Pneumatic feed and separation system, substrate handling system, method for pneumatic feeding and separation of flat substrates, computer program product, memory medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a pneumatic feed and separation system (1) for flat substrates (3) such as papers and the like in a stack (5, 5′, 5″), and to a corresponding method. The system has: a rear edge separating apparatus (10) for separation of a top substrate (3) from the stack (5, 5′, 5″) in the area of the rear edge (9) of the stack (5, 5′, 5″) in the transport direction (7), a transport apparatus (20) for the top substrate (3) in the area of the front edge (8) of the stack (5, 5′, 5″) in the transport direction (7), and a control unit (30). In order to ensure automatic adjustment of the system, in particular automatically optimized operation of the system, the invention provides that the rear edge apparatus (10) and/or the transport apparatus (20) comprise/comprises an automatically controllable pneumatic system—in particular with a compressed-air-based separating unit and a suction-air-based separating unit, in particular an automatically controllable separating mechanism with a restraint function for substrates below the top substrate (3), in particular a suction-air-based transport unit—and an automatically controllable motor system. The control unit (30) is designed for automatic presetting of substrate-dependent parameter information—in particular at least for the compressed-air-based separating unit, for the suction-air-based separating unit, for the separating mechanism, for the separating motor system and for the transport unit—and the associated pneumatic system and/or motor system are/is designed for automatic adjustment thereof on the basis of the parameter information.

Description

The invention relates to a pneumatic feed and separation system for flat substrates such as papers and the like in a stack, having: a rear edge separating apparatus for separation of a top substrate from the stack in the area of the rear edge of the stack in the transport direction, a transport apparatus for the top substrate in the area of the front edge of the stack in the transport direction, a control unit. The invention also relates to a method for pneumatic feeding and separation of flat substrates such as papers and the like from a stack using a pneumatic feed and separation system, in particular having a feed and separation system, as mentioned above, with a top substrate being separated from the stack in the area of the rear edge of the stack in the transport direction, and the top substrate being transported in the area of the front edge of the stack in the transport direction. The invention also relates to a computer program product and a memory medium.

Pneumatic feed and separation systems of the type mentioned initially have been found to be advantageous in particular in the high-speed feed and separation area, in particular for rectangular substrates in the form of sheets. These make it possible to feed and separate sheet thicknesses of between 0.06 mm and 0.4 mm and with a weight between about 40 and 360 gr/m² and format sizes of 11.5″×12″ (US letter size) up to 350 mm×508 mm (BB format) at a throughput rate of up to 20 000 substrates or sheets per hour. These are used in all substrate handling areas, for example for copying, printing or scanning systems. The substrates are normally stored in the form of a stack with a height of up to several tens of centimeters, are fed to the feed and separation system, and are then transported to a subsequent substrate handling appliance.

A pneumatic feed and separation system of the type mentioned initially is disclosed in DE 34 47 331. This achieves the throughput rates mentioned initially with a quite satisfactory quality, in its own right. However, the system must be manually set to a specific substrate type before operation and, depending on the environmental conditions, must be set to the characteristic of a specific substrate. This has been found to be time-consuming and possibly susceptible to errors since a not inconsiderable number of adjustment parameters must be adjusted manually. This relates in particular to the rear edge separating apparatus.

It is known from US 2002/0140157 for the height of a paper stack relative to a separating pneumatic system to be monitored with a sensor. In principle, this makes it easier to adjust a system of the type mentioned initially. Further improvement beyond this in the pneumatic feed and separation system mentioned initially is, nevertheless, desirable.

This is the point of the invention, whose object is to provide an apparatus, in particular a pneumatic feed and separation system, for flat substrates such as papers and the like from a stack, which is advantageously also suitable for the high-speed range and the substrates mentioned initially, and in which adjustment is simplified, in particular with initial adjustment prior to operation being simplified, and with the operation being optimized. A further object of the invention is to simplify a method for pneumatic feeding and separation of flat substrates such as papers and the like from a stack using a pneumatic feed and separation system, in particular relating to adjustment, preferably simplification of initial adjustment before operation, and/or optimization of operation. A further aim is to specify an appropriately improved substrate handling system.

With regard to the method, the object is achieved by the invention by means of a method of the type mentioned initially in which, according to the invention, the top substrate is separated and/or transported pneumatically, preferably on the basis of compressed air and suction air. Substrates below the top substrate are preferably restrained. The stated method steps are carried out automatically and by motor control. For this purpose, substrate-dependent parameter information is predetermined at least for the pneumatic, preferably compressed-air-based and suction-air-based, separation and preferably for the restraint, and the pneumatic feed and separation system is automatically adjusted, by motor control, on the basis of the parameter information.

With regard to the apparatus, the object is achieved by the invention by means of a pneumatic feed and separation system as mentioned initially in which, according to the invention, the rear edge separating apparatus and/or the transport apparatus comprise/comprises an automatically controllable pneumatic system—preferably a separating pneumatic system with a compressed-air-based separating unit and a suction-air-based separating unit, and preferably an automatically controllable separating mechanism with a restraint function for substrates below the top substrate—and an automatically controllable motor system. Furthermore, the control unit is designed for automatic presetting of substrate-dependent parameter information for the pneumatic system and the motor system, preferably at least for the compressed-air-based separating unit, for the suction-air-based separating unit, for the separating mechanism and for the separating motor system. The associated pneumatic system and/or the motor system are/is designed for automatic adjustment at least thereof, that is to say preferably of at least the compressed-air-based separating unit, of the suction-air-based separating unit, of the separating mechanism and of the separating motor system, on the basis of the parameter information.

The invention also leads to a substrate handling system, in particular a deformation system, a copying and/or printing and/or scanning system, having a feed and separation system according to the invention. A deformation, cutting and stamping system relates in particular to a system (creasing system) for controlled bending or creasing of substrates, in particular at their edges. It is also possible to deliberately shape substrates, including three-dimensional shaping, for example in order to produce book jackets or folding bags.

The invention is based on the idea that a major simplification in the adjustment process for a system of the type mentioned initially can be achieved by automatic adjustment of it. In this case, the invention has identified that, for effective simplification of the adjustment process and at the same time in order to achieve a state in which the feed and separation system is in practice ready to operate, it is possible in a surprising manner to design the pneumatic system and/or the motor system such that it can be controlled automatically for the rear edge separating apparatus and/or the transport apparatus. In particular, the pneumatic system can be provided with an automatically controllable compressed-air-based separating unit and with an automatically controllable suction-air-based separating unit, and an automatically controllable separating mechanism can be provided with a restraint function for substrates under the top substrate, and an automatically controllable separating motor system. This concept for the invention ensures that the system is ready for operation after the adjustment process, depending on the available substrate or paper. For this purpose, according to the concept of the invention, the control unit is able to preset substrate-dependent, in particular paper-dependent, parameter information for the pneumatic system and the motor system, in particular at least for the compressed-air-based separating unit, for the suction-air-based separating unit, for the separating mechanism and for the separating motor system. The parameter information can for this purpose be stored in the system, or can be loaded in the system, for example in the form of a selection table, in which a specific substrate or paper type is associated with corresponding parameter information in the form of a set of adjustment parameters for the units mentioned above. According to the concept of the invention, the pneumatic system and the motor system for the system itself are at least partially designed for automatic adjustment on the basis of the parameter information. In particular, at least the compressed-air-based separating unit, the suction-air-based separating unit, the separating mechanism and the separating motor system are designed for automatic adjustment on the basis of the parameter information.

The concept of the invention has the major advantage that an adjustment process for the system is very considerably simplified. In particular, the concept of the invention means that there is in practice no need for any prior adjustment process for the system. For example, after selection of a specific substrate type or paper type, the entire initial adjustment of the rear edge separating apparatus is virtually completely automated. Instead of the adjustment processes which normally have to be carried out manually, the pneumatic system and the motor system of the system itself based on the concept of the invention are designed for automatic adjustment on the basis of the parameter information. In other words, the system can be booted and/or started and preset, according to the concept of the invention, on a substrate-dependent, in particular paper-dependent basis, and is then in a ready-to-operate state in which virtually no further manual adjustment processes need preferably be carried out. In an exceptional situation or other situations, the system advantageously nevertheless ensures a manual adjustment capability.

Advantageous developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims and specify, in detail, advantageous options for implementation of the concept explained above for the purposes of this object, as well as further advantages relating to it.

According to one preferred development of the invention, the transport apparatus has an automatically controllable transport pneumatic system with a suction-air-based transport unit for the top substrate. This allows the transport apparatus to be adjusted automatically, in addition to the rear edge separating apparatus. The suction-air-based transport unit preferably has a suction drum and/or some other suction-air-powered transport pneumatic system. The transport pneumatic system is preferably associated with a motor system, which can likewise be adjusted in an automated form. Furthermore, a transport motor system which can additionally be controlled automatically can advantageously be provided, for example so-called extraction rollers.

The compressed-air-based separating unit preferably has at least one, that is to say a number of loosening nozzles, and/or at least one, that is to say a number of separating nozzles. Separation of the top substrate can be achieved in a particularly advantageous manner by fitting a separating nozzle above one or the number of loosening nozzles. A separating nozzle makes it possible to ensure that an air cushion is produced between the top substrate, which has been loosened by a loosening nozzle, on the one hand and the substrates located underneath it, on the other hand.

The suction-air-based separating unit which, in particular, has a lifting function, preferably has at least one, that is to say a number of suction cups or suction caps, and/or other suction means which, in particular, are in the form of pans. The top substrate can therefore advantageously be raised in order to separate it from the stack. A separating unit is preferably in each case associated with a corresponding mechanism and/or motor system for controllable adjustment and further operation in an automated form.

The separating mechanism preferably has at least one sprung separating element, preferably a leaf spring, which is able to restrain the further substrates once the top substrate has been raised beyond the resistance of the leaf spring. This makes it possible to prevent so-called multiple feeds.

The stack is preferably arranged on a lifting table.

For transmission of the parameter information for the initial adjustment at least to the compressed-air-based separating unit, to the suction-air-based separating unit, to the separating mechanism and to the separating motor system, the feed and separation system has control lines which are connected in particular to the control unit and are preferably part of a bus system. For this purpose, the control unit, the pneumatic system and the motor system have appropriate interfaces for coupling of a control line. This allows data transmission in an effective expedient manner, matched to the requirement, between the control unit and the pneumatic system and motor system to be controlled.

The parameter information is preferably stored in a memory module. In particular, this is variable parameter information which is stored in an accessible memory module. This has the advantage that parameter information can be adapted and changed in the memory module depending on the environmental conditions, for example during operation.

The feed and separation system preferably has an operator unit, which in particular is connected to the control unit, in particular for selection and/or variation of the substrate type, in particular of the paper type, and/or of the parameter information. This has the advantage that this allows selection of, modification to or addition to parameter information both manually and by the control unit, for example the addition of new substrate types or the like. For example, the parameter information can be made available at the operator unit as a selection table.

The feed and separation system preferably has a monitoring sensor system which is connected in particular to the control unit, in particular a substrate path sensor and/or a multiple pulling-in sensor. This is preferably used for monitoring of the feed and/or separation operation. In principle, one development of the invention provides for the capability for feed and/or separation operation to be controlled specifically, to be precise by parameter information being adapted for example by feeding the values determined by the monitoring sensor system to the control unit, for example in such a way that the throughput of the feed and separation system is increased. If required, the throughput can also be reduced, for example in a situation in which the aim is matching to handling systems which have a lower throughput. By way of example, this may be a printer or the like.

In one particularly preferred development of the invention, the substrate-dependent, in particular paper-dependent, parameter information is based on the substrate type, in particular paper type. In the simplest case, this means that specific parameter information for adjustment of the system can be made available by the control unit relating to the selection of a substrate, in particular a paper type, defined, for example, by the manufacturer. For example, parameter information associated with a specific substrate type or paper type can be stored in a selection table.

Furthermore, it has been found to be advantageous for the substrate-dependent, in particular paper-dependent, parameter information to be based on the substrate characteristic, in particular the paper characteristic, that is to say in addition to or as an alternative to parameter information which, for example, is stored in a selection table and is associated with a specific substrate type, or paper type, it is also possible to provide parameter information relating to the substrate characteristic, in particular the paper characteristic. This allows the system to be adjusted such that it is matched to the specific environmental conditions. Preferred characteristics of the substrate or of the paper are selected from the group comprising: weight, in particular weight per unit area (g/m²), thickness, in particular paper thickness, bending strength, surface roughness, ripple, static and/or dynamic friction values, length, width, temperature, moisture.

In one particularly preferred development of the invention, the feed and separation system has a corresponding sensor system for recording of one or more parameters relating to the characteristics of the substrate.

For the purposes of one particularly preferred development, the parameter information comprises adjustment parameters which are selected from the group comprising:

airflow rate and/or distance between the compressed-air-based separating unit, in particular pressure and/or lateral and/or upper distance, between the compressed-air-based separating unit and the stack,

airflow rate and/or distance between the suction-air-based separating unit, in particular pressure and/or upper distance, between the suction-air-based separating unit and the stack,

distance between the mechanical separating unit, in particular height and/or lateral distance, between the mechanical unit separating and the stack.

The above-mentioned adjustment parameters have been found to be particularly critical, and can be measured well at the same time. They are advantageously used for adjustment of the system on the basis of the concept according to the invention. Surprisingly, it has been found that the adjustment of these adjustment parameters ensures complete adjustment of the system. In particular, the system can be controlled completely automatically by regulation of these adjustment parameters, with virtually no further manual actions.

Furthermore, it has been found to be advantageous for the parameter information to comprise further adjustment parameters, which are chosen from the group comprising:

height of a lifting table, in particular height of the substrates situated on the lifting table to a sensor positioned absolutely,

distance, in particular the upper and/or lateral distance, between the rear edge separating apparatus and the stack,

distance between a stack side holder and the stack.

According to one of the two above-mentioned developments, the feed and separation system preferably has a sensor system for recording one or more of the adjustment parameters, in particular distance measurement devices, height sensors, air-pressure and airflow rate sensors.

For the purposes of one particularly preferred development, the feed and separation system has a regulation module, which is connected in particular to the control unit, for demand-dependent adaptation of the parameter information and/or readjustment of adjustment parameters, in particular of at least the compressed-air-based separating unit, the suction-air-based separating unit, of the separating mechanism and of the separating motor system during feed and/or separation operation. This has advantages if the environmental conditions do change, in particular if the sensor system mentioned above detects a change in one environmental condition. This also has advantages if the feed and separation power changes, in particular if the sensor system mentioned above detects a change in the feed and separation power. The regulation module allows adaptation of the parameter information during operation, and this adaptation can still be used for further operation runs in similar environmental conditions or power states. The system can be readjusted automatically during operation.

Further advantageous developments of the invention relating to the method can be found in the dependent claims and, in detail, indicate advantageous options for implementation of the method according to the explained concept for the purposes of the objective, as well as further advantages relating to this. The invention also covers a computer program product for carrying out the method, and a memory medium.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in the following text with reference to the drawing. The aim of the drawing is not necessarily to illustrate the exemplary embodiments to scale but in fact the drawing is in a schematic and/or slightly distorted form, in order to explain the invention. With regard to supplements to the teaching which can be identified directly from the drawing, reference is made to the relevant prior art. In this case, it should be remembered that many modifications and changes can be implemented with regard to the form and the detail of an embodiment without departing from the general idea of the invention. The features of the invention as disclosed in the description, in the drawing and in the claims may be significant to the development of the invention both individually and in any given combination. The general idea of the invention is not restricted to the exact form or the detail of the preferred embodiment illustrated and described in the following text nor is it restricted to a subject matter which would be restricted in comparison to the subject matter claimed in the claims. When dimension ranges are stated, values within the stated limits are also intended to be disclosed as limit values, and then used and claimed as required.

In order to assist understanding of the invention, one preferred embodiment of the invention will now be explained with reference to the figures of the drawing, in which:

FIG. 1: shows a system illustration of one particularly preferred embodiment of a pneumatic feed and separation system according to the concept of the invention;

FIG. 2: shows a schematic detailed illustration of one particularly preferred embodiment of the pneumatic feed and separation system according to the concept of the invention;

FIG. 3: shows a plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4.1 to FIG. 4.6: show operating states of the pneumatic feed and separation system as shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, during loading of the paper stack, before feed and separation operation;

FIG. 5.1 to FIG. 5.3: show operating states of the pneumatic feed and separation system as shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 during raising of the paper stack immediately before the start of feed and separation operation;

FIG. 6.1 to FIG. 6.5: show operating states of the pneumatic feed and separation system as shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 during separation operation, with parameter information predetermined automatically as a function of the paper;

FIG. 7.1 to FIG. 7.2: show operating states of the feed and separation system as shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 during feed operation with parameter information predetermined automatically as a function of the paper.

As a system illustration, FIG. 1 shows, systematically, a pneumatic feed and separation system 1 for flat substrates 3, in the present case for papers, in a stack 5. The system 1 has a rear edge separating apparatus 10 for separation of a top paper 3 from the stack 5 in the area of the rear edge 9 of the stack 5 in the transport direction 7. The system also has a transport apparatus 20 for the top substrate 3, in the area of the front edge 8 of the stack 5 in the transport direction 7.

The rear edge separating apparatus 10 will be described in more detail in conjunction with the following figures. The transport apparatus 20 in the present case has a suction drum 21 (which is driven by a stepping motor which is not illustrated in any more detail) as well as extraction rollers 23. The system 1 furthermore has a control unit 30. This is able in particular to control the motor system and the pneumatic system of the rear edge separating apparatus 10, and of the transport apparatus 20, via a control bus 40. In order to control the pneumatic system, the control unit 30 is also connected via the control bus 40 to a pressure and vacuum unit 50. In the present case, the lifting table 60 can also be caused to raise and lower the stack 5, via a lifting table motor 61, via the control unit 30 and by means of the control bus 40. The control unit 30 is also connected to an external operator unit 31 and/or to an internal operator unit 33. The operator units 31, 33 allow parameter information for adjustment of the system 1 to be selected and displayed via a mask 35 which is provided by an appropriate computer program. Details about the paper characteristic are already known to the system 1. A user can use the selection mask 35 of the external control unit 31 or internal control unit 33 to signal a standardized paper type to the system 1, for which characteristics such as weight, thickness, bending strength, surface roughness, area, length, width of the paper are stored in an appropriate table. Further characteristics, which are dependent on the environment, such as the ripple, static and/or dynamic friction values of the paper, can be recorded via a sensor system 70. Further sensors, which are not shown in FIG. 1, can determine the temperature, the environmental humidity, etc. The adjustment values which correspond to a paper type or paper characteristic such as this, and to environmental conditions are passed to the pneumatic system and motor system for the system 1, that is to say the available parameter information is converted by the controller 30 to adjustment parameters for the pneumatic system and/or motor system for the rear edge separating apparatus 10 and for the transport apparatus 20, and is passed on via the control bus 40. The choice of a paper type and/or the view and/or statement of characteristics of the paper as well as the currently specified environmental characteristic can be provided by an operator with the aid of software, using a selection mask 35, in the operator unit 31, 33 or preferably in a computer which is connected to the operator unit 31, 33. Transmission can take place in both directions via a control bus 40 to the system 1, using either serial or else parallel transmission. Bus systems such as those which are known by the names V24, RS424, Centronics USB, or SCSI are suitable for use for a control bus 40 or for other bus systems. Furthermore, the selection mask 35 makes it possible to display the separation and feed status for a user in terms of feed quality, number of sheets already fed, feed rate, throughput rate and to indicate multiple insertions that have occurred, as well as further desired and expedient details. Furthermore, the system 1 has a number of sensors, which are not shown in any more detail, for a sensor system 70 which is used to monitor the system 1. The system 1 is supplied with electrical power via a power supply unit 80.

FIG. 2 shows the system 1 with details of the rear edge separating apparatus 10, with symbols as in FIG. 1 and the same reference symbols being used for the other parts of the system 1. The rear edge separating apparatus 10 has an automatically controllable separating pneumatic system with a compressed-air-based separating unit, in the present case with a plurality of loosening nozzles 11A and a plurality of separating nozzles 11B. Furthermore, the automatically controllable separating pneumatic system has a suction-air-based separating unit with a plurality of suction caps 12. The rear edge separating apparatus 10 also has a controllable separating mechanism which, in the present case, is in the form of a leaf spring 13. This is used to restrain papers under the top paper 3. The nozzles 11A, 11B, like the suction cup 12 and the suction drum 21, are connected via a valve arrangement 51 with valves 51A and 51B to the reduced-pressure generator 57 for the vacuum and pressure production unit 50. In a corresponding manner, flexible suction tubes 15, 27 are passed to the suction cup 12 (also referred to alternatively as a suction cup) or suction drum 21, and a flexible pressure tube 14 is passed to the nozzles 11A, 11B. The electromagnet 56 is in this case used as a general means for switching on suction air for the suction cup 12. When the vacuum and compressed-air unit 50 is switched on, the compressed air is available immediately via the compressor 53. The suction air can be switched on or off by means of the electromagnet (switch) 56. As soon as suction air is switched on—in the present embodiment by disconnection of the electromagnet 56—the suction air can be passed by the electromagnet 55 either to the suction cap 72 or to the suction drum 21.

Furthermore, the rear edge separating apparatus 10 has an automatically adjustable and controllable separating motor system, with the motor 16A being used for adjustment and readjustment of the amount of air to the loosening nozzles, the motor 16B being used for adjustment and readjustment of the amount of air to the separating nozzle. The height position of the loosening nozzle 11A can be adjusted and readjusted via a further motor—not illustrated here. The automatically controllable separating motor system also has a motor 17 for horizontal movement and a motor 18 for vertical movement of the entire rear edge separating apparatus 10, and these act via a suitable linkage 19. The horizontal movement process can be carried out via a toothed rod, via a belt drive or via a cable run.

In the present case, the rear edge separating unit 10 has a compressed-air-based separating unit with one or more loosening nozzles 11A and one or more separating nozzles 11B, in the present case one separating nozzle 11B. The loosening nozzles 11A are designed to loosen approximately 2 to about 30 sheets in the top part of the stack 5, and are based on an air-powered nozzle mechanism in order to reduce or cancel out the adhesion and friction of the top sheets. These can stick to one another by gravitation and/or static charging, which can occur during the separating process.

Furthermore, a suction cup mechanism 12 is provided which is controlled by reduced pressure in the feed cycle and first of all sucks up the sheet 3 which is underneath it, and is therefore the top sheet 3, in the stack 5, and is then drawn back with this suction resistance into the guide in the suction cup plunger, damped by a compression spring, with the top sheet 3 then being raised through about 5 to about 20 mm.

Furthermore, the rear edge separating apparatus 10 has separation, provided by means of a leaf spring 13, of the top sheet 3 at the rear edge 9 from the next sheet, with the fingers of the leaf spring 13, which rest on the rear edge of the top sheet 3 before the suction process, sliding off the rear edge of the next sheet while the top sheet is being lifted off the stack 5, in order to restrain this next sheet together with the sheets located underneath it.

Furthermore, the rear edge separating apparatus 10 has a separating nozzle, which is placed centrally between the loosening nozzles 11A, in order to produce an air cushion between the top sheet 3 and the sheets underneath it.

The horizontal and vertical drive 17, 18 for the rear edge separating module 10 is provided in order to position the rear edge separating module 10 relative to the stack 5.

The sheet removal and transport device 20 comprises a suction drum 21 which is driven by a stepping motor 22, is at a fixed height and is arranged centrally above the sheet front edge 8. The top sheet 3 is sucked up from the stack 5 against the lower face of the drum 21 by reduced pressure, which is applied via the arrangement of suction nozzles on the drum lower face 21, and is held continuously at this height. This sheet is conveyed tangentially in the direction 7 of the exit rollers 23 by the force of the reduced pressure and the friction of at least two friction belts, which revolve on the drum 21, with the air cushion that is produced by the separating nozzle 11B between the top sheet 3 and the next sheet first of all raising this sheet above the separating sheet 25, furthermore ensuring minimal frictional resistance between the sheets, and thus allowing sheet movement with only a small amount of slip with respect to the suction wheel circumferential speed.

As part of a sensor system 70, distances between the rear edge separating apparatus 10 and the stack 5 are detected via a sensor 71 for indication of the top distance and a sensor 73 for indication of a lateral distance. The sensor 75 records the distance between the stack 5 and the suction roller 21.

FIG. 3 shows the pneumatic feed and separation system 1 from FIG. 2 in the form of a plan view, using identical reference symbols and symbols for the same parts in the system 1. In addition to the height sensor 71, a lateral distance sensor 72A is also provided for the paper stack 5 as part of the sensor system 70. The lateral distance and thus the paper width can be measured via a linear resistance of the distance sensor 72A, associated with the paper width adjuster 72B. Part of the sensor system 70 is also a weight-loaded stack height sensor 71, which has a counterweight on the other side, symmetrically with respect to the sheet, above a lever 74 which rests on the sheet 3.

The throughput of the system 1 can be monitored by a paper path sensor 76 and a sensor 77 which records multiple inputs. The output roller unit 23 accepts the sheet 3 transported over the suction wheel 21 in a constant manner or on a sensor-controlled basis, with this sheet 3 being guided in the transport direction 7 if required obliquely and/or with an offset over further roller pairs (not illustrated here) to the output into the device for processing the paper further, for example a printing, copying or scanning device, which will not be described in any more detail here.

The multiple sheet input sensor 77 (also referred to as a multipick sensor) is fitted behind the output rollers 23 and is able to identify a multiple input, either as an ultrasound detector or as a thickness sensor, with the aid of strain gauges. Depending on the chosen setting of the operator unit, this can immediately stop the rest of the separation process and/or can signal this to the user via the operator unit 31.

The pressure production and vacuum unit 50 has a compressor 53 and/or a reduced-pressure generator 57 in order to produce compressed air for the rear nozzles 11A, 11B. A reduced-pressure generator 57 for suction air is coupled to the compressor 53 and can be switched on or off via the electromagnet 56.

When the suction air is switched on, this air can be passed either to the suction cup 12 or to the suction drum 21 alternately via the valve arrangement 51 with the aid of the further electromagnet 55.

Part of the motor system for the transport apparatus 20 is the motor 22—for the suction roller and the motor 24 for the output rollers 23—both of which are preferably in the form of stepping motors.

At the output of the system 1, a separating wall 25 and an output paper guide 26 assist further transportation of the top paper 3.

The system 1 rests on a base plate 2. The base plate 2 supports the system 1 which, apart from this, is held in a frame 4.

The process of loading the system 1 to the start of the automated raising of the stack 5 is illustrated in FIG. 4.1 to FIG. 4.6. FIG. 4.1 shows the system 1 with the lifting table 60 empty. The rear edge separating apparatus 10 is in an initial position. The sensors of the sensor system 70 are in a neutral position.

In principle, a new paper type is selected on the operator unit 31. The previous paper type may, for example, be confirmed. After this, a control knob is operated on the drawer 6. The lifting table 60 moves downwards and unlocks the lock for pulling out. The rear edge separating unit 10 moves horizontally to the rear initial position, and vertically to the initial position, that is to say the uppermost possible position.

When a signal lamp on the drawer 6 illuminates, the drawer can be pulled out as far as the stop. The paper width adjuster 72B can be opened when the intention is to use wider paper than in the past. After insertion of 10 to 15 sheets and before the entire supply container is filled, the manual paper adjuster is moved in to be flush with the width of the sheet thus also resulting—by mechanical coupling in the present case—in the further side stops 72 of the stack side holder moving together. This is intended to ensure that the paper does not bulge upwards. The paper width is in this case automatically detected by the distance sensor 72A adjacent to the paper width adjuster 72B of the stack side holder. The distance sensor 72A of the sensor system 70 is able via an associated linear electrical resistance, as explained above, to indicate the width of a paper 3 by moving against the paper stack 5, manually or automatically. This distance sensor 72A is in the form of an electrical slide resistance for paper-width measurement, and is fitted in the base plate of the lifting table 60, parallel to the stack width adjuster 72B. The side stop for the paper width adjuster 72B is operated manually, while the other three side stops 72 are readjusted automatically. The paper sheet width is detected automatically by the above-mentioned resistance slide, which is mechanically coupled to the movement path of the side stop 72B and indirectly measures the paper sheet width via the resistance.

When the system 1 is in the state shown in FIG. 4.2, the paper sheet width is therefore already known. The paper container in the drawer 6 is then completely filled. All of the papers in the stack 5 should rest closely against the separating wall 25 in the drawer 6. In this case, the maximum permissible paper stack height is monitored via a marking and, if necessary, excess inserted paper is removed again.

FIG. 4.2 shows the system 1 with the drawer 6 extended and with a paper part stack 5′ placed on the lifting table 60. After being filled completely, the drawer 6 is pushed in again, and is locked automatically. FIG. 4.3 shows the system 1 with the drawer 6 pushed in.

FIG. 4.4 shows the system 1 in the state from FIG. 4.1, but on this occasion the paper part stack 5′ is filled.

FIG. 4.5 shows a situation in which an upper paper stack 5″ is aligned manually with respect to the already mentioned separating wall 25, matching a lower paper stack 5″, in order to ensure that the rear edge 9 and the front edge 8 of the paper stack 5 have a uniform profile, as is illustrated in FIG. 4.6. In the form shown there, the system 1 is ready, is booted and/or is started, that is to say can be set for operation in an automated form.

FIG. 5.1 to FIG. 5.3 show the automatic raising of the lifting table 60 in the pneumatic feed and separation system 1.

FIG. 5.1 shows the paper stack 5 being moved up until the distance sensor 75 which is associated with the transport apparatus 20 makes contact. The paper stack 5 is raised via the lifting table 60, which is driven by a motor 61. The motor 61 has an encoder disk and is controlled by sensors which are able to raise the paper stack 5 in steps of 0.5 mm up to a height which is above the stop position of the distance sensor 75. The lifting table 60 raises the paper stack 5 automatically to the lower face of the suction wheel 21. The distance sensor 75 is in the form of an opto-sensor and is set such that, depending on the chosen substrate, it stops the lifting table motor 61 when the distance between the top sheet 3 in the stack 5 between the suction wheel lower face is about 11 mm to 5 mm.

With reference to the operating states illustrated in FIG. 5.1 to 5.3, the rear edge separating apparatus 10 is moved to an initial position which is partially sensor-controlled and is partially predetermined by the parameter information for the controller 30. As explained, the controller 30 receives substrate-specific adjustment parameters for the pneumatic system and the motor system, which are stored as a table there, in a memory area. As shown in FIG. 5.2, this is moved horizontally from the initial position in the direction of the rear edge 9 of the paper stack 5. The horizontal movement of the rear edge separating apparatus 10 is stopped by operation of the distance sensor 73. The number of steps which are carried out for horizontal movement by the motor 17, which is in the form of a stepping motor, is a measure of the paper length. The data relating to the paper length and width is recorded by the controller 30. FIG. 5.2 accordingly shows the system 1 having an operating state in which the rear edge separating apparatus 10 is moved by means of the motor 17 for horizontal movement until the distance sensor 73 comes into contact with the rear edge 9 of the paper stack 5.

After this, the horizontal movement process as shown in FIG. 5.3 is slowed down by the motor 17 until the distance sensor 73 stops the motor 17 at a second stop point, governed by the controller 30.

FIG. 6.1 to FIG. 6.5.1 show the system in operating states which occur as a function of the parameter information which is predetermined by the controller 30.

As shown in FIG. 6.1, the upper distance between a top substrate 3 and a transport apparatus 20 is predetermined and automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The distance is monitored by sensors, and can also be readjusted.

FIG. 6.1 shows the system 1 in an operating state in which the lifting table 60 has been raised once again, to be precise until the distance sensor 71 makes contact relative to a null position, which is predetermined by the distance sensor 75. This means that the height position, as illustrated in FIG. 6.1, of the top sheet 3 is determined relative to the suction roller 21 in the form of encoder steps of the lifting table motor 61, on the basis of the signal from the distance sensor 75.

As shown in FIG. 6.2, the upper distance between a top substrate 3 and a rear edge apparatus 10 is predetermined and automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The distance is monitored by sensors and can also be readjusted.

The height position, as illustrated in FIG. 6.2, of the top sheet 3 is determined relative to the suction cup 12 via the steps of the motor 18, which is in the form of a stepping motor, for the height position of the rear edge separating apparatus 10. Furthermore, the suction force is adjusted for vertical raising of the top sheet 3. Alternatively or additionally, an airflow rate can also be applied to the suction cup 12 by means of the vacuum pressure unit 50. Fundamentally, in this embodiment, the distance of the suction cup 12 and the distance of the suction wheel 21 from the paper surface of the top sheet 3 are predetermined by the controller 30 as a function of the paper type, and are monitored by the distance sensors 71, 75, that is to say the entire rear edge separating apparatus 10, and therefore the suction cup 12 moves as a function of the paper type to a distance of2 to 7 mm from the paper surface of the top sheet 3. This distance is recorded accurately via the distance sensor 71, which is in the form of an incremental encoder.

Furthermore, the vertical position of the loosening nozzles 11A for the top 8 to 15 sheets is predetermined via the number of steps of the motor 16A for the loosening nozzle 11A as a function of the paper type, that is to say the vertical sheet position is predetermined by the controller 30 as a function of the paper type.

As shown in FIG. 6.3, the airflow rate of a compressed-air-based separating unit is predetermined and automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The airflow rate is monitored by sensors, and can also be readjusted.

As shown in FIG. 6.3, overcoming the adhesion between the top 8 to 30 sheets is controlled via the controller 30 via the amount of compressed air to the loosening nozzles 11A in order to loosen these sheets. In the present case, this is done via the motor 16A, which uses a mechanical slide to control the amount of air to the loosening nozzles 11A, while in the present case it is also possible to do this by controlling the compressor 53. Both are done via the controller 30.

As shown in FIG. 6.4, the airflow rate of a compressed-air-based separating unit is predetermined and automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The airflow rate is adjusted, monitored by sensors, and can also be readjusted. The airflow rate is monitored by sensors and can also be readjusted.

The operating state shown in FIG. 6.4 illustrates flat separation of the top sheet 3 from the next sheet on the basis of an amount of compressed air which is predetermined by the controller 30 and is dependent of the paper type for the separating nozzle 11B. This can in turn be done by driving the compressor 53, but preferably by adjustment, controlled by the motor 16B, of a mechanical slide for the separating nozzle 11B.

As shown in FIG. 6.4.1 and FIG. 6.4.2, the lateral distance between a separating mechanism in the form of a spring 13 with a restraint function for substrates under the top substrate 3 and a rear edge 9 of the stack 5 is predetermined and automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The distance is monitored by sensors, and can also be readjusted.

The restraint force for the next sheet is predetermined by the controller 30 as a function of the paper type by means of the spring 13. This is done by the length of the separating spring fingers entering the paper surface with respect to the rear edge 9 of the stack 5. This is achieved via the actuating motor 13′, which is illustrated in FIG. 6.4.1(a), (b), (c) and FIG. 6.4.2(a), (b). As can be seen in FIG. 6.4.2(a), (b) the fingers of the spring 13 rest with their tips 13A, 13B on the outer edge of the upper sheet 3. The motor 13′ acts on a spring holder 13″, which can position the spring 13 at a greater or lesser depth towards the rear edge a. Furthermore, the spring 13 is provided with a strain gauge 13′″.

The lower FIG. 6.4.2(b) is varied in FIG. 6.4.1(a) to 6.4.1(c). While the air pressure from the nozzle forces the upper paper 3 away, as illustrated in FIG. 6.4.1(b), the spring 13 holds the next sheet in its position. As illustrated in FIG. 6.4.1(b), the next sheet also remains in its position when the suction cup 12 raises the upper sheet 3. If the tips 13A, 13B of the fingers of the spring 13 are raised excessively—as can occur as a result of an excessively high air pressure or an excessively low penetration depth of the spring 13—there is a risk of multiple insertions. In this case, it can be expected that the next sheet will also be raised above the tips 13A, 13B of the fingers. As is shown in FIG. 6.4.1(c), this can be avoided by means of a strain gauge 13′″ for an evaluation unit associated therewith, by means of which the bending force of the spring 13 can be measured and can be signaled to the controller 30. This strain gauge 13′″ passes the strain on the spring 13 as a voltage level via a measurement amplifier (integrated in the controller 30) to an analog/digital converter (likewise integrated in the controller 30), which makes these signals available to the controller.

If a voltage level is overshot or undershot during the raising of the top paper 3 above the spring tips 13A, 13B, it is possible to determine as a function of the substrate whether the top sheet 3 is being pulled correctly over the spring tips 13A, 13B (stress/time diagram of the strain gauge in FIG. 6.4.3a) or whether this has not been done, or has not been done correctly, as a result of an incorrect setting.

By way of example, FIG. 6.4.3b shows a spring setting as a stress/time diagram, in which the spring 13 extends too far into the area of the top sheet 3. This can result in the sheet not tearing off with the suction cup 12 when it is raised, so that the spring 13 does not slide on the next sheet, but the paper is raised with the spring 13 by the suction cup 12.

In a situation such as this, the spring 13 can be moved back from the paper surface by the motor 13″, which then once again leads to the top sheet 3 being pulled off as intended (FIG. 6.4.3a).

In consequence, the air ejected from both the loosening nozzle 11A and from the separating nozzle 11B can be varied or, preferably, the distance between the spring 13 and the rear edge 9 of the paper stack 5 can be varied. The latter is done by means of the motor 13′. In principle, the distance between the spring 13 and the rear edge 9 of the paper stack 5 is preset by the controller 30. If the paper is relatively soft, the spring 13 can enter the sheet area to a deeper extent, and to a shallower extent if the paper is relatively hard.

The settings which have been explained with reference to FIGS. 6.1 to 6.4.2(b) are shown by way of example in Table 1 for corresponding parameter information in the form of a paper matrix for paper of a specific type:

Initial
setting	MRSA	MRDA	MRSP	MRSS	HAPOS
50	gsm	5	7	3	60	75
60	gsm	7	10	3	70	70
80	gsm/A4	−3	10	1	55	40
120	gsm	25	35	3	55	60
135	gsm	35	45	3	55	55
170	gsm	40	55	3	55	50
250	gsm	−5	4	3	40	45
300	gsm	60	85	3	45	40
80	gsm/A3	9	15	4	55	65
250	gsm/A3	50	65	3	47	40
Unit
MRSS Motor rear edge separator spring initial setting
MRSA Motor rear edge separator nozzle air initial setting
MRDA Motor rear edge separator divide nozzle air initial setting
MRSP Motor rear edge separator side nozzle position initial setting
MRHA Motor rear edge separator height adjustment initial setting
HAPOS Suction cup incremental high sensor initial setting

The MRHA value in this case governs the operating state, as is shown in FIG. 6.1 and FIG. 6.2. The MRSA and MRSP value in this case governs an operating state as is shown in FIG. 6.3. The MRDA value in this case governs an operating state as is shown in FIG. 6.4. The MRSS value in this case governs an operating state as is shown in FIG. 6.4.1(a) to FIG. 6.4.2(b).

As is also shown in FIG. 6.4, the airflow rate and the reduced pressure of a suction-air-based separating unit are predetermined and automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The airflow rate is automatically adjusted, monitored by sensors, and can also be readjusted.

FIG. 6.4 also shows the top sheet 3 being lifted off via the suction cups 12. The electromagnet 56 is deactivated for this purpose, with reduced pressure being created in the form of a chamber, in the reduced-pressure generator 57 when the compressor 50 is running. The reduced pressure is therefore passed to the suction cups 12, with the electromagnet 55 likewise deactivated. The reduced pressure at the suction cups 12 draws the top sheet 3 against the suction cups 12. As a result of the reduced pressure, the pistons 54 are drawn into the associated suction cylinders and thus, with the aid of the suction cups 12, raise the sheet 3 that has been sucked up beyond the tips 13A, 13B of the spring 13 (FIG. 6.4.1(a) to (c)). The tips 13A, 13B of the spring 13 now project, as already explained, over the rear edge 9 of the upper sheet 3, and come to rest in the same position on the second sheet. This prevents the second sheet and the subsequent sheets from likewise being raised.

As the piston 54 is raised, the channelized airflow from the separating nozzle 11B can raise the top sheet 3 into the sheet center and to the level of the lower face of the suction wheel 21.

The weight of the weight-loaded distance sensor 71 in the form of an analog switch and that of the lever 74, whose function is to act as a balance weight (hold-down drag lever), ensure that, in this case, the corners of the sheets remain together at the sheet end area, and do not become loose. The separating nozzle 11B, which is likewise supplied with compressed air, acts at this time via a mechanical shutter 14, which is attached to the piston 54.

As shown in FIG. 6.5, the airflow rate of a suction-air-based transport unit is predetermined and adjusted automatically as a function of the substrate. A suction frame of the suction drum 21 for the top substrate 3 is monitored by sensors and can also be readjusted.

FIG. 6.5 shows the switching that takes place of the suction air from the suction cups 12 to the suction wheel 21. This is done by activation of the electromagnet 55. The reduced pressure in the reduced-pressure generator 57 for the suction cups 12 is switched off via the valve 51A, while it is switched on with the opening of the valve 51B for the suction wheel 21.

The suction cups 12 therefore no longer continue to firmly hold the top sheet 3 of the stack 5. The top sheet 3 of the stack 5 is thus drawn by the suction air against the suction wheel 21, which is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 6.6.1.

As shown in FIG. 7.1, the rotating suction drum 21 therefore moves the top sheet 3 with the reduced pressure transported via the openings 28′, and via friction rings 28, as far as the first roller pair of the output rollers 23 of the paper path. All the sheets which are subject to the airflow from the separating nozzle 11B abut against the separating wall 25 and are therefore restrained, in addition to the spring 13. The drive for the extraction rollers 23 is predetermined and automatically adjusted as a function of the substrate. The drive is monitored by sensors and can be automatically readjusted.

When the front edge of the first sheet 3 reaches the paper path sensor 76, as shown in FIG. 7.2, in the paper path, then the valve 51 is switched over again, by means of the controller 30, via the electromagnet 55. The feed process can then start again, as illustrated in FIG. 6.1. In this case, it should be remembered that, after a number of sheets corresponding to about 0.5 to 1 mm have been pulled off, the lifting table 60 is readjusted via the motor 61.

The process described above allows automatic readjustment, as required, of the following adjustment parameters, and readjustment of the corresponding units during the feed process:

• • 1. The automatic horizontal position readjustment of the entire rear edge separating device 10 can be readjusted for a different sheet length, with the aim of ensuring that the spring 13 acts over a constant length on the sheet surface. This is particularly relevant in the event of differences in the sheet length for substrates composed of different paper cut batches, when these are inserted as stack elements of different length.
  • 2. Automatic readjustment of the height position and/or of the amount of compressed air to the loosening nozzles 11A can be carried out for a different throughput time. This may be the case, for example, when static charging increases in a dry environment.
  • 3. Furthermore, automatic readjustment of the amount of compressed air for the separating nozzle 11B or separating nozzles can be carried out for increasing adhesion, which may result from changes in the feed parameters. As can be seen, this may be caused by a different throughput time and/or bending of the spring 13, which can be detected via the stress signals at the strain gauge 13′″, and/or the bending curve of the spring 13, which can be detected via the stress signals at the strain gauge 13′″, and/or the bending curve of the spring 13, which can be detected via the stress signals at the strain gauge 13′″.
  • 4. In a corresponding manner, automatic readjustment of the engagement depth of the separating spring 13 with the separating fingers 13A, 13B on the top sheet 3 in the feed direction 7 is possible if a maximum stress is exceeded at the strain gauge 13′″, for example if the spring 13 is bent excessively. Bending of the spring 13 can be identified by an electrical voltage potential from a strain gauge 13′″, which can be fitted to a spring root, as shown in FIG. 6.4.2(a). Extreme spring loading can also be compensated for by readjustment of the airflow rate through the loosening nozzles 11A or the separating nozzle 11B. The amount of compressed air for the separating nozzle 11B can also be readjusted in this way.

In summary, the particularly preferred embodiment makes it possible for a controller 30 to adjust the feed system 1 depending on the paper type used, and to operate it in an optimized manner. In order to convert a substrate type selected by the user on the operator unit 31, electrical setting values for the above-mentioned components of the feed system 1 can be passed on via the control bus 40 as a control signal. In detail, this relates to a lifting table motor 61 as explained above, to a motor 17 for the horizontal position 17 and to a motor 18 for the vertical position of the rear edge separating unit 10, to a motor 13′ for the horizontal position of the spring 13, to a motor for controlling the amount of air for the loosening nozzles 11A, to a motor for the amount of air for the separating nozzle 11B, to a motor 16A, 16B for the height position of the loosening nozzle 11A, and of the separating nozzle 11B.

Furthermore, the controller 30 allows specific application of the suction air via the electromagnet 56, deflection of this suction air via the electromagnet 55 either to the suction cups 12 or to the suction wheel 21, with this being done using the valves 51A and 51B, which can be switched alternately.

The controller 30 is designed to accept and process sensor signals from the sensor system 70, in particular the distance sensor 75 for a height at the suction drum of the distance sensor 71 for a height at the rear edge separating apparatus 10, the paper path sensor 76 at the output of the paper path, the strain gauge 13′″ at the spring 13, and the sensor 77, which is in the form of a multipick sensor.

The controller 30 is also designed to control the amount of compressed air for the rear separating nozzle 11B, to apply the suction air to the suction cup 12 or the suction wheel 21, and to switch the suction air from the suction cup 12 to the suction wheel 21.

The controller 30 is designed to accept and interpret the status data from the sensor system 70 and to pass on feed-relevant data to the external operator unit 31, or to an internal operator unit 33.

In summary, the invention relates to a pneumatic feed and separation system 1 for flat substrates such as papers and the like in a stack 5, and to a corresponding method. The system 1 has: a rear edge separating apparatus 10 for separation of a top substrate 3 from the stack 5 in the area of the rear edge 9 of the stack 5 in the transport direction 7; a transport apparatus 20 for the top substrate 3 in the area of the front edge 8 of the stack 5 in the transport direction 7; and a control unit 30. In order to ensure automatic adjustment of the system 1, in particular automatically optimized operation of the system 1, the invention provides that the rear edge apparatus 10 and/or the transport apparatus 20 comprise/comprises an automatically controllable pneumatic system—in particular with a compressed-air-based separating unit and a suction-air-based separating unit, in particular an automatically controllable separating mechanism with a restraint function for substrates below the top substrate 3, in particular a suction-air-based transport unit—and an automatically controllable motor system. The control unit 30 is designed for automatic presetting of substrate-dependent parameter information—in particular at least for the compressed-air-based separating unit, for the suction-air-based separating unit, for the separating mechanism, for the separating motor system and for the transport unit—and the associated pneumatic system and/or motor system are/is designed for automatic adjustment thereof on the basis of the parameter information.

Claims

1-39. (canceled)

40. Pneumatic feed and separation system for flat substrates in a stack having:

a rear edge separating apparatus for separation of a top substrate from the stack in an area of a rear edge of the stack in a transport direction;

a transport apparatus for the top substrate in an area of a front edge of the stack in the transport direction;

a control unit;

at least one of the rear edge separating apparatus and the transport apparatus comprising an automatically controllable pneumatic system and an automatically controllable motor system; and

the control unit being configured for automatic presetting of substrate-dependent parameter information for the pneumatic system and the motor system, and being configured for automatic adjustment on a basis of the parameter information.

41. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the automatically controllable pneumatic system has an automatically controllable separating pneumatic system with a compressed-air-based separating unit and a suction-air-based separating unit, and at least one of said units being controlled automatically.

42. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the rear edge separating apparatus has an automatically controllable separating mechanism with a restraint function for substrates below the top substrate.

43. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the automatically controllable pneumatic system has an automatically controllable transport pneumatic system comprising an automatically controllable, suction-air-based transport unit.

44. Feed and separation system according to claim 43, wherein the control unit is configured for automatic presetting of substrate-dependent parameter information for at least one of the compressed-air-based separating unit, the suction-air-based separating unit, the separating mechanism, and the suction-air-based transport unit.

45. Feed and separation system according to claim 44, wherein the motor system has a plurality of motors, with each said motor being associated with at least one of the compressed-air-based separating unit, the suction-air-based separating unit, the separating mechanism, and the suction-air-based transport unit.

46. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, having at least one of a suction-air-based transport unit, a suction drum, and a transport motor system for the top substrate.

47. Feed and separation system according to claim 41, wherein the compressed-air-based separating unit has at least one loosening nozzle and/or at least one separating nozzle.

48. Feed and separation system according to claim 41, wherein the suction-air-based separating unit has at least one suction cup.

49. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the separating apparatus has a restraint function and has at least one sprung separating element comprising a leaf spring with strain gauges.

50. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the stack is arranged on a lifting table.

51. Feed and separation system according to claim 41, further comprising a control bus, which is connected to the control unit, for transmission of the parameter information for automatic adjustment at least to the compressed-air-based separating unit, to the suction-air-based separating unit, to a separating mechanism and to a separating motor system.

52. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the parameter information is stored in a variable form in a memory module.

53. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, further comprising an operator unit connected to the control unit for selection and/or variation of at least one of a substrate type and the parameter information.

54. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, further comprising a monitoring sensor system connected to the control unit for monitoring at least one of the feed operation, the separation operation, and performance.

55. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the substrate-dependent parameter information is based on the substrate type.

56. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the substrate-dependent parameter information is based on at least one substrate characteristic selected from the group consisting of: weight, thickness, bending strength, surface roughness, ripple, static friction values, dynamic friction values, length, width, temperature, moisture.

57. Feed and separation system according to claim 56, further comprising a sensor system for recording said at least one characteristic.

58. Feed and separation system according to claim 41, wherein the parameter information comprises adjustment parameters which are selected from the group consisting of:

airflow rate and/or distance between the compressed-air-based separating unit and the stack;

airflow rate and/or distance between the suction-air-based separating unit and the stack; and

distance between a separating mechanism and the stack.

59. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, wherein the parameter information comprises adjustment parameters, which are selected from the group consisting of:

height of a lifting table;

distance between the rear edge separating apparatus and the stack; and

distance between a stack side holder and the stack.

60. Feed and separation system according to claim 58, further comprising a sensor system for recording at least one adjustment parameters.

61. Feed and separation system according to claim 40, further comprising a regulation module connected to the control unit for demand-dependent adaptation of the parameter information and/or a readjustment of adjustment parameters before and/or during feed and/or separation operation.

62. Substrate handling system comprising a copying and/or printing and/or scanning system and/or deformation system, having a feed and separation system according to claim 40.

63. Method for pneumatic feeding and separation of flat substrates from a stack using a pneumatic feed and separation system, comprising:

separating a top substrate from the stack in an area of a rear edge of the stack in a transport direction; and

transporting the top substrate in an area of a front edge of the stack in the transport direction, wherein the top substrate is separated and/or transported pneumatically, and

carrying out the separation and/or transportation of the top substrate automatically and by motor control, with substrate-dependent parameter information being predetermined at least for the pneumatic separation, and automatically adjusting the pneumatic feed and separation system by the motor control on the basis of the parameter information.

64. Method according to claim 63, wherein the separating step comprises separating the top substrate on the basis of compressed air and/or suction air, with at least one separating step being preset and being carried out automatically and with the motor control.

65. Method according to claim 63, further comprising during separation, restraining substrates below the top substrate that have been adjusted automatically and by the motor control with said restraining being readjusted automatically and by the motor control.

66. Method according to claim 63, further comprising automatically determining at least one substrate characteristic selected from the group consisting of length, width, temperature, moisture, ripple, static friction values, dynamic friction values.

67. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining and automatically adjusting an upper distance between the top substrate and a transport apparatus as a function of the substrate by raising the stack and monitoring by sensors.

68. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining and automatically adjusting an upper distance between the top substrate and a rear edge separating apparatus as a function of the substrate by lowering of the rear edge separating apparatus and monitoring by sensors.

69. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining and automatically adjusting an airflow rate of a compressed-air-based separating unit as a function of the substrate and monitoring the airflow rate passing through a loosening nozzle by sensors.

70. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining and automatically adjusting a lateral distance between a separating mechanism in the form of a spring with a restraint function for substrates under the top substrate, and a rear edge of the stack as a function of the substrate as monitored by sensors using a strain gauge and by spacing of the spring.

71. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining and automatically adjusting an airflow rate of a compressed-air-based separating unit as a function of the substrate with the airflow rate flowing through a separating nozzle being monitored by sensors.

72. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining and automatically adjusting an airflow rate of a suction-air-based separating unit as a function of the substrate with the airflow rate of a suction cup being adjusted and/or readjusted automatically and monitored by sensors.

73. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining and automatically adjusting an airflow rate of a suction-air-based transport unit as a function of the substrate with a suction vacuum of a suction drum for the top substrate being adjusted and/or readjusted automatically and being monitored by sensors.

74. Method according to claim 63, further comprising predetermining and automatically adjusting a drive for a mechanical transport unit is as a function of the substrate, with a drive for extraction rollers being adjusted and/or readjusted automatically and being monitored by sensors.

75. Method according to claim 63, further comprising during feed and/or separation operation, automatically adapting the parameter information as required, and/or automatically readjusting adjustment parameters at least for a compressed-air-based separating unit, for a suction-air-based separating unit, for a separating mechanism and for a separating motor system.

76. Method according to claim 75, further comprising automatically readjusting a lateral distance between the separating mechanism and a rear edge of the stack and/or an airflow rate of the compressed-air-based separating unit by being matched to one another on the basis of sensor monitoring of the separating mechanism.

77. Computer program product having at least one program module by means of which a pneumatic feed and separation system can be caused to carry out a method according to claim 63.

78. Memory medium having a computer program product having at least one program module by means of which a pneumatic feed and separation system can be caused to carry out a method according to claim 63.