Abstract: In order to improve binding line output by reducing equipment downtime effects, a book accumulator for a binding line is provided. The binding line book accumulator includes a book accumulating table for accumulating books from and returning books to a binding line in first-in first-out fashion, and it also includes a first diverter for diverting books from the binding line to the book accumulating table and a second diverter for diverting books from the book accumulating table to the binding line. In addition, a control is provided for selectively and independently operating the first and second diverters upon demand in response to a variety of factors.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for rubbing down spines of case bound books includes at least one case-in wing that carries case bound books. Each case-in wing includes a leading edge on which the spine of each case bound book is positioned. The case-in wing is moved at a first predetermined rate along a first path. The apparatus includes at least one rub down roller that is moved at a second predetermined rate along a second path. The second path crosses and is at an angle to the first path. During operation, the rub down roller rolls along the entire length of the spine of the book on the case-in wing. The second predetermined rate and the angle of the second path relative to the first path are selected such that the rub down roller moves at the same speed as the case-in wing to maintain a constant distance between the rub-down roller and the spine of the book.