Abstract: An apparatus includes a frame and a roller. The frame has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is configured to be coupled to a vehicle configured to move along a surface, such as for example, an industrial utility vehicle, scooter or the like. The roller is coupled to the second portion of the frame such that when the first portion of the frame is coupled to the vehicle the second portion of the frame and the roller are spaced apart from the surface, and the roller is configured to contact a portion of a substantially cylindrical roll. The portion of the substantially cylindrical roll is disposed between the surface and a horizontal center line of the substantially cylindrical roll.

Abstract: A foil roll having a wound stiffener core formed from an initially flat sheet of stiffener material fed into a spiral roll winder simultaneously with a feed end of a foil web. An apparatus and method for spirally winding a foil roll with a wound stiffener core in which a stiffener sheet is fed into a roll winder in adjacent outward contact with a foil web and a leading edge of the stiffener slightly ahead of a feed end of a foil web. The stiffener sheet is outwardly disposed from the foil web and in adjacent contact with the roll starter guides to prevent contact between guides and the foil web during initial core formation. Roll starter guides are moved from contact with the outer periphery of the roll once the initial core is formed allowing a desired length of foil web to be spirally wound around the core without damage to the web.

Abstract: A lottery ticket dispensing system includes a housing having a plurality of lottery ticket rolls carried therein. At least one wall of the housing defines a common dispensing face having a respective dispensing slot for each of the lottery ticket rolls. A leading end of each of the lottery ticket rolls is pulled and dispensed independently of the other lottery ticket rolls.

Abstract: An unmanned, towable aerovehicle is described and includes a container or frame to hold or support cargo, at least one and, in some examples, a plurality of autogyro assemblies connected to the container and to provide flight characteristics, and a controller to control operation the autogyro assembly for unmanned flight. The container or frame includes a connection to connect to a powered aircraft to provide forward motive force to power the autogyro assembly. In an example, the autogyro assembly includes a mast extending from the container, a rotatable hub on an end of the mast, and a plurality of blades connected to the hub for rotation to provide lift to the vehicle. In an example, an electrical motor rotates the blades prior to lift off to assist in take off. In an example, the electrical motor does not have enough power to sustain flight of the vehicle. The aerovehicle can further include plurality of autogyro assemblies to assist in flight.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an aircraft (1) comprising an airframe (2) provided with a fuselage (10) and fixed wings (20), a rotary wing (30), at least two propellers (41, 42), and a power plant suitable for driving said rotary wing (30) and said propellers (41, 42) into rotation.

Abstract: A lip of an air inlet of a turbojet pod intended to be fastened to an air inlet downstream structure includes at least one electric heating element for defrosting. The electric heating element being fitted with at least one electrical connector able to be connected to at least one corresponding electricity supply connector of the downstream structure. The lip breaks down into at least two identical structures set end-to-end on a periphery of the air inlet.

Abstract: An aft part of an aircraft, including at least one engine assembly including a turbine engine and a turbine engine mounting pylon. A rigid structure of the mounting pylon includes a longitudinal central box and a connection box carried by the box and projecting from the box. The aircraft structure includes a fuselage lateral extension projecting from it, and the connection box is pressed into contact with the fuselage extension, below it, an attachment mechanism being arranged between these two entities.

Abstract: The invention relates to a muscle-powered ornithopter comprising a fuselage, a pair of flapping wings which have an alterable profile or a rudder in an outer wing region located at a distance from the fuselage, said alterable profile or rudder allowing the uplift to be modified in a predefined flow, and an elevator unit in which the deflection of the elevator can be modified. The pair of flapping wings and the fuselage are made of an elastic material, the elasticity of which allows the pair of flapping wings to be flapped. The flapping wings are curved downward in a resting position. The elasticity is calculated such that the flapping wings are urged into a neutral position during a flight because of the pilot's weight. The fuselage is designed to accommodate the pilot in an upright position relative to a longitudinal axis of the fuselage such that the pilot can apply stress to and relieve stress from the aircraft in phases by stretching and bending his or her legs.

Abstract: A hydraulic pump is installed inside a wing at which a control surface is provided, and supplies pressure oil to an actuator when a loss or degradation occurs in the function of aircraft central hydraulic power sources. An electric motor is installed inside the wing and drives the backup hydraulic pump. A driver is installed inside the wing and drives the electric motor. A cooling device is installed inside the wing and simultaneously cools the backup hydraulic pump, the electric motor, and the driver.

Abstract: A retention device, in the form of a trunking with a substantially U-shaped section, for retaining at least one cable running along the structure of an aircraft, fastened to said structure by a fastening device and providing an electrical continuity over the whole of its length is disclosed. The device is electrically connected to a current-return circuit from the items of equipment of the aircraft. The trunking includes at least one curve on its longitudinal axis corresponding substantially to that of a frame of a fuselage. It is intended to be mounted on a frame of an aircraft made of carbon fibers and to protect the skin of the aircraft against a possible contact with a damaged cable.

Abstract: A connecting device having two curved ribs of an aircraft or spacecraft, with: a coupling element which can be connected by means of predetermined coupling sections to respective connecting sections of the two ribs; wherein at least the predetermined coupling sections of the coupling element are rectilinearly designed; and wherein at least the respective connecting sections of the two ribs each have rectilinearly running inner belt regions for a respective rectilinear connection of the predetermined coupling sections of the coupling element.

Abstract: A device for holding an insulating blanket and for fastening systems in an aircraft includes a base and at least one support. The base has two ends from each of which there extends an arm. One arm is a jointed arm that is jointed onto the base to be pivotable relative to the base. The at least one support is configured to accommodate a system. The base includes an elongated shape and defines a plane, the base includes two longitudinal edges, and at one end of the base, each longitudinal edge has a flange extending from the base on a same side of the base from which the arms extend.

Abstract: A method and a device operate a railroad security system having trackside devices for specific functions. In order to reduce the number of cable connections, control of a first trackside device is provided by a data message generated as required by a second trackside device, in particular a signal box, the data message being transmitted wirelessly.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a component for a railway snow melter. The component includes a mounting plate adapted for connection to a tie duct. The mounting plate defines a point nozzle opening and/or a track duct nozzle. A point nozzle is mounted to the mounting plate at a location above the point nozzle opening. A track duct nozzle is mounted to the mounting plate at a location above the track duct nozzle opening.

Abstract: To provide a pipe support base light in weight and with good workability, to which loads may given according to need. This problem may be overcome with a hollow cylindrical body with a rectangular cross section and with four sides. A through passage is provided in the center portion thereof. Further, a cross-shaped rib is provided at an approximately central position thereof. Additionally, grooves are formed parallel to the aforementioned through passage on at least any of the surfaces, upon the edges of which are provided engagement plates protruding into the cross sections of the grooves.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bag holder frame having a first rectangular ring-shaped member and a second rectangular ring-shaped member. The first rectangular ring-shaped member may have a first cross-member and a second cross-member connected together via a first base and a first top portion, wherein the first top portion has a first slot and a second slot. The second rectangular ring-shaped member may have a third cross-member and a fourth cross-member connected together via a second base and a second top portion, wherein the second top portion has a third slot and a fourth slot. In addition, the first cross-member and the third cross-member are connected via a first hinge present at a medial portion of the first cross-member and the third cross-member, wherein the second cross-member and the fourth cross-member are connected via a second hinge present at a medial portion of the second cross-member.

Abstract: A breathing hose support system for efficiently supporting a supply hose and mask in a proper position while being worn by an individual. The breathing hose support system generally includes a base, wherein the base may be partially supported by a bed frame or comprised of a self supported configuration. A vertical support extends from the base and a rotator assembly extends from the vertical support opposite the base. A horizontal support extends from the rotator assembly and is able to rotate a predetermined amount along a substantially horizontal plane via the rotator assembly. The horizontal support may also include a plurality of carrier assemblies movably connected to the horizontal support, wherein the carrier assemblies travel along a longitudinal axis of the horizontal support.

Abstract: A skateboard mounting arrangement consists of a top part that includes a magnet and a bottom part that includes a bottom extension. When the bottom part is mounted below the top part on a wall support, the bottom of the skateboard is retained by the bottom extension and the magnet attracts and holds the top part to the wall support.

Abstract: A support arm system (10) includes a socket (16) for attachment to a surface (18) and a support arm (14), for removable insertion in the socket (16). The support arm (14) has at least one formation (22). The socket (16) includes a housing (28) having an insertion opening (30) leading to a passage (32) for insertion of the support arm (14). At least one formation (34) in the passage (32) complementary to the at least one formation (22) on the support arm (14) is provided to engage the support arm (14) when the support arm (14) is in the socket (16). A gate element (36) in the passage (32) is biased to a position at or in front of said at least one formation (34) in the passage. To insert the support arm (14), the gate element (36) must be pushed against its bias to expose the formation in the passage for engagement by the support arm (14) to retain the support arm in the socket, the gate element (36) providing a positive force between the support arm (14) and socket (16) while it is so retained.

Abstract: A speaker fastening mechanism includes a first fastening component installed inside an audio device, a second fastening component installed inside the audio device and disposed on a side of the first fastening component, a speaker unit whereon a first fixing part and a second fixing part are formed, a first elastic component wedged in the first fixing part and fastened inside the first fastening component, and a second elastic component wedged in the second fixing part and fastened inside the second fastening component in a rotating manner after the first elastic component is fastened inside the first fastening component.

Abstract: A soft padeye is shown and disclosed. The soft padeye has a spindle that runs through the deck of the ship or boat or other surface. The fastener is then screwed on the shaft and secured against the deck securing the fastener and the spindle to the deck. The spindle has a hole through it allowing the passage of a loop of line. The loop remains above deck while the two ends of the loop are fed through the shaft and tied in a knot that will not pull through the shaft. This allows the user to secure line or other hardware to the loop.

Abstract: A bracket system for assembling playground equipment includes a plurality of deck support brackets, at least two vertical frame brackets, at least two horizontal frame brackets, a swing bracket, and at least two ladder brackets. The deck support brackets secure horizontal deck support beams to vertical frame beams at first points along the vertical frame beams. The vertical frame brackets attach to at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at second points above the first points. The at least two horizontal frame brackets fix at least one horizontal frame beam to the at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at the second points; the horizontal frame brackets and the vertical frame brackets interconnect. The swing bracket fastens a swing support beam to the at least one horizontal frame beam at a third point along the at least one horizontal frame beam. The at least two ladder brackets connect a ladder to one of the horizontal deck support beams.

Abstract: A support mechanism for supporting an electronic device is disclosed. The support mechanism, comprises at least one connecting assembly; and at least one pair of support portions, each of the at least one pair of support portions comprising a first support member, a connecting member comprising a first connecting end and a second connecting end, and a second support member; wherein the first support member is rotatably connected to the connecting member at the first connecting end, the second support member is rotatably connected to the second connecting member at the second connecting end, and the second support members of each of the at least one pair of support portions are rotatably connected to each other by the at least one connecting assembly.

Abstract: A longitudinal adjuster for a vehicle seat (1) with a spindle (13), which is arranged in a hollow space formed by a pair of rails (5, 7), and with spindle holders (15). The area of connection of at least one of the spindle holders (15a) to one of the rails (5) lies outside of the hollow space formed by the rails (5, 7). The spindle holder (15a) extends with a partial area, with which it is connected to an end (13a) of the spindle (13), into the hollow space.

Abstract: A holding structure associated with a lifting device for supporting a removed turbine engine cover plate assembly. The holding structure includes an upper support member and a lower support member. The upper support member is formed with a plurality of service areas, where each service area is configured for servicing a cover plate assembly. Each service area includes a plurality of slots extending inwardly from a peripheral edge of the upper support member to receive and support components of the cover plate assembly during a disassembly and service operation.

Abstract: An electronic device includes a main body and a table stand connected to the main body for supporting the main body. The main body comprises a positioning member. The table stand defines at least two positioning holes. The table stand is operable to rotate relative to the main body. The positioning member is operable to be selectively inserted into either one of the at least two positioning holes, such that the table stand is operable to form a corresponding predetermined angle with the main body.

Abstract: Actuator apparatus having a multi-stable element actuated by memory alloy actuating elements. In one embodiment, the multi-stable actuator comprises a bistable (two-state) diaphragm element adapted to alternate between two stable configurations via forces exerted on the diaphragm by more than one memory alloy filaments in response to thermal activation. In another embodiment, the bistable diaphragm of the multi-stable actuator transitions from a first to a second stable configuration via forces exerted by a single filament in response to direct or indirect thermal activation. A portion of the assembly is displaced when the assembly is in the second configuration. The bistable diaphragm transitions back to the first stable configuration via application of mechanical force on a portion of the assembly which was displaced. Methods for making and using the bistable actuator apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: A device has been disclosed that may include a spool valve including a body having a first connector and a second connector and a spool movable relative to the body for controlling flow between the first connector and the second connector. The reversible flow control assembly further may include a pilot valve device developing a single pressure command in the form of a fluid at a command pressure. The spool valve may be responsive to the single pressure command developed in said pilot valve device to control flow between the first connector and the second connector without regard to the direction of flow. The majority of axial forces acting on the spool to position the spool relative to the body when fluid is flowing through the valve may be fluid forces.

Abstract: A bistable valve (100) is provided according to an embodiment of the invention. The bistable valve (100) includes an armature (108) movable to selectively block and unblock at least a first port (104) and a biasing device (112) configured to provide a first biasing force that biases the armature (108) toward a first position blocking the first port (104). The bistable valve (100) further includes a plurality of substantially radially magnetized permanent magnets (114) configured to provide a second biasing force to the armature (108) substantially opposite to the first biasing force and an electromagnetic coil (116) configured to generate a third biasing force when energized with a first current polarity. The third biasing force is substantially opposite to the first biasing force and in combination with the second biasing force overcomes the first biasing force and moves the armature (108).

Abstract: A flow modulation valve has a slidably translating hollow armature with at least one energizable coil wound around and fixably attached to the hollow armature. The energizable coil or coils are influenced by at least one permanent magnet surrounding the hollow armature and supported by an outer casing. Lorentz forces on the energizable coils which are translated to the hollow armature, increase or decrease the flow area to provide flow throttling action. The extent of hollow armature translation depends on the value of current supplied and the direction of translation depends on the direction of current flow. The compact nature of the flow modulation valve combined with the high forces afforded by the actuator design provide a flow modulation valve which is highly responsive to high-rate input control signals.

Abstract: The invention relates to vanes used in butterfly valves utilized in fluid control systems requiring special relationships between passing fluid and vane rotation and furthermore can provide leak proof shut-off when in the closed valve position and due to the extended contact length between the vane and the valve bore assures low opening friction. The invention furthermore features a shape that greatly reduces the customary high dynamic torque created by fluid suction effects on a vane when in the open position.

Abstract: A method for partially stroking an emergency valve apparatus is provided. The emergency valve apparatus comprises an actuator (103) and a valve member (101). The apparatus is movable between a first position and a second position. The method comprises the step of initiating a partial stroke movement of the apparatus from the first position towards the second position. A parameter of the fluid acting on the apparatus is measured. Once the measured parameter reaches a threshold value, the partial stroke movement is reversed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a solenoid valve, in particular for a brake system of a motor vehicle, having an axially displaceably supported armature, on one end of which a valve sealing body is disposed and with the other end of which a pole core is associated, and having a compression spring acting in prestressed fashion between the pole core and the armature. It is provided that the compression spring is held in prestressed fashion in an axial passage of the armature, between a bolt, having the valve sealing body and held in a selectable position in the axial passage in force- and/or form-locking fashion, and a thrust piece, disposed such that it can be pushed out of the axial passage up to a stop and subjects the pole core to the prestressing force. The invention further relates to an armature for a solenoid valve. Finally, the invention relates to a method for producing an armature for a solenoid valve.

Abstract: A powered pallet truck is provided having a drive motor mounted in a drive wheel, a lift mechanism in general fore-and-aft alignment with the center of the drive wheel, and a pressurized fluid supply mechanism mounted to the load lift portion of the frame assembly. In one aspect, the powered pallet truck has a fluid conduit connected to an upper portion of a lift cylinder device adjacent a pivot connection between the lift cylinder device and a load lift portion of the pallet truck to limit movement of the fluid conduit during up and down movement of the load lift portion. In another aspect, the powered pallet truck has a base support portion with an arcuate window permitting movement of one or more cables extending therethrough as a steering assembly of the pallet truck is turned.

Abstract: The present invention is a vehicle lift. In particular, the present invention is directed to a vehicle lift that can be mounted to the rear of a vehicle or used as a stand-alone lift. A preferred embodiment of the lift comprises a vehicle platform mounted to two platform saddles supported by two lifting arms and two support arms. The lifting arms and support arms are pivotally attached to a mount frame at one end and the platform saddles on the other end. A spacer sleeve is attached between the lifting arms and has a lock bar inserted through it. Lift locks are attached to each end of the lock bar and can lock the lift. Two drives are attached to the mount frame at one end and to the spacer sleeve at the other end. When the platform is in a raised position, the drives are extended.

Abstract: A wire grip comprising a stationary-side gripping portion provided with a body and having a substantially straight front shape, and a movable-side wire gripping portion arranged to face the stationary-side wire gripping portion and set movable back and forth with respect to the stationary-side wire gripping portion, whereby the linear object can be gripped between the stationary-side wire gripping portion and the movable-side wire gripping portion, wherein a first action portion for moving the movable-side wire gripping portion back and forth and a second action portion connected to the first action portion by a connecting rod are turnably attached at their individual ends to the body, wherein the other end of the first action portion and the other end of the second action portion are turnably attached to one end of the connection rod and an intermediate portion of the connection rod, respectively, wherein the other end of the connecting rod is pulled substantially parallel to the stationary-side wire grippin

Abstract: An electrically or pneumatically powered carpet stretcher including a wheeled dolly and designed for use by a standing operator. A variable speed electric or pneumatically powered drive unit having a chuck is removably attached to the wheeled dolly. A number of interchangeable head assemblies may be selectively attached to a power unit using its chuck. A multi-head carpet stretching head assembly allows fast stretching of carpet. Smaller single unit heads allow work in corners or other tight spaces. A tile removing head may also be provided to utilize the carpet stretcher to remove tile from floors or other similar tasks. An adjustable height lip may be provided at the front edge of a carpet stretching head to allow easy tucking of carpets with different piles and/or thicknesses.

Abstract: A fence post assembly (120) comprising a fence post (121) and at least one keeper (122) for holding a fencing wire (2) relative to the post (121). The keeper (122) is movable between a holding position in which the wire (2) is held relative to the post (121) and a release position in which the wire (2) may be released from the post (121). The keeper (121) comprises a slot (123) extending within the post (121) for receiving the wire (2) and a retainer (124) connected to the post (121) that is pivotable between the holding and release positions, wherein in the holding position the retainer (124) obstructs the slot (123).

Abstract: A tray valve assembly for a process column of a type wherein a first, heavier fluid flows downwardly from a downcomer onto a tray and thereacross in a first direction through which a second, lighter fluid flows upwardly therethrough for interaction and mass transfer with the heavier fluid before passing therefrom. A plurality of valves disposed across a surface of the tray and mounted above a plurality of apertures on the surface of the tray, each valve of the plurality of valves comprising a top surface and at least one securement leg. A first securement leg of is adapted to intercept the heavier fluid flow in the first direction forming a diverting baffle for engaging the heavier fluid flow across the tray. Each valve includes at least one aperture to facilitate the lighter fluid flow therefrom and further comprising a first aperture in the first securement leg.

Abstract: A system & Method for Preventing Scaling in a Flue Gas Desulphurization System is provided. The system includes an injector configured to direct a barrier fluid toward a surface that is otherwise susceptible to scaling when it comes in contact with super-saturated alkaline solutions such as slurry used to capture CO2 from a flue gas stream.

Abstract: The invention offers an air spring for obtaining a vehicle that renders good comfortableness even at the time of the curved-track running. The air spring for a vehicle has an upper board, a lower board, a diaphragm, and a stopper rubber placed between the lower board and a lower plate. The air spring is provided with a mechanism for restraining the displacement of the stopper rubber, the mechanism having a first restraining member placed on either one of the lower plate and the lower board and a second restraining member placed on the other.

Abstract: The opposite side of a connecting intermediate section 32A of a diaphragm 32 to that of a first end section 32B extends from the connecting intermediate section 32A as a second end section 32C side that folds back towards the tube outside in an inside out reversed state. The diameter of the second end portion 32C is set larger than the diameter of the connecting intermediate section 32A. The second end portion 32C is fitted over an end on a chamber member 22 side of an outer tube member 60 and fixed with press contact against the outer tube member 60 by a band 72.

Abstract: An air spring for a heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension system includes a bellows chamber operatively connected to a piston chamber. An opening is disposed between the bellows chamber and the piston chamber in order to allow fluid to communicate between the bellows chamber and the piston chamber. The cross-sectional area of the opening and the volumes of the bellows chamber and the piston chamber are tuned in order to optimize the damping characteristics of the air spring.

Abstract: This invention provides the combined driving spring in the slide cover hinge of the mobile communication terminal. It comprises multiple springs in the same shape, the multiple springs are arranged and combined in turn on the same plane, with their both ends fixed; the driving spring is provided with connections on its both ends to match with the slide in the slide hinge. The shape of the spring is similar to the shape W. The driving spring provided by this invention can be directly used as a driving mechanism in the slide hinge for the mobile communication terminals, simplifying the structure of the driving mechanism. In particular, when the spring in the shape of W is employed, the spring can not only facilitate the combination connection, but also provide a greater force. Besides, when the slide cover slides, less area is occupied when the spring deforms, making it easier to arrange other parts of the mobiles device.

Abstract: A spring is formed of a relatively thin sheet of spring material, which is constricted and held in place at each end forming a bell curve being located between two substantially planar members. As additional compressive force is applied in the vertical direction, the curve then compresses and starts to form sine waves. In an improved embodiment of the present invention, the sine wave spring is formed in a wedge shape, so that it is gradually taller and more progressive. This embodiment has been tested for use as a trailer spring with positive results. This wedge-shaped sine wave spring provides even more advantages over the Prior Art. The wedge-shaped prototype illustrates also how the present invention may be expanded to other shapes, in order to alter the spring characteristics, and also for packaging and other concerns.

Abstract: A master jaw assembly used in a vise including a locking jaw, a detachable jaw and a clamping device disposed in the locking jaw, securely clamping the detachable jaw to the locking jaw. The locking jaw has a groove extending along an inner surface of the locking jaw defined by a first and second edge. The second edge is tapered inward and downward toward the base. The detachable jaw has a dovetail protrusion along one side surface thereof. The clamping device includes a plurality of specially-shaped clamp-nuts having a downwardly tapered edge, said clamp-nuts designed to receive one end of a double-ended threaded stud. The detachable jaw becomes fixed to the locking jaw by inserting the protrusion into the groove and torquing the studs to tighten the clamp-nuts downward against the protrusion such that the protrusion is clamped between the taper of the second edge and the clamp-nuts.

Abstract: A method for operating a sheet handling system including the steps of: determining a location of a next collation mark on select sheets of the stack of material, selecting an operating mode based upon the proximity of the next collation mark relative to a leading or trailing edge of each of the select sheets, processing the singulated sheets in a first operating mode when the next collation mark is proximal to the leading edge of each of the select sheets, and in a second operating mode, when the next collation mark is proximal to a trailing edge of each of the select sheets. Each of the select sheets is buffered to change the spatial relationship between each of the select sheet and each completed collation of sheets along the feed path. By selectively processing the sheets based upon the location of the next collation mark, the conveyance feed path is minimized.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for accumulating discrete paper or film objects traveling in a machine direction. A first accumulator element of the apparatus is rotatable about a first axis of rotation. A second accumulator element is disposed in confronting relationship with the first accumulator element and has a first, generally flat surface, and a first arcuate surface. Both of these surfaces are rotatable about the first axis of rotation and the first accumulator element has a first angular position that defines a first gap relative to the second accumulator element for receiving the objects there between. The first accumulator element has a second angular position that defines a second gap relative to the second accumulator element for moving the objects in the machine direction, with the second gap being smaller than the first gap.

Abstract: A sheet processing device includes a stacking unit that is used to stack a bundle of sheets that are placed upon each other with first edge portions of the sheets being aligned with each other; a first binding unit that binds the first edge portions of the bundle of sheets stacked upon the stacking unit; a second binding unit that is provided integrally with the first binding unit in a direction along the first edge portions of the bundle of sheets stacked upon the stacking unit, and that binds the first edge portions by a binding method differing from a binding method of the first binding unit; and an angle changing mechanism that is capable of changing an angle of the first binding unit with respect to the bundle of sheets when binding the first edge portions with the first binding unit.

Abstract: The alignment unit includes: an upstream-side pressing portion that presses a side edge of the sheet; and a downstream-side pressing portion that presses the side edge of the sheet. The downstream-side pressing portion includes: a first pressing portion that is arranged downstream of the center of gravity of a predetermined-size sheet and upstream of the downstream edge of the predetermined-size sheet and that presses the predetermined-size sheet; and a second pressing portion that is arranged downstream of the downstream edge of the predetermined-size sheet and downstream of the center of gravity of a large-size sheet having twice or more than twice the length of the predetermined-size sheet and that presses the large-size sheet. The second pressing portion is formed to protrude further toward the center side in the width direction than the first pressing portion.