Abstract: An operating system for a printing machine includes a graphic operating interface for allowing the printing machine to be controlled by actions of an operator. Electronic documentation is selectively displayable on the operating interface as a result of actions by the operator. The electronic documentation includes operating instructions, a spare-parts catalog containing numbers and drawings of spare parts, and maintenance instructions. The operating system also includes a list with links between electronic addresses of electronic components in the printing machine and the spare-parts numbers and/or drawings. When the operating system receives a report of a fault in an electronic component through the electronic address thereof, it refers to the fault on the operating interface and, in response to an action by the operator, displays the associated spare-parts numbers and/or drawings on the operating interface. A method of updating the operating system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A heel support device for use in a shoe making machine for lasting the toe and sides of a shoe upper tensioned over a last seated on a last support includes a heel support movable along a fixed guide of the machine. A drive moves the heel support along the guide in a first direction from an unloading position spaced from the last to a supporting position in contact with and supporting a heel portion of the upper tensioned about the last. After completion of a lasting operation, the drive moves the heel support along the guide in an opposite second direction to return the heel support to the unloading position. The completed last and lasted upper then are removed from the last support and a new last and upper are positioned theron for a subsequent lasting cycle.

Abstract: A heel support device for use in a shoe making machine for forming the toe and sides of a shoe upper tensioned over a last seated on a last support include a guide fixed with respect to the machine. A heel support member is mounted for movement guided by the guide by a drive to a supporting position whereat the heel support member bears against and supports a heel portion of the last or heel portion of the upper tensioned therearound. A switch is operatively connected to the drive and is actuated by the heel support member reaching the supporting position to stop operation of the drive upon movement of the heel support member to the supporting position. As a result, the heel support member cannot move the last from a predetermined position.