Abstract:
In a feeding apparatus which includes a turret arm supporting a new paper roll and an old paper roll and supported pivotably, and a turret arm swing motor for pivoting the turret arm, and which splices a web of the new paper roll to a web of the old paper roll and supplies the web continuously, the turret arm swing motor is driven before driving of a main unit to pivot the turret arm, thereby moving the new paper roll to a web splicing standby position.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001]     1. Field of the Invention  
         [0002]     This invention relates to a strip continuous supply method and apparatus suitably applied, for example, to a feeding apparatus of a rotary printing press.  
         [0003]     2. Description of the Related Art  
         [0004]     In a machine where a roll (a rolled web) is unwound and used, such as a rotary press, an automatic web splicing unit is used, whereby when a roll being currently unwound (an old web roll) is nearing its end, this roll is automatically spliced to a new roll (a new web roll), without stoppage of the operation of the machine, and the operation is continued.  
         [0005]     With the automatic web splicing unit of an offset rotary press, the following procedure has been common practice: When the transport speed of the old web roll reaches a predetermined speed not lower than a low speed and when the length of the remaining web becomes a value corresponding to a predetermined time or less, a web splicing signal is issued. In response to this web splicing signal, the new web roll is moved to a web splicing standby position, and a paster unit (web splicing unit) is moved to a web splicing position. Also, the new web roll is rotated such that the peripheral speed of the new web roll equals the transport speed of the old web roll being unwound by a pre-drive device. In this state, web splicing is performed (see Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-96968).  
         [0006]     However, when printing is started anew, the above-described automatic web splicing unit has encountered the following problems: The movement of the new web roll to the web splicing standby position, and the synchronization of the peripheral speed of the new web roll take time. During this period, the old web is unwound, and the length of the remaining paper in the roll becomes insufficient. At the time of printing (during printing-out), therefore, the paper remaining in the wound roll cannot be used as the old web roll, thus resulting in a waste. In other words, if the remaining roll having the insufficient length of the remaining paper is used as the old web roll, shutdown of the machine due to the absence of remaining paper is induced.  
         [0007]     Under these circumstances, when printing is started newly, it has been customary practice to use a web roll of a certain size as the old web. However, at the start of new printing, adjustments for printing of a normal printing product, such as color matching and registration, have to be made. This has posed the problem that printing products obtained become wasted paper, thus causing wastes.  
         [0008]     The present invention has been accomplished as a solution to the above-described problems. The present invention provides a strip continuous supply method and apparatus which enable even a remaining web roll of a small diameter to be used as an old web roll at the start of new printing, thereby achieving the effective use of printing materials and improved productivity.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0009]     A first aspect of the present invention is a strip continuous supply method of a strip continuous supply apparatus which includes a turret arm supporting a new web roll and an old web roll and supported pivotably, and a turret arm drive device for pivoting the turret arm, and which splices a strip of the new web roll to a strip of the old web roll and supplies the strip continuously, the strip continuous supply method comprising driving the turret arm drive device, before driving of a main unit, to pivot the turret arm, thereby moving the new web roll to a web splicing standby position.  
         [0010]     A second aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply method according to the first aspect, further comprising moving a web splicing unit to the web splicing standby position before driving of the main unit, the web splicing unit including a pressing member for pressing the strip of the new web roll against the strip of the old web roll, and a cutting member for cutting the strip of the old web roll.  
         [0011]     A third aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply method according to the first aspect, further comprising driving new web roll drive means such that a peripheral speed of the new web roll becomes equal to a transport speed of the strip unwound from the old web roll, when the main unit begins to rotate, the new web roll drive means being adapted to rotate the new web roll.  
         [0012]     A fourth aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply method according to the second or third aspect, wherein when a rotational speed of the main unit is equal to or higher than a preset rotational speed, the new web roll is moved to the web splicing standby position, and the web splicing unit is moved to the web splicing standby position, and the new web roll drive means is driven such that the peripheral speed of the new web roll becomes equal to the transport speed of the strip unwound from the old web roll.  
         [0013]     A fifth aspect of the present invention is a strip continuous supply apparatus which includes a turret arm supporting a new web roll and an old web roll and supported pivotably, and a turret arm drive device for pivoting the turret arm, and which splices a strip of the new web roll to a strip of the old web roll and supplies the strip continuously, further comprising a control device for driving the turret arm drive device, before driving of a main unit, to pivot the turret arm, thereby moving the new web roll to a web splicing standby position.  
         [0014]     A sixth aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply apparatus according to the fifth aspect, further comprising a web splicing unit including a pressing member for pressing the strip of the new web roll against the strip of the old web roll, and a cutting member for cutting the strip of the old web roll, and wherein the control device moves the web splicing unit to the web splicing standby position before driving of the main unit.  
         [0015]     A seventh aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply apparatus according to the fifth aspect, further comprising new web roll drive means for rotating the new web roll, and wherein the control device drives the new web roll drive means such that a peripheral speed of the new web roll becomes equal to a transport speed of the strip unwound from the old web roll, when the main unit begins to rotate.  
         [0016]     An eighth aspect of the present invention is the strip continuous supply apparatus according to the sixth or seventh aspect, wherein when a rotational speed of the main unit is equal to or higher than a preset rotational speed, the control device moves the new web roll to the web splicing standby position, and also moves the web splicing unit to the web splicing standby position, and further drives the new web roll drive means such that the peripheral speed of the new web roll becomes equal to the transport speed of the strip unwound from the old web roll.  
         [0017]     According to the strip continuous supply method and apparatus having the above-described features, even the remaining web roll of a small diameter can be used as the old web roll at the start of new printing. Thus, effective utilization of printing materials can be achieved, and increased productivity can be gained because of a reduction in the time taken for a web splicing motion. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0018]     The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given hereinbelow and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the present invention, and wherein:  
         [0019]      FIG. 1  is a schematic configurational view of a feeding apparatus (a strip continuous supply apparatus) showing an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0020]      FIG. 2  is an external view of an offset rotary press in the embodiment;  
         [0021]      FIG. 3 ( a ) is a control block diagram in the embodiment;  
         [0022]      FIG. 3 ( b ) is a control block diagram in the embodiment;  
         [0023]      FIG. 3 ( c ) is a control block diagram in the embodiment;  
         [0024]      FIG. 4 ( a ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0025]      FIG. 4 ( b ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0026]      FIG. 4 ( c ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0027]      FIG. 5 ( a ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0028]      FIG. 5 ( b ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0029]      FIG. 5 ( c ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0030]      FIG. 5 ( d ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0031]      FIG. 6 ( a ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0032]      FIG. 6 ( b ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0033]      FIG. 6 ( c ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0034]      FIG. 7 ( a ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0035]      FIG. 7 ( b ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment;  
         [0036]      FIG. 7 ( c ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment; and  
         [0037]      FIG. 7 ( d ) is a flow chart for web splicing control in the embodiment. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0038]     A strip continuous supply method and apparatus according to the present invention will be described in detail by an embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings.  
       Embodiment  
       [0039]      FIG. 1  is a schematic configurational drawing of a feeding apparatus (a strip continuous supply apparatus) showing an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 2  is an external view of an offset rotary press in the embodiment. FIGS.  3 ( a ) to  3 ( c ) are control block diagrams in the embodiment. FIGS.  4 ( a ) to  4 ( c ), FIGS.  5 ( a ) to  5 ( d ), FIGS.  6 ( a ) to  6 ( c ), and FIGS.  7 ( a ) to  7 ( d ) are flowcharts for web splicing control in the embodiment.  
         [0040]     In an offset rotary press, as shown in  FIG. 2 , a web (strip) W continuously supplied from a feeding apparatus (strip continuous supply apparatus)  1  is first subjected to various printings during its passage through printing units  2 . Then, the web W is heated and dried during its passage through a dryer  3 , and is then cooled during its passage through a cooling device  4 . Then, the web W is controlled in tension or changed in direction during its passage through a web path device  5  and a drag device  6 , and is then cut to a predetermined shape and folded by a folder  7 .  
         [0041]     The feeding apparatus  1 , as shown in  FIG. 1 , is a so-called automatic web splicing unit serving the following functions: A turret arm  11  is pivotally supported by an apparatus body  10  to be pivotable about a central portion of the turret arm  11 . Also, new and old paper rolls (new and old web rolls)  12  and  13  are mounted at the opposite ends (A-side and B-side) of the turret arm  11 . When the web W is unwound from the old paper roll  13 , and the paper roll nears its end, the web W from the new paper roll  12  is spliced to be continuous with the old paper roll  13 , and is sent to the printing unit  2 . The state shown in  FIG. 1  is a state where the old paper roll  13  being currently unwound nears its end, and the turret arm  11  is pivoted to move the next new paper roll  12  to a web splicing standby position.  
         [0042]     The turret arm  11 , as shown in  FIG. 3  ( b ), is pivoted by a turret arm swing motor (turret arm drive device)  14 , and its swing angle is detected by a rotary encoder  15  for the turret arm swing motor. A pre-drive device for rotationally driving the new and old paper rolls  12  and  13  is built in the turret arm  11 , and the pre-drive device accelerates beforehand the new paper roll  12  moved to the web splicing standby position until, the surface speed (peripheral speed) of the new paper roll  12  equals the travel speed (transport speed) of the web W. In FIGS.  3 ( b ) and  3 ( c ), an A-side new paper roll drive motor  16  and a B-side new paper roll drive motor  18  are provided as the pre-drive device for driving the new paper roll  12  (new web roll drive device), and their rotational speeds are detected by a rotary encoder  17  for the A-side new paper roll drive motor and a rotary encoder  19  for the B-side new paper roll drive motor. The unwinding speed of the old paper roll  13  is detected by an old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder  81 .  
         [0043]     In the apparatus body  10 , a web splicing unit (paster unit)  20  is provided to be rockable by a web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder  29 . The web splicing unit  20  can rock from a throw-off position indicated by dashed double-dotted lines in  FIG. 1  to a throw-on position indicated by solid lines in  FIG. 1  with respect to the new paper roll  12  moved to the web splicing standby position. In a state where the web splicing unit  20  has moved to the throw-on position, the web W unwound from the old paper roll  13  is passed through a clearance between the new paper roll  12  and the web splicing unit  20 , passed over a plurality of rolls  22  and  23 , and paid out toward the printing unit  2 .  
         [0044]     The web splicing unit  20  is provided with a fixed roll  24  for guiding the web W, and is also provided with a pressure contact roller (pressing member)  25  and a cutter (cutting member)  26  such that they can move toward and away from the web W. As shown in  FIG. 3 ( a ), the pressure contact roller  25  is driven by a pressure contact roller drive air cylinder  27 , and the cutter  26  is driven by a cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder  28 . The web splicing unit  20  is also mounted with a glue position detection sensor  31  which detects a double-sided adhesive tape  30  (see  FIG. 1 ) at the leading end of the web of the new paper roll  12 .  
         [0045]     The apparatus body  10  is also mounted with a new paper roll stop position detection sensor  32  and a distance measuring instrument  33  for measuring a new paper roll diameter, as shown in  FIG. 3 ( a ). The new paper roll stop position detection sensor  32  is provided in a direction crossing the transport path of the new paper roll  12  given by the turret arm  11 , and detects the outer diameter of the new paper roll  12  at the web splicing standby position. A transmission type photosensor or the like is adopted as the new paper roll stop position detection sensor  32 . The distance measuring instrument  33  for measuring the new paper roll diameter is provided at a position where it opposes the circumferential surface of the new paper roll  12  when the new paper roll  12  stops at a diameter measuring position, in order to measure the distance to the circumferential surface of the new paper roll  12  by use of an ultrasonic wave or light (laser).  
         [0046]     The turret arm swing motor  14 , the A-side new paper roll drive motor  16 , the B-side new paper roll drive motor  18 , the pressure contact roller drive air cylinder  27 , the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder  28 , and the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder  29  are drivingly controlled by a control device  40 , as shown in FIGS.  3 ( a ) to  3 ( c ).  
         [0047]     The control device  40  comprises CPU  41 , ROM  42 , RAM  43 , input/output devices  44   a  to  44   n , and an interface  45  connected by a BUS line  74 . To the BUS line  74 , there are connected a memory  46  for storing the new paper roll, a memory  47  for storing an A-side new paper roll diameter measuring position, a memory  48  for storing a B-side new paper roll diameter measuring position, a memory  49  for storing a new paper roll diameter measuring position, a memory  50  for storing the value of a turret arm swing position measuring counter, a memory  51  for storing the output of the distance measuring instrument for measuring the new paper roll diameter, a memory  52  for storing the new paper roll diameter, a memory  53  for storing a turret arm width, a memory  54  for storing an A-side web splicing standby reference position, a memory  55  for storing a B-side web splicing standby reference position, a memory  56  for storing a new paper roll web splicing standby position, a memory  58  for storing the output of an A/D converter connected to a printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder, a memory  59  for storing a current printing press rotational speed, a memory  60  for storing the output of an A/D converter connected to an old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder, a memory  61  for storing an old paper roll unwinding speed, a memory  62  for storing a new paper roll drive motor rotational speed during web splicing, a memory  63  for storing the output of an A/D converter connected to the rotary encoder for the A-side new paper roll drive motor, a memory  64  for storing the output of an A/D converter connected to the rotary encoder for the B-side new paper roll drive motor, a memory  65  for storing a current new paper roll drive motor rotational speed, a memory  66  for storing a pressure contact roller throw-on timing, a memory  67  for storing a cutter motion timing, a memory  68  for storing the value of an A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter, a memory  69  for storing the value of a B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter, a memory  70  for storing an A-side operating position, a memory  71  for storing a B-side operating position, a memory  72  for storing a new paper roll operating position, and a memory  73  for storing a printing press speed during web splicing.  
         [0048]     To the input/output device  44   a , there are connected a new paper roll selection button ( 1 )  34  which is selected when the new paper roll (remaining paper roll)  12  is present on the A side of the turret arm  11 , a new paper roll selection button ( 2 )  35  which is selected when the new paper roll (remaining paper roll)  12  is present on the B side of the turret arm  11 , a small-diameter mode switch  36 , an input device  37  such as a keyboard, a display device  38  such as CRT or a display, and an output device  39  such as a printer or a floppy (registered trademark) disk drive.  
         [0049]     To the input/output device  44   b , the distance measuring instrument  33  for measuring the new paper roll diameter is connected via an A/D converter  75 . To the input/output device  44   c , the glue position detection sensor  31  and the new paper roll stop position detection sensor  32  are connected. To the input/output device  44   d , there are connected the pressure contact roller drive air cylinder  27  (a valve  27   a  for this air cylinder  27 ), the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder  28  (a valve  28   a  for this air cylinder  28 ), and the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder  29  (a valve  29   a , for this air cylinder  29 ).  
         [0050]     To the input/output device  44   e , a printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder  78  is connected via an A/D converter  76  and an F/V converter  77 . To the input/output device  44   f , an old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder  81  is connected via an A/D converter  79  and an F/V converter  80 .  
         [0051]     To the input/output device  44   g , the turret arm swing motor  14  is connected via a turret arm swing motor driver  82 . To the input/output device  44   h , the rotary encoder for turret arm swing motor  15  is connected via a turret arm swing position measuring counter  83 . The rotary encoder  15  for the turret arm swing motor is also connected to the turret arm swing motor driver  82 .  
         [0052]     To the input/output device  44   i , the A-side new paper roll drive motor  16  is connected via an A-side new paper roll drive motor driver  84 . To the input/output device  44   j , the rotary encoder  17  for the A-side new paper roll drive motor is connected via an A/D converter  85  and an F/V converter  86 . To the input/output device  44   k , an A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  87  is connected. The rotary encoder  17  for the A-side new paper roll drive motor is also connected to the A-side new paper roll drive motor driver  84 .  
         [0053]     To the input/output device  44   l , the B-side new paper roll drive motor  18  is connected via a B-side new paper roll drive motor driver  88 . To the input/output device  44   m , the rotary encoder  19  for the B-side new paper roll drive motor is connected via an A/D converter  89  and an F/V converter  90 . To the input/output device  44   n , a B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  91  is connected. The rotary encoder  19  for the B-side new paper roll drive motor is also connected to the B-side new paper roll drive motor driver  88 . Also, the aforementioned glue position detection sensor  31  is connected to the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  87  and the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  91 .  
         [0054]     A printing press control device  92  and a remaining paper length meter  93  are connected to the interface  45 . The remaining paper length meter  93  is a computing device which constantly monitors the remaining paper length of the old paper roll  13 , and computes how many minutes will be taken as the remaining time until web splicing becomes necessary if the old paper roll  13  is unwound at the current web travel speed. Based on this computation, the remaining paper length meter  93  outputs a web splicing preparation start signal when the remaining time is not more than a preparation time. Its concrete features have already been rendered publicly known by Japanese Utility Model Registration No. 2568743. Thus, a detailed explanation for the remaining paper length meter  93  is omitted herein.  
         [0055]     If, in web splicing (motion) control, a small-diameter mode is set, and the small-diameter mode is selected, the control device  40  moves the new paper roll (remaining paper roll)  12  to the web splicing standby position (swings the turret arm  11  priorly), and moves the web splicing unit  20  to the web splicing standby position, before start of printing, to eliminate wasteful paper feed. According to the control device  40 , moreover, when the speed of the main unit becomes a slower speed (e.g., 8 rpm) or higher, the new paper roll (remaining paper roll)  12  is rotated to equate the peripheral speed of the new paper roll (remaining paper roll)  12  to the transport speed of the old paper roll  13  unwound by the pre-drive device (A-side new paper roll drive motor  16  or B-side new paper roll drive motor  18 ). As soon as the transport speed and the peripheral speed are synchronized, web splicing can be performed, and the new paper roll (remaining paper roll)  12  of the small diameter can be used.  
         [0056]     Such web splicing control will be described in detail according to flow charts as FIGS.  4 ( a ) to  4 ( c ), FIGS.  5 ( a ) to  5 ( d ), FIGS.  6 ( a ) to  6 ( c ), and FIGS.  7 ( a ) to  7 ( d ).  
         [0057]     In Step P 1 , it is determined whether the new paper roll selection button ( 1 )  34  is ON or not. If ON, the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is overwritten with  1  in Step P 2 . Then, in Step P 3 , it is determined whether the new paper roll selection button ( 2 )  35  is ON or not. If not ON in Step P 1 , the program shifts to Step P 3 .  
         [0058]     If ON in Step P 3 , the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is overwritten with  2  in Step P 4 . Then, in Step P 5 , it is determined whether a printing press drive signal has been transmitted from the printing press control device  92 . If YES in Step PS, the program shifts to Step P 83  to be described later. If NO in Step PS, it is determined in Step P 6  whether the small-diameter mode switch  36  is ON or not.  
         [0059]     If ON in Step P 6 , the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is loaded in Step P 7 . If not ON in Step P 6 , the program returns to Step P 1 . Then, in Step P 8 , it is determined whether the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is  1 . If YES, the A-side new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory  47 , and stored into the memory  49  for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position, in Step P 9 . Then, in Step P 10 , the new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory  49  for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position. If NO in Step P 8 , the B-side new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory  48 , and stored into the memory  49  for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position, in Step P 11 . Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 10 .  
         [0060]     Then, in Step P 12 , a normal rotation command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver  82 . Then, in Step P 13 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  is loaded, and stored into the memory  50 . Then, if, in Step P 14 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  reaches a value corresponding to the new paper roll diameter measuring position, the output of the distance measuring instrument  33  for measuring the new paper roll diameter is loaded, and stored into the memory  51 , in Step P 15 .  
         [0061]     Then, in Step P 16 , the diameter of the new paper roll is computed from the output of the distance measuring instrument  33  for measuring the new paper roll diameter, and stored into the memory  52 . Then, in Step P 17 , the width of the turret arm is loaded from the memory  53 . Then, in Step P 18 , it is determined whether the diameter of the new paper roll is equal to or larger than the width of the turret arm.  
         [0062]     If YES in Step P 18 , the output of the new paper roll stop position detection sensor  32  is loaded in Step P 19 . Then, if, in Step P 20 , the output of the new paper roll stop position detection sensor  32  is ON, a stop command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver  82  in Step P 21 .  
         [0063]     If NO in Step P 18 , the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is loaded in Step P 22 . Then, in Step P 23 , it is determined whether the value of the memory 46  for storing the new paper roll is  1 . If YES, the A-side web splicing standby reference position is loaded from the memory  54  in Step P 24 .  
         [0064]     Then, in Step P 25 , the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from the memory  52  for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P 26 , the web splicing standby position for the new paper roll is computed from the A-side web splicing standby reference position and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory  56 . Then, in Step P 27 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  is loaded, and stored into the memory  50 .  
         [0065]     If NO in Step P 23 , the B-side web splicing standby reference position is loaded from the memory  55 . Then, in Step P 29 , the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from the memory  52  for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P 30 , the web splicing standby position for the new paper roll is computed from the B-side web splicing standby reference position and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory  56 . Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 27 .  
         [0066]     Then, if, in Step P 31 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  has reached a value corresponding to the web splicing standby position for the new paper roll, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 21 .  
         [0067]     Then, in Step P 32 , a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve  29   a  for the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder, whereafter in Step P 33  the output of the A/D converter  76  connected to the printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder  78  is loaded, and stored into the memory  58 .  
         [0068]     Then, in Step P 34 , the current rotational speed of the printing press is computed from the output of the A/D converter  76  connected to the printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder  78 , and stored into the memory  59 . Then, in Step P 35 , it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the printing press is greater than zero, namely, whether the printing press has begun to rotate. If YES, the program shifts to Step P 36 . If NO, the program returns to Step P 33 .  
         [0069]     Then, in Step P 36 , the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from memory  52  for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P 37 , the output of the A/D converter  79  connected to the old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder  81  is loaded, and stored into the memory  60 . Then, in Step P 38 , the unwinding speed of the old paper roll is computed from the output of the A/D converter  79  connected to the old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder  81 , and stored into the memory  61 .  
         [0070]     Then, in Step P 39 , the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is computed from the unwinding speed of the old paper roll and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory  62 . Then, in Step P 40 , the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is loaded. Then, in Step P 41 , it is determined whether the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is  1 .  
         [0071]     If YES in Step P 41 , a rotational speed command for the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is outputted to the A-side new paper roll drive motor driver  84  in Step P 42 . Then, in Step P 43 , the output of the A/D converter  85  connected to the rotary encoder  17  for the A-side new paper roll drive motor is loaded, and stored into the memory  63 . Then, in Step P 44 , the current rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor is computed from the output of the A/D converter  85  connected to the rotary encoder  17  for the A-side new paper roll drive motor, and stored into the memory  65 . Then, in Step P 45 , it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the A-side new paper roll drive motor  16  is equal to the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor at the time of web splicing. If YES in Step P 45 , the program shifts to Step P 46 . If NO in Step P 45 , the program returns to Step P 43 .  
         [0072]     If NO in Step P 41 , a rotational speed command for the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is outputted to the B-side new paper roll drive motor driver  88  in Step P 47 . Then, in Step P 48 , the output of the A/D converter  89  connected to the rotary encoder  19  for the B-side new paper roll drive motor is loaded, and stored into the memory  64 . Then, in Step P 49 , the current rotational speed of the new paper roll. drive motor is computed from the output of the A/D converter  89  connected to the rotary encoder  19  for the B-side new paper roll drive motor, and stored into the memory  65 . Then, in Step P 50 , it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the B-side new paper roll drive motor  18  is equal to the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor at the time of web splicing. If YES in Step P 50 , the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 46 . If NO in Step P 50 , the program returns to Step P 48 .  
         [0073]     Then, if, in Step P 46 , a web splicing signal has been transmitted from the remaining paper length meter  93 , the output of the glue position detection sensor  31  is loaded in Step P 51 . Then, if, in Step P 52 , the output of the glue position detection sensor  31  is ON, the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is loaded in Step P 53 . Then, in Step P 54 , it is determined whether the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is 1.  
         [0074]     If YES in Step P 54 , a pressure contact roller throw-on timing is loaded from the memory  66  in Step P 55 . Then, in Step P 56 , the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  87  is loaded, and stored into the memory  68 . Then, if, in Step P 57 , the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  87  has reached a value corresponding to the pressure contact roller throw-on timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve  27   a  for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P 58 .  
         [0075]     Then, in Step P 59 , a cutter motion timing is loaded from the memory  67 . Then, in Step P 60 , the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  87  is loaded, and stored into the memory  68 . Then, if, in Step P 61 , the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  87  has reached a value corresponding to the cutter motion timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve  28   a  for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P 62 . Then, in Step P 63 , a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve  27   a  for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder.  
         [0076]     If NO in Step P 54 , a pressure contact roller throw-on timing is loaded from the memory  66  in Step P 64 . Then, in Step P 65 , the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  91  is loaded, and stored into the memory  69 . Then, if, in Step P 66 , the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  91  has reached a value corresponding to the pressure contact roller throw-on timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve  27   a  for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P 67 .  
         [0077]     Then, in Step P 68 , a cutter motion timing is loaded from the memory  67 . Then, in Step P 69 , the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  91  is loaded, and stored into the memory  69 . Then, if, in Step P 70 , the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  91  has reached a value corresponding to the cutter motion timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve  28   a  for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P 71 . Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 63 .  
         [0078]     Then, in Step P 72 , a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve  28   a  for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder. Then, in Step P 73 , a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve  29   a  for the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder. Then, in Step P 74 , the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is loaded. Then, in Step P 75 , it is determined whether the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is 1.  
         [0079]     If YES in Step P 75 , the A-side new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory  70 , and stored into the memory  72  for storing the new paper roll operating position, in Step P 76 . Then, in Step P 77 , the new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory  72  for storing the new paper roll operating position. If NO in Step P 75 , the B-side new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory  71 , and stored into the memory  72  for storing the new paper roll operating position in Step P 78 . Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 77 .  
         [0080]     Then, in Step P 79 , a normal rotation command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver  82 . Then, in Step P 80 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  is loaded, and stored into the memory  50 . Then, if, in Step P 81 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  has reached a value corresponding to the new paper roll operating position, a stop command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver  82  in Step P 82 . Then, the program returns to Step P 1 .  
         [0081]     If YES in the aforementioned Step P 5 , the speed of the printing press during web splicing is loaded from the memory  73  in Step P 83 . Then, in Step P 84 , the output of the A/D converter  76  connected to the printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder  78  is loaded, and stored into the memory  58 . Then, in Step P 85 , the current rotational speed of the printing press is computed from the output of the A/D converter  76  connected to the printing press rotational speed measuring rotary encoder  78 , and stored into the memory  59 .  
         [0082]     Then, in Step P 86 , it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the printing press is equal to or greater than the speed of the printing press during web splicing (a preset speed; low speed). If YES, a determination is made in Step P 87  as to whether a web splicing signal has been transmitted from the remaining paper length meter  93 . Upon transmission of this signal, the program shifts to Step P 88 . If NO in Step P 86 , the program returns to Step P 84 .  
         [0083]     Then, in Step P 88 , it is determined whether the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is 1. If YES, the A-side new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory  47 , and stored into the memory  49  for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position, in Step P 89 . Then, in Step P 90 , the new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory  49  for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position. If NO in Step P 88 , the B-side new paper roll diameter measuring position is loaded from the memory  48 , and stored into the memory  49  for storing the new paper roll diameter measuring position, in Step P 91 . Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 90 .  
         [0084]     Then, in Step P 92 , a normal rotation command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver  82 . Then, in Step P 93 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  is loaded, and stored into the memory  50 . Then, if, in Step P 94 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  has reached a value corresponding to the new paper roll diameter measuring position, the output of the distance measuring instrument  33  for measuring the new paper roll diameter is loaded, and stored into the memory  51 , in Step P 95 .  
         [0085]     Then, in Step P 96 , the diameter of the new paper roll is computed from the output of the distance measuring instrument  33  for measuring the new paper roll diameter, and stored into the memory  52 . Then, in Step P 97 , the turret arm width is loaded from the memory  53 . Then, in Step P 98 , it is determined whether the diameter of the new paper roll is equal to or greater than the turret arm width.  
         [0086]     If YES in Step P 98 , the output of the new paper roll stop position detection sensor  32  is loaded in Step P 99 . Then, if, in Step P 100 , the output of the new paper roll stop position detection sensor  32  is ON, a stop command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver  82  in Step P 101 .  
         [0087]     If NO in Step P 98 , the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is loaded in Step P 102 . Then, in Step P 103 , it is determined whether the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is 1. If YES, the A-side web splicing standby reference position is loaded from the memory  54  in Step P 104 .  
         [0088]     Then, in Step P 105 , the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from the memory  52  for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P 106 , the web splicing standby position of the new paper roll is computed from the A-side web splicing standby reference position and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory  56 . Then, in Step P 107 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  is loaded, and stored into the memory  50 .  
         [0089]     If NO in Step P 103 , the B-side web splicing standby reference position is loaded from the memory  55  in Step P 108 . Then, in Step P 109 , the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from the memory  52  for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P 110 , the web splicing standby position of the new paper roll is computed from the B-side web splicing standby reference position and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory  56 . Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 107 .  
         [0090]     Then, if, in Step P 111 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  has reached a value corresponding to the web splicing standby position of the new paper roll, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 101 .  
         [0091]     Then, in Step P 112 , a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve  29   a  for the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder. Then, in Step P 113 , the diameter of the new paper roll is loaded from the memory  52  for storing the new paper roll diameter. Then, in Step P 114 , the output of the A/D converter  79  connected to the old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder  81  is loaded, and stored into the memory  60 . Then, in Step P 115 , the unwinding speed of the old paper roll is computed from the output of the A/D converter  79  connected to the old paper roll unwinding speed measuring rotary encoder  81 , and stored into the memory  61 .  
         [0092]     Then, in Step P 116 , the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is computed from the unwinding speed of the old paper roll and the diameter of the new paper roll, and stored into the memory  62 . Then, in Step P 117 , the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is loaded. Then, in Step P 118 , it is determined whether the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is 1.  
         [0093]     If YES in Step P 118 , a rotational speed command for the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is outputted to the A-side new paper roll drive motor driver  84  in Step P 119 . Then, in Step P 120 , the output of the A/D converter  85  connected to the rotary encoder  17  for the A-side new paper roll drive motor is loaded, and stored into the memory  63 . Then, in Step P 121 , the current rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor is computed from the output of the A/D converter  85  connected to the rotary encoder  17  for the A-side new paper roll drive motor, and stored into the memory  65 . Then, in Step  122 , it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the A-side new paper roll drive motor  16  is equal to the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing. If YES in Step P 122 , the program shifts to Step P 123 . If NO in Step P 122 , the program returns to Step P 120 .  
         [0094]     If NO in Step P 118 , a rotational speed command for the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing is outputted to the B-side new paper roll drive motor driver  88  in Step P 124 . Then, in Step P 125 , the output of the A/D converter  89  connected to the rotary encoder  19  for the B-side new paper roll drive motor is loaded, and stored into the memory  64 . Then, in Step P 126 , the current rotational speed of the B-side new paper roll drive motor  18  is computed from the output of the A/D converter  89  connected to the rotary encoder  19  for the B-side new paper roll drive motor, and stored into the memory  65 . Then, in Step  127 , it is determined whether the current rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor is equal to the rotational speed of the new paper roll drive motor during web splicing. If YES in Step P 127 , the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 123 . If NO in Step P 127 , the program returns to Step P 125 .  
         [0095]     Then, in Step P 123 , the output of the glue position detection sensor  31  is loaded. Then, if, in Step P 128 , the output of the glue position detection sensor  31  is ON, the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is loaded in Step P 129 . Then, in Step P 130 , it is determined whether the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is 1.  
         [0096]     If YES in Step P 130 , a pressure contact roller throw-on timing is loaded from the memory  66  in Step P 131 . Then, in Step P 132 , the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  87  is loaded, and stored into the memory  68 . Then, if, in Step P 133 , the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  87  has reached a value corresponding to the pressure contact roller throw-on timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve  27   a  for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P 134 .  
         [0097]     Then, in Step P 135 , a clutter motion timing is loaded from the memory  67 . Then, in Step P 136 , the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  87  is loaded, and stored into the memory  68 . Then, if, in Step P 137 , the value of the A-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  87  has reached a value corresponding to the cutter motion timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve  28   a  for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P 138 . Then, in Step P 139 , a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve  27   a  for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder.  
         [0098]     If NO in Step P 130 , a pressure contact roller throw-on timing is loaded from the memory  66  in Step P 140 . Then, in Step P 141 , the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  91  is loaded, and stored into the memory  69 . Then, if, in Step P 142 , the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  91  has reached a value corresponding to the pressure contact roller throw-on timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve  27   a  for the pressure contact roller throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P 143 .  
         [0099]     Then, in Step P 144 , a cutter motion timing is loaded from the memory  67 . Then, in Step P 145 , the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  91  is loaded, and stored into the memory  69 . Then, if, in Step P 146 , the value of the B-side new paper roll rotational position measuring counter  91  has reached a value corresponding to the cutter motion timing, a throw-on signal is outputted to the valve  28   a  for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder in Step P 147 . Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 139 .  
         [0100]     Then, in Step P 148 , a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve  28   a  for the cutter throw-on and throw-off air cylinder. Then, in Step P 149 , a throw-off signal is outputted to the valve  29   a  for the web splicing unit throw-on and throw-off air cylinder. Then, in Step P 150 , the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is loaded. Then, in Step P 151 , it is determined whether the value of the memory  46  for storing the new paper roll is  1 .  
         [0101]     If YES in Step P 151 , the A-side new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory  70 , and stored into the memory  72  for storing the new paper roll operating position, in Step P 152 . Then, in Step P 153 , the new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory  72  for storing the new paper roll operating position. If NO in Step P 151 , the B-side new paper roll operating position is loaded from the memory  71 , and stored into the memory  72  for storing the new paper roll operating position, in Step P 154 . Then, the program shifts to the aforementioned Step P 153 .  
         [0102]     Then, in Step P 155 , a normal rotation command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver  82 . Then, in Step P 156 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  is loaded, and stored into the memory  50 . Then, if, in Step P 157 , the value of the turret arm swing position measuring counter  83  has reached a value corresponding to the new paper roll operating position, a stop command is outputted to the turret arm swing motor driver  82  in Step P 158 . Then, the program returns to Step P 1 .  
         [0103]     In the present embodiment, a description has been offered of the feeding apparatus  1  which has the automatic web splicing device for continuously supplying the printing unit  2  with the web W unwound from the new and old paper rolls  12  and  13  supported at the opposite ends of the turret arm  11 . In the feeding apparatus  1 , as described above, before the main unit is driven, the turret arm swing motor  14  is driven to pivot the turret arm  11 , whereby the new paper roll (remaining paper roll)  12  can be moved to the web splicing standby position. When printing is started anew, therefore, even a small-diameter remaining paper roll can be used stably as the old web roll, without causing shutdown of the main unit due to the absence of remaining paper. Accordingly, effective utilization of printing materials can be accomplished, and an increase in productivity can be achieved because of a reduction in the time taken for a web splicing motion.  
         [0104]     Moreover, the web splicing unit  20 , which has the pressure contact roller  25  and the cutter  26 , can also be moved to the web splicing standby position before the main unit is driven. Thus, a further reduction in the time for the web splicing motion can be made, and the actions and effects of the present embodiment stated above are further enhanced.  
         [0105]     Furthermore, control is exercised such that when the rotational speed of the main unit becomes equal to or higher than a slower speed, the peripheral speed of the new paper roll (remaining paper roll)  12  moved to the web splicing standby position is equated to the transport speed of the web W unwound from the old paper roll by the A-side new paper roll drive motor  16  and the B-side new paper roll drive motor  18  for rotating the new paper roll  12 . Thus, a further reduction in the time for the web splicing motion can be made, and the actions and effects of the present embodiment stated above are further enhanced.  
         [0106]     The strip continuous supply method and apparatus according to the present invention can be applied not only to an offset rotary press, but also to a web material supply apparatus in a machine such as a corrugator or a laminator.  
         [0107]     The invention thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.