JP6684460B2 - Binding device and image forming device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a binding device that performs binding processing on a bundle of sheets, and an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, a facsimile, or a complex machine thereof, and more particularly, a plurality of binding device bodies. The present invention relates to a binding device in which is installed and an image forming apparatus.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there are known binding devices installed in image forming apparatuses such as copying machines and printers that perform binding processing using metal needles and those that perform binding processing without using metal needles (for example, , Patent Documents 1 and 2.).
In particular, a typical binding device that performs a binding process without using metal needles presses a tooth-shaped concave-convex portion against the sheet bundle to form a thick sheet bundle. It is known as an environmentally friendly device, which performs binding processing by forming unevenness in the depth direction and meshing the sheets with each other.

On the other hand, Patent Document 3 discloses a binding device (post-processing device) in which a plurality of different types of binding device bodies (staplers) are installed.
Further, in Patent Document 4, when the binding device main body (stapler) is moved toward a predetermined position, the binding device main body (stapler) is re-driven when the movement is not performed within a predetermined time, and if the movement still does not return, another means is provided. A technology for recovering is disclosed in.

In recent years, in a binding device, in addition to a binding device body (binding means) that performs binding processing using metal needles, there is a demand for installing a binding device body (binding means) that performs binding processing without using metal needles. It is rising.
When the two binding device bodies (binding means) are installed in this way, one binding device body with respect to the bundle of sheets in the width direction so that the binding device does not become large as a whole or the structure becomes complicated. It is conceivable that a part of the locus that reciprocates along the movement path from one end side and a part of the path that the other binding device body reciprocates along the movement path from the other end side in the width direction overlap. However, in that case, when one of the binding device bodies is stopped on the movement route due to an abnormality, the other binding device body that normally operates is moved and the two binding device bodies become violent. It is necessary to prevent secondary problems, such as a problem of collision and damage, and a problem of making it impossible to perform a binding process operation using another normally operating binding device body.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and a part of a locus along which a binding device main body (binding device) moves along a movement path from one end side in the width direction with respect to a sheet bundle. , Even when the other binding device body (binding device) is configured to overlap a part of the locus along the movement path from the other end side in the width direction, one of the binding device bodies moves due to an abnormality. Another object of the present invention is to provide a binding device and an image forming apparatus in which further problems are less likely to occur when the vehicle stops on the path.

  The binding device according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a stacking unit that stacks a plurality of sheets as a stack of sheets, and a first binding unit that performs a binding process on the stack of sheets stacked in the stacking unit. A second binding unit that performs binding processing on the stack of sheets stacked on the stacking unit, and a guide member that guides the first binding unit and the second binding unit so as to move in predetermined directions, respectively. First driving means for driving the first binding means along the guide member, second driving means for driving the second binding means along the guide member, the first driving means, and the second driving At least one of the means is provided with drive cutoff means for cutting off the drive when a resistance exceeding a predetermined magnitude is generated during the drive.

  According to the present invention, with respect to the sheet bundle, a part of the locus along which the one binding device body (binding device) moves along the movement path from the one end in the width direction and the other binding device body (binding device) in the width direction. Even if it is configured so that a part of the locus moving along the movement route from the other end side overlaps, if one of the binding device bodies is stopped on the movement route due to an abnormality, etc. It is possible to provide a binding device and an image forming apparatus that are less likely to cause an error.

1 is an overall configuration diagram showing an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is a schematic block diagram which shows a post-processing apparatus. It is a schematic block diagram which shows a binding device. It is a schematic top view which shows the principal part of a binding device in the width direction. It is an enlarged view which shows the uneven | corrugated part of a 2nd binding device main body. It is a schematic rear view which shows the principal part of a binding device in the width direction. It is a schematic diagram showing a torque limiter. It is a schematic diagram showing the state where the 1st binding device body and the 2nd binding device body collided. It is a schematic rear view which shows the principal part of the binding device as a modification in the width direction. It is the schematic which shows the operation | movement of the binding device in Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows another operation | movement of the binding device of FIG. It is a schematic diagram showing a torque limiter as a modification.

  Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and the duplicate description thereof will be appropriately simplified or omitted.

Embodiment 1.
The first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.
First, the configuration and operation of the entire image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIG.
In FIG. 1, 1 is a copying machine as an image forming apparatus, 2 is a document reading unit that optically reads image information of a document D, and 3 is a photoconductor that exposes the exposure light L based on the image information read by the document reading unit 2. An exposure unit 4 for irradiating the drum 5 with an image, an image forming unit 4 for forming a toner image (image) on the photosensitive drum 5, and a transfer unit 7 for transferring the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 5 onto a sheet P (sheet). A transfer unit (image forming unit) 10, an original conveying unit that conveys the set original D to the original reading unit 2, 12 to 14 are paper feeding units in which a paper P such as transfer paper is stored, and 17 and 18 are A registration roller (timing roller) that conveys the sheet P toward the transfer unit 7, 20 a fixing device that fixes an unfixed image on the sheet P, 21 a fixing roller installed in the fixing device 20, and 22 a fixing device 20. The pressure roller installed on the Inverts the paper P after but formed shows a two-sided conveyance unit, which transported toward the image forming unit.
Further, 50 is a post-processing device that performs post-processing on the paper P discharged from the image forming apparatus main body 1 and carried in, 61 is a stacking unit (internal tray) installed inside the post-processing device 50, and 71 to 73. Is a tray (sheet discharge tray) on which the post-processed sheets P (or sheet bundle) are discharged and stacked, 90 is a binding device installed inside the post-processing device 50, and 91 and 92 are bindings in the binding device. The device main body is shown. The post-processing device 50 is detachably installed in the image forming apparatus main body 1.

With reference to FIG. 1, the operation of the image forming apparatus main body 1 during normal image formation will be described.
First, the document D is transported from the document table in the direction of the arrow in the figure by the transport rollers of the document transport unit 10 and passes over the document reading unit 2. At this time, the document reading unit 2 optically reads the image information of the document D passing above.
Then, the optical image information read by the document reading unit 2 is converted into an electric signal and then transmitted to the exposure unit 3 (writing unit). Then, the exposure unit 3 emits exposure light L such as laser light based on the image information of the electric signal toward the photoconductor drum 5 of the image forming unit 4.

On the other hand, in the image forming unit 4, the photoconductor drum 5 is rotated in the clockwise direction in the figure, and after a predetermined image forming process (charging process, exposing process, developing process), image information is formed on the photoconductor drum 5. An image (toner image) corresponding to is formed.
After that, the image formed on the photosensitive drum 5 is transferred onto the sheet P conveyed by the registration rollers 17 and 18 in the transfer unit 7 as an image forming unit.

On the other hand, the sheet P conveyed to the transfer section 7 (image forming section) operates as follows.
First, one of the plurality of sheet feeding units 12, 13, and 14 of the image forming apparatus main body 1 is automatically or manually selected (for example, if the uppermost sheet feeding unit 12 is selected). Yes.).
Then, the uppermost one sheet of the paper P stored in the paper feed unit 12 is transported toward the position of the transport path K1.

  After that, the sheet P passes through the transport path K1 in which a plurality of transport rollers are arranged and reaches the positions of the registration rollers 17 and 18. Then, the paper P reaching the positions of the registration rollers 17 and 18 is conveyed toward the transfer unit 7 (image forming unit) at the same timing to align with the image formed on the photosensitive drum 5. To be done.

  Then, the paper P after the transfer process reaches the fixing device 20 via the transport path after passing through the position of the transfer unit 7. The sheet P reaching the fixing device 20 is fed between the fixing roller 21 and the pressure roller 22, and the image is fixed by the heat received from the fixing roller 21 and the pressure received from both members 21 and 22. . The sheet P on which the image has been fixed is discharged from between the fixing roller 21 and the pressure roller 22 (which is a nip portion) and then discharged from the image forming apparatus main body 1.

  When the “double-sided print mode” for printing on both sides of the sheet P (the front side and the back side) is selected, the sheet P for which the fixing process on the front side is completed is Instead of being ejected as it is when the “single-sided print mode” is selected, the sheet is guided to the double-sided conveyance path K2, the conveyance direction is reversed by the double-sided conveyance section 30, and then the transfer section 7 ( It is conveyed toward the position of the image forming section). Then, an image is formed on the back side of the sheet P by the image forming process similar to that described above at the position of the transfer unit 7, and then a fixing process by the fixing device 20 is performed, and then the sheet passes through the conveyance path. And discharged from the image forming apparatus main body 1.

Here, in the first embodiment, the post-processing apparatus 50 is installed in the image forming apparatus 1, the paper P discharged from the image forming apparatus main body 1 is conveyed to the post-processing apparatus 50, and the conveyed paper sheet. Post-processing will be performed on P.
Referring to FIG. 1, the post-processing apparatus 50 according to the first embodiment conveys the paper P conveyed from the apparatus body 1 to any one of the three conveyance paths K3 to K5, and performs different post-processing. It is configured so that it can be processed. The first transport path K3 is a transport path for directly discharging the paper P transported from the image forming apparatus main body 1 to the first paper discharge tray 71 without performing post-processing. In the second transport path K4, the sheets P transported from the image forming apparatus main body 1 are stacked on the stacking unit 61 (internal tray), and the two binding device main bodies 91 and 92 in the binding device 90 (first binding device). The binding process to the trailing edge of the sheet is performed by any one of (binding means), and the processed sheet P (sheet bundle PT) is discharged by the sheet discharge roller 55 from the sheet discharge port 50b to the external tray 72 (second sheet discharge tray). It is a conveyance path for ejecting the paper toward. The third conveyance path K5 temporarily conveys the paper P conveyed from the image forming apparatus main body 1 to the second conveyance path K4 and switches it back, and then to the central portion of the paper by the binding device 83 (second binding device). This is a transport path for performing the binding process of (1), the folding process by the sheet folding blade 84, etc., and discharging the sheet to the third sheet discharge tray 73 (see also FIG. 2).
The above-described switching of the three transport paths K3 to K5 is performed by the switching operation (rotation) of the branch claw 81.

More specifically, referring to FIG. 2, the first transport roller 51 and the paper detection sensor are installed in the vicinity of the carry-in port 50a of the post-processing apparatus 50, and the paper P detected by the paper detection sensor is placed in the first position. It is conveyed into the apparatus 50 by the first and second conveying rollers 51 and 52. Then, based on the post-processing mode selected by the user in advance, the branch claw 81 is rotated so that the paper P is guided to the desired transport paths K3 to K5.
When the mode in which the post-processing is not performed is selected, the paper P conveyed to the first conveyance path K3 is ejected by the third conveyance rollers 53 and ejected onto the first paper ejection tray 71.

  When the "sort mode (sorting processing mode)" is selected, the paper P transported to the second transport path K4 is configured to be movable in the width direction (the direction perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG. 2). The sheet P is conveyed while being shifted in the width direction by a predetermined amount by the fourth conveying roller 54, and is conveyed by the sheet discharging roller 55 (fifth conveying roller) and onto the external tray 72 (second sheet discharging tray). It is loaded in sequence.

  Referring to FIG. 2, a filler 82 is provided above the outer tray 72 so as to be rotatable around a support shaft at the upper end, and the outer tray 72 is configured to be vertically movable by a moving mechanism (not shown). ing. Then, the state in which the central portion in the transport direction of the sheets P sequentially stacked on the external tray 72 is in contact with the filler 82 is detected by a sensor installed in the vicinity of the support shaft of the filler 82, so that the external tray 72 is placed on the external tray 72. The height of the stacked sheets P is recognized. Then, the vertical position of the external tray 72 is adjusted according to the increase or decrease in the number of sheets P stacked on the external tray 72. When the vertical position of the external tray 72 reaches the lower limit position, it is determined that the number of sheets P stacked on the external tray 72 has reached the upper limit (full), and the post-processing device 50 causes the image forming apparatus 1 to finish. To stop the image forming operation.

  When the "binding process mode (staple mode)" is selected, the paper P conveyed to the second conveyance path K4 is conveyed by the fourth conveyance rollers 54 without shifting, and the stacking unit 61 ( It is sequentially loaded on the internal tray). When the sheet P (sheet bundle PT) is placed on the placement surface of the stacking unit 61, the tapping roller 64 and the auxiliary transport roller 92 (see FIG. 3) arranged above the sheet P each time. ) Moves from the retracted position to a position where the uppermost sheet P abuts, and the tapping roller 64 and the auxiliary conveyance roller 92 are rotationally driven in the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 2, whereby the sheet P is fenced. It is transported (moved) toward the section 66 (end fence). As a result, the rear end (the rear end in the transport direction) of the plurality of sheets P (sheet bundle PT) hits the fence portion 66, and the positions of the plurality of sheets P in the transport direction are aligned.

At this time, referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the jogger fences 68 (side fences) installed at both widthwise ends of the stacking unit 61 each time the paper P is placed on the stacking unit 61 (or After the desired number of sheets P are stacked, the sheets P (sheet bundle PT) are moved in the width direction so as to be sandwiched, and the positions of the sheets P (sheet bundle PT) in the width direction are aligned. . Then, the binding process is performed by the binding device 90 on the rear end of the paper P (sheet bundle) in which the transport direction and the width direction are aligned.
After that, the bound paper P (sheet bundle PT) is moved obliquely upward along the inclination of the mounting surface by the movement of the ejection claw 67 in the paper ejection direction, and by the conveyance by the paper ejection rollers 55, It is discharged onto the external tray 72.
The binding device 90 according to the first embodiment is provided with a plurality of binding device bodies 91 and 92, and one of the binding device bodies is selected to select a sheet bundle PT (sheet bundle). The binding processing operation is performed, which will be described in detail later.

When the “folding processing mode” is selected, the sheet P is first conveyed to the second conveyance path K4, and then the fourth conveyance roller 54 is moved by the fourth conveyance roller 54 in a state where its rear end is nipped by the fourth conveyance roller 54. It is switched back by being rotated in the reverse direction and is transported to the third transport path K5. The paper P conveyed to the third conveyance path K5 is moved by the sixth to eighth conveyance rollers 56 to 58 such that the central portion of the paper P faces the second binding device 83 (conveyance guide plate (not shown)). Is a position that functions as a stacking unit.). Then, after a desired number of sheets P (sheet bundle PT) are stacked at that position, the second binding device 83 performs binding processing on the central portion of the sheet bundle. After that, in the plurality of sheets P (sheet bundle PT) subjected to the binding process, the central portion of the sheet P (sheet bundle PT) faces the sheet folding blade 84 by the seventh and eighth transport rollers 57 and 58. It is transported to the position. At this time, the leading end of the sheet P (sheet bundle PT) is in contact with the stopper 85 (which is configured to be movable in the transport direction by a moving mechanism (not shown)).
The sheet P (sheet bundle PT) is folded in a state where the central portion is folded by the sheet folding blade 84 that moves leftward in FIG. 2 and the folded portion is pressed by the sheet folding plate 86. Will be done. After that, the folded sheet P (sheet bundle PT) is conveyed by the ninth conveying roller 59 and discharged onto the third sheet discharge tray 73.

Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration and operation of the binding device 90 (sheet processing device) according to the first embodiment will be described in detail mainly with reference to FIGS. 3 to 8.
As described above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the post-processing device 50 according to the first embodiment is provided with the binding device 90 for performing the binding process on the sheet bundle PT. Has been done. Then, in the binding device 90, a stacking section 61 (stacking means) on which a plurality of sheets P are stacked as a sheet bundle PT, and a width direction of the sheet bundle PT stacked on the stacking section 61 (see FIGS. 2 and 3). 4, which is the vertical direction of the paper surface and the left-right direction of FIG. 4, as the aligning means for aligning the positions, and the conveying direction of the stack of sheets PT stacked on the stacking unit 61 (the stacking in FIGS. 2 and 3). 4 is a direction along the placement surface of the section 61, which is the vertical direction in FIG. 4.) A fence section 66 (end fence) as an aligning unit that aligns the positions, and a plurality of sheets P are bound as a sheet bundle PT. Two binding device bodies 91 and 92 (binding means) that perform binding processing operations on the binding processing units M1 to M3 and N (binding unit) in the region M are installed.

  Specifically, the loading surface of the stacking unit 61 is upward from one end side (right side of FIGS. 2 and 3) to the other end side (left side of FIGS. 2 and 3). It is formed to be inclined. The stacking unit 61 functions as a stacking unit that stacks sheets as a sheet bundle. Then, the binding device bodies 91 and 92 are provided below the inclined surface of the stacking portion 61 away from the paper discharge port 50b. The binding device 90 (binding device bodies 91 and 92) performs binding processing on the sheet bundle PT with a predetermined range along the width direction of the sheet bundle PT as a binding area.

Here, two binding device bodies 91 and 92 are installed in the binding device 90 according to the first embodiment.
More specifically, referring to FIGS. 4 and 6 and the like, in the non-binding processing operation, one end side in the width direction (the direction perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG. 3 and the left-right direction of FIGS. 4 and 6). The first binding device main body 91 as the first binding unit configured to perform the binding process (binding process operation) using the needle (metal needle) is retracted, and the other side in the width direction is located at the other end side. The second binding device body 92 as the second binding unit configured to perform the binding process (binding process operation) that does not use the staple (metal needle) is retracted. Further, in the binding device 90, a first binding device body 91 (first binding means) and a second binding device body 92 (second binding means) are respectively arranged in a predetermined direction (width direction orthogonal to the transport direction of the paper P). There are two guide shafts 115 and 125 functioning as guide members for guiding the movement of the guide shaft.

The first binding device body 91 as the first binding unit performs the binding process on the sheet bundle PT stacked on the stacking unit 61 as the stacking unit.
Specifically, the first binding device body 91 (first binding unit) receives the driving force from the first driving units 110 to 114, and the one side in the width direction with respect to the sheet bundle PT stacked on the stacking unit 61. From the first reference position (the position indicated by the solid line in FIG. 4) to the other end in the width direction (the right side in FIG. 4), the first movement path 115 (first guide member). Is moved to perform binding processing operation (binding processing operation with staples) on the binding processing units M1 to M3 in the sheet bundle PT.
More specifically, referring to FIG. 4A, in the first embodiment, with respect to the sheet bundle PT whose position in the width direction and the conveyance direction is determined by the jogger fence 68 and the fence portion 66, the conveyance direction (FIG. 4 is the up-down direction), and the binding region M is divided into three binding processing units M1 to M3 to perform binding processing. With respect to the three binding processing units M1 to M3 as described above, in the first embodiment, first, a first reference position (a reference position located to the left of the left end of the sheet bundle PT in FIG. 4). From the first binding device body 91 to the leftmost position (one side in the width direction) of the binding region M, the position of the first binding processing unit M3 (the position shown by the broken line in FIG. 4A). Is moved to perform binding processing for the first binding processing unit M3. Next, the first binding device body 91 is moved toward the position of the second binding processing part M2 in the widthwise central part adjacent to the right side (the position shown by the broken line in FIG. 4A). , And performs binding processing to the second binding processing unit M2. Finally, the first binding device body 91 is moved to the position of the third binding processing portion M1 on the other end in the width direction adjacent to the right side (the position shown by the broken line in FIG. 4A). After performing the binding process on the 3-binding unit M1, the first binding device body 91 is moved in the reverse direction and returned to the first reference position.
In the first embodiment, the binding processing by the first binding device body 91 is performed on the three binding processing units M1 to M3 that are substantially evenly divided in the width direction in the binding region M. The number and the position are not limited to this, and the binding process can be performed in various forms.
Further, as the first binding device main body 91 that performs the binding processing operation using the metal needle, a known one can be used.

With reference to FIG. 6, the first driving means drives the first binding device body 91 (first binding means) along the guide member (first guide shaft 115). Specifically, the first drive unit is configured by a first drive motor 110, a torque limiter 111 (drive cutoff unit) having a gear unit and a pulley unit, a pulley 113, timing belts 112 and 114, and the like. A bearing 116 is fixedly installed on the first binding device body 91. The first binding device body 91 is slidably held by the first guide shaft 115 via the bearing 116. That is, the first guide shaft 115 extends from the first reference position toward the other end in the width direction, and holds the first binding device body 91 movably in the width direction. Then, the first guide shaft 115 functions as a first movement path for moving the first binding device body 91 in the width direction. In other words, the first guide shaft 115 functions as a guide member (first guide member) that guides the first binding device body 91 (first binding unit) so as to move in a predetermined direction (width direction). .
Further, the bearing 116 of the first binding device body 91 is fixed at a predetermined position on the timing belt 114, and moves with the first binding device body 91 as the timing belt 114 travels. The timing belt 114 is stretched and supported by pulleys installed at both ends in the width direction. Another timing belt 112 is stretched and supported by one of the two pulleys 113 and the pulley portion of the torque limiter 111. A drive gear installed on the motor shaft of the first drive motor 110 (which is a motor that can rotate in forward and reverse directions) meshes with the gear portion of the torque limiter 111.
With such a configuration, the timing belt 114 travels in the clockwise direction or the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 6 by driving the first drive motor 110 under the control of the control unit (control unit), and the first binding device main body. 91 is moved in the direction of the black double arrow while the posture is maintained.
In the binding processing operation of the first binding device body 91 described above, the state in which the first binding device body 91 is located at the first reference position or the binding processing units M1 to M3 is shown in FIG. One position detection sensor 101 to 104 (which is a photo sensor) detects the position, and the movement control of the first binding device body 91 is performed based on the detection result.

On the other hand, the second binding device main body 92 as the second binding unit performs the binding process on the sheet bundle PT stacked on the stacking unit 61 as the stacking unit.
Specifically, the second binding device main body 92 (second binding unit) receives the driving force from the second driving units 120 to 124, and the other end in the width direction with respect to the sheet bundle PT stacked on the stacking unit 61. The second movement path 125 (second guide member) from the second reference position (the position indicated by the solid line in FIG. 4) located on the side toward the one end side in the width direction (the left side in FIG. 4). Is moved to perform the binding processing operation (binding processing without staples) on the binding processing unit N in the sheet bundle PT.
More specifically, referring also to FIG. 5, the second binding device main body 92 presses the tooth-shaped concave-convex portions 92a1 and 92b1 against the sheet bundle PT to form unevenness in the thickness direction on the sheet bundle PT and forms the sheet. The binding processing operation is performed by engaging Ps with each other. More specifically, the second binding device body 92 is provided with a first member 92a and a second member 92b which are arranged substantially vertically. A tooth-shaped concave-convex portion 92a1 is formed on the upper surface of the first member 92a. The second member 92b has a tooth-shaped concave-convex portion 92b1 that meshes with the tooth-shaped concave-convex portion 92a1 of the first member 92a formed on the lower surface, and sandwiches the sheet bundle PT with the first member 92a. As described above, it is configured to be movable relative to the first member 92a. Then, the binding processing operation is performed with the sheet bundle PT sandwiched between the first member 92a and the second member 92b.
With reference to FIG. 4B, in the first embodiment, with respect to the sheet bundle PT whose position in the width direction and the conveyance direction is determined by the jogger fence 68 and the fence portion 66, the conveyance direction (the upper and lower sides in FIG. 4). The binding process is performed by using a part (corner) of the end portion of the (. In the first embodiment, with respect to such a corner binding processing unit N, first, from the second reference position (a reference position located to the right of the right end of the sheet bundle PT in FIG. 4). , The second binding device main body 92 is moved to the position of the binding processing unit N located to the left of it (the position shown by the broken line in FIG. 4B), and the binding processing unit N is moved to the position. Performs binding processing. Then, after performing the binding process to the binding processing unit N, the second binding device body 92 is moved in the reverse direction and returned to the second reference position.
In the first embodiment, the binding process by the second binding device main body 92 is performed on one binding process unit N located at the corner, but the number and positions of the binding process units are limited to this. However, the binding process can be performed in various forms.

With reference to FIG. 6, the second drive means drives the second binding device body 92 (second binding means) along the guide member (second guide shaft 125). Specifically, the second drive means is configured by the first drive motor 120, a torque limiter 121 (drive cutoff means) having a gear portion and a pulley portion formed therein, a pulley 123, timing belts 122 and 124, and the like. The bearing 126 is fixedly installed in the second binding device body 92. The second binding device body 92 is slidably held by the second guide shaft 125 via the bearing 126. That is, the second guide shaft 125 extends from the second reference position toward the one end in the width direction, and holds the second binding device body 92 movably in the width direction. Then, the second guide shaft 125 functions as a second movement path for moving the second binding device body 92 in the width direction. In other words, the second guide shaft 125 functions as a guide member (second guide member) that guides the second binding device body 92 (second binding means) so as to move in a predetermined direction (width direction). .
Further, the bearing 126 of the second binding device body 92 is fixed at a predetermined position on the timing belt 124, and moves with the second binding device body 92 as the timing belt 124 travels. The timing belt 124 is stretched and supported by pulleys installed at both ends in the width direction. Another timing belt 122 is stretched and supported by one of the two pulleys 123 and the pulley portion of the torque limiter 121. A drive gear installed on the motor shaft of the second drive motor 120 (a motor that can rotate in the forward and reverse directions) meshes with the gear portion of the torque limiter 121.
With such a configuration, the second drive motor 120 is driven by the control of the control unit (control unit), so that the timing belt 124 travels in the clockwise direction or the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 6 and the second binding device body. 92 moves in the direction of the black double arrow with the posture maintained.
In the binding processing operation of the second binding device body 92 described above, the state in which the second binding device body 92 is located at the second reference position or the binding processing portion N is at two positions shown in FIG. The movement of the second binding device body 92 is controlled based on the detection result detected by the detection sensors 104 and 105 (which are photosensors).

Then, in the binding device 90 configured in this way, the user selects one of the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 and the binding processing operation is performed accordingly. Specifically, the user operates an operation panel (not shown) installed on the exterior part of the image forming apparatus main body 1 (or the post-processing apparatus 50) to perform “binding processing (with needle)” and “binding processing ( No needle) ”will be selected. Then, when the "binding process (with staples)" is selected, the binding process operation is performed by the first binding device body 91, and when the "binding process (without staples)" is selected, the second process is performed. The binding processing operation is performed by the binding device main body 92. Then, when the binding processing operation is being performed by the selected binding device body, the unselected binding device bodies are in the state of being retracted to the reference position.
By providing the plurality of binding device bodies 91 and 92 in this manner, the range of user options for the binding process can be expanded.

Here, in the binding device 90 according to the first embodiment, the first binding device body 91 (first binding means) and the second binding device body 92 (second binding means) are respectively moved in predetermined directions. Guide members (guide shafts 115 and 125) for guiding are provided. Specifically, the binding device 90 is guided by the second guide shaft 125 (guide member) and a part of the locus of the first binding device main body 91 which is guided and moved by the first guide shaft 115 (guide member). A part of the moving path of the second binding device 92 is configured to overlap. In other words, the binding device 90 includes a part of the trajectory of the first binding device body 91 that moves (reciprocates) on the first movement path 115 and the second binding device body that moves (reciprocates) on the second movement path 125. A part of the locus of 92 is configured to overlap. That is, if a normal binding device body moves along the movement route while one of the binding device bodies is stopped along the movement route due to an abnormality (fault) such as control, When the first binding device body 91 and the second binding device body 92 simultaneously move in their respective movement paths due to an abnormality (failure) such as control, the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 collide with each other. The positional relationship is such that it may end up.
More specifically, referring to FIG. 6 and the like, the two guide shafts 115 and 125 (moving paths) are both installed so as to extend in the width direction, and both of them are vertically adjacent to each other. is set up.
In this way, the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 are configured to separately reciprocate on the movement paths (guide members) extending in the width direction from the different reference positions respectively located at both ends in the width direction. As a result, the binding device 90 as a whole is made relatively small and low cost, and the overall structure thereof is also made relatively simple.

The binding device 90 according to the first embodiment has a resistance that exceeds a predetermined magnitude when transmitting the driving force to at least one of the first driving means 110 to 114 and the second driving means 120 to 124. Torque limiters 111 and 121 are provided as drive cutoff means for cutting off the transmission of the driving force when (load) occurs. That is, the torque limiter 111 functions as a drive cutoff unit that cuts off the drive when a resistance exceeding a predetermined magnitude is generated when the first drive units 110 to 114 are driven.
Specifically, as described above with reference to FIG. 6, in the binding device 90 according to the first embodiment, the torque limiter 111 (first torque limiter) formed with the gear portion and the pulley portion is first driven. A torque limiter 121 (second torque limiter), which is installed in the means 110 to 114 and in which a gear portion and a pulley portion are formed, is installed in the second drive means 120 to 124.

  Here, referring to FIG. 7, the torque limiter 111 (first torque limiter) as the drive cutoff means includes a support shaft 111a (shaft), a first disc 111b, a second disc 111c, a third disc 111d, and a compression spring. 111e (biasing member) and the like. All of the three disks 111b to 111d are rotatably held by a support shaft 111a fixed to the casing of the binding device 90 (post-processing device 50). The positions of the first disk 111b and the third disk 111d in the axial direction (the direction corresponding to the direction perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG. 6) of the support shaft 111a are determined by retaining rings (not shown). The second disc 111c is movably held in the axial direction on the support shaft 111a, and a rectangular convex portion that engages with the rectangular concave portion of the first disc 111b is formed on one axial side and the other axial side. A trapezoidal concave portion (a portion surrounded by a broken line) that engages with a trapezoidal convex portion of the third disk 111d is formed in the. A compression spring 111e for urging the second disc 111c toward the third disc 111d is wound around the support shaft 111a between the inner diameter portion of the first disc 111b and the inner diameter portion of the second disc 111c. Has been installed. Although not shown, a pulley portion around which the timing belt 112 is stretched is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the second disk 111c, and the drive gear of the first drive motor 110 meshes with the outer peripheral surface of the third disk 111d. A gear portion is formed.

By installing the torque limiter 111 configured as described above on the first driving means 110 to 114, the first binding device body 91 normally moves along the first guide shaft 115 by the first driving means 110 to 114. At times, a large resistance (load) against the spring force of the compression spring 111e does not occur between the second disk 111c and the third disk 111d, and as shown in FIG. The trapezoidal convex portion is engaged with the trapezoidal concave portion of the second disk 111c. Therefore, the driving force of the first drive motor 110 is transmitted from the third disc 111d to the second disc 111c, and the driving force for moving the first binding device body 91 along the first guide shaft 115 is the timing belt. It will be normally transmitted to 114.
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8, when the first binding device body 91 collides with the second binding device body 92 due to a control abnormality or the like, the second disc 111c and the third disc A large resistance (load) against the spring force of the compression spring 111e is generated between the third disk 111d and 111d, and as shown in FIG. 7B, the trapezoidal convex portion of the third disk 111d becomes the second disk 111c. It moves in the direction of the arrow so as to separate from the trapezoidal recess and separate from it. Therefore, the driving force of the first drive motor 110 is not transmitted from the third disc 111d to the second disc 111c, the third disc 111d idles, and the first binding device body 91 moves along the first guide shaft 115. Therefore, the driving force for moving the vehicle is not transmitted to the timing belt 114.
Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8, even if the second binding device body 92 stops due to an abnormality (failure) in the second movement path and the normally operating first binding device body 91 moves, Since the impact when the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 collide can be mitigated, it is possible to reliably reduce the problem that the binding device bodies 91 and 92 are damaged.
In addition, in the first embodiment, the other torque limiter 121 (second torque limiter) is also configured in the same manner as the above-described first torque limiter 111, and has the same action / operation as the above-described first torque limiter 111. It will be effective. That is, the second torque limiter 121 functions as a drive cutoff unit that cuts off the drive when a resistance exceeding a predetermined value is generated during driving of the second drive units 120 to 124.

Here, in the first embodiment, the time when the drive is cut off by the torque limiters 111 and 121 (drive cutoff means) in the first drive means 110 to 114 or the second drive means 120 to 124 is a predetermined time (for example, When it exceeds 2 seconds, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the binding device 90, and control is performed to notify that effect.
Specifically, a state in which the second disk 111c shown in FIG. 7 has moved from the position of FIG. 7A to the position of FIG. 7B is optically detected by a photo sensor (not shown), and When the continuously detected time exceeds a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds), an operation panel (not shown) installed on the exterior part of the image forming apparatus main body 1 (or the post-processing device 50). A message indicating that the binding device 90 (binding device main bodies 91, 92) has failed, that repair by a service person is necessary, or the like is displayed.
As a result, the user can recognize the failure of the binding device 90 and take prompt action against the failure.

The binding device 90 according to the first embodiment is configured such that the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 can directly contact with each other when a failure occurs.
On the other hand, the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 may be configured so as not to come into direct contact with each other when a failure occurs. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the first guide shaft 115 is provided with a first abutting member 117 that is movably held in the width direction together with the first binding device body 91, and the second guide shaft 125 is provided with A second abutting member 127, which is held so as to be movable in the width direction together with the second binding device body 92, is provided. Then, as shown in FIG. 9, when one of the first binding device main body 91 and the second binding device main body 92 stops due to an abnormality in the first moving path 115 or the second moving path 125, The first binding device body 91 and the second binding device body 92 do not directly contact with each other, but the first abutting member 117 and the second abutting member 127 directly contact with each other. .
As a result, although the first abutting member 117 and the second abutting member 127 may be directly contacted and damaged, the two binding device bodies that are more expensive than the abutting members 117 and 127. The problem that 91, 92 are directly contacted and damaged is less likely to occur. Therefore, the effects of the first embodiment described above can be more reliably exhibited, and the repair cost in the event of a failure can be reduced.

As described above, in the binding device 90 according to the first embodiment, the first driving devices 110 to 114 that drive the first binding device body 91 (first binding means) and the second binding device body 92 (second binding device). When a resistance (load) exceeding a predetermined magnitude is generated at the time of driving in at least one of the second driving means 120 to 124 that drives the binding means), torque limiters 111, 121 ( Drive shutoff means) is provided.
As a result, with respect to the sheet bundle PT, a part of the locus along which the one binding device body 91 reciprocates along the movement path from the one end in the width direction and the other binding device body 92 forms the movement path from the other end in the width direction. Even when a part of the path of the reciprocating movement overlaps, even if one of the binding device bodies 91 and 92 is stopped on the movement route due to an abnormality, further trouble is unlikely to occur. can do.

Embodiment 2.
The second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the operation of the binding device 90 according to the second embodiment. Further, FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing another operation of the binding device 90.
In the binding device 90 according to the second embodiment, when one of the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 has a failure and is stopped on the moving path, the binding device body that has failed is replaced with the other binding device body. It is different from that of the first embodiment in that the binding device is controlled to be pushed.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, also in the binding device 90 according to the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, two binding device bodies 91 and 92 (binding means) and a stacking means are provided. A loading unit 61, a jogger fence 68 as a matching unit, a fence unit 66, and the like are installed. Also in the binding device 90 according to the second embodiment, the first binding device body 91 (first binding means) that moves along the first movement path 115 (first guide member), as in the first embodiment. ) And a part of the locus of the second binding device main body 92 (second binding means) moving on the second movement path 125 (second guide member) are configured to overlap with each other.
Then, also in the binding device 90 according to the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the binding processing operation using the one binding device body selected from the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 is performed. It is done appropriately.

  Here, in the binding device 90 according to the second embodiment, the first binding device body 91 (first binding device body 91 (first binding device) is controlled by the control unit (control unit) that controls the first driving units 110 to 114 and the second driving units 120 to 124. When the movement of the binding means) is stopped due to an abnormality, the second binding means main body 92 (second binding means) is driven by the second driving means 120 to 124, and the first binding device body 92 is driven by the second binding device body 92. 91 is directly (or indirectly) moved to move to the first retracted position (the position of the first binding device body 91 shown in FIG. 10C), and the second binding device body 92 is moved. When the movement is stopped due to an abnormality, the first binding device body 91 is driven by the first driving means 110 to 114, and the second binding device body 92 is directly (or indirectly) pushed by the first binding body 91. Move to the second retracted position Is moved to a position of the second binding device body 92 shown in FIG. 11 (C).).

That is, in the binding device 90 according to the second embodiment, one of the first binding device main body 91 and the second binding device main body 92 has the binding device main body in the first movement path 115 or the second movement path 125. If it stops due to an abnormality (fault), direct the one binding device body toward the first retracted position or the second retracted position to a position where the other binding device body that operates normally can secure its movement path. It is configured to push automatically.
In addition, when one of the binding device bodies has stopped due to an abnormality in the first moving path 115 or the second moving path 125, the state is detected and the fact is notified, and the one binding device is also notified. It is configured such that the binding processing operation can be continuously performed by the other binding device body instead of the device body. Specifically, it is configured such that the user can select on the operation panel whether to continue or stop the binding processing operation by the other binding device body instead of one binding device body, or It may be configured such that the binding processing operation is continued unconditionally by the other binding device body instead of the one binding device body without performing a selection operation.

Specifically, the operation of the binding device 90 when the first binding device body 91 stops due to an abnormality in the first movement path 115 will be described with reference to FIG. 10.
As shown in FIG. 10A, when the first binding device body 91 abnormally stops at the position on the other end side in the width direction in the course of the binding processing operation, the position detection sensor 104 detects the state. Specifically, when the position detection sensor 104 detects that the first binding device body 91 is stopped for more than a predetermined time, it is determined that the moving operation of the first binding device body 91 is abnormal.
In such a case, as shown in FIG. 10 (B), the normally operable second binding device body 92 moves to the left from the second reference position (second home position) indicated by the broken line in FIG. 10 (B). The movement is started, and the first binding device main body 91 is contacted and pushed in the direction of the black arrow.
Then, as shown in FIG. 10C, after the first binding device main body 91 is pushed to a position where the second binding device main body 92 can perform the binding process to the binding processing unit N (or further left side). After pushing the first binding device body 91 toward one side and returning to the position where the binding process to the binding processing unit N can be performed), the binding process to the binding processing unit N is performed by the second binding device body 92. It is carried out.

Next, the operation of the binding device 90 when the second binding device body 92 stops due to an abnormality in the second movement route 125 will be described with reference to FIG. 11.
As shown in FIG. 11A, when the second binding device body 92 abnormally stops at the position on the other end side in the width direction in the course of the binding processing operation, the position detection sensor 104 detects the state. Specifically, when the position detection sensor 104 detects that the second binding device body 92 is stopped for a predetermined period of time, it is determined that the moving operation of the second binding device body 92 is abnormal.
In such a case, as shown in FIG. 11B, the normally operable first binding device body 91 moves to the right from the first reference position (first home position) shown in FIG. 11A. When it starts, it abuts against the second binding device body 92 and pushes in the direction of the black arrow.
Then, as shown in FIG. 11C, after pushing the second binding device body 92 to a position where the first binding device body 91 can perform the binding processing operation for the binding processing unit M1 (or further After pushing the second binding device main body 92 to the right and returning to the position where the binding processing operation to the binding processing unit M1 can be performed), the first binding device main body 91 binds to the binding processing unit M1. Processing is performed.
Note that the other binding processing to the binding processing units M2 and M3 can be performed after performing the binding processing to the binding processing unit M1 described above, and the first binding device body 91 is moved from the first reference position. Then, it can be performed in the moving process until the second binding device body 92 is pushed to the second retracted position.
Further, since the binding processing unit N originally intended to be executed by the second binding device main body 92 is only one location on the other end side in the width direction, the binding processing to the other binding processing units M2 and M3 is omitted accordingly. You can also do it.

  By controlling in this way, even when one of the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 is stopped on the moving route so as to prevent the other party's movement due to an abnormality, it is possible to operate normally. Since the binding processing operation can be continuously performed by using the other binding device main body that operates in the above manner, it is possible to reliably reduce the problem that the binding processing operation is delayed and a large downtime occurs in the device.

Here, in the second embodiment, even if a predetermined time elapses after the pushing operation of one binding device body that has abnormally stopped by the other binding device body that can normally operate is started, When one of the binding device bodies that has abnormally stopped has not been pushed to a position where the binding device body can secure a movement path, the state is detected and it is notified that the device has an abnormality, Are controlled. That is, the first binding device body 91 (or the second binding device body 92) pushes the second binding device body 92 (or the first binding device body 91) even if a predetermined time elapses after the pushing operation. When the formed second binding device body 92 (or the first binding device body 91) is not pushed to the second retracted position (or the first retracted position), the state is detected and an abnormality occurs in the device. As a matter of fact, it is controlled so as to notify that effect.
Specifically, in the example of FIG. 10, the state shown in FIG. 10C may not be obtained even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the pushing operation of the first binding device body 91 shown in FIG. 10B was started. When detected by the position detection sensor 104 (or the state in which the first binding device body 91 is pushed to a predetermined position is not detected by another position detection sensor), the image forming apparatus body 1 (or The failure of the binding device 90 (binding device main bodies 91, 92) is detected on the operation panel (not shown) installed on the exterior of the processing device 50), and the binding processing operation is performed using another binding device main body. A message indicating that the service cannot be performed or that repair by a service person is required is displayed.
As a result, the user can recognize the failure of the binding device 90 and take prompt action against the failure.

In addition, in the second embodiment, the movement speed of the other binding device body that moves along the movement path when pushing the one binding device body that is abnormally stopped by the other binding device body that can operate normally is normally Sometimes, it is controlled so as to be slower than the moving speed of the other binding device body that moves independently on the moving path.
Specifically, in the example of FIG. 10, when the second binding device body 92 moves along the second movement route in FIGS. 10A to 10C, the movement speed thereof is the same as the normal movement speed shown in FIG. 4B. The number of rotations of the second drive motor 120 is reduced so as to be slower than the moving speed of the second binding device body 92 in the binding processing operation using the second binding device body 92.
By performing such control, the impact when the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 come into contact with each other can be reduced as shown in FIGS. It is possible to reliably reduce the problem that the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 are damaged by the movement.

Note that, also in the second embodiment, the two binding device bodies 91 are pushed by the above-described pushing operation by using the configuration described above with reference to FIG. 9 (the configuration in which the abutting members 117 and 127 are installed). , 92 may not be in direct contact with each other.
In such a case, it is possible to more reliably reduce the problem that the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 are damaged by the pushing operation.

Also in the second embodiment, the torque limiter 111 is installed in the first driving means 110 to 114 that drive the first binding device body 91, and the second driving means 120 to 120 that drives the second binding device body 92. A torque limiter 121 can be installed at 124.
In that case, in the first torque limiter 111 (or the second torque limiter 121) that functions as a drive cutoff unit, the first binding device body 91 (or the second binding device body 92) has the first movement path 115 (or the second binding device body 92). When the second moving path 125) is moved toward the first reference position (or the second reference position), the transmission of the driving force is interrupted only when a resistance (load) exceeding a predetermined magnitude occurs. Will be configured. In other words, in the first torque limiter 111 (or the second torque limiter 121) that functions as the drive cutoff unit, the first binding device body 91 (or the second binding device body 92) has the first reference position (or the second binding device body 92). When moving toward the reference position), the drive transmission is interrupted only when a resistance exceeding a predetermined magnitude occurs. That is, in the first torque limiter 111 (or the second torque limiter 121), the first binding device main body 91 (or the second binding device main body 92) is the forward path of the first movement path 115 (or the second movement path 125). When the first binding device body 91 (or the second binding device body 92) moves on the return path of the first movement path 115 (or the second movement path 125) without moving as a torque limiter when moving the It will only function as a torque limiter.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, in the torque limiter 111 (121), a trapezoidal concave-convex portion (a portion surrounded by a broken line) in which the second disc 111c and the third disc 111d engage with each other. An inclined surface is formed only on one side in the rotation direction, and a vertical surface is formed on the other side in the rotation direction so that no component force for moving the second disk 111c in the axial direction is applied without forming an inclination. . As a result, when the vertical surfaces are engaged and the driving force is transmitted from the third disc 111d to the second disc 111c and the first binding device body 91 moves in the outward path, the torque limiter 111 operates even if the load is large. The driving force sufficient to push the second binding device main body 92 that has stopped operating without any action is transmitted from the first driving means 110 to 114 to the first binding device main body 91. On the other hand, when the inclined surface is engaged and the driving force is transmitted from the third disk 111d to the second disk 111c so that the first binding device body 91 moves in the return path, the torque limiter when the load is large. 111 acts to reduce the load (load by the first driving means 110 to 114) when pushing the first binding device body 91 that has stopped due to failure by the second binding device body 92.
As a result, as shown in FIGS. 10B and 11B, it is possible to reduce the impact when the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 come into contact with each other. It is possible to surely reduce the trouble that the main bodies 91 and 92 are damaged. Further, the above-described pushing operation can be smoothly performed with a relatively small resistance (load).

As described above, the binding device 90 according to the second embodiment includes one of the first binding device body 91 (first binding means) and the second binding device body 92 (second binding means). When the binding device body stops due to an abnormality (failure) in the first movement path 115 or the second movement path 125, the other binding device body that operates normally stops abnormally to a position where the movement path can be secured. It is configured to directly or indirectly push one of the binding device bodies toward the first retracted position or the second retracted position.
As a result, with respect to the sheet bundle PT, a part of the locus along which the one binding device body 91 reciprocates along the movement path from the one end in the width direction and the other binding device body 92 forms the movement path from the other end in the width direction. Even if a part of the path of reciprocating movement overlaps with each other, when one of the binding device bodies 91 and 92 is stopped on the movement route due to an abnormality, it is possible to prevent further trouble from occurring. be able to.

Although the present invention is applied to the first binding device 90 in each of the above-described embodiments, the present invention can naturally be applied to the second binding device 83.
Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the present invention is applied to the binding device 90 installed in the post-processing device 50 in the monochrome image forming apparatus 1, but it is installed in the post-processing device in the color image forming device. The present invention can of course be applied to the binding device.
Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the present invention is applied to the binding device 90 installed in the post-processing device 50 in the electrophotographic image forming apparatus 1, but the application of the present invention is not limited to this. Of course, the present invention can be naturally applied to a binding device installed in a post-processing device in an image forming apparatus of another type (for example, an ink jet type image forming apparatus or a stencil printing apparatus). You can
Further, instead of the binding device 90 installed in the post-processing device 50, a binding device as a single device (for example, a paper feed cassette is set in the transport port 50a, and a processing mode or the like is input to the binding device itself. The present invention can also be applied to the case where the operation panel is installed.
Even in those cases, the same effect as that of each of the above-described embodiments can be obtained.

In each of the above-described embodiments, another post-processing device (for example, a device that performs Z-folding processing on the paper P) is installed between the image forming apparatus main body 1 and the post-processing device 50. You can also
Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the present invention is applied to the post-processing device 50 that can perform the binding process, the sorting process, and the folding process, but the application of the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention is naturally applicable to a post-processing apparatus that also performs punching processing (punch processing), a post-processing apparatus that performs only binding processing among the above-described processing, and a post-processing apparatus that performs processing in another combination. Can be applied.

In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, the binding device 90 has the width direction (the direction in which the binding device bodies 91 and 92 move and the binding processing region M) as the direction orthogonal to the transport direction. Although the present invention is applied as a matter of course, the present invention is naturally applied to a binding device in which the width direction (the direction in which the binding device bodies 91 and 92 move and the binding processing area M) is the transport direction. The invention can be applied.
Even in such a case, it is possible to obtain substantially the same effects as those of the above-described respective embodiments.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the first binding device main body 91 performs the binding processing operation using the needle (metal needle), and the second binding device main body 91 does not use the needle (metal needle) to perform the binding processing. Although the operation is performed, the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 may be the same type of binding device body, or the two binding device bodies 91 and 92 may be other than the above-described combination. .
Even in such a case, it is possible to obtain substantially the same effects as those of the above-described respective embodiments.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the first binding device body 91 (first binding means) and the second binding device body 92 (second binding means) are guided so as to move in the width direction (predetermined direction). As guide members, two guide shafts 115 and 125 are separately provided. On the other hand, as guide members for guiding the first binding device body 91 (first binding means) and the second binding device body 92 (second binding means) so as to move in the width direction (predetermined direction), It is also possible to provide one guide shaft. In such a case, in one guide shaft, the first binding device body 91 whose one end side in the width direction is the first reference position and the second binding device body 92 whose other end side in the width direction is the second reference position And movably held, and the respective binding devices 91 and 92 are respectively driven by different driving means (first driving means and second driving means).
Even in such a case, it is possible to obtain substantially the same effects as those of the above-described respective embodiments.

  In this specification and the like, "paper" is defined to include not only transfer paper but also all sheets on the surface of which images are formed, and "paper bundle" is defined as those papers. It is defined as a bundle.

  It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to each of the above-described embodiments, and within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention, each of the above-described embodiments may be appropriately modified in addition to what is suggested in each of the above-described embodiments. Is clear. Further, the number, position, shape, etc. of the constituent members are not limited to those in each of the above-described embodiments, and the number, position, shape, etc. suitable for carrying out the present invention can be adopted.

1 image forming apparatus (image forming apparatus main body),
50 aftertreatment device,
61 loading section (collecting means),
66 Fence part (matching means),
68 Jogger fence (matching means),
90 binding device (sheet processing device),
91 first binding device body (first binding means),
92 second binding device body (second binding means),
101-105 position detection sensor (position detection means),
110 first drive motor (first drive means),
111 torque limiter (drive cutoff means, first drive means),
112, 114 Timing belt (first driving means),
113 pulley (first drive means),
115 first guide shaft (guide member, first movement path),
116 bearings,
117 First abutting member,
120 second drive motor (second drive means),
121 torque limiter (drive cutoff means, second drive means),
122, 124 timing belt (second drive means),
123 pulley (second drive means),
125 second guide shaft (guide member, second movement path),
126 bearings,
127 second abutting member,
M1 to M3, N binding processing unit (binding unit),
P sheet (sheet), PT sheet bundle (sheet bundle).

JP, 7-165365, A JP, 2010-208854, A JP-A-11-301919 JP, 2004-196528, A

Claims (10)

Stacking means for stacking a plurality of sheets as a sheet bundle,
First binding means for performing binding processing on the stack of sheets stacked on the stacking means,
Second binding means for performing binding processing on the stack of sheets stacked in the stacking means;
A guide member for guiding the first binding means and the second binding means so as to move in predetermined directions, respectively.
First driving means for driving the first binding means along the guide member;
Second driving means for driving the second binding means along the guide member;
Drive cutoff means for cutting off the drive when a resistance exceeding a predetermined magnitude is generated during driving in at least one of the first drive means and the second drive means;
A binding device comprising:   When the drive cutoff by the drive cutoff means in the first drive means or the second drive means exceeds a predetermined time, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the device, and that is notified. The binding device according to claim 1. Stacking means for stacking a plurality of sheets as a sheet bundle,
First binding means for performing binding processing on the stack of sheets stacked on the stacking means,
Second binding means for performing binding processing on the stack of sheets stacked in the stacking means;
A guide member for guiding the first binding means and the second binding means so as to move in predetermined directions, respectively.
First driving means for driving the first binding means along the guide member;
Second driving means for driving the second binding means along the guide member;
Control means for controlling the first drive means and the second drive means,
Equipped with
The control means is
When the first binding means stops moving due to an abnormality, the second binding means drives the second binding means, and the second binding means directly or indirectly pushes the first binding means. Move it to the first retracted position,
When the movement of the second binding unit is stopped due to an abnormality, the first binding unit drives the first binding unit to directly or indirectly push the second binding unit. A binding device that moves and moves to a second retracted position . When the first binding means or the second binding means stops moving due to an abnormality, the state is detected and the fact is notified, and the other binding means is replaced with the stopped one binding means. The binding device according to claim 3, wherein the binding process is configured to be able to be continuously performed. The second binding unit or the second binding unit that has been pushed for a predetermined time after the pushing of the second binding unit or the first binding unit is started by the first binding unit or the second binding unit When the first binding means is not pushed to the second retracted position or the first retracted position, the state is detected, and the fact that the apparatus has an abnormality is notified to that effect. The binding device according to claim 3 or 4. The first binding means or the second binding means in which the moving speed when the second binding means or the first binding means is pushed by the first binding means or the second binding means moves independently during normal operation. The binding device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the binding device is controlled to be slower than the moving speed of the means. The guide member is
A first reference position located at one end in the width direction with respect to the stack of sheets stacked on the stacking unit extends toward the other end in the width direction, and holds the first binding unit movably in the width direction. A first guide shaft to
A second reference position located on the other end side in the width direction with respect to the stack of sheets stacked on the stacking unit extends toward one end side in the width direction, and holds the second binding unit movably in the width direction. A second guide shaft to
Equipped with,
The first guide shaft includes a first abutting member held so as to be movable in the width direction together with the first binding means,
The second guide shaft includes a second abutting member that is held so as to be movable in the width direction together with the second binding means,
It is characterized in that the first binding member and the second binding member are configured to be in direct contact with each other without directly contacting each other. The binding device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. A part of the locus of the first binding means, which is guided and moved by the guide member, and a part of the locus of the second binding means, which is guided and moved by the guide member, overlap each other. The binding device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The first binding means is configured to perform binding processing using a needle,
The binding device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the second binding unit is configured to perform binding processing without using a staple. An image forming apparatus comprising the binding device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images