JP4983863B2 - Post-processing apparatus and image forming system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a post-processing apparatus and an image forming system, and more particularly to control when an error occurs.

  The post-processing device has a function of performing various post-processing on the image-formed paper conveyed from the image forming apparatus such as a printing machine or a copying machine. Here, post-processing refers to various operations such as sorting paper into each number of copies, binding using staples, folding in two or three in a Z shape, or opening a punch hole for a file. Say.

  With regard to this type of post-processing apparatus, various techniques for improving the performance of jam processing have been proposed. For example, in Patent Document 1, when a jam is detected during the stapling process, the jamming process by the operator is facilitated by notifying the user of the jam after moving the binding means to the initial position. The technology is described.

  Similarly, Patent Documents 2 and 3 describe a technique for retracting the staple unit in the post-processing apparatus when a jam is detected.

JP-A-11-322174 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-255219 JP 2005-257842 A

  Normally, when an error such as a jam occurs, it is necessary to remove the jammed paper causing the error by human hands.

  In the above-described prior art, a certain amount of space can be created for work by retracting a unit such as a staple. However, since the folding process is performed on small-sized to large-sized sheets, the conveyance path of the post-processing unit tends to be long, but the range that the user can reach is limited. In particular, unlike staples, which often bind the edges of paper, folding often involves processing that acts on or near the center of the paper. For this reason, for example, when an error occurs during post-processing on a small-size sheet, even if the folding unit is retracted, it is difficult for the user to touch the back of the conveyance path, so that it is difficult to perform jam processing.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides a post-processing device and an image forming system that can reduce the burden of labor for jam processing.

A post-processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention projects a conveyance path for conveying a sheet on which an image is formed, a folding unit for folding the sheet, and a leading end of the sheet conveyed in the conveyance path. The positioning member that stops the sheet at the folding position of the folding unit, and can change between a first state for sandwiching the abutted sheet and a second state in which the sheet is released, and the positioning A control means for moving a member along the direction of the transport path; a tray on which a folded sheet is discharged by the folding unit; and a take-out section for taking out the sheet in the transport path. means, said positioning member when an error occurs during the processing of the folding unit and the first state, and correspond to the positioning member to the take-out unit The move to a predetermined position of the transfer path that.

  In particular, the conveyance path extends downward from the sheet carry-in port, and the take-out portion is disposed below the folding unit.

  In particular, the control means is based on a reference position determined on the way from the sheet carry-in entrance to the back of the conveyance path based on the position of the positioning member and the size of the sheet abutted against the positioning member. And a determination unit that determines that a rear end in the conveyance direction of the sheet abutted against the positioning member is located in the back of the conveyance path, and the control unit determines the determination unit when the error occurs. The positioning member is moved to the predetermined position on the condition that the determination is made.

  In particular, the post-processing apparatus is configured to be capable of storing the bookbinding processing unit including the transport path, the folding unit, the positioning member, and the take-out unit, and the bookbinding processing unit, and is provided in the bookbinding processing unit. The main body part for guiding the sheet to the carry-in entrance, and a cover part that covers the main body part and the bookbinding process part in a state in which the bookbinding process part is accommodated in the main body part, An opening / closing guide capable of opening and closing a part of the bookbinding processing unit is provided.

  In particular, when the error occurs, the control means moves the folding member to a home position where the folding member of the folding unit does not touch the sheet in the conveyance path, and then moves the positioning member to the predetermined position. Moving.

  Particularly, when the error occurs, the control means moves the positioning member to the predetermined position on the condition that the sheet folded by the folding unit is not being discharged.

The folding unit includes a folding knife and a folding roller.
An image forming system according to another aspect of the present invention is an image forming system including an image forming unit and a post-processing unit that post-processes a sheet on which an image is formed by the image forming unit, and conveys the sheet. a conveying path for a folding unit for folding the sheet, by abutting the front end of the sheet conveyed to the conveying path, with stops at the folding position of the folding unit to the sheet, butting A positioning member that can be changed between a first state for sandwiching the formed sheet and a second state in which the sheet is opened, a control means for moving the positioning member along the direction of the conveyance path, and the folding unit. comprising a tray processed sheets folded is discharged, and a take-out portion for taking out a sheet of the conveying path, said control means, said folding unit It said positioning member when an error occurs and the first state during processing, and moving the positioning member in a predetermined position of the transport path corresponding to the extraction unit.

  According to the post-processing device or the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention, when an error occurs, the positioning member moves to a predetermined position of the conveyance path corresponding to the take-out portion, so that the error can be easily performed. Can be resolved.

  In addition, in order to eliminate the error, it is not necessary for the user to move the folding unit to the retreat position with his / her hand and perform error solving work. For this reason, it is not necessary to increase the movable range by manual operation of the folding unit so that the error can be easily eliminated manually. As a result, the apparatus can be downsized.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming system. 1 is a diagram illustrating an image forming system in a state in which a bookbinding processing unit is pulled out. FIG. It is a figure which shows the opening / closing guide provided in a bookbinding process part. It is a figure which shows the outline of the internal structure of an image forming system. It is a figure which shows the outline of the internal structure of a bookbinding process part. It is a figure which shows the chuck | zipper function of a front-end | tip stopper. 1 is a block diagram of an image forming apparatus. It is a block diagram of a post-processing apparatus. It is a figure for demonstrating the conveyance path in a bookbinding process part. It is a figure for demonstrating the movement of the front-end | tip stopper in a bookbinding process part. It is a figure for demonstrating the movement of the front-end | tip stopper in a bookbinding process part. It is a figure for demonstrating the movement of the front-end | tip stopper in a bookbinding process part. It is a figure for demonstrating the movement of the front-end | tip stopper in a bookbinding process part. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an operation of conveying a sheet to a storage position. It is a figure for demonstrating folding operation | movement. It is a timing chart for demonstrating operation | movement of a bookbinding process part. It is a timing chart for explaining folding operation in detail. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation timing (specific example of T25-T29) during folding operation | movement. It is a flowchart for demonstrating control operation of a post-processing apparatus. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the error process of a post-processing apparatus.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same.

  In the description of the present embodiment, a direction in which a sheet is conveyed is referred to as a “conveyance direction”, and a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction is referred to as a “conveyance orthogonal direction”. Of the four sides of the paper, the leading portion is referred to as the “leading edge of the paper” with respect to the transport direction, the trailing edge portion is referred to as the “paper trailing edge”, and the remaining two sides are designated as “both sides of the paper”. Called.

  1 to 3 are diagrams showing a configuration of an image forming system according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, the image forming system includes an image forming apparatus 1 and a post-processing apparatus process 2. The post-processing device 2 includes a main body 21, a bookbinding processing unit 22 accommodated in the main body 21, and a door 23 that covers the main body 21 and the bookbinding processing unit 22 in a state where the bookbinding processing unit 22 is accommodated in the main body 21. .

  The post-processing device 2 receives the paper on which the image is formed from the image forming device 1. The post-processing device 2 carries the paper from the main body 21 to the bookbinding processing unit 22 when post-processing (saddle stitching, center folding) is performed on the received paper.

  With reference to FIG. 2, a carry-in entrance 25 for carrying in the paper S <b> 1 from the main body 21 is provided in the upper part of the bookbinding processing unit 22. Inside the bookbinding processing unit 22, a conveyance path extending from the carry-in entrance 25 to the back is formed. The bookbinding processing unit 22 guides the paper S1 carried into the carry-in entrance 25 to the conveyance path, and then performs post-processing according to a user instruction on the paper S1.

  Referring to FIG. 3, an opening / closing guide 24 that can be opened and closed in the vertical direction is provided on one side surface of the bookbinding processing unit 22. The user can access a part of the conveyance path formed inside the bookbinding processing unit 22 by lifting the opening / closing guide 24 upward. The open / close guide 24 is formed of a transparent member. Therefore, the user can easily determine whether or not the sheet S1 exists in the vicinity of the opening / closing guide 24 of the bookbinding processing unit 22.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an outline of the internal structure of the image forming system. The image forming system includes an image forming apparatus 1 and a post-processing apparatus 2. The image forming apparatus 1 has a function of reading an image on a document surface and forming an image on a sheet by a known electrophotographic method.

  A post-processing device 2 is connected to the image forming apparatus 1. The post-processing device 2 performs folding processing, binding processing, or the like on the paper S1 carried from the image forming apparatus 1 selectively or in combination according to a user instruction.

  For example, the types of folding processing that can be executed by the post-processing device 2 include middle folding (two folding) and three folding (Z folding). Further, the types of binding that can be executed by the post-processing device 2 include “one corner parallel point” for stapling at one place (back) of the four corners of the paper, and among the four corners of the paper. “One point before the corner” stapling to one place (front), “two points on the side” stapling to two places on one paper side of the four corners of the paper, paper that is scheduled to be folded in half There are “saddle stitching” for stapling at two centers.

The sheet S1 on which an image is formed by the image forming apparatus 1 is conveyed to the post-processing apparatus 2.
A first transport path 91 and a second transport path 92 for transporting the sheet S1 from the image forming apparatus 1 are formed inside the post-processing apparatus 2. When the paper discharge destination is set to the first tray 82, the sheet S1 is conveyed from the image forming apparatus 1 to the second conveyance path 92 one by one by switching the conveyance direction by a switching mechanism (not shown). Subsequently, the sheet is transported from the second transport path 92 to the third transport path 93. As a result, the sheet S1 is discharged to the first tray 82.

  The first tray 82 is configured to be movable up and down so as to accommodate a large amount of paper. The upward movement position of the first tray 82 is regulated by the elevator upper limit switch 51 and the elevator upper surface detection sensor 34. Further, the downward movement position of the first tray 82 is regulated by the elevator lower limit switch 52 and the elevator lower surface detection sensor 35. The first tray 82 is driven by an elevator motor 62 described later.

  When the paper discharge destination is set to the second tray 88, the paper S1 is transported from the image forming apparatus 1 to the first transport path 91 by switching the transport direction by a switching mechanism (not shown). As a result, the sheet S1 is discharged to the second tray 88. The post-processing device 2 is provided with a second tray full detection sensor 31 that detects that the amount of paper in the tray has reached a certain amount.

  When the paper discharge destination is set to the booklet tray 89, the paper S1 is conveyed from the image forming apparatus 1 to the second conveyance path 92 one by one by switching the conveyance direction by a switching mechanism (not shown). Subsequently, the sheet is transported from the second transport path 92 to the fourth transport path 94. The fourth conveyance path 94 extends downward substantially vertically. For this reason, the sheet S1 transported to the fourth transport path 94 advances from the upstream side to the downstream side of the fourth transport path 94 by its own weight. The sheet S1 that has traveled to the end of the fourth transport path 94 is carried into the bookbinding section 22 stored in the post-processing apparatus 2. The bookbinding processing unit 22 is provided with a carry-in sensor 40, a saddle carry-in roller 77, a staple unit 67, a folding knife 78, a folding roller 79, a leading end stopper 74, and the like.

  The bookbinding processing unit 22 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. Inside the bookbinding processing section 22, a conveyance path is formed that starts from the carry-in entrance 25 and continues in a straight line toward the opening / closing guide 24 at a predetermined inclination angle. Along the conveyance path, the upper paddle 75, the paper detection sensor 37, the first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81, the staple unit 67, the folding knife 78, the pair of folding rollers 79, and the lower paddle. 76 and a tip stopper home sensor 39 are provided. Further, a tip stopper 74 is provided in the transport path so as to be capable of reciprocating along the transport path.

  The front end stopper 74 is a member for positioning the paper by abutting the front end of the paper carried into the bookbinding processing unit 22. The tip stopper home sensor 39 is a sensor for detecting that the tip stopper 74 is at the home position.

  The staple unit 67 is configured to be movable in the conveyance orthogonal direction by a drive unit (not shown). When performing the binding process, the staple unit 67 moves from a predetermined home position to a position where the binding process is performed, and then strikes a staple on the bundle of sheets positioned by the leading end stopper 74. The staple unit 67 retreats to the home position again after completing the needle driving. The post-processing device 2 is provided with a staple home sensor 43 for detecting the home position of the staple unit 67.

  The first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 are arranged one by one along the transport direction so as to surround the staple unit 67. In FIG. 5, for convenience of drawing, each of the first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 is shown as being divided and disposed above and below the staple unit 67. Each of the two alignment plates 81 is actually formed as a single plate having a central portion formed in a substantially U-shape so as to cut out the arrangement space portion of the staple unit 67.

  The first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 are reciprocated in the conveyance orthogonal direction by independent drive sources, so that a plurality of sheets of paper positioned between the first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 are moved. Has the function of aligning both sides.

  The folding knife 78 is configured to be able to leave and withdraw from the conveyance path. The post-processing device 2 is provided with a folding knife home sensor 42 for detecting the home position of the folding knife 78. The folding knife 78, the folding roller 79, and the folding knife home sensor 42 constitute a folding unit 30 for performing folding processing on the paper.

  In the description of the present embodiment, the conveyance path portion from the carry-in entrance 25 of the bookbinding processing section 22 to the position where the folding knife 78 is withdrawn / retracted is referred to as a fifth conveyance path 95, and thereafter, the tip stopper home sensor 39 is disposed. A portion of the conveyance path up to the end position is referred to as a sixth conveyance path 96.

  Sheets carried in from the main body 21 side of the post-processing device 2 via the fourth conveyance path 94 are detected one by one by the carry-in sensor 40. The paper detected by the carry-in sensor 40 is conveyed from the carry-in entrance 25 to the fifth conveyance path 95 by a pair of saddle carry-in rollers 77. The sheet conveyed to the fifth conveyance path 95 advances to the back of the fifth conveyance path 95 by its own weight. At that time, the upper paddle 75 rotates in contact with the surface of the paper, so that the paper is smoothly conveyed one by one.

  The paper transported to the back of the fifth transport path 95 is temporarily held at a predetermined “accommodating position” of the fifth transport path 95 by the leading end stopper 74 until all the sheets to be processed are transported. The first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 align both sides of the paper every time the paper is carried into the “accommodating position”.

  When all the sheets to be processed are loaded, the leading end stopper 74 moves below the fifth conveyance path 95. When it is necessary to staple the sheet bundle, the leading end stopper 74 stops at a predetermined “binding position”. Thereafter, the stapling unit 67 is operated, and stapling is performed on the sheet bundle stopped at the “binding position”. When it is necessary to fold the sheet bundle, the leading end stopper 74 stops at a predetermined “folding position”. Thereafter, the folding knife 78 and the folding roller 79 are operated, and the sheet bundle stopped at the “folding position” is folded.

  The sheet bundle to be folded is conveyed from the seventh path 96 to the eighth path 97 while a fold is formed by the folding knife 78 and the folding roller 79. The folded sheet bundle conveyed to the eighth path 97 is detected by the saddle discharge sensor 38 and then discharged to the booklet tray 89 outside the apparatus. As a result, the booklet tray 89 is loaded with one folded booklet or one booklet that has been bound and folded. The front end stopper 74 returns to the home position located at the lowermost end of the sixth conveyance path 96 with the end of the folding process.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the front end portion of the front end stopper 74 is configured to be capable of gripping the abutted sheet bundle by tilting inward by a predetermined angle. In this embodiment, when a jam error (paper jam error, sheet conveyance error) occurs during post-processing, the opening / closing guide 24 is provided in a state where the sheet bundle held by the leading end stopper 74 is grasped. Retreat to the home position. As a result, when the leading edge of the jammed paper causing the paper jam is gripped by the leading edge stopper 74, the sheet bundle including the jammed paper moves to the position where the opening / closing guide 24 is provided. At this time, the sheet bundle is smoothly moved downward by the lower paddle 76 provided along the sixth conveyance path 96.

  Therefore, the user can remove the paper causing the jam error by opening the door 23 of the post-processing apparatus 2 and pulling out the bookbinding processing unit 22 forward and opening the opening / closing guide 24. For this reason, even when a jam error occurs at a position where the user cannot reach, the user can easily remove the paper jam. Hereinafter, a state in which the tip portion of the tip stopper 74 is tilted inward by a predetermined angle is referred to as a “chuck state”, and a state before the tip portion of the tip stopper 74 is tilted inward is referred to as a “release state”.

  If a folding knife 78 is being folded when a jam error occurs, that is, if the folding knife 78 has entered the seventh transport path 97 together with the paper, the folding knife 78 is moved to the home position. After retracting, the tip stopper 74 is moved to the home position. Similarly, when a jam error occurs, if binding is in progress, that is, if the staple unit 67 is not at the home position, the staple unit 67 is retracted to the home position and the leading end stopper 74 is moved to the home position. Moving. In either case, the folding knife 78 or the staple unit 67 becomes an obstacle when the jammed sheet is pulled downward.

  Further, when a jam error occurs, if the paper position is near the carry-in entrance 25 of the bookbinding processing unit 22, the leading end stopper 74 is not moved. This is because the paper causing the paper jam can be easily pulled out from the carry-in entrance 25 without moving the front end stopper 74.

  In addition, when a jam error occurs and the folded sheet bundle is being discharged from the seventh transport path 97, the leading end stopper 74 is not moved. This is because the paper causing the paper jam can be easily pulled out from the discharge port of the seventh transport path 97 without moving the front end stopper 74. Note that when the sheet bundle is caught in the folding roller 79 and does not move, the sheet stopper cannot be moved because the sheet cannot be conveyed.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the image forming apparatus 1. Referring to FIG. 7, an image forming apparatus 1 includes a main control unit 100 that controls the entire apparatus, an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 11, an image data storage unit 12, a display unit 13, and the like. An audio output unit 14, an external device interface 15, and a communication interface 16 are provided.

  The main control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101 for executing various programs including an operating system (OS), and a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102 in which programs executed by the CPU 101 are stored in advance. And a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103 that temporarily stores data necessary for executing the program portion of the CPU 101.

  The main control unit 100 reads an image from a document loaded on the ADF 11 and converts it into electronic data, an image processing control for performing various image processing on the read image, and a known image processed image. Image forming control for forming on a sheet by an electrophotographic process and sheet feeding control for conveying a sheet on which an image is formed are executed.

  The display unit 13 is configured by a touch panel, and is configured to be able to set the type of post-processing to be applied to the paper and perform operation settings for various other functions, and to check the set functions and display various warnings. Has been. The display unit 13 also displays, for example, a numeric keypad for setting the number of copies, a start key for instructing start of operation, a stop key for instructing stop of operation, a reset key for initializing various setting conditions, and the like.

  From the display unit 13 to the main control unit 100, printing paper size information and post-processing type information (whether or not folding and binding and their types) are input based on a user operation. The main control unit 100 transmits these pieces of information to the post-processing device 2 through the communication interface 16.

  The sound output unit 14 outputs an error sound when an error such as an operation sound, a warning sound, or a paper jam occurs. An external network 17 is connected to the external device interface 15. Thereby, it is comprised so that communication with the other apparatus on a network is possible.

  In addition to the copying function, the image forming apparatus 1 has a scanning function for reading image data to acquire image data, and a print for receiving image data from an external device such as a personal computer (not shown) to perform printing. It has a function and a FAX function capable of facsimile transmission.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the post-processing device 2. Referring to FIG. 8, post-processing device 2 includes a finisher control unit 200 that controls the entire post-processing device processing 2, and a communication interface 87 for communicating information with image processing device 1. The finisher control unit 200 temporarily stores a CPU 201 for executing various programs including an operating system, a ROM 202 in which a program executed by the CPU 201 is stored in advance, and data necessary for executing a program portion of the CPU 201. RAM 203 is provided.

  The finisher control unit 200 controls the sheet conveyance that conveys the sheet carried from the image forming apparatus 1 to a predetermined conveyance path according to the setting, the binding control that controls the staple unit 67, the folding control that controls the folding unit 30, For example, tip stopper control for controlling the tip stopper 74 is executed.

  The finisher control unit 200 includes various sensors described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 (second tray full detection sensor 31, booklet tray full detection sensor 33, elevated upper surface detection sensor 34, elevated lower surface detection sensor 35, and paper detection sensor 37. , Saddle discharge sensor 38, tip stopper home sensor 39, carry-in sensor 40, folding knife home sensor 42, staple home sensor 43) and switches (elevate upper limit switch 51, elevator lower limit switch 52) are connected to each sensor. A detection signal is input from the switch.

  The finisher control unit 200 includes a chuck solenoid 53 for changing the tip stopper 74 to the “chuck state”, and a tip stopper motor for reciprocating the tip stopper 74 in the fifth transport path 95 and the sixth transport path 96. 54 is connected.

  Further, the finisher control unit 200 includes a staple unit 67, an upper paddle motor 55 that rotates the upper paddle 75, a lower paddle motor 56 that rotates the lower paddle 76, and a saddle loading roller 77 that rotates the saddle loading roller 77. Roller motor 57, folding knife motor 58 for driving folding knife 78, folding roller motor 59 for rotationally driving folding roller 79, first alignment plate motor 60 for driving first alignment plate 80, and second alignment plate A second alignment plate motor 61 that drives 81 and an elevator motor 62 that drives the first tray 82 up and down are connected.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a conveyance path in the bookbinding processing unit 22. 10 to 12 are diagrams for explaining the movement of the leading end stopper 74 in the bookbinding processing unit 22. Inside the bookbinding processing unit 22, a conveyance path including a fifth conveyance path 95 and a sixth conveyance path 96 is formed that continues in a straight line from the carry-in entrance 25 to the end where the leading end stopper home sensor 39 is located. From a boundary portion between the fifth conveyance path 95 and the sixth conveyance path 96, a seventh conveyance path 97 in which the sheet bundle against which the folding knife 78 is abutted is branched.

  In FIG. 9, PA, PB, PC, and PH indicate the positions of the tip stopper 74. PA indicates an “accommodating position” for temporarily holding and storing the sheets carried into the bookbinding processing unit 22 until all sheets in the post-processing unit are carried in. PB indicates a “binding position” when binding a sheet bundle. PC indicates a “folding position” when folding a sheet bundle. PH indicates the “home position” of the tip stopper 74.

  PS indicates a “reference position (sheet trailing edge alignment position)” that serves as a reference when the sheet is held at the accommodation position PA. The conveyance path length from the reference position PS to the home position PH is LZ. The distance from the reference position PS to the center of the staple unit 67 in the conveyance direction is LX. Further, the distance from the center of the staple unit 67 in the conveyance direction to the seventh conveyance path 97 is LY.

  The finisher control unit 200 changes the storage position PA according to the paper size so that the trailing edge of the paper to be stored is always aligned with the reference position PS regardless of the paper size. In addition, the finisher control unit 200 changes the binding position PB and the folding position PC according to the paper size and the processing content.

  The range of the accommodation position PA will be described with reference to FIG. The finisher control unit 200 adjusts the accommodation position PA in a range of ΔL1 between PA1 and PA2. PA1 indicates a position corresponding to the paper S1 having the minimum paper size. PA2 indicates a position corresponding to the paper S1 having the maximum paper size. The distance from the reference position PS to PA1 is LA1, and the distance from the reference position PS to PA2 is LA2. The finisher control unit 200 stores an accommodation position PA for each paper size.

  The finisher control unit 200 selects the storage position PA corresponding to the paper size information input from the image processing apparatus 1, and moves the leading end stopper 74 from the home position to an appropriate storage position before the paper is carried into the bookbinding processing unit 22. Move to PA. As a result, regardless of the size of the sheet, the trailing edge of the sheet held at the accommodation position PA is aligned with the reference position PS. The minimum paper size is, for example, A4 size. Note that when a paper having a size smaller than the A4 size is carried in, the accommodation position is uniformly set to PA1.

  The range of the binding position PB will be described with reference to FIG. The finisher control unit 200 adjusts the binding position PB in the range of ΔL2 from the accommodation position PA according to the size of the sheet S1 and according to the type of binding processing. The finisher control unit 200 stores a binding position PB for each paper size and type of binding process.

  The finisher control unit 200 selects a binding position PB corresponding to the paper size and the type of binding process, and moves the leading end stopper 74 from the accommodation position PA to an appropriate binding position PB. At this time, in order to pull the sheet bundle stored in the leading end stopper 74 to the binding position more reliably, the leading end stopper 74 is moved to the binding position PB after the leading end stopper 74 holds the sheet. As a result, the sheet bundle stops at an appropriate binding position. Instead of holding the paper with the front end stopper 74, the front end stopper 74 may be moved from the storage position PA to the binding position PB, and the paper bundle may be dropped to the binding position PB by its own weight.

  The range of the folding position PC will be described with reference to FIG. The folding position PC varies in a range of ΔL3 according to the size of the paper S1 and depending on the type of folding process. The finisher control unit 200 stores an accommodation position PC for each sheet size and folding type.

  The finisher control unit 200 selects the folding position PC corresponding to the size of the sheet S1 and the type of folding processing, and moves the leading end stopper 74 from the binding position PB to the appropriate folding position PC. At this time, in order to pull the sheet bundle stored in the leading end stopper 74 to the binding position more reliably, the leading end stopper 74 is moved to the folding position PC after the leading end stopper 74 holds the sheet. As a result, the sheet bundle stops at an appropriate folding position. Alternatively, the leading edge stopper 74 may be moved from the binding position PB to the folding position PC without dropping the leading edge stopper 74, and the sheet bundle may be dropped to the folding position PC by its own weight.

  Next, error processing when a jam error occurs in the bookbinding processing unit 22 will be described with reference to FIG. In the bookbinding processing unit 22, the position of the paper is controlled by the leading end stopper 74. Therefore, when a jam error occurs in the bookbinding processing unit 22, the leading edge of the paper that has caused the paper jam may be located near the leading edge stopper 74. In view of this, the post-processing device 2 according to the present embodiment has a home provided with an open / close guide that can be easily accessed by the user after the tip stopper 74 is in the “chucked state” when a jam error occurs. Control to move the tip stopper 74 to the position is executed.

  However, if the position of the leading end stopper 74 when the jam error occurs is the upper position in the conveyance path, the user puts his / her hand into the carry-in entrance 25 (see FIG. 2) without moving the leading end stopper 74. There are cases where paper jams can be easily resolved. Therefore, the post-processing device 2 according to the present embodiment moves the leading end stopper 74 to the home position only when the rear end position of the sheet when a jam error occurs is behind the reference position PS.

  FIG. 13 shows a fifth transport path 95, a sixth transport path 96, and a seventh transport path 97 as transport paths in the bookbinding processing unit 22. Whether or not the rear end position of the sheet when the jam error occurs is behind the reference position PS is determined by the following procedure.

  That is, the transport path length with reference to the reference position PS is LZ, and the transport direction length of the sheet S1 positioned at the leading end stopper 74 is LS. Further, the distance from the home position PH of the tip stopper 74 when a jam error occurs is set to LP.

  LP is calculated based on the number of stepping pulses of the tip stopper motor 54, for example. The LS is specified based on the paper size input from the image forming apparatus 1. LZ is a predetermined value. Therefore, first, LTH as a threshold value is calculated by “LZ-LP”. Next, LTH and LS are compared. When LS is smaller than the calculated LTH, it can be determined that the rear end position of the sheet when a jam error occurs is deeper than the reference position PS. In this case, the tip stopper 74 is controlled to “chuck state” and then moved to the home position.

  Alternatively, when LZ− (LS + LP) is calculated and the calculation result exceeds 0, it is determined that the rear end position of the sheet when the jam error occurs is deeper than the reference position PS, and the front end stopper is detected. 74 may be moved to the home position after being controlled to the “chuck state”.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the folding roller 79 when the sheet S1 is conveyed to the “accommodating position”. The loaded paper S1 curls in one direction due to environmental conditions. For example, as shown in FIG. 14A, when the sheet S1 curled so that the leading edge jumps up is transported to the “folding position”, a pair of paper S1 is formed before the leading edge reaches the “accommodating position”. There is a risk of entering a seventh transport path 97 formed between the folding rollers 79. Such an operation causes a paper jam.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the tip stopper 74 (not shown) is moved to the “accommodating position”, and then the folding roller 79 is rotated in the direction of the arrow as shown in FIG. As a result, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the leading edge of the curled sheet S1 is guided downward in the conveyance path by the rotation of the folding roller 79 and enters the seventh conveyance path 97. Is prevented. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 14C, the leading edge of the sheet S1 moves downward in the conveyance path and eventually abuts against a leading edge stopper 74 (not shown). Note that the folding knife 78 is stopped at the home position during the operations shown in FIGS. 14 (A) to 14 (C).

  Thus, in the present embodiment, the folding roller 79, which is a folding member, is also used as an auxiliary member that assists the conveyance of the curled paper.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining the folding operation. After the sheet bundle reaches the “folding position” and a predetermined time has elapsed, the folding knife 78 is driven from the home position. As shown in FIG. 15A, the leading edge of the folding knife 78 eventually comes into contact with the folding position of the sheet bundle, so that the sheet bundle is folded and travels to the seventh conveyance path 97.

  The driving of the folding roller 79 is started after a predetermined waiting time has elapsed since the driving of the folding knife 78 was started. Both of the pair of folding rollers 79 rotate so as to wind the paper between the folding rollers 79. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 15B, a folding operation such as a middle folding is performed. Note that the predetermined standby time is “when the saddle stitching is performed and the number of sheets in the sheet bundle is 6 to 15 sheets” and “only the middle folding (not binding) and the number of sheets in the sheet bundle is 2 to 5 sheets”. Or “when the number of sheets in the sheet bundle is 2 to 5 with saddle stitching”. The finisher control unit 200 stores these standby times in advance, and controls the folding roller 79 with the standby time corresponding to the condition.

  Eventually, as shown in FIG. 15C, the sheet bundle that has been folded is discharged from the seventh conveyance path 97 between the folding rollers 79. The sheet bundle that has passed between the folding rollers 79 is detected by a saddle discharge sensor 38. When the detection signal is input from the saddle discharge sensor 38, the finisher control unit 200 determines that the folding process of one unit of the sheet bundle is finished, stops driving the folding roller 79, and moves the folding knife 78 to the home position. Evacuate. The paper discharged from the seventh conveyance path 97 is placed on a booklet tray 89 (see FIG. 5).

  FIG. 16 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the bookbinding processing unit 22. Here, a case will be described in which saddle stitching is performed on two sheets as a sheet bundle. First, the first sheet carried into the bookbinding processing unit 22 is detected by the carry-in sensor 40 (T1 to T2). At this time, the leading end stopper 74 is already stopped at the “accommodating position” corresponding to the paper size. Further, the chuck solenoid 53 is not excited, and therefore the tip stopper 74 is not in the “chuck state”. Further, each of the staple unit 67 and the folding knife 78 is stopped at the home position.

  The upper paddle 75 starts rotating when the first sheet is detected (T1). Soon, the folding roller 79 starts rotating in the direction opposite to that during the folding operation (T2).

  The paper detected by the carry-in sensor 40 eventually comes into contact with the leading end stopper 74 stopped at the “accommodating position”. Then, both sides of the first sheet are aligned by the first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 operating as follows.

  That is, first, the first alignment plate 80 moves to one side position of the sheet (T4 to T6) and stops. On the other hand, the second alignment plate 81 starts moving after the movement start time of the first alignment plate 80 (T5), and stops moving when it reaches the other side position of the sheet (T7).

  Thereby, first, the first alignment plate 80 abuts on one side of the sheet, and then the second alignment plate 81 abuts on the other side of the sheet. Eventually, the rotation of the folding roller 79 stops (T8). T3 to T4 and T3 to T5 are predetermined values. T6 to T10 are 245 ms. T7 to T9 are 220 ms.

  Next, the second alignment plate 81 starts moving from the other side position of the sheet (T9), and eventually returns to the home position (T11). On the other hand, the first alignment plate 80 starts moving after the movement start time of the second alignment plate 81 (T10), and eventually returns to the home position (T12). Thereby, the alignment of the first sheet by the first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 is completed.

  Subsequently, when the second sheet is detected by the carry-in sensor 40, a control operation common to the control operation for the first sheet is executed. This completes the alignment of the sheet bundle composed of the first and second sheets. At this time, the rotation of the upper paddle stops.

  Next, when the chuck solenoid 53 is excited, the tip stopper 74 enters the “chuck state” (T14). Next, the leading edge stopper 74 moves to the “binding position (in particular, the saddle stitching position in this case)” while holding the sheet bundle (T15 to T16). Thereafter, the chuck solenoid 53 is demagnetized, so that the tip stopper 74 changes from the “chuck state” to the “release state” (T17).

  Next, a sheet pressing process is executed. That is, first, the first alignment plate 80 moves to one side position of the sheet bundle (T18 to T20) and stops. On the other hand, the second alignment plate 81 starts moving after the movement start time of the first alignment plate 80 (T19), and stops moving when it reaches the other side position of the sheet bundle (T21).

  Thereby, first, the first alignment plate 80 abuts on one side of the sheet bundle, and then the second alignment plate 81 abuts on the other side of the sheet bundle, thereby pressing both sides of the sheet bundle.

  Next, when the staple unit 67 is operated, the staple is performed on the sheet bundle (T22 to T23). Thereafter, the second alignment plate 81 starts to move from the other side position of the sheet bundle (T24), and eventually returns to the home position (T26). On the other hand, the first alignment plate 80 starts moving after the movement start time of the second alignment plate 81 (T25), and eventually returns to the home position (T27). Thereby, the separation processing of the first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 is completed. T16 to T18 are 5 ms. T18 to T19 are 30 ms. T23 to T25 are 30 ms. T23 to T24 are 5 ms.

  When the chuck solenoid 53 is excited at the same timing as the first alignment plate 80 returns to the home position, the tip stopper 74 enters the “chuck state” (T27). Next, in a state where the leading end stopper 74 grips the sheet bundle, it moves to the “folding position (in particular, the middle folding position here)” (T28 to T29). Thereafter, the chuck solenoid 53 is demagnetized, so that the tip stopper 74 changes from the “chuck state” to the “release state” (T30).

  Next, driving of the folding knife is started (T31), and then driving of the folding roller 79 is started (T32), so that the middle folding process is performed. Eventually, when the sheet bundle is folded and the folding knife 78 is released, the folding knife 78 returns to the home position (T33). Further, the tip stopper 74 also returns to the home position (T34 to T36). Further, when the folded sheet bundle is detected by the saddle discharge sensor 38 (see FIG. 5), the rotation of the folding roller 79 is stopped (T35).

  FIG. 17 is a timing chart for explaining the folding operation in more detail. FIG. 18 is a specific example of T25 to T29 shown in FIG. Here, the operation of folding the paper in half will be described. First, after the tip stopper 74 reaches the “middle folding position”, the chuck solenoid 53 that has been excited is demagnetized, so that the tip stopper 74 enters a “released state” (Ta1). Next, driving of the folding knife 78 is started (Ta2). Ta1 to Ta2 is T25 (200 ms).

  Subsequently, the folding roller 79 is activated. The activation timing of the folding roller 79 varies depending on the number of sheets to be folded in half. This is because the timing at which the sheet bundle bites into the folding roller 79 differs depending on the thickness of the sheet bundle. Specifically, when the number of sheets is 6 to 15, the time is Ta3. This is after T26 (100 ms) has elapsed since the chuck solenoid 53 was demagnetized. When the number of sheets is 2 to 5, the time is Ta4. This is the time when the folding knife 78 reaches the home position.

  The folding roller 79 switches the speed to a high speed halfway after being activated. The timing for switching the speed varies depending on the number of sheets to be folded in half. This is because the amount of sheet bundle biting into the folding roller 79 differs depending on the thickness of the sheet bundle. Specifically, when the number of sheets is 6 to 15, it is a time (Ta5) when T27 (300 ms) has elapsed since the folding roller 79 is activated. When the number of sheets is 2 to 5, T28 (100 ms) has elapsed from the start of the folding roller 79 (Ta5).

  By driving the folding roller 79, the sheet bundle that is finally folded in half is detected by the saddle discharge sensor 38. Ta6 indicates a point in time when the trailing end of the folded sheet bundle is detected by the saddle discharge sensor 38. However, in order to discharge to the booklet tray 89, the driving of the folding roller 79 is continued for a predetermined time T29 (300 ms), and the driving of the folding roller is stopped at Ta7.

  In the above described folding operation, the folding time is from when the folding knife 78 starts moving from the home position until the trailing edge of the folded sheet bundle is detected by the saddle discharge sensor 38 (Ta2). ~ Ta6) time.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining the control operation of the post-processing device 2. This processing is executed by the finisher control unit 200 according to a control program stored in the ROM 202 in advance. First, the finisher control unit 200 receives size mode information from the image forming apparatus 1 (S10). The size mode information includes information regarding the size of the paper to be post-processed and the type of post-processing. If post-processing is requested, the leading end stopper 74 is moved to the “accommodating position” corresponding to the paper size (S12).

  Next, the sheet carried in from the image forming apparatus 1 is conveyed to the “accommodating position” (S14). Next, the first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 align and align the sheets (S16). Next, it is determined whether or not all sheets in the post-processing unit have been loaded (S18).

  If all the sheets have not yet been loaded, the processes of S14 to S18 are repeated. Eventually, when all the sheets are carried in, the leading end stopper 74 is brought into the chucked state and then moved to the “binding position” to move the sheet held at the “accommodating position” to the “binding position” ( S20).

  Next, a stapling process (binding process) is executed (S22). At this time, as described above, the finisher control unit 200 executes the sheet pressing process by the first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 together.

  Next, by moving the leading end stopper 74 to the “folding position” with the tip stopper 74 in the chucked state, the sheet held at the “binding position” is moved to the “folding position” (S24).

  Next, folding processing is executed (S26). The sheet bundle folded by the folding process is discharged to the booklet tray 89. Thus, the control operation of the post-processing device 2 is completed.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining error processing of the post-processing device 2. This processing is executed by the finisher control unit 200 according to a control program stored in the ROM 202 in advance. First, the finisher control unit 200 determines whether a jam error (paper jam error) has occurred (S40).

  Whether or not a jam error has occurred is determined based on detection signals of various sensors provided in the bookbinding processing unit 22 and a timer built in the finisher control unit 200. For example, when a detection signal with paper detection is continuously input from a certain sensor for a predetermined time or more, it can be determined that a jam error has occurred in that portion. If it is determined in S40 that a jam error has not occurred, the process ends.

  When it is determined that a jam error has occurred, it is determined whether or not the position of the tip stopper 74 is the “accommodating position” (S42). When the position of the tip stopper 74 is the “accommodating position”, the process is terminated without moving the tip stopper 74. This is because when the position of the leading end stopper 74 is the “accommodating position”, the rear end of the sheet is present near the carry-in entrance 25 of the bookbinding processing unit 22, so that the paper jam can be easily eliminated without moving the leading end stopper 74. Because it can.

  If it is determined in S42 that the position of the tip stopper 74 is not the “accommodating position”, it is subsequently determined whether or not the position of the tip stopper 74 is the “folding position” (S44). When the position of the leading end stopper 74 is the “folding position”, it is determined whether or not the sheet length of the sheet located at the “folding position” is equal to or less than a threshold value (S46). That is, it is determined whether or not the rear end position of the sheet positioned at the “folding position” is behind the reference position PS (see FIG. 13) in the transport direction. This determination method is as described with reference to FIG.

  If the rear end position of the sheet positioned at the “folding position” is behind the reference position PS (see FIG. 13) of the transport path in the transport direction, YES is determined in S46. In this case, it is determined whether or not the sheet is detected by the saddle discharge sensor 38 (S48). When the detection signal is input from the saddle discharge sensor 38, the folded sheet bundle is being discharged toward the booklet tray 89 when the occurrence of a jam error is detected.

  In this case, even if the leading end stopper 74 is not moved to the home position, the sheet causing the paper jam can be easily pulled out from the discharge port of the seventh transport path 97 (see FIG. 5) toward the booklet tray 89. it can. For this reason, when it is determined in S48 that the sheet is detected by the saddle discharge sensor 38, the processing is ended without moving the leading end stopper 74.

  When it is determined in S48 that the sheet is not detected by the saddle discharge sensor 38, the folding knife 78 is moved to the home position (S50). Thus, the protruding folding knife 78 does not hinder the movement of the tip stopper 74.

  Next, the front end stopper 74 is controlled to be in a chucked state, and the paper located at the front end stopper 74 is gripped (S52). Subsequently, the tip stopper 74 is moved to the home position (S54). When the leading edge of the sheet causing the jam is gripped by the leading end stopper 74, the sheet bundle moves to the open / close guide 24 for each sheet. By opening the opening / closing guide 24 of the bookbinding processing unit 22, the user can easily clear a paper jam that has occurred at a position out of reach.

  If it is determined in S44 that the position of the tip stopper 74 is not the “folding position”, it is subsequently determined whether or not the position of the tip stopper 74 is the “binding position” (S56). When the position of the leading end stopper 74 is the “binding position”, it is determined whether or not the sheet length of the sheet positioned at the “binding position” is equal to or less than a threshold value (S58). That is, it is determined whether or not the rear end position of the sheet positioned at the “binding position” is behind the reference position PS (see FIG. 13) in the transport direction. This determination method is as described with reference to FIG.

  If the rear end position of the sheet located at the “binding position” is in the back of the transport direction with respect to the reference position PS (see FIG. 13) of the transport path, YES is determined in S58. In this case, the staple unit 67 is moved to the home position (S60). As a result, the staple unit 67 protruding into the transport path does not hinder the movement of the leading end stopper 74. Thereafter, the processes of S50 to S54 already described are executed.

  If NO is determined in S46 or S58, the process is terminated without moving the tip stopper 74. This is because the user can easily access the sheet from the carry-in entrance 25 because the rear end position of the sheet is not located behind the reference position PS of the conveyance path in the conveyance direction.

  The case where it is determined in S56 that the position of the tip stopper 74 is not the “binding position” is the case where the position of the tip stopper 74 is unknown. In such a situation, for example, the position information of the tip stopper 74 stored in the finisher control unit 200 is lost because the user turns off the power of the post-processing device 2 when a jam error occurs. Caused by

  If it is determined in S56 that the position of the leading end stopper 74 is not the “binding position”, it is determined whether or not a sheet is detected by the sheet detection sensor 37 provided near the carry-in entrance 25 (S62). When the paper is detected by the paper detection sensor 37, the user can access the paper from the carry-in entrance 25, and thus the processing is finished without moving the front end stopper 74.

  On the other hand, when the sheet is not detected by the sheet detection sensor 37, it is considered that the sheet is located out of reach of the user's hand or difficult to reach, so S50 to S54 are executed. As a result, the sheet moves to the home position together with the leading end stopper 74 in the chucked state. At this time, it is desirable to move the leading end stopper 74 after the staple unit 67 is further retracted to the home position.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when a jam error occurs, the leading end stopper 74 moves to the position where the open / close guide 24 is provided in a state in which the sheet is gripped. Can be eliminated.

  Further, it is not necessary to remove the paper after the user has moved the folding unit or the staple unit to the retracted position with his / her hand in order to eliminate the paper jam. For this reason, it is not necessary to increase the movable range by manual operation of the folding unit or the staple unit so that the paper jam can be easily removed manually. For this reason, the bookbinding processing unit 22 can be downsized.

  It is also possible to provide a program that causes a computer to function and execute control as described in the above flowchart. Such a program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a flexible disk attached to the computer, a CD-ROM (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory), a ROM, a RAM, and a memory card, and provided as a program product. You can also. Alternatively, the program can be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk built in the computer. A program can also be provided by downloading via a network.

  The program may be a program module that is provided as part of an operating system (OS) of a computer and that calls necessary modules in a predetermined arrangement at a predetermined timing to execute processing. In that case, the program itself does not include the module, and the process is executed in cooperation with the OS. A program that does not include such a module can also be included in the program according to the present invention.

  The program according to the present invention may be provided by being incorporated in a part of another program. Even in this case, the program itself does not include the module included in the other program, and the process is executed in cooperation with the other program. Such a program incorporated in another program can also be included in the program according to the present invention.

  The provided program product is installed in a program storage unit such as a hard disk and executed. The program product includes the program itself and a recording medium on which the program is recorded.

Next, a modification of the present embodiment described above will be described.
(1) In the present embodiment, the “accommodating position” is changed according to the paper size so that the trailing edge of the sheet accommodated in the “accommodating position” is aligned with a predetermined reference position (sheet trailing edge alignment position) PS. I let you. In addition, when a jam error occurs, whether or not to move the leading end stopper 74 in the chucked state to the home position is determined based on whether or not the trailing end of the sheet is positioned at the reference position PS.

  However, the movement reference position for determining whether to move the front end stopper 74 in the chucked state to the home position may be different from the paper rear end alignment position PS. For example, the movement reference position may be set behind the sheet trailing edge alignment position PS in the conveyance path direction, or may be set before the conveyance path direction. For example, a position where the trailing edge of the sheet is slightly exposed from the carry-in entrance 25 of the bookbinding processing unit 22 may be set as the movement reference position. In short, the movement reference position may be determined at a position determined as a range that the user can reach in consideration of the size of the carry-in entrance 25 of the bookbinding processing unit 22 and the structure in the vicinity thereof. For this reason, for example, the movement reference position may be set in the back of the conveyance path rather than the first alignment plate 80 and the second alignment plate 81 as long as the user's hand can reach.

  (2) There is no post-processing unit such as a folding unit or a binding unit at the end (most downstream position) of the conveyance path in the post-processing apparatus 2. For this reason, by setting the “error processing position” at which the front end stopper 74 is moved in order to eliminate the jam error when a jam error occurs, the end of the transport path in the post-processing device 2 (the most downstream position) is set. It is easy to provide a takeout part (for example, the opening / closing guide 24) for taking out the paper.

  However, the “error processing position” at which the leading end stopper 74 is moved when a jam error occurs does not have to be the end (most downstream position) of the transport path in the post-processing apparatus 2. For example, referring to FIG. 5, the “error processing position” may be set slightly below the position where the lower paddle 76 of the sixth transport path 96 is provided. In this case, the mounting position of the opening / closing guide 24 may also move slightly upward. Alternatively, the lower paddle 76 may not be provided. When the lower paddle 76 is not provided, the “error processing position” may be provided further above the sixth transport path 96 in the transport direction.

  It is also conceivable to set the “error processing position” slightly below the position where the folding knife 78 appears and disappears. That is, the “error processing position” may be set at any location as long as it is downstream of the position where the post-processing means (folding knife 78, folding roller 79, staple unit 67) is provided in the transport direction. . In any case, a take-out portion (for example, an open / close guide 24) for taking out jammed paper is provided at a location corresponding to the “error processing position”.

  In the present embodiment, the position where the tip stopper 74 is moved when a jam error occurs is the home position detected by the tip stopper home sensor 39. However, the position at which the tip stopper 74 is moved when a jam error occurs and the home position of the tip stopper 74 may be set separately. That is, a sensor different from the tip stopper home sensor 39 may be provided for the position where the tip stopper 74 is moved when a jam error occurs.

  Further, the post-processing unit (post-processing means) is not limited to the staple unit 67, the folding knife 78, and the folding roller 79, and a unit for punching paper and other units are further arranged in the bookbinding processing unit 22. May be.

  (3) The bookbinding processing unit 22 has been described as being controlled by the finisher control unit 200. However, the main control unit 100 on the image forming apparatus 1 side may be configured to control the bookbinding processing unit 22. In this case, the control operation according to the flowcharts of FIGS. 19 and 20 is executed by the main control unit 100. Further, the various sensors, switches, solenoids, motors, and the like shown in FIG. 8 and the staple unit may be connected to the main control unit 100. Alternatively, the finisher control unit shown in the configuration of FIG. 8 may transmit information (such as a sensor detection signal) necessary for control of the bookbinding processing unit 22 to the main control unit 100 via the communication interface 87.

  (4) The image forming apparatus 1 and the post-processing apparatus 2 are separate apparatuses configured to be connectable. However, the image forming apparatus 1 may be provided with all the functions of the post-processing apparatus 2.

  (5) In the present embodiment, when a jam error occurs, the tip stopper 74 brought into the chucked state is moved to the home position. However, even when an error in the post-processing device 2 other than a paper jam occurs, the leading end stopper 74 that is also in the chucked state may be moved to the home position. As a result, for example, when the post-processing unit (staple unit, folding unit) is malfunctioning, the front end stopper 74 is retracted to the home position together with the paper, thereby facilitating inspection of the post-processing unit.

  (6) In the present embodiment, the leading end stopper 74 is not moved when the trailing edge of the sheet is at the reference position PS when a jam error occurs. However, when a jam error occurs, the leading end stopper brought into the chucked state without making a determination (S42, S44, S46, S56, S58 in FIG. 20) as to whether or not the trailing edge of the sheet is at the reference position PS. 74 may be moved to the home position.

  (7) The chucked state of the tip stopper 74 can also be realized by a structure other than the structure shown in FIG. For example, instead of the structure in which the front end of the front end stopper 74 tilts inward, a pressing member that can move in and out in the paper direction in order to press the abutted paper may be provided at the front end portion of the front end stopper 74. . Further, the front end of the front end stopper 74 may be configured to be extendable, and when the control is performed in the chucked state, the front end of the front end stopper 74 may be extended in order to widen the gripping range of the sheet.

  (8) In the present embodiment, paper has been described as an example of a sheet conveyed by the image forming apparatus 1 or the post-processing apparatus 2. However, the sheet is not limited to paper, and may be any member that can form an image and can be post-processed, such as cloth or polyester.

  (9) The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus, 2 Post-processing apparatus, 21 Main body, 22 Bookbinding processing part, 24 Opening / closing guide, 25 Carriage entrance, 30 Folding unit, 37 Paper detection sensor, 38 Saddle discharge sensor, 39 Tip stopper home sensor, 42 Folding knife home Sensor, 43 Staple home sensor, 53 Chuck solenoid, 54 Tip stopper motor, 67 Staple unit, 74 Tip stopper, 78 Folding knife, 79 Folding roller, 80 First aligning plate, 81 Second aligning plate, 89 Booklet tray, 91 First 1 conveyance path, 92 2nd conveyance path, 93 3rd conveyance path, 94 4th conveyance path, 95 5th conveyance path, 96 6th conveyance path, 97 7th conveyance path, 100 main control part.

Claims (10)

A conveyance path for conveying a sheet on which an image is formed;
A folding unit for folding the sheet;
By abutting the leading edge of the sheet conveyed in the conveyance path, the sheet is stopped at the folding position of the folding unit, and the first state for sandwiching the abutted sheet and the sheet are released. A positioning member that is changeable to a second state ;
Control means for moving the positioning member along the direction of the conveying path;
A tray from which the folded sheet is discharged by the folding unit;
A take-out part for taking out the sheet in the transport path,
The control means sets the positioning member to the first state when an error occurs during processing of the folding unit , and moves the positioning member to a predetermined position of the conveyance path corresponding to the take-out portion. Processing equipment. The conveyance path extends downward from a carry-in port of the sheet,
The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the extraction unit is disposed below the folding unit. Based on the position of the positioning member and the size of the sheet abutted against the positioning member, the control means is based on a reference position determined on the way from the sheet entrance to the back of the transport path. A determination unit that determines that a rear end in a conveyance direction of the sheet abutted against the positioning member is located in the back of the conveyance path;
The post-processing device according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein when the error occurs, the control unit moves the positioning member to the predetermined position on condition that the determination unit performs the determination. . The post-processing device includes:
A bookbinding processing unit including the conveyance path, the folding unit, the positioning member, and the take-out unit;
A main body portion configured to be capable of storing the bookbinding processing section and guiding the sheet to a carry-in port provided in the bookbinding processing section;
The main body unit is composed of a cover unit that covers the main body unit and the bookbinding processing unit in a state in which the bookbinding processing unit is stored in the main body unit,
The post-processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the take-out unit is provided with an opening / closing guide capable of opening and closing a part of the bookbinding processing unit. When the error occurs, the control means moves the folding member to a home position where the folding member of the folding unit does not touch the sheet in the conveyance path, and then moves the positioning member to the predetermined position. The post-processing apparatus in any one of Claims 1-4 . Wherein, when the error occurs, on condition that it is not being discharged sheets folded by the folding unit to move the positioning member to the predetermined position, of claims 1 to 5 The post-processing apparatus in any one. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the folding unit includes a folding knife and a folding roller. 8. The rear according to claim 1, wherein the take-out unit is disposed on a predetermined path along which the positioning member moves on a conveyance path into which a sheet to be folded by the folding unit is carried. Processing equipment. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the take-out unit is arranged corresponding to a position on the most downstream side of the predetermined path. An image forming system including an image forming unit and a post-processing unit that post-processes a sheet on which an image is formed by the image forming unit,
A conveyance path for conveying the sheet;
A folding unit for folding the sheet;
By abutting the leading edge of the sheet conveyed in the conveyance path, the sheet is stopped at the folding position of the folding unit, and the first state for sandwiching the abutted sheet and the sheet are released. A positioning member that is changeable to a second state ;
Control means for moving the positioning member along the direction of the conveying path;
A tray from which the folded sheet is discharged by the folding unit;
A take-out part for taking out the sheet in the transport path,
The control means sets the positioning member to the first state when an error occurs during processing of the folding unit , and moves the positioning member to a predetermined position of the conveyance path corresponding to the take-out portion. Forming system.

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