U.S. patent application number 16/758541 was filed with the patent office on 2020-11-05 for paper folding machine.
This patent application is currently assigned to Horizon International Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Horizon International Inc.. Invention is credited to Yoshikazu Nakamura, Hideaki Tabuchi, Shigeru Wakimoto, Shinya Watanabe, Hiroki Yamamoto.
Application Number | 20200346887 16/758541 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004969496 |
Filed Date | 2020-11-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200346887 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yamamoto; Hiroki ; et
al. |
November 5, 2020 |
PAPER FOLDING MACHINE
Abstract
A paper folding machine comprising folding mechanisms (11, 15,
24) arranged at folding positions (A-C) on a transport path (1),
respectively, guides (8, 19, 20, 28, 29) positioning a paper sheet
(F) relative to the folding positions by engagement with at least
one side edge of the paper sheet, stoppers (12, 15, 25) stopping
and positioning the paper sheet at the folding positions by
bringing a leading edge of the paper sheet into contact with the
stoppers, a fold misalignment detection unit (50) detecting a fold
misalignment amount of the paper sheet for each folding position,
and a controller (42) controlling positions of the guides and
stoppers. The controller calculates, for each folding position, an
average fold misalignment amount, and adjusts the position of the
guide and/or stopper associated with the corresponding folding
position so as to correct fold misalignment corresponding to the
average fold misalignment amount.
Inventors: |
Yamamoto; Hiroki;
(Takashima-shi, JP) ; Watanabe; Shinya;
(Takashima-shi, JP) ; Nakamura; Yoshikazu;
(Takashima-shi, JP) ; Wakimoto; Shigeru;
(Takashima-shi, JP) ; Tabuchi; Hideaki;
(Takashima-shi, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Horizon International Inc. |
Takashima-shi, Shiga |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
Horizon International Inc.
Takashima-shi, Shiga
JP
|
Family ID: |
1000004969496 |
Appl. No.: |
16/758541 |
Filed: |
November 2, 2017 |
PCT Filed: |
November 2, 2017 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2017/039737 |
371 Date: |
April 23, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65H 37/06 20130101;
B65H 7/14 20130101; B65H 45/18 20130101; B65H 45/22 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65H 45/18 20060101
B65H045/18; B65H 37/06 20060101 B65H037/06; B65H 45/22 20060101
B65H045/22; B65H 7/14 20060101 B65H007/14 |
Claims
1. A paper folding machine folding a printed paper sheet along at
least one fold line preset on a printing surface of the paper sheet
so as to form a signature, the paper folding machine comprising: a
transport path for the paper sheet having an entrance, an exit and
at least one folding position which is provided in an intermediate
area of the transport path; at least one transport mechanism
transporting the paper sheets one by one along the transport path
between the entrance and a most upstream folding position, and
between adjacent folding positions, and between a most downstream
folding position and the exit; a folding mechanism arranged at each
of the at least one folding position so as to fold the paper sheet
along the associated fold line while the paper sheet is stopped at
the associated folding position; at least one adjustable guide
positioning the paper sheet relative to the at least one folding
position by bringing at least one side of the paper sheet into
contact with the at least one adjustable guide; an adjustable
stopper arranged downstream of each of the at least one folding
position so as to position and stop the paper sheet at the
associated folding position by bringing a leading edge of the paper
sheet into contact with the stopper; and a fold misalignment
detection unit detecting, for each paper sheet and for each folding
position, a fold misalignment amount, wherein the position of the
at least one guide and/or the stopper associated with the
corresponding folding position is adjusted based on detection data
of the fold misalignment detection unit, characterized in that the
paper folding machine further comprises: a drive mechanism capable
of moving the at least one adjustable guide and the stopper; and a
controller operatively connected to the drive mechanism, wherein
the controller comprises a data receiving section receiving the
detection data from the fold misalignment detection unit, a data
counting section counting, for each folding position, the number of
the detection data received by the data receiving section, a data
storage section storing, for each folding position, the detection
data received by the data receiving section, a statistical
processing section calculating, for each folding position, an
average fold misalignment amount using the detection data
corresponding to a predetermined number of sample each time the
number of detection data stored in the data storage section
reaches, for each folding position, the number of sample, and an
adjustment section adjusting the position of the at least one guide
and/or the stopper associated with the corresponding folding
position so as to correct fold misalignment corresponding to the
average fold misalignment amount each time the average fold
misalignment amount is calculated by the statistical processing
section.
2. The paper folding machine according to claim 1, wherein the
controller further comprises a misalignment tolerance storage
section storing, for each folding position, the average fold
misalignment amount as a misalignment tolerance, data stored in the
misalignment tolerance storage section being updated each time the
average fold misalignment amount is calculated by the statistical
processing section, and a folding failure check section operatively
connected to the at least one transport mechanism and the folding
mechanism, and comparing the detection data with the misalignment
tolerance each time the detection data is received by the data
receiving section, and stopping the at least one transport
mechanism and the folding mechanism when the detection data exceeds
the misalignment tolerance.
3. The paper folding machine according to claim 1, wherein the
paper folding machine further comprises a collection unit arranged
downstream of the most downstream folding position on the transport
path or at the exit of the transport path for collecting the paper
sheet with folding failure, wherein the controller further
comprises a misalignment tolerance storage section storing, for
each folding position, the average fold misalignment amount as a
misalignment tolerance, data stored in the misalignment tolerance
storage section being updated each time the average fold
misalignment amount is calculated by the statistical processing
section, and a folding failure check section operatively connected
to the collection unit, and comparing the detection data with the
misalignment tolerance each time the detection data is received by
the data receiving section, and collecting the corresponding paper
sheet in the collection unit when the detection data exceeds the
misalignment tolerance.
4. The paper folding machine according to claim 1, wherein the
statistical processing section of the controller calculates, for
each folding position, a standard deviation of the fold
misalignment amount using the average fold misalignment amount and
the detection data corresponding to the number of sample each time
the number of the detection data stored in the data storage section
reaches, for each folding position, the number of sample, and
further calculates a variation judgement value of fold misalignment
based on the standard deviation, wherein the controller further
comprises a folding failure check section operatively connected to
the at least one transport mechanism and the folding mechanism, and
comparing the variation judgement value with a predetermined
misalignment tolerance each time the variation judgement value is
calculated by the statistical processing section, and stopping the
at least one transport mechanism and the folding mechanism when the
variation judgement value exceeds the misalignment tolerance.
5. The paper folding machine according to claim 1, wherein the
paper folding machine further comprises a collection unit arranged
downstream of the most downstream folding position on the transport
path or at the exit of the transport path for collecting the paper
sheet with folding failure, wherein the statistical processing
section of the controller calculates, for each folding position, a
standard deviation of the fold misalignment amount using the
average fold misalignment amount and the detection data
corresponding to the number of sample each time the number of the
detection data stored in the data storage section reaches, for each
folding position, the number of sample, and further calculates a
variation judgement value of fold misalignment based on the
standard deviation, wherein the controller further comprises a
folding failure check section operatively connected to the
collection unit, and comparing the variation judgement value with a
predetermined misalignment tolerance each time the variation
judgement value is calculated by the statistical processing
section, and collecting the corresponding paper sheet in the
collection unit when the variation judgement value exceeds the
misalignment tolerance.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a paper folding machine
designed to fold a printed paper sheet along one or more fold lines
preset on a printing surface of the printed paper sheet so as to
form a signature.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] In a bookbinding process, normally, paper sheets printed
through imposition are folded along one or more fold lines preset
on a printing surface thereof and thereby signatures are formed,
and then the signatures are gathered into a book block. In this
case, in order to form the signatures from the printed paper
sheets, a paper folding machine is used.
[0003] As this kind of paper folding machine, there is one
disclosed in, for example, Patent Document 1.
[0004] The paper folding machine disclosed in Patent Document 1
comprises a paper feeding section, a transport section connected to
a downstream side of the paper feeding section, and first through
third folding sections connected to a downstream side of the
transport section.
[0005] The paper feeding section has a shelf arranged for
up-and-down movement and supporting a paper stack thereon, and a
paper feed rotor feeding the uppermost paper sheet of the paper
stack on the shelf one by one to the transport section.
[0006] The transport section has a conveyor belt transporting the
paper sheet fed from the paper feeding section to the first folding
section, and a positioning ruler arranged parallel with a transport
direction for positioning the paper sheet during transport. The
conveyor belt is arranged at an angle to the positioning ruler and
thereby, the paper sheet is transported by the conveyor belt while
one side of the paper sheet being aligned along the positioning
ruler. The positioning ruler can be moved by a motor in a direction
perpendicular to the transport direction.
[0007] The first folding section folds the paper sheet in a
direction perpendicular to the transport direction. The first
folding section is provided with a buckle and a set of rollers
arranged at an entrance of the buckle and extended in the direction
perpendicular to the transport direction. A first stopper is
arranged in a paper insertion gap of the buckle for positioning the
paper sheet at a predetermined folding position by bringing a
leading edge of the paper sheet into contact with the first stopper
when the paper sheet is inserted into the buckle.
[0008] A portion from the leading edge to a fold position of the
paper sheet is inserted to the buckle, whereas a subsequent portion
of the paper sheet is inserted between a pair of the rollers, so
that the paper sheet is folded in the direction perpendicular to
the transport direction. Thereafter, the paper sheet is fed to the
second folding section through a gear for applying a perforated
line to the paper sheet.
[0009] The second folding section folds the paper sheet in the
transport direction. The second folding section is provided with a
first folding knife arranged at a position aligned with the gear
for up-and-down movement and extending in the transport direction,
a pair of first folding rollers arranged beneath the first folding
knife and extended parallel to the first folding knife, and a
second stopper arranged downstream of the first folding knife and
extending at a right angle to the transport direction so as to
contact with a leading edge of the paper sheet fed from the first
folding section.
[0010] A position of the second stopper can be adjusted
independently in the transport direction and the direction
perpendicular to the transport direction.
[0011] First and second guides are attached to both ends of the
second stopper and extended parallel with the first folding knife.
The first guide functions as a reference guide for positioning the
paper sheet in the direction perpendicular to the transport
direction, and the second guide pushes the paper sheet fed to the
second folding section against the first guide by the elastic
biasing force of a spring.
[0012] The paper sheet fed from the first folding section is
stopped by the second stopper, and positioned by the first and
second guides in a manner such that the perforated line of the
paper sheet is aligned with the first folding knife. Thereafter,
the first folding knife moves downward and the paper sheet is
inserted between the pair of first folding rollers so as to be
folded in the transport direction, and the folded paper sheet is
fed to the third folding section.
[0013] The third folding section folds the paper sheet fed from the
second folding section in a second transport direction (a transport
direction perpendicular to the transport direction from the paper
feeding section to the second folding section). The third folding
section is provided with a second folding knife arranged for
up-and-down movement and extended in the second transport
direction, a pair of second folding rollers arranged beneath the
second folding knife and extended parallel with the second folding
knife, and a third stopper arranged downstream of the second
folding knife and extended at a right angle to the second transport
direction so as to contact with a leading edge of the paper sheet
fed from the second folding section.
[0014] A position of the third stopper can be adjusted
independently in the second transport direction and the direction
perpendicular to the second transport direction.
[0015] Third and fourth guides are attached to both ends of the
third stopper and extended parallel with the second folding knife.
The third guide functions as a reference guide for positioning the
paper sheet in the direction perpendicular to the second transport
direction, and the fourth guide pushes the paper sheet fed to the
third folding section against the third guide by the elastic
biasing force of a spring.
[0016] The paper sheet fed from the second folding section is
stopped by the third stopper, and positioned by the third and
fourth guides. Thereafter, the second folding knife moves downward,
and the paper sheet is inserted between the pair of second folding
rollers and folded in the second transport direction, and a
signature is formed. The signature is discharged from the paper
folding machine.
[0017] By the way, even if paper sheets are classified into the
same standard size, the actual dimensions of the paper sheets are
not always the same. Furthermore, in a rotary press such as a
rotary offset press, cut positions of a roll paper fluctuate when
the roll paper is cut into paper sheets after printing on the roll
paper, so that the size of each paper sheet varies.
[0018] In addition, positions of printing surfaces of paper sheets
fluctuate during printing of the paper sheets.
[0019] Because of that, a fold misalignment of a paper sheet arises
during operation of a paper folding machine. In this case, the
obtained signature is considered a finished product when a fold
misalignment amount is within the allowable range on the one hand,
and the obtained signature is considered a defective product and
excluded when the fold misalignment amount exceeds the allowable
range. This is carried out by visual inspection of a worker each
time the signature is discharged from the paper folding
machine.
[0020] Thus whenever the defective product is detected, the paper
folding machine is stopped and the positions of the positioning
ruler, the first through third stoppers, and the first and third
guides are adjusted by the worker. This adjustment is done by
adjusting the position(s) of the corresponding one(s) of the
positioning ruler, the first through third stoppers, and the first
and third guides depending on the fold misalignment amount of the
defective product in such a way that the fold misalignment amount
becomes as small as possible within the allowable range while
considering the degree of the variation in both the dimensions of
the paper sheet and the position of printing surface of the paper
sheet.
[0021] However, this work takes time and effort. Furthermore, this
work is based on the experience and intuition of a worker and
therefore, requires skilled workers. Accordingly, this work was an
obstacle to productivity increase and cost down.
[0022] In this regard, an apparatus automatically detecting a fold
misalignment amount of a paper sheet has been proposed in the prior
art. This apparatus has at least one inspection mark provided on a
printed paper sheet and extended across at least one fold line, and
at least one CCD camera attached to a paper folding machine so as
to detect the at least one inspection mark (see, for example,
Patent Document 2).
[0023] The at least one CCD camera is arranged at each of at least
one folding position of the paper folding machine so as to shoot
the at least one inspection mark of the paper sheet folded at the
previous folding position each time the paper sheet stops at the
folding position.
[0024] Then a position, a length and an area of the inspection mark
obtained by the CCD camera are compared with a position, a length
and an area of the inspection mark of the paper sheet folded
without fold misalignment, respectively and thereby a fold
misalignment amount is detected automatically.
[0025] However, even if a fold misalignment amount of a paper sheet
is automatically detected, whenever a fold misalignment amount
exceeding the allowable range is detected, the corresponding
members need to be adjusted manually as before, and therefore
productivity does not increase significantly and no significant
cost reduction is achieved.
PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS
Patent Documents
[0026] Patent Document 1: JP 2007-261726 A
[0027] Patent Document 2: JP H7-277593 A
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0028] It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to
provide a paper folding machine capable of automatically detecting
fold misalignment and automatically carry out adjustment for
correction of the fold misalignment.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0029] In order to solve the object, the present invention provides
a paper folding machine folding a printed paper sheet along at
least one fold line preset on a printing surface of the paper sheet
so as to form a signature, the paper folding machine comprising: a
transport path for the paper sheet having an entrance, an exit and
at least one folding position which is provided in an intermediate
area of the transport path; at least one transport mechanism
transporting the paper sheets one by one along the transport path
between the entrance and a most upstream folding position, and
between adjacent folding positions, and between a most downstream
folding position and the exit; a folding mechanism arranged at each
of the at least one folding position so as to fold the paper sheet
along the associated fold line while the paper sheet is stopped at
the associated folding position; at least one adjustable guide
positioning the paper sheet relative to the at least one folding
position by bringing at least one side of the paper sheet into
contact with the at least one adjustable guide; an adjustable
stopper arranged downstream of each of the at least one folding
position so as to position and stop the paper sheet at the
associated folding position by bringing a leading edge of the paper
sheet into contact with the stopper; and a fold misalignment
detection unit detecting, for each paper sheet and for each folding
position, a fold misalignment amount, wherein the position of the
at least one guide and/or the stopper associated with the
corresponding folding position is adjusted based on detection data
of the fold misalignment detection unit, characterized in that the
paper folding machine further comprises: a drive mechanism capable
of moving the at least one adjustable guide and the stopper; and a
controller operatively connected to the drive mechanism, wherein
the controller comprises a data receiving section receiving the
detection data from the fold misalignment detection unit, a data
counting section counting, for each folding position, the number of
the detection data received by the data receiving section, a data
storage section storing, for each folding position, the detection
data received by the data receiving section, a statistical
processing section calculating, for each folding position, an
average fold misalignment amount using the detection data
corresponding to a predetermined number of sample each time the
number of detection data stored in the data storage section
reaches, for each folding position, the number of sample, and an
adjustment section adjusting the position of the at least one guide
and/or the stopper associated with the corresponding folding
position so as to correct fold misalignment corresponding to the
average fold misalignment amount each time the average fold
misalignment amount is calculated by the statistical processing
section.
[0030] According to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the controller further comprises a misalignment
tolerance storage section storing, for each folding position, the
average fold misalignment amount as a misalignment tolerance, data
stored in the misalignment tolerance storage section being updated
each time the average fold misalignment amount is calculated by the
statistical processing section, and a folding failure check section
operatively connected to the at least one transport mechanism and
the folding mechanism, and comparing the detection data with the
misalignment tolerance each time the detection data is received by
the data receiving section, and stopping the at least one transport
mechanism and the folding mechanism when the detection data exceeds
the misalignment tolerance.
[0031] According to another preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the paper folding machine further comprises a collection
unit arranged downstream of the most downstream folding position on
the transport path or at the exit of the transport path for
collecting the paper sheet with folding failure, wherein the
controller further comprises a misalignment tolerance storage
section storing, for each folding position, the average fold
misalignment amount as a misalignment tolerance, data stored in the
misalignment tolerance storage section being updated each time the
average fold misalignment amount is calculated by the statistical
processing section, and a folding failure check section operatively
connected to the collection unit, and comparing the detection data
with the misalignment tolerance each time the detection data is
received by the data receiving section, and collecting the
corresponding paper sheet in the collection unit when the detection
data exceeds the misalignment tolerance.
[0032] According to further preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the statistical processing section of the controller
calculates, for each folding position, a standard deviation of the
fold misalignment amount using the average fold misalignment amount
and the detection data corresponding to the number of sample each
time the number of the detection data stored in the data storage
section reaches, for each folding position, the number of sample,
and further calculates a variation judgement value of fold
misalignment based on the standard deviation, wherein the
controller further comprises a folding failure check section
operatively connected to the at least one transport mechanism and
the folding mechanism, and comparing the variation judgement value
with a predetermined misalignment tolerance each time the variation
judgement value is calculated by the statistical processing
section, and stopping the at least one transport mechanism and the
folding mechanism when the variation judgement value exceeds the
misalignment tolerance.
[0033] According to further preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the paper folding machine further comprises a collection
unit arranged downstream of the most downstream folding position on
the transport path or at the exit of the transport path for
collecting the paper sheet with folding failure, wherein the
statistical processing section of the controller calculates, for
each folding position, a standard deviation of the fold
misalignment amount using the average fold misalignment amount and
the detection data corresponding to the number of sample each time
the number of the detection data stored in the data storage section
reaches, for each folding position, the number of sample, and
further calculates a variation judgement value of fold misalignment
based on the standard deviation, wherein the controller further
comprises a folding failure check section operatively connected to
the collection unit, and comparing the variation judgement value
with a predetermined misalignment tolerance each time the variation
judgement value is calculated by the statistical processing
section, and collecting the corresponding paper sheet in the
collection unit when the variation judgement value exceeds the
misalignment tolerance.
Effect of the Invention
[0034] According to the present invention, the fold misalignment
amount of the paper sheet is automatically detected for each
folding position during operation of the paper folding machine,
and, for each folding position, each time the obtained detection
data reaches the predetermined number of sample, the average fold
misalignment amount is calculated and the corresponding stopper
and/or guide are(is) automatically adjusted using the calculated
average fold misalignment amount. Accordingly, the amount of work
for workers is greatly reduced and the work does not require skill,
and thereby, productivity is dramatically improved and significant
cost reductions can be achieved.
[0035] In addition, according to the present invention, the
adjustment of the paper folding machine is carried out in a manner
such that the fold misalignment amounts are statistically minimized
while considering the fold misalignment amount within the allowable
range as well as the fold misalignment amount exceeding the
allowable range. Consequently, the adjustment accuracy is improved
so that the incidence of defective products is further reduced.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0036] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a paper folding machine
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the paper folding machine shown in
FIG. 1.
[0038] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a detailed
configuration near second and third folding positions of the paper
folding machine shown in FIG. 1.
[0039] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a
fold misalignment detection unit of the paper folding machine shown
in FIG. 1.
[0040] FIG. 5A is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a
controller of the paper folding machine shown in FIG. 1.
[0041] FIGS. 5B and 5C are block diagrams illustrating of modified
examples of the controller shown in FIG. 5A.
[0042] FIG. 6A is a plan view of a paper sheet folded without fold
misalignment by the paper folding machine shown in FIG. 1.
[0043] FIGS. 6B and 6C are plan views of paper sheets folded with
fold misalignment by the paper folding machine shown in FIG. 1.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0044] A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be
explained below with reference to accompanying drawings.
[0045] Generally, there are two types of fold misalignment of paper
sheet which occur in a paper folding machine, that is, fold
misalignment parallel with a fold line and fold misalignment
oblique to the fold line. For simplicity of explanation, in the
following, an embodiment in which only the fold misalignment
parallel with the fold line occurs will be taken up.
[0046] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a paper folding machine
according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is
a plan view of the paper folding machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is
a perspective view illustrating a detailed configuration near
second and third folding positions of the paper folding machine
shown in FIG. 1.
[0047] Referring to FIG. 1 through FIG. 3, a paper folding machine
according to the present invention comprises a transport path 1 for
the paper sheet having an entrance 1a, an exit 1b. A first folding
position (A), a second folding position (B) and a third folding
position (C) are provided in an intermediate area of the transport
path 1.
[0048] In this embodiment, the transport path 1 is composed of a
first portion 1c almost straightly extending from the entrance 1a
to the second folding position (B) through the first folding
position (A), a second portion 1d extending from the second folding
position (B) to the third folding position (C) in a direction
perpendicular to the first portion 1c, and a third portion 1e
straightly extending from the third folding position (C) to the
exit 1b in a direction perpendicular to the second portion 1d.
[0049] In this embodiment, a paper feeding device 2 is connected to
the entrance 1a of the transport path 1 so as to supply paper
sheets P one by one to the paper folding machine of the present
invention.
[0050] The paper feeding device 2 has a shelf 2a arranged for
up-and-down movement and supporting a paper stack thereon, and a
paper feed rotor 2b feeding the uppermost paper sheet P of the
paper stack on the shelf 2a one by one.
[0051] In the present invention, the paper sheet P is printed in
page order through imposition and folded along fold lines preset on
its printing surface to form a signature.
[0052] Marks (M) for detection of fold misalignment are provided on
sides of the paper sheet P which are mountain-folded along the fold
lines, and extend across the related fold lines. The marks (M) are
printed on a page margin outside the printing surface of the paper
sheet when the paper sheet is printed.
[0053] The paper folding machine also comprises a first transport
mechanism 3 transporting the paper sheets P one by one along the
transport path 1 (the first portion 1c) from the entrance 1a to the
first folding position (A), a second transport mechanism 4
transporting the paper sheets P one by one along the transport path
1 (the first portion 1c) from the first folding position (A) to the
second folding position (B), a third transport mechanism 5
transporting the paper sheets P one by one along the transport path
1 (the second portion 1d) from the second folding position (B) to
the third folding position (C) and a fourth transport mechanism 6
transporting the paper sheets P one by one along the transport path
1 (the third portion 1e) from the third folding portion (C) to the
exit 1b.
[0054] The first transport mechanism 3 has a plurality of first
conveyor belts 7 extending between the entrance 1a and the first
folding position (A) on the transport path 1 (the first portion
1c).
[0055] A first guide (positioning ruler) 8 is arranged at a side of
the transport path 1 (the first portion 1c) and extended parallel
with the transport path 1 (the first portion 1c). The first guide 8
positions the paper sheet P relative to the first folding position
(A) by engaging with a side edge of the paper sheet P transported
by the first transport mechanism 3.
[0056] The first conveyor belt 7 adjacent to the first guide 8 of
the plurality of the first conveyor belts 7 is inclined to
gradually approach to the first guide 8 toward the downstream side,
whereas the remaining first conveyor belt(s) 7 extend(s) parallel
with the transport path 1 (the first portion 1c).
[0057] Thereby, the paper sheet P is transported by the first
conveyor belts 7 while the side edge of the paper sheet P being
aligned along the first guide 8.
[0058] The first guide 8 is slidably guided in a direction
perpendicular to the transport path 1 (the first portion 1c). An
intermediate portion of the first guide 8 is screwed onto a first
screw shaft 10 which can be rotated around an axis thereof by a
first motor 9. A position of the first guide 8 can be adjusted by
forward and reverse rotation of the first motor 9.
[0059] A first folding mechanism 11 is arranged at the first
folding position (A) for folding the paper sheet P in a direction
perpendicular to the transport direction.
[0060] The first folding mechanism 11 has a buckle 11a and a set of
rollers 11b-11d arranged at a bottom entrance of the buckle
11a.
[0061] The buckle 11a is provided with a first stopper 12. The
first stopper 12 positions and stops the paper sheet P at the first
folding position (A) by bringing a leading edge of the paper sheet
P into contact with the first stopper 12 when the paper sheet P is
inserted into the buckle 11a.
[0062] The first stopper 12 is attached to the buckle 11a so as to
slide in a length direction of the buckle 11a, and attached to a
first belt drive mechanism 13. Accordingly, a position of the first
stopper 12 is adjustable in the length direction of the buckle
11a.
[0063] The first belt drive mechanism 13 is composed of a pair of
horizontal pulley shafts 13a, 13b extending in a width direction of
the buckle 11a, a pair of endless belts 13d, 13e extended between
the pair of pulley shafts 13a, 13b through pulleys 13c, and a
second motor 13f capable of rotating the pulley shaft 13a.
[0064] The first stopper 12 is fixed to the endless belts 13d, 13e
and moved in the length direction of the buckle 11a by rotation of
the endless belts 13d, 13e caused by drive of the second motor
13f.
[0065] The second transport mechanism 4 has a plurality of second
conveyor belts 14 extended along the transport path 1 (the first
portion 1c) between the first folding position (A) and the second
folding position (B) on the transport path 1 and spaced from each
other in a width direction of the transport path 1 (the first
portion 1c).
[0066] A second folding mechanism 15 is arranged at the second
folding position (B) so as to fold the paper sheet P in the
transport direction.
[0067] The second folding mechanism 15 has a folding knife 15a
arranged above the second folding position (B) for up-and-down
movement and extending in the transport direction, a pair of first
folding rollers 15b, 15c arranged beneath and opposite to the
folding knife 15a and extended parallel to the folding knife
15a.
[0068] A second stopper 16 is arranged downstream of the second
folding position (B) and extending at a right angle to the folding
knife 15a (the transport direction) so as to stop and position the
paper sheet P at the second folding position (B) by bring a leading
edge of the paper sheet P into contact with the second stopper
16.
[0069] The second stopper 16 is slidably attached to a pair of
slide guides 17a, 17b extending in the transport direction on both
sides of the transport path 1 (the first portion 1c) and attached
to a second belt drive mechanism 18. Accordingly, a position of the
second stopper 16 is adjustable in the transport direction.
[0070] The second belt drive mechanism 18 is composed of a
horizontal pulley shaft 18a arranged downstream of the second
stopper 16 and extending at a right angle to the transport
direction, pulleys 18b, 18c are attached to both ends of the pulley
shaft 18a, pulleys 18d, 18e arranged upstream of and at a distance
from the pulleys 18b, 19c, a pair of endless belts 18f, 18g
extending between the pulleys 18b, 18c and the pulleys 18d, 18e, a
third motor 18h, and an endless belt 18i extending between a pulley
on a drive shaft of the third motor 18h and the pulley 18b.
[0071] Both ends of the second stopper 16 are attached to the
endless belts 18f, 18g, and thereby, the position of the second
stopper 16 can be adjusted by the endless belts 18f, 18g being
rotated by the third motor 18h.
[0072] Second and third guides 19, 20 extend at a right angle to
the second stopper 16 from the second stopper 16 to an upstream
side of the transport path 1 (the first portion 1c), and are
attached to the second stopper 16 so as to slide in a length
direction of the second stopper 16.
[0073] The second and third guides 19, 20 position the paper sheet
P relative to the second folding position (B) by engaging with side
edges of the paper sheet P during transport of the paper sheet
P.
[0074] Second screw shafts 21a, 21b each of which extends parallel
to the second stopper 16 are attached to both ends of the second
stopper 16 so as to be rotatable around axes thereof, and drive
shafts of fourth motors 22a, 22b attached to the second stopper 16
are connected to outer ends of the second screw shafts 21a,
21b.
[0075] The second and third guides 19, 20 are screwed onto the
second screw shafts 21a, 21b, and positions of the second and third
guides 19, 20 can be adjusted by forward and reverse rotations of
the fourth motors 22a, 22b.
[0076] The third transport mechanism 5 has a plurality of third
conveyor belts 23 extended in the transport direction between the
second and third folding positions (B), (C) on the transport path 1
(the second portion 1d) and spaced from each other in a direction
perpendicular to the transport direction.
[0077] A third folding mechanism 24 is arranged at the third
folding position (C) so as to fold the paper sheet P in the
transport direction.
[0078] The third folding mechanism 24 has a folding knife 24a
arranged above the third folding position (C) for up-and-down
movement and extending in the transport direction, a pair of first
folding rollers 24b, 24c arranged beneath and opposite to the
folding knife 24a and extended parallel to the folding knife
24a.
[0079] A third stopper 25 is arranged downstream of the third
folding position (C) and extending at a right angle to the folding
knife 24a (the transport direction) so as to stop and position the
paper sheet P at the third folding position (C) by bring a leading
edge of the paper sheet P into contact with the third stopper
25.
[0080] The third stopper 25 is slidably attached to a pair of slide
guides 26a, 26b extending in the transport direction on both sides
of the transport path 1 (the second portion 1d) and attached to a
third belt drive mechanism 27. Accordingly, a position of the third
stopper 25 is adjustable in the transport direction.
[0081] The third belt drive mechanism 27 is composed of a
horizontal pulley shaft 27a arranged downstream of the third
stopper 25 and extending at a right angle to the transport
direction, pulleys 27b, 27c are attached to both ends of the pulley
shaft 27a, pulleys 27d, 27e arranged upstream of and at a distance
from the pulleys 27b, 27c, a pair of endless belts 27f, 27g
extending between the pulleys 27b, 27c and the pulleys 27d, 27e, a
fourth motor 27h, and an endless belt 27i extending between a
pulley on a drive shaft of the fourth motor 27h and the pulley
27b.
[0082] Both ends of the third stopper 25 are attached to the
endless belts 27f, 27g, and thereby, the position of the third
stopper 25 can be adjusted by the endless belts 27f, 27g being
rotated by the fourth motor 27h.
[0083] Fourth and Fifth guides 28, 29 extend at a right angle to
the third stopper 25 from the third stopper 25 to an upstream side
of the transport path 1 (the second portion 1d), and are attached
to the third stopper 25 so as to slide in a length direction of the
third stopper 25.
[0084] The fourth and fifth guides 28, 29 position the paper sheet
P relative to the third folding position (C) by engaging with side
edges of the paper sheet P during transport of the paper sheet
P.
[0085] Third screw shafts 30a, 30b each of which extends parallel
to the third stopper 25 are attached to both ends of the third
stopper 25 so as to be rotatable around axes thereof, and drive
shafts of fifth motors 31a, 31b attached to the third stopper 25
are connected to outer ends of the third screw shafts 30a, 30b.
[0086] The fourth and fifth guides 28, 29 are screwed onto the
third screw shafts 30a, 30b, and positions of the fourth and fifth
guides 28, 29 can be adjusted by forward and reverse rotations of
the fifth motors 31a, 31b.
[0087] The fourth transport mechanism 6 has a plurality of fourth
conveyor belts 32 extended in the transport direction between the
third folding position (C) and the exit 1b on the transport path 1
(the third portion 1e), and spaced from each other in a direction
perpendicular to the transport direction.
[0088] Thus the paper sheet P supplied from the paper feeding
device 2 to the first conveyor belts 7 (the first transport
mechanism 3) is transported by the first transport mechanism 3 to
the first folding position (A) along the transport path 1 (the
first portion 1c). During the transport, the paper sheet P is
positioned relative to the first folding position (A) by the first
guide (positioning ruler) 8.
[0089] At the first folding position (A), the paper sheet P is
inserted into the buckle 11a by a pair of the rollers lib, 11c, and
stopped and positioned at the first folding position (A) by coming
into contact with the first stopper 12 at the leading edge thereof.
Next, a portion of the paper sheet P extending outward from the
entrance of the buckle 11a is inserted between a pair of the
rollers 11c, 11d so that the paper sheet P is folded in the
direction perpendicular to the transport direction.
[0090] The folded sheet paper P falls on the second conveyor belts
14 (the second transport mechanism 5) and is transported by the
second conveyor belts 14 to the second folding position (B).
[0091] The paper sheet P transported by the second conveyor belts
14 is stopped at the second folding position (B) by the second
stopper 16 and positioned at the second folding position (B) by the
second stopper 16 and the second and third guides 19, 20.
Thereafter the folding knife 15a moves downward, and the paper
sheet P is inserted between the pair of folding rollers 15b, 15c so
as to be folded in the transport direction, and falls on the third
conveyor belts 23 (the third transport mechanism 5) and is
transported to the third folding position (C) by the third conveyor
belts 23.
[0092] The paper sheet P transported by the third conveyor belts 23
is stopped at the third folding position (C) by t he third stopper
25 and positioned at the third folding position (C) by the third
stopper 25 and the fourth and fifth guides 28, 29. Thereafter the
folding knife 24a moves downward, and the paper sheet P is inserted
between the pair of folding rollers 24b, 24c so as to be folded in
the transport direction, and falls on the fourth conveyor belts 32
(the fourth transport mechanism 6) and is discharged from the exit
1b of the transport path 1 by the fourth conveyor belts 32.
[0093] The paper folding machine of the present invention further
comprises a fold misalignment detection unit 50 detecting, for each
paper sheet P and for each folding position (A)-(C), a fold
misalignment amount.
[0094] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of
the fold misalignment detection unit 50.
[0095] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 3, the fold misalignment detection
unit 50 comprises a first sensor 33 attached to the second stopper
16 of the second folding mechanism 15 so as to detect when the
paper sheet P stops at the second folding position (B), first
cameras 34 attached to the second stopper 16 so as to shoot the
marks (M) associated with the first folding position (A) of the
paper sheet P stopped at the second folding position (B), a second
sensor 35 attached to the third stopper 25 of the third folding
mechanism 24 so as to detect when the paper sheet P stops at the
third folding position (C), second cameras 36 attached to the third
stopper 25 so as to shoot the marks (M) associated with the second
folding position (B) of the paper sheet P stopped at the third
folding position (C).
[0096] The first cameras 34 perform shooting operation each time a
detection signal is outputted form the first sensor 33, and the
second cameras 36 perform shooting operation each time a detection
signal is outputted from the second sensor 35.
[0097] The fold misalignment detection unit 50 also comprises a
third sensor 37 arranged downstream of the third folding position
(C) and above the transport path 1 (the third portion 1e) so as to
detect passage of a leading edge of the paper sheet P and third
cameras 38 arranged side by side with the third sensor 37 in a
width direction of the transport path 1 (the third portion 1e) so
as to shoot the marks (M) associated with the third folding
position (C) of the paper sheet P.
[0098] The third cameras 38 perform shooting operation each time a
detection signal is outputted from the third sensor 37.
[0099] The fold misalignment detection unit 50 further comprises a
reference value storage section 39 storing as a reference value a
value of area of the mark (M) in each of the images obtained by the
first through third cameras 34, 36, 38 when the paper sheet P is
folded without fold misalignment, and an image processing section
40 processing each of the images of the paper sheet P shot by the
first through third cameras 34, 36, 38 so as to calculate an area
of the mark (M) in each of the images of the paper sheet P.
[0100] In this case, the area calculation by the image processing
unit 40 can be executed by a known appropriate image processing
method. In this embodiment, for example, the mark (M) is separated
as a blob from a background in the image using binarization
processing and blob processing and then a value of area of the blob
is measured.
[0101] The fold misalignment detection unit 50 further comprises a
detection section 41 calculating a difference between the value of
area calculated by the image processing section 40 and the
corresponding reference value so as to detect a fold misalignment
amount each time the value of area of the mark (M) is calculated by
the image processing section 40, and outputting the detected fold
misalignment amount.
[0102] A method of detection of the fold misalignment amount by the
detection section 41 will be specifically explained with reference
to the drawings.
[0103] FIG. 6A is a plan view of a paper sheet P0 folded without
fold misalignment by the first folding mechanism 11. FIGS. 6B and
6C are plan views of paper sheets P1, P2 folded with fold
misalignment by the first folding mechanism 11.
[0104] Marks M0-M2 shown in FIGS. 6A-6C are shot by the first
cameras 34 when the paper sheets P0-P2 stop at the second folding
position (B), respectively.
[0105] Referring to FIG. 6A, in the reference value storage section
39, a value of the mark (M0) in each of the images of the paper
sheet P0 shot by the first cameras 34 is stored as the reference
value in advance.
[0106] When the paper sheet P1 shown in FIG. 6B stops at the second
folding position (B) and is shot by the first cameras 34, a value
of area of the mark (M1) in each of images of the paper sheet P1 is
outputted from the image processing section 40. Then the detection
section 41 subtracts the corresponding reference value from the
value of area of the mark (M1), divides the subtraction value by a
width of the corresponding mark (M0), and outputs the division
value as a fold misalignment amount.
[0107] In this example, the fold misalignment amount is a positive
value because the value of area of the mark (M1) is larger than the
reference value. The positive fold misalignment amount indicates
that the actual fold line is shifted downstream from the set fold
line.
[0108] Also, when the paper sheet P2 stops at the second folding
position (B) and is shot by the first cameras 34, a value of area
of the mark (M2) in each of images of the paper sheet P2 is
outputted from the image processing section 40. Then the detection
section 41 subtracts the corresponding reference value from the
value of area of the mark (M2), divides the subtraction value by a
width of the corresponding mark (M0), and outputs the division
value as a fold misalignment amount.
[0109] In this example, the fold misalignment amount is a negative
value because the value of area of the mark (M2) is smaller than
the reference value. The negative fold misalignment amount
indicates that the actual fold line is shifted upstream from the
set fold line.
[0110] The paper folding machine of the present invention further
comprises a controller 42 operatively connected to the first motor
9 (a drive mechanism of the first guide 8), the first belt drive
mechanism 13 (a drive mechanism of the first stopper 12), the
second belt drive mechanism 18 (a drive mechanism of the second
stopper 16), a drive mechanism of the fourth motors 22a, 22b (the
second and third guides 19, 20), the third belt drive mechanism 27
(a drive mechanism of the third stopper 25), and the fifth motors
31a, 31b (a drive mechanism of the fourth and fifth guides 28,
29).
[0111] FIG. 5A is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of
the controller 42.
[0112] The controller 42 is a programmed computer, and comprises a
data receiving section 43 receiving detection data from the fold
misalignment detection unit 50, a data counting section 44, for
each folding position (A)-(C), the number of the detection data
received by the data receiving section 43, and a data storage
section 45 storing, for each folding position (A)-(C), the
detection data received by the data receiving section 43.
[0113] The controller 42 also comprises a statistical processing
section 46 calculating, for each folding position (A)-(C), an
average fold misalignment amount using the detection data
corresponding to a predetermined number of sample each time the
number of detection data stored in the data storage section 45
reaches, for each folding position, the number of sample.
[0114] That is to say, assuming that the predetermined number of
sample is n and the detection data are .delta.1, .delta.2,
.delta.3, . . . , .delta.n for each folding position (A)-(C), the
statistical processing section 46 calculates, for each folding
position (A)-(C), the average fold misalignment amount according
to
.delta. _ = 1 n i = 1 n .delta. i ( 1 ) ##EQU00001##
and outputs the calculated average fold misalignment amount.
[0115] In this case, the predetermined number of sample may be
stored as a default value in a memory of the controller 42 in
advance, or an appropriate number of sample may be inputted to the
controller 42 through an input section which is provided on the
controller 42 so as to receive an input of the number of
sample.
[0116] The controller 42 further comprises an adjustment section 47
adjusting the position of the guide 8, 19, 20, 28, 29 and/or the
stopper 12, 16, 25 associated with the corresponding folding
position so as to correct fold misalignment corresponding to the
average fold misalignment amount each time the average fold
misalignment amount is calculated by the statistical processing
section 46.
[0117] Thus, according to the present invention, the fold
misalignment amount of the paper sheet P is automatically detected
for each folding position (A)-(C) during operation of the paper
folding machine, and, for each folding position (A)-(C), each time
the obtained detection data reaches the predetermined number of
sample, the average fold misalignment amount is calculated and the
corresponding stopper 12, 16, 25 and/or guide 8, 19, 20, 28, 29
are(is) automatically adjusted using the calculated average fold
misalignment amount. Accordingly, the amount of work for workers is
greatly reduced and the work does not require skill, and thereby,
productivity is dramatically improved and significant cost
reductions can be achieved.
[0118] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the
adjustment of the paper folding machine is carried out in a manner
such that the fold misalignment amounts are statistically minimized
while considering the fold misalignment amount within the allowable
range as well as the fold misalignment amount exceeding the
allowable range. Consequently, the adjustment accuracy is improved
so that the incidence of defective products is further reduced.
[0119] FIG. 5B is a block diagram illustrating a modified example
of the controller 42 shown in FIG. 5A.
[0120] In the example shown in FIG. 5B, a controller 42' comprises
a misalignment tolerance storage section 48 storing, for each
folding position (A)-(C), the average fold misalignment amount as a
misalignment tolerance in addition to the configuration shown in
FIG. 5A. In this case, data stored in the misalignment tolerance
storage section 48 are updated each time the average fold
misalignment amount is calculated by the statistical processing
section 46.
[0121] In this example, the controller 42' also comprises a folding
failure check section 49 operatively connected to the first through
fourth transport mechanisms 3-6 and the first through third folding
mechanisms 11, 15, 24, and comparing the detection data with the
misalignment tolerance each time the detection data is received by
the data receiving section 43, and stopping the first through
fourth transport mechanisms 3-6 and the first through third folding
mechanisms 11, 15, 24 when the detection data exceeds the
misalignment tolerance.
[0122] According to the modified example shown in FIG. 5B, not only
the adjustment for fold misalignment of the paper folding machine
but also the check of folding failure (defective product) is
automatically performed.
[0123] Although, in the modified example shown in FIG. 5B, the
paper folding machine stops when the folding failure (defective
product) is detected, according to another modified example, the
paper folding machine not stops but discharges a defective product
automatically when the folding failure (defective product) is
detected.
[0124] In this case, the paper folding machine further comprises a
collection unit arranged downstream of the third folding position
(C) on the transport path 1 (the third portion 1e) or at the exit
1b of the transport path 1 for collecting the paper sheet with
folding failure. Then the folding failure check section 49 is
operatively connected to the collection unit and compares the
detection data with the misalignment tolerance each time the
detection data is received by the data receiving section 43, and
collecting the corresponding paper sheet P in the collection unit
when the detection data exceeds the misalignment tolerance.
[0125] FIG. 5C is a block diagram illustrating another modified
example of the controller 42 shown in FIG. 5A.
[0126] In the modified example shown in FIG. 5C, not only a
controller 42'' has the configuration shown in FIG. 5A, but also a
statistical processing section 46' further calculates, for each
folding position (A)-(C), a standard deviation of the fold
misalignment amount using the average fold misalignment amount and
the detection data corresponding to the number of sample each time
the number of the detection data stored in the data storage section
45 reaches, for each folding position, the number of sample, and
calculates a variation judgement value of fold misalignment based
on the standard deviation.
[0127] That is to say, assuming that the predetermined number of
sample is n and the detection data are .delta.1, .delta.2,
.delta.3, . . . , .delta.n for each folding position (A)-(C), the
statistical processing section 46' calculates, for each folding
position (A)-(C), the standard deviation u according to
.sigma. = 1 n i = 1 n ( .delta. i - .delta. _ ) 2 ( 2 )
##EQU00002##
[0128] where .delta. is the average fold misalignment amount
defined by the equation (1).
and then calculates the variation judgement value of fold
misalignment .alpha. based on the standard deviation u according to
a predetermined equation, for example,
.alpha.=.sigma..times.m(m=1 or 2 or 3) (3)
[0129] The controller 42'' also comprises a folding failure check
section 49' operatively connected to the first through fourth
transport mechanisms 3-6 and the first through third folding
mechanisms 11, 15, 24, and comparing the variation judgement value
with a predetermined misalignment tolerance each time the variation
judgement value is calculated by the statistical processing section
46', and stopping the first through fourth transport mechanisms 3-6
and the first through third folding mechanisms 11, 15, 24 when the
variation judgement value exceeds the predetermined misalignment
tolerance.
[0130] In this case, the predetermined misalignment tolerance may
be stored as a default value in a memory of the controller 42'' in
advance, or an appropriate misalignment tolerance may be inputted
to the controller 42'' through an input section which is provided
on the controller 42'' so as to receive an input of the
misalignment tolerance.
[0131] According to the modified example shown in FIG. 5C, not only
the adjustment for fold misalignment of the paper folding machine
but also the check of folding failure (defective product) is
automatically performed.
[0132] Although, in the modified example shown in FIG. 5C, the
paper folding machine stops when the folding failure (defective
product) is detected, according to another modified example, the
paper folding machine not stops but discharges a defective product
automatically when the folding failure (defective product) is
detected.
[0133] In this case, the paper folding machine further comprises a
collection unit arranged downstream of the third folding position
(C) on the transport path 1 (the third portion 1e) or at the exit
1b of the transport path 1 for collecting the paper sheet with
folding failure. Then the folding failure check section 49' is
operatively connected to the collection unit and compares the
variation judgement value with the predetermined misalignment
tolerance each time the variation judgement value is calculated by
the statistical processing section 46', and collecting the
corresponding paper sheet P in the collection unit when the
variation judgement value exceeds the predetermined misalignment
tolerance.
[0134] Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention
has been set forth for purposes of illustration, the foregoing
description should not be deemed a limitation of the invention
herein. Accordingly, various modifications, adaptations and
alternatives may occur to one skilled in the art without departing
from the spirit and the scope of the present invention.
[0135] For example, although, for simplicity of explanation, the
above embodiment is limited to the case where the fold misalignment
is parallel to a fold line, the present invention can be applied to
not only the case where the fold misalignment is parallel to the
fold line but also the case where the fold misalignment is oblique
to the fold line.
[0136] When both the fold misalignment parallel to the fold line
and the fold misalignment oblique to the fold line arise, not only
the first through fifth guides 8, 19, 20, 28, 29 can be moved in
the direction perpendicular to the transport direction like the
above embodiment but also the inclination angle of those guides 8,
19, 20, 28, 29 with respect to the transport path can be adjusted.
In addition, not only the first through third stoppers 12, 16, 25
can be moved in the transport direction like the above embodiment,
but also the inclination angle of those stoppers 12, 16, 25 can be
adjusted.
[0137] For example, although, in the above embodiment, the paper
folding machine has three folding positions (A)-(C), and a
buckle-type folding machine is arranged at the first folding
position (A), and a knife-type folding machine is arranged at the
second folding position (B), a knife-type folding machine is
arranged at the third folding position (C), the paper folding
machine may have any number of folding positions, and any suitable
type of folding machine may be arranged.
DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0138] 1 Transport path [0139] 1a Entrance [0140] 1b Exit [0141] 1c
First portion [0142] 1d Second portion [0143] 1e Third portion
[0144] 2 Paper feeding device [0145] 2a Shelf [0146] 2b Paper feed
rotor [0147] 3 First transport mechanism [0148] 4 Second transport
mechanism [0149] 5 Third transport mechanism [0150] 6 Fourth
transport mechanism [0151] 7 First conveyor belt [0152] 8 First
guide (positioning ruler) [0153] 9 First motor [0154] 10 First
screw shaft [0155] 11 First folding mechanism [0156] 11a Buckle
[0157] 11b-11d Roller [0158] 12 First stopper [0159] 13 First belt
drive mechanism [0160] 13a, 13b Pulley shaft [0161] 13c Pulley
[0162] 13d, 13e Endless belt [0163] 13f Second motor [0164] 14
Second conveyor belt [0165] 15 Second folding mechanism [0166] 15a
Folding knife [0167] 15b, 15c Folding roller [0168] 16 Second
stopper [0169] 17a, 17b Slide guide [0170] 18 Second belt drive
mechanism [0171] 18a Pulley shaft [0172] 18b-18e Pulley [0173] 18f,
18g Endless belt [0174] 18h Third motor [0175] 18i Endless belt
[0176] 19 Second guide [0177] 20 Third guide [0178] 21a, 21b Second
screw shaft [0179] 22a, 22b Fourth motor [0180] 23 Third conveyor
belt [0181] 24 Third folding mechanism [0182] 24a Folding knife
[0183] 24b, 24c Folding roller [0184] 25 Third stopper [0185] 26a,
26b Slide guide [0186] 27 Third belt drive mechanism [0187] 27a
Pulley shaft [0188] 27b-27e Pulley [0189] 27f, 27g Endless belt
[0190] 27h Fourth motor [0191] 27i Endless belt [0192] 28 Fourth
guide [0193] 29 Fifth guide [0194] 30a, 30b Third screw shaft
[0195] 31a, 31b Fifth motor [0196] 32 Fourth conveyor belt [0197]
33 First sensor [0198] 34 First camera [0199] 35 Second sensor
[0200] 36 Second camera [0201] 37 Third sensor [0202] 38 Third
camera [0203] 39 Reference value storage section [0204] 40 Image
processing section [0205] 41 Detection section [0206] 42, 42', 42''
Controller [0207] 43 Data receiving section [0208] 44 Data counting
section [0209] 45 Data storage section [0210] 46, 46' Statistical
processing section [0211] 47 Adjustment section [0212] 48
Misalignment tolerance storage section [0213] 49, 49' Folding
failure check section [0214] 50 Fold misalignment detection unit
[0215] A First folding position [0216] B Second folding position
[0217] C Third folding position [0218] M, M0, M1, M2 Mark [0219] P,
P0, P1, P2 Paper sheet
* * * * *