JPH0266059A - Paper housing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To early detect a jam of paper in the periphery of a paper retaining member by providing a decision means for deciding a paper accommodation condition by comparing each output of the first detecting means for detecting the paper for its conveying condition and setting the drive timing of the paper retaining member and of the second detecting means for detecting a position of the paper retaining member. CONSTITUTION:Transverse paper is fed into an accommodating part by a conveying means, and a retaining member 120 moves in a direction of a paper loading surface 100 in every accommodation of one sheet, pressing the accommodated paper in its accommodation direction rear end part and restricting the rear end part of the paper. While a device detects a conveying condition of the paper by the first detecting means SE2 and a position of the retaining member 120 by the second detecting means. And being based on comparing outputs of the two detecting means, the device, for instance, decides a paper jam to be generated in the periphery of the retaining member 120 unless it operates by the normal timing after the paper is normally conveyed.

Description

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

Conventional technology and its problems In general, in 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 regular checking device.

For example, Japanese Patent Publication No. Sho 62-19328 discloses that a pressing plate is provided which presses the tip of the paper each time the paper is stored. However, in this device, no measures are taken for the rear end portion of the paper in the storage direction. In addition, if a paper jam occurs around this type of presser plate, if the presser plate does not work for some reason, or if the paper is curled so much that the presser plate does not work effectively, you can correct these conditions. It cannot be detected early. In particular, if a paper jam is not detected early, the paper will be fed in one after the other, resulting in a large loss of paper, and an abnormal load will be applied to the presser plate, which may cause damage to the drive mechanism.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a paper storage device capable of early detecting a paper jam around a paper holding member in a storage unit or an abnormal state of the holding member itself.

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 reciprocating drive between a conveying means for feeding the paper and (c) a position near the sheet #CC field surface and facing the paper fa placement surface with the conveying means sandwiched in the storage section, so that the sheets are delivered one by one. (d) a holding member that presses the rear end of the paper stored in the storage unit in the storage direction each time the paper is fully stored in the storage unit; (e) a second detection means for detecting the position of the presser member; and (f) comparing the outputs of the first and second detection means to determine the state of paper storage in the storage unit. The present invention is characterized by comprising a determining means for determining.

In the configuration of m-months or more, the paper is fed into the storage section by the conveying means, and each time a sheet is stored, the pressing member moves in the direction of the paper placement surface and presses the rear end in the storage direction of the paper that has been completely stored. and regulates the trailing edge of the paper. On the other hand, the conveyance state of the sheet is detected by the first detection means, and the position of the presser member is detected by the second detection means. Based on a comparison of the outputs of the two detection means, for example, if the holding member does not operate at the normal timing after the paper has been conveyed normally, it is determined that a paper jam has occurred around the holding member.

[Margin below] 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 driven to rotate in the direction of arrow (a), and first, a constant charge is applied by the charger (11), and the optical system (12) moves in the direction of arrow (b). By scanning in the direction, the image of the original set on the original platen 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)
>, the residual charge is erased and prepared for the next copying operation.

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

On the other hand, below the photoreceptor drum (10), there is a paper refeed path (30) for conveying the paper that has been re-fed from the storage and re-feed unit (40), which will be described in detail below, to the timing roller pair (23). ) has been 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 sheet storage and refeeding unit] (Basic configuration) As shown in FIG. 2, this sheet storage and refeeding unit (40) includes an upper unit (
50) and a lower unit (130) having a paper storage function.
It is made up of. The upper unit (50) is connected to the U of the hook (2) 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 divided into upper and lower units) (so>, (130)) and can be attached and detached independently to the main body side, making it easy to attach and detach, and also to prevent malfunctions. or when replacing parts, either one of the units (so>,
All you have to do is remove (130).
This is to maintain stability even when removed and placed on the floor, and to prevent it from falling over.

In addition, the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) includes a paper ejection tray (
80) or a sorter (200) can be selectively installed. FIG. 2 shows a state in which a paper discharge tray (80) is installed, and FIG. 1 shows a state in which a sorter (200) is installed. The sorter (200) has a well-known structure and function, and it can handle 20 bins (21
0). In addition, this sorter (200
), the top bin position has a paper output tray (
80) can be installed and function as a tray during non-sorting and a first bin 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 that has been fully accommodated 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 passing switching claw <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 conveyed from the left side in Figure 2 to pass to the right, but the paper conveyed from the right side is guided to the circular arc surface (70c) of the switching claw (70). It has the function of

The switching pawl (70) is rotatably mounted around the support shaft (71), and can be switched between the solid line position and the dashed-dot line position in FIG. 2 by turning on and off the solenoid. Another switching claw (73) is located on the top surface (73) for guiding the paper.
a) It has an arcuate surface (73b), 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 it is off, it is possible to switch to forward and reverse rotation via a clutch means (not shown). Further, the guide plate (79>) is rotatable in the direction of arrow (c) about 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 installed, the paper output tray (80) and support plate (82) can be 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 (7g),
A pair of conveyance rollers (76) in the conveyance path formed by (79)
Directly below are actuators (as) and (66
) with a photo sensor (SEL>, (SE2)) is installed and detects the passing paper.In addition, the switching claw (7
A static elimination brush (69) is installed directly above the unit (40) to eliminate static electricity from the paper that can be completely 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 connected,
The paper sent out from the pair of ejection rollers (26) of the copying machine main body (1) to the paper feed switching section (60) passes through the guide plate (62).
, the top surface (70a) of the switching claw (70), the switching claw (70)
3) While being guided by 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 completely removed, and the paper is directly ejected from the ejection roller pair (75) onto the paper ejection tray (80).

When the paper copied on the first side is ejected from the copying machine main body (1) in 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). While being guided by the circular arc surface (70b) of (70), the transport roller pair (76)
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) is fully set to 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 period of time after the trailing edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SEI), 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 discharge rollers (75). The end has a pair of ejection rollers (75
) will stop when it is fully clamped. Ejection roller pair (75)
When the normal rotation of the paper is stopped, if the sorter (200) is installed, the leading edge of the paper is the circular arc surface (73b) of the switching claw (73), the trailing edge regulating plate (89), and the guide plate (79).
), the guide surface (95a) of the guide frame (95), the guide surface (97a) of the guide frame (97), and the sorter (200).
) is guided by the side surfaces (201) and (202), and is located in the gap formed by these members. Sorter (ZO
The side surfaces (201) and (202) of O) are formed with ribs (201a) and (202a) as shown in FIG.
Paper can be guided smoothly and is not torn. Furthermore, 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 paper whose rear end is completely caught by the pair of ejection rollers (75) is completely conveyed to the left with the rear end leading, that is, it is switched back. , the film (72), the circular arc surface (70) of the switching claw (70)
c) while being guided by the transport roller pair (76>) and sent into 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) allows it to be mounted rotatably, and is connected to the end of the support shaft (71) via a plunger (182) of a solenoid (SLI) (183).

The solenoid (SLI) is fixed to a front frame (not shown) via a bracket (184). When the solenoid (SLI) is turned off, the switching pawl (70) is fully biased by the torsion fill spring (185) fully wound around the support shaft (71) and is held at the solid line position in Fig. 2. There is. When the solenoid (SLI) is turned on, it rotates in the direction of arrow (p) and is set to the position indicated by the dashed line in FIG.

On the other hand, the other switching claw (73) can be 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 (SL2) is inserted through the lever (187). (18g). The solenoid (SL2) is fixed to a front frame (not shown) via a bracket (189).

When the solenoid (SL2) is turned off, the switching pawl (73) is biased by the torsion fill spring (190) wound around the lever shaft (187a), and moves to the position indicated by the dashed line in FIG. It has been retained. When the solenoid (SL2) 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 prevented from moving in the axial direction by fitting an elastic spacer (191) to the support shaft (74). Therefore, in order to remove this switching claw (73), first pull out the spacer (191) from the spindle (74) in the direction of arrow (r) (downward), and then remove the switching claw (73).
) itself in the direction of arrow (s) (towards the back).

With this, the hole (74a) can be released 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). The above-mentioned structure can be installed by performing the above steps in reverse, making it possible to easily attach and detach the switching pawl (73) 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), the protruding piece (82b) at the other end is engaged with the opening (53a) of the rear frame (53) (7), and the notch (82c) of the protruding piece (82b) is opened (53a). frame (52), (53) by engaging with the lower edge of the frame (52), (53).
installed between. Further, the rear end regulating plate (89) is fully screwed between the frames (52) and (53). The paper output tray (80) has its lower end surface (80a) connected to the support plate (80).
2) Place the projecting piece (82b) on top.

(82b) into the long hole (89a) of the rear end regulating plate (89), (
By engaging with 89a), the upper unit (50) can be positioned and installed. Note that a pair of ejection rollers (75) are provided in the notch (89b) formed in the rear end regulating plate (89).
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 1-(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 (120) capable of suppressing the rear end of the sheet in the storage direction
, a frame (131), a lower end regulating plate (140) that regulates the lower end of the fully housed paper, first guide members (151) and (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). Furthermore, a photosensor (SE4) having an actuator <159> is installed in the portion where the guide frames (97) and (98) are located, and this intermediate housing part (9
0) detects whether or not the paper is fully accommodated.

When the paper is stored in the intermediate storage section (90), the paper placement surface is formed by the base plate (100) and the holding plate (11).
0), 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 accommodation direction) of the paper that has been completely accommodated, and is
) of the geared motor (Ml) fully fixed to Boo 1 Bar 14
1> and a pulley (142) rotatably mounted on the frame (131,).
143), and is movable up and down along the inclined surface of the frame (131) based on the forward and reverse rotation of the geared motor (Ml), and is positioned at a height corresponding to the size of the paper to be accommodated. In this example, B5 size sideways A4
It is configured to pass paper horizontally and vertically, as well as vertically, B4 size and A3 size, with the center referenced. The position shown by the solid line in Figure 2 is the regulation position for horizontal passing of B5 size, which is the minimum size, and the lower end regulation plate (140) uses this position as the home position and adjusts the paper size by driving the motor (Ml). Move to the corresponding position.

The reason why the lower edge regulating plate (140> is moved in accordance with the paper size in this way is to keep the upper edge height of the stored paper constant in preparation for refeeding, and the upper edge height is
As shown in Figures 11c to 11c, the top edge of the paper is
161) is cut off.

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 completely fixed to the timing belt (143) via the 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). (14sb), an intermediate gear (14sb) fixed coaxially with the helical gear (148b)
148c), and a gear (148) rotatably supported on the pulley shaft (145) so as to mesh with the intermediate gear Q48c).
d). The rotational force of the motor body is transmitted to the output pulley (14) through each gear (148a) to (148d).
1). This geared motor (Ml) has a drive system consisting of a ohm gear (148a) and a helical gear (148b).
), the weight of the paper is reduced even when power is turned off to the geared motor (Ml) while a load is applied, that is, when the paper is placed on the lower end regulating plate (140). lower end regulating plate (140
) 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, it will correspond to the paper size from the time the paper feeding operation starts in the copying machine main body (1) until the trailing edge of the ejected paper passes the pair of storage rollers (116). It is said that it is possible to move to the restricted position. Therefore, there is no need to delay the paper feeding operation in order to move the lower end regulating plate (140> to a predetermined regulating position), and there is no reduction in copying efficiency.

The paddle wheel (117) is a rotating shaft with a plurality of flexible blades attached in the radial direction, and the paddle wheel (117) has an arrow (
d) can be rotationally driven in the direction, and the accommodation roller pair <116
) to the intermediate storage section (90). In addition, the tip of the paddle wheel (117) is maintained at a predetermined distance from the guide frame (98), so that when the number of sheets stored is small and the paper passing resistance is small, more conveying force is not applied to the paper than necessary. First, it prevents "wrinkles" etc. from occurring on the paper. Then, after a certain number of sheets or more have been stored, as the number of sheets stored increases, the pressure is applied more strongly, 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, and the paper passing resistance due to the paddle wheel (117) will be reduced. Disappear.

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 widened 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 lower end regulating plate (140) (7) S')
140b), (140b), is installed at a position that guides approximately the central portion of the paper, and is movable in the thickness direction of the entire housed paper.

These guide members (151), (152), (1
53) is made of a wire rod to reduce paper passing resistance and electrostatic absorption force, and the paper contained in the paper is secured to the lower edge regulating plate (140).
), it has the function of preventing paper from slipping off the paper, ensuring smooth storage, and preventing buckling of the paper. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, for B5 size horizontal paper, the lower 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. On the other hand, the second guide members (153) and (153) are in position (a) when no paper is accommodated, and the thickness corresponds to the amount of paper that can be accommodated. Sayori frame (98) and second guide member (1
53) is set so that the gap between the two is narrower. Then, as the paper is accommodated, it retreats outward. (b) The position indicates this retreat, and the paper (5) indicated by the - dotted chain line
1) and (51) indicate the state of curling on the front and back sides, respectively.

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

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

The paper holding member (120) has arms (121), (121) located on both sides, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5.
A presser plate (122) attached to the tip of this arm (121>, (121)), 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) is composed of an arm (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 the middle portion (125a),
This middle section (125a) regulates the stored paper and corrects its buckling. 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 guide frame (95) held through the intermediate storage section (90) rotates in the direction of arrow (j) about a support shaft (96) provided at one end, and rotates in the direction of arrow (j). can be opened, and the pressing member (120
) is also separated so that it can be retracted from the intermediate storage part (90). Additionally, a torsion fill spring (12) wound around the support shaft (124) is provided between the arm (121) and the guide frame (95).
6) is removed, and the presser member (120) is moved to the solid line position (home position) in FIG. 2 (=l).

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

In the OFF state, it is detected whether the pressing member (120) is retracted to the home position or driven to a position where it presses the trailing edge of the sheet.

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 transport system of the paper storage and refeeding unit (40), and the rotational force of this main motor is transmitted to a pulley (181) by a timing belt (180). v) It can be rotated in the direction. A ratchet wheel (18) is attached to the spindle (182).
3), the cam (1g4> is installed so that it can rotate integrally with the pulley (181) via a spring clutch (not shown).The ratchet wheel (ta3), the cam (18
A locking portion (183a) is provided on the outer peripheral surface of 4).

(183b), (184a), (184b) [In addition, (183b) is the 6th r5! [not shown in J]
is formed. On the other hand, the solenoid (SL3) is a lever (185) that can rotate around one end (185a) as a fulcrum.
, and when in the off state, the lever (185) moves in the direction of an arrow (
The claw portion (185b) rotates in the locking portion (183) direction.
a), (184a) or (183b), (184b)
ratchet wheel (183), cam (
184) is stopped. Then, press the holding member (1
The solenoid (SL3) is momentarily turned on only when driving the ratchet wheel (183),
The cam (184) rotates 180°.

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

The drive plates (187) and (18B) are biased in a direction to narrow the distance between them by a torsion coil spring (189) wound around the support shaft (186), and a drive plate (187) is provided at the tip of one of the drive plates (187). The bottle (190) and the end side of the other drive plate (188) are in pressure contact with each other. The driving plate (187) is a link (1) connected at both ends with a pin (190), (1')1)
92) to the peripheral portion of the cam (184). Also, the tip of the drive plate (18B) is attached to the slide bin (
193) 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 perpendicular to the axis of the slide pin (193). The slide pin (193) has a drive plate (1
8B) and the flange (
The compression coil spring (198) is completely installed between the 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).
121) on the back (121b) side.

In the above configuration, the locking portion (184) of the cam (184)
When a) is fully engaged with the claw part (185b) of the lever (185), the drive plates (187) and (18g) move in the direction of the arrow (
It can be set in the position rotated in the opposite direction to f). The pressing member (120) is biased in the direction opposite to the arrow (f) by the biasing force of the torsion fill spring (126), and the arm (120) is biased in the opposite direction to the arrow (f).
The back part (121b) of 1) is the roller (195), (19
5), which is the home position. The solenoid (SL3) is turned on and the lever (18
5) is released from the locking part (184a), the cam (184) rotates 180 degrees in the direction of arrow (V), and the drive plate (187) is forcibly rotated in the direction of arrow (f). The drive plate (188), which is connected by a torsion fill spring (189), also follows and rotates in the direction of the arrow (f>).At the same time, the back (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 (184b) of the cam (184).
It can be 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 pressing position and the home position when the solenoid (SL3) is turned on. However, during this time, the main motor must be able to rotate as a drive source.

By the way, in order to make the above operation possible, the drive plate (18
7) The spring force of the torsion coil spring (189) that applies a bonding force between There is. In addition, torsion coil springs (
The spring force of 189) also takes into consideration the drag force of the return torsion fill spring (1, 25), since the upper end of the paper is pressed by the presser member (120) during paper refeeding, which will be described in detail below. , it is necessary to be able to set the pressure so that the upper end of the paper is pressed against the paper refeeding roller (161) to the extent that it is possible to refeed the paper. 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 coil spring (189) is also increased, resulting in the pressing member (120) against the paper.
The pressing force of increases.

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

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

On the other hand, as explained in FIG. 5, the presser member (120) can rotate in the direction of the arrow (j>) together with the guide frame (95>) to open the intermediate storage section (90). , the back part (121b) of the arm (121) is connected to the roller (1
95), (195) and slide pin (193).
) and move it toward the drive plate (188) against the spring force of the compression coil spring (198). With this, arm (1
21) and the rollers (195), (195) are 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 once.

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

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

As shown in Fig. 3, the side regulating plates (105), (105) are movable in the paper width direction on the holding plate (110) and can be rotated in forward and reverse directions on the back side of the holding plate (110). It is disconnected from the 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) so that its position can be finely adjusted in the width direction of the paper. That is, the holding plate (110) has a slit (11) extending in the width direction of the paper for tightening the screw (112).
1) is formed, and the fixing position is finely adjusted in the width direction within the length range of this slit (111), and in conjunction with this, the positions of the side regulating plates (105), (105) are also finely adjusted. This adjustment is for correcting the deviation in the width direction between the first and second images formed on the paper, and is particularly effective in composite copying where images are formed twice on the same surface.

Next, the paper storage operation will be explained.

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

The paper passing direction is switched by the paper passing switching unit (60), and the paper conveyed downward from the pair of conveying rollers (76) is given a conveying force by the pair of storage rollers (116),
The intermediate storage part (90) is being neutralized by the static eliminating brush (99).
sent to. First, when the 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 carried into the intermediate storage section (90) while being guided by the separator (93) (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. Furthermore, a 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 FIGS. 11b and 11C).

At this time, the rear end of the paper rotates the separator (93) in the direction of arrow (a) 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 (eo) 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 (No. 11c). (see figure).

Incidentally, the timing at which the side regulation plates (105), (105) move to the paper both side regulation positions is set to be a minute time later than the timing at which the leading edge of the paper reaches the upper surface of the lower end regulation plate (140). In addition, the holding member (
120) presses the trailing edge of the paper (reaches the position indicated by the - dotted chain line).
05) is set after a minute time has elapsed from the timing at which 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), thereby achieving a good alignment state. In addition, the middle part (125a) of the arm (125) located in the center of the pressing member (120) is linked to the pressing operation and urges the paper toward the holding plate (110) every time the paper is fully accommodated. Corrects curvature and keeps paper smooth.

When the first sheet of paper is fully accommodated, the pusher 9 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 stored 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 a subsequent sheet from colliding with the trailing edge of a sheet that has already been stored, resulting in a paper jam, or from being fed between sheets that have already been stored, resulting in improper 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 (9o) in consideration of paper curl.

Further, in this embodiment, side stoppers (106), (106) having the same function as the separator (93) are provided on the side regulating plates (105), (1o5). As shown in FIG. 3, the side stoppers (106), (106) have an inclined surface (106a), a regulating surface (106b), and a projecting piece (106c), and include a side regulating plate (105),
The protruding piece (106c) is rotatably mounted on the notch formed in the upper part of the side regulating plate (105) using the pin (107) as a fulcrum, and is biased in the direction of the arrow (g>) by a spring (not shown). ) is positioned by coming into contact with it from the outside.

When storing the paper, the paper is held by the side stoppers (106), (106)
When the pressing member (120) rotates in the direction of arrow (f) and presses the rear end of the paper, the paper passes the inclined surface (106a). By pressing, the paper retreats in the opposite direction to the arrow (g), and the trailing edge of the paper passes over the side stoppers (106) and (IQ6) and moves toward the holding plate (110). As soon as the paper gets over it, it rotates in the direction of the arrow (g) by the spring force.
It returns and 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 widthwise 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 snot (111) is (n).
1), the length in the width direction (m) is set to satisfy the relationship m>(n+1>/2.Now, the holding plate (110) can be moved within the range of (1). , side regulating plates <105), Even if the positions of (105) are finely adjusted, when the side regulating plates (105), (105) are retracted outward during storage, both sides of the stored paper will not be regulated. The inclined surface (106a) engages with the surface (106b), (106b).

(106a), that is, there is no risk that the trailing edge of the paper will close the paper entrance.
93) and the side stopper (106) alone are sufficient. However, by using both in combination as in this embodiment, it is possible to accommodate sheets of various sizes and curls of various shapes more reliably.

(Configuration and operation of paper refeeding unit) The paper refeeding unit <160> receives a paper refeeding signal when the first side of the copied paper stored in the intermediate storage unit (90) is emitted. 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.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, there is a base plate (100) that also serves as a paper placement surface of the intermediate storage section (90), and a paper refeed roller (161) that is intermittently rotationally driven by a clutch.
and separation roller (163), this separation roller (163)
A separation pad (165) made of urethane rubber that is in pressure contact with the
170) etc. The paper path to the paper refeed path (30) is connected to the guide surface (91) of the guide frame (91).
b) and a guide plate (94), and a photosensor (SE3) having an actuator (179) is installed just in front of the pair of registration rollers (170).

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

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

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 to be 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 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 the copy signal for re-feeding the paper is transmitted, first, the presser member (120) is fully driven and presses the upper end of the paper (
(See Figure 12a). After a short period of time has passed from this pressing timing, the paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163
) is rotated in the direction of the arrow (h), and the paper refeed roller (1
61) to feed the paper upwards (No. 12b)
(see figure). 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 time has elapsed, the registration roller pair (170) is driven to rotate. Until the pair of registration rollers (170) is driven to rotate, the leading edge of the paper can contact the nip portion of the pair of registration rollers (170) and form a minute loop (12th
(see figure c).

For this reason, the upper part of the base plate (100) has a recess (
100a) is formed. In addition, a 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 pair of registration rollers (170) is driven to rotate at the above-mentioned timing, the paper is completely conveyed upward by the conveying force from the pair of registration rollers (170), and is completely guided by the guide surface (91b> and the guide plate (94)). , the paper is fed into the refeed path (30) of the copying machine main body (1).The 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 to press the leading edge of the sheet. Next, when the sensor (SE3) detects the trailing edge of the paper that is being re-fed, the re-feed roller (161) and separation roller (163) are driven to rotate again, and the first sheet of paper is The same action can be 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] Here, the control circuit of the sheet storage and refeeding unit (40) having the above configuration and operation will be explained 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) has been confirmed. Counter (3
01) is used to control the movement of the lower end regulating plate (140), and the guard motor (M
The rotation pulse count signal of 2) is input.

In addition, each input port has sensors (SEI) to (SE7).
You can input on and off signals from. Sensor (SEL
) 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 can output 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 suppression 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, step (Sl) clears the random access memory <303), initializes the register <302>, etc., and performs initial settings to set each device to the initial mode. Let's do it. Next, the steno knob (Sl) executes initial communication with the CPU (310) of the copying machine main body (1), and in step (S3>) receives communication data required for controlling the paper storage and refeeding unit (40). When it is confirmed that the system speed has been converted, a subroutine for converting system speed is processed in step (S4).In this step (S4), the step (
The system speed (paper conveyance speed) of the copying machine main body (1) that has been successfully communicated with S1 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 explained below, the jam flag is set to rl when a paper jam occurs in the unit (40). [See step (S346)].

Therefore, if "1." is set, immediately step <
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 communication content in step (515).
When there is an interrupt request from step 1), a process for stopping the lower end regulating plate (140) is executed 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 to synchronize the control timing in (40) with the paper conveyance speed.

Specifically, in step (520), the system speed value (A) of the main body is set, and in step (521), the CP
Set the internal timer value (B) of U (300). Next, in step (522) A/B is calculated, and in step (
523), this value is stored in memory as (D 5peed ).

For example, if the internal timer value (B) is constant at 1 m5ec, the main system speed value (A) is 100 mm/
sec, (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 with reference to (D 5peed ) will be explained based on FIG. 22. The processing here can be executed for all timer sets in each subroutine.

First, in step (530), the HLC register timer address is assigned. The timer address means the address in memory where the timer value set here is stored. next,
In step (531), the length to be changed is assigned to the BC register, and in step (532), the value of the BC register is
D 5peed) and assign this value to the EA register. That is, when the long awn to be changed is 100 mm (D 5pe
ed) is 0.1mm/m5ec as mentioned above, then EA
The content assigned to the register is 1000.

That is, here, when the internal timer counts 1000, it means that the paper has been conveyed 100+nm. 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 double-sided 7-sheet configuration control processed in step (S7) of the main routine.

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

This subroutine consists of steps (540) to (543), and in step (540), the standby, copy start, and end states are checked according to the count value of the accommodation state counter. In step (separate 2), the operation of the holding member (120) is controlled, and in step (543), the side regulating plate (105),
<105). Note that the switching claw control in step (541) and the switching claw control in step (543)
) The details of each subroutine of the side regulation plate control will be omitted.

FIG. 24 shows the accommodation state control subroutine that can be processed in step (540).

First, in step (550), the count value of the accommodated state counter is checked. The 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 are no sheets left in the intermediate storage section (90). If the sensor (SE4) is off and there is no paper remaining, the regulation plate (105),
Return (105) and (140) to their home positions,
In step (553), reset the paper cloth flag to "OJ" and proceed to step (555).Sensor (SE4)
is on and there is paper left, the paper cloth flag is set to rl in step (554), and step <555).
Move to. In step (555), the accommodation state counter is set to "1"'.

If it is determined in step (556) that the accommodation state counter is fully set to "1", step (557)
Determine whether the print switch is on-edge or not. The ON signal of the print switch can be communicated from the main body CPU (310) to the CPU (300) by interrupt processing. If the print switch is on edge, step (55g)
In step (561), it is determined whether the copy mode being executed at that time is the duplex mode or the composite mode. If either the duplex mode or the composite mode is to be executed, the paper cloth flag is set to r□ in step (559).

After confirming that the reset has been completed, proceed to step (5).
60) and the regulation plate (105), <105>, (140
) to the position corresponding to the paper size, and step (
561). In step (561), the accommodation state counter is set to 2''.

No in both steps (550) and (556)
If it is determined that the copying machine body (1
) is completed. The copy end signal can be 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 plate (105), (105), <140) that can be processed in step (552) set to the initial position (
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)
Allow the lower end regulating plate (140) to return to its initial position with
Regulation plate (105), (105) with Z block (572),
(140) ends when it is confirmed that all of them 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 (1,05) will be returned, although detailed explanation will be omitted, but the process is basically the same as the process shown in FIG.

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

First, in step (580) the home set flag is set to "O".
In step (581), it is determined whether the first home check flag is "0" or not. The home set flag is set to 11'' when the lower end regulating plate (140) is finally set to the home position, and the first home check flag is set to 11'' when the lower end regulating plate (140) is finally moved to the home position. rl, is set. Steps (580) and (581) are both Y
If it is determined to be ES, the sensor (S
E7) is on or not, that is, whether or not the lower end regulating plate (140) is located at the home position. If it is off, the motor (Ml) 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 (Ml) is stopped in step <583), and the motor (Ml) is stopped in step (583).
84), assign "40°' to the B register. 40° assigned to the B register is the count value of the rotation pulse detection sensor (SE8) of the motor (Ml). Next, in step (585), the lower end The control plate lowering process subroutine is executed, and the first home check flag is set to "rl" in step (586).

Next, if it is determined in step (581) that the first Baum check flag is 11'', step (581)
588), it is determined whether the positioning completion flag is "1." This positioning completion flag is set to rl when the lower end regulating plate (140) has descended by a predetermined amount from the home position by an interrupt process described below. [Step (
5135)]. Therefore, if this flag is set to IJ, in step (589) it is confirmed that the home position sensor (SE7) is not on-edge, and in step (594) the half speed request flag is set to 11. In step (595), the motor (Ml) is driven in the upward direction. This completes the lower end regulation plate (
140) moves toward the home position at a low second speed, and if it is determined in step (589) that the home position sensor (SE7) is on, the motor (Ml) At the same time, in step (591), set the home set flag to 11.
is set to prohibit the execution of the subroutine in step (571), the half speed request flag is reset to "r□" in step (592>), and step (59
3) reset the first home check flag to "O".

FIG. 27 shows a subroutine of the regulating plate movement process executed in step (560). Here, side regulation plates (105), (105), lower end regulation plate (140)
from the home position to the regulation position corresponding to the paper size.

First, in step <5ioo>, the amount of movement of each regulation plate <105>, (105), and (140) is calculated from the paper size. Specifically, the required travel distance is determined by the motor (
Ml>, divide by the pulse pitch of (Ml) to find the count value corresponding to the moving distance. Next, step (51
Step 01) moves the side regulation plates (105) and (105) to the regulation position corresponding to the paper size, and step <51
02), the lower end regulating plate (140) is moved to the regulating position corresponding to the paper size.

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

As shown in FIG. 28, the process of moving the lower end regulating plate (140) is performed in step (SILO) at step (5100).
) 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
In step (5121), the value of the B register is set in the register (ECPTI).

Next, in step (5122), the motor (Ml) 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 set to 1'', the moving speed of the lower end regulating plate (L40) is switched to the lower second speed. That is, step (51
30), the half speed request flag is set to 11. It is determined whether or not, and if it is reset to 0, the subroutine is terminated.

If the speed state counter is set to ``11'', check whether the speed state counter is on or off in step (5131) and set it to ``O''.
11, it is determined in step (5132) whether the current moving direction is downward, and if it is downward, step (5133) is executed.
) to drive the motor (M2) in the downward direction, and step (5)
135). If the moving direction is upward, the motor (M2) is driven in the upward direction in step (5134),
The process moves to step <5135). Step (s135
) sets the speed state counter to "1".

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

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

Here, the subroutine of step (518) in which interrupt processing is performed will be explained with reference to FIG. This retraction process is to stop the lower edge 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 (
ECPTO) or (ECPTI) [step < 512
1>, (5122) Executed when the value matches the reference value.

Specifically, in step (5140) the sensor (SE8'
) determines whether the pulse count value matches the register (ECPIO), and if they match, step <514
1), stop the motor (M2), and proceed to step (5142).
) sets the half speed request flag to rl.

On the other hand, the pulse count value is -
If not, that is, if it matches the register (ECPTI), the motor (M2) is allowed to stop in step (5143), the half speed request flag is reset in step (5144), and the positioning completion flag is set in step (5135). Set to rIJ.

FIGS. 32a and 32b show a subroutine for holding down the holding member during storage, which can be executed in step (542).

Here, the following processing is executed according to the count value of the accommodation presser foot state counter. This state counter is controlled by a pressing member (120) depending on the copying and paper conveyance state.
Displays decisions that control the behavior of the user.

First, in step (5150), it is determined whether the count value of the holding state counter is "0" or not. If it is reset to "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 accommodation mode, the count value of the state counter is checked in step (5153).

When the count value 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 (st55). 5156), the main motor drive request flag is set to "1". When this main motor drive request flag is set to rl, 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 arm (1
Even if the engagement between the roller (195) and the roller (195) is released, the roller (195) can be moved from the inclined shaft (121c) to the back (1
21b).

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

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

If the current value of the state counter is “2゛′,
In step <5161), check whether the paper detection sensor (SE2) is off-edge or not, that is, the trailing edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SE2).
It is determined whether or not the object has passed through the detection section. Sensor (SE2
) is off-edge, a close delay timer is set in step (5162), and a holding 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).The presser member (120) is used to press the presser member (120) a short time after the leading edge of the stored paper reaches the lower end regulating plate (140>). It is set to press the rear end.

If the count value of the state counter is "3", confirm the end of the close delay timer in step (5164), and then press the holding member (12) in step (5165).
0). As a result, the pressing member (120) presses the rear end of the stored paper, and is temporarily stopped in this state.Next, in step (5166), the solenoid <SL3'') for this drive is activated. Determine whether on/off is completed, and if completed, step (5167)
Set the holding member jam timer 1 in step (5).
168), set the holding state counter to "4゛9".The jam timer 1 here is set to the holding member (12).
0), turning on the solenoid (SL3”) to drive
When the pressing operation is not actually performed even though the switch is turned off, it can be used to detect that a paper jam has occurred at the entrance of the intermediate storage section (90).

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

The sensor (SE5) is turned off and the presser member (12
If it is confirmed that 0) is in the pressed state, step (
5170) sets the open delay timer.

This open delay timer is for holding the pressing member (120) in the paper pressing position for a certain period of time. Also, 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 current value of the state counter is ``5'',
After confirming the end of the open delay timer in step (5173), the holding member (120) is driven in step (5174). With this, press member (120
) retreats from the paper pressing position. Next, step (51
In step 75), it is determined whether or not this driving is completed. If it is completed, the holding member jam timer 2 is set in step (5176), and the housing holding state counter is set to 6'' in step (5177). 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 count value of the state counter is “6”, the sensor (SE5) is turned on in step (5178),
When it is confirmed that the holding member (120) has reliably retreated, the holding member jam timer 2 is reset in step (5179). Next, in step (5180) it is determined whether or not the copy operation has ended, and if it has not ended, in step (5183) the accommodation holding state counter is set to "2".
Set to ``. When the copy operation is completed, step (
In step (5181), the main motor drive request flag is reset to 10'', and in step (5182), the holding presser state counter is reset to 'O''.

(Control during paper refeeding) FIG. 33 shows a subroutine for paper refeeding roll 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 load the first side copied sheets stored in the intermediate storage section (90) one by one into the copying machine main body (
1) Execute the sending process.

This subroutine includes steps (5200) to (5202).
) consists of each subroutine, step (5200)
Then, depending on the count value of the paper refeeding state counter, the state of waiting, paper refeeding start, and end is monitored. In step (5201), the clutch (CLI>, (Cl
3) turns on and off 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 the paper refeed state control subroutine processed in step (5200).

First, in step (5210), the paper refeed state counter is checked for the current state. This state counter is reset to "O" in the initial setting, and if it is "0", the paper presence flag is set at step (SELL).
J or not is determined. If the paper presence flag is set to rl, that is, if the paper is fully accommodated in the intermediate storage section (90), the paper refeed state counter is set to "1" in step (5212).

If it is determined in step (5213) that the state counter is set to "1", step (5214'
) to determine whether the print switch is on-edge.

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 "IJ". , it indicates that paper refeeding is in progress.

If the determinations in steps (5210) and (5213) are both 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 (521
8), reset the paper refeeding 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 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 a subroutine for paper refeed clutch control executed in step (5201).

Here, the following processing is executed according to the count value of the clutch state counter. This state counter makes a judgment to control the paper refeed roller (161), the separation roller (163>), and the clutches (CLI) and (Cl3) of the registration roller pair (170) according to the paper refeed state. indicate.

First, in step (5240), the paper refeed mode flag is set to 1.
1", and executes the following steps only when rl is fully set. That is, step (524
1) Check the count value of the clutch state counter. If the count value is “0”, step (52
42), it is determined whether the transport permission signal is 11''. This conveyance permission signal indicates that the re-fed paper is sent to the copying machine main body (1).
This is a signal to stop refeeding of the paper in the registration method. □, Prohibits refeeding when the paper is full.

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

If the current value of the state counter is “1゛′,
In step (5245), it is determined whether the transport permission signal is 11J or not, and if it is set to 1, step (524
6) to continue counting the interval timer, and
If the timer has been reset to J, the count of the timer is temporarily stopped in step (5247).

Next, in step (5248), it is determined whether the holding member oven flag is "rO" or not. This presser member oven flag is set and reset in the paper refeed presser member control subroutine described below.
When the holding member (120) is set to "rl", it is displayed that the presser member (120) is pressing the upper end of the paper, and when it is set to rl, it is displayed that it is retracted to the home position. Therefore, the holding member oven flag is rO
4 (if it is in the pressed state), the clutch (CLI), (Cl
3) Turn on. Now, the paper refeed roller (161)
, the separation roller (163) is driven to rotate, while the registration roller pair (170) stops rotating.

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

If the current value of the state counter is 2゛1, it is determined in step (5252) whether the transport permission signal is "1", and if it is set to "l", it is determined in step 7 (5253).
), the interval timer and paper refeed jam timer continue counting, and in step (5254), the paper refeed clutch (CLI) continues to be turned on. On the other hand, if the transport permission signal is reset to r□, 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).
) has reached the detection point of the sensor (SE3
) is on, the refeed jam timer is reset in step (525B>), 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 form a slight loop at the leading edge of the paper on the front side of the registration roller pair (170) to prevent the paper from being skewed.Also, the ejection timer is set by the sensor ( In combination with SE3), when the paper does not pass the detection point of the sensor (SE3) within a predetermined time (corresponding to a sufficient length of the paper), it is detected that a paper jam has occurred at this portion.

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 to "rl", step (5262) is performed.
) to allow the interval timer, registration timer, and detection jam timer to continue counting, step (S263).
to keep the paper refeed clutch (CLI) on. On the other hand, if the conveyance permission signal is reset to r□, the counts of the interval timer, registration timer, and detection jam timer are allowed to be 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 (5268), the clutch state counter is set to 4''.

If the count value of the state counter is “4”°, it is determined in step (5269) whether the transport permission signal is “1”, and if it is set to “1”, step (5270) is performed.
) to continue counting the interval timer and unloading jam timer, and if it is reset to OJ, 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 (Cl3) is turned off and the clutch (CLI) is turned on in step (5273).

When the clutch (Cl3) is turned off, the registration roller pair (17
0) The paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163) start rotating when the clutch (CLI) is turned on.

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 presser member oven request flag is set to rl, and in step (5275
) to set the unloading assist timer, and step (527
6) Set the clutch state counter to "5". Here, the holding member oven flag is used to instruct the process of retracting the holding member (120) from the pressing position to the home position when it is set to ``1''. After refeeding the paper reliably, the paper refeed roller (161) and 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 "11", and '1. If it is set to step (5278
) to continue counting the unloading jam timer and unloading assist timer, and in step (5279) the paper refeed clutch (
CLI) continues to be turned on and the resist clutch (Cl3) continues to be turned off. On the other hand, if the conveyance permission signal is reset to "Oyo", the unloading jam timer is set in step (5280).
The count of the discharge assist timer is temporarily stopped, and in step (5281), the paper refeed clutch (CLI) is turned off and the registration clutch (Cl3) 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). In addition, each roller (161
).

(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 count value of the state counter is "6", it is determined in step (5285) whether the transport permission signal is "11", and if it is set to "1", it is determined in step (5286).
Continue counting the unloading jam timer with step (
5287) to continue turning off the resist clutch (Cl3). If the conveyance permission signal has been reset to r□, the count of the conveyance jam timer is temporarily stopped in step (5288), and the registration clutch (Cl3) is turned on in step (5289) to temporarily stop paper conveyance. .

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 'O' in step (5292).

FIGS. 36a and 36b show the subroutine of the paper refeed pressing member foot roll that can be executed in step (5202).

Here, the following processing is executed according to the count value of the paper refeed holding state counter. This state counter changes depending on the state of copying and refeeding of paper.
Display the judgment for controlling the operation of 20). Note that the control in this subroutine is basically the 32nd
The same control as the accommodation pressing member control subroutine in step (542) shown in FIG. 32A and FIG. 32B is performed.

First, in step (5300), the paper refeed mode flag is set to 1.
'0. If it has been reset to '1', this subroutine is immediately terminated, and if it has been set to '1', the current position of the paper refeed hold state counter is checked in step (5301).

When the karantoi direct is “0”, 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 "0".
．． , and in step (5305) press the holding member (
It is determined whether or not the reset in step 120) has been completed, and if it has been completed, the paper refeed hold state counter is set to "1" in step (5306).

If the count f 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 presser member oven flag is set to rl 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”, the copy request flag is set to “1” in step (5310).
Determine whether or not. This copy request flag is set when a paper refeed signal is sent from the CPU (310) of the copying machine main body (1).
When communicated to P U (300), it is set to "1". Therefore, if the copy request flag has been set to "1", the presser member (1
20). With this, the pressing member (120) presses the leading edge of the paper in the intermediate storage section (90), and is temporarily stopped in this state.Next, in step (5312), it is determined whether or not this driving is completed. If it is completed, the paper refeeding state counter is set to “
Set to 3”.

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

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

If the current value of the state counter is “4″,
In step (5317), it is determined whether the holding member open request plug is "1" or not. If it is set to 1, set this flag to 0 in step (531B).
After the reset is performed, the holding member (120) is driven in step <5319). With this, presser member (
120) retreats from the paper pressing position.

Here, the paper pressure of the holding member (120) is released when the holding member (120) is in the pressing position when the registration roller pair (170) carries out the paper from the intermediate storage section (9p). 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 ρ. Next, in step (5320) it is determined whether this drive has been completed, and if it has been completed, the paper refeeding hold state counter is set to "5" in step (5321). .

If the state counter's state counter is "5pa," the sensor (SE5) is turned on in step (5322), and if it is confirmed that the presser member (120) has been retracted, the sensor (SE5) is turned on in step (S323). Set the holding member oven flag to rl.Subsequently, 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 completely rotated in order to refeed the next paper.

If the count f 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 rl If it is set to , the count of the holding member drive delay timer is continued in step (5327), and if it is reset to "Ol", the count of the delay timer is temporarily stopped in step (532B). (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 executed in step (510) of the main routine. , warns you and instructs you to remove the paper.

First, in step (5340), it is determined whether the jam flag is "Ol". When this jam flag is set to "rl", it indicates that a paper jam has occurred. 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 CPU (310).

Furthermore, in step (5346), set the jam flag to ``rl''.
is set, and a jam processing subroutine is executed in step (5347). 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 Examples] 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 clip, 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.

As is clear from the above explanation, according to the present invention, the paper is
A press member is provided that can press the rear end of the paper in the storage direction against the paper placement surface each time the paper is stored in the storage section one by one, and the drive timing of the press member is set by detecting the conveyance state of the paper. Comparing the outputs of the first detection means and the second detection means for detecting the position of the holding member,
Since the state of paper storage in the storage unit is determined, it is possible to detect malfunctions of the holding member due to paper jams etc. very early on, thereby minimizing paper loss and placing an abnormal load on the device. The fear can be removed.

[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, Fig. 2 is an internal configuration diagram of the paper storage and refeeding unit, Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the holding member, and Fig. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the side stopper. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the presser member and the guide frame, and FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the drive mechanism of the presser member. 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, (100)...Base plate (paper placement surface), (116)...Pair of storage rollers, (120).
... Presser member, (124) ... Support shaft, (160)
... Paper refeed unit, (161) ... Paper refeed roller, (30
0)...Micro Combiator, (SL3)...
Solenoid, (SE2)...Paper detection sensor, (SE
5)...Press member position detection sensor.

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, and a reciprocating drive between a position near the paper placement surface in the storage section and a position facing the paper placement surface with the conveyance means in between, and sheets of paper are accommodated one by one. a holding member that presses a rear end portion of the stored paper in the storage direction each time the paper is stored in the storage section; a first detection means for detecting the conveying state of the paper and setting a driving timing of the holding member; , a second detection means for detecting the position of the pressing member; and a determination means for comparing the outputs of the first and second detection means to determine the state of paper storage in the storage unit. A paper storage device characterized by: