SHEET MANUFACTURING APPARATUS AND POWER SWITCHING DEVICE

A sheet manufacturing apparatus includes a processing roller, a first processing unit configured to clean the processing roller, a second processing unit configured to separate the first processing unit from the processing roller, a driving unit configured to drive the first processing unit and the second processing unit, and a gear interposed between the driving unit and the first processing unit and the second processing unit. The gear includes an input gear configured to receive driving force from the driving unit, an input shaft configured to rotate in conjunction with the input gear, and a first gear and a second gear whose rotation shaft is the input shaft. Driving force in a first rotation direction is output from the input shaft to the first processing unit via the first gear, and driving force in a second rotation direction is output from the input shaft to the second processing unit via the second gear.

The present application is based on, and claims priority from JP Application Serial Number 2023-102307, filed Jun. 22, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a sheet manufacturing apparatus and a power switching device.

2. Related Art

An apparatus for manufacturing a sheet or the like by compression-forming a web containing fibers derived from paper has been known. For example, JP-A-2022-156155 discloses a cleaning mechanism for removing paper dust adhering to a calender roller for forming. The above-described mechanism in a fiber structure manufacturing apparatus performs cleaning of the calender roller with a felt roller for cleaning being rotated and in contact with the calender roller.

However, in the apparatus described in JP-A-2022-156155, there is a problem in that, when a mechanism for separating the felt roller from the calender roller is provided, suppressing an increase in cost is difficult due to an addition of a motor and the like for driving the mechanism. In addition, there is a problem in that the addition of the motor is likely to hinder reducing the size of the apparatus.

Specifically, when the felt roller is always in contact with the calender roller, the surface of the felt roller is likely to be worn or deformed. Therefore, a mechanism may be provided for separating the felt roller from the calender roller. However, when the above-described mechanism is provided, in addition to a drive motor for rotationally driving the felt roller, a motor for driving the above-described mechanism is required. This may lead to an increase in cost and size of the apparatus. That is, there has been a demand for a sheet manufacturing apparatus that includes a mechanism for separating a roller for cleaning and that suppresses an increase in cost and facilitates a reduction in size.

SUMMARY

A sheet manufacturing apparatus includes a processing roller configured to process a web containing fibers, a first processing unit configured to come into contact with and clean the processing roller, a second processing unit configured to separate the first processing unit from the processing roller, a driving unit configured to drive the first processing unit and the second processing unit, and a power switching unit interposed between the driving unit and the first processing unit and the second processing unit. The power switching unit includes an input gear configured to receive, from the driving unit, driving force in a first rotation direction and driving force in a second rotation direction, an input shaft configured to rotate in the first rotation direction and in the second rotation direction in conjunction with the input gear, and a first gear and a second gear whose rotation shaft is the input shaft. The driving force in the first rotation direction is output from the input shaft to the first processing unit via the first gear, and the driving force in the second rotation direction is output from the input shaft to the second processing unit via the second gear.

A power switching device includes an input gear configured to receive driving force in a first rotation direction and driving force in a second rotation direction, an input shaft configured to rotate in the first rotation direction and in the second rotation direction in conjunction with the input gear, and a first gear and a second gear whose rotation shaft is the input shaft. The first gear and the second gear each include a one-way clutch, the one-way clutch of the first gear transmits only the driving force in the first rotation direction from the input shaft, and the one-way clutch of the second gear transmits only the driving force in the second rotation direction from the input shaft.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In the following embodiment, a sheet manufacturing apparatus1that recycles paper pieces such as used paper in a dry process will be exemplified and described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The sheet manufacturing apparatus of the present disclosure is not limited to a dry type, and may be a wet type. Note that, in the present specification, the term “dry” means not to be performed in a liquid but to be performed in air, such as in the atmosphere.

In each of the following drawings, XYZ-axes are given as coordinate axes orthogonal to each other, a direction indicated by each arrow is set as a +direction, and a direction opposite to the +direction is set as a −direction. A Z-axis is a virtual axis along the vertical direction, and a +Z direction is an upward direction and a −Z direction is a downward direction. The −Z direction is a direction in which gravity acts. In addition, in the sheet manufacturing apparatus1, a leading side in a transport direction of a raw material, a web, a sheet, and the like may be referred to as downstream, and a trailing side in the transport direction may be referred to as upstream. For convenience of illustration, the size of each member is different from the actual size.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the sheet manufacturing apparatus1according to the present embodiment includes a first unit group101, a second unit group102, and a third unit group103. The first unit group101, the second unit group102, and the third unit group103are supported by a frame (not illustrated). Note that, inFIG.1, directions in which used paper C, a sheet P3, a slit piece S, an unnecessary scrap, and the like move are indicated by outlined white arrows.

The sheet manufacturing apparatus1manufactures the sheet P3from the used paper C. In the sheet manufacturing apparatus1, the first unit group101, the third unit group103, and the second unit group102are arranged from a −Y direction to a +Y direction in side view in a −X direction.

The used paper C is transported from the first unit group101to the second unit group102through a pipe21crossing inside the third unit group103. Then, the used paper C is subjected to defibration and the like in the second unit group102to become fibers, and the fibers then become a mixture containing a binder and the like. The mixture is transported to the third unit group103through a pipe24. The mixture is formed into a web W in the third unit group103and then formed into a belt-shaped sheet P1. The belt-shaped sheet P1is cut into the sheet P3in the first unit group101.

The first unit group101includes a buffer tank13, a fixed-quantity supply unit15, a merging unit17, and the pipe21. In the first unit group101, these components are arranged in the above order from upstream to downstream. The first unit group101also includes a first cutting unit81, a second cutting unit82, a tray91, and a shredding unit95. The first cutting unit81and the second cutting unit82cut the belt-shaped sheet P1into the sheet P3having a predetermined shape. Further, the first unit group101includes a water supply unit67. The water supply unit67is a water storage tank. The water supply unit67supplies water for humidification to each of a first humidifying unit65and a second humidifying unit66, which will be described later, through a water supply pipe (not illustrated).

The used paper C is fed from a raw material input port11to the buffer tank13. The used paper C contains fibers such as cellulose, and includes, for example, paper pieces of shredded used paper. The humidified air is supplied to the inside of the buffer tank13from the second humidifying unit66provided in the third unit group103.

The used paper C to be defibrated is temporarily stored in the buffer tank13and then transported to the fixed-quantity supply unit15in accordance with the operation of the sheet manufacturing apparatus1. The sheet manufacturing apparatus1may be provided with a shredder for shredding the used paper C and the like upstream of the buffer tank13.

The fixed-quantity supply unit15includes a weighing device15aand a supply mechanism (not illustrated). The weighing device15aweighs mass of the used paper C. The supply mechanism supplies the used paper C weighed by the weighing device15ato the downstream merging unit17. That is, the fixed-quantity supply unit15weighs the used paper C for each predetermined mass by the weighing device15a, and supplies the used paper C to the downstream merging unit17by the supply mechanism.

Either digital or analog weighing mechanism can be applied to the weighing device15a. Specifically, examples of the weighing device15ainclude a physical sensor such as a load cell, a spring scale, and a balance. In the present embodiment, the load cell is used as the weighing device15a. The predetermined mass for which the weighing device15aweighs the used paper C is, for example, about several grams to several tens of grams.

A known technique such as a vibration feeder can be applied to the supply mechanism. The supply mechanism may be included in the weighing device15a.

The weighing and supply of the used paper C in the fixed-quantity supply unit15is a batch process. That is, the supply of the used paper C from the fixed-quantity supply unit15to the merging unit17is intermittently performed. The fixed-quantity supply unit15may include a plurality of weighing devices15a, and the plurality of weighing devices15amay be operated at different times to improve efficiency of weighing.

In the merging unit17, shredded pieces of the slit piece S supplied from the shredding unit95are merged and mixed with the used paper C supplied from the fixed-quantity supply unit15. The slit piece S and the shredding unit95will be described later. The used paper C mixed with the shredded pieces flows into the pipe21from the merging unit17.

The pipe21transports the used paper C from the first unit group101to the second unit group102by airflow generated by a blower (not illustrated).

The second unit group102includes a defibrating unit31which is a dry defibrating machine, a separating unit32, a pipe23, a mixing unit33, and the pipe24. In the second unit group102, these components are arranged in the above order from upstream to downstream. The second unit group102also includes a pipe25coupled to the separating unit32, a collecting unit35, a compressor38, and a power supply unit39.

The used paper C transported through the pipe21flows into the defibrating unit31. The defibrating unit31defibrates the used paper C supplied from the fixed-quantity supply unit15into fibers in a dry process. A known defibrating mechanism can be applied to the defibrating unit31.

The defibrating unit31includes the following configuration, for example. The defibrating unit31includes a stator and a rotor. The stator has a substantially cylindrical inner side surface. The rotor is installed inside the stator and rotates along the inner side surface of the stator. Small pieces of the used paper C are pinched between the inner side surface of the stator and the rotor, and are defibrated by shearing force generated therebetween. As a result, entangled fibers contained in paper pieces of the used paper C are untangled. The used paper C is formed into fibers and transported to the separating unit32.

The separating unit32separates the defibrated fibers. Specifically, the separating unit32removes components which are included in the fibers and are unnecessary for manufacturing the sheet P3. Specifically, the separating unit32separates relatively long fibers from relatively short fibers. Since relatively short fibers may cause a decrease in strength of the sheet P3, the fibers are separated by the separating unit32. In addition, the separating unit32also separates and removes coloring materials and additives contained in the used paper C. A known technique such as a disk mesh method can be applied to the separating unit32.

The humidified air is supplied from the second humidifying unit66of the third unit group103to the inside of the separating unit32.

Relatively short fibers and the like are removed from the defibrated fibers, and the defibrated fibers are transported to the mixing unit33through the pipe23. Unnecessary components such as relatively short fibers and coloring materials are discharged to the collecting unit35through the pipe25.

The mixing unit33mixes the fibers with a binder and the like in the air to form a mixture. Although not illustrated, the mixing unit33includes a flow path through which the fibers are transported, a fan, a hopper, a supply pipe, and a valve.

The hopper communicates with the flow path of the fibers through the supply pipe. The valve is provided to the supply pipe between the hopper and the flow path. The hopper supplies a binder such as starch into the flow path. The valve adjusts mass of the binder supplied from the hopper to the flow path. Thus, the mixing ratio of the fibers and the binder is adjusted.

In addition to the above-described configuration for supplying the binder, the mixing unit33may include a similar configuration for supplying a coloring material, an additive, or the like.

The fan of the mixing unit33generates airflow to mix the binder and the like with the fibers in the air to form a mixture while the fibers are transported downstream. The mixture flows into the pipe24from the mixing unit33.

The collecting unit35includes a filter (not illustrated). The filter filters out unnecessary components such as relatively short fibers transported through the pipe25by the airflow.

The compressor38generates compressed air. In the filter, clogging may occur due to fine particles or the like in the unnecessary components. The compressed air generated by the compressor38can be blown onto the filter to blow off adhering particles and perform cleaning of the filter.

The power supply unit39includes a control unit5and a power supply device (not illustrated) that supplies power to the sheet manufacturing apparatus1. The power supply unit39distributes power supplied from the outside to each of the components of the sheet manufacturing apparatus1. The control unit5is electrically coupled to each of the components of the sheet manufacturing apparatus1, and integrally controls the operation of these components.

The third unit group103accumulates and compresses the mixture containing the fibers, and forms the mixture into the belt-shaped sheet P1which is recycled paper. The third unit group103includes an accumulation unit50, a first transport unit61, a second transport unit62, the first humidifying unit65, the second humidifying unit66, a drain unit68, a forming unit70, and cleaning units41and42.

In the third unit group103, the accumulation unit50, the first transport unit61, the second transport unit62, the first humidifying unit65, the forming unit70, and the cleaning units41and42are arranged in this order from upstream to downstream. The second humidifying unit66is arranged below the first humidifying unit65.

The accumulation unit50generates the web W by accumulating the mixture containing the separated fibers in the air. The accumulation unit50includes a drum member53, a blade member55installed in the drum member53, a housing51that accommodates the drum member53, and a suction unit59. The mixture is taken into the drum member53from the pipe24.

The first transport unit61is arranged below the accumulation unit50. The first transport unit61includes a mesh belt61aand five stretch rollers (not illustrated) for stretching the mesh belt61a. The suction unit59faces the drum member53with the mesh belt61ainterposed therebetween in the direction along the Z-axis.

The blade member55is arranged inside the drum member53and is rotationally driven by a motor (not illustrated). The drum member53is a semi-columnar sieve. A net having a function of the sieve is provided on a side surface of the drum member53facing downward. The drum member53causes particles of fibers and mixtures smaller than the size of the mesh of the sieve to pass through from the inside to the outside.

The mixture is discharged to the outside of the drum member53while being stirred by the rotating blade member55in the drum member53. The humidified air is supplied from the second humidifying unit66to the inside of the drum member53.

The suction unit59is arranged below the drum member53. The suction unit59sucks the air in the housing51through a plurality of holes of the mesh belt61a. The plurality of holes of the mesh belt61acause air to pass therethrough, but do not cause fibers, a binder, and the like contained in the mixture to pass therethrough easily. Thus, the mixture discharged to the outside of the drum member53is sucked downward together with the air. The suction unit59is a known suction device such as a blower.

The mixture is dispersed in the air in the housing51and accumulated on an upper surface of the mesh belt61aby gravity and suction of the suction unit59to form the web W.

The mesh belt61ais an endless belt and is stretched by the five stretch rollers. The mesh belt61ais rotated counterclockwise inFIG.1by the rotation of the stretch rollers. As a result, the mixture is continuously accumulated on the mesh belt61ato form the web W. The web W contains a relatively large amount of air and is soft and swollen. The first transport unit61transports the formed web W downstream by a rotational move of the mesh belt61a.

The second transport unit62transports the web W in place of the first transport unit61downstream of the first transport unit61. The second transport unit62peels the web W off from the upper surface of the mesh belt61aand transports the web W toward the forming unit70. The second transport unit62is arranged above the transport path of the web W and slightly upstream of a starting point of a return section of the mesh belt61a. The second transport unit62in the +Y direction and the mesh belt61ain the −Y direction partially overlap in the vertical direction.

The second transport unit62includes a transport belt, a plurality of rollers, and a suction mechanism, which are not illustrated. The transport belt is provided with a plurality of holes through which air passes. The transport belt is stretched by the plurality of rollers and is rotationally moved by the rotation of the rollers.

The second transport unit62causes an upper surface of the web W to be attracted to a surface of the transport belt below by negative pressure generated by the suction mechanism. When the transport belt rotationally moves in this state, the web W is attracted to the transport belt and transported downstream.

The first humidifying unit65humidifies the web W containing fibers accumulated in the accumulation unit50of the third unit group103. Specifically, the first humidifying unit65is, for example, a mist humidifier, and humidifies the web W transported by the second transport unit62, by supplying mist M from below. The first humidifying unit65is arranged below the second transport unit62and faces the web W transported by the second transport unit62in the direction along the Z-axis. For example, a known humidifying device such as an ultrasonic type can be applied to the first humidifying unit65.

By humidifying the web W with the mist M, the function of the starch as a binder is promoted, and strength of the sheet P3is improved. In addition, since the web W is humidified from below, drops derived from the mist are prevented from falling onto the web W. Further, since the web W is humidified from the side opposite to the contact surface between the transport belt and the web W, sticking of the web W with respect to the transport belt is reduced. The second transport unit62transports the web W to the forming unit70.

The forming unit70includes processing rollers71and72. The processing rollers71and72process the web W containing fibers to form the belt-shaped sheet P1. The processing rollers71and72form a pair, each of which has an electric heater built therein and has a function of raising a temperature of a roller surface.

Each of the processing rollers71and72is a substantially columnar member. A rotation shaft of the processing roller71and a rotation shaft of the processing roller72are arranged along an X-axis. The processing roller71is arranged substantially above the transport path of the web W, and the processing roller72is arranged substantially below the transport path of the web W. Between a side surface of the processing roller71and a side surface of the processing roller72, a gap corresponding to the thickness of the sheet P3to be manufactured is provided.

The processing rollers71and72are rotationally driven by a stepping motor (not illustrated). The web W is pinched between the processing roller71and the processing roller72and fed downstream while being heated and pressurized. That is, the web W continuously passes through the forming unit70, and is press-formed while being heated. By using the processing rollers71and72as a pair of forming members, the web W can be efficiently heated and pressurized.

The web W, by passing through the forming unit70, changes from a soft state in which the web W contains a relatively large volume of air to have reduced air therein, and at the same time the fibers of the web W are bonded to each other by the binder, whereby the web W is formed into the belt-shaped sheet P1. The belt-shaped sheet P1is transported to the first unit group101by a transport roller (not illustrated).

The cleaning unit41corresponds to the processing roller71, and the cleaning unit42corresponds to the processing roller72. The cleaning unit41and the control unit5constitute a cleaning device401to be described later. The cleaning unit42and the control unit5constitute a cleaning device402to be described later.

As described above, the processing rollers71and72perform processing by pinching the web W. Therefore, paper dust, fibers, and the like derived from the used paper C contained in the web W are likely to adhere to each of the side surfaces of the processing rollers71and72. When the forming is continued while the processing rollers71and72are contaminated with the paper dust and the like adhering thereto, defects such as contamination or roughness of the surface or a decrease in sheet strength may occur in the sheet P3to be manufactured. The cleaning unit41cleans the processing roller71, and the cleaning unit42cleans the processing roller72.

The second humidifying unit66is arranged below the first humidifying unit65. A known vaporization type humidifying device can be applied to the second humidifying unit66. Examples of the vaporization type humidifying device include a humidifying device that generates humidified air by blowing air to a wetted nonwoven fabric or the like to vaporize moisture.

The second humidifying unit66humidifies a predetermined region of the sheet manufacturing apparatus1. The predetermined region is one or more of the buffer tank13, the separating unit32, and the inside of the drum member53of the accumulation unit50. Specifically, the humidified air is supplied from the second humidifying unit66to the above-described region through a plurality of pipes (not illustrated). The humidified air suppresses charging of the used paper C, fibers, and the like in each of the above-described configurations, and suppresses adhesion of the used paper C, fibers, and the like to members due to static electricity.

The drain unit68is a drain tank. The drain unit68collects and stores old moisture that is used in the first humidifying unit65, the second humidifying unit66, and the like. The drain unit68can be removed from the sheet manufacturing apparatus1as necessary, and the accumulated water can be discarded.

The belt-shaped sheet P1transported to the first unit group101reaches the first cutting unit81. The first cutting unit81cuts the belt-shaped sheet P1in the direction intersecting the transport direction, for example, in the direction along the X-axis. The belt-shaped sheet P1is cut into a single-cut shape sheet P2by the first cutting unit81. The single-cut shape sheet P2is transported from the first cutting unit81to the second cutting unit82.

The second cutting unit82cuts the single-cut shape sheet P2in the transport direction, for example, in the direction along a Y-axis. Specifically, the second cutting unit82cuts the single-cut shape sheet P2in the vicinity of both sides in the direction along the X-axis. As a result, the single-cut shape sheet P2becomes the sheet P3having a predetermined shape such as A4 size or A3 size.

When the single-cut shape sheet P2is cut into the sheet P3in the second cutting unit82, the slit piece S, which is a scrap, is produced. The slit piece S is transported substantially in the −Y direction and reaches the shredding unit95which is a shredder. The shredding unit95shreds the slit piece S and supplies the slit piece S as shredded pieces to the merging unit17. A mechanism for weighing and supplying the shredded pieces of the slit piece S to the merging unit17may be installed between the shredding unit95and the merging unit17.

The sheet P3is transported substantially upward and stacked on the tray91. As described above, the sheet P3is manufactured by the sheet manufacturing apparatus1. The sheet P3can be applied as a substitute for copy paper, for example.

As illustrated inFIG.2, the cleaning unit41is arranged slightly higher than the processing roller71in the −Y direction and along the processing roller71. The cleaning unit42is arranged lower than the processing roller72and nearer to the −Y direction along the processing roller72.

The cleaning device401includes the control unit5described above and the cleaning unit41. The cleaning device402includes the control unit5and the cleaning unit42. Note that each of the cleaning devices401and402may individually include a control unit.

In the direction along the X-axis, the length of the cleaning unit41is substantially equal to the length of the side surface of the processing roller71. Similarly, the length of the cleaning unit42is substantially equal to the length of the processing roller72.

As illustrated inFIG.3, the cleaning unit41includes a first processing unit131, a third processing unit133, a blade unit141, a second processing unit120, a gear group110, a paper dust collecting unit153, a support member135, and a frame unit115. The cleaning unit41also includes a fourth processing unit144to be described later. Note that, inFIG.3, a driving unit541which is an electric motor included in the control unit5is also illustrated.

The first processing unit131cleans the processing roller71. The third processing unit133cleans the first processing unit131. The blade unit141cleans the third processing unit133.

The first processing unit131is a substantially columnar roller-shaped member, and the height direction of the column is arranged along the X-axis. Both end portions of the first processing unit131in the direction along the X-axis are supported by the support member135, and the first processing unit131rotates about a rotation shaft along the X-axis. The rotation of the first processing unit131is driven by the driving unit541.

The third processing unit133is a substantially columnar roller-shaped member and is arranged side by side with the first processing unit131in the direction along the Y-axis, and the height direction of the column is also arranged along the X-axis. Both end portions of the third processing unit133in the direction along the X-axis are supported by the support member135, and the third processing unit133rotates about a rotation shaft along the X-axis. The rotation of the third processing unit133is also driven by the driving unit541.

The blade unit141extends along a side surface of the third processing unit133. The blade unit141is supported by the support member135. The blade unit141is cleaned by the fourth processing unit144(not illustrated).

The second processing unit120separates the first processing unit131from the processing roller71. The second processing unit120includes a shaft unit121and cam members123aand123b. The shaft unit121is a rod-shaped member arranged along the X-axis. The cam member123ais mounted in the vicinity of an end portion of the shaft unit121in a +X direction, and the cam member123bis mounted in the vicinity of an end portion of the shaft unit121in the −X direction.

The shaft unit121is supported by the frame unit115and rotates about a rotation shaft along the X-axis. The end portion of the shaft unit121in the −X direction is directly coupled to one of the gears of the gear group110. When the gear group110is driven, the shaft unit121is rotationally driven. The cam members123aand123brotate about the shaft unit121as the rotation center in conjunction with the rotation of the shaft unit121.

The gear group110includes a plurality of gears that are not illustrated. The plurality of gears are rotated by driving of the driving unit541to rotate the shaft unit121, the first processing unit131, and the third processing unit133. The gear group110and the driving unit541are installed at an end portion of the frame unit115in the −X direction.

The support member135includes, in plan view from above, a main body (not illustrated) along an XZ-plane and support units135aand135bprotruding in the +Y direction from respective end portions of the main body in the direction along the X-axis. The support units135aand135bface each other in the direction along the X-axis. The second processing unit120, the first processing unit131, the third processing unit133, and the blade unit141are arranged between the support units135aand135b. That is, the support units135aand135bsupport the second processing unit120, the first processing unit131, the third processing unit133, and the blade unit141.

The support member135can change its posture relative to the frame unit115while being supported by the frame unit115. The posture change of the support member135will be described later.

The frame unit115is a substantially frame-shaped member in plan view from above, and the support member135is arranged in the inner side thereof. The gear group110is arranged in the −X direction, which is outside, and the driving unit541is arranged in the +X direction, which is inside, relative to the end portion in the −X direction of the frame unit115. The driving unit541includes an output shaft. The output shaft extends in the −X direction through the frame unit115and is directly coupled to one of the plurality of gears of the gear group110. The frame unit115is supported by the frame of the third unit group103of the sheet manufacturing apparatus1.

The rotation directions of the normal rotation and the reverse rotation of the driving unit541are controlled by the control unit5described above. Thus, the cleaning of the processing roller71by the first processing unit131and the contact and separation of the first processing unit131with and from the processing roller71are switched. The contact and separation of the first processing unit131will be described later.

As illustrated inFIG.4, in the cleaning unit41, the first processing unit131is arranged slightly higher than the processing roller71while being in contact therewith in the −Y direction.FIG.4illustrates a state in which the first processing unit131is in contact with the processing roller71to clean the side surface of the processing roller71. Here, in the description ofFIG.4, a state in side view in the −X direction will be described unless otherwise specified.

As described above, the first processing unit131cleans the processing roller71. The first processing unit131includes a cleaning layer131aon the outer periphery portion of the side surface. The cleaning layer131acomes into contact with the side surface of the processing roller71to clean the side surface of the processing roller71.

The cleaning layer131acleans the paper dust and the like adhering to the processing roller71. Therefore, the cleaning ability of the first processing unit131with respect to the processing roller71is improved.

The cleaning layer131ais made of a felt material. Therefore, the paper dust and the like are easily entangled in the cleaning layer131a. In addition, the cleaning layer131aeasily follows the shape of the side surface of the processing roller71. Thus, the cleaning ability of the first processing unit131to clean the processing roller71is further improved.

The third processing unit133forms a roller pair130with the first processing unit131, and cleans the first processing unit131. Specifically, the third processing unit133includes a brush-like surface layer133aon the outer periphery portion of the side surface. In the surface layer133a, a plurality of bristle materials are installed substantially radially from the rotation center. The cleaning layer131aof the first processing unit131and the surface layer133aare arranged so as to overlap each other. As a result, the surface layer133acomes into contact with the cleaning layer131aof the first processing unit131to clean the first processing unit131.

The paper dust and the like transferred from the processing roller71to the first processing unit131are cleaned by the surface layer133a, and the cleanliness of the first processing unit131is maintained. Therefore, the cleaning ability of the first processing unit131with respect to the processing roller71is easily maintained.

The processing roller71, the first processing unit131, and the third processing unit133rotate clockwise. In particular, the first processing unit131comes into contact with the processing roller71while rotating clockwise, which is the same direction as the processing roller71, and cleans the processing roller71. Therefore, the surfaces of the processing roller71and the first processing unit131slide in opposite directions in a region where the processing roller71and the first processing unit131are in contact with each other. Therefore, the paper dust and the like adhering to the surface of the processing roller71are easily scraped off and removed by the cleaning layer131aof the first processing unit131. As a result, the cleaning ability of the first processing unit131with respect to the processing roller71is further improved.

The blade unit141is arranged below the third processing unit133. The blade unit141is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped member, and a principal surface thereof extends along the XZ-plane. The blade unit141comes into contact with the surface layer133aof the third processing unit133and cleans the surface layer133a. In the direction along the X-axis, the length of the blade unit141is substantially equal to the length of the surface layer133aof the third processing unit133.

The blade unit141is supported by the support member135with a fixing member143interposed therebetween, and is arranged such that an upper end portion thereof is embedded in the plurality of bristle materials of the surface layer133a. A distance to embed the blade unit141with respect to the surface layer133ais, for example, substantially 1 mm. The fourth processing unit144is arranged substantially in the −Y direction of the blade unit141.

In the third processing unit133, the paper dust and the like transferred from the first processing unit131are cleaned by the blade unit141, thereby maintaining cleanliness. Therefore, the cleaning ability of the first processing unit131and the third processing unit133with respect to the processing roller71is easily maintained.

The support member135is rotatably supported by the frame unit115with a rotation shaft137as the rotation center. A spring member151is arranged along the Z-axis in the −Y direction of the support member135. In the spring member151, an upper end portion is fixed to the support member135, and a lower end portion is fixed to the frame unit115.

The support member135is biased by the spring member151in the counterclockwise direction with the rotation shaft137as the rotation center. Therefore, the first processing unit131is brought into contact with the processing roller71by biasing force of the spring member151.

The second processing unit120is arranged in the −Y direction with respect to an upper end portion of the support member135and faces the support member135in the direction along the Y-axis. The cam member123aand the cam member123b(not illustrated) are rotated under the control of the control unit5, and switch between contact and separation of the first processing unit131with and from the processing roller71.

Thus, the first processing unit131can be appropriately separated from the processing roller71. Compared to when the first processing unit131is constantly in contact with the processing roller71, the occurrence of wear and deformation of the cleaning layer131ain the first processing unit131is suppressed. Note that, the processing of the web W described above is performed when the first processing unit131is in contact with the processing roller71.

Each of the cam members123aand123bhas an asymmetric shape with respect to the shaft unit121serving as the rotation center, and has a protruding portion (not illustrated). When the first processing unit131is brought into contact with the processing roller71, the protruding portion is moved in a direction substantially opposite to the upper end portion of the support member135to separate the cam members123aand123bfrom the upper end portion of the support member135.

When the first processing unit131is separated from the processing roller71, the shaft unit121rotates and the protruding portion comes into contact with the upper end of the support member135. Therefore, the protruding portion biases the upper end portion substantially in the +Y direction, and the support member135rotates clockwise by a certain distance. As a result, the support member135changes its posture, and the first processing unit131is separated from the processing roller71.

The paper dust collecting unit153is arranged below the third processing unit133and the blade unit141. The paper dust collecting unit153is a box-shaped member whose upper side is opened, and mainly collects and stores the paper dust and the like falling from the third processing unit133and the blade unit141. The paper dust and the like stored in the paper dust collecting unit153can be removed by detaching the paper dust collecting unit153from the sheet manufacturing apparatus1.

As illustrated inFIG.5, the cleaning unit42includes a first processing unit231, a third processing unit233, a blade unit241, a second processing unit220, a gear group210, a paper dust collecting unit253, a support member235, and a frame unit215. The cleaning unit42also includes a fourth processing unit244to be described later. Note that, inFIG.5, a driving unit542, which is an electric motor included in the control unit5, is also illustrated.

The first processing unit231cleans the processing roller72. The third processing unit233cleans the first processing unit231. The blade unit241cleans the third processing unit233.

The first processing unit231is a substantially columnar roller-shaped member, and the height direction of the column is arranged along the X-axis. Both end portions of the first processing unit231in the direction along the X-axis are supported by the support member235, and the first processing unit231rotates about a rotation shaft along the X-axis. The rotation of the first processing unit231is driven by the driving unit542.

The third processing unit233is a substantially columnar roller-shaped member and is arranged side by side with the first processing unit231in the direction along the Z-axis, and the height direction of the column is arranged along the X-axis. Both end portions of the third processing unit233in the direction along the X-axis are supported by the support member235, and the third processing unit233rotates about a rotation shaft along the X-axis. The rotation of the third processing unit233is also driven by the driving unit542.

The blade unit241extends along a side surface of the third processing unit233. The blade unit241is supported by the support member235. The blade unit241is cleaned by the fourth processing unit244(not illustrated).

The second processing unit220separates the first processing unit231from the processing roller72. The second processing unit220includes a shaft unit221and cam members223aand223b. The shaft unit221is a rod-shaped member arranged along the X-axis. In the shaft unit221, the cam member223ais mounted in the vicinity of an end portion in the +X direction, and the cam member223bis mounted in the vicinity of an end portion in the −X direction.

The shaft unit221is supported by the frame unit215and rotates about a rotation shaft along the X-axis. The end portion of the shaft unit221in the −X direction is directly coupled to one of the gears of the gear group210. When the gear group210is driven, the shaft unit221is rotationally driven. The cam members223aand223brotate about the shaft unit221as the rotation center in conjunction with the rotation of the shaft unit221.

The gear group210includes a plurality of gears that are not illustrated. The plurality of gears are rotated by driving of the driving unit542to rotate the shaft unit221, the first processing unit231, and the third processing unit233. The gear group210and the driving unit542are installed at an end portion of the frame unit215in the −X direction.

The support member235includes, in plan view from above, a main body (not illustrated) along the XZ-plane and support units235aand235bprotruding upward from respective end portions of the main body in the direction along the X-axis. The support units235aand235bface each other in the direction along the X-axis. The second processing unit220, the first processing unit231, the third processing unit233, and the blade unit241are arranged between the support units235aand235b. That is, the support units235aand235bsupport the second processing unit220, the first processing unit231, the third processing unit233, and the blade unit241.

The support member235can change its posture relative to the frame unit215while being supported by the frame unit215. The posture change of the support member235will be described later.

The frame unit215is a substantially frame-shaped member in plan view from above, and the support member235is arranged inside the frame unit215. The gear group210is arranged in the −X direction, which is outside, and the driving unit542is arranged in the +X direction, which is inside, relative to the end portion in the −X direction of the frame unit215. The driving unit542includes an output shaft. The output shaft extends in the −X direction through the frame unit215and is directly coupled to one of the plurality of gears of the gear group210. The frame unit215is supported by the frame of the third unit group103of the sheet manufacturing apparatus1.

The rotation directions of the normal rotation and the reverse rotation of the driving unit542are controlled by the control unit5described above. As a result, the cleaning of the processing roller72by the first processing unit231and the contact and separation of the first processing unit231with and from the processing roller72are switched. Details of cleaning and switching between contact and separation will be described later.

As illustrated inFIG.6, in the cleaning unit42, the first processing unit231is arranged lower than the processing roller72while being in contact therewith slightly in the −Y direction.FIG.6illustrates a state in which the first processing unit231is in contact with the processing roller72to clean the side surface of the processing roller72. Here, in the description ofFIG.6, a state in side view in the −X direction will be described unless otherwise specified.

As described above, the first processing unit231cleans the processing roller72. Specifically, the first processing unit231includes a cleaning layer231aon the outer periphery portion of the side surface. The cleaning layer231acomes into contact with the side surface of the processing roller72to clean the side surface of the processing roller72.

The paper dust and the like adhering to the processing roller72are cleaned by the cleaning layer231a. Therefore, the cleaning ability of the first processing unit231with respect to the processing roller72is improved.

The cleaning layer231ais made of a felt material. Therefore, the paper dust and the like are easily entangled in the cleaning layer231a. In addition, the cleaning layer231aeasily follows the shape of the side surface of the processing roller72. Thus, the cleaning ability of the first processing unit231to clean the processing roller72is further improved.

The third processing unit233forms a roller pair230with the first processing unit231, and cleans the first processing unit231. Specifically, the third processing unit233includes a brush-like surface layer233aon the outer periphery portion of the side surface. In the surface layer233a, a plurality of bristle materials are installed substantially radially from the rotation center. The cleaning layer231aof the first processing unit231and the surface layer233aare arranged so as to overlap each other. As a result, the surface layer233acomes into contact with the cleaning layer231aof the first processing unit231to clean the first processing unit231.

The paper dust and the like transferred from the processing roller72to the first processing unit231are cleaned by the surface layer233a, and the cleanliness of the first processing unit231is maintained. Therefore, the cleaning ability of the first processing unit231with respect to the processing roller72is easily maintained.

The processing roller72, the first processing unit231, and the third processing unit233rotate counterclockwise. In particular, the first processing unit231comes into contact with the processing roller72while rotating counterclockwise, which is the same direction as the processing roller72, and cleans the processing roller72. Therefore, the surfaces of the processing roller72and the first processing unit231slide in opposite directions in a region where the processing roller72and the first processing unit231are in contact with each other. Therefore, the paper dust and the like adhering to the surface of the processing roller72are easily scraped off and removed by the cleaning layer231aof the first processing unit231. As a result, the cleaning ability of the first processing unit231with respect to the processing roller72is further improved.

The blade unit241is arranged below the third processing unit233. The blade unit241is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped member, and a principal surface thereof extends along the XZ-plane. The blade unit241comes into contact with the surface layer233aof the third processing unit233and cleans the surface layer233a. In the direction along the X-axis, the length of the blade unit241is substantially equal to the length of the surface layer233aof the third processing unit233. The fourth processing unit244is arranged substantially in the +Y direction of the blade unit241.

The blade unit241is supported by the support member235with a fixing member243interposed therebetween, and is arranged such that an upper end portion thereof is embedded in the plurality of bristle materials of the surface layer233a. A distance to embed the blade unit241with respect to the surface layer233ais, for example, substantially 1 mm.

The blade unit241cleans the third processing unit233to remove the paper dust and the like transferred from the first processing unit231, thereby maintaining cleanliness. Therefore, the cleaning ability of the first processing unit231and the third processing unit233with respect to the processing roller72is easily maintained.

The support member235is rotatably supported by the frame unit215with a rotation shaft237as the rotation center. A spring member251is arranged along the Y-axis below the support member235. In the spring member251, an end portion in the −Y direction is fixed to the support member235, and an end portion in the +Y direction is fixed to the frame unit215.

The support member235is biased by the spring member251in the counterclockwise direction with the rotation shaft237as the rotation center. Therefore, the first processing unit231is brought into contact with the processing roller72by biasing force of the spring member251.

The second processing unit220is arranged in the +Y direction with respect to a lower end portion of the support member235and faces the support member235in the direction along the Y-axis. The cam member223aand the cam member223b(not illustrated) are rotated under the control of the control unit5, and switch between contact and separation of the first processing unit231with and from the processing roller72.

Thus, the first processing unit231can be appropriately separated from the processing roller72. Compared to when the first processing unit231is constantly in contact with the processing roller72, the occurrence of wear and deformation of the cleaning layer231ain the first processing unit231is suppressed. Note that the above-described processing of the web W is performed when the first processing unit231is in contact with the processing roller72.

Each of the cam members223aand223bhas an asymmetric shape with respect to the shaft unit221serving as the rotation center, and has a protruding portion (not illustrated). When the first processing unit231is brought into contact with the processing roller72, the protruding portion is positioned in a direction substantially opposite to an upper end portion of the support member235to separate the cam members223aand223bfrom the lower end portion of the support member235.

When the first processing unit231is separated from the processing roller72, the shaft unit221rotates and the protruding portion comes into contact with the upper end portion of the support member235. Therefore, the protruding portion biases the upper end portion substantially in the −Y direction, and the support member235rotates clockwise by a certain distance. As a result, the support member235changes its posture, and the first processing unit231is separated from the processing roller72.

The paper dust collecting unit253is arranged below the third processing unit233and the blade unit241. The paper dust collecting unit253is a box-shaped member whose upper side is opened, and mainly collects and stores the paper dust and the like falling from the third processing unit233and the blade unit241. The paper dust and the like stored in the paper dust collecting unit253can be removed by detaching the paper dust collecting unit253from the sheet manufacturing apparatus1.

With reference toFIG.7, a configuration of the fourth processing unit244included in the cleaning unit42will be described. Note that, the cleaning unit41and the cleaning unit42are different from each other in terms of arrangement, but are the same in terms of basic configuration. Therefore, the cleaning unit42will be described as a representative example, and description of the fourth processing unit144and the like of the cleaning unit41will be omitted.

As illustrated inFIG.7, the fourth processing unit244of the cleaning unit42includes a shaft portion244a, an arm portion244b, a striking portion244c, and a spring portion244d. Although not illustrated, the fourth processing unit244also includes a wind-up portion and a lever portion. The wind-up portion is one of the plurality of gears of the gear group210described above. Here,FIG.7illustrates a state in which a striking operation, which will be described later, of the fourth processing unit244is not performed.

The shaft portion244aextends along the X-axis and is rotatably supported by the frame unit215about a rotation shaft along the X-axis. The arm portion244band the spring portion244dare fixed to the shaft portion244a.

The arm portion244bfaces the fixing member243in the direction along the Y-axis. The striking portion244cis arranged at an upper end portion of the arm portion244b.

The blade unit241is fixed to an upper end portion of the fixing member243so as to protrude upward. An impact receiving portion242is mounted in the +Y direction of the blade unit241. In other words, the blade unit241is held between the fixing member243and the impact receiving portion242. The impact receiving portion242is fixed to the fixing member243at a position where the impact receiving portion242is brought into contact with the striking portion244c.

The striking portion244cis arranged at the upper end portion of the arm portion244bso as to face the −Y direction while being in contact with the impact receiving portion242. As the striking operation of the fourth processing unit244, the striking portion244cis once separated from the impact receiving portion242at the initial stage of the striking operation by the fourth processing unit244, and then comes into contact with the impact receiving portion242while striking the same.

Accordingly, the impact of striking of the striking portion244cis propagated to the blade unit241via the impact receiving portion242. The impact has an effect of knocking off paper pieces and the like adhering to the blade unit241from the blade unit241.

Since the impact is indirectly applied to the blade unit241by the impact receiving portion242, breakage or the like is less likely to occur in the blade unit241. In addition, the paper dust and the like adhering to the blade unit241are less likely to adhere to the striking portion244c, and thus contamination to the striking portion244cis suppressed.

The spring portion244dis arranged so as to generate biasing force to the shaft portion244ain the rotation direction with respect to the rotation shaft of the shaft portion244a. Specifically, the spring portion244dis, for example, a torsion coil spring, one end of which is fixed to the shaft portion244aand the other end of which is fixed to the frame unit215. Accordingly, in side view in the −X direction, the shaft portion244ais biased counterclockwise, and the striking portion244cis pressed against the impact receiving portion242.

With reference toFIG.8toFIG.12, a configuration and an action of the gear group210and the like of the cleaning unit42will be described. Here, the configuration and action of the gear group110of the cleaning unit41are the same as the gear group210. Therefore, description of the configuration and action of the gear group110and the like in the cleaning unit41will be omitted. Note that, in the description ofFIG.8andFIG.10toFIG.12, a state in side view in the −X direction will be described unless otherwise specified.

As illustrated inFIG.8, the gear group210includes, as a plurality of gears described above, gears G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6, and G7and gears G14, G15, G16, and G17. The gear G1to the gear G7, and the gear G14to the gear G17are each arranged in the above sequence in engagement with one another. The gear G1is directly coupled to the output shaft of the driving unit542. Each gear of the gear group210rotates about a rotation shaft along the X-axis.

The driving unit542rotates clockwise, which is the normal rotation, and counterclockwise, which is the reverse rotation, by control of the control unit5. The rotational driving force of the driving unit542is transmitted from the gear G1to the gear G2. The gear G2includes a gear, not illustrated, which engages with the gear G1in the +X direction of the gear which engages with the gear G3. Therefore, the rotational driving force is transmitted from the gear G2to the gear G3, and further from the gear G3to the gear G4, the gear G5, the gear G6, and the gear G7sequentially. Further, the rotational driving force is also sequentially transmitted from the gear G3to the gear G14, the gear G15, and the gears G16and G17.

Although not illustrated in the drawings, an end portion of the first processing unit231in the −X direction is fixed to the gear G16, and an end portion of the third processing unit233in the −X direction is fixed to the gear G17.

The gear G3is an example of a power switching unit and a power switching device of the present disclosure. The gear G3is interposed between the driving unit542and the first processing unit231. The gear G3is also interposed between the driving unit542and the second processing unit220(not illustrated).

A lever portion244eof the fourth processing unit244is arranged so as to correspond to the gear G5which is the wind-up portion. The lever portion244eis biased in a clockwise direction with the shaft portion244aas the rotation shaft by being in contact with and riding on a convex portion, which will be described later, of the gear G5.

As illustrated inFIG.9, the gear G3includes an input gear301, a first gear311, a second gear312, and an input shaft303. The input gear301, the first gear311, and the second gear312rotate about the input shaft303as a rotation shaft. The rotation shaft is along the X-axis. The input gear301, the first gear311, and the second gear312are arranged in the order of the first gear311, the input gear301, and the second gear312toward the +X direction.

The reference circle diameter of the input gear301is larger than the reference circle diameters of the first gear311and the second gear312. Note that, the reference circle diameter of the first gear311may be equal to or different from the reference circle diameter of the second gear312. The reference circle diameter of the input gear301is larger than the reference circle diameters of the first gear311and the second gear312.

The input gear301can receive from the driving unit542the driving force in the first rotation direction and the driving force in the second rotation direction via the above-described gears G1and G2. In side view in the −X direction, the first rotation direction is the clockwise direction, and the second rotation direction is the counterclockwise direction.

The input shaft303is directly coupled to the input gear301. Therefore, when the input gear301is driven by the driving unit542to rotate in the first rotation direction and the second rotation direction, the input shaft303rotates in the first rotation direction and the second rotation direction in conjunction with the input gear301.

The first gear311and the second gear312include a one-way clutch. Therefore, the first gear311and the second gear312are selectively driven or stopped in accordance with the rotation direction of the input shaft303.

Specifically, the one-way clutch of the first gear311rotates the first gear311in the first rotation direction, driven only by the rotation of the input shaft303in the first rotation direction. The one-way clutch of the second gear312rotates the second gear312in the second rotation direction, driven only by the rotation of the input shaft303in the second rotation direction. Thus, the driving force of the driving unit542is selectively distributed by the gears G3in accordance with the rotation direction of the driving unit542.

For the one-way clutches of the first gear311and the second gear312, for example, a known technique such as a cam type, a sprag type, or the like can be adopted. In the present embodiment, a planetary gear system is used as the one-way clutch.

As illustrated inFIG.10, when the driving unit542rotates in the normal direction, the gear G1also rotates clockwise. The driving force of the rotation of the gear G1rotates the gear G2counterclockwise via the gear G2a. Note that, inFIG.10andFIG.11, for convenience of description, the arrangement of each of the gears of the gear group210in the direction along the X-axis is different from the actual arrangement.

The driving force of the rotation of the gear G2is transmitted from a gear G2bto the input gear301of the gear G3, and rotates the input gear301clockwise, which is the first rotation direction. As a result, the input shaft303(not illustrated) also rotates in the first rotation direction. The driving force of the rotation of the input shaft303in the first rotation direction rotates only the first gear311in the first rotation direction.

Thus, the one-way clutch of the first gear311transmits only the driving force of the rotation in the first rotation direction from the input shaft303to the first processing unit231and the third processing unit233. Since the input shaft303rotates in the first rotation direction, the second gear312(not illustrated) is in a free state and is not driven.

The gear G14is arranged corresponding to the first gear311. The driving force of the rotation of the first gear311is transmitted to the gear G14to rotate the gear G14counterclockwise. The driving force of the rotation of the gear G14is transmitted to a gear G15aof the gear G15to rotate the gear G15clockwise. The driving force of the rotation of the gear G15is transmitted from a gear G15bto the gear G16and the gear G17.

As described above, the driving force in the first rotation direction from the driving unit542that is received by the input shaft303is output from the input shaft303to the first processing unit231and the third processing unit233via the first gear311. As a result, the first processing unit231and the third processing unit233each rotate counterclockwise.

As illustrated inFIG.11, when the driving unit542rotates in the reverse direction, the gear G1also rotates counterclockwise. The driving force of the rotation of the gear G1rotates the gear G2clockwise via the gear G2a.

The driving force of the rotation of the gear G2is transmitted from the gear G2bto the input gear301of the gear G3to rotate the input gear301counterclockwise, which is the second rotation direction. As a result, the input shaft303(not illustrated) also rotates in the second rotation direction. The driving force of the rotation of the input shaft303in the second rotation direction rotates only the second gear312.

Thus, the one-way clutch of the second gear312transmits only the driving force of the rotation in the second rotation direction from the input shaft303to the second processing unit220and the fourth processing unit244. Since the input shaft303rotates in the second rotation direction, the first gear311(not illustrated) is in a free state and is not driven.

The gear G4is arranged corresponding to the second gear312. The driving force of the rotation of the second gear312is transmitted to the gear G4to rotate the gear G4clockwise. The driving force of the rotation of the gear G4is transmitted to the gear G5to rotate the gear G5counterclockwise. The driving force of the rotation of the gear G5operates the fourth processing unit244via the lever portion244e. The striking operation by the operation of the fourth processing unit244will be described later.

The driving force of the rotation of the gear G5is transmitted to the gear G6to rotate the gear G6clockwise. The driving force of the rotation of the gear G6is transmitted to the gear G7to rotate the gear G7counterclockwise.

As described above, the driving force of the rotation in the second rotation direction from the driving unit542that is received by the input shaft303is output from the input shaft303to the second processing unit220and the fourth processing unit244via the second gear312. The driving force of the rotation transmitted to the gear G7rotates the shaft unit221and the cam members223aand223bof the second processing unit220counterclockwise. The operation of the second processing unit220will be described later.

As illustrated inFIG.12, the gear G5has a convex portion G5a. The convex portion G5ais arranged in the −X direction of the gear G5. In side view in the −X direction, the convex portion G5ahas a shape protruding from a rotation shaft of the gear G5in a moving radius direction of the gear G5.

In plan view from above, the convex portion G5ais located at a position where the convex portion G5aintersects with and being in contact with a tip end of the lever portion244ewhen the gear G5rotates. When the gear G5rotates counterclockwise, the tip end of the lever portion244erides on the convex portion G5a. As a result, the lever portion244eis biased clockwise, and rotational force in the clockwise direction acts on the shaft portion244a. That is, the gear G5applies compression force to the spring portion244dvia the lever portion244e.

The biasing force in the counterclockwise direction by the spring portion244dacts on the shaft portion244a, but the above compression force exceeds the biasing force. Therefore, the shaft portion244aand the arm portion244brotate clockwise, and the striking portion244cis separated from the impact receiving portion242.

Although not illustrated in the drawings, when the gear G5further rotates in the counterclockwise direction, the convex portion G5aand the tip end of the lever portion244eare separated. As a result, the rotational force acted on the lever portion244eand the shaft portion244aby the convex portion G5ais eliminated. Then, at the moment when the convex portion G5aand the lever portion244eare separated, the shaft portion244aquickly rotates counterclockwise by repulsive force of the spring portion244dagainst the compression force. Thus, the striking portion244cstrikes the impact receiving portion242to apply an impact to the blade unit241. The principle of the striking operation by the fourth processing unit244has been described above.

A cleaning function of the cleaning unit42will be described with reference toFIG.13toFIG.18. The cleaning unit41and the cleaning unit42are different in arrangement but have the same cleaning function. Therefore, the cleaning unit42will be described as a representative example, and the description of the cleaning function of the cleaning unit41will be omitted. Note that, in the description ofFIG.13toFIG.18, a state in side view in the −X direction is described unless otherwise specified.

As illustrated inFIG.13, paper dust D from the web W described above may adhere to the side surface of the processing roller72due to the operation of the sheet manufacturing apparatus1.

The cleaning layer231aof the first processing unit231is in contact with the side surface of the processing roller72. When the first processing unit231is in contact with the processing roller72, the processing roller72, the first processing unit231, and the third processing unit233rotate counterclockwise. At this time, the cleaning layer231aof the first processing unit231is pressed against the side surface of the processing roller72by biasing of the spring member251.

Next, as illustrated inFIG.14, the paper dust D adhering to the side surface of the processing roller72reaches a region where the processing roller72and the cleaning layer231aare in contact with each other by the rotation of the processing roller72. Then, the first processing unit231comes into contact with the processing roller72while rotating, thereby cleaning the side surface of the processing roller72. That is, the paper dust D adhering to the side surface of the processing roller72is entangled by the cleaning layer231aand is transferred to the first processing unit231.

Next, as illustrated inFIG.15, the paper dust D transferred to the cleaning layer231ais entangled with the bristle materials of the surface layer233aof the third processing unit233and transferred to the third processing unit233. Thus, the cleaning layer231aof the first processing unit231is cleaned, and the cleaning ability of the first processing unit231is maintained.

Next, as illustrated inFIG.16, the paper dust D transferred to the surface layer233aof the third processing unit233is scraped off by the blade unit241by the rotation of the third processing unit233. As a result, the surface layer233aof the third processing unit233is cleaned, and the cleaning ability of the third processing unit233with respect to the first processing unit231is maintained.

Here, when the amount of the paper dust D adhering to the blade unit241increases, the cleaning ability of the blade unit241to clean the third processing unit233decreases, and thus the cleaning ability of the third processing unit233to clean the first processing unit231also decreases, and there is a concern that the cleanliness of the processing roller72decreases. On the other hand, the paper dust D adhering to the blade unit241is removed by the impact of the striking operation described above, the cleaning ability of the blade unit241is recovered, and the cleaning ability of the third processing unit233is also recovered.

That is, as illustrated inFIG.17, the gear G5is rotated to rotate the shaft portion244aand the arm portion244bclockwise by a certain distance. Thus, the striking portion244cis separated from the impact receiving portion242. Then, the gear G5is further rotated, and as illustrated inFIG.18, the shaft portion244aand the arm portion244bare instantaneously rotated counterclockwise by the repulsive force of the spring portion244d. Therefore, the striking portion244cstrikes the impact receiving portion242, and the impact is applied to the blade unit241. As a result, the paper dust D adhering to the blade unit241falls and is collected in the paper dust collecting unit253(not illustrated).

As a result, the cleaning ability of the cleaning unit42with respect to the processing roller72is maintained. As described above, the function of the cleaning unit41is the same as that of the cleaning unit42. Therefore, same as the cleaning unit42, the cleaning ability of the cleaning unit41corresponding to the processing roller71is also maintained.

InFIG.17andFIG.18, the striking operation of the fourth processing unit244is performed in a state where the processing roller72and the first processing unit231are in contact with each other, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The above-described control unit5may cause the fourth processing unit244to apply the impact to the blade unit241when the first processing unit231is separated from the processing roller72.

The function of the second processing units120and220will be described with reference toFIG.19andFIG.20. In the description ofFIG.19andFIG.20, unless otherwise specified, a state in side view in the −X direction will be described.

The second processing unit220is caused to separate the first processing unit231from the processing roller72. Specifically, from the state ofFIG.6described above, as illustrated inFIG.19, the posture of the support member235is changed by the second processing unit220. Specifically, the shaft unit221is rotated to bring the protruding portion of the cam member223ainto contact with the lower end portion of the support member235from the +Y direction. Although not illustrated, the cam member223bmoves in conjunction with the cam member223a, and comes into contact with the lower end portion of the support member235corresponding to the cam member223bfrom the +Y direction.

At this time, each lower end portion of the support member235is biased substantially in the −Y direction by being in contact with the cam members223aand223b. This biasing force is larger than that of the spring member251. Therefore, the support member235rotates clockwise about the rotation shaft237as the rotation center by a certain distance. Then, the first processing unit231is separated from the processing roller72.

With this, when the processing of the web W is in progress, no impact is applied from the fourth processing unit244to the blade unit241. Therefore, vibrations caused by the impact applied to the fourth processing unit244, reaction force of the impact, and the like are not propagated to the processing roller72and the like. Therefore, in the belt-shaped sheet P1formed from the web W, deterioration in quality, such as thickness and the like can be prevented.

For the same reason, in the cleaning unit41, the impact may be applied from the fourth processing unit144to the blade unit141when the first processing unit131is separated from the processing roller71.

The second processing unit120is caused to separate the first processing unit131from the processing roller71. Specifically, from the state ofFIG.4described above, as illustrated inFIG.20, the posture of the support member135is changed by the second processing unit120. Specifically, the shaft unit121is rotated to bring the protruding portion of the cam member123ainto contact with the upper end portion of the support member135from the +Y direction. Note that, although not illustrated, the cam member123bmoves in conjunction with the cam member123a, and comes into contact with the upper end portion of the support member135corresponding to the cam member123bfrom the +Y direction.

At this time, each upper end portion of the support member135is biased substantially in the +Y direction by being in contact with the cam members123aand123b. This biasing force is larger than that of the spring member151. Therefore, the support member135rotates clockwise about the rotation shaft137as the rotation center by a certain distance. Thus, the first processing unit131is separated from the processing roller71.

According to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

While the second processing unit220that separates the first processing unit231from the processing roller72is provided, an increase in cost can be suppressed and a reduction in size can be facilitated. Specifically, by rotating the driving unit542in the normal direction and the reverse direction, the driving force of the driving unit542is distributed to the first processing unit231and the second processing unit220by the gear G3serving as the power switching unit. Therefore, the cleaning of the processing roller72and the separating operation of the first processing unit231from the processing roller72can be driven by the single driving unit542.

In addition, in the same manner as described above, while the second processing unit120that separates the first processing unit131from the processing roller71is provided, an increase in cost can be suppressed and a reduction in size can be facilitated. Specifically, by rotating the driving unit541in the normal direction and the reverse direction, the driving force of the driving unit541is distributed to the first processing unit131and the second processing unit120by the gear G3serving as the power switching unit. Therefore, the cleaning of the processing roller71and the separating operation of the first processing unit131from the processing roller71can be driven by the single driving unit541.

As described above, the sheet manufacturing apparatus1that includes the second processing units120and220and that suppresses an increase in cost and facilitates a reduction in size can be provided.

The driving force is selectively transmitted to the first gear311and the second gear312in accordance with the rotation direction of the driving force received by the input gear301. That is, one of the first gear311and the second gear312can be driven by rotating the output shaft serving as the driving force source in the normal direction and in the reverse direction. Therefore, providing an additional driving force source is not necessary, and suppressing an increase in cost and reducing the size of an apparatus to which the power switching device is applied can be facilitated. Therefore, a power switching device that suppresses an increase in cost and contributes to a reduction in size can be provided.