Web forming device and sheet manufacturing apparatus

A web forming device includes: a first material supply unit provided with a first release port that releases a first material containing a first defibrated substance and a first organic binder in a gas atmosphere; a second material supply unit provided with a second release port that releases a second material in the gas atmosphere, the second material containing a second defibrated substance and a second organic binder and being different from the first material; and a transporting unit that forms and transports an accumulated substance obtained by accumulating the first material and the second material. The second release port is positioned downstream of the first release port in a transporting direction of the transporting unit, and the accumulated substance is a laminate obtained by laminating a layer of the first material and a layer of the second material.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is based on, and claims priority from Japanese Patent Application Serial Numbers 2018-035259, filed Feb. 28, 2018 and 2018-109830, filed Jun. 7, 2018, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a web forming device and a sheet manufacturing apparatus.

2. Related Art

In recent years, as environmental awareness is raised, there are demands for not only a reduction in an amount of paper used in a workplace but also recycling of paper in a workplace or otherwise performing reusable printing “adapted to reuse” on paper. As an apparatus that recycles used paper, there is known an apparatus that defibrates the used paper so as to generate a defibrated substance and manufactures new paper from the defibrated substance (for example, see JP-A-5-186996).

The apparatus disclosed in JP-A-5-186996 includes a transporting unit that transports the defibrated substance, a supply unit that supplies the defibrated substance onto the transporting unit, and a pressurizing unit that pressurizes the supplied defibrated substance. In addition, a plurality of pairs of supply units and pressurizing units are provided at different positions with respect to a corresponding transporting unit, each supply/pressurizing pair forms a layer in which the defibrated substance is compressed, and recycled paper configured of a laminate of a plurality of layers is manufactured.

In addition, in the apparatus disclosed in JP-A-5-186996, a humidifying unit is provided for each supply/pressurizing pair. Therefore, when the defibrated substance is pressurized, the defibrated substance in a humidified state is pressurized. Accordingly, it is possible to increase the adhesiveness between the layers of defibrated substance.

In addition, as an apparatus that recycles used paper, there is known an apparatus that defibrates the used paper in a dry manner so as to generate a defibrated substance and manufactures new paper from the defibrated substance (for example, see JP-A-2015-92032). The apparatus disclosed in JP-A-2015-92032 is capable of mixing the defibrated substance, a resin for binding the defibrated substance, and a color material (coloring material) in a mixer, then, loosening the obtained mixture in a drum, and manufacturing paper having a color.

In addition, there is known an apparatus that includes a plurality of drums that loosen a mixture (for example, see U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0008621).

In addition, there is known an apparatus that is capable of obtaining a different percentage of color materials between a front side and a back side of the paper to be manufactured (for example, see JP-A-2015-183321).

However, in the apparatus disclosed in JP-A-5-186996, for example, in a case where color materials having different colors are mixed in each layer and a color of a sheet is changed, the color materials of the layers move easily between the layers because moisture infiltrates the entire laminate, and thus the color materials are likely to be mixed together. As a result, the colors of the layers are likely to be mixed, and thus it is difficult to obtain recycled paper having a desired color. In addition, there is a concern that, not only the color materials, but also additives contained in the layers and main raw materials of the layers will significantly infiltrate to the other layers.

In addition, in the apparatuses of all of JP-A-2015-92032, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0008621, and JP-A-2015-183321, in a case where a color of a sheet is to be changed, for example, there is a concern that a color mixture that is not desired by a user will occur due to the color change. However, a reduction in color mixture that is not desired by the user is not disclosed in the related art. In addition, when a sheet having the color mixture that is not desired by the user is likely to be produced, a problem also arises in that the sheet to be manufactured by the apparatus is useless (wasted).

SUMMARY

An advantage of some aspects of the present disclosure is to provide a web forming device and a sheet manufacturing apparatus which are capable of imparting a desired function such as a color to each layer of a sheet to be obtained.

Hereinafter, means of the present disclosure and operation effects thereof will be described.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a web forming device including: a first material supply unit provided with a first release port that releases a first material containing a first defibrated substance and a first organic binder in a gas atmosphere; a second material supply unit provided with a second release port that releases a second material in the gas atmosphere, the second material containing a second defibrated substance and a second organic binder and being different from the first material; and a transporting unit that forms and transports an accumulated substance obtained by accumulating the first material and the second material. The second release port is positioned downstream of the first release port in a transporting direction of the transporting unit, and the accumulated substance is a laminate obtained by laminating a layer of the first material and a layer of the second material.

In the web forming device, the transporting unit may include a mesh belt configured to move in the transporting direction and a suction unit that suctions the layer of the first material and the layer of the second material which are accumulated on one surface side of the mesh belt, from another surface side of the mesh belt.

In the web forming device, the suction unit may include a first suction unit and a second suction unit provided downstream of the first suction unit in the transporting direction of the transporting unit.

In the web forming device, the first material supply unit may include a first drum section provided with a hole through which the first material passes and a first housing section that houses the first drum section and is provided with the first release port, and the second material supply unit may include a second drum section provided with a hole through which the second material passes and a second housing section that houses the second drum section and is provided with the second release port.

The web forming device may further include at least one of a first functional material supply unit that supplies a first functional material to the first material supply unit and a second functional material supply unit that supplies a second functional material to the second material supply unit.

In the web forming device, both the first functional material supply unit and the second functional material supply unit may be provided, and the first functional material and the second functional material may be materials having colors different from each other.

The web forming device may further include a supply-amount adjusting unit that adjusts at least one of a supply amount of the first material and a supply amount of the second material.

The web forming device may further include a third material supply unit provided with a third release port that releases a third material in the gas atmosphere, the third material containing a third defibrated substance and a third organic binder and being different from the second material, in which the third release port may be positioned downstream of the second release port in the transporting direction.

The web forming device may further include: a first defibration unit that defibrates used paper to generate the first defibrated substance; and a second defibration unit that defibrates used paper to generate the second defibrated substance.

In the web forming device, the drum may include a discharge portion that discharges the material, and a plurality of drums may be provided for the respective color materials having colors different from each other, which are supplied from the color material supply units, and the mixer may house the plurality of drums from which the color materials and the materials are discharged, individually, and mix the color materials having colors different from each other.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a sheet manufacturing apparatus including: the web forming device described above; and a forming unit that heats and pressurizes the laminate to form the laminate into a sheet shape.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, a web forming device and a sheet manufacturing apparatus of the present disclosure will be described in detail on the basis of exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

In the following embodiments, for convenience of description, in schematic side views and vertical sectional views, an upper side means “on” or “above”, and a lower side means “under” or “below”. In addition, for convenience of description, three axes orthogonal to each other are illustrated as an x axis, a y axis, and a z axis, in some cases. Of the three axes, an xy-plane containing the x axis and the y axis is horizontal, and the z axis is perpendicular thereto. In addition, a direction to which an arrow of each direction points is referred to as “positive”, and a reverse direction thereof is referred to as “negative”.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1is a schematic side view illustrating a first embodiment in a case where the web forming device of the present disclosure is applied to the sheet manufacturing apparatus.FIG. 2is a vertical sectional view illustrating a first functional material supply unit (second functional material supply unit) and a periphery thereof included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 1.FIG. 3is a schematic configurational view (partial vertical sectional view) illustrating a first material supply unit (second material supply unit) and a periphery thereof included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 1.FIG. 4is a schematic configurational view (partial vertical sectional view) illustrating the first material supply unit (second material supply unit) and a periphery thereof included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 1.FIG. 5is a block diagram of main components included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 1.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, a sheet manufacturing apparatus100is an apparatus that manufactures a sheet S and includes a raw material supply unit11, a rough crushing unit12, a defibration unit13, a sorting unit14, a first web former15, a subdivision unit16, a mixer17, a first material supply unit18A, a second material supply unit18B, a second web former19, a forming unit20, a cutter21, a stock unit22, a collection unit27, a color material supply unit3A as a first functional material supply unit, a color material supply unit3B as a second functional material supply unit, a color material supply-amount adjusting unit4A, and a color material supply-amount adjusting unit4B. Of the units, the web forming device1is configured of units upstream of the forming unit20.

In addition, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100includes a humidifying unit231, a humidifying unit232, a humidifying unit233, a humidifying unit234, and a humidifying unit235. Additionally, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100includes a blower261, a blower262, and a blower263.

In addition, as illustrated inFIG. 5, the units included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100are electrically coupled to a controller28. In this manner, operations of the units are controlled by the controller28. The controller28includes a central processing unit (CPU)281and a storage unit282(memory). For example, the CPU281is capable of performing various types of determination, issuing various types of instructions, or the like. For example, the storage unit282stores various types of programs such as programs used until the sheet S is manufactured. In addition, the controller28may be installed in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100or may be provided in an external device such as a computer on the outside. In addition, the external device may communicate with the sheet manufacturing apparatus100via a cable, may communicate therewith wirelessly, or may be connected to the sheet manufacturing apparatus100via a network (for example, Internet), for example. In addition, the CPU281and the storage unit282may be integrally configured as one unit, for example. The CPU281may be installed in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, and the storage unit282may be provided in an external device such as a computer on the outside. Otherwise, the storage unit282may be installed in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, and the CPU281may be provided in an external device such as a computer on the outside.

In addition, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, a raw material supplying step, a rough crushing step, a defibrating step, a sorting step, a first web forming step, a dividing step, a mixing step, a loosening step, a second web forming step, a sheet forming step, and a cutting step are executed in this order. In addition, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, it is also possible to execute a color material supplying step.

Hereinafter configurations of the units will be described.

The raw material supply unit11executes the raw material supplying step of supplying a raw material M1to the rough crushing unit12. The raw material M1is a sheet-shaped material containing a fiber. The fiber may be a natural fiber (animal fiber or plant fiber) or a synthetic fiber. However, it is preferable that the fiber be the natural fiber. The natural fiber (animal fiber or plant fiber) includes a fiber made of cellulose, silk, wool, cotton, cannabis, kenaf, flax, ramie, jute, Manila hemp, sisal hemp, a coniferous tree, a broad-leaved tree, or the like. The fibers may be used individually, may be appropriately mixed to be used, or may be used as a recycled fiber through purification or the like. In addition, the fiber may be dried or may contain or be impregnated with a liquid such as water or an organic solvent.

Of the materials described above, it is preferable to use cellulose. Cellulose obtained by containing, as a main component, cellulose (cellulose in a narrow definition) as a compound, which has a fiber shape, may be used, or cellulose containing hemicellulose or lignin other than cellulose (cellulose in a narrow definition) may be used.

In addition, a type of raw material M1is not limited and may be a woven fabric or a nonwoven fabric. In addition, the raw material M1may be recycled paper that is manufactured (recycled) by defibrating used paper or Yupo paper (registered trademark) of synthetic paper, for example.

The rough crushing unit12executes the rough crushing step of roughly crushing the raw material M1supplied from the raw material supply unit11in a gas atmosphere such as in the atmosphere (in the air). The rough crushing unit12includes a pair of rough crushing blades121and a chute (hopper)122.

The pair of rough crushing blades121rotates in reverse directions from each other, thereby, being capable of roughly crushing, that is, cutting the raw material M1therebetween so as to obtain rough-crushed pieces M2. It is preferable that a shape or a size of the rough-crushed pieces M2be suitable for a defibrating process in the defibration unit13. For example, the rough-crushed piece is preferably a small piece of which a length of one side is 100 mm or smaller and, more preferably, a small piece of which a length of one side is 10 mm or larger and 70 mm or smaller.

The chute122is disposed below the pair of rough crushing blades121and has a funnel shape, for example. Consequently, the chute122is capable of receiving the rough-crushed pieces M2which are roughly crushed by the rough crushing blades121and fall down.

In addition, the humidifying unit231is disposed to be adjacent to the pair of rough crushing blades121below the chute122. The humidifying unit231humidifies the rough-crushed pieces M2in the chute122. The humidifying unit231is configured of a vaporization-type humidifier (also known as a vaporizer) that has a filter (not illustrated) containing water and causes the air to pass through the filter, thereby, supplying humidified air having high humidity to the rough-crushed pieces M2. The humidified air is supplied to the rough-crushed pieces M2, and thereby it is possible to suppress attachment of the rough-crushed pieces M2to the chute122or the like due to static electricity.

The chute122is coupled to the defibration unit13via a pipe (flow channel)241. The rough-crushed pieces M2gathered in the chute122pass through the pipe241so as to be transported to the defibration unit13.

The defibration unit13executes the defibrating step of defibrating the rough-crushed pieces M2in the gas atmosphere, that is, in a dry manner. It is possible to generate a defibrated substance M3from the rough-crushed pieces M2through the defibrating process in the defibration unit13. Here, “to defibrate” means to unravel fibers one by one from the rough-crushed pieces M2in which a plurality of fibers are bound. In this manner, an unraveled substance is the defibrated substance M3. A shape of the defibrated substance M3is a line shape or a strip shape. In addition, the defibrated substances M3may be present in a state of intertwining and clumping, that is, a state of forming a so-called “ball”.

For example, in the embodiment, the defibration unit13is configured of an impeller mill that includes a rotor that rotates at a high speed and a liner that is positioned along an outer circumference of the rotor. The rough-crushed pieces M2that have flowed into the defibration unit13are sandwiched between the rotor and the liner so as to be defibrated.

In addition, the defibration unit13is capable of generating a current of the air (air current) from the rough crushing unit12toward the sorting unit14due to rotation of the rotor. Consequently, it is possible to suction the rough-crushed pieces M2to the defibration unit13from the pipe241. In addition, after the defibrating process, the defibrated substance M3can be delivered to the sorting unit14via a pipe (flow channel)242.

The blower261is installed at a position on the pipe242. The blower261is an air current generating device that generates an air current toward the sorting unit14. Consequently, delivery of the defibrated substance M3to the sorting unit14is promoted.

The sorting unit14executes a sorting step of sorting the defibrated substances M3into fibers having short and long lengths. In the sorting unit14, the defibrated substances M3are sorted into a first sorted substance M4-1and a second sorted substance M4-2that is larger than the first sorted substance M4-1. The first sorted substance M4-1has a size suitable for manufacturing the sheet S in the subsequent stage. An average length thereof is preferably 100 μm or larger and 10 mm or smaller. On the other hand, the second sorted substance M4-2includes a substance which is not sufficiently defibrated or an immoderate clump of defibrated fibers.

The sorting unit14has a drum section141and a housing section142that houses the drum section141.

The drum section141is a sieve that is configured of a net body having a circular cylinder shape and rotates around a center axis of the drum section. The defibrated substance M3flows into the drum section141. In this manner, the drum section141rotates, and thereby the defibrated substance M3is sorted as the first sorted substance M4-1, and the defibrated substance M3having a size equal to or larger than a mesh opening of the net is sorted as the second sorted substance M4-2. A shape of the drum section141is not limited to the circular cylinder shape, and may have a polygonal cylinder shape such as a triangular, quadrangular, hexagonal, or octagonal cylinder shape, for example.

The first sorted substance M4-1falls down from the drum section141.

On the other hand, the second sorted substance M4-2is delivered to a pipe (flow channel)243that is coupled to the drum section141. An end portion of the pipe243on an opposite side (downstream) of an end portion thereof that is coupled to the drum section141is coupled to the pipe241. The second sorted substance M4-2that has passes through the pipe243is joined to the rough-crushed pieces M2in the pipe241so as to flow together with the rough-crushed pieces M2into the defibration unit13. Consequently, the second sorted substance M4-2is caused to return to the defibration unit13so as to be subjected to the defibrating process together with the rough-crushed pieces M2.

In addition, the first sorted substances M4-1that have fallen down from the drum section141fall down while being dispersed in the gas atmosphere toward the first web former15as a separation unit that is positioned below the drum section141. The first web former15executes the first web forming step of forming a first web M5from the first sorted substance M4-1. The first web former15includes a mesh belt151as a separation belt, three stretching rollers152, and a suction unit153as a suction mechanism.

The mesh belt151is an endless belt (conveyer belt) and accumulates the first sorted substances M4-1. The mesh belt151loops around the three stretching rollers152. In this manner, the stretching rollers152are rotatably driven, and thereby the first sorted substance M4-1on the mesh belt151is transported as the first web M5downstream.

The first sorted substance M4-1has a size equal to or larger than a mesh opening of the mesh belt151. Consequently, the first sorted substance M4-1is restricted from passing through the mesh belt151, and thereby it is possible to accumulate the first sorted substance M4-1on the mesh belt151. In addition, the first sorted substances M4-1are transported along with the mesh belt151downstream while being accumulated on the mesh belt151and, thus, are formed into the layer-shaped first web M5.

In addition, there is a concern that dirt, dust, or the like will be mixed with the first sorted substance M4-1. For example, the dirt or the dust may be produced through the rough crushing or defibration. In this manner, the dirt or the dust is collected in the collection unit27to be described below.

The suction unit153is capable of suctioning air from below the mesh belt151with respect to an accumulation surface of the first sorted substance M4-1. Consequently, it is possible to suction the dirt or the dust, which has passed through the mesh belt151, along with the air.

In addition, the suction unit153is coupled to the collection unit27via a pipe (flow channel)244. The dirt or the dust suctioned by the suction unit153is collected in the collection unit27.

A pipe (flow channel)245is further coupled to the collection unit27. In addition, the blower262is installed at a position on the pipe245. An operation of the blower262can generate a suction force by the suction unit153. Consequently, the first sorted substance M4-1is suctioned from below, and thereby forming of the first web M5on the mesh belt151is promoted. The first web M5is a web from which the dirt, the dust, or the like is removed. In addition, the operation of the blower262causes the dirt or the dust to pass through the pipe244and reach the collection unit27.

The housing section142is coupled to the humidifying unit232. The humidifying unit232is configured of the same vaporization-type humidifier as the humidifying unit231. Consequently, the humidified air is supplied into the housing section142. It is possible to humidify the first sorted substance M4-1with the humidified air, and thereby it is possible to suppress attachment of the first sorted substance M4-1to an inner wall of the housing section142due to an electrostatic force.

The humidifying unit235is disposed downstream of the sorting unit14. The humidifying unit235is configured of an ultrasound-type humidifier that sprays water. Consequently, it is possible to supply moisture to the first web M5, and thereby a moisture amount of the first web M5is adjusted. Adjustment of the moisture amount makes it possible to suppress attachment of the first web M5to the mesh belt151due to the electrostatic force. Consequently, the first web M5is easily peeled from the mesh belt151at a position at which the mesh belt151is bent by the stretching roller152.

For example, a moisture amount (total moisture amount) from the humidifying unit231to the humidifying unit235is preferably 0.5 parts by mass or larger and 20 parts by mass or smaller in terms of 100 parts by mass of a material before humidifying.

The subdivision unit16is disposed downstream of the humidifying unit235. The subdivision unit16executes the dividing step of dividing the first web M5peeled from the mesh belt151. The subdivision unit16includes a propeller161that is rotatably supported and a housing section162that houses the propeller161. In this manner, the rotating propeller161can divide the first web M5. The divided first webs M5are subdivided bodies M6. In addition, the subdivided bodies M6drops down in the housing section162.

The housing section162is coupled to the humidifying unit233. The humidifying unit233is configured of the same vaporization-type humidifier as the humidifying unit231. Consequently, the humidified air is supplied into the housing section162. The humidified air makes it possible to suppress attachment of the subdivided bodies M6to an inner wall of the propeller161or the housing section162due to an electrostatic force.

The mixer17is disposed downstream of the subdivision unit16. The mixer17executes the mixing step of mixing the subdivided bodies M6and a binder P1or a binder P2to be described below. The mixer17includes a binder supply unit171A, a binder supply unit171B, a pipe172, and a blower173.

The pipe172is a flow channel which couples the subdivision unit16, the first material supply unit18A, and the second material supply unit18B to each other and through which the subdivided bodies M6pass. In addition, the blower173is installed at a position on the pipe172. An operation of a rotation unit such as a vane provided in the blower173makes it possible to generate an air current toward the first material supply unit18A and the second material supply unit18B.

In addition, the pipe172diverges to a pipe172A and a pipe172B at a position of the pipe172. The pipe172A is coupled to the first material supply unit18A, and the pipe172B is coupled to the second material supply unit18B. In the embodiment, the subdivided bodies M6that flow down through the pipe172are distributed to the pipe172A and the pipe172B by substantially the same amount as each other. The subdivided bodies M6that flow down through the pipe172A correspond to first defibrated substances referred to as subdivided bodies M6A. In addition, the subdivided bodies M6that flow down through the pipe172B correspond to second defibrated substances referred to as subdivided bodies M6B (refer toFIG. 4).

In addition, the binder supply unit171A that supplies the binder P1as a first organic binder is provided in the pipe172A, and the binder supply unit171B that supplies the binder P2as a second organic binder is provided in the pipe172B. In the embodiment, since the binder supply unit171A and the binder supply unit171B have the same configuration, hereinafter, the binder supply unit171A will be representatively described.

The binder supply unit171A includes a screw feeder174. The screw feeder174is rotatably driven, and thereby it is possible to supply the binder P1as powder or particles to the pipe172A. The binder P1supplied to the pipe172A is mixed with the subdivided bodies M6A such that a mixture M6AP is obtained. In addition, the binder P2supplied to the pipe172B is mixed with the subdivided bodies M6B such that a mixture M6BP is obtained.

In the embodiment, since the binder P1and the binder P2have the same configuration, hereinafter, the binder P1will be representatively described.

As the binder P1, it is possible to use an organic binder such as thermoplastic resin or thermosetting resin, and examples thereof include AS resin, ABS resin, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, acrylic resin, polyester resin, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene ether, polybutylene terephthalate, nylon, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyacetal, polyphenylene sulfide, or polyether ether ketone. In addition, the resins described above may be used individually or in a proper combination thereof.

In addition, as the binder P1, any of natural resin and synthetic resin may be used, or any of thermoplastic resin and thermosetting resin may be used as a type of resin that is a component of resin powder (component of resin particles). In the sheet manufacturing apparatus100of the embodiment, resin that configures the resin powder is preferably a solid at room temperature, and it is more preferable to use thermoplastic resin with consideration for binding the fibers with heat in the forming unit20and recycling of a sheet to be manufactured.

Examples of natural resin include rosin, dammar, mastics, copal, amber, shellac, stonecrop serum, sandarac, or colophony. The resins may be used individually or an appropriate combination thereof, or properties thereof may be appropriately changed.

An example of thermosetting resin of the synthetic resins includes thermosetting resin such as phenol resin, epoxy resin, melamine resin, urea resin, unsaturated polyester resin, alkyd resin, polyurethane, or thermosetting polyimide resin.

Examples of substances that are supplied from the binder supply unit171A include a clumping inhibitor for inhibiting the fibers from clumping or the binder P1from clumping, or a flame retardant for retarding progression of burning of fibers or the like, a paper strengthening agent for strengthening, paper strength of the sheet S, or the like, in addition to the binder P1. Otherwise, a substance obtained by mixing (compounding) the agents described above with the binder P1in advance may be supplied from the binder supply unit171A.

In addition, the color material supply unit3A (first functional material supply unit) that supplies a color material CM1as a first functional material is provided downstream of the binder supply unit171A on the flow channel of the pipe172A, and the color material supply unit3B (second functional material supply unit) that supplies a color material CM2as a second functional material is provided downstream of the binder supply unit171B on the flow channel of the pipe172B. Since the color material supply unit3A and the color material supply unit3B have the same configuration except that a type (color) of color material to be supplied is different from each other, hereinafter, the color material supply unit3A will be representatively described.

As illustrated inFIG. 2, the color material supply unit3A includes a storage section31that stores the color material CM1and a flow channel32coupled to the storage section31.

The storage section31is configured of a hollow body having a storage space311for storing the color material CM1inside. The storage section31is detachably mounted on a mounting unit33provided in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100. In this manner, in a mounting state, the storage space311of the storage section31communicates with the flow channel32. Consequently, the color material CM1can flow into the flow channel32.

It is preferable that the storage section31be configured of a cartridge. Consequently, it is possible to replace the storage section31with a new storage section31in a case where the storage section31is empty, that is, the color material CM1is used up. In addition, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, a remaining amount of the color material CM1in the storage section31is detected by a remaining amount detector (not illustrated).

As illustrated inFIGS. 2 and 3, the flow channel32is coupled to the storage section31upstream on the flow channel and is coupled to an inflow port183of the first material supply unit18A downstream thereon. For example, the flow channel32is configured of a pipe321. The pipe321is coupled at a position on the pipe172A. Consequently, the color material CM1is mixed with the mixture M6AP so as to become a mixture M7A as a first material. Similarly, in the pipe172B, the color material CM2is mixed with the mixture M6BP so as to become a mixture M7B as a second material.

In addition, as illustrated inFIG. 3, the pipe172A diverges into two pipes at a position on the pipe, and the diverged pipes are coupled to respective inflow ports183. Consequently, it is possible to supply the mixture M7A into the drum section181.

One of the color material supply unit3A (first functional material supply unit) and the color material supply unit3B (second functional material supply unit) may be omitted.

Even in this case, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100includes at least one of the color material supply unit3A (first functional material supply unit) that supplies the color material CM1(first functional material) to the first material supply unit18A and the color material supply unit3B (second functional material supply unit) that supplies the color material CM2(second functional material) to the second material supply unit18B, and thus obtains the sheet S having functions (colors) different on the front and back sides from each other.

In addition, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100of the embodiment includes both of the color material supply unit3A (first functional material supply unit) and the color material supply unit3B (second functional material supply unit), and colors of the color material CM1(first functional material) and the color material CM2(second functional material) are different from each other. Also in this manner, the sheet S having colors different on the front and back sides from each other is obtained.

The color material supply-amount adjusting unit4A adjusts supply of the color material CM1from the color material supply unit3A to the drum section181, and the color material supply-amount adjusting unit4B adjusts supply of the color material CM2from the color material supply unit3B to the drum section181. Since the color material supply-amount adjusting unit4A and the color material supply-amount adjusting unit4B have the same configuration, hereinafter, the color material supply-amount adjusting unit4A will be representatively described.

As described above, the color material supply unit3A includes the flow channel32through which the color material CM1passes. As illustrated inFIG. 2, the color material supply-amount adjusting unit4A is provided on the flow channel32and includes a screw411inserted concentrically into the flow channel32(pipe321) and a drive unit412that rotatably drives the screw411. The screw411rotates, and thereby the color material CM1can be extracted from the storage section31and can be extruded downstream as it is. Consequently, the color material CM1can pass through the flow channel32so as to reach the drum section181. In addition, the rotation of the screw411is stopped, and thereby it is also possible to stop extrusion of the color material CM1.

For example, the drive unit412is configured of a motor or the like. In addition, as illustrated inFIG. 5, the drive unit412is electrically coupled to the controller28. Consequently, an operation of the drive unit412is controlled by the controller28, and thereby it is possible to change a rotation speed of the screw411. It is possible to adjust a supply amount of the supply rate of the color material CM1depending on a level of the rotation speed of the screw411, and thereby the sheet S having a desired shade of a color is obtained, for example. For example, operation information of the drive unit412is input and stored to the controller28in advance via an input unit such as a keyboard or a touch panel (not illustrated).

The color material CM1and the color material CM2are not particularly limited. For example, it is possible to use a pigment having a chromatic color, and examples thereof include a color such as cyan (C), yellow (Y), or magenta (M).

As illustrated inFIGS. 3 and 4, the mixture M7A as the first material obtained by mixing the subdivided bodies M6A, the binder P1, and the color material CM1flows down through the pipe172A so as to be supplied to the first material supply unit18A, and the mixture M7B as the second material obtained by mixing the subdivided bodies M6B, the binder P2, and the color material CM2flows down through the pipe172B so as to be supplied to the second material supply unit18B.

Since the first material supply unit18A and the second material supply unit18B have the same configuration except that installation positions thereof are different from each other and materials to be supplied (released) are different from each other, hereinafter, the first material supply unit18A will be representatively described.

The first material supply unit18A executes a step of accumulating the mixture M7A on a mesh belt191as a separation belt. The first material supply unit18A has a drum section181and a housing section182that houses the drum section181.

The drum section181of the first material supply unit18A corresponds to the first drum section, the drum section181of the second material supply unit18B corresponds to the second drum section.

The drum section181is a sieve that is configured of a net body having a circular cylinder shape and rotates around a center axis O181thereof. The mixture M7A flows into the drum section181. In this manner, the drum section181rotates, and thereby a fiber or the like of the mixture M7A, which is smaller than a mesh opening of a net, can pass through the drum section181. In this case, the mixture M7A is loosened.

A housing space, in which the mixture M7A is temporarily housed, is formed on an inner side (inside) of the drum section181.

In addition, the drum section181is interconnected with a drive unit187(refer toFIG. 5) having a drive source such as a motor, a transmission, or the like, and thus an operation of the drive unit187enables the drum section181to rotate around the center axis O181at a predetermined rotation speed. The operation of the drive unit187is controlled by the controller28, and it is possible to set and change the rotation speed of the drum section181in multiple levels.

As illustrated inFIG. 3, the drum section181is provided with a plurality of opening portions181athat penetrate a circular cylinder-shaped wall. The opening portions181aare holes which are open to an outer circumferential portion of the drum section181and through which the mixture M7A is passable. In this manner, when the drum section181rotates around the center axis O181, of the plurality of opening portions181a, the mixture M7A in the drum section181can pass downward from the opening portions181athat are positioned on a lower side than a height of the center axis O181. The mixture M7A in the drum section181rotates along with the drum section181and passes through the opening portions181a, thereby, being loosened appropriately and smoothly.

A shape of the opening portion181ain a plan view is not particularly limited. For example, the shape is preferably a circular shape, an elliptical shape, an oval shape, a polygonal shape, or the like. In addition, a size of the opening portion181ain a plan view is not particularly limited. For example, in a case where the opening portion181ahas the circular shape, a diameter is preferably 0.5 mm or larger and 5 mm or smaller, and more preferably 1 mm or larger and 3 mm or smaller. In addition, a forming method of the opening portions181ais not particularly limited. For example, it is possible to use a method of machining such as punching. In addition, of the machining, it is possible to use a method of laser machining or etching machining. In addition, it is possible to use a resin net, a metal net, and expanded metal as the drum section181.

The drum section181may rotate around the center axis O181in one direction, may rotate (swing) around the center axis O181in opposite directions alternately, or may perform combined rotation thereof. In addition, the drum section181is not limited to a section that rotates. For example, the drum section may reciprocate in a center axis O181direction or a direction intersecting the center axis O181, or may swing around a position separated from the center axis O181.

In addition, the inflow ports183, into which the mixture M7A flows, are coupled to both end portions of the drum section181. For example, the inflow ports183have an annular shape, a circular cylinder shape, or a circular tubular shape and are inserted into inner sides of end portions of the drum section181. In addition, the inflow ports183communicate with the pipe172downstream. Consequently, the mixture M7A that has passed through the pipe172can flow into the drum section181via the inflow ports183.

In addition, the housing section182as a housing which houses the drum section181is opened on a lower side toward the mesh belt191. Consequently, the mixtures M7A that have passed through the opening portions181aof the drum section181fall down and are accumulated on the mesh belt191.

The housing section182as a first housing section in the first material supply unit18A is provided with an opening portion182A as a first release port which is opened on a lower side. Similarly, the housing section182as a second housing section in the second material supply unit18B is provided with an opening portion182B that functions as a second release port.

The mixture M7A loosened in the drum section181is released and falls down from the opening portion182A toward the second web former19that is positioned below the drum section181. Similarly, the mixture M7B loosened in the drum section181of the second material supply unit18B is released and falls down from the opening portion182B toward the second web former19that is positioned below the drum section181.

As described above, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, the first material supply unit18A includes the drum section181(first drum section) provided with the opening portion181aas the hole, through which the mixture M7A (first material) is passable, and the housing section182(first housing section) that houses the drum section181(first drum section) and is provided with the opening portion182A (first release port), and the second material supply unit18B includes the drum section181(second drum section) provided with the opening portion181aas the hole, through which the mixture M7B (second material) is passable, and the housing section182(second housing section) that houses the drum section181(second drum section) and is provided with the opening portion182B (second release port).

Consequently, in a simple configuration in which the rotation speed of the drum section181is adjusted, it is possible to adjust the supply amounts of the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B. Further, since the housing sections182that house the drum sections181, respectively, it is possible to stabilize an air current of a suction unit193A and a suction unit193B to be described below, and thus it is possible to effectively suppress an occurrence of a variation in thickness of a second web M8.

As illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 4, the second web former19is a transporting unit that forms the second web M8while transporting the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B and executes the second web forming step. The second web former19includes the mesh belt191, a plurality of stretching rollers192, and a suction unit (suction mechanism)193.

The mesh belt191is a movable endless belt and accumulates the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B. The mesh belt191loops around four stretching rollers192. In this manner, the stretching rollers192are rotatably driven, and thereby the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B on the mesh belt191are transported downstream.

In addition, almost all of the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B on the mesh belt191have a size equal to or larger than a mesh opening of the mesh belt191. Consequently, the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B are restricted from passing through the mesh belt191, and thereby it is possible to accumulate the mixtures on the mesh belt191. In addition, the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B are transported along with the mesh belt191downstream while being accumulated on the mesh belt191and, thus, are formed into the layer-shaped second web M8. As will be described below, the second web M8as an accumulated substance obtained by accumulating the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B becomes a laminate in which a layer of the mixture M7A and a layer of the mixture M7B are laminated.

In addition, at least one stretching roller192is interconnected with a drive unit194(refer toFIG. 5) having a drive source such as a motor, a transmission, or the like, and thus an operation of the drive unit194enables the stretching roller to rotate at a predetermined rotation speed. The operation of the drive unit194is controlled by the controller28, and it is possible to change (set, in multiple levels) the rotation speed of the stretching roller192.

A suction unit193is capable of suctioning air from below the mesh belt191with respect to accumulation surfaces of the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B. In other words, the layer of mixture M7A (first material) and the layer of mixture M7B (second material) accumulated on an upper surface side (one surface side) of the mesh belt191are suctioned from a lower surface side (the other surface side) of the mesh belt191. Consequently, the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B are promoted to be accumulated on the mesh belt191, and it is possible to suppress an occurrence of a variation in thickness of the formed second web M8.

The suction unit193includes the suction unit193A as a first suction unit and the suction unit193B as a second suction unit provided downstream of the suction unit193A (first suction unit) in the transporting direction.

A pipe (flow channel)246is coupled to each of the suction unit193A and the suction unit193B. In addition, the blower263is installed at a position on the pipe246. An operation of the blower263can generate a suction force by the suction unit193A and the suction unit193B.

As described above, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, the second web former19(transporting unit) includes the mesh belt191that is movable in the transporting direction and the suction unit193that suctions the layer of the mixture M7A (first material) and the layer of the mixture M7B (second material) accumulated on one surface side (upper surface side) of the mesh belt191, from the other surface side (lower surface side) of the mesh belt191. Consequently, it is possible to promote accumulation of the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B on the mesh belt191, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a variation in thickness of the formed second web M8.

The housing section182is coupled to the humidifying unit234. The humidifying unit234is configured of the same vaporization-type humidifier as the humidifying unit231. Consequently, the humidified air is supplied into the housing section182. It is possible to humidify the inside of the housing section182with the humidified air, and thereby it is possible to suppress attachment of the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B to an inner wall of the housing section182due to an electrostatic force.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, the forming unit20is disposed downstream of the second web former19. The forming unit20executes the sheet forming step of forming the sheet S from the second web M8. The forming unit20includes a pressurizing unit201and a heating unit202.

The pressurizing unit201includes a pair of calendar rollers203and is capable of pressurizing the second web M8between the pair of calendar rollers203without heating the second web, that is, without melting the binder P1. Consequently, the density of the second web M8increases. In this manner, the second web M8is transported toward the heating unit202. One of the pair of calendar rollers203is a drive roller that is driven by an operation of a motor (not illustrated), and the other roller is a driven roller.

The heating unit202includes a pair of heating rollers204and is capable of pressurizing the second web M8while heating the second web between the pair of heating rollers204. The binder P1is melted in the second web M8through heating and pressurizing such that fibers are bound to each other via the melted binder P1. Consequently, the sheet S is formed. In this manner, the sheet S is transported toward the cutter21. One of the pair of heating rollers204is a drive roller that is driven by an operation of a motor (not illustrated), and the other roller is a driven roller.

The cutter21is disposed downstream of the forming unit20. The cutter21executes the cutting step of cutting the sheet S. The cutter21includes a first cutter211and a second cutter212.

The first cutter211cuts the sheet S in a direction intersecting the transporting direction of the sheet S.

The second cutter212cuts the sheet S in a direction parallel to the transporting direction of the sheet S downstream of the first cutter211.

The sheet S having a desired size is obtained through cutting by the first cutter211and the second cutter212. In this manner, the sheet S is transported further downstream and is accumulated in the stock unit22.

However, as described above, the second web M8(accumulated substance) obtained by accumulating the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B on the mesh belt191becomes the laminate in which the layer of the mixture M7A and the layer of the mixture M7B are laminated. Hereinafter, laminating thereof will be described.

As illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 4, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100includes the first material supply unit18A and the second material supply unit18B. The opening portion182A (first release port) of the housing section182(first housing section) of the first material supply unit18A and the opening portion182B (second release port) of the housing section182(second housing section) of the second material supply unit18B are formed at different positions from each other in the transporting direction of the mesh belt191. In the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, the opening portion182B (second release port) is positioned downstream of the opening portion182A (first release port) in the transporting direction of the mesh belt191.

Therefore, the mixture M7A (first material) released from the opening portion182A upstream in the transporting direction is first accumulated on the mesh belt191, and then the mixture M7B (second material) released from the opening portion182B downstream in the transporting direction is accumulated. Accordingly, the second web M8which is the laminate obtained by laminating the layer of mixture M7A and the layer of mixture M7B is formed on the mesh belt191. The second web M8is transported by the mesh belt191and is heated and pressurized by the forming unit20, and thereby it is possible to bind the layer of mixture M7A and the layer of mixture M7B and obtain the two-layer configured sheet S.

In addition, as described above, the colors of the color material CM1of the mixture M7A and the color material CM2of the mixture M7B are different from each other, and thus the sheet S has colors different on the front and back sides from each other.

Here, the mixture M7A contains the binder P1(first organic binder), and the mixture M7B contains the binder P2(second organic binder). Therefore, when the second web M8is heated and pressurized, the binder P1and the binder P2come into a melted or softened state, and thus movement of the color material CM1or the color material CM2in a gap between fibers is suppressed. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce an occurrence of mixing of the layer of mixture M7A with the layer of mixture M7B. As a result, it is possible to clearly form an interface between the layer of mixture M7A and the layer of mixture M7B, and it is possible to manufacture the sheet S having colors different on the front and back sides from each other. In other words, it is possible to manufacture the sheet S having a desired color with high accuracy.

In addition, the second web M8is heated and pressurized, and thereby the binder P1and the binder P2are bonded to each other, rather than a case where bonding between the layer and the layer is performed by using water in a fiber layer. Thus, it is possible to obtain the sheet S of which interlayer peeling is more reduced.

In addition, as described above, in a case where fibers contained in the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B are natural fibers, effects of the present disclosure is more remarkably achieved.

In addition, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, the rotation speed of the drum sections181is adjusted, and thereby it is possible to adjust a thickness of the layer of mixture M7A and a thickness of the layer of mixture M7B in the second web M8. In other words, in the embodiment, the drum sections181function as a supply-amount adjusting unit that adjusts supply amounts of the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B.

The thickness of the layer of mixture M7A and the thickness of the layer of mixture M7B are adjusted, and thereby it is possible to adjust a hue in the sheet S after forming. For example, when the sheet is viewed from a side of a layer having a smaller thickness of the layer of mixture M7A and the layer of mixture M7B, a hue of the other (back side) layer is viewed to be mixed. However, when the sheet is viewed from a side of a layer having a larger thickness, a color of the layer is viewed to be emphasized.

By changing at least one rotation speed of the plurality of drum sections181, it is possible to exhibit the effect. In other words, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100includes the supply-amount adjusting unit that adjusts at least one of the supply amount of the mixture M7A (first material) and the supply amount of the mixture M7B (second material), and thereby it is possible to adjust at least one (in the embodiment, both) of the thickness of the layer of mixture M7A and the thickness of the layer of mixture M7B. As a result, it is possible to achieve the effect described above.

In addition, in the embodiment, there is described a case where the adjustment of the supply amount of the mixture M7A (first material) and the supply amount of the mixture M7B (second material) is performed through the adjustment of the rotation speed of the drum sections181. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and a configuration may be employed, in which sizes of the opening portions181aof the drum sections181are changed, or the supply amount of the mixture M7A or the mixture M7B to the drum section181is adjusted. In addition, a degree of a movement speed of the mesh belt191may be adjusted. When the movement speed of the mesh belt191is increased, it is possible to decrease the thickness of the layer of mixture M7A or the thickness of the layer of mixture M7B. Conversely, when the movement speed of the mesh belt191is decreased, it is possible to increase the thickness of the layer of mixture M7A or the thickness of the layer of mixture M7B.

The amount of the mixture M7A that is released from the opening portion182A and the amount of the mixture M7B that is released from the opening portion182B may be the same as each other.

In addition, as described above, the suction unit193includes the suction unit193A (first suction unit) and the suction unit193B (second suction unit) provided downstream of the suction unit193A (first suction unit) in the transporting direction. The suction unit193A mainly has a function of suctioning the mixture M7A released from the first material supply unit18A and the layer of mixture M7A accumulated on the mesh belt191. The suction unit193B mainly has a function of suctioning the mixture M7B released from the second material supply unit18B and the second web M8(laminate) accumulated on the mesh belt191. It is possible to promote accumulation of the layer of mixture M7A and the layer of mixture M7B sequentially by the suction unit193A and the suction unit193B, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a variation in thickness of the second web M8.

In addition, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, a suction force of the suction unit193B is stronger than a suction force of the suction unit193A. In other words, the suction force of the suction unit193B that mainly suctions the mixture M7B and the second web M8(laminate) is stronger than the suction force of the suction unit193A that mainly suctions the mixture M7A and the layer of mixture M7A. Consequently, it is possible to appropriately suction the second web M8(accumulated substance) on the mesh belt191as uniform as possible. As a result, it is possible to more effectively suppress the occurrence of the variation in thickness of the second web M8.

In addition, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100, the suction forces of the suction unit193A and the suction unit193B may be adjusted depending on accumulation amounts (release amounts) of the mixture M7A and the mixture M7B.

As described above, the web forming device1includes: the first material supply unit18A that is provided with the opening portion182A (first release port) that releases the mixture M7A (first material) containing the subdivided bodies M6A (first defibrated substance) and the binder P1(first organic binder) in the gas atmosphere; the second material supply unit18B that is provided with the opening portion182B (second release port) that releases the mixture M7B (second material) in the gas atmosphere, the mixture M7B containing the subdivided bodies M6B (second defibrated substance) and the binder P2(second organic binder) and being different from the mixture M7A (first material); and the second web former19(transporting unit) that forms and transports the accumulated substance obtained by accumulating the mixture M7A (first material) and the mixture M7B (second material). The opening portion182B (second release port) of the second material supply unit18B is positioned downstream of the opening portion182A (first release port) of the first material supply unit18A in the transporting direction of the second web former19(transporting unit), and the second web M8(accumulated substance) is the laminate obtained by laminating the layer of the mixture M7A (first material) and the layer of the mixture M7B (second material).

Consequently, when the obtained second web M8is heated and pressurized so as to form the sheet S, it is possible to reduce an occurrence of mixing of the layer of mixture M7A with the layer of mixture M7B. Accordingly, it is possible to laminate the layers having different functions (in the embodiment, colors) from each other and manufacture the sheet S having a reduction in mixing of the layer and the layer.

In addition, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100includes: the web forming device1; and a forming unit20(forming unit) that heats and pressurizes the second web M8(laminate) so as to form the second web M8into a sheet shape. The second web M8is heated and pressurized, and thereby the binder P1and the binder P2are thermally bound, the interface between the layer of mixture M7A and the layer of mixture M7B is clearly formed, and it is possible to increase bonding strength between the layers. Therefore, as described above, it is possible to obtain the sheet S having a more reduction in mixing of the layer of mixture M7A and the layer of mixture M7B, and it is possible to obtain the sheet S having the high strength.

In the embodiment, there is described a case where the first material supply unit18A (the drum section181and the housing section182) and the second material supply unit18B (the drum section181and the housing section182) are aligned in the transporting direction of the mesh belt191. However, the present disclosure is not described thereto, and a positional relationship between the drum section181and the housing section182of the first material supply unit18A and the drum section181and the housing section182of the second material supply unit18B is not particularly limited, as long as the opening portion182A of the first material supply unit18A and the opening portion182B of the second material supply unit18B are aligned in the transporting direction of the mesh belt191.

For example, the present disclosure also includes a configuration in which the drum section181of the first material supply unit18A and the drum section181of the second material supply unit18B are aligned along the y axis or the z axis, as long as the opening portions182A and182B are configured (shaped) to satisfy the positional relationship described above.

In addition, there is described a configuration in which the drum section181rotates, and thereby the first material supply unit18A releases the mixture M7A. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and, instead of the drum section181, a configuration in which the mixture M7A is ejected in a spraying manner or a configuration in which the mixture M7A falls down by opening and closing a shutter may be employed. The same is true of the second material supply unit18B.

In addition, in the embodiment, there is described a case where the color material supply unit3A is provided between the binder supply unit171A of the pipe172A and the first material supply unit18A. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the color material supply unit may be provided downstream of the diverged portion of the pipe172and at a position at which the color material is finally supplied to the first material supply unit18A. For example, a configuration in which the color material is supplied into the drum section181or a configuration in which the color material is supplied to the binder supply unit171A may be employed, and the color material supply unit may be provided upstream of the binder supply unit171A. The same is true of the color material supply unit3B.

In addition, the embodiment employs a configuration in which the subdivided bodies M6are distributed to the pipe172A and the pipe172B at a position on the pipe172by substantially the same amount, that is, the subdivided bodies M6A (first defibrated substance) and the subdivided bodies M6B (second defibrated substance) are substantially the same amount. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and a configuration may be employed, in which an electromagnetic valve is provided in the diverged portion of the pipe172and the electromagnetic valve is controlled, and thereby a distribution rate of the subdivided bodies M6to the pipe172A and the pipe172B is controlled. In addition, a configuration may be employed, in which an on-off valve that is capable of adjusting a degree of opening and closing of the pipe172A and the pipe172B is provided such that amounts of the subdivided bodies M6A as the first defibrated substance and the subdivided bodies M6B as the second defibrated substance are adjusted. Consequently, it is possible to adjust the thickness of the layer of mixture M7A and the thickness of the layer of mixture M7B in the second web M8.

In addition, in the embodiment, there is described a case where the color material CM1and the color material CM2as the first functional material and the second functional material have different colors from each other. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first functional material and the second functional material may have the same color as each other. In this case, materials of the first defibrated substance and the second defibrated substance may be different from each other, materials of the binder P1(first organic binder) and the binder P2(second organic binder) may be different from each other, or both the different materials of the defibrated substances and the different materials of the binders may be employed. In other words, any of the cases is included in the present disclosure except that the first material and the second material are not completely the same.

In addition, the present disclosure includes even a case where the materials of the subdivided bodies M6A (first defibrated substance) and the subdivided bodies M6B (second defibrated substance) are the same as each other, the materials of the binder P1(first organic binder) and the binder P2(second organic binder) are the same as each other, and the materials of the color material CM1(first functional material) and the color material CM2(second functional material) are the same as each other, when mixing is performed by different compounding ratios (content ratios) thereof, and thus the mixture M7A (first material) and the mixture M7B (second material) are different from each other.

In addition, in the embodiment, there is described a case where the color material CM1and the color material CM2as the first functional material and the second functional material are the color materials having chromatic colors. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the color material may be a resin material (resin powder or resin fiber) that is transparent or has an achromatic color such as white, a metal material (metal powder or metal fiber), or the like, or the first functional material and the second functional material may be a combination of different materials such as a combination of a color material having a chromatic color and a resin material having an achromatic color, a combination of a resin material having a chromatic color and a metal material, or a combination of resin powder having an achromatic color and a metal material.

In a case of using the resin material having the achromatic color, a supply amount thereof is adjusted, and thereby it is possible to adjust a degree of surface gloss depending on a use.

Examples of the metal materials include aluminum, iron, silver, copper, or nickel. In a case of using the metal material, the sheet S having relatively low water vapor permeability is obtained and can be used for food packaging or the like, for example. In addition, in a case of using the metal material, the sheet S having conductivity is obtained and can be used as an antistatic sheet. In addition, in a case of using the metal material, the obtained sheet as an unnecessary radiation sheet (electromagnetic wave shielding sheet) can be used for a housing or the like of an electronic device. In addition, in a case of using a metal material (for example, silver) having an antibiotic property, the sheet can be used as an antibacterial sheet, a sterilizing sheet, a deodorizing sheet.

Second Embodiment

FIG. 6is a schematic side view illustrating the first material supply unit, the second material supply unit, a third material supply unit, and a periphery thereof included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus (second embodiment) to which the web forming device of the present disclosure is applied.FIG. 7is a view illustrating an example of a screen of an input device included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 6.FIG. 8is a view illustrating an example of a screen of the input device included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 6.FIG. 9is a view illustrating an example of a screen of the input device included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 6.FIG. 10is a view illustrating an example of a screen of the input device included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 6.

Hereinafter, the second embodiment of the web forming device of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings by focusing on differences from the embodiment described above, and the description of the same items is omitted.

The embodiment is the same as the first embodiment described above except that the color material supply unit has a different configuration and a third material supply unit is provided.

As illustrated inFIG. 6, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100A further includes a third material supply unit18C, in addition to the first material supply unit18A and the second material supply unit18B. In the embodiment, the pipe172diverges into three pipes which are the pipe172A, the pipe172B, and a pipe172C, and the pipe172C is coupled to the third material supply unit18C. In addition, a binder supply unit171C that supplies a binder P3as a third organic binder is provided at a position on the pipe172C. Therefore, in the pipe172C, a mixture M7CP containing subdivided bodies M6C as a third defibrated substance and the binder P3(third organic binder) is generated. In this manner, in the pipe172C, a color material CM3to be described below is mixed with the mixture M7CP such that a mixture M7C is generated, and the generated mixture is supplied to the third material supply unit18C.

The third material supply unit18C has the same configuration as that of the first material supply unit18A and the second material supply unit18B, however, an opening portion182C as a third release port in the housing section182is positioned downstream of the opening portion182B (second release port) of the second material supply unit18B. In addition, the opening portion182C of the third material supply unit18C releases the mixture M7C different from the mixture M7B.

In addition, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100A includes the suction unit193A, the suction unit193B, and a suction unit193C. The suction unit193A, the suction unit193B, and suction unit193C are disposed to be aligned in this order from upstream in the transporting direction.

Next, a color material supply unit30will be described.

As illustrated inFIG. 6, the color material supply unit30includes a storage section301that stores a color material CM(C) of cyan (C), a storage section302that stores a color material CM(M) of magenta (M), a storage section303that stores a color material CM(Y) of yellow (Y), a storage section304that stores a color material CM(W) of white (W), and a storage section305that stores a clear (colorless transparent) color material CM(CL). In addition, the color material supply unit30is capable of selectively supplying the color materials in the storage sections301to305individually to the pipe172A, the pipe172B, and the pipe172C.

The color material supply unit30can have a configuration in which, although not illustrated, for example, the storage section301is coupled to each of the pipe172A, the pipe172B, and the pipe172C via three piping systems, the storage section302is coupled to each of the pipe172A, the pipe172B, and the pipe172C via three piping systems, the storage section303is coupled to each of the pipe172A, the pipe172B, and the pipe172C via three piping systems, the storage section304is coupled to each of the pipe172A, the pipe172B, and the pipe172C via three piping systems, the storage section305is coupled to each of the pipe172A, the pipe172B, and the pipe172C via three piping systems, and on-off valves are provided on the fifteen piping systems. The on-off valves are each controlled by a control unit (not illustrated), and thereby it is possible to select color materials that are to be supplied to the first material supply unit18A, the second material supply unit18B, and the third material supply unit18C.

In addition, a degree of opening of the on-off valves is controlled, and thereby it is possible to adjust a supply amount of the color material CM(C), the color material CM(M), the color material CM(Y), the color material CM(W), and the color material CM(CL).

In addition, opening and closing of the on-off valves are selected and the degree of opening of the on-off valves is adjusted, and thereby it is possible to select a color obtained by mixing (color mixing) the color material CM(C), the color material CM(M), the color material CM(Y), the color material CM(W), and the color material CM(CL).

For example, a selection screen401is displayed on a display device400(input device) as illustrated inFIGS. 7 to 10such that a user performs selection, and thereby it is possible to realize a combination of selected colors. In addition, the display device400can be installed in any region of the sheet manufacturing apparatus100and can be a touch panel type display device. The display device400is electrically coupled to the controller and transmits a signal containing information of color selected by the user to the controller. As described above, the controller determines a color material and a supply amount thereof based on the information and adjusts a color. For example, the determination can be performed based on a calibration curve, a table, or the like stored in the storage unit (not illustrated) in advance.

In addition, in the embodiment, the sheet S to be obtained has a three-layer configuration, and thus the user selects each color of three layers.

Hereinafter, an example of the selection screen401that is displayed by the display device400will be described.

The selection screen401illustrated inFIG. 7displays two items for selecting color models, an item for selecting density of cyan (C), an item for selecting density of magenta (M), an item for selecting density of yellow (Y), an item for selecting hue, an item for selecting saturation, and an item for selecting lightness. Selection switches having an imitated shape of an arrow in an up-down direction, which is set next to each of the items, are touched, and thereby it is possible to adjust the items.

In addition, in the selection screen401illustrated inFIG. 8, a matrix form in which mass of different colors are arranged in a matrix shape is displayed. In a configuration illustrated inFIG. 8, basic colors are disposed to be aligned horizontally in the uppermost row, and masses of colors having different brightness are disposed to be vertically aligned. The user touches the mass, and the color thereof is selected.

In addition, in the selection screen401illustrated inFIG. 9, columns of masses having different brightness from each other are separated from each other and are disposed in a radial shape. Each of the columns has different color. In a configuration illustrated inFIG. 9, brightness decreases from the center side toward the circumferential side in each column. The user touches the mass, and the color thereof is selected.

In addition, in the selection screen401illustrated inFIG. 10, color masses, of which at least one of the color and the brightness is different from each other, are spread and form a hexagonal shape overall. In addition, color masses having high brightness are disposed on the center side, and color masses having low brightness are disposed on the outer side. In addition, color masses having similar colors are disposed to be positioned close to each other. The user touches the mass, and the color thereof is selected.

According to such a sheet manufacturing apparatus100A, color variations of the sheet S to be manufactured increase. In particular, since the sheet has the three-layer configuration, the sheet S is viewed to have a combined color of colors of a layer on a front side and a middle layer when the sheet is viewed from the front side, and the sheet S is viewed to have a combined color of colors of a layer on a back side and the middle layer when the sheet is viewed from the back side. In other words, the layer on the front side and the layer on the back side are unlikely to influence each other. As a result, it is possible to obtain the sheet S having a desired color with high accuracy.

As described above, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100A includes the third material supply unit18C provided with the opening portion182C (third release port) that releases the mixture M7C (third material) in the gas atmosphere, the mixture containing the subdivided bodies M6C (third defibrated substance) and the binder P3(third organic binder) and being different from the mixture M7B (second material). The opening portion182C (Third release port) of the third material supply unit18C is positioned downstream of the opening portion182B (second release port) of the second material supply unit18B in the transporting direction of the transporting unit.

According to the configuration, the second web M8accumulated on the mesh belt191becomes a laminate obtained by accumulating the mixture M7A, the mixture M7B, and the mixture M7C in this order from a side of the mesh belt191. Accordingly, the laminate is heated and pressurized by the forming unit20, and thereby it is possible to obtain the sheet S having a more reduction in mixing of the layer of mixture M7A, the layer of mixture M7B, and the layer of mixture M7C.

Third Embodiment

FIG. 11is a schematic side view illustrating the first material supply unit, the second material supply unit, the third material supply unit, and a periphery thereof included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus (third embodiment) to which the web forming device of the present disclosure is applied.FIG. 12is a sectional view illustrating an example of the second web (accumulated substance) that is manufactured by the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 11.

Hereinafter, the third embodiment of the web forming device of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings by focusing on differences from the embodiments described above, and the description of the same items is omitted.

The embodiment is substantially the same as the second embodiment described above except for the number of installed defibration units.

As illustrated inFIG. 11, a sheet manufacturing apparatus100B includes three defibration units of a first defibration unit13A, a second defibration unit13B, and a third defibration unit13C. The first defibration unit13A is coupled to the first material supply unit18A via the pipe172A. The second defibration unit13B is coupled to the second material supply unit18B via the pipe172B. The third defibration unit13C is coupled to the third material supply unit18C via the pipe172C.

In the embodiment, the pipe242(refer toFIG. 1) diverges into three pipes at a position on the pipe, and the three pipes are coupled to the first defibration unit13A, the second defibration unit13B, and the third defibration unit13C, respectively.

In addition, an on-off valve7A (regulator) is provided on the pipe172A, and thus it is possible to adjust a supply amount of the subdivided bodies M6A defibrated in the first defibration unit13A to the first material supply unit18A. An on-off valve7B is provided on the pipe172B, and thus it is possible to adjust a supply amount of the subdivided bodies M6B defibrated in the second defibration unit13B to the second material supply unit18B. An on-off valve7C is provided on the pipe172C, and thus it is possible to adjust a supply amount of the subdivided bodies M6C defibrated in the third defibration unit13C to the third material supply unit18C.

In addition, the binder supply unit171A and the color material supply unit3A are coupled in this order from the upstream side to the pipe172A downstream of the on-off valve7A. Therefore, the mixture M7A obtained by mixing the subdivided bodies M6A, the binder P1, and the color material CM1is generated downstream of the on-off valve7A, and the mixture M7A is supplied to the first material supply unit18A.

In addition, the binder supply unit171B and the color material supply unit3B are coupled in this order from the upstream side to the pipe172B downstream of the on-off valve7B. Therefore, the mixture M7B obtained by mixing the subdivided bodies M6B, the binder P2, and the color material CM2is generated downstream of the on-off valve7B, and the mixture M7B is supplied to the second material supply unit18B.

In addition, the binder supply unit171C and the color material supply unit3C are coupled in this order from the upstream side to the pipe172C downstream of the on-off valve7C. Therefore, the mixture M7C obtained by mixing the subdivided bodies M6C, the binder P3, and the color material CM3is generated downstream of the on-off valve7C, and the mixture M7C is supplied to the third material supply unit18C.

According to the sheet manufacturing apparatus100B, the second web M8as the laminate obtained by laminating the layer of mixture M7A, the layer of mixture M7B and the layer of mixture M7C in this order on the mesh belt191. Accordingly, the sheet S having the three-layer configuration is obtained by the forming unit20.

In addition, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100B, the first defibration unit13A, the second defibration unit13B, and the third defibration unit13C are provided and are individually coupled to the first material supply unit18A, the second material supply unit18B, and the third material supply unit18C, respectively. Therefore, defibration forces or periods of defibration time of the first defibration unit13A, the second defibration unit13B, and the third defibration unit13C are adjusted, and thereby it is possible to supply the subdivided bodies M6A, the subdivided bodies M6B, and the subdivided bodies M6C, which have different lengths of fiber from each other, individually to the first material supply unit18A, the second material supply unit18B, and the third material supply unit18C, respectively, for example.

Therefore, it is possible to obtain the second web M8as illustrated inFIG. 12, for example. In the second web M8, an average length of fibers of the mixture M7A is longer than that of fibers of the mixture M7B and that of fibers of the mixture M7C, and the mixture M7A plays a role of increasing strength of the entire sheet S after the forming. In addition, an average length of fibers of the mixture M7C is shorter than that of fibers of the mixture M7A and that of fibers of the mixture M7B, and the mixture M7C exhibits a good function as an ink receiving layer after the forming. In other words, since the average length is short, ink bleeding is prevented, and thus it is possible to obtain printed matter having high resolution.

In addition, in the second web M8, since the layer of the mixture M7A is the thickest, and the layer of mixture M7C is thicker than the layer of mixture M7B, the layer of mixture M7A can exhibit high strength after the forming. For example, the thickness of the layer of mixture M7A can be about 0.1 mm or larger and 5 mm or smaller. In addition, the thickness of the layer of mixture M7B can be about 0.01 mm or larger and 0.1 mm or smaller. In addition, the thickness of the layer of mixture M7C can be about 0.01 mm or larger and 0.1 mm or smaller.

In addition, a supply amount the binder P2of the layer of mixture M7B which is the middle layer after the forming is larger than that of the mixture M7A and the mixture M7C, and thereby it is possible to prevent the ink from infiltrating in a thickness direction of the sheet S. In other words, the layer of mixture M7bfunctions as an ink infiltration preventive layer after the forming.

As described above, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100B includes the first defibration unit13A that defibrates the raw material M1(used paper) so as to generate the subdivided bodies M6A (first defibrated substance), the second defibration unit13B that defibrates the raw material M1(used paper) so as to generate the subdivided bodies M6B (second defibrated substance), and the third defibration unit13C that defibrates the raw material M1(used paper) so as to generate the subdivided bodies M6C (third defibrated substance). Consequently, as described above, it is possible to generate the subdivided bodies M6A, the subdivided bodies M6B, and the subdivided bodies M6C, which have different average lengths of fiber from each other, depending on a use. As a result, it is possible to impart various functions to the sheet S.

Any one of the first defibration unit13A to the third defibration unit13C may be omitted such that a virgin fiber supply unit that supplies virgin fibers having a relatively long fiber length is provided. In this case, the first defibration unit13A and the third defibration unit13C may both be configured to be replaced with the virgin fiber supply units. Consequently, in the sheet S to be obtained, the front surface and the back surface are layers of virgin paper formed of the virgin fibers, and the middle layer is a layer of recycled paper. Accordingly, it is possible to manufacture paper approximate to the virgin paper, by using the recycled paper.

In addition, the binder supply unit may be coupled to the virgin fiber supply unit, and the binder supply unit may be coupled to the downstream of the virgin fiber supply (for example, the material supply unit).

In addition, it is possible to change an amount of subdivided bodies (defibrated substance) or a supply amount of the virgin fibers in the sheet S depending on a use of the sheet S. In other words, it is possible to change a used paper using rate depending on a use of the sheet S. For example, in a case where the sheet S is used as a postcard, the used paper using rate is preferably 50% or higher.

In addition, an impregnation suppressing layer (stop layer) that suppresses impregnation of ink may be provided between the layer of virgin paper and the layer of recycled paper.

Fourth Embodiment

FIG. 13is a schematic side view illustrating a fourth embodiment in a case where a fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied to the sheet manufacturing apparatus.FIG. 14is a vertical sectional view illustrating a dispersion unit and a periphery thereof included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 13.FIG. 15is a vertical sectional view of a region XV surrounded by a two-dot chain line inFIG. 14.FIG. 16is a vertical sectional view illustrating the dispersion unit included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 13.FIG. 17is a block diagram of main components included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus illustrated inFIG. 13.

Hereinafter, the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings by focusing on differences from the embodiments described above, the same names and reference signs are assigned to the same items, and the description thereof is omitted.

As illustrated inFIG. 13, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C as the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is the apparatus that manufactures the sheet S. The sheet manufacturing apparatus100includes: a dispersion unit18that has at least one (in the embodiment, one) cylindrical drum section (drum)181inside which a defibrated substance-containing material (mixture M7) containing the defibrated substance M3obtained by defibrating paper as the raw material M1is introduced and which disperses and loosens the material in the gas atmosphere; color material supply units3that are capable of supplying a plurality of different color materials CM inside the drum section (drum)181; and a color material selector4that is capable of selecting supply of the color materials CM from the color material supply units3to the inside of the drum section (drum)181.

In the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C, it is possible to select a desired color material CM (for example, as the “color material CM(C)”) by the color material selector4. In this manner, it is possible to supply the selected color material CM (C) individually to a target part (for example, the drum section181) in a state in which mixing with the color materials CM (the color material CM(Y) or the color material CM(M)) having the other colors is reduced.

In addition, after the color material CM(C), even in a case where selection is changed to the color material CM(Y), for example, instead of the color material CM(C), it is possible to supply the color material CM(Y) to the drum section181in a state in which the mixing with the color material CM(C) or the color material CM(M) is prevented.

As described above, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C, it is possible to reduce a color mixture (in the case described above, a color mixture of the color material CM(Y) after selection with the color material CM(C) or the color material CM(M)) that is not desired by the user when selection of the color material CM is changed.

In addition, in a case where the color mixture that is not desired by the user occurs, there is a concern that the sheet S will be useless (wasted). However, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C employs a configuration in which the color mixture that is not desired by the user is prevented from occurring as described above, and thereby it is possible to reduce an occurrence of a case where the sheet S is useless (wasted).

As illustrated inFIG. 13, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C includes the raw material supply unit11, the rough crushing unit12, the defibration unit13, the sorting unit14, the first web former15, the subdivision unit16, a mixer17C, the dispersion unit18, the second web former19, the forming unit20, the cutter21, the stock unit22, the collection unit27, the color material supply unit3, and the color material selector4. In addition, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C includes the humidifying unit231, the humidifying unit232, the humidifying unit233, the humidifying unit234, the humidifying unit235, and a humidifying unit236. Additionally, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C includes the blower261, the blower262, and the blower263.

In addition, as illustrated inFIG. 17, the units included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C, for example, the drive unit187of the dispersion unit18, the drive unit194of the second web former19, the drive unit412of the color material selector4, and the like are electrically coupled to the controller28. In this manner, operations of the units are controlled by the controller28. The controller28includes the central processing unit (CPU)281and the storage unit282. For example, the CPU281is capable of performing various types of determination, issuing various types of instructions, or the like. For example, the storage unit282stores various types of programs such as programs used until the sheet S is manufactured.

The configuration, the coupling to the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C, and an installation state of the controller28are the same as those of the embodiments described above, and thus the detailed description thereof is omitted.

In addition, a manufacturing step and an order of steps of the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C are the same as those of the sheet manufacturing apparatus of the embodiments described above, and thus the detailed description thereof is omitted.

Hereinafter configurations of the units will be described.

In the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C, the raw material supply unit11, the rough crushing unit12, the defibration unit13, the sorting unit14, the first web former15, the subdivision unit16, the forming unit20, the cutter21, the stock unit22, and the collection unit27, are the same as those in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100of the embodiments described above. In addition, the humidifying unit231, the humidifying unit232, the humidifying unit233, the humidifying unit234, the humidifying unit235, the blower261, the blower262, and the blower263are the same as those of the sheet manufacturing apparatus100. Therefore, the detailed description thereof is omitted.

As illustrated inFIG. 13, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C, the mixer17C is disposed downstream of the subdivision unit16. The mixer17C executes the mixing step of mixing the subdivided bodies M6and resin R1. The mixer17C includes a resin supply unit171, a tube (first flow channel)172, and the blower173.

The pipe172is a flow channel which couples the subdivision unit16and the dispersion unit18to each other and through which the mixture M7of the subdivided bodies M6and the resin R1passes.

The resin supply unit171is coupled to the pipe172at a position on the pipe. The resin supply unit171includes a screw feeder174. The screw feeder174is rotatably driven, and thereby it is possible to supply the resin R1as powder or particles to the pipe172. The resin R1supplied to the pipe172is mixed with the subdivided bodies M6such that a mixture M7is obtained.

The resin R1causes the fibers to be bound in the subsequent step, and it is possible to use thermoplastic resin, hardening resin, or the like, for example, and it is preferable to use the thermoplastic resin. Examples of thermoplastic resin include polyolefin or modified polyolefin such as AS resin, ABS resin, polyethylene, polypropylene, or ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA); acrylic resin such as polymethyl methacrylate; polyester such as polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, or polybutylene terephthalate; polyamide (nylon) such as nylon 6, nylon 46, nylon 66, nylon 610, nylon 612, nylon 11, nylon 12, nylon 6-12, or nylon 6-66; liquid crystal polymer such as polyphenylene ether, polyacetal, polyether, polyphenylene oxide, polyether ether ketone, polycarbonate, polyphenylene sulfide, thermoplastic polyimide, polyether imide, or aromatic polyester; and various types of thermoplastic elastomer such as styrene-based elastomer, polyolefin-based elastomer, polyvinyl chlorine-based elastomer, polyurethane-based elastomer, polyester-based elastomer, polyamide-based elastomer, polybutadiene-based elastomer, trans-polyisoprene-based elastomer, fluororubber-based elastomer, or chlorinated polyethylene-based elastomer, and the resins can be used individually or as a combination of two or more resins thereof. Preferably, polyester or a substance containing polyester is used as thermoplastic resin.

Examples of substances that are supplied from the resin supply unit171include a clumping inhibitor for inhibiting the fibers from clumping or the resin R1from clumping, a flame retardant for retarding progression of burning of fibers or the like, or a paper strengthening agent for strengthening paper strength of the sheet S, in addition to the resin R1. Otherwise, a substance obtained by mixing (compounding) the agents described above with the resin R1in advance may be supplied from the resin supply unit171.

In addition, the blower173is installed downstream of the resin supply unit171at a position on the pipe172. The rotation unit such as the vane provided in the blower173is operated, and thereby the subdivided bodies M6and the resin R1are mixed with each other. In addition, the blower173is capable of generating an air current toward the dispersion unit18. The air current enables the subdivided bodies M6and the resin R1to be agitated in the pipe172. Consequently, the mixture M7can flow to the dispersion unit18in a state in which the subdivided bodies M6and the resin R1are uniformly dispersed. In addition, the subdivided bodies M6in the mixture M7are loosened in a process of passing through the pipe172so as to have a finer fiber shape.

In addition, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C has a configuration in which the resin R1is supplied from the resin supply unit171. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the resin R1is stored in the storage section31to be described below in advance, and thus the resin may pass along with the color material CM through the flow channel (second flow channel)32so as to be supplied to the drum section181. In addition, in a case where the supply of the resin from the resin supply unit171is stopped, resin contained in the color material CM may be used instead of the resin R1.

The dispersion unit18executes a step of accumulating the mixture M7on the mesh belt191(separation belt). The dispersion unit18has the drum section181and the housing section182that houses the drum section181.

As illustrated inFIG. 14, the drum section181is a sieve that is configured of a net body having a circular cylinder shape and rotates around the center axis O181thereof. The mixture M7by the mixer17C flows into the drum section181. In this manner, the drum section181rotates, and thereby a fiber or the like, which is smaller than the mesh opening of the net, of the mixture M7, can pass through the drum section181. In this case, the mixture M7is loosened.

Since the drum section181is the same as that of the embodiments described above, the description thereof is omitted.

In this manner, the mixture M7loosened in the drum section181falls down while being dispersed in the gas atmosphere toward the second web former19that is positioned below the drum section181. The second web former19executes the second web forming step of forming the second web M8from the mixture M7. The second web former19includes the mesh belt191(separation belt), a stretching roller192, and a suction unit (suction mechanism)193.

The mesh belt191is an endless belt and accumulates the mixture M7. The mesh belt191loops around the four stretching rollers192. In this manner, the stretching rollers192are rotatably driven, and thereby the mixture M7on the mesh belt191is transported downstream.

In addition, almost all of the mixture M7on the mesh belt191have a size equal to or larger than a mesh opening of the mesh belt191. Consequently, the mixture M7is restricted from passing through the mesh belt191, and thereby it is possible to accumulate the mixture on the mesh belt191. In addition, the mixture M7is transported downstream along with the mesh belt191while being accumulated on the mesh belt191and, thus, are formed into the layer-shaped second web M8.

In addition, the stretching roller192is interconnected with the drive unit194having a drive source such as at least one motor, a transmission, or the like, and thus an operation of the drive unit194enables the stretching roller to rotate at a predetermined rotation speed. The operation of the drive unit194is controlled by the controller28(refer toFIG. 17), and it is possible to change (set, in multiple levels) the rotation speed of the stretching roller192, for example.

The suction unit193suctions air from below the mesh belt191. Consequently, it is possible to suction the mixture M7on the mesh belt191, and thereby it is possible to accumulate the mixture M7on the mesh belt191.

A pipe (flow channel)246is coupled to the suction unit193. In addition, the blower263is installed at a position on the pipe246. An operation of the blower263can generate a suction force by the suction unit193.

The housing section182is coupled to the humidifying unit234. The humidifying unit234is configured of the same vaporization-type humidifier as the humidifying unit231. Consequently, the humidified air is supplied into the housing section182. It is possible to humidify the inside of the housing section182with the humidified air, and thereby it is possible to suppress attachment of the mixture M7to the inner wall of the housing section182due to the electrostatic force.

The humidifying unit236is disposed downstream of the dispersion unit18. The humidifying unit236is configured of the same ultrasound-type humidifier as the humidifying unit235. Consequently, it is possible to supply moisture to the second web M8, and thereby a moisture amount of the second web M8is adjusted. Adjustment of the moisture amount makes it possible to suppress attachment of the second web M8to the mesh belt191due to the electrostatic force. Consequently, the second web M8is easily peeled from the mesh belt191at a position at which the mesh belt191is bent by the stretching roller192.

For example, a moisture amount (total moisture amount) from the humidifying units231to236is preferably 0.5 parts by mass or larger and 20 parts by mass or smaller in terms of 100 parts by mass of a material before humidifying.

The forming unit20is disposed downstream of the second web former19. The forming unit20executes the sheet forming step of forming the sheet S from the second web M8. The forming unit20includes the pressurizing unit201and the heating unit202.

Since the forming unit20is the same as that of the embodiments described above, the description thereof is omitted. Also in the embodiment, the resin R1is melted in the second web M8through heating and pressurizing by the forming unit20such that fibers are bound to each other via the melted resin R1. Consequently, the sheet S is formed.

The cutter21is disposed downstream of the forming unit20. The cutter21executes the cutting step of cutting the sheet S. The cutter21includes the first cutter211and the second cutter212. Since the cutter21is the same as that of the embodiments described above, the description thereof is omitted. Also in the embodiment, the sheet S having a desired size is obtained by the cutter21. In this manner, the sheet S is transported further downstream and is accumulated in the stock unit22.

However, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C is configured to be capable of manufacturing the sheet S having a color, that is, a color sheet. Hereinafter the configuration and an effect will be described.

As described above, the dispersion unit18executes a process of loosening the mixture M7that is obtained by mixing the subdivided bodies M6(defibrated substance M3) and the resin R1. Consequently, the mixture M7falls down uniformly in the gas atmosphere, that is, is unraveled from a state in which the mixture is intertwined and clumped, while being dispersed such that the mixture is accumulated on the mesh belt191of the second web former19.

As illustrated inFIG. 14, the second web former19(accumulating unit) is provided on the lower side (outer circumferential side) of the drum section181provided in the dispersion unit18. The second web former19accumulates the mixture M7that has passed through the opening portion181aof the drum section181. In this manner, the mixture M7as the accumulated substance accumulated on the second web former19becomes the second web M8.

As described above, the second web former19includes the mesh belt191on which the second web M8is accumulated and which transports the second web M8. The mesh belt191is provided with a plurality of through-hole191aformed to penetrate in a thickness direction thereof. A shape of the through-hole191ain a plan view is not particularly limited. For example, the shape is preferably a circular shape, an elliptical shape, an oval shape, a polygonal shape, or the like. In addition, a size of the through-hole191ain a plan view is not particularly limited. For example, the maximum length of the opening of the through-hole191ais preferably 0.02 mm or larger and 2 mm or smaller, and preferably 0.05 mm or larger and 1 mm or smaller. In addition, a forming method of the through-hole191ais not particularly limited. For example, it is possible to use a method of machining such as punching. In addition, of the machining, it is possible to use a method of laser machining or etching machining. In addition, it is possible to use a resin net, a metal net, and expanded metal as the mesh belt191.

As illustrated inFIGS. 13 and 14, the color material supply unit3is disposed upstream of the drum section181of the dispersion unit18. The color material supply unit3executes the color material supplying step of supplying the color material CM selected by the color material selector4to the drum section181of the dispersion unit18.

The color materials CM include a plurality of different color materials, and in the embodiment, examples thereof include three types of color materials CM having at least different colors. The three types of color materials CM are pigments having chromatic colors, and examples thereof cyan (C), yellow (Y), and magenta (M). Hereinafter, the color material CM of cyan is referred to as the “color material CM(C)”, the color material CM of yellow is referred to as the “color material CM(Y)”, and the color material CM of magenta is referred to as the “color material CM(M)”, in some cases. The color of the color material CM is not limited to cyan, yellow, and magenta.

As illustrated inFIG. 14, the color material supply unit3includes a plurality of storage sections31that store individually the color material CM(C), the color material CM(Y), and the color material CM(M), respectively, and a flow channel320coupled to the storage section31. Since the storage sections31and the flow channels320have the same configuration except that the color material CM that is supplied to the drum section181is different from each other, hereinafter, one storage section31and the flow channel320coupled to the storage section31are representatively described.

As illustrated inFIG. 15, the storage section31is configured of a hollow body having the storage space311for storing the color material CM inside. The storage section31is detachably mounted on the mounting unit33provided in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C. In this manner, in the mounting state, the storage space311of the storage section31communicates with the flow channel320. Consequently, the color material CM can flow into the flow channel320.

It is preferable that the storage section31be configured of a cartridge. Consequently, in a case where the storage section31is empty, that is, the color material CM is used up, is possible to replace with the storage section31with a new storage section31in a case where the storage section31is empty, that is, the color material CM1is used up. In addition, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C, a remaining amount of the color material CM in the storage section31is detected by a remaining amount detector (not illustrated).

As illustrated inFIG. 14, the flow channel320is coupled to the storage section31at the upstream on the flow channel and is coupled to the inflow port183of the dispersion unit18at the downstream. Consequently, the color material CM can pass individually through the flow channel320from the storage section31to the inflow port183, that is, in a state in which mixing of the color material CM with the other color materials is prevented.

For example, the flow channel320is configured of a pipe321. The pipe321diverges into two pipes which are a diverging pipe323and a diverging pipe324via a diverging portion322. In this manner, the diverging pipe323is coupled to one inflow port183of the two inflow ports183, and the diverging pipe324is coupled to the other inflow port183. Consequently, the storage section31and the inflow ports183communicate with each other via the flow channel320. In this manner, the mixture M7and the color material CM can be joined to each other in the drum section181, and thereby the mixture M7C containing the mixture M7and the color material CM is generated.

The color material selector4selectively supplies the color materials CM from the color material supply unit3to the drum section181.

As described above, the color material supply unit3includes the flow channel320through which the color materials CM having different colors from each other individually pass. As illustrated inFIG. 14, the color material selector4includes a switching unit41that is provided on the flow channels320and switches between passing of the color materials CM and stop of the passing. Consequently, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C is capable of taking a color material supply state in which the color materials CM are supplied and a supply stop state in which the supply of the color materials CM is stopped. Consequently, the sheet S having the selected color material CM is obtained in the color material supply state, and the sheet S, from which the color material CM is omitted, is obtained in the supply stop state.

As illustrated inFIG. 15, the switching unit41is a screw feeder and includes the screw411inserted concentrically into the flow channel320(pipe321) and a drive unit412that rotatably drives the screw411.

The screw411rotates, and thereby the color material CM can be extracted from the storage section31and can be extruded downstream as it is. Consequently, the color material CM can pass through the flow channel320so as to reach the drum section181. In addition, the rotation of the screw411is stopped, and thereby it is also possible to stop extrusion of the color material CM.

For example, the drive unit412is configured of a motor or the like. In addition, as illustrated inFIG. 17, the drive unit412is electrically coupled to the controller28. Consequently, an operation of the drive unit412is controlled by the controller28, and thereby it is possible to change a rotation speed of the screw411. It is possible to adjust a supply amount of the supply rate of the color material CM depending on a level of the rotation speed of the screw411, and thereby the sheet S having a desired shade of a color is obtained, for example. For example, operation information of the drive unit412is input and stored to the controller28in advance via an input unit such as a keyboard or a touch panel (not illustrated).

It is possible to selectively supply the desired color material CM by the color material selector4having such a configuration. Consequently, it is possible to individually supply any one color material CM of the color material CM(C), the color material CM(Y), or the color material CM(M) to the drum section181, or it is possible to combine at least two color materials CM of the color material CM(C), the color material CM(Y), and the color material CM(M) so as to supply the combined color material to the drum section181. In addition, in a case where the color materials CM are combined to each other, it is possible to adjust a mixing ratio of the color materials CM by changing the rotating speed of the screw411.

The switching unit41is not limited to the screw feeder and may include a belt transporting mechanism, for example.

As illustrated inFIG. 14, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C includes a mixer5that mixes the color materials CM having colors different from each other which are selected by the color material selector4. In the embodiment, the drum section (drum)181also serves as the mixer5.

In a case where the plurality of color materials CM are selected by the color material selector4, the mixture M7and the color materials CM are supplied as the mixture M7C to the drum section181, that is, the mixer5. In this manner, the drum section181rotates around the center axis O181, and thereby it is possible to uniformly mix the mixture M7and the color materials CM in the drum section181while the materials are loosened.

In addition, the drum section (drum)181is provided with the plurality of opening portions181aas discharge portions for discharging the color materials CM along with the mixture M7(defibrated substance-containing material).

The sheet manufacturing apparatus100C includes the second web former19that forms the second web M8(web) by using the mixture M7(defibrated substance-containing material) that is subjected to an unraveling process (loosening process) in the dispersion unit18and has passed through the opening portion. Specifically, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C includes the second web former19(web former) that is provided downstream of the drum section (drum)181and forms the second web M8(web) with the mixture M7(defibrated substance-containing material) and the color materials CM, that is, the mixture M7C, which are discharged via the opening portions181a(discharge portion). Consequently, it is possible to manufacture the sheet S having a color obtained by mixing the colors of the color materials CM, on the basis of the second web M8, that is, a color sheet. In addition, the mixing ratio of the color materials CM is adjusted as described above, and thereby it is possible to manufacture the sheet S having rich gradation even when the same color mixture is used. In addition, in a case where any one color material CM of the color material CM(C), the color material CM(Y), or the color material CM(M) is individually supplied to the drum section181, it is possible to manufacture the sheet S having a single color of cyan, yellow, or magenta. As described above, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C is capable of manufacturing the sheet S having the desired color. In addition, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C is also capable of manufacturing the sheet S from which the color is omitted when the supply of the color material CM is stopped.

In the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C having the configuration described above, it is possible to select the desired color material CM (for example, as the “color material CM(C)”) by the color material selector4. In this manner, it is possible to supply the selected color material CM(C) individually to the drum section181(inflow port183) in a state in which mixing with the other color materials CM (the color material CM(Y) or the color material CM(M)) having the other colors is reduced.

In addition, even in a case where selection is changed to the color material CM(Y), for example, instead of the color material CM(C), it is possible to supply the color material CM(Y) to the drum section181in a state in which the mixing with the color material CM(C) or the color material CM(M) is prevented.

As described above, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C, it is possible to prevent a color mixture (in the case described above, the color mixture of the color material CM(Y) after selection with the color material CM(C) or the color material CM(M)) that is not desired by the user when selection of the color material CM is changed.

In addition, in a case where the color mixture that is not desired by the user occurs, there is a concern that the sheet S will be useless (wasted). However, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C employs a configuration in which the color mixture that is not desired by the user is prevented from occurring as described above, and thereby it is possible to reduce an occurrence of a case where the sheet S is useless (wasted).

As illustrated inFIG. 16, the sheet manufacturing apparatus100C includes a removing unit6that removes a residue in the drum section (drum)181. The removing unit6is extended in the y-direction and includes a plate-shaped squeegee61corresponding to the inner circumferential portion181bof the drum section181. The squeegee61maintains a position and a posture constantly regardless of the rotation of the drum section181. The residue attached to the inner circumferential portion181bof the drum section181is removed by the squeegee61when the drum section181rotates. In this manner, the removed residue is discharged from a discharge port (not illustrated) that passes inside the drum section181, for example. For example, the mixture M7C or the like containing the color material CM is present as the residue.

Even when the color material CM to be selected is changed, it is possible to remove the color material CM before change from the drum section181by the removing unit6having the configuration. Consequently, it is possible to prevent the color mixture of the color material CM before the change and the color material CM after the change, which is not desired by the user, in the drum section181. In addition, it is possible to prevent the sheet S from being useless (wasted) due to the color mixture.

Fifth Embodiment

FIG. 18is a schematic side view illustrating the dispersion unit and a periphery thereof included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus (fifth embodiment) to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied.

Hereinafter, the fifth embodiment of the sheet manufacturing apparatus, to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied, will be described with reference to the drawings by focusing on differences from the embodiments described above, and the description of the same items is omitted.

A sheet manufacturing apparatus100D of the embodiment is substantially the same as the fourth embodiment described above except that the mixer has a different configuration.

As illustrated inFIG. 18, a mixer5dof the embodiment is disposed between the color material supply unit3and the drum section (drum)181, and the color materials CM having the colors different from each other are mixed in an earlier stage than a stage in which the color materials CM are supplied to the drum section (drum)181.

An upstream part of the mixer5dis coupled to the storage sections31via the flow channel32, and a downstream part thereof is coupled to the drum section181via a flow channel (third flow channel)29. In addition, the mixer5dis configured of a hollow body, and thus it is possible to mix the color materials CM having passed through the flow channel32, inside the mixer. In this manner, a color material mixture CMd can pass through the flow channel29so as to flow into the drum section181. The color material mixture CMd can be joined to the mixture M7in the drum section181so as to be further uniformly mixed with the mixture M7while being loosened along with the mixture M7.

Such a configuration is effective when the color materials CM are mixed with each other, and such mixing of the color materials CM is desired before the color materials CM are joined to the mixture M7.

The mixer5dmay be configured to pivot, similarly to the mixer5of the fourth embodiment. In addition, the mixer5dmay be configured to generate an air current therein. In the configuration, it is possible to more uniformly mix the color materials CM with the mixture M7. Consequently, it is possible to prevent color unevenness from occurring in the sheet S.

Sixth Embodiment

FIG. 19is a schematic side view illustrating the dispersion unit and a periphery thereof included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus (sixth embodiment) to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied.

Hereinafter, the sixth embodiment of the sheet manufacturing apparatus, to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied, will be described with reference to the drawings by focusing on differences from the embodiments described above, and the description of the same items is omitted.

A sheet manufacturing apparatus100E of the embodiment is substantially the same as the fourth embodiment described above except that the mixer has a different configuration.

As illustrated inFIG. 19, in a dispersion unit18eof the embodiment, the plurality of (in the embodiment, three) drum sections (drums)181are disposed for respective color materials CM having the colors different from each other which are supplied from the color material supply unit3. The drum sections181are coupled to the storage sections31one by one via the flow channels320.

In this manner, the mixer5eis configured of the housing section182that houses the plurality of drum sections (drums)181collectively. The mixer5e, that is, the housing section182, is capable of mixing the color materials CM with each other when the color materials CM are discharged along with the mixture M7(defibrated substance-containing material) from the plurality of drum sections (drums)181, respectively.

Such a configuration is effective when the color materials CM are mixed with each other, and such mixing of the color materials CM is desired as immediately before the second web M8is formed as possible. In addition, the plurality of drum sections181are disposed, and thereby the sheet manufacturing apparatus100E can be configured to be capable of supplying the mixtures M7having different fiber lengths (average) to the drum sections181.

Seventh Embodiment

FIG. 20is a schematic side view illustrating the dispersion unit and a periphery thereof included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus (seventh embodiment) to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied.

Hereinafter, the seventh embodiment of the sheet manufacturing apparatus, to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied, will be described with reference to the drawings by focusing on differences from the embodiments described above, and the description of the same items is omitted.

A sheet manufacturing apparatus100F of the embodiment is substantially the same as the fourth embodiment described above except that the color material supply unit has a different configuration.

As illustrated inFIG. 20, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus100F of the embodiment, the color material supply unit3is configured to be capable of supplying the color material CM(W) which is the color material CM of white (achromatic color) and the color material CM(CL) which is the colorless transparent color material CM, in addition to the color material CM(C), the color material CM(Y), and the color material CM(M). For example, the color material CM(CL) is configured of colorless transparent resin particles. In addition, as necessary, a color material CM(BK) which is a color material CM of black may be formed.

The color material supply unit3includes the plurality of storage sections31that store individually the color material CM(W) and the color material CM(CL), respectively, and the flow channels320coupled to the corresponding storage sections31. The switching unit41of the color material selector4is disposed on the flow channel320.

It is possible to manufacture the sheet S having an increase in color variations by the color material supply unit3having such a configuration.

Eighth Embodiment

FIG. 21is a vertical sectional view illustrating a configuration of the color material selector included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus (eighth embodiment) to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied.

Hereinafter, the eighth embodiment of the sheet manufacturing apparatus, to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied, will be described with reference to the drawings by focusing on differences from the embodiments described above, and the description of the same items is omitted.

A sheet manufacturing apparatus100G of the embodiment is the same as the fourth embodiment described above except that the color material supply unit has a different configuration.

As illustrated inFIG. 21, in the embodiment, a switching unit42of a color material selector4gincludes a lid body421, which is a vibration feeder and is pivotably supported to approach and be separated from a supply port312of the storage section31, and a bias portion422that is configured of a spring which biases the lid body421in a direction in which the lid body approaches the supply port312.

In a case where the lid body421comes into an opened state against a bias force of the bias portion422, the color material CM is supplied via the supply port312. In addition, in a case where the lid body421comes into a closed state by the bias force of the bias portion422, supply of the color material CM is stopped. It is possible to easily switch between a color material supply state and a supply stop state by the switching unit42having such a configuration.

Ninth Embodiment

FIG. 22is a vertical sectional view illustrating a configuration of the color material selector included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus (ninth embodiment) to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied.

Hereinafter, the ninth embodiment of the sheet manufacturing apparatus, to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied, will be described with reference to the drawings by focusing on differences from the embodiments described above, and the description of the same items is omitted.

A sheet manufacturing apparatus100H of the embodiment is the same as the fourth embodiment described above except that the color material supply unit has a different configuration.

As illustrated inFIG. 22, in the embodiment, a switching unit43of a color material selector4hincludes a vane431, which is a rotary feeder and is rotatably supported in the flow channel320, and a drive unit432that is configured of a motor which rotatably drives the vane431.

The vane431rotates, and thereby the color material CM is extracted from the storage section31and is extruded downstream as it is such that the color material supply state starts. Consequently, the color material CM can pass through the flow channel320so as to reach the drum section181. In addition, the rotation of the vane431is stopped, and thereby extrusion of the color material CM is also stopped such that the supply stop state starts. It is possible to easily switch between the color material supply state and the supply stop state by the switching unit43having such a configuration.

Tenth Embodiment

FIG. 23is a vertical sectional view illustrating a configuration of the color material selector included in the sheet manufacturing apparatus (tenth embodiment) to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied.

Hereinafter, the tenth embodiment of the sheet manufacturing apparatus, to which the fibrous raw material recycling apparatus is applied, will be described with reference to the drawings by focusing on differences from the embodiments described above, and the description of the same items is omitted.

A sheet manufacturing apparatus100J of the embodiment is the same as the fourth embodiment described above except that the color material supply unit has a different configuration.

As illustrated inFIG. 23, in the embodiment, a switching unit44of a color material selector4jincludes a lid body441, which is a CS feeder (straight feeder), is supported to openable/closable a portion in a flow channel32j, and has magnetism, and a bias portion442that is configured of a spring which biases the lid body441in a direction of a closed state, for example, and an electromagnet443.

In a case where a repulsive force acts on the lid body441by the electromagnet443such that the lid body441comes into an opened state against a bias force of the bias portion442, the color material CM is supplied. In addition, in a case where the repulsive force disappears such that the lid body441comes into a closed state by the bias force of the bias portion442, supply of the color material CM is stopped. It is possible to easily switch between the color material supply state and the supply stop state by the switching unit44having such a configuration.

As described above, the embodiments of the web forming device and the sheet manufacturing apparatus of the present disclosure are described. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the units that configure the web forming device and the sheet manufacturing apparatus can be replaced with any configuration that can exhibit the same function. In addition, any configurational component may be attached.

In addition, the web forming device and the sheet manufacturing apparatus of the present disclosure may be configured of a combination of two or more configurations (features) of the embodiments described above.

In addition, a product is not limited to the sheet S, and the sheet manufacturing apparatus may be configured to manufacture a hard sheet or a board-like or a web-like product configured of laminated sheets. In addition, a product is not limited to paper and may be a nonwoven fabric. In addition, the property of the sheet S is not particularly limited. The sheet may be paper that can be used as recording paper (for example, a so-called PPC sheet) for writing or printing or may be wall paper, wrapping paper, colored paper, paper for folding, a postcard, drawing paper, Kent paper, or the like. In addition, in a case where the sheet S is the nonwoven fabric, the sheet may be used as a textile board, tissue paper, kitchen paper, a cleaner, a filter, a liquid absorbent, a sound absorber, a cushioning material, a mat, or the like, in addition to the common nonwoven fabric.