the second series of support tables (T2);

with the first set of support tables (T1) which are configured to be vertically movable so as to bring the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets to rest on the first transport group (C1);

with the second set of support tables (T2) which are configured to be vertically movable so as to bring the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets to rest on the second transport group (C2).

In this way, a first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets will be deposited on the first transport group (C1) and a second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets will be deposited on the second transport group (C2).

The support tables of the first set of support tables, as well as the support tables of the second set of support tables, can be actuated for translation independently of each other, or in a dependent manner by means of a single translation means, such as a respective beam.

The first transport group (C1) and the second transport group (C2) can be operated independently of each other in order to transport the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets and the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets externally to the interleaving machine through two separate exits (U1, U2), for their subsequent cutting into respective packets of interleaved sheets.

The advantages of the inventive interleaving machine are evident.

Thanks to the division of the at least one continuous strip of paper material into two respective parts of continuous strips, the interfolding machine with the relative cutting and folding group is therefore able to process these two respective parts of continuous strips and obtain two distinct stacks of interfolded sheets, which two distinct stacks of interfolded sheets are deposited in support on two distinct transport groups which, independently of each other, transport the two stacks of interfolded sheets externally to the machine, through two respective distinct exits. The two stacks of interfolded sheets can then be separately sectioned transversely to obtain respective packets of interfolded sheets.

In this way, the time required to take the interleaved products grouped in stacks out of the interleaving machine, or at least to free the area underneath the support tables, is significantly reduced compared to the prior art, allowing the machine cycles for the formation of stacks of interleaved sheets to be maintained at high speeds, and eliminating the risk of the stacks breaking apart since it is not necessary to transport them out of the machine at excessively high transport speeds.

Further advantageous aspects of the interleaving machine of the invention are set out below.

The first transport group (C1) and the second transport group (C2) are arranged and configured to respectively transport the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets and the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through two respective distinct outputs (U 1 , U2) which are located on two opposite sides (L1, L2) of the interfolding machine (100) or through two respective distinct outputs (U 1 , U2) which are located on the same side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100).

According to a possible preferred first embodiment, illustrated in figures 5 to 8, the first transport group (C1) can comprise a first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) and the second transport group (C2) can comprise a second closed-loop conveyor belt (2), which are arranged aligned or substantially aligned with each other, in the sense that they can be found at the same height with respect to the ground, or substantially at the same height.

The first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) is arranged below the first set of support tables (T1) and configured so as to receive, in support, from the first set of support tables (T1), the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets and can be operated to transport the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a first exit (U1) located on a first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100), while the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) is arranged below the first set of support tables (T1) and configured so as to receive, in support of the first set of support tables (T1), the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100). arranged below the second set of support tables (T2) and configured so as to receive, in support of the second set of support tables (T2), the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets and operable to transport the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a second outlet (U2) located on a second side (L2) of the interfolding machine (100), opposite to the first side (L1).

With this configuration, there is also the possibility for the interfolding machine to produce two separate stacks of interfolded sheets of different heights, as illustrated in figure 8, thus being able to produce different types of final packages of interfolded sheets with a single interfolding machine. In another possible preferred embodiment, illustrated in figures 9 and 10, the first transport group (C1) can comprise a first closed-loop transport belt (1) and the second transport group (C2) can comprise a second closed-loop transport belt (2) and a third closed-loop transport belt (3).

The first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) and the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) are arranged in alignment with each other and the third closed-loop conveyor belt (3) is arranged below the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) and the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2).

The first closed loop conveyor belt (1) is arranged below the first set of support tables (T1) and is configured so as to receive, in support, from the first set of support tables (T1), the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets and can be operated to transport the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a first exit (U1) located on a first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100).

In turn, the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) is arranged below the second set of support tables (T2) and is configured so as to be tiltable around a rotation axis so that it can be moved between a first configuration (01) (figure 9), in which it is aligned with the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) to receive, from the second set of support tables (T2), the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets, and a second inclined configuration (02) (figure 10) so that a relative end can be arranged in correspondence with the third closed-loop conveyor belt (3) to be therefore operable to transfer the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets resting on the third closed-loop conveyor belt (3).

In this regard, the third closed-loop conveyor belt (3) is then configured to receive the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets from the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) and is operable to transport the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a second outlet (U2) located on the same first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100).

Eventually, according to another possible embodiment not illustrated, the third conveyor belt (3) can have an extension such as to be able to transport the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a second exit located on a second side of the interfolding machine, opposite to the first side.

In a third other preferred embodiment of the interleaving machine, see figures 11 to 14, the first transport group (C1) may comprise a first closed-loop transport belt (1) and the second transport group (C2) may comprise a second closed-loop transport belt (2).

The second closed loop conveyor belt (2) is arranged below the first closed loop conveyor belt (1), with the first closed loop conveyor belt (1) being arranged below the first set of support tables (T1) and configured to support the first stack of interfolded sheets (P1) from the first set of support tables (T1) and operable to transport the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a first exit (U1) located on a first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100), with the second conveyor belt (2) being designed to support the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets.

The second conveyor belt (2) can have an extension such as to be able to transport the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a second exit (U2) located on the same first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100), or through a second exit located on a second side of the interfolding machine, opposite to the first side.

In this case, i.e. when the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) is arranged lower, i.e. at a lower height from the ground, than the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1), the interfolding machine (100), advantageously, can be configured so as to also include a third set of support tables (T3) which are arranged lower than the second set of support tables (T2) and which are configured to receive the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets from the second set of support tables (T2) and which can be moved vertically so as to transfer the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets to rest on the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2).

In turn, the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) is configured and operable to transport the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a second exit (U2) located on the same first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100), or through a second exit located on a second side of the interfolding machine, opposite to the first side.

According to another possible preferred embodiment of the interfolding machine, see for example figures 15 and 16, the first transport group (C1) can comprise a first series of belts (10) arranged below the first series of support tables (T1) and transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of the interfolding machine (100), and a first closed-loop transport belt (1) arranged transversely with respect to the first series of belts (10) at one of their ends.

The first set of belts (10) are configured to receive the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets from the first set of support tables (T1) and are operable to transfer the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets onto the first closed loop conveyor belt (1), with the first closed loop conveyor belt (1) being operable to transport the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets externally to the interleaving machine (100) through a first outlet (U1) located on a first side (L1) of the interleaving machine (100).

In turn, the second transport group (C2) may comprise a second set of belts (20) arranged below the second set of support tables (T2) and transversely to a longitudinal axis of the interfolding machine (100), and a second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) arranged transversely to the second set of belts (20) at one end thereof. The second set of belts (20) are configured to receive the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets from the second set of support tables (T2) and can be operated to transfer the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets above the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2), with the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) being the second set of belts (20). operable to transport the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a second exit (U2) located on a second side (L2) of the interfolding machine (100), opposite to the first side (L1).

Depending on the type of cutting and folding group installed in the interfolding machine, it can be fed with one or two continuous belts of paper material, as illustrated in figures 1, 3 and 4,

When the interleaving machine is configured to be fed with two continuous webs (N1, N2) of paper material, the cutting means (R) are arranged and configured to longitudinally cut each of the two continuous webs (N1, N2) of paper material and divide each of the two continuous webs of paper material into two respective parts (N1A, N1B, N2A, N2B).

According to a further aspect, the interleaving machine may comprise spacing means (D), which are arranged and configured in such a way as to space apart from each other the parts (N1A, N1B, N2A, N2B) which are cut and divided by the cutting means (R) from a respective continuous strip (N1, N2) of paper material.

Figures 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22 schematically illustrate the components of a first possible cutting and folding group (TP) that can be installed in the interfolding machine (100) of the present invention, when it is fed with two continuous ribbons of paper material.

In this possible configuration for the interfolding machine of the invention, the cutting and folding group (TP) is configured to receive a first part (N1A) cut from the first continuous strip (N1) of paper material and a first part (N2A) cut from the second continuous strip (N2) of paper material to make incisions in such first parts (N1A, N2A) and obtain first series of sheets and fold by suction, partially overlapping them, in an interfolded manner such first series of sheets to form the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets resting on the first series of support tables (T1) of the support tables (T, T1, T2), and in which ..., T1, T2), and in which the cutting and folding group (TP) is configured to receive a first part (N1A) cut from the first continuous strip (N2A) of paper material and to obtain first series of sheets (N2A, N2A) and obtain first series of sheets (N2A, N2A) and obtain first series of sheets (N2A configured to receive a second part (N1B) cut from the first continuous strip (N1) of paper material and a second part (N2B) cut from the second continuous strip (N2) of paper material to make incisions in such second parts and obtain second sets of sheets and fold by suction, partially overlapping them, in an interleaved manner such second sets of sheets to form the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets resting on the second set of support tables (T2) of the support tables (T1. T2).

In this regard, the cutting and folding group (TP) comprises a pair of cutting rollers (3) and a pair of folding rollers (4), arranged below the pair of cutting rollers (3), where the pair of cutting rollers (3) are arranged opposite each other, can be operated in counter-rotation and include engraving elements (31) on the relative lateral surfaces.

The pair of folding rollers (4) are arranged opposite each other and can be operated in counter-rotation, with each of such folding rollers (4) comprising a central longitudinal air passage channel (40) connected to a compressed air source, and axial air passage channels (41) connected to the compressed air source, a first series of holes (42) selectively connectable to the central longitudinal air passage channel (40) and a second series of holes (43) selectively connectable to the axial air passage channels (41) (see in particular figure 22).

By selectively and alternatively connecting the first series of holes and the second series of holes to the suction source, with the folding rollers it is possible to perform retention actions, by suction, and release on the sheets by performing their partial overlapping and at the same time their interfolding.

According to a particularly advantageous aspect (see in particular figures 19 to 21), each roller (4) of the pair of folding rollers (4) is made up of two half-rollers (44) joined together at a respective end by means of a central support (45) comprising a ring-shaped connecting element (46), joined to the ends of the two half-rollers (44), and a supporting element (47) comprising a first part (48) in the shape of an annular flange mounted coaxially, by means of the interposition of sliding elements (S) (such as bearings), on the connecting element (46) and a second part (49) shaped to be constrained to a portion of the frame of the interfolding machine (100).

Furthermore, each semi-roller (44) comprises, in proximity to the central support (45), a bell-shaped element (50), internally hollow, and communicating with the axial air passage channels (41) and connected to the suction source. Since each folding roller is divided into two semi-rollers, each of which is responsible for creating respective stacks of interfolded sheets, joined and supported by a central support, it is possible to avoid and avert any bending problems that may be encountered in interfolding machines of the prior art, when these have large width dimensions.

Figure 23 schematically illustrates the components of a second possible cutting and folding group (TP) that can be installed in the interfolding machine (100) of the present invention, when it is fed with a single continuous ribbon of paper material.

In this case, the cutting and folding group (TP) includes:

a cutting roller (5) provided on its lateral surface with engraving elements (51) to make engravings on the divided parts (N1A, N1B) of the continuous strip (N1) of paper material and obtain a first series of sheets and a second series of sheets;

a pair of transfer rollers (52) which are arranged below the cutting roller (5) and in cascade with respect to each other, configured to create, by means of suction, a first partial overlapping of the sheets of the first series of sheets and the second series of sheets.

The cutting and folding group (TP) then comprises a pair of folding rollers (53), which are opposite each other and can be operated in counter-rotation, and which comprise, on their lateral surfaces, folding elements in the shape of pincers (54) which can be operated to take and release the sheets of the first series of sheets and the sheets of the second series of sheets in order to fold them with respect to each other in an interleaved manner for the formation of the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets and the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets.

Figure 24 schematically illustrates the components of a further possible cutting and folding group (TP) that can be installed in the interfolding machine (100) of the present invention, when it is fed with two continuous ribbons of paper material.

In this case, the cutting and folding unit (TP) comprises a pair of cutting and folding rollers (6), arranged opposite each other and operable in counter-rotation, in which each cutting and folding roller (6) comprises on its lateral surface engraving elements (61), to make engravings on the first parts (N1A, N2A) and on the second parts (N1B, N2B) divided by the first (N1) and second continuous strip (N2) of paper material and to obtain first series of sheets and second series of sheets, and a series of holes (62), interspersed with the engraving elements (61), selectively connectable with an axial central air passage channel (63) connected to a compressed air source, to retain, by suction, and release the sheets of the first series of sheets and the sheets of the second series of sheets in such a way as to fold them with respect to each other in an interleaved manner for the formation of the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets and the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets.

The cutting and folding group (TP) can also be made according to other known methods with respect to the preferred ones described above, in any case all falling within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims (15)

1) Interfolding machine (100) for the production of paper material in bundles of interfolded sheets, configured to be fed with at least one continuous belt (N1, N2) of paper material, and comprising: a cutting and folding group (TP); support tables (T, T1, T2); separation elements (S, S1, S2); a transport system (C), arranged below the support tables (T, T1, T2); characterized by the fact that it includes: cutting means (R), arranged and configured to longitudinally cut the at least one continuous strip (N1, N2) of paper material and divide the at least one continuous strip (N1, N2) of paper material into two parts and obtain a first part of continuous strip (N1A, N2A) of paper material and a second part of continuous strip (N1B, N2B) of paper material; where the cutting and folding group (TP) is configured: to receive the first part of continuous tape (N1A, N2A) of paper material and the second part of continuous tape (N1B, N2B) of paper material; to make incisions in the first part of a continuous strip (N1A, N2A) of paper material and obtain a first series of sheets and to make incisions in the second part of a continuous strip (N1B, N2B) and obtain a second series of sheets; to fold the first set of sheets in an interleaved manner and to fold the second set of sheets in an interleaved manner; wherein a first set of support tables (T1) of the support tables (T, T1, T2) are configured to receive interleaved folded sheets of the first set of sheets and to form a first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets and wherein a first set of separation elements (S1) of the separation elements (S, S1, S2) are configured to separate such first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets from a subsequent forming stack of interleaved folded sheets of the first set of sheets; wherein a second set of support tables (T2) of the support tables (T, T1, T2) are configured to receive interleaved folded sheets of the second set of sheets and to form a second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets and wherein a second set of separation elements (S2) of the separation elements (S, S1, S2) are configured to separate such second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets from a subsequent forming stack of interleaved folded sheets of the second set of sheets; where the transport system (C) is configured to include: a first transport group (C1), arranged below the first series of support tables (T1) and a second transport group (C2), arranged below the second series of support tables (T2); wherein the first set of support tables (T1) are configured to be vertically movable so as to bring the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets to rest on the first transport group (C1); wherein the second set of support tables (T2) are configured to be vertically movable so as to bring the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets to rest on the second transport group (C2); wherein the first transport group (C1) and the second transport group (C2) can be operated independently of each other so as to transport the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets and the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets externally to the interleaving machine through two respective separate outputs (U1, U2), for their subsequent respective cutting into respective interleaved sheet packets. 2) An interfolding machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first transport group (C1) and the second transport group (C2) are arranged and configured to respectively transport the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets and the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through two respective distinct outputs (U1, U2) which are located on two opposite sides (L1, L2) of the interfolding machine (100) or through two respective distinct outputs (U1, U2) which are located on the same side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100). 3) Interfolding machine (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first transport group (C1) comprises a first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) and the second transport group (C2) comprises a second closed-loop conveyor belt (2), which are arranged in alignment with each other, wherein the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) is arranged below the first set of support tables (T1) and configured so as to receive, in support, from the first set of support tables (T1), the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets and can be operated to transport the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a first outlet (U1) located on a first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100), wherein the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) is arranged below the first set of support tables (T1) and configured so as to receive, in support of ... externally to the interfolding machine (100). arranged below the second set of support tables (T2) and configured so as to receive, in support of the second set of support tables (T2), the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets and operable to transport the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets externally to the interleaving machine (100) through a second outlet (L2) located on a second side (L2) of the interleaving machine (100), opposite to the first side (L1). 4) Interleaving machine (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first transport group (C1) comprises a first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) and the second transport group (C2) comprises a second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) and a third closed-loop conveyor belt (3), wherein the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) and the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) are arranged in alignment with each other and the third closed-loop conveyor belt (3) is arranged below the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) and the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2), wherein the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) is arranged below the first set of support tables (T1) and is arranged below the first set of support tables (T2). configured to receive, in support, from the first set of support tables (T1), the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets and operable to transport the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a first exit (U1) located on a first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100), in which the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) is arranged below the second set of support tables (T2) and is configured to be tiltable around a rotation axis so that it can be moved between a first configuration (01), in which it is aligned with the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) to receive, in support, from the second set of support tables (T2), the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets, and a second inclined configuration (02) so that a relative end (03) is tilted. can be arranged in correspondence with the third closed-loop conveyor belt (3) so as to be operable to transfer the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets resting on the third closed-loop conveyor belt (3), and in which the third closed-loop conveyor belt (3) is configured so as to receive the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets from the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) and is operable to transport the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a second outlet (U2) located on the same first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100), or through a second outlet located on a second side of the interfolding machine (100), opposite to the first side. 5) Interfolding machine (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first transport group (C1) comprises a first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) and the second transport group (C2) comprises a second closed-loop conveyor belt (2), wherein the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) is arranged below the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1), wherein the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) is arranged below the first set of support tables (T1) and is configured so as to receive, in support, from the first set of support tables (T1), the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets and can be operated to transport the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a first outlet (U1) located on a first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100), wherein the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) is arranged below the first set of support tables (T1). intended to receive the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets and is configured to be operable in such a way as to transport the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets externally to the interleaving machine (100) through a second outlet (U2) located on the same first side (L1) of the interleaving machine (100), or through a second outlet located on a second side of the interleaving machine (100), opposite to the first side. 6) Interfolding machine (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the interfolding machine (100) is configured to comprise a third set of support tables (T3) arranged below the second set of support tables (T2) and which are configured to receive the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets from the second set of support tables (T2) and which are vertically movable so as to transfer the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets to rest on the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2), wherein the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) is ...). configured and operable to transport the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a second exit (U2) located on the same first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100), or through a second exit located on a second side of the interfolding machine (100), opposite to the first side. 7) An interfolding machine (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first transport assembly (C1) comprises a first set of belts (10) arranged below the first set of support tables (T1) and transversely to a longitudinal axis of the interfolding machine (100), and a first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) arranged transversely to the first set of belts (10) at one end thereof, wherein the first set of belts (10) are configured to receive the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets in support from the first set of support tables (T1) and are operable to transfer the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets above the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1), with the first closed-loop conveyor belt (1) being operable to transport the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a first exit (U1) located on a first side (L1) of the interfolding machine (100), wherein the second transport assembly (C2) comprises a second set of belts (20) arranged below the second set of support tables (T2) and transversely to a longitudinal axis of the interfolding machine (100), and a second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) arranged transversely to the second set of belts (20) at one end thereof, wherein the second set of belts (20) are configured to receive the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets in support from the second set of support tables (T2) and are operable to transfer the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets above the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2), with the second closed-loop conveyor belt (2) being operable to transport the second stack (P2) of interfolded sheets externally to the interfolding machine (100) through a second exit (U2) located on a second side (L2) of the interfolding machine (100), opposite to the first side (L1). 8) Interfolding machine (100) as claimed in any of claims 2 to 7, configured to be fed with two continuous webs (N1, N2) of paper material, wherein the cutting means (R) are arranged and configured to longitudinally cut each of the two continuous webs (N1, N2) of paper material to divide each of the two continuous webs of paper material into two respective parts (N1A, N1B, N2A, N2B). 9) Interleaving machine (100) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, comprising spacing means (D), arranged and configured so as to space apart from each other the parts (N1A, N1B, N2A, N2B) which are cut and divided by the cutting means (R) from a respective continuous web (N1, N2) of paper material. 10) Interfolding machine (100) as claimed in any of claims 8 and 9, wherein the cutting and folding group (TP) is configured to receive a first part (N1A) cut from the first continuous web (N1) of paper material and a first part (N2A) cut from the second continuous web (N2) of paper material to make incisions in such first parts (N1A, N2A) and obtain first series of sheets and fold by suction, partially overlapping them, in an interfolded manner such first series of sheets to form the first stack (P1) of interfolded sheets resting on the first series of support tables (T1) of the support tables (T, T1, T2), and ..., T1, T2), and wherein the cutting and folding group (TP) is configured to receive a first part (N1A) cut from the first continuous web (N2A) of paper material and to obtain first series of sheets (N2A, N2A) and obtain first series of sheets (N2A, N configured to receive a second part (N1B) cut from the first continuous strip (N1) of paper material and a second part (N2B) cut from the second continuous strip (N2) of paper material to make incisions in such second parts and obtain second sets of sheets and fold by suction, partially overlapping them, in an interleaved manner such second sets of sheets to form the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets resting on the second set of support tables (T2) of the support tables (T1, T2). 11) Interfolding machine (100) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the cutting and folding assembly (TP) comprises a pair of cutting rollers (3) and a pair of folding rollers (4), arranged below the pair of cutting rollers (3), wherein the pair of cutting rollers (3) are arranged opposite each other, can be operated in counter-rotation and comprise engraving elements (31) on their lateral surfaces, wherein the pair of folding rollers (4) are arranged opposite each other and can be operated in counter-rotation, with each of such folding rollers (4) comprising a central longitudinal air passage channel (40) connected to a compressed air source, and axial air passage channels (41) connected to the compressed air source, a first set of holes (42) selectively connectable to the central longitudinal air passage channel (40) and a second set of holes (43) selectively connectable to the axial channels (41) of air passage. 12) Interfolding machine (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein each roller (4) of the pair of folding rollers (4) is made up of two semi-rollers (44) joined together at a respective end by means of a central support (45) comprising a ring-shaped connecting element (46), joined to the ends of the two semi-rollers (44), and a supporting element (47) comprising a first part (48) in the shape of an annular flange mounted coaxially, by means of the interposition of sliding elements (S), on the connecting element (46) and a second part (49) shaped to be constrained to a portion of the frame of the interfolding machine (100). 13) Interleaving machine (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein each semi-roller (44) comprises, in proximity to the central support (45), a bell-shaped element (50), internally hollow, and communicating with the axial air passage channels (41) and connected to the suction source. 14) Interfolding machine (100) as claimed in any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the cutting and folding unit (TP) comprises: a cutting roller (5) provided on its lateral surface with engraving elements (51) to make engravings on the divided parts (N1A, N1B) of the continuous web (N1) of paper material and obtain a first series of sheets and a second series of sheets; a pair of transfer rollers (52) arranged below the cutting roller (5) and in cascade with respect to each other, configured to create, by means of suction, a first partial overlapping of the sheets of the first series of sheets and of the second series of sheets; and a pair of folding rollers (53), opposite each other and operable in counter-rotation, and comprising, on their lateral surfaces, folding elements in the shape of pincers (54) which can be operated to pick up and release the sheets of the first series of sheets and the sheets of the second series of sheets so as to fold them with respect to each other in an interleaved manner for the formation of the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets and the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets. 15) Interfolding machine (100) as claimed in any of claims 8 to 9, wherein the cutting and folding unit (TP) comprises a pair of cutting and folding rollers (6), arranged opposite each other and operable in counter-rotation, wherein each cutting and folding roller (6) comprises on its lateral surface engraving elements (61), to make engravings on the first parts (N1A, N2A) and on the second parts (N1B, N2B) separated from the first (N1) and second continuous web (N2) of paper material and to obtain first series of sheets and second series of sheets, and a series of holes (62), interspersed with the engraving elements (61), selectively connectable with a central axial air passage channel (63) connected to a compressed air source, to retain and release the sheets of the first series of sheets and the sheets of the second series of sheets in such a way as to fold them with respect to each other in a interleaved for the formation of the first stack (P1) of interleaved sheets and the second stack (P2) of interleaved sheets.