JP7400367B2 - printing device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a printing apparatus in which a post-processing device can be installed.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is an image forming system that includes an image forming apparatus and a paper post-processing apparatus (see Patent Document 1). In the image forming system disclosed in Patent Document 1, after an image is formed on the surface of paper by an image forming apparatus, the paper on which the image has been formed is ejected to a paper post-processing device, and the paper post-processing device performs predetermined post-processing. implement.

The predetermined post-processing includes stapling processing, punching processing, and the like. In order to properly perform such post-processing, it is necessary to control the initial operations such as returning the various units (stapling unit, punch unit, etc.) installed in the paper post-processing device to their home positions before performing post-processing. need to be done.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-271490

In the image forming system disclosed in Patent Document 1, which includes an image forming apparatus (corresponding to a printing apparatus) and a paper post-processing apparatus (corresponding to a post-processing apparatus), a sensor detects the opening and closing of a door provided in the paper post-processing apparatus. In this case, the initial operation is performed. Therefore, even if, for example, the user unexpectedly opens or closes the door, the initial operation will be executed unnecessarily. As described above, there is room for improvement in the control of the initial operation.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object thereof is to provide a printing device that can satisfactorily control the initialization operation by a post-processing device.

In order to solve the above problems, a printing apparatus according to aspect 1 of the present invention includes a post-processing device that includes an insertion port into which a cartridge containing a post-processing member is inserted and a first cover that covers the insertion port. a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium; a control unit that issues a command to the post-processing device that performs post-processing on the recording medium on which the image is printed; an initialization request requesting the post-processing device to transmit an initialization command to cause the post-processing device to perform an initialization operation in response to a change in the first cover from an open state to a closed state; , a communication unit that receives the information from the post-processing device, and a storage unit.

When the communication unit receives the initialization request while the printing unit is in a standby state, the control unit stores a no-cartridge flag indicating that the cartridge is not inserted into the insertion slot in the storage unit. transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device via the communication unit; and not transmitting the initialization command when the no-cartridge flag is not stored in the storage unit; It is characterized in that, when receiving a print instruction from the standby state and transitioning to a print state, the initialization command is transmitted to the post-processing device via the communication unit.

According to the above configuration, when the control unit receives an initialization request from the communication unit while the printing unit is in a standby state, and the no-cartridge flag is not stored in the storage unit, the control unit requests the initialization from the post-processing device. Even if the initialization command is received, the initialization command is not sent to the post-processing device. If a cartridge is inserted into the insertion slot of the post-processing device and the first cover changes from the open state to the closed state, there may be an accidental release, such as when the user's hand unexpectedly touches the first cover. There is a high possibility that this is due to the opening and closing of the 1 cover. In this case, even if the post-processing device transmits an initialization request to the printing device in response to opening and closing of the first cover, there is no need for the post-processing device to perform the initialization operation. Therefore, in such a case, even if the printing device receives an initialization request from the post-processing device, it does not send an initialization command to the post-processing device, thereby avoiding unnecessary initialization operations of the post-processing device. can be reduced.

In the printing device according to aspect 2 of the present invention, in the aspect 1, the post-processing device includes a post-processing section that performs the post-processing, and a connecting port connecting the printing device and the post-processing device to the post-processing section. The recording medium further includes a second cover that covers a conveyance path along which the recording medium is conveyed. The communication unit receives the initialization request from the post-processing device in response to a change in the second cover from an open state to a closed state. The control unit does not transmit the initialization command to the post-processing device via the communication unit when the first cover is closed, regardless of whether or not the communication unit has received the initialization request. .

According to the above configuration, even if the second cover of the post-processing device is opened or closed while the first cover is closed, the post-processing device does not need to perform the initialization operation. By not transmitting an initialization command to the post-processing device regardless of whether a request is received, it is possible to reduce unnecessary initialization operations of the post-processing device.

In the printing device according to aspect 3 of the present invention, in the aspect 2, when the control unit receives a print instruction during the standby state, and the print instruction involves ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device, The initialization command is transmitted to the post-processing device via the communication unit, and if the print instruction does not involve ejection of the recording medium to the post-processing device, the post-processing is performed via the communication unit. The initialization command is not sent to the device.

According to the above configuration, if the print instruction does not involve ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device, unnecessary initialization operations can be reduced by not transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device. Furthermore, while the printing unit is in a standby state, the printing device is not transmitting an initialization command, so it is assumed that the post-processing device is not performing the initialization operation. Therefore, if the print instruction involves ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device, the printing device performs the initialization operation of the post-processing device by sending an initialization command to the post-processing device via the communication unit. Can be executed properly.

In the printing device according to aspect 4 of the present invention, in the aspect 3, the control section stores the initialization flag in the storage section in response to receiving the initialization request from the post-processing device via the communication section. The initialization flag is erased upon completion of the initialization operation of the post-processing device. If the print instruction involves ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device and the initialization flag is stored in the storage device, the control section sends a message to the post-processing device via the communication section. and if the print instruction involves ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device and the initialization flag is not stored in the storage unit, the post-processing instruction is sent via the communication unit. The initialization command is not sent to the processing device.

According to the above configuration, when the print instruction involves ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device and the initialization flag is stored in the storage unit, the printing device sends the print medium to the post-processing device via the communication unit. Send an initialization command to the In this way, if either the first cover or the second cover changes from the open state to the closed state after the post-processing device performs the initialization operation and before receiving the print instruction, The cartridge may have been replaced, or the position of the post-processing device module may have shifted. Therefore, the printing device can properly initialize the post-processing device by transmitting an initialization command to the post-processing device.

On the other hand, if the print instruction involves ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device, and the initialization flag is not stored in the storage unit, that is, if the print instruction is issued after the post-processing device performs the initialization operation, If either the first cover or the second cover does not change from the open state to the closed state during this time, it is unlikely that the cartridge has been replaced or the position of the post-processing device module has shifted. In this case, the printing apparatus does not transmit an initialization command to the post-processing apparatus via the communication unit, thereby allowing the post-processing apparatus to reduce unnecessary execution of initialization operations.

In the printing device according to aspect 5 of the present invention, in the aspect 4, the post-processing device includes a remaining amount sensor that detects the remaining amount of the post-processing member accommodated in the cartridge, and the initializing operation is performed. At the time of execution, the detection result of the remaining amount sensor is output to the printing device. When the remaining amount of the post-processing member detected by the remaining amount sensor is less than a predetermined amount, the control unit stores an empty flag indicating an insufficient remaining amount of the post-processing member in the storage unit, and enters the standby state. In the state in which the empty flag is stored in the storage unit, the post-processing device is instructed to execute the initialization operation in response to the storage of the initialization flag in the storage unit. .

According to the above configuration, if the amount of post-processing material housed in the cartridge is less than a predetermined amount, the empty flag is flagged because it is more likely that the user replaced the cartridge than that the user accidentally opened/closed the cover. is stored in the storage unit, and in response to the initialization flag being stored in the storage unit, the printing device transmits an initialization command to the post-processing device. Thereby, when a print instruction that involves ejecting a recording medium to a post-processing device is issued, preparations for performing post-processing can be made in advance.

In the printing device according to aspect 6 of the present invention, in the aspect 4 or 5, the control unit detects that the first cover and the second cover are closed after power is supplied. In the state where the initialization command is transmitted to the post-processing device via the communication unit, and it is detected that at least one of the first cover and the second cover is open, , causing the printing unit to enter a standby state without transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device via the communication unit.

According to the above configuration, in a state in which the control unit detects that the first cover and the second cover are closed after power is supplied, the printing device issues an initialization command to the post-processing device. Send. On the other hand, when the first cover or the second cover is open, the control unit does not cause the post-processing device to perform the initialization operation, thereby making it possible to eliminate unnecessary initialization operations by the post-processing device. In addition, when the first cover or the second cover is open, by shifting the printing unit to the standby state, the user can perform other processing other than printing that involves ejecting the recording medium of the post-processing device. It becomes possible.

In the printing device according to aspect 7 of the present invention, in any one of aspects 4 to 6, the control unit restores an error state of the post-processing device other than the first cover and the second cover to a normal state. In this case, if the initialization flag is stored in the storage unit, the initialization command is transmitted to the post-processing device via the communication unit, and the initialization flag is stored in the storage unit. If not, the initialization command is not transmitted to the post-processing device via the communication unit.

According to the above configuration, when an operation is performed to return the post-processing device to a normal state from an error state related to a cover other than the first cover and the second cover, if there is no initialization flag in the storage unit, the post-processing device performs the initialization operation. will not be executed. This makes it possible to avoid unnecessary instructions to the post-processing device to perform the initialization operation when recovering from an error state such as a paper jam.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the initialization operation by the post-processing device can be well controlled.

1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a printing device connected to a post-processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a side sectional view of the post-processing device installed in the upper part of the printing device concerning an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a state in which the staple cover of the post-processing device according to the embodiment is opened. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a printing device and a post-processing device according to an embodiment. 7 is a flowchart showing a flow of sending an initialization request regarding a staple cover of the post-processing device according to the embodiment. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of transmitting an initialization request regarding a jam cover of the post-processing device according to the embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of initialization operation of the post-processing device concerning an embodiment. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of control processing when the printing apparatus according to the embodiment turns on the power. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of control processing in a standby state by the printing apparatus according to the embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of error processing in the flowchart of FIG. 9; 7 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a printing state control process performed by the printing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Hereinafter, a printing device 1 connected to a post-processing device 2 in an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11.

[Configuration of printing device and post-processing device]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a printing device 1 connected to a post-processing device 2 according to an embodiment. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the front and rear, left and right, and up and down directions of the post-processing device 2 will be defined based on the state in which the post-processing device 2 is provided on the top of the printing device 1 as shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a side sectional view of the post-processing device installed on the top of the printing device. The post-processing device 2 is installed above the printing device 1 and has a function of performing jogger processing (paper alignment processing), stapling processing, etc. on the recording medium P discharged from the printing device 1.

As shown in FIG. 2, the printing device 1 is provided with a connection port 5 that connects the printing device 1 and the post-processing device 2. The post-processing device 2 has a transport path R1. The printing device 1 transports the recording medium P along a transport path R2. The lower end of the conveyance path R1 of the post-processing device 2 is connected to the conveyance path R2 of the printing device 1 at a connecting port 5. The post-processing device 2 transports the recording medium P transported from the printing device 1 along the transport path R1.

The conveyance section 28 of the post-processing device 2 includes first conveyance rollers 281, 282, second conveyance rollers 283, 284, and discharge rollers 285, 286. The first conveyance rollers 281 and 282 convey the recording medium P, which is conveyed from the printing device 1 along the conveyance path R1, along the conveyance path R2. Second conveyance rollers 283 and 284 that convey the recording medium P along the conveyance path R1 are provided downstream of the first conveyance rollers 281 and 282. The discharge rollers 285 and 286 are provided at the most downstream side of the conveyance path R1, and convey the recording medium P from the conveyance path R1 toward the outside of the post-processing device 2.

A jam cover 200 (an example of a second cover) is provided on the rear surface of the post-processing device 2 . When the jam cover 200 is opened, the user can visually observe the conveyance path R2 from behind the post-processing device 2, and can remove the recording medium P that is jammed in the conveyance path R2.

The jogger section 22 (an example of a post-processing section) is provided above the discharge tray 4. As shown in FIG. 1, the jogger unit 22 includes a left jogger 221 placed on the left side of the post-processing device 2 and a right jogger 222 placed on the right side of the post-processing device 2. The left jogger 221 and the right jogger 222 are configured to be movable in the width direction (horizontal direction). The left jogger 221 and the right jogger 222 are movable between a close position where they are close to each other and support the recording medium P, and a separate position where they are separated from each other and do not support the recording medium P.

When the recording medium P is transported outside the post-processing device 2 while the left jogger 221 and the right jogger 222 are displaced to the close position, the left jogger 221 and the right jogger 222 support the recording medium P with both ends of the recording medium P aligned in the width direction. do. From this state, when the left jogger 221 and the right jogger 222 move away from each other in the width direction and are displaced to the separated position, the support of both ends of the recording medium P in the width direction by the left jogger 221 and the right jogger 222 is released. Ru.

The support section 3 is arranged on the rear side of the jogger section 22 and above the output tray 4. The support part 3 has a support surface 31 that is inclined upward toward the front, and a rear end alignment surface 32 that projects upward from the support surface 31. This is a tray member that supports the recording medium P discharged to the outside of No. 2. The support portion 3 is configured to be movable in the front-rear direction. Specifically, the support section 3 is located between a position where the rear end of the recording medium P is supported (first position) and a position where support for the rear end of the recording medium P is released (second position). It is configured to be movable.

The support portion 3 is configured to support the rear end portion, which is the upstream end portion in the conveyance direction, of the recording medium P discharged to the outside of the post-processing device 2 when the support portion 3 is displaced to the first position. Furthermore, when the support section 3 is displaced to the second position, the support section 3 releases support for the rear end of the recording medium P.

In the post-processing device 2, the recording medium P discharged to the outside of the post-processing device 2 is supported by the support portion 3 displaced to the first position, and the left jogger 221 and right jogger 222 displaced to the proximal position. When the support part 3 is displaced to the second position and the left jogger 221 and right jogger 222 are displaced to the separated position, and the recording medium P is no longer supported, it falls downward and onto the ejection tray 4. Supported.

The post-processing device 2 is provided on the right side of the support section 3 displaced to the first position, and includes a stapling section 21 for performing stapling processing on the recording medium P supported by the support section 3 and the left jogger 221 and right jogger 222. (an example of a post-processing section) is provided. The stapling unit 21 executes a stapling process in which the printed recording media P transported to the stapling unit 21 by the transport unit 14 and the transport unit 28 are bundled by a predetermined number and stapled with a stapler 213 (an example of a post-processing member). It is a member for

[Opening the staple cover of the post-processing device]
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a state in which the staple cover 212 of the post-processing device 2 is opened. The post-processing device 2 is provided with an insertion port 210 and is configured to cover the insertion port 210 with a staple cover 212 (an example of a first cover). A cartridge 211 is inserted into the insertion port 210 . The cartridge 211 accommodates staples 213.

The cartridge 211 can accommodate a predetermined amount (for example, about 1,000 staples) of staples 213. The cartridge 211 is detachably inserted into an insertion opening 210 formed at the upper right side of the post-processing device 2 . The staple portion 21 is provided with a staple cover 212 for closing the insertion port 210. The staple cover sensor 24 detects opening and closing of the staple cover 212 (see FIG. 4).

[Electrical configuration of post-processing device and printing device]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the printing device 1 and the post-processing device 2 according to the embodiment. The printing device 1 shown in FIG. 1 has a printing function.

As shown in FIG. 4, the printing device 1 includes an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 10, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13 (an example of a storage unit), and a transport unit 14. , a printing section 15, a communication interface (I/F) 16 (an example of a communication section), a USB interface (I/F) 17, a LAN interface (I/F) 18, and a display section 19 consisting of a liquid crystal display. , is equipped with. The ASIC 10 has a built-in CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11 (an example of a control unit). The CPU 11 performs general control over each part of the printing apparatus 1 . The CPU 11 receives signals from the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16 . The CPU 11 issues commands to the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16.

The ROM 12 stores various control programs and various settings for controlling the printing apparatus 1. The RAM 13 is used as a storage area for temporarily storing an initialization flag 131, an empty flag 132, a no-cartridge flag 133, etc., which will be described later. The CPU 11 controls the transport section 14, the printing section 15, the display section 19, etc. based on the control program read from the ROM 12.

The conveying unit 14 includes a motor (not shown) and a plurality of rollers (not shown) such as a feeding roller, a conveying roller, and a discharge roller. A motor is driven under the control of the CPU 11, and the feeding roller and the conveying roller convey the recording medium P, such as a paper sheet, accommodated in the feeding tray to the printing unit 15 by driving the motor. The discharge roller discharges the recording medium P printed by the printing unit 15 to the discharge tray 6 (see FIG. 1) or conveys it to the connection port 5 of the post-processing device 2.

A USB memory and a USB cable are connected to the USB interface (I/F) 17. When a USB memory is connected to the USB interface 17, image data stored in the USB memory can be received via the USB interface 17. When a USB cable is connected to the USB interface 17, the USB interface 17 can receive a print instruction (print job) from a PC (personal computer) connected to the USB cable. Similarly, when a LAN cable is connected to the LAN interface 18, a print instruction can be received from the PC connected to the LAN interface 18. Note that in this embodiment, the USB interface 17 and the LAN interface 18 are illustrated, but the print instruction may be received using wireless communication.

When the CPU 11 receives a print instruction via the USB interface 17 or the LAN interface 18, the CPU 11 uses the printing unit 15 to print an image on the recording medium P based on the print instruction (print job). The image printing method may be an electrophotographic method or an inkjet method. Further, the image printed on the recording medium P may be capable of being printed in color or may be exclusively printed in monochrome.

A communication interface 16 is connected to the CPU 11 . The communication interface 16 is an interface used to communicate with the post-processing device 2. The communication interface 16 is electrically connected to the communication interface 29 of the post-processing device 2 .

The communication interface 16 receives an initialization request, which will be described later, from the post-processing device 2. Upon receiving the initialization request via the communication interface 16, the CPU 11 stores the initialization flag 131 in the RAM 13. The communication interface 16 receives an empty flag write signal for the staples 213 housed in the cartridge 211 from the post-processing device 2 . Upon receiving the empty write signal via the communication interface 16, the CPU 11 stores the empty flag 132 in the RAM 13. When the communication interface 16 receives the empty flag erasing signal from the post-processing device 2, the CPU 11 erases the empty flag 132 from the RAM 13.

When the communication interface 16 receives a cartridge no flag write signal indicating that the cartridge 211 is not inserted into the insertion port 210 of the post-processing device 2, the CPU 11 stores the no cartridge flag 133 in the RAM 13. When the communication interface 16 receives the no-cartridge flag erasing signal from the post-processing device 2, the CPU 11 erases the no-cartridge flag 133 from the RAM 13.

As will be described later, the CPU 11 inquires of the control unit 20 via the communication interface 29 of the post-processing device 2 whether the staple cover 212 is open or not via the communication interface 16, and responds to the inquiry. Based on the results, it is possible to constantly detect whether or not the staple cover 212 is open.

As in the case of the staple cover 212, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the jam cover 200 is in an open state via the communication interface 16 via the communication interface 29 of the post-processing device 2, as will be described later. 20, and based on the result of the inquiry, it is always possible to detect whether or not the jam cover 200 is open.

As shown in FIG. 4, the post-processing device 2 includes a control section 20, a staple section 21, a jogger section 22, a support section 3, an ejection tray 4, a remaining amount sensor 23, and a staple cover sensor 24. , a jam cover sensor 25, a ROM 26, a RAM 27, a transport section 28, a communication interface (I/F) 29, and a motor 30.

The control unit 20 receives commands from the printing device 1 via the communication interface 29, and performs general control over each unit of the post-processing device 2. The ROM 26 stores various control programs and various settings for controlling the post-processing device 2. The control unit 20 controls the stapling unit 21, jogger unit 22, conveyance unit 28, etc. based on the control program read from the ROM 26.

A communication interface 29 is connected to the control unit 20 . The communication interface 29 is an interface used to communicate with the printing device 1. Communication interface 29 is electrically connected to communication interface 16 of printing device 1 .

The staple portion 21 is provided with a remaining amount sensor 23 . The remaining amount sensor 23 is a sensor for detecting the remaining amount of staples 213 housed in the cartridge 211. The remaining amount sensor 23 outputs an on signal to the control unit 20 when the remaining amount of staples 213 is a predetermined amount (for example, about 20 staples) or more, and outputs an off signal when the remaining amount of staples 213 is less than a predetermined amount. is output to the control section 20.

The staple cover sensor 24 is a sensor for detecting whether the staple cover 212 is open or closed. The staple cover sensor 24 outputs an on signal to the control unit 20 when the staple cover 212 is open, and outputs an off signal to the control unit 20 when the staple cover 212 is closed.

The jam cover sensor 25 is a sensor for detecting whether the jam cover 200 is open or closed. The jam cover sensor 25 outputs an on signal to the control unit 20 when the jam cover 200 is open, and outputs an off signal to the control unit 20 when the jam cover 200 is closed.

In response to an inquiry from the printing apparatus 1, the control unit 20 communicates information on whether the staple cover 212 is open and information on whether the jam cover 200 is open. It is transmitted to the printing device 1 via the interface 29.

Note that the control unit 20 controls the staple cover 212 and the jam cover 200 in accordance with a change from an open state to a closed state, and a change from a closed state to an open state of the staple cover 212 and jam cover 200. Information on whether the cover 212 is open and information on whether the jam cover 200 is open may be transmitted to the printing device 1 via the communication interface 29.

In the jogger process of the post-processing device 2, the left jogger 221 and the right jogger 222 are displaced from the initial position to the proximity position with respect to the recording medium P conveyed to the jogger unit 22 by the conveyance unit 28, thereby removing the recording medium P. Align both ends in the width direction. When the jogger process is completed, the left jogger 221 and the right jogger 222 are moved to the separated positions, thereby releasing the support for both ends of the recording medium P in the width direction.

The control unit 20 displaces the left jogger 221 and the right jogger 222 to a close position, a separated position, or the like in response to an instruction to the jogger unit 22.

The conveyance unit 28 includes first conveyance rollers 281, 282, second conveyance rollers 283, 284, discharge rollers 285, 286, and further includes a motor 30 (see FIG. 4). The control unit 20 instructs the motor 30 of the transport unit 28 to drive. The motor 30 is driven by an instruction from the control unit 20, and the driving of the motor 30 causes the first conveyance rollers 281, 282, the second conveyance rollers 283, 284, and the discharge rollers 285, 286 to move the recording medium P along the conveyance path R1. Transport along.

[About initialization operations performed by the post-processing device]
The initialization request that the post-processing device 2 sends to the printing device 1 and the initialization operation that the post-processing device 2 executes will be described with reference to FIGS. 5, 6, and 7. Note that FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 are flowcharts executed by the control unit 20 of the post-processing device 2. The flowcharts shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 are examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

The initialization operation performed by the post-processing device 2 means that the control unit 20 instructs the jogger unit 22 to return the left jogger 221 and right jogger 222 to their initial positions (see S62 in FIG. 7). ), confirming whether the cartridge 211 is inserted into the insertion port 210, and confirming whether the amount of staples 213 accommodated in the cartridge 211 is less than a predetermined amount (see FIG. 7). S63).

The post-processing device 2 transmits an initialization request to the printing device 1 via the communication interface 29 when the staple cover 212 or the jam cover 200 shifts from the open state to the closed state. The CPU 11 of the printing device 1 receives an initialization request from the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16 . This time, the CPU 11 of the printing device 1 transmits an initialization command to the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16 in response to receiving the initialization request. Next, the control unit 20 of the post-processing device 2 receives the initialization command via the communication interface 29 to execute the above-described initialization operation.

Note that the CPU 11 of the printing device 1 is not limited to immediately transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16 in response to receiving the initialization request. The control operation by the CPU 11 of the printing apparatus 1, which is a characteristic configuration of the present invention, will be explained in detail from FIG. 8 onwards, which will be described later.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of sending an initialization request regarding the staple cover 212 of the post-processing device 2. As shown in FIG. The control unit 20 of the post-processing device 2 determines whether the staple cover 212 is open based on the on signal and off signal from the staple cover sensor 24 (S41).

If the staple cover 212 is not open, that is, as long as the staple cover 212 is closed, the control unit 20 waits for the processing of this flowchart (S41: NO). When the staple cover 212 is displaced from the closed state to the open state (S41: YES), the control unit 20 waits for the processing of this flowchart as long as the staple cover 212 is open (S42: NO).

When the staple cover 212 is displaced from the open state to the closed state (S42: YES), the control unit 20 transmits an initialization request to the printing apparatus 1 via the communication interface 29 as described above (S43). ).

Upon receiving the initialization request via the communication interface 16, the CPU 11 of the printing device 1 stores the initialization flag 131 in the RAM 13.

The control unit 20 of the post-processing device 2 repeatedly executes the process of this flowchart until the power of the post-processing device 2 is turned off.

Note that instead of S43, the initialization flag 131 is stored in the RAM 27, and the control unit 20 of the post-processing device 2 initializes it via the communication interface 29 in response to an inquiry from the CPU 11 of the printing device 1. You may also send a request. In that case, the CPU 11 of the printing device 1 may periodically make inquiries to the post-processing device 2 and receive an initialization request from the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of sending an initialization request regarding the jam cover 200 of the post-processing device 2. The control unit 20 of the post-processing device 2 determines whether or not the jam cover 200 is open based on the ON signal and OFF signal from the jam cover sensor 25 (S51).

If the jam cover 200 is not open, that is, as long as the jam cover 200 is closed, the control unit 20 waits for the processing of this flowchart (S51: NO). When the jam cover 200 is displaced from the closed state to the open state (S51: YES), the control unit 20 waits for the processing of this flowchart as long as the jam cover 200 is open (S52: NO).

When the jam cover 200 is displaced from the open state to the closed state (S52: YES), the control unit 20 transmits an initialization request to the printing apparatus 1 via the communication interface 29 as described above (S53). ).

Upon receiving the initialization request via the communication interface 16, the CPU 11 of the printing device 1 stores the initialization flag 131 in the RAM 13.

The control unit 20 of the post-processing device 2 repeatedly executes the process of this flowchart until the power of the post-processing device 2 is turned off.

Note that instead of S53, the initialization flag 131 is stored in the RAM 27, and in response to an inquiry from the CPU 11 of the printing device 1, the control unit 20 of the post-processing device 2 performs initialization via the communication interface 29. You may also send a request for conversion. In that case, the CPU 11 of the printing device 1 may periodically make inquiries to the post-processing device 2 and receive an initialization request from the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16.

Next, the flow of the initialization operation of the post-processing device 2 will be explained with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 shows a process executed by the control unit 20 of the post-processing device 2.

The control unit 20 determines whether or not the initialization command transmitted from the printing apparatus 1 has been received via the communication interface 29 (S61).

If the control unit 20 does not receive an initialization command (S61: NO), it waits for processing. When the initialization command is received via the communication interface 29 (S61: YES), the control unit 20 instructs the jogger unit 22 to return the left jogger 221 and right jogger 222 to their initial positions. (S62).

After S62, the control unit 20 executes an initialization operation of the stapling unit 21 (S63). The initialization operation of the staple unit 21 includes checking whether the cartridge 211 is inserted into the insertion port 210 and checking whether the amount of staples 213 accommodated in the cartridge 211 is less than a predetermined amount. Contains at least

Subsequently, the control unit 20 determines whether the cartridge 211 is correctly inserted into the insertion slot 210 as a result of the initialization operation of the stapling unit 21 in S63 (S64).

If the cartridge 211 is not inserted into the insertion slot 210 (S64: NO), the control unit 20 transmits an empty flag deletion signal to the printing device 1 via the communication interface 29 (S65).

Next, the control unit 20 transmits a cartridge no flag write signal to the printing device 1 via the communication interface 29, indicating that the cartridge 211 is not inserted into the insertion slot 210 of the post-processing device 2. (S66).

If the cartridge 211 is inserted into the insertion slot 210 (S64: YES), the control unit 20 transmits a cartridge-free flag erasure signal to the printing device 1 via the communication interface 29 (S67).

In S68, it is determined whether the remaining amount of staples 213 accommodated in the cartridge 211 is less than a predetermined amount based on the result of the initialization operation of the staple unit 21 in S63. The predetermined amount is, for example, about 20 staples 213.

If the remaining amount of staples 213 accommodated in the cartridge 211 is less than the predetermined amount (S68: YES), the control unit 20 transmits an empty flag write signal to the printing device 1 via the communication interface 29. (S69).

If the remaining amount of the staples 213 accommodated in the cartridge 211 is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount (S68: NO), the control unit 20 transmits an empty flag deletion signal to the printing device 1 via the communication interface 29 ( S70).

The control unit 20 of the post-processing device 2 repeatedly executes the process of the flowchart of FIG. 7 until the power of the post-processing device 2 is turned off. Each process in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 is processed in parallel by the control unit 20.

In this embodiment, a state in which the remaining amount of staples 213 is less than a predetermined amount is treated as a warning state rather than an error state. In this warning state, a warning is given to the user by, for example, displaying on the display unit 19 a message urging the user to replace the cartridge 211. With the above, the CPU 11 ends the initialization process.

In the present embodiment, a state in which the cartridge 211 is not inserted into the insertion port 210 or a state in which the remaining amount of staples 213 is less than a predetermined amount is treated as a warning state rather than an error state. The CPU 11 of the printing device 1 determines whether the cartridge 211 is inserted into the display unit 19 unless the cartridge no flag 133 or the empty flag 132 is stored in the RAM 13, that is, unless the cartridge no flag 133 or the empty flag 132 is erased from the RAM 13. It is displayed that there is not enough staples 213 remaining, or that the remaining amount of staples 213 is insufficient. This display on the display unit 19 provides a warning to the user.

[About various controls of the printing device]
The flow of processing executed by the CPU 11 of the printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8, 9, 10, and 11. Note that the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 8 to 11 are examples, and the process is not limited thereto.

(Control processing when power is turned on)
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of control processing by the printing apparatus 1 when the power is turned on according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, when the printing apparatus 1 is powered on, the CPU 11 first determines whether the staple cover 212 or the jam cover 200 of the post-processing apparatus 2 is open (S1). The CPU 11 periodically inquires of the control unit 20 via the communication interface 29 of the post-processing device 2 whether the staple cover 212 and the jam cover 200 are open or not via the communication interface 16. Based on the results of the inquiry, it is possible to detect whether the staple cover 212 is open or not, and whether the jam cover 200 is open or not.

If the staple cover 212 and jam cover 200 are closed (S1: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether the initialization flag 131 is stored in the RAM 13 (S2).

Here, the "initialization flag" is stored in the RAM 13 as a flag indicating that an initialization request has been received when the printing device 1 receives an initialization request from the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16. It's a flag.

On the other hand, if the staple cover 212 or the jam cover 200 is open (S1: YES), the CPU 11 ends the power-on control process and proceeds to the process shown in FIG.

If the initialization flag 131 is stored in the RAM 13 (S2: YES), the CPU 11 transmits an initialization command to the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16 (S3), and stores the initialization flag from the RAM 13. 131 is deleted (S4). The CPU 11 exchanges signals with the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16, and waits for processing until the initialization operation of the post-processing device 2 is completed (S5: NO). The CPU 11 returns to S1 in response to completion of the initialization operation of the post-processing device 2 (S5: YES).

On the other hand, if the initialization flag 131 is not stored in the RAM 13 (S2: NO), the CPU 11 ends the power-on control process and proceeds to the process shown in FIG.

(Standby state control processing)
Next, the flow of control processing in the standby state by the printing apparatus 1 in the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of control processing in a standby state by the printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

When the printing apparatus 1 enters the standby state, the CPU 11 first determines whether the empty flag 132 is stored in the RAM 13 (S11). If the empty flag 132 is not stored in the RAM 13 (S11: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether the no-cartridge flag 133 is stored in the RAM 13 (S12).

If the empty flag 132 is stored in the RAM 13 (S11: YES) or if the no-cartridge flag 133 is stored in the RAM 13 (S12: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether the staple cover 212 is open or not. A determination is made (S13).

On the other hand, if the empty flag 132 is not stored in the RAM 13 (S11: NO) and the no-cartridge flag 133 is not stored (S12: NO), the process advances to S14. That is, when the remaining amount of staples 213 of the cartridge 211 is at least a predetermined amount and the cartridge 211 is inserted into the insertion port 210 of the post-processing device 2, the staple cover 212 of S13 is opened. No judgment is made as to whether or not there is one.

If the staple cover 212 is not open (S13: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether the error is caused by something other than the staple cover 212 or the jam cover 200 (S14).

When the staple cover 212 is open (S13: YES), or when an error other than the staple cover 212 and jam cover 200 has occurred (S14: YES), the CPU 11 performs the error processing shown in FIG. 10 ( S15), return to S11.

If the staple cover 212 is closed (S13: NO) and no error has occurred other than the staple cover 212 and jam cover 200 (S14: NO), it is determined whether or not there is a print instruction (S16). . If there is no print instruction (S16: NO), the process returns to S11, and if there is a print instruction (S16: YES), the CPU 11 ends the standby state control process and shifts to the print state control process shown in FIG. do.

(Error handling)
Next, the flow of error processing by the printing apparatus 1 in the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 10. As shown in FIG. 10, the CPU 11 first determines whether all errors in the printing device 1 and the post-processing device 2 have been cleared (S21). If all errors in the printing device 1 and post-processing device 2 are cleared (S21: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether the cleared errors include an error in the staple cover 212 or the jam cover 200 (S22). ). On the other hand, if all errors in the printing device 1 and the post-processing device 2 have not been cleared (S21: NO), the CPU 11 repeatedly performs S21.

If the error includes the staple cover 212 or jam cover 200 (S22: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether the initialization flag 131 is stored in the RAM 13 (S23). If the initialization flag 131 is stored in the RAM 13 (S23: YES), the process proceeds to S26, and if the initialization flag 131 is not stored in the RAM 13 (S23: NO), the CPU 11 ends the error process.

If there is no error in the staple cover 212 or jam cover 200 (S22: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether the initialization flag 131 is stored in the RAM 13 (S24). If the initialization flag 131 is stored in the RAM 13 (S24: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether the staple cover 212 and jam cover 200 are closed (S25).

If the staple cover 212 and jam cover 200 are closed (S25: YES), the CPU 11 transmits an initialization command to the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16 (S26). Then, the CPU 11 erases the initialization flag 131 stored in the RAM 13 (S27).

If the initialization flag 131 is not stored in the RAM 13 (S24: NO), or if at least one of the staple cover 212 and jam cover 200 is not closed (S25: NO), the CPU 11 ends the error process. .

After S27, the CPU 11 determines whether the initialization operation by the post-processing device 2 has been completed (S28). If the initialization operation by the post-processing device 2 has not been completed (S28: NO), the CPU 11 repeatedly makes the determination in S28. On the other hand, if the initialization operation by the post-processing device 2 has been completed (S28: YES), the error processing is ended.

(Printing status control processing)
Next, the flow of the printing state control process by the printing apparatus 1 in the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 11. The printing state is a state in which the control process shown in FIG. 11 is being performed, which is transitioned upon the end of the standby state (see FIG. 9). In the print state control process shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 11 first determines whether the print instruction received from the PC via the USB interface 17 or the LAN interface 18 involves ejecting the recording medium P to the post-processing device 2. It is determined whether or not (S31). If the recording medium P is to be ejected to the post-processing device 2 (S31: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether the staple cover 212 or the jam cover 200 is open (S32).

If the staple cover 212 or the jam cover 200 is open (S32: YES), the CPU 11 executes the error process shown in FIG. 10 described above (S33). When the error processing (S33) is completed, the process returns to S31 again.

Next, if the staple cover 212 and the jam cover are closed (S32: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether the initialization flag 131 is stored in the RAM 13 (S34). If the initialization flag 131 is stored in the RAM 13 (S34: YES), the CPU 11 transmits an initialization command to the post-processing device 2 (S35), and erases the initialization flag 131 stored in the RAM 13. (S36). Then, the CPU 11 determines whether the initialization operation has been completed by the post-processing device 2 (S37). On the other hand, if the initialization flag 131 is not stored in the RAM 13 (S34: NO), the process advances to S38.

If the initialization operation of the post-processing device 2 has not been completed (S37: NO), the CPU 11 repeatedly performs S37, and if the initialization operation of the post-processing device 2 has been completed (S37: YES), the CPU 11 proceeds to S38. .

In S38, the CPU 11 executes the first printing process by controlling the printing unit 15. In this first printing process, the recording medium P on which the image has been printed by the printing section 15 is conveyed along the conveyance path R2 to the conveyance path R1 of the post-processing device 2. After S38, the paper is transported from the printing device 1 to a post-processing unit position outside the post-processing device 2 by the transport unit 28 of the post-processing device 2, and is subjected to post-processing such as jogger processing and stapling processing.

On the other hand, if the recording medium P is not ejected to the post-processing device 2 side (S31: NO), the CPU 11 executes the second printing process (S39). In this second printing process, the recording medium P printed by the printing unit 15 is ejected to the ejection tray 6 of the printing device 1.

[Effects of embodiment]
According to the printing device 1 according to the present embodiment described above, the CPU 11 is in a state in which the communication interface 16 receives information indicating that the cartridge 211 is inserted into the insertion slot 210 from the post-processing device 2. (S12: NO), and if the printing unit 15 is in a standby state, even if an initialization request is received from the post-processing device 2, the error process (S15) shown in FIG. 10 is not executed, and the post-processing device 2 (see FIG. 9).

Here, when the cartridge 211 is inserted into the insertion port 210 of the post-processing device 2 and the staple cover 212 changes from an open state to a closed state, the user's hand unexpectedly touches the staple cover 212, etc. There is a high possibility that this is due to the accidental opening and closing of the staple cover 212. In this case, even if the post-processing device 2 transmits an initialization request to the printing device in conjunction with opening and closing of the staple cover 212, the post-processing device 2 does not need to perform the initialization operation.

Therefore, in such a case, even if the printing apparatus 1 receives an initialization request from the post-processing apparatus 2, it does not send an initialization command to the post-processing apparatus 2, thereby reducing the waste of the post-processing apparatus 2. It is possible to reduce initialization operations. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the generation of mechanical noise due to unnecessary initialization operations of the post-processing device 2 from causing annoyance to the user.

Further, even if the jam cover 200 of the post-processing device 2 is opened or closed (S14: NO) while the staple cover 212 is closed (S13: NO), the post-processing device 2 does not need to perform the initialization operation. Therefore, by not executing the error process (S15) shown in FIG. It is possible to reduce unnecessary initialization operations.

Furthermore, if the print instruction does not involve ejecting the recording medium P to the post-processing device 2, unnecessary initialization operations can be reduced by not transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device 2. Further, while the printing unit 15 is in a standby state, the printing device 1 has not sent an initialization command, so it is assumed that the post-processing device 2 has not performed the initialization operation. Therefore, when the print instruction involves ejecting the recording medium P to the post-processing device 2, the printing device 1 transmits an initialization command to the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16, thereby allowing the post-processing device The initialization operation in step 2 can be executed appropriately.

Furthermore, if the print instruction involves ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device 2 and the initialization flag is stored, the printing device 1 initializes the post-processing device 2 via the communication interface 16. Send commands. In this way, if either the first cover or the second cover changes from the open state to the closed state between the time the post-processing device 2 performs the initialization operation and the time the print instruction is received. , the cartridge may have been replaced, or the position of the module of the post-processing device 2 may have shifted, so the printing device 1 sends an initialization command to the post-processing device 2 .

On the other hand, if the print instruction involves discharging the recording medium P to the post-processing device 2 and the initialization flag 131 is not stored, that is, the print instruction is not issued after the post-processing device 2 has performed the initialization operation. If either the staple cover 212 or the jam cover 200 has not changed from the open state to the closed state during this period, there is a possibility that the cartridge has been replaced or the position of the module of the post-processing device 2 has shifted. low. In this case, the printing apparatus 1 does not transmit an initialization command to the post-processing apparatus 2 via the communication interface 16, thereby allowing the post-processing apparatus 2 to reduce unnecessary execution of initialization operations.

Furthermore, if the number of staples 213 accommodated in the cartridge 211 is less than a predetermined amount, the empty flag 232 is is stored in the RAM 13, and in response to the initialization flag 131 being stored in the RAM 13, the printing device 1 transmits an initialization command to the post-processing device 2. Thereby, when a print instruction that involves discharging the recording medium P to the post-processing device 2 is required, preparations for performing the post-processing can be made in advance.

Further, after the power is supplied to the CPU 11 , in a state in which the staple cover 212 and the jam cover 200 are detected to be closed, the printing apparatus transmits an initialization command to the post-processing apparatus 2 . On the other hand, when the staple cover 212 or the jam cover 200 is open, the CPU 11 does not cause the post-processing device 2 to perform the initialization operation, thereby eliminating unnecessary initialization operations by the post-processing device 2. Further, when the staple cover 212 and the jam cover 200 are open, by shifting the printing unit 15 to the standby state, the user can perform other processing other than printing that involves ejecting the recording medium of the post-processing device. It becomes possible.

Further, when performing an operation to return the post-processing device 2 to a normal state from an error state related to items other than the staple cover 212 and the jam cover 200, if the initialization flag 131 is not present in the RAM 13, the post-processing device 2 is not caused to perform the initialization operation. . This makes it possible to avoid unnecessary instructions to the post-processing device 2 to execute the initialization operation when the printing device 1 recovers from an error state such as a paper jam.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means disclosed in different embodiments. are also included within the technical scope of the present invention.

1 Printing device 2 Post-processing device 5 Connection port 11 CPU (control unit)
13 RAM (recording section)
15 Printing section 16 Communication interface (communication section)
21 Staple section 22 Jogger section 23 Remaining amount sensor 24 Staple cover sensor 25 Jam cover sensor 131 Initialization flag 132 Empty flag 133 No cartridge flag 200 Jam cover (second cover)
210 Insertion port 211 Cartridge 212 Staple cover (first cover)
213 Staple (post-processing member)
R1 Transport path P Recording medium

Claims (7)

A printing device in which a post-processing device can be installed, which includes an insertion port into which a cartridge containing a post-processing member is inserted, and a first cover that covers the insertion port,
The post-processing device includes:
transmitting an initialization request to the printing device in response to a change in the first cover from an open state to a closed state;
Upon receiving an initialization command from the printing device, an initialization operation is performed to check whether the cartridge is inserted into the insertion slot, and if the cartridge is not inserted, a no-cartridge flag signal is sent to the printing device. send to
The printing device includes:
a printing section that prints images on a recording medium;
a control unit that issues a command to the post-processing device that performs post-processing on the recording medium on which the image is printed;
a communication unit that receives the initialization request and the cartridge no flag signal from the post-processing device;
storage section and
Equipped with
The control unit includes:
storing the cartridge-free flag in the storage unit when the communication unit receives the cartridge-free flag signal;
When the initialization request is received by the communication unit while the printing unit is in a standby state, and a no -cartridge flag indicating that the cartridge is not inserted into the insertion slot is stored in the storage unit. , transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device via the communication unit,
If the communication unit receives the initialization request while the printing unit is in a standby state, and the no-cartridge flag is not stored in the storage unit, the initialization command is not sent and the print instruction is issued from the standby state. transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device via the communication unit when the printer receives the initialization command and shifts to a printing state;
A printing device characterized by: The post-processing device includes:
further comprising: a post-processing unit that performs the post-processing; and a second cover that covers a conveyance path through which the recording medium is conveyed from a connection port connecting the printing device and the post-processing unit to the post-processing unit;
transmitting an initialization request to the printing device in response to a change in the second cover from an open state to a closed state;
The communication department includes:
receiving the initialization request;
The control unit includes:
When the first cover is closed, the initialization command is not transmitted to the post-processing device via the communication unit regardless of whether the communication unit has received the initialization request.
The printing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit includes:
receiving a print instruction during the standby state;
If the print instruction involves ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device, transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device via the communication unit,
If the print instruction does not involve ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device, not transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device via the communication unit;
The printing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The control unit includes:
storing an initialization flag in the storage unit in response to receiving the initialization request from the post-processing device via the communication unit; and performing the initialization in response to completion of execution of the initialization operation of the post-processing device. clear the flag,
If the print instruction involves ejecting the recording medium to the post-processing device and the initialization flag is stored in the storage unit, the initialization command is sent to the post-processing device via the communication unit. and send
If the print instruction involves discharging the recording medium to the post-processing device and the initialization flag is not stored in the storage unit, the initialization command is sent to the post-processing device via the communication unit. do not send,
The printing device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The post-processing device includes:
comprising a remaining amount sensor that detects the remaining amount of the post-processing member accommodated in the cartridge,
outputting a detection result of the remaining amount sensor to the printing device when performing the initialization operation;
The control unit includes:
If the remaining amount of the post-processing member detected by the remaining amount sensor is less than a predetermined amount, storing an empty flag indicating insufficient remaining amount of the post-processing member in the storage unit;
In the standby state, when the empty flag is stored in the storage unit, the post-processing device executes the initialization operation in response to the initialization flag being stored in the storage unit. to instruct,
The printing device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The control unit includes:
After power is supplied, in a state where it is detected that the first cover and the second cover are closed, transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device via the communication unit,
In a state where it is detected that at least one of the first cover and the second cover is open, the printing is performed without transmitting the initialization command to the post-processing device via the communication unit. transfer the department to a standby state;
The printing device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: The control unit includes:
When the error state of the post-processing device other than the first cover and the second cover is restored to the normal state, if the initialization flag is stored in the storage unit, the post-processing device If the initialization command is transmitted to the processing device and the initialization flag is not stored in the storage unit, the initialization command is not transmitted to the post-processing device via the communication unit;
The printing device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that:

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