Folding By Roller Patents (Class 493/360)
  • Patent number: 10071535
    Abstract: A rolled sheet-material supply handling-system that comprises a drawing device that can be configured to draw sheet material from a supply station and a stabilizer at the supply station. The stabilizer can define a generally tubular roll-receiving space in which a roll of the sheet material can be received and can have a support surface that can define an axial opening leading from the roll-receiving space to receive the sheet material drawn therefrom by the drawing device. The support surface can be sufficiently extensive to stabilize the outer layer of a roll against collapsing when the remainder of the roll has been extracted from the axial opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: PREGIS INNOVATIVE PACKAGING LLC
    Inventors: Thomas D. Wetsch, Christopher M. Rains, Christine S. Laub
  • Patent number: 9764921
    Abstract: The folding pocket device for a buckle folding machine includes a folding pocket having a feed-in aperture enabling a sheet to run therethrough in a running-in direction into a pocket space of the folding pocket. A sheet stop device includes a sheet stop extending essentially transversely to the running-in direction in the pocket space, which is displaceable in the running-in direction and in the opposite direction. A sheet directing device includes a diverting device, which is displaceable from a clearance position in which the diverting device opens up the way to the feed-in aperture into the folding pocket to a diverting position in which the diverting device blocks the feed-in aperture in order to divert a sheet. In order to achieve quick switching from the clearance position to the diverting position, the diverting device can be displaced from the clearance position to the diverting position by the sheet stop when the sheet stop is displaced opposite to the running-in direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Maschinenbau Oppenweiler Binder GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Joerg Rohrbach, Claus-Dieter Redmer
  • Patent number: 9486973
    Abstract: A sheet folding apparatus includes a sheet transport system, adjustable folding members arranged to bend and fold a sheet fed by the transport system, and a control system arranged to adjust the folding members to set positions in accordance with information on sheet properties. The control system stores a table that specifies different set positions of the folding members for different bending properties of the sheets and is adapted to read information on the bending properties of the sheets to be folded and to adjust the folding members to set positions as specified by the bending properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: OCE TECHNOLOGIES B.V.
    Inventor: Joris W. H. Vermunt
  • Patent number: 9221647
    Abstract: A sheet folding apparatus includes: a folded part forming unit that forms a folded part on the sheet by nipping a curved portion formed on a part of the sheet between an upstream first sheet conveying unit and a downstream second sheet conveying unit by holding a part of the sheet by the first sheet conveying unit and applying conveying force to the sheet to reverse the sheet upstream by the second sheet conveying unit; and a sheet leading end detection unit disposed downstream of or at almost same position as the second sheet conveying unit. The sheet is conveyed based on a detection timing of the sheet leading end detection unit such that the leading end of the sheet protrudes by a predetermined protrusion amount from the second sheet conveying unit immediately before applying conveying force to the sheet to reverse the sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: RICOH COMPANY, LIMITED
    Inventors: Tomohiro Furuhashi, Shuuya Nagasako, Michitaka Suzuki, Kazuya Yamamoto, Kyosuke Nakada, Akira Kunieda, Takahiro Watanabe, Yuji Suzuki, Kiichiro Goto
  • Publication number: 20150126351
    Abstract: A material dispenser having a dispensing member configured to dispense a line of the material along a path in a downstream direction, and a cutting member having a cutting edge extending generally downstream with respect to the path. The cutting member having a convex shape across the path, such that the cutting edge engages and sequentially initiates cuts through the line of material when the line of material is pulled against the cutting member, thereby minimize cutting forces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: PREGIS INNOVATIVE PACKAGING, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas D. Wetsch, Robert Tegel
  • Patent number: 8900110
    Abstract: A paper folding apparatus for a binding machine, capable of discharging paper sheets by folding the paper sheets twice, includes a first knife unit and a second knife unit. The first knife unit has a first feeding path and a pair of first paper folding rollers. The second knife unit has a second feeding path and a pair of second paper folding rollers. A paper arranging guide is installed in front of the pair of first paper folding rollers, and the second knife unit includes a pinion, a rack selectively engaged with the pinion, a rack guide configured to provide a path on which the rack is moved, a resilient member resiliently supporting the rack, and a second paper folding knife configured to move back and forth between the second paper folding rollers in association with a moving direction of the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Biztechone Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kijo Jung
  • Publication number: 20140342894
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatuses for manufacturing absorbent articles. More particularly, the systems and methods for folding absorbent articles advancing in a converting line may be configured with tucker blades that prevent opposing end regions of absorbent articles from colliding directly with each other as the absorbent articles are being folded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Peter Wiedmann, Todd Douglas Lenser, Ricky Reynaldo Yanez, JR., Yoichiro Yamamoto, Andreas Josef Dreher
  • Publication number: 20140342895
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates systems and methods for folding absorbent articles advancing in a converting line. The folding processes and apparatuses herein may be configured with tucker blades that are configured to maximize the period of time wherein the leading edges of the tucker blades move at maximum speeds during the folding process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Peter Wiedmann, Todd Douglas Lenser, Ricky Reynaldo Yanez, JR., Yoichiro Yamamoto, Andreas Josef Dreher
  • Publication number: 20140329655
    Abstract: A method of folding an interior section of film in-process includes at least the following steps: separating an idler roll and a rolling assembly; positioning an interior web folding assembly between the idler roll and the rolling assembly; passing a film web from the idler roll to the interior web folding assembly; initiating at least one interior fold in the film web using the interior web folding assembly; passing the film web from the interior web folding assembly to the rolling assembly; and passing the film web beyond the rolling assembly, compressing the film web, and completing the at least one interior fold. An apparatus for folding an interior section of film includes at least: an idler roll separated from a rolling assembly; and an interior web folding assembly positioned between the idler roll and the rolling assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: PARAGON FILMS, INC.
    Inventor: Shaun Eugene Pirtle
  • Publication number: 20140274645
    Abstract: A material dispenser having a dispensing member configured to dispense a line of the material along a path in a downstream direction, and a cutting member having a cutting edge extending generally downstream with respect to the path. The cutting member having a convex shape across the path, such that the cutting edge engages and sequentially initiates cuts through the line of material when the line of material is pulled against the cutting member, thereby minimize cutting forces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas D. Wetsch, Vitoldas Karalinkas
  • Patent number: 8777829
    Abstract: Pre-stretched films may be used to increase the rate at which loads can be wrapped and to minimize the exertion required when using traditional handheld film. However, the edges of pre-stretched films are easily damaged, which may result in tearing or failure of the film during use. The present disclosure describes devices, systems, and methods for folding the edges of the film, resulting in a film that is less susceptible to damage and easier to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Paragon Films, Inc.
    Inventors: Shaun Eugene Pirtle, Khurrum Shamsi, Robert Earl Cochlin
  • Publication number: 20130316888
    Abstract: A fiber/plastic sheet product cutting-folding machine composed of a cutter, a rotary cutting wheel, one or more differential wheels, a first folding wheel and a second folding wheel is disclosed. The cutter and the rotary cutting wheel are adapted to cut off a fiber/plastic sheet product passing therebetween so that each cut piece of fiber/plastic sheet product has a straight cut edge. The differential wheel enables each two successive cut pieces of fiber/plastic sheet product to be partially overlapped, forming a stack of interfold fiber/plastic sheet product. Subject to the application of the fiber/plastic sheet product cutting-folding machine, each stack of interfold fiber/plastic sheet product is kept neat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: CHAN LI MACHINERY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: CHI PIN HSU
  • Patent number: 8475349
    Abstract: Pre-stretched films may be used to increase the rate at which loads can be wrapped and to minimize the exertion required when using traditional handheld film. However, the edges of pre-stretched films are easily damaged, which may result in tearing or failure of the film during use. The present disclosure describes devices, systems, and methods for folding the edges of the film, resulting in a film that is less susceptible to damage and easier to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Paragon Films, Inc.
    Inventors: Shaun Eugene Pirtle, Khurrum Shamsi, Robert Earl Cochlin
  • Publication number: 20130029826
    Abstract: A folder for a printing press is provided. The folder includes a first cutting cylinder for cutting a first web into a plurality of first sheets, a second cutting cylinder for cutting the second web into a plurality of second sheets and for holding a second sheet, a transfer cylinder receiving at least one first sheet and at least one second sheet at a transfer location and a storage cylinder storing at least one of the plurality of second sheets cut from the web, the second cutting cylinder capable of transferring second sheets to the storage cylinder. A printing press and methods are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: GOSS INTERNATIONAL AMERICAS, INC.
    Inventors: John Sheridan Richards, Jean Claude Pautrat
  • Publication number: 20120245011
    Abstract: A paper converting or rewinding machine provides a cutting or perforation section, equipped with at least one blade arranged to work in combination with a stationary knife to provide the division of the web of paper into a plurality of sheets of measured length. The blade can be integral to a fixed support, or alternatively to a cutting roller that rotates about a longitudinal rotation axis. The blade(s) can be a perforation blade, or a cutting blade, with helical shape, and mounted to a perforation roller. The stationary knife can be mounted to a fixed roller. The blade performs a cutting, or perforation, of the web into sheets working in combination with the stationary knife. The blades and the stationary knifes are long substantially as the width of the paper. In particular, the blade has at least one weakened portion of determined size.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: MTC - MACCHINE TRASFORMAZIONE CARTA S.R.L.
    Inventor: Alessandro DE MATTEIS
  • Patent number: 8221298
    Abstract: Pre-stretched films may be used to increase the rate at which loads can be wrapped and to minimize the exertion required when using traditional handheld film. However, the edges of pre-stretched films are easily damaged, which may result in tearing or failure of the film during use. The present disclosure describes devices, systems, and methods for folding the edges of the film, resulting in a film that is less susceptible to damage and easier to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Paragon Films, Inc.
    Inventors: Shaun Eugene Pirtle, Khurrum Shamsi, Robert Earl Cochlin
  • Patent number: 8123665
    Abstract: Interfolding machine of sheet material for making a stack of interfolded sheets (1) equipped with cutting and transferring means, including, for example, a cutting roller 2 that operates the division of the web (10) into sheets (11) of determined length. The cut sheets (11), all having the same length, are carried along the machine up to a transfer roller (3) that transfers them to an “overlap” roller (4). In particular the cutting roller (2) has peripherally a first series of cutting blades (21a)-(21d) arranged at a first angular distance equal to 90° and a second plurality of cutting blades (21?a)-(21?c) arranged at a second angular distance equal to 120°. The length of sheets 11 is therefore achieved by the angular distance existing between the blades (21). In order to adjust the length of the sheets, or cut-off length, one selects the blades on the cutting roller (2) located at an angular distance corresponding to the desired sheet length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: MTC-Macchine Trasformazione Carta S.R.L.
    Inventor: Alessandro De Matteis
  • Publication number: 20120046153
    Abstract: Disclosed is a paper folding apparatus for a binding machine, capable of discharging paper sheets by folding the paper sheets twice. The paper folding apparatus includes a first knife unit and a second knife unit. The first knife unit has a first feeding path and a pair of first paper folding rollers. The second knife unit has a second feeding path and a pair of second paper folding rollers. A paper arranging guide is installed in front of the pair of first paper folding rollers, and the second knife unit includes a pinion, a rack selectively engaged with the pinion, a rack guide configured to provide a path on which the rack is moved, a resilient member resiliently supporting the rack, and a second paper folding knife configured to move back and forth between the second paper folding rollers in association with a moving direction of the rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventor: Kijo JUNG
  • Patent number: 7998050
    Abstract: An interfolding machine having a modular structure and with variable cut-off, including a frame having a first plate and a second plate, parallel to each other, interconnected by means of beams. Between the plates are arranged folding rollers, means for moving and an overlap roller. Each plate has a complementary shape to a respective upper plate, with upper plates connected by means of beams among one another. Between the plates, the cutting roller, the transfer roller and the cutter with the blade are arranged, such that a modular portion is formed removable independently from a main portion of the frame. Alternatively, the removable portion can include the only cutting roller and the cutter with the blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: MTC-Macchine Trasformazione Carta S.R.L.
    Inventor: Alessandro De Matteis
  • Publication number: 20110065560
    Abstract: In a device (10) for folding a paper web (28) comprising a pair of tool shafts (24, 26) carrying circular knives (70, 74) which pair is arranged upstream or downstream of its folding rollers (16, 18, 20, 22), the circular knives (70, 74) and/or the transport roller units (40, 50) can be rotatively driven for transporting the paper web at the same web running speed in the region of the tool shafts (24, 26) and in the region of the folding rollers such that the speed components of the circular knives (70, 74) in the web running direction are at least not lower, preferably higher than the web running speed of the paper web (28).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventor: Bernhard Ehret
  • Patent number: 7850588
    Abstract: A folder includes a first signature conveyor conveying first signatures along a first signature path; a second signature conveyor conveying second signatures along a second signature path; and a chopper located between the first and second signature paths imparting a fold on both the first and second signatures. A chopper and method are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Goss International Americas, Inc
    Inventors: Joseph Adrian St. Ours, Mark Anthony Wingate, David Elliot Whitten
  • Patent number: 7695422
    Abstract: A folding drum and method of operation is disclosed. The folding drum is used for folding material, in particular for a printing press. The folding drum is mounted rotatably on its longitudinal axle. The folding drum has a folding-blade spindle, the longitudinal axle of which is coupled to the longitudinal axle of the folding drum and is spaced apart from the longitudinal axle of the folding drum. Furthermore, the folding drum comprises a force generation means for generating a relief force which is opposed to a centrifugal force which is generated in the case of a rotating folding drum by the co-rotating folding-blade spindle. Thus, the disadvantageous influence of the centrifugal force can be reduced. As a result, in particular, a mounting of the folding-blade spindle can be relieved. The wear of the mounting can be reduced and its service life can be increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Man Roland Druckmaschinen AG
    Inventor: Frank Schmieder
  • Publication number: 20100075820
    Abstract: Folding and stacking machine (100) of a web of paper, or similar products includes a first sheet feeding line (201) and a second sheet feeding line (202). The machine (100) also includes a folding section (200) having a couple of folding rollers (7, 8) that work at a linear folding speed VP and are adapted to receive a plurality of sheets (11) of length L that are overlapped for a fraction Y of their length L and to fold them into a plurality of panels (P). The first and the second sheet feeding lines (201, 202) provide respective cutting sections of the sheets starting from webs of paper (10, 10?). These proceed respectively at a speed V1 and V2 with respect to the folding speed VP, where a first speed (V1) has a ratio X1 with respect to the folding speed VP, V2 and a second speed V2 second has a ratio X2 with respect to the folding speed VP. The first and the second sheet feeding lines (201, 202) can be operated selectively and independently, i.e.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: MTC- MACCHINE TRASFORMAZIONE CARTA S.R.L.
    Inventor: Alessandro De Matteis
  • Publication number: 20090181839
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for creating tabs from regular cut-sheet stock after printing by partially punching out a section of a sheet and folding the punched out section back on itself at the remaining side. The location of the punched out section is such that when folded back, a portion of the punched out section sticks out beyond the border of the original paper size. Tab labels may be printed on the back side of the sheet so that when folded out, the tab label is in the correct orientation, i.e., facing front on the folded out tab. The punch head, which is used to punch out the section of the sheet, may be oriented flexibly and moved outboard or inboard. Tabs may be cut and folded to produce a readable set of tabs along any of the top, bottom, lead or trail edges of a sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Applicant: Xerox Corporation
    Inventor: Timothy David Jonathan SPINK
  • Patent number: 7458927
    Abstract: An interfolding apparatus including a knife roll, a first interfolding roll, a second interfolding roll, and a transfer roll. The knife roll cuts sheets from a stream of web material issuing from a source in a downstream direction. The first interfolding roll is positioned downstream of the knife roll and receives the sheets. The first interfolding roll rotates in a first direction and the second interfolding roll rotates in a second direction. The first and second interfolding rolls interfold the sheets with additional sheets received by the second interfolding roll. A transfer roll is positioned between the knife roll and the first interfolding roll. The transfer roll has a non-uniform surface configuration and rotates in the second direction and receives the sheets from the knife roll, forms a bend in each of the sheets, and transfers the formed sheets to the first interfolding roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: C.G. Bretting Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Greg Kauppila, Chad Ryczek, Dennis Couturier
  • Publication number: 20080176729
    Abstract: A cutting and folding assembly for sheet products of the multiple-ply type, comprising at least one rotatably supported first roller with cutting blades for cutting the continuous ribbon substantially transversely, associated with a rotary actuation; at least one rotatably supported second roller, associated with a rotary actuation, the second roller provided with a first retention suction for the products cut; and at least one third rotatably supported folding roller, that has a rotary actuation and a second retention suction for cut products, the first, second and third rollers having parallel axes and being in contact along respective generatrices, the second roller being provided with a pressure generation element for generating pressure on the back of the products to keep their plies in contact with the third roller during the formation of the transverse fold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventors: Stefano Anelli, Simone Chelossi
  • Patent number: 7264583
    Abstract: The folding machine comprises a pair of folding rollers (1, 3) rotating about axes essentially parallel to each other and defining a nip (5) through which a web material (N) to be folded passes. Disposed on each of the folding rollers are folding members (61, 61A; 63, 63A) which form folds on the web material parallel to the axis of rotation of the folding rollers. For each folding roller (1, 3) a transferring device (11, 13) is also provided to transfer packs of products folded by the folding rollers towards an unloading area (9), which comprises a plurality of separating fingers (15) movable along a closed path, from an area of engagement with the folded products to an unloading area of the folded products. Each of the transferring devices extends inside an annular groove (1G, 3G) of the respective folding roller (1, 3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Fabio Perini S.p.A.
    Inventors: Mauro Gelli, Alessandro Morelli
  • Publication number: 20070203007
    Abstract: An interfolding machine (100) having a modular structure and with variable cut-off, having a frame (21) comprising a first plate (21a) and a second plate (21b), parallel to each other, interconnected by means of beams (25). Between the plates (21a and 21b) folding rollers (8 and 9), means for moving (10) and an overlap roller (6), are arranged. Each plate (21a, or 21b), has a complementary shape to a respective upper plate (31a, or 31b). The higher plates (31a and 31b) are connected by means of beams (35) among one another. Between the plates (31a and 31b) instead the cutting roller (16), the transfer roller (5) and the cutter (17) with the blade (3) are arranged. This way, a modular portion (30) is formed removable independently from a main portion (20) of the frame. Alternatively, the removable portion (30) can comprise the only cutting roller (16) and the cutter (17) with the blade (3). Alternatively, the only transfer roller (5) may be provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Applicant: MTC- MACCHINE TRASFORMAZIONE CARTA S.R.L.
    Inventor: Alessandro DE MATTEIS
  • Patent number: 7174938
    Abstract: A machine for folding and applying onserts onto consumer goods such as cigarette packs comprises a continuous roll of preprinted onserts and a transverse cutter assembly for cutting onsert segments from the continuous roll. Each onsert segment includes a pair of side-by-side preprinted onserts. A buckle folder receives each cut onsert segment and folds that segment along at least one transverse fold line. A longitudinal cutter assembly longitudinally cuts each folded onsert segment into two individual onserts. A transport system serially receives the individual folded onserts and moves the onserts along dual diverging paths where a pair of spaced apart lug belt conveyors receives the onserts from the discharge end of the transport system. Each lug belt conveyor includes spaced apart transverse lugs along the length thereof against which the onserts are positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Philip Morris USA Inc.
    Inventors: Edmond J. Cadieux, Jr., Steve Campbell, James D. Evans, Steven R. Rinehart, G. Robert Scott, Barry S. Smith, Steven F. Spiers, Linwood H. Cameal, Jr., Hubert Coleman Goodman, Jr., Joshua L. Roby
  • Patent number: 7137943
    Abstract: Sheets can be manipulated for punching, perforating and/or folding. The systems and methods according to this invention allow sheets to be punched and/or perforated in various configurations. The systems and methods according to this invention allow sheets to be folded in various forms and/or configurations. Sheets can be inverted to ensure proper orientation. The systems and methods according to this invention allow the number and/and or locations of punches and/or perforations and the type and/or length of folds to be controlled on a sheet-by-sheet basis. The systems and methods according to this invention allow the sheet preparation module to be optionally configured within the photocopying system depending on the needs and flexibility of the finishing requirements of the operator. The modularity of the sheet preparation module design as a “plug and play” unit enables greater functionality for the manipulation of sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph J. Ferrara, Richard A. Van Dongen
  • Patent number: 7037251
    Abstract: Machine for the production of flexible material sheets comprising at least one folding unit housing at least one cutting cylinder, to which a suction cylinder is opposed, and a gripping cylinder for transversal folding and/or conveying flat products by suction. A second suction cylinder for a second transversal fold and/or for conveying flat products and a second conveyor cylinder for conveying folded products or flat unfolded products may be associated downstream to said machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Fabio Perini S.p.A.
    Inventor: Cesare Stefanoni
  • Patent number: 6913256
    Abstract: A former roller, which is driven for rotation, is located at the intake of a former for a folding unit. A controller unit is utilized to control the rotation of the motor, which drives the former roller, in such a way that the former roller exerts a tensile force on a material web that is fed to the former roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Koenig & Bauer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Gerold Emil Dornbusch
  • Patent number: 6740024
    Abstract: The folding station of a rotary printing press has a folding cylinder on which the printed paper web is cut into sections. Mounted opposite the folding cylinder, a jaw cylinder has cut in its surface several jaw cavities each extending parallel to the jaw cylinder axis for receiving the midpart of the web section as the same is inserted therein by a folding blade on the folding cylinder. Each jaw cavity has mounted therein a series of fixed jaw parts and a series of movable jaw parts, the latter being jointly movable toward and away from the former for engaging and folding the midpart of the web section. The two outmost ones of the movable jaw parts are positioned closer to the fixed jaw parts than are the other, medial movable jaw parts, in order to more firmly engage the margins of the web section without causing ink offset between the contacting surfaces of the image areas of the web section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokyo Kikai Seisakusho
    Inventors: Mitsuo Kitai, Takashi Iijima, Toshio Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 6723034
    Abstract: A process for making prefastened and refastenable garments includes providing a plurality of discrete articles with mating fastening components disposed in the waist regions. First fastening components are separated from one another by an initial transverse distance. The waist region containing the first fastening components is modified to transversely displace these fastening components to a post displacement distance that is not equal to the initial distance. The process allows for convenient alignment of the fastening components to form refastenable seams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Debra Hartley Durrance, Scott Gerald Chapple, David Michael Clemens, Jason Gene Csida, Kurt Garrett Krupka, Heather Schenck Mortell, Robert Lee Popp, Marcille Faye Ruman, Scott John Andrew Swanson, Charles Robert Tomsovic
  • Patent number: 6709375
    Abstract: A creasing device for creasing a folded booklet on its fold line utilizing two creasing rollers which together form a creasing nip for rolling over the fold line of the booklet, the creasing nip pressing the booklet flat during a reciprocating movement of the creasing nip. During the creasing cycle, the booklet is enclosed on its fold line between two guide strips which extend between the creasing rollers and extend over the line of movement of the creasing nip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Oce-Technologies B.V.
    Inventors: Cornelis Jacobus Groenenberg, Maurice Johan Marie Bindels
  • Patent number: 6689038
    Abstract: A system for forming a discontinuity in a stack of interfolded sheets formed by a pair of folding rolls acting on a stream of overlapping sheets supplied from a pair of feed rolls. At a desired sheet count, the feed rolls and folding rolls are operated to eliminate the overlap between a downstream sheet and an upstream sheet by operating the feed rolls and the folding rolls at a differential rate of speed, which results in advancement of the downstream sheet relative to the upstream sheet. The feed rolls are slowed upon discharge of the downstream sheet, to slow advancement of the upstream sheet while the downstream sheet is moved downstream by the folding rolls. The separation between the downstream and upstream sheets forms a discontinuity in the stack to divide the stack into groups of sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: FPNA Acquisition Corporation
    Inventor: Barton J. White
  • Patent number: 6669617
    Abstract: A paper web folding and cutting apparatus for a form printing machine includes a paper web traveling path which enables a continuous paper web to travel at a predetermined traveling speed. A cut portion forming device is disposed on the paper web traveling path and is adapted to form a cut portion formed in a line of a plurality of cuts. Each line of the cuts has at least one uncut portion, at every top and bottom directional dimension of the continuous paper web to be folded. Also, an oscillatory shooter assembly is disposed on the paper web traveling path on a downstream side of the cut forming means in a paper web traveling direction. The oscillatory shooter assembly is provided with a counter roller and a nozzle roller at a lower end portion thereof. The rollers are rotated at a peripheral speed which is faster than the paper web traveling speed, and the nozzle roller is movable into and out of contact with the counter roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Miyakoshi Printing Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiro Sumida, Yuichi Yamazaki
  • Publication number: 20030228965
    Abstract: A system for forming a discontinuity or interruption in a stack of interfolded sheets, which are formed by a pair of folding rolls acting on a stream of overlapping sheets supplied to a nip area defined between the folding rolls. The stream of overlapping sheets is supplied to the folding rolls from a pair of feed rolls located upstream of the folding rolls. Normally, the feed rolls are operated at a surface speed substantially the same as the surface speed of the folding rolls, to feed the overlapping sheets to the folding rolls. When a desired sheet count has been attained, the feed rolls and the folding rolls are operated so as to eliminate the overlapping relationship between a downstream sheet and an upstream sheet in the stream of overlapping sheets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventor: Barton J. White
  • Patent number: 6562171
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the manufacture of a two-sided image product is disclosed, comprising the steps of: providing a web of media having an image bearing side and a non-image bearing side; printing a plurality of undetermined images on the image bearing side; applying an adhesive to the non image bearing side; moving the web of media in a direction longitudinal to the web; forming a crease line on the web of media, the crease line running in the longitudinal direction along the web; and folding the web of media along the crease line so that the non-image bearing side contacts itself so as to adhere the non-image bearing side to itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: William C. Archie, Jr., Frank Pincelli, Dale F. McIntyre, Joseph A. Manico
  • Patent number: 6551227
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a device for seizing a flat material (25) such as a web of material (1) on a transporting surface (15). A first cylinder (7) has at least one knife assembly (12) assigned to its respective surface (9). A paper conducting cylinder (14) such as a transfer cylinder or a folding cylinder supports a flat material (25) on its respective outer circumference (15). Biased product seizing element (27) assigned to said circumference (9) of said first cylinder (7) are provided, adopting on cooperation with said leading edge (25) supported on said outer surface (15) of the paper conducting cylinder (14) an engaging position (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG
    Inventor: David Elliot Whitten
  • Patent number: 6290635
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for producing a zig-zag folded filter element from a web of material (18), which is supplied through a feeding device to a stamping unit (10). To define the folding line, the stamping unit is fitted with an anvil roll (21) and a stamping die (24), the stamping unit being ultrasound activated and thereby improving the stamping operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignees: Fraunhofer Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der Angewandten Forschung E.V., Filterwerk Mann & Hummel GmbH
    Inventors: Joerg Demmel, Andreas Levermann, Siegfried Rapp
  • Patent number: 6283905
    Abstract: A system (10) for producing folded articles includes a cutting station (58) operable to segment a fabric web (42) into a continuous stream of individual web segments (86). The system also includes a rotary folder (96) comprising a plurality of folding rollers (104, 106). The rotary folder (96) rotates about an axis spaced apart from axes of the folding rollers (104, 106). The rotary folder (96) is operable to receive the web segments (86) at a first location and fold the web segments one or more times while rotating from the first location to a second location about the rotary folder (96) axis. The system further includes a transfer station (62) operable to receive the folded web segments (86) from the rotary folder (96) at the second location and deliver the folded web segments (86) to a third location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Ethicon
    Inventor: Balbir Singh
  • Patent number: 6251053
    Abstract: A folder for a rotary printing press, having at least one copy-guiding cylinder and, on the one copy-guiding cylinder, gripping devices for gripping one end of a copy, includes a cutting cylinder cooperating with the one copy-guiding cylinder, and copy-guiding devices provided on the cutting cylinder, the gripping devices of the one copy-guiding cylinder and the copy-guiding devices of the cutting cylinder being retractably and extensibly movable substantially parallel to normals to axes of rotation of the one copy-guiding cylinder and the cutting cylinder; and a method of operating the folder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG
    Inventors: Serge Lanvin, Eddie Smelten, Thierry Vauchelle
  • Patent number: 6234947
    Abstract: Signatures that are cross-folded to form cross folded products can be formed without damaging the product whether the cross-folded product is thick or thin. The signatures are given a pre-fold by a pre-fold cylinder that utilizes a plurality of pre-fold gripping element systems. The pre-folded product is carried by the pre-fold cylinder to a pair of folding rollers which finish fold the cross-folded signatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: Koenig & Bauer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Horst Bernhard Michalik
  • Patent number: 6213927
    Abstract: A method and a machine for the production of interfolded stacks (17) formed by a plurality of sheets (4a,4b) comprising the steps of: transversally cutting or tearing sheets obtained from at least one web (3a,3b) and offset with respect to one another so that a sequence of offset sheets is created; passage of the sheets on folding rollers (7a,7b) which comprise sucking means for the alternate holding of the sheets (4a,4b) in order to obtain an interfolded disposition; formation of a continuous interfolded stack downstream of the folding rollers. Upstream of the folding a step of treatment of the sheets is provided in order to make them, at least in certain zones (14), enough permeable to air, in particular through perforating means. These perforating means can be provided on rollers (10a,10b) having sharpened points (11a,11b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: M T C - Macchine Trasformazione Carta S.R.L.
    Inventors: Alessandro De Matteis, Sergio Landucci
  • Patent number: 6193640
    Abstract: Folders in a web-fed rotary printing press are associated with two spaced horizontal planes. Each of these planes is provided with a superstructure carriage that supports a plurality of turning bars. Each of the superstructure carriages can be displaced horizontally with respect to the other carriage and with respect to the folders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Koening & Bauer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Anton Weis
  • Patent number: 6179765
    Abstract: The invention is an apparatus for converting sheets of paper into cushioning dunnage. The apparatus includes a supply assembly, a conversion mechanism, a cutting assembly and a cutting assembly interlock device. The supply assembly supports the paper which is to be converted. The conversion assembly crumples single ply paper into cushioning dunnage and the cutting assembly cuts the newly formed dunnage into desired lengths, where the dunnage is allowed to fall into a container to cushion an item within the container. The cutting assembly interlock device permits activation of the cutting assembly only when the cutting assembly has fully moved into the proper, cutting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: FT Acquisition, L.P.
    Inventor: Zsolt Toth
  • Patent number: 6179764
    Abstract: Moving paper webs are treated by having a cross-groove or crease pressed into them prior to being transversely cut and folded. The cross-groove or crease is produced by a radially vibrating, rail-like pressure tool that cooperates with a counter-pressure tool. These tools cooperate to form a sharp, folded crease, even in thick products. The crease is formed along the to be formed cross fold line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Koenig & Bauer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: G{umlaut over (u)}nther Oskar Eckert
  • Patent number: 6168558
    Abstract: Method and device for producing rolls (17) of bags. At least one longitudinal side edge (15, 16) of a line of overlapping bags (17) is folded towards the centre axis of said line of bags. The line is then winded to rolls (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: FAS Converting Machinery AB
    Inventor: Kenneth Vinberg
  • Patent number: 6165116
    Abstract: A system and method for creating a discontinuity in a stack of interfolded sheets in which folding rolls cooperate to interfold staggered sheets supplied in two streams of sheets, each of which is severed from a web of material. When a desired sheet count is attained, a sheet in one of the streams of sheets is folded onto itself so as to create a discontinuity in one of the streams of sheets. The folded sheet is formed by maintaining a leading portion of the sheet in engagement with a separating one roll while maintaining a trailing portion of the sheet in engagement with another roll, with the two rolls being positioned to form a nip therebetween and rotating in opposite directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Green Bay Engineering Corp.
    Inventor: Barton J. White