Embossing Device Integration in Printing Press Sheet Feeding

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing processing devices face challenges in performing emboss-processing without disrupting sheet feeding during the final process of printing, as the embossed portions on the sheets can get caught by other sheets when stacked, leading to poor sheet feeding.

Innovation Solution

A processing device is configured to perform emboss-processing as part of the final process of printing, after pattern printing and sheet transfer have been completed, ensuring that the embossed portions do not interfere with sheet feeding by integrating an embossing device and a final processing device that includes number printing and varnishing capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If emboss-processing is performed before final printing process, then the sheet can be processed for tactile feeling and security features, but the embossed portions cause poor sheet feeding when sheets are stacked

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesheet feeding reliabilityVSAvoidprocessing sequence flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing emboss-processing at the final stage of the printing process, after all printing operations are completed. This timing ensures that embossed sheets do not interfere with subsequent sheet feeding operations, as the embossing is done just before the sheets are discharged and stacked for final collection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by making the processing sequence flexible and adaptive. The embossing device is integrated into the printing press and can be dynamically activated at the appropriate stage (after printing, before discharge). This dynamic timing resolution allows the system to adapt the processing sequence to avoid the sheet feeding problem while maintaining all required processing functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If emboss-processing is performed at an early stage, then the tactile feeling and security features are enhanced, but the embossed portions get caught by other sheets during stacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveembossing qualityVSAvoidsheet interference during stacking
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing emboss-processing at the final stage of the printing process, after all printing operations are completed. This timing ensures that embossed sheets do not interfere with subsequent sheet feeding operations, as the embossing is done just before the sheets are discharged and stacked for final collection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If sheets are transferred to another processing machine for final printing, then the emboss-processing can be performed separately, but the embossed sheets experience poor sheet feeding in the final printing machine

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing device integrationVSAvoidsheet feeding reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies merging by integrating the embossing device directly into the printing press system. The embossing unit is combined with the printing cylinders and sheet transfer mechanisms, allowing emboss-processing to be performed as part of the same printing operation. This integration eliminates the need to transfer embossed sheets to another machine, thereby preventing sheet feeding problems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing a printing press that performs multiple functions: pattern printing, emboss-processing, and final printing operations all within a single integrated system. The printing cylinders and sheet transfer mechanisms serve dual purposes for both printing and embossing operations, eliminating the need for separate processing machines and associated sheet feeding issues.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3527375B1Processing device
Publication Date: 2025.03.05 KOMORI CORP
  • EP3527375B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3527375B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3527375B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A processing device configured to process a printed sheet (3) includes an embossing device (5) configured to perform emboss-processing of the sheet (3), and a final processing device configured to perform final working processing of a surface of the sheet (3). The final processing device includes at least one of a number printing device (6) configured to print a number on the sheet (3), and a varnishing device configured to apply a varnish to the sheet (3). There is provided a processing device capable of performing emboss-processing without disturbing sheet feeding when performing the final process of printing by performing the emboss-processing at an appropriate stage of a printing step.