Cut-to-Length or Cut-to-Mark

The rotary cutoff control cuts a continuously moving web of material into specified lengths. A measuring wheel is used to track web movement. Two different modes offer the choice of cutting prescribed lengths or cutting relative to printed registration marks using a mark detector to scan the web. Windowing features minimize spurious mark errors during registration cutting.

Pattern Recognition

The drive can search for a user-defined pattern of marks on the web. When a pattern is recognized, the cutoff makes a cut at a specific location relative to the last mark in the pattern. A pattern tolerance setup establishes the degree to which the distance between consecutive marks can vary from the set distance and still be considered a valid part of the pattern.

Simulators

Two simulation tools facilitate setting up, testing, and troubleshooting a rotary cutoff system. A line simulator makes it possible to run the cutoff without a web by simulating the feedback that the measuring wheel or pull roll would provide as the line ramps up, ramps down, or runs at speed. A mark detector simulator provides marks at a specified separation to allow testing in cut-to-mark mode.

Batch Control

Two different part lengths and batch sizes can be specified at once, allowing the operator to set up the next order while the current one is running. In cut-to-mark mode, batches also specify the mark offset and up to eight pattern edges. Orders change automatically at the end of a batch or when requested by the operator. A customizable early warning feature indicates when a batch is nearly complete. A single length may also be produced indefinitely.

Micro Trim Adjust

A micro adjust feature compensates for length errors caused by wear or build-up on the measuring wheel or rolls. The operator enters the measured length of a part, and the program recalculates the correct measuring wheel circumference to bring the cut and requested lengths into agreement.

Customized Tuning

A customized tuning approach reduces the cut error during line velocity changes to minimize bad parts and scrap caused by line stops.

Dynamic Feedback Sourcing

The cutoff can follow line speed feedback from two different sources and switch between them “on the fly” to enable tailout and line thread operations.

Dual-Motor Operation

The control supports both single- and dual-drive and motor operation. If two motors are coupled to the knife, the user must arbitrarily choose one drive as the master and the other as the slave.

Maximum Line Velocity Calculation

The program calculates the maximum velocity at which the line can operate based upon sheet length. The velocity is computed using a number of parameters that describe the knife, knife motor, and knife drive.

Cam Outputs

Programmable limit switch (PLS) outputs replace mechanical cams by electronically following the position of the rotary cutoff.