JP2021134060A - Image formation system - Google Patents

Abstract

To improve productivity of a job.SOLUTION: An image formation system (1) has image formation means (20), recording sheet feeding means (16 and 17), a conveyance path (38) for conveying the recording sheet formed with an image, insert sheet feeding means (31, 32, 33 and 34) which have a plurality of loading parts (31 and 32) and feed the insert sheet, discharge parts (56 and 60), insert sheet residual amount detection means (40 and 41), and control means (510) which can execute processing of discharging the insert sheet and the recording sheet to the discharge parts, and can execute switching processing when a residual amount of the insert sheets of loading parts for feeding the insert sheet is equal to or less than a set amount during execution of a job. The control means can execute notification processing of promoting a user to replenish the insert sheets to the loading parts whose residual amount of the inset sheets is equal to or less than the set amount by notification means (300) when executing the switching processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming system that forms an image on a sheet.

Conventionally, in addition to the feeding unit that feeds a sheet as a recording medium (recording sheet), an inserter that feeds a sheet such as a slip sheet is provided, and the slip sheet is inserted between the image-formed sheets. An image forming system capable of outputting a state product is known. As such an image forming system, for example, in Patent Document 1, when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the tray of the interleaving paper is low, printing is performed by switching the tray of the interleaving paper. The continuing configuration is disclosed.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2008-30451

In the image forming system of Patent Document 1, control is performed to switch the tray of the feeding source when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper loaded on the tray of the feeding source becomes low. However, in Patent Document 1, after switching the tray of the feeding source of the interleaving paper, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper of the tray of the feeding source after switching becomes low as in the tray of the feeding source before switching. There is a problem that sometimes jobs are interrupted and productivity is reduced.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to improve job productivity.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention feeds an image forming means for forming an image on a sheet and a recording sheet on which an image is formed toward the image forming means in an image forming system. The recording sheet feeding means, the transport path for transporting the recording sheet on which the image is formed by the image forming means, and a plurality of loading portions on which the insert sheet is loaded are provided, and the plurality of loading portions have a plurality of loading portions. From either of them, the insert sheet feeding means for feeding the insert sheet to the transport path, the recording sheet transported through the transport path, and the insert sheet fed by the insert sheet feeding means are discharged. The discharge unit, the remaining amount detecting means for detecting the information regarding the remaining amount of the insert sheets loaded on the plurality of loading units, and the insert sheet feeding means supply the insert sheet from any of the plurality of loading units. It is possible to execute a process of feeding and discharging the insert sheet and the recording sheet transported along the transport path to the discharge unit, and during execution of the job, insert the insert sheet in any of the plurality of load units. When the remaining amount of the insert sheet of the loading section that feeds the sheet becomes less than the set amount, the switching process of switching the loading section that feeds the insert sheet to another loading section of the insert sheet feeding means. The control means is provided with a control means capable of executing the above, and when the switching process is executed, the control means notifies the loading portion that the remaining amount of the insert sheet is equal to or less than the set amount by the notification means. It is characterized in that it is possible to execute a notification process that prompts the user.

According to the present invention, job productivity can be improved.

The schematic block diagram of the image formation system of Example 1 of this disclosure. The block diagram of the image formation system of Example 1. A timing chart in an image forming system as a reference example. The timing chart in the image formation system of Example 1. The flowchart which shows the flow of the switching process in the image formation system of Example 1. The figure which shows an example of the notification executed in the image formation system of Example 1. FIG.

Hereinafter, examples of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, as an image forming means constituting the image forming system, an electrophotographic full-color printer having photosensitive drums 22, 23, 24, 25 and an intermediate transfer body 26 corresponding to each CMYK color is taken as an example. In addition to this, a monochrome printer or an image forming apparatus having an image forming means such as an inkjet method may be provided.

<Overall configuration of image formation system>
First, the overall configuration of the image forming system 1 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration sectional view of an image forming system 1 according to this embodiment. The image forming system 1 includes an image forming device 101 for forming an image on a sheet, an insert device 201, and a finishing device 301. In the sheet transport direction in the image forming system 1, the insert device 201 and the finishing device 301 are sequentially connected to the downstream of the image forming device 101.

<Overall configuration of image forming device>
The image forming apparatus 101 has one or more feeding cassettes 15 accommodating a plurality of sheets, and feeds the sheets from the feeding cassette 15. Sheets (recording sheets) to be stored in the feed cassette 15 and on which an image is formed as a recording medium include paper such as plain paper and cardboard, plastic films such as sheets for overhead projectors, envelopes, index paper, and the like. Includes specially shaped sheets and a variety of sheet materials of different sizes and materials, such as cloth. The sheets stored in the feeding cassette 15 are provided with vertical pass rollers 18 one by one by the separate feeding units 16 and 17 as the recording sheet feeding means of the present embodiment composed of pickup rollers and the like. It is sent toward the vertical pass. The sheet fed from the feed cassette 15 is conveyed toward the horizontal pass 19 via the feed vertical pass. Whether or not the sheet has reached the horizontal path 19 is detected by the transport sensor 30 having a detection position on the horizontal path 19. When the transport sensor 30 detects that the sheet is on the horizontal path 19, the sheet is temporarily stopped while being attached to the registration roller 12 arranged on the horizontal path 19.

While the sheet is fed from the feeding cassette 15 to the registration roller 12, the image forming unit 20 as the image forming means of this embodiment forms a toner image based on the image signal. Specifically, the photosensitive drums 22, 23, 24, and 25 whose surfaces are charged with a uniform charge are irradiated with a laser based on an image signal. By irradiating the laser, electrostatic latent images based on image signals are formed on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums 22, 23, 24, and 25. Then, by adhering the toner with a developing device or the like, a toner image corresponding to the image signal is visualized on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums 22, 23, 24, and 25. The toner images on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums 22, 23, 24, and 25 are sequentially primarily transferred to the intermediate transfer body 26. The sheet stopped by the registration roller 12 is conveyed toward the secondary transfer unit 21 so that the tip of the toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer body 26 and the tip of the sheet reach the secondary transfer unit 21 at the same time. Will be done. Then, the toner image is transferred from the intermediate transfer body 26 to the sheet in the secondary transfer unit 21. After that, the sheet is pressurized and heated in the fixing section 13 to fix the toner image transferred to the sheet. The sheet on which the toner image is fixed is discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 101 by the discharge roller 14. Further, the image forming apparatus 101 includes an operation unit 300 as an interface operated by the user, and the user can give a print instruction such as a method of setting an inserter sheet or copying via the operation unit 300. In the image forming system 1, the sheet discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 101 by the discharging roller 14 is conveyed toward the horizontal path 38 as the conveying path of the present embodiment provided in the insert device 201.

<Overall configuration of insert device>
The insert device 201 receives the sheet discharged from the image forming device 101 as an upstream device into the inside of the insert device 201 by the receiving roller 37. The sheet received inside the insert device 201 by the receiving roller 37 is discharged to the outside of the insert device 201 by the discharge roller 39 via the horizontal path 38.

In the insert device 201, a first tray 31 and a second tray 32, which are loading portions on which the insert sheet is loaded, are arranged. In the following description, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the first tray 31 and the second tray 32, it is described as "interlaced paper tray". The insert sheet is a sheet load that the image forming system 1 loads on the upper tray 56 or the lower tray 60 as a deliverable, and is inserted by the insert device 201 in addition to the recording sheet image-formed by the image forming device 101. Refers to the sheet. The insert sheet is a paper that is inserted as a mark for the number of recording sheets each time a certain number of sheets are output, or a sheet that is inserted to prevent show-through of the image on the recording sheet (generally called interleaving paper). ) Is included. Further, the insert sheet is a final product together with a recording sheet image formed by the image forming apparatus 101, such as a middle door and a page prepared by reprinting to be sandwiched between the sheets formed by the image forming apparatus 101. Includes sheets that are part of. Since a typical example of the insert sheet is interleaving paper, in the following description, the insert sheet fed from the insert device 201 will be described as "interlacing paper" without distinguishing the purpose of use. As with the recording sheet, the interleaving paper may be a sheet material other than paper. Further, since the recording sheet image formed by the image forming apparatus 101 is usually the main body part of the product output by the image forming system 1, it is distinguished from the interleaving paper as the "text" in the following description.

The interleaving paper can be loaded and set on the first tray 31 and the second tray 32. The first tray 31 and the second tray 32 move up and down independently by the motor, respectively, at the first position where the loaded interleaving paper can be fed and at the position where the interleaving paper can be replenished. It can be moved to a second position (not shown). When the first tray 31 is in the first position, the interleaving paper cannot be replenished to the first tray 31. On the other hand, when the first tray 31 is in the second position, the interleaving paper loaded on the first tray 31 cannot be fed. Further, when the second tray 32 is in the first position, the interleaving paper cannot be replenished to the second tray 32. On the other hand, when the second tray 32 is in the second position, the interleaving paper loaded on the second tray 32 cannot be fed. In the following, a configuration in which the first tray 31 and the second tray 32 are moved up and down by a motor will be described as an example. In addition to this, for example, the feeding rollers 33 and 34 may be moved up and down independently to move the first tray 31 and the second tray 32 to the first position and the second position. good.

The feeding roller 33 can feed the interleaving paper loaded on the first tray 31 by abutting on the upper surface of the interleaving paper loaded on the first tray 31. That is, when the feeding roller 33 is in contact with the upper surface of the loaded interleaving paper, the first tray 31 is the first position where the interleaving paper can be fed. On the other hand, when the feeding roller 33 is separated from the upper surface of the interleaving paper loaded on the first tray 31, the first tray 31 is the second position where the interleaving paper can be replenished. Further, the feeding roller 34 can feed the interleaving paper loaded on the second tray 32 by abutting on the upper surface of the interleaving paper loaded on the second tray 32. That is, when the feeding roller 34 is in contact with the upper surface of the loaded interleaving paper, the second tray 32 is the first position where the interleaving paper can be fed. On the other hand, when the feeding roller 34 is separated from the upper surface of the interleaving paper loaded on the second tray 32, the second tray 32 is the second position where the interleaving paper can be replenished. The insert sheet feeding means of this embodiment is composed of a first tray 31, a second tray 32, and feeding rollers 33, 34.

Further, the first tray 31 is provided with a paper remaining amount sensor 40 for detecting information on the remaining amount of the interleaving paper loaded on the first tray 31. Similarly, each of the second tray 32 is equipped with a paper remaining amount sensor 41 for detecting information regarding the remaining amount of the interleaving paper loaded on the second tray 32. The remaining amount detecting means of this embodiment are the remaining amount paper sensors 40 and 41. In this embodiment, if the remaining amount of the interleaving paper loaded on the first tray 31 is larger than the predetermined set amount by the paper remaining amount sensor 40, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper is large, and if it is less than the set amount, the interleaving paper is remaining. If the remaining amount of paper is low and there is no paper slip, it is detected that there is no paper slip. Further, according to the paper remaining amount sensor 41, if the remaining amount of the interleaving paper loaded on the second tray 32 is larger than the predetermined set amount, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper is large, and if it is less than the set amount, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper is remaining. If there is no interleaving paper at all, it is detected that there is no interleaving paper. In the insert device 201, the interleaving paper set in the first tray 31 is guided to the vertical pass 35 by the feeding roller 33. Further, the interleaving paper set in the second tray 32 is guided to the vertical pass 35 by the feeding roller 34. The interleaving paper guided by the vertical pass 35 is sent to the horizontal pass 38 via the transport roller 36, and is discharged to the outside of the insert device 201 by the discharge roller 39. FIG. 1 shows a configuration in which a sheet discharged to the outside of the insert device 201 by the discharge roller 39 is received inside the finisher device 301.

<Structure of finisher device>
The finisher device 301 receives the sheet discharged from the insert device 201 as an upstream device by the receiving roller 50. The sheet received inside the finisher device 301 by the receiving roller 50 is guided toward either the first pass 53 or the second pass 58 by the transport path switching member 51. The first pass 53 is a pass that guides the seat toward the upper side of the finisher device 301, and the second pass 58 is a pass that guides the seat toward the lower side of the finisher device 301. The sheet guided to the first pass 53 is discharged to the upper tray 56 by the discharge roller 54 via the transport roller 52. Further, the sheet guided to the second pass 58 is discharged to the lower tray 60 by the discharge roller 59 via the transport roller 57. In this way, the deliverable of the image forming system 1 is loaded on the upper tray 56 or the lower tray 60 as an example of the discharge unit of this embodiment.

<Control configuration of image formation system>
Next, the control configuration of the image forming system 1 according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a control configuration of the image forming system 1. The printer controller 500 includes a CPU (central processing unit) 501, a RAM (random access memory) 502, and a ROM (read-only memory) 503. The ROM 503 stores a control program for operating the image forming apparatus 101, and the CPU 501 expands the control program loaded from the ROM 503 into the RAM 502. Then, the CPU 501 comprehensively controls the image forming apparatus 101 by executing the program developed on the RAM 502. Further, the image processing unit 504, the internal I / F 505, and the operation display control unit 506 are connected to the CPU 501 via a bus. The image processing unit 504 is a processing circuit for processing, accumulating, and performing image processing of image signals. The internal I / F 505 is a communication circuit that communicates with the internal I / F 515 of the system controller 510. The operation display control unit 506 is an electric circuit that controls display and input to the operation unit 300.

The system controller 510 as the control means of this embodiment has a CPU 511, a RAM 512, and a ROM 513 built-in. The control program of the image forming system 1 is stored in the ROM 513, and the CPU 511 expands the program loaded from the ROM 513 into the RAM 512. Then, the CPU 511 comprehensively controls the image forming system 1 by executing the program developed on the RAM 512. The ROM 513 stores a program for comprehensively controlling the overall operation of the image forming system 1. In addition, the RAM 512 stores information such as raster data required for image formation, the number of interleaving sheets included in the job, and the number of interleaving sheets that have already been supplied.

The device control unit 514 is an electric circuit including an input / output port for controlling each component constituting the image forming apparatus 101, such as an image forming unit 20 and a secondary transfer unit 21. The internal I / F 515 is a communication circuit that communicates an image signal and a timing signal with the internal I / F 505 of the printer controller 500. The I / F 516 is a communication circuit that communicates information indicating timings such as sheet delivery and interleaving paper feeding between the image forming apparatus 101, the insert apparatus 201, and the finisher apparatus 301. Further, the I / F 516 provides information indicating the time required for switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper in the insert device 201 and the time required for moving the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper in the insert device 201. Communicate with. Further, the I / F 516 communicates information with the finisher device 301 for selecting a tray as a discharge destination for discharging the sheet. The CPU 511 receives an image signal from the printer controller 500 according to the control program, controls the device control unit 514, and comprehensively controls the image forming operation in the image forming system 1.

The inserter controller 520 contains a CPU 521, a RAM 522, and a ROM 523. The control program of the insert device 201 is stored in the ROM 523, and the CPU 521 expands the program loaded from the ROM 523 into the RAM 522. Then, the CPU 521 comprehensively controls the insert device 201 by executing the program developed on the RAM 522. The ROM 523 stores a program for controlling the feeding of the interleaving paper in the insert device 201. Further, the RAM 522 contains raster data required for image formation, information necessary for feeding the interleaving paper included in the job, and the first tray 31 and the second tray 32 of the insert device 201. Information about the remaining amount of interleaving paper loaded on the paper is stored.

The device control unit 524 is an electric circuit including feed rollers 33, 34, etc., input / output ports for controlling each component constituting the insert device 201, and the like. The I / F 525 is a communication circuit that performs communication with the image forming apparatus 101 for sheet transfer. The CPU 521 feeds the sheet, the timing of sheet delivery from the image forming apparatus 101, the timing of feeding the interleaving paper, the time required for switching the interleaving paper tray for supplying the interleaving paper, and the interleaving paper via the I / F 525. Receive information indicating the time required to move the interleaving paper tray. Then, the CPU 521 controls the transfer of the text and the feeding of the interleaving paper in the insert device 201 according to the received information and the program expanded in the RAM 522.

The finisher controller 530 includes a CPU 531, a RAM 532, and a ROM 533. The control program of the finisher device 301 is stored in the ROM 533, and the CPU 531 expands the program loaded from the ROM 533 into the RAM 532. Then, the CPU 531 comprehensively controls the finisher device 301 by executing the program developed on the RAM 532. The device control unit 534 is an electric circuit including an input / output port for controlling each component constituting the finisher device 301, such as a transfer path switching member 51. The I / F 535 is a communication circuit that performs communication with the image forming apparatus 101 for sheet transfer. The CPU 531 receives information indicating the timing of sheet delivery from the insert device 201, the sheet ejection position, and the like via the I / F 535. Then, the CPU 531 controls the transfer of the sheet in the finisher device 301 according to the received information and the program expanded in the RAM 532.

<Operation of the image formation system in the reference example>
FIG. 3 is a timing chart showing the operation of the image forming system as a reference example. In FIG. 3, as the interleaving paper tray on which the interleaving paper is loaded, an insert device having an upper tray and a lower tray will be described as a reference example. The upper tray and the lower tray of the insert device of FIG. 3 are assumed to move to the first position and the second position as in the present embodiment. Further, the insert device of FIG. 3 returns to the procedure A and operates when the procedure A, the procedure B, the procedure C, the procedure D, the procedure E, and the procedure F are performed in this order. Further, it is assumed that the remaining amount of interleaving paper in the upper tray and the lower tray is large at the start of a series of operations.

In the insert device as a reference example, first, as step A, the feeding of the interleaving paper is started from the upper tray. Since the remaining amount of interleaving paper in the upper tray and the lower tray is large at the start of a series of operations, the positions of the upper tray and the lower tray are both the first positions.

When the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the upper tray of the insert device of the reference example becomes low, as step B, the text is conveyed to the transport path of the insert device at the normal timing when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the upper tray is large (hereinafter). , "Normal timing"). By delaying the transport of the text to the transport path, it is possible to secure time for switching from the upper tray for feeding the interleaving paper to the lower tray. This prevents jamming of the insert device when switching the interleaving tray that feeds the interleaving paper, and transports the text in line with the interleaving of the interleaving paper in the transport path of the insert device in order to maintain the quality of the final product. This is because it is necessary to delay. Further, in the insert device of the reference example, when the interleaving paper loaded on the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper runs out, the interleaving paper is loaded on the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper. The process of switching to another interleaving paper tray is performed. That is, in the insert device of the reference example, the text is conveyed to the transfer path of the insert device from the time when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the upper tray becomes low until the absence of the interleaving paper in the upper tray is detected. The slowdown will continue.

At the timing T1 when it is detected that there is no interleaving paper in the upper tray, in the insert device of the reference example, as step C, a process of switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper to the lower tray is performed. When the interleaving paper tray that feeds the interleaving paper is switched from the upper tray to the lower tray, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the lower tray that feeds the interleaving paper becomes large. At this time, in order to maintain productivity, the text is transported in the transport path of the insert device at the same timing as the normal timing. Further, the upper tray without the interleaving paper is moved from the first position to the second position so that the upper tray can be replenished with the interleaving paper. When the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the lower tray becomes low while continuing to feed the interleaving paper from the lower tray, the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the lower tray to the upper tray in the same manner as in the upper tray. Therefore, as the procedure D, the transport of the text in the transport path of the insert device is set to the same timing as the normal timing.

At the timing T2 when it is detected that the upper tray without the interleaving paper is replenished with the interleaving paper and the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the upper tray is large, as step E, the upper tray is moved from the second position to the first position. Move to position. By moving to the first position, it becomes possible to feed the interleaving paper supplied to the upper tray. At the timing T3 when it is detected that there is no interleaving paper in the lower tray, in the insert device of the reference example, as step F, a process of switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper to the upper tray is performed. When the interleaving paper tray that feeds the interleaving paper is switched from the lower tray to the upper tray, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the upper tray that feeds the interleaving paper becomes large. At this time, in order to maintain the productivity of the job, the text is transported in the transport path of the insert device at the same timing as the normal timing. Further, the lower tray without the interleaving paper is moved from the first position to the second position so that the lower tray can be replenished with the interleaving paper. Then, at the timing T4 when it is detected that the lower tray without the interleaving paper is replenished with the interleaving paper and the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the lower tray is large, the lower tray is moved from the second position to the first position. Let me. By moving to the first position, the interleaving paper supplied to the lower tray can be fed, and the process returns to step A to re-execute a series of operations.

<Operation of image formation system>
FIG. 4 is a timing chart showing the operation of the insert device 201 in the image forming system 1 of this embodiment. When the insert device 201 performs the procedure A2, the procedure B2, the procedure C2, and the procedure D2 in this order, the insert device 201 returns to the procedure A2 and operates. Further, it is assumed that the remaining amount of interleaving paper in the first tray 31 and the second tray 32 is large at the start of a series of operations. Further, in this embodiment, the following processing is performed according to the feeding status of the interleaving paper in the insert device 201. For example, when the remaining amount of interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is low, the operation unit 300 as an example of the notification means or the information processing device connected to the image forming system 1 can be used to move the first tray 31 to the first tray 31. Notification processing is performed to prompt the user to replenish the interleaving paper.

First, the insert device 201 starts feeding the interleaving paper from the first tray 31 as the procedure A2. At the start of a series of operations, the transfer of the text to the horizontal path 38 when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 and the second tray 32 is large is shown as the first interval in FIG. At this time, both the first tray 31 and the second tray 32 are in the first position. When it is detected that the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is low, in the timing t5, as step B2, the transfer of the text to the horizontal path 38 is set to two intervals, which is slower than the first interval. Then, when the transfer of the text to the horizontal path 38 is set to the second interval, the switching process of switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32 is executed. The switching process of this embodiment is to feed the interleaving paper when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray (here, the first tray 31) for which the interleaving paper is being fed becomes less than the set amount. This refers to a process of switching the tray to another interleaving paper tray (here, the second tray 32) of the insert device 201.

In the insert device of the reference example, the switching process is performed after all the interleaving paper loaded on the interleaving paper tray for which the interleaving paper is being fed has been fed. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when it is detected that the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is low, the transfer of the text to the insert device 201 is delayed. The switching process is executed before the interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray that feeds the interleaving paper is used up. In FIG. 4, in order to perform the switching process, the sheet transfer in the insert device 201 is delayed by one sheet as compared with the case where the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is large. The transport start timing of the text is shown as the second interval. The delay may be two or more, or 0.5.

Then, when the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32, the first tray 31 is moved from the first position to the second position, and the interleaving paper to the first tray 31 is transferred. The notification means is made to execute the notification process for prompting the user to replenish the paper. Further, since the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper becomes large. , The transport of the text to the horizontal path 38 is returned from the second interval to the first interval. At the timing t6 when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper is low and the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is detected, the first tray 31 is set as the procedure C2. Is moved from the second position to the first position. By moving to the first position, the interleaving paper supplied to the first tray 31 can be fed.

When the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 becomes low while continuing the feeding of the interleaving paper from the second tray 32, the transportation of the text to the horizontal path 38 is delayed as the procedure D2 at the timing t7. The interleaving tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the second tray 32 to the first tray 31 by changing so that the transportation of the text to the horizontal path 38 is delayed. Here, as shown in FIG. 4, at the timing t7, the case where the position of the first tray 31 is the first position is referred to as P1, and the case where the position of the first tray 31 is the second position is referred to as P2.

In P1 of FIG. 4, when the position of the first tray 31 is the first position at the timing t7, the sheet is conveyed in the insert device 201 in order to perform the switching process, and the interleaving tray that feeds the interleaving paper. The second interval is set to be one sheet later than when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper is large. Further, since the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper becomes large. The transport of the text to the horizontal path 38 is returned from the second interval to the first interval.

On the other hand, in P2 of FIG. 4, when the position of the first tray 31 is the second position at the timing t7, the switching process is performed to enable the feeding of the interleaving paper from the first tray 31. Processing and time for moving the first tray 31 from the second position to the first position are required. Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the interleaving paper tray to which the interleaving paper is fed by the switching process is in the second position, the transfer start timing of the text is further delayed from the second interval to the third interval. And. Then, while the sheets are being conveyed at the third interval, the first tray 31 is moved from the second position to the first position, and the interleaving paper tray for further feeding the interleaving paper is moved from the second tray 32 to the first tray. After switching to 31, the interleaving paper can be fed from the first tray 31. This makes it possible to minimize the decrease in job productivity. Further, since the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the second tray 32 to the first tray 31, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper becomes large. The transport of the text to the horizontal path 38 is returned from the third interval to the first interval.

When the interleaving paper tray for feeding interleaving paper is switched from the second tray 32 to the first tray 31, the second tray 32 is moved from the first position to the second position, and the interleaving paper is replenished to the second tray 32. The notification means is made to execute the notification process for prompting the user. Then, the second tray 32 is replenished with the interleaving paper, and the second tray 32 is moved from the second position to the first position at the timing t8 when it is detected that the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 is large. Let me. By moving to the first position, the interleaving paper supplied to the second tray 32 can be fed, and the process returns to step A2 to re-execute a series of operations.

Compared with the insert device as a reference example, in this embodiment, the time in which the sheet transfer is delayed is only while the interleaving tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32. Because it is good, the productivity of the job is improved.

Next, the flow of operation when switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper in the image forming system 1 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a series of steps of the operation of switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper in the present embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 5 is an operation mainly executed by the system controller 510, but depending on the hardware configuration of the insert device 201, the insertion device 520 may be the main body to execute the operation. In FIG. 5, for the sake of explanation, it is assumed that the flow starts in the running state of the job feeding the interleaving paper loaded on the first tray 31.

First, it is confirmed whether or not the interleaving paper has been replenished to the second tray 32, which is the interleaving paper tray for which the interleaving paper has not been fed (S501). For example, when the interleaving paper is being fed from the first tray 31, when the second tray 32 is in the second position, the interleaving paper is not fed to the second tray 32 as the interleaving paper tray. Judge that the paper is being replenished. Further, for example, when the interleaving paper is being fed from the first tray 31, when the second tray 32 is in the first position, the second tray 32 as a tray that is not feeding the interleaving paper may be used. Judge that the interleaving paper is not replenished. When the second tray 32 is replenished with interleaving paper (S501 / Y), the second tray 32 is moved from the second position to the first position (S502). By moving from the second position to the first position in S502, the interleaving paper can be fed from the second tray 32.

When the second tray 32 as the interleaving paper tray for which the interleaving paper is not fed is not replenished with the interleaving paper (S501 / N), one interleaving paper is fed from the first tray 31 (S503). When one sheet of interleaving paper is fed from the first tray 31, it is confirmed whether or not the feeding of the number of interleaving papers to be fed by the job is completed (S504). When the feeding of the number of sheets to be fed by the job is completed (S504 / Y), this flow is terminated. Here, the number of sheets to be fed in the job is, for example, the number of sheets to be fed by the insert device 201 due to the execution of the job, which is the number of sheets to be fed at the time when the procedure of S504 is performed. Remaining number of sheets, that is, the remaining number of interleaving papers that have not been sent in the job. When the feeding of the number of sheets to be fed by the job is not completed (S504 / N), it is confirmed whether or not there is the sheet in the first tray 31 (S505). When there is interleaving paper in the first tray 31 (S505 / Y), it is confirmed whether the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is low or high (S510).

When the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is large in the interleaving paper tray for which the interleaving paper is being fed (S510 / N), the sheet returns to S501 (FIG. 5: α). When the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is low (S510 / Y), it is confirmed whether the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 is low or high (S511). When the remaining amount of the interleaving paper of the second tray 32, which is the interleaving paper tray of the switching destination, is low (S511 / Y), the process returns to S501 (FIG. 5: α). When the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32, which is the interleaving paper tray of the switching destination, is large (S511 / N), the transport of the sheet passing through the horizontal path 38 is delayed (S512).

Then, by delaying the transport of the sheets, the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32 during this period (S513). That is, when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is small and the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 is large, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is large as compared with the case where the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is large. , Delay the delivery of the text. As a result, the time for switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32 is secured. At this time, the transport interval of the text passing through the horizontal pass 38 next to the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31 is the second interval (see FIG. 4).

When performing the procedure of S512, when the interleaving paper is being fed from the first tray 31 before the switching process of switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32 is executed. The delivery of the text to the horizontal path 38 is delayed. If the transportation of the text is delayed, the feeding of the subsequent interleaving paper passing through the horizontal path 38 next to the text is also delayed. For example, when it is detected that the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is low, the horizontal path 38 of the text passing through the horizontal path 38 next to the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31 is reached. Delay the transportation.

By executing the procedure of S512, the horizontal path 38 of the text passing through the horizontal path 38 next to the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31 is reached rather than when the interleaving paper is fed from the first tray 31. Is in a delayed state. The interval between the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31 at this time and the text passing through the horizontal path 38 next to the interleaving paper is the second interval in FIG. As an example, it is assumed that the switching time is 2000 msec and the transfer start timing of the text at the time of feeding the interleaving paper from the first tray 31 is 500 msec after the feeding of the immediately preceding interleaving paper. In this case, the interleaving tray for feeding the interleaving paper is set to 2000 + 500 = 2500 msec as the transfer start timing to the horizontal path 38 of the text passing through the horizontal path 38 next to the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31. Switch from the 1st tray 31 to the 2nd tray 32.

When there is no interleaving paper in the first tray 31 (S505 / N), it is confirmed whether or not there is an interleaving paper loaded in the other interleaving paper tray of the insert device 201 (S506). For example, when there is no interleaving paper loaded in the other interleaving paper trays of the insert device 201, such as when the interleaving paper is not loaded in the second tray 32, the interleaving paper is fed by the switching process. There is no interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray to be switched to the interleaving paper tray (S506 / N). In this case, the job is interrupted (Fig. 5: β). When the job is interrupted, a notification means such as the operation unit 300 may be used to notify that the interleaving paper that can be fed by the insert device 201 has disappeared.

When the insert paper 201 is loaded with the interleaving paper, such as the interleaving paper being loaded on the second tray 32, the interleaving paper is fed by the switching process. There is interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray at the switching destination (S506 / Y). In this case, it is confirmed whether or not the interleaving paper tray of the switching destination is in the second position (S507). Here, the description will be continued on the assumption that the interleaving paper tray to which the interleaving paper is loaded is the second tray 32. When other interleaving trays other than the first tray 31 and the second tray 32 are provided in the insert device 201, the same confirmation is performed for the other interleaving trays, and the flow shown in FIG. 5 is obtained. The included procedure may be continued. When the second tray 32, which is the interleaving paper tray to be switched, is in the second position (S507 / Y), the transfer of the sheet passing through the horizontal path 38 is delayed (S508), and the second tray 32 is in the meantime. Is moved from the second position to the first position (S509). When the second tray 32 is moved to the first position, the transfer of the sheets passing through the horizontal pass 38 is delayed (S512), and the interleaving paper trays for feeding the interleaving paper during this period are moved from the first tray 31 to the first tray. Switch to 2 trays 32 (S513). That is, when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is small and the second tray 32 is in the second position, the sheet is conveyed more than when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is large. Put it in a delayed state. Then, by delaying the transfer of the sheets, the time for moving the second tray 32 from the second position to the first position and the interleaving tray for feeding the interleaving paper are moved from the first tray 31 to the second tray. Secure time to switch to 32.

When performing the procedures of S508 and S512, the interleaving paper is fed from the first tray 31 before the switching process of switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32 is executed. The delivery of the text to the horizontal path 38 is delayed compared to when it is. If the transportation of the text is delayed, the feeding of the subsequent interleaving paper passing through the horizontal path 38 next to the text is also delayed. For example, when it is detected that the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is low, the horizontal path 38 of the text passing through the horizontal path 38 next to the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31 is reached. Delay the transportation. Here, the time for moving the second tray 32 from the second position to the first position is defined as the moving time, and in the switching process, the interleaving tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32. The time required for is set as the switching time.

By executing the procedures of S508 and S512, the horizontal path of the text that passes through the horizontal path 38 next to the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31 than when the interleaving paper is fed from the first tray 31. The transport to 38 is delayed. The interval between the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31 at this time and the text passing through the horizontal path 38 next to the interleaving paper is the third interval in FIG. Information indicating the moving time and the switching time is stored in the ROM 523 of the insert device 201. As an example, if the moving time is 1000 msec, the switching time is 2000 msec, and the transfer start timing of the text at the time of feeding the interleaving paper from the first tray 31 is 500 msec after the feeding of the immediately preceding interleaving paper. do. In this case, the transfer start timing of the text passing through the horizontal path 38 next to the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31 to the horizontal path 38 is set to 1000 + 2000 + 500 = 3500 msec. Then, while the transportation of the text to the horizontal path 38 is delayed, the second tray 32 is moved from the second position to the first position, and the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is moved from the first tray 31 to the first tray. 2 Secure time to switch to tray 32. At this time, the transport interval of the text passing through the horizontal pass 38 next to the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31 is the third interval (see FIG. 4).

When the second tray 32, which is the interleaving paper tray of the switching destination, is in the first position (S507 / N), the transport of the sheet passing through the horizontal pass 38 is delayed (S512). Then, by delaying the transport of the sheets, the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32 during this period (S513). That is, when there is no remaining amount of interleaving paper in the first tray 31, and there is a large amount of interleaving paper in the second tray 32, the remaining amount of interleaving paper in the first tray 31 is large. Delay the delivery of the text than sometimes. As a result, the time for switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32 is secured. At this time, the transport interval of the text passing through the horizontal pass 38 next to the interleaving paper fed from the first tray 31 is the second interval (see FIG. 4).

When the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32, it is confirmed whether or not the remaining number of interleaving papers to be fed in the job is small (S514). For example, when the total of the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 and the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 is equal to or more than the remaining number of interleaving papers to be fed in the job (S514 / Y), step S501 (Fig. 5: α). On the other hand, when the total of the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 and the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 is less than the remaining number of interleaving papers to be fed in the job (S514 / N), the first A notification process such as the operation unit 300 is made to execute a notification process for prompting the tray 31 to be replenished with the interleaving paper (S515). That is, when the number of remaining sheets of the interleaving paper to be fed in the job is larger than the remaining amount of the interleaving paper loaded on the insert device 201, the notification for prompting the replenishment of the interleaving paper is performed. When the remaining number of interleaving sheets to be fed in the job is less than or equal to the remaining amount of interleaving paper loaded on the insert device 201, the notification prompting the replenishment of the interleaving paper is not performed.

As an example, when the total remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 and the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 is 50 sheets, and the remaining number of interleaving papers to be fed in the job is 40 sheets. , It will return to step S501. On the other hand, when the total of the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 and the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 is 20, and the remaining number of interleaving papers to be fed in the job is 40 sheets. , The notification process will be executed by the notification means. When the notification means executes the notification process, the first tray 31 is moved from the first position to the second position so that the user can easily replenish the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 and returns to S501 (FIG. 5: α).

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a message 70 which is an example of the notification displayed on the operation unit 300 as the notification means. As the message 70, a sentence prompting the user to replenish the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 or the second tray 32 is displayed. FIG. 6 shows, as an example, a message 70 prompting the user to replenish the interleaving paper in the first tray 31. As shown in FIG. 1, in the image forming system 1, the first tray 31 is arranged above the second tray 32. Therefore, by indicating the first tray 31 as the "upper tray" and the second tray 32 as the "lower tray" as the message 70, the user can decide whether to replenish the interleaving paper in the first tray 31 or the second tray 32. It will be easier to recognize. The message 70 displayed on the operation unit 300 disappears when the interleaving paper tray, which is prompted to replenish the interleaving paper in the message 70, is replenished with the interleaving paper.

When the remaining amount of the interleaving paper of the second tray 32, which is the interleaving paper tray of the switching destination, is low (S511 / Y), it returns to S501 (FIG. 5: α), and the interleaving paper from the first tray 31 Continue to send. That is, when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray that is feeding the interleaving paper is low, and the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray of the switching destination is low, the switching process is not executed. Continue to supply the interleaving paper from the interleaving paper tray that is supplying the interleaving paper. After returning to S501, when it is detected that the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 is high, the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32. Will be done. Further, after returning to S501, when it is not detected that the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 is high, that is, the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the second tray 32 remains low. Cases can occur. In this case, after all the interleaving paper loaded on the first tray 31 is fed, the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is switched from the first tray 31 to the second tray 32.

As described above, in this embodiment, when the remaining amount of the interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper is low, only one recording sheet is conveyed to the insert device 201. The interleaving paper tray that feeds the interleaving paper in a delayed state is being switched. Further, after switching the interleaving paper tray for feeding the interleaving paper to another interleaving paper tray of the insert device 201, a notification prompting the user to replenish the interleaving paper to the interleaving paper tray where the remaining amount of the interleaving paper is low. Processing can be executed. As a result, it is possible to prevent job interruption due to no interleaving paper in the interleaving paper tray and improve job productivity. Further, even if the interleaving paper is not replenished, all the interleaving paper loaded on the interleaving paper tray of the insert device 201 can be fed, so that the productivity of the job can be improved. Also, if you do not need to replenish the interleaving paper to the interleaving paper tray when the remaining amount of interleaving paper is low after switching to another interleaving paper tray that feeds the interleaving paper, replenish the interleaving paper. Since the notification prompting the user is not performed, unnecessary operations by the user can be reduced.

<Other Examples>
In the first embodiment, it is assumed that the insert paper is inserted in the insert device 201 with respect to the text image-formed by the image forming device 101, and the final product is discharged to the upper tray 56 or the lower tray 60 of the finisher device 301. I gave an explanation. However, when the image forming system 1 does not include the finisher device 301, the final product may be loaded on the discharge tray provided in the insert device 201. Further, a relay unit is arranged between the image forming device 101 and the insert device 201, and the sheet formed by the image forming device 101 may be received by the insert device 201 via the relay unit. Therefore, regardless of whether or not the insert device 201 is directly connected to the image forming device 101, the configuration of the first embodiment can be applied to improve the productivity of the job.

1: Image forming system / 16, 17: Separate feeding section (recording sheet feeding means) / 20: Image forming section (image forming means) / 31: First tray (loading section, insert sheet feeding means) / 32: 2nd tray (loading part, insert sheet feeding means) / 33, 34: Feeding roller (insert sheet feeding means) / 38: Horizontal path (transport path) / 40, 41: Paper remaining amount sensor (remaining) Amount detection means) / 56: Upper tray (discharging unit) / 60: Lower tray (discharging unit) / 70: Message (notification) / 101: Image forming device / 201: Insert device / 300: Operation unit (notifying means) / 301: Finisher device / 510: System controller (control means)

Claims (8)

An image forming means for forming an image on a sheet and
A recording sheet feeding means for feeding a recording sheet for which an image is formed toward the image forming means, and a recording sheet feeding means.
A transport path for transporting a recording sheet on which an image is formed by the image forming means, and a transport path.
An insert sheet feeding means for feeding the insert sheet to the transport path from any of the plurality of loading sections, each of which has a plurality of loading sections on which the insert sheet is loaded.
A discharge unit through which the recording sheet transported through the transport path and the insert sheet fed by the insert sheet feeding means are discharged.
A remaining amount detecting means for detecting information on the remaining amount of the insert sheet loaded on each of the plurality of loading units, and a remaining amount detecting means.
It is possible to execute a process of feeding an insert sheet from any of the plurality of loading portions by the insert sheet feeding means and discharging the insert sheet and the recording sheet transported along the transport path to the discharge section. Yes, during job execution, the insert sheet is fed when the remaining amount of the insert sheet of the loading section that feeds the insert sheet in any of the plurality of loading sections becomes less than the set amount. A control means capable of performing a switching process for switching the loading unit to be switched to another loading unit included in the insert sheet feeding means.
When the switching process is executed, the control means can execute a notification process for prompting the user by the notification means to replenish the loading portion where the remaining amount of the insert sheet is equal to or less than the set amount.
An image forming system characterized by this. In the control means, when the remaining amount of the insert sheet in the loading portion feeding the insert sheet becomes equal to or less than the set amount, the remaining amount of the insert sheet in the loading portion feeding the insert sheet becomes less than the set amount. The switching process is executed by delaying the transport of the recording sheet to the transport path as compared with the case where the amount is larger than the set amount.
The image forming system according to claim 1. The plurality of loading units can be moved to a first position where the insert sheet can be fed and a second position where the insert sheet can be replenished to the loading unit, respectively.
When the switching process is executed, the control means moves the loading unit whose remaining amount of the insert sheet is equal to or less than the set amount from the first position to the second position, and the loading unit at the second position. When it is detected that the remaining amount of the insert sheet exceeds the set amount, the loading unit at the second position is moved to the first position.
The image forming system according to claim 1 or 2. The control means is another loading unit that serves as a loading unit that feeds the insert sheet when the other loading unit that serves as the loading unit that feeds the insert sheet by executing the switching process is in the second position. The switching process is executed with a delay in transporting the recording sheet to the transport path as compared with the case where the unit is in the first position.
The image forming system according to claim 3. Each of the plurality of loading units has a feeding roller for feeding the insert sheet.
When the loading section is in the first position, the feeding roller comes into contact with the upper surface of the insert sheet loaded on the loading section, and the insert sheet loaded on the loading section can be fed. In the second position, the feeding roller is separated from the upper surface of the insert sheet loaded on the loading portion, and the insert sheet can be replenished on the loading portion.
The image forming system according to claim 3 or 4. When the remaining amount of the insert sheet of the loading unit feeding the insert sheet becomes equal to or less than the set amount, the control means increases the remaining amount of the insert sheet to the other loading unit by the remaining amount detecting means. When it is detected that there is a loading portion loaded with an amount of insert sheets, the switching process is executed, and there is a loading portion in which a larger amount of insert sheets than the set amount is loaded in the other loading portions. When this is not detected, the feed of the insert sheet from the loading unit where the remaining amount of the insert sheet is equal to or less than the set amount is continued.
The image forming system according to claim 1. When the control means continues to feed the insert sheet from the loading portion where the remaining amount of the insert sheet is equal to or less than the set amount, the control means continues to feed the insert sheet.
When it is detected that there is a loading unit in which an insert sheet larger than the set amount is loaded in the other loading unit, the loading unit that executes the switching process and feeds the insert sheet is the insert sheet. Switch from the loading section where the remaining amount of is less than the set amount to the loading section where the insert sheet larger than the set amount is loaded.
It is not detected that the other loading section has a loading section in which an insert sheet larger than the set amount is loaded, and it is detected that the other loading section has a loading section in which the insert sheet is loaded. When this is done, the loading unit that feeds the insert sheet by executing the switching process after feeding all the insert sheets loaded on the loading unit in which the remaining amount of the insert sheet is equal to or less than the set amount. To the loading section where the insert sheet is loaded,
It is not detected that the other loading section has a loading section in which an insert sheet larger than the set amount is loaded, and it is detected that the other loading section has a loading section in which the insert sheet is loaded. If not, the job is interrupted after all the insert sheets loaded in the loading section where the remaining amount of the insert sheet is equal to or less than the set amount are fed.
The image forming system according to claim 6. When the control means detects that the other loading unit has a loading unit in which a larger amount of insert sheets than the set amount is loaded by the remaining amount detecting means, and the switching process is executed. In, when the remaining number of insert sheets to be fed in the job is equal to or less than the remaining amount of the insert sheets in the insert sheet feeding means, the notification process is not executed and the remaining number of insert sheets to be fed in the job. When the number is larger than the remaining amount of the insert sheet in the insert sheet feeding means, the notification process is executed.
The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the image forming system is characterized.

Images