Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for trimming a print sheet and registering the location of an image on the print sheet. The apparatus may include a sensor system arranged to detect a guide line on the print sheet to align the print sheet relative to a cutter. The sensor system emits first and second light beams through the print sheet, and a controller is configured to detect the presence of the guide line through the light beams to align the guide line on the print sheet relative to the cutter. The apparatus may also include a vacuum chamber extending through a plate, with a float positioned within the vacuum chamber. In a first configuration, a vacuum is drawn in the chamber moving the float within the vacuum chamber away from the base such that a print sheet is moveably receivable between the plate and the base.

Abstract: An apparatus, method, and system are provided for cutting panels of stock material for producing hard book casings. The apparatus may include a transport mechanism, a vertical cutter, and/or a horizontal cutter. The vertical cutter may produce a vertical cut of the stock material. The horizontal cutter may produce a horizontal cut of the stock material. The apparatus may produce properly dimensioned panels from the stock material in a single pass.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for making hard book cover assemblies. The apparatus may include a cutter for removing a portion of cover material from a hard book cover assembly. Cutting may be performed without releasing the assembly from a conveyor.