JP6343973B2 - Post-processing apparatus and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a post-processing apparatus that performs post-processing on a recording material that has undergone image forming processing, and an image forming apparatus in which the post-processing apparatus is connected to an image forming apparatus main body.

  In recent years, various post-processing devices (hereinafter referred to as “finishers”) have been developed for recording sheets subjected to image formation processing by the image forming apparatus main body, and the image forming apparatus main body depends on the usage form and application of the user. There are various types of finishers connected to the. At this time, it is also common to connect a plurality of types of finishers on the downstream side of the image forming apparatus main body.

  On the other hand, in the case of an electrophotographic system using toner, a recording sheet on which image forming processing is performed by an image forming apparatus transfers a toner image from a paper feeding unit via a resist unit to a transfer unit, and then to a toner in a fixing unit. After fixing the image, the image is discharged from the image forming apparatus main body. At this time, the recording sheet is generally nip conveyed by a plurality of conveying roller pairs or the like.

  Here, it is preferable that the speed difference between the transport speed of the upstream transport roller pair and the transport speed of the downstream transport roller pair is basically the same. However, for example, since the transfer speed and the fixing speed described above are assumed to be different, the speed difference between the transport speed of the upstream transport roller pair and the transport speed of the downstream transport roller pair in consideration of the difference between the transport speeds. Is designed to be within a predetermined range (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  By the way, in the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus main body or finisher (hereinafter referred to as “upstream machine”) located on the upstream side and the finisher located on the downstream side (hereinafter referred to as “downstream machine”) are conveyed. In many cases, the speed is greatly different from the conveyance speed based on the processing speed of the transfer unit or the fixing unit described above. In particular, in the relationship between the upstream machine and the downstream machine between adjacent finishers, the recording sheet conveyance speeds of the upstream machine and the downstream machine are greatly different depending on the finisher function.

  Therefore, in order to cope with the difference in the processing speed based on the function of the finisher connected to the image forming apparatus main body and the like and the difference in the conveyance speed, the non-arrival of the recording sheet at the entrance of the own apparatus is detected. Actually, the reference time for jam detection should be set longer.

  However, when a paper jam actually occurs, it takes time from jam detection until the system stops driving. In an image forming apparatus that supports high-speed processing, in addition to jammed paper, image forming processing is performed on subsequent recording sheets. There was a problem of going to many and wasted.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described conventional problems, and the case where the conveyance speed is different due to the difference in the processing speed and the conveyance span based on the functions of the upstream machine and the downstream machine. Even if it exists, it aims at providing the post-processing apparatus and image forming apparatus which can set the optimal reference | standard time for jam detection to a downstream machine, and can suppress useless image formation processing of a recording material.

In order to achieve the above object, the post-processing apparatus according to the present invention is a post-processing apparatus connected to at least one downstream side of an image forming apparatus main body that performs an image forming process on a recording material. In the connection relationship between the upstream upstream machine and the downstream downstream machine in the one or more post-processing devices, the downstream machine is installed on the outlet side of the upstream machine when the recording material is conveyed by the upstream machine. Receiving means for receiving a detection signal from a recording material detection sensor for detecting the recording material, a plurality of recording material detection sensors for detecting the recording material installed at least on the inlet side and the outlet side of the downstream machine, and the upstream machine a measuring means for the recording medium detection sensor measures the time required from the detection of the recording material to said recording material detecting sensor disposed on the inlet side of the downstream machine to detect the recording material by said measuring means Measured value Storing means for storing, calculating means for calculating an average value and variation from measured values for a predetermined plurality of sheets stored in the storing means, and setting means for setting a reference time for jam detection from the result calculated by the calculating means And so that it has.

  According to the present invention, the optimum jam detection reference time is set for the downstream machine even when the conveyance speed is different due to the difference in processing speed and conveyance span based on the functions of the upstream machine and the downstream machine. Thus, it is possible to provide a post-processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus that can suppress useless image forming processing of a recording material.

1 is a front view of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the entrance / exit sensor in the image forming apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the signal transmission system between the adjacent post-processing apparatuses in the image forming apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. 6 is a timing chart showing a time difference between a recording sheet detection signal SN0 at the upstream machine outlet and a recording sheet detection signal SN1 at the downstream machine inlet in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for setting a jam detection reference time in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a chart which shows an example of the address (table) which memorizes inter-sensor time measurement value tn in a storage part in the image forming device concerning an embodiment of the invention. It is a chart which shows an example of the address (table) which exercises and memorizes inter-sensor time measurement value tn in a storage part in the image forming device concerning an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a graph showing the relationship between a jam detection reference time T and an initial jam detection reference time Tinl in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a jam detection procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for setting a jam detection reference time for each paper type when the paper types are different in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a procedure for determining a jam detection reference time for each paper type when the paper types in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention are different. 6 is a graph showing a relationship between an initial transport time average value at the time of deterioration in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention and a transport time average after the deterioration has progressed. FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a deterioration determination processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

(Embodiment 1)
As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment has a plurality of finishers 20, 30, and 40 as post-processing devices on the downstream side of an image forming apparatus main body 10 that employs an electrophotographic system using toner. Is connected.

  The image forming apparatus main body 10 is provided with, for example, upper and lower four-stage paper feed cassettes 12, 13, 14, and 15 for storing various recording sheets, below the main body portion 11 that performs image forming processing based on image data. An automatic document feeder (ADF) 16 is provided above the section 11. Since the image forming processing function of the image forming apparatus main body 10 and the document conveying function of the ADF 16 are known, detailed description of the conveying path and configuration for each processing is omitted.

  The image forming apparatus main body 10 includes a Z-fold finisher 20 for mixed size loading, a paper folding finisher 30 such as two-fold, three-fold, four-fold, and kannon-fold, and a saddle stitch finisher 40 including a staple process and a punch process. Are connected in parallel.

  Further, the arrangement and post-processing functions of the finishers 20, 30, and 40 described above are merely examples, and can be installed as an option according to the user's request, for example. Furthermore, since the individual functions of the finishers 20, 30, 40 are known, in the following description, the conveyance path and detailed description for each process are omitted, and as shown in FIG. A description will be given assuming that the sheet is conveyed (from right to left in the drawing). In the following description, the Z-fold finisher 20, the paper folding finisher 30, and the saddle stitching finisher 40 are simply referred to as “finishers” unless otherwise specified.

  In FIG. 2, a discharge roller pair 17 and an outlet sensor 18 are arranged at the downstream end of the recording sheet conveyance path in the main body 11 of the image forming apparatus main body 10. The exit sensor 18 detects completion of discharge of the recording sheet and is disposed at the final end downstream of the discharge roller pair 17 in the transport direction. Similarly, inlet sensors 21, 31, and 41 that detect the arrival of the recording sheet and the like are disposed at the upstream ends of the finishers 20, 30, and 40, and a pair of conveyance rollers is disposed downstream of the sensors 21, 31, and 41. 22, 32, 42 are arranged. Further, at the downstream end of each finisher 20, 30, 40, a pair of discharge rollers 23, 33, 43 and outlet sensors 24, 34, 44 are arranged.

  Next, an example of a signal transmission system between the image forming apparatus main body 10 and the finisher 20, the finisher 20 and the finisher 30, and the finisher 30 and the finisher 40 is shown in FIG. In FIG. 3, the signal transmission system in the relationship between the finisher 20 and the finisher 30 is mainly illustrated.

  The finisher 20 and the finisher 30 are communicated and controlled by a control unit having one-chip computers (hereinafter simply referred to as “CPU”) 25 and 35 (not shown). The CPU 25 and the CPU 35 include the image forming apparatus main body 10 arranged adjacent to the upstream side and the downstream side, and the finishers 20, 30, 40 other than the own machine, and the discharge timing and various kinds of recording sheets through a serial interface. Exchange information.

  That is, when connecting a downstream (own device) device to an upstream device, signals can be branched in hardware (signal line connection) and various upstream signals can be recognized by the control unit of the own device. It is possible.

  Note that the serial interface on the output side is shown as TXD and the serial interface on the input side is shown as RXD, as in the signal directions indicated by the arrows in FIG. The inlet sensors 21 and 31 output the output signals to the CPUs 25 and 35, respectively. Further, the outlet sensors 24 and 34 output the output signals not only to the CPUs 25 and 35 of the own machine, but also to the CPUs 35 and the like of the finishers 30 and 40 disposed and connected on the downstream side.

  Next, the required time tn will be described with reference to FIG. 4, taking the case of the finisher 20 and the finisher 30 shown in FIG. 3 as an example. For example, the detection signal of the exit sensor 24 of the finisher 20 that is the upstream machine is SN0, and the detection signal of the inlet sensor 31 of the finisher 30 that is the own machine is SN1. The recording sheets conveyed from the finisher 20 are detected by the sensors 24 and 31 in the order of SN0 → SN1. At this time, a required time tn from the detection start of the detection signal SN0 of the outlet sensor 24 to the detection start of the detection signal SN1 of the inlet sensor 31 is measured by a timer built in the CPU 25 or 35.

  And because the transport span, transport speed, etc. are different due to the difference in the finisher function of the device connected to the upstream side, the required time tn between the upstream machine and the own machine, and the required time tn between the own machine and the downstream machine, Each will be different.

  Next, a procedure for setting the jam detection reference time T for determining that the recording sheet is jammed (hereinafter simply referred to as “jam”) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  In the following description, the finisher 20 is an upstream machine (hereinafter also referred to as “upstream machine 20”), and the finisher 30 is a downstream machine (hereinafter also referred to as “own machine 30”). Explained. At this time, SN0 is a detection signal from the outlet sensor 24 of the upstream machine 20, and SN1 is a detection signal from the inlet sensor 31 of the own machine 30.

  Further, the CPU 35 of the own apparatus 30 controls various control such as, for example, recording sheet type information and size information, an image forming process start signal, and whether or not the functions of the finishers 20, 30, 40 are used from the image forming apparatus main body 10. A signal is input via the CPU 25 of the upstream machine 20.

  Further, in the finisher 20 and the finisher 40, the following procedure for setting the jam detection reference time T can be executed in the same manner. However, the explanation is complicated, and the explanation is omitted here. . Here, for example, when a jam occurs in the finisher 20, a jam occurrence signal is output not only in the image forming apparatus main body 10 but also in the finishers 30 and 40.

  Therefore, after the outlet sensor 18 detects the recording sheet and the inlet sensor 21 detects the recording sheet, when a jam occurs until the outlet sensor 24 detects the recording sheet after executing a predetermined post-processing or through as it is. The upstream machine 20 performs jam detection processing.

  On the other hand, after the entrance sensor 31 detects the recording sheet, the CPU 35 of the own apparatus 30 detects the detection end signal of the entrance sensor 31 even if a predetermined time corresponding to the recording sheet size information output from the image forming apparatus main body 10 has elapsed. When it is desired to input, it is determined that a normal jam has occurred.

  In addition to this, the CPU 35 of the own machine 30 can detect the recording sheet when the inlet sensor 31 does not detect the recording sheet even if the jam detection reference time T has elapsed after the outlet sensor 24 of the upstream machine 20 detects the recording sheet. It is determined that a jam has occurred.

  Based on these, in step S1, the CPU 35 of the own device 30 determines whether or not the time between sensors is being measured. That is, the CPU 35 counts the time required for the recording sheet from the outlet sensor 24 of the upstream machine 20 to the inlet sensor 31 of the own machine 30 in a state where the image forming process start signal is input from the image forming apparatus main body 10. It is determined whether it is in progress. Here, the count start timing is when the exit sensor 24 detects the recording sheet. If the CPU 35 determines that the time between sensors is being measured (step S1: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S7. On the other hand, when it is not determined that the inter-sensor time measurement is being performed (step S1: No), that is, when the inter-sensor time measurement is not started, the CPU 35 proceeds to step S2.

  In step S2, the CPU 35 determines whether or not the outlet sensor 24 arranged in the upstream machine 20 has detected the detection signal SN0. If the CPU 35 determines that the detection signal SN0 has been detected (step S2: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S3. On the other hand, when the CPU 35 does not determine that the detection signal SN0 has been detected (step S2: No), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S5.

  In step S3, the CPU 35 increments the data number n (however, the initial value of n is 0), sets a flag indicating that the inter-sensor time measurement has started, and proceeds to step S4. In step S1 described above, this flag is checked.

  In step S4, the CPU 35 actually starts measuring the time between sensors and loops (returns) to step S1.

  In step S5, the CPU 35 determines whether or not n <N + 1, where n is the data number and N is the predetermined number. That is, the CPU 35 determines the number of the current recording sheet that is the target of the inter-sensor time measurement by the data number for storage, and whether or not the data number has reached a predetermined number Determine whether. If the CPU 35 does not determine that n <N + 1 (step S5: No), it loops (returns) to step S1. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 determines that n <N + 1 (step S5: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S6.

  In step S <b> 6, the CPU 35 does not reach the predetermined number N necessary for calculating the jam detection reference time T by accumulating the count value of the required time of the recording sheet. Here, the CPU 35 writes a predetermined temporary value: Tinl in the jam detection reference time T. Therefore, for example, immediately after the own machine 30 is installed in the upstream machine 20, from the first recording sheet to a predetermined number of sheets N, the jam detection reference time T is changed to Tinl instead of the jam detection reference time T. It will be.

  In step S <b> 7, the CPU 35 determines whether or not the detection signal SN <b> 1 has been detected when the time between sensors is being measured. If the CPU 35 determines that the detection signal SN1 has been detected (step S7: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S8. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that the detection signal SN1 has been detected (step S7: No), the CPU 35 loops (returns) to step S1.

  In step S8, CPU35 complete | finishes the time measurement between sensors, and transfers to step S9. At this time, the CPU 35 clears the flag indicating that the time between sensors is being measured.

  In step S9, the CPU 35 determines whether n ≧ N + 1. If the CPU 35 determines that the data number n is N + 1 or more (step S9: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S10. On the other hand, when the CPU 35 does not determine that the data number n is N + 1 or more (step S9: No), the CPU 35 skips step S10 and proceeds to step S11.

  In step S10, the CPU 35 fixes the data number n to N + 1, and proceeds to step S11.

  In step S11, the CPU 35 obtains an inter-sensor time measurement value tn as a recording sheet conveyance time (required time) between the outlet sensor 24 of the upstream machine 20 and the inlet sensor 31 of the own machine 30 such as a nonvolatile memory (not shown). Store in the storage. At this time, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 35 stores the data in the address (N + 1) of the storage unit, and proceeds to step S12.

  In step S12, the CPU 35 shifts the inter-sensor time measurement value tn stored from the address (1) to the address (N + 1) of the storage unit by −1 address. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 7, the past inter-sensor time measurement values tn are carried down to a memory having a smaller address. In this way, in step S12, the inter-sensor time measurement value tn stored in the storage unit is sequentially shifted for each new recording sheet, and the oldest inter-sensor time measurement value tn is stored in the address (0), and jam detection is performed. The reference time T is not used for calculation. For this reason, it is possible to calculate the jam detection reference time T with data using the latest predetermined number N at all times.

  In step S13, the CPU 35 determines whether n = N + 1. That is, when the data number n is equal to N + 1, the number of data necessary for calculating the jam detection reference time T has been prepared. If the CPU 35 determines that the data number n is equal to N + 1 (step S13: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S14. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that the data number n is equal to N + 1 (step S13: No), the CPU 35 loops (returns) to step S1.

  In step S14, the CPU 35 calculates an average value m from the address (1) of the storage unit using the predetermined number N of inter-sensor time measurement values tn, and proceeds to step S15.

  In step S15, the CPU 35 calculates the standard deviation δ (calculates variation) from the address (1) of the storage unit using the predetermined number N of inter-sensor time measurement values tn, and proceeds to step S16.

In step S16, the CPU 35 sets a jam detection reference time T and ends (returns) this routine. At this time, the CPU 35 determines that the jam detection reference time T is an average value m, a triple of the standard deviation σ, and a predetermined margin α.
T = m + 3σ + α
Calculate from

  FIG. 8 is a graph showing the relationship between the jam detection reference time T and the initial jam detection reference time Tinl. When the inter-sensor time measurement value tn is a normal distribution, 99.73% of data falls within the average value ± 3σ. Therefore, a value obtained by adding α (margin) to m + 3σ in the longer data from the average value m is used as the jam detection reference time T for use as the jam detection reference time T.

  Further, when the measured time tn between sensors is not equal to the predetermined number N, for example, as a reference time for jam detection that does not erroneously detect a jam even if all finishers assumed as options are connected to the upstream side. A sufficient reference time Tinl for jam detection is used.

  In this way, the jam detection reference time Tin is not always used, but is applied while updating the jam detection reference time T using the predetermined number of sheets from the latest required time tn based on the actual required time tn. This makes it possible to detect a jam earlier.

  That is, when only one jam detection reference time Tinl is used as in the conventional system, the case where all post-processing devices such as option settings are installed is taken into consideration and the maximum required time is exceeded. Must be set in time. However, when such a jam detection reference time Tinl is used, it takes time until the system is stopped after a jam actually occurs, and more recording sheets are fed from the sheet feeding cassettes 12-15. There is a waste of paper being reset. Moreover, much time is required to remove these fed recording sheets as the jam clearing process.

  On the other hand, according to the present invention, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of useless recording sheets when an actual jam occurs by speeding up jam detection, and to easily and quickly perform a jam release process.

  Next, a jam detection procedure by the CPU 35 of the own device 30 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. Note that the jam detection routine shown below is a jam detection in a sense specialized for the delivery of recording sheets between the upstream machine 20 and the own machine 30. Accordingly, in the case where the function of the own machine 30 is actually used, the entire conveyance path of the recording sheet necessary for executing the function is included, and the user simply passes through without using the function of the own machine 30. In this case, jam detection is performed on the entire conveyance path of the recording sheet required at that time.

  In step S21, the CPU 35 checks whether jam detection control is already in progress. That is, this step S21 is a routine for monitoring and determining in parallel with the above step S1. At this time, when the predetermined number N is not reached, the jam detection reference time Tinl is applied, and when the predetermined number N or more, the latest jam detection reference time T updated in the routine is applied. Yes. When it is determined that the jam detection control is being performed (step S21: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S25. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that jam detection control is being performed (step S21: No), the process proceeds to step S22.

  In step S22, the CPU 35 determines whether or not the outlet sensor 24 disposed in the upstream machine 20 has detected the detection signal SN0. When it is determined that the detection signal SN0 has been detected (step S22: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S23. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that the detection signal SN0 has been detected (step S22: No), the CPU 35 loops to step S21.

  It should be noted that the case where the CPU 35 makes a “No” determination in step S21 and step S22 is that the image forming apparatus main body 10 is in operation and, for example, the first recording sheet image forming process is being executed. The case where it is inside is assumed. Further, this includes a state in which the function in the upstream machine 20 is being executed for the first recording sheet or the like, and the recording sheet has not yet reached the outlet sensor 24 of the upstream machine 20.

  In step S23, since the CPU 35 detects the recording sheet by the exit sensor 24, the CPU 35 starts jam detection control, and proceeds to step S24. At this time, the CPU 35 sets a flag indicating that the jam detection control is started.

  In step S24, the CPU 35 clears the count of the jam detection timer, starts counting, and loops (returns) to step S21.

  On the other hand, in step S25, the CPU 35 determines whether or not the entrance sensor 31 of the own device 30 has detected the detection signal SN1. If the CPU 35 determines that the detection signal SN1 has been detected (step S25: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S27. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that the detection signal SN1 has been detected (step S25: No), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S26.

  In step S <b> 26, the CPU 35 clears the flag indicating that the jam detection control has started because the recording sheet has arrived properly without jamming, and ends the jam detection control. If there is an image forming process for the next recording sheet, the process loops (returns) to step S1.

  In step S27, the CPU 35 does not detect the detection signal SN1 even though it detects the detection signal SN0. Therefore, the time measured by the jam detection timer counter is the reference time T for jam detection (or the reference time for jam detection). It is determined whether it is larger than (Tinl). That is, if the CPU 35 determines that the time measured by the jam detection timer counter is greater than the jam detection reference time T (step S27: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S28. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the time measured by the jam detection timer counter is longer than the jam detection reference time T (step S27: No), the process loops (returns) to step S21.

  In step S28, the CPU 35 determines that a jam has occurred because the entrance sensor 31 does not detect the recording sheet even when the time of the jam detection timer counter reaches the jam detection reference time T.

  In step S <b> 29, the CPU 35 performs a predetermined process for notifying the occurrence of a jam, and then executes a jam detection control end process. Actually, the CPU 35 continues the detection state of the jam occurrence until the jam is released in the same manner as the normal jam occurrence.

(Embodiment 2)
Strictly speaking, the time required for transporting the recording sheet varies slightly depending on the paper type of the recording sheet. For example, thick paper or coated paper with a recording sheet that is thicker than so-called plain paper has a large slip amount, which also affects the transport time and post-processing time, and tends to increase the overall required time. .

  Therefore, information such as the paper type of the recording sheet is output from the image forming apparatus main body 10 to the finishers 20, 30, and 40 through a serial interface. Therefore, each finisher 20, 30, 40 can set a jam detection reference time T using information such as the paper type.

  FIG. 10 shows a standard for detecting jam for each paper type when the paper types are grouped into three groups A, B, and C (for example, thin paper, plain paper, thick paper, etc.). It is a flowchart which shows the procedure which sets time. In the following description, the case of the CPU 35 of the own device 30 will be described.

  In step S <b> 31, the CPU 35 determines whether or not the paper type is the paper type A based on the information regarding the paper type output from the image forming apparatus main body 10. If the CPU 35 determines that the paper type is A (step S31: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S32. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that the paper type is A (step S31: No), the process proceeds to step S33.

  In step S32, the CPU 35 sets the jam detection reference time Ta corresponding to the paper type A stored in the storage unit, and ends this routine.

  In step S <b> 33, the CPU 35 determines whether or not the paper type is the paper type B based on the information regarding the paper type output from the image forming apparatus main body 10. If the CPU 35 determines that the paper type is B (step S33: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S34. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that it is the paper type B (step S33: No), the process proceeds to step S35.

  In step S34, the CPU 35 sets to use the jam detection reference time Tb corresponding to the paper type B stored in the storage unit, and ends this routine.

  In step S <b> 35, the CPU 35 determines whether the paper type is the paper type C based on the information regarding the paper type output from the image forming apparatus main body 10. If the CPU 35 determines that the paper type is C (step S35: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S36. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that it is the paper type C (step S35: No), this routine is terminated.

  In step S36, the CPU 35 sets to use the jam detection reference time Tc corresponding to the paper type C stored in the storage unit, and ends this routine.

  In steps S31, 33, and 35, when the paper type is not A, B, or C, for example, information indicating that the paper type is more special is output from the image forming apparatus main body 10. The case of a group that is not in the storage unit of the own device 30 is assumed.

  Accordingly, the CPU 35 uses, for example, a standard paper jam detection reference time T (or a jam detection reference time Tb), and uses the average value m and the like after the accumulation of the required time tn to generate a new jam detection reference time. This can be handled as T (or the jam detection reference time Tb).

  At this time, it is assumed that the new jam detection reference time T (or the jam detection reference time Tb) is significantly different from that for plain paper. Therefore, the new jam detection reference time T (or the jam detection reference time Tb) is associated with the paper type information output from the image forming apparatus main body 10 to detect a new group (for example, paper type D) jam. You may memorize | store in a memory | storage part as reference time Tinl (initial value data). Similarly, the upper update of the jam detection reference time Tinl (initial value data) is applied as the jam detection reference time Td.

  Thus, in the case of recording sheets of different paper types, instead of using one jam detection reference time Tinl and jam detection reference time T, more optimal jam detection control according to the paper type is performed. Is possible.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of determination processing of the jam detection reference times Ta, Tb, and Tc in the CPU 35 for the result of the paper type determination in steps S31, S33, and S35.

  In step S <b> 41, the CPU 35 determines whether the paper type is the paper type A based on the information regarding the paper type output from the image forming apparatus main body 10. If the CPU 35 determines that the paper type is A (step S41: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S42. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that the paper type A is selected (step S41: No), the process proceeds to step S43.

  In step S42, the CPU 35 sets the jam detection reference time Ta corresponding to the paper type A stored in the storage unit from the jam detection reference time T, and proceeds to step S47. In practice, as with the setting of the jam detection reference time T, the required time tn of the predetermined number N is accumulated using the jam detection reference time Tinl (initial value data) for the jam detection reference time Ta. After that, the jam detection reference time Ta is calculated, and thereafter, a new jam detection reference time Ta is used while being corrected.

  In step S <b> 43, the CPU 35 determines whether or not the paper type is the paper type B based on the information on the paper type output from the image forming apparatus main body 10. If the CPU 35 determines that the paper type B is selected (step S43: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S44. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that it is the paper type B (step S43: No), the process proceeds to step S45.

  In step S44, the CPU 35 sets the jam detection reference time Tb corresponding to the paper type B stored in the storage unit from the jam detection reference time T, and proceeds to step S47. Actually, as with the setting of the jam detection reference time T, the required time tn of the predetermined number N is accumulated using the jam detection reference time Tinl (initial value data) for the jam detection reference time Tb. After that, the jam detection reference time Tb is calculated, and thereafter, a new jam detection reference time Tb is used while being corrected.

  In step S <b> 45, the CPU 35 determines whether or not the paper type is the paper type C based on the information regarding the paper type output from the image forming apparatus main body 10. If the CPU 35 determines that the paper type is C (step S45: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S46. On the other hand, if the CPU 35 does not determine that it is the paper type C (step S45: No), this routine ends.

  In step S46, the CPU 35 sets the jam detection reference time Tc corresponding to the paper type C stored in the storage unit from the jam detection reference time T, and proceeds to step S47. Actually, as with the setting of the jam detection reference time T, the required time tn of the predetermined number N is accumulated using the jam detection reference time Tinl (initial value data) for the jam detection reference time Tc. After that, the jam detection reference time Tc is calculated, and thereafter, a new jam detection reference time Tb is used while being corrected.

  In step S47, the CPU 35 starts jam detection using new jam detection reference times Ta, Tb and Tc corresponding to the paper type instead of the jam detection reference time T, and ends this routine.

(Embodiment 3)
Similarly to the image forming apparatus main body 10, the finishers 20, 30, and 40 are deteriorated in conveying performance due to accumulation of dirt on the pair of conveying rollers due to long-term use, or deteriorated due to deterioration of parts or the like. In some cases, the conveyance time becomes long.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 12, when the average value of the initial transport time (the time required from detection of the detection signal SN0 to detection of the detection signal SN1) is m0, the transport time after the deterioration has progressed. Let the average value be m1.

  Therefore, for example, the CPU 35 sets m1-m0 = Δt in advance, and can determine that some maintenance is necessary when the difference increases beyond a predetermined time.

  FIG. 13 shows a flowchart of a procedure for determining such deterioration.

  In step S51, the CPU 35 sets a difference ΔT between the latest average value m1 and the initial average value m0, and proceeds to step S52.

  In step S52, the CPU 35 determines whether or not the difference ΔT is greater than a predetermined value β set in advance. If the CPU 35 determines that ΔT> β is satisfied (step S52: Yes), the CPU 35 proceeds to step S53. On the other hand, when it is not determined that ΔT> β is satisfied (step S52: No), the CPU 35 determines that the time degradation has not occurred or is within the allowable range and ends this routine.

  In step S53, the CPU 35 outputs deterioration information to the image forming apparatus main body 10 through a serial interface, displays a display for prompting machine maintenance on an operation unit (not shown) of the image forming apparatus main body 10, and the like. Maintenance information can be notified.

  Thereby, the deterioration of the conveyance is determined by the CPU 35 of the own machine 30 and early maintenance is possible, so that an effect of reducing the downtime of the system can be obtained. Further, in such a state where the maintenance information is being notified, the operation of the function may be stopped, and in the case of the paper types A, B, and C, particularly in the thick paper direction in which the required time tn is longer than the normal time. The jam detection may be performed using the shifted jam detection reference time T.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention sends a detection signal from the outlet sensor of the upstream machine to the hardware (signal line connection) when the upstream machine and the own machine are connected. Because it is configured so that it can be recognized by the control unit of its own machine, it can measure the time difference from the upstream machine's transport to the inlet sensor of its own machine, and time difference data of multiple recording sheets By calculating the average value and variation from the above, and setting the reference time for jam detection, the transport speed is different due to the difference in processing speed and transport span based on the functions of the upstream and downstream machines. Even in such a case, the optimum jam detection reference time can be set in the downstream machine, and useless image forming processing of the recording material can be suppressed.

  As described above, the post-processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus according to the present invention are cases in which the conveyance speed is different due to the difference in the processing speed and the conveyance span based on the functions of the upstream machine and the downstream machine. In addition, the optimum reference time for jam detection can be set in the downstream machine, and there is an effect that wasteful image forming processing of the recording material can be suppressed, and post-processing is performed on the recording material after the image forming processing. The present invention is also useful for all post-processing apparatuses that perform the above and image forming apparatuses that are connected to the main body of the image forming apparatus.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 10 Image forming apparatus main body 18 Outlet sensor 20 Z folding finisher (post-processing apparatus: upstream machine)
24 Exit sensor (recording material detection sensor)
30 Paper folding finisher (Post-processing device: Downstream machine: Own machine)
31 Entrance sensor (recording material detection sensor)
35 Computer (CPU)
40 Saddle stitch finisher (post-processing equipment)

JP 2010-202388 A

Claims (5)

A post-processing device connected to at least one downstream side of an image forming apparatus main body for performing image forming processing on a recording material,
In the connection relationship between the upstream upstream machine and the downstream downstream machine in the image forming apparatus main body or the one or more post-processing apparatuses,
The downstream machine, when transporting the recording material by the upstream machine,
A receiving means for receiving a detection signal by a recording material detection sensor installed on the outlet side of the upstream machine to detect the recording material;
A plurality of recording material detection sensors for detecting a recording material installed at least on the inlet side and the outlet side of the downstream machine;
A measuring means for the recording material detecting sensor of said upstream machine to measure the time required from the detection of the recording material to said recording material detecting sensor disposed on the inlet side of the downstream machine to detect the recording material,
Storage means for storing measurement values measured by the measurement means;
Calculating means for calculating an average value and variation from the measured values for a plurality of predetermined sheets stored in the storage means;
And a setting unit that sets a reference time for jam detection from a result calculated by the calculating unit.   2. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit stores the predetermined number of sheets sequentially from the latest detection signal received by the reception unit. The storage means includes initial value data set in advance with respect to a required time from when the recording material detection sensor of the upstream machine detects a recording material until the recording material detection sensor of the downstream machine detects the recording material, The paper type corresponding to the paper type signal output from the image forming apparatus main body is grouped and stored,
3. The jam detection reference time according to claim 1, wherein the calculation unit sets a reference time for jam detection from the initial value data of a group corresponding to a paper type signal output from the image forming apparatus main body. Post-processing device. The storage means stores an average value and variation at least once before as a past calculated value,
The downstream machine is
Notification that compares the current calculated value for the predetermined number of sheets calculated by the calculating means with the past calculated value stored in the storage means, and issues a notification that prompts maintenance when the comparison result has increased by a predetermined value or more. 4. A post-processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising means.   An image forming apparatus comprising one or more post-processing apparatuses according to claim 1 disposed downstream of the main body of the image forming apparatus.

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