JP2008063077A - Image forming system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To appropriately determine whether post-processing such as binding processing is executable or not. <P>SOLUTION: A post-processible number of binding processing or the like is determined based on a setting condition of single-side printing or double-side printing. A sheet number per post-processed sheet unit is calculated. The determined post-processible number is compared with the calculated sheet number, and when the calculated sheet number exceeds the post-processible number, image formation to sheets is prohibited. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming system that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed.

  In recent years, image forming systems that perform post-processing such as bookbinding processing and stapling processing on sheets on which images have been formed have appeared. According to such an image forming system, the output sheets can be bundled or a book can be formed with the output sheets, which is convenient for the user.

  By the way, post-processing such as bookbinding and stapling has a limited capability. When the bookbinding process or the staple process is executed, the sheets on which images are formed are usually accumulated once in the stacker, and the bookbinding process or the staple process is executed with the accumulated sheets as one copy. However, since a stacker for stacking sheets has only a fixed stacking capacity, bookbinding processing and stapling cannot be executed for the number of sheets greater than the stacking capacity of the stacker. There is also a situation in which a good staple process cannot be executed without passing a needle through a bundle of sheets of a certain number or more.

  Therefore, there is a technique for determining whether or not the number of sheets that can be subjected to post-processing is reached.

  The technique described in Patent Document 1 is as follows. The number of documents in the document bundle is detected and counted by the document sensor, and the number of recording sheets in the recording sheet bundle on which the document image is recorded is acquired in advance. By comparing the acquired number of recording sheets with a predetermined determination value, it is determined whether or not stapling can be performed on the recording sheet bundle, and the determination result is displayed on the display unit.

According to the technique described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to determine in advance whether post-processing can be performed, and therefore it is possible to suppress recording paper loss and work loss.
JP 2001-130826 A

  The technique described in Patent Document 1 determines whether or not staples are possible using one determination value set in advance based on the staple processing capability. However, the post-processing capability cannot always be determined based on one determination value, and the post-processing capability may differ depending on whether the print format on the sheet is single-sided printing or double-sided printing.

  For example, since the curl generated on the sheet differs depending on whether single-sided printing or double-sided printing, the post-processing capability may differ depending on whether single-sided printing or double-sided printing. This point will be described in detail.

  When an image is formed on a sheet with toner, the sheet is often curled. This is because, when an image is formed with toner, it is necessary to melt the toner by heat, and therefore, the shrinkage difference occurs between the front and back of the sheet due to the influence of the heat. In general, single-sided printing is larger and easier to curl than double-sided printing.

  As described above, when post-processing is executed, a certain number of sheets are stacked on the stacker. However, the sheet in which the curl is generated occupies more space in the stacker. Therefore, a single-sided printing sheet with a large curl can be accumulated in the stacker only in a smaller number than a double-sided printing sheet, and a small number of post-processing can be executed. If the post-processing capability is determined based on the single-sided printing sheet, the post-processing is limited even though the double-sided printing can execute the post-processing for a larger number of sheets than the standard. May limit the user's desire.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming system that can appropriately determine whether post-processing can be executed.

In order to achieve the above object, an image forming system according to the present invention includes:
An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
A post-processing unit that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed;
A setting means for setting a printing format for performing single-sided printing or double-sided printing on a sheet;
Determining means for determining the post-processable number of sheets in the post-processing section based on the setting conditions of single-sided printing or double-sided printing set by the setting means;
Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets per sheet to be post-processed by the post-processing unit;
The post-processable sheet number determined by the determination unit is compared with the sheet number calculated by the calculation unit. If the sheet number calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the post-processable sheet number, Control means for controlling the image forming unit to prohibit image formation of
It is characterized by having.

The image forming system according to the present invention includes:
An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
A post-processing unit that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed;
A setting means for setting a printing format for performing single-sided printing or double-sided printing on a sheet;
Among the one sheet to be post-processed in the post-processing unit, an attribute detection unit that detects the number of sheets of a print format different from the basic print format set by the setting unit, and a basic set by the setting unit Determining means for determining the post-processable number of sheets in the post-processing section based on the information of the print format and the number of sheets detected by the attribute detection means;
Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets per sheet to be post-processed by the post-processing unit;
The number of post-processable sheets determined by the determining unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit. When the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the number of post-processable sheets, the image Control means for controlling the image forming unit to prohibit image formation on the sheet by the forming unit;
It is characterized by having.

The image forming system according to the present invention includes:
An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
A post-processing unit that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed;
A setting means for setting a printing format for performing single-sided printing or double-sided printing on a sheet;
If the basic printing format set by the setting means is double-sided printing, the number of single-sided printing sheets in one post-processed sheet is detected, and if the printing format is single-sided printing, post-processing is performed. Attribute detecting means for detecting the number of sheets for duplex printing in one sheet;
Conversion means for converting the number of sheets detected by the attribute detection means into the number of sheets of the print format;
Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets of the printing format per one sheet to be post-processed using the number of sheets converted by the converting means;
When the post-processable number of print formats in the post-processing unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit, and the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the post-processable number of sheets, Control means for controlling the image forming unit to prohibit image formation on the sheet by the image forming unit;
It is characterized by having.

The image forming system according to the present invention includes:
A sheet accommodating portion for accommodating the sheet;
An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
A post-processing unit that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed;
A setting means for setting a printing format for performing single-sided printing or double-sided printing on a sheet;
Determining means for determining whether or not an image is formed in the same print format as the basic print format set by the setting means for the next sheet discharged from the sheet storage unit;
A determining unit that determines the number of post-processable sheets in the post-processing unit based on the basic print format information set by the setting unit and the result determined by the determining unit;
Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets added by one to the number of discharged sheets discharged from the sheet storage unit;
The number of post-processable sheets determined by the determining unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit. When the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the number of post-processable sheets, the image Control means for controlling the image forming unit to prohibit image formation on the next sheet by the forming unit;
It is characterized by having.

An image forming system according to the present invention includes:
A sheet storage section for storing the sheet;
An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
A post-processing unit that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed;
A setting means for setting a printing format for performing single-sided printing or double-sided printing on a sheet;
Determining means for determining whether or not an image is formed in the same print format as the basic print format set by the setting means for the next sheet discharged from the sheet storage unit;
Conversion means for converting the next sheet into the number of sheets in the basic print format when the determination means determines that an image is formed on the next sheet in a print format different from the basic print format; ,
Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets of the printing format per one sheet to be post-processed using the number of sheets converted by the converting means;
When the post-processable number of print formats in the post-processing unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit, and the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the post-processable number of sheets, Control means for controlling the image forming unit to prohibit image formation on the next sheet by the image forming unit;
It is characterized by having.

  According to the image forming system of the present invention, it can be properly determined whether or not post-processing can be executed.

  FIG. 1 is a central sectional view of the image forming system.

  The image forming system includes an image forming apparatus A and a post-processing apparatus B, and the image forming apparatus A and the post-processing apparatus B are connected.

  The image forming apparatus A forms an image on the sheet S1 by an electrophotographic method, and includes an image forming unit A1, an automatic document feeder (ADF) A2, and an image reading unit A3. In the image forming unit A1, a charging device 2, an exposure device 3, a developing device 4, a transfer device 5A, a separating device 5B, and a cleaning device 6 are arranged around the drum-shaped photoreceptor 1, and charging, exposure, development, and the like. Each process of transfer is executed, and a toner image is formed on the sheet S1.

  Each sheet S1 is stored in the sheet feed tray 7A functioning as a sheet storage unit, and the sheets S1 are discharged one by one from the sheet feed tray 7A and conveyed to the image forming unit A1. The sheet S1 to which the toner image has been transferred is subjected to a fixing process in the fixing device 8. When single-sided printing is performed on the sheet S1, the fixed sheet S1 is directly discharged from the image forming apparatus A through the discharge roller 7B. On the other hand, when duplex printing is performed on the sheet S1, the fixed sheet S1 is conveyed to the refeed path 7C, and a toner image is formed on the back side of the sheet S1.

  The post-processing device B performs post-processing such as bookbinding processing and stapling processing on the sheet S1 sent from the image forming apparatus A. The post-processing apparatus B includes an intermediate stacker 30, a bookbinding stacker 40 that functions as a post-processing unit, a coating unit 50, and a joining unit 70 that joins a cover. And a cover storage unit 60 and a main discharge unit 80.

  The sheet S1 conveyed from the image forming apparatus A to the post-processing apparatus B is discharged to the discharge tray 20 through the discharge path 12 or transferred to the intermediate stacker 30 by the switching gate 11 provided in the transfer unit 10. Is done. The sheet S1 is discharged to the discharge tray 20 when the post-processing apparatus B does not perform post-processing.

  When the bookbinding process is executed in the post-processing apparatus B, the sheet S1 is conveyed to the intermediate stacker 30 via the conveyance path 13. In the intermediate stacker 30, the sheets S1 are temporarily accumulated, and when the bookbinding stacker 40 is ready to be received, the bundle of sheets S1 accumulated in the intermediate stacker 30 is conveyed to the bookbinding stacker 40. The bookbinding stacker 40 aligns the bundle of sheets S1 conveyed from the intermediate stacker 30. The stapling process is also performed in the bookbinding stacker 40.

  When the sheets S1 corresponding to one booklet are stacked, the bookbinding stacker 40 rotates and the bundle of sheets S1 is held in a substantially vertical state. Then, an adhesive is applied to the lower surface, which is the back of the bundle of sheets S1, by the application unit 50, and the cover sheet S2 conveyed from the cover sheet storage unit 60 is brought into contact with and bonded to the bundle of sheets S1 at the joining unit 70. The booklet created by bonding the cover sheet S2 to the bundle of sheets S1 is discharged to the main discharge unit 80.

  2 and 3 are enlarged views of the intermediate stacker 30 and the bookbinding stacker 40 in the post-processing apparatus B. FIG. 2 shows a state in which the bookbinding stacker 40 is in a position to receive the sheet S1 from the intermediate stacker 30, and FIG. 3 shows a state in which the application unit 50 applies an adhesive to the bundle of sheets S1.

  The bookbinding stacker 40 is rotated by a driving means (not shown) to move between a receiving position of the sheet S1 shown in FIG. 2 from the intermediate stacker 30 and a post-processing execution position which is in a vertical state.

  As described above, when the bookbinding process is executed, the sheet S1 sent out from the image forming apparatus A is conveyed to the intermediate stacker 30 through the conveyance path 13. A stopper 31 is installed between the intermediate stacker 30 and the bookbinding stacker 40. When the bookbinding stacker 40 is ready to receive, the stopper 31 moves (cancels) from the position of the solid line, which is the restriction position, to the position of the broken line, and the sheet S1 accumulated in the intermediate stacker 30 moves to the bookbinding stacker 40. Note that whether or not the bookbinding stacker 40 is ready to receive is determined based on the fact that the bookbinding stacker 40 has completed the movement to the receiving position.

  When the movement of the sheet S1 to the bookbinding stacker 40 is completed, the stopper 31 returns to the position of the solid line again, and the accumulation of the sheet S1 sent from the image forming apparatus A to the intermediate stacker 30 is resumed.

  When post-processing such as bookbinding processing or stapling processing is executed in the post-processing apparatus B, a certain number of sheets are stacked in the intermediate stacker 30 or bookbinding stacker 40. However, the sheet S1 in which curling has occurred is stored in the intermediate stacker. The space occupied at 30 etc. increases. Therefore, the single-sided printing sheet S1 with a large curl can be accumulated in the intermediate stacker 30 and the like, and the post-processing can be executed only with a small number of sheets. If the post-processing capability of the post-processing apparatus B is determined based on a single-sided printing sheet, the post-processing can be executed for a larger number of sheets than the reference in the case of double-sided printing. Since post-processing restrictions are always applied, there is a possibility of limiting the user's desire. Therefore, the present invention can appropriately determine whether or not post-processing can be executed, and will be described in detail below.

  First, a block diagram of a control system in the image forming system will be described with reference to FIG.

  The image forming apparatus A is connected to a PC, which is a terminal such as a personal computer, and a bookbinding apparatus B. When an image is input from the PC to the print controller A5 via a communication line such as a LAN, the CPU 101 (determination unit, calculation unit, control unit, attribute detection unit, determination unit, conversion unit) is a DRAM control IC 102, compression / decompression IC 103. The input image is stored in the compression memory in the image memory 104.

  On the other hand, when the document is read by the image reading unit A3 and an image is input, the input image is processed by the reading processing unit 108 and similarly stored in the compression memory in the image memory 104.

  When the stored image is formed on the sheet S 1, the compressed image is expanded by the compression / decompression IC 103 and expanded in the page memory in the image memory 104. The CPU 101 controls the image forming control unit in the image forming unit A1 based on the image developed in the page memory, and forms an image on the sheet S1. In addition to the image memory 104, the CPU 101 is connected to a program memory 105, a system memory 106, and a nonvolatile memory 107 that store programs for performing a series of operations in the image forming system. The bookbinding device control unit B1 of the bookbinding device B is connected to the image formation control unit of the image forming unit A1, and performs post-processing such as bookbinding processing in relation to the image forming unit A1.

  5 to 8 are detailed views of the setting screen in the operation display unit A4.

  When printing is performed in the image forming system, printing conditions are set in the operation display unit A4 shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 5 shows a basic screen of the operation display unit A4 functioning as setting means and display means. In A41, a document format and a printing format as a basis for output are selected. For example, if a “double-sided” setting button is pressed, a double-sided document is output by double-sided printing.

  When post-processing such as bookbinding processing is executed, first, the application function button A42 is pressed. When the application function button A42 is pressed, a setting screen related to the application function is displayed as shown in FIG. 6, and then a post-processing button A43 on the setting screen is pressed. When the post-processing button A43 is pressed, a setting screen related to post-processing is displayed as shown in FIG. For example, when the bookbinding process for covering the sheet S1 with the cover sheet S2 in a U-shape is executed, a case binding button on the setting screen is pressed.

  By the way, when it is desired to insert a print format different from the basic print format into an intermediate page, for example, the output basic print format is double-sided printing. In that case, the output format setting button A44 in FIG. 6 is pressed, and details are set on the setting screen shown in FIG. In the setting screen of FIG. 8, a print format to be inserted and a page number into which the print format is inserted are input. For example, although basic printing is duplex printing, when it is desired to insert a single-sided printing page in the middle of the page, the single-sided printing button A45 is pressed, and the page number to be entered is entered using the numeric keypad. In the setting screen shown in FIG. 8, P5 to P8 are inserted.

  Hereinafter, an operation for determining whether or not post-processing can be executed based on the setting contents of single-sided printing and double-sided printing will be described.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible when the printing operation (copying) is executed after the reading of the document is completed.

  First, printing conditions such as the type of post-processing (such as bookbinding) and the output format (such as single-sided printing) are set in the operation display unit A4 (step S1), and printing is performed by pressing the start button installed in the image forming apparatus A. The job is started (step S2).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the output format to the sheet set in the operation display unit A4 is single-sided printing (step S3). This determination is made by the CPU 101 based on the printing condition information set through the operation display unit A4.

  If the output format to the sheet is single-sided printing, the limit value for single-sided printing is acquired from the non-volatile memory 107 (step S4), and if it is not single-sided printing, that is, double-sided printing, the limit value for double-sided printing is stored in the non-volatile memory. It acquires from 107 (step S5). This limit value is the maximum number of sheets that can be post-processed (the number of sheets that can be post-processed), and the CPU 101 determines the limit value based on the set printing condition information. The CPU 101 determines whether or not post-processing is possible based on the respective limit values acquired in steps S4 and S5.

  When the limit value for single-sided printing or the limit value for double-sided printing is acquired, the document reading operation is started (step S6). When it is determined that the document reading is completed (step S7; Yes), per sheet to be output The number of sheets is calculated (step S8). The calculated number of sheets is a numerical value used for determining whether or not post-processing is possible. The image information of the original read by the image reading unit A3 is stored in the page memory for each page together with attribute information (sheet size, mode information, post-processing information, etc.), and the number of sheets per copy is stored in the page memory. The CPU 101 calculates based on the number of stored pages and information on the print format to be output (single-sided printing or double-sided printing).

  When the number of sheets per set is calculated, the limit value acquired in steps S4 and S5 is compared with the number of sheets per set (step S9). If the number of sheets per copy is less than the limit value, it is determined that post-processing such as bookbinding is possible, and printing is started based on the read image information of the document (step S10). When printing per copy is completed (step S11), post-processing such as bookbinding processing is executed (step S12). On the other hand, if the number of sheets per copy is larger than the limit value, a warning message is displayed on the operation display unit A4 as shown in FIG. 10 (step S13), and image formation on the sheet and execution of post-processing are prohibited. In a series of operations, the CPU 101 controls the image forming unit A1 and the like.

  The above-described flowchart of FIG. 9 describes the determination operation when copying an original. FIG. 11 shows the determination operation when the image forming system receives image data from a PC and prints it. The flowchart shown in FIG. 11 and the flowchart shown in FIG. 9 determine whether or not post-processing is possible by a similar method. In the flowchart shown in FIG. 11, data is received instead of reading a document (step S21), and it is determined whether post-processing is possible when the received data is printed on a sheet.

  As described above with reference to FIGS. 9 and 11, the limit value serving as a reference for whether or not post-processing is possible is changed depending on whether the output printing format is single-sided printing or double-sided printing, and the limit value is compared with the number of sheets per copy. To determine whether post-processing can be executed. In this way, it is possible to determine whether or not post-processing can be properly executed in each printing format of single-sided printing and double-sided printing.

  FIG. 12 is a flow chart for explaining an operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible when reading of a document is started and a printing operation (copying) is started.

  First, in the operation display unit A4, printing conditions such as the type of post-processing (such as bookbinding processing) and the output format (such as single-sided printing) are set (step S31), and printing is performed by pressing the start button installed in the image forming apparatus A. The job is started (step S32).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the output format to the sheet set in the operation display unit A4 is single-sided printing (step S33). If the output format to the sheet is single-sided printing, the limit value for single-sided printing is acquired from the nonvolatile memory 107 (step S34), and if it is not single-sided printing, that is, in the case of double-sided printing, the limit value for double-sided printing is stored in the nonvolatile memory. It acquires from 107 (step S35). This limit value is the maximum number of sheets that can be post-processed (the number of sheets that can be post-processed).

  When the limit value for single-sided printing or the limit value for double-sided printing is acquired, the document reading operation is started (step S36), and the image on the sheet is improved in order to improve the productivity of the sheet output from the image forming system 1. Formation (printing) is also started in parallel (step S37).

  When it is determined that the reading of the document is completed (step S38; Yes), the number of sheets per one sheet to be output is calculated (step S38). The image information of the original read by the image reading unit A3 is stored in the page memory for each page together with attribute information (sheet size, mode information, post-processing information, etc.), and the number of sheets per copy is stored in the page memory. The CPU 101 calculates based on the number of stored pages and information on the print format to be output (single-sided printing or double-sided printing).

  When the number of sheets per copy is calculated, the limit value acquired in steps S34 and S35 is compared with the number of sheets per copy (step S39). If the number of sheets per copy is less than the limit value, it is determined that post-processing such as bookbinding is possible, and the printing operation is continued until printing is completed. When printing per one copy is completed (step S41), post-processing such as bookbinding processing is executed (step S42). On the other hand, if the number of sheets per copy is larger than the limit value, the subsequent printing operation (image formation on the sheet) determined as such is prohibited (step S43), and the operation display unit A4 as shown in FIG. A warning message is displayed (step S44). In a series of operations, the CPU 101 controls the image forming unit A1 and the like.

  While the above-described flowchart of FIG. 12 describes the determination operation when copying a document, FIG. 13 shows the determination operation when the image forming system receives image data from a PC and prints it. The flowchart shown in FIG. 13 and the flowchart shown in FIG. 12 determine whether or not post-processing is possible by a similar method. In the flowchart shown in FIG. 13, data is received instead of reading a document (step S51), and it is determined whether post-processing is possible when the received data is printed on a sheet.

  As described above with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, even when the printing operation is executed in parallel with the reading of the document or the reception of the data, the criterion for whether or not the post-processing is possible depends on whether the output printing format is single-sided printing or double-sided printing. It is determined whether or not post-processing can be executed by changing the limit value and comparing the limit value with the number of sheets per copy. In this way, it is possible to determine whether or not post-processing can be properly executed in each printing format of single-sided printing and double-sided printing.

  Next, determination of whether or not post-processing is possible when single-sided printing and double-sided printing are mixed in one sheet of output sheet will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible when the printing operation (copying) is executed after the reading of the document is completed.

  First, printing conditions such as the type of post-processing (such as bookbinding processing) and the output format (such as single-sided printing) are set in the operation display unit A4 (step S71). In this flowchart, the basic print format is set to double-sided printing with the single / double-sided selection button A41 of the operation display unit A4, and the single-sided printing is performed by pressing the output format setting button A44 of the operation display unit A4. Consider the case of setting. After setting the printing conditions, the user presses a start button installed in the image forming apparatus A to start a print job (step S72).

  Next, a document reading operation is started (step S73). When it is determined that the document reading is completed (step S74; Yes), the number of single-sided printings for one sheet of output is detected (step S76). That is, the number of sheets in a printing format different from the basic printing format is detected. Since the curl amount of a single-sided printed sheet is different from the curl amount of a double-sided printed sheet, the space occupied by one part of the double-sided printed sheet in the intermediate stacker 30 and the like, the double-sided printed sheet and the single-sided printed sheet The space occupied by one part of the sheet including the intermediate stacker 30 is different. That is, the number of post-processable sheets (limit value) differs. Therefore, when single-sided printing and double-sided printing are mixed, a limit value is determined from the set printing conditions and the number of sheets for single-sided printing or double-sided printing, and it is determined whether post-processing can be executed based on the limit value. There is a need. In this flowchart, the basic print format is set as double-sided printing, and the print format desired to be inserted on a halfway page is set as single-sided printing. Therefore, in step S73, the number of single-sided printing inserted is detected. The CPU 101 detects the number of single-sided printings in one copy based on the attribute information for each page stored in the page memory.

  When the number of single-sided prints in one copy is detected, a limit value is determined based on the detection result (step S76). A table whose limit value differs depending on the number of single-sided prints as shown in FIG. 15 is stored in the nonvolatile memory 107, and the CPU 101 determines the limit value with reference to this table.

  Next, the number of sheets per copy is calculated (step S77). The number of sheets per copy is calculated by the CPU 101 based on the number of pages stored in the page memory and the output print format information (single-sided printing or double-sided printing).

  When the number of sheets per copy is calculated, the limit value determined in step S76 is compared with the number of sheets per copy (step S78). If the number of sheets per copy is less than the limit value, it is determined that post-processing such as bookbinding processing is possible, and printing is started based on the image information of the read original (step S79). When printing per copy is completed (step S80; Yes), post-processing such as bookbinding processing is executed (step S81). On the other hand, if the number of sheets per copy is larger than the limit value, a warning message is displayed on the operation display unit A4 as shown in FIG. 10 (step S82), and image formation on the sheet and execution of post-processing are prohibited. In a series of operations, the CPU 101 controls the image forming unit A1 and the like.

  By the way, in this flowchart, we considered the case where the basic print format was set as double-sided printing and the print format to be inserted on the middle page was set as single-sided printing, but the basic print format was set as single-sided printing, The same applies to the case where the print format desired to be inserted into the page is set as double-sided printing. In this case, not the number of single-sided printing but the number of double-sided printing may be detected in step S75, and the limit value may be determined based on the detection result.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 14, the determination operation when copying a document has been described. FIG. 16 shows a determination operation when the image forming system receives image data from a PC and prints it. The flowchart shown in FIG. 16 and the flowchart shown in FIG. 14 determine whether or not post-processing is possible by the same method. In the flowchart shown in FIG. 16, data is received instead of reading a document (step S91), and it is determined whether post-processing is possible when the received data is printed on a sheet.

  As described above with reference to FIGS. 14 and 16, when single-sided printing and double-sided printing are mixed in one copy of the output sheet, the limit value is changed depending on the number of sheets of single-sided printing or double-sided printing. It is determined whether or not post-processing is possible by comparing the number of hit sheets. In this way, it is possible to appropriately determine whether post-processing can be executed according to the printing conditions for single-sided printing and double-sided printing.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining the operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible each time a sheet is fed.

  First, printing conditions such as the type of post-processing (such as bookbinding processing) and the output format (such as single-sided printing) are set in the operation display unit A4 (step S101). In this flowchart, the basic print format is set to double-sided printing with the single / double-sided selection button A41 of the operation display unit A4, and the single-sided printing is performed by pressing the output format setting button A44 of the operation display unit A4. Consider the case of setting. After setting the printing conditions, the user presses a start button installed in the image forming apparatus A to start a print job (step S102). Then, reading of the document is started (step S103), and a limit value for double-sided printing, which is a basic printing format, is acquired from the nonvolatile memory 107 (step S104).

  Next, it is determined whether the output of the next page to be output is single-sided printing (step S105). If one sheet has not been printed yet, the next page corresponds to the first page, and if the first page has already been output, the next page corresponds to two pages. The basic print format in this flowchart is double-sided printing. However, when single-sided printing is inserted into one post-processed sheet, the maximum number of sheets that can be post-processed (limit value) differs due to the influence of curl or the like. . Therefore, in order to change the limit value, it is determined whether or not single-sided printing is performed in step S105. Whether or not single-sided printing is performed is determined by the CPU 101 based on attribute information relating to data of the next page.

  If the output of the next page is single-sided printing, the single-sided printing count value is incremented by 1 (step S106), and the limit value is changed in consideration of the single-sided printing count value (step S107). The limit value is changed with reference to a table as shown in FIG. On the other hand, if the output of the next page is not single-sided printing, that is, double-sided printing, the limit value is not changed (step S108).

  Then, the total number of sheets obtained by adding one sheet to the number of already fed sheets is calculated (step S109). The operation in step S109 is performed to determine whether or not post-processing is possible even after one sheet is fed. For example, if there are no already fed sheets, the total number of sheets is 1, and if there are 10 already fed sheets, the total number of sheets is 11.

  Then, the limit value is compared with the total number of sheets (step S110). If the total number of sheets is less than the limit value, post-processing such as bookbinding processing can be performed even if the next sheet is output, so one sheet is fed and printing is performed on the sheet (step S111). If there is data for the next page (step S112; Yes), the operations from step S105 to S110 are repeated. If there is no data for the next page (step S112; Yes), post-processing is performed for one sheet of the output sheet. Execute (Step S113).

  On the other hand, if the total number of sheets is larger than the limit value, it can be determined that post-processing cannot be executed even if more sheets are output, so the printing operation (image formation on the sheet) is prohibited (step S114), as shown in FIG. A warning message is displayed on the operation display unit A4 (step S115). In a series of operations, the CPU 101 controls the image forming unit A1 and the like.

  By the way, in this flowchart, we considered the case where the basic print format was set as double-sided printing and the print format to be inserted on the middle page was set as single-sided printing, but the basic print format was set as single-sided printing, The same applies to the case where the print format desired to be inserted into the page is set as double-sided printing. In this case, in step S105, the output of the next page may increase the count value for duplex printing by 1 and the limit value may be changed based on the count value for duplex printing.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 17, the determination operation when copying a document has been described, but a similar determination operation can be considered even when the image forming system receives image data from a PC and prints it.

  As described above with reference to FIG. 17, when single-sided printing and double-sided printing are mixed in an output format of one sheet, if it is determined whether or not post-processing is possible each time a sheet is fed, single-sided printing and double-sided printing are performed. It can be properly determined whether post-processing can be executed according to the printing conditions.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining an operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible using a method different from that in FIG. 14 when a printing operation (copying) is executed after reading of a document is completed.

  First, printing conditions such as the type of post-processing (such as bookbinding) and the output format (such as single-sided printing) are set in the operation display unit A4 (step S121). In this flowchart, the basic print format is set to double-sided printing with the single / double-sided selection button A41 of the operation display unit A4, and the single-sided printing is performed by pressing the output format setting button A44 of the operation display unit A4. Consider the case of setting. After setting the printing conditions, the user presses a start button installed in the image forming apparatus A to start a print job (step S122). Then, reading of the document is started (step S123), and the reading operation is continued until the reading operation of the document is completed (step S124).

  When the document reading operation is completed, the number of single-sided printings per copy is detected (step S125). This detection is detected by the CPU 101 based on the attribute information for each page of the document stored in the page memory. When the number of single-sided printings per copy is detected, the detected number of single-sided printings is converted into the number of double-sided printings to calculate the number of sheets per copy (step S126). This is performed to determine whether post-processing is possible or not based on the limit value for double-sided printing. Since the curl amount of a single-sided printed sheet is different from the curl amount of a double-sided printed sheet, for example, one sheet of single-sided printing is converted into three sheets of double-sided printing in consideration of the curl amount. Based on the converted result, the number of sheets per copy (the number of sheets for duplex printing in this flowchart) is calculated. This conversion and calculation is performed by the CPU 101.

  Then, a limit value for duplex printing is acquired from the nonvolatile memory 107 (step S127), and the limit value is compared with the number of sheets per copy (step S128). If the number of sheets per copy is less than the limit value, it is determined that post-processing such as bookbinding processing is possible, and printing is started based on the read image information of the document (step S129). When printing per copy is completed (step S130; Yes), post-processing such as bookbinding processing is executed (step S131). On the other hand, if the number of sheets per copy is larger than the limit value, a warning message is displayed on the operation display unit A4 as shown in FIG. 10 (step S132), and image formation on the sheet and execution of post-processing are prohibited. In a series of operations, the CPU 101 controls the image forming unit A1 and the like.

  In this flowchart, the basic print format is set as double-sided printing, and the print format to be inserted on the middle page is set as single-sided printing. However, the basic print format is set as single-sided printing, and the middle page is set. The same applies to the case where the print format desired to be inserted into the printer is set to duplex printing. In this case, in step S125, the number of double-sided printings per copy may be calculated and converted to the number of single-sided printings, and compared with the limit value for single-sided printing to determine whether post-processing is possible.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 18, the determination operation when copying a document has been described, but a similar determination operation is conceivable even when the image forming system receives image data from a PC and prints it.

  As described above with reference to FIG. 18, when single-sided printing and double-sided printing are mixed for one sheet of output format, conversion to the number of sheets in the basic printing format determines whether post-processing is possible, Even if double-sided printing is mixed, it can be properly determined whether or not post-processing can be executed.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining an operation different from FIG. 17 for determining whether or not post-processing is possible each time a sheet is fed.

  First, printing conditions such as the type of post-processing (such as bookbinding processing) and the output format (such as single-sided printing) are set in the operation display unit A4 (step S141). In this flowchart, the basic print format is set to double-sided printing with the single / double-sided selection button A41 of the operation display unit A4, and the single-sided printing is performed by pressing the output format setting button A44 of the operation display unit A4. Consider the case of setting. After setting the printing conditions, the user presses a start button installed in the image forming apparatus A to start a print job (step S142). Then, reading of the document is started (step S143), and a limit value for double-sided printing which is a basic printing format is acquired from the nonvolatile memory 107 (step S144).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the output of the next page is single-sided printing (step S145). If one sheet has not been printed yet, the next page corresponds to the first page, and if the first page has already been output, the next page corresponds to two pages. The CPU 101 makes a determination based on attribute information relating to the data of the next page. If the next page output is single-sided printing, the count value for single-sided printing is incremented by 1 (step S146). If the next page output is not single-sided printing, that is, double-sided printing, the limit value is not changed (step S145; No). ).

  Next, the count value of single-sided printing is converted into the number of double-sided printing (step S147). This is performed to determine whether post-processing is possible or not based on the limit value for double-sided printing. Since the curl amount of a single-sided printed sheet is different from the curl amount of a double-sided printed sheet, for example, one sheet of single-sided printing is converted into three sheets of double-sided printing in consideration of the curl amount. For example, if the count value for single-sided printing is 6, the converted number of double-sided printings is 18 (6 sheets × 3).

  Next, the sheet of the next page is regarded as already fed, and the total number of sheets for duplex printing that has been fed is calculated (step S148). The operation of step S148 is performed to determine whether or not post-processing is possible even after one sheet is fed. For example, if there is no sheet of double-sided printing already fed and the output of the next page is double-sided printing, the total number of sheets is 1 (0 + 1), and there are 10 sheets of double-sided printing already fed. If the output of the next page is single-sided printing, the total number of sheets is 13 (10 + 3) by adding three sheets converted to double-sided printing. This conversion and calculation is performed by the CPU 101.

  Then, the limit value is compared with the total number of sheets (step S149). If the total number of sheets is less than the limit value, post-processing such as bookbinding can be performed even if the next sheet is output, so that one sheet is fed and printing is performed on the sheet (step S150). If there is data for the next page (step S151; Yes), the operations from step S145 to S149 are repeated. If there is no data for the next page (step S151; No), post-processing is performed for one sheet of the output sheet. Execute (Step S152).

  On the other hand, if the total number of sheets is larger than the limit value, it can be determined that the post-processing cannot be executed even if more sheets are output, so the printing operation (image formation on the sheet) is prohibited (step S153), as shown in FIG. A warning message is displayed on the operation display section A4 (step S154). In a series of operations, the CPU 101 controls the image forming unit A1 and the like.

  By the way, in this flowchart, we considered the case where the basic print format was set as double-sided printing and the print format to be inserted on the middle page was set as single-sided printing, but the basic print format was set as single-sided printing, The same applies to the case where the print format desired to be inserted into the page is set as double-sided printing. In this case, in step S145, it is determined whether the output of the next page is double-sided printing, the double-sided printing count value is converted into the number of single-sided printing, and the single-sided printing limit value is compared with the total number of single-sided printed sheets. You may do it.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 19, the determination operation when copying a document has been described, but a similar determination operation is conceivable even when the image forming system receives image data from a PC and prints it.

  As described above with reference to FIG. 19, when single-sided printing and double-sided printing are mixed in an output format of one sheet, if single-sided printing or double-sided printing is determined every time a sheet is fed, it is determined whether or not post-processing is possible. It can be properly determined whether post-processing can be executed according to the printing conditions.

  In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus A and the post-processing apparatus B are connected to each other. However, the image forming apparatus A and the post-processing apparatus B are integrated, and one image forming system is used as a whole. Even if it is a form, it has the same effect.

  The embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments, and the present invention can be modified or added without departing from the gist of the present invention. included.

1 is a central sectional view of an image forming system. 4 is an enlarged view of an intermediate stacker 30 and a bookbinding stacker 40 in the post-processing apparatus B. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of an intermediate stacker 30 and a bookbinding stacker 40 in the post-processing apparatus B. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a control system in the image forming system. FIG. It is explanatory drawing regarding the basic screen in operation display part A4. It is explanatory drawing regarding the setting screen of the applied function in operation display part A4. It is explanatory drawing regarding the setting screen of the post-process in operation display part A4. It is explanatory drawing regarding the setting screen of the output format setting in operation display part A4. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible when a printing operation (copying) is executed after reading of a document is completed. It is explanatory drawing regarding the table of a limit value. It is explanatory drawing regarding the screen of the warning message in operation display part A4. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible when reading of a document is started and a printing operation (copying) is started. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible when the image forming system receives image data from a PC and prints it. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible when a printing operation (copying) is executed after reading of a document is completed. It is explanatory drawing regarding the table of a limit value. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible when the image forming system receives image data from a PC and prints it. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible each time a sheet is fed. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an operation for determining whether or not post-processing is possible using a method different from that in FIG. 14 when a printing operation (copying) is executed after reading of a document is completed. FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining an operation different from that in FIG. 17 for determining whether or not post-processing is possible each time a sheet is fed.

Explanation of symbols

A image forming apparatus A1 image forming section A3 image reading section A4 operation display section B post-processing apparatus 30 intermediate stacker 40 bookbinding stacker 101 CPU
104 Image memory 105 Program memory 106 System memory 107 Non-volatile memory

Claims (20)

An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
A post-processing unit that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed;
A setting means for setting a printing format for performing single-sided printing or double-sided printing on a sheet;
Determining means for determining the post-processable number of sheets in the post-processing section based on the setting conditions of single-sided printing or double-sided printing set by the setting means;
Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets per sheet to be post-processed by the post-processing unit;
The post-processable sheet number determined by the determination unit is compared with the sheet number calculated by the calculation unit. If the sheet number calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the post-processable sheet number, Control means for controlling the image forming unit to prohibit image formation of
An image forming system comprising: The number of post-processable sheets determined by the determining unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculating unit. When the number of sheets calculated by the calculating unit exceeds the number of post-processable sheets, a warning message is displayed. The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising display means for displaying the image. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the post-processing unit performs a staple process on a sheet on which an image is formed. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the post-processing unit executes a bookbinding process in which a sheet on which an image is formed is covered with a cover in a U-shape. An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
A post-processing unit that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed;
A setting means for setting a printing format for performing single-sided printing or double-sided printing on a sheet;
Among the one sheet to be post-processed in the post-processing unit, an attribute detection unit that detects the number of sheets of a print format different from the basic print format set by the setting unit, and a basic set by the setting unit Determining means for determining the post-processable number of sheets in the post-processing section based on the information of the print format and the number of sheets detected by the attribute detection means;
Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets per sheet to be post-processed by the post-processing unit;
The number of post-processable sheets determined by the determining unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit. When the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the number of post-processable sheets, the image Control means for controlling the image forming unit to prohibit image formation on the sheet by the forming unit;
An image forming system comprising: The number of post-processable sheets determined by the determining unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculating unit. When the number of sheets calculated by the calculating unit exceeds the number of post-processable sheets, a warning message is displayed. The image forming system according to claim 5, further comprising display means for displaying the image. The image forming system according to claim 5, wherein the post-processing unit performs a staple process on a sheet on which an image is formed. The image forming system according to claim 5, wherein the post-processing unit executes a bookbinding process in which a sheet on which an image is formed is covered with a cover in a U-shape. An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
A post-processing unit that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed;
A setting means for setting a printing format for performing single-sided printing or double-sided printing on a sheet;
If the basic printing format set by the setting means is double-sided printing, the number of single-sided printing sheets in one post-processed sheet is detected, and if the printing format is single-sided printing, post-processing is performed. Attribute detecting means for detecting the number of sheets for duplex printing in one sheet;
Conversion means for converting the number of sheets detected by the attribute detection means into the number of sheets of the print format;
Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets of the printing format per one sheet to be post-processed using the number of sheets converted by the converting means;
When the post-processable number of print formats in the post-processing unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit, and the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the post-processable number of sheets, Control means for controlling the image forming unit to prohibit image formation on the sheet by the image forming unit;
An image forming system comprising: When the post-processable number of print formats in the post-processing unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit, and the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the post-processable number of sheets, The image forming system according to claim 9, further comprising display means for displaying a warning message. The image forming system according to claim 9, wherein the post-processing unit executes a staple process on a sheet on which an image is formed. The image forming system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the post-processing unit executes a bookbinding process in which a sheet on which an image is formed is covered with a cover in a U-shape. A sheet storage section for storing the sheet;
An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
A post-processing unit that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed;
A setting means for setting a printing format for performing single-sided printing or double-sided printing on a sheet;
Determining means for determining whether or not an image is formed in the same print format as the basic print format set by the setting means for the next sheet discharged from the sheet storage unit;
A determining unit that determines the number of post-processable sheets in the post-processing unit based on the basic print format information set by the setting unit and the result determined by the determining unit;
Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets added by one to the number of discharged sheets discharged from the sheet storage unit;
The number of post-processable sheets determined by the determining unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit. When the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the number of post-processable sheets, the image Control means for controlling the image forming unit to prohibit image formation on the next sheet by the forming unit;
An image forming system comprising: Compare the post-processable number of sheets determined by the determining means with the total number of sheets calculated by the calculation means, and warn when the number of sheets calculated by the calculation means exceeds the post-processable number of sheets 14. The image forming system according to claim 13, further comprising display means for displaying a message. The image forming system according to claim 13, wherein the post-processing unit performs a staple process on a sheet on which an image is formed. The image forming system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the post-processing unit executes a bookbinding process in which a sheet on which an image is formed is covered with a cover in a U-shape. A sheet storage section for storing the sheet;
An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
A post-processing unit that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed;
A setting means for setting a printing format for performing single-sided printing or double-sided printing on a sheet;
Determining means for determining whether or not an image is formed in the same print format as the basic print format set by the setting means for the next sheet discharged from the sheet storage unit;
Conversion means for converting the next sheet into the number of sheets in the basic print format when the determination means determines that an image is formed on the next sheet in a print format different from the basic print format; ,
Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets of the printing format per one sheet to be post-processed using the number of sheets converted by the converting means;
When the post-processable number of print formats in the post-processing unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit, and the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the post-processable number of sheets, Control means for controlling the image forming unit to prohibit image formation on the next sheet by the image forming unit;
An image forming system comprising: When the post-processable number of print formats in the post-processing unit is compared with the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit, and the number of sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the post-processable number of sheets, 18. The image forming system according to claim 17, further comprising display means for displaying a warning message. The image forming system according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the post-processing unit executes a staple process on a sheet on which an image is formed. The image forming system according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the post-processing unit executes a bookbinding process in which a sheet on which an image is formed is covered with a cover in a U-shape.

Images