EP1417103B1 - Automatic device for turning the pages of a bound document - Google Patents

Automatic device for turning the pages of a bound document Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1417103B1
EP1417103B1 EP02750750A EP02750750A EP1417103B1 EP 1417103 B1 EP1417103 B1 EP 1417103B1 EP 02750750 A EP02750750 A EP 02750750A EP 02750750 A EP02750750 A EP 02750750A EP 1417103 B1 EP1417103 B1 EP 1417103B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
document
pages
page
suction
turning
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP02750750A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1417103A1 (en
Inventor
Ivo Iossiger
Danick Bionda
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Assy SA
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Assy SA
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B42—BOOKBINDING; ALBUMS; FILES; SPECIAL PRINTED MATTER
    • B42D—BOOKS; BOOK COVERS; LOOSE LEAVES; PRINTED MATTER CHARACTERISED BY IDENTIFICATION OR SECURITY FEATURES; PRINTED MATTER OF SPECIAL FORMAT OR STYLE NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; DEVICES FOR USE THEREWITH AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; MOVABLE-STRIP WRITING OR READING APPARATUS
    • B42D9/00—Bookmarkers; Spot indicators; Devices for holding books open; Leaf turners
    • B42D9/04—Leaf turners

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an automatic device for turning the pages of a bound document according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • Such a device is for example described in the US patent US 4,942,482 .
  • This device comprises two transparent trays on which the document is placed so that the pages of the document are facing downwards. Between the two trays is a slit below which there are two adjacent cylinders, one of which has suction holes.
  • the document is held by a movable template so that it can be moved relative to the trays. To turn a page, the document is pushed using the template in the direction of the slot. A page of this document is sucked by the cylinders provided with suction holes. This page rotates between the two cylinders and penetrates into a housing under the cylinders.
  • the page is removed from the slot and is placed on the side of the already turned sheets.
  • This device has a number of disadvantages. Since the sheets move around the suction cylinder, the device can not be used for certain types of paper. In particular, it is not possible to turn hardcopies. In addition, a document must necessarily be opened before starting to turn pages. In addition, if it contains a hard cover page, the machine crashes. Because of the position of the document facing downwards and the curvature to which the pages are subjected, these pages can be damaged or destroyed, and this is particularly due to the fact that the pages presented are pressed by the weight of the document against the holding device. . This device is therefore not suitable for old and / or precious documents. In addition, since the template has to be adapted to the dimensions of the document, the device is impractical for processing documents having different formats. The document is turned down, it is necessary to integrate into the frame, a device that can make photocopies or scanning. This means that it is necessary to choose a particular type of device and then it is almost impossible to change without designing a completely new machine.
  • Another device, intended particularly for the disabled, is also known by the French patent FR 2 713 149 .
  • This device comprises two trays, mounted independently of one another by means. elastic, on which is placed the document. Each tray can apply the pages of a document against at least one finger. These fingers are retractable.
  • the page turning member is a roller provided with a pressing device and includes lateral translation means for moving from one edge to the other of the document.
  • the main disadvantage of this embodiment is related to the fact that, as the document holding plates are independent but connected by elastic means, it is very difficult to manage the force applied to the document between the trays and the retractable fingers.
  • the publication EP 0 452 911 relates to a paper feed device for separating sheets of paper from a stack and feeding separate sheets of a machine such as a photocopier.
  • This feeder comprises a diaphragm formed of two concentric cylinders which rotate, one of the cylinders frictionally and sucking the sheet in contact and the second cylinder acting by suction to pull and hold the sheet against the cylinder.
  • the device subject of the US patent US 4,691,909 comprises two movable trays which are inclined towards one another and on which the document is placed.
  • the page is kept open by a device of chopsticks that press on the visible pages.
  • a rotatable roll is brought into forced contact against the document. It turns in one direction and can take several leaves. He brings these leaves against a pinch member and then turns in a reverse direction to eliminate the extra pages. In a swinging motion the roll and pinch member send the page turned on the other side. This page falls by its own weight and is taken over by the chopstick device.
  • the page turning member rotates and drives the pages by friction on their surface, which can damage the sensitive pages, or even erase the content at the friction point.
  • the page separation method implies that the driven page is flexible so that it can bulge when pushed from its end to its binding point.
  • the efficiency of page separation by friction and relative movement is highly dependent on the type of paper and the surface condition of the paper. This type of page separation presents difficulties in ensuring that only one page is tour at once.
  • the fingers or sticks for holding the pages have points of support concentrated on a small surface that can mark or damage the document. These objects are also troublesome for the visibility of the pages.
  • the patent US 5,471,277 relates to a reading device of a document provided with a turntable arranged to be installed in a photocopier, a fax machine or the like, comprising a document support table and a page-turner made in the form of a belt. a dielectric material associated with an electric field generator for electrostatically attracting the page.
  • the insertion of a transparent plate movable horizontally in the space thus created turns the raised page.
  • the present invention proposes to overcome the drawbacks of the known devices of the prior art, by producing a device that makes it possible to turn the pages, from left to right or from right to left, of any type of document and any form of bound book, regardless of the rigidity, porosity and fragility of the pages, and which can be easily adapted to the chosen application.
  • this device automatically detects single-page gripping, page gripping, multiple page gripping, end of document, flexible or rigid pages and adapts to their specific treatment without requiring human intervention.
  • the perforated hollow element is provided with closure means arranged to limit longitudinally the suction surface
  • the rod connecting the two plates pivots about a horizontal axis, this horizontal axis being vertically movable, which synchronizes the movement of the moving plates, and a compression member is arranged to compensate for the weight of the elements. supported by said horizontal axis.
  • the trays advantageously comprise locking means of their relative position and each plate is integral with a horizontal biasing element arranged to allow the centering of the document.
  • each tray is formed by a box having a planar upper face provided with holes and at least one suction inlet.
  • This upper face of the boxes can be provided with a mask adapted to the size of the document whose pages must be rotated.
  • the means for turning a page of the document may comprise two transparent plates arranged in parallel planes, movable relative to one another, and relative to the trays.
  • the device further comprises control means arranged to measure the dimensions of the document and the number of pages taken as well as means for measuring the suction pressure in the perforated hollow element.
  • the or each transparent plate comprises, on an edge substantially parallel to the binding of the document a conduit arranged to expel air towards the pages of said document and at least one movable conduit perpendicular to said binding of the document, also arranged to expel air towards the pages of said document.
  • the perforated hollow element may be equipped with a removable filter element to protect the turned pages against contamination.
  • the device When the device is intended to take an image of the turned pages of the document, it comprises means for recording these images.
  • the device 100 comprises a frame 10 in which are arranged a support 11 for the document whose pages must be turned, means 12 for holding the pages to turn and turn the separate page, control means 13 of the pages rotated or rotated, means 14 for separating the pages to be rotated and means 15 for recording images.
  • the support 11 for the document comprises two plates 16 interconnected by means of a rod 17.
  • each plate 16 is mounted on a horizontal rail 18 which allows it to slide along a longitudinal axis relative to the device.
  • These horizontal rails are themselves secured to a carriage (not shown) sliding in a vertical rail 20, which provides a linear guide plates.
  • the rod 17 is articulated around its center. This center is materialized by an axis 21 can be moved in a vertical guide 22 by means of a motor. In this way, the trays can be moved in two opposite directions or in the same direction. In other words, when one of the trays is raised, the other can be lowered either around the center of the rod 17, or also raised along the vertical rail 20.
  • Each horizontal rail 18 is also integral with a vertical bar 24 passing close to the link rod 17.
  • This rod is provided with locking means 25 arranged near each of the vertical bars so that when these means are actuated, they hold the bars and prevent them from moving.
  • a compression member 9 connected to the vertical guide 22 compensates for the weight of the elements supported by the horizontal axis 21. In this way, the trays 16 remain in their relative position regardless of the force applied to them.
  • Each tray is formed by a box 26 whose substantially flat upper face is provided with a multitude of small holes 27 and which comprises one or more suction inlets 28.
  • This box may further be provided with a perforated mask 29 which the perforations coincide with the holes 27 so that these holes are plugged, either by the cover of the document whose pages must be turned, or by the mask. This allows a good maintenance of said document and avoids losses due to suction through unobstructed holes.
  • the centering of the document on the trays is provided by horizontal return elements 19 integral with the trays 16.
  • the means 12 for holding pages to turn and turn the separate page comprise at least one transparent plate or in the example shown two transparent plates 30, for example glass, placed above the document. These plates can slide in a plane parallel to the pages of the document and in a direction perpendicular to the binding of this document. For this purpose, they are integral with guide elements in translation known per se and not shown.
  • the edge of the transparent plate which is in contact with the page of the document to be rotated comprises a duct 33 connected to a blower so that air is blown towards the pages so as to push the sheet to rotate by air cushion .
  • a blower so that air is blown towards the pages so as to push the sheet to rotate by air cushion .
  • the conduit 33 may be placed on only one or both of the plates and the blower may be operated in one or both conduits, depending on the direction in which the pages are rotated.
  • the means 14 for separating the pages of the document consist of suction means 34 and displacement means 35 of these suction means. In the illustrated embodiment, they make it possible to turn the pages from left to right or from right to left. However, it is possible to make a small machine if it should turn the pages in one direction.
  • the suction means 34 are formed of a perforated hollow element, which may be in the form of a tube 36 provided with a diaphragm 37.
  • the tube 36 comprises a plurality of holes 38 having a peripheral area flared in the form of a suction cup. According to a preferred embodiment, the holes are arranged staggered on the lower surface of the tube so as to ensure optimal grip of the sheets to rotate.
  • the diaphragm 37 is formed of two parts 39, 40 movable relative to each other, which can be made in the form of tubes sliding in the tube 36, each of these tubes being provided with a closed zone and an open area such as a slot extending over an angular area of less than 180 °, so that the rotation of one of the tubes relative to the other makes it possible to close the diaphragm completely or to open it.
  • the tubes 39, 40 forming the diaphragm are supported by bearings.
  • These suction means 34 also comprise closure means for longitudinally limiting the suction surface.
  • these closure means are formed of two movable sleeves 44 arranged at each end of the tube 36 so that the holes 38 of said tube 36 can be plugged either by a document page or by the diaphragm, either by one or other of the sleeves. As in the case of the mask 29 on the box, these sleeves ensure optimal suction.
  • the perforated tube 36 may be equipped with a removable filter element.
  • the displacement means 35 of these suction means comprise two rails, a vertical rail 46 and a horizontal rail 47, as well as drive motors.
  • the tube 36 is moved in a relative movement with respect to the page obtained by the combination of a vertical movement and a horizontal movement.
  • the control means 13 essentially make it possible to ensure that only one page of the document is rotated at a time.
  • These control means comprise a first rangefinder 48a which measures the number of pages entered by the page separation means and a second rangefinder 48b for determining the exact position and size of the document.
  • the device also comprises means 50 for measuring the pressure in the suction means 34. Indeed, when a page is sucked, the pressure varies according to a given curve. If a page could not be taken correctly, the pressure will remain constant and the curve will not match the conventional curve, which can be detected.
  • These pressure measuring means 50 also make it possible to distinguish a standard page from the document of a different page, such as, for example, a flexible page of a rigid page. Indeed, a flexible sheet bends slightly around the tube of the suction means and closes a number of holes 38, which generates a determined pressure curve. When two standard sheets are taken at the same time, the pressure curve is almost identical to the curve for a sheet. On the other hand, the number of pages measured by the rangefinder 48a differs. When a rigid sheet is grasped, it bends less than a standard sheet and closes fewer holes 38 of the suction means 34. The pressure curve will be different from the conventional curve. Thus, it will be possible to ignore the measurement made by the rangefinder 48a.
  • the image recording means 15 may be adapted to the chosen application. Indeed, the pages can be photographed or scanned and digitized. According to a concrete embodiment, these recording means may comprise a digital camera 51 fixed or mobile mounted so as to move above the document on a set of rails integral with the frame. This camera takes an image of each double page, scans it and transmits it to a storage and / or processing system such as a computer (not shown).
  • a digital camera 51 fixed or mobile mounted so as to move above the document on a set of rails integral with the frame. This camera takes an image of each double page, scans it and transmits it to a storage and / or processing system such as a computer (not shown).
  • the device 100 of the invention may also include a mechanism 53 for separating the pages 54 in the form of a conduit perpendicular to the binding of the document. Air is blown from this duct in a direction parallel to the binding, which has the effect of slightly separating the pages by introducing between them, a small air cushion. This greatly reduces the friction between the pages and increases the reliability of the device by preventing multiple pages being taken simultaneously.
  • the rangefinder 48b moves to determine the exact position and size of the document.
  • the cover page is opened. If one starts with an open document, the document is positioned on the two trays, the rangefinder 48a is moved longitudinally along the machine and measures at each point, the distance between the rangefinder and the document. This makes it possible to determine the position of the edges of a page as well as the position of the middle of the document
  • connection between the trays 16 is such that regardless of the number of pages on each of the trays, the upper page of each part of the document is substantially located in the same plane. Indeed, the side of the document having the most pages, so the thicker, the tray will be pressed down. Thus, the two visible pages of the document will be substantially in the same plane.
  • the trays are locked in position by means of the locking means 25 so that the pages of the document remain in the same plane when the document is moved away from the plates 30.
  • the trays 16 are mounted simultaneously until they press the document, with a determined pressure, against the right transparent plate 30 of the device.
  • the visible double page can then be processed, that is to say, photographed or scanned.
  • the trays 16 are lowered simultaneously by a distance such that the document can not be closed by itself and that the pages which tend to turn are held by one of them.
  • the plates are then moved to the left so that the left plate retains the pages of the document that tend to close and that the right plate has its free edge more right than the document.
  • a space is created between the two plates. This space is wide enough to allow passage to the suction means 34.
  • this diaphragm 37 in the tube 36 of the suction means adjusts the suction force. Indeed, if the slot of the diaphragm is such that it is opposite a small number of holes of the outer tube, the suction force will be distributed over a very small number of holes and will be very large. This is used when turning very stiff or heavy pages such as hard cover pages or hard interleaved pages. Conversely, when the open area of the diaphragm is in contact with a large number of holes, the force per hole is relatively small. This mode of use is suitable for the inner pages of a document that are generally flexible.
  • the setting of the suction force can be done manually, depending on the paper quality of the document from which the pages are to be rotated. It can also be done automatically. In this case the pivoting of the diaphragm is managed by motors which automatically adjust the opening angle according to the paper.
  • the suction means 34 are then moved according to a movement whose trajectory is obtained by the combination of a vertical movement and a horizontal movement.
  • the two tubes 39, 40 forming the diaphragm 37 are also rotated inside the tube 36 so that the bisector of the aperture angle of the diaphragm is always in contact with the same area of the page to be rotated. This bisector is oriented perpendicular to the page during the movement of the page to turn. This is all the more important as the page is rigid.
  • the rangefinder 48a measures the number of pages entered. If a spacer page of a thickness different from that of conventional pages is entered, this can be detected by measuring the pressure in the suction means.
  • the suction means are moved until they are arranged above the plane defined by the transparent plate 30 right. This one is then moved to the left.
  • the suction means release the page by stopping the suction.
  • the blowing duct 33 formed on the edge of the transparent plates 30 blows air before the plate comes into contact with the page to be rotated.
  • the page is pushed by an air cushion and does not come into contact with the plate. In this way, it is possible to process a particularly valuable and / or fragile document.
  • This same duct can also blow air during the separation phase of the pages.
  • the pressure applied to the document against the transparent plates 30 can be adapted to the document.
  • the document can simply be placed open on the support 11 without any pressure being applied.
  • the image of the document taken by the recording means 15 may be computerized to correct the deformations due to the lack of flatness of the document.
  • This device has many advantages over similar devices of the prior art.
  • the document can have any size between the format A6 and the format A1. It also automatically adapts to a very wide variety of grades or paper thicknesses.
  • the documents can naturally be placed closed on the support 11 without it being necessary to position them in a particular manner.
  • the speed of movement of the various components can be increased or slowed depending on the fragility of the pages of the document. All movements of these components can be motorized
  • the trays 16 can be moved vertically, it is possible to press the document against the transparent plates so that both pages are flat.
  • the control means ensure that all the pages will be turned one after the other, one page at a time.

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  • Holders For Sensitive Materials And Originals (AREA)
  • Facsimile Scanning Arrangements (AREA)
  • Sheets, Magazines, And Separation Thereof (AREA)
  • Manufacture Of Macromolecular Shaped Articles (AREA)
  • Adhesives Or Adhesive Processes (AREA)
  • Silver Salt Photography Or Processing Solution Therefor (AREA)
  • Discharge By Other Means (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns an automatic device for turning the pages of a bound document comprising a support ( 11 ) whereon is arranged the document, means ( 14 ) for separating by suction one page from the other pages to be turned and for turning the separated page to bring it on a pile of turned pages. The support ( 11 ) consists of two mobile trays ( 16 ) mutually linked by a rod ( 17 ), each tray consisting of a box ( 26 ) whereof the upper side is provided with small holes ( 27 ) cooperating with the suction intake orifices ( 28 ). The means ( 14 ) for separating the document pages consist of suction means ( 34 ), displaced by the combination of a vertical movement and a horizontal movement, consisting of the perforated recessed element ( 36 ) provided with a diaphragm ( 37 ). Said perforated element ( 36 ) is provided with holes ( 38 ) and the diaphragm ( 37 ) comprises two mobile parts for orienting the direction of the suction flow and modify its flow rate and its speed. Said suction means ( 34 ) also comprise mobile closure means ( 44 ) for longitudinally delimiting the suction surface. The means ( 14 ) for turning a page of the document comprise two mobile transparent plates ( 30 ) arranged in parallel planes. Control means ( 13 ) enable to measure the dimensions of the document and the number of pages turned.

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention concerne un dispositif automatique pour tourner les pages d'un document relié selon le préambule de la revendication 1.The present invention relates to an automatic device for turning the pages of a bound document according to the preamble of claim 1.

Technique antérieurePrior art

Il existe actuellement déjà des dispositifs permettant de tourner automatiquement les pages d'un document, par exemple pour le photocopier ou le numériser.There are already devices for automatically rotating the pages of a document, for example to photocopy or scan.

Un tel dispositif est par exemple décrit dans le brevet américain US 4,942,482 . Ce dispositif comporte deux plateaux transparents sur lesquels est posé le document de telle façon que les pages du document sont tournées vers le bas. Entre les deux plateaux se trouve une fente en dessous de laquelle se trouvent deux cylindres adjacents dont l'un comporte des trous d'aspiration. Le document est maintenu par un gabarit mobile de façon à pouvoir être déplacé par rapport aux plateaux. Pour tourner une page, le document est poussé au moyen du gabarit en direction de la fente. Une page de ce document est aspirée par les cylindres pourvus de trous d'aspiration. Cette page tourne entre les deux cylindres et pénètre dans un logement situé sous, les cylindres. Lorsque le document continue d'avancer sous l'effet du déplacement du gabarit, la page est retirée du logement et se place du côté des feuilles déjà tournées.Such a device is for example described in the US patent US 4,942,482 . This device comprises two transparent trays on which the document is placed so that the pages of the document are facing downwards. Between the two trays is a slit below which there are two adjacent cylinders, one of which has suction holes. The document is held by a movable template so that it can be moved relative to the trays. To turn a page, the document is pushed using the template in the direction of the slot. A page of this document is sucked by the cylinders provided with suction holes. This page rotates between the two cylinders and penetrates into a housing under the cylinders. When the document continues to advance as a result of moving the template, the page is removed from the slot and is placed on the side of the already turned sheets.

Ce dispositif présente un certain nombre d'inconvénients. Etant donné que les feuilles effectuent une trajectoire autour du cylindre d'aspiration, le dispositif n'est pas utilisable pour certains types de papier. En particulier, il n'est pas possible de tourner des pages cartonnées. De plus, un document doit nécessairement être ouvert avant de commencer à tourner les pages. De plus, s'il contient une page intercalaire cartonnée, la machine se bloque. De par la position du document face vers le bas et la courbure à laquelle sont soumises les pages, celles-ci peuvent être abîmées ou détruites et ceci notamment par le fait que les pages présentées sont pressées par le poids du document contre le dispositif de maintien. Ce dispositif ne convient donc pas aux documents anciens et/ou précieux. En outre, étant donné que le gabarit doit être adapté aux dimensions' du document, le dispositif est peu pratique pour traiter des documents ayant des formats différents. Le document étant tourné vers le bas, il est nécessaire d'intégrer dans le bâti, un appareil pouvant effectuer des photocopies ou une numérisation. Cela signifie qu'il est nécessaire de choisir un type d'appareil donné et qu'il est ensuite pratiquement impossible d'en changer sans concevoir une machine totalement nouvelle.This device has a number of disadvantages. Since the sheets move around the suction cylinder, the device can not be used for certain types of paper. In particular, it is not possible to turn hardcopies. In addition, a document must necessarily be opened before starting to turn pages. In addition, if it contains a hard cover page, the machine crashes. Because of the position of the document facing downwards and the curvature to which the pages are subjected, these pages can be damaged or destroyed, and this is particularly due to the fact that the pages presented are pressed by the weight of the document against the holding device. . This device is therefore not suitable for old and / or precious documents. In addition, since the template has to be adapted to the dimensions of the document, the device is impractical for processing documents having different formats. The document is turned down, it is necessary to integrate into the frame, a device that can make photocopies or scanning. This means that it is necessary to choose a particular type of device and then it is almost impossible to change without designing a completely new machine.

Un autre dispositif, destiné particulièrement aux personnes handicapées, est également connu par le brevet français FR 2 713 149 . Ce dispositif comporte deux plateaux, montés indépendamment l'un de l'autre à l'aide de moyens. élastiques, sur lesquels est posé le document. Chaque plateau peut appliquer les pages d'un document contre au moins un doigt. Ces doigts sont escamotables. L'organe tourne-page est un rouleau muni d'un dispositif presseur et comprend des moyens de translation latérale pour aller d'un bord à l'autre du document. Le principal inconvénient de cette réalisation est lié au fait que, comme les plateaux de maintien du document sont indépendants mais reliés par des moyens élastiques, il est très difficile de gérer la force appliquée sur le document entre les plateaux et les doigts escamotables.Another device, intended particularly for the disabled, is also known by the French patent FR 2 713 149 . This device comprises two trays, mounted independently of one another by means. elastic, on which is placed the document. Each tray can apply the pages of a document against at least one finger. These fingers are retractable. The page turning member is a roller provided with a pressing device and includes lateral translation means for moving from one edge to the other of the document. The main disadvantage of this embodiment is related to the fact that, as the document holding plates are independent but connected by elastic means, it is very difficult to manage the force applied to the document between the trays and the retractable fingers.

La publication EP 0 452 911 concerne un dispositif d'alimentation papier pour séparer des feuilles de papier d'une pile et alimenter en feuilles séparées une machine telle qu'une photocopieuse. Ce dispositif d'alimentation comporte un diaphragme formé de deux cylindres concentriques qui tournent, un des cylindres entraînant par friction et par aspiration la feuille en contact et le second cylindre agissant par aspiration pour tirer et maintenir la feuille contre le cylindre.The publication EP 0 452 911 relates to a paper feed device for separating sheets of paper from a stack and feeding separate sheets of a machine such as a photocopier. This feeder comprises a diaphragm formed of two concentric cylinders which rotate, one of the cylinders frictionally and sucking the sheet in contact and the second cylinder acting by suction to pull and hold the sheet against the cylinder.

Le dispositif objet du brevet américain US 4 691 909 comporte deux plateaux mobiles qui sont inclinés l'un vers l'autre et sur lesquels est posé le document. La page est maintenue ouverte par un dispositif de baguettes qui appuient sur les pages visibles. Un rouleau pouvant tourner est amené en contact forcé contre le document. Il tourne dans un sens et peut prendre plusieurs feuilles. Il amène ces feuilles contre un membre de pincement puis tourne dans un sens inverse pour éliminer les pages supplémentaires. Dans un mouvement de balancer le rouleau et le membre de pincement envoient la page tournée sur l'autre côté. Cette page retombe par son propre poids et elle est reprise par le dispositif de baguettes.The device subject of the US patent US 4,691,909 comprises two movable trays which are inclined towards one another and on which the document is placed. The page is kept open by a device of chopsticks that press on the visible pages. A rotatable roll is brought into forced contact against the document. It turns in one direction and can take several leaves. He brings these leaves against a pinch member and then turns in a reverse direction to eliminate the extra pages. In a swinging motion the roll and pinch member send the page turned on the other side. This page falls by its own weight and is taken over by the chopstick device.

Dans ces deux derniers dispositifs, l'organe tourne-page tourne et entraîne.les pages par friction sur leur surface, ce qui peut abîmer les pages sensibles, voire effacer le contenu au point de friction. Le procédé de séparation de pages implique que la page entraînée soit souple pour qu'elle puisse se bomber lorsqu'on la pousse depuis son extrémité vers son point de reliure. L'efficacité de la séparation des pages par friction et par mouvement relatif est fortement tributaire du type de papier et de l'état de surface du papier. Ce type de séparation de pages présente des difficultés pour garantir qu'une seule page est tournée à la fois. De plus les doigts ou baguettes de maintien des pages présentent des points d'appui concentrés sur une petite surface qui peuvent marquer ou endommager le document. Ces objets sont aussi gênants pour la visibilité des pages.In these last two devices, the page turning member rotates and drives the pages by friction on their surface, which can damage the sensitive pages, or even erase the content at the friction point. The page separation method implies that the driven page is flexible so that it can bulge when pushed from its end to its binding point. The efficiency of page separation by friction and relative movement is highly dependent on the type of paper and the surface condition of the paper. This type of page separation presents difficulties in ensuring that only one page is tour at once. In addition, the fingers or sticks for holding the pages have points of support concentrated on a small surface that can mark or damage the document. These objects are also troublesome for the visibility of the pages.

Le brevet US 5 471 277 concerne un dispositif de lecture d'un document pourvu d'un tourne-page agencé pour être installé dans un photocopier, un fax ou similaire, comportant une table de support du document et un tourne-page réalisé sous la forme d'une courroie en un matériau diélectrique associée à un générateur de champ électrique pour attirer la page électrostatiquement.The patent US 5,471,277 relates to a reading device of a document provided with a turntable arranged to be installed in a photocopier, a fax machine or the like, comprising a document support table and a page-turner made in the form of a belt. a dielectric material associated with an electric field generator for electrostatically attracting the page.

La publication GB 2 207 423 concerne un appareil pour tourner, les pages d'un documents comportant une table sur laquelle le document est posé ouvert, des moyens pour appliquer une force de friction sur la page supérieure afin de la soulever et de permettre à de l'air de s'insérer entre cette page et la suivante. L'insertion d'une plaque transparente mobile horizontalement dans l'espace ainsi créé tourne la page soulevée.The publication GB 2,207,423 apparatus for turning, pages of a document having a table on which the document is laid open, means for applying frictional force to the top page to lift it and to allow air to insert between this page and the next. The insertion of a transparent plate movable horizontally in the space thus created turns the raised page.

Exposé de l'inventionPresentation of the invention

La présente invention se propose de pallier les inconvénients des dispositifs connus de l'art antérieur, en réalisant un dispositif qui permet de tourner les pages, de gauche à droite ou de droite à gauche, de n'importe quel type de document et de toute forme d'ouvrage relié, quelles que soient la rigidité, la porosité et la fragilité des pages, et qui peut être adapté facilement à l'application choisie.The present invention proposes to overcome the drawbacks of the known devices of the prior art, by producing a device that makes it possible to turn the pages, from left to right or from right to left, of any type of document and any form of bound book, regardless of the rigidity, porosity and fragility of the pages, and which can be easily adapted to the chosen application.

En outre, l'automatisme de ce dispositif détecte automatiquement les cas de préhension d'une seule page, d'échec de préhension de page, de préhension de pages multiples, de fin du document, de pages souples ou rigides et s'adapte à leur traitement spécifique sans nécessiter l'intervention humaine.In addition, the automation of this device automatically detects single-page gripping, page gripping, multiple page gripping, end of document, flexible or rigid pages and adapts to their specific treatment without requiring human intervention.

Ces buts sont atteints par un dispositif tel que défini dans la revendication 1.These objects are achieved by a device as defined in claim 1.

Dans une forme de réalisation préférée de l'invention, l'élément creux perforé est pourvu de moyens d'obturation agencés pour limiter longitudinalement la surface d'aspiration,In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the perforated hollow element is provided with closure means arranged to limit longitudinally the suction surface,

Dans la forme de réalisation préférée, la tringle liant les deux plateaux pivote autour d'un axe horizontal, cet axe horizontal étant mobile verticalement, ce qui synchronise le mouvement des plateaux mobiles, et un organe de compression est agencé pour compenser le poids des éléments supportés par ledit axe horizontal.In the preferred embodiment, the rod connecting the two plates pivots about a horizontal axis, this horizontal axis being vertically movable, which synchronizes the movement of the moving plates, and a compression member is arranged to compensate for the weight of the elements. supported by said horizontal axis.

Les plateaux comportent avantageusement des moyens de blocage de leur position relative et chaque plateau est solidaire d'un élément de rappel horizontal agencé pour permettre le centrage du document.The trays advantageously comprise locking means of their relative position and each plate is integral with a horizontal biasing element arranged to allow the centering of the document.

De préférence, chaque plateau est formé par un caisson ayant une face supérieure plane pourvue de trous et d'au moins une arrivée d'aspiration. Cette face supérieure des caissons peut être pourvue d'un, masque adapté à la dimension du document dont les pages doivent être tournées.Preferably, each tray is formed by a box having a planar upper face provided with holes and at least one suction inlet. This upper face of the boxes can be provided with a mask adapted to the size of the document whose pages must be rotated.

Dans une variante, les moyens pour tourner une page du document peuvent comporter deux plaques transparentes disposées dans des plans parallèles, mobiles l'une par rapport, à l'autre et par rapport aux plateaux.In a variant, the means for turning a page of the document may comprise two transparent plates arranged in parallel planes, movable relative to one another, and relative to the trays.

Le dispositif comporte en outre des moyens de contrôle agencés pour mesurer les dimensions du document et le nombre de pages prises ainsi que des moyens de mesure de la pression d'aspiration dans l'élément creux perforé.The device further comprises control means arranged to measure the dimensions of the document and the number of pages taken as well as means for measuring the suction pressure in the perforated hollow element.

Dans toutes les formes de réalisation, la ou chaque plaque transparente comporte, sur un bord sensiblement parallèle à la reliure du document un conduit agencé pour expulser de l'air en direction des pages dudit document ainsi qu'au moins un conduit mobile, perpendiculaire à ladite reliure du document, également agencé pour expulser de l'air en direction des pages dudit document.In all the embodiments, the or each transparent plate comprises, on an edge substantially parallel to the binding of the document a conduit arranged to expel air towards the pages of said document and at least one movable conduit perpendicular to said binding of the document, also arranged to expel air towards the pages of said document.

Suivant l'utilisation du dispositif, l'élément creux perforé peut être équipé d'un élément filtrant amovible afin de protéger les pages tournées contre la contamination.Depending on the use of the device, the perforated hollow element may be equipped with a removable filter element to protect the turned pages against contamination.

Lorsque le dispositif est destiné à prendre une image des pages tournées du document, il comporte des moyens d'enregistrement de ces images.When the device is intended to take an image of the turned pages of the document, it comprises means for recording these images.

Description sommaire des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

La présente invention et ses avantages seront mieux compris en référence à un mode de réalisation préférée mais non limitatif de l'invention et aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue schématique d'ensemble du dispositif selon la présente invention,
  • la figure 2 est une vue en coupe d'une partie du dispositif de la figure 1, et
  • les figures 3a et 3b sont des vues en coupe de l'élément de la figure 2 dans des positions différentes.
The present invention and its advantages will be better understood with reference to a preferred but non-limiting embodiment of the invention and to the accompanying drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic overview of the device according to the present invention,
  • the figure 2 is a sectional view of part of the device of the figure 1 , and
  • the Figures 3a and 3b are sectional views of the element of the figure 2 in different positions.

Manière(s) de réaliser l'inventionWay (s) to realize the invention

En référence à la figure 1, le dispositif 100 selon la présente invention comporte un bâti 10 dans lequel sont disposés un support 11 pour le document dont il faut tourner les pages, des moyens 12 pour maintenir les pages à tourner et tourner la page séparée, des moyens de contrôle 13 des pages tournées ou à tourner, des moyens 14 pour séparer les pages à tourner et des moyens 15 d'enregistrement d'images.With reference to the figure 1 , the device 100 according to the present invention comprises a frame 10 in which are arranged a support 11 for the document whose pages must be turned, means 12 for holding the pages to turn and turn the separate page, control means 13 of the pages rotated or rotated, means 14 for separating the pages to be rotated and means 15 for recording images.

Le support 11 pour le document comporte deux plateaux 16 liés entre eux par l'intermédiaire d'une tringle 17. De façon plus détaillée, chaque plateau 16 est monté sur un rail horizontal 18 qui lui permet de coulisser selon un axe longitudinal par rapport au dispositif. Ces rails horizontaux sont eux-mêmes solidaire d'un chariot (non représenté) coulissant dans un rail vertical 20, ce qui assure un guidage linéaire des plateaux. La tringle 17 est articulée autour de son centre. Ce centre est matérialisé par un axe 21 peut être déplacé dans un guidage vertical 22 au moyen d'un moteur. De cette façon, les plateaux peuvent être déplacés soit dans deux sens opposés, soit dans le même sens. En d'autres termes, lorsque l'un des plateaux est soulevé, l'autre peut être soit abaissé autour du centre de la tringle 17, soit également soulevé le long du rail vertical 20.The support 11 for the document comprises two plates 16 interconnected by means of a rod 17. In more detail, each plate 16 is mounted on a horizontal rail 18 which allows it to slide along a longitudinal axis relative to the device. These horizontal rails are themselves secured to a carriage (not shown) sliding in a vertical rail 20, which provides a linear guide plates. The rod 17 is articulated around its center. This center is materialized by an axis 21 can be moved in a vertical guide 22 by means of a motor. In this way, the trays can be moved in two opposite directions or in the same direction. In other words, when one of the trays is raised, the other can be lowered either around the center of the rod 17, or also raised along the vertical rail 20.

Chaque rail horizontal 18 est également solidaire d'une barre verticale 24 passant à proximité de la tringle articulée 17. Cette tringle est pourvue de moyens de blocage 25 disposés à proximité de chacune des barres verticales de telle façon que lorsque ces moyens sont actionnés, ils retiennent les barres et les empêchent ainsi de se déplacer. En outre, un organe de compression 9 lié au guidage vertical 22 permet de compenser le poids des éléments supportés par l'axe horizontal 21. De cette façon, les plateaux 16 restent dans leur position relative quelle que soit la force qui leur est appliquée.Each horizontal rail 18 is also integral with a vertical bar 24 passing close to the link rod 17. This rod is provided with locking means 25 arranged near each of the vertical bars so that when these means are actuated, they hold the bars and prevent them from moving. In addition, a compression member 9 connected to the vertical guide 22 compensates for the weight of the elements supported by the horizontal axis 21. In this way, the trays 16 remain in their relative position regardless of the force applied to them.

Chaque plateau est formé par un caisson 26 dont la face supérieure sensiblement plane est pourvue d'une multitude de petits trous 27 et qui comporte une ou plusieurs arrivées d'aspiration 28. Ce caisson peut en outre être pourvu d'un masque perforé 29 dont les perforations coïncident avec les trous 27 de telle façon que ces trous soient bouchés, soit par la couverture du document dont les pages doivent être tournées, soit par le masque. Ceci permet un bon maintien dudit document et évite les pertes dues à l'aspiration à travers des trous non bouchés. En outre, le centrage du document sur les plateaux est assuré par des éléments de rappel horizontal 19 solidaires des plateaux 16.Each tray is formed by a box 26 whose substantially flat upper face is provided with a multitude of small holes 27 and which comprises one or more suction inlets 28. This box may further be provided with a perforated mask 29 which the perforations coincide with the holes 27 so that these holes are plugged, either by the cover of the document whose pages must be turned, or by the mask. This allows a good maintenance of said document and avoids losses due to suction through unobstructed holes. In addition, the centering of the document on the trays is provided by horizontal return elements 19 integral with the trays 16.

Les moyens 12 pour maintenir des pages à tourner et tourner la page séparée comportent au moins une plaque transparente ou dans l'exemple représenté deux plaques transparentes 30, par exemple en verre, placées au-dessus du document. Ces plaques peuvent coulisser dans un plan parallèle aux pages du document et dans une direction perpendiculaire à la reliure de ce document. À cet effet, elles sont solidaires d'éléments de guidage en translation connus en soi et non représentés.The means 12 for holding pages to turn and turn the separate page comprise at least one transparent plate or in the example shown two transparent plates 30, for example glass, placed above the document. These plates can slide in a plane parallel to the pages of the document and in a direction perpendicular to the binding of this document. For this purpose, they are integral with guide elements in translation known per se and not shown.

Le bord de la plaque transparente qui est en contact avec la page du document à tourner comporte un conduit 33 relié à une soufflerie afin que de l'air soit soufflé en direction des pages de façon à pousser la feuille à tourner par coussin d'air. Ceci permet de tourner les pages du document de façon très délicate, donc d'éviter tout risque d'abîmer les documents, même particulièrement fragiles, notamment en évitant toute friction avec la page. Le conduit 33 peut être placé sur l'une des plaques seulement ou sur les deux et la soufflerie peut être mise en fonction dans l'un des conduits ou sur les deux, en fonction du sens dans lequel les pages sont tournées.The edge of the transparent plate which is in contact with the page of the document to be rotated comprises a duct 33 connected to a blower so that air is blown towards the pages so as to push the sheet to rotate by air cushion . This makes it possible to turn the pages of the document in a very delicate way, so to avoid any risk of damaging the documents, even particularly fragile, in particular avoiding any friction with the page. The conduit 33 may be placed on only one or both of the plates and the blower may be operated in one or both conduits, depending on the direction in which the pages are rotated.

Il est également possible de ne prévoir qu'une seule plaque transparente 30 qui recouvre la totalité du document lors de la prise de vue. Dans ce cas, il est souhaitable de prévoir un organe de maintien des pages du document de telle façon que le document ne se referme pas tout seul.It is also possible to provide only one transparent plate 30 which covers the entire document during the shooting. In this case, it is desirable to provide a document page holding member such that the document does not close on its own.

Les moyens 14 pour séparer les pages du document se composent de moyens d'aspiration 34 et des moyens de déplacement 35 de ces moyens d'aspiration. Dans le mode de réalisation illustré, ils permettent de tourner les pages de gauche à droite ou de droite à gauche. Il est toutefois possible de réaliser une machine aux dimensions réduites si elle ne doit tourner les pages que dans un sens.The means 14 for separating the pages of the document consist of suction means 34 and displacement means 35 of these suction means. In the illustrated embodiment, they make it possible to turn the pages from left to right or from right to left. However, it is possible to make a small machine if it should turn the pages in one direction.

Les moyens d'aspiration 34, illustrés plus en détail par les figures 2, 3a et 3, sont formés d'un élément creux perforé, qui peut se présenter sous la forme d'un tube 36 pourvu d'un diaphragme 37. Le tube 36 comporte une multitude de trous 38 ayant une zone périphérique évasée en forme de ventouse. Selon une forme de réalisation préférée, les trous sont disposés en quinconce sur la surface inférieure du tube de façon à assurer une prise optimale des feuilles à tourner. Le diaphragme 37 est formé de deux parties 39, 40 mobiles l'une par rapport à l'autre, qui peuvent être réalisées sous la forme de tubes coulissant dans le tube 36, chacun de ces tubes étant pourvu d'une zone fermée et d'une zone ouverte telle qu'une fente s'étendant sur une zone angulaire inférieure à 180°, de sorte que la rotation de l'un des tubes par rapport à l'autre permet de fermer complètement le diaphragme ou de l'ouvrir. Les tubes 39, 40 formant le diaphragme sont supportés par des paliers.The suction means 34, illustrated in greater detail by the Figures 2, 3a and 3 , are formed of a perforated hollow element, which may be in the form of a tube 36 provided with a diaphragm 37. The tube 36 comprises a plurality of holes 38 having a peripheral area flared in the form of a suction cup. According to a preferred embodiment, the holes are arranged staggered on the lower surface of the tube so as to ensure optimal grip of the sheets to rotate. The diaphragm 37 is formed of two parts 39, 40 movable relative to each other, which can be made in the form of tubes sliding in the tube 36, each of these tubes being provided with a closed zone and an open area such as a slot extending over an angular area of less than 180 °, so that the rotation of one of the tubes relative to the other makes it possible to close the diaphragm completely or to open it. The tubes 39, 40 forming the diaphragm are supported by bearings.

Ces moyens d'aspiration 34 comportent également des moyens d'obturation afin de limiter longitudinalement la surface d'aspiration. Dans l'exemple représenté, ces moyens d'obturation sont formés de deux manchons 44 mobiles disposés à chaque extrémité du tube 36 de telle manière que les trous 38 dudit tube 36 peuvent être bouchés soit par une page du document, soit par le diaphragme, soit par l'un ou l'autre des manchons. Comme dans le cas du masque 29 sur le caisson, ces manchons assurent une aspiration optimale. En outre, afin de protéger les pages tournées contre la contamination de particules ou de bactéries, le tube perforé 36 peut être équipé d'un élément filtrant amovible.These suction means 34 also comprise closure means for longitudinally limiting the suction surface. In the example shown, these closure means are formed of two movable sleeves 44 arranged at each end of the tube 36 so that the holes 38 of said tube 36 can be plugged either by a document page or by the diaphragm, either by one or other of the sleeves. As in the case of the mask 29 on the box, these sleeves ensure optimal suction. In addition, to protect the turned pages against contamination of particles or bacteria, the perforated tube 36 may be equipped with a removable filter element.

Les moyens de déplacement 35 de ces moyens d'aspiration comportent deux rails, un rail vertical 46 et un rail horizontal 47, ainsi que des moteurs d'entraînement. Lorsqu'une page est aspirée, le tube 36 est déplacé selon un mouvement relatif par rapport à la page obtenu par la combinaison d'un mouvement vertical et d'un mouvement horizontal.The displacement means 35 of these suction means comprise two rails, a vertical rail 46 and a horizontal rail 47, as well as drive motors. When a page is sucked, the tube 36 is moved in a relative movement with respect to the page obtained by the combination of a vertical movement and a horizontal movement.

Les moyens de contrôle 13 permettent essentiellement d'assurer qu'une seule page du document est tournée à la fois. Ces moyens de contrôle comportent un premier télémètre 48a qui effectue une mesure du nombre de pages saisies par les moyens de séparation de pages ainsi qu'un second télémètre 48b permettant de déterminer la position exacte et la dimension du document.The control means 13 essentially make it possible to ensure that only one page of the document is rotated at a time. These control means comprise a first rangefinder 48a which measures the number of pages entered by the page separation means and a second rangefinder 48b for determining the exact position and size of the document.

Le dispositif comporte également des moyens 50 de mesure de la pression dans les moyens d'aspiration 34. En effet, lorsqu'une page est aspirée, la pression varie selon une courbe déterminée. Si une page n'a pas pu être prise de façon correcte, la pression restera constante et la courbe ne correspondra pas à la courbe conventionnelle, ce qui peut être détecté.The device also comprises means 50 for measuring the pressure in the suction means 34. Indeed, when a page is sucked, the pressure varies according to a given curve. If a page could not be taken correctly, the pressure will remain constant and the curve will not match the conventional curve, which can be detected.

Ces moyens de mesure 50 de la pression permettent également de distinguer une page standard du document d'une page différente, tels que par exemple une page souple d'une page rigide. En effet, une feuille souple se plie légèrement autour du tube des moyens d'aspiration et bouche un certain nombre de trous 38, ce qui génère une courbe de pression déterminée. Lorsque deux feuilles standards sont prises en même temps, la courbe de pression est pratiquement identique à la courbe pour une feuille. Par contre, le nombre de pages mesuré par le télémètre 48a diffère. Lorsqu'une feuille rigide est saisie, elle se plie moins qu'une feuille standard et bouche moins de trous 38 des moyens d'aspiration 34. La courbe de pression sera différente de la courbe conventionnelle. Ainsi, il sera possible de ne pas tenir compte de la mesure effectuée par le télémètre 48a.These pressure measuring means 50 also make it possible to distinguish a standard page from the document of a different page, such as, for example, a flexible page of a rigid page. Indeed, a flexible sheet bends slightly around the tube of the suction means and closes a number of holes 38, which generates a determined pressure curve. When two standard sheets are taken at the same time, the pressure curve is almost identical to the curve for a sheet. On the other hand, the number of pages measured by the rangefinder 48a differs. When a rigid sheet is grasped, it bends less than a standard sheet and closes fewer holes 38 of the suction means 34. The pressure curve will be different from the conventional curve. Thus, it will be possible to ignore the measurement made by the rangefinder 48a.

Les moyens 15 d'enregistrement d'images peuvent être adaptés à l'application choisie. En effet, les pages peuvent être photographiées ou scannées et numérisées. Selon un mode de réalisation concret, ces moyens d'enregistrement peuvent comporter une caméra numérique 51 fixe ou mobile montée de façon à pouvoir se déplacer au-dessus du document sur un ensemble de rails solidaires du bâti. Cette caméra prend une image de chaque double page, la numérise et la transmet à un système de stockage et/ou de traitement tel qu'un ordinateur (non représenté).The image recording means 15 may be adapted to the chosen application. Indeed, the pages can be photographed or scanned and digitized. According to a concrete embodiment, these recording means may comprise a digital camera 51 fixed or mobile mounted so as to move above the document on a set of rails integral with the frame. This camera takes an image of each double page, scans it and transmits it to a storage and / or processing system such as a computer (not shown).

Le dispositif 100 de l'invention peut également comporter un mécanisme 53 de séparation des pages 54 sous la forme d'un conduit perpendiculaire à la reliure du document. De l'air est soufflé depuis ce conduit dans une direction parallèle à la reliure, ce qui a pour effet de séparer légèrement les pages en introduisant entre elles, un petit coussin d'air. Ceci diminue très fortement les frottements entre les pages et augmente la fiabilité du dispositif en évitant que plusieurs pages soient prises simultanément.The device 100 of the invention may also include a mechanism 53 for separating the pages 54 in the form of a conduit perpendicular to the binding of the document. Air is blown from this duct in a direction parallel to the binding, which has the effect of slightly separating the pages by introducing between them, a small air cushion. This greatly reduces the friction between the pages and increases the reliability of the device by preventing multiple pages being taken simultaneously.

Lorsque l'on souhaite tourner les pages d'un document, on le place, ouvert ou fermé, sur le support 11. En position fermée, le document est placé sur un seul plateau 16 du support, par exemple à droite lorsque le document est tourné de gauche à droite, de telle façon que la reliure du document se trouve à proximité du bord de ce plateau. Lorsque le document est ouvert, chacune des pages de couverture est disposée sur un plateau de telle façon que la reliure soit placée entre ces deux plateaux. Les deux pages de couverture du document sont maintenues en place par une aspiration à travers les trous 27 du caisson 26. Ceci assure un bon maintien du document tout en ne nécessitant pas de pièces mécaniques complexes.When it is desired to turn the pages of a document, it is placed, open or closed, on the support 11. In the closed position, the document is placed on a single plate 16 of the support, for example on the right when the document is turned from left to right, so that the binding of the document is close to the edge of this plate. When the document is opened, each of the cover pages is arranged on a tray such that the binding is placed between these two trays. The two cover pages of the document are held in place by suction through the holes 27 of the box 26. This ensures a good maintenance of the document while not requiring complex mechanical parts.

Si on commence avec un document fermé, le télémètre 48b se déplace pour déterminer la position exacte et la dimension du document. La page de couverture est alors ouverte. Si on commence avec un document ouvert, le document est positionné sur les deux plateaux, le télémètre 48a est déplacé longitudinalement le long de la machine et mesure en chaque point, la distance entre le télémètre et le document. Ceci permet de déterminer la position des bords d'une page ainsi que la position du milieu du documentIf one starts with a closed document, the rangefinder 48b moves to determine the exact position and size of the document. The cover page is opened. If one starts with an open document, the document is positioned on the two trays, the rangefinder 48a is moved longitudinally along the machine and measures at each point, the distance between the rangefinder and the document. This makes it possible to determine the position of the edges of a page as well as the position of the middle of the document

La liaison entre les plateaux 16 est telle que quel que soit le nombre de pages sur chacun des plateaux, la page supérieure de chaque partie du document est sensiblement située dans un même plan. En effet, le côté du document ayant le plus de pages, donc le plus épais, le plateau sera pressé vers le bas. Ainsi, les deux pages visibles du document seront sensiblement dans un même plan.The connection between the trays 16 is such that regardless of the number of pages on each of the trays, the upper page of each part of the document is substantially located in the same plane. Indeed, the side of the document having the most pages, so the thicker, the tray will be pressed down. Thus, the two visible pages of the document will be substantially in the same plane.

Les plateaux sont verrouillés en position au moyen des moyens de blocage 25 de façon que les pages du document restent dans le même plan lorsqu'on éloigne le document des plaques 30.The trays are locked in position by means of the locking means 25 so that the pages of the document remain in the same plane when the document is moved away from the plates 30.

Pour tourner les pages de droite à gauche, les plateaux 16 sont montés simultanément jusqu'à ce qu'ils pressent le document, avec une pression déterminée, contre la plaque transparente 30 droite du dispositif. La double page visible peut alors être traitée, c'est-à-dire photographiée ou scannée. Pour tourner la page et permettre ainsi de traiter la double page suivante, les plateaux 16 sont abaissés simultanément d'une distance telle que le document ne puisse pas se refermer tout seul et que les pages qui ont tendance à tourner soient retenues par l'une des plaques transparentes 30. Les plaques sont ensuite déplacées vers la gauche de façon que la plaque de gauche retienne les pages du document qui ont tendance à se refermer et que la plaque de droite ait son bord libre plus à droite que le document. Comme on peut le voir sur la figure 1, un espace est créé entre les deux plaques. Cet espace est suffisamment large pour laisser le passage aux moyens d'aspiration 34. Ceux-ci sont abaissés et mis en fonction de telle façon que le bord de la page de droite soit aspiré par le tube 36 le diaphragme 37 étant réglé de façon à s'adapter à la rigidité des pages.To turn the pages from right to left, the trays 16 are mounted simultaneously until they press the document, with a determined pressure, against the right transparent plate 30 of the device. The visible double page can then be processed, that is to say, photographed or scanned. To turn the page and thus allow the next double page to be processed, the trays 16 are lowered simultaneously by a distance such that the document can not be closed by itself and that the pages which tend to turn are held by one of them. The plates are then moved to the left so that the left plate retains the pages of the document that tend to close and that the right plate has its free edge more right than the document. As can be seen on the figure 1 , a space is created between the two plates. This space is wide enough to allow passage to the suction means 34. These are lowered and set in such a way that the edge of the right page is sucked by the tube 36 the diaphragm 37 being adjusted to adapt to the rigidity of the pages.

La rotation de ce diaphragme 37 dans le tube 36 des moyens d'aspiration, telle qu'illustrée par les figures 3a (position ouverte) et 3b (position fermée), permet d'ajuster la force d'aspiration. En effet, si la fente du diaphragme est telle qu'elle est en regard d'un petit nombre de trous du tube extérieur, la force d'aspiration sera répartie sur un très faible nombre de trous et sera très grande. Ceci est utilisé lorsqu'il faut tourner des pages très rigides ou lourdes comme les pages de couverture cartonnée ou des pages intercalées rigides. À l'inverse, lorsque la zone ouverte du diaphragme est en contact avec un grand nombre de trous, la force par trou est relativement faible. Ce mode d'utilisation est adapté pour les pages intérieures d'un document qui sont généralement souples.The rotation of this diaphragm 37 in the tube 36 of the suction means, as illustrated by the figures 3a (open position) and 3b (closed position), adjusts the suction force. Indeed, if the slot of the diaphragm is such that it is opposite a small number of holes of the outer tube, the suction force will be distributed over a very small number of holes and will be very large. This is used when turning very stiff or heavy pages such as hard cover pages or hard interleaved pages. Conversely, when the open area of the diaphragm is in contact with a large number of holes, the force per hole is relatively small. This mode of use is suitable for the inner pages of a document that are generally flexible.

Le réglage de la force d'aspiration peut être fait manuellement, en fonction de la qualité du papier du document duquel il faut tourner les pages. Il peut également être fait automatiquement. Dans ce cas le pivotement du diaphragme est géré par des moteurs qui ajustent automatiquement l'angle d'ouverture en fonction du papier.The setting of the suction force can be done manually, depending on the paper quality of the document from which the pages are to be rotated. It can also be done automatically. In this case the pivoting of the diaphragm is managed by motors which automatically adjust the opening angle according to the paper.

Les moyens d'aspiration 34 sont ensuite déplacés selon un mouvement dont la trajectoire est obtenue par la combinaison d'un mouvement vertical et d'un mouvement horizontal. Les deux tubes 39, 40 formant le diaphragme 37 sont également pivotés à l'intérieur du tube 36 de telle façon que la bissectrice de l'angle d'ouverture du diaphragme soit toujours en contact avec la même zone de la page à tourner. Cette bissectrice est orientée perpendiculairement à la page durant le mouvement de la page à tourner. Ceci est d'autant plus important que la page est rigide.The suction means 34 are then moved according to a movement whose trajectory is obtained by the combination of a vertical movement and a horizontal movement. The two tubes 39, 40 forming the diaphragm 37 are also rotated inside the tube 36 so that the bisector of the aperture angle of the diaphragm is always in contact with the same area of the page to be rotated. This bisector is oriented perpendicular to the page during the movement of the page to turn. This is all the more important as the page is rigid.

Lorsque les moyens d'aspiration 34 ont saisi un lot d'une ou plusieurs pages et que ce lot a été soulevé, le télémètre 48a mesure le nombre de pages saisies. Si une page intercalaire d'épaisseur différente de celle de pages conventionnelles est saisie, ceci peut être détecté grâce à la mesure de la pression dans les moyens d'aspiration.When the suction means 34 has entered a batch of one or more pages and this batch has been raised, the rangefinder 48a measures the number of pages entered. If a spacer page of a thickness different from that of conventional pages is entered, this can be detected by measuring the pressure in the suction means.

Si une ou plusieurs pages ont été saisies simultanément, les moyens d'aspiration 34 sont arrêtés et les pages éventuellement prises sont relâchées. Une nouvelle tentative est alors commencée.If one or more pages have been entered simultaneously, the suction means 34 are stopped and any pages taken are released. A new attempt is then started.

Les moyens d'aspiration sont déplacés jusqu'à ce qu'ils soient disposés au-dessus du plan défini par la plaque transparente 30 droite. Celle-ci est alors déplacée vers la gauche.The suction means are moved until they are arranged above the plane defined by the transparent plate 30 right. This one is then moved to the left.

Lorsque la plaque transparente 30 est suffisamment insérée sous la page soulevée 54, les moyens d'aspiration relâchent la page en arrêtant l'aspiration.When the transparent plate 30 is sufficiently inserted under the raised page 54, the suction means release the page by stopping the suction.

Celle-ci est entraînée par le déplacement de la plaque transparente. Ce déplacement est coordonné avec le déplacement de la plaque de gauche qui maintenait le document ouvert. Lorsque la plaque transparente recouvre entièrement le document, les mouvements des plaques sont arrêtés. Les plateaux 16 sont levés de façon à plaquer les pages du document contre les plaques transparentes ou de façon à approcher le document à une distance choisie des plaques 30 lorsqu'on ne veut pas plaquer le document. Une image des deux pages ouvertes est prise. Les plaques transparentes sont ensuite déplacées vers la droite de façon à reprendre leur position initiale. Un cycle est alors recommencé.This is driven by the displacement of the transparent plate. This displacement is coordinated with the displacement of the left plate that kept the document open. When the transparent plate completely covers the document, the movements of the plates are stopped. The trays 16 are raised so as to press the pages of the document against the transparent plates or so as to approach the document at a selected distance from the plates 30 when it is not desired to press the document. An image of the two open pages is taken. The transparent plates are then moved to the right so as to return to their original position. A cycle is then restarted.

Le conduit de soufflage 33 ménagé sur le bord des plaques transparentes 30 souffle de l'air avant que la plaque ne rentre en contact avec la page à tourner. Ainsi, la page est poussée par un coussin d'air et n'entre pas en contact avec la plaque. De cette façon, il est possible de traiter du document particulièrement précieux et/ou fragile. Ce même conduit peut également souffler de l'air durant la phase de séparation des pages.The blowing duct 33 formed on the edge of the transparent plates 30 blows air before the plate comes into contact with the page to be rotated. Thus, the page is pushed by an air cushion and does not come into contact with the plate. In this way, it is possible to process a particularly valuable and / or fragile document. This same duct can also blow air during the separation phase of the pages.

De nombreux paramètres peuvent être réglés sur le dispositif 100 selon l'invention. En particulier, la pression appliquée sur le document contre les plaques transparentes 30 peut être adaptée au document. Ainsi, pour des documents fragiles ou ayant des reliures de qualité médiocre, le document peut être simplement posé ouvert sur le support 11 sans qu'aucune pression ne soit appliquée. L'image du document prise par les moyens d'enregistrement 15 pourra être travaillée de façon informatique pour corriger les déformations dues au manque de planéité du document.Many parameters can be set on the device 100 according to the invention. In particular, the pressure applied to the document against the transparent plates 30 can be adapted to the document. Thus, for fragile documents or having bindings of poor quality, the document can simply be placed open on the support 11 without any pressure being applied. The image of the document taken by the recording means 15 may be computerized to correct the deformations due to the lack of flatness of the document.

Ce dispositif comporte de nombreux avantages par rapport aux dispositifs similaires de l'art antérieur.This device has many advantages over similar devices of the prior art.

Tout d'abord, il permet d'utiliser des documents ayant pratiquement n'importe quel format sans qu'il soit nécessaire d'effectuer des réglages manuels fastidieux. Selon un mode de réalisation concret, le document peut avoir n'importe quelle dimension comprise entre le format A6 et le format A1. Il s'adapte également automatiquement à une très grande variété de qualités ou d'épaisseurs de papier. En outre, les documents peuvent être naturellement posés fermés sur le support 11 sans qu'il soit nécessaire de les positionner d'une manière particulière.First, it allows you to use documents of virtually any format without the need for manual adjustments tedious. According to a specific embodiment, the document can have any size between the format A6 and the format A1. It also automatically adapts to a very wide variety of grades or paper thicknesses. In addition, the documents can naturally be placed closed on the support 11 without it being necessary to position them in a particular manner.

De plus, il peut être utilisé pour tourner les pages de document particulièrement fragiles, ce qui permet par exemple de numériser et de reproduire des documents anciens ou rares.In addition, it can be used to turn particularly fragile document pages, allowing for example to scan and reproduce old or rare documents.

La vitesse de déplacement des différents composants peut être augmentée ou ralentie en fonction de la fragilité des pages du document. Tous les mouvements de ces composants peuvent être motorisésThe speed of movement of the various components can be increased or slowed depending on the fragility of the pages of the document. All movements of these components can be motorized

Comme les plateaux 16 peuvent être déplacés verticalement, il est possible de presser le document contre les plaques transparentes de façon que les deux pages soient planes. Pour des documents ayant une reliure fragile, il est également possible de laisser une certaine distance entre le document et les plaques transparentes. Dans ce cas, la distance doit uniquement être suffisamment proche pour éviter que les pages tournent toutes seules.Since the trays 16 can be moved vertically, it is possible to press the document against the transparent plates so that both pages are flat. For documents with a fragile binding, it is also possible to leave a certain distance between the document and the transparent plates. In this case, the distance should only be close enough to prevent the pages from spinning by themselves.

Les moyens de contrôle permettent d'assurer que toutes les pages seront tournées les unes après les autres, une page à la fois.The control means ensure that all the pages will be turned one after the other, one page at a time.

Claims (14)

  1. An automatic device for turning the pages of a bound document, particularly of a book, a magazine, an index file or a journal, in order to make pages accessible or to take a picture of these pages, comprising a support (11) on which the document is placed, means (14) arranged for separating one page from the other pages of the document by suction, and means (12) for holding the pages which are to be turned and for turning the separated page in order to bring it onto a stack of turned pages, said support (11) being made of two movable trays (16) connected together by at least one rod (17), and the document being placed in a substantially horizontal plane so as to be set on the pages forming the cover of the document, the visible pages being presented towards the top, characterized in that the means (12) for turning a page of the document comprises at least one transparent plate (30) which is movable with respect to trays (16), the means for separating the pages of the document comprises a perforated hollow element (36) in which is disposed a diaphragm (37) formed by two parts (39, 40) which are movable with respect to one another, each of these parts being provided with an open zone and a closed zone so as to be able to orient the direction of the suction flow and to change its flow rate and its speed by movement of one of the parts with respect to the other, said perforated hollow element (36) is movable with respect to trays (16), and in that the two movable parts (39, 40) of the diaphragm (37) are turned inside the perforated hollow element (36) such that the line bisecting the angle of opening of the diaphragm (37) is always in contact with the same zone of the page to be turned and oriented perpendicularly to the page during movement of said page.
  2. A device according to Claim 1, characterized in that perforated hollow element (36) is provided with closing means (44) designed to longitudinally limit the suction surface.
  3. A device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the rod (17) pivots around a horizontal shaft (21), this horizontal shaft being vertically movable, and in that a compression component (9) is designed to counterbalance the weight of the elements supported by said horizontal shaft (21).
  4. A device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the trays (16) comprise means (25) for immobilization of their relative position.
  5. A device according to Claim 4, characterized in that each tray (16) is connected with a horizontal return element (19) designed to allow centering of the document.
  6. A device according to Claim 1, characterized in that each tray (16) is formed by a box (26) having a planar upper surface provided with holes (27) and at least one suction intake (28).
  7. A device according to Claim 6, characterized in that the upper surface of boxes (26) is provided with a mask adapted to the size of the document whose pages are to be turned.
  8. A device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the means (12) for turning a page of the document comprise two transparent plates arranged in parallel planes, which are movable with respect to one another and with respect to trays (16).
  9. A device according to Claim 1, characterized in that furthermore it comprises means of control (13) designed to measure the dimensions of the document and the number of taken pages.
  10. A device according to Claim 1, characterized in that it comprises means (50) for measurement of the suction pressure into the perforated hollow element (36).
  11. A device according to Claims 1 and 8, characterized in that one or each transparent plate (30) comprises, on an edge substantially parallel to the binding of the document, a duct (33) designed to expel air in the direction of the pages of said document.
  12. A device according to Claim 11, characterized in that the means for turning a page (54) of the document furthermore comprise one movable duct (53) perpendicular to the binding of the document and designed to expel air in the direction of the pages of said document.
  13. A device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the perforated hollow element (36) is equipped with a removable filtering element in order to protect the turned pages from contamination.
  14. A device according to Claim 1, characterized in that it comprises means (15) for recording images of the pages of the processed document.
EP02750750A 2001-08-13 2002-08-13 Automatic device for turning the pages of a bound document Expired - Lifetime EP1417103B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH01494/01A CH694526A5 (en) 2001-08-13 2001-08-13 Automatic device for turning the pages of a book, in particular a book, a magazine or a binder
CH149401 2001-08-13
PCT/CH2002/000440 WO2003016072A1 (en) 2001-08-13 2002-08-13 Automatic device for turning the pages of a bound document

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1417103A1 EP1417103A1 (en) 2004-05-12
EP1417103B1 true EP1417103B1 (en) 2009-05-20

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP02750750A Expired - Lifetime EP1417103B1 (en) 2001-08-13 2002-08-13 Automatic device for turning the pages of a bound document

Country Status (9)

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US (1) US7430035B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1417103B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4183615B2 (en)
CN (1) CN100354146C (en)
AT (1) ATE431785T1 (en)
CA (1) CA2456504C (en)
CH (1) CH694526A5 (en)
DE (1) DE60232418D1 (en)
WO (1) WO2003016072A1 (en)

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JP6376099B2 (en) * 2015-10-06 2018-08-22 カシオ計算機株式会社 Imaging work support apparatus, imaging work support method, and program
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2456504C (en) 2011-10-25
CA2456504A1 (en) 2003-02-27
US20060044631A1 (en) 2006-03-02
JP2004537447A (en) 2004-12-16
DE60232418D1 (en) 2009-07-02
CH694526A5 (en) 2005-03-15
JP4183615B2 (en) 2008-11-19
ATE431785T1 (en) 2009-06-15
CN100354146C (en) 2007-12-12
WO2003016072A1 (en) 2003-02-27
CN1541165A (en) 2004-10-27
US7430035B2 (en) 2008-09-30
EP1417103A1 (en) 2004-05-12

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