Conveyor system and multi-speed folder
US5358464A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 31, 1992 |
| Grant date | Oct 25, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 31, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65H2513/10
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A compact conveyor which passes sheets from a printer to a folder saves valuable floor space while providing the capability of accommodating a short intercopy gap. Sensing means on the conveyor detects the exit of each sheet from the printer and signals a temporary increase in the speed of the folder to a fast-fold operation. As the next sheet travels behind the faster moving first sheet, the intercopy gap between the sheets increases before the next sheet arrives at the folder. The arrival occurs after the first sheet has been completely folded, since the increased gap has provided sufficient time delay. When the first sheet is released from the folder, the folder speed returns to the original slower speed which is equalized with the printer. By adjusting the rate of the fast-fold mode, the gap between the sheets arriving at the folder can be regulated. Since this compensation for a short intercopy gap is accomplished without changing the speed of the printer or conveyor, it may be universally adapted to a variety of printers.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.