JPH0266055A - Paper housing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To surely restrict paper with its housing direction rear end part blocking an accommodating part in its inlet by providing in a side-restricting member a paper side end-restricting member always set to a position, in which the housed paper restricts its housing direction rear end part to block the paper inlet part, further being able to retract in a paper loading surface direction of the accommodating part from this restricting position. CONSTITUTION:Paper, while it is guided by a paper side end-restricting member 106 of a side-restricting member 105, is fed by a conveying means to an accommodating part, and a retaining member 120 moves in every accommodation of one sheet in a direction of a paper loading surface 100, pressing the accommodated paper in its housing direction rear end part. Here the paper, while its side end part retracts the side end-restricting member 106 in the paper loading surface direction from a restricting position, rides crossing this side end- restricting member 106 and moving to a side of the paper loading surface 100. Simultaneously with the above, the side end-restricting member 106 is reset to the restricting position from a retracting position, restricting the accommodated paper with its rear end blocking a paper inlet part.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a method for processing paper that has been completely discharged from a paper storage device, particularly an image forming apparatus main body such as a copying machine, for double-sided/composite copying or for stable processing. The present invention relates to a paper storage device that sequentially stacks and stores paper sheets in the thickness direction.

Conventional techniques and their problems In general, with devices that feed copied sheets one by one into a storage section and store them one on top of the other, whether the paper is a horizontal storage type or a vertical storage type, the paper that is fed is not the same as the stored paper. It is necessary to effectively prevent paper from colliding and causing paper jams, or from getting stuck between stored sheets and causing page alignment to be out of order. In particular, countermeasures of this kind are important, as copied sheets often have heat curls at their edges due to heating by the fixing device.

For example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 61-54691 discloses the provision of a flexible sheet holder that guides the leading edge of the sheet in the storage direction and prevents it from lifting up. However, with this method, the sheet presser acts as paper conveyance resistance, so it is difficult to set a pressing force that corresponds to a wide range of paper thicknesses and stiffness. No measures have been taken against it.

As a countermeasure for the rear part of the paper, it may be possible to increase the distance between the entrance of the storage section and the paper loading surface, but this requires a large space and is not preferable.Also, in the vertical storage type, the paper may fall over, The tendency of the back of the paper to enclose the entrance due to buckling is even more pronounced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, an object of the present invention is to be able to reliably prevent the rear end of the sheet completely stored in the storage section from squeezing the entrance of the storage section, and to prevent this restriction member from acting as conveyance resistance.
An object of the present invention is to provide a paper storage device capable of preventing occurrence of paper jams and pages of paper being misaligned.

Means for Solving the Problems In order to solve the above problems, the paper storage device according to the present invention includes: (a) a storage section having a paper placement surface for storing sheets; (b) the storage section has the following features: (c) a side regulating member that regulates both sides of the paper fed into the storage section; (d) a side regulating member that is attached to the side regulating member so that the rear end of the accommodated paper in the accommodation direction is fixed to the side regulation member; (e) a paper side edge regulating member that is always set at a position that regulates blocking of the paper entrance portion and is retractable from this regulation position in the direction of the paper placement surface of the storage unit; (f) a holding member capable of pressing the rear end of the stored paper in the storage direction against the paper placement surface; (f) a side edge of the stored paper each time the paper is stored in the storage section The pressing member is moved so that the paper side end regulating member is retracted and the paper is placed easily.
j. A control means for moving the device in the direction of the placement surface;

In the above configuration, the paper is fed into the storage section by the conveying means while being guided by the paper side edge regulating member, and each time a sheet is stored, the pressing member moves in the direction of the paper placement surface,
Press the rear end of the stored paper in the storage direction. At this time, the side edge of the paper moves over the side edge regulating member and toward the paper mounting surface while retracting the side edge regulating member from the regulating position toward the paper mounting surface. At the same time, the side edge regulating member returns from the retracted position to the regulating position to prevent the rear end of the stored paper from blocking the paper entrance.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of a paper storage device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the embodiments described below, the present invention is applied to a paper storage and refeeding unit that is an option for a copying machine.

[Copying machine main body] As shown in FIG. 1, the copying machine main 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 rotated in the direction of the arrow (,), and first, a constant charge is applied by the charger (11), and the optical system (12) moves in the direction of the 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 (10). The electrostatic latent image thus formed on the photoreceptor drum (10) 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 the residual charge 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). The paper after transfer is separated and charged ~ (16
) and the stiffness of the paper itself, the paper is separated from the photoconductor drum (10), and is fed to the fixing device (25) while being attracted by a conveyor belt (24) equipped with an air suction means (not shown). After the toner image is fixed here, it is completely discharged from the discharge roller pair (26).

On the other hand, below the photoreceptor drum (10), there is a paper refeeding path (20) for conveying the paper refed from the storage and refeeding unit (40>, which will be described in detail below) to the timing roller pair (23). 30) is installed.This path (30) is composed of a pair 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) via a pair of rollers (27) to a pair of timing rollers (23) and reaches a transfer section.

[Configuration and operation of paper storage and refeeding unit (basic configuration) This paper storage and refeeding unit (40), as shown in FIG.
50) and a lower unit (130) having a paper storage function.
It is made up of. The upper unit (50) is attached to the U of the hook (2) that is fixed to the front and rear frames of the copying machine body (1).
The upper unit (50) is suspended by engaging a stepped shaft (51) fixed to the front and rear frames of the upper unit (50) in the groove. 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 connected to the upper and lower units.
) It is divided into two parts (50) and (130) and can be attached and detached independently from the main body side, making it easy to attach and detach.
In the event of a failure or part replacement, either one of the units (50)
, (130) only needs to 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 the paper output tray (80〉) installed, and Fig. 1 shows the sorter (200) installed. A total of 20 bins (21
0). Note that this sorter <200
), the top bin position has a paper output tray (
80) can be installed and function as a tray during non-sorting and as a first pin during sorting.

On the other hand, the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) is detailed as follows.
a paper feed switching unit (60) for receiving paper that has been completely ejected from the copying machine main body (1) and switching the paper feed mode as appropriate;
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), conveyance roller pair (76), guide plate (7
8), (79), etc. Switching claw (7
0) has an upper surface (70a), an arcuate surface (70b), <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 that has been completely conveyed from the left side in Figure 2 to pass to the right, but the paper that has been 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), is rotatably mounted around a support shaft (74), and can be switched between the solid line position and the dashed-dotted line position by turning on and off the solenoid. The solenoid for the discharge roller pair (75) is turned on.

When turned off, the rotation can be switched between forward and reverse rotation via a clutch means (not shown). Further, the guide plate (79>) is rotatable in the direction of arrow (c) about the 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 regulation 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 fully 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
) is installed to detect the passing paper. In addition, the switching claw (
A static elimination brush <69) is installed directly above the unit (40) to eliminate static electricity from the paper discharged from this unit (40).

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 driven in normal rotation so as to convey the paper toward the switching claw (73). When the sorter (200) is disconnected,
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).
, top surface (70a) of switching claw (70>), switching claw (70)
3) While being broken on the upper surface (73a), a conveying force is applied by a pair of discharge rollers (75), and the sheet is sent to the sorter (200). When the paper ejection tray (80) is attached, the switching claw (73) is removed and the paper can be directly ejected from the ejection roller pair (75) onto the paper ejection tray (80>).

When the paper that has been copied on the first side is ejected from the copying machine main body (1) in double-sided copy 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 after a predetermined time after the trailing edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SEL), the ejection roller pair (75)
forward rotation is stopped. 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 has a pair of ejection rollers (75)
It stops when it is completely stuck. When the forward rotation of the ejection roller pair (75) has been stopped and the sorter (200) is fully installed, the leading edge of the paper is between the circular arc surface (73b) of the switching claw (73) and the trailing edge regulating plate (89). ), guide plate (79)
the guide surface (79a) provided integrally with the guide surface (95a) of the guide frame (95), the guide surface (97a) of the guide frame (97), and the sorter (200).
It is guided by the side surfaces <201) and (202), and is located in the gap formed by these members. Sorta (20
As shown in FIG. 18, ribs (201a) and <202a) are formed on the side surfaces of <201) and (202) of 0),
It is said to be able to guide paper smoothly. Further, ribs are similarly formed on the other guide surfaces (79a), (95a), and (97a).

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 rear end is sandwiched between the pair of ejection rollers (75) is conveyed to the left with the rear end leading, that is, switched back. , the film (72), the circular arc surface (70) of the switching claw (7o)
c) while being guided by the pair of conveying rollers (76) to the intermediate storage section (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)
.

(181) so as to be rotatable, and a plunger (182) of a solenoid (SLI) is connected to the end of the support shaft (71) via a lever (183).

The solenoid (SLI) is fixed to a front frame (not shown) via a bracket (184). When the solenoid (SLI) is deactivated, the switching pawl (70) is biased by the torsion coil spring (185) fully wound around the support shaft (71) and is held at the solid line position in Fig. 2. ing. When the solenoid (SLI) is turned on, it rotates in the direction of arrow (p) and is set to the position indicated by the dotted chain 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 supported by protruding into the hole (74a) from the outside of the frame (not shown), and the plunger of the solenoid (SLZ) is inserted through the lever (187). (188). The solenoid (SLZ) is fixed to a front frame (not shown) via a bracket (189).

When the solenoid (SLZ) is turned off, this switching pawl (73) is biased by a torsion coil spring (190) wound around the lever shaft (187a), and is moved to the position indicated by the dashed line in FIG. Retained. When the solenoid (SLZ) 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 support shaft (74) in the direction of arrow (r) (downward), and then remove the switching claw (73).
) itself in the direction of arrow (s) (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). Due to the above-mentioned structure, which can be attached by performing the above steps in reverse, 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 rear frame (53) (7) opening 1"+(53a), and the notch 82c) of the protruding piece (82b) is inserted into the opening ( 53a)
By engaging the lower edge of the frame (52) bar 53
) installed between. 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 projecting piece (82b) on top.

(82b) to the long hole (89a) of the rear end regulating plate (89),
(89g), it can be positioned and attached to the upper unit (50). Note that the notch (89b) formed in the rear end regulating plate (89) has a pair of discharge rollers (75
) the lower roller is located.

When connecting the sorter (200), the paper output tray (80) is connected to the protrusion (80b), (80b) through the elongated hole (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 follow the arrow (u
) direction (towards this side) to disengage the protruding piece (82b) from the rear frame (53), thereby allowing it to be removed. 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 frames (97), (98), storage roller pair (116), paddle wheel (117), pressing member capable of pressing the rear end of the sheet in the storage direction <120)
, 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 regulating plate (105), (105), and a lower end regulating plate (14).
0) and a geared motor (Ml). Further, a photosensor (SE4) having an actuator (159) is installed in the portion where the guide frames (97) and (98) are located, and this intermediate storage portion (98) is installed.
0) detects whether paper is stored in the paper.

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), can be configured with 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.
) fixed to the geared motor (Ml) (7) pulley (
141) and the timing belt (142) which is rotatably attached to the frame (131).
143), and can be moved vertically 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 passage, A
It is configured to pass 4 sizes horizontally and vertically, and B4 size and A3 size vertically with the center referenced. Second
The position shown by the solid line in the figure is the regulation position for horizontal passing of B5 size, which is the minimum size, and the lower end regulation plate (140) uses this position as the home position and drives the motor (Ml) to correspond to the paper size. Move to 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 fully accommodated paper constant in preparation for refeeding, and the upper edge height is
As shown in Figures to Figure 1ie, 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). becomes. The output boolean (141) can be fixed to the shaft (145) of the geared motor (Ml), and the idle pulley (142) can be fixed to the frame (131) with the bracket (141).
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 (Ml) includes a two-ohm gear (148a) fixed to the output shaft of the motor body, a pulse disk (149), and a helical gear that meshes with the two-ohm gear (148a). (148b), an intermediate gear (148b) fixed coaxially with the helical gear (148b)
148c), a gear (14) rotatably supported on the boot shaft (145) so as to mesh with the intermediate gear (148c).
8d). The rotational force of the motor body is transmitted to the output pulley (1) via each gear (148a) to (148d).
41). This geared motor (Ml) has a drive system consisting of a ohm gear (148a) and a helical gear (148a).
Since the speed reduction mechanism (b) is adopted, even if the power to the geared motor (Ml) is turned off while a load is applied, that is, the paper is placed on the lower end regulating plate (140), the paper will continue to move. 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) is at any position, the paper size will change between the time when the copying machine body (1) finishes feeding the paper and the time when the trailing edge of the ejected paper passes through the pair of storage rollers (116). It is possible to move to the corresponding regulation 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 (
d), and can be rotationally driven in the direction of the housing roller pair (116
) to the intermediate storage section (90>).Also, the tip of the paddle wheel (117) maintains a predetermined distance from the guide frame (98). When the number of paper sheets stored is small and the paper passing resistance is small, no more conveying force is applied to the paper than necessary, thereby preventing the occurrence of "wrinkles" etc. on the paper.

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, this paddle wheel (117) will not come into contact with the paper if the number of sheets falls below a certain number.
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 is held by the guide frame (97), and the slit (140b) of the lower end regulating plate (140),
(140b), is installed at a position that guides approximately the center of the paper, and is movable in the thickness direction of the entire housed paper.

These guide members (151), (152), (15
3) is made of a wire material to reduce paper passing resistance and electrostatic adsorption force, and the paper contained therein is placed on the lower end regulating plate (140).
It has the function of preventing the paper from slipping off, ensuring smooth storage, and preventing the paper from buckling. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, for B5 size horizontal paper, the lower edge regulating plate (140) is set at the solid line position in FIG. 2, so the first guide member (151) ,
(152) does not substantially act on the paper, while
The second guide members (153) and (153) are in position (a) when the paper is not fully accommodated, and the frame (98) and the second guide member (153) are
3) is set so that the gap between the two is narrow. and,
It retreats outward as the paper is accommodated. (b) The position indicates this retreat, and the paper (51
) 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 (1!52) is expanded outward from the middle as shown in Fig. 10, it also controls both side parts even for A3 size vertically threaded paper, and the second guide member (1!52) In cooperation with the members (153) and (153), the paper is given stiffness, and even greatly curled papers (52) and (53) are reliably accommodated to prevent 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 tip of the arms (121) and (121), and a roller presser plate (123) fixed to the presser plate (122) at a position corresponding to the paper refeed roller (161) described below. , a buckling correction arm (125) located approximately in the center. This holding member (120) has arms (121), (121
) through the support shaft (124) that supports the guide frame (
95), and rotates between the solid line position and the dashed-dotted 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 a middle part (125a), and this middle part (125a) regulates the stored paper;
The buckling is corrected. In addition, 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 lower guide frame (95) held through the guide rotates in the direction of the arrow (j>) about a support shaft (96) provided at one end, and rotates in the direction of the arrow (j>), as shown in FIG. The upper part can be opened, and the pressing member (120
) can also be retracted from the intermediate storage section (90). Additionally, between the arm (121) and the guide frame (95) is a torsion coil spring (12
6) is interposed to urge the holding member (120) to the solid line position in FIG. 2 (home position).

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

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

The drive 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 the timing belt (180), and the boot I bar (181) is Rotationally driven in the direction of arrow (v). 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. 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 (K), and the claw portion (185b) engages with the locking portion (183a). ,
(184a) or (183b), (184b), ratchet wheel (183), cam (184
) to stop rotating. And a holding member (120)
The solenoid <5L3) is momentarily turned on only when driving the ratchet wheel (183), cam (
184) is rotated 180°.

On the other hand, a drive plate (187),
The lower end of (188) is rotatably attached.

The drive plates (187) and (188) are biased in the direction of narrowing the distance between them by a torsion coil spring (189) wound around the support shaft (1g6), and a drive plate (187) is provided at the tip of one of the drive plates (187). The pin (190) and the end side of the other drive plate (188) are in pressure contact with each other. The driving plate (187) has a link (19) connected at both ends with pins (190) and (191).
2) is connected to the circumferential portion of the cam (184). In addition, the tip of the drive plate (188) is attached to the slide pin (1
93) is mounted so as to be slidable 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 in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the slide pin (193). The slide pin (193) has a drive plate (18
8) and the flange (1) fixed to the slide pin (193).
97), the compression coil spring (198) is completely installed. The slide pin (193), rollers (195), (195) are biased toward the arm (121) by this spring force, and the rollers (195), (195) are biased toward the arm (121).
21) on the back (121b) side.

In the above configuration, the locking portion (184) of the cam (184)
When the drive plate (187) and (188) are locked to the claw (185b) of the lever (185), the drive plates (187) and (188) move in the direction of the arrow (
f) is set in a rotated position 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 coil spring (126), and the arm (120)
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) is released from the locking portion (184a), the cam (184) rotates 180 degrees in the direction of the arrow (■), and the drive plate (187) is forcibly rotated in the direction of the arrow (f). The driving plate (188), which is connected by a torsion coil spring (189), also rotates in the direction of arrow (f). At the same time, the back part (121b) of the arm (121)
95) and (195), and the holding member (12
0) also rotates in the direction of the arrow (f), and the rear end of the paper fed into the intermediate storage section (90) is moved to the base plate (100).
Press to the side. In this pressing position, the claw part (185b) of the lever (185) is connected to the locking part (tg4b) of the cam (184).
It is held by engaging with. Furthermore, by turning on the solenoid (SL3), the drive plate (187)
<188>, the holding 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. Kirani, torsion coil 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 (188) is expanded, and the spring force of the torsion fill spring (189) is also increased, 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 can 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 bin (193).
) and move it toward the drive plate (188) against the spring force of the compressed fill 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 (tzic) to the back part (121b).

Further, a separator (93) attached to the guide frame (91) and a static elimination brush (99) attached to the kite 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 that is about to be fully accommodated, and also guides the rear end (upper end of the paper) in the accommodation direction of the paper that is being accommodated (base brake) (1
00) side to prevent the paper entrance from being blocked. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3, the separator (93) is located between the pair of storage rollers (116). Furthermore, the separator (93) of the presser plate (122) is
) 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, the side regulating plates (105), (105) are moved in the width direction of the paper by driving the stepping motor (Ml) in forward and reverse directions, and have a home position slightly outside both sides of the largest size paper. to the side regulation position corresponding to each paper size.

Incidentally, the holding plate (110) that holds the side regulating plates (105), (105) is attached to the base plate (100) in the width direction of the sheet so that its position can be finely adjusted. That is, the holding plate (110) has a slit (1
11) is completely formed, the fixing position can be finely adjusted in the width direction within the length range of this slit (111), and in conjunction with this, the position of the side regulating plate (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 edge 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) is the second
The storage roller pair (116) and 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 conveying roller pair (76) is given a conveying force by the accommodation roller pair (116),
The intermediate storage part (90) is being neutralized by the static eliminating brush (99).
sent to. First, when the leading edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SE2), the side regulating plate (105).

(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 to align the paper in the width direction. Kirani, holding 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 FIG. 11C and FIG. 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 ( (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 bottom edge regulation plate (140). . Further, the timing at which the pressing member (120) presses the rear end of the paper (reaches the position indicated by the dashed dotted line) is determined by the side regulating plate (105), D
os> is set after a minute time 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. Further, 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 accommodated in conjunction with the suppressing 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 holding member (120) is 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 unaccommodated paper is regulated by the separator (93), and the paper entrance of the intermediate storage section 90) is prevented from closing.

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.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, a side stopper (106) having the same function as the separator (93) is provided on the side regulating plate (105) (1os). 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),
It is rotatably attached to a notch formed in the upper part of <105> using a pin (107) as a fulcrum, and is biased in the direction of arrow (g) by a spring (not shown), so that the protruding piece (106c) is attached to the side regulating plate (105). ) 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 presser member (120) rotates in the direction of the arrow (f>) and presses the trailing edge of the sheet, the sheet passes through the sloped surface (106a) and (106a). By pressing , the paper retreats in the opposite direction to the arrow (g), and the trailing edge of the paper climbs over the side stoppers (106) and (106) and moves toward the holding plate (110). Immediately rotate in the direction of arrow (g) with spring force.
It returns and restricts the rear end side of the paper that has not been accommodated by the restriction 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 width direction length (m> is set to satisfy the relationship m>(n+1>/2). With this, the holding plate (110) can be moved within the range of (1). Even if the positions of the side regulating plates (105), (105) are finely adjusted, when the side regulating plates (105), (105) are retracted outward during storage, both sides of the stored paper are The sloped surface (106a) engages with the regulating surface (106b), (106b).

<106a) There is no possibility that the trailing edge of the sheet will return to the side of <106a), that is, the trailing edge of the sheet will block 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.

(Structure and operation of paper refeeding unit) When a paper refeeding signal is issued for the first side copied paper that has been fully accommodated in the intermediate storage unit (90), the paper refeed unit (160) detects the paper that has been fully accommodated 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 (1oo) that also serves as a paper placement surface of the intermediate storage section (9o), a paper refeed roller (161) and a separation roller that are intermittently rotationally driven by a clutch. (163), a separation pad (165) made of urethane rubber that presses against this separation roller (163), and a pair of registration rollers (165) that can be rotated intermittently by a clutch.
70) etc. The paper path to the paper refeed path (30) is connected to the guide surface (91b) of the guide frame (91).
> 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 rotatable in the direction of arrow (i) about a support shaft (92) in order to open a 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. The reason why this can be prevented is as follows.

The frictional force (μm) between the separation roller (163) and the paper is set to be larger than the frictional force (μ2) between the sheets.

Also, the frictional force (μ
3) is set larger than the frictional force (μ2) between the sheets, but is set 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 fact that 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 pressing member (120) is fully driven and presses the upper end of the paper (
(See Figure 12a). After a short period of time has passed from this pressing timing, the paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163
) is completely rotated in the direction of arrow (h), and the paper refeed roller (1
61) to feed the paper upwards (No. 12b)
(see figure). 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) can be completely conveyed to the pair of registration rollers (170).

When the leading edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SE3) and a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the pair of registration rollers (170) can be rotated. 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 holding member (12
0) retreats to the rear when the leading edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SE3), and as a result, the separation roller (163)
The paper remaining in the nip portion of the separation pad (165) falls and is returned to the original storage position (see Figure 12d).

After the registration roller pair (170) is driven to rotate at the above-mentioned timing, the paper is conveyed upward by the conveying force from the registration roller pair (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 (16
1) 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)
, (163) has a one-way bearing interposed between it and the drive shaft, so that it rotates as the paper is conveyed.

In order to feed the second and subsequent sheets of paper, the leading edge of the paper being re-fed is first detected by the sensor (SE3), and then a predetermined length (margin length) is added to the length of the paper. After the time has elapsed for the sheet to be conveyed by the same length, the pressing member (120) is driven again and presses the leading edge of the sheet.Next, the trailing edge of the sheet that is being re-fed is detected by the sensor (SE3). Then, the paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163) are rotated again, and the same operation as for the first sheet of paper described above 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. 19.

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).
Communication with U (310) is possible. Counter (30
1) is used to control the movement of the lower end regulating plate (140), and is connected to the guard motor (H2) from the sensor (SBR).
) rotation pulse count signal can be input.

In addition, each input port has sensors (SEI) to (SE7
) is input the on/off signal. Sensor (SEI
) to (SE4) generate an off signal when the light is blocked by their respective actuators and no paper is detected, and switch to an on signal when paper is detected. Sensor (SE5
) to (SE7) emit an on signal when the light is shielded by the respective detection object, and switch to an off signal when the light shielding is released.

On the other hand, each output boat outputs on/off signals to 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 holding 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
13) cuts off the transmission of driving force to the registration roller pair (170) when turned on.

[Control Procedure] Next, the control procedure of the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) that can be executed by the CPU (300) will be described in FIGS. 20 to 37.
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. 20 shows the main routine of the CPU (300).

When the CPU (300) is reset and the program starts, in step (Sl), the random access memory (303) is cleared, registers <302), etc. are initialized, and initial settings are made to put each device into the initial mode. 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 transmitted. Once it is confirmed that the receipt has been received,
In step (S4), a system speed conversion subroutine is processed. In this step (S4), the system speed (paper conveyance speed) of the copying machine main body (1) that was successfully communicated with in step (S2) 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 to be described later.

Next, in step (S6), it is determined whether the jam flag is "0". As will be explained below, the jam flag is set to rl when a paper jam occurs in the unit (40) [see step (5346)].

Therefore, if it is set to "1.", step immediately (
510), and if it is reset to "0", each subroutine of steps (S7) to (510) is sequentially called, and when the processing of all subroutines is completed, the internal timer is set in step (511). Wait for the end and return to step (S5).

On the other hand, when an interrupt request is received from the CPU (310> of the copying machine main body (1)), an interrupt process is executed based on the contents of the communication in step (515).
), the lower end regulating plate (140) is stopped in step (518).

This stopping process will be described later.

FIG. 21 shows a subroutine for system speed conversion processed in step (S5) of the main routine.

Here, the system speed of the copying machine main body in which the book storage and refeeding unit (40) is installed varies, and the paper conveyance speed of the unit (40>) is also adjusted to match the system speed. (Conversion is performed in order to synchronize the control timing at 40> with the paper conveyance speed.

Specifically, in step (S2Q), the system speed value (A) of the main body is set, and in step (521), the CP
Set the internal timer value (B) of tJ (300) 0 Next, in step (522) calculate A/B, and in step (523) store this value in memory (D 5peed )
Store as .

For example, if the internal timer value (B) is constant at 1 m5ec, the main system speed value (A) is 100 mm/
see, (D 5peed) is 0.1mm/
m5ec, and the paper becomes 0. with one count of the internal timer.
It will move 1mm.

Here, the process of setting the timer of each subroutine using the above (D 5peed) as a reference will be explained based on FIG. 22. The processing here is executed for all timer sets in each subroutine.

First, in step (530)), assign the timer address to the L register.The timer address means the address on the memory that stores the timer value set here. In step (S32), the value of the BC register is divided by the above (D 5peed ), and this value is assigned to the EA register. That is, when the length to be changed is 100 mm (D 5
If peed ) is 0.1mm/m5ec mentioned above,
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 at the address indicated by the HLC register.

(Control when storing paper) FIG. 23 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 duplex 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 consists of steps (540) to (543), and in step (540), the standby, copy start, and end states are controlled according to the count value of the accommodation state counter. Step (5
In step 42), the operation of the presser member (120) is controlled, and in step (543), the side regulation plate (1os),
(tos). In addition, the switching claw foot roll of step (541) and step (54
Details of each subroutine of the side regulating plate foot roll in 3) will be omitted.

FIG. 24 shows the containment state control subroutine processed in step (540>).

First, in step (550), the count value of the accommodated state counter is checked. The containment state counter is reset to “0” by default, and if it is “0”,
Whether or not the sensor (SE4) is off in step (551);
That is, it is determined whether or not there is any paper left in the intermediate storage section (90). If the sensor (SE4) is off and there is no paper left, the regulation plate (105),
Return (105) and (140) to their home positions,
In step (553), the paper presence flag is reset to "0.", and the process moves to step (555).Sensor (SE4>
is on and there is paper left, the paper presence flag is set to "1" in step (554), and in step (555)
Move to. In step (555), the accommodation state counter is set to "1".

In step <556), the accommodated state counter is “1”
If it is determined that the
) to determine whether the print switch is on-edge.

The on signal of the print switch is communicated from the main body CPU (310) to the CPU (300) by interrupt processing. If the print switch is on edge, step (55g
), it is determined whether the floppy mode being executed at that time is the duplex mode or the composite mode, and if it is not either mode, the paper is not stored, and the process proceeds to step (561).
Move to. If either duplex mode or composite mode is to be executed, check that the paper presence flag is reset to I″0″ in step (559), and then
At step (560), regulation plate (105), (105)
, (140) to a position corresponding to the paper size, and the process moves to step (561). Step (561'
) sets the accommodation state counter to "2".

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

FIG. 25 shows the regulation plates (105), (105), and (140) that can be processed in step (552) at their initial positions (
The subroutine for returning to the home position) is shown below.

Here, in step (570), the side regulation plate (105
).

(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), (
The process ends when it is confirmed that all of 140) have returned to their initial positions.

Step (571) of returning the lower end regulating plate (140)
The processing will be explained in detail in FIG. 26 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. 26.

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 <SSO>, the home set flag is set to "0".
In step (581), it is determined whether the first home check flag is "0" or not. The home set flag is set to rl when the lower end regulating plate (140) is finally set to the home position, and the first home check flag is set to rl when the lower end regulating plate (140) is finally moved to the home position. 1”.In both steps (580) and (581), Y is set.
If it is determined to be ES, the sensor (S
E7) 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) ) sets the first home check flag to rl.

Next, if it is determined in step (581) that the first home check flag is "1", step (
58g), it is determined whether the positioning completion flag is rl. This positioning completion flag is set to "1" when the lower end regulating plate (140) is lowered by a predetermined amount from the home position by the interrupt processing described below [Step (
5135) Reference. Therefore, if this flag is set to "1", it is confirmed in step (589) that the home position sensor (SE7') is not on-edge, and the half speed request flag is set to rl 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,
The motor (M2) is stopped in step (590). At the same time, the home set flag is set to 1 in step (591").
1" to prohibit execution of the subroutine in step (571), step (592) to reset the half speed request flag to "1'0", and step (593) to set the first home check flag to "0".
Reset to .

FIG. 27 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 required travel distance is determined by the motor (
Divide by the pulse pitch of Ml) and (M2) to find the count value corresponding to the moving distance. Next, step (Sl
ot) to move the side regulation plates (105) and (105) to the regulation position corresponding to the paper size, and then step (51)
02), the lower edge 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. 28 and 29 below.

A detailed explanation of the process for moving the side regulating plates (105) and (105) will be omitted, but it is basically the same as the process shown in FIGS. 28 and 29.

The process of moving the lower end regulating plate (140) is performed in step (5110) as shown in FIG.
) is substituted into 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. 29, 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) the value of the B register is set in 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. 30 shows a subroutine for controlling the speed of the lower end regulating plate, which is executed in step (S9) of the main routine.

Here, when the half-speed request flag is fully set to rl, 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" or not, and if it is reset to '0', the subroutine is immediately terminated.

If it is set to "1", check the speed state counter's current value a in step (5131) and set it to "0".
°', it is determined in step (5132) whether the current moving direction is downward, and if it is downward, step (S13) is performed.
3) drives the motor (M2) in the downward direction and steps (
5135). If the moving direction is upward, the motor (M2) is driven in the upward direction in step (5134), and the process moves to step (5135).Step (513)
In 5), the speed state counter is set 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 O''.

Immediately, if the half speed request flag is set to 1", steps (5131) to (5137)
) Each time the process of ) 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. Substantially, the rotational speed of the motor (M2) is halved.

Here, the subroutine of step (51g) 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
CPTO) or (ECPTI) [Step (5121
), (5122) Can be executed when the value matches the reference value.

Specifically, in step (5140) the sensor (SE8)
It is determined whether the pulse count value matches the register (ECPTO>), and if it matches, the step (5141
) to stop the motor (M2) and step (5142)
Set the half speed request flag to "1."

On the other hand, the pulse count value is -
If not, that is, if it matches the register (ECPrl), 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). cent to ``rl''.

FIGS. 32a and 32b show a subroutine for holding down the holding 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 the pressing member
display decisions to control the behavior of the

First, in step (5150), it is determined whether the count value of the holding state counter is "0" or not. If it has been reset to "0", in step (5151), the copying machine main body (1) is in the copying operation. If copying is in progress, it is determined in step (5152) whether or not the storage mode is for double-sided/composite copying.If the storage mode is not such, this subroutine is immediately terminated. If it is in the accommodation mode, the state counter's current state is checked in step (5153).

When the cursor position is "0", it is confirmed in step (5154) that the main motor (M3) is being driven, and the pressing member (120) is reset to the home position in step (5155). ) sets the main motor drive request flag to "1". When this main motor drive request flag is set to 11'', the main motor (M3) continues to be driven.

Next, in step (5157) it is determined whether or not the reset of the holding member (120) has been completed, and if it has been completed, the accommodation holding state counter is set to "
Set to 1″.

Note that the pressing member (
120) is reset by turning on the solenoid (SL3). Therefore, even if the arm (12
1) and the roller (195) are disengaged,
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 or not. That is, the reset of the holding member (120) executed in the step (5155) has been completed. Check whether it has been executed reliably by turning on and off the sensor (SE5).

If the sensor (SE5) is turned on and the reset is confirmed, the accommodation press state counter is set to "2" in step (5160).

If the count value of the state counter 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 part of the sensor (SE2). Determine whether Sensor (SE2)
If it is an off-edge, the close delay timer is set in step (5162), and the accommodation hold 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 count value of the state counter is '3', the end of the close delay timer is confirmed in step (5164), and the presser member (120) is pressed in step (5165).
) to drive. The -C1 pressing member (120) presses the rear end of the fully accommodated sheet, and the sheet is temporarily stopped in this state. Next, in step (5166), it is determined whether or not turning on and off of the solenoid (SL3) for performing this drive has been completed, and if it has been completed, the holding member jam timer 1 is set in step (5167). , step (51
In step 68), the accommodation hold state counter is set to "4". Jam timer 1 here is the holding member (120)
Detects that a paper jam or jam has occurred at the entrance of the intermediate storage section (90) when the solenoid (SL3) for driving has been turned on and off but no pressing operation is actually performed. used to.

If the count value of the state counter is 4°, it is determined in step (5169) whether the sensor (SE5) is off. That is, whether or not the pressing member (120) was reliably driven in step (9165) is checked by turning on and off the sensor (SE5).

The sensor (SE5) is 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 value is a5", confirm the end of the oven delay timer in step (5173), and then press the holding member (in step (5174)).
120). With this, the holding member (120)
is retracted from the paper pressing position. Next, step (517
5), it is determined whether or not this driving is completed, and if it is completed, the holding 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 is used to detect that a paper jam has occurred in this portion when the holding member (120) has been driven but has not actually retreated to the home position.

If the state counter is "6", the sensor (SE5) is turned on in step (5178), and if it is confirmed that the holding member (120) is 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 copying operation has ended, and if it has not ended, in step (5183) the accommodation presser state counter is set to 2.
”. When the copy operation is completed, step (5) is set.
At step 181), the main motor drive request-y lag is reset to 10'', and at step (5182), the accommodation holding state counter is reset to 0''.

(Control during paper refeeding) FIG. 33 shows a subroutine for paper refeeding control that can be processed in step (s8) of the main routine.

Here, based on the paper refeed signal, the paper refeed roller (16
1) , registration roller pair (170) , holding member <
120), etc., and transfers the first side folded sheets stored in the intermediate storage section (9o) one by one to the copying machine main body (
1) Execute the sending process.

This subroutine includes steps (5200) to (5202).
) consists of each subroutine, and 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. 34 shows a subroutine for paper refeed state control that can be processed in step (5200).

First, in step (5210), the paper refeed state counter is checked for the current state. This state counter is initially reset to "O", and if it is "0", it is determined in step (5211) whether or not the paper presence flag is rIJ. If the paper presence flag is set to "1", 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 fully set to “1”, step (5214)
Determine whether the print switch is on-edge or not. If it is on-edge, the paper refeed mode flag is set to "11" in step (5215), and the paper refeed state counter is set to "2" in step (5216).This paper refeed mode flag is set to "11". , it indicates that paper refeeding is in progress.

If the determination in both steps (5210) and (5213) is negative, 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 (S21
g) to reset the paper refeed mode flag to rO'', and step (5219) to 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. 25 and 26).

Figures 35a and 35b show the step (5201')
The subroutine of the paper refeed clutch lift roll executed in is shown below.

Here, the following processing is executed according to the count value of the clutch state counter. This state counter displays the judgment for controlling the paper refeed roller (161), separation roller (163), and clutches (CLI) and (Cl3) of the registration roller pair (170) according to the paper refeed state. do.

First, in step (5240), the paper refeed mode flag is set to r.
The following steps are executed only when the flag is set to '1'. That is, step (524
1) Check the count value of the clutch state counter. If the count value is “0゛′, step (5
242), it is determined whether the transport permission signal is "1" or not. This conveyance permission signal indicates that the re-fed paper is
) is a signal to stop refeeding of paper intermittently because the registration is completed by the timing roller pair (23) in ).When set to "rl", paper refeeding is permitted, and when set to "0" Prohibits refeeding when reset to . This signal is transmitted to the CP of the copying machine main body (1) in the cutting process.
It is communicated from U (310) to CPU (300).

Therefore, if the transport permission signal is set to "1", an interval timer is set in step (5243), and a clutch state counter is set to "1" in step (5244).This interval timer registers the paper. This is for determining the timing of feeding from the roller pair (170).

If the current value of the state counter is “1°”, then
In step (5245), it is determined whether the transport permission signal is 11'', and if it has been set to rl, step (524
6) to continue counting the interval timer and set it to ``0''.
”, the timer is temporarily stopped from counting in step (5247).

Next, in step (5248), it is determined whether the pressing member oven flag is "0" or not. This presser member oven flag is set and reset in the paper refeed presser member control subroutine described below.
When the presser member (120) is set to "1.", it is displayed that the presser member (120) is pressing the upper edge of the paper, and when it is set to "1.", it is displayed that it is retracted to the home position. , presser member oven flag is 10
-4 (if it is in the pressed state), the clutch (CLI), (CLI) is reset in step (5249).
, ) is turned on. Now, the paper refeed roller (161)
While the separation roller (163) can be rotated, the rotation of the registration roller pair (170) is stopped.

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

If the current value of the state counter is "2", it is determined in step (5252) whether the transport permission signal is "rl", and if it is set to "11", it is determined in step (5253).
) allows the interval timer and paper refeed jam timer to continue counting, and in step (5254) the paper refeed clutch (CLI) continues to be turned on. On the other hand, if the conveyance permission signal is reset to 10'', step (5255)
The count of the interval timer and paper refeed jam timer is temporarily stopped at step (5256), and the paper refeed clutch (CLI) is turned off at step (5256).

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'').
It is determined whether the detection point of 3) has been reached, and the sensor (SE
3) is 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). The registration timer is used to allow a slight loop to be formed at the leading end of the paper on the front side of the registration roller pair (170) and to prevent the paper from being skewed.

In addition, the unloading timer is used in combination with the sensor (SE3) to detect when a paper jam occurs 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 that.

If the current value of the state counter is "3", it is determined in step (5261) whether the transport permission signal is "11", and if it is set in rIJ, it is determined in step (5262).
) 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 is reset to "O", the count of the interval timer, registration timer, and detection jam timer is temporarily stopped in step (5264), and the sheet refeeding 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 registered by the pair of registration rollers (170), forming a slight loop and waiting. Subsequently, in step (526B), the clutch state counter is set to "4".

If the current count of the state counter is "4", the transport permission signal is set to 11 in step (5269). If it is set to "1", step (5270
) to continue counting the interval timer and unloading jam timer, and if it is 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 (CL2) is turned off, the registration roller pair (170
) starts rotating, and when the clutch (CLI) is turned on, the paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163) start rotating.

As a result, the paper is 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 turn the steering knob (52
76), the clutch state counter is set to 5''.Here, the holding member oven flag is rl, which is used to instruct the process of retracting the holding member (120) from the pressing position to the home position when it is fully set. In addition, the unloading assist timer is activated after the paper is re-feeded reliably by the paper re-feed roller (161) and the separation roller (
163) to obtain the timing to stop the rotation.

If the current value of the state counter is "5", it is determined in step <5277 whether the transport permission signal is r I J or not, and if it has been set to "rl", step (52
In step 7B), the count of the carry-out jam timer and the carry-out assist timer is continued, and in step (5279), the paper refeed clutch (CLI) is continued to be turned on and the registration clutch (CL2) is continued to be turned off. On the other hand, if the conveyance permission signal is reset to "rO", the count of the unloading jam timer and unloading assist timer is temporarily stopped in step (5280), and the paper refeeding club 7ch (CL) is reset in step <5281>.
I) is turned off, and the resist clutch (CL2) is turned on.

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) has 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 rl, and if it is set to '1', it is determined in step (5286).
) to allow the unloading jam timer to continue counting, and step (5287) to continue turning off the resist clutch (CL2). If the conveyance permission signal is reset to "0", the count of the conveyance jam timer is temporarily stopped in step (528g), and the registration clutch (CL, ) is turned on in step (5289), and paper conveyance is temporarily stopped. let

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).

Figures 36a and 36b show the subroutine of the paper refeed presser member foot roll 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 32nd
The same control as the subroutine of the housing and pressing member foot roll in step (542) shown in FIG. 32A and FIG. 32B is performed.

First, in step (5300), the paper refeed mode flag is set to r.
1, and if it is reset to ``r□'', this subroutine is immediately terminated, and if it is set to ``1'', the current state counter is checked in step (5301). do.

When the count value is sOII, step (5302)
After confirming that the main motor (M3) is being driven in step (5303), the holding member (120) is reset to the home position. Next, step (5)
304), set the presser member oven request flag to r□
, and in step (5305) 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 hold state counter is set to "1" in step (5306).

If the current 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 (5307)
If the reset process in step 04) has been reliably executed, the pressing member oven flag is set to "1" in step (5308). Subsequently, in step (5309), the paper refeed holding state counter is set to "2".

If the current value of the state counter is “2°”,
In step (5310), the copy request flag is set to rl.
, determine whether or not. This copy request flag is set to "1" when a paper refeed signal is communicated from the CPU (310) of the copying machine main body (1) to the CPU (300). Therefore, if the copy request flag is set to "1", in step (5311) the push nine member (1
20). With this, the presser member (120) presses the leading edge of the paper in the intermediate storage section (90) and is temporarily stopped in this state. If it is completed, in step (5313), the paper refeeding state counter is set to “
Set to 3”.

If the current value of the state counter is “3′”,
In step (5314), it is determined 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 (SEA).

The sensor (SE5) is turned off and the holding member (12
When it is confirmed that the drive of 0) is reliable, the pressing member oven flag is reset to "rO" in step (5315), and the paper refeed pressing state counter is set to "4pa" in step (5316).

If the state counter's state counter is 4", it is determined in step (5317) whether the holding member oven request flag is rl. If it is set to '1', this flag is set in step (5318). After resetting to r□, the holding member (120) is driven in step (5319). With this, press member (120
) retreats from the paper pressing position.

Here, the paper pressing member (120) is released when the pressing member (120) is in the pressing position when the registration roller pair (170) carries out the paper from the intermediate storage section (90). 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. Next, in step (5320) it is determined whether or not this driving has been completed. If it has been completed, the refeeding press 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 holding member (120) is retracted, the press is turned on in step (5323). Set the heating member oven flag to rl. Next, step (532
In step 4), the presser 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 rotationally driven to refeed the next paper.

If the current value of the state counter is "6", it is determined in step (5326) whether the conveyance permission signal (which appeared in the paper refeeding clutch control subroutine) is "1." If this signal is "11." If set to "0", the presser member driving delay timer continues counting in step (5327), and if reset to "0", counting of the delay timer is temporarily stopped in step (5328). Next, step (5329)
When the end of the delay timer is confirmed in step (
5330), the paper refeed state counter is set to "2" and the above process is repeated.

FIG. 37 shows the jam detection/processing subroutine that can be executed in step (510) of the main routine. The printer will warn you and instruct you to remove the paper.

First, in step (5340) 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 is already set to "1", immediately step (5347
). rO'', the presence or absence of a paper jam at each location is determined in steps (5341) to (5344). That is, step (5341).

In (5342), there is a paper jam near the entrance when storing paper [see steps (5167) and (5176)],
In steps (5343) and (5344), there is a 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).

Kirani, set the jam flag to 11 at step (5346).”
, and a jam processing subroutine is executed in step (S347). Here, the operator waits for the jammed paper to be removed by the operator, and when it is removed, the jam signal is reset and the jam flag is reset to 10''.

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. .

[Margin below] [Other Embodiments] Note that the paper storage device according to the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be variously modified within the scope of the gist.

In particular, in the above embodiments, a device with a paper refeeding function was shown, but it is also possible to use a storage device with a function of binding a stack of stored sheets with a stapler or a stapler, or a storage device with only a function of storing sheets in a stacked manner. There may be.

Further, the storage state of the paper may be in a substantially horizontal state instead of a substantially vertical state.

Effects of the Invention As is clear from the above description, according to the present invention, the paper side edge regulating member attached to the side regulating member is used to prevent the rear end of the stored paper in the storage direction from closing the entrance of the paper storage section. A pressing member is provided that can press the rear end of the stored paper in the storage direction against the paper placement surface, and presses the paper as it is stored one by one in the storage section. The member presses the trailing edge of the paper, and as a result, the side edge of the paper prevents the side edge regulating member from retreating from the entrance and moves toward the paper placement surface, so that the paper is not pressed by the presser member. The side edge of the paper that has been moved to the paper placement surface side is reliably prevented from closing the entrance of the storage section by the side edge regulating member that has returned to the regulating position. Therefore, paper jams during paper storage and irregular page alignment of the paper sheets can be prevented.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

The drawings show an embodiment in which the paper storage device according to the present invention is applied as a paper storage and refeeding device. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram including the main body of the copying machine, and FIG. 2 is an internal configuration of the paper storage and refeeding unit. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the holding member, Fig. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the side stopper, Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the holding member and guide frame, and Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing the drive mechanism of the holding member. It is a diagram. 7, 8, and 9 are horizontal sectional views of the paper guide portion of the lower unit, and FIG. 10 is a front view of the paper guide member of the lower unit. Figure 11a, Figure 11b, 1st
Figure 1c is an explanatory diagram of the operation when storing paper, Figure 12a,
Figure b, Figure 12c, and Figure 12d are explanatory diagrams of the operation at the time of paper refeeding. Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view showing the drive mechanism of the lower end regulating plate, Fig. 14a, Fig. 14b, Fig. 14c, Fig. 14d.
The figures are a plan view, a front view, a left side view, and a right side view of the guard 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. FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the paper storage and refeeding unit. Figure 20, 2nd
Figure 1, Figure 22, Figure 23, Figure 24, Figure 25, Figure 2
Figure 6, Figure 27, Figure 28, Figure 29, Figure 30, Figure 3
Figure 1, Figure 32a, Figure 32b, Figure 33, Figure 34,
35a, 35b, 36a, 36b, and 37 are flowcharts showing control procedures, respectively. (1)...Copying machine main body, (40)...Paper refeeding unit, (60)...Paper feeding switching section, (90)...
Intermediate storage section, (91)... Guide frame, (100
)...Base plate (X mounting surface), (105)
...Side regulation plate, (106)...Side stopper (paper side edge regulation member), (110)...Retention plate, <120
)... Press round member, (160)... Paper refeeding section, (1
61)... Paper refeed roller, (300)... Microcomputer, (SL3)... Solenoid.

Claims (1)

[Scope of Claims] 1. A paper accommodating device for accommodating sheets ejected from an image forming apparatus main body in a stacked manner in the paper thickness direction, comprising: a accommodating section having a paper placement surface for accommodating the sheets; a conveyance means for feeding the paper into the storage section; a side regulation member for regulating both sides of the paper fed into the storage section; and a side regulation member attached to the side regulation member so that the rear end of the accommodated paper in the storage direction passes through the paper entrance section. a paper side edge regulating member that is always set at a position that prevents the paper from being blocked and is retractable in the direction of the paper placement surface of the storage section from this regulation position; and a rear end in the storage direction of the paper stored in the storage section. Each time a sheet of paper is stored in the storage section, the side edge of the stored sheet retracts the paper side edge regulating member and presses the sheet against the paper placement surface. A paper storage device comprising: control means for moving the pressing member in the direction of the paper placement surface so as to move it toward the paper placement surface.