PRINTING TOWER OF A PRESS HAVING A VERTICALLY MOVABLE PLATFORM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING THE PLATFORM

Abstract

A printing tower of a press can be divided into two side frames. A platform can be moved in a vertical direction between the two side frames. A securing device is provided and is constructed as a crash safeguard and is configured such that the securing device can be moved, together with the platform, in the vertical direction. The securing device can also be moved relative to the platform. A method for providing a platform of a printing tower of a press is also disclosed, which press is divided by one movable side frame being moved relative to another side frame. As a result, an intermediate space is provided. A lifting device is arranged in the intermediate space and may be released by the displacement conveying the platform into the intermediate space in the vertical direction into a desired position. Following the displacement of the mobile side frame, the securing device is moved relative to the platform and the securing device, together with the platform, can be moved in the vertical direction.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is the U.S. national phase, under 35 U.S.C. 371, of PCT/EP2011/050938, filed Jan. 25, 2011; published as WO 2011/107306 A1 on Sep. 9, 2011 and claiming priority to DE 10 2010 002 613.1, filed Mar. 5, 2010, the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a printing tower of a printing press and to a method for providing a platform of a printing tower of a printing press. The printing tower can be divided into at least two side frames which are embodied as printing tower halves, a distance between which can be adjusted. At least one platform can be moved in a vertical direction between the at least two side frames in an intermediate space between the at least two side frames, the intermediate space resulting from a division of the printing tower. At least one safety device is provided. A lifting device, which is located in the intermediate space, is exposed by the displacement of the at least one movable side frame. The lifting device is usable to convey the platform in a vertical direction to a desired position in the intermediate space.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

From DE 198 33 468 A1, a printing unit which can be divided by displacing a part of the printing unit horizontally is known, wherein a working platform can be raised and lowered between the divided parts of the printing unit, and wherein, in each case, parts of the printing unit, each containing two forme cylinders, are displaced.

From WO 95/24314 A1, a dividable printing tower comprising four blanket-to-blanket printing couples arranged one above the other is known, wherein in each case, blanket-to-blanket printing couples lying directly one above the other are spaced the same distance from one another, and all blanket-to-blanket printing couples can be operated from only one plane, and wherein in at least one operating condition, one web of print substrate travels on one side along a transport path which extends substantially vertically through the lower two blanket-to-blanket printing couples, around a guide roller, and then approximately horizontally toward the outside between the two center blanket-to-blanket printing couples, and a second web of print substrate travels on the other side along another transport path between the two center blanket-to-blanket printing couples into the printing tower, around a guide roller, and then substantially vertically between the two upper blanket-to-blanket printing couples. Transport paths between center blanket-to-blanket printing couples extend at an incline and around at least two guide rollers.

From WO 2009/043628 A2, a dividable printing tower is known which has a lifting platform on each of two exterior sides, and which has an additional lifting platform which is movable in a vertical direction between halves of the printing tower when the printing tower is in the opened condition, wherein said printing tower also has at least one safety device, supported on each of two printing tower halves, which is in a collapsed position when the printing tower is in an operating condition, and is in an extended position when the printing tower is in a maintenance condition. A positioning height of the safety device is therefore independent of the vertical position of the additional lifting platform.

From DE 42 19 705 A1, a printing tower comprising four blanket-to-blanket printing couples arranged one above the other is known, wherein on each of the two exterior sides of said printing tower lifting devices are arranged, and in said printing tower, a distance between the two center blanket-to-blanket printing couples is greater than the respective distances between the two upper and the two lower blanket-to-blanket printing couples, and in said printing tower, one web of print substrate travels on one side along a transport path which extends substantially vertically through the lower two blanket-to-blanket printing couples, around a guide roller, and then approximately horizontally toward the outside between the two center blanket-to-blanket printing couples, and a second web of print substrate travels on the other side along another transport path between the two center blanket-to-blanket printing couples into the printing tower, around a guide roller, and then substantially vertically between the two upper blanket-to-blanket printing couples.

From DE 298 12 305 U1 a printing tower of a printing press is known, wherein at least one platform can be moved in a vertical direction on one side of the printing tower, and wherein at least one safety device embodied as a fall prevention device is provided, which is embodied as movable, together with the at least one platform, in a vertical direction, and which is arranged as movable relative to the at least one platform.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The problem addressed by the present invention is that of providing a printing tower of a printing press and a method for providing a platform of a printing tower of a printing press.

The problem is solved according to the invention by the provision of at least one safety device that is embodied as a fall prevention device. This safety device is movable with the at least one platform in a vertical direction. At least one drive is provided so that the at least one safety device is arranged to be movable relative to the at least one platform. The safety device can be moved relative to the platform by the at least one drive.

The advantages to be achieved by the invention consist particularly in that, along with a platform, at least one safety device is provided, which offers the same protection at each positioning height of the platform, and which can nevertheless can be lowered and stowed in a simple and space-saving manner so that the printing tower can be closed by displacing the side frame part. Because the safety device can be moved relative to the platform, it can be moved to a space-saving resting position relative to the platform. In one embodiment, in which the at least one safety device is arranged so as to be movable in terms of its height relative to the platform, one advantage consists in the possibility of a particularly space-saving arrangement, for example, in which the platform and the safety device are arranged beneath a side frame. A relative pivotability between platform and safety device represents a particularly simple and cost-effective embodiment. A horizontal pivoting axis allows a particularly effective pivotability and size reduction.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which the at least one safety device and the at least one platform can be moved together, particularly jointly, more particularly, simultaneously and coupled with one another, particularly by means of a shared drive, consists in that the safety device can be moved together with the platform in a vertical direction, and is therefore always disposed in an optimal position in relation to an operator situated on the platform. This embodiment of the safety device further facilitates access to an intermediate space between the printing tower halves of the opened printing tower, because the safety devices can be opened and therefore cannot inadvertently block a pathway. The at least one safety device can preferably be opened toward the inside, thereby decreasing the risk of an unintentional opening, and increasing the safety of operators. This therefore results in an improved safety situation, particularly in the case of relatively tall printing towers, due to the increased distances between printing couples, for example. A particularly advantageous and safe embodiment can be implemented by means of a gate, which can be swung open into the intermediate space.

A further advantage of one embodiment consists in that, for example, by way of an automatic movement, particularly a folding up of the at least one safety device relative to the platform, and/or by means of a monitoring machine control system, particularly in combination with at least one sensor, for example a limit position sensor, it is ensured that the lifting device is able to move vertically only when the safety device is activated, i.e., when a safety device is in a safety position relative to the corresponding platform. In addition, the drive enables easier operation. If the drive is located beneath the platform, accessibility remains unrestricted.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which at least one limit position sensor is arranged so as to detect and/or to be capable of detecting at least one position of the safety device consists in that the platform is prevented from being moved to a raised position without the safety device, and in that the printing tower is prevented from being closed when the safety device is not yet in a resting position. Hazards to operators and damage to the safety device, the lifting device and the side frames are thereby prevented.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which the at least one safety device is arranged so as to pivot around a horizontal pivoting axis consists in that this allows the safety device to be disposed in a resting position relative to the platform in a particularly space-saving arrangement.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which the at least one safety device comprises at least one post and at least one gate consists in that the safety device is particularly simple and cost-efficient, and therefore effective, in embodiment.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which at least one drive, by means of which the safety device can be pivoted, is arranged beneath the platform consists in that automatic pivoting is thereby enabled, while the traversable surface is nevertheless kept as large as possible.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which additional platforms and/or auxiliary landings are provided in an area outside of the printing tower, for example, consists in that, depending upon the positioning thereof, these can be telescoped together and/or can be displaced in conjunction with the side frame, and are therefore embodied as space-saving while still providing safety.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which a scissor lift is provided consists in that a particularly simple and safe raising and/or lowering of the platform and the safety device is possible. The structure is particularly simple in that the platform is preferably movable in exclusively a vertical direction.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which a vertical movement of the at least one platform is possible only as long as the at least one safety device is situated in a safety position relative to the at least one platform consists in that operators are optimally protected at all times, and the safety device cannot be disregarded for reasons of convenience.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which the distance between two adjacent blanket-to-blanket printing couples is greater than the distance between two topmost blanket-to-blanket printing couples and/or the distance between two bottommost blanket-to-blanket printing couples consists in that the structural height of the printing tower is thereby minimized, while various printing operations can nevertheless be optionally implemented, for example, by providing the necessary guide rollers. A further potential advantage consists in that, as a result of this increased distance between corresponding blanket-to-blanket printing couples, print substrate can be fed in a horizontal direction between these blanket-to-blanket printing couples, so that, in order to turn from a horizontal direction to a vertical direction, or vice versa, only one guide roller is required in each case, rather than at least two, as would be necessary, for example, if the space between the blanket-to-blanket printing couples was large enough only for an inclined path of the print substrate, i.e., for a path having horizontal and vertical components.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which two fixed planes with platforms are provided consists in that optimal accessibility of the printing press is thereby ensured. This applies particularly to bottom printing couples, since 200 cm of headroom can be realized beneath platforms. It is further advantageous that all the advantages of a dividable printing tower comprising four blanket-to-blanket printing couples arranged one above the other can nevertheless be utilized.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which the structure of a plurality of printing couples is largely identical consists in a simplified and cost-efficient configuration. Operation is also simplified thereby.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which one assembly is rigidly arranged and projects through an opening in a side frame, for example, a printing tower half, consists in that an exterior platform can be arranged so as to be rigid, whereas the corresponding printing tower half is movable. An opening of this type is preferably formed by two frame parts of a movable side frame and by components of the printing tower arranged between these frame parts, for example, ink fountains, cylinders, rollers, etc., particularly transfer cylinders. As a result, the side frame can be displaced, however, no lifting device is necessary in order to reach the upper regions of an exterior side of the printing tower and to perform necessary work there. A further advantage in this connection consists in that with fixed platforms, the number of working areas on a printing tower is increased, and as a result, multiple operators can perform maintenance operations or, for example, manual printing forme changes on each side of the printing tower at different heights at the same time, and therefore more quickly overall than if only one height-adjustable working area were to be provided. A further advantage in connection with this consists in that during the mounting and removal of full-width, full-circumference printing formes, as is customary, for example, in semicommercial printing, operators can work more efficiently and more quickly due to the better maneuvering space offered by the rigid platforms.

A further advantage of one embodiment in which a transport path is situated in an area just below a platform of the printing tower consists in that, with this arrangement, sufficient space is provided below the platform and below the print substrate for an operator to stand up and work. A further advantage of such a web path and guide rollers provided for this purpose consists in that a web path is not altered when the printing tower is opened, and that as a result, costly adjustments during opening and/or closing of the printing tower are avoided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiment examples of the invention are illustrated in the set of drawings, and will be specified in greater detail in what follows.

The drawings show:

FIG. 1 a schematic illustration of a printing press;

FIG. 2 a schematic illustration of a plurality of dividable printing towers from a side view;

FIG. 3 a schematic illustration of the printing towers of FIG. 2 in a view from above;

FIG. 4 a schematic, perspective illustration of a dividable auxiliary landing;

FIG. 5 a schematic illustration of a dividable printing tower and a rigidly arranged assembly;

FIG. 6 a schematic illustration of a dividable printing tower and a rigidly arranged assembly;

FIG. 7 a schematic illustration of a printing tower in a divided condition;

FIG. 8 a schematic view of a lifting device with safety devices;

FIG. 9 a schematic view of a detail of the lifting device of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 a schematic view of a detail of the lifting device of FIG. 8.

A printing press 01, which is embodied as a web-fed rotary printing press 01, for example, as a web-fed rotary offset printing press 01, comprises at least one print substrate source 100, at least one printing tower 200, a superstructure 300 having a series of turner bars 301 and at least one folding unit 400. Depending upon the printing technique that is used, at least one dryer 500 is also provided, downstream of which cooling rollers 501 can be arranged, for example. The printing press 01 can preferably operate using the wet offset printing method and/or using the waterless offset printing method or dry offset printing method. Heatset inks and/or coldset inks can be used. The at least one print substrate source 100 is preferably embodied in the form of at least one reel changer 100. The at least one printing tower 200 is preferably embodied as a dividable printing tower 200, with which a web-type print substrate 02, in other words a print substrate web 02, can preferably be imprinted on both sides by means of blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201, each of which is formed by two printing couples 201. The print substrate 02, which can be paper 02, for example, is transported from the print substrate source 100 along a transport path through the at least one printing tower 200 where it is imprinted, and is then transported through the superstructure 300, where it is processed by means of the turner bars 301 to a preferably freely selectable configuration, for example, a number of print substrate ribbons, and is fed in this configuration to the at least one folding unit 400 and is further processed to individual products. A print substrate ribbon can comprise one or more layers of print substrate 02, one above the other.

One printing tower 200 of the printing press 01 comprises at least two side frames 202; 203. These side frames 202; 203 are embodied as printing tower halves 202; 203. The distance between these at least two side frames 202; 203 is adjustable. Preferably, a stationary side frame 202 is provided, and a movable, particularly displaceable, side frame 203 is arranged so as to be movable relative thereto in a first, preferably horizontal direction A. The first direction A preferably lies perpendicular to rotational axes of forme cylinders 208 arranged in the printing press 01. It is also conceivable to provide a stationary side frame 202 and a plurality of side frames 203 that are movable relative thereto. Such mobility is ensured, for example, by sliding surfaces and/or roller bearings. Movable side frames 203 are movable particularly in relation to a base, whereas stationary side frames 202 are stationary in relation to the base. Each side frame 202; 203 comprises a plurality of frame parts 204; 206, wherein in each case at least one frame part 204 is arranged on a first side of at least one printing couple 207 of the printing tower 200 and at least one frame part 206 is arranged on another side of said printing couple 207 of the printing tower 200. A connecting direction of the frame parts 204; 206 of one respective side frame 202; 203 preferably lies parallel to a second direction B, which lies parallel to the rotational axes of the forme cylinder 208.

The printing tower 200 has at least one printing couple 207 and preferably has an even number of printing couples 207, each with one forme cylinder 208 and one transfer cylinder 209. Preferably, the same number of printing couples 207 is arranged in each side frame 202; 203, and at least two printing couples 207 are arranged one above the other. Further preferably, at least six, and even more preferably, at least eight printing couples 207, particularly offset printing couples 207, are provided. The offset printing couples 207 further are preferably arranged in such a way that in each case, two transfer cylinders 209, one of which is assigned to a printing couple 207 in the stationary side frame 202 and one of which is assigned to a printing couple 207 in the movable side frame 203, are engaged against one another in print operation. The preferably at least six, and further preferably at least eight offset printing couples 207 thus preferably form at least three, and further preferably at least four, blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 arranged one above the other. Each blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201 preferably comprises at least two transfer cylinders 209 that are engaged or can be engaged against one another, two forme cylinders 208, each of which interacts with one of the two transfer cylinders 209, and two inking units 211, each of which interacts with one of the forme cylinders 208. Cleaning devices and/or printing forme changing devices and/or, for example in the case of wet offset printing, two dampening units for each blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201 can also be provided, for example. Thus a blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201 of this type is formed from two printing couples 207 that are engaged or can be engaged against one another, wherein in each case the transfer cylinder 209 of one printing couple 207 serves as the impression cylinder of the other printing couple 207. The blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 are preferably embodied such that in each case, the rotational axes of the two forme cylinders 208 and of at least one, preferably even of both transfer cylinders 209 of a blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201 lie within a shared plane. Preferably, all blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 of a printing tower 200 are identical in configuration, at least with respect to an arrangement of respective forme cylinders 208 and transfer cylinders 209, and further preferably, said printing couples differ only in terms of the height at which they are arranged. The printing tower 200 is preferably embodied as a printing tower 200 of a newspaper printing press 01.

In the preceding and/or in what follows, when reference is made to distances of blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 or printing couples 207 or between blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 or printing couples 207, in each case this refers to a vertical component of a connecting line between the forme cylinders 208 of the respective blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 or printing couples 207. In the case of blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201, this refers to forme cylinders 208 arranged in the same side frame 202; 203. A distance between two printing couples 207 or blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201, unless otherwise indicated, is always understood as a vertical distance.

Preferably, at least one, and more preferably, each printing tower 200, can be divided for maintenance work and/or for other purposes. Such division can preferably be implemented along a substantially vertical parting surface and more preferably between respective pairs of transfer cylinders 209. The printing tower 200 is thereby converted from an operating condition, in which the printing tower 200 can be involved in a print operation and in which the side frames 202; 203 are preferably in contact with one another, and more preferably are securely attached to one another, to a maintenance condition. This is preferably carried out in a form in which at least three, preferably at least four printing couples 207, arranged one above the other, are held stationary with their shared stationary side frame 202, whereas at least three, preferably at least four additional printing couples 207, arranged one above the other, are moved with their shared movable side frame 203 in a substantially horizontal direction, preferably in a straight line, and further preferably along the first direction A. In the maintenance condition, therefore, the printing couples 207 that are arranged in the movable side frame 203 are separated from the printing couples 207 that are arranged in the stationary side frame 202, and the movable side frame 203 is separated from the stationary side frame 202 (FIG. 7).

In the operating condition, the print substrate 02 is preferably disposed in each case between two transfer cylinders 209 of at least one blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201. In the operating condition, these two transfer cylinders 209, assuming each is rotating about its rotational axis, are in rolling contact with the print substrate 02. However, the operating condition is not dependent upon whether or not print substrate 02 is provided or how wide the print substrate is. This means that when the printing tower 200 is in the operating condition, at least one transfer cylinder 209 arranged in the movable side frame 203 is positioned in contact with at least one transfer cylinder 209 arranged in the other, stationary side frame 202 and/or with the same print substrate web 02 as at least one transfer cylinder 209 arranged in the other stationary side frame 202. In the maintenance condition, in which, in contrast to the operating condition, the movable side frame 203 is displaced in the first direction A relative to the stationary side frame 202, the print substrate 02 is not clamped between transfer cylinders 209 of the printing tower 200 and preferably is not in contact with the two transfer cylinders 209 of a blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201. Print operation is possible only in the operating condition, whereas in the maintenance condition, maintenance operations can be carried out, for example, on the transfer cylinders 209, which in the operating condition preferably form press nips in pairs, through which print substrates 02 can be fed and imprinted.

Printing towers 200 arranged side by side are preferably arranged such that during the conversion from operating condition to maintenance condition their respective movable side frames 203 are displaced in the same first direction A. When two or more printing towers 200 are arranged side by side, it is conceivable for the printing towers 200 that are arranged on the exterior to be configured such that their two movable side frames 203 can be displaced in opposite directions, away from one another, in other words in or opposite the first direction A, for conversion from the operating condition to the maintenance condition. However, it is disadvantageous for movable side frames 203 to be moved toward one another at any location for the conversion from the operating condition to the maintenance condition, as in that case, the horizontal distance between these movable side frames 203 of these printing towers 200 would be unduly decreased. Therefore, with respect to potential expansions of the printing press 01, the same opening direction in the first direction A for all printing towers 200 is also expedient and preferable.

In a first print operation, the print substrate 02 is fed through each of the at least three or at least four press nips created by pairs of transfer cylinders 209, where said substrate is imprinted on one or preferably on both sides. In this case, the transport path of the print substrate 02 extends in a substantially vertical direction through the printing tower 200.

In a second print operation, a first print substrate 02 is disposed between respective transfer cylinders 209 of at least one and preferably of at least two blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 arranged one above the other, and/or a second print substrate 02 is disposed between respective transfer cylinders 209 of at least one and preferably of at least two blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 arranged one above the other and arranged above the above-mentioned blanket-to-blanket printing couple or couples 201. In this case, a transport path of the first print substrate 02 extends in a direction having a greater horizontal component than any vertical component that may be present, and preferably in a horizontal direction, at least partially between the topmost blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201 and the bottommost blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201, preferably at least partially between two blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 which are neither the topmost nor the bottommost printing couple 201, around a first guide roller 212 arranged inside the printing tower 200, and substantially vertically through at least the topmost and preferably at least the two topmost blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201. A transport path of the other print substrate 02 extends in a direction having a greater vertical component than any horizontal component that may be present, and preferably vertically through at least the bottommost and preferably the two bottommost blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201, around a second guide roller 213 arranged inside the printing tower 200, and in a direction having a greater horizontal component than any vertical component that may be present, and preferably in a horizontal direction, at least partially between the topmost blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201 and the bottommost blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201, preferably at least partially between two blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201, which are neither the topmost nor the bottommost blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201. In this print operation, for example, two webs of print substrate 02 can each be imprinted in two colors and on both sides by means of one printing tower 200. In this case, a substantially vertical path is a path having a component in the vertical direction which is greater than any horizontal component that may be present. Such a print operation is illustrated in FIG. 2, for example.

In a third print operation, a blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201 can also be arranged in such a way, for example, that only one printing couple 207 transfers ink, and the transfer cylinder 209 of the other printing couple 207 serves only as an impression cylinder. In that case, for example, with two blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201, one of which is arranged as described, one side of a print substrate 02 can be imprinted in two colors, and the other side can be imprinted in a single color, for example.

In one embodiment, in at least one printing tower 200 a number of guide rollers 212; 213; 233; 234 are arranged in such a way that imprinting can optionally be carried out in the first or in the second or in the third print operation using this printing tower 200. It is then possible, for example, to provide a number of printing towers 200 and to use these to imprint one web-type print substrate 02 on two sides in four colors in one section of the printing towers 200, for example, in each of two of the printing towers 200, in one print operation, and to optionally imprint one or two print substrates 02 on two sides, in each case optionally in one color and/or in two colors, in another section of the printing towers 200. With an assembly comprising four printing towers 200, therefore, with forme cylinders 208 that are four pages in width, sixteen pages can be imprinted in four colors, twelve pages in two colors, and twelve pages in one color, for example, in one print operation. In another print operation, 32 pages can be imprinted in four colors using the same four printing towers 200.

The printing tower 200 preferably has first and second platforms 214; 216 on at least one, but preferably on both of its exterior sides in relation to the first direction A, which sides lie parallel to the rotational axes of the forme cylinder 208. Said platforms are each embodied, for example, as stationary, in other words, particularly as non-movable in either a vertical direction or in a horizontal direction with a movement of the side frames 202; 203 relative to one another. The first and second platforms 214; 216 are each preferably connected to at least one staircase 217 or ladder 217 in such a way that an operator can use said ladders 217 to access the first and second platforms 214; 216 from a position that lies above or below said platforms. First platforms 214 are arranged such that an operator situated thereon can reach printing couples 207 that are connected to the stationary side frame 202, both in an operating condition and in a maintenance condition. Second platforms 216 are arranged such that an operator situated thereon can reach printing couples 207 that are connected to the movable side frame 203, both in an operating condition and in a maintenance condition. The first and second platforms 214; 216 are arranged at a height that is located at least above a rotational axis of the bottommost forme cylinder 208 of the printing tower 200 and below a rotational axis of the topmost forme cylinder 208 of the printing tower 200. However, it is also possible for the first and/or second platforms 214; 216 to be height adjustable and/or to be movable along with the movable side frame 203 in the first direction A.

In this case, the first platform 214 is assigned to the stationary side frame 202 and the second platform 216 is assigned to the movable side frame 203. The first, stationary platform 214 is preferably rigidly connected preferably to the stationary side frame 202, more preferably in such a way that the first platform 214 is not pivotable about an axis. The second platform 216, assuming that it is stationary, is preferably not rigidly connected to the side frame 203, which is movable in and opposite the first direction A, and is instead held stationary by means of mountings 219 and/or supports 221. The stationary second platform 216 can also be rigidly connected to other stationary machine components, for example, to a stationary side frame 202 of an adjacent printing tower 200 and/or to the stationary side frame 202 of its own printing tower 200. The second platform 216 is arranged in relation to the printing couples 207 of the movable side frame 203 such that one part of the printing couples 207 of the movable side frame 203 is preferably located entirely below the second platform 216 and another part of the printing couples 207 of this movable side frame 203 is preferably located entirely above the second platform 216. Preferably, one-half of the printing couples 207 are located above the second platform 216 and the other half of the printing couples 207 are located below the second platform 216, and more preferably, at least two blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 are located below the second platform 216.

A printing couple 207 which is located below the second platform 216, for example, is understood as a printing couple 207 that has only rotatable components having rotational axes that are located below the second platform 216 in a vertical direction, regardless of the horizontal positions of these rotational axes in relation to the second platform 216. The same applies similarly to a position above or over the second platform 216, for example. In one embodiment example, an assembly 218, which comprises at least one second platform 216 and mountings 219, is arranged in the operating condition and/or in the maintenance condition in such a way that this assembly 218 projects through a movable opening, which is delimited laterally by two frame parts 204; 206 of the movable side frame 203 and, at the top and the bottom, by two components, each of which is attached to one of these two frame parts 204; 206. The assembly 218 is preferably also rigidly connected on at least one side, and more preferably on both sides, of this opening in relation to the first direction A to at least one stationary component of the printing press 01. Such stationary components can be, for example, the stationary first side frame 202 or support 221, which are rigidly connected, for example, to a base or to a stationary machine frame part. The mentioned components attached to the frame parts 204; 206 can be any components that extend between the frame parts 204; 206, for example, ink fountains and/or inking rollers and/or distribution rollers and/or forme cylinders 208 and/or transfer cylinders 209 and/or dampening units and/or cleaning devices and/or stabilizing cross-members. The opening is movable to the extent that when the movable side frame 203 is moved, both frame parts 204; 206 and even those components that are rigidly connected thereto are moved along with it. The opening is preferably located below the topmost blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201 and above the bottommost blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201 (FIGS. 6 and 7).

In any case, it is possible in this manner, in the conversion from the operating condition to the maintenance condition, to move the movable side frame 203 in the first direction A in such a way that in the maintenance condition, at least a part of the second platform 216, which is accessible to an operator in the operating condition, is situated between components of two printing couples 207, of which one printing couple 207 is located above the second platform 216 and the other printing couple 207 is located below the second platform 216.

This results in a method for dividing the printing tower 200, in which at least the one movable side frame 203 of the printing tower 200 is moved relative to at least the one stationary side frame 202 of the printing tower 200, wherein, once the printing tower 200 has been divided, the second platform 216 projects into the opening, which is delimited laterally by the two frame parts 204; 206 of the at least one movable side frame 203 and at the top and the bottom by two of the components that are attached to these two frame parts 204; 206, and wherein the second platform 216 and/or the assembly 218 that is rigidly connected to the second platform 216 or contains the second platform 216 did not previously project through this opening, or did not project as far through the opening, and/or a different section thereof projected through the opening.

If provided, the first and second guide rollers 212; 213 are preferably arranged on the stationary first side frame 202 and/or on the component 218, so that when the second side frame 203 is displaced, the positions of these first and second guide rollers 212; 213 are not changed. In another embodiment, one or both of these guide rollers 212; 213 are arranged on the movable second side frame 203, so that when the second side frame 203 is moved, each corresponding first and/or second guide roller 212; 213 is also moved, and thereby an area between the side frames 202; 203 is opened up completely, for moving at least one third platform 223 in a vertical direction between the side frames 202; 203, by means of a lifting device 222.

In what follows, a third platform 223 is described, however, all statements refer to at least one third platform 223. It is conceivable, for example, to arrange a plurality of third platforms 223 in a direction parallel to a rotational axis of a forme cylinder 208. These platforms can also be operated independently of one another. However, the case is preferable in which a single third platform 223 is provided for each printing tower 200. In the case in which the first and second guide rollers 212; 213 are rigidly arranged, the lifting device 222 can also be raised, for example, only up to a certain height, at which the lifting device 222 and the first and/or second guide rollers 212; 213 neither touch nor impede one another in any other way. The lifting device 222 can be raised far enough that an operator can access the topmost printing couple 207 of the printing tower 200 from the third platform 223 without difficulty. The lifting device 222 can be lowered far enough to lower the third platform 223 far enough to allow the printing tower 200 to be closed. In what follows, when the platform 223 is mentioned, particularly in connection with the lifting device 222 and/or with at least one safety device 224, the third platform 223 is meant, unless otherwise specified. The lifting device 222 preferably has a lifting drive, for example, at least one hydraulic cylinder and/or one electric motor. The lifting drive is preferably machine controlled. The lifting device 222 further has guides, for example, in the form of rails, articulated arms, gear rods, etc. The lifting device 222 preferably has at least one scissor lift. The lifting device 222, and particularly the lifting drive thereof, is preferably connected to a superordinate machine control system, for example, in such a way that the machine control system establishes or at least forwards a target height for the lifting device 222, and/or in such a way that the machine control system receives data from the lifting device 222 about a respective actual height, and/or contains such data.

The lifting device 222 is preferably embodied in the form of a lifting platform 222, which comprises a third platform 223. The third platform 223 is movable in a vertical direction when the printing tower 200 is in the maintenance condition and optionally is arranged in an intermediate space between the side frames 202; 203 of the printing tower 200. The intermediate space is created between the side frames 202; 203 of the printing tower 200 when the printing tower 200 is divided. This lifting device 222 is equipped with at least one and preferably at least two safety devices 224. The platform 223 and the at least one safety device 224 are components of the lifting device 222 and are preferably movable in a vertical direction by means of a shared drive. Thus the at least one safety device 224 is embodied as movable in a vertical direction together, particularly jointly, with the platform 223. This means, in particular, that a movement of the platform 223 results in a simultaneous and similar movement of the safety device 224. The at least one safety device 224 is arranged so as to be movable relative to the platform 223. In an overlapping of a movement of the platform 223 and a movement of the at least one safety device 224 relative to the platform 223, the movement of the safety device 224 does not always conform to that of the platform 223, however, a movement of the platform 223 is not possible without movement of the at least one safety device 224. In particular, the at least one safety device 224 can be arranged and/or is arranged in a resting position relative to the platform 223 and/or in a safety position relative to the platform 223. In particular, the at least one safety device 224 is arranged so as to be movable in terms of its height relative to the platform 223. This means that, in the safety position relative to the platform 223, at least part or all of the at least one safety device 224 is arranged at least partially at a greater height in relation to the platform 223 than when the at least one safety device 224 is in the resting position relative to the platform 223. During a transition between the resting position and the safety position, the safety device 224 is preferably temporarily arranged in at least one intermediate position. The at least one safety device 224 is embodied as a fall prevention device 224, preferably as a safety fence 224 and/or as a guard rail section 224.

The platform 223 can be arranged and/or is arranged in a lower resting position. This position is preferably characterized in that it represents the lowest position that can be reached by the platform 223. It is further characterized in that the platform 223 is arranged in the lower resting position outside of an area of movement of movable side frames 203. In the lower resting position, the platform 223 can be arranged and/or arrangeable below the movable side frame 203 and/or between frame parts 204; 206 of the movable side frame 203. The platform can be arranged and/or is arranged in at least one raised working position. Said position is preferably characterized in that it represents a higher position than the lower resting position. When the platform 223 is in the at least one raised working position, it offers access to upper printing couples 207. The platform can be moved between the lower resting position and the raised working position in an at least vertical and preferably exclusively vertical direction, but preferably only when the safety device 224 is situated in the safety position relative to the platform 223. This results in different potential configurations of printing tower 200, platform 223 and safety device 224.

When the printing tower 200 is in the operating condition, the platform 223 is arranged at least partially and preferably fully below at least one printing couple 207, arranged in the one, movable side frame 203, in a vertical direction. When the printing tower 200 is in the operating condition, the platform 223 is preferably arranged below at least one transfer cylinder 209 in a vertical direction, which transfer cylinder is arranged in the one, movable side frame 203. Furthermore, when the printing tower 200 is in the operating condition, the platform 223 is arranged in the lower resting position and the at least one safety device 224 is located in the resting position relative to the platform 223.

In a first operating condition, which is preferably a transitional condition, the printing tower 200 is in the maintenance condition and the platform 223 is situated in the lower resting position, and the at least one safety device 224 is situated in the resting position relative to the platform 223.

In a second operating condition, which is preferably an opened condition, the printing tower 200 is in the maintenance condition and the platform 223 is arranged in the lower resting position, and the at least one safety device 224 is located in the safety position relative to the platform 223.

In a third operating condition, which is preferably a transport condition, the printing tower 200 is in the maintenance condition and the platform 223 is arranged in a raised working position, and the at least one safety device 224 is in a safety position relative to the platform 223. At least in this transport condition, the at least one safety device 224 is preferably arranged bordering the intermediate space between the side frames 202; 203 of the printing tower 200 in at least one direction parallel to a rotational axis of at least one transfer cylinder 209 of a printing couple 207 of the printing tower 200, preferably in two opposite directions.

In one embodiment, when the printing tower 200 is in the operating condition, the at least one safety device 224 is arranged folded up. This corresponds to the resting position of the at least one safety device 224 relative to the platform 223. For this purpose, the at least one safety device 224 is arranged so as to pivot in relation to the third platform 223, preferably around at least one pivoting axis, which further preferably extends horizontally, and even more preferably, parallel to the first direction A, in other words, perpendicular to the second direction B of the rotational axes of the forme cylinder 208. In each case the at least one safety device 224 preferably has at least one post 226, which is preferably pivotable relative to the third platform 223, as has just been described. On such posts 226, at least one gate 227 is arranged, which, when the post 226 has been erected, and is therefore arranged substantially vertically, can be swiveled around a substantially vertical axis. This corresponds to the safety position of the at least one safety device 224 relative to the platform 223. For this purpose, the at least one gate 227 is preferably fastened by means of at least one hinge to the at least one post 226. The at least one gate 227 can be embodied, for example, as a surface or preferably as a lightweight frame, for example, in the shape of the letter “E”. A gate 227 is preferably a component of a safety fence 224 and/or of a guard rail section 224. The at least one safety device 224, particularly the at least one gate 227, can preferably be opened, particularly swiveled open, only toward the inside, in other words over the intermediate space between the printing tower halves 202; 203 or side frames 202; 203. Further preferably, this is possible only as long as the at least one safety device 224 is situated in the safety position relative to the platform 223, in other words, particularly only as long as the at least one post 226 is situated in an upright, secured position, particularly only when the printing tower 200 is in the maintenance condition (FIGS. 8, 9 and 10). A device, for example, a torsion spring, is preferably provided, which ensures that a gate 227 of a vertically upright safety device 224 is automatically brought to or held in a closed position. In this manner, protection for operators is improved, and it is ensured that the gate 227 is always closed when the safety device 224 is to be pivoted in order to close the printing tower 200.

The at least one post 226 is preferably mounted so as to pivot via at least one hinge, in other words about a preferably horizontal pivoting axis. The at least one safety device 224, particularly the at least one post 226, is preferably connected to at least one drive 228, for example, a hydraulic cylinder 228, which is preferably disposed underneath the third platform 223. The drive 228 is preferably machine controlled, more preferably said drive is connected in terms of circuitry to a superordinate machine control system. In this manner, the safety device 224 can be erected automatically, controlled by a machine control system. Preferably, at least one sensor, and more preferably, at least one limit position sensor is provided, which is arranged so as to detect and/or be capable of detecting at least one position of the at least one safety device 224, preferably at least one position of the at least one safety device 224 relative to the platform 223. Further preferably, at least two such sensors are provided, at least one of which is embodied as a limit position sensor, and is arranged so as to detect and/or to be capable of detecting a resting position and/or a safety position of the safety device 224 relative to the platform 223. A safety position corresponds, for example, to a condition in which the post 226 is preferably situated vertically, and the gate 227 can be opened. A resting position corresponds, for example, to a condition in which the post 226 is situated horizontally, so that, with an accordingly lower positioning of the platform 223 and the lifting device 222, closure of the printing tower 200 is enabled. If the safety device 224 is not arranged in either the safety position or the resting position relative to the platform 223, for reasons of safety, the printing tower 200 preferably cannot be closed, and the platform 223 preferably cannot be moved in a vertical direction. This is preferably ensured by connecting the drive 228 to a superordinate machine control system.

In one embodiment, the drive 228 is disposed on a lever of the safety device 224 which lies on a different side of the pivoting axis from a part of the safety device 224 that is arranged above the third platform 223. In another embodiment, the drive 228 is disposed on a lever of the safety device 224 which lies on the same side of the pivoting axis, such as a part of the safety device 224 that is arranged above the third platform 223.

This results in a method for providing the third platform 223 of the printing tower 200 of the printing press 01, wherein the printing tower 200 is divided by moving at least the movable second side frame 203 relative to at least the stationary first side frame 202, thereby creating the intermediate space between the side frames 202; 203, and wherein the lifting device 222, which is arranged in the intermediate space and is exposed by the movement of the second side frame 203, conveys the third platform 223 in a vertical direction in the intermediate space to a desired position, and wherein, after the displacement of the second side frame 203 and preferably before the conveyance of the third platform 223, the at least one safety device 224 is moved relative to the platform 223, preferably by means of a drive 228, and wherein the at least one safety device 224 is moved together with the platform 223 in a vertical direction, preferably by means of a lifting drive. The at least one safety device 224 is preferably pivoted out of a horizontal position to a vertical position.

A further step in the method then consists in that, with the movement of the movable side frame 203 relative to the other side frame 202, the printing tower 200 is converted from an operating condition to a maintenance condition. A further step in the method then consists in that the at least one safety device 224 is subsequently moved relative to the platform 223, and is thereby transferred from a resting position to a safety position. A further step in the method then consists in that the platform 223 and the at least one safety device 224 are subsequently moved in a vertical direction and are thereby transferred from a lower resting position to a raised working position.

A further step in the method then consists in that, for pivoting the safety device 224, the drive 228 moves a lever such that this lever is pivoted about the pivoting axis, thereby also pivoting the part of the safety device 224 that is on a different or on the same side of the pivoting axis. A further step in the method consists in that, once the safety device 224 has been pivoted to a vertical position, the at least one gate 227 of the safety device 224 is swiveled relative to the at least one post 226, thereby opening up access to the third platform 223. It is also conceivable for the third platform 223 to first be brought to an intermediate position, in which the at least one safety device 224 is transferred to the safety position relative to the platform 223, and for a further movement of the third platform 223 in a vertical direction to then be possible.

In one embodiment, a vertical distance between two adjacent printing couples 207 of a side frame 202; 203, both of which lie below the topmost printing couple 207 and above the bottommost printing couple 207, is greater than the vertical distance between the two lower printing couples 207 of the same side frame 202; 203 and/or is greater than the vertical distance between the two upper printing couples 207 of the same side frame 202; 203, for example, by at least 10 cm and at most 80 cm, preferably by at least 15 cm and at most 40 cm. It is thereby possible for this greater vertical distance between the two corresponding printing couples 207 to be great enough that the second platform 216 will fit between them, and/or that in the second print operation, the print substrate 02 can also be conducted between these two printing couples 207 in a horizontal direction (FIGS. 1, 2, 5 and 7). This applies both to the printing couples 207 arranged in the stationary side frame 202 and to those arranged in the movable side frame 203, since these must be located at corresponding heights to form the blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201. The distance between the two bottommost printing couples 201 is preferably precisely the same as the distance between the two topmost printing couples 201.

The first and second platforms 214; 216 are preferably arranged at such a height that an operator can work under them without risk and preferably standing upright, and such that an additional operator can also work on them, also without risk and preferably standing upright. Steps, for example, fold-out steps, are preferably provided, in order to ensure that an operator can reach all areas of the printing tower 200. The steps differ from the first and second platforms 214; 216, not only in terms of their size, but also especially in that the steps are arranged so as to pivot about an axis, whereas the first and second platforms 214; 216 are not pivotably arranged.

When two printing towers 200 are arranged side by side, a single, shared platform 214; 216 is preferably arranged between them. This shared platform 214; 216 then provides access to printing couples 207 of both printing towers 200, both in the operating condition and in the maintenance condition of one or of both adjoining printing towers 200. The shared platform 214; 216 can be in contact with one or with both adjoining printing towers 200, and is preferably rigidly connected to an adjacent, stationary side frame 202. The shared platform 214; 216 then corresponds to a combination of first platform 214 of the one printing tower 200 and second platform 216 of the other printing tower 200.

A shared platform 214; 216 between two printing towers 200 preferably has an opening 232, through which print substrate 02 can be transported in a vertical direction. In an area directly surrounding each such opening 232, third guide rollers 233 are preferably arranged, which ensure a proper transport path for the print substrate 02. First and second platforms 214; 216 that are not arranged between two printing towers 200 can also have such openings 232, however, in that case it would also be possible to transport print substrate 02 vertically outside of the first and second platforms 214; 216.

A web path is then configured, for example, such that a first print substrate 02 is arranged in a position having a greater horizontal component than any vertical component that may be present, at least partially between a forme cylinder 208 of the topmost and a forme cylinder 208 of the bottommost blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201, around a first guide roller 212 arranged inside the printing tower 200, and in a direction having a greater vertical component than any horizontal component that may be present, between two transfer cylinders 209 of at least the topmost blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201, wherein another print substrate 02 travels, in a position having a greater vertical component than any horizontal component that may be present, between two transfer cylinders 209 of at least the bottommost blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201, around a second guide roller 213 arranged inside the printing tower 200, and, in a direction having a greater horizontal component than any vertical component that may be present, at least partially between a forme cylinder 208 of the topmost and a forme cylinder 208 of the bottommost blanket-to-blanket printing couple 201, and wherein the first print substrate 02 is arranged wrapped around a further, fourth guide roller 234, which is arranged at a height that is different from the height at which the first guide roller 212 is arranged by less than 50 cm and preferably by less than 25 cm, and wherein this fourth guide roller 234 is arranged less than 50 cm and preferably less than 25 cm in a vertical direction below a first and/or second platform 214; 216 of the printing tower 200. Height specifications and distances with respect to the guide rollers 212; 213; 233; 234 refer to respective positions of corresponding rotational axes.

When the printing tower 200 is in the operating condition, in which the printing tower 200 is closed, each of the two print substrates 02 is preferably in contact with at least one transfer cylinder 209 of the stationary side frame 202 and at least one transfer cylinder 209 of the movable side frame 203. When the printing tower 200 is in the maintenance condition, in which the printing tower 200 is opened, preferably neither of the two print substrates 02 is in contact with transfer cylinders 209 of the movable side frame 203.

It is preferable for the first print substrate 02 to be moved upstream through an opening 232 in the first and/or second or shared platform 214; 216 and/or for the second print substrate 02 to be moved downstream through another opening 232 in the or in another first and/or second or shared platform 214; 216. Between adjacent printing towers 200, in areas that are not located between forme cylinders 208 of adjoining printing towers 200, platforms 229 and/or fold-out auxiliary landings 229 are preferably arranged, which are further preferably embodied such that their respective surfaces can be made smaller, for example, in the manner of a telescope, so as to avoid impeding the displacement of a correspondingly movable side frame 203. Staircases 217 or ladders 217 are preferably rigidly connected to components of such platforms 229 or auxiliary landings 229, which components are rigidly arranged in relation to the stationary side frame 202, but can also be embodied as movable. Auxiliary landings 229 can also be arranged in areas that are not decreased in size by a movement of the movable side frame 203, but which nevertheless require that these auxiliary landings 229 be movable. In that case, these auxiliary landings 229 are preferably rigidly arranged in relation to the movable side frame 203, and are therefore movably arranged in relation to the stationary side frame 202 (FIGS. 3 and 4).

Printing towers 200 as described above are preferably dividable, in which two side frames 202; 203 are separated from one another, wherein reference is also made to printing tower halves 202; 203, even when the printing tower 200 is not necessarily divided exactly in half. However, it is also conceivable for a printing tower 200 to be divided into more than two parts, in which case, for example, one stationary side frame 202 remains in place and two movable side frames 203 are moved away from the first. In that case, the above statements can be applied similarly, for example, each of these side frame parts 202; 203, at least in a maintenance condition, can have an opening, into each of which, or collectively, one rigidly arranged assembly 218 projects at least partially. A lifting device 222 can then also be provided in each of the intermediate spaces between the stationary side frame 202 and the movable side frames 203. The positioning of the blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 in relation to a vertical direction remains unchanged from the above description.

A printing tower 200 comprising four blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201 arranged one above the other preferably has a dimension in the vertical direction of at least 390 cm and at most 470 cm. This serves to ensure that, both at a level that corresponds to the base and provides accessibility to at least the two bottommost blanket-to-blanket printing couples 201, and at a level that corresponds to the first and/or second and/or third platforms 214; 216; 223 and provides accessibility to at least the two topmost printing couples, adequate space is provided for an operator to work without risk. In this context, the dimension in a vertical direction refers to the distance between the base and the highest point on the side frames 202; 203. Any areas provided for lowering the lifting device 222 are in addition to this.

The dimensions and distances of printing towers 200 arranged side by side in a printing press 01 are preferably such that a plane defined by the press nips formed between the transfer cylinders 209 of one printing tower 200 is spaced from a plane defined by the press nips formed between the transfer cylinders 209 of an adjacent printing tower 200 by a distance of at least 420 cm and at most 520 cm. A distance between side frames 202; 203, which face one another, of adjacent, closed printing towers 200 preferably measures at least 240 cm and at most 340 cm.

The dimension of forme cylinders 208 in the direction of their rotational axes can be such that it is possible to imprint at least two double-width newspaper pages and at most six double-width newspaper pages. In principle, however, even smaller or even larger dimensions are possible.

When the printing tower 200 is in the operating condition, a rotational axis of a bottommost transfer cylinder 209 of a stationary side frame 202 and a rotational axis of a bottommost transfer cylinder 209 of a movable side frame 203 are spaced by a first distance, and when the printing tower 200 is in the maintenance condition, these are spaced by a second distance. The first distance is smaller than the second distance, particularly in terms of the respective horizontal components of the first and second distances.

While preferred embodiments of a printing tower of a printing press and a method for providing a platform of a printing tower of a printing press, in accordance with the present invention, have been set forth fully and completely hereinabove, it will be apparent to one of skill in the art that various changes in, for example the specific structures of the printing units, superstructures and the like could be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present invention which is accordingly to be limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1-41. (canceled)

42. A printing tower (200) of a printing press (01), wherein the printing tower (200) can be divided into at least two side frames (202; 203), embodied as printing tower halves (202; 203), the distance between which can be adjusted, and wherein at least one platform (223) can be moved in a vertical direction between the at least two side frames (202; 203) in an intermediate space between the at least two side frames (202; 203) resulting from the division of the printing tower (200), and wherein at least one safety device (224) is provided, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) is embodied as a fall prevention device (224) and is embodied as movable together with the at least one platform (223) in a vertical direction, and in that at least one drive (228) is provided, by means of which the at least one safety device (224) is arranged so as to be movable relative to the at least one platform (223).

43. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) is arranged so as to be at least partially movable in terms of its height relative to the at least one platform (223).

44. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) is arranged so as to be pivotable relative to the at least one platform (223) around at least one pivoting axis.

45. The printing tower according to claim 44, characterized in that the at least one pivoting axis is embodied as a horizontal pivoting axis.

46. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) comprises at least one post (226) and at least one gate (227).

47. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) is embodied as at least one safety fence (224).

48. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) is embodied as at least one guard rail section (224).

49. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that the at least one drive is positioned underneath the at least one platform (223).

50. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that exactly one platform (223) can be moved in a vertical direction between the at least two side frames (202; 203).

51. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that the at least one platform (223) and the at least one safety device (224) are part of a lifting device (222), which comprises at least one scissor lift.

52. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that at least one sensor is arranged so as to detect and/or be capable of detecting at least one position of the at least one safety device (224).

53. The printing tower according to claim 52, characterized in that the at least one sensor is arranged so as to detect and/or be capable of detecting the at least one position of the at least one safety device (224) relative to the at least one platform (223).

54. The printing tower according to claim 52, characterized in that the at least one sensor is embodied as a limit position sensor, and is arranged so as to detect and/or be capable of detecting a resting position and/or a safety position of the safety device (224) relative to the at least one platform (223).

55. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that a vertical movement of the at least one platform (223) is possible only as long as the at least one safety device (224) is situated in a safety position relative to the at least one platform (223).

56. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) is arranged bordering an intermediate space between the side frames (202; 203) of the printing tower (200) in at least one direction (B) parallel to a rotational axis of at least one transfer cylinder (209) of a printing couple (207) of the printing tower (200).

57. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that the at least one platform (223) is movable exclusively in a vertical direction.

58. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that the printing tower (200) is embodied as a printing tower (200) of a newspaper printing press (01).

59. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that printing couples (207) of the printing tower (200) are embodied as offset printing couples (207).

60. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that, in a lower resting position, the at least one platform (223) is situated outside of an area of movement for movable side frames (203).

61. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that when the printing tower (200) is in a maintenance condition, at least one movable side frame (203) of the at least two side frames (202; 203) is spaced from at least one other side frame (202) of the at least two side frames (202; 203) and an intermediate space is formed between the at least two side frames (202; 203), and in that when the printing tower (200) is in this maintenance condition, the at least one platform (223) can be moved in a vertical direction between the at least two side frames (202; 203).

62. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that when the printing tower (200) is in an operating condition, the at least two side frames (202; 203) are at least partially in contact with one another.

63. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that when the printing tower (200) is in an operating condition, at least one transfer cylinder (209) that is arranged in the one, movable side frame (203) is situated in contact with at least one transfer cylinder (209) arranged in the other side frame (202) and/or in contact with the same web of print substrate (02) as at least one transfer cylinder (209) that is arranged in the other side frame (202).

64. The printing tower according to claim 62, characterized in that when the printing tower (200) is in the operating condition, the at least one platform (223) is located in a vertical direction at least partially below at least one printing couple (207) which is arranged in the one, movable side frame (203).

65. The printing tower according to claim 64, characterized in that when the printing tower (200) is in the operating condition, the at least one platform (223) is located in a vertical direction at least partially below at least one transfer cylinder (209) which is arranged in the one, movable side frame (203).

66. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that when the printing tower (100) is in an operating condition, the at least one platform (223) is located in a lower resting position, and the at least one safety device (224) is situated in a resting position relative to the at least one platform (223).

67. The printing tower according to claim 61, characterized in that in one operating condition, the printing tower (200) is in the maintenance condition and the at least one platform (223) is located in a lower resting position, and the at least one safety device (224) is situated in a resting position relative to the at least one platform (223).

68. The printing tower according to claim 61, characterized in that in one operating condition, the printing tower (200) is in the maintenance condition and the at least one platform (223) is located in a lower resting position, and the at least one safety device (224) is situated in a safety position relative to the at least one platform (223).

69. The printing tower according to claim 61, characterized in that in one operating condition, the printing tower (200) is in the maintenance condition and the at least one platform (223) is located in a raised working position, and the at least one safety device (224) is situated in a safety position relative to the at least one platform (223).

70. The printing tower according to claim 42, characterized in that when the at least one safety device (224) is in a safety position relative to the at least one platform (223), it is located at least partially at a greater height in relation to the at least one platform (223) than when the at least one safety device (224) is in a resting position relative to the at least one platform (223).

71. A method for providing a platform (223) of a printing tower (200) of a printing press (01), wherein the printing tower (200) is divided by moving at least one movable side frame (203) of the printing tower (200) relative to at least one other side frame (202) of the printing tower (200), thereby creating an intermediate space between the side frames (202; 203), and wherein a lifting device (222), which is located in the intermediate space and is exposed by the displacement of the at least one movable side frame (203), conveys the platform (223) in a vertical direction in the intermediate space to a desired position, characterized in that following the displacement of the movable side frame (203), at least one safety device (224) embodied as a fall prevention device (224) is moved relative to the platform (223) by means of a drive (228), and in that the at least one safety device (224) is moved together with the platform (223) in a vertical direction.

72. The method according to claim 71, characterized in that with the movement of the movable side frame (203) relative to the other side frame (202), the printing tower (200) is converted from a working condition to a maintenance condition.

73. The method according to claim 72, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) is then moved relative to the platform (223) and is thereby transferred from a resting position to a safety position.

74. The method according to claim 73, characterized in that the platform (223) and the at least one safety device (224) are then moved in a vertical direction and are thereby transferred from a lower resting position to a raised working position.

75. The method according to claim 71, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) is pivoted around at least one axis.

76. The method according to claim 75, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) is pivoted from a horizontal position to a vertical position.

77. The method according to claim 71, characterized in that before the platform (223) is moved in a vertical direction, the at least one safety device (224) is moved relative to the platform (223).

78. The method according to claim 71, characterized in that, once the at least one safety device (224) has been moved relative to the platform (223), a gate (227) of the at least one safety device (224) is swiveled relative to a post (226) of the at least one safety device (224), opening up access to the platform (223).

79. The method according to claim 71, characterized in that the at least one safety device (224) is moved together with the platform (223) in a vertical direction by means of a lifting drive.