JP2009091156A - Paper sheet bundle forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a paper sheet bundle forming device capable of piling up the paper sheets fed from a plurality of paper feeding sections in an order required by a user. <P>SOLUTION: In a bookbinding system 10A, a first paper feeder 12 and a second paper feeder 14 have paper feeding bases 30, and a third paper feeder 16 has trays 38. The binding mechanism 62 of a saddle stitching and folding device 20 prepares a bundle of paper sheets by stacking the paper sheets fed from these paper feeders, and performs a binding process for the prepared bundle of paper sheets. A control PC 94 acquires a correspondence relation between the stacking order of each paper sheet input by the user and the paper feeding bases 30 or the trays 38. The control PC 94 controls paper feeding by the paper feeders so that the paper sheets fed from a paper sheet storage section are fed into the binding mechanism 62 in the stacking order associated with the paper sheet storage section in the acquired correspondence relation. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a sheet bundle forming apparatus, and more particularly, to a sheet bundle forming apparatus that stacks sheets fed from a plurality of sheet feeding units to form a sheet bundle.

2. Description of the Related Art A sheet bundle forming device that overlaps sheets fed from a plurality of sheet feeding units to form a sheet bundle is known. As such a sheet bundle forming device, for example, when a sheet is fed out from one of two sheet feeding units and a predetermined mark is detected on the sheet to be fed out, the mark is added. There has been proposed a multi-function document integration device that sends out sheets from another sheet feeding unit and superimposes them immediately after feeding out the sheets (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In addition, there has been proposed a sheet bundle conveyance device that is provided with a plurality of sheet feed trays on which sheets are stacked and conveys sheets conveyed from each sheet feed tray as a sheet bundle (see, for example, Patent Document 2). .
JP-A-5-319669 JP 2006-306592 A

  In recent years, booklets to be bound are required to include image recording by various printing methods and various types of paper. For this reason, there is a case where a sheet bundle is created by binding sheets that have undergone different printing processes and bound. At this time, in the technique described in Patent Document 1 described above, a mark must be attached to the paper in advance, so that it is necessary to leave the mark on the completed booklet or to cut off the peripheral edge of the paper on which the mark is attached. As a result, it is difficult to achieve both high quality and high productivity of the completed booklet. In the technique described in Patent Document 2 described above, since the sheets are stacked in the order in which the sheet feed stands are arranged, it is difficult to overlap the sheets in an order other than the order in which the sheet feed stands are arranged.

  Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a sheet bundle forming apparatus that can superimpose sheets fed from a plurality of sheet feeding units in an order required by a user. There is to do.

  In order to solve the above problems, a sheet bundle forming apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a sheet storage unit that stores a plurality of sheets, and a plurality of feeding units that feed out the sheets stored in the sheet storage units. Paper means, paper bundle creating means for stacking paper fed from a plurality of paper feeding means to create a paper bundle, and stacking of each of the plurality of papers included in the paper bundle to be created input by the user Correspondence acquisition means for acquiring the correspondence relationship between the order and the paper storage section, and a sheet bundle creation means for the sheets sent from the paper storage section in the stacking order in which the paper correspondence is associated with the paper storage section And a paper feed control means for controlling the delivery of paper by a plurality of paper feed means so as to be stacked at the same time.

  According to this aspect, the user can form a stack of sheets by superimposing sheets in the order that he / she wants by inputting the correspondence between the stacking order and the sheet storage unit. For this reason, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the quality of the completed booklet due to the mark indicating the sheet stacking order and a decrease in the productivity for cutting off the mark, and it is possible to easily provide a high-quality booklet. It becomes possible.

  The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention may further include a display on which an image is displayed, and a display control unit that displays the image on the display. Using the acquired correspondence, the display control means can identify a plurality of sheet images each schematically representing each sheet constituting a sheet bundle, and identify a sheet storage unit to which each sheet represented should be sent In such a manner, the sheets may be displayed in the order of stacking of the sheets that are represented.

  According to this aspect, the user can easily grasp the configuration of the paper in the completed booklet by looking at the paper image. For this reason, even when there is an input error in the correspondence, for example, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the bookbinding process is performed with the incorrect correspondence.

  The display control means may display a plurality of paper images on the correspondence setting screen on which the correspondence is input by the user.

  According to this aspect, the user can input the correspondence relationship between the stacking order and the paper storage unit while grasping the configuration of the paper in the completed booklet by looking at the paper image. For this reason, it is possible to realize quick input by the user of the correspondence relationship between the stacking order and the sheet storage unit, and it is possible to suppress an input error in the correspondence relationship.

  A sheet bundle forming apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a folding unit that performs a folding process for creating a booklet by folding a sheet bundle, and a selection result acquisition unit that acquires a selection result by a user as to whether to perform the folding process. And may be further provided. When the folding process is selected, the display control unit may display a plurality of paper images each of which is bent in a direction in which the folding process is performed.

  According to this aspect, the user can easily grasp whether or not the folding process is selected by looking at the paper image. For this reason, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the bookbinding process is carried out while erroneously selecting whether or not to perform the folding process.

  The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention may further include a storage unit that holds a plurality of predetermined correspondences in which a predetermined sheet storage unit and a stacking order of sheets among the plurality of sheet storage units are associated in advance. . The correspondence acquisition unit may acquire a predetermined correspondence selected by the user from among the plurality of predetermined correspondences held.

  For example, there is a case where the frequency of use of a predetermined paper storage unit used for sending out papers stacked in a stacking order is high. According to this aspect, the user can quickly set a correspondence relationship having a high use frequency by previously holding a combination having a high frequency as the predetermined correspondence relationship. For this reason, a user's setting man-hour can be suppressed.

  The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention may further include a total number obtaining unit that obtains the number of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created. Corresponding relationship acquisition means, when a predetermined correspondence relationship is selected by the user, out of the stacking order of the acquired number of sheets, the stacking order not associated with the predetermined sheet storage unit is different from the predetermined sheet storage unit It may be associated with a part.

  Unless the number of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created can be grasped, it is difficult to associate all stacking orders with the sheet storage units. According to this aspect, it is possible to associate all stacking orders with the sheet storage unit using the acquired number of sheets. For this reason, the user's setting man-hour which matches the stacking order which is not matched with the predetermined paper storage unit to the paper storage unit can be suppressed.

  The storage unit may hold a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the predetermined sheet storage unit and the last stacking order are associated in advance. The storage unit may hold a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the predetermined sheet storage unit and the first stacking order are associated in advance.

  The last sheet or the first sheet in the stacking order is often a cover sheet. For this reason, it may be sent out from a sheet storage unit other than the main body other than the cover sheet. According to this aspect, by selecting such a predetermined correspondence relationship, it is possible to easily associate the predetermined sheet storage unit with the last sheet or the first sheet stacking order, and to suppress the setting man-hours of the user. Can do.

  The plurality of paper storage units may include both a large-capacity paper storage unit and a small-capacity paper storage unit that has a smaller storage capacity than the large-capacity paper storage unit. The storage unit may hold a plurality of predetermined correspondence relationships in which the small-capacity paper storage unit and the paper stacking order are associated in advance.

  For example, since the number of cover sheets and the like is often smaller than that of the main body, they may be sent out from a small capacity sheet storage unit. In addition, it is considered that the sheets sent out from the small-capacity sheet storage unit in this way are often stacked in a specific stacking order such as the last sheet or the first sheet. According to this aspect, by selecting such a correspondence relationship, the small-capacity paper storage unit and the predetermined stacking order can be easily associated with each other, and the user's set man-hours can be suppressed.

  Correspondence acquisition means identifies a main sheet storage unit that sends out the largest number of sheets out of a plurality of sheets included in a sheet bundle to be created from a plurality of sheet storage sections, and includes a plurality of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created. The stacking order of one or more sheets among the sheets may be associated with the main sheet storage unit.

  For example, the main body other than the cover often occupies a large number of sheets in the sheet bundle, and such a main body may be sent out from the main paper storage unit described above. According to this aspect, for example, the main sheet storage unit and the stacking order can be easily associated with each other, and the setting man-hours of the user can be suppressed.

  The correspondence acquisition unit may associate all the stacking orders of the plurality of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created with the main sheet storage unit.

  For example, sheets constituting the main body occupying most of the sheet bundle are sent out from the main sheet storage unit, but a small number of sheets such as a cover sheet may be sent out from other sheet storage units to form a sheet bundle. According to this aspect, it is possible to easily associate all the stacking orders with the main sheet storage unit. For this reason, even when changing the setting contents, the user only needs to associate the stacking order of a small number of sheets such as a cover with other sheet storage units, and the user's setting man-hours can be suppressed.

  According to the sheet bundle forming apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to superimpose sheets fed from a plurality of sheet feeding units in the order required by the user.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as embodiments) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a schematic overall configuration diagram of a bookbinding system 10A according to the first embodiment. The bookbinding system 10A includes a first paper feeding device 12, a second paper feeding device 14, a third paper feeding device 16, a paper processing device 18, a saddle stitch folding device 20, a cutting device 22, and a management device 28. In the present embodiment, the first paper feeder 12 and the second paper feeder 14 have the same configuration. Therefore, the configuration of the first paper feeding device 12 will be described, and the description of the configuration of the second paper feeding device 14 will be omitted.

  The first sheet feeding device 12 includes a sheet feeding table 30, a separation feeding mechanism 32, and a sheet bundle forming mechanism 34. Sheets on which images are formed by an image forming method such as printing, electrophotographic method, and ink jet method are stacked on the sheet feeding table 30. Therefore, the paper feed tray 30 functions as a paper storage unit that stores paper. The paper feed table 30 is self-running on its own caster when pushed by the user in a state where the paper is stacked, and is set in the first paper feed device 12. The separating and feeding mechanism 32 separates and sends out the uppermost sheet among the sheets stacked on the sheet feeding table 30. The separation and feeding mechanism 32 according to the first embodiment employs an air suction type. Since the air suction type separation and feeding mechanism is known, its detailed description is omitted. Of course, a so-called friction type separation / feed mechanism may be provided instead of the air suction type separation / feed mechanism.

  The first sheet feeding device 12 includes an elevating mechanism (not shown) that raises and lowers the sheet feeding table 30, and an elevating control unit (not shown) that controls raising and lowering of the sheet feeding table 30. A paper height sensor (not shown) is provided around the separation feeding mechanism 32, and the uppermost sheet among the sheets stacked on the sheet feeding table 30 is separated and fed. It is detected that the position has been raised to a feedable position where the feeding mechanism 32 can feed out. The elevation control unit stops the elevation of the sheet feeding table 30 when it is detected that the uppermost sheet has reached the sheet feedable position. In this way, the elevation control unit maintains the height of the uppermost sheet of the sheets stacked on the sheet feeding table 30 at the sheet feedable position, and enables the sheet feeding mechanism 32 to continuously feed the sheet.

  For example, when a sheet is processed in the sheet processing apparatus 18 and the sheet fed from the first sheet feeding device 12 is conveyed immediately behind the processed sheet, the first process is performed until the sheet is processed in the sheet processing apparatus 18. Therefore, it is necessary to wait for the sheet feeding from the sheet feeding device 12. In order to suppress a decrease in the productivity of the bookbinding process at this time, the first sheet feeder 12 is provided with a sheet bundle forming mechanism 34. The sheet bundle forming mechanism 34, when the sheet fed into the saddle stitch folding apparatus 20 is delayed, for example, when the sheet processed by the sheet processing apparatus 18 is conveyed immediately before the sheet fed out from the first sheet feeding device 12, The sheets fed one by one from the separation feeding mechanism 32 are stopped and overlapped. The sheet bundle forming mechanism 34 discharges a plurality of sheets as a sheet bundle while overlapping the sheets at the timing when the sheet processing by the sheet processing apparatus 18 is completed. The number of sheets to be stacked by the sheet bundle forming mechanism 34 may be input by the user in the management PC 94, and the management PC 94 or the second sheet feeding device 14 and the third sheet feeding device 16 are based on the processing time by the sheet processing device 18. May be calculated by the paper feed control unit. The paper transport path 44 of the first paper feeder 12 and the paper transport path 44 of the second paper feeder 14 are connected, and the paper discharged from the paper transport path 44 of the first paper feeder 12 is 2 The sheet is fed into the sheet processing apparatus 18 through the sheet conveyance path 44 of the sheet feeding apparatus 14.

  The third paper feeder 16 includes an A tray 38A, a B tray 38B, and a separation and feeding mechanism 40. The A tray 38A is provided above the B tray 38B. Each of the A tray 38A and the B tray 38B is provided so that it can be moved up and down by operating a motor (not shown). Hereinafter, the A tray 38A and the B tray 38B are collectively referred to as “tray 38” as necessary.

  Sheets on which images are formed by various image forming methods as described above are stacked on each of the A tray 38A and the B tray 38B. Therefore, both the A tray 38A and the B tray 38B function as a sheet storage unit that stores sheets. On the A tray 38A and the B tray 38B, a sheet group in which a plurality of sheets on which images are formed overlaps is set by a bookbinding operator.

  The separation feeding mechanism 40 is provided corresponding to each of the A tray 38A and the B tray 38B. The separation feeding mechanism 40 separates and sends out the uppermost sheet among the sheets stacked on the A tray 38A or the B tray 38B. As the separation feeding mechanism 40 according to the first embodiment, an air suction type mechanism is employed as in the first sheet feeding device 12 and the second sheet feeding device 14. As described above, the combination of the A tray 38A and the separation feeding mechanism 40 and the combination of the B tray 38B and the separation feeding mechanism 40 each function as a sheet feeding unit that feeds the sheet.

  An electronic control unit (not shown) provided in the third sheet feeding device 16 controls the raising and lowering of each of the A tray 38A and the B tray 38B and the feeding of the sheet by the separation feeding mechanism 40, thereby the A tray 38A. Alternatively, the sheets are fed one by one from the group of sheets stacked on the B tray 38B. The sheet sent out from the A tray 38A or the B tray 38B is conveyed to the sheet conveying path 36 in the third sheet feeding device 16. The paper transport path 36 is connected to the paper transport path 44 of the second paper feeding device 14, and the paper transported in the paper transport path 36 passes through the paper transport path 44 and is sent to the paper processing device 18.

  The paper processing device 18 includes a paper cutting process including a paper cutting process and a creasing process for cutting off the peripheral edge of the paper fed from the first paper feeding device 12, the second paper feeding device 14, or the third paper feeding device 16. Apply. The paper processing apparatus 18 includes a paper cutting mechanism 50 and a crease mechanism 58. The sheet conveyed to the sheet processing apparatus 18 is conveyed to either the main conveyance path 46 or the bypass conveyance path 48 by a conveyance path switching mechanism (not shown). The sheet cutting mechanism 50 and the crease mechanism 58 are disposed around the main conveyance path 46.

  For example, a paper sheet on which an image is formed by a copying machine or the like has a margin part at the peripheral part. For this reason, an image may be formed on a sheet using a large sheet in advance, and the periphery of such a sheet may be cut off during the bookbinding process. The paper cutting mechanism 50 cuts off the peripheral edge of the fed paper, thereby deleting such a blank portion from the paper and realizing a booklet having a good appearance.

  The sheet cutting mechanism 50 includes a side guide 52, left and right end cutting slitters 54, and front and rear end cutting cutters 56. A pair of side guides 52 are provided so that one each is arranged in the front-rear direction of the apparatus. The side guides 52 are in contact with both side ends parallel to the conveyance direction of the sheet conveyed to the main conveyance path 46 and perpendicular to the conveyance direction of the sheet. Restrict movement in the direction. Each of the pair of side guides 52 can be moved in a direction perpendicular to the paper transport direction by operating a motor (not shown).

  A pair of left and right end cutting slitters 54 are provided so that each one is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the apparatus. Each of the pair of left and right end cutting slitters 54 is constituted by a pair of disk-shaped cutters having blades formed on the outer periphery. The left and right end cutting slitter 54 cuts off both end portions of the sheet conveyed to the main conveying path 46 along a straight line parallel to the sheet conveying direction in a state where both ends are regulated by the side guide 52. Each of the pair of left and right end cutting slitters 54 can be moved in a direction perpendicular to the sheet conveying direction by operating a motor (not shown).

  The front and rear end cutting cutters 56 are provided on the downstream side of the left and right end cutting slitters 54. A pair of front and rear end cutting cutters 56 are provided so that one each is disposed above and below the main conveyance path 46, and a motor (not shown) operates to lower the cutter above the main conveyance path 46. As the cutter below the conveyance path 46 rises, the front end and the rear end of the sheet conveyed to the main conveyance path 46 are cut off along a straight line perpendicular to the sheet conveyance direction. Thus, the paper cutting mechanism 50 cuts off the peripheral edge of the paper by the left and right end cutting slitter 54 and the front and rear end cutting cutter 56.

  For example, the crease mechanism 58 forms a linear fold perpendicular to the paper transport direction on the paper so that a thick paper can be easily folded. The crease mechanism 58 has a pair of crease members arranged with the main conveyance path 46 interposed therebetween, and the upper crease member is formed with a protrusion that extends perpendicularly to the sheet conveyance direction and protrudes downward. ing. A motor (not shown) operates to lower the upper crease member and press the paper, thereby forming a crease on the paper.

  The bypass conveyance path 48 conveys paper that is not subjected to peripheral edge cutting processing or crease processing. For example, when a sheet bundle in which a plurality of sheets overlap each other is sent from the first sheet feeding device 12 or the second sheet feeding device 14, the fed sheet bundle is conveyed to the bypass conveyance path 48.

  The saddle stitch folding device 20 performs a saddle stitch folding process on the paper fed from the paper processing device 18. The sheet sent to the saddle stitch folding device 20 is conveyed along the main conveyance path 60. The saddle stitch folding device 20 includes a binding mechanism 62, a folding mechanism 72, and a non-folding stacker 73, and the binding mechanism 62 and the folding mechanism 72 are disposed around the main conveyance path 60.

  The binding mechanism 62 includes a side jogger 66, a stitcher 70, a binding stopper 64, and a back jogger 68. Prior to the binding process, the binding mechanism 62 stacks the sheets sent from the sheet processing apparatus 18 in the order of feeding, and the number of sheets input by the user as the total number of sheets included in one booklet overlap. Create a stack of paper. Therefore, the binding mechanism 62 also functions as a sheet bundle creating unit.

  A pair of side joggers 66 are provided, and each of the side joggers 66 abuts against a side edge of the sheet bundle in the binding mechanism 62 and positions the position of the sheet bundle in the sheet width direction which is a direction perpendicular to the sheet conveyance direction. The binding stopper 64 and the back jogger 68 are in contact with the front end portion and the rear end portion of the sheet bundle prepared by stacking sheets, and position the sheet bundle in the sheet conveyance direction. The stitcher 70 performs a binding process on the sheet bundle positioned by the binding stopper 64, the side jogger 66, and the back jogger 68.

  The folding mechanism 72 is provided on the downstream side of the binding mechanism 62. The folding mechanism 72 performs a folding process for folding the sheet bundle at the bound position on the sheet bundle on which the binding process has been performed by the binding mechanism 62. The folding mechanism 72 has a pair of folding rollers 78, a folding knife 76, and a folding stopper 74.

  When the binding process is performed by the binding mechanism 62, the binding stopper 64 is retracted downward, and the bound sheet bundle is sent to the folding mechanism 72. The sheet bundle sent to the folding mechanism 72 is positioned in the sheet conveying direction when the front end portion contacts the folding stopper 74. Above the main transport path 60, a pair of folding rollers 78 are juxtaposed in the paper transport direction so that the axial direction is perpendicular to the paper transport direction. The folding knife 76 can move up and down between the pair of folding rollers 78 and below the main conveyance path 60 by operating a motor (not shown). By raising the folding knife 76 in a state where the sheet bundle is positioned in the sheet conveyance direction by the folding stopper 74, the sheet bundle is wound between the pair of folding rollers 78. The pair of folding rollers 78 folds the sheet bundle by rotating to convey the sheet bundle upward while pinching the sheet bundle with a strong force. The booklet that has been creased by the pair of folding rollers 78 is sent to the belt conveyance mechanism 80 through the binding folded booklet conveyance path 82 that extends upward from the nip portion of the pair of folding rollers 78. The belt conveyance mechanism 80 sends the created booklet to the paper conveyance path 92 of the cutting device 22.

  The folding stopper 74 can be moved back and forth in the main conveyance path 60 by turning on and off the solenoid. When the bookbinding by the saddle stitch folding process is not selected by the user but the bookbinding by the binding process is selected, the binding stopper 64 and the folding stopper 74 are retracted from the main conveyance path 60, and the binding process is performed by the binding mechanism 62. The sheets are stacked on a non-folding stacker 73 provided downstream of the folding stopper 74.

  The cutting device 22 has a three-way cutting mechanism 84. The three-way cutting mechanism 84 cuts the booklet sent from the saddle stitch folding device 20 or the three sides of the booklet, the top, and the ground to create a final booklet. The three-way cutting mechanism 84 includes a fore-edge cutting blade 90, a sheet pressing portion 88, a fore-edge cutting stopper 86, a side guide (not shown), and a pair of top and bottom cutting blades (not shown).

  The fore edge trimming stopper 86 can be moved forward and backward in the paper conveyance path 92 by turning on and off a solenoid (not shown). When cutting a small edge of a booklet, the cutting apparatus 22 causes the small edge cutting stopper 86 to protrude into the paper conveyance path 92 at the timing when the booklet is sent. As a result, the front end of the booklet sent to the cutting device 22 comes into contact with the fore edge cutting stopper 86 and is positioned in the paper transport direction.

  The pair of side guides are arranged on the upstream side in the paper conveyance direction (hereinafter, simply referred to as “upstream side”) with respect to the fore edge cutting blade 90, and the cutting device is arranged so that the center of the booklet conveyed at the center of each interval is substantially overlapped. One is arranged in front of and behind 22. Each of the pair of side guides is formed in a plate shape, extends in the paper transport direction, and protrudes upward from the paper transport path 92. For the pair of side guides, a so-called center distribution method is adopted in which one moves in the paper width direction and the other moves the same distance in the opposite direction. The booklet guided by the side guide and passed between them is aligned to the top and bottom positions that should be aligned before cutting.

  The sheet pressing portion 88 is disposed above the sheet conveyance path 92 on the upstream side from the fore edge cutting stopper 86, and is lowered by operating a motor (not shown). The fore edge cutting blade 90 is provided above the sheet conveyance path 92 on the upstream side of the sheet pressing portion 88 and is lowered when a fore edge cutting motor described later operates. The small edge cutting blade 90 is configured to be movable in the paper conveyance direction via a ball screw mechanism or the like by a small edge cutting blade moving motor described later. One top-and-bottom cutting blade is provided above each sheet conveyance path 92 at the front and rear of the sheet pressing portion 88, and is lowered by operating a top-and-bottom cutting motor described later. The pair of top and bottom cutting blades are also movable in a direction away from or close to each other by a center distribution method. The pair of top and bottom cutting blades move in a direction away from or close to each other via a gear mechanism or the like when a top and bottom cutting blade moving motor described later operates.

  By passing between the side guides, the top and bottom positions are aligned, and the paper pressing portion 88 is lowered and presses the booklet in a state where the paper cutting direction is positioned by the edge cutting stopper 86. With the booklet pressed in this manner, the fore edge cutting blade 90 first cuts the fore edge, and then a pair of top and bottom cutting blades cuts the top and bottom of the booklet. The booklet that has been subjected to the cutting process is conveyed onto the binding / folding stacker 24.

  The management device 28 includes a management PC (Personal Computer) 94, a display 96, a mouse 98, and a keyboard 97. The management PC 94 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk, and the like, and includes a first paper feeding device 12, a second paper feeding device 14, a third paper feeding device 16, a paper processing device 18, a saddle stitch folding device 20, and a cutting device. It is connected to the device 22 so as to be able to transmit and receive data. A display 96, a keyboard 97, and a mouse 98 are connected to the management PC 94.

  The management PC 94 displays a setting screen on the display 96 so that various settings can be input by the user. When various setting inputs are made by the user using the keyboard 97 and the mouse 98 and the start button displayed on the display 96 is clicked, the management PC 94 sends information indicating the setting contents to the first paper feeding device 12 and the first paper feeding device 12. In addition to transmitting to each of the two sheet feeding device 14, the third sheet feeding device 16, the sheet processing device 18, the saddle stitch folding device 20, and the cutting device 22, a start signal indicating that the bookbinding process is to be started is transmitted. Each of the first paper feeding device 12, the second paper feeding device 14, the third paper feeding device 16, the paper processing device 18, the saddle stitch folding device 20, and the cutting device 22 includes a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. A control unit for controlling the operation of the booklet, and when a start signal is received, a bookbinding process based on the received setting content is performed.

  FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the bookbinding system 10A according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 2, it is realized by cooperation of a CPU that executes various arithmetic processes, a ROM that stores various control programs, a RAM that is used as a work area for data storage and program execution, and software. Functional blocks are drawn. Therefore, these functional blocks can be realized in various forms by a combination of hardware and software.

  The management PC 94 includes a correspondence relationship acquisition unit 100, a paper feed timing control unit 102, a selection result acquisition unit 104, a total number acquisition unit 106, and a display control unit 108. The binding mechanism 62 stacks the sheets fed from the first sheet feeding device 12, the second sheet feeding device 14, and the third sheet feeding device 16 in the order of feeding, creates a sheet bundle, and creates the sheet bundle The binding process is performed on the image. Therefore, the binding mechanism 62 functions as a sheet bundle creating unit that creates a sheet bundle. In order to properly stack sheets in the binding mechanism 62, the user uses the sheet feeding unit setting screen displayed on the display 96 to display the stacking order of each of the plurality of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created and the respective sheets. It is possible to input a correspondence relationship with the paper feed tray 30 or the tray 38 to be sent out. The paper feed unit setting screen will be described later. The correspondence acquisition unit 100 acquires the correspondence between the stacking order input in this way by the user on the paper feed unit setting screen and the paper feed device.

  The paper feed timing control unit 102 binds the sheets sent out from the paper feed tray 30 or the tray 38 in the stacking order corresponding to the paper feed tray 30 or the tray 38 in the correspondence acquired by the correspondence acquisition unit 100. The sheet feeding timing by the first sheet feeding device 12, the second sheet feeding device 14, and the third sheet feeding device 16 is controlled so as to be fed into the mechanism 62.

  On the process selection screen displayed on the display 96, the user performs a saddle stitch folding process for binding the sheet bundle at the center and folding the sheet bundle at the bound position to create a booklet, or locating the vicinity of the end of the sheet bundle. It is possible to select whether to execute a binding process for binding and creating a booklet. Since the process selection screen for selecting either the saddle stitch folding process or the binding process is well known, detailed description thereof will be omitted. The selection result acquisition unit 104 acquires a selection result by the user as to whether to perform the saddle stitch folding process or the binding process.

  Also, the user can input the total number of sheets included in the booklet to be created on the basic screen displayed on the display 96. Since such a screen for inputting the total number is well known, detailed description thereof is omitted. The total number acquisition unit 106 acquires the total number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be created, which is input by the user. The display control unit 108 causes the display 96 to display an image by generating image data and outputting it to the display 96.

  The first paper feeder 12 has a first paper feed controller 110. The first sheet feeding control unit 110 controls the feeding of the sheet from the sheet feeding table 30 by controlling the operation of the separation feeding mechanism 32 in the first sheet feeding device 12. The second paper feeding device 14 has a second paper feeding control unit 112. The second sheet feeding control unit 112 controls the feeding of the sheet from 30 by controlling the operation of the separation feeding mechanism 32 in the second sheet feeding device 14. The third paper feeder 16 has a third paper feed controller 114. The third paper feeding device 16 controls the feeding of the paper from the A tray 38A and the B tray 38B by controlling the operation of each of the two separation and feeding mechanisms 40 in the third paper feeding device 16.

  The saddle stitch folding device 20 includes a binding control unit 116 and a folding control unit 118. The binding control unit 116 controls creation of a sheet bundle and binding processing by the binding mechanism 62. For example, when bookbinding by saddle stitch folding processing is selected by the user, the binding control unit 116 adjusts the positions of the binding stopper 64 and the back jogger 68 in the sheet conveyance direction so that the center of the sheet bundle can be bound. In addition, for example, when the user selects binding by binding processing that binds the end portion of the sheet bundle, the binding control unit 116 can bind the end portion of the sheet bundle designated as the binding position. The position of the back jogger 68 in the paper conveyance direction is adjusted.

  The folding control unit 118 controls folding processing by the folding mechanism 72. For example, when the user selects bookbinding by saddle stitch folding processing, the folding control unit 118 adjusts the position of the folding stopper 74 in the sheet conveyance direction so that the folding line overlaps the binding position. When the bound sheets are carried into the folding mechanism 72, the folding control unit 118 creates a booklet by folding the sheet bundle at the binding position by moving the folding knife 76 upward. For example, when bookbinding by the binding process is selected by the user, the folding control unit 118 retracts the folding stopper 74 downward, and discharges the booklet sent to the folding mechanism 72 to the unfolded stacker 73 without performing the folding process. Let

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an initial state of the paper feed unit setting screen 120. The selection result acquisition unit 104 acquires the selection result by the user who performs the saddle stitch folding process or the binding process, and the total number acquisition unit 106 acquires the total number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be created. If so, the display control unit 108 causes the display 96 to display a button for displaying the paper feed unit setting screen 120. When the user clicks the button using the mouse 98, the display control unit 108 causes the display 96 to display the paper feed unit setting screen 120.

  Note that when the selection result acquisition unit 104 has not acquired the saddle stitch folding process or the selection result by the user who has performed the binding process, or the total number acquisition unit 106 determines the sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be created. If the total number has not been acquired, the display control unit 108 avoids displaying the paper feed unit setting screen 120. Specifically, the display control unit 108 does not display a button for displaying the paper feed unit setting screen 120 on the display 96 and prohibits an input operation for displaying the paper feed unit setting screen 120 by the user. Thus, the display of the paper feed unit setting screen 120 is avoided.

  The paper feed unit setting screen 120 displays a correspondence input field 122, a paper image 124, a paper feeder schematic diagram 126, an OK button 128, and a cancel button 130. The sheet feeder schematic diagram 126 is a diagram simulating the first sheet feeder 12, the second sheet feeder 14, and the third sheet feeder 16. In the sheet feeding device schematic diagram 126, the letter “A” is attached to the sheet feeding table 30 of the second sheet feeding device 14, and the letter “B” is added to the sheet feeding table 30 of the first sheet feeding device 12. A letter “C” is attached to the A tray 38A of the paper device 16, and a letter “D” is attached to the B tray 38B.

  The correspondence relationship input field 122 is stacked at the top when four sheets provided for each of the sheet storage units A to D and a booklet sheet are stacked by the binding mechanism 62. It is represented as a table composed of a plurality of rows provided for each order indicating the number of sheets from the sheet. Hereinafter, this order is referred to as “sheet order”. In this way, the paper order is defined by the paper order because the top stacked paper is the cover in both the saddle-stitched booklet and the bound booklet, and the order from the top is the lowest. This is because it is easier for the user to understand than to show the order. In the correspondence relationship input field 122, the sheet order is displayed by the total number of sheets included in the booklet to be created, which is acquired by the total number acquisition unit 106. When the total number of sheets is larger than a predetermined number (for example, 10 sheets), the display control unit 108 displays the correspondence input field 122 so that the order of all sheets is displayed by scrolling.

  Check boxes are provided at all locations in the correspondence input column 122 where the respective paper storage units correspond to the respective paper orders. The user can specify which sheet of the sheet should be sent out from which sheet storage unit by putting a check mark in this check box using the mouse 98. The correspondence acquisition unit 100 adds 1 to the total number of sheets acquired by the total number acquisition unit 106 and subtracts the sheet order, thereby determining the stacking order when sheets in the sheet order are stacked on the binding mechanism 62. calculate. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, when the total number of sheets is 8, the sheet with the sheet order 2 is stacked on the binding mechanism 62 at the 8 + 1−2 = 7th sheet, and thus the stacking order is 7. The correspondence acquisition unit 100 uses the calculated stacking order to indicate the correspondence between the sheet order input by the user and the sheet storage unit, the stacking order in which the binding mechanism 62 stacks, and each sheet to be sent out. Acquired as the correspondence with the paper storage unit.

  A paper image 124 is displayed on the left side of the correspondence relationship input field 122. The display control unit 108 displays the same number of paper images 124 as the total number of sheets acquired by the total number acquisition unit 106. At this time, when the saddle stitch folding process is selected by the user, the display control unit 108 displays the paper image 124 that is folded in the direction of folding when the folding process is performed. In the bookbinding system 10A according to the first embodiment, since the sheet bundle is folded into a mountain shape by the folding mechanism 72, the display control unit 108 displays a paper image 124 folded into a mountain shape as shown in FIG. By displaying the paper image 124 in this way, even when the user inputs the correspondence between the paper storage unit and the paper order on the paper supply unit setting screen 120, it is confirmed that the saddle stitch folding process is selected. It can be easily confirmed.

  When the OK button 128 is clicked by the user, the display control unit 108 closes the paper feed unit setting screen 120, and the correspondence relationship acquisition unit 100 is acquired by checking the check box in the correspondence relationship input field 122. The relationship between the stacking order and the paper storage unit is maintained as it is. When the cancel button 130 is clicked by the user, the display control unit 108 closes the paper feed unit setting screen 120, and the correspondence relationship acquisition unit 100 is checked when the check box in the correspondence relationship input field 122 is checked. Also, the correspondence relationship between the acquired stacking order and the sheet storage unit is deleted.

  Note that if the user clicks the OK button 128 in a state where the user does not specify a sheet storage unit to which the sheets in the order of the sheets are to be delivered, the display control unit 108 specifies the sheet storage unit. A message indicating that there is no paper may be displayed on the display 96 and the paper feed unit setting screen 120 may be continuously displayed. As a result, it is possible to avoid a state in which one of the sheets contained in the booklet is not designated from which sheet storage unit.

  In addition, when the paper feed unit setting screen 120 is displayed, a check mark may be placed at a location corresponding to any of the paper feed trays 30 or the trays 38. In this case, the user can change the correspondence relationship between the stacking order and the sheet storage unit by clicking a check box that is not yet checked. When a check box that is not yet checked is clicked, the display control unit 108 displays the check mark at the clicked position and erases the check mark from the check box that has been displayed until then. To do. By setting it as such an aspect, it can suppress that a user forgets to put the check mark of any paper order.

  In this case, a check mark may be put by default in “A” indicating the paper feed tray 30 of the second paper feed device 14 that has the shortest paper conveyance path to the next paper processing device 18. In addition, when a paper storage unit that stores the cover is determined in advance, a check mark may be put in a default position at a location corresponding to the last stacking order of the paper storage unit. For example, normally, when the cover is stored in the A tray 38A, even if a check mark is put by default in the line “1” corresponding to the last stacking order and “C” indicating the A tray 38A by default. Good.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the paper feed unit setting screen 120 when a check mark is put in the check box of the correspondence input column 122 by the user. The display control unit 108 uses the correspondence relationship between the stacking order and the sheet storage unit acquired when a check mark is entered in the correspondence relationship input field 122, and the paper that represents each of the plurality of paper images 124. Is displayed on the paper feed unit setting screen 120 in such a manner that the paper storage unit to be sent out can be identified. At this time, the display control unit 108 causes each of the plurality of sheet images 124 to be displayed on the sheet feeding unit setting screen 120 by arranging them from bottom to top in the sheet stacking order represented by each.

  In the correspondence input field 122, the “A” column indicating the sheet feeding table 30 of the second sheet feeding device 14 is displayed in blue, and the “B” column indicating the sheet feeding table 30 of the first sheet feeding device 12 is displayed. Displayed in red. Further, the “C” column indicating the A tray 38A is displayed in black, and the “D” column indicating the B tray 38B is displayed in green. The display control unit 108 displays each of the paper images 124 in a color indicating a paper storage unit to which the paper represented by each paper image 124 should be sent.

  For example, in the example shown in FIG. 4, in the correspondence input field 122, “C”, that is, the A tray 38A is designated as the paper storage unit to which the paper is to be sent out. In addition, for the sheets whose sheet order is 2 to 4, “A”, that is, the sheet feeding table 30 of the second sheet feeding device 14 is designated as a sheet storage unit to which these sheets should be sent. In addition, for the sheet whose sheet order is 5, “D”, that is, the B tray 38B is designated as the sheet storage unit to which the sheet should be sent. In addition, for the sheets whose sheet order is 7 to 9, “B”, that is, the sheet feeding table 30 of the first sheet feeding device 12 is designated as the sheet storage unit to which these sheets should be sent.

  In this case, the display control unit 108 displays the sheet image 124 indicating the sheets having the sheet order of 8 to 6, that is, the stacking order of 1 to 3 in red indicating the sheet feeding table 30 of the first sheet feeding device 12 from below. Display first and second. Further, the display control unit 108 displays the sheet image 124 indicating the sheet in the sheet order 5, that is, the sheet in the stacking order 4, in the fourth from the bottom in green indicating the B tray 38B. In addition, the display control unit 108 displays a sheet image 124 indicating the sheet having the sheet order of 4 to 2, that is, the stacking order of 5 to 7, in blue indicating the sheet feeding stand 30 of the second sheet feeding device 14 and from the bottom 5. -7th display. Further, the display control unit 108 displays the sheet image 124 indicating the sheet with the sheet order 1, that is, the stacking order 8 with the black indicating the A tray 38 </ b> A in the eighth position from the bottom, that is, the top position.

  In this way, each of the paper images 124 is displayed in a color corresponding to the paper storage unit to which the paper represented by the paper image 124 is to be sent, so that the user can select which paper in which stacking order is from which paper storage unit. It can be easily confirmed whether it is sent out. Note that the display control unit 108 may display each of the paper images 124 with a pattern indicating a paper storage unit to which the paper represented by each paper image 124 should be sent.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the paper feed unit setting screen 120 when the binding process is selected by the user. When the binding process for binding the edge of the sheet bundle to create a booklet is selected, the folding process for folding the sheet bundle is not performed. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5, when the binding process is selected by the user, the display control unit 108 displays a rectangular paper image 124 that extends linearly in the horizontal direction. Also in this case, the same number of sheet images 124 as the total number of sheets acquired by the total number acquisition unit 106 are displayed as described above. By displaying the paper image 124 in this way, the user can easily select the binding process even when inputting the correspondence between the paper storage unit and the paper order on the paper feed unit setting screen 120. Can be confirmed. The display control unit 108 also displays each of the paper images 124 in a color indicating the paper storage unit to which the paper represented by each sheet is to be sent out, and arranges them in the order in which the papers represented by each are stacked. .

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a sheet feeding unit setting screen 120 when some sheet feeding apparatuses are not installed in the bookbinding system 10A. If any one of the installable paper feeders is not installed in the bookbinding system 10, the display control unit 108 displays the paper feeder that is not installed in the correspondence input field 122 and the paper feeder schematic diagram 126. The part corresponding to the paper device is grayed out and displayed. At this time, the display control unit 108 determines whether or not the paper feeding device is installed by detecting whether or not the management PC 94 and the paper feeding device are connected to transmit and receive data.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 6, a sheet feeding unit setting screen 120 when the first sheet feeding device 12 and the second sheet feeding device 14 are not provided in the bookbinding system 10 </ b> A is illustrated. At this time, in the sheet feeding device schematic diagram 126, images showing the first sheet feeding device 12 and the second sheet feeding device 14 are grayed out and displayed. Further, in the correspondence input column 122, the column “C” indicating the second sheet feeding device 14 and the column “D” indicating the first sheet feeding device 12 are grayed out and displayed. By displaying the portion corresponding to the paper feeding device that is not installed in this way, the user can appropriately select the paper feeding unit to which the paper is to be sent out.

  At this time, the display control unit 108 may delete an image at a location corresponding to a paper feeding device that is not installed in the correspondence relationship input field 122 and the paper feeding device schematic diagram 126. In this case, for example, when the first paper feeding device 12 and the second paper feeding device 14 are not installed in the bookbinding system 10A, the paper feeding device schematic diagram 126 is a diagram of only the third paper feeding device 16. Also, in the correspondence input column 122, the “C” and “D” columns are deleted, and only the “A” and “B” columns are displayed. Further, in this case, the correspondence relationship acquisition unit 100 determines the correspondence relationship between the sheet order and the sheet storage unit at the place where the check mark is entered even if the user clicks on a check box corresponding to a paper feeder that is not installed. Do not get. Accordingly, the display control unit 108 does not display a check mark in the check box even if such a location is clicked by the user.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a control procedure of each sheet feeding device when the start button is pressed by the user. When the user presses the start button (S10), the paper feed timing control unit 102 sets each of the selected paper storage units so that the sheets fed from the paper storage unit are stacked in the stacking order in the binding mechanism 62. The paper feed timing for feeding out the paper is calculated (S12), and the paper feed timing information indicating the calculated paper feed timing is transmitted to the corresponding paper storage unit (S14). The paper feed timing information may be a signal indicating that it is a paper feed timing, or may be information indicating the time from the reception timing of the start signal indicating that the start button has been pressed and the bookbinding process has started. Good. The sheet feeding control unit of each sheet feeding device that has received the sheet feeding timing information controls the operation of the separation feeding mechanism so as to feed the sheet at the sheet feeding timing indicated by the sheet feeding timing information (S16).

  When the first sheet feeding device 12 or the second sheet feeding device 14 sends out the sheets in the consecutive stacking order, the sheets in the stacking order are continuously stacked in advance by the sheet bundle forming mechanism 34, and then bound. It may be sent to the mechanism 62. As a result, compared with the case where the sheets are sent out one by one, the sheet bundle can be quickly stacked by the binding mechanism 62, and the productivity of the bookbinding process can be improved.

  The paper feed timing control unit 102 forms the last booklet each time the paper feed timing information is transmitted based on the number of booklets to be created and the total number of paper sheets constituting the booklet input by the user. It is determined whether or not the conveyance of the sheet has been completed (S18). If the conveyance of the sheet has not been completed (N in S18), the process proceeds to S14 again. When the conveyance of the paper is completed (Y in S18), the paper feed timing control unit 102 stops sending the paper feed timing information to each paper feed device, and stops sending the paper from each paper feed device.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 8 is a schematic overall configuration diagram of a bookbinding system 10B according to the second embodiment. The bookbinding system 10B relates to the first embodiment except that a collating device 140 is provided instead of the first paper feeding device 12, the second paper feeding device 14, and the third paper feeding device 16. This is the same as the bookbinding system 10A. In addition to the collating device 140, the first paper feeding device 12, the second paper feeding device 14, or the third paper feeding device 16 may be provided.

  The collating apparatus 140 has a plurality of combinations of the tray 142 and the separation feeding mechanism 144. In the bookbinding system 10B according to the second embodiment, six sets of trays 142 and a separation feeding mechanism 144 are provided. The trays 142 are juxtaposed in the vertical direction. Each of the trays 142 is provided so that it can be moved up and down by operating a motor (not shown). Sheets on which images are formed by various image forming methods as described above are also stacked on the tray 142. Therefore, the tray 142 also functions as a paper storage unit that stores paper. In each tray 142, a group of sheets in which a plurality of sheets on which images are formed overlap is set by a bookbinding operator.

  The separation feeding mechanism 144 is provided corresponding to each of the trays 142. The separation feeding mechanism 144 separates and sends out the uppermost sheet among the sheets stacked on the corresponding tray 142. The separation feeding mechanism 144 is also an air suction type. As described above, each combination of the tray 142 and the separation feeding mechanism 144 functions as a sheet feeding unit that feeds the sheet.

  A sheet feeding control unit (not shown) provided in the collating device 140 controls each raising and lowering of each tray 142 and feeding of the sheets by the separation feeding mechanism 144, so that each sheet stacked on the tray 142. Send out sheets one by one from the group. The collating device 140 conveys the sheets sent from the tray 142 one by one through the sheet conveyance path 146. Note that the collating device 140 may be configured to be able to convey the sheets fed from the tray 142 as a sheet bundle by superimposing them on the sheet conveyance path 146.

  Also in this case, the paper feed unit setting screen 120 is provided with a correspondence input field for inputting the correspondence between the stacking order of the sheets stacked by the binding mechanism 62 and the tray 142. The correspondence acquisition unit 100 acquires the correspondence between the stacking order input by the user in the correspondence input column 122 and the tray 142. The sheet feeding timing control unit 102 transmits sheet feeding timing information indicating the sheet feeding timing in each tray 142 to the collating apparatus 140 using the acquired correspondence relationship. The sheet feeding control unit of the collating apparatus 140 feeds the sheet from each tray 142 at the sheet feeding timing indicated by the received sheet feeding timing information. As a result, even in the bookbinding system in which the collating apparatus is installed in this way, it is possible to set the stacking order of a plurality of sheets constituting the booklet with a high degree of freedom.

  Each tray 142 is provided with a paper sensor for detecting whether or not paper is stacked. Since such a paper sensor is known, a detailed description of the paper sensor is omitted. When the paper sensor detects that no paper is stacked, the display control unit 108 grays out the column indicating the tray 142 in the correspondence input field 122 and prohibits the user from placing a check mark in the check box. To do. Thereby, it can be avoided that the tray 142 on which no sheets are stacked is designated by the user.

(Third embodiment)
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the paper feed unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the third embodiment. Note that the configuration of the bookbinding system according to the third embodiment is the same as that of the above-described embodiment. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. Further, the paper feed tray 30 of the second paper feed device 14 is the “paper storage portion A”, the paper feed tray 30 of the first paper feed device 12 is the “paper storage portion B”, and the A tray 38A is the “paper storage portion C”. The B tray 38B will be described as “sheet storage portion D”.

  The display control unit 108 displays the boundary setting unit 150 on the sheet feeding unit setting screen 120. The boundary setting unit 150 is provided near the left end of the correspondence input field 122. The boundary setting unit 150 includes a bar 152. The user can move the bar 152 up and down by moving the cursor up and down while clicking the bar 152 with the mouse.

  In the correspondence input field 122, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates at least one stacking order displayed on one side of the bar 152 with a predetermined paper storage unit with the bar 152 as a boundary, and on the other side of the bar 152. At least one displayed stacking order is associated with another predetermined sheet storage unit. In the third embodiment, the correspondence acquisition unit 100, except for the stacking order associated with the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D, displays all the information displayed above the bar 152 in the correspondence input column 122. Are associated with the sheet storage unit A, and all the stacking orders displayed below the bar 152 are associated with the sheet storage unit B. By providing such a boundary setting unit 150, it is possible to easily associate the sheet feeding base 30 of each of the first sheet feeding device 12 and the second sheet feeding device 14 with the stacking order.

(Fourth embodiment)
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the fourth embodiment. Note that the configuration of the bookbinding system according to the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the above-described embodiment. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  The display control unit 108 displays the stacking order display area 154 on the paper feed unit setting screen 120. The stacking order display area 154 is displayed near the paper image 124. The display control unit 108 displays a stacking order display area 154 so that the user can recognize the stacking order of each sheet represented by the sheet image 124 displayed on the first sheet feeding device 12.

  In the fourth embodiment, the display control unit 108 displays a number indicating the stacking order of the first sheet in the vicinity of the paper image corresponding to the stacking order, and corresponds a number indicating the stacking order of the last sheet in the stacking order. Displayed near the paper image to be printed. The display control unit 108 avoids displaying the stacking order between the first sheet and the last sheet as a number, and displays a point indicating that the number continues during that time. Note that the display control unit 108 may display the numbers of all the stacking orders in the vicinity of the sheet image corresponding to the stacking order. As a result, the user can more clearly grasp which paper in which stacking order is sent out from which paper container by looking at the paper image 124 and the stacking order display area 154.

  In addition, when the user inputs a check in the check box of the correspondence input field 122, the display control unit 108 among the paper images indicated in the paper image 124, the paper corresponding to the stacking order corresponding to the check box. The image is highlighted so as to stand out from the other paper images. In the fourth embodiment, the display control unit 108 highlights the paper image by thickening a line that becomes the outline of the paper image. Needless to say, the display control unit 108 may highlight the paper image by other methods. As a result, the user can easily confirm in the paper image 124 the paper whose check box has been entered.

(Fifth embodiment)
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the fifth embodiment. Note that the configuration of the bookbinding system according to the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the above-described embodiment. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  The display control unit 108 displays the paper image 160 on the paper feed unit setting screen 120. Specifically, the display control unit 108 displays the same number of paper images 160 as the total number of sheets acquired by the total number acquisition unit 106. At this time, when the saddle stitch folding process is selected by the user, the display control unit 108 displays a sheet image 160 that is a perspective view of each sheet folded in the direction of folding when the folding process is performed. To do. In the bookbinding system according to the fifth embodiment, since the sheet bundle is folded into a chevron by the folding mechanism 72, the display control unit 108 displays a paper image 160 that is folded into a chevron as shown in FIG.

  The display control unit 108 also displays a large capacity tray display field 162, a small capacity tray display field 166, and a mode display field 170 on the paper feed unit setting screen 120. The large-capacity tray display column 162 is used as a column for displaying a large-capacity paper storage unit used for paper feeding, and the small-capacity tray display column 166 is a column for displaying a small-capacity paper storage unit used for paper feeding. Used as The mode display field 170 is used as a field for displaying the paper feed mode.

  The user can display a pull-down menu extending downward from the large capacity tray display field 162 by clicking a button 164 displayed at the right end of the large capacity tray display field 162. When the button 164 is clicked, the display control unit 108 lists the large-capacity paper storage units incorporated in the bookbinding system in a pull-down menu so that the user can select them. In the fifth embodiment, the display control unit 108 displays a menu of “A”, “B”, “A + B”, and “continuous”. When any menu is selected by the user, the display control unit 108 closes the pull-down menu and displays the large-capacity paper storage unit selected by the user in the large-capacity tray display field 162. Note that the display control unit 108 changes the menus listed in this pull-down menu according to the number and type of sheet feeding devices that constitute the bookbinding system.

  “A” represents a paper feed mode in which only the paper storage section A is used as a large capacity paper storage section. “B” represents a paper feed mode in which only the paper storage portion B is used as a large capacity paper storage portion. “A + B” represents a paper feed mode in which different stacking orders are associated with each of the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B, and both are used as a large capacity paper storage unit. “Continuously” represents a paper feed mode in which sheets in the same stacking order are used as a large-capacity paper storage unit in association with both the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B.

  When “continuous” is selected by the user and the start button is pressed, the paper feed timing control unit 102 feeds paper from the other when the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B run out. The feeding of paper from the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B is controlled to start. By using such “continuous stage”, it is not necessary to stop the paper feeding every time there is no paper in the paper storage unit, and it is possible to suppress a decrease in productivity of the paper feeding operation.

  The user can display a pull-down menu extending downward from the small capacity tray display field 166 by clicking the button 168 displayed at the right end of the small capacity tray display field 166. When the button 168 is clicked, the display control unit 108 lists the small-capacity paper storage units incorporated in the bookbinding system in a pull-down menu so that the user can select them. In the fifth embodiment, the display control unit 108 displays a menu of “OFF”, “C”, “D”, “C + D”, and “continuous”. When one of the menus is selected by the user, the display control unit 108 closes the pull-down menu and displays the small-capacity paper storage unit selected by the user in the small-capacity tray display field 166. Note that the display control unit 108 changes the menus listed in this pull-down menu according to the number and type of sheet feeding devices that constitute the bookbinding system.

  “Off” represents a paper feed mode in which a small-capacity paper storage unit is not selected. “C” represents a paper feed mode in which only the paper storage unit C is used as the small capacity paper storage unit. “D” represents a paper feed mode in which only the paper storage unit D is used as the small capacity paper storage unit. “C + D” represents a paper feed mode in which different stacking orders are associated with each of the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D, and both are used as a small capacity paper storage unit. “Continuously” indicates a paper feed mode in which sheets in the same stacking order are used as a small capacity sheet accommodating unit in association with both the sheet accommodating unit C and the sheet accommodating unit D. The paper feed control method when “continuous” is selected is the same as described above.

  Small-capacity paper storage units such as the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D are often used for feeding a cover sheet or a second sheet. For this reason, the management PC 94 has a storage unit (not shown) such as a hard disk or a ROM, and the storage unit includes a predetermined sheet storage unit among the plurality of sheet storage units of the sheet storage units A to D. A plurality of predetermined correspondence relationships in which the paper stacking order and the paper stacking order are associated in advance are stored. In the fifth embodiment, in this predetermined correspondence, the sheet storage unit C or the sheet storage unit D, which is a small-capacity sheet storage unit, and the first sheet, the second sheet, the last sheet, or the last sheet as the predetermined sheet storage unit. The loading order immediately before the eye is associated in advance.

  The user can display a pull-down menu extending downward from the mode display field 170 by clicking the button 172 displayed at the right end of the mode display field 170. When the button 172 is clicked, the display control unit 108 displays a menu corresponding to the selection status of both the large-capacity paper storage unit and the small-capacity paper storage unit.

  FIG. 11 illustrates a state in which the sheet storage unit A is selected as the large-capacity sheet storage unit and the sheet storage unit C is selected as the small-capacity sheet storage unit. Note that, when the paper storage unit B or the continuous stage is selected as the large-capacity paper storage unit, the same is true for the following description only by replacing the large-capacity paper storage unit to be used. Further, even when the paper storage unit D or the continuous stage is selected as the small capacity paper storage unit, the same description as that described below is performed except that the small capacity paper storage unit to be used is replaced.

  When the button 172 is clicked by the user, the display control unit 108 lists “mode 1” and “mode 2” menus in a pull-down menu extending downward from the mode display field 170. Of these modes, mode 1 is used as a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the sheet storage unit C and the stacking order of the last sheet of the sheet bundle are associated. When mode 1 is selected by the user, the correspondence relationship acquisition unit 100 acquires a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the paper storage unit C and the last sheet are associated among the plurality of predetermined correspondence relationships held in the storage unit. To do.

  By previously holding a combination with high frequency as a predetermined correspondence in this way, the user can easily associate the sheet storage unit with the stacking order by selecting the predetermined correspondence with high use frequency. For this reason, a user's setting man-hour can be suppressed. The correspondence acquisition unit 100 is in a state in which mode 1 is selected as the initial state when the paper storage unit A is selected as the large-capacity paper storage unit and the paper storage unit C is selected as the small-capacity paper storage unit. To do.

  When a predetermined correspondence is selected by the user, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 selects a stacking order that is not associated with the predetermined sheet storage unit from among the stacking orders for the number of sheets acquired by the total number acquisition unit 106. Correspond to a paper storage unit different from the paper storage unit. For example, in the example illustrated in FIG. 11, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order of the second to fifth sheets not yet associated with the sheet storage unit in the mode 1 selected by the user with the sheet storage unit A. In this way, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order of all the sheets acquired by the total sheet acquisition unit 106 with the sheet storage unit.

  When the user presses the start button, the paper feed timing control unit 102 determines that the sheets sent out from the paper storage unit C are stacked in correspondence with the paper storage unit C in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, last. Controls the delivery of paper so that it is stacked on the first sheet. The paper feed timing control unit 102 sends out the sheets so that the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit A are stacked in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit A, that is, the first to fourth sheets. Control.

  The display control unit 108 displays the correspondence input field 122 as a table in which the selected sheet storage unit and the stacking order are associated with each other. Therefore, when the paper storage unit A is selected as the large capacity paper storage unit and the paper storage unit C is selected as the small capacity paper storage unit, the display control unit 108 is connected to the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit C. The correspondence input field 122 is displayed as a table in which the loading order is associated. When mode 1 is selected, the display control unit 108 checks the check box for the last stacking order in the column of the sheet storage unit C, and the stacking order other than the last sheet is the column of the sheet storage unit A. The check box is checked.

  In addition, the display control unit 108 displays each of the plurality of paper images 160 on the paper feed unit setting screen 120 in such a manner that the paper storage unit to which the paper represented by each of the paper images 160 should be sent out can be identified. At this time, the display control unit 108 causes each of the plurality of sheet images 160 to be displayed on the sheet feeding unit setting screen 120 by arranging them from the bottom to the top in the sheet stacking order represented by each.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating another example of the paper feed unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the fifth embodiment. Mode 2 is used as a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the sheet storage unit C and the stacking order of the first sheet of the sheet bundle are associated with each other. FIG. 12 shows a state in which the mode 2 is selected by the user. When mode 2 is selected by the user, the correspondence relationship acquisition unit 100 acquires a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the paper storage unit C and the first sheet are associated among a plurality of predetermined correspondence relationships held in the storage unit. To do. Further, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order of the first to fourth sheets not yet associated with the sheet storage unit in the mode 2 selected by the user with the sheet storage unit A. In this way, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order of all the sheets acquired by the total sheet acquisition unit 106 with the sheet storage unit.

  When the user presses the start button, the paper feed timing control unit 102 determines that the sheets sent out from the paper storage unit C are stacked in correspondence with the paper storage unit C in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, 1 Controls the delivery of paper so that it is stacked on the first sheet. Further, the paper feed timing control unit 102 sends out the sheets so that the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit A are stacked in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit A, that is, the second to fifth sheets. Control. When mode 2 is selected, the display control unit 108 checks the check box for the first stacking order in the row of the sheet storage unit C, and the sheet storage unit A for the stacking order other than the first sheet. Check the check box in the column.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating another example of the paper feed unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 13 illustrates a state in which the sheet storage unit A is selected as the large-capacity sheet storage unit, and the sheet storage unit C and the sheet storage unit D are selected as the small-capacity sheet storage unit. Note that, when the paper storage unit B or the continuous stage is selected as the large-capacity paper storage unit, the same is true for the following description only by replacing the large-capacity paper storage unit.

  When the button 172 is clicked by the user, the display control unit 108 lists the modes 1 to 6 in a pull-down menu extending downward from the mode display field 170. Of these modes, mode 1 is used as a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the paper storage unit C is associated with the previous stacking order of the last sheet, and the paper storage unit D is associated with the stacking order of the last sheet. The FIG. 13 shows a state where the mode 1 is selected by the user.

  When mode 1 is selected by the user, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the paper storage unit C with the previous stacking order among the plurality of predetermined correspondences stored in the storage unit. Then, a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the paper storage unit D and the stacking order of the last sheet are associated with each other is acquired. In addition, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the first to third stacking orders not yet associated with the sheet storage unit in the mode 1 selected by the user with the sheet storage unit A. In this way, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order of all the sheets acquired by the total sheet acquisition unit 106 with the sheet storage unit.

  When the user presses the start button, the paper feed timing control unit 102 stacks the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit A in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit A, that is, the first to third sheets. Control the paper feed. In addition, the paper feed timing control unit 102 is in a stacking order in which the paper sent out from the paper storage unit C is associated with the paper storage unit C in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, one before the last sheet. Controls the feeding of paper so that it is stacked on the fourth sheet. Further, the paper feed timing control unit 102 stacks the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit D in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit D in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the fifth sheet as the final sheet. The paper feed is controlled so as to be performed.

  When mode 1 is selected, the display control unit 108 checks the check box of the stacking order one page before the last sheet in the column of the sheet storage unit C, and stacks the last sheet in the column of the sheet storage unit D. Check the order checkboxes. In addition, the display control unit 108 checks the check boxes for the first to third sheets that are not checked in the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D in the row of the paper storage unit A. Of course, the user can change the correspondence between the sheet storage unit and the stacking order by changing the check position of the check box.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating another example of the paper feed unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 14 also shows a state in which the paper storage section A is selected as the large capacity paper storage section, and the paper storage section C and the paper storage section D are selected as the small capacity paper storage section. Of the menus listed when the button 172 is clicked in this state, mode 2 is associated with the sheet storage unit C and the stacking order of the last sheet, and one of the sheet storage unit D and the last sheet is associated. This is used as a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the previous loading order is associated. FIG. 14 shows a state in which the mode 2 is selected by the user.

  When mode 2 is selected by the user, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the paper storage unit C and the stacking order of the last sheet among the plurality of predetermined correspondences stored in the storage unit, and stores the paper storage A predetermined correspondence relationship is obtained in which the part D and the previous stacking order of the last sheet are associated with each other. In addition, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the first to third stacking orders that are not yet associated with the sheet storage unit in the mode 2 selected by the user with the sheet storage unit A.

  When the user presses the start button, the paper feed timing control unit 102 stacks the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit A in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit A, that is, the first to third sheets. Control the paper feed. In addition, the sheet feeding timing control unit 102 loads the sheet sent out from the sheet storage unit C into the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit C in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the fifth sheet that is the last sheet. Controls delivery of paper so that it can be stacked. In addition, the paper feed timing control unit 102 loads the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit D in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit D in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the 4th one before the last sheet. Controls the delivery of paper so that it is stacked on the first sheet.

  When mode 2 is selected, the display control unit 108 checks the check box of the stacking order of the fifth sheet which is the last sheet in the column of the sheet storage unit C, and the last sheet in the column of the sheet storage unit D. It is assumed that the check box for the fourth stacking order, which is one before the eye, is checked. In addition, the display control unit 108 checks the check boxes for the first to third sheets that are not checked in the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D in the row of the paper storage unit A. Of course, the user can change the correspondence between the sheet storage unit and the stacking order by changing the check position of the check box.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating another example of the paper feed unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 15 also shows a state in which the paper storage unit A is selected as the large capacity paper storage unit, and the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D are selected as the small capacity paper storage unit. Of the menus listed when the button 172 is clicked in this state, in mode 3, the paper storage unit C and the second stacking order are associated with each other, and the paper storage unit D and the first stacking order are associated with each other. Are used as a predetermined correspondence relationship. FIG. 15 shows a state in which the mode 3 is selected by the user.

  When mode 3 is selected by the user, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the paper storage unit C with the second stacking order among the plurality of predetermined correspondences stored in the storage unit, and stores the paper storage A predetermined correspondence relationship in which the part D and the first stacking order are associated with each other is acquired. Also, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order of the third to fifth sheets not yet associated with the sheet storage unit in the mode 3 selected by the user with the sheet storage unit A.

  When the user presses the start button, the paper feed timing control unit 102 stacks the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit A in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit A, that is, the third to fifth sheets. Control the paper feed. Further, the paper feed timing control unit 102 is configured so that the paper sent out from the paper storage unit C is stacked in the stacking order associated with the paper storage unit C in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the second paper is stacked. Control the delivery of. Further, the paper feed timing control unit 102 is configured so that the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit D are stacked in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit D in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the first sheet is stacked. Control the delivery of.

  When mode 3 is selected, the display control unit 108 checks the check box for the second stacking order in the row of the paper storage unit C, and the first stacking order in the column of the paper storage unit D. Check box is checked. Further, the display control unit 108 checks the check boxes of the stacking order of the third to fifth sheets that are not checked in the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D in the column of the paper storage unit A. Of course, the user can change the correspondence between the sheet storage unit and the stacking order by changing the check position of the check box.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating another example of the paper feed unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 16 also shows a state where the paper storage unit A is selected as the large capacity paper storage unit, and the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D are selected as the small capacity paper storage unit. Of the menus listed when the button 172 is clicked in this state, in mode 4, the paper storage unit C and the first stacking order are associated with each other, and the paper storage unit D and the second stacking order are associated with each other. Are used as a predetermined correspondence relationship. FIG. 16 shows a state in which the mode 4 is selected by the user.

  When mode 4 is selected by the user, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the paper storage unit C with the first stacking order among the plurality of predetermined correspondences stored in the storage unit, and stores the paper storage A predetermined correspondence relationship in which the part D and the second stacking order are associated with each other is acquired. Also, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order of the third to fifth sheets not yet associated with the sheet storage unit in the mode 4 selected by the user with the sheet storage unit A.

  When the user presses the start button, the paper feed timing control unit 102 stacks the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit A in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit A, that is, the third to fifth sheets. Control the paper feed. In addition, the paper feed timing control unit 102 allows the paper sent from the paper storage unit C to be stacked in the stacking order associated with the paper storage unit C in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the first paper is stacked. Control the delivery of. Further, the paper feed timing control unit 102 allows the papers sent from the paper storage unit D to be stacked in the stacking order associated with the paper storage unit D in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the second paper is stacked. Control the delivery of.

  When mode 4 is selected, the display control unit 108 checks the check box for the first stacking order in the row of the sheet storage unit C, and the second stacking order in the column of the sheet storage unit D. Check box is checked. Further, the display control unit 108 checks the check boxes of the stacking order of the third to fifth sheets that are not checked in the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D in the column of the paper storage unit A. Of course, the user can change the correspondence between the sheet storage unit and the stacking order by changing the check position of the check box.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating another example of the paper feed unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 17 also shows a state in which the paper storage section A is selected as the large capacity paper storage section, and the paper storage section C and the paper storage section D are selected as the small capacity paper storage section. Of the menus listed when the button 172 is clicked in this state, mode 5 associates the paper storage unit C with the first stacking order, and the paper storage unit D and the last stacking order. Are used as a predetermined correspondence relationship. FIG. 17 shows a state where the mode 5 is selected by the user.

  When mode 5 is selected by the user, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the paper storage unit C with the first stacking order among the plurality of predetermined correspondences stored in the storage unit, and stores the paper storage A predetermined correspondence relationship is obtained in which the part D and the last stacking order of the fifth sheet are associated with each other. In addition, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order of the second to fourth sheets not yet associated with the sheet storage unit in the mode 5 selected by the user with the sheet storage unit A.

  When the user presses the start button, the paper feed timing control unit 102 stacks the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit A in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit A, that is, the second to fourth sheets. Control the paper feed. In addition, the paper feed timing control unit 102 allows the paper sent from the paper storage unit C to be stacked in the stacking order associated with the paper storage unit C in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the first paper is stacked. Control the delivery of. In addition, the sheet feeding timing control unit 102 loads the sheet sent out from the sheet storage unit D into the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit D in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the fifth sheet that is the last sheet. Controls delivery of paper so that it can be stacked.

  When mode 5 is selected, the display control unit 108 checks the check boxes for the first stacking order in the row of the sheet storage unit C, and the fifth sheet that is the last sheet in the column of the sheet storage unit D. Check that the check box for the stacking order of eyes is checked. In addition, the display control unit 108 checks a state in which the check boxes for the second to fourth sheets that are not checked in the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D are checked in the row of the paper storage unit A. Of course, the user can change the correspondence between the sheet storage unit and the stacking order by changing the check position of the check box.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating another example of the paper feed unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 18 also shows a state in which the paper storage section A is selected as the large capacity paper storage section, and the paper storage section C and the paper storage section D are selected as the small capacity paper storage section. Of the menus listed when the button 172 is clicked in this state, mode 6 associates the paper storage unit C with the stacking order of the last sheet, and the paper storage unit D and the stacking order of the first sheet. Are used as a predetermined correspondence relationship. FIG. 18 shows a state where the mode 6 is selected by the user.

  When mode 6 is selected by the user, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 corresponds to the paper storage unit C and the last stacking order among the plurality of predetermined correspondences held in the storage unit. A predetermined correspondence relationship is acquired in which the sheet storage unit D and the first sheet stacking order are associated with each other. In addition, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order of the second to fourth sheets not yet associated with the sheet storage unit in the mode 6 selected by the user with the sheet storage unit A.

  When the user presses the start button, the paper feed timing control unit 102 stacks the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit A in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit A, that is, the second to fourth sheets. Control the paper feed. In addition, the sheet feeding timing control unit 102 loads the sheet sent out from the sheet storage unit C into the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit C in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the fifth sheet that is the last sheet. Controls delivery of paper so that it can be stacked. Further, the paper feed timing control unit 102 is configured so that the sheets sent out from the sheet storage unit D are stacked in the stacking order associated with the sheet storage unit D in the acquired predetermined correspondence relationship, that is, the first sheet is stacked. Control the delivery of.

  When mode 6 is selected, the display control unit 108 checks the check box for the fifth stacking order, which is the last sheet in the sheet storage unit C column, and displays one sheet in the column of the sheet storage unit D. Check that the check box for the stacking order of eyes is checked. In addition, the display control unit 108 checks a state in which the check boxes for the second to fourth sheets that are not checked in the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D are checked in the row of the paper storage unit A. Of course, the user can change the correspondence between the sheet storage unit and the stacking order by changing the check position of the check box.

(Sixth embodiment)
FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 19 illustrates a state where the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B are selected as the large capacity paper storage unit, and the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D are selected as the small capacity paper storage unit.

  In the sixth embodiment, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 identifies the selected large-capacity sheet storage unit as the main sheet storage unit that sends out the largest number of sheets among the plurality of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created. The correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the identified large-capacity paper storage unit with all stacking orders. Note that the correspondence acquisition unit 100 may associate the identified large-capacity sheet storage unit with the stacking order of one or more sheets among a plurality of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created.

  In addition, when there are a plurality of selected large-capacity paper storage units, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 identifies the high-capacity paper storage unit that is frequently used as the main paper storage unit. Specifically, when the start button is pressed and the sheet conveyance is started, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 counts the number of sheets sent from each of the sheet storage units and holds the value. The correspondence acquisition unit 100 sets the large-capacity paper storage unit having the highest paper count value in the paper supply process for the past 10 times as the main paper storage unit. As specified.

  Of course, the method for specifying the main sheet storage unit is not limited to this. For example, when the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B are selected as the large capacity paper storage unit, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 always specifies one of the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B as the main paper storage unit. Also good. In addition, the correspondence relationship acquisition unit 100 may specify the paper storage unit selected by the user from the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B as the main paper storage unit.

  Such a setting state used in the sixth embodiment is referred to as a manual mode. The display control unit 108 displays “manual” in the mode display field 170 to indicate that the manual mode has been set in the initial state.

  In this way, by associating all the stacking orders in advance with the large-capacity sheet storage unit, the user can complete the setting operation by resetting only a small number of sheets such as a cover. For this reason, a user's setting man-hour can be suppressed.

(Seventh embodiment)
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen 120 displayed in the bookbinding system according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 20 also illustrates a state in which the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B are selected as the large capacity paper storage unit, and the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D are selected as the small capacity paper storage unit.

  The correspondence acquisition unit 100 identifies the selected large-capacity sheet storage unit as the main sheet storage unit that sends out the largest number of sheets among the plurality of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created. However, in the seventh embodiment, the correspondence relationship acquisition unit 100 associates the specified large-capacity paper storage unit with the stacking order excluding a part of all the stacking orders.

  Specifically, when the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D are selected as the small-capacity paper storage units, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 determines that the stacking order of the mode 1, that is, the paper storage unit D and the last sheet is set. A predetermined correspondence relationship is selected in the initial state in which the paper storage unit C is associated with the previous stacking order of the last sheet. Therefore, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the specified large-capacity paper storage unit with the stacking order from the first sheet to the last two sheets. Also at this time, when there are a plurality of selected large-capacity paper storage units, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 identifies the high-capacity paper storage unit that is frequently used as the main paper storage unit. The specifying method at this time is the same as that in the sixth embodiment.

  Thus, by associating most of the stacking orders in advance with the large-capacity sheet storage unit, the user can complete the setting operation by resetting only a small number of sheets such as a cover. For this reason, a user's setting man-hour can be suppressed. Note that the correspondence acquisition unit 100 may associate, for example, a stacking order of half or more of the number of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created with the specified main sheet storage unit.

  In addition, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order excluding at least one of the stacking order of the first sheet, the second sheet, the last sheet, and the previous sheet with the main sheet storage unit. Also good. At this time, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 may not associate the stacking order that is not associated with the main sheet storage unit with any sheet storage unit. In this case, the check boxes for the loading order that are not associated with each other are not checked. By checking a check box that is not checked, the user can quickly associate the sheet storage unit with the stacking order.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. Various modifications such as design changes can be added to the above-described embodiments based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, and embodiments to which such modifications are added can also be included in the scope of the present invention. . Here are some examples.

  In a modification, a process selection button for the user to select either the saddle stitch folding process or the binding process is displayed on the paper feed unit setting screen 120. When the process selection button is clicked by the user, the selection result acquisition unit 104 acquires a process corresponding to the clicked process selection button. When the user clicks a process selection button for selecting execution of the saddle stitch folding process, the display control unit 108 displays a paper image 124 bent in a mountain shape. Further, when the user selects a process selection button for selecting execution of the binding process, a rectangular paper image 124 extending in a straight line in the horizontal direction is displayed. As described above, by selecting whether to perform the saddle stitch folding processing or the binding processing on the paper feed unit setting screen 120, the saddle stitch folding processing is performed according to the sheet image 124. Even when the user wants to reselect whether or not to do so, the user can easily reselect without displaying another screen.

  In another modification, a total number input field for inputting the total number of sheets necessary for creating one booklet is provided on the paper feed unit setting screen 120. When the numerical value displayed in the total number input column is changed by the user, the total number acquisition unit 106 acquires the changed number as the total number of sheets included in one booklet. At this time, the display control unit 108 changes and displays the correspondence input field 122 so that the number of lines becomes the total number of sheets after the change. Further, the display control unit 108 displays the sheet image 124 of the total number of sheets after the change. In this way, by making it possible to input the total number of sheets on the sheet feeding unit setting screen 120, even if it is desired to change the total number of sheets by looking at the correspondence input field 122 or the sheet image 124, another sheet number can be changed. The total number of sheets can be easily changed without displaying a screen.

  In another variation, the correspondence input field 122 includes four rows provided for each of the paper storage units A to D and when a booklet sheet is stacked by the binding mechanism 62. The table is composed of a plurality of rows provided for each stacking order. That is, it is upside down from the above-described embodiment. In the correspondence input field 122, the stacking order is displayed by the total number of sheets included in the booklet to be created, and when the total number of sheets is larger than a predetermined number (for example, 10 sheets), scrolling all the numbers The point that the loading order is displayed is the same as described above.

  When sheets fed from the sheet feed tray 30 and the tray 38 are continuously stacked on the binding mechanism 62, a plurality of pages of sheets are stacked on the sheet feed tray 30 and the tray 38 on the binding mechanism 62. And loaded upside down. This is because the sheets are fed one by one from the sheet feed tray 30 and the tray 38 and stacked by the binding mechanism 62. By displaying the stacking order in the correspondence input field 122 in this way, the order of sheets stacked on the paper feed tray 30 and the tray 38 and the stacking order in the correspondence input field 122 can be displayed in the same manner. For this reason, it is possible to easily and easily input the correspondence relationship between the stacking order and the sheet storage unit.

  In another variation, in the fifth embodiment, in the fifth embodiment, as the storage unit, the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B are selected as the large capacity paper storage unit, and “OFF” is selected as the small capacity paper storage unit. The predetermined correspondence in the case is maintained. In this modified example, the predetermined correspondence includes that in which the paper storage unit A is a large-capacity paper storage unit and the paper storage unit B is handled in the same manner as the small-capacity paper storage unit.

  Specifically, a predetermined correspondence between mode 1 and mode 2 is held in the storage unit. Mode 1 is used as a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the paper storage unit B and the stacking order of the last sheet are associated with each other. Mode 2 is used as a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the paper storage unit B and the first stacking order are associated with each other.

  For this reason, when mode 1 is selected, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 acquires a predetermined correspondence in which the paper storage unit B and the stacking order of the last sheet are associated with each other, and sets the other stacking order to the paper storage unit. Correspond to A. When mode 2 is selected, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 acquires a predetermined correspondence in which the paper storage unit B and the first stacking order are associated with each other, and sets the other stacking order to the paper storage unit A. Associate with. The correspondence acquisition unit 100 may treat the paper storage unit B as a large capacity paper storage unit and handle the paper storage unit A in the same manner as the small capacity paper storage unit. In addition, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 may treat the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B selected by the user as a large-capacity paper storage unit. Thereby, even when only a plurality of large-capacity paper storage units are selected, the user's setting man-hours can be suppressed.

  The same applies to a bookbinding system in which the paper storage unit C and the paper storage unit D do not exist. In this case, the display control unit 108 avoids displaying the small-capacity tray display field 166 on the paper feed unit setting screen 120.

  In another variation, in the fifth embodiment, the storage unit selects the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B as the large capacity paper storage unit, and the paper storage unit C and the paper storage as the small capacity paper storage unit. The predetermined correspondence relationship is maintained when either the part D or the continuous stage is selected. In this modified example, the predetermined correspondence includes that in which the paper storage unit A is a large-capacity paper storage unit and the paper storage unit B is handled in the same manner as the small-capacity paper storage unit.

  Specifically, a predetermined correspondence relationship between modes 1 to 6 is held in the storage unit. The modes 1 to 6 are the same as the modes 1 to 6 according to the fifth embodiment except that the paper storage unit B is used instead of the paper storage unit D. Thereby, the user's setting man-hours can be suppressed when the cover sheet is sent out using the large-capacity sheet storage unit.

  In another modification, in the fifth embodiment, the storage unit selects the paper storage unit A and the paper storage unit B as the large capacity paper storage unit, and the paper storage unit C and the paper storage as the small capacity paper storage unit. The predetermined correspondence when the part D is selected is held. In this modified example, the predetermined correspondence includes that in which the paper storage unit A is a large-capacity paper storage unit and the paper storage unit B is handled in the same manner as the small-capacity paper storage unit.

  Specifically, the storage unit is associated with the sheet storage unit B, the sheet storage unit C, and the sheet storage unit D, and the stacking order of any of the first to third sheets and the last sheet to the last two sheets. Various predetermined correspondence relationships are maintained. When the user selects a mode corresponding to one of the predetermined correspondences, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 corresponds to each of the paper storage unit B, the paper storage unit C, and the paper storage unit D in the predetermined correspondence relationship. Corresponds to the loading order. Also, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 associates the stacking order that is not associated with any of the paper storage unit B, the paper storage unit C, and the paper storage unit D with the paper storage unit A. Thereby, even when three cover sheets or insertion sheets are used, it is possible to suppress the setting man-hours of the user.

  In another modification, in the fifth embodiment, the storage unit holds a predetermined correspondence relationship in which one sheet storage unit and the stacking order of both the first sheet and the last sheet are associated with each other. . The paper storage unit may be a small-capacity paper storage unit such as the paper storage unit C or the paper storage unit D, or may be a large-capacity paper storage unit such as the paper storage unit A or the paper storage unit B. When the predetermined correspondence relationship is selected by the user, the correspondence relationship acquisition unit 100 acquires the selected predetermined correspondence relationship and associates other stacking orders with other sheet storage units. Thereby, both the first sheet and the last sheet can be sent out from one sheet storage unit.

  In another modification, in the fifth embodiment, two or more of the four stacking orders of one sheet storage unit and the first sheet, the second sheet, the last sheet, and the last sheet before the last sheet are used. A predetermined correspondence relationship in which the loading order is associated is held in the storage unit. Of these four stacking orders, two stacking orders are associated with the first sheet storage unit, and the other two stacking orders of these four stacking orders are associated with the second sheet storage unit. The given predetermined correspondence relationship may be held in the storage unit. For example, the stacking order of both the first sheet and the last sheet is associated with the first sheet storage unit, and the stacking order of the second sheet and the last sheet and the second sheet storage unit are The associated predetermined correspondence relationship may be held in the storage unit. Each of the first paper storage unit and the second paper storage unit may be a small-capacity paper storage unit such as the paper storage unit C or the paper storage unit D, such as the paper storage unit A or the paper storage unit B. It may be a large-capacity paper storage unit. When the predetermined correspondence is selected by the user, the correspondence acquisition unit 100 acquires the selected predetermined correspondence and associates other stacking orders with other sheet storage units. As a result, the four sheets in the stacking order can be sent out from fewer than four sheet storage units.

It is a typical whole block diagram of the bookbinding system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. 1 is a functional block diagram of a bookbinding system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an initial state of a paper feed unit setting screen. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a sheet feeding unit setting screen when a check mark is entered in a check box in a correspondence input column by a user. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a sheet feeding unit setting screen when a binding process is selected by a user. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a sheet feeding unit setting screen when some sheet feeding apparatuses are not provided in the bookbinding system. It is a flowchart which shows the control procedure of each paper feeder when a start button is pushed by the user. It is a typical whole block diagram of the bookbinding system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper feed unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a third embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the paper feed part setting screen displayed in the bookbinding system concerning 4th Embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sheet feeding unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a sixth embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper feed unit setting screen displayed in a bookbinding system according to a seventh embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

  10A and B bookbinding system, 12 first paper feeding device, 14 second paper feeding device, 16 third paper feeding device, 20 saddle stitch folding device, 28 management device, 30 paper feed table, 38A A tray, 38B B tray, 62 binding mechanism, 94 management PC, 96 display, 100 correspondence relationship acquisition unit, 102 paper feed timing control unit, 104 selection result acquisition unit, 106 total number acquisition unit, 108 display control unit, 120 paper feed unit setting screen, 122 correspondence Relation input field, 124 paper image.

Claims (11)

A plurality of paper feeding units each for containing a plurality of paper, each of which feeds out the paper stored in each of the paper storage units;
A sheet bundle creating means for stacking sheets fed from the plurality of sheet feeding means to create a sheet bundle;
Correspondence relationship acquisition means for acquiring a correspondence relationship between the stacking order of each of the plurality of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created and the sheet storage unit to which the sheets in the stacking order are to be sent,
Delivery of sheets by the plurality of sheet feeding means so that sheets delivered from the sheet accommodation unit are stacked in the sheet bundle creation unit in the stacking order associated with the sheet accommodation unit in the acquired correspondence relationship. Paper feed control means for controlling
A sheet bundle forming apparatus comprising: A display on which the image is displayed;
Display control means for displaying an image on the display,
The display control means uses the acquired correspondence relationship to display a plurality of sheet images each schematically representing each sheet constituting the sheet bundle, and a sheet storage unit to which the sheet represented by each sheet is to be sent out. The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sheet bundle forming apparatus is arranged in an identifiable manner and displayed on the display in the order in which the sheets are represented.   The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the display control unit displays the plurality of sheet images on a correspondence setting screen in which the correspondence is input by a user. A folding means for performing a folding process of folding a bundle of sheets to create a booklet;
A selection result acquisition means for acquiring a selection result by the user as to whether or not to perform folding processing;
Further comprising
4. The display control unit according to claim 2, wherein when the folding process is selected, the display control unit displays the plurality of paper images that are each bent in a direction in which the folding process is performed. 5. The sheet bundle forming apparatus described. A storage unit that holds a plurality of predetermined correspondences in which a predetermined paper storage unit and a stacking order of papers are associated in advance among the plurality of paper storage units;
5. The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the correspondence acquisition unit acquires a predetermined correspondence selected by a user from among the plurality of held predetermined correspondences. A total number obtaining unit for obtaining the number of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created;
When the predetermined correspondence is selected by the user, the correspondence acquisition unit differs from the predetermined paper storage unit in a stacking order that is not associated with the predetermined paper storage unit among the acquired stacking order of the number of sheets. 6. The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the sheet bundle forming apparatus is associated with a sheet storage unit.   7. The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the storage unit holds a predetermined correspondence relationship in which the predetermined sheet storage unit and the stacking order of the last sheet are associated in advance.   8. The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the storage unit holds a predetermined correspondence relationship in which a predetermined sheet storage unit and a first sheet stacking order are associated with each other in advance. The plurality of paper storage units include both a large-capacity paper storage unit and a small-capacity paper storage unit having a smaller storage capacity than the large-capacity paper storage unit,
9. The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the storage unit holds a plurality of predetermined correspondence relationships in which a small-capacity sheet storage unit and a sheet stacking order are associated in advance.   The correspondence acquisition unit specifies a main sheet storage unit that sends out the largest number of sheets out of the plurality of sheets included in the sheet bundle to be created from the plurality of sheet storage sections, and is included in the sheet bundle to be created. 5. The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a stacking order of one or more sheets among the plurality of sheets is associated with a main sheet storage unit.   11. The sheet bundle forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the correspondence acquisition unit associates all stacking orders of a plurality of sheets included in a sheet bundle to be created with a main sheet storage unit.

Images