The 3696 gathering machine supports a flexible response to rapidly changing perfect binding scenarios in the up to 12,000 cycles/hour performance range.

The 3696 gathering machine enables bookbinders to adopt the extremely flexible approach they need for tackling a diverse range of jobs as well as helping them maintain optimum efficiency. When producing complex magazines and brochures, single sheets and fold-out signatures are fed efficiently, cards are electrostatically charged and inserts are tipped in-line. With simpler products such as two-up paperbacks and book blocks, the 3696 gathering machine wins fans thanks to its compact design and impressive size range.

Large Feeder Range Secures Impressive Flexibility
The flexible feeder range is a new feature for this performance range, and the modular design of the 3696 gathering machine ensures that it can be the perfect solution, whatever the customer's needs. The base unit is equipped with two tandem feeders in its standard configuration. These feeders can be replaced at any point with a sample gluer, a specialty feeder with longitudinal action or – a completely new feature – a handfeeding station.

Reliable Processing of a Whole Host of Signatures
The feeders provide extremely reliable separation, with even complex signatures being processed reliably and efficiently. The back of the signature is grasped firmly by the gripper and is pulled laterally out of the hopper via the shortest route. The signatures are pre-accelerated on the signature transport table so that they are fed gently to the transport finger and precisely lined up. The transport finger reliably transfers the signatures to the concave raceway, where the signatures are bent slightly giving them a stable shape for safe transportation. This allows even oblong sizes to be processed with a high net output. 

Verified Product Quality
Numerous easy-operation controls provide constant product quality monitoring. The Asac signature thickness measurement control reliably identifies missing sections or doubles even if there are temperature changes or paper alterations. Asir, the optical scanning system, recognises wrong signatures in both the image recognition and barcode mode and detects incorrectly printed signatures. If AsirCode is also used, it is possible to check that the product is complete and in correct signature sequence, including the cover.

The modular feeder range for the 3696 gathering machine ensures flexible production processes. (Legend: 1 Sample gluer, 2 Handfeeding station, 3 Specialty feeder)

Short Set-Up and Changeover Times
The gathering machine control also includes functions for sample gluer, specialty feeder, reject gate and transfer elements, ensuring extremely short set-up and changeover times. Thanks to a feature supporting loading from both sides, the changeover time required between jobs can also be further reduced by loading and producing on one side and preparing the next job on the opposite side.