U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division |
U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
Patents classified in a subclass may be accessed by either clicking on
the subclass number
preceding each subclass definition or on the
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( please note that patents for some subclasses may not be available )
For classification search strategies, please refer to the
Classification Index
Explanation of Data web page.
(definitions have been obtained from the
Patents ASSIST CD-ROM which
is produced by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Electronic Products Branch)
Class 270
SHEET-MATERIAL ASSOCIATING
Class Definition:
Method or apparatus for bringing in a logical array, a
plurality of sheets, or webs of a flexible material in
accordance with recognizable indicia thereon or other
characteristics distinguishing one sheet or web from
another.
(1) Note. Included herein is a sheet or web material
associating combined with printing, cutting, securing,
wrapping, or merely opening folded sheets.
(2) Note. For purpose of facilitating the definition of the
subclasses, the following discussion and definition of terms
used is presented. A "sheet" is a thin, usually flexible
object having length and width dimensions. The boundary of
these dimensions are the "edge" of the sheet. The sheet is
moving along a direction of travel, and the term "side-edge"
is applied to those edges which are generally parallel to the
direction of travel. A "web" is a sheet having indefinite
length and a definite width. The term "positioning" may
include the act of partially turning the sheet about an axis
that passes through the surface of the sheet so that an edge
thereof is accurately aligned if that edge was previously
misaligned.
LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
The following line was established after a discussion with
the examiners representing Classes 270 and 271:
In Class 270, the apparatus for the sheet-material
associating includes a mechanism to place the sheets from
plural sources into an operational specified association onto
or against a surface which then groups the sheets in said
specified association or to place the sheets in specified
association. The delivery of the sheets to a stack from the
plural sources requires a specific order of associating the
sheets other than mere random stacking. Class 270 accepts
putting the sheets in a logical array or placing the sheets
in the associated stack in order to perform the operation on
the sheets.
In Class 271, a separation of an individual sheet from a
stack of sheets considered proper even if no specific feeding
of the sheets for an operation is disclosed. In Class 271, a
sheet feeding or delivering means combines or places the
sheets (a) adjacent to or on top of each other in a random
order, or (b) to perform the operation on individually fed
sheets.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
399, Electrophotography, subclasses 16+ and 361+ for
document handling (e.g., feeding or delivering sheet medium
(i.e., originals or copies) within an electrophotos:graphic
device).
493, Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; or Other
Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web, subclasses 405+ for
folding a sheet or web.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
1.01
With printing:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter comprising an apparatus for impressing or stenciling
or imaging a design or character upon a plurality of sheets
or webs of a flexible material which sheets or webs are
brought together in a logical array in accordance with (a)
recognizable indicia on the material, or (b) the
characteristics distinguishing one sheet or web material from
another.
(1) Note. Inkjet or laser printing is included in this
subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9 for printing on a longitudinally folded web including
associating extra sheets.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
355, Photocopy, subclass 311 for an electrophotos:graphic
document counting of a feed stock having different sizes,
colors or shapes and subclass 325 for delivering or
collecting the electrophotos:graphic document including
inserting a sheet between the two sheets.
399, Electrophotography, subclasses 79+ for an
electrophotos:graphic document counting of a feed stock
having different sizes, colors, or shapes and subclass 361+
for delivering or collecting the electrophotos:graphic
document including inserting a sheet between the two sheets.
Subclass:
1.02
Personalized printing (e.g., name or address):
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.01. Subject matter
including printing the design or character made-to-order,
such as printing individual names or addresses or other
customized printing on selected sheets or webs.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
283, Printed Matter, subclass 63.1 for a personalized book
printing.
493, Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; or Other
Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web, subclasses 324+ for
printing on a container or tube made from a paper material.
Subclass:
1.03
Responsive to information on sheets or webs:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.02. Subject matter
including means for detecting instruction indicia placed on
the sheets or webs and in response, thereto, interpreting and
printing a design or character on the selected sheets or
webs.
Subclass:
4
Means for both associating and folding, together with a pair
of rotatable members, between the peripheries of which the
work is printed by rolling contact.
(1) Note. Also compare the printing class references
below.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
101, Printing, subclasses 216+.
Subclass:
5.01
Longitudinal web folding:
This subclass is indented under subclass 4. Subject matter
wherein a flexible material in a strip form of indefinite
length is being continuously bent over or doubled up upon
itself along its length by passing the material over a former
or the like.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
226, Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, subclasses
24+ for regulating a longitudinal movement of the web
material.
Subclass:
5.02
Cutting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 5.01. Subject matter
including a sharp-edged device or similar means for severing
or penetrating the web.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
21.1 for cutting the folded sheets or webs which are printed
with a rotary printer.
52.17 for a signature cutting device.
Subclass:
5.03
Slitting or perforating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 5.02. Subject matter
wherein the cutting device is (a) making a long narrow cut
or incision in the web, or (b) piercing or punching a hole in
the web.
Subclass:
6
Having a cylinder for carrying a sheet around and associating
it with a succeeding sheet from the same source, and also
means for folding sheets.
Subclass:
7
With means for associating extra sheets with the main
product.
Subclass:
8
Also having means for folding sheets.
Subclass:
9
With means for associating extra sheets with the main
product.
Subclass:
10
The material being first associated in continuous strip form,
then cut into sheets, there being a cylinder for carrying a
sheet around and associating it with succeeding sheets from
the same source.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
226, Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, appropriate
subclasses for methods of, and apparatus for, feeding
material without utilizing the leading or trailing ends to
effect movement of the material.
Subclass:
11
With means for associating extra sheets with the main
product.
Subclass:
12
The material at the time of association being in the form of
short sections as distinguished from webs.
Subclass:
13
There being a cylinder for carrying a sheet around and
associating it with a succeeding sheet from the same source.
Subclass:
14
With means for associating extra sheets with the main
product.
Subclass:
15
With means for associating extra sheets with the main
product.
Subclass:
16
Having means for folding sheets on a line parallel to their
direction of travel through the printing mechanism.
Subclass:
17
With means for associating extra sheets with the main
product.
Subclass:
18
Means for assembling a plurality of sheets or webs otherwise
then by merely stacking, without folding, there being a pair
of rotatable members, between the peripheries of which the
work is printed by rolling contact.
Subclass:
19
There being a cylinder for carrying a sheet around and
associating it with a succeeding sheet from the same source.
Subclass:
20.1
Folding, with rotary printer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.01. Method or
apparatus including use of means for superimposing portions
of the same piece of material without severing along the fold
line, together with a pair of rotatable members, between the
peripheries of which the work is printed by rolling contact.
Subclass:
21.1
Cutting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 20.1. Method or
apparatus combined with means for severing the material
transversely of its movement through the machine.
Subclass:
22.1
Bed and travelling cylinder, web, perfecting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.01. Method or
apparatus wherein printed matter is impressed on both sides
of a web by passing it through machines having a flat
printing member in rolling action with a cylinder.
(1) Note. Also compare the printing class references
below.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
101, Printing, subclasses 256+.
Subclass:
30.01
RECIPROCATING-CARRIAGE PILER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including means arranged to travel to and fro in a
straight path over a support or platform and to deposit
layers of sheets or webs on the support or platform.
(1) Note. The layers may or may not be severed from each
other.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
8, Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical
Modification of Textiles and Fibers, subclass 152 for piling
chemically modified textiles and fibres.
68, Textiles: Fluid Treating Apparatus, subclasses 177+ for
piling the fabrics in a web or rope form into a treating
receptacle.
100, Presses, subclasses 80+ for presses not classified
elsewhere, having in addition a means to fold a sheet, web,
or strand in a zigzag fashion.
Subclass:
30.02
With flaw detection in material or pattern marking:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.01. Subject
matter including means for detecting a defect in (a) a
predetermined characteristic of the sheets or webs, or (b) a
design or character printed on the sheets or webs.
Subclass:
30.03
With tension indicator or control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.01. Subject
matter including means for (a) measuring a tautness or
slackness in the sheets or webs and actuating an alarm or
signal when the tautness or slackness in the sheets or webs
is in excess of or below a pre-established limit, or (b)
actuating a device to regulate the tautness or slackness in
the sheets or webs for preventing wrinkles.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
101, Printing, Dig. 42 for a web tensioning device.
Subclass:
30.04
With synchronized feeding:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.01. Subject
matter wherein the traveling speed of the reciprocating
carriage piler is coincided with the speed at which the
sheets or webs are deposited on the support or platform.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
39.01 for a zigzag packaging of the sheets or webs.
Subclass:
30.05
With clamp:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.01. Subject
matter including means for gripping the sheets or webs,
thereby, restricting the movement of the sheets or webs with
respect to the carriage or support or platform.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
269, Work Holders, subclasses 254+ for a spring or similar
resilient means for gripping the material or work.
Subclass:
30.06
Traveling supply:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.05. Subject
matter wherein the carriage includes a device for carrying a
bolt or package from which bolt or package the sheets or webs
are supplied to the support or platform.
Subclass:
30.07
With edge aligner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.01. Subject
matter including means for positioning or locating lateral
edges of the sheets or webs with respect to the edges of the
previously positioned sheets or webs or with respect to the
support or platform.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.08 for a web edge aligning and registering.
58.12 for a sheet edge aligner associated with a binding
operation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclasses 226+ for a
sheet aligning means associated with a sheet feeder.
Subclass:
30.08
Cutting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.01. Subject
matter including a sharp-edged device or similar means for
severing the sheets or webs and depositing in layers on the
support or platform.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
5.02 for cutting a longitudinally folded printed webs.
52.09 for cutting webs and assembling into individual stacks
of sheets.
Subclass:
30.09
Traveling supply:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.08. Subject
matter wherein the sheets or webs are supplied from a bolt or
package carried in a continuously moving device to the
cutting device and deposited in layers on the support or
platform.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30.06 for a traveling supply of the sheets or webs carried
on the carriage having a clamp.
Subclass:
30.1
With height adjustment of support or carriage:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.01. Subject
matter including means for permitting or causing a change in
the vertical position of the support or platform or
carriage.
Subclass:
30.11
Traveling supply:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.01. Subject
matter wherein the carriage includes a device for carrying a
bolt or package from which bolt or package the sheets or webs
are supplied to the support or platform.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30.06 for a traveling supply of sheets or webs carried on
the carriage having a clamp.
30.09 for the traveling supply of the sheets or webs carried
on the carriage having a cutting means.
Subclass:
30.12
With speed control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.01. Subject
matter including means for regulating the reciprocating
travel of the carriage.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30.13 for a carriage driving control.
Subclass:
30.13
With driving control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30.01. Subject
matter including means for changing the direction of travel
of the carriage.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30.12 for a carriage speed control.
Subclass:
32
Means for both associating and folding.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 4+ for associating and folding with rotary
printer.
Subclass:
37
With means for securing the parts of the product together by
means of staples, thread, or the like.
(1) Note. Also compare the subclasses to the current class
and the sewing class in the Search Notes below.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
53
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
29, Metal Working, subclasses 432+ for a residual method of
securing a nail or staple to work by driving, and see the
note to Class 227, below for related means for so doing.
112, Sewing, subclass 136, and indented subclasses.
227, Elongated-Member-Driving Apparatus, subclasses 19+ and
subclasses 99+ for combined apparatus for feeding work and
applying a member, e.g., staple, to the work.
Subclass:
38
There being a cylinder for carrying a sheet around and
associating it with a succeeding sheet from the same source.
(1) Note. Compare this class, subclass 47.
Subclass:
39.01
Zigzag package:
This subclass is indented under subclass 32. Subject matter
wherein the sheets or webs are folded in alternate opposite
directions.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
400, Typewriting Machines, subclass 613.2 for feeding a web
record-medium with a web supply with fan-folded or creased
web.
493, Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; or Other
Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web, subclasses 410+ for
folding and refolding of a web.
Subclass:
39.02
Including stack separating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39.01. Subject
matter wherein the zigzag package is cut or isolated into
more than one independent pack of sheets or webs at a
selected location.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
493, Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; or Other
Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web, subclass 362 for
advancing work from first to second operation station.
Subclass:
39.03
Web feed from below:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39.01. Subject
matter wherein the webs in the zigzag package are supplied
from the bottom of the zigzag package for further operation.
Subclass:
39.04
With sheet insertion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39.01. Subject
matter including means for introducing a sheet between the
zigzag folds of the sheets or webs.
Subclass:
39.05
Zigzag web:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39.01. Subject
matter wherein the webs are folded in alternate opposite
directions.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
493, Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; or Other
Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web, subclasses 413+ for a
web folding by swinging a work guiding member.
Subclass:
39.06
Interfolding multiple sheets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39.01. Subject
matter including means for inserting one folded sheet into
another folded sheet so as to lock both folded sheets with
one another.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
493, Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; or Other
Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web, subclasses 409+ for
repeatedly folding and unfolding and subclass 450 for folding
by a direct application of vacuum or fluid.
Subclass:
39.07
Associating before folding:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39.06. Subject
matter wherein the sheets are brought together in a logical
array in accordance with (a) recognizable indicia on the
sheets, or (b) the characteristics distinguishing one sheet
from another sheet; before the sheets are interfolded.
Subclass:
39.08
By blade:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39.06. Subject
matter wherein the sheet inserting means includes a flat thin
member made of metal or non-metal material.
Subclass:
39.09
By rotating drum with pocket member:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39.06. Subject
matter wherein the sheets inserting means includes a member
having a circumferential surface which turns about its axis
in an arc of a circle; the said surface having a receptacle
lying in or adjacent to the surface for temporarily holding
successive sheets.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclass 315 for a rotary
sheet conveyor having pocket members located on its
circumferential surface.
Subclass:
40
The material in strip form of indefinite length continuously
folded by passage through a former.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 41+ for longitudinal folding of web material.
Subclass:
41
The material in strip form of indefinite length continuously
folded by passage through a former.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
5.01 and 40, for longitudinal folding of web material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
226, Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, appropriate
subclasses for methods of, and apparatus for, feeding
material without utilizing the leading or trailing ends to
effect movement of the material.
493, Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; or Other
Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web, subclasses 405+ for
folding, per se, of sheet material generally.
Subclass:
42
There being a cylinder for carrying a sheet around and
associating it with a succeeding sheet from the same source,
also additional means for sheet folding.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 6+ for longitudinal web folding including
cylinder collecting with sheet folding.
Subclass:
43
The material first associated in continuous strip form, then
cut into sheets, there being a cylinder to carry the sheets
around and associate them with succeeding sheets from the
same source.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 10+ for associating and folding with a rotary
printer including web association with cylinder collecting.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
226, Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, appropriate
subclasses for methods of, and apparatus for, feeding
material without utilizing the leading or trailing ends to
effect movement of the material.
Subclass:
44
With means for associating extra sheets with the main
product.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
11 for web association with cylinder collecting including
additional-sheet associating having a rotary printer.
Subclass:
45
The material at the time of association being in the form of
short sections as distinguished from webs.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 12+ for sheet associating and folding with a
rotary printer.
Subclass:
46
With means for causing one sheet to pause until the arrival
of another sheet, with which it is associated.
Subclass:
47
Having a cylinder for carrying a sheet around and associating
it with succeeding sheet from the same source.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 13+ for sheet associating including cylinder
collecting having a rotary printer.
Subclass:
48
With means for associating extra sheets with the main
product.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14 for sheet associating including cylinder collecting
having a rotary printer.
Subclass:
49
The folding-blade pivotally mounted on a revolving carrier.
Subclass:
50
The folding-blade pivotally mounted on a revolving carrier.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
49 for sheet associating and folding including revolving
pivotal blade for cylinder collecting.
Subclass:
51
With means for associating extra sheets with the main
product.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
15 for sheet associating and folding with a rotary printer.
Subclass:
52.01
ASSOCIATING OR DISASSOCIATING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein a plurality of sheets or webs are brought
together or assembled into a pack in a logical array other
than by merely stacking the sheets or webs or separated or
disassembled the plurality of sheets or webs into separate
packs other than merely unstacking the sheets or webs in
accordance with (a) recognizable indicia on the sheets or
webs, or (b) the characteristics distinguishing one sheet or
web from another sheet or web in the pack.
(1) Note. Folding of the sheets or webs is not included in
this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
appropriate subclasses for a laminating means in combination
with a means for assembling a plurality of sheets.
226, Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, appropriate
subclasses for methods of, and an apparatus for, feeding a
material without utilizing the leading or trailing ends to
effect a movement of the material.
242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, appropriate subclasses
for a similar device wherein at least one of the disassembled
web is wound into a coil.
Subclass:
52.02
With control indicia (e.g., barcode):
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter wherein the associating or disassociating is regulated
by a sensor in response to detecting a systematic arrangement
of recognizable or identifying marks such as lines, numbers,
or letters, or the like that are printed or placed on the
sheets or webs.
Subclass:
52.03
Personalized stacks:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter wherein the sheets or webs in the packs are so
arranged that at least one sheet or web in a pack is having a
size or color or shape or characteristic or indicia different
than other sheets or webs in the pack.
(1) Note. All packs in the arrangement are identical in
this subclass.
Subclass:
52.04
With rejection control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter including means for detecting a damaged or missing or
repetitive or unintended arrangement of packs and in response
thereto (a) actuating a warning signal, or (b) activating a
member for removing such packs.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.06 for a sensor detecting a stack which does not include
all intended number of sheets or webs.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
493, Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; or Other
Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web, subclass 16 for a sensor
which detects and in response automatically actuates a
member to remove such defective sheet or web.
Subclass:
52.05
Reorder control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.04. Subject
matter including means for regulating a supply of new pack of
sheets or webs to replace the rejected packs.
Subclass:
52.06
With incomplete stack sensor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter including means for detecting more or less than a
predetermined number of sheets or webs in the pack and in
response thereto actuating a signal or warning device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclasses 256+ for a
means to interrupt a sheet feeding.
Subclass:
52.07
Web associating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter wherein a plurality of materials in strip form having
indefinite lengths are brought together or assembled into
packs in a logical array other than by merely stacking the
strip material, in accordance with (a) the recognizable
indicia on the materials, or (b) the characteristics
distinguishing one strip material in the pack from another.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.01 for sheets or webs associating or disassociating.
58.01 for sheet associating.
58.33 for sheet disassociating.
Subclass:
52.08
Aligning or registering:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.07. Subject
matter including a web associating mechanism and means for
locating or positioning side edges of successively stacked
webs or locating or positioning the associated webs with
respect to a part of the web associating mechanism.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30.07 for an edge aligner with reciprocating piler.
58.12 for a sheet edge aligner in a sheet binding
operation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclasses 226+ for a
sheet alignment.
Subclass:
52.09
Cutting web into stacked sheets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.07. Subject
matter wherein (a) the web is severed into individual sheets
and assembled into orderly piles, or (b) the web is severed
under individual sheets and assembled into the orderly
piles.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30.08 for cutting webs or sheets material associated with a
carriage piler.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclass 444 for a sensing
means to control an arrangement of a stream of items on a
conveyor.
Subclass:
52.1
Webs of different material (e.g., paper and carbon):
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.07. Subject
matter including at least two webs each having a distinct
characteristic (e.g., one web is a plain paper and the other
web is treated with a carbon compound).
Subclass:
52.11
Web decollating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter including means for separating webs into individual
webs or a group of webs without cutting.
Subclass:
52.12
Web bursting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter including means such as a gripping roller or the like
for holding or pulling the webs for breaking along
perforations or weak planes.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.09 for cutting a web into sheets and assembling into a
stack.
Subclass:
52.13
Securing sheet onto web:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter including means for placing and attaching the sheet
onto the web.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.18 for a signature binding operation.
Subclass:
52.14
Signature associating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter wherein a plurality of previously folded sheets or
webs are brought together or assembled into the packs in a
logical array other than by merely stacking the previously
folded sheets or webs in accordance with (a) the recognizable
indicia on the sheets or webs, or (b) the characteristics
distinguishing one sheet or web from another in the pack.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.01 for sheets or webs associating or disassociating.
52.07 for web associating.
58.01 for sheet associating.
Subclass:
52.15
Mis-feed signature sensor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.14. Subject
matter including means for detecting (a) the absence of the
signature, or (b) more than one signature occupying a space
at the same time, or (c) a mis-alignment of the signature or
such improperly supplied signature; and in response thereto
actuating a signal or warning device.
(1) Note. The sensor is located between the supply source
and the support.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
58.03 for a misfeed sheet sensor.
Subclass:
52.16
Gathering line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.14. Subject
matter wherein the signatures are carried in a continuously
advancing straight line path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.29 for a saddle gathering line.
58.29 for a sheet gathering line.
Subclass:
52.17
Cutting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.14. Subject
matter including a sharp-edged device or similar means for
severing the signatures.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
5.02 for cutting individually folded printed webs.
21.1 for cutting folded sheets or webs which are printed
with a rotary printer.
Subclass:
52.18
Binding:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.14. Subject
matter including means for securing in position two or more
individual signatures together.
(1) Note. The securing means for this subclass includes
metallic rings or wire bands such as staples or threads.
Subclass:
52.19
Insetting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.14. Subject
matter including means for inserting an additional sheet
between the folded sides of the signatures.
(1) Note. Folded edges of the signatures are placed
downward for this subclass.
(2) Note. The insetting means may include a roller or
pusher or such device which drops the additional sheet
between the open folded sides of the signature.
Subclass:
52.2
Signature carrying hopper:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.19. Subject
matter wherein the signatures, before or after insetting, are
transported in a pocket-like container which is substantially
shaped like a funnel.
Subclass:
52.21
Roller signature feeder:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.19. Subject
matter wherein the signatures are supplied from a source by a
device having a rotating drum or such similar member turning
on its axis in an arc of a circle.
Subclass:
52.22
With signature in-feed conveyor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.21. Subject
matter wherein the signatures are transported to the feeder
on a carrier having a continuously moving surface such as an
endless belt made of a flexible material.
Subclass:
52.23
Signature opener:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.19. Subject
matter including means for engaging or pulling apart the
folded sides of the signature.
Subclass:
52.24
By suction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.23. Subject
matter wherein the signature opener includes an element
having a surface through which surface a vacuum or
subatmospheric pressure is applied to facilitate engaging and
pulling one side of the signature toward the surface.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.28 for opening saddled signatures by suction means.
Subclass:
52.25
By gripping:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.23. Subject
matter wherein the signature opener includes at least two
elements having opposed surfaces between which surfaces one
side of the signature is placed and the elements are urged
toward one another and one side of the signature is firmly
grasped by the surfaces and pulled away with respect to the
other side of the signature.
Subclass:
52.26
Saddle associating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.14. Subject
matter wherein the signatures are so associated that edges
formed by the folded sides of the signatures are directed
upward and perpendicular to the direction of travel of the
signatures.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.01 for sheets or webs associating or disassociating.
52.07 for web associating.
58.01 for sheet associating.
Subclass:
52.27
Saddle opener:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.26. Subject
matter including means for engaging and pulling apart the
folded sides of the signatures.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.23 for a signature opener.
Subclass:
52.28
By suction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.27. Subject
matter wherein the signature opener includes an element
having a surface, through which surface a vacuum or
subatmospheric pressure is applied to facilitate engaging and
pulling one side of the signature toward the surface.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.24 for opening the signatures by suction means.
Subclass:
52.29
Gathering line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.26. Subject
matter wherein the signatures are carried in a continuously
advancing straight line path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.16 for a signature gathering line.
58.29 for a sheet gathering line.
Subclass:
52.3
Rotating saddle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.26. Subject
matter wherein the signatures are transported on a surface
that turns about an axis in an arc of a circle.
Subclass:
56
With means for preventing the operation of the machine.
Subclass:
58.01
Sheet associating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter wherein a plurality of materials in strip form having
definite lengths and widths are brought together or assembled
into a pack in a logical array other than by merely stacking
the strip materials, in accordance with (a) the recognizable
indicia on the materials, or (b) the characteristics
distinguishing one strip material from another in the pack.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 12+ for sheet associating with printing
subclasses 45+ for sheet associating and folding
52.01 for sheets or webs associating or disassociating.
52.07 for web associating.
Subclass:
58.02
Sheet arrival sensor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter including means for (a) detecting the presence or
absence of the sheets, or (b) detecting an orientation of the
individual sheet, or (c) recognizing and interpreting the
distinguishing markings or specific codes or such visible or
invisible markings on the sheet; and in response thereto
actuating a signal or warning device.
Subclass:
58.03
Misfeed sheet sensor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.02. Subject
matter wherein the sensor is detecting (a) the absence of the
sheet, or (b) more than one sheet occupying a space at the
same time, or (c) a mis-alignment of the sheet, or (d) such
improperly supplied sheet; and in response thereto actuating
a signal or warning device.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.15 for a misfeed signature sensor.
Subclass:
58.04
With dissimilar-sheets sensor (e.g., different sizes or
weights):
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter including means for detecting different sizes or
colors or thicknesses or weights or the like characteristics
of the sheets in the pack.
Subclass:
58.05
Cover sheet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.04. Subject
matter including a special outermost sheet in the pack having
a characteristic different from all other sheets in the
pack.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
53, Package Making, subclasses 505+ for a detecting means
responsive to presence or absence of a cover material.
Subclass:
58.06
Envelope stuffing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter wherein the sheets are inserted into a container made
of a thin prefolded flat sheet.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
53, Package Making, subclass 381.7 for a means to open a
flap of an envelope.
Subclass:
58.07
Performing operation on stacks (e.g., binding, cutting):
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter wherein the pack is undergoing a work (e.g., binding
or cutting or aligning or such similar work).
Subclass:
58.08
Binding:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.07. Subject
matter wherein two or more sheets in the pack are secured
together by a securing means.
(1) Note. The securing means for this subclass includes
metallic rings or wire bands such as staples or threads.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 37+ for stapling and stitching for an assembled
and folded sheet material.
52.18 for signature binding.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
29, Metal Working, subclasses 432+ for a residual method of
securing a nail or staple to work by driving.
53, Package Making, subclass 157 for machines to form group
contents and to subsequently package the group, at least one
article of the group being an insert or separating sheet.
227, Elongated-Member-Driving Apparatus, subclasses 19+ and
subclasses 99+ for combined apparatus for feeding work and
applying a member, e.g., staple to the work.
399, Electrophotography, subclass 410 for stapling the
sheets supplied from a copying machine.
Subclass:
58.09
Including condition responsive control (e.g., stack
thickness):
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.08. Subject
matter including a sensor for detecting an occurrence of a
predetermined event related to the binding operation such as
detecting a specific thickness of a pile of sheets or such
similar event and initiating a signal or alarm or actuating a
device to regulate or modify the binding operation.
(1) Note. The size of the staple or the force applied to
the staple for binding is directly related to the thickness
of the pile.
Subclass:
58.1
Lapstream:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.08. Subject
matter comprising a plurality of packs and wherein the packs
are carried in a steady flow or succession in an overlapped
or shingled arrangement for binding operation.
Subclass:
58.11
Including stack presentation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.08. Subject
matter comprising a receiver and wherein the pack is formed
by (a) the sheets being collected in a stack in the receiver
and (b) the receiver carrying the stack to a position for
binding.
(1) Note. The binding means in this subclass may or may not
be rigidly fixed at one location.
(2) Note. The stack of sheets in this subclass may be
prepared at a location different from the binding operation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
399, Electrophotography, subclasses 408+ for delivering
photocopying documents for binding.
Subclass:
58.12
With edge aligner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.11. Subject
matter including means for positioning or locating lateral
edges of the sheets (a) with respect to the edges of the
previously positioned sheets, or (b) with respect to a part
of the transporting mechanism.
(1) Note. The edge alignment caused by dropping or sliding
the sheets by a gravity, such as falling of sheets from a
sloped surface, is not included in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30.07 for an edge aligner in reciprocating-carriage pilers.
52.08 for an aligning or registering of web.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclasses 226+ for a
sheet aligning means.
Subclass:
58.13
With vertically movable stacker:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.11. Subject
matter wherein the receiver carrying the pack is adjustable
in an upward or downward direction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
58.28 for a vertically movable stacker for a sheet
associating.
Subclass:
58.14
Plural stackers:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.07. Subject
matter comprising at least two additional receivers (i.e.,
stackers) and wherein the sheets are bound in packs and the
packs are delivered to the additional receivers.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclasses 287+ for
delivering successive sheets at plural receivers in
succession.
Subclass:
58.15
Means to spread apart stackers:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.14. Subject
matter including a device for increasing a spacing between
the individual stackers.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclass 293 for a means
to increase the spacing between the sheet receivers.
Subclass:
58.16
With edge aligner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.14. Subject
matter including means for positioning or locating lateral
edges of the sheets (a) with respect to the edges of the
previously positioned sheets, or (b) with respect to a part
of one of the stackers.
(1) Note. The edge alignment caused by dropping or sliding
the sheets by gravity, such as falling of the sheets from a
sloped surface, is not included in this subclass.
Subclass:
58.17
With edge aligner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.07. Subject
matter including an operation mechanism and means for
positioning or locating lateral edges of the sheets (a) with
respect to the edges of the previously positioned sheets, or
(b) with respect to a part of the operation mechanism.
(1) Note. The edge alignment caused by dropping or sliding
the sheet by a gravity such as falling of the sheet from a
sloped surface is not included in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
58.14 and 58.17, for aligning the stacked sheets.
Subclass:
58.18
Plural stackers:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter comprising at least two receivers wherein each
receiver receives a pack of sheets.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclasses 287+ for
delivering successive sheets from plural receivers in
succession.
Subclass:
58.19
Movable stackers:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.18. Subject
matter including means for adjusting the positions of the
stackers individually or simultaneously as a unit for
collecting the packs of sheets.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclasses 292+ for
delivering sheets from multiple discharge to movable plural
receivers.
Subclass:
58.2
With hopper:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.18. Subject
matter wherein the receivers are transported in a carrier
which is substantially shaped like a funnel.
Subclass:
58.21
Radially arranged:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.2. Subject matter
wherein the hopper is assembled to rotate about a horizontal
axis.
Subclass:
58.22
Annularly arranged:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.2. Subject matter
wherein the hopper is assembled to rotate about a vertical
axis.
Subclass:
58.23
Sheets received from plural supplies:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter comprising two or more sources of sheets wherein the
sources supply the sheets for assembling into the pack.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclass 9.01 for feeding
the sheets from the plural sources.
Subclass:
58.24
By suction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.23. Subject
matter wherein at least one of the supply sources includes an
element having a surface, through the surface of which
element a vacuum or subatmospheric pressure is applied to
facilitate in engaging and pulling the sheets to the surface
of the element to remove the sheets from the supply.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.24 and 52.28, for opening the signature by suction.
Subclass:
58.25
By simultaneous feeding:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.23. Subject
matter wherein the sheets from the plural sources are
supplied at the same time.
Subclass:
58.26
Pusher for sequentially piling sheets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.23. Subject
matter including means for contacting each sheet and
introducing a force or pressure for collecting the sheets
together in a specific order.
Subclass:
58.27
With edge aligner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter including means for positioning or locating lateral
edges of the sheets (a) with respect to the edges of the
previously positioned sheets, or (b) with respect to a part
of the sheet associating mechanism.
(1) Note. The edge alignment caused by dropping or sliding
the sheet by gravity such as falling of the sheet from a
sloped surface is not included in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
58.12 for an edge aligner associated with a stack-binding
operation.
58.16 for the edge aligner associated with plural stackers
of the sheets being operated on.
58.17 for the edge aligner associated with performing the
operation on the stack of sheets.
Subclass:
58.28
Vertically movable stacker:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter including a receiver for the pack of sheets and
wherein the receiver is adjustable in an upward or downward
direction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
58.13 for a vertically movable stacker for a stack binding
operation.
Subclass:
58.29
Gathering line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter including means for continuously advancing the sheets
in a straight line path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.16 for a signature gathering line.
52.29 for a saddle gathering line.
Subclass:
58.3
With lapstream:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter wherein the associated sheets are transported in a
steady flow or succession in an overlapped or shingled
arrangement.
Subclass:
58.31
Inserting marker sheet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.01. Subject
matter including placing a sheet having a distinct
characteristic at a predetermined location into a group of
sheets, for designating an end of one group of sheets and a
beginning of another group of sheets.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
118, Coating Apparatus, appropriate subclass for means for
placing a number of sheets into a columnar grouping with
means for coating the edge, of a sheet to designate the end
of one and the beginning of another grouping.
198, Conveyors, Power-Driven, appropriate subclass for
placing a number of sheets into a continuously conveyed
grouping of sheets on edge, without insertion of a marker
sheet.
414, Material or Article Handling, subclass 788.1 for
placing a number of sheets into a stacked grouping, without
insertion of a marker sheet; and subclasses 798.2+ for
placing a number of sheets into the grouping of sheets on
edge, at a fixed location, without insertion of the marker
sheet.
427, Coating Processes, appropriate subclass for a method of
placing a number of sheets into a columnar grouping with
coating the edge of a sheet to designate the end of one and
the beginning of another grouping.
Subclass:
58.32
Tab or strip:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.31. Subject
matter wherein the marker sheet includes a short flap or a
narrow piece of a sheet material having a reasonably constant
width or such similar short piece of the sheet material.
Subclass:
58.33
Sheet disassociating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.01. Subject
matter wherein (a) a sheet is cut or separated along
previously determined locations or weak planes or
perforations, into smaller individual sheets to form a stack
of individual sheets, or (b) a stack of sheets is cut or
separated along the previously determined locations or weak
planes or perforations to form a plurality of smaller
individual stacks.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.01 for sheets or webs associating or disassociating.
58.01 for sheet associating
Subclass:
58.34
Separate stackers:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.33. Subject
matter comprising at least two receivers and wherein each
receiver collects a stack of sheets.
Subclass:
59
Having means to cause one sheet to pause until the arrival of
another sheet, with which it is associated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
46 for a means causing a sheet to pause during associating
and folding.
Subclass:
60
There being a cylinder for carrying a sheet around and
associating it with a succeeding sheet from the same source.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 6+ 10+, 13+, 19, 38, 42, 43+, and subclasses 47+
for a cylinder carrying a sheet around and associating the
sheet with a succeeding sheet from the same source.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000