JP3111098B2 - Sorter with paper processing function - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a sorter with a sheet processing function capable of performing predetermined sheet processing on one end of transfer sheets stacked in a bin of a sorter.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, there is a sorter for transferring the same original to a plurality of transfer papers and discharging the transfer papers to a plurality of bins, respectively, thereby performing a transfer paper sorting process. Are known. Recently, a sorter having a so-called sheet processing function of stapling one end of transfer paper discharged to each bin has been proposed.

In such a sorter with a paper processing function, for example, a notch is provided at the rear end of the bin, and a stapler is brought close to one corner of the transfer paper exposed from the notch to perform staple processing.

[0004]

The bin applied to the above-mentioned conventional sorter with a paper processing function has a notch at the rear end of the bin, and staples only one corner of the transfer sheet exposed from the notch. Therefore, the stapling process cannot be performed at an arbitrary position at one end of the transfer paper.

In order to solve this problem, a stopper for aligning the transfer paper is provided at the rear end of the bin so as to be rotatable, and the stopper is opened when the paper processing is performed. A method in which a sheet processing device such as a stapler is moved in the width direction of the bin on the exposed transfer paper to perform predetermined sheet processing may be considered.

However, in this method, since the rear end of the bin is completely opened, if the stopper is unnecessarily openable, the transfer paper may fall from the open rear end of the bin, or the transfer paper may drop. In some cases, such a problem may occur that paper alignment cannot be performed accurately. For example, when a predetermined rotational force is applied to the stopper by a spring or the like so that the stopper is normally located at the closed position of the rear end of the bin, the stopper rotates by the weight of a large number of transfer sheets, and the rear end of the bin is May be opened.

Further, even if the operator inserts the transfer paper from the leading end of the bin to perform the paper processing by manual operation, or accidentally puts his hand from the leading end of the bin, the stopper is halfway. May rotate.

Therefore, in the above method, when the stopper is at the position for closing the rear end of the bin, a lock mechanism is provided that inhibits rotation of the stopper so that the rear end of the bin is not unnecessarily opened. Is desirable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the background and problems described above, and the rear end of a bin can be opened only when paper processing is performed, and any position of transfer paper exposed from the rear end of the bin is provided. It is an object of the present invention to provide a sorter with a sheet processing function that can perform sheet processing on a sheet.

[0010]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a bin capable of exposing a rear end side of a stacked transfer sheet, and a predetermined sheet processing at a rear end side of the transfer sheet. A sorter with a sheet processing function capable of performing predetermined sheet processing at an arbitrary position at the rear end of the transfer sheet, wherein the bin is a flat plate on which an engaged portion is formed. A stopper that is rotatably supported at the rear end of the flat plate portion and that is formed with an engaging portion that can engage with the engaged portion at a position that closes the rear end of the bin. When the bin is at the closed position at the trailing end, a locking means for engaging the engaging portion with the engaged portion to inhibit rotation of the stopper, and a rear end side of the transfer paper for performing paper processing. And a lock release means for releasing the engagement of the engagement portion when the exposure is performed.

The present invention also provides a sorter with a sheet processing function, wherein the rear end of the bin is rotatable at the rear end of the flat plate portion and the rear end of the bin is closed to engage and disengage the engaging portion. A driving means for moving the stopper in parallel with the flat portion at the closed position, and a parallel movement of the stopper at the closed position of the rear end of the bin, and a driving means for locking and unlocking the stopper. And drive control means for controlling the

[0012]

According to the first aspect of the invention, when the stopper is at the closed position of the rear end of the bin, the engaging portion is engaged with the engaged portion of the flat plate portion so that the rear end of the bin is not opened. The rotation of the stopper is prohibited. On the other hand, when performing paper processing,
The engagement of the engaging portion is released, the stopper is rotated to open the rear end of the bin, and the rear end of the transfer paper stacked on the flat plate portion is exposed from the bin. Then, predetermined sheet processing is performed on a predetermined position of the rear end of the transfer sheet by the sheet processing unit.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the engaging portion is engaged with the engaged portion by moving the stopper parallel to the flat plate portion at the closed position of the bin rear end. , The stopper is locked. In the locked state of the stopper, the engagement of the engaging portion with the engaged portion is released by relatively moving the stopper in the opposite direction to the above, and the locked state of the stopper is released.

[0014]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of an image forming apparatus provided with a sorter with a sheet processing function according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG.
FIG. 2 is an external view showing the entire image forming apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 1 includes a first housing 2 provided with an image forming unit for forming an image on a transfer sheet, and a sheet processing unit for performing a sorter, a punch, a staple, and the like for sorting the transfer sheet on which the image is formed. And a second housing 14 provided.

At the center of the upper surface of the first housing 2, a contact glass (not shown) for placing an original is provided. Further, inside the first housing 2, a scanning optical system for optically scanning a document and exposing a document image is provided, and a photosensitive drum and members around the photosensitive drum for image formation are provided. Each component such as an image forming unit and a transfer paper transport system is provided.

An automatic document feeder 3 for automatically feeding a document is provided above the first housing 2. The automatic document feeder 3 includes a document placing unit 4, a document loading unit 5, a document transporting unit 6, and a document unloading unit 7. The document placed on the document placing unit 4 is automatically loaded into the document loading unit. The document is conveyed to a predetermined position on the contact glass from the document conveying section 6 by the document conveying section 6, and is carried out to the document carrying-out section 7 after the copying is completed.

An operation panel 12 having various switches such as a copy switch and a switch for indicating the number of copies and a display section is provided on the upper front side of the first housing 2, and a left side of the operation panel 12. The sorter 14
Is provided with a selection key 13 for selecting the processing of (1). The selection key 13 allows selection of necessity of sorting and post-processing such as stapling and punching.

On the right side of the first housing 2, cabinets 9, 10, and 11 for accommodating transfer papers are provided, and transfer papers of different sizes are set.

The original to be copied is placed at a predetermined position on the contact glass, and is optically scanned by the scanning optical system to expose the original image. The latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum by the exposure operation is developed into a toner image by the image forming means, and the visualized original image is transferred to transfer paper conveyed from the cabinets 9 to 11. Image formation is performed. Then, the transferred transfer paper is discharged to the sorter 14 after being fixed.

In the upper part of the second housing 14, a paper discharge section 17 is formed. Inside the paper discharge section 17, a sorter 15 for sorting the transfer paper on which an image is formed and a punch or staple for the transfer paper are provided. Paper processing unit. The sorter 15 is provided below the paper discharge unit 17 and has a plurality of bins 16 arranged stepwise. Then, the transfer paper on which the image is formed is
In the case of sorting, they are sequentially discharged to the bin 16,
When no sorting is performed, the sheet is discharged to the sheet discharge unit 17. The sheet processing unit can be pulled out of the housing by opening the open / close panel 14a as described later.

Next, the internal structure of the second housing 14 will be described. FIG. 1 is a side view showing the internal configuration of the second housing 14. At an appropriate position on one side of the second housing 14, a carry-in port 14 for guiding the transfer paper discharged from the first housing 2 side into the second housing 14.
b, and a transport path 14 for transporting the transfer paper to the document discharge section 17 or the sorter 15 downstream of the carry-in port 14b.
c and 14d are provided.

The sorter 15 is provided at the downstream end of the transport path 14d, and the sheet processing unit 30 is provided below the transport paths 14c and 14d.

The sorter 15 is provided with a groove 24 in a spiral shape at a predetermined pitch on an outer peripheral portion thereof as an elevating member for the bin 16.
Are provided upright.

The base end 23a of the cylinder 23 is connected to a driving motor 230 provided below the sheet processing unit 30 via a timing belt 231, bevel gears 232, 233 and a timing belt 234. The cylinder 23 is driven to rotate by the motor 230.

The base 23a of the column 23 has
A rotation angle detection device including a pulse plate 235 and a detection sensor 256 is provided, so that the rotation amount of the cylinder 23 is detected.

The bin 16 is composed of a flat plate portion 26 on which the transfer paper is placed and an L-shaped stopper 25 for regulating the fall of the transfer paper and aligning one end thereof.
As will be described later, a flat plate portion 26 is connected via a connecting portion 27 to one end portion of the placed transfer paper so that a predetermined paper process can be performed.
Is releasably connected.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of a main part showing the structure of the connection part 27 of the bin 16, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the main part showing the structure of the connection part 27.

An engagement portion 261 is provided on both sides of the rear end of the flat plate portion 26 of the bin 16, and a fourth pin 262 projects outward from a tip end of the engagement portion 261. .

On the other hand, at both ends of the horizontal plate portion 251 of the stopper 25, protruding pieces 252 are protruded along the side surfaces, and at appropriate places inside the protruding pieces 252, parallel to the horizontal plate portion 251 are provided. An engaging claw 253 that engages with the engaging portion 261 of the flat plate portion 26 protrudes. A fifth pin 254 protrudes outward from the tip of the protruding piece 252, and an elongate hole 255 extending forward and backward is formed at the base of the protruding piece 252.
Are drilled. In addition, as shown in FIG.
On one side of the rear end of 5, a cutout portion 251a, which is partially cutout for a reason described later, is formed.

The stopper 25 is connected to the fourth pin 26
2 is fitted into the elongated hole 255, and the engaging claw 253 is engaged with the engaging portion 261 to be attached to the rear end of the flat plate portion 26. Further, a spring 271 is provided between the fourth pin 262 and the fifth pin 254, and the stopper 25 is urged by the spring 271 so as to be separated from the flat plate portion 26, whereby the engaging claw 253 is formed. And the engagement portion 261 is held.

The stopper 25 is urged by an urging means such as a coil spring (not shown) in a direction in which it is rotated counterclockwise (direction D in the drawing) with the fourth pin 262 as a fulcrum. Even when the engagement between the engagement claw 253 and the engagement portion 261 is released, the stopper 25 rotates clockwise by its own weight so that the rear end of the bin 16 does not open naturally. .

Therefore, the stopper 25 is moved toward the flat plate portion 26 by a predetermined distance so that the engaging claw 253 and the engaging portion 26
After disengagement from the first pin 262, opening and closing are performed by rotating the fourth pin 262 as a fulcrum.

With the above arrangement, when the bin 16 is at the normal sorting position, the stopper 25 of the bin 16 is closed, and the engaging claw 253 is
1, the stopper 25 is rotated by the weight of a large number of transfer papers, and the rear end of the bin 16 is opened.
The transfer paper does not fall into the second housing 14.

When the transfer paper is inserted into the bin 16 for manual paper processing, the stopper 25
Does not rotate halfway, and the transfer paper to be processed is not disturbed. Further, when the operator accidentally puts his hand on the tip side of the bin 16, the bin 1
Since the rear end of the transfer paper 6 is not opened, the transfer paper can be kept aligned.

The above-mentioned engaging claw 253 and engaging portion 261
Is a lock mechanism when the stopper 25 is closed, and is not limited to the above-described configuration.

For example, an engaging piece is protruded inward at an appropriate position on the lower surface of the projecting piece 261, and a notch is formed at an appropriate position on the side of the flat plate portion 26, and the engaging piece is engaged with the bottom surface of the flat plate portion 26. To lock the stopper 25,
May be moved in parallel to the flat plate portion 26 to move the engagement position of the engagement piece to the notch, thereby releasing the lock.

In the above embodiment, when the stopper 25 is moved in a direction to separate the stopper 25 from the flat plate portion 26,
Is engaged with the engaging portion 261 so that the stopper is locked. When the bin 16 is moved to the paper processing device 28 side for performing the paper processing, the stopper is moved to the flat plate portion 26 in accordance with this movement. Although the lock state of the stopper 25 can be released by relative movement so as to approach, the engagement claw 253 engages with the engagement portion 261 when the stopper 25 moves in the direction approaching the flat plate portion 26. You may make it.

After the bin 16 is moved to the sheet processing position, the engagement of the engaging claws 253 may be released, and the stopper 25 may be rotated to open the rear end of the bin 16.

Returning to FIG. 1, first pins 20 are provided on both sides of the front end of the flat plate portion 26, and a second pin 21 and a third pin 22 are provided at appropriate positions on both sides of the rear end. Are provided at predetermined intervals (see FIG. 2). A roller 21a is rotatably provided at the tip of the second pin 21. Preferably, a bearing is provided on the roller 21a. Each bin 16 is provided with a second pin 21.
The roller 21a is fitted in the groove 24 of the column 23 and is provided in the sorter 15 in a stepped manner.

As described above, the roller 21a is provided at the tip end of the second pin 21 to reduce the frictional force between the second pin 21 and the groove 24. In the case of raising and lowering the bin 16, the second pin 21 can smoothly move relative to the groove 24, so that the bin 16 can be easily raised and lowered even when the load is large due to the large number of transfer papers placed thereon. it can.

As will be described later, the bin 16 can be separated from the groove 24 of the cylinder 23 and slid (retracted) toward the paper processing unit 30 when performing paper processing on transfer paper. . Also in this case, the second pin 2
1 is such that the guide rail (not shown) can be smoothly moved via the roller 21a at the tip end, and the bin 16 can be easily slid.

The first pin 20 is engaged with an inclined guide groove provided on both side plates of the sorter 15.
The bin 16 is inclined at a predetermined angle, and assists the sliding of the bin 16. The transfer paper discharged by the inclination of the bin 16 slides down to the rear end side and contacts the stopper 15, so that one end of the transfer paper is aligned.

The third pin 22 is an engagement pin for engaging a regulating portion 581 (see FIG. 7) of the action plate 58, which will be described later, to detach the bin 16 from the cylinder 23.
The sorter 15 moves up and down in conjunction with the movement of the bin 16 up and down.

Next, the structure of the column 23 will be described. FIG. 4 is a side view showing the structure of the cylinder 23.
The groove 24 of the cylinder 23 has a region 241 having an inclination angle α and a region 242 having an inclination angle β (> α).
In this case, each bin 16 is moved up and down by one stage at the above-mentioned predetermined intervals. In addition, the area 242 includes:
It is provided at a position (a position where the transfer paper is discharged) facing the front end of the transport path 14d, and the interval between the bins 16 is set to the area 241.
The paper is easily discharged to the bin 16 by the width which is wider than that in the above.

Further, on the lower edge surface of the groove 24 which is the retreat start position (specific position) B of the second pin 21 of the bin 16, for example, the bin 1 is moved in the retreat direction (the C direction in the drawing).
Notch 243 inclined at an angle γ equal to the inclination angle of No. 6
(See FIG. 5). That is, when performing the sheet processing, the second pin 21 moves from the retreat start position B to a guide rail 60 described later, and
Along with the paper processing position. At this time, the second pin 21 retreats along the inclination of the notch 243 and is smoothly separated from the groove 24.

On the other hand, the groove 24 facing the notch 243
A notch 244 is formed in the upper edge surface of the second pin 21 to smoothly move the second pin 21 from the guide rail 60 to the groove 24 when the cylinder 23 returns to the retreat start position B from the sheet processing position. You can do it.

A roller 21a provided at the end of the second pin 21 of the bin 16 is fitted between rails 210a and 210b which are parallel to the cylinder 23 and are erected in parallel. Not regulated. Further, the rails 210a and 210b are set at a retreat start position B.
4 is notched (not shown in FIG. 4). As shown in FIG. 6, a notch portion of the rail 210b on the retreat side of the bin 16 is movably provided with a regulating portion 581 of the operation plate 58 described later. Has been established. Note that the structure of the restricting portion 581 will be described later.

In the above configuration, the cylinder 23 is
By the rotation of the transfer paper 30 by one rotation, the bin 16 is moved upward or downward by one step at a pitch of the groove 24, and the transfer paper is sorted. Further, when copying and sorting are completed and predetermined paper processing is performed on each transfer paper, the bin 16 on which the transfer paper to be processed is placed is located at the specific position (retreat start position) of the cylinder 23. B, it is retracted by a predetermined distance along the inclination (FIG. 1, lower right direction), and is moved to the sheet processing position.

Returning to FIG. 1, the paper processing unit 30 includes a paper processing device 28 for performing predetermined processing on the transfer papers sorted in the bin 16 and the support frame 2 on which the paper processing device 28 is mounted.
The support frame 29 is mounted on the base so as to be able to reciprocate in the width direction of the paper (the depth direction in the drawing). In addition, the support frame 29 has a mounting base 44 that can reciprocate in the direction of inclination of the bin 16.
The sheet processing device 28 is detachably mounted thereon. By combining the reciprocating movement of the support frame 29 in the depth direction of the drawing and the reciprocating movement of the mounting table 44 in the inclined direction, a predetermined position can be set at an arbitrary position on one side of the transfer paper placed on the bin 16. Processing is performed.

Further, when the stopper 25 of the bin 16 is opened, the transfer paper 86 is pressed and fixed to the flat plate portion 26 of the bin 16 to prevent the transfer paper from dropping. Paper presser.

The paper processing unit 30 and the paper presser 8
6 will be described later in detail.

FIG. 7 is a view showing a mechanism for moving the bin 16. In the figure, 51 is a motor for moving the bin 16 in the front-rear direction, 52 is a worm wheel, 53, 54, 5
5, 56 are gears, and these gears 53, 54, 55, 5
A chain wheel 57 is hung on 6. The rotational force of the motor 51 is transmitted through a worm wheel 52 to a gear 53.
And further transmitted to each gear via a chain wheel 57.

Reference numeral 58 denotes the chain wheel 57 and the connecting portion 5
9 are working plates connected at 9. At the front end of the action plate 58, a restricting portion 581 bent toward the bin 16 is formed. When the bin 16 moves to the retreat start position B of the cylinder 23 as described above, the restricting member 581 is moved to the first position. 2 pin 21
And the third pin 22 (see FIG. 6).
reference).

During the sorting process, the operating plate 58 is disengaged from the groove 24 by bringing the second pin 21 of the bin 16 moved to the retreat start position B into contact with the regulating portion 581 of the operating plate 58. Regulate not to be. When a predetermined process is performed on the transfer sheet, the bin 16 is moved between the retreat start position B and the sheet processing position by pushing the second pin 21 or the third pin 22 by the regulating portion 581. I try to make it.

Reference numeral 60 denotes a guide rail for guiding the moving direction of the operation plate 58 and the second pin 21. The guide rail 60 is inclined at an inclination angle γ equal to the inclination angle of the bin 16 so that the second pin 21 can be smoothly moved from the groove 24 to the guide rail 60.
Reference numerals 61 and 62 detect the presence / absence of the action plate 58 and regulate a range of movement thereof.
And the second sensor.

Reference numeral 71 denotes an eccentric cam having an abutment portion 71a formed at an appropriate position on the outer peripheral portion. The eccentric cam 71 is connected to the bin 16
Is retracted to the sheet processing position, the engaging claw 253 of the stopper 25 is released from the engaging portion 261 of the flat plate portion 26, and the stopper 25 is rotated clockwise to open the rear end of the bin 16. is there.

Reference numeral 73 denotes a cylindrical stay rotatably provided on the rotating shaft 72 of the eccentric cam 71.
The lower surface of the bin 16 is configured to contact the outer peripheral surface of the stay 73 when the bin 16 is retracted to the sheet processing position. The stay 73 prevents the transfer paper placed on the bin 16 from being bent when the paper presser 86 presses the transfer paper, and assists the fixing of the transfer paper by the paper presser 86.

Reference numeral 74 denotes a motor for driving the eccentric cam 71 to rotate. Reference numerals 75, 76, and 77 denote worm wheels and gears for transmitting the driving force of the motor 74 to the rotating shaft 72 of the eccentric cam 71, respectively. And a chain wheel. Reference numeral 78 denotes a pulse plate that rotates integrally with the gear 76, and reference numeral 79 denotes a third sensor that detects the amount of rotation of the gear 76 by the pulse plate 78 and includes a photo interrupter or the like. The release amount of the stopper 25 is set to a predetermined amount by the third sensor 79.

In the above configuration, when a predetermined process is performed by the sheet processing device 28, when the motor 51 is driven to rotate, the gear 53 is rotated through the worm wheel 52, and the chain hung on the gears 53, 54, 55, 56. The wheel 57 rotates counterclockwise (direction E in the figure). The rotation of the chain wheel 57 causes the connection portion 5
The action plate 58 connected at 9 starts to retreat (lower right in FIG. 7) along the guide rail 60.

At this time, the regulating portion 581 of the action plate 58
The third pin 22 of the bin 16 is pressed to release the second pin 21 of the bin 16 from the groove 24 of the cylinder 23. Bin 16
After moving away from the cylinder 23, it moves along the guide rail 60 as the action plate 58 moves.

When the operation plate 58 is retracted by a predetermined distance, the operation plate 58 is detected by the second sensor 62, and the motor 51 is stopped based on the detection result. Accordingly, the bin 16 also moves backward by a predetermined distance and stops at the sheet processing position (the state in FIG. 8).

On the other hand, when the predetermined processing by the paper processing device 28 is completed and the bin 16 is returned to the original state, the motor 5
1 is rotated in the reverse direction to rotate the chain wheel 57 in the reverse direction. By the reverse rotation of the chain wheel 57, the operation plate 58 starts to move forward (upper left direction in FIG. 8) along the guide rail 60.

As the action plate 58 moves forward, the bin 1
6 is pressed by the regulating member 581, and the bin 1
6 moves forward. When the operation plate 58 advances by a predetermined distance, the operation plate 58 is detected by the first sensor 61, and the motor 51 is stopped based on the detection result.
Accordingly, the bin 16 also moves forward by a predetermined distance, and stops at the retreat start position B (the state of FIG. 7).

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the paper holding mechanism. In the drawing, reference numeral 81 denotes a motor for driving the paper press, and reference numerals 82, 83, 84 and 85 denote gears. The rotational force of the motor 81 is transmitted to the gears 84 and 85 through the gears 82 and 83. 86 is a paper presser for pressing and fixing the transfer paper, and 88 is a link bar connecting the gear 85 and the paper presser 86. The upper end of the link rod 88 is rotatably attached to an eccentric position on the side surface of the gear 85. 89 is a guide rail for guiding the moving direction of a connection point 92 between the link rod 88 and the paper presser 86, and 87 is a guide rail that guides the connection point and the paper presser 86.
A suitable pressing force is applied in accordance with the number of sorted transfer sheets.

Reference numeral 90 denotes a pulse plate which rotates integrally with the gear 84, and reference numeral 91 denotes a fourth sensor which detects the amount of rotation of the gear 84 by the pulse plate 90 and is constituted by a photo interrupter or the like.

In the above configuration, when the motor 81 is rotated in a predetermined direction, the gear 85 is rotated clockwise (in the direction G in the drawing) through the gears 82, 83, 84, thereby being connected by the link rod 88. The paper presser 86 descends along the guide rail 89. On the other hand, the pulse plate 90 also rotates integrally with the rotation of the gear 84. When the pulse plate 90 rotates by a predetermined amount, the pulse sensor 90 is detected by the fourth sensor 91, and the driving of the motor 81 is performed based on the detection result. Stopped. As a result, the paper presser 86 is lowered by a predetermined amount.

When the paper presser 86 descends to the transfer paper placed in the bin 16 (not shown), the paper presser 86 comes into contact with the transfer paper to regulate the lowering operation, while being urged downward by the force of the spring 87,
Thus, the transfer paper is pressed and fixed to the bin 16 side.

On the other hand, when the motor 81 is further rotated, the paper presser 86 connected by the link rod 88 is moved by the guide rail 8.
9, and the pressing operation of the transfer paper is released. When the gear 85 makes exactly one rotation, the rotation position is detected by the pulse plate 90 and the fourth sensor 91,
The driving of the motor 81 is stopped based on the detection result.

Next, the operation of releasing the stopper 25 so that a predetermined process can be performed on the pressed and fixed transfer paper will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 (a) to 10 (c).

FIG. 10A shows a state where the bin 16 is moving backward. Also, FIG.
FIG. 7C is a diagram illustrating a state in which the bin 16 is retracted to the sheet processing position, and FIG. 9C is a diagram illustrating a state in which the stopper 25 of the bin 16 is being opened at the sheet processing position.

As described above, the bin 16 is at the retreat start position B
, The stopper 25 of the bin 16 is closed, and the engaging claw 253 is engaged with the engaging portion 261 of the flat plate portion 26 and is locked to the flat plate portion 26.

When the bin 16 is retracted from the retreat start position B with the stopper 25 locked on the flat plate portion 26 as shown in FIG. The second pin 21 of the bin 16 as shown in b)
Comes into contact with the contact portion 71a of the eccentric cam 71, and the stopper 25
Moves forward in the G direction relative to the flat plate portion 26, and the engaging claw 253 is released from the engaging portion 261 of the flat plate portion 26.

After the bin 16 is stopped at the paper processing position, the paper presser 86 is lowered at a predetermined timing, and the transfer paper placed in the bin 16 is pressed and fixed as described above. At this time, the transfer paper and the flat plate portion 26 of the bin 16 are pressed downward, but the stay 73 is in contact with the lower surface of the bin 16 facing the paper presser 86. Deflection is prevented, and the transfer paper is pressed and fixed without bending or displacement.

When the paper press is completed, the eccentric cam 71 is rotated clockwise (in the direction H in the drawing) by a predetermined amount at a predetermined timing as described above. Due to the rotation of the eccentric cam 71, the fifth pin 254 of the stopper 25 slides on the outer peripheral surface of the eccentric cam 71 as shown in FIG. The stopper 25 is moved upward in response to
The bin 16 is rotated clockwise in the figure with the fulcrum 6b as a fulcrum, and the rear end of the bin 16 is opened.

On the other hand, when the paper processing is completed and the rear end of the bin 16 is closed, the eccentric cam 71 is rotated by a predetermined amount in the reverse direction. The stopper 25 is provided with a rotating force counterclockwise in the figure with the pin 262 as a fulcrum by the urging means (not shown) as described above, so that the stopper 25 slides on the outer peripheral surface of the eccentric cam 71, and Rotate in the opposite direction,
The eccentric cam 71 is stopped at a position where the eccentric cam 71 comes into contact with the contact portion 71a (the state shown in FIG. 2B).

In the above embodiment, a stay 73 having a predetermined diameter is provided on the rotating shaft 72 of the eccentric cam 71, and the eccentric cam 71
The bottom of the bin 16 is brought into contact with the stay 73 irrespective of the rotation operation of the bin to prevent the bin 16 from bending when the transfer paper is pressed and fixed by the paper presser 86.
The stay 73 ′ may be brought into contact with the bottom surface of the bin 16 in conjunction with the rotation of, and the bottom surface of the bin 16 may be reinforced to prevent bending when the stopper 25 is opened.

FIG. 11 is a side view showing a second embodiment for preventing the bin 16 from bending. Bin 16 shown in FIG.
Of the eccentric cam 7 as shown in FIG.
1 at a predetermined eccentric position in parallel with the rotating shaft 72.
3 'is provided, and the stay 7 is interlocked with the rotation of the eccentric cam 71.
3 'is rotated about a rotation shaft 72.

By this mechanism, the stay 73 'is rotated toward the bottom surface of the bin 16 in conjunction with the rotation of the stopper 25 by the rotation of the eccentric cam 71, as shown in FIG.
When the stopper 25 is open, the stay 7
3 'abuts against the bottom surface of the bin 16 to prevent the bin 16 from bending due to the pressing of the transfer paper by the paper presser 86.

The cross-sectional shape of the stay 73 'is not limited to a circle, but may be any shape such as an ellipse, and an appropriate size can be used. In particular, when the stopper 25 is formed in a substantially C-shape, the outer peripheral surface of the stay 73 'can be brought into contact with the bottom surface of the bin 16 during the period from the start to the end of the opening of the stopper 25, so that the stay is more flexible than the rod-shaped stay 73'. The effect can be further improved.

Further, a mounting member may be provided on the rotating shaft 72, and the stay 73 'may be provided in parallel with the rotating shaft 72 at a predetermined interval via the mounting member.

Next, the configuration of the sheet processing unit 30 will be described. The sheet processing device 28 is detachable from the support frame 29. The configuration will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 12 is an external view showing a schematic configuration of the support frame 29 with the sheet processing device 28 removed. FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view mainly showing the structure of the support frame 29 as viewed from the side.

The support frame 29 includes a slide table 42 and a mounting table 44.
And consists of Reference numeral 31 denotes a belt horizontally arranged on the left and right sides of the upper part of the sheet processing unit 30 and is reciprocally movable by a motor 32 (see FIG. 13). The slide table 42 reciprocates the support frame 29 in the left-right direction by the rotation of the belt 31. In addition, 100 and 101 are the slide tables 42,
These rollers are provided so as to move smoothly with respect to the sheet processing unit 30 corresponding to the stationary side.

The mount 44 moves the paper processing device 28 forward and backward along the slope by the rotation of the motor 43. 102, 103, 10
Reference numerals 4 and 105 denote rollers provided so that the mount 44 smoothly moves with respect to the slide 42 corresponding to the stationary side when the mount 44 moves.

The driving mechanism of the mounting base 44 will now be described. Referring to FIG.
Reference numerals 143 and 143 denote gears, which are provided coaxially with 141 and 142 and transmit the generated torque of the motor 43 while increasing the torque. Further, 144 is a pulse plate that rotates integrally with the gear 143, 145 is a cylindrical cylinder, and 146 is rotatably attached to an eccentric position on the upper surface of the pulse plate 144 and a lower portion of the cylinder 145, respectively. It is a connecting rod for connecting the pulse plate 144 and the cylinder 145. Reference numeral 147 denotes a cylindrical guide rod mounted on the slide table 42 side, and has the same inclination as the guide rail 60 for guiding the bin 16 to move backward.

The cylindrical body 145 is provided with a guide rod 147.
(See FIG. 12), and reciprocates along the guide rod 147 by the rotation of the pulse plate 144. 149 is a notch provided in the mounting base 44, and the cylindrical body 145 contacts the edge of the notch 149 to move the mounting base 44 in the front-rear direction.

Reference numeral 148 denotes a fifth sensor for detecting the rotation amount of the pulse plate 144, which is constituted by a photo interrupter or the like.

In the above configuration, when the motor 43 rotates and the pulse plate 144 starts rotating through the gears 140, 141, 142 and 143, the cylinder 145 is moved forward through the connecting rod 146 and integrated therewith. Then, the mounting base 44 is moved forward toward the paper side along the inclination.

Then, the rotation amount of the pulse plate 144 is detected by the fifth sensor 148, and the motor 43 is stopped at a predetermined position. As a result, the sheet is set on the table 151 and the auxiliary table 152 of the punch 40 or the table 154 of the stapler 41.

To return the mounting base 44 to the initial position, the motor 43 is further rotated in the same direction, and the fifth sensor 148
When it is detected that the mounting base 44 has returned to the initial position, the motor 43 is stopped.

Referring back to FIG. 12, reference numeral 106 denotes a T-shaped bracket screwed at two points, which passes through a slit 107 provided at a lower portion of the punch 40 to assist in fixing the punch 40. Reference numeral 108 denotes a connector 10 provided on the punch 40 side.
9 (see FIG. 14), the punch 4
A signal line or the like for operation control is connected to 0.
The connector 108 is provided with two holes 110 into which pins (not shown) for assisting fixing are inserted.

The punch 40 is attached to the mounting table 42 by connecting the connector 108 to the connector 109 while passing the T-shaped bracket 106 through the slit 107 and screwing the holes through holes 111 and 112 at one place. .
The hole 112 can be adjusted in the direction in which the hole 112 comes into contact with or separates from the sheet.

On the other hand, reference numeral 113 denotes a U-shaped fitting screwed at two points, which sandwiches the stapler 41 from both sides by its elastic force to assist in fixing the stapler 41. A connector 114 is connected to a connector 115 (see FIG. 15) provided on the stapler 41 side, and connects a signal line or the like for controlling the operation of the stapler 41. The connector 114 is provided with two holes 116 for inserting pins (not shown) for assisting fixing.

The stapler 41 is attached to the mounting table 42 by sandwiching the stapler 41 from both sides by the elastic force of the U-shaped fitting 113, connecting the connector 114 to the connector 115, and screwing the connector 114 through the holes 117 and 118 at one place.

Next, the structure of the punch 40 and the stapler 41 as an example of the sheet processing device 28 will be briefly described.

FIG. 14 is an external view showing a schematic configuration of the punch 40, and FIG. 15 is an external view showing a schematic configuration of the stapler 41. Note that a drive mechanism and the like are omitted in FIGS. 14 and 15.

In FIG. 14, reference numeral 150 denotes a punching blade for punching a sheet, and 151 denotes a table on which the sheet is set when punching. On both sides of the table 151, auxiliary tables 152 for preventing the paper from hanging are provided. Inclined portions 151a and 152a for smoothing the setting of the paper are provided at the leading ends of the table 151 and the auxiliary table 152, respectively. In other words, the inclined portions 151a and 152a are for scooping up the leading end of the sheet to be processed when the leading end of the sheet is hung by releasing the stopper 25 and setting the sheet to the set position.

In FIG. 15, reference numeral 153 denotes a staple binding section for binding paper with staples. Reference numeral 154 denotes a table on which paper is set when stapling.

In the stapling process, when the stapling is performed at the position of the cutout portion 251a of the stopper 25, the stopper 25 is not released. Therefore, the auxiliary table 152 is not particularly required. Are the table 151 of the punch 40 and the auxiliary table 15
2 serves as an auxiliary stand for the stapler 41, and
Since the hanging paper is also scooped, stapler 4
1 includes the auxiliary table 152 and the inclined portions 151a, 152a.
Is not provided.

The auxiliary table 152 and the inclined section 151
It is sufficient that a and 152a are provided on at least one of the punch 40 and the stapler 41.

Next, the sheet processing unit 30 is detachable from the second housing 14, and the structure thereof will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG.
FIG. 1 shows a state in which the support frame 29 from which the sheet processing device 28 has been removed is placed on the sheet processing unit 30.
FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram viewed from the arrow A direction of FIG. FIG.
FIG. 2 is an external view showing a schematic configuration inside the second housing 14 from which the sheet processing unit 30 is removed.

Reference numeral 130 denotes a roller, and a rectangular cut groove 131 is provided at a position corresponding to the second housing 14. 132, 133, 134, 135 and 136 are gears, and the belt 31 is gears 134, 135 and 136.
It is hung on.

Reference numeral 137 denotes a sixth sensor for detecting the initial position of the slide table 42, which is constituted by a photo interrupter or the like. Note that the initial position is set on the near side of the second housing 14, and when the slide table 42 is located at the initial position, the transfer sheet is stapled to a position facing the notch 251 of the stopper 25. You can do it.

In the above configuration, when the motor 32 rotates and the gear 134 starts rotating through the gears 132 and 133, the belt 31 rotates, and the sliding table 42 moves in the left and right direction, that is, the width of the paper sheet pressed and fixed. Move in a direction parallel to the direction. The control of the moving distance of the slide table 42 is performed based on the operation time of the motor 32 or the number of motor drive pulses with reference to the initial position and the like.

When the slide table 42 is returned to the initial position, the motor 32 is rotated in the reverse direction, and when the sixth sensor 137 detects the slide table 42, the motor 32 is stopped.

The sheet processing unit 30 is configured such that its front side is longer than the width of the bin 16 by, for example, about the dimension length of the punch 40, and only by opening the panel of the second housing 14, the outer sheet processing device 28, For example, maintenance and inspection work can be performed on the forty.

When the paper processing unit 30 is pulled out to the near side, the roller 130 comes into contact with the front edge 131a of the rectangular cut groove 131 and stops temporarily. At this temporary stop position, the rollers 130 and the cut grooves 131 are set so that the support frame 29 is pulled out substantially toward the front from the second housing 14. Therefore, in this state, maintenance work and the like can be performed on the inner sheet processing device 28, that is, the stapler 41.

When the paper processing unit 30 is to be further pulled out, it can be pulled down slightly to release the engagement between the roller 130 and the edge 131a, and can be easily pulled out by the roller 130.

Next, an operation procedure when actually performing the sheet processing will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure when performing paper processing. When the position and type of the sheet processing are selected by the selection key 13, the operation of the sheet processing starts.

First, the position at which the paper processing is performed is determined (step S1). When processing is performed only at one corner of the initial position side of the sheet processing device 28 (YE in step S1)
S), the process proceeds to step S2 to perform the process (hereinafter referred to as a specific mode), and the process is performed when the position where the sheet processing is performed is not only one corner on the initial position side of the sheet processing device 28 or at one or more other positions (Step S1
NO), the process proceeds to step S3 to perform the process (hereinafter, referred to as a normal mode).

First, the processing procedure in the specific mode will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure in the specific mode, that is, when the stapling process is performed only at one corner of the sheet.

First, the action plate 58 is driven, and the bin 16 on which the sheet to be stapled is placed is moved backward to a predetermined position (sheet processing position) toward the stapler 41 (step S11). . When the backward movement is completed, the paper is pressed and fixed by the paper presser 86 (Step S).
12).

Next, the sheet is set on the table 154 of the stapler 41 by moving the mounting table 44 forward at the initial position (step S13). Since the notch 251a is formed in the one corner at the stopper 25, the operation of releasing the stopper 25 becomes unnecessary. Then, the stapler 41 is operated to bind the sheets by the stapling operation (step S14).

When the stapling operation is completed, the mounting table 44
Is retracted to retract the stapler 41 from the sheet and return to the original position (step S15). Next, the paper presser 86 is released (step S16), and the bin 16 on which the stapling process has been completed is moved forward to return to the original position (retreat start position) (step S17).

Next, it is determined whether or not the stapling process has been performed on all the stages of the bin 16 on which the sheets are placed, and if not completed (NO in step S18), the cylinder 23 is driven. Then, the bin 16 is moved by one stage (step S19). At this time, if the staple process has been started from the lower side of the bin 16, the staple process is raised by one stage, and vice versa. Then, the processing of steps S11 to S18 is repeated for the newly moved bin 16. On the other hand, if the stapling process has been completed for all the required bins (YES in step S18), this process ends.

Next, the processing procedure in the normal mode will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the normal mode, for example, when punching two places symmetrical in the width direction of the sheet. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the movement of the punch 40 and the punch position of the sheet at the retracted position.

First, the punch 40 is moved forward from the initial position (A) in the width direction of the sheet and stopped at the position (A) facing the first punch position (C) (step S21). Next, bin 1 on which the sheet to be subjected to the punching process is placed
6 is retracted to a predetermined position (paper processing position) (step S22). Subsequently, the paper is pressed and fixed by the paper presser 86 (step S23). When the pressing and fixing of the paper is completed, the stopper 25 of the bin 16 is released (step S2).
4). Since the sheet is already fixed in step S23, even if the stopper 25 is released, the sheet does not slip down.

Next, the sheet is set on the table 151 and the auxiliary table 152 of the punch 40 by moving the mounting table 44 forward (step S25). Then, the punch 40 is operated to make a hole in the sheet (step S26). When the punching at the first punch position (c) is completed, the punch 40 is continuously moved in the forward movement direction and stopped at the second punch position (d) (step S27). And
The punch 40 is operated to make a hole in the sheet (step S28). Then, when the perforation is completed, the punch 40 is retracted to the position (E) by retracting the mounting table 44 and retracted from the sheet (step S29).

Next, the stopper 25 of the bin 16 is returned from the released state to the set state (step S30).
The paper presser 86 is released (step S31). Then, the punched bin 16 is advanced to return to the original position (retreat start position) (step S32).

Next, it is determined whether or not the punching process has been performed on all the stages of the bin 16 on which the sheets are placed. If the punching process has not been completed (NO in step S33), the bin 16
Is moved by one step (step S35). At this time,
If the punching process is started from the lower side of the bin 16,
It is raised one step at a time, and conversely, it is lowered one step at a time.

Further, the punch 40 is moved backward from the position (e) in the width direction of the sheet and stopped at the position (a) facing the first punch position (c) (step S36). Then, step S22 is performed on the newly moved bin 16.
To S33 are repeated.

On the other hand, if the punching process has been completed for all the required bins (YES in step S33), the process proceeds to step S33.
Proceeding to 34, the punch 40 is returned to the initial position (A), and this processing ends.

Note that the method of moving the punch 40 is not limited to the above method. For example, step S3
At position 6, without returning from position (e) to position (a), position (e)
To stop at Then, for the next sheet, a hole is made first from the second position (d). Next, a hole is made in the first position (C), and the hole is retracted to the position (A). In this manner, the order in which the holes are formed in the first position (c) and the second position (d) can be alternately changed each time the paper is replaced.

Although the punching process has been described here, the stapling process can be performed under the same control. In this case, since the stapler 41 is placed adjacent to the punch 40 and thus has a different initial position, it is necessary to control the position of the mounting table 42 in the reciprocating movement direction by that distance.

Further, here, the control in the case where the number of processing positions is two has been described. However, the control can be performed in the case where there are more processing positions, and the processing can be performed for any desired set position. Can be applied.
Further, the initial position may be on the rear surface (depth) side of the image forming apparatus 1, and in this case, the second housing 14 may be used.
An opening / closing panel for maintenance and inspection is provided on the rear side of the vehicle.

In the present embodiment, the punch 40 and the stapler 41 have been described as examples of the paper processing device 28. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and any printing device or any other device that performs processing on paper may be used.

In the above embodiment, when the sheet processing device 28 is positioned at the processing position with respect to the sheet and is controlled by controlling the rotation amount of the motor 43, the present invention is not limited to this. A paper presence / absence detection switch that detects the presence of paper and turns on near the processing unit 28 may be provided, and the position of the motor 43 may be turned on and off by turning on and off the switch.

By providing the paper presence / absence detection switch in this way, for example, if the paper is removed from the bin 16 after the sorting process and before the paper processing operation, this switch remains off. Paper processing device 2
8 can be prevented.

[0129]

As described above, according to the present invention,
A flat plate portion having an engaged portion formed thereon and an engaging portion rotatably supported by the rear end of the flat plate portion and capable of engaging with the engaged portion at a position for closing a rear end of the bin. When the stopper is in the closed position at the rear end of the bin, the engaging portion is engaged with the engaged portion to inhibit rotation of the stopper, and the paper processing is performed. The rear end of the bin is opened to expose the rear end of the transfer paper only when applying, so the rear end of the bin is unnecessarily opened, and the transfer paper may fall from the bin or paper misalignment may occur. Is prevented. Thereby, the sheet processing can be performed accurately.

Further, the stopper is rotatable with respect to the rear end of the flat plate portion, and is parallel to the flat plate portion at a position where the rear end of the bin is closed in order to engage and disengage the engaging portion. Since the relative movement is possible, the stopper can be easily locked and unlocked, and the stopper can be securely locked to maintain the closed state of the bin rear end.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a side view showing an internal configuration of a second housing.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of a main part showing a structure of a bottle.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a main part showing a structure of a connection part of the bottle.

FIG. 4 is a side view showing the structure of a cylinder.

FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG.

FIG. 6 is a side view showing the structure of a cylinder.

FIG. 7 is a side view showing a bin moving mechanism.

FIG. 8 is a side view illustrating a state in which the bin has moved to a sheet processing position.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a paper pressing mechanism.

FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the opening operation of the stopper accompanying the retreat of the bin. (A) is a side view of a main part showing a state in which the bin is in the process of retreating, (b) is a side view of a main part showing a state in which the bin is retreated to the sheet processing position, and (c) is a state where the stopper of the bin is opened. It is a principal part side view which shows the state on the way.

FIG. 11 is a side view showing a second embodiment of a stay for preventing transfer paper from bending. FIG. 3A is a side view of a main part showing a state in which the bin is retracted to the sheet processing position, and FIG. 3B is a side view of a main part showing a state in which the stopper of the bin is being opened.

FIG. 12 is an external view illustrating a schematic configuration of a support frame in a state where a sheet processing apparatus is removed.

FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view mainly showing the structure of the support frame as viewed from the side.

FIG. 14 is an external view showing a schematic configuration of a punch.

FIG. 15 is an external view showing a schematic configuration of a stapler.

FIG. 16 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a state in which a support frame is placed on a sheet processing unit.

FIG. 17 is an external view showing a schematic configuration inside a second housing.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an operation when performing paper processing.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an operation in a specific mode.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an operation in a normal mode.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating movement of a punch.

FIG. 22 is an external view illustrating the entire image forming apparatus.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 2 1st housing 3 Automatic document feeder 4 Document placement part 5 Document carry-in part 6 Document transfer part 7 Document carry-out part 9, 10, 11 Cabinet 12 Operation panel 13 Selection key 14 Second housing 14a Open / close Panel 14b Carrying entrance 14c, 14d Conveying path 15 Sorter 16 Bin 17 Paper discharge unit 20, 21, 22, 254, 262 Pin 21a Roller 23 Column 24 Groove 25 Stopper 26 Flat plate unit 27, 59 Connection unit 28 Paper processing device 29 Support frame Body 30 Paper processing unit 31 Belt 32, 43, 51, 74, 81, 230 Motor 40 Punch 41 Stapler 42 Slide table 44 Mounting table 52, 75 Worm wheel 53, 54, 55, 56, 76, 82, 83, 84 , 8
5 Gear 57, 77 Chain wheel 58 Working plate 60, 89 Guide rail 61, 62, 79, 91 Sensor 71 Eccentric cam 71a Contact portion 73, 73 'Stay 78, 90, 144, 235 Pulse plate 86 Paper press 87, 271 Spring 88 Link rod 244 Notch 210a, 210b Rail 231,234 Timing belt 232,233 Bevel gear 236 Detection sensor 261 Engagement unit 251 Horizontal plate 252 Projection 253 Engagement claw 581 Restriction

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (58) Field surveyed (Int. Cl. ⁷ , DB name) B65H 31/00-31/40 B65H 39/00-39/16 B65H 37/04

Claims (2)

(57) [Claims] 1. A bin capable of exposing a rear end side of a stacked transfer sheet, and sheet processing means for performing predetermined sheet processing on a rear end side of the transfer sheet, wherein A sorter with a sheet processing function capable of performing a predetermined sheet processing at an arbitrary position, wherein the bin is rotatably supported by a flat plate portion having an engaged portion and a rear end of the flat plate portion. A stopper formed with an engaging portion capable of engaging with the engaged portion at a position where the rear end of the bin is closed. A lock means for engaging the engaged portion with the engaged portion to inhibit rotation of the stopper, and a lock for releasing the engagement of the engaging portion when exposing the rear end side of the transfer sheet for performing the sheet processing. A sorter with a sheet processing function, comprising: a release unit. 2. The sorter with a sheet processing function according to claim 1, wherein the stopper is rotatable at a rear end of the flat plate portion, and is provided at the rear end of the bin for engaging and disengaging the engaging portion. A driving means for moving the stopper in parallel at a position where the end is closed, in parallel with the flat plate portion, and for moving the stopper in parallel at a position where the end of the bin is closed, and for locking and unlocking the stopper. A sorter with a sheet processing function, comprising: a drive control means for controlling driving of the drive means.