Binding device for flat nori bundles with protective paper

Abstract

Firstly, we propose a device for bundling flat seaweed bundles with protective paper that ensures reliable, stable, and trouble-free bundling of flat seaweed bundles; secondly, avoids damage or breakage to the flat seaweed bundles during the process; thirdly, automates the supply and wrapping of protective paper; and fourthly, facilitates the insertion of protective paper. [Solution] The paper supply mechanism 20 of the binding device 1 covers the bundle of flat nori A with protective paper P. The press plate 3 loads the bundle of flat nori A covered with protective paper P, rises, and presses and compresses it. The paper insertion part has rollers that are not rotatable during insertion and are biased toward the press plate 3, inserting both lower ends of the protective paper P under the press plate 3 and wrapping them around it. The binding machine 4 binds the bundle of flat nori A together with the press plate 3 using binding band D. The extrusion member 5 presses, compresses, binds, and lowers, pushing out the bundle of flat nori A with the protective paper P wrapped around it from the press plate 3.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a bundling device with protective paper for flat laver bundles used in the production process of laver. That is, it relates to a device for bundling flat laver bundles that are unfolded flat without being bent, with protective paper attached.

Background Art

[0002] 《Technical Background》 In the production process of laver (dried laver), after the previous processes such as harvesting raw laver, washing, spreading, dehydrating, and drying, the laver is produced and shipped through the subsequent processes such as inspection, counting and accumulation, (bending), and bundling. That is, in the subsequent process, the inspected flat laver is counted and accumulated as flat laver bundles of about 10 sheets, then folded in half and bundled and shipped. Now, for such a conventional example 1 (representative example, general example), there is also an increasing conventional example 2 in which flat laver bundles are bundled and shipped as they are unfolded flat without being bent or bundled. That is, conventional example 2 in which 50 sheets or 100 sheets of flat laver bundles are bundled and shipped has also been increasing recently. That is, the produced and shipped laver is often subjected to secondary processing such as roasted laver and seasoned laver afterwards. In this case, in the aforementioned conventional example 1 where it was bent and bundled, the bundling was undone and the bending was stretched again to be used for processing as the original flat laver. On the other hand, in order to save the trouble of stretching, there are also more and more conventional example 2 in which flat laver (also called sheet laver) is bundled and shipped as it is.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003] Examples of such bundling devices for conventional example 2 include those shown in the following Patent Documents 1 and 2.

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

[0004] Conventional Technology Regarding the conventional example 2, the flat seaweed bundling device shown in Patent Documents 1 and 2 consists of a complex structure combining an elevator, a support plate, a compression plate, a bundled paper feeding device (chucker), multiple cylinders, and the like. Furthermore, because the binding portion of the flat nori bundles is not compressed by the press, it is bound in a bulging state, raising concerns about damage to the nori. There are also concerns about the stability of the press. Therefore, there is a strong desire for a newer structure of the binding device for flat seaweed bundles used in the conventional example 2, and new development has become a challenge. On the other hand, in the conventional example 2, protective paper was used for the bundles of flat seaweed. The protective paper was placed over the bundles of flat seaweed and wrapped around them completely. In other words, the protective paper was used to prevent damage to the flat bundles of flat seaweed that were spread out flat during bundling, subsequent handling, and distribution. Furthermore, the protective paper was manually placed over and wrapped around the bundles of seaweed during the bundling process, which resulted in poor work efficiency.

[0005] About the present invention In view of these circumstances, the present invention provides a binding device for flat seaweed bundles that aims to solve the problems of the conventional example 2. The present invention aims to provide a device for bundling flat seaweed bundles with protective paper, which firstly ensures reliable and stable bundling of the flat seaweed bundles, secondly avoids damage to the flat seaweed bundles during the process, thirdly automates the supply and wrapping of protective paper, and fourthly facilitates the insertion of protective paper. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Regarding each claim: The technical means of the present invention for solving these problems are as described in the claims, as follows: Claim 1 is as follows: The binding device for flat seaweed bundles with protective paper according to claim 1 is used in the seaweed production process, and is a conveyor, paper It includes a supply mechanism, a press plate, a paper insertion section, a binding machine, and an extrusion member. The conveyor belt loads one bundle of flat seaweed at a time and transports it forward. The paper supply mechanism places protective paper over the bundle of flat seaweed that has been stopped from being transported, from above. The press plate is movable up and down between a lower base position and an upper top position. The press plate then transfers the bundle of flat nori seaweed, which has been stopped during transport and covered with protective paper, onto the press plate above the base position, loads it onto the sheet, rises, and presses and compresses it from below between the press plate and the press receiver at the top position. The paper insertion section uses rollers to insert and wrap the lower ends of the protective paper, which is placed over the pressed and compressed bundle of seaweed, under the lower surface of the press plate. The rollers in the paper insertion section are set to be non-rotatable during insertion, but rotatable when returning to a straight position after insertion, and are biased toward the underside of the press plate. The binding machine binds bundles of flat seaweed, which have been pressed and wrapped in protective paper, together with the press plate using binding tape. The extrusion member presses and removes the bundles of flat seaweed, which have been compressed, bundled, and lowered, and wrapped with protective paper, from the press plate along with the binding band. This is characterized by obtaining bundles of flat seaweed with protective paper and bound with a binding band.

[0007] Claim 2 is as follows: The binding device for flat nori bundles with protective paper according to claim 2 is characterized in that, in claim 1, the roller of the paper insertion section is equipped with a one-way clutch that allows it to rotate in only one direction, and a spring that biases it toward the lower surface of the press plate. Claim 3 is as follows: In the binding device for flat nori bundles with protective paper according to claim 3, in claim 2, the roller of the paper insertion part is made of a high friction material and is capable of reciprocating in the insertion direction and the return direction by an attached cylinder. Furthermore, the rollers in the paper insertion section apply tensile force to the entire protective paper by inserting both lower ends of the protective paper under the press plate and wrapping it around. This ensures that the wrapped protective paper adheres tightly to the bundle of flat seaweed without any gaps. Claim 4 is as follows: The binding device for flat seaweed bundles with protective paper according to claim 4 is characterized in that, in claim 1, the conveyor is made of a string conveyor. The binding machine is characterized in that it binds the press-compressed flat seaweed bundle by wrapping it with a binding band from the outside of the wrapped protective paper in all directions (up, down, left, and right), and at the same time binds the press plate as well. Claim 5 is as follows: The binding device for flat nori bundles with protective paper according to claim 5 is characterized in that, according to claim 1, the press plate is divided into left and right sections, and the extrusion member is capable of reciprocating back and forth within the space between the divided press plates.

[0008] Claim 6 is as follows: The binding device for flat nori bundles with protective paper according to claim 6, in claim 1, wherein the press plate is provided with an auxiliary press plate below its front end, and the auxiliary press plate is vertically displaceable between a close position and a separate position relative to the press plate. Furthermore, the auxiliary press plate, when in close contact, can press and compress the bundle of seaweed in conjunction with the press plate. When separated, the gap formed between it and the press plate allows for the lower part of the binding band to be pushed out and pulled out from under the press plate. Claim 7 is as follows: The binding device for flat seaweed bundles with protective paper according to claim 7, in claim 1, wherein the press plate is made of a thin plate with a thickness in millimeters. In addition, the width of the press plate is about the same as or less than the width of the flat seaweed bundle, or slightly narrower. This invention is characterized by the fact that the load from the press plate is reduced when the lower part of the binding band is pushed out or pulled out from under the press plate.

[0009] Regarding the effects, etc. Since the present invention is composed of such means, it is as follows. (1) This binding device with protective paper for flat laver bundles is used in the laver production process. (2) First, the flat laver bundle is covered with protective paper by a paper supply mechanism. (3) The flat laver bundle covered with protective paper is carried under the binding machine. (4) Then the flat laver bundle is lifted toward the binding machine. That is, the press plate and the auxiliary press plate rise from the lower base position, and the flat laver bundle covered with protective paper is loaded and further lifted. (5) Then the flat laver bundle is press-compressed. That is, the press plate and the auxiliary press plate are at the top position, and the flat laver bundle covered with protective paper is press-compressed between the press receiver. (6) The press-compressed flat laver bundle is inserted into the lower ends of the protective paper that has sagged under the press plate by a paper insertion part using rollers and is wound. This roller is made of a high-friction material biased toward the press plate, and during insertion, it is non-rotatable, thus advancing while applying a large frictional force and frictional resistance to the lower end of the protective paper and inserting it with a strong tensile force. Also, during the straight return after insertion, it can rotate naturally. (7) Then the binding machine binds the press-compressed flat laver bundle with a binding band from the outside of the wound protective paper together with the press plate. (8) Then the press-compressed and bound flat laver bundle descends as the press plate and the auxiliary press plate descend. (9) Thereafter, the flat laver bundle is pushed out and extracted from the press plate. That is, the pushing member moves from the retracted position to the advanced position, and the flat laver bundle with protective paper bound by the binding band is pushed out and extracted. (10) At that time, the lower part of the binding band is pushed out and extracted from under the press plate using the gap formed between the press plate and the auxiliary press plate in the separated position. (11) In addition, by arranging the auxiliary press plate in this way, making the press plate thin, and making the width of the press plate less than that of the flat laver bundle, when the bundled flat laver bundle with protective paper is extruded or extracted from under the press plate, the load on the press plate is alleviated. The load on the lower part of the flat laver bundle with protective paper, especially on the lower part of the binding band, is alleviated. (12) Now, as described above, the binding device with protective paper of the present invention alleviates the friction and load on the flat laver bundle and the binding band by adopting (a) pressing and compressing from below, (b) binding together with the press plate, (c) extruding and extracting from the press plate, etc. for the flat laver bundle. Also, the protective paper is automated and wound around and bound to the flat laver bundle by incorporating a paper supply mechanism and a paper insertion part into the binding device. (13) Furthermore, by adopting a paper insertion part using a predetermined roller, the protective paper can be made to adhere closely to the entire flat laver bundle without gaps at the insertion of its lower end. And this is achieved without complicating the structure. Also, there is no risk of pulling back the protective paper when it is pulled back after insertion.

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] 《The First Advantage》 First, the binding of the flat laver bundle is achieved reliably and stably. In the binding device with protective paper for the flat laver bundle of the present invention, the flat laver bundle is characterized by adopting a unique method of (a) pressing and compressing from the lower side, (b) binding together with the press plate, and then (c) extruding and extracting from the press plate. And with such features, further settings such as the plate thickness and width of the auxiliary press plate and the press plate are added. Thus, while the load on the flat laver bundle and the binding band is alleviated, the binding of the flat laver bundle is achieved reliably and stably.

[0011] 《The Second Advantage》 Second, accordingly, damage and injury to the flat laver bundle are avoided. In the present invention's binding device for flat seaweed bundles with protective paper, as described above, binding is achieved while reducing the load on the flat seaweed bundles and binding bands. As a result, tearing, disarray, scattering, bending, curving, deformation, damage, etc., of the flat seaweed bundles during binding are avoided. In other words, there will be no problems with the quality, handling, or appearance of the flat nori bundles. Flat nori bundles are easily damaged when spread out flat, but this damage will be avoided. 《Third Effect》 Thirdly, the supply and winding of the protective paper will be automated. The present invention's binding device for flat seaweed bundles with protective paper incorporates a paper supply mechanism and a paper insertion section, thereby automating the supply and wrapping of protective paper to the flat seaweed bundles. The wrapping of protective paper to the flat seaweed bundles, which was previously done manually, is now automated, improving efficiency.

[0012] 《Fourth Effect》 Fourthly, inserting protective paper and other related processes will be made smoother. In the present invention's binding device for flat seaweed bundles with protective paper, the paper insertion section for the protective paper employs a roller made of a high-friction material that is biased and unable to rotate when the paper is inserted. This allows the protective paper to adhere tightly to the entire bundle of flat seaweed without any gaps. Moreover, this can be achieved without complicating the structure, and is superior in terms of cost, efficiency, and time. Furthermore, there is no risk of pulling or snagging the protective paper that was inserted when putting it back in after insertion. Thus, the effects exhibited by the present invention are remarkable and significant. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] The present invention provides a description of embodiments for carrying out the invention of a binding device for flat seaweed bundles with protective paper. Figure (1) is a front explanatory view, and Figure (2) is a side explanatory view. [Figure 2] For the purpose of explaining embodiments for carrying out the invention, this is a front view diagram of the paper supply process by the paper supply mechanism, and Figures (1) and (2) show steps 1 and 2. [Figure 3] Figures (1) and (2) illustrate steps 3 and 4 of the paper supply process, illustrating the embodiments for carrying out the invention. [Figure 4] Figures (1) and (2) illustrate steps 5 and 6 of the paper supply process, illustrating the embodiments for carrying out the invention. [Figure 5] This is a front view illustrating the entire process for explaining the embodiments for carrying out the invention. Figure (1) shows the first process, Figure (2) shows the second process, and Figure (3) shows the third process. [Figure 6] This is a front view illustrating the entire process for explaining the embodiments for carrying out the invention. Figure (1) shows the fourth step, and Figure (2) shows the fifth step. [Figure 7] To illustrate the embodiments for carrying out the invention, the paper insertion section and the like are shown. Figures (1), (2), (3), and (5) are side views, and Figure (4) is a front view. Figure (1) shows the paper insertion section in standby mode, Figure (2) shows the paper insertion section with paper inserted, Figures (3) and (4) show the binding by the binding machine, and Figure (5) shows the end of the operation. Figures (1'), (2'), and (5') are enlarged views of the parts indicated by the shaded circles in Figures (1), (2), and (5), respectively. [Figure 8] The paper insertion section is shown to illustrate the embodiments for carrying out the invention. Figure (1) is a front view, Figure (2) is a cross-sectional view (viewed by the arrow on line XX in Figure 14), and Figure (3) is a cross-sectional view (viewed by the arrow on line YY in Figure 14). Figure (1) shows the standby state, Figure (2) shows the start of insertion, and Figure (3) shows the insertion state. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates a side view of the bundling process using a bundling machine, for the purpose of explaining embodiments for carrying out the invention. Figures (1), (2), and (3) show steps 1, 2, and 3 of that process. [Figure 10] Figures (1), (2), and (3) illustrate steps 4, 5, and 6 of the same process, illustrating an embodiment for carrying out the invention. [Figure 11]Figures (1) and (2) illustrate steps 7 and 8 of the same process, illustrating the embodiments for carrying out the invention. [Figure 12] Figures (1) and (2) are front view diagrams of a bundle of flat seaweed with protective paper. Figure (1) shows the bundle before being extruded from the press plate and before being removed, and Figure (2) shows the bundle after being extruded from the press plate and after being removed. Figures (3) and (4) are side view diagrams of a bundle of flat seaweed with protective paper. Figure (3) shows the bundle before being extruded from the press plate and before being removed, and Figure (4) shows the bundle after being extruded from the press plate and after being removed. [Figure 13] This is to illustrate the embodiments for carrying out the invention. Figure (1) is a bottom view of the suction section of the paper supply mechanism. Figures (2), (3), and (4) are perspective views. Figure (2) shows a bundle of flat seaweed, Figure (3) shows the bundle with protective paper wrapped around it, and Figure (4) shows the bundled bundle. [Figure 14] This is to illustrate the embodiments for carrying out the invention. Figure (1) is a photograph of the paper insertion section, Figure (2) is a photograph of the roller being inserted, and Figure (3) is a photograph of the roller being returned. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Summary of the present invention The outline of this invention is as follows: The present invention's binding device 1 for flat seaweed bundles A with protective paper P is used in the seaweed production process. It includes a conveyor 2, a paper supply mechanism 20, a press plate 3, a paper insertion section 30, a binding machine 4, an extrusion member 5, and the like. Conveyor 2 carries bundles of flat seaweed A one by one forward. The paper supply mechanism 20 places protective paper P over the flat seaweed bundle A, which has been stopped from being transported, from above. The press plate 3 is movable up and down between a lower base position B and an upper top position C. The press plate 3 then transfers the flat seaweed bundle A, which has been stopped during transport and covered with protective paper P, onto the press plate 3 above the base position B, loads it onto it, rises up, and at the top position C, presses and compresses it from below between it and the press receiver. The paper insertion section 30 uses rollers 31 to insert and wrap the protective paper P, which is placed over the flat seaweed bundle A, under the press plate 3, at both lower ends Q. The roller 31 is set to be non-rotatable during insertion, and to be rotatable when returning to a straight position after insertion, and is also biased toward the lower surface of the press plate 3. The binding machine 4 binds the compressed and protective paper-wrapped bundles A of seaweed together with the press plate 3 using binding bands D. The extrusion member 5 presses and removes the flat seaweed bundle A, which has been compressed, bundled, and lowered and wrapped with protective paper P, from the press plate 3 together with the binding band D. The characteristic feature is that a flat seaweed bundle A with protective paper P attached and bound with the binding band D is obtained. The outline of the present invention is as described above. The present invention will now be described in detail.

[0015] Conveyor belt (2nd class) First, we will explain the conveyor 2 and other components of the bundling device 1, referring to Figures 1 to 6. Conveyor 2 carries bundles of flat seaweed A one by one forward. Bundles of flat seaweed A are supplied in bundles of 50 or 100 sheets, etc., without being folded, from the previous process (see also Figure 13 (2)). A single sheet of flat nori seaweed measures approximately 210mm (~230mm, or even 275mm) in length and 190mm (~200mm) in width, forming a thin, roughly rectangular sheet. In the illustrated example, conveyor 2 consists of a string conveyor. Conveyor 2 is installed at least up to below the binding machine 4. The left-right spacing between the two strings is set to be narrower than the left-right width of the flat seaweed bundle A. In Figure 1(1), 6 is the motor of the drive mechanism for conveyor 2. As shown in the front view (1) and the side view (2) of Figure 1, the conveyor 2 has an alignment section 7 located in front of the binding machine 4. The alignment unit 7 consists of a pair of centering plates positioned on the left and right outer sides of the conveyor 2, and aligns the flat seaweed bundle A so that its left-right width center passes through the left-right center of the press plate 3. When the sensor 8 (see Figures 5 and 6) detects the arrival of the conveyed flat seaweed bundle A, the conveyor 2 temporarily stops and the alignment unit 7 performs the centering. In Figure 1(1), 9 is the motor of the drive mechanism of the alignment unit 7. The details regarding conveyor belt 2, etc., are as described above.

[0016] 《Paper supply mechanism 20》 Next, the paper supply mechanism 20 of the binding device 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 1(1), Figures 2 to 4, etc. The paper supply mechanism 20 places protective paper P over the flat seaweed bundle A, which has been stopped from being transported, from above. The protective paper P is wrapped around the flat seaweed bundle A to protect it from contact during bundling and tightening with the binding band D, during subsequent handling, and during distribution. The protective paper P is a thin paper, such as paper for a paperback book, with a thickness of approximately 0.003 mm to 0.08 mm and dimensions of approximately 170 mm to 280 mm x 400 mm to 650 mm, for example, approximately 205 mm x 470 mm (it does not need to be completely wrapped around the flat nori bundle A).

[0017] The paper supply mechanism 20 will be described in more detail below. The paper supply mechanism 20 includes a vertical conveyor 21, a vertical shaft 22, a drive slide 23, a free slide 24, a connecting member 25, a suction unit 26, a paper box 27, a conveyor 28, a plate unit S, and the like. In other words, the paper supply mechanism 20 includes a vertical conveyor 21, a drive slide 23 which is guided by a parallel vertical shaft 22 and moved up and down by the vertical conveyor 21, and a free slide 24 which is guided by the vertical shaft 22 and can move up and down almost in conjunction with the up and down movement of the drive slide 23. The drive slide 23 and the free slide 24 are both mounted on the vertical shaft 22 so as to be able to slide up and down. The free slide 24 is mounted on the drive slide 23. Furthermore, the paper supply mechanism 20 includes a suction unit 26 connected to the free slide 24 via a connecting member 25, and a paper box 27 in which protective paper P is stored and which can reciprocate laterally. In the figure, 28 is a conveyor for the paper box 27. The suction section 26 can use commercially available or known suction pads, vacuum pads, Bernoulli grippers, suction cups, or other suction or adsorption structures. As shown in Figure 13(1), for example, four suction sections 26 are attached to the bottom of the four corners of a horizontal H-shaped iron plate section S.

[0018] An example of the paper supply process using such a paper supply mechanism 20 is explained in Figures 2 to 4. First, in step 1 of Figure 2(1), the paper box 27 moves below the suction unit 26. Then, in step 2 of Figure 2(2), the suction unit 26 is lowered by the drive slide 23 and free slide 24 and makes contact with the topmost protective paper P inside the paper box 27. At this point, the free slide 24 stops descending, creating a gap between it and the drive slide 23, and based on the detection by the sensor 29, the drive slide 23 also stops descending. Then the suction unit 26 turns on and sucks up the protective paper P. The sensor 29 is attached to either the drive slide 23 or the free slide 24. Subsequently, in step 3 of Figure 3(1), the suction unit 26 sucks up and separates the topmost protective paper P and rises. As a result, the protective paper P is in a state where the central part is horizontal and both left and right ends are suspended and hanging down. The paper box 27 retracts and moves away from below the suction unit 26. Then, in step 4 of (2) in Figure 3, the suction unit 26 descends towards the flat seaweed bundle A on the conveyor 2 which has been stopped below, while still sucking up the protective paper P. When the suction unit 26 reaches the flat seaweed bundle A, the free slide 24 stops descending, creating a gap between it and the drive slide 23. Based on the detection by the sensor 29, the drive slide 23 also stops descending. The suction unit 26 then turns off, and the protective paper P is placed over the flat seaweed bundle A. Then, in step 5 of Figure 4(1), the suction unit 26 rises, and in step 6 of Figure 4(2), the flat seaweed bundles A covered with protective paper P are transported by the conveyor 2 to the binding position below the binding machine 4. The paper supply mechanism 20 is as described above.

[0019] Press Plate 3: Explanation Part 1 Next, with reference to Figures 1, 5, and 6, the outline of the press plate 3 of the binding device 1 will be explained. The press plate 3 is movable up and down between a lower base position B and an upper top position C. The press plate 3 then transfers the flat seaweed bundle A, which has been stopped during transport and covered with protective paper P, slightly above the base position B, loads it onto the plate, rises, and presses and compresses it at the top position C.

[0020] Let's describe the press plate 3 in more detail. When the sensor 10 detects that the flat seaweed bundle A, which has been transported covered with protective paper P, has reached the binding position, the conveyor 2 stops, and the flat seaweed bundle A also stops at the binding position under the binding machine 4. Then, the press plate 3 rises from its previous lower base position B, transferring the bundle of flat seaweed A, covered with protective paper P, onto the stopped conveyor belt 2. The press plate 3 then loads the bundles of flat seaweed A, covered with protective paper P, and rises, stopping at the top position C to press and compress the bundles of flat seaweed A. In the illustrated example, the bottom plate 11 of the bundling machine 4 is used as the press support. In Figure 1(1), 12 is the motor of the drive mechanism 13 for the press plate 3, and a cam 14 is used in the drive mechanism 13. Regarding the press compression by the press plate 3, for example, the top position C and press pressure are appropriately selected, set, kept constant, managed, and maintained by controlling the rotation of the motor 12 with an inverter based on detection control using an encoder. The use of a servo motor or pulse motor can also be considered. The above is an overview of press plate 3.

[0021] Paper insertion section 30 Next, the paper insertion section 30 of the binding device 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 7, 8, 14, etc. The paper insertion section 30 wraps the protective paper P, which is placed over the flat seaweed bundle A, around the flat seaweed bundle A by inserting both lower ends Q of the protective paper Q under the lower surface of the press plate 3 using the roller 31. The roller 31 is set to be non-rotatable during insertion, but rotatable when returning to a straight position after insertion, and is biased toward the lower surface of the press plate 3.

[0022] Let's describe the paper insertion section 30 in more detail. First, in the illustrated example, there are a total of four paper insertion sections 30 arranged on the front, back, left, and right sides. That is, as shown in Figure 7, they are arranged on the front left and right sides, and also on the rear left and right sides (not shown). The paper insertion section 30 is capable of moving forward and backward via an attached cylinder 32. It can reciprocate in both the insertion and return directions. It can also move up and down in synchronous conjunction with the press plate 3. The illustrated paper insertion section 30 will be explained in more detail with reference to Figures 8 and 14. The vertical base frame 33 of the paper insertion section 30 is fixed to the tips of the piston rods of a pair of left and right cylinders 32. A pair of left and right front and rear frames 34 are erected on the vertical base frame 33, and a base shaft 35 is attached between the front and rear frames 34. A pair of oscillating arms 36 are attached to the base shaft 35, which serves as the pivot point. A single shaft 37 is stretched between the lower ends of the oscillating arms 36. A spring 38 is attached between the single shaft 37 and the vertical base frame 33 via a mounting fixture (not shown). A shaft 39 is stretched across the upper ends of the oscillating arms 36. A roller 31 is attached to the other shaft 39. Thus, as shown in Figure 8(2), the oscillating arm 36 can be biased to oscillate in the direction indicated by the spring 38 by the biasing force of the spring 38, thereby transmitting an upward biasing force to the roller 31. In the figure, 40 is a guide plate for the lower end Q of the protective paper P, and has an opening formed for the roller 31 to protrude.

[0023] The insertion roller 31 is made of a high-friction elastic material with high frictional resistance. In the illustrated example, it is made of urethane rubber with wavy small irregularities formed on its outer surface. As shown in Figures 14(2) and (3), the roller 31 incorporates a one-way clutch 41 that allows it to rotate in only one direction. As is well known, the one-way clutch 41 restricts the direction of rotation, allowing it to rotate in only one direction. For example, the BHFL6 type manufactured by Misumi Corporation (2-5-1 Koraku, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Iidabashi First Building) is used as the one-way clutch 41. Therefore, the roller 31 is set to be non-rotatable by the one-way clutch 41 when inserting the lower ends Q of the protective paper P, as shown in Figure 14 (2), and is allowed to rotate in the natural direction when returning to the standby position after insertion, as shown in Figure 14 (3). Furthermore, the roller 31 is biased toward the lower surface of the press plate 3 by the spring 38 when inserting or returning it. In other words, the roller 31 can oscillate around the base shaft 35 via one shaft 37, the oscillating arm 36, the other shaft 39, etc., and can be biased toward the upper press plate 3 by the spring 38.

[0024] The insertion and return processes using the paper insertion section 30 will be explained with reference to the illustrated example. First, in the standby state shown in Figures 7(1), (1'), and 8(1), the paper insertion section 30 in the standby position has its roller 31 upper surface slightly above, for example, the lower surface of the press plate 3 by about 2 mm. In Figures 7(1'), (2'), and (5'), 42 is an arm stopper. When in standby mode, the oscillating arm 36 contacts the arm stopper 42 to provide a stopping function, and when inserted, it moves away to release the stop. Then, the paper insertion section 30 is pushed downwards by the cylinder 32 and moves forward. Based on the biasing force of the spring 38, the roller 31 slides from the left and right outer edges towards the inner underside of the press plate 3, while wrapping around the sagging lower ends Q of the protective paper P. An inclined surface 43 is formed on the outer corner portion of the press plate 3 to guide the sliding of the roller 31. Then, as shown in Figures 7(2) and (2'), and Figures 8(2) and (3), the roller 31 inserts both lower ends Q of the protective paper P under the press plate 3. In other words, the roller 31, which is pushed and advanced by the cylinder 32, is made of a high-friction material. First, it is biased toward the upper press plate 3 by a spring 38 that functions as a compression spring, and is pressed against the press plate 3. The roller 31 is locked in place by the function of the one-way clutch 41, and moves forward while strongly pressing the lower end Q of the protective paper P against the underside of the press plate 3. In this way, the roller 31 advances while applying a large frictional force and frictional resistance to the lower end Q of the protective paper P, and inserts the lower end Q into the lower surface of the press plate 3 with a strong tensile force. This insertion process applies tensile force to the entire protective paper P, causing the wrapped protective paper P to adhere tightly to the entire bundle of flat seaweed A. Once the insertion is complete, as shown in Figures 7(3) and (4), the bundles of seaweed A are bound with binding strips D from the outside of the protective paper P by the binding machine 4, and then lowered together with the press plate 3. Subsequently, the paper insertion section 30 retracts by the cylinder 32 to its original standby position on the left and right outer sides, as shown in Figures 7(5) and (5'), and is returned to a straight line and retracted. At this time, the roller 31 retracts while rotating naturally due to the function of the one-way clutch 41. Thus, only rolling friction occurs, and there is no risk of applying tensile force to the lower end Q of the already inserted protective paper P, nor is there any danger of pulling it back.

[0025] As mentioned above, this paper insertion section 30 ensures that the wrapped protective paper P adheres tightly to the entire bundle of flat seaweed A without any gaps. In this way, the paper insertion section 30 provides a function to ensure that the protective paper P adheres tightly. In other words, as described above, when inserting the lower ends Q of the protective paper P into the press plate 3, the paper insertion section 30 firmly presses and guides the protective paper P from both the left and right sides toward the inner lower surface of the press plate 3. Therefore, a tensile force acts on the protective paper P as a whole, causing it to be wrapped around the entire bundle of flat seaweed A while maintaining tension, and to adhere tightly to the entire bundle of flat seaweed A without any gaps. Consequently, the protection of the bundle of flat seaweed A by the protective paper P is carried out smoothly. The paper insertion section 30 is as described above.

[0026] Regarding the Binding Machine 4 Next, the binding machine 4 of the binding device 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 1, 9 to 11, etc. The bundling machine 4 is erected above the bundling position conveyor 2. The flat seaweed bundles A, which have been compressed by the press plate 3 and wrapped with protective paper P, are then bundled together with the press plate 3 using bundling bands D. In other words, the binding machine 4 binds the compressed flat nori bundle A by wrapping it with binding tape D from the outside of the protective paper P around it, at the center in the front-to-back direction, and extending up, down, left, and right, while also binding the press plate 3. A wide strip of paper tape is used as the binding tape D.

[0027] Further details will be provided regarding the binding machine 4. The binding machine 4 is a commercially available, well-known banding machine for binding bundles of banknotes, sheets, and other types of bundles. For example, the OB-360N banding machine manufactured by Strapack Co., Ltd. (Ginza Strapack Building, 8-16-6 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo) is used as the binding machine 4. The binding process using the binding machine 4 will be explained using examples shown in Figures 9 to 11. In the figures, E is the roll paper (tape paper) for the binding band D, 15 is the roller for feeding and rewinding, and 16 is the welding and cutting section. From the initial state of step 1 shown in (1) of Figure 9, in step 2 shown in (2), the roll paper E is fed out and guided to the periphery. Then, in step 3 shown in (3), the bundle of flat seaweed A is loaded onto the press plate 3. Next, in step 4 of Figure 10 (1), the flat seaweed bundles A, which have been covered with protective paper P and stacked and lifted, are pressed and compressed between the press plate 3 and the lower plate 11 of the bundling machine 4. Then, in step 5 of Figure (2), the roll paper E is unwound, and in step 6 of Figure (3), the roll paper E becomes a binding band D, which wraps around, tightens, and binds the flat nori bundle A and the press plate 3, to which the protective paper P is wrapped. At the welded cut section 16, the binding band D is heat-sealed between one end and the other, and the end is cut. Then, in step 7 of Figure 11(1), the bundle of flat seaweed A with the bundled protective paper P attached and the press plate 3 are lowered, and the next roll of paper E is fed out. Thus, in step 8 of Figure (2), the bundle of flat seaweed A with the bundled protective paper P attached is pushed out and removed from the press plate 3 (see also Figures (1) to (4) of Figure 12), and the next bundle of flat seaweed A is waiting. (For step 4, please also refer to Figure 7(1). For step 6, please also refer to Figures 7(2), (3), and (4). For step 7, please also refer to Figure 7(5).) The details of the strapping machine 4 are as described above.

[0028] Regarding the extruded component 5: Next, the extrusion member 5 of the binding device 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 1, 5, 6, etc. The extrusion member 5 presses and extracts the flat nori bundle A, which has been pressed, compressed, bound, lowered, and wrapped with protective paper P, from the press plate 3 along with the binding band D. The press plate 3 is divided in the left-right direction, and the extrusion member 5 is capable of reciprocating in the front-back direction within the space between the divided press plate 3.

[0029] The extruded member 5 will be described in more detail. First, the illustrated press plate 3 is divided into three parts: a central plate 31, a side plate 32, and a side plate 33, each aligned in the front-to-back direction, with a left-to-right gap between them (side view in Figure 1(2)). The two extrusion members 5 are then capable of reciprocating within the gap between them, which is formed in this manner, to a forward position F and a backward position G, respectively, by a drive mechanism equipped with a motor or the like. Therefore, the extrusion member 5 is in the forward position F during the process when the bundle of seaweed A has not yet been pressed and compressed (Figures 5(1) and (2)). → Then, when the bundle of seaweed A is raised, pressed and compressed, the extrusion member 5 moves backward from the forward position F to the backward position G (Figure 5(3)). →Then, as the flat seaweed bundle A descends (Figure 6, (1)), →by moving forward from the retracted position G to the forward position F, the flat seaweed bundle A, together with the binding band D, is pushed out and extracted from the press plate 3 (Figure 6) (see also the front view from Figure 12, (1) → (2), and the side view from Figure 12, (3) → (4)). →Thus, a flat seaweed bundle A with protective paper P attached and bound with the binding band D is obtained. The extruded member 5 is as described above.

[0030] Regarding auxiliary press plate 17: Next, the auxiliary press plate 17 of the binding device 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 1, 5, 6, 12, etc. The main press plate 3, as described above, is equipped with a sub-auxiliary press plate 17 below its front end. The auxiliary press plate 17 is vertically displaceable between a position H in close proximity to the press plate 3 and a position J away from it. At the close contact position H, the auxiliary press plate 17 moves in conjunction with the press plate 3. At the separated position J, the upper and lower gaps formed between the auxiliary press plate 17 and the press plate 3 are used to extrude and remove the lower part D' of the binding band.

[0031] Let's describe these auxiliary press plates 17 in more detail. First, as mentioned above, the illustrated press plate 3 is divided into three parts: a central plate 31, a side plate 32, and a side plate 33. Thus, three auxiliary press plates 17 are attached to the underside of the front end of each of them. Furthermore, the three auxiliary press plates 17 are each capable of vertical displacement between a close contact position H (Figures 5(2) and (3)) where they are in close contact with the press plate 3, and a detached position J (Figures 5(1) and 5(6)) where they are separated from the press plate 3 and an upper and lower gap is formed. Therefore, at the close contact position H, the auxiliary press plate 17 can work in conjunction with the press plate 3 to press and compress the flat seaweed bundle A. In contrast, at the separation position J, the vertical gap formed between the press plate 3 and the binding band is utilized. That is, the lower part D' of the binding band, which had previously bound the press plate 3, is pushed out and extracted from below the press plate 3 by the extrusion member 5 (Figure 6) (see also Figure 12, from (1) to (2), and from (3) to (4)). In Figure 1(1), 18 is a cam of the drive mechanism 19 for the auxiliary press plate 17. This drive mechanism 19 shares the same motor 12 as the drive mechanism 13 for the press plate 3 mentioned above. Thus, the press plate 3 and the auxiliary press plate 17 are driven together by a single motor 12 via their respective cams 14 and 18. Therefore, the setting, management, and maintenance of each top position C and press pressure are the same as described above for the press plate 3, but these are performed more appropriately through cooperative drive. The auxiliary press plate 17 is as described above.

[0032] Press Plate 3: Explanation Part 2 Next, with reference to Figures 1 and 12, the thickness and width of the press plate 3 will be explained. First, the press plate 3 is made of a thin plate with a thickness in millimeters, for example, 2 mm or more and 5 mm or less. Thus, the press plate 3 provides a load-relieving function when the lower part D' of the binding band is pushed out from under the press plate 3. In other words, when the bundled seaweed bundle A and binding band D are pushed out and removed from below the press plate 3, the load on the lower part of the seaweed bundle A, especially the lower part of the binding band D', is mitigated and reduced. Because the thickness of the press plate 3 is thin, the load is mitigated and reduced compared to when the thickness is thicker. This makes pushing and removing easier (see also Figure 12, from (1) to (2) and from (3) to (4)). Furthermore, the press plate 3 has a width that is approximately the same as or less than the width of the flat seaweed bundle A, or slightly narrower. Thus, the press plate 3 provides a load-relieving function when the lower part D' of the binding band is pushed out from under the press plate 3. In other words, when the bundled seaweed bundles A and binding band D are pushed out and removed from below the press plate 3, the load on the lower part of the seaweed bundles A, especially the lower part of the binding band D', is mitigated and reduced. Because the width of the press plate 3 is narrow, the load is mitigated and reduced compared to when the width is wider, thereby making it easier to push out and remove (Figure 12, Figure (3) → Figure (4)). The thickness and width of press plate 3 are as described above.

[0033] 《Effect, etc.》 The present invention is configured as described above. Therefore, the first to fifth steps shown in Figures 5 and 6 are followed as follows. (1) The binding device 1 of the present invention is used in the production process of seaweed to ship the seaweed in a flattened state without bending it.

[0034] (2) First, in the first step shown in Figure 5(1), protective paper P is placed over the bundle of flat seaweed A. In other words, bundles of flat seaweed A, for example, 100 sheets each, which have been counted and accumulated in the previous process, are transported one bundle at a time by conveyor 2 and centered in the alignment section 7 (see also Figure 1). Then, protective paper P is placed over the bundles of flat seaweed A by the paper supply mechanism 20 (see also Figures 1 to 4).

[0035] (3) Then, one bundle of flat seaweed A, covered with protective paper P, is brought under the binding machine 4. The press plate 3 and auxiliary press plate 17 are located at the lower base position B below the conveyor 2, beneath the binding machine 4. The auxiliary press plate 17 is at a position J away from the press plate 3. The extrusion member 5 is at a forward position F.

[0036] (4) Then, in the second step shown in Figure 5(2), the bundle of flat seaweed A is raised toward the binding machine 4. In other words, the auxiliary press plate 17, which has been displaced to a position H in close contact with the press plate 3, rises from the lower base position B. Then, it loads the bundles of flat seaweed A covered with protective paper P and rises further toward the upper bundling machine 4. The extrusion member 5 is in the forward position F.

[0037] (5) Then, in the third step shown in Figure 5(3), the bundle of flat seaweed A covered with protective paper P is pressed and compressed. In other words, the press plate 3 and the auxiliary press plate 17 at the close contact position H stop at the top position C, and the flat seaweed bundle A with protective paper P attached is pressed and compressed between them and the lower plate 11 of the binding machine 4, which is the press receiver.

[0038] (6) Then, as shown in the steps of Figures 7(1), (1') to (2), and (2'), the flat nori bundle A with the pressed and compressed protective paper P has both lower ends Q of the protective paper P inserted under the press plate 3 by the paper insertion section 30 using a predetermined roller 31. Thus the protective paper P is wrapped around the entire flat nori bundle A (see also Figure 13(3)). As shown in Figure 14, the roller 31 incorporates a one-way clutch 41, preventing it from rotating during insertion, while allowing it to rotate naturally when straightened out after insertion. Furthermore, the roller 31 is made of a high-friction material and is biased toward the underside of the press plate 3 by a spring 38.

[0039] (7) Then, as shown in Figures 7(3) and (4), the bundling machine 4 is activated. The pressed and compressed bundles of seaweed A are then bundled together with the press plate 3 and the bundling band D from the outside of the protective paper P around which they are wrapped (see also the steps in Figures 9(1), (2), and (3) to Figures 10(1), (2), and (3)). During this time, the extruder 5 moves from its previous forward position F to its retracted position G within the lower space formed beneath the press plate 3.

[0040] (8) Subsequently, in the fourth step shown in Figure 6(1), the flat seaweed bundles A with the protective paper P attached, which have been pressed, compressed, and bound, are lowered (see also Figure 7(5) and Figure 11(1)). In other words, the auxiliary press plate 17, which is in close contact with the press plate 3 at position H, descends from its previous top position C and stops on the conveyor 2. As a result, the stacked and bound bundles of seaweed A with protective paper P attached also descend and stop. Subsequently, the auxiliary press plate 17 is displaced from its previous close position H to a separated position J, and a gap is formed between it and the press plate 3.

[0041] (9) Then, in the fifth step shown in Figure 6(2), the bundle A of flat seaweed with protective paper P attached is pushed out and removed from the press plate 3 together with the binding band D. In other words, as the extrusion member 5 moves from the retracted position G to the forward position F, the bundle of flat seaweed A, bound with the binding band D, is pushed forward and removed from the press plate 3. Once a bundle of flat seaweed A with protective paper P attached and secured with binding band D is obtained, the press plate 3 and auxiliary press plate 17 return to their base position B under the conveyor 2.

[0042] (10) When the flat seaweed bundles A and binding bands D with protective paper P are extruded and removed from the press plate 3, the lower part D' of the binding band is as follows. The lower part D' of the binding band is smoothly pushed out and removed from below the press plate 3 by utilizing the vertical gap formed between the press plate 3 and the auxiliary press plate 17 at the separation position J (see also Figure 12, from (1) to (2), and from (3) to (4)).

[0043] (11) With respect to the press plate 3, the following advantages arise from the placement of an auxiliary press plate 17 below the front end, the use of a thin plate thickness, and the fact that its width is less than or equal to the width of the flat seaweed bundle A. In other words, the load on the press plate 3 during extrusion and extraction is further reduced. The friction and load on the lower part of the flat seaweed bundle A with protective paper P, especially the lower part D' of the binding band, is reduced and lessened by the press plate 3.

[0044] (12) Now, as described above, the binding device 1 of the present invention employs a distinctive method that involves (a) pressing and compressing the flat seaweed bundle A from below, (b) binding it together with the press plate 3, and (c) pushing and pulling it out from the press plate 3. Thus, (a), (b), and (c) enable the bundles of seaweed A to be securely and stably bound with protective paper P. In other words, the load on the bundles of seaweed A and the binding band D is reduced, and damage is prevented. Furthermore, the protective paper P is automatically wrapped around the bundle of seaweed A and bundled together with the bundle of seaweed A, thanks to the integration of the paper supply mechanism 20 and the paper insertion section 30 into the bundling device 1.

[0045] (13) Furthermore, as described above, the binding device 1 of the present invention employs a paper insertion section 30 using a predetermined roller 31. Therefore, the non-rotating roller 31 advances while applying a large frictional force and frictional resistance to the lower end Q of the protective paper P, and inserts it with a strong tensile force. This allows the protective paper P to adhere tightly to the entire bundle of flat seaweed A without any gaps. This is achieved without complicating the structure by employing a predetermined roller 31. Furthermore, since the roller 31 rotates when the protective paper P is returned after insertion, there is no risk of it being pulled back.

[0046] "others" Firstly, regarding the paper insertion portion 30 of the lower end Q of the protective paper P into the press plate 3, in addition to the method using the roller 31 of the present invention, other methods such as a suction method, a contact pressing method, and a gripping method can also be considered. However, the suction method has been criticized for several issues, including the need to ensure sufficient space for the suction pad, insufficient suction power, the need for a confirmation sensor, and the need for confirmation time. The contact-pushing method presents a problem in that creating a gap to prevent contact with the already inserted part during the return process after insertion becomes complicated. The gripping method also suffers from the problem of a complex configuration. Ultimately, these methods are complex in their configuration and operation, and problems have been pointed out regarding cost, efficiency, and time. In contrast, the present invention has a simple and easy configuration and is superior in terms of cost, efficiency, and time.

[0047] Secondly, the lower pressing method of the present invention is as follows. Conventional press machines use an upper pressing method, where the press plate 3 presses the object from above. In contrast, the binding device 1 of the present invention employs a lower pressing method, in which the press plate 3 presses the flat seaweed bundle A from below. As mentioned above, after pressing, the bundles of seaweed A, which are bound together with the press plate 3 with binding band D, are pulled out from the press plate 3. In the typical top-press method, it is necessary to lift and hoist the bundles of seaweed A with binding band D, which places a heavy load on the bundles of seaweed A and may cause damage or breakage. In contrast, the present invention employs a lower pressing method, eliminating the need to lift and suspend the flat seaweed bundle A when pulling it out, thus reducing the load on the flat seaweed bundle A and preventing damage.

[0048] Thirdly, regarding the use of multiple binding bands D, please note the following: In the example described above, one binding band D is used, but the binding device 1 of the present invention is not limited to this and can also use multiple binding bands D. In particular, if the length of the roughly rectangular flat nori is long, for example, 275 mm, it is conceivable to use two of them to prevent the bundle of flat nori A from scattering. That is, two binding bands D can be used, wrapped parallel to the flat nori bundle A, and then tied together. The process for this second (second) binding device 1 follows the same procedure as the first (first) binding process described above. After the first binding is completed, the flat seaweed bundle A is pushed by the extrusion member 5 to the position for the second binding, and then the flat seaweed bundle A is raised again by the press plate 3. The second binding is then performed, the press plate 3 and the flat seaweed bundle A are lowered, and the flat seaweed bundle A, which has been bound twice, is pushed out and removed by the extrusion member 5. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0049] A flat seaweed bundle B Base position C Top position D Cable Tie D' (cable tie) lower part E Roll Paper F forward position G Backward position H Close position J Detachment position P Protective paper Q Lower end S plate part 1 Binding device 2 Conveyor 3 Pressed sheet 31 center plate 32 side panels 33 side panels 4 Binding machine 5. Extruded member 6 motors 7. Alignment section 8 sensors 9 Motors 10 sensors 11 Bottom plate 12 motors 13 Drive mechanism 14 Cam 15 rollers 16 Welded cut section 17 Auxiliary press plate 18 Cam 19 Drive mechanism 20 Paper supply mechanism 21 Vertical conveyor 22 Vertical Shaft 23 Drive slide 24 Free Slides 25 Connecting member 26 Suction part 27 Paper boxes 28 Conveyor 29 sensors 30 Paper insertion section 31 Rollers 32 cylinders 33 Vertical base frame 34 Front and rear frame 35 Base shaft 36. Oscillating Arm 37 One axis 38 Spring 39 Other axis 40 Information board 41 One-way clutch 42 Arm Stopper 43 Slope

Claims

1. A binding device for flat seaweed bundles with protective paper, used in the seaweed production process, comprising a conveyor, a paper supply mechanism, a press plate, a paper insertion section, a binding machine, and an extrusion member. The conveyor transports bundles of flat seaweed one by one forward. The paper supply mechanism covers the flat seaweed bundle that has been stopped from being transported with protective paper from above. The press plate is capable of moving up and down between a lower base position and an upper top position. The flat bundle of seaweed, which has been stopped during transport and covered with protective paper, is transferred to the press plate above the base position, loaded onto it, and raised to the top position where it is pressed and compressed from below between the press plate and the press receiver. The paper insertion section uses rollers to insert and wrap the protective paper, which is placed over the pressed and compressed bundle of seaweed, both lower ends of which are inserted under the lower surface of the press plate. The rollers in the paper insertion section are set to be non-rotatable during insertion, but rotatable when returning to a straight position after insertion, and are biased toward the underside of the press plate. The binding machine binds bundles of flat seaweed, which have been pressed and wrapped in protective paper, together with the press plate using binding tape. The device for bundling flat seaweed bundles with protective paper is characterized in that the extrusion member presses, compresses, bundles, lowers, and wraps the flat seaweed bundles with protective paper around them, and then extrudes and removes them from the press plate together with the binding band, thereby obtaining flat seaweed bundles with protective paper that are bound with the binding band.

2. The binding device for flat nori bundles with protective paper, as described in claim 1, wherein the roller of the paper insertion section is equipped with a one-way clutch that allows it to rotate in only one direction, and is also equipped with a spring that biases it toward the lower surface of the press plate.

3. In claim 2, the roller of the paper insertion section is made of a high-friction material and is capable of reciprocating in the insertion direction and the return direction by an attached cylinder. Furthermore, the rollers in the paper insertion section apply tensile force to the entire protective paper by inserting both lower ends of the protective paper under the press plate and wrapping it around, thereby ensuring that the wrapped protective paper adheres tightly to the flat seaweed bundle without any gaps, thus providing a protective paper binding device for flat seaweed bundles.

4. The device for binding flat seaweed bundles with protective paper, as described in claim 1, wherein the conveyor is made of a string conveyor, and the binding machine binds the press-compressed flat seaweed bundle by wrapping it with a binding band from the outside of the wrapped protective paper in all directions (up, down, left, and right), and at the same time, the press plate is also bound together.

5. A binding device for flat nori bundles with protective paper, characterized in that the press plate is divided into left and right sections, and the extrusion member is capable of reciprocating back and forth within the space between the divided press plates.

6. In claim 1, the press plate is provided with an auxiliary press plate below its front end, and the auxiliary press plate is vertically displaceable between a close position and a separate position relative to the press plate. A binding device for bundles of flat seaweed with protective paper, characterized in that, in a close position, the bundle of flat seaweed can be pressed and compressed in conjunction with the press plate, and in a separated position, the gap formed between the press plate and the device allows the lower part of the binding band to be pushed out from under the press plate.

7. The binding device for bundles of flat seaweed with protective paper, as described in claim 1, wherein the press plate is made of a thin plate with a thickness in millimeters and has a width that is about the same as or less than the width of the bundle of flat seaweed, or slightly narrower, thereby reducing the load on the press plate when the lower part of the binding band is pushed out from under the press plate.

Images