JP4872796B2 - Paper processing apparatus and control method thereof - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention is a paper that can be applied to an apparatus that performs a punching process on recording paper output from a black-and-white and color copiers, printing apparatuses, and the like, and performs a process of binding a binding component on the recording paper after the punching process. The present invention relates to a processing apparatus and a control method thereof.

  Specifically, the binding part taken out from the binding part storage unit by the binding unit is detected and detection information is output, and based on this detection information, it is determined whether or not the binding part is defective, and the binding unit is controlled. As a result, when the binding component is not properly taken out, the operation of the binding unit is stopped so that the sheet bundle immediately before the binding process can be maintained in a predetermined shape.

  In recent years, paper processing apparatuses that perform punching and binding processes are often used in combination with black-and-white and color copiers and printing apparatuses. According to this type of sheet processing apparatus, a recording sheet after image formation is received, and the sheet is punched using a punch function on the downstream side of the sheet. The plurality of sheets after perforation are aligned again, and the binding parts are automatically inserted and fitted into the holes formed in the plurality of sheets after perforation by the binding means. For example, the binding component is stacked and stored in a box-shaped storage unit. Among the binding components stored in the storage unit, the binding components in the foremost row are automatically taken out one by one by the binding means, and inserted into the hole of the sheet and fitted.

  In relation to such a sheet processing apparatus, Patent Document 1 discloses a binder processing apparatus. According to this binder processing apparatus, among the binders (binding components) stacked and accommodated in the binder cartridge, the front row binder is slid to the right by the slider of the binder lateral movement mechanism and separated from the rear row binder. The separated unfolded binder is pushed from both sides by a pusher (binding means) and fitted to the paper. Thereby, a continuous binder process can be performed by loading a large number of binders into the cartridge.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-59396 (FIG. 3 on page 6)

  However, according to the conventional method and the binding processing device according to Patent Document 1, when the binder stacked and stored in the binder cartridge is caught in the middle of the binder cartridge, for example, or the remaining binder number becomes zero, There is a problem in that a binding component take-out failure occurs. In this case, it is not possible to determine whether or not a binding component take-out failure has occurred, and the binding process is continued by the binding means, and a booklet with a binding failure may occur.

  Accordingly, the present invention solves the above-described problem, and enables the operation of the binding means to be stopped when a binding component take-out failure occurs, and maintains the sheet bundle immediately before the binding process in a predetermined shape. It is an object of the present invention to provide a sheet processing apparatus and a control method therefor that can be performed.

In order to solve the above-described problem, the sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1 of the present invention creates a booklet by binding a binding component into a predetermined number of holes perforated at a predetermined position of each of a plurality of sheets. A paper processing apparatus, a binding component storage unit that stores the binding component, a binding unit that takes out the binding component from the binding component storage unit, and binds the binding component into a hole of the paper, and the binding unit extracts the binding component. Detecting the binding component and outputting detection information; and determining whether the binding component is defective or not based on the detection information output from the detection unit. Control means for controlling, and the detection means is an arm part rotatably attached to a predetermined position of the binding component storage part by a shaft member, and a reflection that is provided at one end of the arm part and reflects light. Part and said An operation part having a predetermined shape provided at the other end of the part and operated by contact of the binding component held by the binding means, a defining part for defining a stop position of the arm part, and an arm on the defining part An urging member for urging the part, and a detection part that emits light to the reflection part and detects light from the reflection part, and the operation part is an extension extended in a vertical direction from the arm part And a first inclined portion and a second inclined portion in which a tip of the extension portion is inclined in a predetermined direction, and the reflecting portion is configured such that the binding component held by the binding means is operated from the vertical direction. By contacting the first inclined portion of the portion, the reflecting portion is rotated, and the binding component held by the binding means contacts the second inclined portion of the operation portion from the anti-vertical direction. As a result, the reflecting portion is rotated, and the detecting portion is rotated. It emits light to the reflective portion and is characterized that you detect the light from the reflective unit.

According to the sheet processing apparatus of the present invention, a binding component is created by binding a binding component into a hole punched at a predetermined position of each of a plurality of sheets, and the binding component storage unit stores the binding component. . The binding means takes out the binding component from the binding component storage unit and binds the binding component to the hole of the sheet. The detection means detects the binding component taken out by the binding means and outputs detection information. In the detection unit, the binding component held by the binding unit is brought into contact with the first inclined portion of the operation unit from the vertical direction by the reflection unit, so that the reflection unit is rotated and the binding unit held by the binding unit. When the component comes into contact with the second inclined portion of the operation unit from the anti-vertical direction, the reflection unit is rotated, and the detection unit emits light to the rotated reflection unit. To detect light. Based on this detection information, the control means determines whether or not the binding component is defective, and controls the binding means. For example, the control unit controls the binding unit to stop when it is determined that the detection information indicates an extraction failure. As a result, when a binding component take-out failure occurs, the sheet bundle immediately before the binding process can be maintained in a predetermined shape. In addition, the creation of defective booklets for the second and subsequent books can be interrupted.

In order to solve the above-described problem, a control method for a sheet processing apparatus according to claim 5 of the present invention is a booklet in which a binding component is bound in a predetermined number of holes perforated at predetermined positions of each of a plurality of sheets. The sheet processing apparatus is configured to control a binding component storage unit that stores the binding component, take out the binding component from the binding component storage unit, and transfer the binding component to the sheet. A binding unit that binds to the hole, a detection unit that detects the binding component taken out by the binding unit and outputs detection information, and a defective pickup of the binding component based on the detection information output from the detection unit Control means for controlling whether or not the binding means, and the detection means includes an arm portion rotatably attached to a predetermined position of the binding component storage portion by a shaft member; Arm A reflection portion that is provided at one end and reflects light; an operation portion that is provided at the other end of the arm portion and is operated when a binding component held by the binding means is in contact; and the arm portion A prescribing part for prescribing the stop position, a biasing member for biasing the arm part to the prescribing part, and a detection part for emitting light to the reflecting part and detecting light from the reflecting part, The operation portion includes an extension portion extending in a vertical direction from the arm portion, and first and second inclined portions in which tips of the extension portions are inclined in a predetermined direction. A step of taking out the binding component from a predetermined binding component storage unit by a binding means, a step of detecting the binding component and outputting detection information while taking out the binding component, and based on the output detection information , Whether or not the binding parts are defective Betsushite running and controlling the binding means, said reflecting portion, by binding component held by said binding means, abuts the vertical direction to the first inclined portion of the operation portion, the reflective portion Is rotated and the binding part held by the binding means abuts on the second inclined part of the operation part from the anti-vertical direction, whereby the reflection part is rotated, and the detection part is Light is emitted to the rotated reflection part, and light from the reflection part is detected .

According to the sheet processing apparatus and the control method thereof according to the present invention, a booklet is created by binding a binding component into a hole punched at a predetermined position of each of a plurality of sheets, and the binding unit stores the binding unit. When detecting the binding component taken out by the printer and outputting detection information, and determining whether the binding component is defective or not based on the detection information and controlling the binding means , the reflecting portion is controlled by the binding means. When the held binding component comes into contact with the first inclined portion of the operation unit from the vertical direction, the reflection unit is rotated and the binding component held by the binding unit is moved from the anti-vertical direction to the operation unit. By abutting against the second inclined portion, the reflecting portion is rotated, and the detecting portion emits light to the rotated reflecting portion and detects light from the reflecting portion .

  With this configuration, when a binding component take-out failure occurs, the operation of the binding unit can be stopped, and the sheet bundle immediately before the binding process can be maintained in a predetermined shape. Accordingly, the binding process can be started again using the sheet bundle maintained in a predetermined shape.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a sheet processing apparatus and a control method thereof according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  1A and 1B are schematic views showing a configuration example of a binding device 100 as a first embodiment according to the present invention. The binding apparatus 100 constitutes an example of a sheet processing apparatus that creates a booklet by binding a binding component (consumable) in a hole punched at a predetermined position of each of a plurality of sheets, and is output from a copier or a printing apparatus. This is a device that punches a recording sheet (hereinafter simply referred to as a sheet), then performs a binding process with a predetermined binding component, and discharges the recording sheet. The binding apparatus 100 is preferably used side by side with a copying machine, a printing apparatus (image forming apparatus), and the like, and has a height similar to that of a copying machine, a printing machine, or the like.

  A binding device 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A includes a device main body (housing) 101. A right door 70 and a left door 71 are provided on the front side of the apparatus main body 101. The right door 70 and the left door 71 are attached to the apparatus main body 101 so as to be openable and closable by hinges (not shown). The binding device 100 includes a stacker 63 below the left door 71. The stacker 63 is provided with a stacker tray 73. The stacker tray 73 receives a booklet in which a binding component is bound to a sheet bundle and is discharged, and adjusts the height according to the thickness and the number of booklets of the booklet and accumulates the booklet. Further, the stacker 63 is provided with a stacker window 72 for confirming the number of accumulated booklets on the front side of the apparatus main body 101.

  1B is a state where the right door 70 and the left door 71 of the binding device 100 shown in FIG. 1A are opened. In the apparatus main body 101, a paper transport unit 10 is provided. The paper transport unit 10 includes a first transport path 11 and a second transport path 12. The conveyance path 11 conveys a sheet output from a copier or the like toward the conveyance path 12.

  The transport path 12 has a switchback function that can switch the transport path from the transport path 11. Here, the switchback function decelerates and stops the conveyance of the sheet at a predetermined position on the conveyance path 11, and then switches the conveyance path of the sheet from the conveyance path 11 to the conveyance path 12, and moves the sheet in the reverse direction. The function to send out.

  A punch processing unit 20 is disposed on the downstream side of the conveyance path 12. The punch processing unit 20 switches back from the conveyance path 11 and punches two or more binding holes at one end of the sheet conveyed by the conveyance path 12. A punch residue storage unit 26 is provided below the punch processing body so as to store punch scraps cut off by the punch processing unit 20.

  A binder paper alignment unit 30 is disposed downstream of the punch processing unit 20 so that the positions of the holes of a plurality of sheets discharged from the punch processing unit 20 are aligned and temporarily held (accumulated).

  The binder paper alignment unit 30 guides the paper to a predetermined position when the paper enters and prepares the rear end of the paper. Further, the binder paper aligning unit 30 guides the leading edge and the lateral edge of the sheet to an appropriate position by a multi-shaped rotating member for aligning the leading edge and the lateral edge of the sheet to the reference position.

  A bind processing unit 40 is disposed on the downstream side of the binder paper alignment unit 30. The bind processing unit 40 creates a booklet by binding a plurality of sheet bundles aligned by the unit 30 with binding components. The binding processing unit 40 includes a binding mechanism 41 and a binder (binding component) cassette 42. The binder cassette 42 is set with a plurality of binding parts 43 (see FIG. 7) of a predetermined size that are unfolded before processing and have an annular shape after processing. For example, the binding component 43 is injection-molded, and a plurality of types of diameters are prepared according to the thickness of the sheet bundle. The binding mechanism 41 constitutes an example of a binding unit, takes out a binding component 43 of a predetermined size from a binder cassette 42 in which an expanded binding component 43 is accommodated, and binds the binding component into a hole punched at a predetermined position on a sheet. 43 is bound.

  In this example, the binding mechanism 41 moves so as to reciprocate between the paper conveyance direction of the binder paper alignment unit 30 and the binding component provision direction of the binder cassette 42. First, the binding mechanism 41 pulls out and extracts one binding component 43 from the binder cassette 42 at a position orthogonal to the transport direction of the transport path 11, and in this state, the binding mechanism 41 is positioned so that the paper transport direction of the binder paper alignment unit 30 can be seen. Rotate. When the binding mechanism 41 fails to take out the binding component 43 from the binder cassette 42, an alarm buzzer 56 that functions as an example of an alarm unit is sounded to give an alarm. This alarm buzzer 56 is attached to the stacker window 72.

  Next, at this position, the binding mechanism 41 receives the sheet bundle in which the punch holes are positioned from the binder paper aligning unit 30, and inserts the binding component 43 into the punch holes and fits them. After the fitting, the binding mechanism 41 releases the binding component 43. When the binding component 43 is bound to the sheet bundle and a booklet is created, the binder paper alignment unit 30 delivers the created booklet to the discharge unit 60.

  A discharge unit 60 is disposed on the downstream side of the bind processing unit 40. The discharge unit 60 receives the booklet created by the bind processing unit 40 and discharges it. The discharge unit 60 includes, for example, a first belt unit 61, a second belt unit 62, and a stacker 63.

  The belt unit 61 receives the booklet falling from the binder paper alignment unit 30 and switches the booklet sending direction. For example, after receiving the booklet, the belt unit 61 turns from a position where the binder paper alignment unit 30 can see the paper conveyance direction to a position where the stacker 63 can be seen.

  A belt unit 62 is disposed at a position where the stacker 63 can be seen. The belt unit 62 receives the booklet whose sending direction is switched by the belt unit 61 and relays the booklet, and delivers the booklet to the stacker 63. The stacker 63 accumulates booklets conveyed by the belt units 61 and 62. In this way, the booklet 90 shown in FIG. 2D is created.

  Next, a paper processing method according to the present invention will be described. 2A to 2D are process diagrams illustrating an example of functions of the binding device 100. The paper 3 shown in FIG. 2A is fed from the upstream side (such as a copying machine) of the binding device 100 and has no punch holes. The sheet 3 is transported toward a predetermined position on the transport path 11 illustrated in FIG. 1, and is decelerated and stopped at a predetermined position on the transport path 11. Thereafter, the conveyance path of the sheet 3 is switched from the conveyance path 11 to the conveyance path 12 by the switchback function, and the sheet 3 is sent in the reverse direction and conveyed to the punch processing unit 20.

  In the punch processing unit 20, as shown in FIG. 2B, a predetermined number of binding holes are formed at one end of the paper 3. The sheet 3 ′ with the binding holes punched is conveyed to the bind sheet aligning unit 30. In the bind sheet aligning unit 30, when the preset number of sheets is reached, for example, the position of the binding hole is aligned as in the sheet 3 ″ shown in FIG. 2C, and the binding component cooperates with the bind processing unit 40. 2D to which the binding component 43 is fitted can be obtained, whereby the booklet 90 is ejected by the ejection unit 60 and placed in the stacker 63. Accumulated.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement example (part 1) of the binder paper alignment unit 30, the binding mechanism 41, and the binder cassette 42. The binding device 100 includes a binding mechanism 41 disposed downstream of the binder paper alignment unit 30 and the binder cassette 42 illustrated in FIG. 3, and the binder paper alignment unit 30 and the binder radially upstream from the binding mechanism 41. It has a substantially V-shaped arrangement structure in which the cassette 42 is arranged.

  The binding mechanism 41 has a binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d. The binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d is disposed in the vicinity of a region where the direction I for discharging the sheet bundle 3 ″ from the binder paper alignment unit 30 to the downstream side and the direction II for discharging the binding component 43 from the binder cassette 42 to the downstream side intersect. Is done.

  The binder paper alignment unit 30 and the binder cassette 42 are arranged on the left side and the right side in an arc shape (radially) on the upstream side with respect to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d. The binding mechanism 41 operates to reciprocate between the binder paper alignment unit 30 and the binder cassette 42. The binding mechanism 41 has an opening 41c at the top of the main body. The binding component take-out position (direction II) is a position where the opening 41c of the binding mechanism 41 takes a posture facing the binder cassette 42 side.

  An arrow Y <b> 1 shown in FIG. 3 is the rotation direction of the binding mechanism 41. In this example, when the above-mentioned binding component take-out position (direction II) is set as the home position with reference to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d, the sheet is rotated counterclockwise from the home position to the paper binding position (direction I). . Conversely, the sheet is rotated from the sheet binding position to the home position in the clockwise direction.

  For example, in the binding processing unit 40, the binding mechanism 41 moves to the downstream side of the binder cassette 42, receives a binding component 43 (see FIG. 7) of a predetermined size, and holds the binding component 43 received from the binder cassette 42. Then, it rotates counterclockwise with reference to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d, moves to the downstream side of the binder paper alignment unit 30, and binds the sheet bundle 3 ″ shown in FIG. In this manner, the booklet 90 shown in FIG. 2D can be created by moving the binding component 43 received from the binder cassette 42 to the downstream side of the binder paper alignment unit 30 for binding processing.

  In this example, the binding mechanism 41 is configured to take out the binding component 43 from the binder cassette 42 when the binder paper alignment unit 30 aligns the paper 3 '. In this way, since the sheet alignment process and the process of taking out the binding component 43 can be performed in parallel, the binding process can be speeded up, and the throughput of the binding apparatus 100 can be improved.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement example (part 2) of the binder paper alignment unit 30, the binding mechanism 41, and the binder cassette 42. The binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 4 has the binding mechanism 41 in the binding part take-out position (direction II) shown in FIG. 3 for the process of binding the binding part 43 onto the paper aligned by the binder paper alignment unit 30. In this state, the sheet is rotated in the counterclockwise direction indicated by the arrow Y1 with respect to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d and moved to the sheet binding position (direction I). Here, the paper binding position is a position in which the opening 41c of the binding mechanism 41 takes a posture in which the binder paper alignment unit 30 faces the paper conveyance direction. According to the binding processing unit 40 shown in FIG. 4, the binding mechanism 41 creates a booklet 90 by binding the binding component 43 to the paper 3 ″ provided from the binder paper alignment unit 30 at the paper binding position (direction I). After that, the binding parts take out position (direction II).

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of the cassette mounting portion 47 and the binder cassette 42. The binder cassette 42 shown in FIG. 5 includes a binding component storage portion 42a for storing the binding component 43 and a handle 42b. The handle 42b is attached to the front surface of the binding component storage portion 42a. The binder cassette 42 is attached to and detached from the cassette attaching portion 47 by grasping the handle 42b.

  The binder cassette 42 includes a sensor actuator 42m. The sensor actuator 42m constitutes an example of a rod-shaped member, and changes its own posture when the binding component 43 (see FIG. 7) taken out from the binder cassette 42 by the binding mechanism 41 comes into contact therewith. In this example, the shape of the sensor actuator 42m is a rod shape, and the sensor actuator 42m is rotatably attached to the binder cassette 42 with a predetermined position supported. The sensor actuator 42m is, for example, a resin injection molded product. When a part of the binding component 43 comes into contact with one end of the sensor actuator 42m, one end of the sensor actuator 42m is pushed down and the other end is raised to change the posture.

  The cassette attaching portion 47 has an opening surface 47a having at least one surface on the attachment / detachment side of the binder cassette 42 opened. The opening surface 47 a is formed in a rectangular shape that is slightly larger than the binding component storage portion 42 a of the binder cassette 42. The binder cassette 42 is inserted from the opening surface 47a. The cassette mounting portion 47 has a front panel 47b along the opening surface 47a. A transmission type photosensor 80 shown in FIG. 6 is attached to a predetermined position of the front panel 47b. The photo sensor 80 functions as an example of a detection unit, and detects the rotation of the sensor actuator 42m whose posture has been changed.

  When the photosensor 80 and the sensor actuator 42m are used as a detection mechanism 81, the detection mechanism 81 constitutes an example of a detection unit. When a part of the binding component 34 taken out by the binding mechanism 41 comes into contact with one end of the sensor actuator 42m, the sensor actuator 42m changes its posture by pushing down one end and raising the other end. The photo sensor 80 detects the sensor actuator 42m whose posture has been changed.

  As shown by an arrow P in FIG. 5, the binder cassette 42 is configured to be attachable / detachable to / from the cassette attaching portion 47 provided in the binding device 100. After the binder cassette 42 is attached to the cassette attaching portion 47, the sensor actuator 42m of the binder cassette 42 is adapted to the transmissive photosensor 80. In this way, the cassette mounting portion 47 and the binder cassette 42 are configured.

  6A and 6B are explanatory views showing an example of attachment of the binder cassette 42. FIG. The binder cassette 42 shown in FIG. 6A is inserted and attached to the cassette attachment portion 47, and is a view seen from above. The transmissive photosensor 80 attached to the front panel 47b of the cassette attaching portion 47 is U-shaped, and a light receiving element and a light emitting element are provided facing each other. A sensor actuator 42m, which is a light shield, is disposed so as to pass through the gap between the light receiving element and the light emitting element that are provided to face each other. When a part of the sensor actuator 42m passes between the light receiving and light emitting elements, no light enters the light receiving elements and the output current is reduced. It is determined that the sensor actuator 42m has passed by this change in current.

  The binder cassette 42 shown in FIG. 6B is a view seen from the front in a state where it is attached to the cassette attaching portion 47. A transmissive photosensor 80 is disposed in the vicinity of the upper portion of the sensor actuator 42m attached to the binder cassette 42. When a part of the binding component 43 comes into contact and one end is pushed down, the sensor actuator 42m changes the posture by raising the other end of the sensor actuator 42m and passes between the light receiving and emitting elements of the transmissive photosensor 80. To do.

  As described above, by arranging the sensor actuator 42 m and the transmission type photosensor 80, the sensor actuator 42 m of the binder cassette 42 is attached to and removed from the cassette attachment portion 47 when the binder cassette 42 is attached to or detached from the cassette attachment portion 47. It does not touch the photo sensor 80. Of course, the sensor actuator 42m passes between the light receiving and emitting elements of the transmissive photosensor 80.

  Next, a configuration example of the binding component 43 stored in the binding component storage unit 42a will be described. 7A to 7D are explanatory diagrams illustrating a configuration example of the binding component 43. The binding component 43 illustrated in FIG. 7A is a plan view illustrating a part of the binding component 43. The binding component 43 includes a spine portion 43a, a first split ring portion 43d, a second split ring portion 43c, a third split ring portion 43e, a pin 43f, a first connecting portion 43g, and a second connecting portion 43h. Have. The binding component 43 is a resin injection molded product in which ring portions 43b are arranged at regular intervals on a spine portion 43a having a length that matches the size of the standard paper.

  FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a state seen from the arrow B in FIG. 7A. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the ring portion 43b is divided into three parts: a split ring portion 43c coupled to the spine portion 43a, and a split ring portion 43d and a split ring portion 43e that are foldably connected to the left and right thereof. It becomes the composition.

  A coupling portion 43g is provided at the tip of the split ring portion 43d, and a joint portion 43h is provided at the tip of the split ring portion 43e. The coupling portion 43g and the coupling portion 43h are coupled, so that the ring portion 43b is annular.

  FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC in FIG. 7A. The shape of the cross section of the spine 43a of the binding component 43 shown in FIG. 7C is a convex shape, and this convex shape makes it easy to grip the binding component 43 with an inverted L-shaped binding component gripping claw 41h (see FIG. 12). It is the shape.

  FIG. 7D shows a state in which a plurality of binding components 43 are stacked as viewed from the arrow B in FIG. 7A. 7A to 7C, the split ring portion 43c of the ring portion 43b has a protruding pin 43f. An insertion hole (not shown) corresponding to the pin 43f is provided on the back side of the split ring portion 43c provided with the pin 43f. Thus, in a state where both end portions of the split ring portion 43d, the split ring portion 43c, and the split ring portion 43e are aligned, the pin 43f is inserted into the insertion hole, and the plurality of binding parts 43 are aligned and stacked. be able to.

  Note that a plurality of types of binding components 43 are used in which the size of the ring portion 43b differs depending on the thickness of the sheet bundle 3 ″ shown in FIG. 2. Also, the binding portion 43 is divided into the ring portions 43b. Although the ring portion 43d, the divided ring portion 43c, and the divided ring portion 43e are divided into three locations, the ring portion 43b may be divided into n (n is a natural number) locations.

  FIGS. 8A to 8C are explanatory views showing a configuration example (opening / closing) of the binding component 43, and showing the opening / closing operation of the ring portion 43b as seen from the arrow B shown in FIG. 7A. As shown in FIGS. 8A to 8C, the ring portion 43b is configured to be bendable at the connecting portion between the ring portion 43d and the ring portion 43c and the connecting portion between the ring portion 43c and the ring portion 43e. The coupling portion 43g provided at the distal end portion and the coupling portion 43h provided at the distal end portion of the ring portion 43e can be coupled. Thus, from the state where both ends of the ring part 43d, the ring part 43c, and the ring part 43e are aligned, the ring part 43d and the ring part 43e are bent in an annular direction to couple the coupling part 43g and the coupling part 43h. Thus, a complete ring can be formed. Further, the coupling portion 43g and the coupling portion 43h can be coupled and detached many times, whereby the binding component 43 can be reused. In addition, a plurality of types of binding components 43 described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 are used in which the size of the ring portion 43b differs depending on the thickness of the sheet 3 'and the sheet bundle 3' 'illustrated in FIG.

  FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of the lower end portion of the binder cassette 42 that houses the binding component 43 described above. In FIG. 9, for the sake of explanation, one binding component 43 is accommodated and is shown by a broken line in a partially transparent state.

  A take-out port 42 c is provided at the lowermost end portion of the binder cassette 42. The binding portion stool 43 is taken out from the take-out port 42c. A binding component pressing claw 42d is provided at a predetermined position above the take-out port 42c. The binding component pressing claws 42d are provided in pairs in a state of facing each other. This set of binding component pressing claws 42d is arranged before and after the take-out port 42c. The binding component pressing claws 42d are formed in an L-shaped flat plate shape. One end of the L-shaped binding component pressing claw 42d is urged in the vertical direction by a spring 42i. A corner portion of the binding component pressing claw 42d is rotatably fixed by a cylindrical protruding pressing claw protrusion B42e. The other end of the binding component pressing claw 42d supports the binding component 43 so as to be lifted from below.

  When the binding component 43 is taken out from the take-out opening 42c, the binding component pressing claw 42d on the left side toward the paper surface rotates clockwise around the pressing claw protrusion B42e as a rotation axis, and the right binding component pressing claw toward the paper surface. The claw 42d rotates counterclockwise. Thereby, the binding component 43 located at the lowermost portion supported by the binding component pressing claw 42d is released.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of the detection mechanism 81. The detection mechanism 81 shown in FIG. 10 shows a state in which the binding component storage portion 42 a having a cross section taken along the line X 2 -X 2 in FIG. 9 is attached to the cassette attachment portion 47.

  The sensor actuator 42m of the detection mechanism 81 is rotatably attached to the cassette frame 42h of the binding component storage portion 42a by a retaining pin 42n as an example of a shaft member at the take-out port 42c of the binder cassette 42. On the bottom surface of the binding component storage portion 42a, a support portion 42t that supports the sensor actuator 42m when not rotating is provided.

  In this example, when the longitudinal direction of the sensor actuator 42m is the full length of the sensor actuator 42m, the sensor actuator 42m is provided with a through hole at a position about one quarter of the full length, and the through hole has a front surface of the cassette frame 42h. The retaining pin 42n is inserted and fixed through the pin. In this case, the sensor actuator 42m is arranged so that one end of the sensor actuator 42m in the vicinity of the retaining pin 42n comes into contact with and is pushed down against the coupling portion 43h of the binding component 43.

  The take-out port 42c of the cassette frame 42h extends to a position just below the retaining pin 42n that is the rotation shaft. This is to prevent the cassette frame 42h from affecting when the sensor actuator 42m rotates around the retaining pin 42n.

  A frame opening 42p is provided on the side of the cassette frame 42h where the sensor actuator 42m is disposed. The other end side of the sensor actuator 42m protrudes from the frame opening 42p by about a quarter of the entire length. The photo sensor 80 is arranged in the cassette mounting portion 47 so that the protruding other end side of the sensor actuator 42 m passes between the light receiving and emitting elements of the transmission type photo sensor 80. Thus, the sensor actuator 42m and the photosensor 80 are configured.

  If comprised in this way, the sensor actuator 42m will contact | abut the binding component 43 taken out from the binding component storage part 42a by the binding component holding part 41b (refer FIG. 17) of the binding mechanism 41 to the edge part of this sensor actuator 42m. It is rotated by. The photosensor 80 detects the rotated sensor actuator 42m.

  11A to 11C are cross-sectional views taken along arrow X1-X1 in FIG. 9 illustrating an operation example of the binding component pressing claw 42d of the binding component storage unit 42a, in order to facilitate understanding of the operation of the binding component pressing claw 42d. The description of the binding component 43 is omitted.

  The binding component storage part 42a includes a presser claw fixing part 42f. The shape of the pressing claw fixing portion 42f is a plate shape, and the pressing claw fixing portion 42f is vertically attached to the cassette frame 42h. The presser claw fixing portion 42f has two rectangular fixing portion holes 42g. A holding claw protrusion B42e of a binding component pressing claw 42d is fitted in the fixing portion hole 42g so as to be rotatable and slidable. A downward force indicated by an arrow J in FIG. 11A and a rotating force indicated by an arrow K are applied to the binding component pressing claw 42d whose one end is urged in the vertical direction by the spring 42i. By providing such a configuration, as shown by an arrow L in FIG. 11B, the binding component pressing claw 42d is movable in the vertical direction within the range of the size of the fixing portion hole 42g. Further, as shown by an arrow M in FIG. 11C, the binding component pressing claw 42d is rotatable about the pressing claw protrusion B42e.

  Further, at the lower end portion of the binding component pressing claw 42d, a protruding binding component pressing portion 42j directed toward the center of the extraction port 42c is provided so as to be positioned at the central portion of the extraction port 42c. Furthermore, the lower end portion of the binding component pressing claw 42d is provided with a pressing claw projection A42k directed in the longitudinal direction of the take-out port 42c. The upper surface of the presser claw protrusion A42k is formed in an oblique plane in which the center side of the takeout port 42c is lowered.

  Inside the binder cassette 42 having such a configuration, the binding components 43 shown in FIG. 9 are stored in a stacked state. The spine portion 43a of the binding component 43 positioned at the lowermost part is supported by the binding component pressing portion 42j of the binding component pressing claws 42d positioned on the left and right, and the stacked binding components 43 are held inside the binder cassette 42. It is in the stowed state.

  Next, the binding mechanism 41 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 12A is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of the binding mechanism 41. The binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 12A includes a main body portion 41a and a binding component gripping portion 41b inside the main body portion 41a. The binding component gripping portion 41b is configured to be movable up and down so that the front end portion is located inside and outside the main body portion 41a through the opening 41c in the upper portion of the main body portion 41a. The binding component gripping part 41 b holds the binding component 43.

  FIG. 12B is an enlarged view of the inside of the wavy circle in FIG. 12A, and is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the upper end portion of the binding component gripping portion 41 b of the binding mechanism 41. According to the enlarged configuration example of the upper end portion of the binding component gripping portion 41b, the upper end portion of the binding component gripping portion 41b is provided with a holder fixing frame 41w, a gripping claw holder 41v, and a plurality of binding component gripping claws 41h. . In this example, the gripping claw holder 41v is fixed to the holder fixing frame 41w. The binding component gripping claws 41h are positioned inside the gripping claw holder 41v so that the upper end portion protrudes above the gripping claw holder 41v. In this way, the binding component gripping portion 41b that binds the binding component 43 is configured.

  FIGS. 13A and 13B are cross-sectional views showing an internal configuration example (part 1) of the binding mechanism 41, and configuration examples and operations of related members on the XX arrow cutting plane of the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. An example (vertical movement function) is shown. Since the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 13A moves the binding component gripping portion 41b up and down, for example, the gripping portion link 41f, the gripping portion cam 41g, the gripping portion link rotating shaft 41j, and the binding mechanism driving motor 45a (FIG. 15). Reference) is configured. In this example, the binding component gripping portion 41b is shown in the lowermost position.

  The binding component gripping portion 41b has a predetermined height, and the width in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction is slightly smaller than that of the opening portion 41c. In addition, a plurality of binding component gripping claws 41h for gripping the binding component are provided at the upper end of the binding component gripping portion 41b.

  Further, the binding component gripping portion 41b has a protruding gripping portion link coupling portion 41e on the side surface. The binding part gripping part 41b and the gripping part link 41f are in a state where the gripping part link coupling part 41e is fitted and coupled to the elongated gripping part coupling hole 41i of the gripping part link 41f. The grip portion link 41f is connected to the grip portion cam 41g, and is configured to be rotatable about the grip portion link rotation shaft 41j by rotating the grip portion cam 41g.

  The binding mechanism 41 illustrated in FIG. 13B illustrates a case where the binding component gripping portion 41b has moved from the state positioned at the lowermost position illustrated in FIG. 13A to the position positioned at the uppermost position. In this case, the gripping part link 41f rotates as the gripping part cam 41g rotates. As a result, the position and posture of the grip portion coupling hole 41i change, and as a result, the binding component grip portion 41b can be moved upward as indicated by the arrow D via the grip portion link joint portion 41e. The

  Thus, the binding component gripping part 41b is configured to be movable from the lowermost part shown in FIG. 13A to the uppermost part shown in FIG. 13B. Further, in the state where the binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 13A is positioned at the lowermost position, the binding component gripping claw 41h is positioned inside the main body portion 41a. Further, as shown in FIG. 13B, in a state where the binding component gripping portion 41b is positioned at the uppermost portion, the binding component gripping claw 41h is positioned outside the main body portion 41a.

  FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an internal configuration example (No. 2) of the binding mechanism 41. The binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 14 shows an example of the configuration of related members on the cutting plane of the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG.

  In this example, the binding mechanism 41 has a binding claw opening / closing function for binding the binding component 43. In order to operate this function, the binding mechanism 41 includes a fitting portion 41x. The fitting portion 41x includes a binding claw 41z, a binding claw link A41l, a binding claw link B41m, a binding portion link C41n, a spring 41o, a binding claw cam 41p, and a binding mechanism driving motor 45a (see FIG. 15). The fitting portion 41x inserts both ends of the binding component 43 held by the binding component gripping portion 41b into the hole of the paper and fits them.

  The binding claws 41z are provided on both sides of the opening 41c along the longitudinal direction of the opening 41c. Further, the binding claw 41z has a closing portion 41q, and the closing portion 41q contacts the binding component 43 when binding the binding component 43. Each binding claw 41z is rotatably connected to the upper end of a binding claw link A41l having an L-shape. Each binding claw link A41l is rotatably attached to the main body 41a at a binding claw link A rotation shaft 41r located at a substantially central portion of each binding claw link A411.

  Further, the two binding claw links A41l are rotatably connected at a link coupling portion A46j located at the end opposite to the end to which the binding claw 41z is connected. Further, the upper end portion of the binding claw link B41m having a predetermined length in the vertical direction is rotatably connected to the two binding claw links A41l at the link coupling portion A46j.

  The binding claw link B41m has a long hole-shaped binding claw link B coupling hole 41s at the lower end. The binding claw link B coupling hole 41s is used when switching the binding stroke. The binding claw link B coupling hole 41s is fitted with a projection-shaped link coupling portion B46k of the binding portion link C41n, and the binding claw link B41m and the binding claw link C41n are rotatably connected. Further, the binding claw link B41m is attached to the main body 41a via a spring 41o at the center. An upward force is applied to the binding claw link B41m by the spring 41o.

  The binding claw link C41n is rotatably attached to the main body 41a on the binding claw link C rotating shaft 41t. Further, when the binding claw cam 41p rotates as indicated by an arrow F, the binding claw link C41n rotates around the binding claw link C rotation shaft 41t.

  With the above configuration, the opening and closing operation of the binding claw 41z is performed. In this example, the binding claw cam 41p rotates in the clockwise direction of FIG. 14 indicated by the arrow F, the binding claw link C rotates counterclockwise, and a downward force is applied to the binding claw link B41m. As a result, a counterclockwise force is applied to the binding claw link A41l shown on the right side of FIG. 14, and a clockwise force is applied to the binding claw link A411 shown on the left side, and each binding claw 41z is indicated by an arrow E. The binding claw 41z is closed by moving in the direction. The binding claw 41z is in a substantially closed state.

  Further, the binding mechanism 41 has a function of adjusting a range in which the binding claw 41z is bound in accordance with the diameter size of the binding component 43. In order to operate this adjustment function, the binding mechanism 41 includes a stroke switching unit 41y. The stroke switching unit 41y includes a binding component adjusting cam 41u and a binding component adjusting unit 46l, and switches the binding stroke in the fitting unit 41x.

  The binding component adjusting cam 41u is connected to the binding component adjusting portion 46l. The binding component adjusting portion 46l is attached so as to be movable left and right, and is coupled to the binding claw link B41m. The binding component adjusting portion 46l is moved left and right by the cam 41u and switches the binding claw link B coupling hole 41s of the binding claw link B41m. For example, the binding claw link B41m coupled to the binding component adjusting unit 46l is rotated left and right around the link coupling unit A46j. The position of the binding claw link B coupling hole 41s of the binding claw link B41m is changed by the rotation of the binding claw link B41m. By changing the position of the coupling hole 41s, the coupling position of the projecting link coupling part B46k is switched, and the binding stroke for binding the binding claw 41z is adjusted.

  FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control system of the binding device 100. The control system shown in FIG. 15 includes a control unit 50, a motor driving unit 44a, and a signal processing unit 44b.

  The control unit 50 includes a system bus 55. The system bus 55 includes an I / O port 54, an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory) 53, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 52, and a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51 is connected. The EEPROM 53 stores a program (binding component acquisition control program) for controlling the operation in which the binding mechanism 41 acquires the binding component 43 and binds the binding component 43 to a sheet. The RAM 52 is used as a work memory when acquiring and controlling the binding component 43 based on the binding component acquisition control program.

  A motor drive unit 44a and a signal processing unit 44b are connected to the I / O port 54. A transmissive photosensor 80, a reflective photosensor 80b, and an external terminal are connected to the signal processing unit 44b. The transmissive photosensor 80 outputs a high-level or low-level detection signal S80 to the signal processing unit 44b. For example, the photosensor 80 outputs a high-level detection signal S80 when there is no light-shielding object between the light-receiving and light-emitting elements, and when a part of the sensor actuator 42m passes between the light-receiving and light-emitting elements, no light enters the light-receiving element. Since the output current becomes small, the low level detection signal S80 is output. The reflective photosensor 80a outputs a high-level or low-level detection signal S80a to the signal processing unit 44b.

  The signal processing unit 44b receives the output detection signals S80 and S80a, digitizes the detection signals S80 and S80a, and outputs, for example, 3-bit detection data D80 and D80a to the CPU 51. The CPU 51 inputs the detection data D80 and D80a, and controls the binding device 100 based on the detection data D80 and D80a.

  In addition, a copy machine (not shown) is connected to the external terminal. For example, information on the number of sheets for one booklet printed by a copier combined with the binding apparatus 100 is output from the external terminal to the signal processing unit 44b as the specified number of sheets signal S45g, and the signal processing unit 44b outputs the information. The specified number signal S45g is binarized and the detection data D45g is output to the CPU 51.

  The CPU 51 constitutes an example of a control unit. For example, when the detection data D45g is input and it is determined that the sheet 3 'for one booklet is stored in the sheet aligning unit 30 shown in FIG. The motor control data Dm is output to the binding mechanism 41 so that the binding process is performed.

  The motor driving unit 44 a is connected to the CPU 51 via the I / O port 54 and further connected to a binding mechanism driving motor 45 a disposed in the binding mechanism 41. The motor driving unit 44a receives the motor control data Dm output from the CPU 51, outputs a binding mechanism driving signal S45a obtained by decoding the motor control data Dm to the binding mechanism driving motor 45a, and drives the motor 45a.

  When the binding mechanism driving motor 45a is driven, the binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 13A moves up to a position (see FIG. 13B) where the lowermost binding component 43 stacked on the binder cassette 42 can be obtained. Move in the direction. Thereafter, the binding component gripping portion 41b grips the binding component 43 in the forefront row and moves the gripped binding component 43 downward. At this time, the binding component 43 pushes down one end of the sensor actuator 42 m shown in FIG. 10, so that the other end of the sensor actuator 42 m passes between the light receiving and light emitting elements of the transmissive photosensor 80.

  At this time, the photosensor 80 outputs a low level detection signal S80 to the signal processing unit 44b. The signal processing unit 44b receives the low level detection signal S80 and outputs the low level detection data D80 to the CPU 51. The CPU 51 receives the low-level detection data D80, determines that the binding component 43 has been successfully extracted based on the detection data D80, and proceeds to subsequent processing. When the binding component 43 is taken out satisfactorily, the sensor actuator 42m passes between the light receiving and emitting elements of the photosensor 80 twice in a reciprocating manner. At this time, the photosensor 80 outputs the low-level detection signal S80 twice. In this case, the CPU 51 determines that the binding component 43 has been successfully removed based on, for example, the first low-level detection signal S80.

  In addition, when the CPU 51 inputs the high level detection data D80 and determines that the binding component 43 has not been successfully acquired, that is, in the step in which the binding component gripping portion 41b moves to the top and descends, the sensor actuator When the attitude of 42 m is not changed and the other end of the sensor actuator 42 m does not pass between the light receiving and emitting elements of the transmissive photosensor 80, the CPU 51 causes the motor driving unit 44 a of the binding device 100 to stop the motor. The motor control data Dm is output and the binding mechanism driving motor 45a is controlled to stop. As a result, the operation of the binding mechanism 41 can be stopped when a defective take-out of the binding component 43 occurs due to zero remaining amount of the binding component 43 or poor separation of the binding component 43. Accordingly, the sheet 3 ″ immediately before the binding process can be maintained in a shape in which the positions of the binding holes are aligned.

  Note that the CPU 51 is connected to the alarm buzzer 56, and when the take-out failure of the binding component 43 occurs and the operation of the binding mechanism 41 is stopped, a drive signal is output to the alarm buzzer 56 to drive the alarm buzzer 56. To control. The alarm buzzer 56 outputs a predetermined alarm sound based on the drive signal. As a result, the operator can detect a takeout failure of the binding component 43. Not only the alarm buzzer 56 but also an alarm lamp may be turned on or alarm information may be displayed on a monitor or the like.

  The binding mechanism 41 may be controlled so that the binding component 43 is taken out from the binding component storage portion 42a again before the binding component 43 is taken out and the operation of the binding mechanism 41 is stopped. For example, the CPU 51 outputs motor control data Dm for driving the motor to the motor driving unit 44a, and controls the binding mechanism driving motor 45a so as to take out the binding component 43 from the binding component storage unit 42a again. Thereby, the probability of taking out the binding component 43 is improved.

  As a subsequent process when the binding component 43 has been successfully acquired, the binding mechanism driving motor 45a rotates the binding mechanism 41 from the direction II shown in FIG. 3 to the position in the direction I shown in FIG. After the rotation, the motor 45a is driven to provide the paper 3 ″ shown in FIG. 2 from the binder paper alignment unit 30 to the binding mechanism 41, and the binding claw cam 41p shown in FIG. The nail | claw 41z is bound and the binding component 43 is bound to the punch hole of the paper 3 ". Thereafter, the binding mechanism 41 releases the binding component 43 and moves to the home position shown in FIG. In this way, the binding apparatus 100 creates the booklet 90 by binding the binding component 43 to the paper 3 ″ provided from the binder paper alignment unit 30.

  Subsequently, with reference to FIGS. 16 to 18, an operation example (No. 1 to No. 3) of the detection mechanism 81 when the binding component 43 is taken out will be described, and an operation example of the CPU 51 will be described with reference to FIG. 19. To do. In the binding component storage portion 42a shown in FIG. 16, the binding components 43 are stacked and stored. The EEPROM 53 stores the number of retries (one time) for the process of grasping and separating the binding component 43. As a condition for taking out these binding components 43, in step S1 shown in FIG. 19, the CPU 51 determines whether a prescribed number of sheets 3 'have been accumulated. For example, the CPU 51 inputs the predetermined number of pieces of detection data D45g shown in FIG. 15, and determines whether the sheet 3 'for one booklet is stored in the paper aligning unit 30 shown in FIG. If the specified number of detection data D45g is not input, it is determined again whether or not the sheet 3 'for one booklet will be accumulated a little later. When the predetermined number of detection data D45g is input and one booklet of the paper 3 'is accumulated a little later, the process proceeds to step S2.

  In step S <b> 2, the CPU 51 controls to move the binding component gripping portion 41 b and grip the binding component 43. For example, the CPU 51 outputs driving motor control data Dm to the motor driving unit 44a shown in FIG. The motor driving unit 44a outputs a binding mechanism driving signal S45a obtained by decoding the motor control data Dm to the binding mechanism driving motor 45a to drive the motor 45a. At this time, the partially broken binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 16 moves to grip the binding component 43 in the front row. For example, the position and posture of the grip part coupling hole 41i are changed by the rotation of the grip part link 41f from the state where the binding part grip part 41b is positioned at the lowermost position shown in FIG. 13A, and the binding part grip part 41b passes through the grip part link joint part 41e. Then, the binding component gripping portion 41b moves upward as indicated by an arrow D in FIG. 13A. At this time, the binding component gripping portion 41b opens the binding component gripping claw 41h, and in this state, abuts against the spine portion 43a of the binding component 43. After the contact, the binding component gripping portion 41b closes the binding component gripping claw 41h, and grips the spine portion 43a of the binding component 43 by the gripping portion 41x of the binding component gripping claw 41h. Subsequently, the process proceeds to step S3.

  In step S3, the CPU 51 controls the binding component gripping portion 41b so as to separate the binding component 43. For example, the binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 17 is in a state where the binding component 43 in the foremost row is gripped by the binding component gripping claw 41h, and the binding component 43 in the forefront row is separated from the other stacked binding components 43. In this example, the binding component gripping portion 41b moves downward from the state where the binding component gripping claw 41h grips the frontmost binding component 43, and the binding component gripping claw 41h of the binding component gripping claw 41h moves the binding component. The pressing claw protrusion A42k of the pressing claw 42d is pushed outward. Thereafter, the binding component pressing claw 42d rotates around the pressing claw protrusion B42e as shown in FIG. As a result, the binding component pressing portion 42 j of the binding component pressing claw 42 d is released from the spine portion 43 a of the binding component 43.

  Thereafter, the binding component gripping portion 41b starts to descend while the binding component 43 is gripped. At this time, the binding portion 43h of the binding component 43 pushes down one end of the sensor actuator 42m of the detection mechanism 81 and the sensor actuator 42m with the retaining pin 42n as the rotation axis in the vicinity of the binding component 43 passing through the take-out port 42c. Raise the other end. The other end of the raised sensor actuator 42m passes between the light receiving and emitting elements of the transmissive photosensor 80. At this time, the photosensor 80 outputs a low level detection signal S80 to the signal processing unit 44b shown in FIG. The signal processing unit 44b receives the output low level detection signal S80, outputs the detection data D80 to the CPU 51, and proceeds to step S4.

  In step S4, the CPU 51 determines whether or not the binding component 43 has been successfully acquired. For example, when the low-level detection data D80 is input from the signal processing unit 44b, the CPU 51 determines that the binding component 43 has been successfully acquired. In this way, the CPU 51 detects the binding component 43 while taking out the binding component 43 stored in the binding component storage unit 42a.

  The binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 18 is in a state where the binding component gripping claw 41h grips the binding component 43 in the foremost row, passes through the takeout port 42c, and is lowered to a predetermined position. At this time, the sensor actuator 42m in which one end is pushed down by the coupling portion 43h of the binding component 43 and the other end is raised returns to the state before the posture change shown in FIG. This is because when the sensor actuator 42m is released from the force of which one end is pushed down by the coupling portion 43h of the binding component 43, the sensor actuator 42m rotates clockwise around the retaining pin 42n as a rotation axis. This is because the retaining pin 42n is disposed at a position that is about a quarter of the entire length of the sensor actuator 42m. Subsequently, the process proceeds to step S5.

  In step S5, the CPU 51 rotates the binding mechanism 41, which has gripped the binding component 43 by the binding component gripping portion 41b, in the counterclockwise direction indicated by the arrow Y1 with reference to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d shown in FIG. Then, control is performed to move to the paper binding position (direction I), and the process proceeds to step S6. In step S6, the CPU 51 controls the binding mechanism 41 to form the booklet 90 by binding the binding component 43 to the paper 3 "provided from the binder paper alignment unit 30 at the paper binding position, and proceeds to step S7. In step S7, the CPU 51 controls the binding mechanism to rotate in the clockwise direction indicated by the arrow Y1 with reference to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d and return from the paper binding position to the binding component take-out position (direction II). End of.

  In step S4, the CPU 51 determines that the binding component 43 has not been successfully acquired when the high-level detection data D80 is input from the signal processing unit 44b. For example, when the remaining amount of the binding component 43 is zero and the binding component 43 does not exist in the binding component storage portion 42a, the binding component gripping portion 41b cannot grip the binding component 43. For this reason, the attitude of the sensor actuator 42m is not changed, and the other end of the sensor actuator 42m does not pass between the light receiving and emitting elements of the transmissive photosensor 80. Accordingly, the photosensor 80 outputs a high level detection signal S80 to the signal processing unit 44b. The CPU 51 inputs the high-level detection data D80 from the signal processing unit 44b, determines that the binding component 43 has not been successfully acquired in the step in which the binding component gripping portion 41b moves to the top and descends, and step S8. Migrate to

  In step S <b> 8, the CPU 51 determines whether to retry the process of grasping and separating the binding component 43. For example, the CPU 51 refers to the number of retries (one time) stored in the EEPROM 53, counts the counter for counting the number of retries from “0” to “1”, returns to step S2, and grasps the binding component 43. The binding component gripping portion 41b is controlled. In this retry process, when the CPU 51 inputs the high-level detection data D80 from the signal processing unit 44b and proceeds to step S8 again in step S4, the counter “1” has reached the number of retries (one time). If it is determined that the number of retries has been exceeded, the process proceeds to step S9.

  In step S9, the CPU 51 controls the binding mechanism 41 to stop. For example, the CPU 51 controls the motor driving unit 44a of the binding mechanism 41 to output motor control data Dm for stopping the motor to stop the binding mechanism driving motor 45a. In this case, the binding mechanism driving motor 45a stops in a state where the binding component gripping portion 41b is positioned at the lowermost position shown in FIG. 13A, and proceeds to Step S10.

  In step S <b> 10, the CPU 51 sounds the alarm buzzer 56. For example, the CPU 51 controls the alarm buzzer 56 to be driven by outputting a drive signal to the alarm buzzer 56. The alarm buzzer 56 outputs a predetermined alarm sound based on the drive signal and ends the binding process. As a result, when the take-out failure of the binding component 43 occurs due to the remaining amount of the binding component 43 being zero or the separation failure of the binding component 43, the paper 3 ″ immediately before the binding process of the binder paper alignment unit 30 is used for binding. Therefore, the binder cassette 42 is replenished with the binding component 43, and the binding process can be started again using the paper 3 "maintained in the shape.

  The step of moving and lowering the binding component gripping portion 41b described above starts, for example, from the top of the binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 13B, and the binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 13A. End at the bottom.

  As described above, according to the binding device 100 and the control method thereof as the first embodiment according to the present invention, the booklet 90 is created by binding the binding component 43 into the holes punched at predetermined positions of each of a plurality of sheets. In this case, the binding component 43 taken out by the binding mechanism 41 from the binding component storage unit 42a is detected and detection information is output. For example, the binding component 43 held by the binding component gripping portion 41 b of the binding mechanism 41 raises the other end of the sensor actuator 42 m, and the other end of the sensor actuator 42 m passes between the light receiving and emitting elements of the transmissive photosensor 80. By passing, the binding part 43 taken out from the binding part storage part 42a is detected and detection information is output. Based on this detection information, it is determined whether or not the binding component 43 is defective, and the binding mechanism 41 is controlled.

  Therefore, the operation of the binding mechanism 41 can be stopped when a defective take-out of the binding component 43 occurs. As a result, the sheet 3 ″ immediately before the binding process can be maintained in a predetermined shape, and the binding process can be started again using the sheet 3 ″ maintained in the predetermined shape. In addition, the creation of defective booklets for the second and subsequent books can be interrupted. In addition, since the takeout of the binding component 43 is retried, the probability of taking out the binding component 43 is improved.

  Subsequently, a binding device 200 as a second embodiment according to the present invention and a sheet processing method of the device will be described. In this example, a detection mechanism 81 ′ is provided to detect the removal of the binding component 43.

  FIG. 20 is a front view showing a configuration example (No. 1) of the detection mechanism 81 '. Hereinafter, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. The detection mechanism 81 ′ constitutes an example of a detection unit, and includes a sensor actuator 42 m ′ and a transmission type photosensor 80. The sensor actuator 42m 'of the detection mechanism 81' shown in FIG. 20 constitutes an example of a rod-like member, and is attached to the binding component gripping portion 41b '. For example, the shape of the sensor actuator 42m 'is a rod shape having a step. A through hole is provided in the bar-shaped step portion, and a retaining pin 42n 'is inserted into the through hole, and is rotatably fixed to a predetermined position of the binding component gripping portion 41b'. In this case, the sensor actuator 42 m ′ is disposed so that one end (tip portion) 42 r of the sensor actuator 42 m ′ near the retaining pin 42 n ′ is pressed against the spine 43 a of the binding component 43. A spring 42q, which is an example of an urging member, is attached to a predetermined position on the other end of the sensor actuator 42m. The sensor actuator 42m 'is urged clockwise by the spring 42q and applied to the defining portion 410 to define the stop position. In this example, the base 410 uses a part of the transmissive photosensor 80.

  In addition, a U-shaped transmissive photosensor 80 is disposed at the other end of the sensor actuator 42m '. In this example, the photosensor 80 is arranged so that the other end of the sensor actuator 42 m passes between the light receiving and light emitting elements of the transmissive photosensor 80.

  The sensor actuator 42m 'constitutes an example of a posture changing unit, and changes its own posture when the binding mechanism 41 reaches the binding component 43 stored in the binding component storage unit 42a. The photo sensor 80 detects the sensor actuator 42m 'whose posture has been changed. In this example, the photo sensor 80 detects that the binding mechanism 41 has reached the binding component 43.

  FIG. 21 is a top view showing a configuration example (No. 2) of the detection mechanism 81 ′. The sensor actuator 42m 'of the detection mechanism 81' shown in FIG. 21 is rotatably attached to the front side of the binding component gripping portion 41b 'by a retaining pin 42n'. The sensor actuator 42m 'is a resin injection molded product as an example.

  The tip end portion 42r of the sensor actuator 42m 'is pushed down by the binding component 43 gripped by the binding component gripping claws 41h, so that the other end of the sensor actuator 42m' passes between the light receiving and emitting elements of the photosensor 80. After the binding component 43 gripped by the binding component gripping claws 41h is released, the sensor actuator 42m 'returns to the original position shown in FIG. 21 by the elastic force of the spring 42q.

  Subsequently, an operation example (part 1 to part 4) of the detection mechanism 81 ′ when the binding component 43 is taken out will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 to 25, and an operation example of the CPU 51 will be described with reference to FIG. explain. The binding components 43 are stacked and stored in the binding component storage portion 42a 'shown in FIG. The EEPROM 53 stores the number of retries (one time) for the process of grasping and separating the binding component 43. As a condition for taking out these binding components 43, in step T1 shown in FIG. 26, the CPU 51 determines whether a prescribed number of sheets 3 'have been accumulated. For example, the CPU 51 inputs the predetermined number of pieces of detection data D45g shown in FIG. 15, and determines whether the sheet 3 'for one booklet is stored in the paper aligning unit 30 shown in FIG. If the specified number of detection data D45g is not input, it is determined again whether or not the sheet 3 'for one booklet will be accumulated a little later. When the predetermined number of detection data D45g is input and the sheet 3 'for one booklet is accumulated a little later, the process proceeds to step T2.

  In step T <b> 2, the CPU 51 performs control so that the binding component gripping portion 41 b ′ is moved and comes into contact with the binding component 43. For example, the CPU 51 moves the gripping part coupling hole 41i by rotating the gripping part link 41f from the state where the partially broken binding part gripping part 41b ′ shown in FIG. 22 is located at the lowermost part shown in FIG. 13A. Is changed, and the binding component gripping portion 41b ′ is controlled to move upward as indicated by an arrow D via the gripping portion link coupling portion 41e.

  At this time, the posture of the sensor actuator 42m ′ of the detection mechanism 81 ′ is regulated in the vertical direction by the elastic force of the spring 42q and the photosensor 80, and the tip portion 42r of the sensor actuator 42m ′ is the upper surface of the binding component gripping portion 41b ′. Projecting from P. The rear end side of the sensor actuator 42 m ′ is within the U-shape of the photosensor 80.

  The binding component gripping portion 41b 'shown in FIG. 23 is in contact with the binding component 43 with the binding component gripping claw 41h open. At this time, the tip end portion 42r of the sensor actuator 42m 'protruding from the upper surface P of the binding component gripping portion 41b' is brought into contact with the spine portion 43a of the binding component 43 and pushed down. When the distal end portion 42r is pushed down, the sensor actuator 42m 'rotates counterclockwise toward the paper surface with the retaining pin 42n' as a rotation axis. Thereafter, the rear end portion 42 s of the sensor actuator 42 m ′ that has been accommodated in the U-shape of the photosensor 80 passes between the light receiving and emitting elements of the photosensor 80.

  At this time, the photosensor 80 detects the rotated sensor actuator 42m '. For example, since the photosensor 80 does not receive light to the light receiving element and the output current becomes small, the photosensor 80 outputs a low level detection signal S80 to the signal processing unit 44b shown in FIG. The signal processing unit 44b inputs the output low level detection signal S80, outputs the detection data D80 to the CPU 51, and proceeds to step T3.

  In step T3, the CPU 51 determines whether or not the binding component 43 has been successfully acquired. For example, when the low-level detection data D80 is input from the signal processing unit 44b, the CPU 51 determines that the binding component 43 has been successfully acquired, and proceeds to step T4.

  In step T4, the CPU 51 controls the binding component gripping portion 41b 'so as to grip and separate the binding component 43. For example, the CPU 51 performs control so that the spine portion 43a of the binding component 43 is grasped and separated by the binding component gripping claw 41h of the binding component gripping portion 41b 'shown in FIG. At this time, the front end portion 42r of the sensor actuator 42m ′ is pressed down against the spine portion 43a of the binding component 43, and the rear end portion 42s of the sensor actuator 42m ′ passes between the light receiving and emitting elements of the photosensor 80. It is in the state. Subsequently, the process proceeds to step T5.

  In step T5, the CPU 51 rotates the binding mechanism 41, which has gripped the binding component 43 by the binding component gripping portion 41b ', in the counterclockwise direction indicated by the arrow Y1 with reference to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d shown in FIG. Then, control is performed to move to the paper binding position (direction I), and the process proceeds to step T6. In step T6, the CPU 51 controls the binding mechanism 41 to form the booklet 90 by binding the binding component 43 to the paper 3 "provided from the binder paper alignment unit 30 at the paper binding position, and proceeds to step T7. In step T7, the CPU 51 controls to rotate in the clockwise direction indicated by the arrow Y1 with reference to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d and return from the paper binding position (direction I) to the binding component take-out position (direction II). 25, when the binding component 43 gripped by the binding component gripping claws 41h is released, the sensor actuator 42m ′ is pulled out by the elastic force of the spring 42q. The sensor actuator 42m that rotates clockwise about the paper surface with the rotation axis 42n 'as a rotation axis and is out of the U-shape of the photosensor 80 The rear end portion 42s fits within the U-shape of the photosensor 80. When the binding component 43 is satisfactorily taken out, the sensor actuator 42m ′ reciprocates twice between the light receiving and emitting elements of the photosensor 80. At this time, the photosensor 80 outputs the low-level detection signal S80 twice, in which case the CPU 51 determines that the binding component 43 has been successfully extracted based on the first low-level detection signal S80. To do.

  In step T3, the CPU 51 determines that the binding component 43 has not been successfully acquired when the high-level detection data D80 is input from the signal processing unit 44b. For example, when the leading end 42r of the sensor actuator 42m is not pushed down and the trailing end 42s of the sensor actuator 42m does not pass between the light receiving and emitting elements of the photosensor 80, the CPU 51 receives a high level signal from the signal processing unit 44b. When the detection data D80 is input and the binding component gripping part 41b ′ moves to the uppermost part and descends, it is determined that the binding component 43 has not been successfully acquired, and the process proceeds to step T8.

  In step T8, the CPU 51 determines whether to retry the process of grasping and separating the binding component 43. For example, the CPU 51 refers to the number of retries (one time) stored in the EEPROM 53, counts the number of retries from “0” to “1”, returns to step T2, and sets the binding component gripping portion 41b. Control is performed so as to contact the binding component 43. In this retry process, when the CPU 51 inputs the high-level detection data D80 from the signal processing unit 44b in step T3 and proceeds to step T8 again, the counter “1” has reached the number of retries (one time). If it is determined that the number of retries has been exceeded, the process proceeds to step T9.

  In step T9, the CPU 51 controls the binding mechanism 41 to stop. For example, the CPU 51 controls the motor driving unit 44a of the binding mechanism 41 to output motor control data Dm for stopping the motor to stop the binding mechanism driving motor 45a. In this case, the binding mechanism driving motor 45a stops in a state where the binding component gripping portion 41b is located at the lowermost position shown in FIG. 13A, and proceeds to Step T10.

  In step T10, the CPU 51 sounds the alarm buzzer 56. For example, the CPU 51 controls the alarm buzzer 56 to be driven by outputting a drive signal to the alarm buzzer 56. The alarm buzzer 56 outputs a predetermined alarm sound based on the drive signal and ends the binding process. As a result, when the binding component 43 is not properly removed due to the remaining amount of the binding component 43 or the like, the paper 3 ″ immediately before the binding process of the binder paper alignment unit 30 is maintained in a shape in which the binding holes are aligned. Accordingly, the binding component 43 is replenished to the binder cassette 42, and the binding process can be started again using the paper 3 "maintained in the shape.

  As described above, according to the binding device 200 and the control method thereof according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the booklet 90 is created by binding the binding component 43 into the holes punched at predetermined positions of each of a plurality of sheets. In this case, the binding component 43 taken out by the binding mechanism 41 from the binding component storage unit 42a is detected and detection information is output. For example, when the binding component gripping portion 41b ′ of the binding mechanism 41 reaches the binding component 43 stored in the binding component storage portion 42a ′, the posture of the sensor actuator 42m ′ is changed, and the sensor actuator 42m ′ is moved to the photosensor. 80, and detection information is output. Based on this detection information, it is determined whether or not the binding component 43 is defective, and the binding mechanism 41 is controlled by the CPU 51.

  Therefore, the operation of the binding mechanism 41 can be stopped when a defective take-out of the binding component 43 occurs. As a result, the sheet 3 ″ immediately before the binding process can be maintained in a predetermined shape, and the binding process can be started again using the sheet 3 ″ maintained in the predetermined shape.

  Since the detection mechanism 81 of the first embodiment determines a take-out failure after the binding component 43 is separated as compared with the detection mechanism 81 ′ of the second embodiment, the binding component 43 can be surely connected regardless of sensing variations. Since it is possible to determine the removal failure of the machine, the separation performance on the machine can be enhanced to the maximum. Since jamming occurs when the separation fails, it is possible to suppress an uncomfortable feeling in the operation with a general image of removing the jammed binding component 43.

  Further, the detection mechanism 81 ′ according to the second embodiment has a binding component gripping portion 41b ′ that reaches the binding component 43 of the binding component storage portion 42a ′ as compared with the detection mechanism 81 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not the binding component 43 is defective before the binding component 43 is separated. As a result, when the binding component 43 is stored in an unstable state, the binding component 43 is not forcibly separated. Therefore, the binding component 43 can be separated successfully by resetting and retrying the binding component 43. You can reduce waste.

  Further, while the binding component gripping portion 41 b ′ is gripping the binding component 43, the state in which the posture of the sensor actuator 42 m ′ shown in FIG. 24 is changed is maintained. As a result, it is possible to determine whether or not the binding process has been normally completed after binding the binding component 43 to the sheet 3 ″. For example, the binding component 43 gripped by the binding component gripping portion 41b ′ is the sheet 3 If the binding component 43 cannot be released due to the fact that it has not been fitted to the sensor actuator 42m ', the sensor actuator 42m' maintains the state in which the posture has been changed. In this case, it is determined that the binding processing error has occurred. Can do.

  FIG. 27 is a front view showing a configuration example (No. 1) of the binder cassette 42 ′. A binder cassette 42 ′ shown in FIG. 27 is an example of a binding component storage unit, and binding components 43 are stacked and loaded inside the binder cassette 42 ′. The binder cassette 42 'includes a detection mechanism 81a. This detection mechanism 81a constitutes an example of a detection means, and is attached to the right (arrow direction Rt) side surface side of the binder cassette 42 '. The detection mechanism 81a includes a sensor actuator 420 and a reflective photosensor 80a.

  The sensor actuator 420 rotates when the binding component 43 held by the binding component gripping portion 41b of the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. The photosensor 80a detects the rotated sensor actuator 420.

  28A and 28B are side views showing a configuration example (No. 2) of the binder cassette 42 '. The binder cassette 42 'shown in FIG. 28A is a left side view seen from the arrow direction Lt of FIG. In the binder cassette 42 ′, binding components 43 are stacked and loaded up to about one third of the inside of the binder cassette 42 ′.

  The binder cassette 42 ′ shown in FIG. 28B is a right side view seen from the arrow direction Rt. An opening 42v is provided on the right side surface of the binder cassette 42 '. Outside the opening 42v, the light emitting / receiving elements of the photosensor 80a shown in FIG. 27A are arranged to face the opening 42v. In addition, a reflection plate 420a provided at the tip of the sensor actuator 420 shown by a broken line and reflecting light is disposed inside the opening 42v. The photo sensor 80a emits light to the reflection plate 420a, which is an example of a reflection unit, and detects the reflected light from the reflection plate 420a. The opening 42v is normally closed by the reflection plate 420a.

  The sensor actuator 420 is rotated by the binding component 43 held by the binding component gripping portion 41b of the binding means 41 shown in FIG. For example, when the binding component 43 held by the binding component gripping portion 41b comes into contact with the operation portion 420c provided at the rear end of the sensor actuator 420, the reflection plate 420a rotates clockwise and is closed. 42v is opened or closed again (see FIG. 31).

  29A and 29B are explanatory diagrams showing a configuration example (No. 1) of the sensor actuator 420. FIG. The sensor actuator 420 shown in FIG. 29A is a front view, and includes a reflection plate 420a, a shaft member 420b, an operation unit 420c, a compression spring 420d, and an arm 420e. A reflection plate 420a is provided at the tip of an arm 420e, which is an example of an arm, and an operation unit 420c is provided at the rear end of the arm 420e. The arm 420e provided with the operation unit 420c is rotatably attached to the binder cassette 42 'by a shaft member 420b. A triangular extension 420i extending in the horizontal direction of the arm 420e is urged and pushed up by a compression spring 420d which is an example of an urging member.

  By configuring the sensor actuator 420 in this manner, when the binding component 43 comes into contact with the tip of the operation portion 420c extending in the vertical direction and is operated, the reflection plate 420a rotates clockwise around the shaft member 420b. Rotate.

  The sensor actuator 420 shown in FIG. 29B is a bottom view. The sensor actuator 420 is attached to the binder cassette 42 'by a mounting bracket (not shown) so as to be rotatable.

  30A and 30B are explanatory diagrams showing a configuration example (No. 2) of the sensor actuator 420. FIG. The reflective plate 420a of the sensor actuator 420 shown in FIG. 30A has a protrusion 420f that is an example of a defining portion. The protrusion 420f comes into contact with a contact portion (not shown) of the binder cassette 42 ', thereby defining the stop position of the arm 420e.

  The sensor actuator 420 shown in FIG. 30B is a partially enlarged view of the front view of the sensor actuator 420 shown in FIG. 29A. The operation part 420c of the sensor actuator 420 includes an extension part 420k. The extension 420k is provided to extend in the vertical direction from the arm 420e. A tip 420m is provided at the tip of the extension 420k. The tip portion 420m is formed in an arrow shape facing the right horizontal direction. In this example, an upper taper portion 420g for contacting the lower binding component 43 is provided on the upper inclined surface of the tip portion 420m formed in an arrow shape. The split ring part 43c of the lowered binding component 43 is in contact with the upper taper part 420g. Further, a lower taper portion 420h for contacting the rising binding component 43 is provided on the lower inclined surface of the tip portion 420m. The upper taper portion 420g and the lower taper portion 420h constitute an example of first and second inclined portions.

  31A and 31B are explanatory diagrams showing an operation example (part 1) of the sensor actuator 420. FIG. The sensor actuator 420 illustrated in FIG. 31A is in a state where the operation unit 420 c is not operated by the binding component 43. In this state, the opening 42v is blocked by the reflection plate 420a.

  In a state where the opening 42v is closed, the binding component gripping portion 41b (see FIG. 12) of the binding mechanism 41 is raised to acquire the binding component 43 stored in the binder cassette 42 '. At this time, the binding component gripping portion 41b of the binding mechanism 41 incorrectly detects the binding component 43 that is not provided with the paper 3 "and the binding component 43 that has not been fitted into the punch hole of the paper 3" and has failed to bind. 30B, the lower taper portion 420h of the operation portion 420c shown in FIG. 30B is pushed up by the contact of the held binding component 43, and the sensor actuator 420 rotates as shown in FIG. 31B. .

  At this time, the arm 420e of the sensor actuator 420 rotates clockwise, and the reflection plate 420a that has blocked the opening 42v opens the opening 42v. At this time, the reflection type photosensor 80a shown in FIG. 27 detects that the reflection plate 420a has moved from the opening 42v by transmitting light through the opening 42v. As a result, it is possible to detect the remaining binding components 43 that are not provided with the sheet 3 ″ and that have not been fitted into the punch holes of the sheet 3 ″ and that have failed to bind.

  In addition, when the binding part gripping part 41b of the binding mechanism 41 grips and lowers the binding part 43 stored in the binder cassette 42 ′ in a state where the opening 42v of FIG. 31A is closed, the operation part shown in FIG. The upper taper portion 420g of 420c is pushed down by the contact of the binding component 43. At this time, as shown in FIG. 31B, the arm 420e rotates clockwise, and the reflection plate 420a that has blocked the opening 42v opens the opening 42v. At this time, the reflection type photosensor 80a shown in FIG. 27 detects that the reflection plate 420a has moved from the opening 42v by transmitting light through the opening 42v. As a result, it is possible to detect that the binding component 43 has been normally removed from the binder cassette 42 '.

  32A and 32B are explanatory views showing an operation example (part 2) of the partially crushing sensor actuator 420. FIG. The sensor actuator 420 illustrated in FIG. 32A is in a state where the binding part 43 does not push down the operation unit 420c. In this state, the opening 42v shown in FIG. 28B is closed by the reflection plate 420a.

  When the binding component gripping portion 41b of the binding mechanism 41 grips and lowers the binding component 43 stored in the binder cassette 42 ′ in a state where the opening 42v is closed, as shown in FIG. The upper taper portion 420g is pushed down in the arrow direction Dn by the contact of the split ring portion 43c of the binding component 43. At this time, the arm 420e rotates clockwise, and the reflection plate 420a that has blocked the opening 42v opens the opening 42v.

  33A and 33B are explanatory views showing an operation example (part 3) of the partially crushing sensor actuator 420. FIG. The sensor actuator 420 shown in FIG. 33A is in a state where the binding part 43 does not push down the operation unit 420c. In this state, the opening 42v shown in FIG. 28B is closed by the reflection plate 420a.

  In a state where the opening 42v is closed, the binding component gripping portion 41b of the binding mechanism 41 is raised to obtain the binding component 43 stored in the binder cassette 42 '. At this time, the binding component gripping portion 41b of the binding mechanism 41 incorrectly detects the binding component 43 that is not provided with the paper 3 "and the binding component 43 that has not been fitted into the punch hole of the paper 3" and has failed to bind. 33B, as shown in FIG. 33B, the lower taper portion 420h of the operation portion 420c is pushed up in the arrow direction Up by the contact of the held binding component 43. At this time, the arm 420e rotates clockwise, and the reflection plate 420a that has blocked the opening 42v opens the opening 42v.

  Next, a sensor mounting example for detecting a separation verification section for verifying the separation of the binding component 43 by the binding mechanism 41 and a residual verification section for verifying the remaining of the binding component 43 will be described.

  FIG. 34 is a perspective view showing an example of attachment of a binding timing detection sensor 413b in the binding mechanism 41. FIG. The binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 34 includes a main shaft 412, and the main shaft 412 is rotated by a binding mechanism driving motor 45a via a predetermined gear. The main shaft 412 rotates once in the process until the binding mechanism 41 moves from the home position to the binding position and returns to the home position again.

  The binding mechanism 41 includes a home position detection sensor 413a, a binding timing detection sensor 413b, a home position sensor flag 414a, and a binding timing sensor flag 414b.

  The above-mentioned flags 414a and 414b are attached to the main shaft 412 of the binding mechanism 41. The flag 414a for the home position sensor has one slit. The binding timing sensor flag 414b includes three slits.

  A home position detection sensor 413a is disposed directly below the home position sensor flag 414a. A binding timing detection sensor 413b is arranged directly below the binding timing sensor flag 414b. Each of the sensors 413a and 413b is a transmissive photosensor, and is shielded from light when the binding mechanism 41 is at the home position.

  While the main shaft 412 makes one rotation, that is, in the process of the binding mechanism 41 moving from the home position to the binding position and returning to the home position, the home position detection sensor 413a is provided at one location provided in the flag 414a. The light is once transmitted through the slit. The binding timing detection sensor 413b transmits light three times through light through three slits provided in the flag 414b.

  The binding timing detection sensor 413b detects the three slits of the flag 414b and outputs a detection signal St to the CPU 51 (see FIG. 15). The CPU 51 determines the above-described residual verification interval and separation verification interval based on the detection signal St output from the sensor 413b.

  FIG. 35 is a timing chart illustrating a series of operation examples of the binding mechanism 41. A home position detection sensor 413 a shown in FIG. 35 detects the home position of the binding mechanism 41. The binding timing detection sensor 413b detects the timing at which the binding mechanism 41 binds the binding component 43. The sensor 413b outputs a high level signal HSt when it is shielded from light, and outputs a low level signal LSt when it is transmitted. The sensor 413b is shielded from light and outputs a high level signal HSt when the binding mechanism 41 is stopped, that is, at the home position.

  The binding mechanism 41 starts the binding process from this home position and raises the binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. At this time, the sensor 413b detects the start position P1 of the first slit of the flag 414b and outputs the low level signal LSt. A section from the start of the binding process to the start position P1 is set as a residual verification section. For example, it is determined whether or not the binding component 43 remains in the binding component gripping portion 41b in the residual verification section.

  For example, when the photosensor 80a in FIG. 35 outputs a high-level detection signal HS80a indicating an error operation, that is, as shown in FIG. 33B, the binding part 43 erroneously held causes the lower taper portion 420h of the operation portion 420c. Is pushed up in the arrow direction Up, the CPU 51 (see FIG. 15) that has input the detection signal HS80a determines that the binding component 43 remains in the binding mechanism 41, and causes the motor driving unit 44a to stop the motor. The motor control data Dm is output and the binding mechanism driving motor 45a is controlled to stop. As a result, it is possible to detect the remaining binding components 43 that are not provided with the sheet 3 ″ and that have not been fitted into the punch holes of the sheet 3 ″ and that have failed to bind.

  When the photosensor 80a does not output the high-level detection signal HS80a indicating an error operation, the binding mechanism 41 raises the binding component gripping portion 41b and is stored in the cartridge 42 by the binding component gripping portion 41b. The binding component 43 is grasped and held. At this time, the sensor 413b detects the end position P2 of the first slit of the flag 414b and outputs the high level signal HSt. After holding the binding component 43, the binding mechanism 41 rotates (swings) from the home position to the binding position and simultaneously lowers the raised binding component gripping portion 41b. At this time, the sensor 413b detects the start position P3 of the second slit of the flag 414b and outputs the low level signal LSt.

  The section from the end position P2 of the first slit of the flag 414b to the start position P3 of the second slit of the flag 414b is set as a separation verification section of the binding component 43, and the binding component stacked and stored in the cartridge 42 in this separation verification section. It is determined whether 43 is separated by the binding component gripping portion 41b.

  For example, when the photosensor 80a does not output a high level detection signal HS80a indicating normal operation, that is, the binding component gripping portion 41b of the binding mechanism 41 fails to grip the binding component 43 stored in the binder cassette 42 ′. When the upper taper portion 420g of the operation portion 420c is not pushed down in the arrow direction Dn by the binding component 43 as shown in 32B, the CPU 51 that has not input the detection signal HS80a removes the binding component 43 from the binder cassette 42 ′. It is determined that it has not been normally taken out, and motor control data Dm for stopping the motor is output to the motor driving unit 44a to control the binding mechanism driving motor 45a to stop. As a result, the operation of the binding mechanism 41 can be stopped when a defective take-out of the binding component 43 occurs due to zero remaining amount of the binding component 43 or poor separation of the binding component 43.

  When the photosensor 80a outputs a high-level detection signal HS80a indicating normal operation, the binding component gripping portion 41b of the binding mechanism 41 is lowered, and the binding mechanism 41 performs the binder paper alignment unit 30 shown in FIG. The binding component 43 is bound to the sheet bundle provided from the above to release the spine 43a (see FIG. 3) of the binding component 43, and the processing returns to the home position from the binding position.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the CPU 51. In the binder cassette 42 ′ illustrated in FIG. 27, the binding components 43 are stacked and stored. The same steps as those in the flowchart shown in FIG. 19 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  As a condition for the binding process that the binding component 43 is stored, the CPU 51 determines in step S1 shown in FIG. 36 whether the prescribed number of sheets 3 'have been accumulated. When the sheet 3 'for one booklet is accumulated a little later, the process proceeds to step S1a. In step S1a, the CPU 51 controls to raise the binding component gripping portion 41b. For example, the CPU 51 outputs driving motor control data Dm to the motor driving unit 44a shown in FIG. The motor driving unit 44a outputs a binding mechanism driving signal S45a obtained by decoding the motor control data Dm to the binding mechanism driving motor 45a, drives the motor 45a, and proceeds to Step S1b.

  In step S1b, the CPU determines whether or not the binding component 43 remains in the binding component gripping portion 41b in the residual verification section shown in FIG. For example, when the binding component gripping portion 41b erroneously holds the binding component 43, as shown in FIG. 33B, the held binding component 43 causes the lower taper portion 420h of the operation portion 420c to move in the arrow direction Up. Pushed up. At this time, the reflection type photosensor 80a shown in FIG. 27 detects that the reflection plate 420a has moved from the opening 42v by transmitting light through the opening 42v, and outputs a detection signal HS80a to the CPU 51. . The CPU 51 that has input the detection signal HS80a determines that the binding component 43 remains in the binding mechanism 41, and outputs motor control data Dm for stopping the motor to the motor driving unit 44a to output the binding mechanism driving motor 45a. Is controlled to stop, and the process proceeds to step S9. When the CPU 51 does not input the detection signal HS80a, that is, when the binding component gripping portion 41b does not hold the binding component 43 by mistake, the process proceeds to step S2.

  In step S2, the CPU 51 controls to move the binding component gripping portion 41b to grip the binding component 43, and proceeds to step S3 '.

  In step S <b> 3 ′, the CPU 51 controls the binding component gripping part 41 b so as to separate the binding component 43. At this time, as shown in FIG. 32B, the upper taper portion 420g of the operation portion 420c is pushed down in the arrow direction Dn by the contact of the split ring portion 43c of the binding component 43. At this time, the arm 420e rotates clockwise, and the reflection plate 420a that has blocked the opening 42v opens the opening 42v. In this case, the reflection type photosensor 80a shown in FIG. 27 detects that the reflection plate 420a has moved from the opening 42v by transmitting light through the opening 42v, and outputs a detection signal HS80a to the CPU 51. Then, the process proceeds to step S4 ′.

  In step S4 ', the CPU 51 determines whether or not the binding component 43 has been successfully acquired. For example, when the detection signal HD80a in which the detection signal HS80a indicating the normal operation is binarized is input to the separation verification section illustrated in FIG. 35, the CPU 51 determines that the binding component 43 has been successfully acquired and performs step S5. Migrate to

  In step S5, the CPU 51 rotates the binding mechanism 41, which has gripped the binding component 43 by the binding component gripping portion 41b, in the counterclockwise direction indicated by the arrow Y1 with reference to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d shown in FIG. Then, control is performed to move to the paper binding position (direction I), and the process proceeds to step S6. In step S6, the CPU 51 controls the binding mechanism 41 to form the booklet 90 by binding the binding component 43 to the paper 3 "provided from the binder paper alignment unit 30 at the paper binding position, and proceeds to step S7. In step S7, the CPU 51 controls the binding mechanism to rotate in the clockwise direction indicated by the arrow Y1 with reference to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d and return from the paper binding position to the binding component take-out position (direction II). End of.

  In step S4 ′, if the detection signal HD80a in which the detection signal HS80a indicating normal operation is binarized is not input to the separation verification section illustrated in FIG. It judges that it was not able to be performed, and transfers to step S8.

  In step S <b> 8, the CPU 51 determines whether to retry the process of grasping and separating the binding component 43. When the number of retries is within the range, the CPU 51 returns to step S <b> 2 and controls to grip the binding component 43 again. If it is determined that the number of retries has been exceeded, the process proceeds to step S9.

  In step S9, the CPU 51 controls to stop the binding mechanism 41 and proceeds to step S10. In step S10, the CPU 51 sounds the alarm buzzer 56 and ends the binding process.

  As described above, according to the sensor actuator 420 as the third embodiment of the present invention, the lower taper portion of the operation portion 420c is brought into contact with the binding component 43 held by the binding component gripping portion 41b of the binding mechanism 41. 420h is pushed up, and the arm 420e of the sensor actuator 420 rotates clockwise. The reflection plate 420a that has blocked the opening 42v by this rotation opens the opening 42v. At this time, the reflection type photosensor 80a detects that the reflection plate 420a has moved from the opening 42v by transmitting light through the opening 42v.

  As a result, it is possible to detect the remaining binding components 43 that are not provided with the sheet 3 ″ and that have not been fitted into the punch holes of the sheet 3 ″ and that have failed to bind.

  When the binding component gripping portion 41b has the binding component 43 that is erroneously held, the binding component gripping portion 41b includes the binder cassette 42 'and the binding component gripping portion 41b. Cannot be raised to the normal binding part acquisition position. This state may be detected by another sensor or the like.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention is suitable for application to an apparatus that performs a punching process on recording paper output from a black-and-white and color copying machine, a printing apparatus, etc., and performs a process of binding a binding component on the recording paper after the punching process. It is a thing.

(A) And (B) is the schematic which shows the structural example of the binding apparatus 100 as a 1st Example which concerns on this invention. (A)-(D) are process drawings which show the function example of the binding apparatus 100. FIG. It is the schematic which shows the example (the 1) of arrangement | positioning of the binder paper alignment unit 30, the binding mechanism 41, and the binder cassette 42. FIG. It is the schematic which shows the example of arrangement (the 2) of the binder paper alignment unit 30, the binding mechanism 41, and the binder cassette 42. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the structural example of the cassette attaching part 47 and the binder cassette 42. FIG. (A) And (B) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of attachment of the binder cassette 42. FIG. (A)-(D) are explanatory drawings which show the structural example of the binding component 43. FIG. (A)-(C) are explanatory drawings which show the structural example (opening-closing) of the binding component 43. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the structural example of the lower end part of the binder cassette. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of a detection mechanism 81. FIG. (A)-(C) are X1-X1 arrow sectional drawing of FIG. 9 which shows the operation example of the binding component pressing claw 42d. (A) And (B) is a perspective view which shows the structural example of the binding mechanism 41. FIG. (A) And (B) is sectional drawing which shows the structural example (the 1) inside the binding mechanism 41. FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an internal configuration example (No. 2) of the binding mechanism 41; 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control system of the binding device 100. FIG. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an operation example (part 1) of the detection mechanism 81; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an operation example (No. 2) of the detection mechanism 81; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an operation example (No. 3) of the detection mechanism 81; It is a flowchart which shows the operation example of CPU51. It is a front view which shows the structural example (the 1) of detection mechanism 81 'as a 2nd Example which concerns on this invention. It is a top view which shows the structural example (the 2) of detection mechanism 81 '. It is explanatory drawing which shows the operation example (the 1) of detection mechanism 81 '. It is explanatory drawing which shows the operation example (the 2) of detection mechanism 81 '. It is explanatory drawing which shows the operation example (the 3) of detection mechanism 81 '. It is explanatory drawing which shows the operation example (the 4) of detection mechanism 81 '. (C) It is a flowchart which shows the operation example of PU51. It is a front view which shows the structural example (the 1) of binder cassette 42 '. (A) And (B) is a side view which shows the structural example (the 2) of binder cassette 42 '. (A)-(C) are explanatory drawings which show the structural example (the 1) of the sensor actuator 420. FIG. (A) And (B) is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example (the 2) of the sensor actuator 420. FIG. (A) And (B) is explanatory drawing which shows the operation example (the 1) of the sensor actuator 420. FIG. (A) And (B) is explanatory drawing which shows the operation example (the 2) of the sensor actuator 420 of partial crushing. (A) And (B) is explanatory drawing which shows the operation example (the 3) of the sensor actuator 420 of partial crushing. 6 is a perspective view illustrating an example of attachment of a binding timing detection sensor 413b in the binding mechanism 41. FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing a series of operation examples of the binding mechanism 41. It is a flowchart which shows the operation example of CPU51.

Explanation of symbols

41 Binding mechanism (binding means)
42 Binder cassette 42 'Binder cassette (binding part storage)
42m, 42m 'sensor actuator (posture changer)
420 Sensor actuator (both posture change unit)
43 Binding component 43a Binding component storage unit 41b Binding component gripping unit 51 CPU (control means)
56 Alarm buzzer (alarm means)
80 Transmission type photo sensor (detector)
80a Reflective photo sensor (detection unit)
81, 81 ′, 81a Detection mechanism (detection means)
100 Binding device (paper processing device)
200 Binding device (paper processing device)
420a Reflective plate (reflective part)
420c Operation unit 420d With compression spring (biasing member)
420e Arm (arm)
420f Protrusion (regulation part)
420g Upper tapered first inclined portion 420h Lower tapered second inclined portion 420k Extension portion

Claims (5)

A paper processing device that creates a booklet by binding a binding component into a predetermined number of holes perforated at a predetermined position of each of a plurality of papers,
A binding component storage for storing the binding component;
Binding means for taking out the binding component from the binding component storage unit and binding the binding component into the hole of the paper;
Detecting means for detecting the binding component taken out by the binding means and outputting detection information;
Control means for controlling the binding means by determining whether or not the binding component is defective on the basis of the detection information output from the detection means ,
The detection means includes
An arm portion rotatably attached to a predetermined position of the binding component storage portion by a shaft member;
A reflective portion that is provided at one end of the arm portion and reflects light;
An operation portion having a predetermined shape which is provided by being brought into contact with a binding component which is provided at the other end of the arm portion and held by the binding means;
A defining part for defining a stop position of the arm part;
An urging member for urging the arm portion to the defining portion;
A detector that emits light to the reflector and detects light from the reflector;
The operation unit is
An extension extending vertically from the arm,
The extension portion includes a first and a second inclined portion inclined in a predetermined direction.
The reflective portion is
When the binding component held by the binding means comes into contact with the first inclined portion of the operation portion from the vertical direction, the reflection portion is rotated, and
When the binding component held by the binding means comes into contact with the second inclined portion of the operation portion from the anti-vertical direction, the reflection portion is rotated,
The detector is
Emits light to the reflective portion is rotated, the sheet processing apparatus characterized that you detect the light from the reflective unit. The control means includes
2. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the detection information is determined to indicate a takeout failure, the binding unit is controlled to take out the binding component from the binding component storage unit again. 3. The control means includes
The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein when the detection information is determined to indicate an ejection failure, the binding unit is controlled to stop. An alarm means for alarming a defective take-out of the binding parts;
The control means includes
The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the alarm unit is controlled to be driven when the binding component is not properly taken out. A method of controlling a sheet processing apparatus that creates a booklet by binding a binding component into a predetermined number of holes perforated at a predetermined position of each of a plurality of sheets,
The paper processing apparatus includes:
A binding component storage for storing the binding component;
Binding means for taking out the binding component from the binding component storage unit and binding the binding component into the hole of the paper;
Detecting means for detecting the binding component taken out by the binding means and outputting detection information;
Control means for controlling whether the binding means by determining whether or not the binding component is defective from the detection information output from the detection means,
The detection means includes
An arm portion rotatably attached to a predetermined position of the binding component storage portion by a shaft member;
A reflective portion that is provided at one end of the arm portion and reflects light;
An operation portion having a predetermined shape which is provided by being brought into contact with a binding component which is provided at the other end of the arm portion and held by the binding means;
A defining part for defining a stop position of the arm part;
An urging member for urging the arm portion to the defining portion;
A detector that emits light to the reflector and detects light from the reflector;
The operation unit is
An extension extending vertically from the arm,
A first inclined portion and a second inclined portion inclined at a tip of the extension portion in a predetermined direction;
The control means includes
A step of taking out the binding component from the binding component storage unit by a binding means;
Detecting the binding component and outputting detection information while taking out the binding component;
Based on the output the detection information, wherein whether discrimination to the binding component is taken out defective running and controlling the binding means,
The reflective portion is
When the binding component held by the binding means comes into contact with the first inclined portion of the operation portion from the vertical direction, the reflection portion is rotated, and
When the binding component held by the binding means comes into contact with the second inclined portion of the operation portion from the anti-vertical direction, the reflection portion is rotated,
The detector is
A control method for a sheet processing apparatus , wherein light is emitted to the rotated reflection unit and light from the reflection unit is detected .

Images