Tatami mat folding device

Abstract

The objective is to provide a tatami mat surface holding mechanism for holding down the tatami mat surface, and a tatami mat surface folding device equipped with this mechanism. [Solution] A tatami mat pressing mechanism is provided, comprising a pressing section for pressing down on the tatami mat surface, a rotating arm for rotating the pressing section, and an arm rotation axis. By using the rotating arm to rotate the pressing section and press down on the tatami mat surface, the mechanism becomes smaller than the conventional structure in which the pressing section is driven up and down to press the tatami mat surface. Furthermore, a tatami mat folding device is provided, comprising this tatami mat pressing mechanism and a tatami mat folding section for folding the edges of the tatami mat surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a tatami-mat folding device for folding a tatami-mat surface, and particularly to a tatami-mat folding device provided with a tatami-mat pressing mechanism.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, it has been a common structure for Japanese houses to have a tatami room, and tatami mats with tatami edges have been manufactured and used. These days, houses are diversifying, and there is an increasing demand for tatami mats that can be laid directly on the flooring and tatami mats that are fashionable and have a design element, such as tatami mats without edges.

[0003] Patent Document 1 includes a vertically moving pressing gauge plate 2 with an acute cross-section that presses and holds almost the entire length of the front or lower front of the tatami-mat surface 4 from above the machine base 1 with a predetermined width, and a rotating folding plate 5 that supports almost the entire length of the tatami-mat surface to be held from the lower surface side. The rotating folding plate is pivotally supported at a distance approximately equal to the thickness of the tatami-mat surface from the lower surface of the placed tatami-mat surface and the edge of the vertically moving pressing gauge plate, and a manufacturing device for a tatami mat without an edge is shown.

[0004] Patent Document 2 shows a tatami-mat surface folding device for manufacturing a tatami mat without an edge, which is configured such that, with respect to a placement table 24, the rising portion of the folding member 30 (the tatami-mat surface rising surface 46) moves to an upper position, and by the rising portion of the folding member 30, with the folding line 206 of the tatami-mat surface 200 as a fulcrum, the side to be folded of the tatami-mat surface 200 (side 202 of the tatami-mat surface 200) is raised vertically. By moving in a direction in which the placement table 24 and the folding member 30 approach each other, the side to be folded of the tatami-mat surface 200 and the pressing surface (tapered inclined surface 48) of the folding member 30 are brought into contact, and the side to be folded of the tatami-mat surface 200 is folded inward with the folding line 206 of the tatami-mat surface 200 as a fulcrum.

[0005] Patent Document 3 describes a tatami mat bending device for manufacturing borderless tatami mats, which includes a table on which to place the tatami mat A, a bending unit consisting of a pressing plate 6 and a pressing block 7, a pivoting center provided near the tip of the tatami mat pressing plate, a heating control means for heating at least one of the pressing plate and the pressing block to a predetermined temperature by providing a heater, and a pivoting guide 10 means for pivoting the bending unit, wherein when bending the tatami mat, the bending unit is pivoted while heating both sides of the tatami mat with the heated pressing plate and the pressing block to bend the tatami mat. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-293566 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 6497797 [Patent Document 3] Patent No. 6201260 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] Patent Document 1 describes a means for holding down the tatami mat surface, in which a vertically moving pressing ruler plate 2 is capable of vertical movement by a cylinder 3. As a means for folding the tatami mat surface, a rotating folding plate 5 is movable by the extension of a rotating cylinder 8. Furthermore, in Patent Document 2, as a means for holding down the tatami mat surface, the tatami mat surface is held down by a folding support member 56 that moves vertically by a drive cylinder 58. As a means for folding the tatami mat surface, the folding member 30 can move vertically by a lifting drive cylinder 34.

[0008] However, these prior art technologies require the cylinder itself as an air source, as well as components associated with the cylinder, and a power source to control the cylinder. As a result, they are large devices and unsuitable for use in situations where installation space is limited or where a power source cannot be secured.

[0009] Furthermore, in Patent Document 3, the tatami mat surface is folded by directly sandwiching it between a pressing plate 6 and a heater block 7 as a means of folding the tatami mat surface. However, since there is no means to hold down the tatami mat surface that will actually be laid on, depending on the size of the tatami mat surface, it may end up in a so-called floating state, and when folded, unevenness may occur, resulting in an unsightly appearance and a decrease in commercial value.

[0010] The present invention aims to solve the problems of the above-mentioned prior art and proposes a tatami mat surface pressing mechanism with a simple structure and a tatami mat surface folding device equipped therewith. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] A tatami mat folding device according to one aspect of the present invention is a tatami mat folding device for folding a tatami mat, comprising a tatami mat pressing mechanism for pressing down on the tatami mat and a tatami mat folding section for folding the edge of the tatami mat, The tatami mat pressing mechanism is characterized by comprising a pressing section for pressing the tatami mat, a rotating arm for rotating the pressing section, and an arm rotation axis.

[0012] With this configuration, the tatami mat pressing mechanism has a simple structure consisting of a press section, a swivel arm, and an arm swivel axis, which allows the tatami mat to be fixed in place without floating, and in this state, the tatami mat can be neatly folded by the tatami mat folding section. Furthermore, by using a swivel arm to rotate the press section and press the tatami mat, this tatami mat pressing mechanism is smaller than conventional structures that use upper and lower cylinders or the like to drive the press section and press the tatami mat.

[0013] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the pressing part holds down the portion of the tatami mat other than the edge that is to be folded.

[0014] In conventional small folding devices, there was a mechanism to hold down the edges of the tatami mat being folded (α surface in Figure 7), but there was no mechanism to hold down the other surfaces (β surface in Figure 7). With this configuration, however, the parts other than the edges are firmly held down, unlike conventional devices that only held down the edges, which improves the slippage that occurred during folding. Furthermore, since the tatami mat can be firmly fixed with a simple structure without using power sources such as motors or air, which are used in conventional large folding devices, the overall size of the device can be prevented from increasing.

[0015] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that, when the pressing part holds down the tatami mat, the leading edge of the tatami mat on the edge side coincides with the folding position of the tatami mat.

[0016] With this configuration, the tip of the pressing section aligns with the folding position of the tatami mat, allowing the pressing section to serve as both a clamp and a fulcrum for folding. This contributes to space saving in the device and enables the tatami mat to be folded neatly.

[0017] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the pressing part is inclined such that the leading edge of the tatami mat, when it is pressed down on the tatami mat, gradually decreases in height towards the tip. With this configuration, the tip of the pressing part that is the folding position is acute, so the folding position of the tatami mat does not become excessively curved. The tip of the pressing part may also be rounded to prevent damage to the tatami mat.

[0018] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the swivel arm of the tatami mat pressing mechanism has a curved shape that creates a space for the tatami mat to pass through. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the folded sides of the tatami mat from hitting the swivel arm and getting damaged when the tatami mat is moved and set, and the work can proceed smoothly.

[0019] In addition, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the swivel arm is attached to a placement table for placing the tatami mat or a connecting member fixed to the placement table via the arm swivel axis so as to be swivellable, and the arm swivel axis is disposed below and / or outside the placement surface of the tatami mat on the placement table.

[0020] According to this configuration, by disposing the arm swivel axis below or outside the placement table on which the tatami mat is placed, interference with the tatami mat folded in the working process can be prevented, without disturbing the work, and the work efficiency can be improved.

[0021] In addition, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the tatami mat pressing mechanism includes a swivel member that swivels the pressing part manually. According to this configuration, a simple structure in which the pressing part can be swiveled manually can be achieved, so that the cost can be suppressed and the operator can easily perform maintenance.

[0022] In addition, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the swivel member is fixed to the swivel arm and is a gripping member that is gripped by hand. According to this configuration, the swivel arm can be swiveled by gripping it by hand with a simple member.

[0023] This tatami mat folding device is configured such that, for example, the swivel arms are formed in a pair with a predetermined distance therebetween, and the gripping member is fixed across the pair of swivel arms.

[0024] Here, in the tatami mat folding device, after once pressing the tatami mat, there is a desire to finely adjust a slight positional deviation or the like of the tatami mat. In the case of a large device equipped with a drive cylinder or the like, the tatami mat can be adjusted by slightly raising the tatami mat pressing by controlling the drive cylinder. However, in the case of a small device not equipped with a drive cylinder, the heavy tatami mat pressing has to be manually lifted each time the tatami mat is finely adjusted.

[0025] Therefore, in this tatami table folding device, a connecting member to which the turning member is rotatably connected and a regulating member for regulating the rotation of the turning member are arranged on the turning arm. The turning member includes a fulcrum portion rotatably connected to the connecting member of the turning arm, a force application point portion to which a force is applied by a part of the operator's body, and an action point portion where the force applied to the force application point portion acts on the regulating member.

[0026] According to this configuration, by providing a turning member having a force application point portion, a fulcrum portion, and an action point portion, the principle of a lever can be utilized to turn a heavy press portion via the turning arm with a small force.

[0027] In addition, in the case of a small device without a conventional drive cylinder when there is a desire to finely adjust the positional deviation of the tatami table, it becomes difficult to operate because while slightly lifting the tatami presser with one hand, the tatami table can only be adjusted with the other hand. Therefore, when finely adjusting the positional deviation of the tatami table, if both hands can be freed, it becomes easier to adjust the tatami table than before.

[0028] Therefore, this tatami table folding device is characterized in that the turning member includes a column portion extending downward from the fulcrum portion, the force application point portion is connected to the column portion below the fulcrum portion, and the column portion extends from the fulcrum portion to the action point portion.

[0029] According to this configuration, by arranging the force application point portion downward, the force application point portion can be operated with the foot or the like, and the tatami table can be finely adjusted with both hands.

[0030] In addition, this tatami table folding device is characterized in that the turning arm is composed of a pair with a predetermined distance therebetween, the connecting member and the regulating member are respectively arranged on the pair of turning arms, and the turning member includes a pair of fulcrum portions connected to the respective connecting members of the pair of turning arms, a pair of column portions extending downward from the pair of fulcrum portions, a force application point portion arranged across the pair of column portions, and a pair of action point portions where the force applied to the force application point portion acts on the regulating member of the turning arm.

[0031] This configuration, by positioning the point of force application downwards, allows for operation with the foot, enabling fine adjustments to the tatami surface with both hands. Furthermore, the fact that each part of the swivel component is composed of pairs results in a highly durable and stable swivel mechanism.

[0032] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the column portion of the pivoting member extends from the pivot point to the point of application along the shape of the pivoting arm. With this configuration, since a part of the column portion of the pivoting member follows the shape of the pivoting arm, it is less likely to interfere with other mechanisms or components and is aesthetically pleasing.

[0033] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the column portion of the swivel member is made of a plate material, and the point of application of the swivel arm that abuts the regulating member is made of a notch formed by cutting out the plate material. With this configuration, the column portion is made of a plate material and the point of application is made of a notch, resulting in a simple and space-saving structure.

[0034] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the column portion of the swivel member is made of a plate material, the pivot point portion connected to the connecting member of the swivel arm is made of a notch formed by cutting out the plate material, and the swivel member is removable. With this configuration, the column portion is made of a plate material and the pivot point portion is made of a notch, resulting in a simple and space-saving structure, and the swivel member can be removed when not needed.

[0035] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the point of force application of the pivoting member is cylindrical in shape. With this configuration, since the point of force application is cylindrical and has a curved surface, it is painless and safe when applying force to the point of force application using, for example, a person's foot.

[0036] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the point of force application of the pivoting member is made of a surface material. With this configuration, since the point of force application is made of a surface material, it is easy to apply force to the point of force application using, for example, the knee.

[0037] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the pivoting member has an extension that extends from below at least one of the pair of column portions in a direction that reduces the distance between the pair of column portions, and the connection between the point of force and the column portion is made via the extension.

[0038] In this configuration, the pair of columnar sections of the swivel member are connected to the swivel arms on both sides, and the point of force application is attached across them. However, by attaching the point of force application via an extension that extends in the direction of reducing the distance between the pair of columnar sections, that is, by shortening the point of force application, interference with other mechanisms, components, and other devices can be suppressed.

[0039] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that, when force is applied by the worker's foot at the point of force application, the force is applied to the point of application via the fulcrum, pushing up the regulating member, which causes the pressing part to rotate away from the tatami mat via the regulating member and the swivel arm. With this configuration, the worker's feet, which are relatively free during the tatami mat folding operation, can be used, resulting in improved work efficiency.

[0040] Furthermore, the tatami mat folding device includes a swivel mechanism in the tatami mat pressing mechanism that allows the pressing part to be rotated manually, and the swivel mechanism includes a pedal and a link mechanism connected to the pedal, which converts the force applied to the pedal into a force acting on the swivel arm, so that by applying force to the pedal, the pressing part rotates in a direction away from the tatami mat.

[0041] With this configuration, the press unit can be rotated by operating the pedal with the foot, allowing the feet to be relatively free during the tatami mat folding process, thus improving work efficiency.

[0042] Furthermore, the tatami mat folding device comprises a link mechanism which includes a first link member that moves upward when force is applied to the pedal, a second link member to which one end of the first link member is rotatably connected and whose other end slides forward when the first end rotates, and a third link member which has a guide portion that allows the other end of the second link member to slide horizontally. A pressing portion is fixed to the other end of the second link member which contacts and presses against a part of the swivel arm. When force is applied to the pedal, the pressing portion presses against the swivel arm via the link mechanism, and the pressing portion rotates via the swivel arm.

[0043] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the tatami mat pressing mechanism further includes a locking mechanism that locks the rotation of the swivel arm, and the locking mechanism locks the rotation of the swivel arm and also increases the pressing force of the pressing section.

[0044] With this configuration, the tatami mat surface holding mechanism, combined with the locking mechanism, securely holds the tatami mat surface in place and increases the pressing force, allowing the tatami mat surface to be firmly fixed. As a result, it is possible to manufacture tatami mats that have a good appearance and high commercial value.

[0045] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the locking mechanism of the tatami mat pressing mechanism comprises a locking member and a locking portion that engages with the locking member, the locking member is configured to be rotatable about a pivot axis and has a locked portion that engages with the locking portion.

[0046] This configuration allows for secure fastening of the tatami mat surface with a simple structure in which the locking member engages with the locking part, without the need for a power source such as a motor or air. This prevents the overall size of the device from increasing. The locking part could be, for example, a projection that engages the locking member or a notch that engages the locking member with the opening.

[0047] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that, when the locking portion is further rotated from the state in which it is locked to the locking portion, the portion constituting the locking portion slides relative to the locking portion, thereby increasing the pressing force.

[0048] This configuration allows for increased pressing force in the pressing section with a simple structure, without the need for power sources such as motors or air, and enables secure fixing of the tatami mat surface. Therefore, it is possible to manufacture tatami mats that are aesthetically pleasing and have high commercial value.

[0049] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the locking member of the tatami mat pressing mechanism is a plate-shaped member, the locked portion is a notch, the locked portion is a lock pin, and the notch of the locking member has a side portion that slides in a direction approaching the lock pin by further rotating the locking member from the state in which the lock pin is locked.

[0050] With this configuration, the pressing force of the press can be easily increased using a simple structure consisting of a notch in a plate-shaped locking member and a locking pin, without the need for a power source such as a motor or air.

[0051] Here, the edge portion that slides toward the lock pin can be configured such that, for example, the virtual center position of the part of the edge that contacts the lock pin is eccentric to the center position of the rotation axis of the locking member (see Figure 15). In other words, by making the virtual center of the contact portion of the edge with the lock pin eccentric to the rotation center of the locking member, the contact portion of the edge moves in a trajectory that does not synchronize with the rotation of the locking member. When the locking member is rotated, the edge portion slides toward the lock pin in a direction that increases the press pressure, and the press pressure can be easily increased with a simple structure. Furthermore, the shape of the contact portion of the edge can be an arc or a straight line.

[0052] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the locking member of the tatami mat pressing mechanism is rotatably attached via the pivot shaft to a mounting table on which the tatami mat is placed or to a connecting member fixed to the mounting table, and the locking portion is attached to the swivel arm, or the locking member is rotatably attached to the swivel arm via the pivot shaft, and the locking portion is attached to a mounting table on which the object is placed or to a connecting member fixed to the mounting table.

[0053] This configuration allows for secure fixing of the tatami mat surface with a simple structure without the need for power sources such as motors or air. Furthermore, by configuring the structure to achieve this as described above, the entire device can be made more compact.

[0054] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that, when the locking member is rotatably attached to the connecting member, the pivot axis of the locking member is positioned below and / or outside the surface on which the tatami mat is placed on the aforementioned table. With this configuration, by positioning the pivot axis below or outside the table on which the tatami mat is placed, interference with the tatami mat can be prevented, it does not get in the way of work, and work efficiency can be improved.

[0055] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the tatami mat folding section includes a folding block configured to be rotatable around a block pivot axis, and the folding block is rotated until it contacts the tatami mat interposed between it and the tip of the press section, thereby folding the tatami mat.

[0056] This configuration allows for a miniaturized tatami mat surface folding section while still firmly folding the tatami surface, resulting in a tatami mat with a good appearance and high commercial value.

[0057] Furthermore, it is desirable that the tatami surface bending block of this tatami surface bending device includes a tatami surface contact portion that contacts the tatami surface and a heater that heats the tatami surface contact portion. With this configuration, the bending block heated by the heater can firmly bend the tatami surface, making it possible to manufacture tatami mats that are aesthetically pleasing and have high commercial value.

[0058] The tatami mat folding device is characterized by further comprising a handle for manually rotating the folding block and a handle locking part for locking the handle. With this configuration, the folding block can be rotated using the handle without using large-scale devices such as motors or air. Furthermore, by fixing the handle to the handle locking part when the folding block is folding the tatami mat, the tatami mat can be folded firmly, and since the operator can release their hand from the handle in this state during operation, work efficiency can be increased.

[0059] The handle locking mechanism could be, for example, a hook-shaped or notched design, or a mechanism into which the handle fits and which allows switching between a locked and unlocked state via some kind of switch.

[0060] The tatami mat folding device is characterized in that the tatami mat folding section has an inclined portion at the longitudinal end of the folding block. This configuration reduces snagging when moving the tatami mat, allowing it to slide smoothly.

[0061] Furthermore, it is desirable that a portion of the mounting table of this tatami mat folding device be made of a corrosion-resistant material. When folding tatami mats, it is common practice to spray or apply moisture to the mat before folding to ensure that it folds neatly and does not crack. Therefore, if the folding block is heated by a heater or the like, moisture will evaporate from the tatami mat during folding, generating water vapor. With this configuration, however, it is possible to suppress rusting of the mounting table by the water vapor generated during folding, thereby preventing damage to the tatami mat due to metal rust. [Effects of the Invention]

[0062] According to the tatami mat folding device of the present invention, the tatami mat pressing mechanism can firmly hold down the tatami mat, and the tatami mat can be folded while being held down. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0063] [Figure 1] This is a front view of a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a side view of a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a plan view of a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] (a) A perspective view of the tatami mat pressing mechanism of a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention in a closed state. (b) A perspective view of the tatami mat pressing mechanism in an open state. [Figure 5] (a) An enlarged perspective view of the tatami mat pressing mechanism of a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention in a closed state. (b) An enlarged perspective view of the tatami mat pressing mechanism in an open state. [Figure 6] A perspective view illustrating the tatami mat folding portion of a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention (hook portion removed). [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates a state in which half a tatami mat is set in a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8]This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the process of pressing down on a tatami mat surface using a tatami mat surface folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention. (a) State before pressing down on the tatami mat surface (b) State after pressing down on the tatami mat surface (before locking) (c) State after pressing down on the tatami mat surface (after locking) [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of folding a tatami mat surface using a tatami mat surface folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention. (a) Diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat surface is sandwiched (b) Diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat surface is folded to nearly 90 degrees (c) Diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat surface is folded to more than 90 degrees [Figure 10] This diagram illustrates a state in which the handle is locked to the hook portion of a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This diagram illustrates the state in which half a tatami mat has been folded using a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This diagram illustrates the state in which the tatami mat surface is shifted when the tatami mat surface presser of the tatami mat surface folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention is opened. [Figure 13] This diagram illustrates the state in which the remaining half-mat portion of the tatami mat is set in the tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a simplified, enlarged front view of the inclined portion of the bending block of a tatami mat bending device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of the edge portion of a locking member in a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This is a schematic side view of the locking mechanism of a tatami mat folding device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. (a) Diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat presser is open. (b) Diagram illustrating the state in which the swivel arm is in the process of swiveling. (c) Diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat A is pressed by the press section. (d) Diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat presser is locked. [Figure 17] This is a perspective view of a tatami mat folding device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is an enlarged view showing the relationship between the column portion of the pivoting member and the pivoting arm in a tatami mat folding device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19]This is an explanatory diagram showing the operation of rotating the press section by a swivel member in a tatami mat folding device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] This is a perspective view showing modified examples of the swivel member in a tatami mat folding device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. (a) Modified example where the point of force application is a surface material (b) Modified example of the column part and the point of force application [Figure 21] This is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the column portion of the pivoting member and the pivoting arm in a tatami mat folding device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. (a) Third embodiment (b) Modified example [Figure 22] This is a perspective view of a tatami mat folding device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the pivoting mechanism in a tatami mat folding device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. (a) Enlarged view of the pivoting arm from the outside (b) Explanatory diagram illustrating the connection between the second link member and the third link member [Figure 24] This is an enlarged view including the lower portion of the first link member illustrating the pivoting mechanism in a tatami mat folding device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0064] The following description will refer to a tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. Furthermore, the following embodiment will be described using an example in which a tatami mat pressing mechanism is applied to the tatami mat folding device, but this tatami mat pressing mechanism can be applied to devices for processing tatami mats other than tatami mat folding devices.

[0065] <First Embodiment> First, the configuration of the tatami mat folding device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to the figures. Figure 1 is a front view of the tatami mat folding device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a side view, and Figure 3 is a top view. Figure 4(a) is a perspective view of the tatami mat folding device 1, showing the tatami mat pressing mechanism in a closed state, and (b) shows the tatami mat pressing mechanism in an open state. Figure 5(a) is an enlarged perspective view of the tatami mat pressing mechanism in a closed state, and (b) is an enlarged perspective view of the tatami mat pressing mechanism in an open state. Figure 6 is a perspective view illustrating the tatami mat folding part of the tatami mat folding device 1, with the hook part removed.

[0066] (Overall structure) As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the tatami mat folding device 1 mainly comprises a placement table 2 on which the tatami mat A is placed, a tatami mat pressing mechanism 6 which is a means for pressing down on the tatami mat A, a locking mechanism 7 which locks the tatami mat pressing mechanism 6 that presses down on the tatami mat A, and a tatami mat folding section 9 which folds the tatami mat.

[0067] The mounting table 2 has a frame 3 located below it and casters 4 located at the four corners of the frame 3. A control box 5 and a connecting member 8 are attached to one side of the frame 3 of the mounting table 2.

[0068] As shown in Figure 1, the mounting table 2 of the tatami mat folding device 1 has a folding table 2a attached to the right side and a folding table 2b attached to the left side at the end in the X-axis direction of Figure 1. These folding tables 2a and 2b allow the mounting surface of the mounting table 2 to be extended in the X-axis direction, which can be used when the tatami mat is larger than the mounting table 2 in the long side direction. Note that the folding tables 2a and 2b may be detachable tables.

[0069] As shown in Figure 2, a folding table 2c is attached to one end of the mounting table 2 in the Y-axis direction in Figure 2. This folding table 2c allows the mounting surface of the mounting table 2 to be extended in the Y-axis direction, which can be useful when the tatami mat extends significantly beyond the mounting table 2 in the shorter direction. The folding table 2c may also be a detachable table.

[0070] When these folding tables 2a, 2b, and 2c are not in use, the machine is designed to be compact by folding them. This configuration allows the machine to be made smaller, making it possible to install it even in limited spaces.

[0071] As shown in Figure 4, the frame 3 has a pair of two frames 3a extending in the Y-axis direction, four frames 3b extending in the Z-axis direction from the four corners of the mounting table 2, and a pair of two frames 3c extending in the X-axis direction. Casters 4 are attached to each of the four ends of the frame 3a. The presence of casters 4 makes it easy to move the frame between a temporary workspace and a storage location. Note that the frame structure and the presence or absence of casters are not limited to this structure, and other variations are possible.

[0072] (Tatami mat surface holding mechanism) As shown in Figures 4 to 6, the tatami mat pressing mechanism 6 of this embodiment has a pivot arm 6a at both ends in the X-axis direction, a press section 6b extending in the X-axis direction with a predetermined width, and an arm pivot shaft 6c that pivots the press section 6b. The arm pivot shaft 6c is attached to a connecting member 8 fixed to the mounting table 2 below and outside the mounting surface of the tatami mat on the mounting table 2.

[0073] The swivel arm 6a in this embodiment is made of a hook-shaped metal plate, which is like a strip-shaped ring cut horizontally, with the central portion cut out from a roughly semicircular plate. One end of the hook-shaped base of the pair of swivel arms 6a is rotatably attached to a pair of connecting members 8 by arm swivel axes 6c. The other end of the pair of swivel arms 6a is attached to a roughly rectangular cylindrical fixing block 6d that spans the pair of swivel arms 6a for fixing the press section 6b.

[0074] The press section 6b is fastened and fixed to the lower surface of the fixed block 6d by bolts or the like. The press section 6b is a rectangular plate shape with a constant width in the Y-axis direction and extending in the X-axis direction. Its tip approximately coincides with the tip of the mounting table 2 in the Y-axis direction and is sloped outward so as to gradually decrease in height, forming an acute angle (see Figure 8). Note that the tip of the press section 6b and the tip of the mounting table 2 in the Y-axis direction do not perfectly coincide. When the tatami mat is sandwiched between the press section 6b and the folding block, the folded portion of the tatami mat approximately coincides with the tip of the mounting table 2. This allows the tatami mat to be folded firmly, resulting in a visually appealing finish. Note that the acute-angled tip may also be given a rounded edge.

[0075] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, a support block 6e is attached to the pair of swivel arms 6a, which holds the pair of swivel arms 6a. This support block 6e is used to fix a hook portion 6f that locks the handle 9f of the tatami mat folding section 9, which will be described later. The hook portion 6f is positioned approximately in the center of the support block 6e in the X-axis direction. The hook portion 6f is intended to lock and hold the handle 9f so that the folding block 9a of the tatami mat folding section 9 grips the handle 9f and rotates, maintaining a state in which the handle 9f is pressed against the support block 6e. Note that any device that can fix the handle is not limited to a hook; a fitting hole or the like may also be used. Additionally, a configuration in which the handle is fitted and can be switched between a locked state and a released state by some kind of switch is also conceivable.

[0076] (Locking mechanism) As shown in Figures 5 and 8, the locking mechanism 7 of this embodiment comprises a locking member 7a and a locking pin 7b. The locking member 7a of this embodiment has a notch 7d cut out from a rectangular metal plate with rounded corners, forming a substantially trapezoidal shape with rounded corners from a predetermined side, and a further notch 7e cut out in the shape of an elongated hole into which a finger can be inserted to grip the locking member 7a.

[0077] The locking member 7a has a notch 7d that is cut out in a roughly trapezoidal shape, with the remaining legs 7aa and 7ab. One leg 7aa is rotatably attached to a connecting member 8 fixed to the mounting table 2, around a pivot axis 7c, and the other leg 7ab is hooked onto the locking pin 7b.

[0078] As shown in Figure 5, the lock pin 7b is made of metal and is mounted so as to protrude a predetermined length from the outer surface after passing through the swivel arm 6a. The pivot shaft 7c is positioned below and on the outside of the mounting surface of the mounting table 2 so as not to interfere when pressing down on or folding the tatami mat.

[0079] Then, the swivel arm 6a of the tatami mat pressing mechanism 6 is rotated so that the press section 6b holds down the tatami mat A. The locking member 7a is then rotated clockwise around the pivot axis 7c, facing the tatami mat, and the foot portion 7ab of the locking member 7a is engaged with the locking pin 7b, thus maintaining this state. Further rotation of the locking member 7a clockwise from this state increases the pressing pressure, resulting in the tatami mat being firmly fixed in place.

[0080] The reason the press pressure increases when the locking member 7a rotates is that the edge of the foot portion 7ab of the locking member 7a is formed in an arc shape, and the virtual center position of this arc of the edge is eccentric to the center position of the rotation axis 7c of the locking member 7a (see Figure 15). In other words, by eccentricating the virtual center of the arc of the edge of the foot portion 7ab with the rotation center of the locking member 7a, when the locking member rotates, the edge slides against the locking pin in a direction that increases the press pressure. This structure makes it easy to increase the press pressure.

[0081] The arc shape of the edge of the foot portion 7ab described above is just one example of this embodiment. The shape of the edge may be straight or other shapes. Any shape is acceptable as long as the virtual center position of the contact portion of the edge with the lock pin and the rotation center of the locking member are offset, so that the contact portion of the edge moves in a trajectory that does not synchronize with the rotation of the locking member.

[0082] Furthermore, the structure in which the edge of the foot portion 7ab of the locking member 7a is locked onto the locking pin 7b is just one example of this embodiment. For example, instead of the locking pin that the edge is locked onto, a locking part that the edge fits into and is locked into an open notch may be used. With this configuration as well, the edge of the foot portion 7ab is locked onto the notched edge that constitutes the open notch, and by rotating the edge from there, the edge slides against the notched edge, thereby increasing the pressing pressure.

[0083] (Folded part of the tatami mat surface) As shown in Figure 6, the tatami mat folding section 9 of this embodiment extends in the X-axis direction, and a handle 9f is fixed near the center in the X-axis direction. The tatami mat folding section 9 is attached by a pair of fixing members 10 near both ends in the X-axis direction of the mounting table 2, and comprises a frame 9d extending in the X-axis direction across the fixing members 10 on both sides, a folding block 9a extending in the X-axis direction fixed to this frame 9d, and a heater block 9b fixed to the frame 9d near the center in the X-axis direction on the back side of the folding block 9a.

[0084] Furthermore, a handle 9f is attached to the tatami mat folding section 9, which has a plate-shaped fixing part interposed between the folding block 9a and the heater block 9b. The main body of this handle 9f, including the fixing part, is made of metal, and the gripping part is covered with a rubber material.

[0085] Furthermore, this tatami mat folding section 9 is rotatably attached to a pair of fixing members 10, and by gripping the handle 9f, it can be rotated clockwise around the axis 9c as shown in Figure 8 or Figure 9. By pressing the folding block 9a against the tatami mat A, the edge of the tatami mat A can be folded. At this time, since the folding block 9a is heated by the heater block 9b, it is possible to firmly fold the edge of the tatami mat A.

[0086] Furthermore, the handle 9f can be locked and held in place by the hook portion 6f of the aforementioned tatami mat pressing mechanism 6, allowing the worker to release their hands and perform other tasks while the handle 9f is locked to the hook portion 6f.

[0087] With the tatami mat bending device 1 of this embodiment, which has all of the above configurations, the tatami mat surface A can be firmly pressed down by the press portion 6b of the tatami mat pressing mechanism 6. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 7 locks the fixed state and increases the pressing pressure to reliably press down the tatami mat surface A. In addition, the edges of the tatami mat surface A can be firmly folded by the press portion 6b of the tatami mat pressing mechanism 6 and the heated bending block 9a.

[0088] Furthermore, the handle, with its hook, can maintain the folded state of the tatami mat. Because these structures are simple and easy to use, the entire device can be miniaturized despite incorporating various configurations.

[0089] (The process of pressing down the tatami mat surface) Next, the process of pressing down on the tatami mat surface with the tatami mat surface folding device of this embodiment, which has the above-described configuration, will be explained. Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat surface has been folded in half (half a mat) using the tatami mat surface folding device 1 of this embodiment. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the process of pressing down on the tatami mat surface with the tatami mat surface folding device 1, where (a) is the state before pressing down on the tatami mat surface, (b) is the state after pressing down on the tatami mat surface (before locking), and (c) is the state after pressing down on the tatami mat surface (after locking).

[0090] As shown in Figure 7, the tatami mat A is placed so that it covers the upper half of the long side of the mounting table 2, with the folding point being the tip of the mounting table 2, and a predetermined folding width protruding in the short side (Y-axis direction) of the mounting table 2. At this time, the outer part of the tatami mat A that protrudes from the tip of the mounting table 2 is called the α surface, and the inner part of the tatami mat A on the mounting table 2 that is inside the tip of the mounting table 2 is called the β surface. Furthermore, if the tatami mat A protrudes from the mounting table 2, various sizes of tatami mats can be accommodated by unfolding the folding tables 2a, 2b, and 2c.

[0091] As shown in Figure 8, after adjusting the folding position, the swivel arm 6a of the tatami mat pressing mechanism 6 is rotated clockwise from the state shown in Figure 8(a) to press the tatami mat A from above with the press part 6b, temporarily fixing it in place so that no displacement of the tatami mat A occurs. Then, the locking member 7a is rotated clockwise until the foot portion 7ab is locked into the locking pin 7b (see Figure 8(b)).

[0092] With the tatami mat surface A pressed down, the tip of the press section 6b is approximately aligned with the tip of the mounting surface of the mounting table 2, and the tip of the press section 6b is inclined so that its height gradually decreases outward. The press section 6b, which has the same width as the swivel arm 6a, presses down on the tatami mat surface A in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the mounting table 2, fixing its position. This tatami mat surface pressing mechanism 6 firmly presses down on the tatami mat surface A, so that the β surface of the tatami mat surface A does not float, and is firmly fixed in place.

[0093] Next, we will describe the locking mechanism 7, which locks the rotation of the swivel arm 6a of the tatami mat pressing mechanism 6 and increases the pressing force of the press section 6b. As shown in Figure 8(b), the press section 6b of the tatami mat pressing mechanism 6 presses against the tatami mat A, and the locking member 7a of the locking mechanism 7 is engaged with the locking pin 7b, so that the press section 6b presses against the tatami mat A via the swivel arm 6a and is locked in that position.

[0094] Then, by further rotating the locking member 7a clockwise from the state shown in Figure 8(b) to the state shown in Figure 8(c), the locking member 7a slides relative to the locking pin 7b, further increasing the pressing force on the tatami mat surface A. This makes the fixing of the tatami mat surface A more secure. Figure 8(c) shows the state in which the tatami mat surface A is folded by further rotating the folding part 9 from the state in which the tatami mat surface A is fixed.

[0095] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the swivel arm 6a has a curved shape that creates a space through which the side edge of the folded tatami mat can pass. When setting up the tatami mat A in two stages, it prevents the folded α surface from hitting the arm and getting damaged when it is moved and set up, allowing the work to proceed smoothly and enabling the production of tatami mats that are aesthetically pleasing and have high commercial value.

[0096] Furthermore, the connecting member 8, which is fixed to the mounting table 2, has a locking member 7a, a swivel arm 6a, and a tatami mat folding section 9 that are rotatably attached to it. This configuration minimizes the number of parts, thus allowing for a smaller device. The connecting member 8 is a connecting section that extends from the mounting table 2 towards the front in the Y-axis direction, but it may be fixed within the mounting table as long as it does not interfere with the operation of each mechanism, and it may also have a configuration with multiple connecting sections, and its size and material are not restricted.

[0097] Therefore, without using a power source such as a motor or air, the tatami mat pressing mechanism with a locking mechanism is compact yet can increase the pressing force of the pressing section. Regardless of the size or thickness of the tatami mat, the tatami mat pressing mechanism can fix the tatami mat from the mounting table without any displacement, making it possible to manufacture tatami mats that are aesthetically pleasing and have high commercial value.

[0098] (The folding process of tatami mats) Next, the process of folding a tatami mat using the tatami mat folding device of this embodiment will be explained using Figure 9. Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the process of folding a tatami mat using the tatami mat folding device 1 of this embodiment. (a) is a diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat is sandwiched, (b) is a diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat is folded to nearly 90 degrees, and (c) is a diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat is folded to more than 90 degrees. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the state in which the handle is locked to the hook part in the tatami mat folding device 1 of this embodiment. Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the state in which half of the tatami mat has been folded using the tatami mat folding device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0099] Figure 9(a) shows the tatami mat A, which is placed on the mounting table 2 so as to straddle the bending block 9a, and fixed by the press unit 6b. In this state, the tip of the press unit 6b, the tip of the mounting surface of the mounting table 2, and the tip of the bending block 9a of the tatami mat bending unit 9 and the block pivot axis 9c are roughly coaxial.

[0100] Figure 9(b) shows the operator holding the handle 9f from the state shown in Figure 9(a) and rotating the bending block 9a so that it approaches the press section 6b. As the handle 9f is rotated, the block 9a rotates. The block rotation axis 9c of the tatami mat bending section 9 is positioned below and outside the mounting surface of the mounting table 2 and is located on the connecting member 8. Furthermore, when bending the tatami mat A, the table-side tip of the bending block 9a is configured to rotate in a way that traces the arc in which the tatami mat A is folded. This is because the table-side tip of the bending block 9a is designed to grip the tatami mat A and is positioned to trace an arc around the rotation axis 9c.

[0101] Figure 9(c) shows the state after further rotation of the bending block 9a using the handle 9f from the state in Figure 9(b), allowing a firm fold to be made in the tatami mat surface A. The tip of the press section 6b is inclined so that its height gradually decreases towards the edge of the mounting table 2. The sharp tip of the press section 6b and the straight section of the bending block 9a form the bending point, preventing the corners of the fold in the tatami mat surface A from becoming rounded. Therefore, it is possible to manufacture tatami mats that have a good appearance and high commercial value.

[0102] Furthermore, at this time, the folding block 9a is heated by a heater block 9b which has a heating function. In this embodiment, the heater temperature is set to 100-120°C for heating. For example, if the tatami surface is made of resin, setting the temperature above 130°C may damage the surface of the tatami surface, so it is desirable to keep it below 120°C. This makes it possible to fold the tatami surface cleanly without causing cracks in the rush grass, whether it is made of natural tatami surface or artificially manufactured tatami surface made of resin or Japanese paper.

[0103] Furthermore, when the tatami mat surface A is folded using the heater block 9b, the area near the tip of the press section 6b and the water-soaked tatami mat surface A are heated, and steam may be generated. This is because, before folding the tatami mat surface, moisture is sprayed or applied to it to ensure that the tatami mat surface folds neatly and does not crack.

[0104] Therefore, in order to suppress rust caused by the generated water vapor, in this embodiment, the tip of the mounting table 2 is configured to have a corrosion-preventive material. Note that the heater block 9b is not an essential component, and in this case, it can be used even if there is no power supply equipment at all.

[0105] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, with the folding block 9a of Figure 9(c) folding the edge of the tatami mat A, the swirling handle 9f can be hooked onto the hook 12 and released, and the folded state of the edge of the tatami mat A can be maintained even after releasing the hand. Note that the hook is not the only thing that can secure the handle 9f; a fitting hole or the like may also be used.

[0106] Figure 11 illustrates the state in which the folding of half a tatami mat surface is completed using the tatami mat surface folding device of this embodiment. After the folding of tatami mat surface A is completed, the handle 9f is rotated counterclockwise from the state shown in Figure 10 to return the folding block 9a to the position of the mounting table 2. This causes the α surface of tatami mat surface A to stand up, completing the folding process.

[0107] Figure 12 illustrates the state in which the tatami mat presser of the tatami mat folding device of this embodiment is opened and the tatami mat is shifted. Figure 13 illustrates the state in which the remaining half tatami mat is set in the tatami mat folding device of this embodiment. Figure 14 is a simplified enlarged front view of the inclined portion of the folding block of the tatami mat folding device of this embodiment.

[0108] After the half-mat folding process is completed, the locking member 7a is rotated counterclockwise to detach the foot portion 7ab from the locking pin 7b and release the lock. Then, the swivel arm 6a is rotated in the opposite direction to the pressing direction (counterclockwise in Figure 9) to open the pressing section 6b and release the pressure on the tatami mat surface A by the tatami mat surface pressing mechanism 6.

[0109] Then, move tatami mat A in the direction of the arrow in Figure 12, sliding it across the placement table 2, and then fold the tatami mat A in the portion that has not yet been folded (see Figure 13). Note that the direction of movement is not limited to the direction of the arrow; tatami mat A can also be rotated to set the side opposite to the side that has already been folded.

[0110] Furthermore, to eliminate the step difference with the connecting member 8, the folding block 9a has inclined portions 9e at both ends in the longitudinal direction (see Figure 14). This reduces snagging at the edges of the mounting surface when moving the tatami mat A, allowing it to slide smoothly.

[0111] Then, in this state, steps (1) to (3) above are repeated, and the tatami mat surface A is folded. The tatami mat folding device of this embodiment is based on the width for processing half a tatami mat, for example. When folding a tatami mat surface the length of one tatami mat, the folding is done in two stages, half a tatami mat at a time, to accommodate the folds and textures of the tatami mat. The tatami mat folding device of this embodiment may also be configured to fold the length of one tatami mat at once.

[0112] Through the above process, the side of the tatami mat surface A to be folded (side α) is folded along the side of the tatami mat base by a predetermined folding width, and the folded side can be reliably sewn or glued to the side or back of the tatami mat base.

[0113] <Second Embodiment> Next, the second embodiment will be described. The main difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is the structure of the locking mechanism 7. Therefore, for the second embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment will be described, and similar components will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0114] Figure 16 is a schematic side view of the locking mechanism of the tatami mat folding device of the second embodiment. (a) is a diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat pressing mechanism is open, (b) is a diagram illustrating the state in which the swivel arm is in the process of swiveling, (c) is a diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat A is pressed down by the press section, and (d) is a diagram illustrating the state in which the tatami mat presser is locked.

[0115] As shown in Figure 16(a), the locking mechanism 70 comprises a locking member 70a and a locking pin 70b. In the second embodiment, the locking member 70a is rotatably attached to the swivel arm 6a via a locking part pivot shaft 70c. The locking pin 70b is attached to a connecting member 8 fixed to the mounting table 2. The locking member 70a also has a notch 70d that engages the locking pin 70b and allows the locking member 70a to slide in a direction toward the locking pin 70b.

[0116] As shown in Figure 16(b), after setting the tatami mat A on the mounting table 2, the swivel arm 6a of the tatami pressing mechanism 6 is swung in a direction that brings it closer to the mounting table 2 in order to fix it in place. At this time, the locking member 70a rotates around the locking part pivot axis 70c in conjunction with the rotation of the swivel arm 6.

[0117] As shown in Figure 16(c), the swivel arm 6a is further rotated until the press section 6b presses down on the tatami mat A on the mounting table 2. When this happens, the locking member 70a rotates further around the pivot axis 70c, and the notch 70d is automatically locked into the locking pin 70b.

[0118] As shown in Figure 16(d), by further rotating the locking member 70a in the direction of the arrow from the state in which the notch 70d is engaged with the locking pin 70b, the notch 70d slides relative to the locking pin 70b, and the pressing portion 6b of the tatami mat presser 6 is further pressed toward the mounting table 2, thereby increasing the pressing force that fixes the tatami mat A.

[0119] This configuration allows the tatami mat folding device of the second embodiment to increase the pressing force of the pressing section while remaining compact, without using a power source such as a motor or air. This makes it possible to fix the tatami mat surface so that it does not shift position from the mounting table. Therefore, it is possible to manufacture tatami mats that have a good appearance and high commercial value.

[0120] <Third Embodiment> Next, the third embodiment will be described. The main differences between the third embodiment and the first embodiment are that the third embodiment includes a rotating member that allows the pressing part of the tatami mat pressing mechanism to be rotated manually, and that it does not include the locking mechanism 7. Although the third embodiment does not have the locking mechanism 7, it is still possible to press down on the tatami mat by the weight of the pressing part of the tatami mat pressing mechanism. Therefore, for the third embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment will be described, and similar components will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0121] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the tatami mat folding device according to the third embodiment. Figure 18 is an enlarged view showing the relationship between the column portion and the swivel arm of the swivel member in the tatami mat folding device according to the third embodiment. Figure 19 is an explanatory diagram showing the operation of rotating the press section by the swivel member in the tatami mat folding device according to the third embodiment. Figure 20 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the swivel member in the tatami mat folding device according to the third embodiment. Figure 21 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the column portion and the swivel arm of the swivel member in the tatami mat folding device according to the third embodiment. (a) Third embodiment (b) Modified example.

[0122] As shown in Figure 17, the tatami mat folding device of the third embodiment is configured such that the tatami mat pressing mechanism 6 further includes a swivel member 20, and the swivel member 20 allows the press section 6b to be rotated manually.

[0123] As shown in Figures 17 and 18, the pivoting member 20 mainly comprises a pair of columnar sections 21 on both sides, an extension 22 extending horizontally from below one of the columnar sections 21, a pivot point 23 formed as a through hole in the columnar section 21, a point of application 24 formed as a notch at the end of the columnar section 21, and a point of force 25 connected to the pair of columnar sections 21 via the extension 22. See Figure 21(a) for the pivot point 23 and the point of application 24.

[0124] Furthermore, a connecting member 6g for connecting to the column portion 21 and a restricting member 6h that can come into contact with the point of action portion 24 are fixed to the swivel arm 6a. The connecting member 6g and the restricting member 6h are configured to clamp the swivel arm using bolts and nuts.

[0125] As shown in Figure 18, the pivot point 23, formed as a through hole in the column portion 21 of the swivel member 20, is rotatably connected to the swivel arm 6 by the connecting member 6g. Furthermore, with the swivel member 20 connected to the swivel arm 6, the point of application 24, formed as a notch in the column portion 21, abuts against the regulating member 6h of the swivel arm 6. The point of application 24 is formed as a notch at the upper end of the column portion 21 by cutting out the upper part of a long, narrow plate (see Figure 21(a)).

[0126] Furthermore, the pair of column sections 21 are made up of elongated plates, with the lower part of the fulcrum section 23 extending vertically, and extending in a curve from the fulcrum section 23 to the point of application section 24, following the shape of the pivot arm 6a. In addition, an extension section 22 extends horizontally from the lower end of one column section 21 to reduce the distance between it and the other column section 21. Note that the extension section 22 is not limited to being an extension from the column section 21, but may also be configured as a separate member fixed to the column section 21.

[0127] Furthermore, the cylindrical force point 25 extending horizontally is fixed via a pair of columnar sections 21 and an extension 22. The force point 25 is made of a cylinder with an internal skeleton (not shown) that is lightweight and durable. In addition to its cylindrical shape, the force point 25 can also be made of a surface material, for example, so that it can be pressed with a knee (see Figure 20(a)). Alternatively, the pair of columnar sections 21 may not have an extension 22, and the force point 25 may be fixed to the lower end of the pair of columnar sections 21.

[0128] With the swivel member 20 having the above configuration, when an operator pushes the force point portion 25 towards the front of the device with their foot, force is applied to the point of application portion 24 via the pivot point portion 23, the point of application portion 24 pushes up the regulating member 6h, and the swivel arm 6 rotates via the regulating member 6h, causing the press portion 6b to rotate in a direction away from the tatami mat surface (see Figure 19).

[0129] The rotation of the press section 6b by this swivel member 20 is primarily used to adjust the position of the tatami mat by slightly lifting the press section 6b with the foot. This configuration allows for adjustment of the tatami mat using the foot, which is relatively free during the folding process, resulting in very efficient work.

[0130] On the other hand, when opening the press section 6b wide, the roughly rectangular cylindrical fixed block 6d, through which the aforementioned pair of swivel arms 6a are connected, is used as a gripping member, and the press section 6b is rotated by gripping it by hand.

[0131] Furthermore, to prevent the swivel member 20 from interfering with the device and hindering the rotation of the swivel block 6b when the press section 6b is rotated significantly using the fixed block 6d, the column portion 21 of the swivel member 20 is rotatably connected to the swivel arm 6. Note that the swivel member 20 can also be made smaller, for example (see Figure 20(b)), so as not to interfere with the device; in that case, the column portion may be fixed to the swivel arm.

[0132] Furthermore, in the swivel member 20 of this embodiment, the pivot point 23 (pivot axis) is positioned on the same axis as the arm swivel axis 6c, but it is not limited to this, and may be provided in a different location from the arm swivel axis 6c. In that case, it is desirable that the pivot point 23 (pivot axis) of the swivel member 20 be located below and inside the arm swivel axis 6c.

[0133] Alternatively, the swivel member 20 may be configured to be removable. In this case, as shown in Figure 21(b), the pivot point 23 of the through hole in the column portion 21 is configured as a pivot point 23X formed by a notch. That is, by cutting a convex upward notch from one side of the column portion 21 to form the pivot point 23X, the swivel member 20 can be slid upward and removed. This allows the swivel member 20 to be removed when it is not needed.

[0134] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the column portion 21 of the swivel member 20 is composed of a pair, and the swivel arm 6a is pushed up from both sides to swivel, but it is also conceivable that it be composed of only one side.

[0135] <Fourth Embodiment> Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. The fourth embodiment is a modification of the configuration of the swivel member in the third embodiment. Therefore, for the fourth embodiment, the differences from the third embodiment will be described, and similar components will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0136] Figure 22 is a perspective view of a tatami mat folding device according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 23 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the pivoting mechanism in the tatami mat folding device according to the fourth embodiment, and (a) is an enlarged view of the pivoting arm seen from the outside, and (b) is an enlarged view including the lower part of the first link member. Figure 24 is an enlarged view including the lower part of the first link member illustrating the pivoting mechanism in the tatami mat folding device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0137] As shown in Figure 22, the tatami mat folding device of the fourth embodiment is configured such that the tatami mat pressing mechanism 6 further includes a swivel mechanism 30, and the swivel mechanism 30 allows the press section 6b to be rotated manually.

[0138] The swivel mechanism 30 primarily comprises a pedal 31 operated by the foot and a link mechanism that converts the force applied to the pedal 31 into a force acting on the swivel arm. This link mechanism includes a first link member 32 that moves upward when force is applied to the pedal 31, a second link member 33 to which one end of the first link member 32 is rotatably connected and whose other end slides forward when the first end rotates, and a third link member 34 which has an elongated guide groove 34a that allows the other end of the second link member 33 to slide horizontally.

[0139] As shown in Figures 23(a) and 23(b), a sliding portion 35 that slides in a guide groove 34a of a plate-shaped third link member 34 is rotatably connected to the other end of the second link member 33. The sliding portion 35 comprises a sliding member 35a to which the other end of the second link member 33 is rotatably directly connected, and connecting members 35b and 35c made of plate material that sandwich the sliding member 35a from both sides. One of the connecting members 35b has a plate-shaped main body portion 35bA that sandwiches the sliding member 35a, and a pressing portion 35bB formed by bending its end at approximately 90 degrees and contacting and pressing a part of the swivel arm 6a.

[0140] The pivot arm 6a of the fourth embodiment is made of a hook-shaped metal plate that resembles a horizontally cut ring, with the central portion cut out from a roughly semicircular plate material. Its lower end extends lower than that of the pivot arm of the first embodiment and is configured as a pressed portion 6aA. The pivot arm 6a pivots when the pressing portion 35bB presses against this pressed portion 6aA.

[0141] The pedal 31 has a pedal portion 31a that is pressed directly by the foot, and a long plate-shaped connecting portion 31b that follows the pedal portion 31a, and the connecting portion 31b is rotatably connected to a pair of left and right X-axis frames 3a by hinges or the like.

[0142] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 23(a) and 24, the first link member 32 has a main body portion 32a which is an elongated plate shape extending in the vertical direction, a connecting portion 32b which extends from the upper side and is bent at approximately 90 degrees and connects to the second link member 33, and a pressed portion 32c which extends from the lower side and is pushed up by the connecting portion 31b of the pedal 31. When the pressed portion 32c is pressed by the connecting portion 31b, the first link member 32 is pushed up.

[0143] Furthermore, the second link member 33 is made up of an elongated plate shape, with one end rotatably connected to the upper end of the first link member 32 and the other end rotatably connected to the aforementioned sliding member 35a. When the first link member 32 is pushed up, the upper end of the second link member rotates, and together with the other end, the sliding portion 35 moves forward via the sliding member 35a.

[0144] Furthermore, the third link member 34 has an elongated guide groove 34a formed in the plate material. The sliding member 35a of the aforementioned sliding part 35 is movably fitted into this guide groove 34a, and the sliding part 35 is configured to slide in the front-rear direction.

[0145] With the above configuration, when the pedal 31 is pressed with the foot, the first link member 32 is pushed upward, the upper end of the second link member rotates, and together with the other end, the sliding part 35 moves forward. As a result, the pressing part 35bB of the sliding part 35 presses against the pressed part 6aA below the swivel arm, causing the swivel arm 6a to rotate, and the pressing part 6b rotates in a direction away from the tatami mat surface.

[0146] Furthermore, the rotation of the press section 6b by this swivel mechanism 30 is primarily used to adjust the position of the tatami mat by slightly lifting the press section 6b with the foot. This configuration allows for adjustment of the tatami mat using the foot, which is relatively free during the folding process, resulting in very efficient work.

[0147] <Other Embodiments> As described above, preferred embodiments of the present invention have been explained with reference to the drawings, but various additions, modifications, or deletions are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example was explained in which the tatami mat pressing mechanism is applied to a tatami mat bending device, but this tatami mat pressing mechanism can also be applied to other devices that process tatami mats, in addition to tatami mat bending devices. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0148] 1. Tatami mat folding device 2. Mounting Table 2a Folding Table 2b Folding Table 2c Folding Table 3 frames 3a X-axis frame 3b Y-axis frame 3c Z-axis frame 3D plate 4 casters 5. Control Box 6. Mat surface pressing mechanism 6a Swivel arm 6aA Pressed portion 6b Press Department 6c Arm rotation axis 6d Fixed Block 6e Support Block 6f Hook section 6g connecting component 6h Regulatory Member 7. Locking mechanism 7a Locking member 7aa foot 7ab Foot 7b Locking pin 7c rotation axis 7d Notch 7e Notch 8. Connecting Members 9. Folding part of the tatami mat surface 9a Folding block 9b Heater Block 9c Swivel axis 9D frame 9e Slope 9f handle 10 Fixing member 20 Swivel Member 21 Column section 22 Extension section 23. Support point 24 Point of action 25. Point of force 30 Swivel mechanism 31a Pedal section 31b Connection section 32 First link member 32a Main body 32b Connection section 32c Pressed part 33 Second link member 34 Third link member 35 Sliding part 35a sliding member 35b Connecting member 35bA Main Unit 35bB Pressing part 35c Connecting member 70 Locking mechanism 70a Locking member 70b Locking pin 70c Rotary shaft 70d Notch

Claims

1. A tatami mat folding device for folding tatami mats, A tatami mat surface holding mechanism that holds down the tatami mat surface, It includes a tatami mat folding section for folding the edges of the tatami mat surface, The aforementioned tatami mat surface pressing mechanism is The pressing part that holds down the tatami surface, A swivel arm that rotates the aforementioned press section, A feature comprising an arm pivot axis, A device for folding tatami mats.

2. The aforementioned pressing section is A feature that holds down the part of the tatami mat surface other than the folded edge, The tatami mat folding device according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned pressing section is A characteristic feature is that, when the tatami surface is held down, the leading edge of the tatami surface on the edge side coincides with the folding position of the tatami surface. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned pressing section is The tatami mat surface, when held down, is characterized by having a slope at the edge of the tatami mat surface that gradually decreases in height towards the tip. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned swivel arm is characterized by having a curved shape that forms a space through which the tatami mat surface passes. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned swivel arm is rotatably attached to a mounting table on which the tatami mat is placed, or to a connecting member fixed to the mounting table, via the arm swivel axis. The arm pivot axis is characterized in that it is located below and / or outside the surface on which the tatami mat is placed on the aforementioned table. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned tatami mat surface pressing mechanism is The pressing section is characterized by being equipped with a rotating member that rotates it manually. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned pivoting member is This is a gripping member that is fixed to the aforementioned swivel arm and grasped by hand. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 7.

9. The aforementioned swivel arms are arranged in pairs at a predetermined distance apart. The gripping member is fixed across the pair of pivoting arms. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 8.

10. The aforementioned swivel arm, A connecting member is provided to which the swivel member is rotatably connected, and a restricting member is provided to restrict the rotation of the swivel member. The aforementioned pivoting member is The swivel arm is characterized by comprising: a pivot point rotatably connected to the connecting member; a point where force is applied by a part of the worker's body; and a point where the force applied to the point where force is applied acts on the restricting member. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 7.

11. The aforementioned pivoting member is It comprises a column extending downward from the aforementioned support point, The point of force is connected to the column portion below the fulcrum portion, The column portion is characterized in that it extends from the fulcrum portion to the point of application portion. The tatami folding device according to claim 10.

12. The swivel arms are arranged in pairs at a predetermined distance apart, and the connecting member and the regulating member are respectively arranged on the pair of swivel arms. The aforementioned pivoting member is A pair of pivot points connected to the respective connecting members of the pair of swivel arms, A pair of columnar sections extending downward from the aforementioned pair of support points, The point of force distributed across the pair of columnar sections, The invention is characterized by comprising a pair of points of application to which the force applied to the point of force acts on the regulating member of the slewing arm, The tatami mat folding device according to claim 10.

13. The aforementioned pivoting member is The column portion is characterized in that it extends from the pivot point to the point of application along the shape of the pivot arm, The tatami mat folding device according to claim 11 or 12.

14. The aforementioned swivel member has a column portion made of plate material, The point of application of the pivot arm that contacts the restricting member is characterized by being formed by a notch in the plate material, The tatami mat folding device according to claim 11 or 12.

15. The aforementioned pivoting member is The column section is made of a plate material, The pivot point of the pivot arm connected to the connecting member is formed by a notch created by cutting out the plate material. The pivoting member is characterized by being removable. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 11 or 12.

16. The aforementioned pivoting member is The point of force application is characterized by being cylindrical in shape. A tatami mat folding device according to any one of claims 10 to 12.

17. The aforementioned pivoting member is The point of force application is characterized by being made of a surface material. A tatami mat folding device according to any one of claims 10 to 12.

18. At the point of application of force, by applying force with the worker's foot, A force is applied to the point of application via the fulcrum, pushing up the regulating member, thereby causing the pressing part to rotate away from the tatami mat surface via the regulating member and the swivel arm. A tatami mat folding device according to any one of claims 10 to 12.

19. The aforementioned tatami mat surface pressing mechanism is The aforementioned press section is equipped with a rotating mechanism that allows it to be rotated manually. The swivel mechanism includes a pedal and a linkage mechanism connected to the pedal, which converts the force applied to the pedal into a force acting on the swivel arm. By applying force to the pedal, the pressing part rotates in a direction away from the tatami mat surface. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 1.

20. The aforementioned link mechanism is By applying force to the aforementioned pedal, A first link member that moves upward, A second link member to which one end of the first link member is rotatably connected, and which slides forward when one end rotates, The second link member comprises a third link member having a guide portion for sliding the other end of the second link member horizontally, A pressing portion is fixed to the other end of the second link member, which contacts and presses against a part of the swivel arm. When force is applied to the pedal, the pressing portion presses against the swivel arm via the link mechanism, causing the pressing portion to rotate via the swivel arm. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 19.

21. The aforementioned tatami mat surface pressing mechanism is The system further includes a locking mechanism for locking the rotation of the aforementioned swivel arm. The locking mechanism locks the rotation of the swivel arm, A feature that increases the pressing force of the pressing section, The tatami mat folding device according to claim 1.

22. The locking mechanism is Locking member and It comprises a locking portion for engaging the locking member, The locking member is configured to be rotatable about a pivot axis and has a locked portion that is locked into the locking portion. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 21.

23. The locking portion is characterized in that, when the locking member is further rotated from the state in which it is locked to the locking portion, the portion constituting the locking portion slides relative to the locking portion, thereby increasing the pressing force. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 22.

24. The locking member is a plate-shaped member, and the locking portion is a notched portion. The aforementioned locking part is a locking pin, The notch of the locking member is characterized in that, when the locking member is further rotated from the state in which it is locked to the locking pin, it has a side that slides in a direction toward the locking pin. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 23.

25. The locking member is rotatably attached via the pivot shaft to a mounting table on which the tatami mat is placed or to the connecting member fixed to the mounting table, and the locking portion is attached to the swivel arm. Alternatively, the locking member is rotatably attached to the swivel arm via the pivot axis, and the locking portion is attached to a mounting table on which the object is placed or to a connecting member fixed to the mounting table. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 22.

26. When the locking member is rotatably attached to the connecting member, The pivot axis of the locking member is characterized in that it is positioned below and / or outside the mounting surface of the tatami mat of the table described above. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 25.

27. The aforementioned folded portion of the tatami mat surface is, It is equipped with a folding block of tatami mat surface that is configured to rotate around a block pivot axis, The folding block is rotated until it contacts the tatami mat surface interposed between it and the tip of the press section, thereby folding the tatami mat surface. The tatami mat folding device according to claim 1.

28. The aforementioned folded portion of the tatami mat surface is, A handle for manually rotating the aforementioned folding block, The system further comprises a handle locking portion for locking the aforementioned handle, The tatami mat folding device according to claim 27.

29. The aforementioned folded portion of the tatami mat surface is, A handle for manually rotating the aforementioned folding block, The system further comprises a handle locking portion for locking the aforementioned handle, The tatami mat folding device according to claim 27.

30. The aforementioned folded portion of the tatami mat surface is, The folding block is characterized by having an inclined portion at its longitudinal end, The tatami mat folding device according to claim 27.

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