JP2005070317A - Sheet post-processor, image forming apparatus, sheet post-processing method and program executing the method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enlarge the setting extent of a cutting width without changing the constitution, that is, without widening a groove in which the cut part of a bundle of sheets falls, to expand user's degrees of freedom in the case of cutting the bundle of sheets, and to improve the user's operability and the productivity of the whole system. <P>SOLUTION: A trimmer 600 attached on the sheet discharge side of the image forming apparatus is provided with carrying rollers 603, 605, 606, 611 and 612, a cutter 607, a pressure plate 609, a stopper 614, a pusher plate 610 and a stack tray 621, etc. When the set cutting width exceeds a reference cutting width, the set cutting width is divided by a trimmer CPU circuit part 6100 so that each cutting width, after the dividing process may not exceed the reference cutting width and also each cutting width can be the mean width, and the bundle of sheets is shifted to each cutting position according to the divided cutting width, and then the cutting operation is performed by each cutting-width. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a sheet post-processing apparatus for post-processing a sheet on which an image is formed by an image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus to which the sheet post-processing apparatus is mounted, a sheet post-processing method, and a program for executing the method.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as a device mounted on the sheet discharge side of an image forming apparatus, there is a sheet post-processing apparatus that performs post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed by the image forming apparatus. As this type of sheet post-processing apparatus, a sheet bundle is formed (saddle stitching) by stacking a plurality of sheets formed and discharged by the image forming apparatus in an intermediate portion in the sheet post-processing apparatus. Further, a sheet post-processing apparatus provided with a cutting device (hereinafter referred to as a trimmer) for carrying the process of conveying the saddle-stitched and bound sheet bundle and cutting (cutting) the end portion of the sheet bundle in a subsequent process is known. ing.

  In the above-described trimmer equipped in the sheet post-processing apparatus, a “cutting width” indicating a predetermined amount from the end of the sheet bundle is set in advance as an amount for cutting the end of the sheet bundle. A portion having a width corresponding to the “cutting width” is cut from the end portion of the sheet bundle by a cutting means such as a cutter.

  On the other hand, there is also a sheet post-processing apparatus including a trimmer that can change the setting of the cutting width by the user and can perform the cutting operation of the sheet bundle with a desired “cutting width” set by the user. .

Furthermore, a technique relating to a sheet post-processing apparatus having a movable movable stopper for positioning a sheet bundle to be cut has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1). Although the proposal shows that the cutting amount of the sheet bundle can be changed by the position control of the movable stopper, the adjustment range of the cutting amount and the solution to the problem when performing a plurality of cutting operations are described. It is not described.
JP 2002-3069 A

  Regarding the cutting width when cutting a sheet bundle with the trimmer of the conventional sheet post-processing apparatus as described above, there is a settable range for the setting value of the cutting width, but there is such a settable range. Most of the reasons are caused by the configuration of the sheet post-processing apparatus. Specific examples are shown below.

  For example, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the apparatus by dropping the cut portion cut from the end of the sheet bundle during the cutting operation into a groove provided below the cutting portion where the cutter or the like is disposed. Many have been adopted. In that case, it becomes difficult to drop a cut portion that is equal to or larger than the width of the groove into the groove. In other words, in this case, the width of the groove is a physical limitation in performing a single drop operation of the cut portion. In order to alleviate this limitation, it is possible to increase the width of the groove and increase the size of the cut part that can be dropped, but normally the sheet bundle is conveyed from the upstream side at the groove location. Since this is also a location, it is impossible to provide a groove having a very large width in order to guarantee stable conveyance of the sheet bundle.

  As described above, the cutting width based on the “physical configuration of the apparatus” is conventionally set as a settable range in the sheet bundle cutting operation, and even if the user desires, the maximum which is the upper limit of the settable range It was impossible to perform a cutting operation exceeding the cutting width.

  As a method for solving this problem, a control method that realizes a cutting operation with a cutting width exceeding the maximum cutting width by performing a cutting operation in a range capable of cutting the sheet bundle a plurality of times is conceivable.

  However, when the cutting operation is performed a plurality of times within the cuttable range as described above, the cutting width becomes non-uniform, for example, the first cutting width is 10 mm and the second cutting width is 1 mm. The phenomenon may occur. When the cutting width is uneven, especially when there are many thick (wide) pieces of cut paper, the thick cut pieces of paper may fall against other pieces of cut paper in the waste box that collects the cut pieces of paper. You can't get down to the bottom of the box. In cases such as when an optical sensor is used to detect the full load of the cut paper pieces in the waste box, the amount of the cut paper pieces that enter the waste box is triggered as a result of the false detection that the full load of the cut paper pieces is detected early. It is possible that a problem will occur that the amount of In that case, there arises a problem that the waste box must be frequently cleaned.

  In addition, if the cutting width is too narrow, it may be considered that the performance and durability of the cutting portion provided with the cutter or the like may vary, and the time when the cutting function is lowered is advanced. If the cutting function is lowered, the sheet will be broken and cannot be cut. Even if it can be cut, the cut paper piece will be torn apart and become finer, and even if the waste box is cleaned, it will not be very clean. The occurrence of problems such as entering into the gap and causing trouble is also conceivable.

  In addition, when the cutting operation within the possible cutting range is performed a plurality of times as described above, if there is no limit to the number of divisions of the cutting operation, one sheet is set when an inappropriate value is set as the cutting width. A situation where the bundle is cut many times can occur. In such a case, since the cutting operation is repeated until a plurality of cutting operations for the sheet bundle are completed, the main body portion on which information necessary for the sheet bundle is originally described is cut, and the image forming apparatus is manufactured. There is a possibility that the bookbinding (sheet bundle) itself is a waste.

  In addition, if there is no limit on the number of divisions of the cutting operation, unnecessary cutting operations are performed, so that the blades of the cutter for cutting the sheet bundle and the blade receiving portion that receives the blades are severely worn. In addition, a lot of unnecessary power is consumed.

  Further, since the binding portion of the sheet bundle is highly likely to be a hard material such as a staple, the cutter blade is likely to be damaged when the binding portion of the sheet bundle is cut.

  In addition, if there is no limit on the number of divisions of the cutting operation, the cutting operation takes time. Therefore, the margin time until the cutting operation for the next sheet bundle after the cutting operation of the sheet bundle is reduced. It is also conceivable that the sheet bundles collide with each other in the internal conveyance path. Further, even if control is performed to wait for the cutting operation for the next sheet bundle in order to avoid collision between the sheet bundles, the sheet bundle is cut many times, so the sheet bundle is cut. The time until the job is completed becomes long and the efficiency is low.

  As described above, in the related art, there is a possibility that many problems due to an inappropriate setting of the cutting width for the sheet bundle by the user may occur.

  An object of the present invention is to make it possible to widen the settable range of the cutting width without changing the configuration such as widening a groove for dropping the cutting portion of the sheet bundle, and to cut the sheet bundle by the user. Provided are a sheet post-processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, a sheet post-processing method, and a program for executing the method, which can enhance the degree of freedom and improve the operability of the user and the productivity of the entire system. There is.

  In order to achieve the above object, a sheet post-processing apparatus according to the present invention includes a transfer unit that transfers one or more sheet bundles discharged from an image forming apparatus, and an end portion of the sheet bundle transferred by the transfer unit. In a sheet post-processing apparatus including a cutting unit for cutting, a setting unit that sets a cutting width of an end portion of a sheet bundle, and the cutting width set by the setting unit is set if the cutting width is larger than a basic cutting width. The cut width is divided so that each cut width after the division is not larger than the basic cut width, and the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position by the transfer means for each of the divided cut widths, And a control unit that causes the cutting unit to execute a cutting operation for each cutting width.

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the control means, when the cutting width set by the setting means is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width, and each cutting width after the division is the basic cutting width. The sheet width is divided so that it is not larger than the width and the respective cutting widths are averaged, and the sheet bundle is transferred by the transfer means to each cutting position for each of the divided cutting widths, The cutting means is caused to execute a cutting operation for each cutting width.

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the control means, when the cutting width set by the setting means is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width, and each cutting width after the division is the basic cutting width. The sheet is divided so that the number of times of cutting is not more than the upper limit, and the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position by the transfer means for each of the divided cutting widths. The cutting means is made to execute the cutting operation.

  As described above in detail, according to the present invention, when the set cutting width is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is set so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width. For each divided cutting width, the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position, and the cutting operation for each cutting width is executed. For example, even when the setting value of the cutting width is large, the divided cutting width is divided. By performing the cutting operation in step a plurality of times, it is possible to perform cutting that is equal to or larger than the maximum cutting width based on the physical configuration of the sheet post-processing apparatus, and a desired cutting operation is possible. Further, the sheet bundle moving speed between the cutting positions for performing the cutting operation for each cutting width is lower than the moving speed of the sheet bundle other than the cutting operation, thereby maintaining the consistency of the trailing edge of the sheet bundle. And a stable cutting operation can be performed.

  This makes it possible to widen the setting range of the cutting width without changing the configuration such as widening the groove for dropping the cut portion of the sheet bundle, and the degree of freedom of the user when cutting the sheet bundle is increased. As a result, the operability of the user and the productivity of the entire system can be significantly improved.

  Further, according to the present invention, when the set cutting width is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is set so that the respective cutting widths after the division are not larger than the basic cutting width. The width is divided so that it becomes an average width, and the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position for each divided cutting width, and the cutting operation for each cutting width is executed. Therefore, it is possible to widen the settable range of the cutting width without changing the configuration such as widening the groove, and it is possible to increase the degree of freedom of the user when cutting the sheet bundle. In addition, since the divided cutting widths are made uniform, the cutting means can function in a stable state, and the cut paper pieces cut from the sheet bundle can be stored in the waste box in a stable state. As described above, it is possible to avoid erroneous detection of the full load of the cut paper pieces due to the wide cut paper pieces leaning in the waste box.

  As a result, the possibility of system down due to a cutting function failure as in the past can be reduced, the durability of the cutting function can be extended, and further unnecessary due to avoiding false detection of the full load of cutting paper pieces. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a serious system stop, and as a result, it is possible to significantly improve the operability of the user and the productivity of the entire system.

  Further, according to the present invention, when the set cutting width is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is set so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width, and the number of times of cutting is The sheet is divided so that it is within the upper limit, and the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position for each divided cutting width, and the cutting operation for each cutting width is executed. For example, even when the setting value of the cutting width is large By performing the cutting operation with the divided cutting widths a plurality of times, it is possible to cut more than the maximum cutting width based on the physical configuration of the sheet post-processing apparatus, and it is possible to expand the possible cutting range It becomes.

  In addition, since an upper limit is set for the number of times of cutting, for example, even when an incorrect setting is made when setting the cutting width, the cutting operation is performed indefinitely on a single sheet bundle as in the past. The problem that the image forming portion of the sheet bundle is cut can be solved. As a result, the sheet bundle that is a product of the image forming apparatus is not wasted, and the cutting means (specifically, the blade of the cutter and the blade receiving part that receives the blade) are consumed and unnecessary due to unnecessary cutting operations. Power consumption can be avoided. In addition to this, it is possible to properly define the time for the cutting operation for the next sheet bundle to be cut, and to improve the productivity of the entire system.

  Furthermore, since a warning is issued when the number of times of cutting exceeds the upper limit, the user can reset according to the warning, and the operability of the user can be improved.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the internal structure of the image forming apparatus 1000 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1000 includes a document feeder 100, an image reader 200, a printer unit 300, a folding device 400, a finisher 500, and a trimmer 600.

  The document feeder 100 includes a document stacking unit 131, a document feeding mechanism 132, and a paper discharge tray 112. The document feeder 100 places a plurality of documents set on the document stacking unit 131 one by one in order from the first page on the platen glass 102 through the curved conveyance path of the document feeding mechanism 132 on the left side of FIG. Then, after the document reading operation is completed, the document feed / discharge operation for discharging the document to the discharge tray 112 is performed.

  The image reader 200 includes a scanner unit 104 having a document illumination lamp 103 and a mirror 105, a mirror 106, a mirror 107, a lens 108, and an image sensor 109. The image reader 200 operates as follows when a document is conveyed one by one on the platen glass 102 from the left to the right in FIG. 1 by the document feeder 100. The scanner unit 104 is held at a predetermined position below the platen glass 102, and the document is read by passing the document on the scanner unit 104 from left to right in FIG.

  When the original passes, the original illumination lamp 103 of the scanner unit 104 is irradiated with the light, and the reflected light from the original is guided to the image sensor 109 via the mirrors 105, 106, 107, and the lens 108. As a result, the reflected light (optical image) of the document is photoelectrically converted into an image signal, whereby the document is read. Note that the document can be read by stopping the document after it is transported onto the platen glass 102 by the document feeder 100 and moving the scanner unit 104 from left to right in FIG.

  The printer unit 300 includes an exposure control unit 110, a photosensitive drum 111, a developing unit 113, a paper feed cassette 114, a paper feed cassette 115, a transfer unit 116, a fixing unit 117, a discharge roller 118, a flapper 121, a path 122, and a double-sided conveyance path 124. A manual sheet feeding unit 125 is provided. The printer unit 300 operates as follows. The document image signal read by the image sensor 109 of the image reader 200 is subjected to image processing and sent to the exposure control unit 110 of the printer unit 300. The exposure control unit 110 outputs laser light corresponding to the image signal. The laser beam is irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 111, and an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 111.

  The electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 111 is developed with a developer by the developing unit 113, and the image developed with the developer on the photosensitive drum 111 is a paper feeding cassette 114, a paper feeding cassette 115, and a manual paper feeding unit 125. The transfer unit 116 transfers the sheet fed from one of the double-sided conveyance paths 124. The type of sheet fed from any of the manual sheet feeding unit 125, the sheet feeding cassette 114, and the sheet feeding cassette 115 is set by the user from the operation unit 1 (see FIG. 2) (for example, thick paper, OHP sheet, etc.). The optimum sheet conveying conditions and image forming conditions are selected according to the types of these sheets.

  The sheet onto which the developer has been transferred is subjected to a developer fixing process by the fixing unit 117. The sheet that has passed through the fixing unit 117 is once guided to the path 122 by the flapper 121. After the trailing edge of the sheet passes through the flapper 121, the sheet is switched back and guided to the discharge roller 118 by the flapper 121. As a result, the sheet is discharged from the printer unit 300 by the discharge roller 118 with the developer-transferred surface facing down (face down).

  The folding device 400 is mounted between the printer unit 300 and the finisher 500 and includes a folding mechanism 410. The sheet discharged from the discharge roller 118 of the printer unit 300 is sent to the folding device 400. The folding device 400 performs a process of folding the sheet into a Z shape by the folding mechanism 410. A sheet having a sheet size of A3 size or B4 size and designated for folding processing is fed to the finisher 500 after being folded by the folding device 400, and the other sheets are folded by the folding device 400. It is sent to the finisher 500 as it is.

  The finisher 500 includes an inlet roller pair 502, a finisher path 552, a first bookbinding path 553, a second bookbinding path 554, a first transport roller pair 813, a second transport roller pair 817, a storage guide 820, a third transport roller pair 822, A sheet positioning member 823, a folding roller pair 826, an exit roller pair 602, and the like are provided. The finisher 500 guides the sheet discharged from the printer unit 300 through the folding device 400 to the inside of the finisher by the entrance roller pair 502. A switching flapper (not shown) for guiding the sheet to the finisher path 552 or the first bookbinding path 553 is provided on the downstream side of the entrance roller pair 502.

  The sheet that has passed through the first bookbinding path 553 and the second bookbinding path 554 is stored in the storage guide 820 by the first conveyance roller pair 813 and the second conveyance roller pair 817, and further, the sheet leading edge by the third conveyance roller pair 822. Is conveyed until it contacts the movable sheet positioning member 823. Two pairs of staplers (not shown) are provided on the downstream side of the second conveyance roller pair 817 in the conveyance direction, and the center of the sheet bundle is bound in cooperation with an anvil (not shown) at a position facing the stapler. (Saddle stitching) is now possible. A folding roller pair 826 is provided on the downstream side of the stapler, and a sheet bundle projected by a not-shown protruding member is folded by the folding roller pair 826 and then fed to the trimmer 600 by the exit roller pair 602.

  The trimmer 600 includes a cutter 607, a pusher plate 619, a stack tray 620, a stack cover 625, various rollers, a sheet discharge unit (a stacker unit between the pusher plate 619 and the stack tray 621), and the like. The trimmer 600 performs a cutting operation (trim operation) for cutting the end portion of the sheet bundle fed from the finisher 500 in accordance with the setting by the user from the operation unit 1 or the printer driver of the image forming apparatus 1000. The user can take out the sheet bundle that is saddle stitched and bound inside the trimmer 600 by opening the stack cover 625 upward. The detailed configuration and operation of the trimmer 600 will be described later.

  In this way, by performing the saddle stitch binding process and the cutting process with the finisher 500 and the trimmer 600 attached to the commercially available image forming apparatus, the saddle stitching is performed similarly to the magazines and weekly magazines that are generally sold. It is possible to provide a sheet bundle that has been bound and whose edge portions are trimmed.

<Sheet flow>
The sheets on which images are formed by the printer unit 300 of the image forming apparatus 1000 are sequentially sent to the finisher 500 through the sheet conveying path via the folding apparatus 400, and a plurality of sheets are stacked by the finisher 500 to complete a sheet bundle. Let The sheet bundle that has undergone post-processing such as saddle stitch binding for each copy is further sent to the trimmer 600 through the sheet conveyance path, and the trimmer 600 performs a process of cutting the edge (edge portion) of the sheet bundle. After being applied, the sheet is discharged and stacked on a sheet discharge portion (a stacker portion between the pusher plate 619 and the stack tray 620).

<Control system of image forming apparatus>
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system of the image forming apparatus 1000.

  In FIG. 2, the control system of the image forming apparatus 1000 includes a document feeder control unit 101, an image forming circuit unit 150, an image reader control unit 201, an image signal control unit 202, an external interface (I / F) 209, and printer control. Unit 301, folding device control unit 401, finisher control unit 501, and trimmer control unit 601.

  The image forming circuit unit 150 includes a ROM 151, a RAM 152, and a CPU 153. In accordance with the program stored in the ROM 151 and the setting from the operation unit 1 by the user, the CPU 153 is configured to control the document feeder control unit 101, the image reader control unit 201, the image signal control unit 202, the printer control unit 301, and the folding device control unit. Reference numeral 401 denotes a central processing unit that controls the finisher control unit 501 and the external I / F 209. The ROM 151 is a memory that stores a program. The RAM 152 is a memory that is used as a temporary storage area for temporarily holding control data and a work area for operations associated with control.

  The document feeder control unit 101 performs a document feeding operation in the document feeder 100, the image reader control unit 201 performs a document reading operation in the image reader 200, and the printer control unit 301 performs an image forming operation in the printer unit 300. The folding device control unit 401 controls the folding processing operation in the folding device 400, the finisher control unit 501 controls the bookbinding operation in the finisher 500, and the trimmer control unit 601 controls the cutting operation in the trimmer 600, respectively.

  The external I / F 209 controls an interface between the image forming apparatus 1000 and the computer 210, and print data transmitted from the computer 210 to the image forming apparatus 1000 is developed into an image and output to the image signal control unit 202. To do. The operation unit 1 performs various settings such as a display unit that displays various screens such as a cutting width setting screen (see FIG. 25) described later, and a cutting width setting in a “cutting width setting process” (see FIG. 24) described later. A setting unit is provided.

  An image read from the document by the image sensor 109 of the image reader unit 200 is output from the image reader control unit 201 to the image signal control unit 202, and further output from the image signal control unit 202 to the printer control unit 301. An image forming operation is performed by the printer unit 300 under the control of the printer control unit 301.

<Communication system of image forming apparatus>
In the image forming apparatus 1000, various types of information are transmitted as communication data according to actual operations and states by using a known communication technique. Specifically, data such as the sheet size and the number of documents used for image formation are transferred from the image forming circuit unit 150 of the image forming apparatus 1000 to the finisher control unit 501, and then from the finisher control unit 501 as necessary. It is transmitted to the trimmer control unit 601. Further, regarding the jam information of the sheet bundle in the trimmer 600 and the open information of the stack cover 625 of the trimmer 600, the reverse path, that is, from the trimmer control unit 601 to the finisher control unit 501, and further from the finisher control unit 501 to the image. It is transmitted to the forming circuit unit 150.

<Configuration and operation of trimmer>
FIGS. 3 to 9 are configuration diagrams for explaining the operation of the trimmer 600. The configuration and operation of the trimmer 600 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. The trimmer 600 includes conveying rollers 603, 605, 606, 611, and 612 (transfer means), an inlet sensor 604, a cutter 607 (cutting means), driven rollers 608 and 610, a press plate 609, a stopper sensor 613, a stopper 614, and paper discharge. Rollers 615, 616, 617, a holder plate 618, a pusher plate 619, a stack tray 621, a paper discharge sensor 624, and a stack cover 625 are provided.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in the standby state of the trimmer 600, the sheet bundle (already loaded bundle) 620 stacked on the sheet discharge unit is pressed by a spring (not shown), so that the pusher plate 619 and the stack tray 621 are pressed. Held in between. In the standby state of the trimmer 600, when information on the sheet size of the sheet bundle 622 (FIG. 4) to be received next from the finisher 500 to the trimmer 600 is issued from the printer control unit 301, the stopper 614 is in response to the sheet by the cutter 607. When the bundle is cut, it is moved to an optimum position according to the sheet size by driving the stopper motor M25 (FIG. 13).

  As shown in FIG. 4, the sheet bundle 622 that is saddle-stitched and folded in the bookbinding unit of the finisher 500 passes through the exit roller 602 of the finisher 500 and is sent to the trimmer 600, and then is conveyed by the transport motor M <b> 21 (transfer means). The paper is conveyed by the driven conveyance rollers 603, 605, 606, 611, and 612 and is abutted against the stopper 614, whereby the skew correction is performed. The conveyance rollers 611 and 612 are one-way rollers, and when the sheet bundle 622 is pushed in the direction opposite to the normal conveyance direction, that is, the conveyance direction from the exit roller 602 side to the stopper 614 side, the movement is followed and there is no load. It is comprised so that reverse rotation is possible. When the sheet bundle 622 passes through the inlet sensor 604, the pusher plate 619 is retracted to the right side in FIG. 4 by the pusher motor M27 (FIG. 13) in order to discharge the sheet bundle 622 to the sheet discharge portion.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a driven roller 608 attached to the press plate 609 is lowered by lowering the press plate 609 in order to cut the rear end of the sheet bundle 622 whose front end is abutted against the stopper 614 uniformly. The sheet bundle 622 is pressed and fixed through the press plate 609 by 610.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the sheet bundle 622 pressed by the press plate 609 lowers the cutter 607 so that the rear end of the sheet bundle 622 is cut by the cutter 607.

  As shown in FIG. 7, when the cutting width set for the sheet bundle 622 with one cutting amount cannot be cut, the cutter 607 is retracted from the position of FIG. 6 by the cutter motor M22 (FIG. 13). After the press plate 609 rises, the stopper 614 slowly moves to a position for performing the next cutting, thereby moving the sheet bundle 622 below the press plate 609. Then, the press plate 609 is lowered again (FIG. 5), and the cutter 607 is lowered to perform cutting (FIG. 6). This process continues until the cutting with the set cutting width of the sheet bundle 622 is completed.

  When the cutting is completed, the cutter 607 is retracted as shown in FIG. 7 by the cutter motor M22 (FIG. 13), the press plate 609 is raised by the press motor M23 (FIG. 13), and the stopper is released by the stopper release motor M24 (FIG. 13). 614 is retracted to the lower side of the conveyance path. The cut sheet bundle 622 is conveyed by conveyance rollers 611 and 612 and then discharged between the holder plate 618 and the pusher plate 619 by paper discharge rollers 616, 615 and 617.

  As shown in FIG. 8, as the sheet bundle 622 is discharged, the holder plate 618 is lowered by the holder motor M26 (FIG. 13), and in conjunction therewith, the pusher plate 619 is moved by the pusher motor M27 (FIG. 13). Are pushed out to the sheet discharge unit on which the sheet bundle (already loaded bundle) 620 is stacked and discharged. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 9, the holder plate 618 that has been lowered rises, so that the trimmer 600 enters the standby state again.

  10 to 12 are perspective views for explaining the operation of the holder plate 618 and the pusher plate 619 in the sheet discharge portion of the trimmer 600 shown in FIGS. The discharge roller of the sheet discharge unit is not shown.

  As shown in FIG. 10, when the sheet bundle 622 is conveyed from the finisher 500 to the trimmer 600 from the state before the start of the operation of the trimmer 600 in the saddle stitch bookbinding process by the finisher 500 and the trimmer 600, as shown in FIG. In order to discharge the sheet bundle 622 to the sheet discharge portion, the pusher plate 619 is retracted in a direction away from the holder plate 618 by the pusher motor M27. Then, the sheet bundle 622 after cutting is discharged between the holder plate 618 and the pusher plate 619.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 12, the holder plate 618 is lowered by the holder motor M26, and the pusher plate 619 is linked to the pusher motor M27 to link the sheet bundle 622 discharged to the sheet discharge portion by the pusher motor M27. ) Align by pressing to 620 side.

<Finisher and trimmer control system>
FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the finisher control unit 501 of the finisher 500 and the trimmer control unit 601 of the trimmer 600.

  In FIG. 13, the finisher control unit 501 includes a finisher CPU circuit unit 5100 including a CPU 5110, a ROM 5120, a RAM 5130, and the like. The finisher CPU circuit unit 5100 is controlled by the CPU 5110 according to various programs stored in the ROM 5120, and exchanges data by communicating with the image forming circuit unit 150 of the main body of the image forming apparatus via the communication IC 5140. .

  The trimmer control unit 601 includes a trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 including a CPU 6110, a ROM 6120, a RAM 6130, and the like. The trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 is controlled by the CPU 6110 in accordance with various programs stored in the ROM 6120, and exchanges data by communicating with the finisher CPU circuit unit 6100 of the finisher 500 via the communication IC 6140. In addition to various programs, the ROM 6120 stores an upper limit value dl of a cutting width for cutting a sheet bundle by a single cutting operation.

  The various driver circuits 6150 receive signals from the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 and drive the following motors, solenoids (not shown), and clutches (not shown). The conveyance motor M21 is a drive source that rotationally drives the exit roller 602 of the finisher 500, the conveyance rollers 603, 605, 606, 611, and 612 of the trimmer 600, and the discharge rollers 615, 616, and 617. The cutter motor M22 is a drive source that moves the cutter 607. The press motor M23 is a drive source that moves the press plate 609 up and down. The stopper release motor M24 is a drive source that releases the sheet bundle locking operation by the stopper 614. The stopper motor M25 is a drive source that moves the stopper 614. The holder motor M26 is a drive source that moves the holder plate 618 up and down. The pusher motor M27 is a drive source that moves the pusher plate 619.

  The stopper motor M25 is driven by a normal movement speed of the sheet bundle and a bundle movement speed when the sheet bundle is pushed by the stopper 614 when the sheet bundle is cut (trimmed) a plurality of times. Controlled by the unit 6100. When the movement of the sheet bundle is completed, the sheet bundle 622 needs to be in contact with the stopper 614. Therefore, the moving speed of the sheet bundle needs to be set to a sufficiently slow speed so as not to fly the sheet bundle upstream in the conveyance direction. In the present embodiment, when a sheet bundle is cut into a plurality of cutting widths, the sheet bundle moving speed between the cutting positions for performing the cutting operation for each divided cutting width is the sheet other than the cutting operation. It is controlled so as to be slower than the moving speed of the bundle.

  The inlet sensor 604 is disposed in the vicinity of the inlet portion of the trimmer 600, and is a sensor used for adjusting a start timing and the like for starting a trimmer operation sequence described later. The stopper sensor 613 is disposed in the vicinity of the stopper 614, and is a sensor used for adjusting the brake timing when the sheet bundle is locked by the stopper 614. The paper discharge sensor 624 is a sensor that is disposed in the sheet discharge unit and is used for paper discharge control when the sheet bundle is discharged to the sheet discharge unit.

  Next, the operation centering on the trimmer 600 of the image forming apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment having the above-described configuration will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  The processes shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 14 to 19 and FIGS. 21 to 23 are executed by the CPU 6110 of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 of the trimmer 600 based on the flowcharts stored in the ROM 6120. 24 is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 151 by the CPU 153 of the image forming circuit unit 150 on the image forming apparatus main body side.

<Cutting width setting process>
FIG. 24 illustrates a cutting width setting process for setting a cutting width of a sheet bundle on the image forming apparatus main body side when an image forming apparatus starts a job for forming an image on a sheet, saddle-stitching and cutting a plurality of sheets. It is a flowchart to show.

  The trimming width setting process is a process that can be set when the trimming operation is performed by the trimmer 600 when a job is executed after the image forming apparatus is powered on. Before performing the trimming width setting process, the user sets the sheet size of the sheet bundle to be trimmed, the number of originals for reading an image, and the number of copies for image formation using the operation unit 1. Since these settings are settings performed in a general image forming apparatus, description thereof is omitted here. When the sheet size, the number of originals, and the number of copies have been set, the cutting width setting process flow starts. The variables used here are a variable a for temporarily storing the cutting width and a cutting width d for storing the actually determined value.

  In FIG. 24, the CPU 153 (setting unit) of the image forming circuit unit 150 first calculates a cutting width initial value that calculates an appropriate cutting width of the sheet bundle based on the set sheet size and the number of documents. The calculated cutting width value is substituted for variable a (step S1401). Next, the value of the cutting width is displayed on the display unit of the operation unit 1 (setting unit) of the image forming apparatus (cutting width setting screen) (step S1402).

  An example of the image of the cutting width setting screen at that time is shown in FIG. At this time, the cutting width d is also initialized by substituting the same value as the variable a. The variable (cutting width) a is displayed as a “set value” in the center of the cutting width setting screen. The set value is a value that is being set, and initially the value of the variable a determined by the cutting width initial value calculation is displayed. In FIG. 25A, the value of the first variable a is “20”. At the bottom of the cutting width setting screen, a + (plus) key, a-(minus) key, and a confirmation key are displayed. The cutting width setting screen is a touch panel, and pressing the part where the key is displayed turns the key on / off.

  Next, the on / off state of the confirmation key is checked (step S1403). When the confirmation key is pressed and turned on (Yes in step S1403), the value of the variable a is substituted into the cutting width d (step S1409). . Then, after waiting for the pressure to press the key to disappear (step S1410), this process is completed.

  If the confirmation key is not pressed and is in the off state (No in step S1403), it is determined whether the plus key or the minus key is pressed (step S1404). If neither the plus key nor the minus key is pressed (No in step S1404), the process returns to step S1403, and the determinations in steps S1403 and S1404 are repeated until any one of the enter key, the plus key, and the minus key is pressed.

  When the plus key is pressed (“+” in step S1404), the variable a is incremented (step S1405). When the minus key is pressed (“−” in step S1404), the variable a is decremented (step S1406). Then, after waiting for the pressure to press the key to disappear (step S1407), the value of the corrected variable a is displayed in the “set value” field of the cutting width setting screen (step S1408).

  From the state of the cutting width setting screen in FIG. 25A, the cutting width setting screen when the plus key is pressed once is shown in FIG. 25B, and the cutting width setting screen when the minus key is pressed once. Is shown in FIG. In FIG. 25B and FIG. 25C, the “set value” at the center of the cutting width setting screen is 1 more than the “set value” in FIG. 25A (“21”), and 1 is decreased. (19).

  Thereafter, the process returns to step S1403 and waits again for any of the enter key, plus key, and minus key to be pressed. By repeating the above processing until the confirmation key is pressed, the user can set the cutting width d while viewing the cutting width setting screen. The value of the cutting width d set here is stored in the RAM 152 of the image forming circuit unit 150 of the image forming apparatus, and at the same time the communication processing (step S202 in FIG. 14) of the image forming apparatus main body is performed in a trimmer operation sequence described later. The image data is transmitted from the image forming circuit unit 150 to the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 of the trimmer 600.

<Overall operation sequence of trimmer>
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an overall operation sequence of the trimmer 600.

  The overall operation sequence is a sequence showing operations from initialization of each driving mechanism of the trimmer 600 to a sheet bundle processing sequence.

  In FIG. 14, the CPU 6110 of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 first performs the initial operation of each drive mechanism such as the cutter 607, press plate 609, and various rollers of the trimmer 600 after the image forming apparatus is powered on. The initial operation is an operation for moving each drive mechanism of the trimmer 600 to the home position. As shown in FIG. 3, for example, the cutter 607 and the press plate 609 are moved to a position where the cutter 607 and the press plate 609 do not block the sheet bundle conveyance path, and the stopper 614 is also normally positioned at the home position. Move at a speed (step S201).

  After completing the initial operation, communication processing is performed (step S202). The communication process is a process of exchanging information (sheet bundle information and the like) between the finisher 500 and the image forming apparatus main body (printer unit 300) and between the trimmer 600 and the finisher 500. Done in The following various signals are sent from the finisher 500 to the trimmer 600.

  The various signals include a “start signal” indicating that the user has pressed the start key of the operation unit 1 to start a saddle stitch bookbinding (saddle stitch folding operation) job, and the finisher 500 from the image forming apparatus main body. A “sheet size signal” indicating the size of the sheet bundle conveyed to the trimmer 600, a sheet number signal indicating the number of sheet bundles conveyed to the trimmer 600, an “end signal” indicating that the saddle stitch folding job has been completed, This is a “cutting width signal” indicating the set cutting width (a signal indicating the cutting width d set by the cutting width setting process of FIG. 24). The trimmer 600 performs a cutting operation based on these various signals.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a “start signal” indicating the start of a job is transmitted from the upstream apparatus (finisher 500, image forming apparatus main body) that conveys the sheet bundle to the trimmer 600 (step S203). The “start signal” is used when the user instructs the start of the saddle stitch folding operation job by pressing the start key of the operation unit 1 or when the user issues a saddle stitch folding job job from the printer driver of the personal computer (PC). Issued when instructed to start. Until a “start signal” is transmitted, the process waits for a start signal in step S203.

  When the “start signal” has been transmitted (Yes in step S203), initialization processing is performed to initialize each drive mechanism of the trimmer 600 as necessary to start operation (step S204). The initialization process is a process based on the sheet bundle information received from the upstream apparatus (image forming apparatus main body or finisher 500) in the communication process described above. Accordingly, each drive mechanism is moved to a standby position where the sheet bundle sent from the upstream device to the trimmer 600 can be appropriately received.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a “bundle discharge command” is transmitted from the upstream device (step S205). This “bundle discharge command” is a signal indicating that a sheet bundle is conveyed from the upstream device to the trimmer 600, and the actual sheet bundle is conveyed to the trimmer 600 after the “bundle discharge command” is issued. . The “bundle discharge command” is sent from the CPU 5110 of the finisher 500 to the CPU 6110 of the trimmer 600 when the final sheet of the sheet bundle is conveyed to the finisher 500 and detected by the sensor in the finisher 500.

  After confirming the “bundle discharge command”, the sheet bundle processing sequence is performed (step S206). The sheet bundle processing sequence will be described in detail with reference to FIG. Next, it is determined whether or not an “end signal” indicating that all the saddle stitch folding jobs have been completed is transmitted from the upstream apparatus (step S207). Until the “end signal” is transmitted, the processing from step S205 to step S208 is repeated. Thereafter, when transmission of an “end signal” is detected (Yes in step S207), the process returns to step S202.

<Sheet bundle processing sequence>
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a sheet bundle processing sequence.

  In the sheet bundle processing sequence, trim processing (cutting processing) such as sheet bundle loading to the trimmer 600 and cutting of the sheet bundle is performed, and the sheet bundle is sent to the sheet discharge unit (stacker unit between the pusher plate 619 and the stack tray 621). This is a discharging sequence.

  In FIG. 15, the CPU 6110 of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 first drives the transport motor M <b> 21 in order to enable the sheet bundle to be carried into the trimmer 600 from the finisher 500 (step S <b> 301). Note that when the second and subsequent sheet bundles are carried in, nothing is performed in step S301 because the conveyance motor M21 is not stopped after the sheet bundle processing for the first sheet bundle is completed. Next, it is determined whether or not the sheet bundle carried into the trimmer 600 is a sheet bundle (trim bundle) to be trimmed (step S302).

  In the case of a sheet bundle (trim bundle) to be trimmed (Yes in step S302), trim operation parameter determination processing is performed (step S303), and the process proceeds to step S304. In the case of a sheet bundle (non-trim bundle) that is not trimmed (No in step S302), the process proceeds directly to step S304. If it is a non-trim bundle, the stopper 614 is usually placed at a position according to the sheet size, and if it is a trim bundle, the stopper 614 is placed at a position according to the first cutting width dd [1] determined by the trim operation parameter determination process. Stopper movement processing for moving at a speed is performed (step S304). The trim operation parameter determination process will be described later with reference to FIGS. 21, 22, and 23.

  The sheet bundle that performs the trim operation is a sheet bundle that performs the process of trimming the end portion of the sheet bundle by cutting the non-folded side of the sheet bundle. This is a sheet bundle that is discharged without being cut.

  Next, it waits for the entrance sensor 604 of the trimmer 600 to be turned on (step S305), and after the entrance sensor 604 is turned on when the sheet bundle is loaded into the trimmer 600, the sheet bundle performs a trim operation. It is determined whether it is a bundle (step S306). If it is determined that the sheet bundle is not subjected to the trim operation (No in step S306), the process proceeds to the non-trim sequence (step S307). If it is determined that the sheet bundle is to be trimmed (Yes in step S306), the process proceeds to the trim sequence. (Step S308). In either case, after the corresponding process ends, the process proceeds to the trim bundle discharge sequence (step S309). The non-trim sequence and the trim sequence will be described later with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17, respectively.

  Thereafter, the presence / absence of a sheet bundle conveyed next to the trimmer 600 is determined (step S310). Next, when there is no sheet bundle conveyed (No in step S310), the driving of the conveyance motor M21 is stopped (step S311), and this process is completed.

  By executing this sheet bundle processing sequence, both the sheet bundle that performs the trimming operation and the sheet bundle that does not perform the trimming operation are conveyed along the conveyance path inside the trimmer 600, and the discharge to the sheet discharge unit (stacker unit) is completed. To do.

<Trimming parameter determination process>
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing details of the trim operation parameter determination process shown in step S303 of FIG.

  The trim operation parameter determination process is a process including a basic cutting width determination process and an operation cutting width determination process.

  In FIG. 21, when a sheet bundle to be trimmed is conveyed to the trimmer 600, the CPU 6110 of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 first performs basic cutting width determination processing (step S1101), and performs basic cutting. The width da is determined, and then, based on the basic cutting width da, how many times the sheet bundle is actually cut at what time (the number of cuttings and the cutting width at each cutting) An operation cutting width determination process to be determined is performed (step S1102).

<Basic cutting width determination process>
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing details of the basic cutting width determination process shown in step S1101 of FIG.

  The basic cutting width determination process is a process for determining the basic cutting width. The variables used in the basic cutting width determination process are d indicating the cutting width set by the user in the cutting width setting process of FIG. 24, a counter variable I for counting the number of sheet bundle cutting, and the remaining sheet bundle remaining A variable p used for calculating the cutting width, a basic cutting width da which is a basic value of a cutting width for cutting a sheet bundle by a single cutting operation, and a cutting width upper limit value dl for one sheet bundle.

  In FIG. 22, the CPU 6110 of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 first substitutes the cutting width d set by the user into the variable p (step S1201), and initializes the counter variable I to 1 (step S1202). Next, it is determined whether or not the variable p is larger than one cutting width upper limit value dl (step S1203). If the variable p is smaller than the single cutting width upper limit value dl (No in step S1203), the basic cutting width da is set to d / I (step S1206), and this process is completed. When the cutting width d is smaller than the cutting width upper limit value dl from the beginning, the cutting process is completed by one cutting, and therefore the cutting width d is directly substituted for the basic cutting width da.

  When the variable p is larger than the single cutting width upper limit value dl (Yes in step S1203), the number of times of cutting for one sheet bundle is plural. First, the trimming width upper limit value dl is subtracted from the variable p (step S1204), the counter variable I is incremented (step S1205), and the process returns to step S1203 again. Here, the value of the variable p is the remaining width when the sheet bundle is cut with a single cutting width upper limit value dl.

  The processing from step S1203 to step S1205 is repeated until the variable p becomes equal to or smaller than the cutting width upper limit value dl, and the counter variable I is incremented each time. When the variable p is equal to or less than the upper cutting width upper limit value dl, the value of the counter variable I is the total number of cuttings (the total number of cuttings). Thereafter, the value of d / I is substituted for the basic cutting width da (step S1206). As a result, the average cutting width obtained by dividing the cutting width d by the cutting frequency I is substituted for the basic cutting width da. Subsequent cutting widths use this basic cutting width da.

<Operation cutting width determination processing>
FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing details of the operation trimming width determination process shown in step S1102 of FIG.

  The operation cutting width determination process is a process for determining the number of cutting times and each cutting width for one sheet bundle. The variables used in the operation cutting width determination process are the basic cutting width da, nd indicating the number of operation cuttings, d indicating the cutting width set by the user in the cutting width setting process of FIG. 24, and the nd cutting width. It is a matrix dd [nd].

  In FIG. 23, the CPU 6110 (control unit) of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 first initializes the operation cutting frequency nd to 1 (step S1301). Next, it is determined whether or not the cutting width d set by the user is larger than the basic cutting width da (step S1302). If the cutting width d is equal to or smaller than the basic cutting width da (No in step S1302), the cutting is performed to dd [nd] (in this case, nd [1]) indicating the cutting width of the operation cutting frequency nd (in this case, the first). The value of the width d is substituted as it is (step S1306), and this process is completed.

  If the cutting width d is larger than the basic cutting width da (Yes in step S1302), first, dd [nd] (in this case, dd [1]) indicating the cutting width of the operation cutting frequency nd time (first time in this case) The value of the basic cutting width da is substituted into (Step S1303). Next, the basic cutting width da is subtracted from the cutting width d (step S1304). Thereafter, the operation cutting frequency nd is incremented (step S1305), the process returns to step S1302, and it is determined whether the cutting width d is still larger than the basic cutting width da.

  When the cutting width d is equal to or smaller than the basic cutting width da (No in step S1302), cutting is performed to dd [nd] (in this case, dd [2]) indicating the cutting width of the operation cutting frequency nd (in this case, second). The value of width d is substituted (step S1306), and this process is completed. If the cutting width d is still larger than the basic cutting width da (Yes in step S1302), the processing from step S1303 to step S1305 is repeated until the cutting width d becomes equal to or smaller than the basic cutting width da.

  When this process is completed by the above operation, the operation cutting frequency nd and cutting widths dd [1], dd [2],... Dd [nd] are determined. FIG. 20 shows an example of the relationship between the cutting widths of the sheet bundle. The example shown in FIG. 20 shows a case where the operation cutting frequency nd is 2 and the cutting widths are dd [1] and dd [2].

<Non-trim sequence>
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing details of the non-trim sequence shown in step S307 of FIG.

  The non-trim sequence is a process in which the trimmer 600 discharges the sheet bundle as it is without cutting.

  In FIG. 16, the CPU 6110 of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 first checks whether or not the movement of the stopper 614 has been completed (step S401). The movement of the stopper 614 is performed based on the sheet size of the sheet bundle, and is performed at a normal speed. After the movement of the stopper 614 is completed, a retreat process for retracting the stopper 614 from the conveyance path is performed (step S402). The stopper 614 is retracted because, in the non-trim sequence, there is no need to stop the sheet bundle against the stopper 614, and it is necessary to retract the stopper 614 from the conveyance path in order to convey the sheet bundle. is there. And it waits for the stopper sensor 613 arrange | positioned in the vicinity of the stopper 614 to turn on (step S403), and this process is completed when the stopper sensor 613 turns on.

<Trim sequence>
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing details of the trim sequence shown in step S308 of FIG.

  The trim sequence is a process of performing a cutting operation (trim operation) in which the end portions of the sheet bundle are cut by the trimmer 600 to align the end portions.

  In FIG. 17, the CPU 6110 of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 first initializes the counter I to 0 (step S501). The counter I is a counter indicating how many trim operations are currently being performed. Next, the completion of the movement of the stopper 614 is awaited (step S502). The movement of the stopper 614 is performed based on dd [1] which is the first cutting width of the sheet bundle determined in the operation cutting width determination process of FIG. 23, and is performed at a normal speed.

  Next, it waits for the stopper sensor 613 disposed in the vicinity of the stopper 614 to be turned on (step S503), and after the stopper sensor 613 is turned on, the transport motor M21 is stopped (step S504). As a result, the sheet bundle is stopped at the position of the stopper sensor 613 and placed at the cutting position. Next, a “sheet bundle pressing process” which is a process of applying pressure from the upper part of the sheet bundle by lowering the press plate 609 so that the sheet bundle does not move is performed (step S505), and then the end of the sheet bundle “Sheet bundle cutting process” is performed (step S506), and after completion of the “sheet bundle cutting process”, the press plate 609 is raised to release the pressure applied to the sheet bundle. This is performed (step S507).

  Thereafter, the counter I indicating how many trim operations are currently being performed is incremented (step S508). Next, it is determined whether or not the value of the counter I is equal to the operation cutting frequency nd determined in the operation cutting width determination process of FIG. 23 (step S509). When the value of the counter I is equal to the operation cutting frequency nd (Yes in step S509), the processing is skipped and the processing is completed.

  If the value of the counter I is not equal to the operation cutting frequency nd (No in step S509), the stopper 614 is moved to a position based on the next cutting width dd [I] (step S510). In this case, the stopper 614 needs to be moved at a sufficiently slow speed so as not to fly the sheet bundle to the upstream side in the conveyance direction. As the stopper 614 moves, the sheet bundle returns in the upstream direction of the conveyance path. However, since the conveyance rollers 611 and 612 are one-way rollers, the sheet bundle is driven to rotate backward without load. Thereafter, the process returns to the “sheet bundle press process” in step S505 again. With this trim sequence, the counter I is incremented every time a trimming operation is performed on the sheet bundle, and the value of the counter I becomes equal to the operation trimming frequency nd (Yes in step S509), with the trimming width dd [I]. Cutting is done.

  When such a processing method is used, when a single sheet bundle is cut a plurality of times in the trimmer 600, the cutting width can be prevented from changing significantly. This causes problems such as a thick (wide) cut paper piece cut from a sheet bundle being caught in the middle of a litter box that collects the cut paper pieces and not falling down, or by cutting too thin and the edge of the sheet bundle being bent. Occurrence can be prevented.

<Trim bundle discharge sequence>
18 and 19 are flowcharts showing details of the trim bundle discharge sequence shown in step S309 of FIG.

  The trim bundle discharge sequence is a process for discharging the trimmed sheet bundle (trim bundle) to a sheet discharge portion (a stacker portion between the pusher plate 619 and the stack tray 621).

  18 and 19, the CPU 6110 of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 first performs a evacuation process for retracting the pusher plate 619 in order to carry the sheet bundle into the sheet discharge unit (step S <b> 601), and sequentially the discharge sensor 624. Is turned on and off (step S602, step S603). When the rear end of the sheet bundle passes through the position where the sheet discharge sensor 624 is disposed, a stopper setting process is performed in which the stopper 614 is set at the sheet bundle locking position in order to perform the cutting operation of the next sheet bundle ( Step S604).

  Next, in order to completely discharge the sheet bundle to the sheet discharge unit, the conveyance motor M21 is driven to convey the sheet bundle by a predetermined distance (for example, 150 [mm]) (step S605), and then the conveyance motor M21 is stopped. (Step S606). Next, the holder plate 618 which is a sheet bundle presser in the sheet discharge unit is lowered (step S607), and when the lowering of the holder plate 618 is completed (Yes in step S608), the sheet bundle discharged to the sheet discharge unit is moved to the pusher plate. It pushes to the stack tray 612 side by 619 (step S609). When the setting of the pusher plate 619 is completed (Yes in step S610), the holder plate 618 that is a sheet bundle presser is raised (step S611), and when the raising of the holder plate 618 is completed (Yes in step S612), this processing is completed. To do.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the set cutting width is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is set so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width. In addition, each of the cutting widths is divided into an averaged width, the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position for each divided cutting width, and a cutting operation for each cutting width is executed. It is possible to widen the setting range of the cutting width without changing the configuration such as widening the groove for dropping the cut portion of the sheet bundle, and to increase the degree of freedom of the user when cutting the sheet bundle. it can. Further, since the divided cutting widths are made uniform, the cutting mechanism composed of the cutter 607 and the like can be operated in a stable state, and the cutting paper pieces cut from the sheet bundle can also be stably disposed of in the waste box. Thus, it is possible to avoid the erroneous detection of the full load of the cut paper pieces due to the wide cut paper pieces leaning in the waste box as in the prior art.

  As a result, the possibility of system down due to a cutting function failure as in the past can be reduced, the durability of the cutting function can be extended, and further unnecessary due to avoiding false detection of the full load of cutting paper pieces. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a serious system stop, and as a result, it is possible to significantly improve the operability of the user and the productivity of the entire system.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The internal structure and control system configuration of each part (image forming apparatus main body, folding apparatus, finisher, trimmer) of the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, an average cutting width obtained by dividing the set cutting width by the number of cuttings is determined as the basic cutting width by the basic cutting width determination process of FIG. 22, but in this embodiment, the basic cutting width is determined as shown in FIG. The basic cutting width is determined by the basic cutting width determination process. Since processes other than the basic cutting width determination process are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof will be omitted.

<Basic cutting width determination process>
FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing details of the basic cutting width determination process shown in step S1101 of FIG.

  In FIG. 26, the CPU 6110 of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 sets a basic cutting width da that is a basic value of a cutting width to be cut from a sheet bundle by a single cutting operation, for example, for one sheet bundle stored in the ROM 6120. The cutting width upper limit value dl is set (step S1501).

  The trim sequence (see FIG. 17) is the same as that in the first embodiment. However, when cutting a sheet bundle a plurality of times without changing the cutting width per time (once The basic cutting width da that is the width to be cut by the cutting operation is set to the cutting width upper limit dl), and the cutting width can be widened. At that time, since the stopper 614 is moved slowly, the sheet bundle is not thrown upstream in the conveying direction.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the set cutting width is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is set so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width. For each divided cutting width, the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position, and the cutting operation for each cutting width is executed. For example, even when the setting value of the cutting width is large, the divided cutting width is divided. By performing the cutting operation in step a plurality of times, cutting exceeding the maximum cutting width based on the physical configuration of the trimmer 600 can be performed, and a desired cutting operation can be performed. Further, the sheet bundle moving speed between the cutting positions for performing the cutting operation for each cutting width is lower than the moving speed of the sheet bundle other than the cutting operation, thereby maintaining the consistency of the trailing edge of the sheet bundle. And a stable cutting operation can be performed.

  This makes it possible to widen the setting range of the cutting width without changing the configuration such as widening the groove for dropping the cut portion of the sheet bundle, and the degree of freedom of the user when cutting the sheet bundle is increased. As a result, the operability of the user and the productivity of the entire system can be significantly improved.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The internal structure and control system configuration of each part (image forming apparatus main body, folding apparatus, finisher, trimmer) of the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the operation cutting frequency and each cutting width are determined by the operation cutting width determination process of FIG. 23, but in this embodiment, the operation cutting frequency and each cutting width are determined by the operation cutting width determination process of FIG. Determine the width. Processes other than the operation trimming width determination process are the same as those in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

<Operation cutting width determination processing>
FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing details of the operation trimming width determination process shown in step S1102 of FIG.

  The variables used in the operation cutting width determination process are the basic cutting width da, nd indicating the number of operation cuttings, d indicating the cutting width set by the cutting width setting process of FIG. 24, and the matrix dd indicating the nd cutting width. [nd] is the maximum number of cuts nl.

  In FIG. 27, the CPU 6110 of the trimmer CPU circuit unit 6100 first initializes the operation cutting frequency nd to 1 (step S1601). Next, it is determined whether the cutting width d is larger than the basic cutting width da (step S1602). When the cutting width d is equal to or smaller than the basic cutting width da (No in step S1602), the cutting is performed to dd [nd] (in this case, nd [1]) indicating the cutting width of the operation cutting frequency nd time (first time in this case). The value of the width d is substituted as it is (step S1608), and this process is completed.

  When the cutting width d is larger than the basic cutting width da (Yes in step S1602), first, dd [nd] (in this case, dd [1]) indicating the cutting width of the operation cutting frequency nd (the first time in this case) The value of the basic cutting width da is substituted into (Step S1603). Next, the basic cutting width da is subtracted from the cutting width d (step S1604). Next, it is determined whether or not the operation cutting frequency nd is equal to or greater than the maximum cutting frequency nl (step S1605).

  When the operation cutting frequency nd is equal to or greater than the maximum cutting frequency nl (Yes in step S1605), for example, “the settable cutting width is limited” on the display unit of the operation unit 1 (warning unit) on the image forming apparatus main body side. A warning message such as “I will cut to the maximum width that can be cut” is displayed (step S1606), and this processing is completed. At this stage, the operation cutting frequency nd is equal to the maximum cutting frequency nl, and the cutting widths dd [1], dd [2],... Dd [nd] are determined. The maximum width that can be cut by the trimmer 600 is the basic cutting width da × the maximum cutting number nl.

  If the operation cutting frequency nd is not equal to or greater than the maximum cutting frequency nl (No in step S1605), the operation cutting frequency nd is incremented (step S1607), and the process returns to step S1602 to determine whether the cutting width d is still larger than the basic cutting width da. Determine.

  When the cutting width d is equal to or smaller than the basic cutting width da (No in step S1602), the cutting width is cut to dd [nd] (in this case, dd [2]) indicating the cutting width of the operation cutting frequency nd time (second time in this case). The value of the width d is substituted (step S1608), and this process is completed. If the cutting width d is still larger than the basic cutting width da (Yes in step S1602), the sequence is repeated until the cutting width d becomes equal to or smaller than the basic cutting width da.

  When this process is completed by the above operation, the operation cutting frequency nd and cutting widths dd [1], dd [2],... Dd [nd] are determined. FIG. 20 shows an example of the relationship between the cutting widths of the sheet bundle. The example shown in FIG. 20 shows a case where the operation cutting frequency nd is 2 and the cutting widths are dd [1] and dd [2].

  By performing the operation cutting width determination process, it is possible to arbitrarily set the upper limit number of divisions for the set cutting width.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the set cutting width is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is set so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width. And the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position for each divided cutting width, and the cutting operation for each cutting width is performed. Even when the setting value is large, by performing the cutting operation with the divided cutting widths a plurality of times, it is possible to perform cutting more than the maximum cutting width based on the physical configuration of the trimmer 600, and expand the cutting possible range. It becomes possible to do.

  In addition, since an upper limit is set for the number of times of cutting, for example, even when an incorrect setting is made when setting the cutting width, the cutting operation is performed indefinitely on a single sheet bundle as in the past. The problem that the image forming portion of the sheet bundle is cut can be solved. As a result, the sheet bundle that is a product of the image forming apparatus is not wasted, and it is possible to avoid the consumption of the cutter blade, the blade receiving portion that receives the blade, and unnecessary power consumption associated with unnecessary cutting operations. it can. In addition to this, it is possible to appropriately define the time of the cutting operation for the next sheet bundle to be cut, and to improve the productivity of the entire system.

  Furthermore, since a warning is issued when the number of times of cutting exceeds the upper limit, the user can reset according to the warning, and the operability of the user can be improved.

  In the above embodiment, the image forming apparatus is configured as shown in FIG. 1, the trimmer 600 is configured as shown in FIG. 3 and the like, and the control in the trimmer 600 is shown in each flowchart. Needless to say, the present invention is not limited to the configuration and control of the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  In the above embodiment, when the reference value of the cutting width d is determined in the cutting width setting process of FIG. 24, the sheet size and the number of originals are set. However, when the original is set on the original feeding device 100, the sheet is set. The size and the number of documents may be detected by a sensor. Alternatively, the reference value of the cutting width d may be determined by detecting, with a sensor, the thickness of the sheet bundle actually saddle-stitched and the deviation of the end of the sheet bundle. Further, when setting the cutting width d, the setting value may be directly input using the numeric keypad of the operation unit 1 instead of the setting using the keys on the cutting width setting screen of the operation unit 1.

  In the above embodiment, the sheet bundle is moved when the sheet bundle is cut a plurality of times in step S510 of the trim sequence in FIG. 17 by moving the stopper 614 by the stopper motor M25. For example, the sheet bundle may be moved by rotating the conveyance motor M21 and rotating the conveyance rollers 611 and 612 in reverse. Further, the timing for moving the stopper 614 is after the transition to the sheet bundle processing sequence of FIG. 15. However, in order to provide more margin, for example, the stopper 614 is initialized in step S204 of the trimmer operation sequence of FIG. The stopper 614 may be moved at an earlier timing, such as starting the first movement.

  In the above embodiment, the sheet bundle is conveyed by 150 [mm] in the trim bundle discharge sequence shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, but the distance to move the sheet bundle is of course the configuration of the trimmer 600. The distance may be other than 150 [mm].

  In the above-described embodiment, the saddle stitch bookbinding has been described. However, the cutting of the end portion of the sheet bundle in a plurality of times is not limited to the saddle stitch bookbinding. That is, a normal sheet bundle that has not been folded (for example, 50 sheets of A4 size), a sheet bundle that has been folded (for example, 10 sheets of A3 size folded in a Z shape), and a sheet in which these are mixed For a bundle (for example, 10 sheets of A4 size, 10 sheets of A3 size folded in Z shape), and one sheet that has been folded (for example, one sheet of A3 size folded in half) But it goes without saying.

  Further, in the above embodiment, in the operation cutting width determination process of FIG. 27, when the operation cutting frequency nd is greater than or equal to the maximum cutting frequency nl (the set cutting width d is the maximum width (trimming 600) that the trimmer 600 can cut) In the case of the cutting width da × the maximum cutting number nl) or more), a warning message is displayed. However, the cutting width setting process shown in FIG. Alternatively, even when the user inputs a cutting width greater than or equal to the upper limit value, the operation cutting width determination process shown in FIG. 27 is performed at the input stage, and an immediate warning message is displayed when the operation cutting frequency nd exceeds the maximum cutting frequency nl. May be displayed and control for prohibiting the image forming operation may be performed. Although the warning is displayed by displaying a warning message, the warning may be performed by sound or light, or the warning may be performed by combining sound and light.

  The present invention supplies a software program (the flowcharts of FIGS. 14 to 19, FIGS. 21 to 24, and FIGS. 26 to 27) that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments to a computer or CPU. Can be achieved by reading and executing the supplied program.

  In this case, the program is directly supplied from a storage medium storing the program, or downloaded from another computer or database (not shown) connected to the Internet, a commercial network, a local area network, or the like. Supplied.

  The form of the program may be in the form of object code, program code executed by an interpreter, script data supplied to an OS (operating system), and the like.

  The present invention also supplies a computer or CPU with a storage medium storing a software program that implements the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the computer or CPU reads and executes the program stored in the storage medium. Can also be achieved.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As a storage medium for storing the program code, for example, ROM, RAM, NV-RAM, floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk (registered trademark), magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, MO, CD-R, CD -RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD + RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, etc.

  The function of the above-described embodiment is not only by executing the program code read from the computer, but the OS or the like running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing based on the instruction of the program code. Can also be realized.

1 is a configuration diagram showing an internal structure of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system of the image forming apparatus. FIG. It is a block diagram for demonstrating operation | movement of a trimmer. It is a block diagram for demonstrating operation | movement of a trimmer. It is a block diagram for demonstrating operation | movement of a trimmer. It is a block diagram for demonstrating operation | movement of a trimmer. It is a block diagram for demonstrating operation | movement of a trimmer. It is a block diagram for demonstrating operation | movement of a trimmer. It is a block diagram for demonstrating operation | movement of a trimmer. It is a perspective view for demonstrating operation | movement of a trimmer. It is a perspective view for demonstrating operation | movement of a trimmer. It is a perspective view for demonstrating operation | movement of a trimmer. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of a finisher and a trimmer. It is a flowchart which shows the operation sequence of the whole trimmer. It is a flowchart which shows a sheet | seat bundle processing sequence. It is a flowchart which shows a non-trim sequence. It is a flowchart which shows a trim sequence. It is a flowchart which shows a trimmer bundle discharge | emission sequence. It is a continuation of the flowchart of FIG. It is a figure which shows the cutting width of a sheet bundle. It is a flowchart which shows a trim operation parameter determination process. It is a flowchart which shows a basic cutting width determination process. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement cutting width determination processing. It is a flowchart which shows a cutting width setting process. (A), (B), (C) is a figure which shows the cutting width setting screen. It is a flowchart which shows the basic cutting width determination process which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement cutting width determination process which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

100 Document feeder 150 Image forming circuit unit 200 Image reader 300 Printer unit 400 Folding device 500 Finisher 600 Trimmer 601 Trimmer control unit 603, 605, 606, 611, 612 Transport roller 607 Cutter 609 Press plate 614 Stopper 615, 616, 617 Paper discharge roller 618 Holder plate 619 Pusher plate 621 Stack tray 1000 Image forming apparatus 6100 Trimmer CPU circuit unit M21 Conveyance motor

Claims (13)

In a sheet post-processing apparatus comprising a transfer unit that transfers one or more sheet bundles discharged from the image forming apparatus, and a cutting unit that cuts an end portion of the sheet bundle transferred by the transfer unit.
Setting means for setting the cutting width of the edge of the sheet bundle;
When the cutting width set by the setting unit is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is divided so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width, and the divided cutting width is divided. A sheet post-processing apparatus, comprising: a control unit configured to transfer a sheet bundle by the transfer unit to each cutting position for each cutting width, and to cause the cutting unit to execute a cutting operation for each cutting width. When the cutting width set by the setting means is larger than the basic cutting width, the control means sets the cutting width so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width, and Each of the cutting widths is divided so as to have an average width, and for each of the divided cutting widths, the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position by the transfer means, and a cutting operation for each cutting width is performed. 2. The sheet post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sheet post-processing apparatus is caused to execute the cutting unit. When the cutting width set by the setting means is larger than the basic cutting width, the control means sets the cutting width so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width, and The sheet is divided so that the number of times of cutting is within the upper limit number, and the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position by the transfer unit for each of the divided cutting widths, and the cutting operation for each cutting width is performed on the cutting unit. The sheet post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The sheet post-processing according to claim 1, wherein the moving speed of the sheet bundle between the cutting positions for performing the cutting operation for each cutting width is different from the moving speed of the sheet bundle other than the cutting operation. apparatus. 5. The sheet post-processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein a moving speed of the sheet bundle between the cutting positions for performing the cutting operation for each cutting width is lower than a moving speed of the sheet bundle other than the cutting operation. 4. The sheet post-processing apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising warning means for warning that the number of times of cutting exceeds the upper limit. An image forming apparatus comprising the sheet post-processing apparatus according to claim 1. In a sheet post-processing method executed by a sheet post-processing apparatus that transfers one or more sheet bundles discharged from an image forming apparatus and cuts an end portion of the sheet bundle,
When the cutting width set for the sheet bundle is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is divided so that each cutting width after the division is not larger than the basic cutting width. A sheet post-processing method, wherein a sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position for each cutting width, and a cutting operation is performed for each cutting width. When the set cutting width is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is averaged so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width. 9. The sheet according to claim 8, wherein the sheet is divided to have a divided width, a sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position for each of the divided cutting widths, and a cutting operation is performed for each cutting width. Post-processing method. When the set cutting width is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is set so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width and the number of cuttings is within the upper limit number of times. 9. The sheet post-processing method according to claim 8, wherein the sheet post-processing method is configured such that the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position for each of the divided cutting widths, and the cutting operation is performed for each of the cutting widths. In a program for causing a computer to execute a sheet post-processing method for transferring one or more sheet bundles discharged from an image forming apparatus and cutting an end portion of the sheet bundle.
When the cutting width set for the sheet bundle is larger than the basic cutting width, the set cutting width is divided so that each cutting width after the division is not larger than the basic cutting width. A program comprising: a control module for transferring a sheet bundle to each cutting position for each cutting width and executing a cutting operation for each cutting width. When the set cutting width is larger than the basic cutting width, the control module sets the set cutting width so that each divided width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width. The cutting width is divided so as to be an averaged width, the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position for each of the divided cutting widths, and a cutting operation for each cutting width is executed. The program according to claim 11. When the set cutting width is larger than the basic cutting width, the control module sets the set cutting width so that each cutting width after division is not larger than the basic cutting width and the number of times of cutting is 12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the sheet is divided so as to be within the upper limit number of times, the sheet bundle is transferred to each cutting position for each of the divided cutting widths, and the cutting operation for each of the cutting widths is executed. program.

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