Abstract: An automatic laminating machine is provided for use with pre-fabricated laminating packets having a tear-off tab with a plurality of notches thereon. The machine is substantially automatic in its operation and can be easily operated by an inexperienced operator. The machine requires no warm-up time and heats up in only 10 seconds each time a packet is inserted. The machine will not operate unless it is used with a laminating packet with a pull tab of proper configuration which not only energizes the machine but also aligns the packet within the machine.

Abstract: A machine for sawing a plurality of spaced L-shaped slots through a stack of paper sheets starting from one edge surface of the stack, which slots are adapted to receive a device for binding the stack of sheets together. The machine includes a plurality of elongated saw blades having cutting teeth all around their peripheries and mounted side by side in spaced parallel relationship. The machine reciprocates the saw blades along their longitudinal axes to afford cutting engagement with the blades by the stack of sheets from any direction normal to the axes of the blades; while moving a planar support surface disposed normal to the axes of the saw blades and to which the stack of sheets is clamped in an L-shaped pattern to engage the stack of sheets with the saw blades and cut the L-shaped slots.

Abstract: A gauge and alignment device is provided for applying a hard cover to a bound sheaf of paper. The device serves both as a gauge to determine the proper size of cover to use for a given volume as well as an arcuate alignment device so that the material to be bound can be applied squarely in the center of the cover.

Abstract: An automatic laminating machine is provided for use with pre-fabricated laminating packets having a tear-off tab with a plurality of notches thereon. The machine is substantially automatic in its operation and can be easily operated by an inexperienced operator. The machine requires no warm-up time and heats up in only 10 seconds each time a packet is inserted. The machine will not operate unless it is used with a laminating packet with a pull tab of proper configuration which not only energizes the machine but also aligns the packet within the machine.