Material storage device, method of controlling material storage device, sheet manufacturing device

Abstract

This invention provides a material storage device capable of suppressing paper ejection during feeding, a control method for the material storage device, and a sheet manufacturing apparatus. The material storage device comprises: a material storage section having a material receiving section and a cover section, the material receiving section receiving paper and having an inlet for feeding the paper inwards, the cover section capable of opening and closing the inlet section; a humidification section having a first blower for supplying humidified air into the material receiving section; and an air circulation section having a second blower for drawing air from the material receiving section, creating a negative pressure within the material receiving section when the cover is open.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a material storage device, a control method for the material storage device, and a sheet manufacturing apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] As shown in Patent Document 1, a paper supply device for supplying shredded paper to a target area has been disclosed. This paper supply device includes a hollow transfer channel member with a transfer space inside, a paper input section provided upstream of the transfer channel member for inputting paper into the transfer channel member, a discharge section provided downstream of the transfer channel member for discharging paper from the transfer channel member to the target area, and a blower for supplying air into the transfer channel member to generate an airflow that causes the paper input from the paper input section into the transfer channel member to flow to the discharge section.

[0003] In such a paper supply device, a certain amount of paper is fed from the outside toward the paper feeding section. At this time, there is a possibility that the paper and paper dust may be scattered due to convection generated during the paper feeding or impact on the paper stored in the paper feeding section, causing the paper to be ejected from the paper feeding section to the outside.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-149106 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The material storage device comprises: a material storage section having a material receiving section and a cover section, the material receiving section storing paper sheets and having an inlet for inserting the paper sheets into the material receiving section, the cover section being able to open and close the inlet section; a humidification section having a first blower for supplying humidified air into the material receiving section; and an air circulation section having a second blower for drawing air from the material receiving section, wherein when the cover section is open, the material receiving section is under negative pressure.

[0006] The sheet manufacturing apparatus is equipped with the aforementioned material storage device.

[0007] In the control method of the material storage device, the material storage device comprises: a material storage section having a material receiving section and a cover section, the material receiving section receiving paper sheets and having an inlet for inserting the paper sheets into the material storage section, the cover section being able to open and close the inlet section; a humidification section having a first blower for supplying humidified air into the material receiving section; and an air circulation section having a second blower for drawing air from the material receiving section. In the control method of the material storage device, when the cover section is in the open state, the material receiving section is made to have a negative pressure. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the sheet manufacturing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the material storage device according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3A This is an external view showing the structure of the material storage section according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3B This is an external view showing the structure of the material storage section according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the control structure of the material storage device according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the material storage device according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the material storage device according to the second embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the material storage device according to the third embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method of the material storage device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the material storage device according to the fifth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0018] 1. First Implementation Method

[0019] First, the structure of the sheet manufacturing apparatus 1 will be described. The sheet manufacturing apparatus 1 is an apparatus for forming sheet S.

[0020] like Figure 1 As shown, the sheet manufacturing apparatus 1 includes a material storage device 10, a quantitative supply unit 11, a fiber unwinding unit 20, a screening unit 40, a first sheet forming unit 45, a rotating body 49, a mixing unit 50, a stacking unit 60, a sheet conveying unit 80, a humidifying unit 90, a pressurizing unit 100, and a cutting unit 120. Furthermore, the sheet manufacturing apparatus 1 includes a control unit 150 that controls the material storage device 10 and the drive mechanisms of the aforementioned parts.

[0021] The material storage device 10 is a device for storing raw materials. The raw materials stored in the material storage device 10 are materials containing various fibers.

[0022] The term "fiber" is not particularly limited, and a wide range of fiber materials can be used. Examples of fibers include natural fibers (animal fibers, plant fibers) and chemical fibers (organic fibers, inorganic fibers, organic-inorganic composite fibers). More specifically, fibers can be listed as those composed of cellulose, silk, wool, cotton, hemp, kenaf, flax, ramie, jute, Manila hemp, sisal, coniferous trees, and broadleaf trees. These fibers can be used individually, appropriately blended, or as refined regenerated fibers.

[0023] Raw materials for fibers include, for example, pulp, waste paper, and old cloth. Furthermore, fibers can undergo various surface treatments. In addition, fibers can be made from pure substances or from materials containing impurities and other components. Furthermore, fibers can also be obtained by dry-splicing waste paper or pulp sheets.

[0024] The length of the fiber is not particularly limited, but in a single fiber, the length along the longitudinal direction of the fiber is more than 1 μm and less than 5 mm, preferably more than 2 μm and less than 3 mm, and more preferably more than 3 μm and less than 2 mm.

[0025] In the sheet manufacturing apparatus 1, since moisture is supplied at the humidification section 90, the mechanical strength of the formed sheet S can be improved when using fibers capable of forming hydrogen bonds. Cellulose is an example of such a fiber.

[0026] The fiber content in the sheet S is, for example, 50% by mass or more and 99.9% by mass or less, preferably 60% by mass or more and 99% by mass or less, and more preferably 70% by mass or more and 99% by mass or less. Such a content can be achieved by blending during the formation of the mixture.

[0027] In this embodiment, the material storage device 10 stores paper sheets. The paper sheets are materials obtained by cutting waste paper using a paper shredder or the like. The shape and size of the paper sheets are, for example, fragments ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters square. The paper sheets stored in the material storage device 10 are supplied to the quantitative supply unit 11.

[0028] Furthermore, the detailed structure of the material storage device 10 will be described later.

[0029] The quantitative supply unit 11 (e.g., a load sensor) measures the weight of the paper sheet and supplies a certain weight of paper sheet to the defiberization unit 20 at any time via the hopper 14.

[0030] The defiber section 20 defibers the supplied raw material (paper sheet). Here, "defibering" means breaking down the raw material, which is made up of multiple fibers bonded together, into individual fibers. The defiber section 20 also has the function of separating resin particles, inks, pigments, anti-seepage agents, and other substances adhering to the raw material from the fibers.

[0031] The substance passing through the defiber section 20 is called "defiber material". The "defiber material" may contain, in addition to the disassembled fibers, resin particles, inks, colorants such as pigments, or additives such as anti-bleeding materials and paper strength enhancers that were released from the fibers during the disassembly process. The disassembled defiber material is rope-like in shape. The disassembled defiber material can exist either independently, without being entangled with other disassembled fibers, or it can exist in a clump-like state, entangled with other disassembled defiber material.

[0032] The defiber section 20 performs defibering in a dry manner. Here, the method of performing defibering and other processes in a gaseous environment such as the atmosphere, rather than in a liquid, is referred to as dry. For example, an impeller mill is used as the defiber section 20. The defiber section 20 has the function of generating an airflow that draws in the raw material and discharges the defibered material. Thus, the defiber section 20 can draw in the raw material and airflow together from the inlet 22 through its own generated airflow, perform defibering processing, and then transport the defibered material to the outlet 24. The defibered material passing through the defiber section 20 is transferred to the screening section 40 via the pipe 16. Furthermore, the airflow used to transport the defibered material from the defiber section 20 to the screening section 40 can utilize the airflow generated by the defiber section 20, or it can utilize the airflow from an airflow generating device such as a blower.

[0033] The screening section 40 introduces the defibered material, which has been defibered by the defibering section 20, through the inlet 42 and performs screening based on the length of the fibers. The screening section 40 includes, for example, a roller section 41 and a housing section 43 for housing the roller section 41. The roller section 41 is, for example, a sieve. The roller section 41 has a mesh and is capable of separating fibers or particles smaller than the mesh size (i.e., the first screening material that passes through the mesh) from fibers or particles larger than the mesh size (i.e., the second screening material that does not pass through the mesh). For example, the first screening material is conveyed to the accumulation section 60 via the pipe 17. The second screening material is returned to the defibering section 20 from the outlet 44 via the pipe 18. Specifically, the roller section 41 is a sieve that is a cylinder driven by a motor. The mesh used in the roller section 41 can be, for example, a wire mesh, a porous metal mesh formed by stretching a slit metal plate, or a perforated metal mesh formed by forming holes in a metal plate using a stamping press.

[0034] The first sheet forming section 45 conveys the first screened material that has passed through the screening section 40 into the pipe 17. The first sheet forming section 45 includes, for example, a mesh belt 46, a support roller 47, and a suction mechanism 48.

[0035] The suction mechanism 48 is capable of drawing the first screened material, which passes through the opening of the screening section 40 and is dispersed in the air, onto the mesh belt 46. As a result, the first screened material accumulates on the moving mesh belt 46.

[0036] A first screened material passing through the opening of the screening section 40 is deposited on the mesh belt 46. The mesh belt 46 is a structure that is supported by the support roller 47, making it difficult for the first screened material to pass through while allowing air to pass through. The mesh belt 46 moves by rotating on its own axis via the support roller 47. By continuously moving the mesh belt 46 while the first screened material passing through the screening section 40 continuously falls and accumulates, a material sheet V is formed on the mesh belt 46.

[0037] A suction mechanism 48 is disposed below the mesh belt 46. The suction mechanism 48 generates a downward airflow. Through the suction mechanism 48, the first screened material dispersed in the air by the screening section 40 can be drawn onto the mesh belt 46. As a result, the discharge velocity discharged from the screening section 40 can be increased.

[0038] The sheet V is formed into an air-rich, soft, and fluffy state by passing through the screening section 40 and the first sheet forming section 45. The sheet V stacked on the mesh belt 46 is fed into the pipe 17 and conveyed to the stacking section 60.

[0039] The rotating body 49 cuts the sheet V. In the illustrated example, the rotating body 49 has a base 49a and protrusions 49b extending from the base 49a. The protrusions 49b have, for example, a plate-like shape. In the illustrated example, four protrusions 49b are provided, and the four protrusions 49b are arranged at equal intervals. The protrusions 49b can rotate about the base 49a as an axis by rotating in the direction R via the base 49a. By using the rotating body 49 to cut the sheet V, the variation in the amount of fiber supplied to the stacking section 60 per unit time can be reduced, for example.

[0040] The rotating body 49 is disposed near the first sheet forming section 45. In the illustrated example, the rotating body 49 is disposed near the downstream side of the support roller 47a on the path of the sheet V. The rotating body 49 is disposed at a position where the protrusion 49b can contact the sheet V, but not in contact with the conveyor belt 46 on which the sheet V is deposited. Thus, wear on the conveyor belt 46 due to the protrusion 49b can be suppressed. The shortest distance between the protrusion 49b and the conveyor belt 46 is, for example, more than 0.05 mm and less than 0.5 mm. This is a distance at which the sheet V can be cut without damaging the conveyor belt 46.

[0041] The mixing section 50 mixes the first screened material (fiber) that has passed through the screening section 40 with starch as a binder. The mixing section 50 includes a starch supply section 52 for supplying starch, a pipe 54 for conveying the first screened material and starch, and a blower 56. In the illustrated example, starch is supplied from the starch supply section 52 to the pipe 54 via the hopper 19. The pipe 54 is connected to the pipe 17.

[0042] In the mixing section 50, an airflow is generated by a blower 56, and the first screened material and starch are conveyed in the pipe 54 while being mixed. Furthermore, the mechanism for mixing the first screened material and starch is not particularly limited; it can be a stirring mechanism using high-speed rotating blades, or a mechanism utilizing the rotation of a container, such as a V-type mixer.

[0043] As part of the starch supply unit 52, a screw feeder or a disc feeder is used.

[0044] The starch supplied from starch supply unit 52 is a polymer composed of multiple α-glucose molecules polymerized through glycosidic bonds. Starch can be linear or branched.

[0045] Starch can be made from a variety of plant-based materials. Examples of raw materials for starch include grains such as corn, wheat, and rice; legumes such as broad beans, mung beans, and red beans; tubers such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and cassava; wild grasses such as ferns, bracken, and kudzu; and palm trees such as coconut palms.

[0046] In addition, processed starch and modified starch can also be used as starch. Examples of processed starch include acetylated adipic acid crosslinked starch, acetylated starch, oxidized starch, sodium octenyl succinate starch, hydroxypropyl starch, hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate, monostarch phosphate, phosphorylated distarch phosphate, urea phosphate starch, sodium starch glycolate, and high-amino corn starch. Furthermore, dextrin, as a modified starch, can be appropriately used materials obtained by processing or modifying starch.

[0047] In the sheet manufacturing apparatus 1, by using starch as a binder, the environmental impact can be reduced compared to using synthetic resins. Furthermore, by pressurizing and heating the starch-containing fibers (first sieve material) after adding moisture, at least one of the following occurs: fiber-to-fiber bonding due to starch gelatinization, and fiber-to-fiber hydrogen bonding, thereby enabling the sheet S to have sufficient strength. Additionally, if sufficient strength of the sheet S can be achieved solely through fiber-to-fiber hydrogen bonding, the sheet S can also be manufactured without using starch. In the case of manufacturing the sheet S without using starch, the sheet manufacturing apparatus 1 may not include a starch supply unit 52.

[0048] The starch content in the sheet S is, for example, 0.1% by mass or more and 50% by mass or less, preferably 1% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less, and more preferably 1% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less. Such a content can be achieved by blending during the formation of the mixture.

[0049] In addition to starch, the starch supply section 52 may contain, depending on the type of sheet S being manufactured, a colorant for coloring fibers, an aggregation inhibitor for inhibiting fiber and starch aggregation, or a flame retardant for making fibers less flammable. The mixture passing through the mixing section 50 is transferred to the stacking section 60 via the pipe 54.

[0050] The stacking section 60 introduces the mixture that has passed through the mixing section 50 through the inlet 62 to untangle the intertwined fibers and allow them to fall while being dispersed in the air. As a result, the stacking section 60 enables the mixture to be stacked uniformly on the second sheet forming section 70.

[0051] The accumulation section 60 includes, for example, a roller section 61 and a housing section 63 for housing the roller section 61. The roller section 61 is a rotating cylinder sieve. The roller section 61 has a mesh and allows fibers or particles smaller than the mesh size contained in the mixture that has passed through the mixing section 50 to fall off. The structure of the roller section 61 is, for example, the same as that of the roller section 41.

[0052] Furthermore, the "sieve" of the roller section 61 may not have the function of screening a specific object. That is, the "sieve" used as the roller section 61 refers to a component with a mesh, and the roller section 61 can also allow all the mixture introduced into the roller section 61 to fall.

[0053] The stacking section 60 includes a second sheet forming section 70. In the second sheet forming section 70, the mixture that has passed through the roller section 61 is stacked to form a sheet W. The second sheet forming section 70 includes, for example, a first mesh belt 72, a support roller 74, and a suction mechanism 76.

[0054] A mixture passing through the opening in the accumulation section 60 is deposited on the first mesh belt 72. The first mesh belt 72 is structured to be supported by a support roller 74, making it difficult for the mixture to pass through while allowing air to pass through. The first mesh belt 72 moves by rotating on its own axis via the support roller 74. By continuously moving the first mesh belt 72 while the mixture passing through the accumulation section 60 continuously falls and accumulates, a sheet W is formed on the first mesh belt 72.

[0055] A suction mechanism 76 is disposed below the first mesh belt 72. The suction mechanism 76 generates a downward airflow. Through the suction mechanism 76, the mixture dispersed in the air by the roller section 61 is drawn onto the first mesh belt 72. This increases the discharge velocity from the accumulation section 60. Furthermore, the suction mechanism 76 creates a downward airflow along the path of the mixture, preventing fibers or starch from entangled during the falling process.

[0056] As described above, through the stacking section 60, a sheet W is formed that is rich in air and has a soft and fluffy state.

[0057] A sheet conveying section 80 is disposed downstream of the sheet W on the first mesh belt 72 in the conveying direction. The sheet conveying section 80 peels the sheet W from the first mesh belt 72 and conveys it toward the pressurizing section 100.

[0058] The sheet conveying unit 80 includes a second mesh belt 81 as a conveyor belt, multiple rollers 82, and a suction mechanism 83 as a suction unit. The second mesh belt 81 is structured to be supported by the multiple rollers 82 and to allow air to pass through. The second mesh belt 81 is configured to be driven by the rotation of the rollers 82. The suction mechanism 83 is positioned opposite the sheet W across the second mesh belt 81. The suction mechanism 83 includes an intake fan (not shown), and the suction force of the intake fan generates an upward airflow on the second mesh belt 81. This airflow is used to suction the sheet W.

[0059] Therefore, the sheet W can be peeled off from the first mesh belt 72, and the other side Wb of the sheet W peeled off from the first mesh belt 72 comes into contact with the second mesh belt 81. Moreover, by bringing the other side Wb of the sheet W into contact with the second mesh belt 81, the sheet W is conveyed in a held state.

[0060] A humidifying unit 90 is disposed below the sheet conveying section 80. The humidifying unit 90 is disposed opposite to the second mesh belt 81. The humidifying unit 90 supplies moisture from the Wa side, which is the lower surface of the sheet W in contact with the second mesh belt 81. In the humidifying unit 90, humidifying air (e.g., water vapor or mist) is supplied to the sheet W as moisture.

[0061] The suction mechanism 83 is positioned opposite the humidification unit 90, separated by the second mesh belt 81. The suction mechanism 83 draws in the mist discharged from the humidification unit 90. The mist discharged from the outlet 93 is also drawn in by the suction mechanism 83, which is positioned opposite the outlet 93. Thus, since the mist is drawn in by the suction mechanism 83 via the sheet W, moisture can be supplied in the thickness direction of the sheet W.

[0062] The moisture content of the sheet W, which is supplied with moisture in the humidification section 90, is, for example, 12% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less. With this moisture content, hydrogen bonds between fibers can be effectively formed, thereby increasing the strength of the sheet S.

[0063] A pressurizing unit 100 is disposed downstream of the sheet conveying unit 80 and the humidifying unit 90. The sheet W, which has been given moisture, is conveyed to the pressurizing unit 100.

[0064] The pressurizing unit 100 pressurizes the humidified sheet W to form a sheet S. The pressurizing unit 100 has a first roller 101 that contacts one side Wa of the sheet W and a second roller 102 that contacts the other side Wb of the sheet W. In this embodiment, the first roller 101 and the second roller 102 are each equipped with a heater (e.g., a halogen heater). Since the pressurizing unit 100 of this embodiment simultaneously performs pressurization and heating on the sheet W, the productivity of the sheet S can be improved. In addition, the structure of the sheet manufacturing apparatus 1 can be simplified. Furthermore, the moisture contained in the sheet W evaporates after the temperature rises, and the thickness of the sheet W becomes thinner, thereby increasing the fiber density. In addition to raising the temperature of the moisture and starch by heat and increasing the fiber density by pressure, the starch also gelatinizes, thereby allowing multiple fibers to bond together through the gelatinized starch after the moisture evaporates. Furthermore, by using the method of evaporating moisture by heat and increasing the fiber density by pressure, multiple fibers are bonded together by hydrogen bonds.

[0065] A cutting section 120 is disposed downstream of the pressurizing section 100. The sheet S formed by the pressurizing section 100 is conveyed to the cutting section 120.

[0066] The cutting section 120 cuts the sheet S formed by the pressure section 100. In the illustrated example, the cutting section 120 has a first cutting section 122 that cuts the sheet S in a direction intersecting the conveying direction of the sheet S, and a second cutting section 124 that cuts the sheet S in a direction parallel to the conveying direction. The second cutting section 124 cuts the sheet S that has passed through the first cutting section 122.

[0067] Through the above method, a single sheet S of a predetermined size is formed. The cut single sheet S is discharged to the receiving part 130.

[0068] Next, the detailed structure of the material storage device 10 will be described.

[0069] like Figure 2 , Figure 3A as well as Figure 3BAs shown, the material storage device 10 includes a material storage section 200 for storing paper sheets, a humidification section 220, and an air circulation section 230.

[0070] The material storage section 200 includes a material storage section 201 and a cover section 210.

[0071] The material storage section 201 is a container capable of storing paper sheets. In this embodiment, the material storage section 201 is formed of a metal plate and is generally rectangular. Alternatively, the material storage section 201 can also be a molded plastic product or the like.

[0072] The upper part of the material storage section 201 has a slope intersecting the horizontal direction. The slope is formed to span the width of the material storage section 201. Furthermore, an inlet 202 is formed on a portion of the slope forming the material storage section 201. The inlet 202 is an opening formed on a metal plate. The inlet 202 is rectangular. Paper is inserted into the material storage section 201 through the inlet 202. Because the inlet 202 is located on a portion of the slope, paper can be easily inserted. The paper inserted through the inlet 202 is stored (collected) within the material storage section 201. The material storage section 201 is supported, for example, by a support platform 203.

[0073] The cover 210 is configured to allow opening and closing of the inlet 202. Figure 3A The image shows the cover 210 in the open state. Figure 3B The image shows the cover 210 in the closed state. The cover 210 includes an inner cover 211 and an outer cover 212.

[0074] The inner cover 211 is a rectangular plate-shaped component. The inner cover 211 is formed to completely cover the inlet 202 and is larger than the inlet 202. At the outer periphery of the inner cover 211, there is a sealing portion 211a formed by covering a permanent magnet with a resin tube. When the inlet 202 is closed using the inner cover 211, the sealing portion 211a can be magnetically pressed against the metal plate of the material storage section 201 to seal the inlet 202.

[0075] The outer cover 212 is a frame that covers the inner cover 211. The outer cover 212 is formed of a plate-like member, and the inner cover 211 is disposed in a space within the outer cover 212. A handle 214 recessed in the thickness direction of the outer cover 212 is formed on the side of the outer cover 212. By placing a finger on the handle 214, the cover 210 can be easily opened and closed.

[0076] The outer cover 212 is formed such that the upper surface of the outer cover 212 is parallel to the horizontal plane when the cover portion 210 is in the closed state. More specifically, the upper surface of the outer cover 212 is formed such that the upper surface of the outer cover 212 and the top surface of the material storage portion 201 are connected in the horizontal direction as a single surface when the cover portion 210 is in the closed state.

[0077] Furthermore, in the closed state, the side surface of the outer cover 212 is formed parallel to the vertical plane. More specifically, the side surface of the outer cover 212 is formed such that, in the closed state, the side surface of the outer cover 212 and the side surface of the material storage portion 201 are connected in the vertical direction as a single surface.

[0078] In this manner, when the cover 210 is closed, the sloping portion formed at the upper part of the material storage section 201 will be covered by the outer cover 212. Furthermore, when the cover 210 is closed, the outer cover 212 and the material storage section 201 will become the same plane, thereby allowing the cover 210 and the material storage section 201 to be recognized as an integrated cuboid, which improves the design.

[0079] The inner cover 211 and the outer cover 212 are connected by a connecting part 213. The connecting part 213 is rod-shaped, and one end of the connecting part 213 is connected to the opposite surface of the inner cover 211, which is opposite to the surface that contacts the material storage part 201. The other end of the connecting part 213 is connected to the inner surface of the outer cover 212.

[0080] The outer cover 212 is rotatably connected to a shaft located at the upper part of the material storage section 201. By rotating the outer cover 212 around this shaft, the outer cover 212 and the inner cover 211 can be moved together to an open state and a closed state.

[0081] Furthermore, the inner cover 211 and the outer cover 212 are preferably made of resin material. If this is adopted, compared with the case where they are made of metal or the like, it is possible to achieve weight reduction, thereby making it easier to open and close the cover 210.

[0082] The material storage section 200 includes a detection unit 204 that detects the open / closed state of the cover 210 relative to the inlet 202. The detection unit 204 is connected to the control unit 150. The detection unit 204 is, for example, an interlock, and includes a main body 204a and an insertion part 204b that can be inserted into the main body 204a. The main body 204a is disposed at the upper part of the material storage section 201. The insertion part 204b is disposed on the outer cover 212.

[0083] When the cover 210 is moved from the closed state to the open state, the cover 210 is lifted. At this time, the insertion part 204b disengages from the main body 204a. The detection unit 204 sends a detection signal indicating that the contacts of the main body 204a have switched to the control unit 150. The control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is open based on the received detection signal and is in the open state. On the other hand, when the cover 210 is moved from the open state to the closed state, the insertion part 204b is inserted into the main body 204a when the cover 210 is closed. The detection unit 204 sends a detection signal indicating that the contacts of the main body 204a have switched to the control unit 150. The control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is closed based on the detection signal and is in the closed state.

[0084] The material storage device 10 includes a paper conveying section 205 that conveys the paper sheets stored in the material storage section 201 to the quantitative supply section 11. The paper conveying section 205 is disposed at the bottom of the material storage section 201. The paper conveying section 205 is configured as a screw feeder or a disc feeder, etc.

[0085] The humidification unit 220 supplies humidified air into the material storage unit 201. Paper sheets inserted into or stored in the material storage unit 201 may become charged due to friction during the shredding process. In this charged state, the paper sheets may become entangled or adhere to the inner surface of the material storage unit 201. This reduces the paper's transportability. Furthermore, issues such as inadequate paper metering may occur in the quantitative supply unit 11. Therefore, humidified air is supplied into the material storage unit 201 to remove the charge from the paper sheets.

[0086] The humidification unit 220 includes a humidifier 221 that generates humidified air, a connecting pipe 222 that connects the humidifier 221 to the inlet 206 of the material storage unit 201, and a first blower 223 disposed in the middle of the connecting pipe 222.

[0087] The humidifier 221 is, for example, a vaporization type humidifier. The first blower 223 has multiple blades; by rotating these blades, the humidified air generated in the humidifier 221 flows towards the material storage section 201 via the connecting pipe 222. The humidified air flows into the material storage section 201 from the inlet 206. The inlet 206 is positioned higher than the center of the material storage section 201 in the height direction. Therefore, humidified air can be supplied to the entire material storage section 201 without being obstructed by the paper sheets stored within it.

[0088] The air circulation unit 230 draws air from the material storage unit 201. If humidified air is continuously supplied to the material storage unit 201, the relative humidity inside the material storage unit 201 will rise excessively. Therefore, the air is drawn from the material storage unit 201 to exhaust it to the outside. This circulates the air within the material storage unit 201, thereby stabilizing the humidity environment inside the material storage unit 201.

[0089] The air circulation unit 230 includes a discharge pipe 231 connected to the outlet 207 of the material storage unit 201, and a second blower 232 disposed on the discharge pipe 231. The second blower 232 has multiple blades, and by rotating the blades, air inside the material storage unit 201 is discharged to the outside of the material storage unit 201 through the discharge pipe 231.

[0090] The outlet 207 is positioned higher than the center of the material storage section 201 in the height direction. This allows for the smooth extraction of air from the material storage section 201 without extracting the paper sheets stored within it.

[0091] Furthermore, a mesh-like filter 208 is provided at the portion of the material storage section 201 corresponding to the outlet 207. This prevents paper from flowing out of the discharge pipe 231.

[0092] Next, the control structure of the material storage device 10 will be explained.

[0093] like Figure 4 As shown, the material storage device 10 is controlled by the control unit 150. The control unit 150 includes a CPU 151, a memory 152, a control circuit 153, and an I / F (interface) 154. The CPU 151 is an arithmetic processing unit. The memory 152 is a storage device that stores various programs in an area or working area, and it includes storage elements such as RAM and EEPROM. When the control unit 150 obtains detection signals from the detection unit 204 via the I / F 154, the CPU 151 performs calculations according to various programs, and controls each drive unit via the control circuit 153.

[0094] With the cover 210 closed, the control unit 150 drives the humidifier 221, the first blower 223, and the second blower 232. This supplies humidified air into the material storage compartment 201. Furthermore, air is drawn from the material storage compartment 201 to circulate the air within it.

[0095] Furthermore, in order to ensure sufficient diffusion of the humidified air within the material storage section 201, the control unit 150 controls the first blower 223 and the second blower 232 such that the inflow volume of the humidified air into the material storage section 201 is greater than the outflow volume from the material storage section 201. Therefore, when the cover 210 is closed, the material storage section 201 is under positive pressure. Additionally, since the inner cover 211 is held tightly against the material storage section 201 by the magnetic force of the sealing part 211a, the positive pressure within the material storage section 201 is maintained without the inner cover 211 detaching from the material storage section 201.

[0096] Here, when paper is inserted into the material storage section 201, if the cover 210 is moved to the open state while maintaining a positive pressure state inside the material storage section 201, paper or paper dust may be ejected as air inside the material storage section 201 flows out from the inlet 202. Furthermore, by releasing the humidified air from the inlet 202 outside the material storage section 201, moisture is unnecessarily released.

[0097] Therefore, in the material storage device 10 of this embodiment, the pressure is controlled so that the material storage section 201 is under negative pressure when the cover 210 is in the open state.

[0098] The following will provide a detailed description. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a control method will be described for transferring the cover 210 from a closed state to an open state and inserting paper sheets into the material storage section 201 while the first blower 223 and the second blower 232 are operating.

[0099] As described above, when the first blower 223 and the second blower 232 are operating (with the cover 210 closed), the control unit 150 controls the flow of air into the material storage section 201 via the first blower 223 to be greater than the flow of air out of the material storage section 201 via the second blower 232. This creates a positive pressure inside the material storage section 201. Furthermore, humidified air is appropriately supplied to the material storage section 201 to maintain a suitable humidity environment.

[0100] like Figure 5As shown, in step S11, the control unit 150 determines whether the cover 210 is in an open state. The control unit 150 makes this determination based on the detection signal sent from the detection unit 204. Furthermore, if the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is in an open state (Yes), the process proceeds to step S12. On the other hand, if the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is not in an open state, that is, if it determines that the cover 210 is in a closed state (No), the process remains in step S11.

[0101] In step S12, the control unit 150 stops the first blower 223. This reduces the airflow into the material receiving section 201 (effectively, the airflow becomes zero). Meanwhile, the second blower 232 remains operational. As the airflow exiting the material receiving section 201 via the second blower 232 exceeds the airflow entering the material receiving section 201 via the first blower 223, a negative pressure is created inside the material receiving section 201 for a short period. Therefore, when the cover 210 is moved to the open state, it prevents paper scraps and paper dust from being ejected from the inlet 202. Furthermore, paper scraps can be smoothly fed into the material receiving section 201 from the inlet 202.

[0102] Furthermore, since stopping the first blower 223 eliminates the supply of humidified air, thereby reducing the outflow of humidified air from the inlet 202, moisture loss can be suppressed.

[0103] After the paper is fed into the material storage section 201, the cover 210 is moved from the open state to the closed state.

[0104] In step S13, the control unit 150 determines whether the cover 210 is in a closed state. The control unit 150 makes this determination based on the detection signal sent from the detection unit 204. If the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is in a closed state (Yes), the process proceeds to step S14. On the other hand, if the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is not in a closed state, i.e., determines that the cover 210 is in an open state (No), the process remains in step S13.

[0105] In step S14, the control unit 150 drives the first blower 223. The control unit 150 controls the first blower 223 to achieve a predetermined airflow. As a result, since the airflow into the material storage section 201 is greater than the airflow out of the material storage section 201 via the second blower 232, a positive pressure is created inside the material storage section 201. Humidified air is appropriately supplied into the material storage section 201, thereby maintaining the humidity environment inside the material storage section 201.

[0106] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0107] Next, the second embodiment will be described. Furthermore, structures identical to those in the first embodiment will be labeled with the same symbols, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0108] In this embodiment, the control method for the material storage device 10 will be described. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control method for transferring the cover 210 from a closed state to an open state and inserting paper sheets into the material storage section 201 while the first blower 223 and the second blower 232 are operating will be described. When the first blower 223 and the second blower 232 are operating, similar to the first embodiment, the material storage section 201 is controlled to be under positive pressure.

[0109] like Figure 6 As shown, in step S21, the control unit 150 determines whether the cover 210 is in an open state. The control unit 150 makes this determination based on the detection signal sent from the detection unit 204. Furthermore, if the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is in an open state (Yes), the process proceeds to step S22. If the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is not in an open state, that is, if the cover 210 is in a closed state (No), the process remains in step S21.

[0110] In step S22, the control unit 150 decelerates the first blower 223. This reduces the airflow into the material receiving section 201. Meanwhile, the second blower 232 remains operational. As a result, since the airflow exiting the material receiving section 201 via the second blower 232 exceeds the airflow entering the material receiving section 201 via the first blower 223, a negative pressure is created inside the material receiving section 201 for a short period. Therefore, when the cover 210 is moved to the open state, it prevents paper scraps and paper dust from being ejected from the inlet 202. Furthermore, paper scraps can be smoothly fed into the material receiving section 201 from the inlet 202.

[0111] Furthermore, by slowing down the first blower 223, the supply of humidified air is reduced, which in turn reduces the outflow of humidified air from the inlet 202, thus suppressing moisture loss.

[0112] After the paper is fed into the material storage section 201, the cover 210 is moved from the open state to the closed state.

[0113] In step S23, the control unit 150 determines whether the cover 210 is in a closed state. The control unit 150 makes this determination based on the detection signal sent from the detection unit 204. If the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is in a closed state (Yes), the process proceeds to step S24. On the other hand, if the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is not in a closed state, that is, if the cover 210 is in an open state (No), the process remains in step S23.

[0114] In step S24, the control unit 150 increases the speed of the first blower 223. The control unit 150 controls the speed increase of the first blower 223 to a predetermined airflow. As a result, since the airflow into the material storage section 201 is greater than the airflow out of the material storage section 201 via the second blower 232, a positive pressure is created inside the material storage section 201. Humidified air is appropriately supplied into the material storage section 201, thereby maintaining the humidity environment inside the material storage section 201. Furthermore, since the first blower 223 is not stopped, it can be switched to the predetermined airflow in a short period of time.

[0115] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0116] Next, the third embodiment will be described. Furthermore, structures identical to those in the first embodiment will be labeled with the same symbols, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0117] In this embodiment, the control method for the material storage device 10 will be described. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control method for transferring the cover 210 from a closed state to an open state and inserting paper sheets into the material storage section 201 while the first blower 223 and the second blower 232 are operating will be described. When the first blower 223 and the second blower 232 are operating, similar to the first embodiment, the material storage section 201 is controlled to be under positive pressure.

[0118] like Figure 7 As shown, in step S31, the control unit 150 determines whether the cover 210 is in an open state. The control unit 150 makes this determination based on the detection signal sent from the detection unit 204. Furthermore, if the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is in an open state (Yes), the process proceeds to step S32. If the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is not in an open state, that is, if the cover 210 is in a closed state (No), the process remains in step S31.

[0119] In step S32, the control unit 150 increases the speed of the second blower 232. Specifically, the control unit 150 controls the speed of the second blower 232 so that the airflow from the material storage section 201 via the second blower 232 is greater than the airflow into the material storage section 201 via the first blower 223. As a result, the airflow from the material storage section 201 increases. On the other hand, the first blower 223 is maintained in a predetermined operating state. As a result, since the airflow from the material storage section 201 via the second blower 232 is greater than the airflow into the material storage section 201 via the first blower 223, the material storage section 201 becomes negatively pressured for a short time. Therefore, when the cover 210 is moved to the open state, it is possible to prevent paper scraps and paper dust from being ejected from the inlet 202. In addition, it can smoothly insert paper sheets from the inlet 202 into the material storage section 201.

[0120] Furthermore, since the operation of the first blower 223 is maintained, the drying of the paper sheets in the material storage section 201 can be suppressed.

[0121] After the paper is fed into the material storage section 201, the cover 210 is moved from the open state to the closed state.

[0122] In step S33, the control unit 150 determines whether the cover 210 is in a closed state. The control unit 150 makes this determination based on the detection signal sent from the detection unit 204. If the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is in a closed state (Yes), the process proceeds to step S34. On the other hand, if the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is not in a closed state, that is, if the cover 210 is in an open state (No), the process remains in step S33.

[0123] In step S34, the control unit 150 decelerates the second blower 232. The control unit 150 controls the deceleration of the second blower 232 to a predetermined airflow rate. As a result, since the airflow into the material storage section 201 is greater than the airflow out of the material storage section 201 via the second blower 232, a positive pressure is created inside the material storage section 201. Humidified air is appropriately supplied into the material storage section 201, thereby maintaining the humidity environment inside the material storage section 201.

[0124] 4. Fourth Implementation Method

[0125] Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. Furthermore, structures identical to those in the first embodiment will be labeled with the same symbols, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0126] In this embodiment, the control method for the material storage device 10 will be described. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control method for transferring the cover 210 from a closed state to an open state and inserting paper sheets into the material storage section 201 while the first blower 223 and the second blower 232 are operating will be described. When the first blower 223 and the second blower 232 are operating, similar to the first embodiment, the material storage section 201 is controlled to be under positive pressure.

[0127] like Figure 8 As shown, in step S41, the control unit 150 determines whether the cover 210 is in an open state. The control unit 150 makes this determination based on the detection signal sent from the detection unit 204. Furthermore, if the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is in an open state (Yes), the process proceeds to step S42. If the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is not in an open state, that is, if the cover 210 is in a closed state (No), the process remains in step S41.

[0128] In step S42, the control unit 150 stops the first blower 223. As a result, the airflow into the material receiving section 201 decreases (effectively becomes zero). Meanwhile, the second blower 232 remains operational. That is, the pressure-reduced state within the material receiving section 201 is maintained. Therefore, since the airflow exiting the material receiving section 201 via the second blower 232 is greater than the airflow entering the material receiving section 201 via the first blower 223, the material receiving section 201 becomes negatively pressured for a short period.

[0129] In step S43, the control unit 150 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the first blower 223 stopped. The control unit 150 measures the time using a timer or the like. The predetermined time is, for example, about a few seconds. If the control unit 150 determines that a predetermined time has elapsed since the first blower 223 stopped (Yes), it proceeds to step S44. On the other hand, if the control unit 150 determines that a predetermined time has not elapsed since the first blower 223 stopped (No), it remains in step S43.

[0130] In step S44, the control unit 150 stops the second blower 232. That is, the negative pressure state (reduced pressure state) of the material storage section 201 is maintained from the time the first blower 223 stops until a predetermined time has elapsed. By stopping the second blower 232, the airflow from the material storage section 201 is reduced (in fact, the airflow becomes zero). By stopping the second blower 232 after the first blower 223, the negative pressure state inside the material storage section 201 can be maintained. Therefore, when the cover 210 is moved to the open state, it is possible to prevent paper sheets and paper dust from being ejected from the inlet 202. In addition, paper sheets can be smoothly fed into the material storage section 201 from the inlet 202.

[0131] Furthermore, by stopping the first blower 223 and the second blower 232, power consumption can be suppressed. Also, by stopping the second blower 232, the situation where dried external gas is drawn into the material storage section 201 via the inlet 202 is suppressed, thereby suppressing the drying of the paper sheets within the material storage section 201.

[0132] Alternatively, the control unit 150 may decelerate the second blower 232 instead of stopping it. Even in this manner, the same effect as described above can be achieved.

[0133] In step S45, the control unit 150 determines whether the cover 210 is in a closed state. The control unit 150 makes this determination based on the detection signal sent from the detection unit 204. If the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is in a closed state (Yes), the process proceeds to step S46. On the other hand, if the control unit 150 determines that the cover 210 is not in a closed state, that is, if the cover 210 is in an open state (No), the process remains in step S45.

[0134] In step S46, the control unit 150 drives the second blower 232. The control unit 150 controls the second blower 232 to achieve a predetermined airflow.

[0135] In step S47, the control unit 150 drives the first blower 223. The control unit 150 controls the first blower 223 to achieve a predetermined airflow. As a result, since the airflow into the material storage section 201 is greater than the airflow out of the material storage section 201 via the second blower 232, a positive pressure is created inside the material storage section 201. Humidified air is appropriately supplied into the material storage section 201, thereby maintaining the humidity environment inside the material storage section 201.

[0136] 5. Fifth Implementation Method

[0137] Next, the fifth embodiment will be described. Furthermore, structures identical to those in the first embodiment will be labeled with the same symbols, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0138] In this embodiment, the structure of the material storage device 10A will be described.

[0139] like Figure 9 As shown, the material storage device 10A includes a material storage section 200 for storing paper sheets, a humidification section 220, and an air circulation section 230. Furthermore, the material storage device 10A includes a detection section 204 (not shown).

[0140] In the material storage device 10A of this embodiment, the exhaust pipe 231 of the air circulation unit 230 is connected to the humidification unit 220 (humidifier 221). That is, in the material storage device 10A, the humidified air in the material storage unit 201 is returned to the humidification unit 220 via the exhaust pipe 231 and then supplied to the material storage unit 201 via the connecting pipe 222. Since the humidified air is circulated in the material storage device 10A, the load consumed by the humidification process in the humidifier 221 can be suppressed, thereby smoothly supplying humidified air to the material storage unit 201.

[0141] Furthermore, a release pipe 240 is provided on the humidification unit 220 to release a portion of the humidified air flowing from the air circulation unit 230 into the external gas. This allows for the regulation of the pressure within the air circulation path formed by the connecting pipe 222, the material storage unit 201, and the discharge pipe 231.

[0142] Symbol Explanation

[0143] 1…Sheet manufacturing apparatus; 10, 10A…Material storage device; 11…Quantitative supply unit; 14…Hopper; 16…Pipe; 17…Pipe; 18…Pipe; 19…Hopper; 20…Fiber debonding unit; 22…Inlet; 24…Outlet; 40…Screwing unit; 41…Roller unit; 42…Inlet; 43…Shell unit; 44…Outlet; 45…First sheet forming unit; 46…Wire mesh belt; 47…Erecting roller; 47a…Erecting roller; 48…Suction mechanism; 49… Rotating body; 49a… Base; 49b… Protrusion; 50… Mixing section; 52… Starch supply section; 54… Pipe; 56… Blower; 60… Stacking section; 61… Roller section; 62… Inlet; 63… Shell section; 70… Second sheet forming section; 72… First mesh belt; 74… Supporting roller; 76… Suction mechanism; 80… Sheet conveying section; 81… Second mesh belt; 82… Roller; 83… Suction mechanism; 90… Humidification section; 93… Discharge port; 100…Pressure section; 101…First roller; 102…Second roller; 120…Cutting section; 122…First cutting section; 124…Second cutting section; 130…Receiving section; 150…Control section; 151…CPU; 152…Memory; 153…Control circuit; 154…Interface; 200…Material storage section; 201…Material receiving section; 202…Inlet; 203…Support platform; 204…Detection section; 204a…Main body section; 20 4b…Insertion section; 205…Paper conveying section; 206…Inlet; 207…Outlet; 208…Filter; 210…Cover; 211…Inner cover; 211a…Sealing section; 212…Outer cover; 213…Connecting section; 214…Handle; 220…Humidifying section; 221…Humidifier; 222…Connecting pipe; 223…First blower; 230…Air circulation section; 231…Discharge pipe; 232…Second blower; 240…Release pipe.

Claims

1. A material storage device, characterized in that, have: The material storage section has a material receiving section and a cover section. The material receiving section receives paper sheets and has an inlet for inserting the paper sheets into the section. The cover section can open and close the inlet. The humidification section has a first blower to supply humidified air into the material receiving section; The air circulation section has a second blower to draw air from the material receiving section. When the cover is open, a negative pressure is created inside the material storage compartment. The cover has an inlet for allowing air humidified by the humidifying unit to flow into the interior of the material receiving section. The inlet is located at the upper part of the material storage section compared to the central part, from the bottom to the top of the material storage section.

2. The material storage device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, have: The detection unit detects the opening and closing state of the cover relative to the inlet. Control Department The control unit performs the following controls, namely, When it is determined that the cover is in the open state, the first blower is stopped.

3. The material storage device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, have: The detection unit detects the opening and closing state of the cover relative to the inlet. Control Department The control unit performs the following controls, namely, When it is determined that the cover is in the open state, the first blower is decelerated.

4. The material storage device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, have: The detection unit detects the opening and closing state of the cover relative to the inlet. Control Department The control unit performs the following controls, namely, When it is determined that the cover is in the open state, the first blower is stopped, and the second blower is stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed.

5. A sheet manufacturing apparatus, wherein, The material storage device comprises any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A control method for a material storage device, characterized in that, The material storage device includes: The material storage section has a material receiving section and a cover section. The material receiving section receives paper sheets and has an inlet for inserting the paper sheets into the section. The cover section can open and close the inlet. The humidification section has a first blower to supply humidified air into the material receiving section; The air circulation section has a second blower to draw air from the material receiving section. The cover has an inlet for allowing air humidified by the humidifying unit to flow into the interior of the material receiving section. The inlet is located at a position higher than the central portion in the height direction of the material storage section, from the bottom to the top. In the control method of the material storage device, When the cover is open, a negative pressure is created inside the material storage compartment.

7. The control method for the material storage device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, When the cover is in the open state, the first blower is stopped.

8. The control method for the material storage device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, When the cover is in the open state, the first blower is decelerated.

9. The control method for the material storage device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, When the cover is in the open state, the first blower is stopped, and after a predetermined time, the second blower is stopped.

Images