Abstract: A method of fusing two or more pieces along an edge to produce a bound volume uses an activating agent which dissolves and mixes with a component present on the pieces, and thereby causes the edges of the various pieces to fuse together. The method is particularly useful for producing bound periodicals and magazines.

Abstract: A gripper-accumulator and system for gripping, accumulating and transporting two or more pieces along an production line. The gripper-accumulator is particularly useful in accomplishing higher production speeds in the production of periodicals and magazines. The gripper-accumulator has two or more gripper-fingers and a fixed support extending radially out of a hub. The gripper-fingers are capable of rotating around the hub from a initially open to a eventually closed position adjacent to the fixed support. At the closed position a piece is gripped between the fixed support and the gripper-finger, or between two adjacently located gripper-fingers. Thus, a single gripper-accumulator is provided that is capable of holding several pieces thereby speeding production.