Book Binding Apparatus Segmented Discharge for Mixed Media Sorting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing book binding apparatuses face issues with mixed stacking of differently processed media, leading to sorting troubles and inefficient discharge processes when punching and binding operations are performed separately.

Innovation Solution

A book binding apparatus with distinct processing and discharge sections for punched sheets and binder-bound booklets, utilizing a switchback conveying path and separate discharge trays to prevent mixing and simplify the sorting process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If sheets and booklets are discharged onto the same tray, then the apparatus structure is simplified, but media of different processes become mixed and sorting becomes troublesome

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveapparatus structureVSAvoidsorting process

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The discharge function is segmented into two separate discharge sections: a first discharge section for sheets that have undergone only punching, and a second discharge section for booklets that have undergone both punching and binding. This segmentation prevents mixing of different media types while maintaining apparatus structure simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If separate discharge sections are used for sheets and booklets, then mixed stacking is prevented, but the apparatus structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemedia separationVSAvoiddischarge section configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The conveying apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to serve both discharge sections. The same conveying mechanism can transport media to either the first discharge section or the second discharge section based on the process type, reducing the need for entirely separate conveying systems and thereby limiting the increase in apparatus structure complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If a single tray is used for both punched sheets and bound booklets, then the tray configuration is simplified, but discharging of differently processed media becomes problematic

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetray configurationVSAvoiddischarge efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Ease of operation

If different discharge destinations are provided for different processes, then media sorting is simplified, but the apparatus size increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemedia sortingVSAvoidapparatus size

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10343441B2Book binding apparatus

Publication Date: 2019.07.09 MAX CO LTD

AI summary

A book binding apparatus includes: a first processing section which is configured to perform a first process on a medium; a second processing section which is configured to perform a second process on the medium on which the first processing section has performed the first process; a first discharging section to which the medium on which the first processing section has performed the first process is discharged; and a second discharging section to which the medium on which the first processing section has performed the first process, and on which the second processing section has performed the second process is discharged.