Single Punch Module for Variable Hole Patterns in Print Media

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for punching binding and hole edges of print media are limited in flexibility, requiring multiple punch modules and complex positioning systems to produce specific hole patterns, making them costly and laborious to change between different hole configurations.

Innovation Solution

A device with a single, simple-to-retrofit punch module driven by a DC motor with an eccentric and rocker arm, integrated into the transport path of a print medium processing device, allowing for variable perforations and multiple hole patterns by controlling the position of the print medium using a stepper motor and reflex sensor.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If multiple punch modules with fixed hole patterns are used, then specific hole patterns can be produced, but device complexity and cost increase due to multiple modules and complex positioning systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehole pattern precisionVSAvoidpositioning system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by using a single punch module that can produce multiple different hole patterns (2-hole, 3-hole, 4-hole, and custom patterns) through programmable control. The punch module is positioned once relative to the printing medium, and the control system determines the hole positions based on stored pattern data, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated punch modules for each hole pattern.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by storing multiple hole position configurations in the control system's memory. The control system can switch between different hole patterns by retrieving pre-stored position parameters, allowing a single punch module to adapt to different hole patterns without physical reconfiguration or complex mechanical adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If punch modules are moved and positioned in two planes relative to the printing medium, then specific hole patterns can be achieved, but setup complexity and cost increase due to measuring and positioning control

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehole pattern flexibilityVSAvoidsetup complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing multiple hole position configurations in the control system's memory before operation. The punch module position is determined in advance through programming, and the control system retrieves the appropriate position parameters when a specific hole pattern is needed, eliminating the need for complex real-time measuring and positioning control during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing complex mechanical positioning and measuring systems with a programmable control system. Instead of using multiple planes of mechanical adjustment and physical measuring devices, the invention uses electronic control to determine punch module position based on pre-stored data, significantly simplifying the mechanical setup.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If a single punch module is used with a complex moving mechanism, then variable hole patterns are possible, but reliability decreases due to flexible feed requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehole pattern variabilityVSAvoidfeed mechanism reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the punch module position programmable and adjustable through the control system. Instead of a fixed mechanical position, the punch module can be dynamically positioned to different locations based on the selected hole pattern from stored configurations, enabling variable hole patterns without requiring a complex flexible feed mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 flexible production of any hole pattern with precise spacing, reducing the need for multiple punch modules and complex positioning, making it cost-effective and easy to retrofit, while ensuring accurate hole placement.

Implementation Method 1

a punch module (1) with a lifting or punching die (7) which can be moved in a linear guide (8) such that at least one punching hole can be made at a predetermined hole position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEccentric: Eccentric

Implementation Method 2

The positioning of the printing medium relative to the device for punching the staple and/or hole edge is adjustable

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStepper motor: Linear Motor

Implementation Method 3

a reflex sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentEP3116695B1Device for punching the binding edge of a printed media
Publication Date: 2019.09.18 ROTH WEBER
  • EP3116695B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3116695B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A device for punching a filing and/or hole margin (13) of a printed medium (11) with at least two holes, wherein the device can be assigned to an outlet of a printed medium processing apparatus, is to be further developed such that variable punching styles having different spacings and multiple hole patterns of the filing holes are easily made possible. To this end, it is proposed that the device has a punching module (1), which is arranged in a stationary manner and which has only one upstroke or hole punch (7), for punching at least one filing hole at a predefinable hole position in the filing and/or hole margin (13) of the printed medium (11), that at least one transport roll (14) is provided for the printed medium (11), by means of which the printed medium (11) can be positioned relative to the punching module (1), and that the transport roll (14) is assigned a control/regulating device (18), via which the positioning of the printed medium (11) relative to the punching module (1) can be controlled or regulated on the basis of the at least one predefinable hole position.