Abstract: A folder for processing a stream of printed signatures from a printing press and related method. The signatures have a desired path with a path edge and each signature has a lead and trail edge. The folder comprises a plurality of sensor sets, each sensor set for determining if the lead and/or trail edge of the signature deviates from the path edge by more than a certain tolerance.

Abstract: This invention pertains to methods of checking for successful removal of trim material from trim areas disposed at periodic intervals along a web in a processing line. Marking material is marked, optionally as reference marks or reference images on the trim material pieces. Trim material is severed and removed to develop cut-outs at the trim areas. After removing the trim material, the method senses for the marking material at and adjacent the trim areas. The method thus detects marking material on trim material pieces which are not successfully removed from the web. In preferred embodiments, the web, outside the trim areas, is free from the specific marking material used for the reference marks or reference images. The marking material is preferably detectable, using a suitable sensor, independently of visible light emanating from, or reflected from, the marking material.

Abstract: Process and apparatus for folding or shaping a continuous material web (10) made of thin packaging material. In this case, the material web (10) is directed through a shaping subassembly (27) which uses fixed shaping elements, namely shaping webs (46, 47 and 50, 52) and a mating web (53), to deform the material web (10) during transportation of the same.

Abstract: A chopper folding machine including a chopper blade and a conveyor belt driven synchronously by a drive system for a folding apparatus put in juxtaposition with a printing machine, and a timing adjusting device provided in a drive system for at least one of the chopper blade and the conveyor belt for adjusting the timing of chopper folding. Thus, the timing of the conveyance of a signature, to be folded, by the conveyor belt and that of vertical movement of the chopper blade are adjusted.

Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing air-cushion dispatch packages, the apparatus comprising an unwinding mechanism for paper webs and air-cushion foil webs. The apparatus introduces air-cushion foil webs between the paper webs and seals each paper web to a foil web over a large area. Transverse and longitudinal sealers seal the edges of the packages. After each sealing operation, the webs are subsequently cooled. Pulling rollers press the paper webs in the edge regions of the packages and advance the webs. Cutters cut the dispatch packages to the desired format. Web controllers correct deviation of the paper webs. A cycle controller is included.

Abstract: An improved film tube forming shoe includes a brake edge having a configuration which is related to the diameter of the shoe, to the film width, and to the diameter of a product to be wrapped in the tube. The shoe is provided with outwardly directed pressurized fluid ports in the brake edge to provide an air cushion for the film as it is drawn through an acute angle around the brake edge into the shoe. The fluid also cleans the edge and reduces accumulation of foreign matter thereon. To promote accurate film tracking through the shoe, it is rotatable in response to changes in the position of an edge of the film before it enters the shoe. Methods are provided for forming the shoe, and brake edge, without trial and error, for wrapping products of known diameter, and for wrapping articles.