Sheet Folding Mechanism Using Reverse Roller Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sheet processing apparatuses require a large size due to the need for a branch path and a stopper with a significant moving range to adjust folding positions, which increases the apparatus size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A sheet processing apparatus with a first pair of conveying members, a second pair that receives and conveys the sheet, and a third pair that folds the sheet by rotating the second pair in reverse direction, eliminating the need for a stopper and allowing for folding with a short conveying path, utilizing a combination of conveying rollers to form creases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a branch path and stopper with large moving range are provided to adjust folding positions, then the folding process can be performed, but the apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the stopper component from the folding apparatus. Instead of using a stopper with large moving range to adjust folding positions, the patent uses a simplified conveying path where the folding position is determined by the conveying roller arrangement and sheet length, removing the need for adjustable stoppers and their associated moving mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveying rollers serve multiple functions: they convey the sheet through the apparatus and simultaneously create the folding action by causing the sheet to buckle when the conveying path length is insufficient. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate stopper mechanisms, reducing apparatus size while maintaining folding capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a stopper with significant moving range is provided to adjust folding positions depending on sheet length or folding type, then various folding operations can be performed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the conveying path length adjustable or variable based on sheet length and folding type requirements. By dynamically adjusting the conveying path length rather than using a stopper with large moving range, the system achieves adaptability for different folding operations while minimizing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of conveying path length to adapt to different sheet lengths and folding types. Instead of moving a stopper over a large range, the system adjusts the effective conveying path length, which simplifies the mechanical structure while maintaining versatility for various folding operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet processing apparatus includes: a first pair of conveying members that convey a sheet; a second pair of conveying members that receive the sheet conveyed by the first pair of the conveying members and further conveys the sheet to a subsequent stage; and a third pair of conveying members that fold the sheet by rotating the second pair of the conveying members in a reverse direction while the sheet is held by the first pair of the conveying members and the second pair of the conveying members. One of the conveying members of the second pair serves as one of the conveying members of the third pair.