Sheet Bundle Folding for Precise Stapleless Binding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sheet processing devices require staples for binding, which can be cumbersome and may not be suitable for certain materials, and existing stapleless binding technologies lack efficiency and precision in folding and binding near a fold line.

Innovation Solution

A sheet processing apparatus with a folding device that folds sheets in half and a stapleless binding device that binds near the fold line using a pressure-binding unit with tooth trains to secure the sheet bundle without staples.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If staples are used for binding sheet bundles, then binding strength is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to staple loading and disposal requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebinding strengthVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts and eliminates the staple component from the binding system, replacing it with a stapleless binding mechanism that uses friction and pressure between the folded edge and binding rollers to secure sheets, thereby removing the complexity associated with staple loading, handling, and disposal

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces the mechanical staple-driven binding system with a friction-based pressure binding system, where binding rollers apply controlled pressure to the folded edge of sheets, creating sufficient friction to hold the bundle together without requiring penetrating fasteners

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If binding is performed near the fold line, then binding precision is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to difficulty in controlling binding position accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebinding position precisionVSAvoidfolding and binding precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The invention performs the folding action before the binding action, creating a predetermined fold line that serves as a reference for subsequent binding. The folding device creates a consistent folded edge that positions the sheets accurately, making the subsequent binding operation simpler and more precise

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces the fold line as an intermediary element between the sheets and the binding mechanism. The folded edge acts as a mediator that provides a consistent reference surface for the binding rollers, enabling precise binding positioning without requiring complex alignment systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If stapleless binding is used, then ease of operation is improved, but binding strength deteriorates compared to staple-based binding

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidbinding strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the binding mechanism from penetration-based (staples) to friction-based (pressure), and optimizes parameters such as pressure magnitude, contact area, and folding geometry to achieve sufficient binding strength through controlled friction and normal force at the folded edge

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables efficient and staple-free binding of sheet bundles, ensuring secure and precise folding and binding near the fold line, enhancing the versatility and efficiency of sheet processing.

Implementation Method 1

a stapleless binding device including a binding unit that binds the sheet bundle at a position of a portion near a fold line without using a staple

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentUS20250304402A1Sheet processing apparatus and image forming system
Publication Date: 2025.10.02 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP
  • US20250304402A1 patent drawing
  • US20250304402A1 patent drawing
  • US20250304402A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A sheet processing apparatus includes: a folding device that folds a sheet bundle which is formed of multiple sheets stacked on each other; and a stapleless binding device including a binding unit that binds the sheet bundle at a position of a portion near a fold line without using a staple, the fold line being formed as a result of the folding device folding the sheet bundle.