JP2004155537A - Paper sheet post-processing device and image forming system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a paper sheet post-processing device capable of corresponding to ecology such as recycle of paper sheet and performing proper paper sheet binding processing in accordance with purpose of use of the paper sheet and desired paper sheet binding processing condition. <P>SOLUTION: This paper sheet post-processing device has a paper sheet binding means 33 for binding the paper sheets without using a binding member made of a metallic material by deforming a part of the accumulated paper sheets in common by utilizing elastic force and forming a condition in which they are mutually engaged in a deformed part. The paper sheet binding means 33 is provided with a projecting part 33a and a recessed part 33b for forming projecting and recessed parts in a part of the accumulated paper sheets to change the number and arrangement of the projecting and recessed parts formed in a bundle of the paper sheets in accordance with use condition related to degree of difficulty for binding. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

【０１１６】
また、例えば、用紙種類に応じて、抜き紙片部５０の形成数、脚部５２の長さ、脚部５２の幅について少なくとも一項目以上を変更する。具体的には、抜き紙片部５０を形成するパンチ刃（ポンチ）の配列本数及び形状（パンチ刃のテーパー分の長さと刃幅）と、このパンチ刃が貫通する部分にパンチ刃に適合する孔を配置された受板（ダイス）の形状を異ならせたものとを用紙種類に合わせて複数種類準備する。
【０１１７】
そして、下記表２に示すように、例えば、用紙が薄手の場合は、抜き紙片部５０の個数を少なくし、脚部５２の長さを短くし、脚部５２の幅を狭くすればよい。一方、用紙が厚手の場合は、抜き紙片部５０の個数を多くし、脚部５２の長さを長くし、脚部５２の幅を広くすればよい。
【０１１８】
【表２】

【０１１９】
また、例えば、用紙束の厚みに応じて、抜き紙片部５０の形成数、脚部５２の長さ、脚部５２の幅について少なくとも一項目以上を変更する。具体的には、抜き紙片部５０を形成するパンチ刃（ポンチ）の配列本数及び形状（パンチ刃のテーパー分の長さと刃幅）と、このパンチ刃が貫通する部分にパンチ刃に適合する孔を配置された受板（ダイス）の形状を異ならせたものとを用紙束の厚みに合わせて複数種類準備する。
【０１２０】
そして、下記表３に示すように、例えば、用紙束の厚みが薄い場合は、抜き紙片部５０の個数を少なくし、脚部５２の長さを短くし、脚部５２の幅を狭くすればよい。一方、用紙束の厚みが厚い場合は、抜き紙片部５０の個数を多くし、脚部５２の長さを長くし、脚部５２の幅を広くすればよい。
【０１２１】
【表３】

【０１２２】
具体的には、例えば、図１５（ａ）に示すように、用紙束の厚さが薄い場合（用紙の枚数が少ない場合、用紙が薄手の場合等を含む）は、脚部５２の長さを短くする（Ｌ１）。そして、図１５（ｂ）（ｃ）に示すように、用紙束の厚みが厚くなるに従い（用紙の枚数が増える場合、用紙の厚みが厚くなる場合等を含む）、脚部５２の長さを長くしていく（Ｌ２→Ｌ３）ことにより、用紙と抜き紙片部５０との摩擦力は大きくなり、用紙を安定かつ確実に綴じることができる。
【０１２３】
また、例えば、図１６（ａ）に示すように、用紙束の厚さが薄い場合（用紙の枚数が少ない場合、用紙が薄手の場合等を含む）は、脚部５２の幅を狭くする（Ｗ１）。そして、図１６（ｂ）（ｃ）に示すように、用紙束の厚みが厚くなるに従い（用紙の枚数が増える場合、用紙の厚みが厚くなる場合等を含む）、脚部５２の幅を広くしていく（Ｗ２→Ｗ３）ことにより、用紙と抜き紙片部５０との摩擦力は大きくなり、用紙を安定かつ確実に綴じることができる。
【０１２４】
また、例えば、図１７（ａ）に示すように、用紙束の厚さが薄い場合（用紙の枚数が少ない場合、用紙が薄手の場合等を含む）は、抜き紙片部５０（図中、ｒで示す）の個数を少なくする。そして、図１７（ｂ）（ｃ）に示すように、用紙束の厚みが厚くなるに従い（用紙の枚数が増える場合、用紙の厚みが厚くなる場合等を含む）、抜き紙片部５０の個数を多くしていくことにより、用紙と抜き紙片部５０との摩擦力は大きくなり、用紙を安定かつ確実に綴じることができる。
【０１２５】
また、例えば、図１８（ａ）に示すように、用紙束の厚さが薄い場合（用紙の枚数が少ない場合、用紙が薄手の場合等を含む）は、抜き紙片部５０（図中、ｒで示す）の配列数を少なくする。そして、図１８（ｂ）（ｃ）に示すように、用紙束の厚みが厚くなるに従い（用紙の枚数が増える場合、用紙の厚みが厚くなる場合等を含む）、抜き紙片部５０の配列数を多くしていくことにより、用紙と抜き紙片部５０との摩擦力は大きくなり、用紙を安定かつ確実に綴じることができる。
【０１２６】
また、抜き紙片部５０を形成する際の配列形状は、円形や四角形といった従来公知の配列であればよく、また、例えば、図１９（ａ）に示すように、抜き紙片部５０（図中、ｒで示す）を三角形に配列してもよく、図１９（ｂ）に示すように、千鳥配列としてもよい。また、上述した、抜き紙片部５０の脚部５２の長さや幅の変更、抜き紙片部５０の個数、配列数、配列形状等の変更は、適宜組み合わせて用いることができることはいうまでもない。
【０１２７】
（画像形成装置）
画像形成装置１００は、図２０に示すように、画像読取り部１１０、レーザ書込み部１２０、画像形成部１３０、および給紙部１４０を備えており、画像読取り部１１０は、棒状の照明ランプ１１１Ａおよびミラー１１１Ｂを備える第１ミラーユニット１１１と、一対のミラー１１２Ａが対向して配置している第２ミラーユニット１１２とから成る光学ユニットＵを備えている。
【０１２８】
また、原稿台に載置される原稿Ｄの画像は上記第１ミラーユニット１１１の実線から破線にて示す位置への平行移動と、上記第２ミラーユニット１１２の第１ミラーユニット１１１に対する１／２の速度の追従移動とにより露光走査される。そして、その画像は投影レンズ１１３を介して撮像素子１１４に結像され、光電変換された電気信号が図示しない画像処理部での画像処理を経て画像信号としてメモリに一旦格納される。
【０１２９】
次いで、上記の画像信号がレーザ書込み部１２０に入力されると、半導体レーザで発生されたレーザビームは、駆動モータ１２１により回転されるポリゴンミラー１２２により回転走査される。その後、レーザビームは、ｆθレンズ１２３、および、ミラー１２４〜１２６から成る反射光学系を経て、帯電器１３１により予め一定電位に帯電された感光体ドラム１３２の感光面を走査露光する。これにより、原稿画像の静電潜像が形成される。
【０１３０】
このように、レーザビームによる主走査、および、感光体ドラム１３２の回転に伴う副走査により感光体ドラム１３２の周面上に原稿画像の静電潜像が形成される。この潜像は、現像器１３３の現像スリーブ１３３Ａが担持するトナーによって反転現像されてトナー画像となる。
【０１３１】
一方、給紙部１４０に装填される各給紙カセット１４１からは、指定のサイズの用紙Ｐが収納する給紙カセット１４１の搬出ローラ１４１Ａの作動により搬出される。その後、搬送ローラ１４３を介して画像の転写部に向け給紙される。この給紙された用紙Ｐは、レジストローラ１４４により、前述した感光体ドラム１３２の周面上のトナー画像に、タイミングを調整された上で、同期して転写部へと給送され、転写器１３４により帯電されてトナー像を転写される。
【０１３２】
また、トナー像の転写がなされた用紙Ｐは、分離器１３５の除電作用により感光体ドラム１３２の周面より分離し、搬送ベルト１３６を経て定着器１３７に搬送される。そして、上ローラ１３７Ａと下ローラ１３７Ｂとの挟着と加熱とによりトナーを溶着した後、搬送ローラ１３８を介して定着器１３７より排出される。最後に、排出された用紙Ｐは、排紙ローラ１４５を経てトレイ１５０上に排紙される。
【０１３３】
一方、用紙Ｐを分離した感光体ドラム１３２は、クリーニング装置１３９において圧接するブレード１３９Ａにより残留トナーを除去、清掃したのち再び帯電器１３１により電荷の付与を受けて次なる画像形成のプロセスに入る。
【０１３４】
（用紙後処理装置）
図２１は、用紙後処理装置２００の一例を示し、この場合、用紙後処理装置００は、画像形成装置１００のトレイ１５０の位置に設けることができる。その用紙後処理装置２００は、受入口２０５、給紙部２０６、中間スタッカー２０７、搬送路２０８、制御手段２１４、操作パネル２１５、排出搬送部２１９、排出ローラ２２０、排出トレイ２２１を備えている。
【０１３５】
上述の受入口２０５は、複写機等の画像形成装置１００により作成され、排紙ローラ１４５から排紙されたシートＰを用紙後処理装置２００内部に受け入れるためのものである。受入口２０５に入ったシートＰは、給紙部２０６により用紙後処理装置２００内部に送り込まれ、搬送路２０８を介して、中間スタッカー２０７に搬送される。
【０１３６】
中間スタッカー２０７は、前下がり傾斜に設置されており、その傾斜の下端側にはシートストッパ２０７ａが設けられている。また、中間スタッカー２０７の傾斜の中ほどには、シートＰの横幅規制板２０７ｂが設けられている。この横幅規制板２０７ｂとシートストッパ２０７ａとは中間スタッカー２０７上におけるシートＰの位置決めを行う整合手段を構成している。
【０１３７】
シートストッパ２０７ａの近傍には用紙綴じ手段（半抜き綴じ手段）２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃがそれぞれ設けられている。用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃは、中間スタッカー２０７より上側に、用紙束に抜き紙片部を形成するためのパンチ刃（ポンチ）が並列配置されており、中間スタッカー２０７よりも下側では用紙束を積載し、かつパンチ刃が貫通する部分に対応して孔が設けられた受板（ダイス）が並列配置されている。
【０１３８】
用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃのパンチ刃と受板との組合せ（セット）は、それぞれのセットでパンチ刃及び受板の形状が異なっており、用紙束の状況（例えば、用紙枚数、用紙の種類、用紙束の厚み等）に応じて、適した組合せを選択的に使用することができる。なお、用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃのパンチ刃と受板との組合せを、例えば、中間スタッカー２０７の奥行き方向に向かって移動できる構成にすると、用紙束のコーナー部分だけでなく、用紙束の短辺または長辺の複数箇所において用紙綴じ処理を行うことができる。
【０１３９】
このとき、制御手段２１４は、センサー２２２（例えば、図２２に示すシート検知センサー２１６と厚さ検知センサー２１７）によって検知されたシートＰの情報（シートの厚さや種類、シートの位置等）に基づき、用紙綴じ処理に使用する用紙綴じ手段の選択するとともに、用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃのパンチ刃と受板との組合せ、動作等を制御し、シートＰに抜き紙片部を形成する。なお、制御手段２１４には、操作パネル２１５が設けられており、この操作パネル２１５を介して、ユーザが任意に用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃの選択、パンチ刃と受板との組合せ、動作等を制御することもできる。
【０１４０】
選択された用紙綴じ手段によるシート束の綴じ操作が完了すると、制御手段２１４は、中間スタッカー２０７の下面に一部露出するように設けられている、２軸間に張設されたベルトにより構成された排出搬送手段２１９を作動させ、綴じられたシート束を中間スタッカー２０７の傾斜角に抗して押し出し、排出ローラ２２０を通して排紙トレイ２２１へ排出するようになっている。
【０１４１】
（制御手段）
以下に、用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃの動作等の制御について図２２を用いて説明する。
上述したように、用紙後処理装置２００は、シート束に抜き紙片部を形成しシート束を結束する後処理を行う用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ、用紙綴じ手段２１１Ｂ及び用紙綴じ手段２１１Ｃを有している。そして、その複数の用紙綴じ手段の中から少なくとも一つを自動又は手動により選択できる制御手段２１４が設けられている。
【０１４２】
制御手段２１４が選択した用紙綴じ手段は、中間スタッカー２０７上部の作用位置に前進し、ＯＮ状態となる。一方、選択されなかった他の半抜き綴じ手段は作用位置から退避してＯＦＦ状態となり、次に選択されるまで待機する。
【０１４３】
制御手段２１４は、シート束の所定枚数（例えば、連続コピー枚数１０未満とか、１０〜１００枚とか）に応じて前記複数の用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ〜２１１Ｃの中から少なくとも一つを選択するものであってもよいし、シート束のシートの種類（例えば、腰の有無・坪量の大小など）に応じて前記複数の用紙綴じ手段の中から少なくとも一つを選択するものであってもよい。
【０１４４】
さらに、シート束の厚さ（例えば、３ｍｍ未満、１０ｍｍ未満、１０ｍｍを超えるなど）に応じて前記複数の用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ〜２１１Ｃの中から少なくとも一つを選択するものであってもよい。また、複数の選択を行う場合には、用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ〜２１１Ｃから、同じ種類の用紙綴じ手段を組み合わせて選択したり、または種類が異なる用紙綴じ手段を組み合わせて選択したりしてもよい。
【０１４５】
換言すれば、制御手段２１４は、図２２に示すように、ユーザが手動操作する操作パネル２１５に設けた操作表示部のキーを押して表示（輝光させる）を選択し、用紙綴じ手段を選択できるようにしてもよいし、画像形成装置１００により出力された連続コピー枚数を受領したシート検知センサー２１６、或いはシート束の厚さ検知センサー２１７からの信号に基づいて用紙綴じ手段を選択できるようにしてもよい。
【０１４６】
具体的には、例えば、画像形成装置１００により作成された連続コピー枚数の信号をシート検知センサー２１６が感知すると、制御手段２１４は用紙綴じ手段２１１Ａ〜２１１Ｃのうちの少なくとも１つを選択し、これをＯＮ状態とし、他の用紙綴じ手段をＯＦＦ状態とするようになっていてもよい。
【０１４７】
また、操作パネル２１５には、ステープル針によって、シート束を綴じる方法を選択できる操作表示部のキー（ステープルキー）が備えられていてもよい。この場合、用紙後処理装置２００には、ステープル処理手段が設けられている。
【０１４８】
また、記憶手段２１８に予め、所定のシート束の状況（シート束の厚み、シートの種類、シートの枚数等）に応じて、所定の用紙綴じ手段を選択し、選択した用紙綴じ手段に後処理をさせるようにデータを入力しておくことで、制御手段２１４は、自動的に、所定のシート束の状況に応じて、所定の用紙綴じ手段を選択でき、選択した用紙綴じ手段に後処理をさせることができる。
【０１４９】
この制御手段２１４による制御フローについては、図２３に示すように、まず、ｓ５１にて、用紙綴じ処理が半抜き綴じ方式に設定されると、用紙の厚さ、用紙綴じ処理が可能な用紙の枚数、用紙上に形成される抜き紙片部の個数、脚部の長さ、脚部の幅等の中、少なくとも一つをユーザが設定する。次いで、ｓ５２では、ｓ５１にて設定された条件に基づいて、用紙綴じ処理が可能な用紙の枚数、用紙上に形成される抜き紙片部の形状（脚長，脚幅等）や個数が決定される。
【０１５０】
そして、この決定結果に基づいて、図１１にて説明したｓ３２〜ｓ３５と同様に、ｓ５３以下のステップにより、用紙綴じ処理が実行される。即ち、ｓ５３にて、中間スタッカー（綴じ位置）２０７にストックされる用紙の枚数がカウントされる。次いで、ｓ５４にて、画像形成部１３０にて画像形成動作が継続して行われているかを判断し、画像形成動作が行われていなければ、ｓ５６に進み綴じ動作が実施される。
【０１５１】
一方、画像形成動作が行われていれば、ｓ５５に進み、中間スタッカー２０７にストックされる用紙の枚数が、所定枚数以下であるか否かを判断する。ｓ５５にて、用紙の枚数が所定枚数以下であると判断されれば、ｓ５６に進み綴じ動作が実施される。所定枚数以下ではないと判断されれば、ｓ５３に戻る。
【０１５２】
なお、本発明は、用紙後処理装置を、図２１の構成に限定するものではなく、少なくとも、用紙の一部に抜き紙片部を形成するための打抜手段を有して綴じ部材（金属針）を使用することなく用紙束を形成することができ、かつ、用紙束を構成する用紙枚数の増減、用紙束の用紙種類、及び用紙束の厚さから選ばれる用紙束の情報に応じて、前記用紙束に形成する抜き紙片部の形状及び／又は配列個数を異ならせることができる用紙後処理装置であれば、その構成や形式の如何を問わない。
【０１５３】
さらに、その用紙後処理装置は、画像形成装置に設けられていなくてもよく、単独で、各種印刷物や色紙等の転写紙以外の各種の用紙をも対象として、これらを用紙束に綴じ合わせるように構成されていてもよい。その場合、用紙綴じ手段の綴じ位置にユーザーが用紙を直接セットするようにしてもよく、図２１に示すように、給紙部２０６によって自動的に用紙を搬送して綴じ位置にセットできるようにしてもよい。
【０１５４】
また、本発明は、画像形成装置を、図２０に示す構成に限定するものではなく、少なくとも、用紙に画像形成を行う記録手段と、画像形成が行われた用紙に対して、上述のような用紙後処理装置による用紙綴じ処理が可能であれば、その構成や形式の如何を問わず、本発明を適用することができる。
【０１５５】
【発明の効果】
以上説明したように、本発明は、以下の効果を奏する。
【０１５６】
（１）綴じ合わせることの難易度と関連する使用条件に応じて、用紙上に形成する凹凸の数や配列を適切に変更（設定）するので、使用条件に応じた綴じ状態に調整され、常に良好な綴じ合わせ状態を得ることができる。
【０１５７】
また、用紙の一部に共通の凹凸を形成することで、金属針等の金属材からなる綴り部材を使用することなく、用紙を綴じ合わせることができる。その凹凸は、重ね合わされた用紙が有する弾力性を利用して形成されるため、綴り部材を用いた場合のように、綴り部材が有する厚さによって綴り位置が、用紙表面から突出するようなことがない。
【０１５８】
従って、綴り位置で、綴り部材が引っかかるようなトラブルを解消することができる。それゆえ、綴じられた用紙を整然と積層してストックすることができ、排出トレイに排出された用紙の量を正確に把握することも可能となる。
【０１５９】
また、用紙のリサイクルに際して、綴り部材を取り外す必要がなく、用紙の処理作業が容易となり、コストや資源を節約することができ、エコロジー対応が可能となる。さらに、子供が誤って綴り部材を飲み込んだり、食品等に混入してしまうようなトラブルの発生がなくなる利点もある。
【０１６０】
（２）１つのジョブにて、あらかじめ設定された綴じ処理の可能量を超えた用紙が後処理装置の綴じ位置に搬入された場合には、１ジョブによって得られた用紙を綴じ処理が可能な量に分割して、用紙綴じ処理を実行することができるので、無理なく適切に綴じ合わされた用紙を得ることができる。
【０１６１】
また、用紙の綴じ処理可能量に応じて、自動的に、用紙綴じ処理条件が切り換えられるように設定しておけば、ユーザは、用紙綴じ処理条件の設定をジョブごとに行う必要がなくなり、ユーザサイドでの使い勝手と操作性が向上する。
【０１６２】
（３）綴じ処理の可能量を超えた用紙が用紙後処理装置に搬送された場合、ユーザに対して、綴じ処理が実行不可能であることを通知することができるので、ユーザは、この通知に基づいて、綴じ処理を行う条件を選択・設定することにより、ユーザが所望する綴じ処理を実行することができ、用紙が、綴じ手段の無駄な綴じ処理によって破損されてしまうような不具合の発生を防止することができる。
【０１６３】
（４）綴じ位置に搬入された用紙が所定量を超えた場合、綴り部材を使用して綴じ処理を実行するので、確実に綴じ処理をおこなうことができる。つまり、適切に画像形成が行われた用紙を、綴り部材を使用しない用紙綴じ手段の無駄な綴じ処理によって破損してしまうようなトラブルの発生を防止して、綴り部材を使用する用紙綴じ手段により、適切に綴じ処理を行うことができる。
【０１６４】
（５）用紙束を構成する用紙枚数の増減、用紙束の用紙種類、及び用紙束の厚さから選ばれる用紙束の情報に応じて、前記用紙束に形成する抜き紙片部の形状及び／又は配列個数を適切に変化させるので、常に、用紙を良好な状態に綴じることができる。即ち、用紙束を構成する用紙の枚数や用紙束の厚さ等に関して、適用範囲がより一層拡大する。
【０１６５】
また、用紙のリサイクルに際して、綴り部材を取り外す必要がなく、用紙の処理作業が容易となり、コストや資源を節約することができ、エコロジー対応が可能となる。さらに、子供が誤って綴り部材を飲み込んだり、食品等に混入してしまうようなトラブルの発生がなくなる利点もある。
【０１６６】
（６）用紙の種類や、綴じ合わせる用紙枚数、用紙束の厚さ、用紙の使用形態等に応じて、用紙束に形成する抜き紙片部の形状（幅または長さ）を変化させることにより、より適切にかつ安定に用紙を綴じることができる。
【０１６７】
（７）用紙の種類や、綴じ合わせる用紙枚数、用紙束の厚さ、用紙の使用形態等に応じて、用紙束に形成する抜き紙片部の配列を変化させることにより、より適切かつ安定に用紙を綴じることができる。
【０１６８】
（８）用紙の種類や、綴じ合わせる用紙枚数、用紙束の厚さ、用紙の使用形態等に応じて、用紙束に形成する抜き紙片部の配列個数を変化させることにより、より適切かつ安定に用紙を綴じることができる。
【０１６９】
（９）用紙束に形成する抜き紙片部の配列方向を変更または複合することにより、用紙束におけるズレ発生を防止することができ、用紙の種類や、綴じ合わせる用紙枚数、用紙束の厚さ、用紙の使用形態等に応じて、より適切かつ安定に用紙を綴じることができる。
【０１７０】
（１０）用紙後処理装置は、用紙束に用紙綴じ処理を行う複数組の用紙綴じ手段を備えており、前記複数組の用紙綴じ手段のうち、少なくとも一つの用紙綴じ手段を用いて、前記用紙束に抜き紙片部を形成し、前記用紙束を結束する後処理を行うので、用紙の種類や、綴じ合わせる用紙枚数、用紙束の厚さ、用紙の使用形態等に応じて、最適な用紙綴じ手段の選択を行うことができ、適切かつ安定に用紙を綴じることができる。即ち、用紙束を綴じる際に、用紙束を構成する用紙の枚数や用紙束の厚さ等に関して、適用範囲をより広くした用紙後処理装置を提供することができる。
【０１７１】
（１１）画像形成システムが、画像を形成する画像形成装置と、用紙後処理装置と、制御手段とを備え、その制御手段により、用紙束の情報に応じて、用紙綴じ処理を行う用紙綴じ手段を、該複数組の綴じ手段の中から少なくとも一つ、自動または手動で選択し、この選択した用紙綴じ手段に、用紙束に抜き紙片部を形成させ、用紙束を結束させる後処理を行わせるように制御するので、用紙束の情報に応じて、最適な用紙綴じ手段を選択することができる。従って、上記画像形成システムを用いることにより、適切かつ安定に用紙を綴じることができる。即ち、用紙束を綴じる際に、用紙束を構成する用紙の枚数や用紙束の厚さ等に関して、適用範囲をより広くした画像形成システムを提供することができる。
【０１７２】
（１２）用紙束の処理枚数の多少に応じて、最適な用紙綴じ手段を選択できるので、この画像形成システムを用いることにより、適切かつ安定に用紙を綴じることができる。
【０１７３】
（１３）用紙束の用紙の種類に応じて、最適な用紙綴じ手段を選択できるので、この画像形成システムを用いることにより、より適切かつ安定に用紙を綴じることができる。
【０１７４】
（１４）用紙束の厚さに応じて、最適な用紙綴じ手段を選択できるので、この画像形成システムを用いることにより、より適切かつ安定に用紙を綴じることができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の実施形態に係る画像形成装置の構成説明図である。
【図２】同用紙後処理装置の構成説明図である。
【図３】同用紙後処理装置の要部構成の斜視図である。
【図４】同用紙に形成した凹凸の配置図である。
【図５】同用紙に形成した凹凸の異なる配置図である。
【図６】同用紙に形成した凹凸の別の配置図である。
【図７】同用紙に形成した小孔の配置図である。
【図８】同用紙の綴じ位置についての説明図である。
【図９】同綴じ動作を説明するためのフローチャートである。
【図１０】同綴じ動作を説明するための異なるフローチャートである。
【図１１】同綴じ動作を説明するための別のフローチャートである。
【図１２】同綴じ動作を説明するための他のフローチャートである。
【図１３】同半抜き紙片を立ち上げる場合の説明図である。
【図１４】同半抜き紙片を押し込む場合の説明図である。
【図１５】同用紙束に形成する抜き紙片部の説明図である。
【図１６】同用紙束に形成する抜き紙片部の別の説明図である。
【図１７】同抜き紙片部の配列についての説明図である。
【図１８】同抜き紙片部の配列についての別の説明図である。
【図１９】同抜き紙片部の配列についてのさらに別の説明図である。
【図２０】同別の画像形成装置の構成説明図である。
【図２１】同別の用紙後処理装置の構成説明図である。
【図２２】同画像形成システムの制御系統ブロック図である。
【図２３】同綴じ動作を説明するためのさらに異なるフローチャートである。
【図２４】一般的な半抜き紙片の説明図である。
【符号の説明】
３０−用紙後処理装置
３３−用紙綴じ手段
３３ａ−凸部
３３ｂ−凹部
ｅ−凹凸
４０−記録手段
５０（ｒ）−抜き紙片部
１００Ａ，１００Ｂ−画像形成装置
２００−用紙後処理装置
２１１Ａ，Ｂ，Ｃ−用紙綴じ手段
２１４−制御手段[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a sheet post-processing apparatus and an image forming system that stack a plurality of sheets and bind them as a sheet bundle without using a binding member.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Recently, there has been an increasing demand for paper post-processing for binding paper on which images have been recorded by image forming apparatuses such as copiers and printers as conference materials and distribution materials, and paper post-processing that satisfies these requirements. An image forming system has come to appear though a combination of an apparatus and an image forming apparatus. As such a sheet post-processing apparatus, a stapling apparatus that binds a plurality of sheets with a binding member such as a metal needle has been widely used.
[0003]
However, in recent years, attention has been focused on recycling used paper from the viewpoint of environmental protection. When the paper is recycled, it is necessary to remove the metal needle, separate the paper and the metal needle, and collect the paper bound with the metal needle. Moreover, although the paper can be reused, the metal needle is discarded as waste after use, resulting in waste of cost and resources.
[0004]
Therefore, manual paper binding means that does not use metal needles has been proposed in order to reduce the labor during recycling and reduce the waste of resources and recycle paper (for example, see Patent Document 1). According to this sheet binding means, for example, as shown in FIGS. 24A and 24B, a small hole is formed in a bundle of a plurality of sheets by a punch blade without using a metal needle, and the small hole is small. By leaving the base end of the paper piece as a half-cut paper piece, it is possible to bind a plurality of papers together using the frictional force generated between the half-cut paper piece and the punched hole. Become.
[0005]
In addition to the above-described half-punching binding means that does not use a metal needle, a plurality of types of paper binding means such as adhesive application means, staple binding means, and temporary binding means are juxtaposed to form a bundle of paper. There has also been proposed an image forming system that uses a sheet post-processing device that performs post-processing on a sheet bundle in combination with an image forming device by selecting any one of a plurality of types of paper binding devices according to the number of sheets to be configured. (For example, refer to Patent Document 2).
[0006]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 7-18857 (paragraph “0006”, FIG. 1)
[Patent Document 2]
JP 2000-318918 A (paragraphs “0015” to “0024”, FIG. 1)
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
On the other hand, both the sheet binding means described in Patent Document 1 and the half-punching binding means described in Patent Document 2 have the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle and the thickness of the sheet bundle within a certain range. If it exists, it is effective as a paper binding method, but if the range is exceeded, there is a problem that the paper binding method does not function sufficiently.
[0008]
Specifically, for example, when the number of sheets is small or the sheet is thin, the frictional force generated between the half-punched paper piece and the punched hole is reduced, and the sheet can be bound sufficiently. Disappear. On the other hand, if the number of sheets is large or the sheet is thick, the weight of the sheet increases, so the frictional force generated between the half-cut sheet piece and its punched hole can bind the sheet sufficiently. It becomes impossible.
[0009]
That is, with the paper binding means or half-cut binding means disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the application range is limited to some extent with respect to the number of sheets constituting the paper bundle and the thickness of the paper bundle. There is a problem. In any case, the above Patent Documents 1 and 2 do not suggest any specific method for expanding the applicable range.
[0010]
The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and is capable of ecology such as paper recycling, and can properly bind the paper according to the purpose of use and conditions of use, and an image forming system The purpose is to provide.
[0011]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In the present invention, means for solving the above-described problems are configured as follows.
[0012]
(1) In a sheet post-processing apparatus in which a plurality of sheets are stacked and bound as a sheet bundle without using a binding member,
The number and arrangement of irregularities formed on the paper according to the usage conditions related to the difficulty of binding and having convex and concave portions that form irregularities on a part of the paper carried into the binding position And a sheet binding means for executing sheet binding processing by changing the above.
[0013]
In the binding of sheets by forming irregularities, the difficulty of binding differs depending on the type and number of sheets. Therefore, in order to always obtain a good binding state, it is necessary to appropriately select the number and arrangement of irregularities formed on the paper according to the type and number of sheets.
[0014]
In such a configuration, it is formed on the paper according to the use conditions related to the difficulty of binding, specifically the paper size, type, paper quality, hardness, thickness, number of bindings, etc. Since the number and arrangement of the irregularities to be changed are appropriately changed (set), the binding state is adjusted according to the use conditions, and a good binding state can always be obtained.
[0015]
In the binding operation, a binding member made of a metal material such as a metal needle is used by forming a common unevenness on a part of the sheet by pressing a plurality of overlapped sheets with a convex part and a concave part. The sheets can be bound together without any problems. Since the unevenness is formed by utilizing the elasticity of the stacked paper, the binding position protrudes from the paper surface depending on the thickness of the binding member, as in the case of using the binding member. There is no.
[0016]
Therefore, it is possible to solve the trouble that the spelling member is caught at the spelling position. Therefore, the bound sheets can be stacked and stocked in an orderly manner, and the amount of sheets discharged to the discharge tray can be accurately grasped. Further, when the paper is recycled, it is not necessary to remove the binding member, the paper processing operation is facilitated, costs and resources can be saved, and ecology can be handled. Furthermore, there is an advantage that troubles such as a child accidentally swallowing a spelling member or mixing it into foods are eliminated.
[0017]
(2) In a sheet post-processing apparatus in which a plurality of sheets are stacked and bound as a sheet bundle without using a binding member,
Having a convex part and a concave part that form irregularities in a part of the paper carried into the binding position, and
A sheet binding unit is provided that performs a binding process by dividing the sheet carried into the binding position into an amount that can be bound when the amount exceeds the amount that can be bound.
[0018]
In this configuration, when a sheet exceeding a preset possible amount of sheet binding processing is carried into a binding position of the post-processing device in one job, the sheet obtained by one job can be bound. The binding process can be executed by dividing into an appropriate amount. As a result, it is possible to obtain a properly bound sheet.
[0019]
Further, if the setting is made so that the sheet binding processing conditions are automatically switched according to the sheet binding processable amount, the user does not need to set the sheet binding processing conditions for each job. Thereby, usability and operability on the user side are improved.
[0020]
(3) In the case where the amount of paper carried into the binding position exceeds the binding processing capability of the paper binding means, there is provided an informing means for notifying that effect.
[0021]
In this configuration, for example, when a sheet exceeding the possible amount of the binding process is conveyed to the binding position, the user can be notified that the binding process cannot be executed. The user can execute the binding process desired by the user by selecting and setting conditions for performing the binding process based on the notification. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a problem that the sheet is damaged by the useless binding process of the binding unit.
[0022]
(4) Paper binding means having a concave portion and a convex portion for forming irregularities on a part of the paper, and binding the paper without using the binding member, and paper binding for binding the paper using the binding member Means and control means,
When the number of sheets carried into the binding position exceeds a predetermined amount according to a command from the control unit, the sheet binding unit that does not use the binding member does not execute the binding process and uses the binding member. A sheet binding means for binding sheets performs a binding process.
[0023]
In this configuration, when the number of sheets carried into the binding position exceeds a predetermined amount, the binding process is executed using the binding member, so that the binding process can be reliably performed. In other words, a sheet binding unit that uses a binding member by preventing occurrence of a trouble that causes a paper that has been appropriately imaged to be damaged by a wasteful binding process of the sheet binding unit that does not use the binding member. Thus, the binding process can be performed appropriately.
[0024]
(5) In a sheet post-processing apparatus in which a plurality of sheets are stacked and bound as a sheet bundle without using a binding member,
It has punching means for forming a blank piece on a part of the paper, and includes information on the paper bundle selected from the increase / decrease in the number of sheets constituting the paper bundle, the type of paper, and the thickness of the paper bundle. Accordingly, there is provided a sheet binding means for executing a binding process by changing the shape and / or arrangement number of the cut-out piece portions formed on the sheet.
[0025]
In this configuration, when binding sheets, for example, an increase or decrease in the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle, a sheet type (for example, thickness, presence / absence, basis weight), and a sheet bundle thickness In accordance with the bundle information, the shape and / or arrangement number of the cut-out piece portions formed on the sheet bundle are changed. That is, for example, when the thickness of the sheet bundle is increased, the width of the cut-out piece portion is increased, the length of the cut-out piece portion is increased, the arrangement of the formed cut-out piece portions is changed, or the formed cut-out piece is formed. Increase the number of parts.
[0026]
As a result, the frictional force generated between the punched paper piece portion and the punched hole is increased, and the paper bundle can be bound stably and reliably. The “extracted piece of paper” as used herein refers to a piece of paper that has been punched by a punching means to leave a small hole in the paper bundle and one end (base end) of the small piece of paper is left uncut. It is.
[0027]
According to such a configuration, the shape and the number of arrangement of the cut-out piece portions to be formed in the paper bundle according to the type of paper in the paper bundle, the number of sheets to be bound, the thickness of the paper bundle, the usage form of the paper, etc. Therefore, it is possible to always bind the paper stably and reliably. That is, the applicable range is further expanded with respect to the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle, the thickness of the sheet bundle, and the like.
[0028]
Further, when the paper is recycled, it is not necessary to remove the binding member, the paper processing operation is facilitated, costs and resources can be saved, and ecology can be handled. Furthermore, there is an advantage that troubles such as a child accidentally swallowing a spelling member or mixing it into foods are eliminated.
[0029]
(6) The shape of the cut-out piece portion is changed by changing the width or length of the cut-out piece portion formed on the sheet bundle.
[0030]
In this configuration, “changing the width or length of the cut-out piece portion” includes, for example, changing the width or length of the leg portion of the cut-out piece portion formed in the sheet bundle. That is, for example, when the thickness of the sheet bundle increases, the width of the leg portion of the punched paper piece portion may be increased or the length of the leg portion of the punched paper piece portion may be increased. It is not limited.
[0031]
According to such a method, the shape (width or length) of the cut-out piece formed on the sheet bundle is determined according to the type of sheet, the number of sheets to be bound, the thickness of the sheet bundle, the usage form of the sheet, and the like. Since it can be changed, the paper can be bound more appropriately and stably.
[0032]
(7) It is characterized in that, by changing the arrangement of the cut-out piece portions formed on the sheet bundle, the cut-out piece portions having different arrangement numbers are formed.
[0033]
Here, “changing the arrangement of the cut-out piece portions” means, for example, that the formed cut-out pieces are formed in a staggered arrangement when the thickness of the sheet bundle is increased, but is not limited to this. Absent.
[0034]
According to this configuration, it is possible to change the arrangement of the cut-out piece portions formed on the sheet bundle according to the type of sheet, the number of sheets to be bound, the thickness of the sheet bundle, the usage form of the sheet, and the like. Paper can be bound appropriately and stably.
[0035]
(8) It is characterized in that, by changing the number of the cut-out piece portions to be formed on the sheet bundle, the cut-out piece portions having different arrangement numbers are formed.
[0036]
Here, “changing the number of cut-out piece portions” includes, for example, increasing the number of cut-out piece portions to be formed into a plurality of rows when the thickness of the sheet bundle is increased. It is not limited to.
[0037]
According to this configuration, according to the type of the paper, the number of sheets to be bound, the thickness of the paper bundle, the usage pattern of the paper, and the like, the arrangement number of the cut sheet pieces formed on the paper bundle can be changed. Paper can be bound more appropriately and stably.
[0038]
(9) It is characterized in that, by changing or combining the arrangement direction of the cut sheet pieces to be formed on the sheet bundle, the cut paper piece parts having different arrangement numbers are formed.
[0039]
Here, “changing or combining the arrangement direction of the cut-out piece portions” means, for example, increasing the number of cut-out piece portions to be formed and arranging the arrangement directions of the respective cut-out piece portions in a plurality of rows. However, it is not limited to this.
[0040]
According to this configuration, the occurrence of misalignment in the sheet bundle can be prevented by changing or combining the arrangement direction of the cut sheet pieces formed on the sheet bundle. Therefore, the paper can be bound more appropriately and stably according to the type of paper, the number of sheets to be bound, the thickness of the paper bundle, the usage pattern of the paper, and the like.
[0041]
(10) In a sheet post-processing apparatus that is provided in the image forming apparatus and performs sheet binding processing by forming a cut-out piece portion for a sheet bundle discharged from the image forming apparatus.
The sheet post-processing device includes a plurality of sets of sheet binding means for performing a sheet binding process on the sheet bundle, and the sheet bundle is used by using at least one of the plurality of sets of sheet binding means. It is characterized in that it is possible to perform a post-processing for forming a punched paper piece portion and binding the paper bundle.
[0042]
In this configuration, the image forming apparatus is provided to form a cut-out piece portion for the sheet bundle to be discharged, and to perform a sheet binding process.
[0043]
Further, the sheet binding process is performed by forming a piece of a sheet piece into a sheet bundle and binding it by at least one sheet binding means among the plurality of sheet binding means provided in the sheet post-processing apparatus. . Further, as the sheet binding means for performing the sheet binding process, at least one of the plurality of sets of binding means can be selected automatically or manually.
[0044]
According to the above configuration, the optimum sheet binding means can be selected according to the type of sheet, the number of sheets to be bound, the thickness of the sheet bundle, the form of use of the sheet, and the like. Therefore, the paper can be bound reliably and stably by using the paper post-processing apparatus. That is, it is possible to provide a sheet post-processing apparatus that has a wider application range regarding the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle, the thickness of the sheet bundle, and the like when binding the sheet bundle.
[0045]
(11) An image forming apparatus, a sheet post-processing apparatus that performs sheet binding processing by forming a cut-out piece portion on a sheet bundle discharged from the image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatus and the sheet post-processing apparatus. An image forming system comprising: a control means for controlling;
The sheet post-processing apparatus includes a plurality of sets of sheet binding units that perform a binding process on the sheet bundle, and the control unit selects one of the plurality of sets of sheet binding units according to the information on the sheet bundle. It is characterized in that at least one is selected, and the selected sheet binding means is used to form a cut-out piece portion in the sheet bundle and to perform post-processing for binding the sheet bundle.
[0046]
In this configuration, an image forming apparatus that forms an image, a sheet post-processing apparatus, and a control unit are provided. A punched paper piece is formed and a paper binding process is performed.
[0047]
Further, the sheet binding process is performed by forming a piece of a sheet piece into a sheet bundle and binding it by at least one sheet binding means among the plurality of sheet binding means provided in the sheet post-processing apparatus. .
[0048]
At this time, the control means automatically or manually selects at least one sheet binding means for performing the sheet binding process from the plurality of sets of binding means according to the information on the sheet bundle. Control is performed so that the sheet binding means forms post-cut pieces in the sheet bundle and performs post-processing to bind the sheet bundle.
[0049]
As used herein, “sheet bundle information” includes, for example, the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle, the type of sheet (eg, thickness, presence / absence, basis weight, etc.), sheet bundle thickness, and the like. However, it is not particularly limited.
[0050]
According to the above configuration, it is possible to select the optimum sheet binding means according to the information on the sheet bundle. Therefore, by using the image forming system, it is possible to bind the sheets reliably and stably. That is, it is possible to provide an image forming system with a wider application range regarding the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle, the thickness of the sheet bundle, and the like when binding the sheet bundle.
[0051]
(12) The sheet bundle information is a predetermined number of the sheet bundle.
[0052]
In this configuration, the optimum sheet binding means can be selected according to the number of sheets to be processed. Therefore, by using this image forming system, the sheets can be bound reliably and stably.
[0053]
(13) The information on the sheet bundle is a sheet type of the sheet bundle.
[0054]
In this configuration, the optimum sheet binding means can be selected according to the type of sheets in the sheet bundle. Therefore, by using this image forming system, the sheets can be bound reliably and stably.
[0055]
(14) The sheet bundle information is a thickness of the sheet bundle.
[0056]
In this configuration, the optimum sheet binding means can be selected according to the thickness of the sheet bundle. Therefore, by using the image forming system, it is possible to bind the sheets reliably and stably.
[0057]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, a sheet binding method, a sheet post-processing apparatus, and an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0058]
Embodiment 1
A sheet post-processing apparatus and an image forming system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0059]
(Image forming device)
FIG. 1 shows a configuration of an image forming apparatus provided with a sheet post-processing device. The image forming apparatus includes a recording unit 40 as a recording unit that records an image on a sheet (transfer sheet), and a sheet of the recording unit 40. A paper post-processing device 30 (see FIG. 2) connected to the discharge side is provided, and is configured to perform embossed paper binding processing or stapling paper binding processing on the paper after image recording. ing.
[0060]
The recording unit 40 includes a document table 1 made of transparent glass or the like on the upper surface thereof, and a scanner optical system 2 is disposed below the document table 1. The scanner optical system 2 includes an exposure light source 3 for irradiating light on a document placed on the document table 1 and reflected light from the document on the other side (through the imaging lens 4 in the scanner optical system 2). A plurality of reflecting mirrors 6 led to a photoelectric conversion element (hereinafter referred to as CCD) 5 on the left side.
[0061]
The CCD 5 reads the document image data, performs image processing on the document image data, and a laser beam is emitted from the laser scanner unit (hereinafter referred to as LSU) 7 on the surface of the photoconductor 8 based on the document image data. And an electrostatic latent image is formed.
[0062]
The photosensitive member 8 has a drum shape that is driven to rotate. Around the photosensitive member 8, LSU 7 that irradiates a laser toward the surface of the photosensitive member 8, and the surface of the photosensitive member 8 in order along the rotation direction of the photosensitive member 8. A developing unit 9 that develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface into a visible image with toner, a transfer charger 10 that transfers the toner image on the surface of the photoconductor 8 to paper, and a cleaning that removes residual toner on the surface of the photoconductor 8. An apparatus 11 and a charger 12 for charging the photoconductor 8 to a predetermined potential are disposed, and these constitute an image forming unit.
[0063]
The paper is stored in a paper cassette 13. A half-moon-shaped roller 14 for feeding and feeding sheets is disposed at the front end of the sheet cassette 13, and on the downstream side of the half-moon-shaped roller 14 (for convenience, the sheet flow-out side is upstream and the sheet discharge side is downstream). A pre-registration detection switch 15 that detects the passage of the paper, a registration roller 16 that aligns the toner image on the photoconductor 8 and the paper P based on a signal from the pre-registration detection switch 15, and a toner image on the photoconductor 8 A transfer charger 10 for transferring to a sheet, a pair of fixing rollers 17 for fixing a toner image on the sheet by heat, a fixing sheet detection switch 18 for detecting that the sheet has passed through the pair of fixing rollers 17, and a discharge roller 20 Are provided with a paper discharge detection switch 19 for detecting the passage of the paper and a paper discharge roller 20 for discharging the paper.
[0064]
The sheets are conveyed in the order described above, conveyed from the discharge roller 20 to the sheet post-processing device 30 (see FIG. 2), and subjected to predetermined post-processing. The sheet post-processing apparatus 30 is controlled and driven by, for example, a control unit (not shown) provided in the image forming apparatus main body, and as shown in FIG. 2, a detection unit 32, an embossed sheet binding unit 33, and not shown. Staple type paper binding unit, discharge trays 34 and 35, transfer paths 36 and 37 for transferring paper to the discharge trays 34 and 35, transfer rollers 38a, 38b and 38c, discharge rollers 39 and 40, and stacked sheets A thickness detection sensor (not shown) for detecting the thickness of the film is provided.
[0065]
The detection unit 32 includes, for example, an optical photosensor, and measures the time required for the sheet to pass through the detection unit 32 by the photosensor. Then, the paper size of the paper is determined from the measurement result. The upper discharge tray 34 is connected to the upper conveyance path 36, and the transfer material is discharged without being subjected to the sheet binding process.
[0066]
The lower discharge tray 35 is connected to a lower conveyance path 37. The lower conveyance path 37 is provided with an embossed paper binding section 33 and a staple paper binding section (not shown). As will be described below, the sheet is subjected to a sheet binding process and then discharged to the discharge tray 35.
[0067]
Although switching of the paper feeding direction in the upper transport path 36 and the lower transport path 37 is omitted, a switching member is provided corresponding to the discharge side of the transport roller 38b, and this switching member is operated. The paper feed direction is switched.
[0068]
(Paper post-processing apparatus and paper binding method)
As shown in FIG. 2, the sheet post-processing apparatus 30 includes at least one set of embossed sheet binding portions 33 that do not use metal needles as binding members at the binding position. As shown in FIG. 3, the sheet binding portion 33 includes a pressing portion 33A having a plurality of convex portions 33a and a receiving portion 33B having a plurality of concave portions 33b, which are vertically opposed to each other. In the illustrated example, the pressing portion 33A and the receiving portion 33B are overlapped with each other by a driving source such as a solenoid, which is omitted, and is configured to move up and down with respect to each other, and the binding position thereof. Is provided with sheet number detecting means (not shown) for detecting the number of sheets carried into the.
[0069]
The convex portion 33a of the pressing portion 33A is formed in a size that fits (fits) into the concave portion 33b of the receiving portion 33B, and the convex portion 33A is inserted into each concave portion 33b. The relative corresponding position state of the receiving portion 33B is set. The cross-sectional shapes of the convex portion 33a and the concave portion 33b are not particularly limited, and other than the rectangular shape as illustrated, for example, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, a triangular shape, or these shapes It may be a combination of two or more.
[0070]
In such an embossed paper binding unit 33, the paper on which the image is recorded by the recording unit 40 is inserted between the pressing unit 33A and the receiving unit 33B, and the paper is fed by the pressing unit 33A and the receiving unit 33B. They are bound together by being pinched and crimped. That is, in the paper binding unit 33, the paper conveyed from the recording unit 40 is once stocked at a predetermined binding position between the pressing unit 33A and the receiving unit 33B, and when the paper reaches a predetermined number, Positioning for obtaining a good alignment state is performed in a state where the sheets of paper are overlapped. Next, the pressing portion 33A and the receiving portion 33B are brought close to each other, and the sheet is sandwiched and pressed. As a result, the sheets are bound together.
[0071]
Concavities and convexities (embosses) corresponding to the shapes of the convex portions 33a and the concave portions 33b are formed on the paper sandwiched between the pressing portion 33A and the receiving portion 33B. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 4, the unevenness (emboss) e arranged in a line at one corner of the paper P does not protrude from the surface of the stacked paper P (when viewed from above, it is concave. To be formed.
[0072]
Since the unevenness e formed on the paper P is formed and maintained by the elastic force of the overlapped plural sheets P, the plural sheets P are bound by the unevenness e. In other words, by using the elastic force of the stacked sheets, a part of the sheets is deformed in common (unevenness) to form a state where the deformed portions (unevenness e) are intertwined and engaged with each other. It is trying to be matched.
[0073]
On the other hand, in order to release the binding state of the sheets P bound in this way, the (downward) convex portion of the unevenness e on the paper P is pressed (towards the upper side), and the unevenness on the paper P is pressed. What is necessary is just to make e flat. Thereby, the entanglement force (binding force) in the unevenness e that has bound the paper P is weakened, and the paper P can be easily separated.
[0074]
In the binding of the paper P by the formation of the unevenness e, the difficulty of binding differs depending on the type and number of the paper P. Therefore, in order to always obtain a good binding state, the number and arrangement of the unevenness e formed on the paper P must be appropriately selected according to the type and number of the paper P.
[0075]
In the present embodiment, the number of irregularities formed on the paper P according to the usage conditions related to the difficulty of binding, such as the size, type, paper quality, hardness, thickness, number of bindings, and the like of the paper P. By appropriately changing (setting) and the arrangement, it is possible to always obtain a good binding state.
[0076]
Specifically, when the paper P is thin and the number of sheets is small, binding is easy, and a small binding force is sufficient, so the number of unevenness e may be small. Thus, the unevenness e may be arranged at one corner of the paper P so as to be parallel to any one side of the paper P. Such an arrangement is also suitable when the size of the paper P is small.
[0077]
When the sheet P is thin but has a large number (upper limit), a large binding force is required. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. Is intermediate, for example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the unevenness e may be arranged in two rows.
[0078]
In order to obtain a relatively large binding force, as shown in FIG. 6 (a), three rows of unevenness e may be used and arranged in a triangular shape. As shown in b), two rows of concavities and convexities e may be arranged in a double C shape using two left and right. As described above, when the concave and convex e-rows are arranged in different directions, the binding force effectively acts in multiple directions, which is preferable when the size of the paper P is relatively large. The position where the unevenness e row is formed is not limited to the position of the upper left corner, and may be appropriately selected such as the upper right end, the left side portion, the right side portion, etc. You may disperse | distribute to 2 places or 3 places.
[0079]
In addition, although illustration is omitted, the arrangement pattern (and the number of projections and depressions e) of the projections and depressions may be appropriately selected and designed so as to flexibly cope with the various use conditions as described above. Also, depending on the arrangement, it is possible to use a method of transmitting various information such as a specific source, company name, destination, purpose of use, validity / invalidity, and the like.
[0080]
By the way, as described above, the unevenness e formed on the paper P does not protrude from the surface of the superimposed paper P. Therefore, the bound paper P can be stocked with good consistency on the discharge tray 35 described later, and the number of bindings can be clearly grasped. It is also possible to prevent the discharged paper P from being caught at the position of the unevenness e.
[0081]
In this embodiment, a plurality of sheets P are bound together by forming unevenness e on the sheet P, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the stacked sheets P A part of the deformed portions may be deformed in common by using an elastic force to form a state where the deformed portions are engaged with each other, for example, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. In this way, by forming a common small hole c in the paper P, the common bent pieces d formed at that time may be engaged and bound together. The shape of the small hole c may be appropriately selected and set, for example, in addition to a triangular shape as shown in the figure, a rectangular shape, a wedge shape, a saddle shape, an arc shape, or the like.
[0082]
As described above, in the present embodiment, the embossed paper binding unit 33 forms the unevenness e on the paper P, so that a plurality of paper P can be fed without using a binding member such as a metal needle. Can be bound together. In the staple-type paper binding unit (not shown), a plurality of paper sheets P can be bound using a metal needle or the like as a binding member.
[0083]
In the above-described embossing type paper binding unit 33, the number of sheets P that can be bound at one time is smaller than that of the stapling method, but a metal needle is not used. There is also an advantage that it can be disposed of by a shredder or the like as it is.
[0084]
On the other hand, in the staple-type paper binding unit, since a metal needle is used, a large number of sheets P can be bound at one time, and the sheets P can be bound together reliably.
[0085]
Therefore, the paper post-processing apparatus 30 according to the present embodiment includes the embossed paper binding unit 33 and the staple paper binding unit, so that the type of the paper P, the number of sheets P to be bound, and the paper P A suitable binding method can be appropriately selected and used according to the purpose of use and the like, and the usability is improved.
[0086]
In the paper post-processing device 30, the paper transported from the recording unit 40 is transported in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 2 through a connecting unit 31 that connects the recording unit 40 and the paper post-processing device 30. Then, the detection means 32 detects whether or not the conveyed sheet is a specified size sheet and is in the specified direction.
[0087]
If a sheet having a paper size different from the designated paper size has been conveyed according to the detection result, or if the paper direction is different from the designated direction, a subsequent paper binding process is performed according to a command from the control means. In order to prohibit it, the sheet is conveyed to the conveyance path 36 in FIG. The sheet conveyed to the conveyance path 36 is discharged to the discharge tray 34 without being subjected to sheet binding processing. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the sheet binding process from being performed at a position not desired by the user on the sheet or the sheet on which the image has been formed from being damaged.
[0088]
On the other hand, when the detection unit 32 determines that the sheet having the designated sheet size has been conveyed in the designated direction, the sheet is conveyed to the conveyance path 37. The conveyance path 37 is provided with an embossed paper binding unit 33 and a staple paper binding unit (hereinafter, both are collectively referred to as a paper binding unit). The paper is bound.
[0089]
Specifically, as described using the embossed paper binding unit 33, the paper transported to the transport path 37 is once stocked at a predetermined binding position of the paper binding unit as described above. . Then, when the stocked sheets reach a preset number of sheets, alignment is performed so that good alignment can be obtained when these sheets are overlapped. Next, the sheets are bound by the embossed paper binding unit 33 or the staple paper binding unit.
[0090]
The paper that has been post-processed and bound as described above is conveyed, sent to the discharge tray 35, and discharged. The discharge tray 35 is provided with a driving means (not shown). When the number of sheets discharged onto the discharge tray 35 increases, the sheet moves downward according to the weight of the sheet, and a large amount of sheets can be stocked. It has become. When the sheet placed on the discharge tray 34 is removed, the sheet is moved upward by the driving means. In addition, if the position detection means which detects the position of the discharge tray 35, the detection means which detects the stack amount of the discharge tray 35, etc. are installed, the discharge tray 35 can be moved with high accuracy.
[0091]
Various conditions relating to the binding process performed in the sheet binding unit can be arbitrarily set by a preset value set in the image forming apparatus or by an operation panel (notification unit) (not shown) provided in the image forming apparatus by the user. It can set suitably by setting. In other words, setting of the number of sheets to be bound, selection of a sheet binding portion for executing sheet binding processing, setting of a binding position such as a concave / convex formation position on a sheet and a metal needle driving position, and the like can be arbitrarily selected. Is possible.
[0092]
The sheet binding process may be set in advance so as to be executed only when the number of sheets conveyed from the recording unit 40 and stocked at the binding position of the sheet binding unit is a predetermined value. Good. That is, when the number of sheets exceeds a predetermined value, it may be set so that the sheet binding process is not performed. Then, the user may be notified by displaying on the operation panel that the sheet binding process cannot be executed. Alternatively, when the number of sheets exceeds a predetermined value as described above, the sheet binding process may be performed by dividing the number of sheets to be bound into a predetermined number of sheets set in advance.
[0093]
Furthermore, in order to reduce the condition setting by the user as much as possible and always set the optimum condition automatically, the sheet binding process is performed in the image forming apparatus according to the paper size, paper direction, number of sheets to be bound, etc. Conditions may be set. For example, if the user inputs on the operation panel that the paper direction is vertical as shown in FIG. 8A, the paper is bound at the binding position 301, and as shown in FIG. If it is input that the paper direction is the horizontal direction, the binding position of the paper may be automatically determined so that the paper is bound at the binding position 302. Further, the binding position of the sheet may be automatically determined by detecting the sheet direction of the sheet by the detecting unit 32 without performing input by the user.
[0094]
If the paper direction of the paper is determined by the user inputting the paper direction or the like, the paper feeding cassette 13 stored in the determined direction may be automatically selected. As described above, if various optimum setting conditions are automatically determined by the detection means 32 or a condition input by the user, the operability of the image forming apparatus itself can be improved and the work efficiency can be improved. It becomes.
[0095]
Sheet binding processing performed by the sheet post-processing apparatus 30 will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.
[0096]
With respect to the sheet on which image formation has been performed by the image forming apparatus, in step s11 in FIG. 9, the user performs sheet binding settings such as the sheet size, sheet direction, number of sheets to be subjected to sheet binding processing, and the method. Is called. Next, in s12, it is determined whether the paper binding process is a stapling method or an embossing method. If it is determined that the stapling method is used, the paper binding process by the stapling method is performed in s13.
[0097]
On the other hand, if the embossing method is determined in s12, the process proceeds to s14, and the number of sheets stocked at the binding position of the sheet binding portion 33 is counted. If it is determined in s15 that the number of sheets has not reached the predetermined number, the process returns to s14, and if it is determined that the number of sheets has reached the predetermined number, the process proceeds to s16. In s16, the paper binding process is performed by the paper binding unit 33. In s17, it is determined whether or not there is a sheet to be newly subjected to the sheet binding process. If the sheet binding process is performed, the process returns to s14, and if not, the sheet binding process is terminated.
[0098]
If it is determined in s12 that the embossing method is used, the sheet binding process can be performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. That is, when the paper binding process is set to the embossing method in s21, the number of sheets stocked at the binding position of the paper binding unit 33 is counted in s22. If it is determined in s22 that the number of sheets is equal to or less than the predetermined number, the process proceeds to s23. In s23, a sheet binding process is performed. On the other hand, if it is determined in s22 that the number of sheets is greater than the predetermined number, the sheet binding process is not performed.
[0099]
Alternatively, when the embossing method is determined in s12 (FIG. 9), the paper binding process can be performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. That is, the sheet binding process is set to the embossing method in s31, and the number of sheets stocked at the binding position of the sheet binding unit 33 is counted in s32.
[0100]
Next, in s33, it is determined whether the image forming operation is continuously performed in the recording unit 40. If the image forming operation is not performed, the process proceeds to s35. On the other hand, if the image forming operation has been performed, the process proceeds to s34, and it is determined whether or not the number of sheets stocked at the binding position of the sheet binding unit 33 is equal to or less than a predetermined number. If it is determined in s34 that the number of sheets is equal to or less than the predetermined number, the process proceeds to s35, and if it is determined that the number is not less than the predetermined number, the process returns to s32. In s35, a paper binding process is performed.
[0101]
Further, in s31 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 11, an operation for appropriately setting the shape and number of the irregularities formed on the paper may be added. That is, as shown in FIG. 12, first, in s41, when the sheet binding process is set to the embossing method, the thickness of the sheet, the number of sheets that can be bound, and the unevenness formed on the sheet are changed. The user sets at least one of the shape, the number, the position of the unevenness, and the like. Next, in s42, based on the conditions set in s41, the number of sheets that can be bound and the shape and number of irregularities formed on the sheets are determined. Then, based on the determination result, the sheet binding process is executed by the steps after s43, similarly to s32 to s35 described in FIG.
[0102]
In the present invention, the sheet post-processing apparatus is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 2, and has at least a concave portion and a convex portion for forming irregularities on a part of the paper, and a binding member (metal needle). The sheet binding means that does not use the sheet, and the number and arrangement of the irregularities formed on the sheet bundle can be changed according to the use conditions related to the difficulty of binding, and the configuration and the form It doesn't matter.
[0103]
The present invention does not limit the image forming apparatus to the configuration shown in FIG. 1, but at least the recording means for forming an image on a sheet and the sheet on which the image is formed as described above. The present invention can be applied regardless of the configuration or form as long as the sheet binding process by the sheet post-processing apparatus is possible.
[0104]
Further, the sheet post-processing apparatus may not be provided in the image forming apparatus, and may be used alone to bind various sheets other than transfer sheets such as various printed materials and colored sheets to a sheet bundle. It may be configured. In that case, the user may set the paper directly at the binding position of the paper binding means, and as shown in FIG. 2, the paper can be automatically conveyed by the conveying rollers 38a, 38b and set at the binding position. You may do it.
[0105]
<< Embodiment 2 >>
A sheet binding method, a sheet post-processing apparatus, and an image forming system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0106]
(Half punching method)
As shown in FIGS. 13A and 14A, the sheet binding means used in this half-cut binding method (paper binding method) is indicated by, for example, an arrow shape at a predetermined position of the stacked sheet bundle. As shown in FIG. 13 (b), a punching means having a punching blade for punching a portion to form a punched paper piece portion 50 and a punched paper piece portion 50 punched by the punching means on the upper surface side of the sheet bundle. As shown in FIG. 14B, there is provided an extruding means that pushes toward the lower surface of the sheet bundle.
[0107]
Specifically, the paper binding means is a punching means (punch) for forming the punched paper piece 50 and a receiving hole in which a hole suitable for the punching blade is arranged in a portion through which the punching blade passes. A board (die). Moreover, as an extrusion means, it has the punch blade of the shape where the lower end surface inclines, for example.
[0108]
The punch blade (punch) of the punching means has a structure in which the lower end surface is inclined. For this reason, when the sheet bundle is punched, the cut piece 51 existing at the position of the punch hole 51 is not completely separated from the sheet bundle, and one end (base end) of the cut piece 50 is the sheet bundle. The connection will continue. That is, the blank piece piece 50 is composed of a leg portion 52 and a head portion 53 as shown in FIG. 13 (a) and FIG. 15 (a).
The leg portion 52 is an end portion where the punched paper piece portion 50 and the paper are connected, the head portion 53 is an end portion where the punched paper piece portion 50 and the paper are not connected, and the leg portion 52 is a paper piece. And stay connected.
[0109]
Further, since the lower end surface of the punch blade itself is inclined, the punched paper piece portion 50 is inclined with respect to the surface of the sheet bundle. For example, when the sheet binding means punches out the sheet bundle from the upper surface side of the sheet bundle, the head 53 of the punched sheet piece portion 50 is pushed down to the lower surface side of the sheet bundle.
[0110]
At this time, when the punched paper piece 50 is inclined, the position of the head 53 slightly moves toward the leg 52 of the punched hole 51. For this reason, the jaw of the head 53 on the upper surface side of the sheet bundle is locked to the edge portion of the punch hole 51 of the leg portion 52 on the lower surface side of the sheet bundle, so that the upper and lower sheets are not separated from each other. Here, the “upper surface of the sheet bundle” refers to the surface on which images such as characters and figures are formed, and the “lower surface of the sheet bundle” refers to the back surface of the upper surface.
[0111]
That is, using the punching means (punch blade), for example, a sheet bundle is punched into an arrow shape so as to have an end portion that is not separated from the paper, and the punched piece piece 50 is formed. When the punched sheet piece 50 is raised toward the upper surface side of the sheet bundle or pushed toward the lower surface side of the sheet bundle with a shape in which the lower end surface of the punch blade itself is inclined) A large frictional force is generated between the hole 51 and the sheet bundle can be integrated.
[0112]
Further, in this sheet binding method, it is preferable to change at least one item or more with respect to the number of punched-sheet piece portions 50, the length of the leg portions 52, and the width of the leg portions 52 according to the state of the sheet bundle. For example, according to the number of sheets, at least one item or more is changed with respect to the number of formed cut-out piece portions 50, the length of the leg portions 52, and the width of the leg portions 52.
[0113]
Specifically, the number and shape of punch blades (punches) of the paper binding means for forming the punched paper piece portion 50 and the shape (the length and width of the taper of the punch blade), and the punch blade at the portion through which the punch blade passes. A plurality of types are prepared in accordance with the number of sheets of paper that differ from the shape of the receiving plate (die) in which holes conforming to the above are arranged.
[0114]
Then, as shown in Table 1 below, when the number of sheets is small, it is only necessary to reduce the number of cut-out piece portions 50, shorten the length of the leg portions 52, and narrow the width of the leg portions 52. On the other hand, when the number of sheets is large, the number of the cut-out piece portions 50 may be increased, the length of the leg portions 52 may be increased, and the width of the leg portions 52 may be increased.
[0115]
[Table 1]

[0116]
Further, for example, at least one item or more is changed with respect to the number of punched paper piece portions 50, the length of the leg portions 52, and the width of the leg portions 52 according to the paper type. Specifically, the number and shape of punch blades (punches) forming the punched paper piece 50 (the length and width of the punch blade taper) and the holes that fit the punch blade in the portion through which the punch blade passes. A plurality of types of the receiving plates (dies) having different shapes are prepared in accordance with the paper types.
[0117]
Then, as shown in Table 2 below, for example, when the paper is thin, the number of the cut-out piece portions 50 may be reduced, the length of the leg portions 52 may be shortened, and the width of the leg portions 52 may be reduced. On the other hand, when the paper is thick, it is only necessary to increase the number of the cut-out piece portions 50, increase the length of the leg portions 52, and increase the width of the leg portions 52.
[0118]
[Table 2]

[0119]
In addition, for example, at least one item or more is changed with respect to the number of punched piece portions 50, the length of the leg portions 52, and the width of the leg portions 52 according to the thickness of the sheet bundle. Specifically, the number and shape of punch blades (punches) forming the punched paper piece 50 (the length and width of the punch blade taper) and the holes that fit the punch blade in the portion through which the punch blade passes. A plurality of types of receiving plates (dies) having different shapes are prepared according to the thickness of the sheet bundle.
[0120]
Then, as shown in Table 3 below, for example, when the thickness of the sheet bundle is thin, the number of punched sheet pieces 50 can be reduced, the length of the legs 52 can be shortened, and the width of the legs 52 can be reduced. Good. On the other hand, when the thickness of the sheet bundle is thick, the number of the cut sheet pieces 50 is increased, the length of the leg 52 is increased, and the width of the leg 52 is increased.
[0121]
[Table 3]

[0122]
Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 15A, when the thickness of the sheet bundle is thin (including the case where the number of sheets is small and the sheet is thin), the length of the leg portion 52 (L1). Then, as shown in FIGS. 15B and 15C, as the thickness of the sheet bundle increases (including the case where the number of sheets increases, the thickness of the sheet increases, etc.), the length of the leg 52 is increased. By increasing the length (L2 → L3), the frictional force between the paper and the punched paper piece portion 50 increases, and the paper can be bound stably and reliably.
[0123]
Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 16A, when the thickness of the sheet bundle is thin (including the case where the number of sheets is small and the sheet is thin), the width of the leg portion 52 is reduced ( W1). Then, as shown in FIGS. 16B and 16C, as the thickness of the sheet bundle increases (including the case where the number of sheets increases, the thickness of the sheets increases, etc.), the width of the leg portion 52 is increased. By doing this (W2 → W3), the frictional force between the paper and the cut-out piece 50 is increased, and the paper can be bound stably and reliably.
[0124]
Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 17A, when the thickness of the sheet bundle is thin (including the case where the number of sheets is small, the case where the sheets are thin, etc.), the blank piece 50 (r in FIG. Less). Then, as shown in FIGS. 17B and 17C, as the thickness of the sheet bundle is increased (including the case where the number of sheets is increased, the thickness of the sheet is increased, etc.), the number of the cut sheet pieces 50 is set. By increasing the number, the frictional force between the paper and the cut-out piece 50 is increased, and the paper can be bound stably and reliably.
[0125]
Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 18A, when the thickness of the sheet bundle is thin (including the case where the number of sheets is small, the case where the sheets are thin, etc.), the blank piece piece 50 (r in the figure) The number of sequences in () is reduced. Then, as shown in FIGS. 18B and 18C, as the thickness of the sheet bundle increases (including the case where the number of sheets increases, the thickness of the sheets increases, etc.), the number of arrangement of the cut-out piece portions 50 By increasing the number of sheets, the frictional force between the sheet and the punched sheet piece 50 is increased, and the sheet can be bound stably and reliably.
[0126]
Further, the arrangement shape at the time of forming the punched paper piece portion 50 may be a conventionally known arrangement such as a circle or a square. For example, as shown in FIG. (shown by r) may be arranged in a triangle, or may be a staggered arrangement as shown in FIG. Further, it goes without saying that the above-described changes in the length and width of the leg portions 52 of the punched paper piece portion 50 and the changes in the number, the number of arrays, the array shape, etc. of the punched paper piece portions 50 can be used in appropriate combinations.
[0127]
(Image forming device)
As shown in FIG. 20, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image reading unit 110, a laser writing unit 120, an image forming unit 130, and a paper feeding unit 140. The image reading unit 110 includes a bar-shaped illumination lamp 111A and The optical unit U includes a first mirror unit 111 having a mirror 111B and a second mirror unit 112 in which a pair of mirrors 112A are arranged to face each other.
[0128]
Further, the image of the document D placed on the document table is translated from the solid line of the first mirror unit 111 to the position indicated by the broken line, and 1/2 of the second mirror unit 112 with respect to the first mirror unit 111. The exposure scanning is performed by the following movement of the speed. The image is formed on the image sensor 114 via the projection lens 113, and the photoelectrically converted electric signal is temporarily stored in the memory as an image signal through image processing in an image processing unit (not shown).
[0129]
Next, when the image signal is input to the laser writing unit 120, the laser beam generated by the semiconductor laser is rotationally scanned by the polygon mirror 122 that is rotated by the drive motor 121. Thereafter, the laser beam scans and exposes the photosensitive surface of the photosensitive drum 132 that has been previously charged to a constant potential by the charger 131 through a reflection optical system including the fθ lens 123 and the mirrors 124 to 126. Thereby, an electrostatic latent image of the original image is formed.
[0130]
Thus, an electrostatic latent image of the original image is formed on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 132 by the main scanning with the laser beam and the sub-scanning accompanying the rotation of the photosensitive drum 132. This latent image is reversely developed with toner carried by the developing sleeve 133A of the developing device 133 to become a toner image.
[0131]
On the other hand, each sheet cassette 141 loaded in the sheet feeding section 140 is unloaded by the operation of the unloading roller 141A of the sheet feed cassette 141 in which the designated size sheet P is stored. Thereafter, the sheet is fed toward the image transfer unit via the conveying roller 143. The fed paper P is fed to the transfer unit in synchronism with the toner image on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 132 by the registration roller 144 after the timing is adjusted. The toner image is transferred by being charged by 134.
[0132]
Further, the sheet P on which the toner image has been transferred is separated from the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 132 by the charge eliminating action of the separator 135, and is transported to the fixing device 137 through the transport belt 136. Then, after the toner is welded by sandwiching and heating the upper roller 137A and the lower roller 137B, the toner is discharged from the fixing device 137 through the conveying roller 138. Finally, the discharged paper P is discharged onto the tray 150 via the paper discharge roller 145.
[0133]
On the other hand, the photosensitive drum 132 from which the paper P has been separated is subjected to removal of residual toner by the blade 139A pressed by the cleaning device 139, cleaning, and then receiving a charge by the charger 131 again to enter the next image forming process.
[0134]
(Paper post-processing device)
FIG. 21 shows an example of the sheet post-processing apparatus 200. In this case, the sheet post-processing apparatus 00 can be provided at the position of the tray 150 of the image forming apparatus 100. The sheet post-processing apparatus 200 includes a receiving port 205, a sheet feeding unit 206, an intermediate stacker 207, a conveyance path 208, a control unit 214, an operation panel 215, a discharge conveyance unit 219, a discharge roller 220, and a discharge tray 221.
[0135]
The above-described receiving port 205 is for receiving the sheet P generated by the image forming apparatus 100 such as a copying machine and discharged from the discharge roller 145 into the sheet post-processing apparatus 200. The sheet P that has entered the receiving port 205 is fed into the sheet post-processing apparatus 200 by the sheet feeding unit 206, and is conveyed to the intermediate stacker 207 via the conveyance path 208.
[0136]
The intermediate stacker 207 is installed at a forward downward inclination, and a sheet stopper 207a is provided on the lower end side of the inclination. Further, in the middle of the inclination of the intermediate stacker 207, a lateral width regulating plate 207b of the sheet P is provided. The lateral width regulating plate 207b and the sheet stopper 207a constitute an aligning means for positioning the sheet P on the intermediate stacker 207.
[0137]
In the vicinity of the sheet stopper 207a, sheet binding means (half-cut binding means) 211A, 211B, and 211C are provided. In the sheet binding means 211A, 211B, and 211C, punch blades (punch) for forming a cut-out piece portion in the sheet bundle are arranged in parallel above the intermediate stacker 207, and the sheet bundle is disposed below the intermediate stacker 207. And a receiving plate (die) provided with a hole corresponding to a portion through which the punch blade passes.
[0138]
The combinations (sets) of punch blades and backing plates of the paper binding means 211A, 211B, and 211C are different in the shape of the punch blades and the backing plates in each set. A suitable combination can be selectively used according to the type, the thickness of the sheet bundle, and the like. If the combination of the punching blades and the receiving plate of the sheet binding means 211A, 211B, 211C can be moved in the depth direction of the intermediate stacker 207, for example, not only the corner portion of the sheet bundle but also the sheet bundle Sheet binding processing can be performed at a plurality of locations on the short side or the long side.
[0139]
At this time, the control means 214 is based on the information (sheet thickness and type, sheet position, etc.) of the sheet P detected by the sensor 222 (for example, the sheet detection sensor 216 and the thickness detection sensor 217 shown in FIG. 22). In addition to selecting the sheet binding means to be used for the sheet binding process, the combination and operation of the punch blades and the receiving plate of the sheet binding means 211A, 211B, 211C are controlled to form a cut sheet piece on the sheet P. The control unit 214 is provided with an operation panel 215, through which the user can arbitrarily select the sheet binding means 211A, 211B, 211C, the combination of the punch blade and the receiving plate, and the operation Etc. can also be controlled.
[0140]
When the binding operation of the sheet bundle by the selected sheet binding means is completed, the control means 214 is configured by a belt stretched between two axes provided so as to be partially exposed on the lower surface of the intermediate stacker 207. The discharged sheet conveying means 219 is actuated to push out the bound sheet bundle against the inclination angle of the intermediate stacker 207 and discharge it to the sheet discharge tray 221 through the discharge roller 220.
[0141]
(Control means)
Hereinafter, the control of the operation of the sheet binding units 211A, 211B, and 211C will be described with reference to FIG.
As described above, the sheet post-processing apparatus 200 includes the sheet binding unit 211A, the sheet binding unit 211B, and the sheet binding unit 211C that perform post-processing for forming a piece of cut paper in a sheet bundle and binding the sheet bundle. A control unit 214 is provided that can select at least one of the plurality of sheet binding units automatically or manually.
[0142]
The sheet binding means selected by the control means 214 advances to the operating position above the intermediate stacker 207 and is turned on. On the other hand, the other half-cut binding means that have not been selected are retracted from the operating position and turned off, and wait until they are selected next.
[0143]
The control unit 214 selects at least one of the plurality of sheet binding units 211A to 211C according to a predetermined number of sheet bundles (for example, less than 10 continuous copies or 10 to 100 sheets). Alternatively, at least one of the plurality of sheet binding means may be selected in accordance with the type of sheets in the sheet bundle (for example, presence / absence of waist and basis weight).
[0144]
Further, at least one of the plurality of sheet binding units 211A to 211C may be selected according to the thickness of the sheet bundle (for example, less than 3 mm, less than 10 mm, more than 10 mm, etc.). Further, when making a plurality of selections, the same type of paper binding means may be selected from the paper binding means 211A to 211C, or different types of paper binding means may be selected in combination.
[0145]
In other words, as shown in FIG. 22, the control unit 214 can select a display (light-up) by pressing a key of an operation display unit provided on the operation panel 215 that is manually operated by the user, and can select a sheet binding unit. Alternatively, the sheet binding unit may be selected based on a signal from the sheet detection sensor 216 or the sheet bundle thickness detection sensor 217 that has received the continuous copy number output by the image forming apparatus 100. Good.
[0146]
Specifically, for example, when the sheet detection sensor 216 detects a signal of the number of continuous copies created by the image forming apparatus 100, the control unit 214 selects at least one of the sheet binding units 211A to 211C, and this May be turned on and the other sheet binding means may be turned off.
[0147]
In addition, the operation panel 215 may be provided with a key (staple key) of an operation display unit that can select a method for binding a sheet bundle by a staple needle. In this case, the paper post-processing apparatus 200 is provided with a staple processing unit.
[0148]
In addition, a predetermined sheet binding unit is selected in advance in the storage unit 218 in accordance with a predetermined sheet bundle status (sheet bundle thickness, sheet type, number of sheets, etc.), and post-processing is performed on the selected sheet binding unit. By inputting the data so as to cause the control to be performed, the control unit 214 can automatically select a predetermined sheet binding unit according to the condition of the predetermined sheet bundle, and perform post-processing on the selected sheet binding unit. Can be made.
[0149]
With respect to the control flow by the control means 214, as shown in FIG. 23, first, in step s51, when the sheet binding process is set to the half-out binding method, the thickness of the sheet and the sheet that can be processed are bound. The user sets at least one of the number of sheets, the number of punched sheet pieces formed on the sheet, the length of the leg, the width of the leg, and the like. Next, in s52, based on the conditions set in s51, the number of sheets that can be bound and the shape (leg length, leg width, etc.) and number of the cut-out pieces formed on the sheets are determined. .
[0150]
Then, based on the determination result, the sheet binding process is executed by the steps after s53, similarly to s32 to s35 described in FIG. That is, in s53, the number of sheets stocked in the intermediate stacker (binding position) 207 is counted. Next, in s54, it is determined whether the image forming operation is continuously performed in the image forming unit 130. If the image forming operation is not performed, the process proceeds to s56 and the binding operation is performed.
[0151]
On the other hand, if the image forming operation has been performed, the process proceeds to s55, and it is determined whether or not the number of sheets stocked in the intermediate stacker 207 is equal to or less than a predetermined number. If it is determined in s55 that the number of sheets is equal to or less than the predetermined number, the process proceeds to s56 and a binding operation is performed. If it is determined that the number is not less than the predetermined number, the process returns to s53.
[0152]
In the present invention, the sheet post-processing apparatus is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 21, and includes at least a punching unit for forming a punched piece portion on a part of the sheet, and a binding member (metal needle). ) According to the information on the sheet bundle selected from the increase / decrease of the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle, the sheet type of the sheet bundle, and the thickness of the sheet bundle, Any configuration and type of paper post-processing apparatus can be used as long as it can change the shape and / or the number of the arrangement of the cut-out piece portions formed on the paper bundle.
[0153]
Further, the sheet post-processing apparatus may not be provided in the image forming apparatus, and is used to bind various sheets other than transfer sheets such as various printed materials and colored sheets to a sheet bundle. It may be configured. In that case, the user may directly set the paper at the binding position of the paper binding means, and as shown in FIG. 21, the paper can be automatically conveyed by the paper supply unit 206 and set at the binding position. May be.
[0154]
Further, the present invention does not limit the image forming apparatus to the configuration shown in FIG. 20, but at least the recording unit that forms an image on a sheet and the sheet on which the image is formed as described above. The present invention can be applied regardless of the configuration or form as long as the sheet binding process by the sheet post-processing apparatus is possible.
[0155]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, the present invention has the following effects.
[0156]
(1) Since the number and arrangement of irregularities formed on the paper are appropriately changed (set) according to the usage conditions related to the difficulty of binding, the binding state is always adjusted according to the usage conditions, and is always A good binding state can be obtained.
[0157]
Further, by forming a common unevenness on a part of the paper, the paper can be bound without using a binding member made of a metal material such as a metal needle. Since the unevenness is formed by utilizing the elasticity of the stacked paper, the binding position protrudes from the paper surface depending on the thickness of the binding member, as in the case of using the binding member. There is no.
[0158]
Therefore, it is possible to solve the trouble that the spelling member is caught at the spelling position. Therefore, the bound sheets can be stacked and stocked in an orderly manner, and the amount of sheets discharged to the discharge tray can be accurately grasped.
[0159]
Further, when the paper is recycled, it is not necessary to remove the binding member, the paper processing operation is facilitated, costs and resources can be saved, and ecology can be handled. Furthermore, there is an advantage that troubles such as a child accidentally swallowing a spelling member or mixing it into foods are eliminated.
[0160]
(2) When a sheet exceeding the preset possible amount of the binding process is carried into a binding position of the post-processing apparatus in one job, the sheet obtained by one job can be bound. Since the sheet binding process can be executed by dividing the quantity into sheets, it is possible to obtain sheets that are bound appropriately without difficulty.
[0161]
In addition, if the setting is made so that the paper binding processing conditions can be automatically switched according to the paper binding processable amount, the user does not need to set the paper binding processing conditions for each job. Usability and operability on the side are improved.
[0162]
(3) When a sheet exceeding the possible amount of the binding process is conveyed to the sheet post-processing apparatus, the user can be notified that the binding process cannot be performed. By selecting and setting the conditions for performing the binding process based on the above, it is possible to execute the binding process desired by the user, and the paper is damaged due to the useless binding process of the binding unit. Can be prevented.
[0163]
(4) When the number of sheets carried into the binding position exceeds a predetermined amount, the binding process is executed using the binding member, so that the binding process can be reliably performed. That is, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a trouble that the paper on which the image is properly formed is damaged by the wasteful binding process of the paper binding unit that does not use the binding member, and the paper binding unit that uses the binding member. , The binding process can be performed appropriately.
[0164]
(5) Depending on the information on the sheet bundle selected from the increase / decrease in the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle, the sheet type of the sheet bundle, and the thickness of the sheet bundle, Since the number of arrangement is appropriately changed, the sheets can always be bound in a good state. That is, the applicable range is further expanded with respect to the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle, the thickness of the sheet bundle, and the like.
[0165]
Further, when the paper is recycled, it is not necessary to remove the binding member, the paper processing operation is facilitated, costs and resources can be saved, and ecology can be handled. Furthermore, there is an advantage that troubles such as a child accidentally swallowing a spelling member or mixing it into foods are eliminated.
[0166]
(6) By changing the shape (width or length) of the punched paper piece formed on the paper bundle according to the type of paper, the number of sheets to be bound, the thickness of the paper bundle, the usage pattern of the paper, etc. Paper can be bound more appropriately and stably.
[0167]
(7) The paper is more appropriately and stably changed by changing the arrangement of the cut-out piece portions formed in the paper bundle according to the type of paper, the number of sheets to be bound, the thickness of the paper bundle, the usage pattern of the paper, etc. Can be bound.
[0168]
(8) More appropriate and stable by changing the number of the cut-out piece portions formed on the sheet bundle according to the type of sheet, the number of sheets to be bound, the thickness of the sheet bundle, the usage pattern of the sheet, and the like. Can bind paper.
[0169]
(9) By changing or combining the arrangement direction of the cut-out pieces to be formed on the sheet bundle, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of deviation in the sheet bundle, and the type of sheet, the number of sheets to be bound, the thickness of the sheet bundle, The paper can be bound more appropriately and stably according to the usage form of the paper.
[0170]
(10) The sheet post-processing device includes a plurality of sets of sheet binding units that perform a sheet binding process on a sheet bundle, and uses at least one sheet binding unit among the plurality of sets of sheet binding units. A post-cut piece is formed in the bundle, and post-processing is performed to bind the bundle of sheets. The means can be selected, and the sheets can be bound appropriately and stably. That is, it is possible to provide a sheet post-processing apparatus that has a wider application range regarding the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle, the thickness of the sheet bundle, and the like when binding the sheet bundle.
[0171]
(11) The image forming system includes an image forming apparatus that forms an image, a sheet post-processing apparatus, and a control unit, and a sheet binding unit that performs sheet binding processing according to the information on the sheet bundle by the control unit. At least one of the plurality of sets of binding means is automatically or manually selected, and the selected paper binding means is caused to perform post-processing for forming a piece of cut paper in the paper bundle and binding the paper bundle. Therefore, the optimum sheet binding means can be selected according to the information on the sheet bundle. Therefore, the sheet can be bound appropriately and stably by using the image forming system. That is, it is possible to provide an image forming system with a wider application range regarding the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle, the thickness of the sheet bundle, and the like when binding the sheet bundle.
[0172]
(12) Since the optimum sheet binding means can be selected according to the number of sheets processed, the sheet can be bound appropriately and stably by using this image forming system.
[0173]
(13) Since the optimum sheet binding means can be selected according to the type of sheets in the sheet bundle, it is possible to bind the sheets more appropriately and stably by using this image forming system.
[0174]
(14) Since the optimum sheet binding means can be selected according to the thickness of the sheet bundle, the sheet can be bound more appropriately and stably by using this image forming system.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a configuration explanatory diagram of the sheet post-processing apparatus.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a main configuration of the paper post-processing apparatus.
FIG. 4 is an arrangement view of unevenness formed on the same sheet.
FIG. 5 is a layout view with different unevenness formed on the same sheet.
FIG. 6 is another layout view of the unevenness formed on the same sheet.
FIG. 7 is a layout view of small holes formed in the paper.
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of a binding position of the sheet.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the binding operation.
FIG. 10 is a different flowchart for explaining the binding operation.
FIG. 11 is another flowchart for explaining the binding operation.
FIG. 12 is another flowchart for explaining the binding operation.
FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram when the half-cut paper piece is raised.
FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram when the half-cut paper piece is pushed in.
FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of a cut-out piece portion formed on the same sheet bundle.
FIG. 16 is another explanatory diagram of a cut-out piece portion formed on the same sheet bundle.
FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of the arrangement of the cut-out paper pieces.
FIG. 18 is another explanatory diagram of the arrangement of the cut-out paper pieces.
FIG. 19 is still another explanatory view of the arrangement of the cut-out paper pieces.
FIG. 20 is a configuration explanatory diagram of another image forming apparatus.
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of another sheet post-processing apparatus.
FIG. 22 is a control system block diagram of the image forming system.
FIG. 23 is a further different flowchart for explaining the binding operation.
FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram of a general half-cut paper piece.
[Explanation of symbols]
30-paper post-processing device
33-paper binding means
33a-convex
33b-recess
e-Roughness
40-Recording means
50 (r)-Piece of cut paper
100A, 100B-Image forming apparatus
200-paper post-processing device
211A, B, C-paper binding means
214-Control means

Claims (14)

In a sheet post-processing apparatus in which a plurality of sheets are overlapped and bound as a sheet bundle without using a binding member,
The number and arrangement of irregularities formed on the paper according to the usage conditions related to the difficulty of binding and having convex and concave portions that form irregularities on a part of the paper carried into the binding position A sheet post-processing apparatus comprising sheet binding means for performing sheet binding processing by changing the above. In a sheet post-processing apparatus in which a plurality of sheets are overlapped and bound as a sheet bundle without using a binding member,
Having a convex part and a concave part that form irregularities in a part of the paper carried into the binding position, and
A paper post-processing device comprising paper binding means for performing binding processing by dividing the paper carried into the binding position into an amount that can be bound when the amount exceeds the amount that can be bound. . 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising notification means for notifying that when the amount of paper carried into the binding position exceeds a binding processing capability of the paper binding means. Paper post-processing equipment. A paper binding means having a concave portion and a convex portion for forming irregularities on a part of the paper, binding the paper without using a binding member, and paper binding means for binding the paper using the binding member; Control means,
When the number of sheets carried into the binding position exceeds a predetermined amount according to a command from the control unit, the sheet binding unit that does not use the binding member does not execute the binding process and uses the binding member. A sheet post-processing apparatus, wherein a sheet binding unit for binding sheets executes a binding process. In a sheet post-processing apparatus in which a plurality of sheets are overlapped and bound as a sheet bundle without using a binding member,
Having punching means for forming a blank piece on a part of the paper, and
The shape and / or the number of arrangements of the cut-out sheet pieces formed on the paper are made different according to the information on the paper bundle selected from the increase / decrease of the number of sheets constituting the paper bundle, the type of paper, and the thickness of the paper bundle A sheet post-processing apparatus comprising sheet binding means for executing binding processing. The sheet post-processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the shape of the punched paper piece portion is changed by changing a width or a length of the punched paper piece portion formed in the paper bundle. 6. The paper post-processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the paper-sheet processing units having different arrangement numbers are formed by changing the arrangement of the paper-cutting parts formed on the paper bundle. 6. The sheet post-processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the number of the cut-out sheet pieces formed in the sheet bundle is changed to form the cut-out sheet pieces having different arrangement numbers. 6. The paper post-processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the paper-sheet processing units having different arrangement numbers are formed by changing or combining the arrangement directions of the paper-sheet pieces to be formed on the paper bundle. Provided in the image forming apparatus,
In a sheet post-processing apparatus that performs sheet binding processing by forming a cut-out piece portion for a sheet bundle discharged from the image forming apparatus,
The sheet post-processing device includes a plurality of sets of sheet binding means for performing a sheet binding process on the sheet bundle, and the sheet bundle is used by using at least one of the plurality of sets of sheet binding means. A sheet post-processing apparatus, which is configured to perform post-processing for forming a cut-out sheet piece on the sheet and binding the bundle of sheets. An image forming apparatus;
A sheet post-processing apparatus that performs sheet binding processing by forming a cut-out piece portion on a sheet bundle discharged from the image forming apparatus;
Control means for controlling the image forming apparatus and the sheet post-processing apparatus,
The sheet post-processing apparatus has a plurality of sets of sheet binding means for performing a binding process on the sheet bundle,
The control means selects at least one of the plurality of sets of paper binding means according to the information on the paper bundle, and forms a piece of cut paper in the paper bundle using the selected paper binding means. And an image forming system that performs control so as to perform post-processing for binding the sheet bundle. 12. The image forming system according to claim 11, wherein the information on the sheet bundle is a predetermined number of the sheet bundle. 12. The image forming system according to claim 11, wherein the information on the sheet bundle is a sheet type of the sheet bundle. The image forming system according to claim 11, wherein the information on the sheet bundle is a thickness of the sheet bundle.

Images