JPH02182645A - Image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To make it possible to select an optimum reset means by providing a plurality of reset means for restoring an abnormal detected condition in carrying forms back to a normal condition, and thereby permitting one means to be selected so as to be actuated depending on the result of the detection by an abnormal carrying detection means. CONSTITUTION:If a jam occurs in a re-feed path 30, when the dip switch SW1 of a housing re-feed unit 40 is turned on, an upper guide plate 33 is released so that actions for the jam are processed. After the actions have been done, when a front door open/close detecting switch SW2 is turned on, a jam re-set for the refeed path 30 is established. If a jam occurs in the discharge section of the housing refeed unit 40, a photo sensor SE1 holds a form detecting condition. When a discharge tray 80 is provided, jammed forms are pulled out of paired discharge rollers 75 even if a sorter 200 is connected. And when the sensor SE1 is turned off thereafter, a reset for a jam in the unit 40 is processed. By this constitution, an optimum reset means can be selected so that the general purpose properties of an image forming device can thereby be enhanced.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention] Hair! TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as an electrophotographic copying machine, and particularly to an image forming apparatus equipped with a paper refeeding device for duplex/composite copying and the like.

'Current technology and its challenges In recent years, copying systems are equipped with or as an option to feed the paper that has already been copied on the first side ejected from the copying machine into the copying machine for double-sided/composite copying. Stone-covered items are becoming popular.

On the other hand, paper jams are inevitable in paper conveyance systems, and normally this type of conveyance abnormality can be detected by a combination of a paper sensor and a timer. When the occurrence of a paper jam is detected, the entire copying system is stopped, and after the jammed paper is removed, the reset means, such as the opening/closing detection switch on the front door of the main unit and the set detection switch on the paper refeeding device, are reset as appropriate. At this time, a process for resetting the paper conveyance abnormal state, that is, a process for resetting various counters and flags in the microcomputer to enable the system to resume operation is performed.

By the way, as mentioned above, some copying machines are equipped with a refeeding device and some are not, and even if they are installed, some are equipped with a refeeding device set detection switch and some are not. There are cases where the jam reset means are different. It would be very complicated to configure the control means with one program assuming all such cases, or to separately prepare different programs depending on the presence or absence of each jam reset means.

Means and Effects for Solving the Problems Therefore, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes (8) a paper conveyance abnormality detection means installed in a paper conveyance path; and (b) a normal paper conveyance abnormality detection state. (c) selection means for selecting one of the plurality of reset means; and (d) processing for resetting the abnormal paper conveyance state based on the operation of the selected reset means. and control means for performing.

In the above configuration, when the reset means selected by the selection means is operated, the reset process for the abnormal state of paper conveyance is performed. For example, if the paper refeeding device is equipped with a set detection switch, this set detection switch is selected as the jam reset means, and if the paper refeeding device is not equipped with a set detection switch, the front door opening/closing detection switch of the copying machine is selected. is selected as the jam reset method. This selection is made, for example, by a dip switch that can only be operated by a service person.

Embodiments Below, embodiments of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the embodiment described below, a paper refeeding unit is provided between the main body of the copying machine and the sorter.

[Copying machine body] As shown in FIG. 1, the copying machine body (1) is designed to form images based on the well-known electrophotographic copying method, and is installed on a desk (5). The photosensitive drum (10) installed approximately in the center is driven to rotate in the direction of arrow (a), and first, a constant charge is applied by the charger (11), and the optical system (12) moves in the direction of arrow (b). By scanning in the direction, the image of the original set on the original table glass (13) is slit-exposed onto the photosensitive drum (1o). The electrostatic latent image thus formed on the photoreceptor drum (1o) is turned into a toner image by a magnetic brush type developing device (14).
The image is transferred onto the paper by a transfer charger (15).

The photosensitive drum (10) continues to rotate in the direction of the arrow (a) after the transfer, and the remaining toner is wiped away by a blade-type cleaning device (17), and an eraser lamp (18)
) to erase residual charges and prepare for the next copying operation.

Paper is stored in automatic paper feed cassettes (20), (21), (2).
2), one sheet at a time is selectively fed, and sent to the transfer section at a predetermined timing by a pair of timing rollers (23). After transfer, the paper is transferred to a separate charger (16
) is separated from the photoreceptor drum (10) by the AC discharge from the paper and the stiffness of the paper itself, and is fed to the fixing device (25) while being sucked by a conveyor belt (24) equipped with an air suction means (not shown). After the toner image is fixed here, it is discharged from a pair of discharge rollers (26).

On the other hand, below the photoreceptor drum (10), there is a paper refeed path (2) for conveying the paper refed from the storage and refeed unit (40), which will be described in detail below, to the timing roller pair (23). 30) is installed. This passage (30) is composed of conveyance rollers (31), (32) and guide plates (33), (34) installed around them.

The paper is transported from the storage and refeeding unit (40) to the passage (
The paper is re-fed at 30). The paper is conveyed from this path <30 inches to the timing roller pair (23) via the roller pair (27) and reaches the transfer section.

This paper refeeding path (30) has either an upper guide plate (33) or a lower guide plate (34) in the vertical direction so that the jammed paper can be easily removed if a paper jam occurs here. It is said that it can be opened to In Fig. 19, the lower guide plate (34) is made openable, and the lower guide Fi (34) is attached to the support shaft (3) with respect to the fixed upper guide plate (33).
4a) is a fulcrum and is pivotable downward as shown by a dashed line. A lock claw (35) is attached to one end of the lower guide plate (34) [on the front side of the copying machine body (1)] with a pin (35a).
) is a fulcrum and is biased in the direction of arrow (h) by a spring member (not shown). Normally, the lock claw (35) engages with the negative end (33b) of the upper guide plate (33), brings the roller (32) into contact with the roller (31), and allows paper to be conveyed. On the other hand, when the lock claw (35) is disengaged, the lower guide plate (34) rotates downward together with the lower roller (32) about the support shaft (34a), opening the paper refeeding path (30). do. Furthermore, the opening and closing of the passageway (30) is detected by turning on and off the microswitch <SW2>.

Figure 20 shows the upper guide plate (33) that can be opened, and the upper guide plate (33)
33) is rotatable upward about the support shaft (33a) as shown by the dashed line. Upper guide plate (33)
One end [front side of the copying machine body (1)] has a locking claw (3
5) is attached with the bottle (35a) as a fulcrum and biased in the direction of the arrow (h') by a spring member (not shown). Normally, the lock claw (35) is connected to the lower guide plate (34).
The roller (31) is engaged with one end (34b) of the roller (31).
32), allowing paper to be conveyed.

On the other hand, when the lock claw (35) is disengaged, the upper guide plate (33) is moved around the upper roller (33a) using the support shaft (33a) as a fulcrum.
1) and opens the paper refeed path (6). Note that this type does not have a switch to detect the opening/closing of the upper guide plate (33). 33) is because the paper is automatically set by its own weight when the operator releases the paper jam after clearing the paper jam.

On the other hand, in the lower guide plate open type, the operator has to lift the lower guide plate (34) to complete the setting, and there is a means for detecting a setting failure [switch (SW2)].
]Is required.

By the way, the copying machine main body (1) is equipped with a microswitch (SW3) that detects the opening and closing of the front door, and the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) is equipped with a deep switch (5W1) (first [ 1) have been installed. In this embodiment, the jam reset means of the copying machine body (1) is the opening/closing detection switch (SW2) of the paper refeed path (30) or the front door opening/closing detection switch (SW3).
) is used. That is, in the upper guide plate open type shown in Fig. 20, the dip switch (SWI'
) is set to the on side, and when the front door opening/closing detection switch (5W3) is turned on after clearing a paper jam, the paper refeed path (30) is reset for jamming. Meanwhile, the lower guide shown in Figure 19 For the plate open type, set the dip switch (SWI) to the OFF side and reset the jam in the paper refeeding path (30) when the paper refeeding path open/close detection switch (SW2> is turned on after clearing the paper jam. Note that such jam processing control will be described in detail later with reference to a flowchart.

[Configuration and operation of sheet storage and refeeding unit] (Basic configuration) As shown in FIG. 2, this sheet storage and refeeding unit (40) includes an upper unit (
50) and a lower unit (130) having a paper storage function.
It is made up of. The upper unit (SO) locks the stepped shaft (51) fixed to the front and rear frames of the upper unit (50) in the U-shaped groove of the hook (2) fixed to the front and rear frames of the copier body (1). By doing so, it is suspended. The lower unit (130) is screwed to the side of the desk (5), and its upper part slightly extends into the upper unit (50).

In this way, the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) is divided into upper and lower units (50) and (130) and can be attached to and detached from the main body independently.This makes attachment and detachment easy and prevents failure. When replacing parts, either one of the units (50),
(130) can be removed, and even when removed and placed on the floor, stability is maintained and it is difficult to fall over.

In addition, the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) includes a paper ejection tray (
80) or a sorter (200) can be selectively installed. FIG. 2 shows a state in which a paper discharge tray (80) is installed, and FIG. 1 shows a state in which a sorter (200) is installed. The sorter (200) has a well-known structure and function, and it can handle 20 bins (21
0). In addition, this sorter (200
), the top bin position has a paper output tray (
80) is installed and functions as a tray during non-sorting and a first pin during sorting.

On the other hand, the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) is detailed as follows.
a paper feeding switching section (60) for receiving paper ejected from the copying machine main body (1) and appropriately switching the paper feeding mode;
an intermediate storage section (90) for temporarily storing the paper whose first side has been copied during double-sided/composite copying; and this intermediate storage section (90).
a paper refeeding section (160) for refeeding the paper stored in the paper sheet one by one to the paper refeeding path (30) for second side copying;
).

(Configuration and operation of paper passing switching unit) The paper passing switching unit (60) includes a guide plate (61a), (6
1b).

(62), paper feeding switching claws (70), (73), ejection roller pair (75), transport roller pair (76), guide plate (7
8), (79), etc. Switching claw (7
0) has an upper surface (70a), an arcuate surface (70b), and (70c) for guiding the paper, and an arcuate surface (70c).
A resin film (72) is attached to the paper guide for paper guide. This film (72) has a guide plate (
62), and allows the paper conveyed from the left side in Fig. 2 to pass to the right, but the paper conveyed from the right side is guided to the circular arc surface (70c) of the switching claw (70). It has the function of

The switching pawl (70) is rotatably mounted around the support shaft (71), and can be switched between the solid line position and the dashed-dot line position in FIG. 2 by turning on and off the solenoid. Another switching claw (73) is located on the top surface (73) for guiding the paper.
a) It has an arcuate surface (73b), can be mounted rotatably about a support shaft (74), and can be switched between the solid line position and the dashed-dot line position by turning on and off the solenoid. The solenoid for the discharge roller pair (75) is turned on.

When it is off, it is possible to switch to forward and reverse rotation via a clutch means (not shown). Further, the guide plate (79) is rotatable in the direction of arrow (c) about a support shaft (77) in order to open the passage for clearing a paper jam or the like.

The paper ejection tray (80) is supported on a support plate (82), and the trailing edge of the paper ejected from the ejection roller pair (75) is regulated and aligned by a regulating plate (89). Please note that this paper output tray (
80) is attached, the switching claw (73) is attached.
) is removed, and when the sorter (200) is installed, the paper output tray (80) and support plate (82) are removed,
A switching claw (73) is attached instead.

On the other hand, the upper surface (70a) of the switching claw (70) and the guide plate (
62), a conveyance path formed by a guide plate (78),
A pair of conveyance rollers (76) in the conveyance path formed by (79)
Actuators (65) and (66
) with photosensors (SEL) and (SE2) are installed to detect passing paper. In addition, the switching claw (
A static eliminating brush 9) is installed directly above the unit (40) to eliminate static electricity from the paper that can be completely discharged from this unit (40).

The photosensor (SEI) also functions as a means for resetting jam processing when a paper jam occurs at the discharge section. That is, when a paper jam occurs near the sensor (SEI), the sensor (SEI) maintains the paper detection (on) state. Paper jams at this position can occur directly from the ejection roller pair (75) if the paper ejection tray (80) is installed, or from the sorter (200) even if the sorter (200) is connected. 200) is opened relative to the unit (40), the jammed paper can be pulled out from the discharge roller pair (75). If the jammed paper can be pulled out, the sensor (SEI) will turn off, and in this state the unit (4
0) Perform the jam reset process. Note that such jam processing control will be described in detail later with reference to a flowchart.

Next, the paper passing mode in the paper passing switching section (60) will be explained.

When paper is ejected in single-sided copy mode and duplex/composite copy mode, the switching claw (70) is set to the solid line position, the switching claw (73) is set to the - dotted chain line position, and the ejection roller pair (
75) is rotated in the normal direction so as to convey the paper toward the switching claw (73). When the sorter (200) is connected,
The paper sent out from the pair of ejection rollers (26) of the copying machine main body (1) to the paper feed switching section (60) passes through the guide plate (62).
, the top surface (70a) of the switching claw (70), the switching claw (70)
3) While the upper surface (73a) is fully guided, the pair of ejection rollers (75>) is able to apply the conveying force and the paper is sent to the sorter (Zoo).When the ejection tray (80) is installed, the switching claw ( 73) has been removed, and the paper is directly ejected from the ejection roller pair (75) onto the paper ejection tray (80).

When the paper copied on the first side is ejected from the copying machine main body (1) in the duplex copying mode, the switching claw (70) is set to the - dotted chain line position, and the paper is moved between the guide plate (78) and the switching claw. (70) from the conveying roller pair (76) while being guided by the circular arc surface (70b) of the intermediate storage section (9), which will be described in detail below.
0).

On the other hand, when the paper copied on the first side is ejected from the copying machine main body (1) in the composite copy mode, the switching claw (70)
, (73) are set at the solid line position, and the discharge roller pair (
75) is initially driven in normal rotation. The paper can be changed using the switching claw (70
) and the circular arc surface (70a) of the switching claw (73).
3b), and the forward rotation of the discharge roller pair (75) is stopped a predetermined time after the trailing edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SEL). This predetermined time is the time it takes for the trailing edge of the paper to move from the detection point of the sensor (SEI) to an arbitrary position between the leading edge of the film (72) and the pair of ejection rollers (75). The end portion is stopped in a state where it is sandwiched between a pair of discharge rollers (75). When the normal rotation of the ejection roller pair (75> is stopped and the sorter (200) is fully installed, the leading edge of the paper is placed on the circular arc surface (of the switching claw (73)).
73b), the rear end regulating plate (89), the guide surface (79a) provided integrally with the guide plate (79), the guide surface (95a) of the guide frame (95), the guide surface (97) of the guide frame (97), 97a) and the side surfaces (201) and (202) of the sorter <200), and is located in the gap formed by these members. Sorter (200)
The side surfaces (201) and (202) are formed with ribs (201a) and (202a) as shown in FIG. 18, so that the paper can be guided smoothly. Furthermore, lips are similarly formed on the other guide surfaces <79a), <95a), and (97g).

On the other hand, if the paper output tray (80) is installed,
The paper is guided on the paper output tray (80).

Next, the pair of ejection rollers (<75) is driven in the reverse direction, and the sheet whose trailing edge is sandwiched between the pair of ejection rollers (75) is completely conveyed to the left with the trailing edge leading. Cut back, film (72), arc surface (7) of switching claw (70)
0c), and is sent from the pair of conveying rollers (76) to the intermediate storage part (90).

(The installation of the switching claw is structural) As shown in Figure 15, the switching claw (70) is connected to the support shaft (71).
Bearings (180) from the outside of the front and rear frames (not shown)
.

A plunger (182) of a solenoid (SLI') is connected to the end of the support shaft (71) via a lever (183).

The solenoid (SLY) is fixed to the front frame (not shown) via a bracket (184). When the solenoid (5L1) is turned off, this switching claw <
70) is a torsion coil spring (
185), and is held at the position shown by the solid line in FIG. When the solenoid (SLI) is turned on, the arrow (p
) direction, and is set to the position indicated by the dashed line in FIG.

On the other hand, the other switching claw (73) is rotatably supported on the back side by interposing a bearing (186) on the support shaft (74) from the inside of the frame (not shown), and on the near side In this case, the shaft (187a) of the lever (187) is inserted into the hole (74a) from the outside of the frame (not shown), so that the solenoid (SL2) can be supported through the lever (187). plunger <188). Solenoid (SL2) is bracket (189)
It is fixed to the front frame (not shown) via. When the solenoid (SL2> is off), this switching pawl (73) is biased by a torsion fill spring (190) wound around the lever shaft (187a), and as shown in FIG.
It is held at the dot-dashed line position. When the solenoid (5L2) is turned on, it rotates in the direction of arrow (q) and is set to the position shown by the solid line in FIG.

Further, the switching claw (73) is restricted from moving in the axial direction by fitting an elastic spacer (191) to the support shaft (74). Therefore, in order to remove this switching claw (73), first pull out the spacer (191) from the spindle (74) in the direction of arrow (r) (downward), and then remove the switching claw (73).
) itself in the direction of arrow (9) (towards the back).

As a result, the hole (74a) is disengaged from the lever shaft (187a). Finally, the switching claw (73) can be removed by slightly lifting its front side upward and moving it in the opposite direction to the arrow (S). To install, simply follow the above steps in reverse. With the above structure, the switching pawl (73) can be easily attached and detached without using any tools.

(The installation of the paper output tray is structured) As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the tray support plate (82)
insert the protruding piece (82a) at one end into the opening (
52a), and the protruding piece (82b) at the other end is engaged with the opening (53a) of the rear frame (53).
It is attached between the frames (52) and (53) by engaging the notch (82c) of the frame (82b) with the lower edge of the opening (53a). Further, the rear end regulating plate (89) is screwed between the frames (52) and (53). The paper output tray (80) has its lower end surface (80a) connected to the support plate (82).
Place the protruding piece (82b) on top.

(82b) to the long hole (89a) of the rear end regulating plate (89),
By engaging with <89a), it can be positioned and attached to the upper unit/to (50). Note that the notch (89b) formed in the rear end regulating plate (89) has a pair of ejection rollers (7
5) The lower roller is located.

When reading the sorter (200) closely, the paper output tray (80) has protrusions (8ob), (sob) and elongated holes (89a), (
It is removed by pulling it out from 89a). In addition, the support plate (82) extends the projecting piece (82b) in the arrow (1) direction (upward).
Lift up to release the engagement of the notch (82c), and press the arrow (,
) direction (towards the front) to release the engagement between the protruding piece (82b) and the rear frame (53). That is, with the above structure, the paper output tray (8
0), the support plate (82) can be easily attached and detached without using any tools.

When installing the paper output tray (80), the support plate (82)
is unable to move upward due to its own weight and the weight of the paper discharge tray (80).

(Structure and operation of intermediate storage part) The intermediate storage part (90) is composed of a part belonging to the upper unit (50) and a part belonging to the lower unit (130). In detail, a guide frame (91) having a guide surface (91a), a guide frame (95), a base plate (100), side regulating plates (105), (105) that guide both sides of the paper (see Fig. 3), Side regulation plates (105), retaining plate (11) that holds (105)
0), guide frame <97), (98), storage roller pair (116), paddle wheel (117), presser member (120) capable of pressing the rear end of the paper in the storage direction
, a frame (131), a lower end regulating plate (140) that regulates the lower end of the stored paper, first guide members (151), (152) made of wire, and a second guide member (1
53), a stepping motor (Ml) that drives the side regulation plate (105>, (105)), and a lower end regulation plate (14).
0) and a geared motor (Ml). In addition, a photosensor (SE4) having an actuator (159) can be installed in the portion where the guide frames <97) and (98) are located, and this intermediate storage part (98) can be installed.
0) detects whether or not the paper is fully accommodated.

When the paper is stored in the intermediate storage section (90), the paper placement surface is formed by the base plate (100) and the holding plate (11).
0) and a guide frame (98).

The lower edge regulating plate (140) is for regulating the lower edge (the leading edge in the housing direction) of the stored paper.
) of the geared motor (Ml) fixed to the pulley (14
1> and a pulley (142) rotatably attached to the frame (131).
43), and is movable up and down along the inclined surface of the frame (131) based on the forward and reverse rotation of the geared motor (Ml), and is positioned at a height corresponding to the size of the paper to be accommodated. In this example, B5 size horizontal passing, A4 size
It is configured to pass paper horizontally and vertically, as well as vertically, B4 size and A3 size, with the center referenced. The position shown by the solid line in Figure 2 is the regulation position for horizontal passing of B5 size, which is the minimum size, and the lower end regulation plate (140> is set at this position as the home position and the paper size is adjusted by driving the motor (Ml). Move to the corresponding position.

The reason why the lower edge regulating plate (140> is moved in accordance with the paper size in this way is to keep the upper edge height of the stored paper constant in preparation for re-feeding, and the upper edge height is set to 11a).
As shown in Figures to Figures 11C, the top edge of the paper is
161).

Here, the drive mechanism of the lower end regulating plate (140) will be explained with reference to FIG. 13.

The lower end regulating plate (140) is fixed to the timing belt (143) via a slide member (144), and the slide member (144) is guided in the vertical direction by a slit formed in the inclined surface of the frame (131). . This protrusion (14
4a) blocks the optical axis of the photosensor (SE7>) when the lower end regulating plate (140) is located at the top home position, thereby detecting the position of the lower end regulating plate (140). The output pulley (141) is fixed to the shaft (145>) of the geared motor (M2), and the idle pulley (142) is fixed to the bracket (145) on the frame (131).
46) and is rotatably supported by a support shaft (147). The timing belt (143) is stretched around the pulleys (141) and (142) as described above.

As shown in Figures 14a to 14d, the geared motor (M2) includes a worm gear (148a) and a pulse disk (149) fixed to the output shaft of the motor body, and a helical gear that meshes with a ohm gear (148a). (148b), an intermediate gear (148b) fixed coaxially with the helical gear (148b)
148c), a gear (14) rotatably supported on the pulley shaft (145) so as to mesh with the intermediate gear (148c).
8d). The rotational force of the motor body is transmitted through each gear (148a) to (148d) to the output boot 1
41). This geared motor (M2) has a drive system consisting of a two-ohm gear (148a) and a bumper gear (148a).
Since the speed reduction mechanism (b) is adopted, even if the power to the geared motor (M2) is turned off while a load is applied, that is, the paper is placed on the lower end regulating plate (140), the paper Depending on the weight, lower end regulating plate (14
0) will not shift downward.

On the other hand, the amount of movement of the stopper (140) is determined by the rotation of the pulse disk (149) provided on the output shaft using a photo sensor (SE8).
(See FIG. 13) is detected by counting. Furthermore, the moving speed of the lower end regulating plate (140) is determined by the lower end regulating plate (140).
140), the paper size is adjusted from the time the paper feeding operation starts in the copying machine main body (1) until the trailing edge of the ejected paper passes the pair of storage rollers (116). It is said that it is possible to move to the restricted position. Therefore, there is no need to delay the paper feeding operation in order to move the lower end regulating plate (140) to a predetermined regulating position, and there is no reduction in copying efficiency.

The paddle wheel (117) is a rotating shaft with a plurality of flexible blades attached in the radial direction, and the paddle wheel (117) has an arrow (
A pair of storage rollers (u6) that can be rotationally driven in the direction d)
An auxiliary conveyance force is applied to the paper sent from the intermediate storage section (90) to the intermediate storage section (90). You can also use the paddle wheel (
117) is maintained at a predetermined distance from the guide frame (98), and when the number of sheets stored is small and the paper passing resistance is small, it does not apply more than necessary conveying force to the paper, and the paper is Prevents "wrinkles" etc. from occurring. Then, after a certain number of sheets or more are stored, as the number of sheets stored increases, the pressure contact becomes stronger, and a stronger conveying force is applied as the number of sheets stored increases. On the other hand, during paper refeeding as described below, the paddle wheel (117) does not come into contact with the paper if the number of sheets falls below a certain number, and the paper passing resistance caused by the paddle wheel (117) disappears.

The first guide members (151) and (152) are made of relatively rigid wire, and the upper part is a guide frame (97).
.

(98), and the lower part is held by a holder (132) provided at the lower end of the frame (113). As shown in FIG. 8, the inner first guide member (151), (15
1) is the slit (140a) of the lower end regulating plate (140);
(140a) and is inserted into the outer first guide member (140a).
52) and (152) are located on the outside of the lower end regulating plate (140), and are expanded outward as they extend downward (see FIG. 10).

The second guide members (153), (153) are made of elastic wire rods, the upper part can be held by the guide frame (97), the slit <140b of the lower end regulating plate (140>),
(140b), is installed at a position that guides approximately the central portion of the paper, and is movable in the thickness direction of the entire housed paper.

These guide members (151), (152), (1
53) is made of a wire rod to reduce paper passing resistance and electrostatic adsorption force, and the housed paper is placed on the lower end regulating plate (140).
), it has the function of preventing paper from slipping off the paper, ensuring smooth storage, and preventing buckling of the paper. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, for B5 size horizontal paper, the lower end regulating plate (140) is set to the solid line position in FIG. 2, so the first guide member (151) ,
(152) does not substantially act on the paper. On the other hand, the second guide members (153) and (153) are at the <8> position when no paper is stored, and the frame (98) and the second guide member (153)
53) is set so that the gap between the two is narrower. Then, as the paper is accommodated, it retreats outward. (b) The position shows this backward movement. In addition, the paper indicated by the - dotted chain line (5
1) and (51) indicate the state of curling on the front and back sides, respectively.

Figures 8 and 9 are A4 size horizontal paper, A
This figure shows how three sizes of paper are stored vertically.

In addition, since the first guide member (152) is expanded outward from the middle as shown in FIG. 153) and (153) to give firmness to the paper, ensuring that even greatly curled paper (52) and (53) are accommodated and preventing buckling.

The paper holding member (120) has arms (121), (121) located on both sides, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5.
A presser plate (122) attached to the tips of the arms (121) and (121), and a roller presser plate (122) fixed to the presser plate (122) at a position corresponding to the paper refeed roller (161) described below. 123) and a buckling correction arm (125) located approximately in the center. This presser member (120) has arms (121), (121
The guide frame (
95), and rotates between the solid line position and the one-point M line position in FIG. 2 by turning the solenoid on and off. The buckling correction arm (125) is inclined toward the holding plate (110) and has a bent shape at the middle portion (125 g),
This middle section (125a) regulates the stored paper and corrects its buckling. Furthermore, the buckling correction arm (125) also has the effect of stiffening the paper in the storage direction when the paper comes into contact with the buckling correction arm (125).

By the way, the holding member (120) is
As shown in FIG. 5, the guide frame (95) held through the intermediate storage section (90) rotates in the direction of arrow (j) about a support shaft (96) provided at one end as a fulcrum. can be opened, and the pressing member (120
) is also separated so that it can be retracted from the intermediate storage part (90). Additionally, a torsion coil spring (12) wound around the support shaft (124) is provided between the arm (121) and the guide frame (95).
6) is interposed to move the holding member (120) to the solid line position (home position) in FIG.

Further, a protrusion (121a) provided on the arm (121)
) (see Figure 3) can block the optical axis of the photosensor (SE5), and when this photosensor (SE5) is turned on.

In the OFF state, it is detected whether the pressing member (120) has retreated to the home position or has been driven to the position where it presses the trailing edge of the paper.

The guide frame (95) is rotatable together with the holding member (120) so that the intermediate storage portion (90) can be opened, and the guide plate (79) is rotated with the pin (77) as the fulcrum as shown by the arrow (c).
The reason why the paper can be rotated in this direction is for the operator to remove jammed paper. The guide plate (79) returns under its own weight. On the other hand, the guide frame (95) must be closed by the operator after clearing the paper jam. Therefore, in this embodiment, a sensor (SE9) for detecting that the guide frame (95) is set is provided (see FIG. 2). That is, this sensor (SE9) is turned on and the guide frame (
95), a jam reset process is performed within the unit (40).

Next, the drive mechanism of the holding member (120) will be explained with reference to FIG.

The driving source is a main motor that drives the conveyance system of the paper storage and refeeding unit (40), and the rotational force of this main motor is transmitted to the pulley (181) by a timing belt (<180), and the pulley (181) is moved in the direction of the arrow ( V) rotationally driven. A ratchet wheel (1
83), a cam (184) is rotatably attached to the pulley (181) via a spring clutch (not shown). Ratchet wheel (183), cam (1
84) respectively have locking portions (183a) on their outer peripheral surfaces.

(183b), (184a), <184b) [Note that (183b) is not shown in FIG. 6 and has been completely formed. On the other hand, the solenoid (SL3) has one end (18
5a) as a fulcrum, and when in the off state, the lever (185) rotates in the direction of the arrow, and the claw portion (185b) engages with the locking portion (183a). ,
(184a) or (183b), (184b), ratchet wheel (183), cam (184
) to stop rotating. And the presser member (120)
The solenoid (SL3) is momentarily turned on only when driving the ratchet wheel (183), cam (
184) is rotated 180°.

-S, the support shaft (186) installed coaxially with the support shaft (124) of the holding member (120) has a drive plate (187).
, (188) are rotatably attached at their lower ends. The drive plates (187) and (188) are biased in the direction of narrowing the distance between them by a torsion fill spring (189) wound around the support shaft (186), and one of the drive plates (187) is provided at the tip of the drive plate (187). The pin (190) and the end side of the other drive plate (188) are in pressure contact with each other. The drive plate (187) has a link (1) connected at both ends with pins (190) and (191).
92) to the peripheral portion of the cam (184). Also, the tip of the drive plate (188) is attached to the slide bin (
193) is mounted slidably in the axial direction via a bearing (194). Rollers (195), (195) are rotatably attached to the end of the slide pin (193) via a pin (196) provided perpendicular to its axis. , drive plate (
A compression coil spring (198) is mounted between the flange (197) fixed to the slide pin (193). With this spring force, the slide pin (193)
The rollers (195) and (195) are connected to the arm (121)
) side, and the rollers (195) and (195) are located on the back (121b) side of the arm (121).

In the above configuration, the locking portion (184) of the cam (184)
When a) is engaged with the claw part (185b) of the lever (185), the drive plate (187), (tss>
f) It is set in a position rotated in the opposite direction. The pressing member (120) is biased in the direction opposite to the arrow (f) by the biasing force of the torsion fill spring (126), and the arm (120) is biased in the opposite direction to the arrow (f).
The back part (121b) of 1) is the roller (195), (19
5), which is the home position. The solenoid (SL3) is turned on and the lever (18
5) releases the lock from the locking part (184a), the cam (184) rotates 180 degrees in the direction of arrow (V), and the drive plate (187) is forcibly rotated in the direction of arrow (f)-117. The drive plate (18B>, which is connected by a torsion coil spring (189), also follows and rotates in the direction of the arrow (f). At the same time, the back part <121b) of the arm (121) rotates in the direction of the roller (195). ), <195), the presser member (120) also rotates in the direction of arrow (f), and the intermediate storage portion (9
The trailing edge of the paper fed into the base plate (Z
oo) side. This pressing position is the lever (185
) of the locking portion (185b) of the cam (184).
It can be held by engaging with 4b). Furthermore, by turning on the solenoid (SL3), the drive plate (18
7), <188), the presser member (120) returns to the home position. That is, the holding member (120) rotates between the suppressing position and the home position each time the solenoid (SL3) is turned on. However, during this time, the main motor needs to be rotationally driven as a drive source.

By the way, in order to make the above operation possible, the drive plate (18
7) The spring force of the torsion coil spring (189) that applies a bonding force between There is. In addition, the torsion fill spring (
The spring force of 189) is determined by taking into consideration the resistance of the return torsion coil spring (126), since the presser member (120) presses the upper end of the paper even when refeeding the paper, which will be described in detail below. It is necessary to set the force so that the upper end of the paper is pressed against the paper refeed roller (161) to the extent that the paper can be re-feeded. Furthermore, as the number of sheets that can be accommodated in the intermediate storage section (90) increases, the amount of movement of the presser member (120) in the direction of arrow (f) gradually decreases. At this time, the gap between the pin (190) and the drive plate (18g) is completely expanded, and the spring force of the torsion coil spring (189) also increases, resulting in an increase in the pressing force of the pressing member (120) against the paper.

In this way, the presser member (120)
The reason why the driving amount of the paper decreases and the pressing force increases is that the driving load is kept constant at all times, and the paper feeding pressure at the time of paper refeeding, which will be explained below, is automatically adjusted according to the amount of paper stored. A good refeeding operation will be achieved. That is, when sheets of paper stored in a substantially vertical state are separated and fed one by one, the paper feed resistance increases as the amount of paper stored increases.

However, due to the action of the torsion fill spring (189), the pressure force applied to the paper refeed roller (161) increases as the paper capacity increases, so an appropriate paper feed pressure is automatically set according to the paper capacity. It will be done.

On the other hand, as explained in FIG. 5, the holding member (120) can rotate in the direction of the arrow (j) together with the guide frame (95) to open the intermediate storage portion (90). At the time of this release, the back part (121b) of the arm (121)
95), (195) and slide pin (193).
) and move it toward the drive plate (18B) against the spring force of the compression coil spring (198). With this, arm (1
21) and the rollers (195), (195) can be automatically disengaged. On the other hand, when the pressing member (120) is closed, the rollers (195), (195) engage with the back portion (121b) while sliding on the inclined surface (121c) formed on the arm (121).

In order to ensure this re-engagement, when the holding member (120) is closed together with the guide frame (95), the solenoid (SL3) is turned on one degree.

With this, even if the re-engagement is incomplete, the rollers (195), (195) will reliably go around from the inclined surface (121C) to the back part (121b).

Furthermore, a separator (93) attached to the guide frame (91) and a static elimination brush (99) attached to the guide frame (95) are located at the entrance of the intermediate storage section (90). The separator (93) is connected to the guide frame (9
1), and is rotatably supported by the shaft, and hangs vertically due to its own weight. This separator (93) guides both sides of the paper being accommodated, and also guides the rear end (the upper end of the paper in the accommodation direction) of the paper that is being accommodated to the base plate (1).
00) side to prevent the paper entrance section from being closed. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3, the separator (93) is located between the housing roller pair (116).
) is formed with a notch (122a),
Preventing mutual interference.

As shown in FIG. 3, the side regulating plates (105), (105) are movable in the width direction of the paper on the holding plate (110), and can be rotated forward and backward on the back side of the holding plate <110>. It is connected to a stepping motor (Ml'). That is,
These side regulating plates (105), (105) are moved in the width direction of the paper by driving the stepping motor (Ml) forward and backward, and have a home position slightly outside both sides of the largest size paper, and from this position, each The paper size moves to the corresponding side regulation position.

Incidentally, the holding plate (110) that holds the side regulating plates (105), (105) is attached to the base plate (100) so that its position can be finely adjusted in the width direction of the paper. That is, the holding plate (110) has a slit (11) extending in the width direction of the paper for tightening the screw (112).
1) is formed, and the fixing position is finely adjusted in the width direction within the length range of this slit (111), and in conjunction with this, the positions of the side regulating plates (105), (105) can also be finely adjusted. This adjustment is for correcting the deviation in the width direction between the first and second images formed on the paper, and is particularly effective in composite copying where images are formed twice on the same surface.

Next, the paper storage operation will be explained.

First, as a preparatory operation, the lower end regulating plate (140) is moved to a position corresponding to the paper size to be accommodated, and the side regulating plates (105), (105) are moved to positions corresponding to both sides of the paper. At the same time, the holding member (120)
The storage roller pair (116) and the paddle wheel (117) are set to the solid line position shown in FIG.

The paper passing direction is switched by the paper passing switching unit (60), and the paper conveyed downward from the pair of conveying rollers (76) is given a conveying force by the pair of storage rollers (116),
The intermediate storage part (90) is being neutralized by the static eliminating brush (99).
sent to. First, when the sensor (SEA) detects the leading edge of the paper, the side regulating plate (105) moves.

(105) is retracted slightly outward from the both-side regulation positions of the paper. The paper is guided by the separator (93) and carried into the intermediate storage section (90) (see FIG. 11a).

Then, after a predetermined period of time after the sensor (SE2) detects the trailing edge of the paper that is being accommodated, the side regulation plate (105) is moved.

(105) are moved to positions corresponding to both sides of the paper, and the paper is aligned in the width direction. Furthermore, the pressing member <120
) rotates in the direction of arrow (f) to the position indicated by the dashed dotted line in FIG. 2, and presses the rear end of the paper toward the base plate (100) (see FIGS. 11b and 11c).

At this time, the rear end of the paper rotates the separator (93) in the direction of arrow (e) as shown in FIG.
move inside. When the trailing edge of the paper comes off, the separator (93) immediately rotates in the direction of the arrow (e) due to the moment due to its own weight, passes through the notch (122a) of the holding plate (122), and returns to the vertical position (the second (See Figure 11C).

By the way, the timing at which the side regulation plates (105), (105) move to the paper both side regulation positions is set to be a minute time later than the timing at which the leading edge of the paper reaches the upper surface of the lower end regulation plate (140>). , holding member (
120) presses the trailing edge of the paper (reaches the position indicated by the - dotted chain line).
05) is completed after one hour has elapsed from the timing when the paper reaches the both-side regulation position.

By the above timing control, the sheets are first aligned in the vertical direction, then aligned in the width direction, and finally the rear end is moved toward the base plate (100), so that a good alignment state can be obtained. In addition, the middle part (125a) of the arm (125) located in the center of the pressing member (120) urges the paper toward the holding plate (110) each time the paper is stored in conjunction with the pressing operation. Corrects buckling and keeps paper smooth.

When the first sheet of paper is stored, the pressing member (12
0) is retracted to the solid line position, and the leading edge of the next paper is located at the sensor (S
When detected at E2), the side regulation plate (105)
, (105) are retracted outward, and thereafter the side regulating plates (105), (
105), the presser member (120) can be driven.

Note that the above control will be explained in detail later.

By the way, as shown in FIG. 11a, the pressing member (120
) is retracted from the pressing position, the rear end of the stored paper is regulated by the separator (93), and the paper entrance of the intermediate storage section (90) is prevented from being closed.

This prevents the leading edge of the succeeding sheet from colliding with the trailing edge of the already stored sheet, resulting in a paper jam, or from being fed between the already stored sheets, resulting in irregular page alignment. Moreover, as mentioned above, this separator (93)
It also functions as a guide plate when storing paper, ensuring reliable storage even if the paper is heavily curled. Therefore, there is no need to provide a large space above the intermediate storage section (90) in consideration of paper curl.

Further, in this embodiment, side stoppers (106), (106) having the same function as the separator (93) are provided on the side regulating plates (105), (105). As shown in FIG. 3, the side stoppers (106), (106) have an inclined surface (106a), a regulating surface (106b), and a projecting piece (106c), and include a side regulating plate (105),
The protruding piece (106c) is rotatably attached to the notch formed in the upper part of the side regulating plate (105) using the pin (107) as a fulcrum, and is biased in the direction of arrow (g) by a spring (not shown). ) is positioned by coming into contact with it from the outside.

When storing the paper, the paper is held by the side stoppers (106), (106)
When the pressing member (120) rotates in the direction of arrow (f) and presses the rear end of the paper, the paper passes the inclined surface (106a). By pressing, the paper retreats in the opposite direction to the arrow (g), and the trailing edge of the paper moves over the side stoppers (106) and (106) to the holding plate (110). As soon as the paper gets over it, it rotates in the direction of the arrow (g) by the spring force.
It returns and regulates the rear end side of the stored paper with the regulating surface <106b).

As shown in FIG. 4, the regulating surface (
106b), the width direction length (m) is the reciprocating distance of the side regulating plate (105) when storing paper (n), and the adjustment range of the holding plate (110) by the slit (111) is (n).
1), the length in the width direction (m) can be set to satisfy the relationship m>(n+1)/2. With this, even if the holding plate (110) is moved within the range (1) and the position of the side regulating plates (105), (105) is finely adjusted, the side regulating plates (105), (105) are accommodated. When the paper is retracted outward, both sides of the stored paper engage with the regulating surface (106b), (106b), and the inclined surface (106g).

There is no possibility that the sheet will return to the (106g) side, that is, the rear end of the sheet will close the sheet entrance. The above functions are provided by the separator (
93) and the side stopper (106) alone are sufficient. However, by using both in combination as in this embodiment, it is possible to accommodate sheets of various sizes and curls of various shapes more reliably.

(Configuration and operation of paper refeeding unit) The paper refeeding unit (160) receives a paper refeeding signal when a paper refeeding signal is issued for the first side copied paper stored in the intermediate storage unit (90). This is to refeed the sheets one by one to the refeed path (30) of the copying machine main body (1) in the order in which they arrive.

In detail, as shown in Fig. 2, there is a base plate (100) that also serves as the paper #CC face of the intermediate storage section (90), and a paper refeed roller (161) that can be rotated intermittently by a clutch.
and separation roller (163), this separation roller (163)
) a separation pad (165) made of urethane rubber that comes into pressure contact with the
It is composed of a pair of registration rollers (170) etc. that are intermittently rotationally driven by a clutch. Paper refeed path (30)
The paper path to the guide frame (91) is
1b) and a guide plate (94), and a photosensor (SE3) having an actuator (179) is installed immediately in front of the pair of registration rollers (170).

Further, the guide frame (91) is cut so as to be rotatable in the direction of the arrow (i>) about the support shaft (92) in order to open the paper refeed path for clearing a paper jam or the like.

The paper refeed roller (161) and the separation roller (163) apply conveying force through frictional force between them and the paper, and when the separation pad (165) comes into pressure contact with the separation roller (163), the weight of the paper is reduced. This is prevented for the following reasons:

Frictional force between separation roller (163) and paper (μ゛1)
is set larger than the frictional force (μ2) between sheets. Also, the frictional force between the separation pad (165) and the paper (
μ3) is set larger than the frictional force between sheets (μ2), but smaller than the frictional force (μm) between the separation roller (163) and the sheets.

That is, μm〉μ2 μm〉μ3〉μ2 This is due to the relationship expressed by .

Here, regarding the paper refeeding operation, Figures 12a and 12
This will be explained with reference to Figure b and Figure 12c.

When a copy signal for refeeding paper is sent, first, the presser member (120) is fully driven and presses the upper end of the paper (
(see Figure 12a), after a short period of time has elapsed from this pressing timing, the paper refeed roller (161) and the separation roller (163
) is rotated in the direction of the arrow (h), and the paper refeed roller (1
61) to feed the paper upwards (No. 12b)
(See figure) 0 separation roller (163) and separation pad (165)
) If multiple sheets of paper are sent out, the friction force (μm), (μ2), (μ3
), only one sheet of paper that comes into contact with the separation roller (163) is conveyed to the pair of registration rollers (170).

The leading edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SE3), and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the pair of registration rollers (170) is driven to rotate. Until the pair of registration rollers (170) is driven to rotate, the leading edge of the paper can contact the nip portion of the pair of registration rollers (170) and form a minute loop (12th
(see figure c).

For this reason, the upper part of the base plate (100) has a recess (
100a) is formed. In addition, a presser member (12
0) retreats backward when the leading edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SE3), and thereby the separation roller (163)
The paper remaining in the nip portion of the separation pad (165) falls and returns to its original storage position (see Figure 12d).

After the pair of registration rollers (170) is rotated at the above-mentioned timing, the paper is conveyed upward by the conveying force from the pair of registration rollers (170), and is guided by the guide surface (91b) and the guide plate (94). , and is fed into the paper refeed path (30) of the copying machine main body (1). Paper refeed roller (1
61) The rotational drive of the separation roller (163) is temporarily stopped after a short period of time has elapsed since the registration roller pair (170) was rotationally driven. However, these rollers (161
) and (163) have one-sided bearings interposed between them and the drive shaft, so that they rotate as the paper is conveyed.

In the paper feeding operation for the second and subsequent sheets, the sensor (SE3) first detects the leading edge of the paper that is about to be re-fed, and then adds a predetermined length (margin length) to the length of the paper. After the time for conveying the paper by the length has elapsed, the pressing member (120) is driven again to press the leading edge of the paper. Next, when the trailing edge of the paper that is being re-fed is detected by the sensor (SE3), the re-feed roller (161) and separation roller (163) are rotated again, and the The same operation as with paper is repeated.

When the sensor (SE4) detects that all the sheets in the intermediate storage section (90) have been re-fed, the lower edge regulating plate (1
40) and the side regulating plates (105) and (105) each return to their home positions.

Note that such control will be described in detail later.

[Control Circuit] The control circuit of the sheet storage and refeeding unit (40) having the above configuration and operation will now be described with reference to FIG. 21.

Controlled by a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as CPU)
(300). CPU (300)
has a built-in counter (301), register (302), memory (303), etc., and the CP of the copying machine body (1).
It is separated from U (310) so that heat can be passed through it. Counter (30
1) is used to control the movement of the lower end regulating plate (140), and is connected to the guard motor (M2) from the sensor (SE8).
) rotation pulse count signal is input.

In addition, each input boat has sensors (SEI) to (SE7).
.

On/off signals from (SE9), (S Kidney 1), and (S Kidney 2) can be input. When the sensors (SEL) to (SE4) are shielded from light by their respective actuators and are not detecting paper, they issue off signals, and when they detect paper, they switch to on signals. Sensors (SE5) to (SE7),
(SE9) emits an on signal when the light is completely shielded by each detection object, and switches to an off signal when the light is no longer shielded.

On the other hand, each output boat outputs on/off signals for the solenoids, clutches, and motors that drive each member. When the solenoid (SLI) is on, it switches the switching claw (70) to the -dotted chain line position. When the solenoid (Sl2) is on, it switches the switching claw (73) to the solid line position. Each time the solenoid (Sl3) is turned on, the presser member (1
20) to the paper pressing position and the retreat position (home position). When the solenoid (Sl4) is on, it switches the discharge roller pair (75) to reverse rotation. Further, when the clutch (CLI) is on, it transmits driving force to the paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163). Clutch (C
L2) cuts off the transmission of driving force to the pair of registration rollers (170) when turned on. In addition, the CPU of the copying machine body (1)
A microswitch (SW3) for detecting opening/closing of the front door is directly read at (310).

[Control procedure] Next, the control procedure of the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) executed by the CPU (300) will be explained in Figs. 22 to 41.
This will be explained in detail with reference to the drawings. By the way, in the following explanation, on-edge means that a switch, sensor, signal, etc. switches from an off state to an on state, and off-edge means that a switch, sensor, signal, etc. switches from an on state to an off state. means.

FIG. 22 shows the main routine of the CPU (300).

When the CPU (300) is reset and the program starts, step (Sl) clears the random access memory 1 (303), initializes the registers (302), etc., and performs initial settings to put each device into the initial mode. Let's do it. Next, in step (S2), initial communication is performed with the CPU (310) of the copying machine main body (1), and in step (S3), communication data required for controlling the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) is received. When it is confirmed that the speed has been taken, a subroutine for converting the system speed is processed in step (S4). In this step (S4), the system speed (paper conveyance speed) of the copying machine main body (1) communicated in step (52) is read, and this data is converted into the amount of paper conveyance per one count of the internal timer.

Next, in step (S5), an internal timer is started. This internal timer is set in step (Sl) and is used to determine the processing time of the main routine of the CPU (300), and serves as a reference for one count of the timer in each subroutine described later.

Next, in step (S6), it is determined whether the jam flag is r□. As explained below, the jam flag is set to "rl" in step (53) when a paper jam occurs in the unit (40) and paper refeed path (30).
46) Reference. Therefore, if it is set to "rl", the process immediately moves to step (511), and if it is reset to r When this ends, in step (513), the process waits for the internal timer to end, and then returns to step (S5). Step (510)
The storage counter control subroutine that can be executed in is a process in which the storage counter counts the number of sheets of paper stored in the intermediate storage section (90) one by one.

On the other hand, when an interrupt request is received from the CPU (310) of the copying machine main body (1), interrupt processing is executed based on the communication content in step (515'). In addition, the internal counter (
When there is an interrupt request from step (301), step (51B
) to execute the process of stopping the lower end regulating plate (140).

This stopping process will be described later.

FIG. 23 shows a subroutine for system speed conversion processed in step (S5) of the main routine.

Here, considering that the system speed of the copying machine main body in which the book storage and refeeding unit (40) can be installed varies, and the paper conveyance speed of the unit (40) is also adjusted to match the system speed, the unit ( 40) is converted to synchronize the control timing with the paper conveyance speed.

Specifically, in step (520), the system speed value (A) of the main body is set, and in step (521), the CPU
(300) Set the internal timer value (B). next,
A/B is calculated in step (522), and step (52
In 3), this value is stored in memory as (D 5peed ).

For example, if the internal timer value (B) is constant at 1 m5ec, the main system speed value (A) is 100 mm/s.
ee, (D 5peed ) is 0.1 mm/m
5ec, and the paper is 081 with one count of the internal timer.
It will be moved M.

Here, the process of setting the timer of each subroutine with reference to (D 5peed ) will be described based on FIG. 24. The processing here is executed for all timer sets in each subroutine.

First, in step (530), a timer address is assigned to the HL register. The timer address means the address in memory where the timer value set here is stored. next,
In step (531), the length to be changed is assigned to the BC register, and in step (S32), the value of the BC register is
D 5peed ) and assign this value to the EA register. That is, the length to be changed is 100mrn (D 5
If peed) is the aforementioned 0.1 mm/m5ec, the content that can be assigned to the EA register is 1000.

That is, here, when the internal timer counts 1000, it means that the paper has been conveyed 100 mm. Next, in step (533), the contents of the EA register are stored in H1, the address indicated by the register.

(Control when storing paper) FIG. 25 shows a subroutine for duplex/composition control that can be processed in step (S7) of the main routine.

Here, the switching claws (70), (73) and the bottom edge regulating plate (140) are used depending on the double-sided copy mode and composite copy mode.
), side regulating plates (105), (105), etc., and executes a process of storing the first side copied sheets discharged from the copying machine main body (1) one by one into the intermediate storage section (90). .

This subroutine is composed of subroutines from steps (540) to (S43>), and in step (540), the standby, copy start, and end states are monitored according to the count value of the accommodation state counter.Step (5
In step (543), the movement of the holding member (120) is controlled, and in step (543), the side regulating plate (105),
(105) is executed. Note that the switching pawl control in step (541) and the switching claw control in step (54)
Details of each subroutine of the side regulation plate control in 3) will be omitted.

FIG. 26 shows the accommodation state control subroutine that can be processed in step (540).

First, in step (550), the count value of the accommodated state counter is checked. The storage state counter is reset to "O" by default, and if it is "O"', it is checked in step (551) whether or not the sensor (SE4) is off, that is, there is no paper left in the intermediate storage section (90). Determine whether or not. If the sensor (SE4) is off and there is no paper left, the regulation plate (105),
(105), (140> is returned to the home position, and in step (553), the paper presence flag is reset to "rO", and in step (S53a), the accommodation counter for counting the number of sheets is reset to "0", and in step The process moves to step (555). If the sensor (SE4) is on and paper remains, the paper presence flag is set to rl in step (554), and the process moves to step (555).

In step (555), the accommodation state counter is set to “1”.
Set to .

If it is determined in step (556) that the accommodation state counter is set to '1', step (557)
Determine whether the print switch is on-edge or not. The on signal of the print switch can be communicated from the main body CPU (310) to the CPU (300) by interrupt processing. If the print switch is on-edge, it is determined in step (558) whether the copy mode being executed at that time is duplex mode or composite mode, and if it is not in either mode, paper is not stored, and step (561) ). If either the duplex mode or the composite mode is to be executed, the paper presence flag is r□ in step (559).

After confirming that it has been reset to
60) and the regulation plates (105), (105), (140
) to the position corresponding to the paper size, and step (
561). In step (561'), the accommodation state counter is set to "2".

No in both steps (550) and (556)
If it is determined that the copying machine main body (1
) is completed. The copy end signal is communicated to the CPU (300) by interrupt processing, and if the copy is completed, the storage state counter is reset to ``0'' in step (563), and this subroutine is ended.

FIG. 27 shows the regulation plates (105), (105), and (140) processed in step (552) at their initial positions (
The subroutine for returning to the home position) is shown below.

Here, the paper feed weight signal is set in step (569), and the side regulating plate (105) is set in step (570).
.

(105) is returned to the initial position, and step (571)
The lower end regulating plate (140) is returned to the initial position in step (572), and the regulating plates (105), (105), (
When it is confirmed that all of 140) have returned to their initial positions, the paper feed wait signal is reset in step (573) and the process ends.

The paper feed weight signal set and reset in steps (569) and (573) is
) to prohibit paper feeding operations. Regulation plate (
105), (105), and (140) are being moved, if the paper is fed into the intermediate storage section (90), it will cause a paper jam.

Therefore, each regulation plate (105), (105), (14
0) respectively return to their initial positions, the paper feeding operation is prohibited. However, when moving from the initial position to the regulation position according to the paper size, each regulation plate (105), (
tos).

(140) does not interfere with paper conveyance, and in particular, since the lower regulating plate (140) moves in the same direction as the paper storage direction, there is no problem even if paper is stored. Therefore, in this embodiment, each regulation plate (105), (105).

When (140) returns to the initial position, the paper feed wait signal is reset to cancel the paper feed prohibition.

Therefore, each regulation plate (105), (105), (14
0) moves to the regulation position according to the paper size, paper feeding operation becomes possible, the paper feeding wait time is shortened accordingly, and the copying speed is improved.

Step (571) of returning the lower end regulating plate (140)
The processing will be explained in detail in FIG. 28 below. Side regulation plate (
105) and <105) will not be described in detail, but it is basically the same as the process shown in FIG.

Accordingly, the process of returning the lower end regulating plate to its initial position in step (571) will be explained with reference to FIG. Here, the lower end regulating plate (140) is raised to the home position at a high first speed, then lowered from the home position once at a second speed that is half the first speed, and finally raised to the second speed. to return to the home position and stop.

First, in step (580) the home set flag is set to "0".
”, and in step (581) it is determined whether the first home check flag is “0”. The home set flag is set to 11'' when the lower end regulating plate (1aO) is finally sensed as the home position, and the first home check flag is set to rl, when the lower end regulating plate (140>) is moved to the home position for the first time. is set. Steps <580) and (581) are both YE.
If it is determined that the sensor (SE
7') is on, that is, whether the lower end regulating plate (140) is located at the home position. If it is off, the motor (M2) is driven in the upward direction in step (587). , raise the lower end regulating plate (140). When the sensor (SE7) is turned on and it is confirmed that the lower end regulating plate (140) has moved to the home position, the motor (M2) is stopped in step (583), and the motor (M2) is stopped in step (583).
84), "40" is assigned to the B register. "40" assigned to the B register is the count value of the rotation pulse detection sensor (SE8) of the motor (M2). Next, in step (585), a subroutine for lowering the lower end regulating plate is executed, and in step (586), the first home check flag is set to rl.

Next, if it is determined in step (581) that the first home check flag is rl, step (
In step 58B), it is determined whether the positioning completion flag is "rl". This positioning completion flag is set to 11 when the lower end regulating plate (140) has descended by a predetermined amount from the home position by the interrupt process described below [Step (
5135) Reference. Therefore, if this plug is set to "IJ," check in step (S89) that the home position sensor (SE7) is not on-edge, and then set the half speed request flag to 1" in step (594). Then, in step (595), the motor (M2) is driven in the upward direction. As a result, the lower end regulating plate (140) rises toward the home position at the second low speed, and when it is determined in step (589) that the home position sensor (SE7) is on-edge,
In step <590), the motor (M2) is stopped. At the same time, in step (591) the home set flag is
” to prohibit execution of the subroutine in step (571), reset the half-speed request flag to r□ in step (592), and execute step (571).
93), the first home check flag is reset to "0".

FIG. 29 shows a subroutine for the process of moving the regulating plates executed in step (560). Here, the side regulating plates (105), (105), and the lower end regulating plate (140)
from the home position to the regulation position corresponding to the paper size.

First, in step (5100), the amount of movement of each regulation plate (105), (105), (140) is calculated from the paper size. Specifically, the motor (
Divide by the pulse pitch of Ml), (Mυ to find the count value corresponding to the moving distance.6 Next, step (5101)
to move the side regulation plate (105>, (105) to the regulation position corresponding to the paper size, and step (5102)
The lower end regulating plate <140) is moved to the regulating position corresponding to the paper size.

Step (5102) of moving the lower end regulating plate (140)
) will be explained in detail in FIGS. 30 and 31 below.

A detailed explanation of the process for moving the side regulating plate (105) <105) will be omitted, but it is basically the same as the process shown in FIGS. 30 and 31.

As shown in FIG. 30, the process of moving the lower end regulating plate (140) is performed at step <5tto).
The movement amount calculation value obtained in step 0) is assigned to the B register, and a subroutine for lowering the lower end regulating plate is executed in step (Sill).

The lower end regulating plate lowering process in this step (Sill) is as follows:
As shown in FIG. 30, this process is executed in common with the process at step (585) in the initial position return subroutine. That is, in step (5120), 30 counts are subtracted from the value of the B register, and the value is stored in the register (EC
PTO), and in step <5121) sets the value of the B register to the register (ECPTI).

Next, in step (5122), the motor (M2) is driven in the downward direction to lower the lower end regulating plate (140).

FIG. 32 shows a subroutine for lower end regulating plate speed control that can be executed in step (S9) of the main routine.

Here, when the half speed request flag is set to "1", the moving speed of the lower end regulating plate (140) is switched to a lower second speed. That is, step (5
In step 130), it is determined whether the half-speed request flag is "1.", and if it is reset to 'O', the subroutine is immediately terminated.

If it is set to "1", the count value of the speed state counter is checked in step (5131), and "OI
If it is +, it is determined in step (5132) whether the current movement direction is downward, and if it is downward, step (5133) is executed.
to drive the motor (M2) in the downward direction, and step (51)
35). If the moving direction is upward, the motor (M2) is driven in the upward direction in step (5134), and the process proceeds to step (5135). Step (5135)
Now set the speed state counter to "1".

If the speed state counter is set to “1”,
At step (5136), the motor (M2) is stopped and the speed state counter is reset to "0".

That is, when the half speed request flag is fully set to "1", steps (5131) to (513)
Each time the process in 7) is repeated, the drive of the motor (M2) is turned on and off, so even if the drive voltage of the motor (M2) is not reduced by half, the power supplied to the motor (M2) is halved. , the rotational speed of the motor (M2) is substantially halved.

Here, the subroutine of step (51B) in which interrupt processing is performed will be explained with reference to FIG. This interrupt processing is to stop the lower end regulation plate (140) at the home position or paper regulation position, and counts the rotation pulses of the motor (M2) from the sensor (SE8) and registers (E
CPrO) or (ECPTI) [Step (5121
), (5122) Can be executed when the value matches the reference value.

Specifically, in step (5140') the sensor (SE8
The pulse count value according to ') is the register (Ea)TO)
It is determined whether or not they match, and if they match, step (51
41>, the motor (M2) is stopped, and step (514
2) sets the half speed request flag to "rl".

On the other hand, the pulse count value is -
If it does not match, that is, if it matches the register (Ean), the motor (M2) is stopped in step (5143), the half speed request flag is reset in step (5144), and the positioning completion flag is set in step (5135). set to "rl".

FIGS. 34a and 34b show a subroutine for controlling the pressing member during storage, which is executed in step (542).

Here, the following processing is executed according to the count value of the containment hold state counter. This state counter is controlled by a pressing member (120) depending on the copying and paper conveyance state.
display judgment to control the behavior of

First, in step (5150), it is determined whether the count value of the holding state counter is "0" or not. If it is reset to "O", in step (5151), whether the copying machine main body (1) is in the copying operation or not is determined. If copying is in progress, it is determined in step (5152) whether or not the duplex/composite copy accommodation mode is in progress. If the accommodation mode is not such, this subroutine is immediately terminated, and if the accommodation mode is this type, the count f of the state counter is checked in step (5153).

When the count value is 'O', confirm that the main motor (M3) is being driven in step (5154), and then
In step (5155), the holding member (120) is reset to the home position, and in step (5156), the main motor drive request flag is set to rl. When this main motor drive request flag is set to "1", the main motor (M3) continues to be driven.

Next, in step (5157) it is determined whether or not the reset of the presser member (120) has been completed, and if it has been completed, the housing presser state counter is set to 1 in step (515g).
”.

Note that the pressing member (
120) is reset by turning on the solenoid (SL3). Therefore, even if the arm (12
Even if the engagement between 1) and the roller (195) is removed,
Move the roller (195) from the inclined shaft (121c) to the back (12
1b) can be reliably passed around.

If the current value of the state counter is 1'', it is determined in step (5159) whether the sensor (SE5) is on. That is, whether or not the reset of the holding member (120) executed in step (5155) has been reliably executed is checked by turning on and off the sensor (SE5).

If the sensor (SE5) is turned on and the reset is confirmed, the housing hold state counter is set to 2'' in step (5160).

If the state counter's back edge is 2'', it is determined in step <5161) whether the paper detection sensor (SE2) is off-edge, that is, whether the trailing edge of the paper has passed the detection section of the sensor (SE2). If the sensor (SE2) is off-edge, the close delay timer is set in step (5162), and the accommodation/press state counter is set to "3°" in step (5163). This close delay timer is used to determine the pressing timing of the presser member (120), and the presser member (120) moves after a short period of time from the time when the leading edge of the stored paper reaches the lower end regulating plate (140). It is set to press the end.

If the current value of the state counter is “3′′,
After confirming the end of the close delay timer in step (5164), in step (5165)
20). As a result, the holding member (120) presses the rear end of the stored paper, and is temporarily stopped in this state.Next, in step (5166), the solenoid <5L3) is turned on to perform this drive. , determine whether the off is completed, and if it is completed, step (5167)
Set the holding member jam timer 1 in step (5).
In step 16B), the accommodation and hold-down state counter is set to "4"'. The jam timer 1 here is the holding member (12
When the solenoid (SL3) for driving 0) is turned on and off but no pressing operation is actually performed, it is detected that a paper jam has occurred at the entrance of the intermediate storage section (90). used to.

If the count value of the state counter is "4", it is determined in step (5169) whether or not the sensor (SE5) is off. That is, it is confirmed by turning on and off the sensor (SE5) whether or not the pressing member <120) was reliably driven in step (5165).

The sensor (SE5) is turned off and the holding member (12
If it is confirmed that 0) is in the pressed state, step (
5170) to set the oven delay timer.

This oven delay timer is for holding the pressing member (120) in the paper pressing position for a certain period of time. Further, since the pressing member (120) was driven normally, the pressing member jam timer 1 is reset in step (5171), and the pressing member jam timer 1 is reset in step (5172).
Set the accommodation hold state counter to 5'.

If the state counter's state counter is "5", the end of the oven delay timer is confirmed in step (5173), and the holding member (
120). With this, the holding member (120)
is retracted from the paper pressing position. Next, step (517
In step 5), it is determined whether or not this driving has been completed. If it has been completed, the pressing member jam timer 2 is set in step (5176).
is set, and in step (5177), the accommodation hold state counter is set to "6". The jam timer 2 here can be used to detect that a paper jam has occurred in this portion when the presser member (120) has been driven but has not actually retreated to the home position.

If the state counter value is "6", the sensor (SEA) is turned on in step <5178), and if it is confirmed that the holding member (120> has been retracted), the holding member (120>) is turned on in step (5179). Component jam timer 2
Reset. Next, in step (5180) it is determined whether or not the copy operation has been completed, and if it has not been completed, in step (5183) the accommodation holding state counter is set to "
Set it to 2'. When the copying operation is completed, the main motor drive request flag is reset to r□ in step (5181), and the holding state counter is reset to "0" in step (5182).

(Control during paper refeeding) FIG. 35 shows a subroutine for paper refeeding control processed in step (S8) of the main routine.

Here, based on the paper refeed signal, the paper refeed roller (16
1) Controls the registration roller pair (170), the pressing member (120), etc., and sends out the first side copied sheets stored in the intermediate storage section (90) one by one to the copying machine main body (1). Execute.

This subroutine includes steps (5200) to (5202).
) consists of each subroutine, step (5200)
Then, the standby, paper refeed start, and end states are controlled according to the count value of the paper refeed state counter. In step (5201), clutch (CLI), (Cl
3) controls the paper refeed roller (161) and registration roller pair (170). In step (5202), the operation of the holding member (120) is controlled.

FIG. 36 shows the paper refeed state control subroutine processed in step (5200).

First, in step (5210'), the paper refeed state counter is checked for the current state. This state counter is reset to “OIT” and set to “0” by default.
If so, the paper presence flag is set to “1” in step (5211).
” is determined. If the paper presence flag is set to "rl", that is, if the paper is stored in the intermediate storage section (90), the paper refeed state counter is set to "1" in step (5212).

If it is determined in step (5213) that the state counter is set to '1', step (5214)
It is determined whether the print switch is on-edge or not, and if it is on-edge, the paper refeed mode flag is set to "rl" in step (5215). This paper refeeding mode flag is 11. Displays that paper is being re-feeded when the paper is fully loaded. Next, in step (5221) it is determined whether the paper size accommodated in the intermediate storage section (90) is A3 size or larger, and in step (5222) it is determined whether the count value of the storage counter is "30" or larger. Determine. If both are YES, that is, A3 to the intermediate storage part (90).
If 30 or more sheets of paper larger than the size are stored and the paper can be re-fed from now on, the side regulation plate (105) is loaded in step <5223).

(105) is expanded outward by a small amount (1 mm on each side). With this, the side regulation plate (105), (
105) is reduced, and the occurrence of paper refeed errors is eliminated. And step <
5216), the paper refeed state counter is set to '2'.

If NO is determined in both steps (5210) and (5213), it is determined in step (5217) whether or not the intermediate storage section (90) is empty.

Here, it is determined whether the paper is empty based on a combination of the off timing of the empty detection sensor (SE4) and a timer. If the paper is empty, that is, if all the stored paper has been re-fed, step (521
8), reset the paper refeeding mode flag to rO'', and step (5219), set the regulation plate (105), (105)(
140) to the home position, and step (522
0) resets the paper refeed state counter to "0".

By the way, the subroutine for the initial position of the regulating plate that can be processed in step (5219) is the same as the process in step (552) described above (see FIGS. 27 and 28).

FIGS. 37a and 37b show a subroutine for paper refeed clutch control executed in step (5201).

Here, the following processing is executed according to the count value of the tararachi state counter. This state counter is controlled by the paper refeed roller (161), separation roller (163), and registration roller pair (170) depending on the paper refeed state.
(7) Display judgment for controlling clutches (CLI) and (Cl3).

First, in step (5240), the paper refeed mode flag is set to "
1" and executes the following steps only when rl is set. That is, Step (524
1) Check the count value of the clutch state counter. If the count value is “O”, step (52
42), it is determined whether the conveyance permission signal is "1.".This conveyance permission signal indicates that the re-fed paper is
This is a signal to stop refeeding of the paper in the registration method because the registration is completed by the pair of timing rollers (23) in the register. Prohibits refeeding when reset to .

This signal is sent to the CPU of the copying machine main body (1) by interrupt processing.
(310) to the CPU (300). Therefore, if the transport permission signal is set to 11'', an interval timer is set in step (5243),
In step (5244), the clutch state counter is
The interval timer is set to 1''. This interval timer is used to determine the timing at which the paper is sent out from the pair of registration rollers (170).

If the current value of the state counter is "1", it is determined in step (5245) whether the transport permission signal is "rl", and if it is fully set to "1", it is determined in step (S246).
) to continue counting the interval timer and set it to "0".
If the timer has been reset, the count of the timer is temporarily stopped in step (5247).

Next, in step (5248), it is determined whether the presser member oven flag is "0" or not. This presser member oven flag can be set and reset in the subroutine of paper refeed presser member roll, which will be explained below.
'', it indicates that the presser member (120) is pressing the upper end of the paper, and when it is set to "1", it indicates that it is retracted to the home position. Therefore, the holding member oven flag is rO
” (if it is in the suppressed state), the clutch (CLI), (CL2
) on. With this, the paper refeed roller (161),
While the separation roller (163) is driven to rotate, the rotation of the registration roller pair (170) is completely stopped.

Next, in step (5250), the paper refeed jam timer is set, and in step (5251), the clutch state counter is set to '2'.The paper refeed jam timer here can be set in combination with the sensor (SE3). It can be used to detect that a paper jam has occurred near the paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163).

If the current value of the state counter is “2゛′,
In step (5252), it is determined whether the transport permission signal is "1" or not, and if it is set to '1', step (525
In step 3), set the count of the interval timer and paper refeed jam timer to m, and in step (5254) turn on the paper refeed clutch (CLI)! ! control On the other hand, if the transport permission signal is reset to "rO", step (525
In step 5), the count of the interval timer and paper refeed jam timer is temporarily stopped, and in step (5256), the paper refeed clutch (CLI) is turned off.

Next, in step (5257), it is determined whether the sensor (SE3) is on or not, that is, the leading edge of the re-fed paper is detected by the sensor (SE3).
) has reached the detection point of the sensor (SE3
) is turned on, the refeed jam timer is reset in step (5258), the registration timer and unloading jam timer are set in step (5259), and the clutch state counter is set to '3' in step (5260).
Set to . The registration timer here is used to form a slight loop at the leading end of the paper on the near side of the registration roller pair (170) to prevent the paper from being skewed.

In addition, the unloading timer is used in combination with the sensor (SE3) to detect that a paper jam has occurred in this area when the paper does not pass the detection point of the sensor (SE3) within a predetermined time (corresponding to a sufficient margin for the paper length). Detect.

If the current count of the state counter is "3", it is determined in step (5261) whether the transport permission signal is rl, and if it is set to rl, step (5262) is performed.
) to continue counting the interval timer, registration timer, and detection jam timer, and step (5263)
to keep the paper refeed clutch (CLI) on. On the other hand, if the conveyance permission signal has been reset to 10'', the count of the interval timer, registration timer, and detection jam timer is temporarily stopped in step (5264), and the paper refeed clutch is turned off in step (5265).

Next, when the end of the registration timer is confirmed in step (5266), the paper refeed clutch (CLI) is turned off in step (5267). As a result, the leading edge of the re-fed paper is placed on standby with the registration roller pair (170) forming a slight loop due to lack of registration. Subsequently, in step (5268), the clutch state counter is set to "4".

If the count value of the state counter is "4", it is determined in step (5269) whether the transport permission signal is I"1", and if it is set to rl, step (5270) is performed.
) to allow the interval timer and unloading jam timer to continue counting, and if they are reset to "rO", step (
5271), the count of the interval timer and unloading jam timer is temporarily stopped.

Subsequently, when the end of the interval timer is confirmed in step (5272), the clutch (CL2) is turned off and the clutch (CLI) is turned on in step (5273). When the clutch (CL) is turned off, the registration roller pair (170
) begins to rotate, and when the clutch (CLI) is turned on, the paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163) begin to rotate.

With this, the paper can be completely carried out from the registration roller pair (170) to the paper refeed path (30) of the copying machine main body (1). In addition, along with the registration roller pair (170), the roller (161)
.

(163) is also rotated in order to reliably feed the leading edge of the paper into the nip portion of the pair of registration rollers (170).

Next, in step (5274), the holding member oven request flag is set to "1", and in step (5275)
) to set the unloading assist timer, and step (527
In step 6), set the clutch state counter to ``5''.Here, the holding member open flag means ``When set to 1, it instructs the process of retracting the holding member (120) from the pressing position to the home position. In addition, the unloading assist timer is used to ensure that the paper is re-fed before the re-feed roller (161) and separation roller (
163) to obtain the timing to stop the rotation.

If the count value of the state counter is '5', it is determined in step (5277) whether the transport permission signal is '1' or not, and if it is set to 'rl', step (5278) is carried out.
to continue counting the unloading jam timer and unloading assist timer, and in step (S279), the paper refeed clutch (C) is activated.
Ll) continues to be turned on and the resist clutch (CL2) continues to be turned off. On the other hand, if the conveyance permission signal has been reset to "rO", the count of the discharge jam timer and the discharge assist timer is temporarily stopped in step (5280), and the paper refeed clutch (CLI) is turned off in step (5281"). Turn on the registration clutch (CL2).

Next, when it is confirmed in step (5282) that the discharge assist timer has ended, the paper refeed clutch (CLI) is turned off in step (5283). Now, the paper refeed roller (
161), the rotation of the separation roller (163) is stopped,
The paper is carried out from the intermediate storage section (90) by the rotation of the pair of registration rollers (170).
).

(163) rotates as the paper is conveyed by the action of a one-way bearing. Subsequently, in step (5284), the clutch state counter is set to "6".

If the current value of the state counter is "6", it is determined in step (5285) whether the transport permission signal is "1", and if it is set to "rl", step (5286) is carried out.
Continue counting the unloading jam timer with step (
5287) to continue turning off the resist clutch (CL2). If the conveyance permission signal is reset to "rO", the count of the conveyance jam timer is allowed to be temporarily stopped in step (5288), and the registration clutch (CL2) is turned on in step (5289) to temporarily stop conveyance of the paper.

Next, in step (5290), it is determined whether the sensor (SE3) is off or not, that is, the trailing edge of the re-fed paper is detected by the sensor (SE3).
3) Determine whether it has passed the rear end or not, and send the sensor (SE3
) is off, the unloading jam timer is reset in step (5291), and the clutch state counter is reset to 0'' in step (5292).

FIGS. 38a and 38b show a subroutine for controlling the paper refeed presser member that can be executed in step <5202).

Here, the following processing is executed according to the count value of the paper refeed holding state counter. This state counter changes depending on the state of copying and refeeding of paper.
20) displays the judgment for controlling the operation. Note that the control in this subroutine is basically the 34th subroutine.
The same control as the accommodation pressing member control subroutine in step (S42) shown in FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B is performed.

First, in step (5300), the paper refeed mode flag is set to r.
1, and if it has been reset to 'O', immediately ends this subroutine, and if it has been reset to '1', in step (5301), the paper refeed hold state counter is checked for the current state counter. do.

When the cursor position is "0", it is confirmed in step (5302) that the main motor (M3) is being driven, and the holding member (120) is reset to the home position in step (5303). Next, step (53
04”) to set the presser member oven request flag to rO.
, and in step (5305) press the holding member (
It is determined whether or not the reset in step 120) has been completed, and if it has been completed, the paper refeed press state counter is set to '1' in step (5306).

If the count value of the state counter is 1'', it is determined in step (5307) whether the sensor (SE5) is on or not, and if it is on, that is, in step (5304)
) has been reliably executed, the presser member oven flag is set to "1" in step (5308).
”. Subsequently, in step (5309), the paper refeed press state counter is set to "2".

If the current value of the state counter is 2'', it is determined in step (5310) whether the copy request flag is ``1''. This copy request flag indicates that the paper refeed signal is sent from the CPU (310) of the copying machine (1).
When communicated to U (300), it is set to "1". Therefore, if the copy request flag is set to 11'', the holding member (120) is pressed in step (5311).
to drive. As a result, the pressing member (120) presses the leading end of the paper in the intermediate storage section (90), and is temporarily stopped in this state. Next, in step (5312) it is determined whether or not this driving has been completed, and if it has been completed, step (5312) is performed.
5313), the paper refeed presser state counter is set to "3".

If the count value of the state counter is "3", it is determined in step (5314) whether the sensor (SE5) is off. That is, whether or not the pressing member (120) was reliably driven in step (5311) is checked by turning on and off the sensor (SE5).

The sensor (SE5) is turned off and the pressing member (12)
0), the pressing member oven flag is reset to 10'' in step (5315), and the paper refeed pressing state counter is set to 4 in step (5316).

If the count value of the state counter is "4", it is determined in step (5317) whether or not the holding member oven request flag is "1". If it is set to "1", this flag is reset to "0" in step (531B), and then the holding member (120) is driven in step (5319). With this, press member (120
) retreats from the paper pressing position.

Here, the paper pressure of the holding member (120) is released when the holding member (120) is in the suppressing position when the paper is carried out from the intermediate storage section (90) by the pair of registration rollers (170). In order to prevent paper passing resistance from increasing, the second and subsequent sheets of paper remaining in the nip between the separation roller (163) and separation pad (165) are moved to the storage position by their own weight. It is intended to bring it back. Next, in step (5320) it is determined whether or not this driving has been completed, and if it has been completed, the paper refeed presser state counter is set to "5" in step (5321).

If the state counter is "5", the sensor (SE5) is turned on in step (5322), and if it is confirmed that the presser member (120) is retracted, the sensor (SE5) is turned on in step (5323). Set the holding member oven flag to rl. Next, step (532
In step 4), the holding member drive delay timer is set, and in step (5325), the paper refeed state counter is set to "6". This delay timer is for driving the pressing member (120) to the paper suppressing position before the paper refeeding roller (161) is completely rotated in order to refeed the next paper.

If the count value of the state counter is "6°", the transport permission signal (which appeared in the paper refeeding clutch control subroutine) is set to r'1 in step (5326).
Determine whether or not. If this signal is set to rIJ, the holding member driving delay timer continues counting in step (S327), and if it is reset to 0., the counting of the delay timer is temporarily stopped in step (5328). Next, step (5329
), when the end of the delay timer is confirmed, the paper refeed state counter is set to "2'' in step (5330), and the above processing is repeated.

FIG. 39 shows the jam detection/processing subroutine executed in step (511') of the main routine. Here, when it is detected that a paper jam has occurred at any part of the paper storage and refeeding unit (40), a warning is issued to that effect and an instruction is given to remove the paper.

First, in step (S340) it is determined whether the jam flag is "0". When this jam flag is set to "1," it indicates that a paper jam has occurred. Therefore, if it has already been set to "rl", the step (5347
Move to rO'', the presence or absence of a paper jam at each location is determined in steps (5341) to (5344), and the jam timer is subtracted in step (5348). That is, steps (5341), (5342
), a paper jam occurs near the entrance when storing paper [see steps (5167) and (5176)], and step (
5343), (5344) Paper jam near the exit during paper refeeding [step (5250), (5259
)) is determined at the end of each timer. If a paper jam occurs at any location, a jam signal is sent in step (5345). Here, the jam signal detected in each step (5341) to (5344) is communicated to the main body CPU (310). Furthermore, in step (5346), the jam flag is set to "rl",
In step 7 (5347), a jam processing subroutine is executed.

In particular, in this embodiment, when storing paper, the intermediate storage section ( Since paper jams are detected at the paper entrance to the machine (90), the occurrence of paper jams can be detected early, paper loss can be reduced, and abnormal loads on the device can be prevented. .

FIG. 40 shows the jam processing subroutine executed in step (5347).

Here, first, in step (5350), it is confirmed that the jam flag is set in rIJ (paper jam has occurred), and then in step (5351), the jam signal indicates a paper jam in the unit (40). Determine whether or not there is. If the paper is jammed in the unit (40), it is determined in step (5352) whether or not it is in the ejection mode.

The discharge mode is a mode in which the paper is discharged from the discharge roller pair (75) to the paper discharge tray (80) or the sorter (200). Therefore, if it is not the discharge mode, that is, if it is the accommodation refeed mode, the sensor (SE
9> is on-edge, and if it is on-edge, it is determined that the operator has cleared the paper jam (removed the jammed paper) and closed the guide frame (95).
In step (5355), the jam is reset within the unit (40). Here, the jam signal is returned to the normal state and counters, flags, etc. are reset. Also, if it is determined that the ejection mode is in the step (5352), the sensor (SEI) is turned off in step (5354). If it is turned off, it is determined that the operator has pulled out the jammed paper from the discharge roller pair (75), and the jam is reset in step (5355).

On the other hand, if the determination in step (5351) is negative, that is, if the paper jam has occurred in the paper refeed path (30), step (5356)
WI) is on. If the switch (SWI) is on, the model is of the upper guide plate open type shown in Fig. 20, so the switch (SWI) is turned on in step (5357).
The open/closed state of the front door of the main body is determined by turning on/off SW3). The signal from the switch (SW3) is transmitted to the copier main body (1
), and the opening/closing status of the front door of the main body is determined by communication between the CPU (310) and the CPU (300). If the switch (SW3) is off, the main body front door oven flag is set to "1" in step (5358), and when it is confirmed that the flag is fully set to "1" in step (5359),
In step (5360), it is again determined whether switch 7 (SW3) is on or off. When the switch (SW3) is turned on, the operator finishes removing the jammed paper.
It is determined that the front door of the main unit is closed, and step (5361) is executed.
) to reset the main unit front door oven flag to "O",
In step (5362), the jam in the paper refeed path (30) is reset. Here, the jam signal is returned to a normal state and counters, flags, etc. are reset.

In addition, in the step (5356), the date switch (
If it is determined that SWI) is off, step (
5363), it is determined whether the microswitch (SW2) is on-edge. The switch (SW2) is turned on when the lower guide plate (34) is set as described above. Therefore, if it is on-edge, it is determined that the operator has finished removing the jammed paper and the lower guide plate (34) is closed, and in the step (5362), the paper refeed path (30) is
Reset the jam inside.

FIG. 41 shows a subroutine for detecting the paper refeed path set, which is executed in step (512) of the main routine.

First, in step (5370), the date switch (SW
I) is off, and if it is off, that is, the 19th
In the case of the lower guide plate open type model shown in the figure, the open/closed state of the lower guide plate (34) is determined by turning on and off the switch (SW2) in step (5371), and the switch (
If SW2) is off and the lower guide plate (34) is open, the paper refeed path setting failure flag is set to rl in step (5372). When this flag is set to 1, copying operations are prohibited.

Also, when the switch (SW2) is on, the lower guide plate (34)
If it is closed, the re-feed path setting failure flag is reset to 10'' in step (5373).

By the above-described control, paper is re-fed with the paper re-feed path (30) open, and inconveniences such as paper jams are reliably prevented.

Note that if the switch (SW2) is not installed on the copying machine main body (1) side, the CPU (3)
00) switch (SW2) port has a switch (
A signal indicating that SW2) is on is input.

[Other Embodiments] The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and can be modified in various ways within the scope of the gist.

In particular, the paper storage state may be in a substantially horizontal state other than the substantially vertical state, and the paper may be housed in a type built into the main body of the copying machine. Furthermore, in addition to the paper refeeding function, it may also have a function of binding the stored stack of paper with a stapler or clip. Furthermore, the setting detection means of the paper refeeding device is the lower kite plate (34
) is not limited to the microswitch (5W2) that detects the setting of the unit (40), but may also be a switch that detects opening/closing of the unit (40) to the main body of the copying machine.

As is clear from the above description, according to the present invention, a plurality of reset means for resetting the paper conveyance abnormality detection state to a normal state can be selectively switched by the selection means. , the most suitable reset means for various paper refeeding devices can be selected with a single operation of the selection means, the versatility of the image forming apparatus can be increased, and one type of control program can be used for various reset means. be able to.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

The drawings show an embodiment of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Fig. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram including the main body of the copying machine, Fig. 2 is an internal configuration diagram of the paper storage and refeeding unit, Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the holding member, and Fig. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the side stopper. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the holding member and the guide frame, and FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the drive mechanism of the holding member. Figure 7, Figure 8, Figure 9
The figures are horizontal cross-sectional views of the paper guide section of the lower unit.
FIG. 10 is a front view of the paper guide member of the lower unit. FIGS. 11a, 11b, and 11c are explanatory diagrams of operations during paper storage, and FIGS. 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d are explanatory diagrams of operations during paper refeeding. FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view showing the drive mechanism of the lower end regulating plate, and FIGS. 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d are a plan view, a front view, a left side view, and a right side view of the geared motor, respectively. . Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the installation of the switching claw, Figure 16 is an exploded perspective view of the structure of the installation of the paper output tray and support plate, and Figure 17 is a vertical section showing the structure of the installation of the support plate. It is a diagram. FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the rear side of the sorter. FIGS. 19 and 20 are schematic diagrams of the opening/closing mechanism of the paper refeed path. FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the paper storage and refeeding unit. Figures 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34a
34b, 3S, 36, 37a, 37b, 38a, 38b, 39, 40
41 are flowcharts showing control procedures, respectively. (1)... Copying machine main body, (30)... Paper refeed path,
(33)... Upper guide plate, (34>... Lower guide plate, (40)... Paper refeeding unit, (60)...
Paper feeding switching unit, (90)...Intermediate storage unit, (300)
... Microcomputer, (S trade 1) ... Reset means selection switch (selection means), (SW2) ...
Lower guide plate set detection switch (reset means), (S
W3)... Body front door open/close detection switch (reset means).

Claims (1)

[Scope of Claims] 1. In an image forming apparatus having a function of refeeding paper ejected from the image forming apparatus main body to an image forming section of the main body via a paper refeeding device and forming an image again, the paper a paper conveyance abnormality detection means installed in the conveyance path; a plurality of reset means for resetting the paper conveyance abnormality detection state to a normal state; and a selection means for selecting one of the plurality of reset means; An image forming apparatus comprising: a control unit that performs a reset process for an abnormal state of paper conveyance based on the operation of a selected reset unit.