JP2016118760A - Image formation system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image formation system which can achieve the longer service life of an image carrier and a transfer member while suppressing toner contamination of a transfer member.SOLUTION: An image formation system comprises: an image carrier provided rotationally and carrying a toner image; a transfer member brought into contact with the image carrier, forming a transfer nip and provided rotationally; bias application means applying a bias to the transfer member; and post-processing means capable of selectively executing a plurality of different pieces of post-processing to a sheet on which a toner image is formed. A transfer cleaning operation for cleaning the transfer member can be executed as an inter-sheet operation at the time when at least one of inter-sheet regions existing on the image carrier passes through the transfer nip during a continuous image formation period. A rotation stop operation for stopping the rotation of the image carrier and the transfer member can be executed before or after execution of the transfer cleaning operation in addition to the transfer cleaning operation as the inter-sheet operation in accordance with the post-processing selected in the post-processing means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming system.

  Conventionally, a transfer nip is formed by bringing a transfer member into contact with the surface of the image carrier, and a transfer bias output from a transfer bias power source is applied to the transfer member, and the image carrier is applied to the recording member conveyed to the transfer nip. An image forming apparatus for transferring the upper toner image is known.

  An image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1 includes a photosensitive member that is a rotatable image carrier on which a toner image is formed, and a transfer roller that is a rotatable transfer member that contacts the photosensitive member to form a transfer nip. And a power source for applying a bias to the transfer roller. Then, the paper is passed through the transfer nip, and a transfer bias having a polarity opposite to the normal charging polarity of the toner is applied to the transfer roller by the power source to transfer the toner image on the photoreceptor onto the paper. In addition, a transfer cleaning operation for cleaning the transfer roller is executed as an inter-paper operation when at least one of the inter-paper regions existing on the photosensitive member passes through the transfer nip during the continuous image formation period. In this transfer cleaning operation, while the photosensitive member and the transfer roller are rotated, a cleaning bias having the same polarity as the normal charging polarity of the toner is applied to the transfer roller by the power source, and the toner adhering to the transfer roller is statically applied to the photosensitive member. The transfer roller is cleaned by moving it electrically.

  Further, a sheet on which an image is formed by such an image forming apparatus is discharged from the image forming apparatus to a post-processing apparatus, and post-processing such as binding processing and folding processing is selectively performed on the sheet by the post-processing apparatus. An executable image forming system is known.

  In the image forming system, when the paper discharge interval from the image forming apparatus to the post-processing apparatus is increased in order to secure the post-processing time in the post-processing apparatus, the above-described case is performed more than in the case where the post-processing apparatus does not perform post-processing. The length of the photosensitive member rotation direction in the inter-paper area is increased. For this reason, the longer the post-processing time, the longer the inter-paper time, which is the time required for the inter-paper region to pass through the transfer nip, and the paper is longer than the time during which the transfer roller can be sufficiently cleaned by the transfer cleaning operation. The interval time may be longer. Then, in the post-paper operation when the post-processing in which the inter-paper time becomes very long as described above, the photoconductor and the transfer roller are rotated beyond the time when the transfer roller can be sufficiently cleaned by the transfer cleaning operation. If it continues, the lifetime of a photoreceptor and a transfer roller will become short.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides an image carrier that is rotatably provided and carries a toner image, and a transfer that abuts the image carrier and transfers the toner image on the image carrier to a sheet. A plurality of sheets including a transfer member that is rotatably provided to form a nip, a bias applying unit that applies a bias to the transfer member, and a post-processing unit that can perform post-processing on a sheet on which a toner image is formed; As the inter-paper operation when at least one of the inter-paper areas existing on the image carrier passes through the transfer nip during a continuous image forming period in which an image is formed by continuously passing sheets of paper, the image carrier In a state where the transfer member is rotated, toner is moved from the transfer member to the image carrier by an electrostatic force by a cleaning bias applied by the bias applying unit, and the transfer member is cleaned. In the image forming system capable of executing the transfer cleaning operation, as the paper-to-paper operation when the post-processing is performed, in addition to the transfer cleaning operation, the image holding is performed before or after the execution of the transfer cleaning operation. A rotation stopping operation for stopping the rotation of the body and the transfer member can be executed.

  As described above, according to the present invention, there is an excellent effect that it is possible to extend the life of the image carrier and the transfer member while suppressing toner contamination of the transfer member.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a matrix of sheet-to-sheet operations by a combination of a copier and a post-processing apparatus and post-processing by the post-processing apparatus. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming system according to Embodiment 1. FIG. The schematic block diagram of a post-processing apparatus. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of a fixing device installed in a copying machine. 3 is a timing chart according to the first embodiment. 10 is a timing chart according to the second embodiment. 9 is a timing chart according to the third embodiment. 9 is a timing chart according to the fourth embodiment. 10 is a timing chart according to the fifth embodiment. 10 is a timing chart according to the sixth embodiment. The figure used for description of the transfer cleaning of the transfer roller surface. 6 is a timing chart of an image forming operation when stapling processing is performed by the post-processing device. The graph which showed the result evaluated about the edge surface stain | pollution | contamination with respect to the continuous printing number of sheets. The figure which shows the other example of the matrix of the operation | movement between sheets by the combination of a copier and a post-processing apparatus, and the post-process in a post-processing apparatus. FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an example of a determination unit that determines a sheet-to-sheet operation corresponding to each post-process that can be selected in the image forming system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating another example of a determination unit that determines a sheet-to-sheet operation corresponding to each post-process that can be selected in the image forming system according to the second embodiment. 6 is a timing chart when the linear speed of the photosensitive drum and the developing motor is switched as the sheet-to-sheet operation. 6 is a timing chart when switching between a charging bias and a developing bias as an inter-sheet operation. 4 is a timing chart when switching between linear speeds of a photosensitive drum and a developing motor and switching between a charging bias and a developing bias as an inter-sheet operation. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a matrix of sheet-to-sheet operations by a combination of a copying machine and a post-processing apparatus and post-processing by the post-processing apparatus in the image forming system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a matrix of sheet-to-sheet operations by a combination of a copying machine and a post-processing apparatus and post-processing by the post-processing apparatus in the image forming system according to the third embodiment.

[Embodiment 1]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of the image forming system according to the present embodiment. The image forming system according to the present embodiment includes a copying machine 1 that is an image forming apparatus, and a post-processing device 50 that is a paper processing device that performs post-processing on the paper P discharged from the copying machine 1 and carried in. The post-processing device 50 is detachably installed on the copying machine 1.

  Referring to FIG. 2, the image forming unit 4 includes a photosensitive drum 5, a charging roller 41, a developing device 42, a transfer roller 7, a cleaning device 43, and the like. Specifically, the photoconductive drum 5 as an image carrier is a negatively charged organic photoconductor, and a photosensitive layer or the like is provided on a drum-shaped conductive support. In the photosensitive drum 5, an undercoat layer as an insulating layer, a charge generation layer as a photosensitive layer, and a charge transport layer are sequentially laminated on a conductive support as a base layer. The photosensitive drum 5 is a driven member that is driven by a driving motor 15 as a driving unit during an image forming operation, and rotates in a clockwise direction in FIG.

  The charging roller 41 is a roller member formed by covering an outer periphery of a conductive metal core with a medium-resistance elastic layer, and is disposed so as to contact the photosensitive drum 5. A predetermined charging bias is applied to the charging roller 41 from the charging power supply unit, whereby the surface of the opposing photosensitive drum 5 is uniformly charged.

  The developing device 42 is mainly composed of a developing roller facing the photosensitive drum 5, two conveying screws arranged in parallel via a partition member, and a doctor blade facing the developing roller. The developing roller includes a magnet that is fixed inside and forms a magnetic pole on the peripheral surface of the roller, and a sleeve that rotates around the magnet. A plurality of magnetic poles are formed on the developing roller by the magnet, and the developer is carried on the developing roller. The developing device 42 contains a two-component developer composed of a carrier and toner. In the developing device 42, a toner container containing new toner is detachably (replaceable). The electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 5 by the electric field formed in the developing area in the developing area where the developing roller is opposed to the photosensitive drum 5 by the developing device 42 configured as described above. The toner on the developing roller moves toward. Thus, a desired toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 5.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the developing device 42 is driven by the drive motor 15 that rotationally drives the photosensitive drum 5 during the image forming operation. That is, the driving force is transmitted from the driving motor 15 to the photosensitive drum 5 to rotate the photosensitive drum 5, and the driving force is applied from the driving motor 15 to the developing roller and the conveying screw of the developing device 42 via the gear train. As a result, the rotating members are driven to rotate. In this way, the developing device 42 functions as a driven member that is driven by the drive motor 15. In the present embodiment, the drive motor 15 can also drive the other components of the photosensitive drum 5 and the developing device 42 as driven members.

  The toner used in the present embodiment is for a high speed machine and is a low melting point toner. Specifically, the toner according to the exemplary embodiment includes a binder resin, and the binder resin includes at least a crystalline polyester resin (A), an amorphous resin (B), and an amorphous resin (C ) And a composite resin (D) including a condensation polymerization resin unit and an addition polymerization resin unit. The amorphous resin (B) contains a chloroform-insoluble component, and the softening temperature (T1 / 2) of the amorphous resin (C) is 25 [° C.] or more lower than that of the amorphous resin (B). The molecular weight distribution by GPC determined by the THF soluble content of the toner has a main peak between 1000 and 10,000, and the half width of the molecular weight distribution is set to 15000 or less. As described above, such toner has a low melting point and is suitable as a toner for a high-speed image forming apparatus, but on the other hand, the amount of electrification decreases due to adhesion of paper dust and the like, and easily adheres to the transfer roller 7. Is. For this reason, an effect unique to the image forming system according to the present embodiment as described later (an effect of efficiently cleaning the toner attached to the transfer roller 7) is particularly useful.

  The cleaning device 43 is provided with a cleaning blade that removes untransferred toner that is attached to the surface of the photosensitive drum 5 in contact with the photosensitive drum 5. The cleaning blade has a plate-like blade body made of a rubber material such as urethane rubber, hydrin rubber, silicone rubber, or fluorine rubber, held by a holding plate, and is in contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum at a predetermined angle and a predetermined pressure. ing. As a result, the untransferred toner adhering to the photosensitive drum 5 is mechanically scraped and collected in the cleaning device 43.

  In the present embodiment, a recycling path for supplying the untransferred toner removed and collected by the cleaning device 43 to the developing device 42 as recycled toner may be provided.

The transfer roller 7 serving as a transfer rotator has a resistance value (resistance value when a DC voltage of 1000 [V] is applied at a temperature and humidity of 23 [° C.] 50 [%] RH) on the outer periphery of the conductive metal core. It is a roller member formed by covering an elastic layer of about ⁶ [Ω] to 10 ⁹ [Ω]. Then, a transfer nip is formed in pressure contact with the photosensitive drum 5. Further, the transfer roller 7 is driven by a driving force input from the drive motor 15 through a gear train, and rotates in the counterclockwise direction in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, the transfer roller 7 is rotationally driven by the drive motor 15 for the photosensitive drum 5. However, the transfer roller 7 may be rotationally driven by another drive motor. Good. Alternatively, the transfer roller 7 can be driven to rotate by the frictional force with the photosensitive drum 5 without receiving a driving force from the driving motor 15.

  Further, the copying machine 1 has a power supply unit 35 as bias applying means for applying a transfer bias to the transfer roller 7 and transferring the toner image carried on the photosensitive drum 5 onto the paper P conveyed to the transfer nip. Is provided. Specifically, the transfer roller 7 is applied with a positive transfer bias having a polarity opposite to the normal charging polarity of the toner from the power supply unit 35, and the toner on the photosensitive drum 5 is transferred to the paper P conveyed to the transfer nip. The image will be transferred.

  In the present embodiment, the power supply unit 35 is a current source that applies a transfer bias to the transfer roller 7 by constant current control. In the transfer device that performs constant current control in this way, the transfer bias applied to the transfer roller 7 is adjusted so that the value of the current that flows when the paper is passed is constant. The toner image on the photosensitive drum 5 is electrically attracted to the front surface of the paper P by applying a charge having a polarity opposite to the normal charging polarity of the toner to the back surface of the paper P.

  In a direct transfer type transfer device that forms a transfer nip between the photosensitive drum 5 and the transfer roller 7 and transfers toner directly from the photosensitive drum 5 to the paper P, the paper P is interposed in the transfer nip. In a state where the transfer is not performed, the transfer roller 7 is brought into direct contact with the photosensitive drum 5. For this reason, when a transfer bias is applied to the transfer roller 7 in this state, the dirt toner adhering to the surface of the photosensitive drum adheres to the transfer roller 7 and the transfer roller 7 is contaminated with the toner. The background toner is a toner that adheres to a non-image portion that is not scheduled to adhere to the photosensitive drum 5 due to insufficient charging of the toner or mechanical pressure. is there. When the transfer roller 7 is contaminated with toner, the toner adheres to the back surface or edge surface of the paper P conveyed to the transfer nip.

  For this reason, in this embodiment, as will be described later, control is performed so that a transfer current does not flow to the transfer roller 7 between sheets or a cleaning bias is applied. As a result, the toner is prevented from adhering to the transfer roller 7, or the toner adhering to the transfer roller 7 is moved to the photosensitive drum 5 for cleaning.

  With reference to FIG. 2, a normal image forming operation (image forming operation) in the copying machine 1 will be described. First, the document D is transported from the document table in the direction of the arrow in the drawing by the transport roller of the document transport unit 10 and passes over the document reading unit 2. At this time, the document reading unit 2 optically reads the image information of the document D passing above. Then, the optical image information read by the document reading unit 2 is converted into an electrical signal and then transmitted to the exposure unit 3. Then, from the exposure unit 3, exposure light L such as a laser beam based on the image information of the electrical signal is rotated by a drive motor for the exposure unit 3 to rotate the photosensitive drum of the imaging unit 4. 5 is emitted in the main scanning direction (photosensitive drum axial direction).

  On the other hand, in the image forming unit 4, the photosensitive drum 5 is rotated in the clockwise direction in the drawing by receiving a driving force from the drive motor 15, and undergoes a predetermined image forming process (charging process, exposure process, development process). A toner image corresponding to the image information is formed on the photosensitive drum 5. Thereafter, the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 5 is transferred onto the paper P conveyed by the registration roller 17 at the transfer nip with the transfer roller 7.

  On the other hand, the paper P conveyed to the position of the transfer roller 7 (transfer nip) operates as follows. First, one paper feed unit is automatically or manually selected from among a plurality of paper feed units 12, 13, and 14 provided in the lower part of the copying machine 1. Here, it is assumed that the uppermost sheet feeder 12 is selected. Then, the uppermost sheet P of the paper P stored in the paper feeding unit 12 is transported toward the position of the transport path K1. Thereafter, the sheet P passes through a conveyance path K1 in which a plurality of conveyance rollers are arranged, and reaches the position of the registration roller 17. Then, the sheet P that has reached the position of the registration roller 17 is conveyed toward the transfer nip at the same timing in order to align with the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 5. The paper P after the transfer process reaches the fixing device 20 through the transport path after passing through the position of the transfer nip. The sheet P that has reached the fixing device 20 is sent between the fixing belt 21 and the pressure roller 22, and a toner image is generated by heat received from the fixing belt 21 and pressure received from the fixing belt 21 and pressure roller 22. Is established. The paper P on which the toner image is fixed is delivered from the fixing nip portion between the fixing belt 21 and the pressure roller 22 and then discharged from the copying machine 1.

  If the “double-sided printing mode” for printing on both sides of the paper P is selected, the paper P that has been subjected to the fixing process on the front side is guided to the double-sided conveyance path K2 and is conveyed on both sides. After the conveyance direction is reversed by the unit 30, the sheet is conveyed again toward the transfer nip position. Then, an image is formed on the back surface of the paper P by an image forming process (image forming operation) similar to that described above at the position of the transfer nip, and after that, after a fixing process in the fixing device 20, And is discharged from the copying machine 1.

  Here, in the image forming system in this embodiment, the post-processing device 50 is installed in the copying machine 1, and the paper P discharged from the copying machine 1 is transported to the post-processing device 50, and the transported paper P Is post-processed.

  With reference to FIG. 2, the post-processing device 50 in the present embodiment applies the sheet P conveyed from the copying machine 1 to any one of the first conveyance path K3, the second conveyance path K4, and the third conveyance path K5. It is comprised so that it can convey to a different conveyance path | route and can perform a different post-process. The first transport path K3 discharges the paper P transported from the copying machine 1 to the first paper discharge tray 71 as it is without performing post-processing or performs only the punch processing by the punching device 95 to perform the first discharge. This is a conveyance path for discharging paper to the paper tray 71. The second transport path K4 stacks the paper P transported from the copying machine 1 on the stacking unit 61, performs binding processing to the rear end of the paper by the binding device 90, and discharges the processed paper P (paper bundle). This is a conveyance path for discharging paper from the paper discharge port 50 b toward the second paper discharge tray 72 by the paper roller 55. The third transport path K5 temporarily transports the paper P transported from the copying machine 1 to the second transport path K4 and switches it back, and then performs a center folding process using the center folding plate 86, the sheet folding blade 84, and the like. This is a transport path for discharging paper to the third paper discharge tray 73.

  Note that the switching between the first transport path K3, the second transport path K4, and the third transport path K5, which are the three transport paths described above, is performed by the switching operation of the branch claw 81. Further, when the paper P is transported along the second transport path K4 and the third transport path K5, the punching process by the punching device 95 is performed in the same manner as when the paper P is transported along the first transport path K3. Can be done.

  More specifically, referring to FIG. 3, a first transport roller 51 and a paper detection sensor are installed in the vicinity of the carry-in port 50a of the post-processing device 50, and the paper P detected by the paper detection sensor is The first transport roller 51 and the second transport roller 52 are transported into the post-processing device 50. At this time, if the punching process is selected in advance by the user, the punching process by the punching device 95 is performed on the paper P. Then, based on the post-processing mode selected in advance by the user, the branching claw 81 rotates so that the paper P is guided to a desired transport path. When the mode in which no post-processing is performed is selected, the paper P transported to the first transport path K3 is discharged by the third transport roller 53 and is discharged onto the first paper discharge tray 71.

  When “sort mode (sorting processing mode)” is selected, the fourth transport roller configured to be able to move the paper P transported to the second transport path K4 in the paper width direction (the vertical direction in FIG. 3). 54, the sheet P is conveyed while being shifted in the sheet width direction by a predetermined amount for each sheet P. Then, the paper is transported by a paper discharge roller 55 which is a fifth transport roller, and sequentially stacked on the second paper discharge tray 72.

  Referring to FIG. 3, a filler 82 is provided above the second paper discharge tray 72 so as to be rotatable about a support shaft at the upper end, and the second paper discharge tray 72 can be moved up and down by a moving mechanism. It is configured. Then, a state in which the central portion in the transport direction of the sheets P sequentially stacked on the second paper discharge tray 72 is in contact with the filler 82 is detected by a sensor installed in the vicinity of the support shaft of the filler 82, so that the second The height of the paper P stacked on the paper discharge tray 72 is recognized. The vertical position of the second paper discharge tray 72 is adjusted according to the increase or decrease in the number of sheets P stacked on the second paper discharge tray 72. Further, when the vertical position of the second paper discharge tray 72 reaches the lower limit position, it is assumed that the number of sheets P stacked on the second paper discharge tray 72 has reached the upper limit (full). A stop signal is transmitted from 50 to the copying machine 1 to stop the image forming operation.

  Note that the copying machine 1 is continuously operated while a series of post-processing operations in the post-processing apparatus 50 are performed including the post-processing described above and post-processing described later. For this reason, image forming members such as the photoconductive drum 5 and the transfer roller 7 are driven to rotate while the image forming process is not actually performed on the photoconductive drum 5.

  When the “binding processing mode (staple mode)” is selected, the sheet P transported to the second transport path K4 is transported by the fourth transport roller 54 without being shifted, and onto the stacking unit 61. It is loaded sequentially. When a desired number of sheets P (sheet bundle) are stacked on the loading surface 62 of the stacking unit 61, the tapping roller 64 disposed above the sheet P moves to a position where it contacts the uppermost sheet P. Then, the tapping roller 64 is driven to rotate counterclockwise in FIG. 3, whereby a plurality of sheets P (sheet bundle) are conveyed toward the fence unit 66. As a result, the rear end of the plurality of sheets P (sheet bundle) in the conveyance direction abuts against the fence 66, and the positions in the conveyance direction of the plurality of sheets P (sheet bundle) are aligned.

  At this time, referring to FIG. 3, the paper width so that the jogger fences 68 installed at both ends in the width direction of the stacking unit 61 sandwich a plurality of sheets P (sheet bundle) stacked on the stacking unit 61. The position in the width direction of the plurality of sheets P (sheet bundle) is aligned. Then, the binding process is performed by the binding device 90 on the rear end of the paper P (paper bundle) in which the transport direction and the paper width direction are aligned. Thereafter, the sheet P (sheet bundle) subjected to the binding process moves obliquely upward along the inclination of the placement surface 62 by the movement of the discharge claw 67 in the sheet discharge direction, and is conveyed by the sheet discharge roller 55, The paper is discharged onto the second paper discharge tray 72.

  When the “folding processing mode” is selected, the paper P is first transported to the second transport path K4 and the fourth transport roller 54 is reversed while the rear end portion is held between the fourth transport rollers 54. It is switched back by rotating and conveyed to the third conveyance path K5. Then, the sheet P transported to the third transport path K5 is moved to a position where the central portion of the sheet P faces the sheet folding blade 84 by the sixth transport roller 56, the seventh transport roller 57, and the eighth transport roller 58. Be transported. At this time, the paper P is in a state where the leading end of the paper P abuts against the stopper portion 85. Then, a desired number of sheets P (sheet bundle) is stacked at that position. Then, the sheet P (sheet bundle) is pressed at the position of the center folding plate 86 in a state where the center is folded by the sheet folding blade 84 that moves to the left in FIG. It will be. Thereafter, the sheet P (sheet bundle) after the folding process is transported by the ninth transport roller 59 and then discharged onto the third paper discharge tray 73.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of the fixing device 20 installed in the copying machine 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the fixing device 20 includes a fixing belt 21 as an endless fixing member that can move on the surface, a pressure roller 22 that is a pressure-rotating member that can be rotationally driven as a pressure member, and a fixing belt 21. A pressure receiving member 23 that receives pressure from the pressure roller 22 is provided. The pressure roller 22 is in pressure contact with the fixing belt 21 to form a desired fixing nip portion between both members. The pressure roller 22 is rotationally driven in the direction of the arrow in the figure. The pressure roller 22 is rotatably supported at both ends in the width direction by a side plate of the fixing device 20 via a bearing. In addition, if it is a pressure roller using a hollow core metal, a heat source such as a halogen heater can be provided inside the core metal.

  A support stay 24, a heater 26, and the like are fixed inside the fixing belt 21. The fixing belt 21 is pressed by the support stay 24 via the pressure receiving member 23 to form a fixing nip portion with the pressure roller 22. The heat conduction pipe 25 is provided so as to be in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the fixing belt 21 and transmits heat of the heater 26 to the fixing belt 21. The heater 26 is a heat source that generates heat for heating the fixing nip portion. As the heater 26, an infrared heater made of a halogen heater, a carbon heater, or the like can be used.

  For example, a temperature sensor such as a thermopile is disposed so as to face the surface of the fixing belt 21, and the output control of the heater 26 is performed based on the detection result of the belt surface temperature by the temperature sensor. Further, the output control of the heater 26 is performed by bringing a temperature sensor such as a contact type thermistor into contact with the inner peripheral surface of the fixing belt in a region inside the fixing belt 21 where the light from the heater 26 is blocked by the support stay 24. May be arranged based on the detection result of the temperature sensor. By such output control of the heater 26, the temperature of the fixing belt 21 can be set to a desired target temperature.

  Next, suppression of transfer roller contamination will be described. In addition to the toner image formed by developing the latent image with toner on the surface of the photosensitive drum 5, it does not have an appropriate charge amount or adheres to the background due to mechanical contact. Stained background toner is present. The amount of the background dirt toner is controlled at a level that cannot be visually confirmed on the paper P by controlling the toner density, the developing bias, the charging bias, and the like, but it is very difficult to make it completely zero. .

  For this reason, there is always a certain amount of background dirt toner on the surface of the photosensitive drum 5, and in the contact transfer system, such toner moves to the surface of the transfer member. In the transfer belt method, such toner is generally cleaned from the surface of the transfer belt with a blade. On the other hand, there is also a system such as a transfer roller system in which toner is moved from the transfer roller surface to the photosensitive drum by electrostatic force by applying a bias without mechanically cleaning the transfer roller surface with a blade. In particular, since the transfer roller system has a simple configuration and is small in size, it is currently widely used in monochrome machines. In such a transfer roller system, transfer cleaning is generally performed by applying a cleaning bias for returning toner from the transfer roller surface to the photosensitive drum before and after image formation. However, when continuous printing is performed in which printing is continuously performed on a plurality of sheets of paper P, transfer cleaning is not performed during the continuous printing, and toner may accumulate on the transfer roller surface. If toner accumulates on the surface of the transfer roller, the toner may move from the surface of the transfer roller to the paper P, and the back side of the paper P or the edge surface may be stained. For this reason, the toner is prevented from accumulating on the surface of the transfer roller by performing transfer cleaning in accordance with the number of sheets to be passed during the image forming operation during continuous printing. There is also a way to suppress it.

  However, there is a mode in which toner further accumulates on the surface of the transfer roller. When a post-processing device capable of post-processing such as toner stapling or punching is used, it is necessary to increase the interval between papers or sections more than usual for stapling operation or punching operation. At this time, since the photosensitive drum, the transfer roller, and the like of the image forming unit are waiting in an idle state, the toner on the background of the photosensitive drum is continuously moved to the surface of the transfer roller. Further, since the sheet P passes through the transfer nip in the normal image forming operation, the sheet P picks up the toner adhering to the surface of the transfer roller at a level that cannot be seen by the eyes, and accordingly, toner is accumulated on the surface of the transfer roller. Can be reduced. However, since the toner is always input from the photosensitive drum to the surface of the transfer roller in the idling operation, toner accumulation on the surface of the transfer roller is further accelerated than in the normal continuous operation.

  In the image forming system according to the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of back surface contamination and edge surface contamination due to toner accumulation on the transfer roller surface when the gap between the papers is significantly extended. ing. Further, when such a gap between the sheets is remarkably extended, each member such as the photosensitive drum and the transfer roller in the image forming unit does not need to be operated, which is a useless operation. Therefore, in the image forming system according to the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress the life of the units, supplies, and parts from being shortened and to reduce power consumption.

  Note that the sheet interval refers to the interval between the sheets P and P that are continuously conveyed during printing, and the interval between the sheets refers to an interval for each set for performing a stapling operation. In the present embodiment, both will be described as a sheet interval. For this reason, the interval is also included between the sheets.

  Next, the transfer roller cleaning operation between sheets, which is a feature of the present embodiment, will be described with reference to FIGS. In FIGS. 5 to 10, in order to make it easy to understand as an example of the present embodiment, an example in which the length of the paper is different is shown, and the length of the paper is increased from FIGS. 5 to 8. In the present embodiment, the operation according to the inter-paper time that is the length of the inter-paper is determined by the copying machine 1, the post-processing device 50, and the processing operation.

  That is, when the time between papers satisfies the following condition (1), priority is given to productivity (the same as in the prior art). When the time between sheets satisfies the following condition (2), transfer cleaning is executed. When the paper interval time satisfies the following condition (3), the operation is stopped.

Condition (1): Inter-paper time <Transfer cleaning time / Conditions where the inter-paper time due to the combination of the copying machine 1, the post-processing device 50 and its processing operation is shorter than the desired transfer bias cleaning time.

Condition (2): transfer cleaning time ≦ intermediate time <operation falling start time / intermediate time due to the combination of the copier 1 and the post-processing device 50 and its processing operation is not less than the desired transfer cleaning time. Conditions that do not meet the time to start or stop the image forming operation.

Condition (3): Operation fall start-up time ≦ inter-paper time / inter-paper time due to the combination of the copier 1 and the post-processing device 50 and its processing operation is equal to or greater than the image-formation operation fall-off time and start-up time. conditions.

  In the image forming operation of the first embodiment performed in the timing chart shown in FIG. 5, the transfer roller is not transferred and cleaned between sheets. On the other hand, in the image forming operations of the second and third embodiments performed according to the timing charts shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, transfer cleaning of the transfer roller is performed between sheets. As a result, even when the gap between the sheets becomes wide, accumulation of toner on the surface of the transfer roller can be suppressed, and the occurrence of stains on the back surface and edge surface of the paper P can be suppressed. Further, in order to prevent contamination, the transfer cleaning of the transfer roller is always performed between the papers, so that there is no possibility that the paper space is extended and the productivity is lowered.

  Further, in Example 3, the interval between the sheets is longer than that in Example 2, but the transfer cleaning of the transfer roller performed in Example 2 and Example 3 is performed by applying a minus voltage and applying a plus voltage. The time is the same in Example 2 and Example 3. That is, the cleaning time for performing the transfer cleaning of the transfer roller is made constant regardless of the length between the sheets. If the transfer cleaning of the transfer roller is continuously applied between long sheets, a streak image or the like may occur due to an electrical hazard to the photosensitive drum 5. At the time of transfer in which the paper P is interposed between the transfer roller 7 and the photosensitive drum 5, the hazard to the photosensitive drum 5 is suppressed by the paper P, while the gap between the paper is between the transfer roller 7 and the photosensitive drum. The drum 5 is in direct contact, and the hazard to the photosensitive drum 5 tends to increase. For this reason, in the image forming system according to the present embodiment, even when the length between the sheets is changed by various controls, the hazard to the photosensitive drum 5 is suppressed, so that a certain cleaning time is required. It is characterized by being controlled.

  In addition, when the post-processing operation is performed in the post-processing device 50 such that the time between sheets is remarkably increased as in the image forming operation of the fourth and fifth embodiments performed in the timing charts shown in FIGS. In, since the image forming operation can be stopped, the operation is stopped. In addition, transfer cleaning is performed before or after the driving of the driving motor 15 for rotating the photosensitive drum 5 is stopped. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of stains on the back and edge of the paper P and the shortening of the service life of the units, supplies and components.

  Further, the adjustment operation may be executed before the operation is stopped, like the image forming operation of the sixth embodiment performed in the timing chart shown in FIG. Examples of adjustment operations include process control, toner refresh, and image alignment. This merit is that the adjustment operation as described above, which has been conventionally performed while reducing the productivity, can be executed without reducing the productivity. In the image forming system according to the present embodiment, adjustment operations such as process control, toner refresh, and image alignment can be performed by a known method, and the description thereof is omitted.

  Transfer cleaning of the transfer roller surface will be described with reference to FIG. Between the sheets of FIG. 11A, the reversely charged toner or the background-stained toner of the reversely charged toner exists on the photosensitive drum 5, and the toner moves to the transfer roller surface, so that the toner accumulates on the transfer roller surface. To do. Thus, FIG. 11A shows a state where toner is accumulated on the transfer roller 7 where toner is accumulated. In FIG. 11, “+” and “−” indicate the toner of the polarity. ing.

  Next, in FIG. 11B, a transfer cleaning (−) diagram shows that negatively charged toner adhering to the transfer roller surface is applied to the transfer roller 7 by applying a negative bias to the transfer roller 7. It can be returned to the photosensitive drum 5. Next, in the drawing described as transfer cleaning (+) in FIG. 11C, positively charged toner adhering to the transfer roller surface is applied to the photosensitive drum 5 by applying a positive bias to the transfer roller 7. You can return to Since there are both positive and negative polarity toners on the background of the transfer roller that stains the surface of the transfer roller, both positive and negative biases are applied to the paper P so that the back side and the back side of the paper P are stained. Can be more effectively suppressed. In the image forming operation of the second embodiment described above, the transfer cleaning operation of the transfer roller 7 is also included. After the negative roller bias is applied to the transfer roller for cleaning, the transfer roller 7 is positively charged. Cleaning is performed by applying a bias.

  In the present embodiment, the transfer current (transfer output) other than during the transfer cleaning operation of the transfer roller 7 between sheets is set to 0 [μA] in the image forming operation of each of the above-described embodiments. This is because when the transfer current is set to the positive side, the normally charged toner charged to the negative polarity is attracted to the surface of the transfer roller, and when the transfer current is set to the negative side, the reversely charged toner having the positive polarity is transferred to the surface of the transfer roller. Will be attracted to. Therefore, when the interval between the sheets becomes long, toner is accumulated on the surface of the transfer roller, which may cause the back surface of the paper P and the back surface of the paper P to be stained.

  On the other hand, by setting the transfer current to 0 [μA], toner accumulation on the transfer roller surface between sheets is suppressed, and the transfer roller 7 is subsequently cleaned by refreshing the transfer roller surface. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the backside contamination and the edge contamination of the paper P. Further, when a large amount of toner is accumulated on the transfer roller surface, there is a possibility that the toner on the transfer roller surface cannot be completely cleaned by the limited transfer cleaning time of the transfer roller 7. However, when the transfer current is set to 0 [μA] between the sheets, there is no possibility that the back surface of the sheet P is stained due to the toner on the surface of the transfer roller being not completely removed.

  Further, by applying a cleaning bias for a time during which the transfer roller 7 makes one rotation or more, the toner contamination around the entire circumference of the transfer roller can be cleaned. Note that there may be a case where the toner on the surface of the transfer roller cannot be completely removed when the cleaning bias is applied for only one rotation of the transfer roller 7. In the image forming operation of the first embodiment described above, a negative bias is applied to the transfer roller 7. Is applied for the time that the transfer roller 7 rotates three times. Further, the positive bias is applied for a time during which the transfer roller 7 rotates 0.9 times. As the cleaning bias application time is longer, the cleaning effect can be obtained more. However, if the cleaning time is too long, it becomes difficult to perform the cleaning operation between the sheets. Therefore, it is necessary to set an appropriate time as the cleaning time. Since the optimum cleaning time varies depending on the configuration of the copying machine 1, it is necessary to optimize the cleaning time.

  As a condition for extending the paper interval, post-processing such as stapling, punching, and half-folding is generally performed using the post-processing device as described above. The inter-paper cleaning control of this embodiment is effective.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of a timing chart of the image forming operation when the stapling process is performed by the post-processing device 50. In the image forming operation of the seventh embodiment performed by the timing chart shown in FIG. 12, the sequence in which the post-processing device 50 performs the stapling operation (binding operation) every five printed sheets is shown. It can be seen that the interval between the eyes (between sheets) is widened due to the stapling operation. In addition to this, the post-processing operation when the post-processing device 50 is used has a control condition in which the interval between sheets is widened such as punching or the interval between the sheets is extremely long, such as a half-folding operation. There are many cases where toner accumulation on the surface of the transfer roller is concerned. In the present embodiment, by refreshing the accumulation of toner stains on the surface of the transfer roller, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of backside stains and edge stains of the paper P.

  With regard to stapleless staples that have been attracting attention in recent years in view of resource saving and paper P recyclability, the papers are joined together by the meshing force of the paper P fibers. For this reason, a single stapling operation (binding operation) has a weaker binding force (a force for binding sheets) than a staple by a normal needle, and the binding force is ensured by two or more stapling operations. Therefore, the inter-part (paper-to-paper) time is also significantly increased, and the effect of suppressing the occurrence of back-side stains and edge-side stains of the paper P by the transfer cleaning control of the transfer roller surface of this embodiment becomes even more remarkable.

  Accumulation of toner stains on the transfer roller surface due to the inter-paper extension occurs not only in the direct transfer method but also in the intermediate transfer method in which image formation is performed via an intermediate transfer belt, which is often used in color machines and the like. there's a possibility that. For this reason, the transfer cleaning control as described above is not limited to the direct transfer method, but the direct transfer method in which toner is more easily accumulated on the transfer member is more effective.

  Also, transfer cleaning is effective even with a transfer belt system, but it is also possible to perform regular cleaning with a blade. However, transfer cleaning is generally performed in the transfer roller system in order to reduce the size and cost, and in the transfer roller system image forming apparatus, the effect of transfer cleaning between sheets as described above can be further obtained.

  FIG. 13 is a graph showing the result of evaluating the edge contamination of the paper P with respect to the continuous print number. As for the rank of the edge surface stain, the method of ranking the edge surface of the paper P is ranked step by step, the standard is rank 2 or higher, and it is dirty in rank 2, but it is usually inconspicuous level. It is judged to be dirty. The rank is 5 levels, and rank 5 indicates a state where it is not dirty at all.

  The evaluation conditions are selected by selecting the conditions under which dirt is most likely to occur in the image forming apparatus used for the evaluation. That is, the environment is 27 [° C.] 80 [%], and the photosensitive drum background stain is drawn on the sheet P at a level where the background contamination is not anxious, and the photosensitive drum background contamination state is at that level. Further, since the transfer roller tends to become dirty as time passes and the paper P tends to get dirty, the transfer roller that has reached the replacement life is used, and evaluation is performed with an image forming apparatus having a printing speed of 30 [cpm].

  The graph described as “normal” in FIG. 13 is a condition in which the transfer cleaning of the transfer roller is not performed between sheets, and the transition of dirt between normal sheets is evaluated. Next, the graph described in FIG. 13 as “post-processing apparatus 5 sheets binding” is a condition in which the sheet interval becomes very long (about 10 [sec]) depending on the stapling time. Next, the graph described as “Example” in FIG. 13 is an example of this embodiment described above. In this embodiment, a condition in which transfer cleaning is performed by applying a negative bias to the transfer roller 7 for a period of time for which the transfer roller 7 rotates three times, a positive bias for a time for the transfer roller 7 to rotate 0.9 times, and between papers. It is.

  From FIG. 13, it can be seen that the edge surface contamination tends to deteriorate with respect to the number of printed sheets if transfer cleaning is not performed even under normal paper spacing conditions. Further, it can be seen that, under the conditions for performing the stapling operation in the post-processing device 50, the gap between the sheets is extended, so that the edge surface contamination is remarkably deteriorated. As a method of smearing the edge surface when the stapling operation is performed, the number of prints that divide the rank standard is reduced to about 1/6 of that between normal sheets. On the other hand, under the conditions of the example of the present embodiment, the transfer roller surface transfer cleaning between sheets can suppress the deterioration of the edge surface contamination, and noticeable edge surface contamination is not affected by the number of printed sheets. No deterioration was confirmed.

  FIG. 1 and FIG. 14 show a specific matrix of sheet-to-sheet operations by the combination of the copying machine 1 and the post-processing apparatus 50 and post-processing by the post-processing apparatus 50 in the present embodiment.

  In the copying machine 1A, which is a model in which the driving of the fixing device and the paper discharge unit shown in FIG. 1 is a common motor, when the paper is transferred from the copying machine 1A to three different types of post-processing devices 50A, 50B, and 50C. However, the conveyance speed of the paper P cannot be increased, and the paper P is conveyed at a normal speed. The sheet P delivered from the copying machine 1A to the post-processing apparatus 50A is normally changed in the inter-sheet operation in the copying machine 1A as the post-processing performed by the post-processing apparatus 50A becomes complicated. Options change to transfer cleaning and transfer cleaning + transfer separation.

  When the photosensitive drum 5 and the transfer roller 7 are separated from each other in the copying machine 1A, the operation is performed when the conditions such as the number of printed sheets and the operation travel distance become constant while the photosensitive drum 5 and the transfer roller 7 are separated. It is also possible to enter an adjustment operation to be performed. Examples of the adjustment operation include process control, misalignment adjustment, and toner refresh. Further, in the stapling operation when the copying machine 1A is connected to the post-processing apparatus 50B having the stapleless staple that binds the paper without using the binding needle, the binding operation is performed a plurality of times for one staple on the paper.

  For this reason, time is required for the stapling operation performed in the post-processing device 50B, and therefore, the inter-sheet operation is different from that of the normal post-processing device 50A with staples. That is, when performing a stapling operation for binding one place on the paper P, the copying machine 1A connected to the post-processing device 50A performs transfer cleaning as an inter-sheet operation, but the copying machine 1A connected to the post-processing device 50B. Then, transfer cleaning + transfer separation / contact is performed as an inter-sheet operation. When performing a stapling operation for binding two places on the paper P, the copying machine 1A connected to the post-processing device 50A performs transfer cleaning + transfer separation / contact as an inter-sheet operation, but connected to the post-processing device 50B. In the copying machine 1A, transfer cleaning + image formation is stopped as an inter-sheet operation.

  Further, in the post-processing device 50C having a speed increasing function for increasing the conveyance speed of the paper P in the apparatus, the post-processing operation similar to that of the post-processing device 50A can be made so as to shorten the inter-part (paper interval) time. In this case, the inter-paper operation of the copying machine 1A differs between papers. That is, when performing a stapling operation for binding two places on the paper P, the copying machine 1A connected to the post-processing device 50A performs transfer cleaning + transfer separation / contact as an inter-sheet operation, but connected to the post-processing device 50C. In the copying machine 1A, transfer cleaning is performed as an operation between sheets.

  Next, in the copying machine 1B that is a model in which the driving of the fixing device and the paper discharge unit shown in FIG. 14 are independent motors, the copying machine 1B is changed to three different types of post-processing devices 50A, 50B, and 50C. When the paper is delivered, the conveyance speed of the paper P can be increased. For this reason, the processing capability is higher than that of the copying machine 1A because the conveyance speed of the paper P delivered from the copying machine 1B to the post-processing devices 50A, 50B, 50C can be increased.

  In particular, when the copying machine 1B is connected to the post-processing device 50C, both the speed of transporting the paper P can be increased when the paper P is transferred from the copying machine 1B to the post-processing device 50. Therefore, the paper interval time is shorter than when the post-processing device 50B or the post-processing device 50C is connected to the copying machine 1B, and the paper interval operation is also set to have a shorter processing time. For example, when performing a stapling operation to bind one place on the paper P, the copying machine 1B connected to the post-processing device 50B performs transfer cleaning + transfer separation / contact as an inter-sheet operation, but connected to the post-processing device 50C. In the copying machine 1B, transfer cleaning is performed as an inter-sheet operation. Further, when performing saddle stitching and folding as post-processing, the copying machine 1A to which the post-processing device 50C is connected performs transfer cleaning + image formation stop as an inter-sheet operation, and the copying machine 1B to which the post-processing device 50C is connected. Then, transfer cleaning + transfer separation / contact is performed as an operation between sheets.

  As described above, the combination of the copying machine 1, the post-processing device 50, and the post-processing operation can make the inter-sheet operation easy to understand, and by giving the copying machine 1 control with this combination as a table, An optimal sheet-to-sheet operation can be performed. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of backside and edge stains on the paper P due to toner stains on the surface of the transfer roller, to reduce the life of the unit, supply and parts, and to reduce power consumption. it can.

  In the present embodiment, the image forming system in which the copier 1 and the post-processing device 50 are separately provided side by side has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the post-processing device 50 is added to the copier 1. An image forming system provided integrally may be used.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The schematic configuration of the image forming system according to the present embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the image forming system according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. The schematic configuration of the post-processing apparatus included in the image forming system according to the present embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the post-processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. An example of the schematic configuration of the fixing device installed in the copying machine included in the image forming system according to the present embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the fixing device shown in FIG.

  Examples of the transfer roller cleaning operation between sheets in the image forming system according to the present embodiment are the same as Examples 1 to 6 described with reference to the timing charts shown in FIGS. An example of the image forming operation when the stapling process is performed in the post-processing apparatus included in the image forming system according to the present embodiment is the same as the example of the image forming operation described with reference to the timing chart shown in FIG. . In addition, a specific example of the inter-sheet operation matrix by the combination of the copying machine 1 and the post-processing device 50 and the post-processing by the post-processing device 50 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1 or FIG. It is the same as the example described.

  In this embodiment, based on the identification information of the post-processing device 50 attached to the copying machine 1 and optional members attached to the post-processing device 50, selectable post-processing and sheet-to-sheet operations corresponding to selectable post-processing are performed. The difference from the first embodiment is that a determination means for determining is provided. Here, the optional parts are, for example, a staple unit for staple processing, a punch unit for punch processing, and the like, and can be replaced with respect to the post-processing device 50.

  As described with reference to the matrix of the sheet-to-sheet operation shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 14 of the first embodiment, the combination of the copying machine 1 and the post-processing device 50 and the post-processing performed by the post-processing device 50 The paper-to-paper operation to be performed is changed. It is necessary to change the sheet interval operation depending on the sheet interval time. The time between sheets varies depending on what post-processing is performed in the image forming system. Further, the sheet interval time varies depending on the processing capability of the post-processing device 50 mounted on the copying machine 1 and the optional part 100 attached to the post-processing device 50 even if the post-processing performed in the image forming system is the same.

  For example, when the printer driver instructs printing of a plurality of copies with stapling processing when the image forming system is used as a printer, the model of the copying machine 1 and the model of the post-processing device 50 connected to the copying machine 1 The inter-paper time varies depending on the post-processing device 50. The control of the sheet interval operation in the image forming system is generally performed by the copying machine 1 as the main body. The model of the copying machine 1 can be identified by software or a controller used in the copying machine 1. Therefore, in the image forming system, if identification information regarding the model of the post-processing device 50 connected to the copying machine 1 and the type of the optional part mounted on the post-processing device 50 can be acquired, the image forming system can execute the post-processing that can be executed by the image forming system. It is possible to determine the time between papers and determine the operation between papers corresponding to each process.

A determination unit that determines the sheet-to-sheet operation corresponding to each of the post-processing that can be selected by the image forming system, which is a characteristic part according to the present embodiment, will be described below.
<Example 1>
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the determination unit according to the first embodiment. The configuration shown in FIG. 15A is such that a determination unit 101 is provided in the copying machine 1. Identification information regarding the model of the post-processing device 50 and the model of the optional part 100 is obtained by an installer such as a service person when the image forming system is installed or when the post-processing device 50 or the optional part 100 of the post-processing device 50 is added. Input from the operation unit 102. Based on the input identification information regarding the model of the post-processing device 50 and the model of the optional part 100, the determination unit 101 calculates the sheet interval time corresponding to each post-processing selectable by the image forming system. Then, the corresponding sheet spacing operation is determined from the sheet spacing time of each post-process that can be selected by the image forming system.

  When the post-processing device 50 is a model that does not have optional parts (for example, a member for stapling or punching is attached as a standard part and cannot be replaced), information on the model of the post-processing device 50 Only from the operation unit 102. Then, based on the information related to the model of the post-processing device 50, the sheet interval time corresponding to each of the post-processing selectable in the image forming system is determined.

  In recent years, copying machines and printers are often connected to a LAN and shared by a plurality of users. In some cases, a maintenance company connected to the Internet line and having a maintenance contract can browse maintenance information of the image forming system. As shown in FIG. 15B, the image forming system having the configuration shown in FIG. 15A may be connected to an external network 103 such as a LAN or an Internet line. By doing so, the image forming system administrator or the like can view and rewrite the identification information regarding the model of the post-processing device 50 and the model of the optional part 100 input from the operation unit 102 via the external network 103. Can do.

  As a result, even when the identification information input from the operation unit 102 has omissions or errors, the identification information can be easily corrected. In addition, the identification information can be browsed by a maintenance company that has concluded a maintenance contract for the image forming system via the external network 103. Therefore, the maintenance company can quickly grasp the addition / change status of the post-processing device 50 and the optional part 100 and the malfunction status of the post-processing device 50 and the optional part 100 in the image forming system. This allows the user to receive appropriate support in a timely manner.

<Example 2>
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a determination unit according to the second embodiment. The configuration shown in FIG. 16A is such that a determination unit 101 is provided in the copying machine 1, a post-processing device storage unit 104 is provided in the post-processing device 50, and an optional part storage unit 105 is provided in the option part 100. is there. The post-processing device storage unit 104 stores model information of the post-processing device 50, and the option part storage unit 105 stores model information of option parts.

  Through communication / connection among the copying machine 1, the post-processing device 50, and the option part 100, the determination unit 101 can recognize the model information of the post-processing device 50 and the model information of the option part 100. The determination unit 101 calculates the inter-sheet time corresponding to each post-processing that can be selected by the image forming system, based on the recognized identification information regarding the model of the post-processing device 50 and the model of the optional part 100. Then, the corresponding sheet spacing operation is determined from the sheet spacing time of each post-process that can be selected by the image forming system. This eliminates the need for the installer to input these pieces of information from the operation unit 102 and the like, so that human errors such as input omissions and input errors can be prevented.

  If the post-processing device 50 is a model that does not have optional parts (for example, a member for stapling or punching processing is attached as a standard part and cannot be replaced), the post-processing device 50 is stored in the post-processing device storage unit 104. Based on the information related to the model of the post-processing device 50, an inter-sheet time corresponding to each post-processing selectable in the image forming system is determined.

  FIG. 16B is a diagram in which the image forming system having the configuration shown in FIG. 16A is connected to the external network 103. In the same manner as described with reference to FIG. 15B in the first embodiment, information regarding addition or change of the post-processing device 50 and the optional part 100, information regarding defects, and the like in the image forming system are appropriately provided to the maintenance company. And receive appropriate support in a timely manner. For example, the post-processing device 50 and its optional parts 100 connected to the copying machine 1 are confirmed via the operation unit 102 or the network environment. In the image forming system, when obvious defects are detected in the post-processing device 50 and the option part 100, the use of the function is stopped by releasing these connections, and prompt support is provided by a service person. Can be performed.

  The determining means of the first embodiment and the determining means of the second embodiment are not exclusive. That is, the identification information may be any one of a method of inputting from the operation unit 102 and a method of accessing each of the post-processing device storage unit 104 and the optional part storage unit 105 provided by the determination unit 101 in the post-processing device 50 and the optional part 100, respectively. The determination means may be configured so that can be acquired.

  Note that the image forming system according to the present embodiment is not limited to the image forming system in which the copying machine 1 and the post-processing device 50 are separately provided side by side, and the post-processing device 50 is integrally provided in the copying machine 1. An image forming system may be used.

[Embodiment 3]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The schematic configuration of the image forming system according to the present embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the image forming system according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. The schematic configuration of the post-processing apparatus included in the image forming system according to the present embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the post-processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. An example of the schematic configuration of the fixing device installed in the copying machine included in the image forming system according to the present embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the fixing device shown in FIG.

  In the image forming system according to the present embodiment, it is not necessary to output a charging bias or a developing bias at the time of normal image formation, and the linear velocity at the time of normal image formation is not required when the paper interval is significantly extended. It is not necessary to operate the photosensitive drum 5 and the developing motor so that Further, since each member such as the photosensitive drum 5 of the image forming unit does not need to be operated, it is a useless operation. Therefore, in the image forming system according to the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress the life of the units, supplies, and parts from being shortened and to reduce power consumption.

  In the present embodiment, when a post-processing operation that significantly increases the time between sheets is entered, the standard speed at the time of normal image formation is stopped as shown in the timing chart of FIG. 17 without stopping the image formation operation itself. The linear speed of the photosensitive drum 5 and the developing motor is switched from low to low. Thereby, the stress to the developer over time can be reduced, the progress of the deterioration of the developer can be suppressed, and the decrease in the developer life can be suppressed.

  FIG. 18 is a timing chart in the case where the charging bias and the developing bias are switched as the sheet-to-sheet operation when the post-processing operation that significantly increases the sheet-to-sheet time is entered. FIG. 19 shows an example of the sheet spacing operation when a post-processing operation that significantly increases the sheet spacing time is performed. In addition to switching the linear speed of the photosensitive drum 5 and the developing motor as shown in FIG. 6 is a timing chart when switching the development bias.

  In general, when a high charging bias is applied, the hazard to the photosensitive drum 5 increases, which may affect image quality over time. For this reason, the hazard to the photosensitive drum 5 can be reduced by reducing the charging bias as much as possible. Since it is not necessary to keep the charging bias high between the papers, the charging bias can be lowered as compared with the time of image formation. If only the charging bias is lowered, there is a possibility that background contamination or carrier adhesion may occur. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the developing bias at the same time in order to keep the background potential constant. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 18 and FIG. 19, the charging bias at the time of image formation and during the interval between sheets so that the charging bias and the developing bias after the change are smaller in absolute value than the charging bias and the developing bias before the change. And switching the development bias. The changed charging bias is preferably a charging start voltage. However, if the charging bias is too small, the surface potential of the photosensitive drum becomes 0, and the background potential cannot be maintained. Therefore, by setting the charging bias after the change to the charging start voltage plus the background potential at which the charging potential starts to be applied to the surface of the photosensitive drum, the hazard can be minimized and the background potential can be maintained. . When the charging bias and the developing bias are changed, the difference between the charging bias and the developing bias after the change is set to be the same as the difference between the charging bias and the developing bias before the change.

  FIGS. 20 and 21 show specific inter-sheet operation matrixes by the combination of the copier 1 and the post-processing apparatus 50 and post-processing by the post-processing apparatus 50 in the present embodiment. 20 and FIG. 21, in the copying machine 1B that is a model in which the driving of the fixing device and the paper discharge unit are independent motors, the copying machine 1B is changed to three different types of post-processing devices 50A, 50B, and 50C. When the paper is delivered, the conveyance speed of the paper P can be increased.

  In FIG. 20, in the copying machine 1B connected to the post-processing apparatus 50B, when the stapling operation for binding two places of the paper P is performed in post-processing, the inter-paper time is remarkably long. Reduce development motor linear speed + transfer cleaning. Thus, when post-processing that significantly increases the paper interval time is performed, deterioration of the developer is suppressed by reducing the drive speed (linear speed) of the photosensitive drum 5 and the developing motor. In addition, since the transfer roller travel distance per unit time is shortened, contamination of the transfer roller 7 can be reduced. Note that, in FIG. 8C, the sheet spacing operation is the same as the example described with reference to FIG. 14 except that the copier 1B and the post-processing apparatus 50B are connected and the stapleless staple operation is performed on two positions on the sheet. It is.

  In FIG. 21, in the copying machine 1B connected to the post-processing device 50B, when the stapleless stapling operation for binding two places of the paper P is performed in the post-processing, the developing motor driving stop + transfer cleaning is performed as the inter-sheet operation. Further, in the copying machine 1C connected to the post-processing device 50C, when the staple operation with staples for binding two places of the paper P is performed in the post-processing, the development motor drive stop + transfer cleaning is performed as the inter-sheet operation. In this way, by stopping only the developing motor in the image forming unit, it is possible to omit various biases and start-up / down operations of each drive, and therefore it is possible to cope with shorter paper intervals. In FIG. 21, the copying machine 1B and the post-processing device 50B are connected to perform a stapleless staple operation on two sheets of paper, and the copying machine 1B and the post-processing apparatus 50C are connected to have a needle on two sheets of paper. The inter-sheet operation except when the stapling operation is performed is the same as the example described with reference to FIG. In addition, various configurations and various controls in the image forming system described in the first and second embodiments can be appropriately applied to the image forming system according to the present embodiment.

  As described above, the combination of the main unit, peripheral devices, and post-processing operations can be used to create an easy-to-understand matrix operation. By using this combination as a table, the device can perform optimal sheet-to-sheet operations. It becomes. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of backside soiling and edge surface soiling due to soiling of the transfer roller 7, prevent the life of the unit, supply and parts from being shortened, and suppress power consumption.

  Further, the accumulation of dirt on the transfer roller 7 can also be prevented by reducing the amount of dirt toner. When the driving of the photosensitive drum 5 and the development is separated, or when only the development can be stopped by the clutch, the amount of background contamination can be reduced by stopping the development driving. Further, by stopping the development driving, it is possible to suppress unnecessary rotation of the developing device, so that stress on the developer can be reduced and the life of the developer can be extended. Further, since various biases such as a charging bias and driving start-up / down processing of various members such as the photosensitive drum 5 are not required, it is possible to carry out even shorter paper intervals.

What has been described above is merely an example, and the present invention has a specific effect for each of the following modes.
(Aspect A)
An image carrier such as a photosensitive drum 5 that is rotatably provided and carries a toner image, and a roller nip that is in contact with the image carrier and forms a transfer nip for transferring the toner image on the image carrier to paper. Post-processing such as a transfer member such as the transfer roller 7, bias applying means such as a power supply unit 35 that applies a bias to the transfer member, and a post-processing device 50 that can perform post-processing on the paper on which the toner image is formed As a sheet-to-sheet operation when at least one of the sheet-to-sheet areas existing on the image carrier passes through the transfer nip during a continuous image formation period in which a plurality of sheets are continuously passed to form an image. In a state where the image carrier and the transfer member are rotated, the toner is moved from the transfer member to the image carrier by an electrostatic force by the cleaning bias applied by the bias applying unit, and the transfer member is cleaned. In the image forming system capable of performing the transfer cleaning operation, in addition to the transfer cleaning operation, the rotation between the image carrier and the transfer member is stopped before or after the execution of the transfer cleaning operation as the inter-paper operation. Stop operation can be executed.
In the aspect A, in order to secure the post-processing time, when the paper interval time is longer than the time during which the transfer member can be sufficiently cleaned by the transfer cleaning operation, before or after the execution of the transfer cleaning operation as the paper interval operation. The rotation stop operation can be executed. As a result, the image carrier and the transfer member are not rotated unnecessarily beyond the time during which the transfer member can be sufficiently cleaned by the transfer cleaning operation, and the life of the image carrier and the transfer member is shortened accordingly. Can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to extend the life of the image carrier and the transfer member while suppressing toner contamination on the transfer member.
(Aspect B)
In the aspect A, the post-processing unit can selectively perform a plurality of different post-processing, and the transfer cleaning operation is performed as the sheet-to-sheet operation according to the post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processing. In addition, the rotation stop operation is executed before or after execution of the transfer cleaning operation. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, when a post-processing that is preliminarily assumed to be extremely long among the plurality of post-processing is selected, the image carrier and transfer are performed in the inter-sheet operation. It is possible to prevent the member from rotating unnecessarily.
(Aspect C)
In aspect B, the execution time of the transfer cleaning operation is constant regardless of the post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processing. According to this, even if the length of the time between sheets changes due to various controls, it is possible to suppress an electrical hazard to the image carrier as described in the above embodiment.
(Aspect D)
In any of the embodiments A to C, the application time of the cleaning bias by the bias applying unit in the transfer cleaning operation is set to a time for the transfer member to make one rotation or more. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, it is possible to clean the toner stains around the transfer member.
(Aspect E)
In any one of the aspects A to D, the cleaning bias has a first cleaning bias having the same polarity as the normal charging polarity of the toner and a polarity opposite to the normal charging polarity of the toner and continues after the application of the first cleaning bias. And a second cleaning bias applied. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, since both positive and negative polarity toners exist on the surface of the transfer member, the transfer can be performed by applying both positive and negative biases. The toner contamination of the member can be more effectively suppressed.
(Aspect F)
In any one of the aspects A to E, in the inter-sheet area, the current flowing through the transfer nip is controlled to 0 [μA] except when the transfer cleaning operation is performed. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, toner accumulation on the surface of the transfer member in the inter-paper region can be suppressed.
(Aspect G)
In aspects A to F, a developing unit that develops, using toner, a latent image formed by exposing the surface of the charged image carrier with a charging unit such as a charging roller 41 that charges the surface of the image carrier. Developing means such as an apparatus 42, and as the sheet-to-sheet operation, in addition to the transfer cleaning operation, the driving speed changing operation of the image carrier and the developing means, and the image carrier and the developing means At least one of the drive stop operations can be selectively executed. According to this, as described in the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress the life of the unit, the supply, and the parts from being shortened.
(Aspect H)
In the aspect G, the charging bias of the charging unit and the developing bias of the developing unit are switched between image formation and paper interval. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, power consumption can be reduced.
(Aspect I)
In aspect H, it is desirable that the difference between the charging bias and the developing bias after switching is the same as the difference between the charging bias and the developing bias before switching.
(Aspect J)
In any one of the aspects G to I, as the sheet-to-sheet operation, the image is generated according to at least one of the post-processing unit connected to the image forming apparatus main body or the post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processing. The driving speed of the carrier and the developing means is adjusted. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, the deterioration of the developer can be suppressed. In addition, since the transfer member travel distance per unit time is shortened, contamination of the transfer member can be reduced.
(Aspect K)
In any one of the aspects G to I, the developing operation is performed according to at least one of the post-processing unit connected to the image forming apparatus main body or the post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processing as the sheet-to-sheet operation. The driving of the means is stopped. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, the stress on the developer can be reduced, and the life of the developer can be extended. In addition, since various biases such as a charging bias and driving start-up / down processing of various members such as an image carrier are not required, it is possible to carry out even shorter paper intervals.
(Aspect L)
In any one of the embodiments A to K, the sheet-fitting operation includes contact / separation means for contacting / separating the image carrier and the transfer member, and according to a post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processing. In addition to the transfer cleaning operation, the contact / separation operation between the image carrier and the transfer member by the contact / separation means can be performed before or after the transfer cleaning operation is performed. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, it is possible to suppress the toner from adhering to the transfer member surface from the image carrier by separating the image carrier and the transfer member in the inter-paper region.
(Aspect M)
In any one of the aspects A to L, in accordance with a post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processing, as the paper-to-paper operation, in addition to the transfer cleaning operation, a predetermined value before or after execution of the transfer cleaning operation The adjustment operation can be executed. According to this, as described in the above-described embodiment, the adjustment operation that has been conventionally performed while reducing the productivity of the printed matter can be executed without reducing the productivity of the printed matter.
(Aspect N)
In aspect M, the image carrier, charging means for charging the surface of the image carrier, latent image writing means for writing a latent image on the surface of the image carrier after charging, and developing the latent image An image forming means having a developing means for obtaining a toner image; and a toner adhesion amount detecting means for detecting a toner adhesion amount of the toner image formed by the image forming means. Based on the result of detecting the toner adhesion amount of the toner adhesion amount detection toner image formed on the imaging means under the imaging condition by the toner adhesion amount detection means, the imaging condition of the imaging means is determined. Control to adjust. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, it is possible to adjust the image forming conditions to obtain an appropriate image density without reducing the productivity of the printed matter.
(Aspect O)
In aspect M, the image carrier, charging means for charging the surface of the image carrier, latent image writing means for writing a latent image on the surface of the image carrier after charging, and developing the latent image An image forming means having a developing means for obtaining a toner image; and a toner image position detecting means for detecting the position of the toner image formed on the image carrier. Based on the result of detecting the position of the toner image position detecting toner image formed on the image forming means under the image forming condition by the toner image position detecting means, the positional deviation of the toner image is reduced. Control is performed to adjust the imaging conditions of the imaging means. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, it is possible to adjust the positional deviation of the toner image without decreasing the productivity of the printed matter.
(Aspect P)
In aspect M, the image carrier, charging means for charging the surface of the image carrier, latent image writing means for writing a latent image on the surface of the image carrier after charging, and developing the latent image An image forming means having a developing means for obtaining a toner image; and a toner replenishing means for replenishing toner to the developing means. The adjusting operation forms a consumption toner image on the image carrier. Control is performed to forcibly consume the toner stored in the developing means and to supply toner to the developing means by the toner replenishing means. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, the charging performance of the toner accommodated in the developing unit can be appropriately adjusted without reducing the productivity of the printed matter.
(Aspect Q)
In any one of the aspects A to P, the image carrier rotation distance in the inter-sheet area changes according to the post-processing performed by the post-processing means. According to this, as described in the above-described embodiment, it is possible to execute an appropriate inter-paper operation according to the length of the inter-paper region.
(Aspect R)
In aspect Q, the post-processing means has a binding means for binding sheets without using a binding needle. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of toner contamination on the transfer member even when the stapleless binding process that significantly increases the post-processing time is performed.
(Aspect S)
In any of Aspects A to R, the image carrier is a photoconductor, and a toner image is directly transferred from the photoconductor to a sheet. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, it is possible to suppress the toner from being accumulated on the surface of the transfer member by the direct transfer method in which the toner is more easily accumulated on the transfer member.
(Aspect T)
In any one of the aspects A to S, the transfer member is a transfer roller. According to this, as described in the above embodiment, it is possible to suppress toner accumulation on the transfer roller surface.
(Aspect U)
In any one of the aspects A to T, the post-processing unit includes a determination unit such as the determination unit 101 that determines the sheet-to-sheet movement and an operation unit such as the operation unit 102 for operation, and the post-processing unit is attached to and detached from the main body The post-processing means and the post-processing means attached to the main body, which are configured to be capable of attaching optional members such as the optional part 100 that can be changed according to the type of post-processing, and that are input from the operation unit The determination unit is configured to determine the sheet-to-sheet operation corresponding to post-processing based on the identification information of the option member attached to the sheet.
It is necessary to change the inter-sheet operation to be performed depending on the length of the inter-sheet time. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the sheet interval time in order to determine the sheet interval operation. The time between sheets varies depending on the post-processing to be performed. Further, the sheet interval time varies depending on the processing capability of the post-processing unit mounted on the main body and the optional member attached to the post-processing unit even if the post-processing performed in the image forming system is the same. In order to determine the sheet interval time for each of the post-processes that can be selected by the image forming system, it is necessary to acquire identification information relating to the post-processing means mounted on the main body of the image forming system. Corresponding to each type of post-processing that can be executed by the image forming system, based on the identification information regarding the model of the post-processing means mounted on the main body and the type of the optional member mounted on the post-processing means input from the operation unit Thus, it is possible to determine the time between papers and determine the operation between papers.
(Aspect V)
In any one of the aspects A to T, the apparatus includes a determination unit that determines the sheet-to-sheet movement and an operation unit for operation, and the post-processing unit is detachable from the main body and corresponds to the type of post-processing. The determination is made based on identification information of the post-processing means attached to the main body and the optional member attached to the post-processing means input from the operation unit. The section is configured to determine the sheet-to-sheet operation corresponding to the post-processing.
(Aspect W)
In any of the aspects U and V, it is connected to an external network such as the external network 103 so that a user or the like can view and rewrite the identification information input from the operation unit via the external network. Configured.
When the image forming system is connected to an external network such as a LAN or an Internet line, an administrator or the like browses / rewrites the identification information regarding the model of the post-processing means and the type of the optional member input from the operation unit via the external network. be able to. As a result, even when the identification information input from the operation unit has omissions or errors, the identification information can be easily corrected. When the external network is an Internet line, a maintenance company that has concluded a maintenance contract for the image forming system can browse the identification information. As a result, the maintenance company can quickly grasp the status of addition / change of post-processing means and optional members, and the failure status of post-processing means and optional members in the image forming system. Can be received in a timely manner.
(Aspect X)
In any one of the aspects A to T, the option includes a determination unit such as the determination unit 101 that determines the sheet-to-sheet movement, and the post-processing unit is detachable from the main body and is replaced according to the type of post-processing The post-processing device and the optional member are provided with storage means such as a post-processing device storage unit 104 and an optional part storage unit 105 for storing respective identification information. The determination unit is configured to determine the sheet-to-sheet operation corresponding to the post-processing based on the identification information stored in the storage unit.
The storage unit of the post-processing unit stores model information of the post-processing unit, and the option member storage unit stores model information of the option member. Based on the stored identification information regarding the model of the post-processing means and the type of the optional member mounted on the post-processing means, the paper interval time corresponding to each of the post-processing executable by the image forming system is determined. In addition, it is possible to determine the operation between sheets. This eliminates the need for the user or the like to input the identification information from the operation unit, thereby preventing human errors such as input omissions and input errors.
(Aspect Y)
In any one of the aspects A to T, the post-processing unit includes a determining unit that determines the sheet-to-sheet movement, and the post-processing unit is configured to be detachable from a main body. The post-processing device includes the post-processing device. Storage means for storing identification information is provided, and the determination unit is configured to determine the sheet-to-sheet operation corresponding to post-processing based on the identification information stored in the storage means.
(Aspect Z)
In any one of the aspects X and Y, the identification information stored in the storage unit is connected to an external network so that a user or the like can browse and rewrite the information through the external network.
When the image forming system is connected to an external network such as an Internet line, a maintenance company that has concluded a maintenance contract for the image forming system can view the identification information. As a result, the maintenance company can quickly grasp the status of addition / change of post-processing means and optional members, and the failure status of post-processing means and optional members in the image forming system. Can be received in a timely manner.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Copying machine 1A Copying machine 1B Copying machine 2 Original reading part 3 Exposure part 4 Image forming part 5 Photosensitive drum 7 Transfer roller 10 Original conveyance part 12 Paper feeding part 15 Drive motor 17 Registration roller 20 Fixing device 21 Fixing belt 22 Pressure Roller 23 Pressure receiving member 24 Support stay 25 Heat conduction pipe 26 Heater 30 Double-sided transport unit 35 Power supply unit 41 Charging roller 42 Developing device 43 Cleaning device 50 Post-processing device 50A Post-processing device 50B Post-processing device 50C Post-processing device 50a Carry-in port 50b Paper discharge port 51 First transport roller 52 Second transport roller 53 Third transport roller 54 Fourth transport roller 55 Paper discharge roller 56 Sixth transport roller 57 Seventh transport roller 58 Eight transport roller 59 Ninth transport roller 61 Stacking Part 62 Placement surface 64 Tapping roller 66 Fence part 67 Release claw 6 8 Jogger Fence 71 First Discharge Tray 72 Second Discharge Tray 73 Third Discharge Tray 81 Branch Claw 82 Filler 84 Paper Folding Blade 85 Stopper 86 Middle Folding Plate 90 Binding Device 95 Punching Device

JP 2012-42641 A

Claims (26)

An image carrier that is rotatably provided and carries a toner image;
A transfer member rotatably provided to form a transfer nip for contacting the image carrier and transferring a toner image on the image carrier to paper;
Bias applying means for applying a bias to the transfer member;
Post-processing means capable of performing post-processing on the paper on which the toner image is formed,
As an inter-sheet motion when at least one of the inter-sheet areas existing on the image carrier passes through the transfer nip during a continuous image forming period in which a plurality of sheets are continuously passed to form an image, In a state where the carrier and the transfer member are rotated, toner is moved from the transfer member to the image carrier by an electrostatic force by a cleaning bias applied by the bias applying unit, and the transfer member is cleaned. In an image forming system capable of performing a transfer cleaning operation,
As the sheet-to-sheet operation when the post-processing is performed, in addition to the transfer cleaning operation, a rotation stop operation for stopping the rotation of the image carrier and the transfer member before or after the execution of the transfer cleaning operation Is an image forming system that can be executed. The image forming system according to claim 1,
The post-processing means can selectively perform a plurality of different post-processing, and according to the post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processing, in addition to the transfer cleaning operation, An image forming system, wherein the rotation stop operation is executed before or after execution of the transfer cleaning operation. The image forming system according to claim 2.
The image forming system, wherein an execution time of the transfer cleaning operation is constant irrespective of the post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processing. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
2. An image forming system according to claim 1, wherein a time for applying the cleaning bias by the bias applying means in the transfer cleaning operation is set to a time for the transfer member to make one rotation or more. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The cleaning bias includes a first cleaning bias having the same polarity as the normal charging polarity of the toner, and a second cleaning bias having a polarity opposite to the normal charging polarity of the toner and subsequently applied after the application of the first cleaning bias. An image forming system comprising: The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
In the inter-paper area, the current flowing through the transfer nip is controlled at 0 [μA] except when the transfer cleaning operation is performed. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein:
Charging means for charging the surface of the image carrier, and developing means for developing a latent image formed by exposing the charged image carrier surface with toner,
As the sheet interval operation, in addition to the transfer cleaning operation, a driving speed changing operation of the image carrier and the developing unit and a driving stop operation of at least one of the image carrier and the developing unit are selectively performed. An image forming system characterized by being executable. The image forming system according to claim 7.
An image forming system, wherein the charging bias of the charging unit and the developing bias of the developing unit are switched between the time of image formation and the time between sheets. The image forming system according to claim 8.
An image forming system, wherein a difference between the charging bias and the developing bias after switching is the same as a difference between the charging bias and the developing bias before switching. The image forming system according to any one of claims 7 to 9,
Driving speed of the image carrier and the developing unit according to at least one of the post-processing unit connected to the image forming apparatus main body or the post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processing as the sheet-to-sheet operation Adjusting an image forming system. The image forming system according to any one of claims 7 to 9,
As the sheet-to-sheet operation, driving of the developing unit is stopped according to at least one of the post-processing unit connected to the main body of the image forming apparatus or the post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processings. An image forming system. The image forming system according to claim 1,
Having contact / separation means for contacting and separating the image carrier and the transfer member;
In accordance with the post-processing selected from the plurality of post-processing, as the sheet-to-sheet operation, in addition to the transfer cleaning operation, before or after the execution of the transfer cleaning operation, An image forming system characterized in that a contact / separation operation with the transfer member can be performed. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
In accordance with a post-process selected from the plurality of post-processes, a predetermined adjustment operation can be executed before or after execution of the transfer cleaning operation in addition to the transfer cleaning operation as the inter-sheet operation. An image forming system. The image forming system according to claim 13.
The image carrier, charging means for charging the surface of the image carrier, latent image writing means for writing a latent image on the surface of the image carrier after charging, and developing the latent image to obtain a toner image An image forming means having a developing means;
A toner adhesion amount detecting means for detecting the toner adhesion amount of the toner image formed by the image forming means,
The adjustment operation is performed based on a result of the toner adhesion amount detection unit detecting the toner adhesion amount of the toner adhesion amount detection toner image formed on the imaging unit under a predetermined image creation condition. An image forming system characterized by performing control for adjusting an image forming condition of an image means. The image forming system according to claim 13.
The image carrier, charging means for charging the surface of the image carrier, latent image writing means for writing a latent image on the surface of the image carrier after charging, and developing the latent image to obtain a toner image An image forming means having a developing means;
A toner image position detecting means for detecting the position of the toner image formed on the image carrier,
The adjustment operation is performed based on a result of detecting the position of the toner image position detecting toner image formed on the image forming unit under a predetermined image forming condition by the toner image position detecting unit. An image forming system characterized by performing control for adjusting an image forming condition of the image forming means so as to reduce a deviation. The image forming system according to claim 13.
The image carrier, charging means for charging the surface of the image carrier, latent image writing means for writing a latent image on the surface of the image carrier after charging, and developing the latent image to obtain a toner image An image forming means having a developing means;
A toner replenishing means for replenishing toner to the developing means,
The adjustment operation includes a control for forming a toner image for consumption on the image carrier, forcibly consuming the toner stored in the developing unit, and supplying toner to the developing unit by the toner replenishing unit. An image forming system. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 16,
The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the rotation distance of the image carrier in the inter-sheet area changes according to the post-processing performed by the post-processing means. The image forming system according to claim 17.
An image forming system, wherein the post-processing unit includes a binding unit that binds sheets without using a binding needle. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 18,
An image forming system, wherein the image carrier is a photoconductor, and a toner image is directly transferred from the photoconductor to a sheet. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 19,
An image forming system, wherein the transfer member is a transfer roller. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 20,
It has a determination section for determining the sheet-to-sheet movement and an operation section for operation, and the post-processing means is detachable from the main body and can be attached with an optional member that is changed according to the type of post-processing. Based on identification information of the post-processing means attached to the main body and the optional member attached to the post-processing means, which is configured as described above, and the determination unit corresponds to the post-processing. An image forming system configured to determine an operation between sheets. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 20,
A determination unit that determines the sheet-to-sheet movement and an operation unit for operation, wherein the post-processing unit is configured to be detachable from the main body, and is input to the main body and is attached to the main body. An image forming system, wherein the determination unit determines the sheet-to-sheet operation corresponding to the post-processing based on the identification information of the post-processing means. The image forming system according to claim 21 or 22,
An image forming system configured to be connected to an external network and configured to be able to browse and rewrite the identification information input from the operation unit via the external network. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 20,
A determination unit configured to determine the sheet-to-sheet operation, wherein the post-processing unit is configured to be attachable to and detachable from a main body and to be capable of attaching an optional member to be changed according to the type of post-processing; The apparatus and the option member are each provided with storage means for storing the identification information, and based on the identification information stored in the storage means, the determination unit performs the inter-paper interval corresponding to post-processing. An image forming system configured to determine an operation. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 20,
A storage unit configured to determine the inter-sheet motion, wherein the post-processing unit is configured to be detachable from a main body, and the post-processing device stores the identification information of the post-processing device; The image forming system is configured such that, based on the identification information stored in the storage unit, the determination unit determines the sheet-to-sheet operation corresponding to post-processing. The image forming system according to claim 24 or 25.
An image forming system configured to be connected to an external network and configured to be able to view and rewrite the identification information stored in the storage unit via the external network.

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