Abstract: An apparatus and method for making improved folded signature for subsequent use in gathering and combining or binding in bookbinding. Each folded signature includes uniquely positioned perforated folds, sequences of folding and adhered together perforated folded edges which reduce folding time, alter folded signature orientation during gathering, eliminate the need for having a conventional backbone, and provide a binding or pulling edge.

Abstract: An apparatus for sequentially forming folds in a sheet of paper which is continuously moving substantially in a single plane. A first fold is formed in the center of the continuously-moving sheet of paper and subsequent pairs of folds are sequentially formed, one on each side of the previously-formed folds, until the entire continuously-moving sheet is folded. Guide wires retain each folded section until the entire sheet is folded by the cyclic upward movement of a continuous flexible wire loop held for free movement on a pair of spaced apart pulley assemblies. Each pulley assembly includes a plurality of evenly spaced pulleys each of which are held for free rotation on a support frame. Each support frame is driven in rotation about a central axis of rotation. Each individual pulley includes a freely rotatable ring surrounding the periphery of the pulley around which the flexible wire loop is held.

Abstract: An improved continuous feed book turning apparatus and method for receiving improved book blocks of gathered signatures and for transferring the book blocks into book block clamps ready for edge milling and gluing. The invention takes advantage of efficiency benefits derived from improved signatures as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,655,866. The improved signatures gathered into book blocks are moved continuously into the apparatus in an upstanding orientation with each longer binding edge upright to substantially increase feed rate. However, the book turning apparatus must rotate each such improved book block through about 90.degree. to present a downwardly facing binding edge for clamping, edge milling, and gluing.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for making improved folded signature for subsequent use in gathering and combining or binding in bookbinding. Each folded signature includes uniquely positioned perforated folds, sequences of folding and adhered together perforated folded edges which reduce folding time, alter folded signature orientation during gathering, eliminate the need for having a conventional backbone, and provide a binding or pulling edge.

Abstract: An improved fully folded signature for subsequent use in gathering and combining or binding in bookbinding. The fully folded signature includes uniquely positioned perforated folds and sequences of folding which reduces folding time, alter folded signature orientation during gathering, and eliminates the need for having a conventional backbone.

Abstract: In the application of a cover to a book block, a woven cloth strip is adhesively bonded to a flyleaf and an end-paper along generally parallel, displaced lines which extend from the top to the bottom of the book. The flyleaf may be stapled to the book block along with the cloth strip and the end-paper is glued to both the cover and the cloth strip.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sequentially forming folds in a sheet of paper which is continuously moving in a single plane. A first fold is formed in the center of the continuously-moving sheet of paper and subsequent pairs of folds are sequentially formed, one on each side of the previously-formed folds, until the entire continuously-moving sheet is folded. Guide wires retain each folded section until the entire sheet is folded.