Stapleless Sheet Binding via Asymmetric Concavo-Convex Teeth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sheet processing apparatuses face challenges in binding sheet bundles without staples, as increasing the number of teeth to enhance fastening force increases the total load and costs, while reducing costs compromises the binding strength.
Innovation Solution
A sheet processing apparatus with a first and second concavo-convex portion, where the distance between convexities and the turning center varies, allowing for a binding mechanism that deforms the sheet bundle in the thickness direction using a supporting portion that turns around a center, enabling a strong fastening force without the need for staples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the number of teeth is increased to enhance fastening force, then the binding strength is improved, but the total load increases and device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The binding mechanism is divided into multiple teeth that engage with the sheet bundle at different positions. Each tooth applies binding force independently, allowing the total fastening force to be distributed across multiple contact points rather than requiring a single high-load component.
Solution Approach 2:
The teeth are designed with specific geometric characteristics (concavo-convex portions) that concentrate binding force at localized contact points with the sheet bundle. This allows effective binding at each tooth position while maintaining lower overall structural requirements.
2Strength
If the number of teeth is increased to enhance fastening force, then the binding strength is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The binding mechanism uses multiple simple tooth elements rather than a single complex component. Each tooth is a simple geometric feature that can be manufactured easily, and the cumulative effect of multiple teeth provides the required fastening force without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple teeth are integrated into a single binding mechanism assembly that operates together. The teeth work in unison during the binding operation, providing combined fastening force while being part of a unified structural design that avoids the complexity of multiple separate mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet processing apparatus includes a first member having a first concavo-convex portion in which pluralities of concavities and convexities are provided, a second member having a second concavo-convex portion in which pluralities of concavities and convexities are provided and clamping a sheet bundle together with the first concavo-convex portion of the first member, and a supporting portion supporting at least one of the first and second members turnably centering on a turning center. The first concavo-convex portion is configured such that a distance between an end on the turning center side of one convex portion among the pluralities of concavities and convexities and the turning center is different from a distance between an end on the turning center side of another convex portion and the turning center.