The device, manufactured by Maping in Finland and exclusively distributed in the UK by Ashgate, is additional to the Fastbind portfolio.

It has been designed as an intermediate machine which Ashgate said “requires little skill to produce professional, high-quality hardback books”.

“The a46a is the long-awaited, long-requested addition to the portfolio. We’ve done the H46 Pro and H32 Pros, which this is a step up from. It’s for people who want a bit more automation and performance and will be the new flagship of the Casematic range,” said Ashgate managing director Lewis Price.

“The overall process remains the same – peel the printed tacking sheet, place it using the guides and light table, place the grey boards, cut the corners, fold the sides and the cover is ready.”

The a46a’s table is an air bed with suction holes. Once the boards are laid down, the guides automatically rise up so that the boards float over the table, making it easier to move the cover on the table.

Capable of operating at up to 120cph, dependent on user input, the device is equipped with sensors and a motor to press the edges once inserted in the unit. Other features include a motorised edge folding unit and the maximum folding thickness is 5mm.

The operator can adjust the brightness of the light and the length of the illuminated area for shorter or longer covers.

Ergonomically designed, the a46a has wheels for easier operation and mobility and a storage area for supplies. Optional tables can be added on each side which can slide open and closed. They are recommended for a gluing unit, a small laminator or the Fastbind Presso thermal press.

The circa-£10,000 a46a will be shown for the first time at The Print Show at the NEC, Birmingham from 18-20 September, at which point commercial availability will start.