Inter-machine buffer for mailpiece fabrication system

摘要

A system and method for wrapping sheet material to produce finished mailpieces includes an upstream content module, a downstream mailpiece assembly module including a wrapper module adapted to encapsulate content material, and a buffer module interposing the upstream content and downstream assembly modules. The buffer module includes a plurality of buffer gates adapted to convey the content material from an upstream gate to a downstream gate to maintain a threshold pitch distance between successive pieces of content material. A controller is operatively coupled to the modules and controls the conveyance of content material through the buffer gates. More specifically, the controller coordinates the delivery and insertion of content material into the wrapper module to minimize dry-holes, maintain stresses below a threshold level to ensure continued operation, and optimize system throughput.

主权项

1. A system for wrapping sheet material to produce finished mailpieces, comprising:
an upstream content fabrication module for conveying content material along a feed path; a downstream mailpiece assembly module including a wrapping module having wrapping material therein and adapted to convey a web of sheet material along a downstream conveyance deck, the wrapping module adapted to encapsulate the content material in a tube-shaped wrap to produce wrapped mailpieces; and a buffer module including a plurality of buffer gates disposed in serial arrangement and interposing the upstream content fabrication module and the downstream mailpiece assembly modules, the buffer gates adapted to convey the content material from an upstream buffer gate to a downstream buffer gate to maintain a threshold pitch distance between pieces of content material; and a controller, operatively coupled to the upstream content fabrication module, the downstream mailpiece assembly module and the buffer module, the controller operative to control the conveyance of the content material through the buffer gates to coordinate the delivery and insertion of the content material into the tube-shaped wrap consistent with an acceleration profile in the wrapping module that maintains acceleration of the wrapping material below a threshold level and includes both an acceleration cycle and a deceleration cycle whereby damage to the wrapping material is prevented with the wrapping module.