Sheet Post-Processing Apparatus with Dynamic Binding Capacity Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet post-processing apparatuses are limited in the number of sheets they can bind at once due to the maximum capacity of their adhesive application mechanisms, preventing the formation of bundles with more sheets than the predetermined number.
Innovation Solution
A post-processing apparatus with an adhesive binding unit that calculates the remaining number of sheets beyond the allowable binding limit and allows for two processing modes: binding the excess sheets as another bundle using adhesive or performing a different binding process like sorting or stapling, enabling the formation of bundles exceeding the initial limit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the adhesive application mechanism is used to bind sheets, then sheets can be bound into a bundle, but the maximum number of sheets that can be bound at one time is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the binding process into multiple segments: first binding X sheets (where X is the maximum capacity of the adhesive application mechanism), then handling the remaining n sheets separately. This segmentation allows the system to process any number of sheets by breaking down large quantities into manageable batches that fit within the mechanism's capacity limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability by allowing the binding process to adjust based on the total number of sheets A. When A exceeds the maximum binding capacity, the system dynamically switches to a multi-step process: binding the first X sheets, then processing the remaining n sheets according to whether n is greater than a predetermined value N. This dynamic response enables the system to handle varying sheet quantities flexibly.
2Quantity of substance
If sheets exceeding the predetermined number are loaded into the adhesive application mechanism, then more sheets can be bound, but the mechanism cannot accommodate them due to its maximum capacity limit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculation of the remaining number of sheets n = A - X before the binding operation. This preliminary action allows the controller to determine in advance whether a second binding operation is needed, enabling proactive preparation and avoiding operational complications during the actual binding process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller continuously monitors the sheet number A, calculates the remaining sheets n, and adjusts the binding process accordingly. The controller determines whether n > N and automatically decides whether to perform additional binding operations or switch to alternative processing, providing real-time feedback-based control that simplifies operation while handling large sheet quantities.
3Device complexity
If the adhesive application mechanism binds only up to its maximum capacity, then the binding process is simple, but sheets exceeding this number cannot be bound in a single operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the post-processing apparatus universal by enabling it to handle both small quantities of sheets (A ≤ X) and large quantities of sheets (A > X) through the same device. The adhesive application mechanism works in conjunction with alternative binding mechanisms, allowing the system to perform multiple functions: single-batch binding for small quantities and multi-batch or alternative binding for large quantities, thereby maintaining productivity without increasing device complexity.
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 the binding of sheets exceeding the predetermined number by either forming additional adhesive bundles or using alternative binding methods, thereby overcoming the capacity constraints of traditional systems and preventing paper jams.
Implementation Method 1
a sheet post-processing apparatus in which sheets discharged from an image forming apparatus body are sequentially received, the sheets are discharged and stacked on a processing tray, and a sheet bundle is bound... An operation for loading the sheets on an adhesive application portion is sequentially repeated
Data Source
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AI summary
A post-processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes an adhesive binding unit that binds a plurality of sheets into a bundle. A controller sets an allowable binding number X of sheets capable of being subject to binding at one time in the adhesive binding apparatus. The controller sets a predetermined remaining number N of sheets. The controller receives a number A of the sheets instructed to be bound in the adhesive binding unit. The controller calculates a remaining number n of sheets, where n=A-X. The controller determines whether n>N or n≤N. The adhesive binding unit binds the A number of the sheets into a single bundle when it is determined that n<N.