Dual Binder Post-Processing Apparatus with Coordinated Binding Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing post-processing apparatuses for binding sheet bundles either use metal staples or do not, but they lack efficient mechanisms to switch between these methods without causing interference between binding devices, leading to reduced productivity and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A post-processing apparatus with a loading portion, first and second binders, and movers, where the circuitry controls the binders to perform binding without returning the inactive binder to its reference position, allowing seamless switching between staple-based and staple-free binding modes without device contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If one binder is moved from reference position to binding position while the other binder waits, then binding can be performed by selected binder, but the waiting binder may contact and interfere with the active binder, causing potential damage and requiring return to reference position
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the positions of both binders based on operational state. When switching between binders, the inactive binder is moved to a safe position that prevents contact with the active binder, while maintaining readiness for subsequent operations. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction by preventing damage through coordinated movement rather than static waiting.
2Ease of operation
If the inactive binder returns to reference position after binding operation, then the binder is ready for next operation, but this return movement increases operation time and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The inactive binder is moved to a safe position in advance, before the active binder completes its binding operation. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for the inactive binder to return to reference position after operation, as it is already positioned optimally for the next binding task. The contradiction is resolved by performing positioning actions proactively rather than reactively.
Solution Approach 2:
While one binder performs binding, the other binder simultaneously moves to its optimal position without waiting for the binding cycle to complete. This continuous operation ensures that both binders are always ready for their respective tasks, eliminating idle return movements and maintaining continuous productive action throughout the system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple binding devices are provided for different binding methods, then user options for binding methods are expanded, but device complexity and potential interference between devices increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides multiple binding capabilities through separate binders that can be selectively activated. Each binder is designed to perform specific binding operations, and the control system manages their coordination to provide versatile binding options. The contradiction is resolved by making the system multi-functional through coordinated control rather than requiring all devices to operate independently.
Data Source
AI summary
A post-processing apparatus includes a loading portion, a first binder, a first mover, a second binder, a second mover, and circuitry. A plurality of sheets are placed as a sheet bundle on the loading portion. The circuitry executes a control mode in which, before the sheet bundle as a target to be bound by one binder of the first binder and the second binder is placed on the loading portion and after the one binder starts moving from a corresponding reference position of a first reference position and a second reference position, the circuitry causes the other binder of the first binder and the second binder to perform binding instead of the one binder. The circuitry executes the control mode, without returning the one binder to the corresponding reference position, in a state in which the one binder and the other binder do not contact each other.