JP2014227250A - Post-processing apparatus and image formation system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a level difference part on one end side of a booklet in forming a saddle-stitch booklet.SOLUTION: A cutting device and a booklet formation apparatus ascertain the contents of printing set information transmitted from an image formation apparatus (S410). The cutting device determines whether cutting processing is set or not from the ascertained printing set information (S420). When cutting processing is set, the cutting device executes processing of cutting margins of a sheet (S430). A sheet after the cutting processing is carried to the booklet formation apparatus. The booklet formation apparatus adjusts folding positions of individual sheets on the basis of folding position information set for every sheet and executes processing of center-folding the sheets along the folding positions (S440). The center-folded sheets are mounted in order on a saddle member to form a sheet bundle. The booklet formation apparatus executes processing of saddle-stitching the sheet bundle by using a staple (S460). The configuration enables formation of a saddle-stich booklet provided, on one end side, with a level difference part in which pages are deviated in the form of a level difference.

Description

  The present invention relates to a post-processing apparatus and an image forming system.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, image forming systems that enable various system constructions by connecting peripheral devices such as a large-capacity paper feeding device and a post-processing device to an image forming device have been widely used. As the post-processing apparatus, for example, there is a bookbinding apparatus that creates a booklet by performing a side-stitching process or a saddle-stitching process on a sheet on which an image is formed by an image forming apparatus.

  Here, as a kind of booklet created by the post-processing apparatus, there is one in which an index (heading part) is provided on one end side of the booklet in order to perform chapter division, indexing, or the like. For example, Patent Literature 1 describes a bookbinding apparatus that repeatedly weaves different dimensions to provide an index on a long printed sheet. Patent Document 2 describes an image forming apparatus that divides a sheet bundle into chapters by cutting one side of the image-formed sheet with a cutter.

JP 2004-82678 A JP 2007-99428 A

  However, in the image forming apparatuses disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 described above, there is a description that an index-like step is provided on a page of a booklet that has been subjected to side stitching, but a stepped portion is formed on a booklet that has been created by saddle stitching processing. There is no description of any means or method for providing the above. Therefore, in the conventional image forming apparatus or the like, there is a problem that a step portion cannot be provided when a saddle stitch booklet is created.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a post-processing apparatus and an image forming system that can provide a stepped portion on one end side of a booklet when a saddle-stitched booklet is created.

  In order to solve the above problems, a post-processing apparatus according to the present invention is a post-processing apparatus that creates a saddle-stitched booklet using a plurality of sheets, and the binding position of the sheets for each sheet or for each set. A folding section that is folded while shifting the folding position away from the center position of the sheet or from a position away from the center position of the sheet toward the center position, and one sheet or a set of sheets folded by the folding section. After a plurality of sheets are stacked to form a booklet bundle, the booklet bundle is subjected to saddle stitching to create a booklet having a stepped portion.

  The image forming system according to the present invention includes an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a sheet, and a folding position that is a binding position of the sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus, for each sheet or for each set. A folding unit that is folded while shifting in a direction away from the central position or from a position away from the central position of the sheet toward the central position, and one or a set of sheets folded by the folding section are stacked to form a booklet bundle. A post-processing device having a binding unit that creates a booklet having a stepped portion by performing saddle stitching on the booklet bundle, and the number of sheets of the booklet created by the post-processing device and the step in the stepped portion. Control which determines the smallest size page of the booklet based on the amount and adjusts the size of the image formed by the image forming apparatus and the printing position of the image with reference to the page of the smallest size And, those with a.

  According to the post-processing apparatus of the present invention, the saddle-stitched booklet is created by shifting the folding position of the sheet for each sheet or for each set. Therefore, the step portion where each page is shifted in a step shape is formed on one end side of the booklet. Can be formed. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a saddle stitch booklet that can be easily turned by the user. Further, according to the image forming system according to the present invention, when creating a booklet having a stepped portion, the size and the printing position of the image formed on each page are adjusted based on the page that is the minimum size of the booklet. It is possible to prevent the image from protruding from the page of the booklet, and as a result, it is possible to provide a saddle-stitched booklet having a good appearance.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a post-processing apparatus. It is a figure which shows the structural example and operation example of a saddle stitching process part. 1 is a diagram illustrating a block configuration example of an image forming system. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a stepped booklet. It is a figure for demonstrating the folding position of a stepped booklet. It is a figure for demonstrating the image size printed on each paper which comprises a stepped booklet. It is a figure for demonstrating the margin of a booklet produced when the image size is reduced according to the page of the minimum size. It is a figure for demonstrating the state in the case of cutting the margin of the paper which comprises a booklet. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the booklet by which the cutting process was carried out. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the image forming apparatus when performing a post-processing mode (No. 1). 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the image forming apparatus when performing a post-processing mode (part 2); 12 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the image forming apparatus when performing a post-processing mode (part 3); FIG. 10 is a diagram for describing an example of printing an image in each setting mode of the saddle stitching processing mode. It is a flowchart which shows the operation example of the post-processing apparatus in the case of performing post-processing mode. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the other stepped booklet (the 1). It is a figure which shows the structural example of the other stepped booklet (the 2).

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted. Moreover, the dimension ratio of the drawing shown below is expanded on account of description, and may differ from an actual ratio.

[Configuration example of image forming system]
First, the image forming system 1 will be described. FIG. 1 shows an example of the overall configuration of an image forming system 1 capable of creating a saddle stitch booklet according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 2 and a post-processing apparatus 3 connected to the downstream side of the image forming apparatus 2 in the sheet conveyance direction. The post-processing device 3 includes a cutting device 4 and a booklet forming device 5. The cutting device 4 and the booklet forming device 5 constitute an example of the post-processing device 3.

  The image forming apparatus 2 imprints, for example, an image for saddle stitching on the paper S <b> 1 and conveys the imprinted paper S <b> 1 to the cutting device 4 of the post-processing device 3. The cutting device 4 cuts the margin of the paper S <b> 1 conveyed from the image forming device 2 and conveys it to the booklet forming device 5. The booklet forming apparatus 5 performs a center folding process while shifting the folding position of each sheet S1, and stacks a plurality of sheets S1 and performs a saddle stitching process, thereby forming a stepped portion U having a step-like gap between pages on one end side. A booklet S2 is created (see FIG. 5).

[Configuration example of image forming apparatus]
Next, the image forming apparatus 2 will be described in detail. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 2 includes a document conveying unit 11, an image reading unit 12, an image forming unit 13, and an operation display unit 14.

  The document transport unit 11 transports documents one by one to the reading position of the image reading unit 12. The image reading unit 12 reads the image of the document conveyed by the document conveying unit 11 or the document placed on the document table 16 and generates image data.

  The image forming unit 13 includes a drum-shaped photoconductor 21, a charging unit 22 disposed around the photoconductor 21, an exposure unit 23, a developing unit 24, a transfer unit 25 </ b> A, a separation unit 25 </ b> B, and a cleaning unit 26. Yes. The charging unit 22 uniformly charges the surface of the photoconductor 21. The exposure unit 23 performs exposure scanning on the photoconductor 21 based on image data read from the document to form a latent image. The developing unit 24 develops the latent image by attaching toner to form a toner image on the surface of the photoreceptor 21.

  The paper S1 is stored in the paper storage unit 27. The sheet S1 is fed by the sheet feeding unit 28A and sent to the transfer position where the transfer unit 25A is disposed. The transfer unit 25A transfers the toner image onto the sheet S1 sent to the transfer position. The separation unit 25B erases the charge on the back surface of the sheet S1 to which the toner image is transferred, and separates the sheet S1 from the photosensitive member 21. Then, the toner remaining on the surface of the photoreceptor 21 is removed by the cleaning unit 26.

  The sheet S1 separated from the photoreceptor 21 is transported by the intermediate transport unit 28B and sent to the fixing unit 29. The fixing unit 29 heat-fixes the toner image transferred to the paper S1.

  A switching gate 28 </ b> C is disposed on the downstream side in the conveyance direction of the sheet S <b> 1 in the fixing unit 29 (hereinafter referred to as “downstream side”). The switching gate 28C switches the conveyance path of the paper S1 that has passed through the fixing unit 29. That is, the switching gate 28C moves the sheet S1 straight when performing face-up discharge in single-sided image formation. Thereby, the sheet S1 is discharged by the pair of discharge rollers 28D. Further, the switching gate 28C guides the sheet S1 to the sheet reversing conveyance unit 28E disposed below when performing face-down paper discharge and double-sided image formation in single-sided image formation.

  When face-down paper discharge is performed, the paper S1 is guided downward by the switching gate 28C, and then the paper transport direction is switched when the rear end of the paper S1 passes through the switching gate 28C, and the pair of paper discharge rollers 28D. Eject paper. When double-sided image formation is performed, the sheet S1 is guided downward by the switching gate 28C and sent to the sheet reversing conveyance unit 28E, and then transferred to the sheet refeeding path 28F so that the sheet S1 is reversed with the front and back reversed. The paper is fed again to the section 25A.

  The operation display unit 14 has a touch panel and the like, and functions as an input unit through which the user inputs job information for operating the image forming apparatus 2 and the post-processing apparatus 3. In the operation display unit 14, for example, selection of a paper size, selection of the number of printed sheets, and the like can be input as job information. Further, information regarding the half-folding process and the saddle stitching process performed by the post-processing device 3 can be input as job information. The job information can also be input from an operation unit of a computer connected to the image forming apparatus 2 via a network.

  The operation display unit 14 has a start button. When the user inputs job information through the operation display unit 14 and presses the start button, the image forming apparatus 2 and the post-processing apparatus 3 start operations based on the input job information. Moreover, the operation display part 14 comprises an example of an alerting | reporting part, and when it judges that creation of booklet S2 is impossible based on the information regarding the saddle stitching process etc. which are input, it notifies that to a user.

[Configuration example of post-processing device]
Next, the post-processing device 3 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. FIG. 2 shows an example of the configuration of the post-processing device 3. A width direction W is defined as a direction parallel to the horizontal direction in the post-processing apparatus 3 and facing the post-processing apparatus 3 and the image forming apparatus 2. A direction perpendicular to the width direction W and parallel to the vertical direction is defined as a height direction H. A direction perpendicular to the width direction W and the height direction H is defined as a depth direction D.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the cutting device 4 is connected to the downstream side of the image forming device 2 in the paper conveyance direction, and includes a slit cutter 52 and a roller 53. The slit cutter 52 and the roller 53 are provided inside the housing 54.

  The slit cutter 52 has a cutting blade, and is installed at a position corresponding to each of both end portions in the depth direction D of the paper S1. When the cutting process is selected, the slit cutter 52 moves to the margin positions on both ends of the sheet S1 and rotates to cut the margins Gu and Gd of the sheet S1 conveyed from the image forming apparatus 2.

  The roller 53 is disposed to face each of the slit cutters 52. The roller 53 conveys the sheet S <b> 1 on which an image is printed in the image forming apparatus 2 to the subsequent booklet forming apparatus 5 while nipping the sheet S <b> 1 with the roller portion of the slit cutter 52. In addition to the roller 53, a plurality of transport rollers may be provided. Moreover, the slit cutter 52 is not limited to the said structure, A well-known technique is employable.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the booklet forming apparatus 5 is connected to the downstream side of the cutting apparatus 4 in the sheet conveying direction, and receives the receiving unit 31, the first sheet conveying unit 32, the middle folding processing unit 33, and the second. The sheet conveying section 34 (see FIG. 3), the saddle stitching processing section 36, and the composite processing section 37 are provided. The center folding processing unit 33 constitutes an example of a folding part, and the saddle stitching processing part 36 constitutes an example of a binding part.

  The receiving unit 31 is provided on one side in the width direction W of the housing 30 in the post-processing device 3. The receiving unit 31 opens on the surface of the housing 30 that faces the image forming apparatus 2. The paper S1 discharged from the cutting device 4 is inserted into the receiving unit 31.

  The first paper transport unit 32 includes a plurality of rollers 32 a driven by a motor (not shown), and a transport path 32 b arranged along the width direction W. The first paper transport unit 32 transports the paper S 1 received by the receiving unit 31 to the middle folding processing unit 33.

  The middle folding processing unit 33 includes a folding position adjusting member 35, two folding rollers 33a and 33a pressed against each other, and a folding plate (not shown).

  The folding position adjusting member 35 is constituted by, for example, a plate-like member extending in the depth direction D, and is provided on the downstream side in the width direction W of the folding rollers 33a and 33a. The folding position adjusting member 35 is provided so as to be movable along the width direction W, and the folding position Pb of the sheet S1 is folded by pressing the downstream end portion of the conveyed sheet S1 in the width direction against the plate surface. The sheet S1 is moved so as to be positioned immediately above the plate (between the folding rollers 33a and 33b). When creating the stepped booklet S2, the folding position adjustment member 35 is moved in accordance with the folding position Pb set for each sheet S1, thereby aligning the folding position Pb of the sheet S1.

  In this example, the example in which the folding position Pb of the sheet S1 is aligned by being aligned by the folding position adjusting member 35 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, folding position adjusting members are provided on both sides of the folding rollers 33a and 33a in the width direction W, and the folding position Pb of the sheet S1 is aligned by moving these two folding position adjusting members toward the center. May be.

  The two folding rollers 33a and 33a rotate in opposite directions. The folding plate presses the sheet S1 in which the folding position Pb is aligned by the folding position adjusting member 35 and passes the center (folding position Pb) of the sheet S1 between the two folding rollers 33a and 33a. Thereafter, the two folding rollers 33a and 33a reverse the rotation direction and discharge the sheet S1 downward in the height direction H. As a result, the sheet S1 is folded so that the center is convex upward in the height direction H, and the middle folding process ends.

  3A to 3C are schematic configuration diagrams of the saddle stitching processing unit 36 in the post-processing device 3 as viewed from the width direction W. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, a second paper transport unit 34 is disposed below the two folding rollers 33 a and 33 a in the height direction H of the center folding processing unit 33. The second paper transport unit 34 is arranged along the depth direction D. The second paper transport unit 34 transports the paper S <b> 1 that has undergone the middle folding process by the middle folding processing unit 33 to the saddle stitching processing unit 36.

  The saddle stitching processing unit 36 includes a collar member 40, a staple processing unit 41, an alignment member 42, and a first stopper 44. The shape of the flange member 40 as viewed from the depth direction D is formed in a substantially triangular shape, and one top portion is directed upward in the height direction H. On the top of the collar member 40, the inner side of the fold in the sheet S1 subjected to the middle folding process is placed. At this time, the crease of the sheet S1 is arranged along the ridge line at the top of the collar member 40. A plurality of sheets S1 are stacked on the collar member 40 to form a sheet bundle S.

  The staple processing unit 41 includes a needle receiving mechanism 41a disposed in the collar member 40 and a needle striking mechanism 41b facing the needle receiving mechanism 41a. The needle receiving mechanism 41a is supported by a support portion (not shown) so as to be movable in the height direction H. The needle striking mechanism 41b is fixed to an attachment member (not shown) above the height direction H of the collar member 40.

  Further, an alignment member 42 and a first stopper 44 are disposed above the height direction H of the collar member 40. The alignment member 42 is configured to be movable in the depth direction D. The first stopper 44 is configured to be movable in the height direction H and the depth direction D. Further, a booklet transport unit 43 is disposed on the downstream side in the depth direction D of the collar member 40. A second stopper 45 is disposed above the booklet transport unit 43 in the height direction H.

  Here, the saddle stitching processing operation in the saddle stitching processing unit 36 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A to 3C. First, as shown in FIG. 3A, the alignment member 42 presses the sheet bundle S against the first stopper 44 after a predetermined number of sheets S1 are accumulated on the collar member 40 to form the sheet bundle S. The sheet bundle S is aligned. Next, the staple receiving mechanism 41a of the staple processing unit 41 is raised to perform the first stapling process on the sheet bundle S. At this time, the first stopper 44 rises to a predetermined height.

  When the first stapling process is performed, the alignment member 42 moves a predetermined amount downstream in the depth direction D as shown in FIG. 3B. As a result, the sheet bundle S is pushed out to the position where the second stapling process is performed by the alignment member 42. Then, the staple receiving mechanism 41a of the staple processing unit 41 is raised, and the booklet S2 is created by performing the second staple processing on the sheet bundle S.

  When the second stapling process is performed, the first stopper 44 moves to the side of the folding part 33 in the depth direction D and is positioned above the upstream end of the booklet S2. Further, the alignment member 42 moves in the depth direction D and retracts to a predetermined position.

  When the second stapling process is performed, as shown in FIG. 3C, the first stopper 44 is lowered to a position facing the upstream end of the booklet S2. Subsequently, the first stopper 44 moves to the second stopper 45 side in the depth direction D. As a result, the booklet S <b> 2 is pushed out by the first stopper 44 and moves from the collar member 40 to the booklet transport unit 43. At this time, the booklet S2 is pressed against the second stopper 45 to align the booklet S2. The booklet transport unit 43 transports the booklet S2 received from the collar member 40 to the composite processing unit 37.

  Returning to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the composite processing unit 37 includes a square back processing unit 38, a cutting processing unit 39, and a discharge unit 47. The square back processing unit 38 flattens the back of the booklet S2 by pressing the curved back of the booklet S2 conveyed from the collar member 40 with a roller. The trimming processing unit 39 trims and aligns the end (hereinafter referred to as a fore edge) side opposite to the end bound with the staple of the booklet S2. The discharge unit 47 discharges the booklet S <b> 2 that has undergone the flattening process or the like onto a discharge tray (not shown).

[Example of block configuration of image forming system]
Next, a block configuration example of the image forming system 1 according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 4 shows an example of a block configuration of the image forming system 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the image forming apparatus 2 of the image forming system 1 includes a control unit 15 that mainly controls the overall operation of the image forming system 1. The control unit 15 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and executes image formation processing and post-processing in conjunction with the control unit 50 of the cutting apparatus 4 and the control unit 90 of the booklet forming apparatus 5 according to a control program described later. To do.

  An operation display unit 14, a storage unit 17, an image processing unit 18, an image forming unit 13, and a communication unit 15a are connected to the control unit 15, respectively. The operation display unit 14 receives various designations such as image forming conditions and post-processing conditions, and supplies job information based on the received various designations to the control unit 15. The job information can also be received by an operation unit such as a computer connected to the image forming apparatus 2 via a network.

  Here, the job information includes print setting information that describes setting contents related to printing processing by the image forming unit 13 and various post-processing by the post-processing device 3, and print data in PDL (Page Description Language) format that represents an image. ing. The print setting information related to the print processing includes information such as layout, paper type, size, and both sides. Print setting information that describes the settings related to post-processing includes post-processing presence / absence, content of post-processing mode, booklet binding direction, number of booklet sheets, presence of step, presence of step, amount of margin cutting There is information such as.

  Under the control of the control unit 15, the image forming unit 13 prints a print image based on the image data generated by the image processing unit 18 on the paper S <b> 1 fed from the paper storage unit 27.

  The storage unit 17 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The ROM stores a program for controlling basic operations of the image forming apparatus 2 and the like. The RAM temporarily holds a control program as a work area. The HDD stores an OS, a control program, and the like.

  The image processing unit 18 generates image data for printing based on job information received from a computer or the like connected to the image forming apparatus 2 via a network. When performing saddle stitching processing as post-processing, the image processing unit 18 performs processing (image allocation processing) for changing the page order of image data so that a page layout for saddle stitching is obtained.

  The communication unit 15 a is connected to the communication unit 50 a of the cutting apparatus 4 and communicates print setting information with the cutting apparatus 4. The print setting information includes contents of the post-processing mode, size information, folding position information when performing saddle stitching processing, image width information, and the like. The folding position information and the image width information are calculated by the control unit 15 based on the step amount information, the size information, the number information, and the like.

  The cutting device 4 includes a control unit 50 that controls the operation of each unit. The control unit 50 has a CPU, and executes a margin cutting process for the sheet S1 in conjunction with the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2 according to the control program. A communication unit 50a and a cutting drive unit 520 are connected to the control unit 50, respectively.

  The communication unit 50a is connected to each of the communication unit 15a of the image forming apparatus 2 and the communication unit 90a of the booklet forming apparatus 5, acquires the print setting information transmitted from the image forming apparatus 2, and the acquired print setting information. It transmits to the control part 50 or the communication part 90a of the booklet forming apparatus 5.

  The cutting drive unit 520 includes, for example, a stepping motor and the like, and drives the slit cutter 52 based on the drive signal supplied from the control unit 50 to execute the cutting process of the margins Gu and Gd of the paper S1 (FIG. 9). reference). This drive signal is generated based on information indicating the presence / absence of the cutting processing of the print setting information and the margin amount.

  The booklet forming apparatus 5 includes a control unit 90 that controls the operation of each unit. The control unit 90 includes a CPU, and executes a half-folding process and a saddle stitching process in conjunction with the control unit 15 and the like of the image forming apparatus 2 according to a control program.

  The control unit 90 is connected to a communication unit 90a, a center folding driving unit 330, and a saddle stitching driving unit 410. The communication unit 90a is connected to the communication unit 50a of the cutting apparatus 4 and prints post-processing mode information, folding position information, step amount information, and the like transmitted from the image forming apparatus 2 via the communication unit 50a of the cutting apparatus 4. Get configuration information.

  The middle folding drive unit 330 is formed of, for example, a stepping motor or the like, and drives the folding position adjusting member 35, the middle folding rollers 33a, 33a, and the like based on a drive signal supplied from the control unit 90, so that the inside of the sheet S1. Execute the folding process. This drive signal is generated based on the folding position information and the step amount information of the print setting information.

  The saddle stitching drive unit 410 is composed of a stepping motor or the like, and drives the staple processing unit 41 based on a drive signal supplied from the control unit 90 to thereby store a plurality of sheets S1 stacked on the collar member 40. Execute saddle stitching.

[Example booklet structure]
Next, an example of the configuration of the booklet S2 according to the present invention will be described. 5A is a perspective view illustrating an example of the configuration of the booklet S2, FIG. 5B is a plan view thereof, and FIG. 5C is a side view thereof. FIG. 6 is a view for explaining the folding position Pb of each sheet S1 constituting the booklet S2 having the stepped portion U. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the booklet S <b> 2 is configured by performing saddle stitching on four sheets of A3 size (297 mm × 420 mm) S <b> 11, S <b> 12, S <b> 13, S <b> 14 by left-opening.

  The image is evenly imprinted on the front side of the first sheet S11 constituting the booklet S2 with the folding position Pb1 as a reference, and the image is evenly imprinted on the back side with the folding position Pb1 as a reference. The Similarly, images are imprinted on the front and back surfaces of the sheets S12 to S14. At this time, the images are allocated and printed on the front and back surfaces of the sheets S11, S12, S13, and S14 so that they are in page order when the saddle stitching process is performed. For example, images corresponding to pages 7 and 10 are printed on the front side of the sheet S11, and images corresponding to pages 8 and 9 are printed on the back side.

  Further, the booklet S2 has a stepped portion U in which the fore edge is shifted in a stepped shape. In this example, in order to provide the stepped portion U in the booklet S2, the folding positions Pb of the sheets S11, S12, S13, and S14 are set so as to be shifted in the direction away from the center position Pa for each sheet. When the A3 size paper S1 is used, the normal center position Pa is 210 mm from both ends of the paper S1.

  For example, when the level difference between pages in the level difference portion U is set to 2 mm, the folding position Pb of each sheet S1 is set as follows. The folding position Pb1 of the sheet S11 arranged on the innermost side in the booklet S2 is set to a position shifted by 1 mm in the right direction from the center position Pa, and is set to a position 211 mm from the left end of the sheet S11 and 209 mm from the right end. The folding position Pb2 of the sheet S12 that is the second sheet from the inside in the booklet S2 is set to a position that is shifted by 3 mm in the right direction from the center position Pa, and is 213 mm from the left end of the sheet S12 and 207 mm from the right end.

  The folding position Pb3 of the sheet S13, which is the third sheet from the inside in the booklet S2, is set to a position shifted by 5 mm in the right direction from the center position Pa, and is 215 mm from the left end of the sheet S13 and 205 mm from the right end. The folding position Pb4 of the fourth sheet S14 arranged on the outermost side in the booklet S2 is set at a position shifted by 7 mm in the right direction from the center position Pa, and is positioned at 217 mm from the left end of the sheet S14 and 203 mm from the right end. Is done.

  The sheets S11, S12, S13, and S14 for which the folding positions are set are sequentially folded at the folding positions Pb1, Pb2, Pb3, and Pb4 by the middle folding processing unit 33, and then stacked on the collar member 40. The The sheets S11, S12, S13, and S14 accumulated on the collar member 40 are subjected to saddle stitching by the binding processing unit 36 at the folded positions (folding positions Pb1 to Pb4).

  As a result, a booklet S2 subjected to saddle stitching processing for all 16 pages is created. In this example, the folding positions Pb1, Pb2, Pb3, and Pb4 of the sheets S11, S12, S13, and S14 are shifted in the direction away from the central position Pa, so that the pages are shifted stepwise on the fore edge side of the booklet S2. A stepped portion U can be formed.

[Image size adjustment]
Next, the image size printed on each sheet S1 of the booklet S2 provided with the stepped portion U will be described. FIG. 7A is a diagram for explaining the image size before adjustment when the stepped portion U is provided in the booklet S2, and FIG. 7B is a diagram for explaining the image size after adjustment. Here, when the stepped portion U is not provided, when the A3 size sheet S1 is subjected to the middle folding process (saddle stitching process), the size of each page after the middle folding process becomes an A4 size (210 mm × 297 mm). Therefore, the image data printed on each A4 size page is adjusted to a size that fits within an image area defined by 210 mm × 297 mm.

  On the other hand, when creating the booklet S2 having the stepped portion U, the folding position Pb of each sheet S1 is shifted in the direction away from the central position Pa. The width becomes narrower. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, on the first page and the second page (hereinafter referred to as page P) of the sheet S14 arranged on the outermost side in the booklet S2, the sheet width becomes 203 mm by shifting the folding position Pb. The minimum paper width. Therefore, when an image G adjusted to fit in an image area with a paper width of 210 mm is printed on a page having a paper width of 203 mm, as shown in FIG. 7A, the image G is printed on the paper S1. There is a problem that it protrudes from the right end.

  Therefore, in this example, when creating the booklet S2 having the stepped portion U, the printing process is performed by reducing (adjusting) the image size so that the image fits in the paper width of the smallest size page P. For example, the control unit 15 calculates a reduction rate (height × width) of the image size based on the number of sheets S1 constituting the booklet S2 and the step amount in the stepped portion U, and an image G based on the calculated reduction rate. It is generated by controlling the image processing unit 18. As a result, as shown in FIG. 7B, even when the image G is printed on the page P having the minimum size, the image G can be prevented from protruding from the page P.

[About margin cutting]
Next, a description will be given of margins Bu and Bd cutting processing that can be performed at the upper and lower portions of the sheet S1 when the image size is reduced. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the margins Bu and Bd of the booklet S2 that are formed when the image size is reduced to fit the minimum size page. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a state in the case where the margins Bu and Bd of the paper S1 constituting the booklet S2 are cut. FIG. 10 shows an example of the configuration of the booklet S2 subjected to the cutting process.

  When creating the booklet S2 having the stepped portion U, if the image size is reduced in accordance with the paper width of the smallest page, margins Bu and Bd are formed at the upper and lower portions of the paper S1, respectively, as shown in FIG. . Therefore, in this example, when a booklet S2 in which the image G is printed on the entire page without blanks Bu and Bd in the upper and lower portions is desired as a completed product, the cutting (slit) function is used to cut the sheet S1. A cutting process for cutting the upper and lower margins Bu and Bd can also be selected.

  When performing the cutting process, after calculating the image size to be printed on the minimum size page, the amount of blank space formed at the upper and lower portions of the sheet S1 is calculated based on the calculated image size. When the margin amount is calculated, as shown in FIG. 9, the slit cutter 52 is driven after moving to the cut position (a position that is a boundary between the margins Gu, Gd and the image G) based on the calculated margin amount. Then, the margins Bu and Bd on both ends of the conveyed sheet S1 are cut along the cut lines L and L. As a result, as shown in FIG. 10, a booklet S2 having no margins Bu and Bd can be created as a completed product. The margin amount may be calculated by the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2 or the control unit 50 of the cutting apparatus 4.

[Operation example of image forming apparatus]
Next, an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 2 when creating the stepped booklet S2 subjected to saddle stitching will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 2 when the booklet S2 is created.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in step S100, print setting information (job information) including information related to the post-processing mode is input. In step S110, the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2 determines whether there is an input of the post-processing mode based on the print setting information. When it is determined that there is an input for the post-processing mode, the control unit 15 proceeds to step S120, and when it is determined that there is no input for the post-processing mode, the control unit 15 proceeds to step S140.

  When the post-processing mode is input, in step S120, the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2 determines whether the saddle stitching process is selected as the content of the post-processing mode. When the saddle stitching process is selected as the post-processing mode, the control unit 15 proceeds to step S130. When the process other than the saddle stitching process is selected as the post-processing mode, the control unit 15 proceeds to step S150.

  When the saddle stitching process is selected as the post-processing mode, in step S130, the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2 acquires detailed print setting information regarding the saddle stitching process from the operation display unit 14 or the like. The print setting information includes, for example, information such as the number of pages of the booklet S2 and the step amount of the step portion U.

  On the other hand, when post-processing other than saddle stitching is set as the post-processing mode, in step S150, the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2 acquires detailed print setting information related to other than saddle stitching from the operation display unit 14 or the like. . Examples of other post-processing other than the saddle stitching process include a flat stitching process and a case binding process.

  When print setting information other than the saddle stitching process or the saddle stitching process is acquired as the post-processing mode, the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2 determines the content of the post-processing mode in step S140.

  Next, an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 2 when the saddle stitching process is selected as the content of the post-processing mode will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 2 when the saddle stitching process is selected as the post-processing mode.

  As shown in FIG. 12, when the saddle stitching process is selected as the post-processing mode in step S200, the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2 starts an image forming process corresponding to the saddle stitching process. In step S210, the control unit 15 recognizes print setting information based on job information received by the operation display unit 14 or the operation unit of the computer. When the print setting information is recognized, in step S220, the control unit 15 controls the image processing unit 18 to read the print data indicating the document image included in the print setting information.

  In step S230, the control unit 15 determines whether post-processing can be executed based on the recognized print setting information. Specifically, when creating the booklet S2 having the stepped portion U that has undergone saddle stitching, the control unit 15 determines whether the step amount included in the print setting information exceeds a specified value, or the number of sheets in the booklet S2 is Judge whether the specified number is exceeded. This is because when the step amount exceeds a specified value, the page on one side of the booklet S2 becomes long, and the long page is caught by another mechanism or on the saddle member 40. This is because the balance of the booklet S2 becomes worse. Similarly, even when the number of sheets of the booklet S2 exceeds the specified value, the balance of the booklet S2 on the collar member 40 is deteriorated, and the booklet S2 cannot be stably held. The control unit 15 proceeds to step S240 when determining that the post-processing is executable, and proceeds to step S280 when determining that the post-processing is not possible.

  If post-processing can be executed, in step S240, the control unit 15 performs print processing for each setting corresponding to each setting in the saddle stitching process. As will be described later, the saddle stitching process includes a full-page printing mode in which an image is printed on the entire surface of a sheet, a booklet mode in which an image is impositioned, and a stepped booklet mode in which an image is impositioned by providing a stepped portion U. Has two modes. Each mode in the saddle stitching process can be set on the operation screen of the operation display unit 14 or the like.

  In step S <b> 250, the control unit 15 transmits print setting information regarding image forming processing and post-processing to each of the cutting device 4 and the booklet forming device 5. Examples of the print information include post-processing mode information, size information, folding position information when performing saddle stitching processing, image width information, and the like.

  In step S260, the control unit 15 determines whether or not the image forming process for each setting according to each setting mode of the saddle stitching process is finished. If the control unit 15 determines that the image forming process for each setting according to each setting mode has been completed, the control unit 15 proceeds to step S270, and determines that the image forming process for each setting according to each setting mode has not ended. If so, the process returns to step S240.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that post-processing is not possible, the control unit 15 issues a warning (notification) to the user that the saddle stitching process is impossible in step S280. As a warning, for example, a message indicating that the saddle stitching process is impossible is displayed on the screen of the operation display unit 14 or the operation unit of the computer, and then a screen for re-inputting the number of sheets, the step amount, and the like is displayed. You may do it. The warning may use voice. If it is determined that the post-processing cannot be performed, the control unit 15 stops the booklet forming operation (job) at a stage before the image forming process or the like starts. As a result, it is possible to avoid beforehand that an error occurs due to a problem such as the paper S1 being caught by another mechanism.

  In step S <b> 270, the control unit 15 completes a series of operations of the image forming process for each setting according to each setting mode of the saddle stitching process.

  Next, an example of the operation in each setting mode of the saddle stitching process will be described. FIG. 13 is a subroutine of step S240 shown in FIG. FIG. 14A is an example of an image printed on the paper S1 when the full print mode is set, FIG. 14B is an example of an image printed on the paper S1 when the booklet mode is set, and FIG. FIG. 5 is an example of an image printed on a sheet S1 when a booklet mode with stepping is set. FIG.

  As illustrated in FIG. 13, when the post-processing can be executed in step S <b> 300, the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2 performs print processing for each setting according to each setting mode of the saddle stitching processing. The control unit 15 executes a mode set by the user among the three modes of the full-page printing mode, the booklet mode, and the stepped booklet mode.

  In step S310, the control unit 15 determines whether the booklet mode is set based on the print setting information. If the control unit 15 determines that the booklet mode is set, the process proceeds to step S330. On the other hand, if the control unit 15 determines that the booklet mode is not set, the control unit 15 determines that the full print mode is set and proceeds to step S320.

  When the full print mode is set, the control unit 15 executes the print process in the full print mode in step S320. In the full-surface printing mode, as shown in FIG. 14A, the image G1 is printed on the entire surface of the paper with reference to the paper S1, regardless of the folding position Pb of the paper S1.

  On the other hand, when the booklet mode is set, in step S330, the control unit 15 determines whether there is a setting instruction based on the print setting information. The control unit 15 proceeds to step S350 when it is determined that there is a setting instruction, and proceeds to step S340 when it is determined that there is no setting instruction.

  If there is no instruction for placement, in step S340, the control unit 15 executes a normal booklet mode printing process. In the booklet mode, as shown in FIG. 14B, images G2 and G3 are allocated and printed on each page P1 and P2 with reference to the folding position Pb of the paper S1.

  On the other hand, if there is a placement designation, in step S350, the control unit 15 confirms step amount information and size information regarding the step portion U included in the print setting information. In step S360, the control unit 15 calculates the folding position Pb of each sheet S1 based on the confirmed step amount information, size information, and the like. Further, the control unit 15 determines the smallest page in the booklet S2 based on the step amount information and the sheet number information, and adjusts the image size and the image printing position based on the determined minimum size page.

  In step S370, the control unit 15 executes a booklet mode printing process with step arrangement. In the booklet mode with stepping, as shown in FIG. 14C, the image G4 adjusted to fit on the page P3 having the minimum size (minimum width) is printed with the folding position Pb of the paper S1 as a reference. Also for the page P4 adjacent to the page P3, the image G5 having the same size as the image G4 is printed close to the folding position Pb with respect to the folding position Pb.

[Example of operation of post-processing device]
Next, an example of the operation on the post-processing device 3 side when creating the stepped booklet S2 subjected to saddle stitching will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the post-processing device 3. As shown in FIG. 15, the post-processing device 3 executes the saddle stitching processing mode when the saddle stitching processing is set as the post-processing mode in step S400. In step S410, the control unit 50 of the cutting apparatus 4 confirms the content of the print setting information transmitted from the image forming apparatus 2. Similarly, the control unit 90 of the booklet forming apparatus 5 also confirms the contents of the print setting information transmitted from the image forming apparatus 2.

  In step S420, the control unit 50 of the cutting apparatus 4 determines whether or not a cutting process for cutting the margins Gu and Gd of the paper S1 is set from the confirmed print setting information. If the control unit 50 determines that the cutting process is set, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S430. On the other hand, if the control unit 50 determines that the cutting process is not set, the control unit 50 conveys the sheet S1 conveyed from the image forming apparatus 2 to the subsequent booklet forming apparatus 5 without performing the cutting process, and step S440 is performed. Proceed to

  In step S430, the control unit 50 of the cutting apparatus 4 executes a cutting process. The controller 50 drives the slit cutter 52 after moving the slit cutter 52 to the cutting position (see FIG. 9), and cuts the margins Bu and Bd formed on the upper and lower portions of the conveyed paper S1. The sheet S1 for which the margins Bu and Bd have been cut is conveyed to the subsequent booklet forming apparatus 5.

  In step S440, the control unit 90 of the booklet forming apparatus 5 performs a middle folding process. The control unit 90 sets the folding position Pb of each sheet S1 to the folding position adjusting member 35 based on the folding position information set for each sheet S1 included in the print setting information transmitted from the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2. To match. When the alignment is completed, the control unit 90 controls the folding process unit 33 to perform the folding process on each sheet S1 along the folding position Pb.

  In step S450, the control unit 90 of the booklet forming apparatus 5 determines whether or not the half-folding process of the final sheet constituting the booklet S2 has been completed based on the number information of the print setting information. The control unit 90 proceeds to step S460 when determining that the final sheet is folded, and returns to step S410 when determining that the final sheet is not folded. The above-described process is repeatedly executed until the middle folding process is completed.

  In step S460, the control unit 90 of the booklet forming apparatus 5 executes saddle stitching processing. The control unit 90 sequentially stacks the sheets S1 subjected to the center folding process on the collar member 40 to form the sheet bundle S, and then performs the center binding at the binding position (folding position Pb) of each sheet S1 by the staple processing unit 41. Process. Through such a series of image forming processing operations and post-processing operations, it is possible to create a booklet S2 that is saddle stitched and has a stepped portion U on one end side.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the booklet S2 is created by performing the saddle stitching process by shifting the folding position Pb of the sheet S1 in the direction away from the center position Pa for each sheet. Can be provided on one end side of the booklet S2. Accordingly, it is possible to provide the saddle-stitched booklet S2 in which pages are easily turned.

  Further, in order to prevent the image from protruding from the page that is the minimum size of the booklet S2 by shifting the folding position Pb, the image size is reduced to fit the image area of the page and the print position of the reduced image is adjusted. Since each page is printed, the saddle-stitched booklet S2 having a good appearance can be created. Further, when the image is formed close to the folding position Pb, the image is not exposed to the outside, so that it is possible to prevent contamination due to the touch by the user.

  Further, by providing a function of cutting margins Gu and Gd formed when an image is reduced and printed, a booklet S2 having an image printed on the entire surface of the page can be provided. As a result, the appearance of the booklet S2 can be further improved, and various requests from users can be met.

  Further, by using the collar member 40, the sheets S1 subjected to the middle folding process with the folding position Pb shifted for each sheet can be sequentially placed on the collar member 40. Accordingly, the stepped portion U can be formed also in the saddle stitch booklet S2.

  Furthermore, a warning is issued when it is impossible to create the booklet S2 based on the number of sheets of the booklet S2 and the level difference of the stepped portion U set by the user. Can be set again. As a result, a booklet forming process can be performed quickly and without waste.

  It should be noted that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and includes those in which various modifications are made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the example of the booklet S2 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 described above, the stepped portion U is formed by shifting the folding position Pb of the sheet S1 for each sheet, but the folding position Pb of the sheet S1 is changed. The stepped portion U can also be formed by shifting every plural sheets (one set).

  FIG. 16 shows an example of the configuration of the booklet S3 when the stepped portion U is formed by shifting the folding position Pb of the sheet S1 in units of two sheets. As shown in FIG. 16, the folding position Pb1 of the innermost sheet S11 is set at the same position as the central position Pa, and is 210 mm from the left end of the sheet S11 and 210 mm from the right end.

  The folding position Pb2 of the second sheet S12 arranged from the inside and the folding position Pb3 of the third sheet P13 arranged on the outermost side are set to positions shifted by 4 mm in the right direction from the center position Pa. The position is 214 mm from the left end of the sheet S11 and 206 mm from the right end.

  As described above, even when the saddle stitching process is performed by shifting the folding position Pb with two sheets as one set, the booklet S3 having the stepped portion U in which the fore edge side is shifted in a stepped shape can be created. In this example, the booklet S3 is created by shifting the folding position Pb with two sheets as one set. However, the booklet S3 is not limited to two sheets, and the folding position Pb is shifted with three or more sheets as one set. A booklet may be created.

  In the above-described embodiment, the left-open booklet S2 has been described. Of course, a right-open booklet S4 can be created. FIG. 17A is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a right-open booklet S4, and FIG. 17B is a side view thereof.

  As shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, the booklet S4 is created by performing a saddle stitching process by opening it to the right, and a stepped portion U is provided on the small edge side of the booklet S4. The stepped portion U of the booklet S4 performs the center folding process while shifting the folding position Pb of each sheet S1 from the position away from the center position Pa toward the center position Pa, and saddle-stitches the plurality of sheets S1 subjected to the center folding process. Created by processing.

  Further, in this example, the control unit 15 performs the print control so that the image printed on each page of the booklet S2 moves closer to the folding position Pb with respect to the folding position Pb. However, the present invention is not limited to this. There is nothing. For example, the printing control can be performed so that the image approaches the stepped portion U side with the stepped portion U as a reference. In this case, since the image is exposed to the outside at the stepped portion U, the image can be visually recognized even when the user closes the booklet S2.

  In addition, by printing identification information such as characters and symbols on the stepped portion U of the booklet S2, the stepped portion U can be used as an index.

  In the above-described embodiment, the cutting device 4 and the booklet forming device 5 have different device configurations, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the single post-processing device 3 can be configured by incorporating the cutting device 4 and the booklet forming device 5 into one housing. Further, although the image forming apparatus 2 is configured to form a monochrome image, the present invention can be applied even when configured to form a color image.

  In the above embodiment, the control unit 15 of the image forming apparatus 2 is the main and the image forming process and the post-processing are performed in conjunction with the other control units 50 and 90. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. In other words, the other control units 50 and 90 can perform image forming processing and post-processing.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming system 2 Image forming apparatus 3 Post-processing apparatus 4 Cutting apparatus (cutting part)
5 Booklet forming device (post-processing device)
14 Operation display section (operation section, notification section)
33 Folding part (folding part)
36 Saddle Stitching Processing Section (Binding Section)
40 Paper member S1 Paper S2 Booklet Pa Center position Pb Folding position

Claims (8)

A post-processing device that creates a saddle stitch booklet using a plurality of sheets,
Folding is performed by shifting the folding position, which is the binding position of the paper, for each sheet or for each set in a direction away from the central position of the paper or in a direction approaching the central position from a position away from the central position of the paper. And
A binding unit that creates a booklet having a stepped part by performing saddle stitching on the booklet bundle after stacking a plurality of sheets or a set of the sheets folded by the folding unit,
A post-processing device comprising: The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a flange member that sequentially places the sheets folded by the folding unit to form the booklet bundle. An image forming apparatus for forming an image on paper;
The folding position, which is the binding position of the sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus, is set to the center position in a direction away from the center position of the sheet or from a position away from the center position of the sheet for each sheet or set. The step portion is formed by folding the folded portion while shifting in a direction approaching the sheet, and stacking a plurality of sheets or one set of the sheets folded by the folded portion to form a booklet bundle, and then saddle-stitching the booklet bundle. A post-processing device having a binding unit for creating a provided booklet;
Based on the number of sheets of the booklet created by the post-processing device and the level difference in the stepped portion, the smallest page of the booklet is determined, and the image forming apparatus uses the minimum size page as a reference. A control unit that adjusts the size of the image to be formed and the printing position of the image;
An image forming system comprising: The image forming system according to claim 3, further comprising a cutting unit that cuts a portion that becomes a margin of the sheet when the size of an image is adjusted by the control unit with reference to a page of a minimum size. 5. The image forming system according to claim 3, further comprising an operation unit that specifies information on at least one of the number of sheets of the booklet and the step amount of the step portion. An informing unit that informs that the booklet cannot be created when it is determined that the booklet cannot be created based on information on at least one of the number of sheets of the booklet and the step amount of the stepped portion. The image forming system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising: The image according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the control unit controls the image forming apparatus to print identification information on the stepped portion formed on the booklet. Forming system. The control unit controls the image forming apparatus so that an image is formed with reference to a folding position side of the sheet or a stepped portion side of the booklet. The image forming system according to item.

Images