JPH0289068A - Image forming device provided with postprocessing function - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To prevent the image on a sheet from being damaged by the postprocessing by shifting the image copy position on the sheet with an image moving means by an extent corresponding to the postprocessing at the time of selecting execution of the postprocessing by a postprocessing selecting means. CONSTITUTION:When execution of the postprocessing is indicated by a postprocessing selecting means 220 and the postprocessing is performed by a postprocessing means 61 based on this indication, the position of the copy image on the sheet is shifted by image moving means 237 and 238, and the blank space in the end part of the sheet is extended by this extent of shift. The postprocessing means 61 performs the postprocessing in this extended blank space area. Since the blank space area for the postprocessing is reserved on the sheet in this manner, the copy image is prevented from being damaged by the postprocessing.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a printer or a copying machine, and particularly an image forming apparatus capable of performing post-processing such as stapling, punching, etc. on a sheet after image formation. Regarding equipment.

In a copying machine, an image of a document is copied onto a sheet such as copy paper, and the sheet is ejected onto a predetermined paper ejection tray. 2. Description of the Related Art A technique is already known in which, after a plurality of sheets are stacked on a paper discharge tray, the stack of sheets is automatically stapled using a stapler attached to the paper discharge tray in advance.

In this type of technology, if one image area is relatively wide compared to the sheet, the staples driven into the sheet bundle by the stapler may enter the image area, making it difficult to visually recognize the image. It was easy.

In view of the above-mentioned points, the present invention provides a method for automatically post-processing a sheet ejected from an image forming apparatus to prevent the image on the sheet from being damaged by, for example, staples during the post-processing. The challenge is to prevent it.

Steps to decide the division The above problem is solved by the following image forming apparatus.

(1) An image copying means for copying an original image onto a sheet and then ejecting the sheet; a sheet storage means for storing the sheet ejected from the image copying means; and a sheet storage means stored in the sheet storage means. and a post-processing means for post-processing the sheet.

and a post-processing selection means for selecting post-processing by the post-processing means, wherein the image copying means includes an image moving means for copying the image onto the sheet by shifting the image position. and when the post-processing selection means selects to perform the post-processing, the image moving means shifts the image copying position on the sheet by the amount by which the post-processing is to be performed. It is a device.

(2) The image forming apparatus according to item 1 above, further comprising an image movement display means for displaying when the image is shifted and copied onto the sheet by the image movement means.

(3) an image copying means for copying an original image onto a sheet and then ejecting the sheet; a sheet storage means for storing the sheet ejected from the image copying means; and a sheet storage means stored in the sheet storage means. In an image forming apparatus having a post-processing means for applying post-processing to a sheet, and a post-processing selection means for selecting a post-processing by the post-processing means, the image copying means comprises:
It has a reduction copying means for reducing the original image and copying it onto a sheet.

The image forming apparatus is characterized in that when the post-processing selection means selects to perform post-processing, the reduction copying means reduces the image by the amount to be subjected to the post-processing and copies it onto a sheet. .

(4) The image forming apparatus according to the above item 3 is characterized in that, when a reduced copy is made by the reduced copying means, reduced copy display means is provided for displaying a message to that effect.

(5) an image copying means for copying an original image onto a sheet and then ejecting the sheet; a sheet storage means for storing the sheet ejected from the image copying means; and a sheet storage means stored in the sheet storage means. and a post-processing means for post-processing the sheet.

and post-processing selection means for selecting post-processing by the post-processing means, wherein the image copying means comprises:
It has an image moving means for copying the image onto the sheet by shifting the image position, and a reduction copying means for reducing the original image and copying it onto the sheet, and the post-processing selection means can perform post-processing. When selected.

The image forming apparatus is characterized in that the image moving means and the reduction copying means shift the image copying position on the sheet by the amount of post-processing, and at the same time reduce the image and copy it on the sheet.

(6) When post-processing is selected by the post-processing selection means, neither the image position movement by the image moving means nor the reduction copying by the reduction copying means is performed, but normal copying is performed by the image copying means. The image forming apparatus according to item 5 above is characterized in that the image forming apparatus is capable of performing the following functions.

In the above-described configuration, the image copying means copies the image on the document onto a sheet and then discharges the sheet to the outside. An electrophotographic copying device using a photoreceptor, a laser printer using an image reading means such as COD, a laser exposure means, etc. can be used as the image copying means.

As the sheet, a paper sheet, a plastic sheet, or any other sheet material can be used.

Only one sheet storage means may be provided, or a plurality of sheet storage means may be arranged like a sorter.

Examples of the post-processing means include a stapler that drives a staple into a sheet bundle to bind the sheet bundle, a punch that punches six holes in the sheet bundle, and the like. When only one sheet storage means is provided, a post-processing means is attached to that sheet storage means. When there is a plurality of sheet storage means, the post-processing means sequentially performs post-processing on the sheet bundles in each sheet storage means while moving along the sheet storage means.

The post-processing selection means is a means for selecting post-processing,
Usually, it includes operation keys provided on the operation panel. By pressing this key, execution of post-processing is instructed. Of course, this post-processing selection means includes a control circuit necessary for instructing post-processing.

The image moving means is means for shifting the position of the copy image formed on the sheet with respect to the position of the image on yXX. Various specific configurations can be adopted depending on the specific configuration of the image copying means described above.

The image shift display means allows the operator to visually confirm that a one-image shift is being executed. Generally, this is done by turning on and off a lamp such as an LED on the operation panel.

The reduction copying means is a means for reducing the copy image formed on the sheet compared to the image on the original document.The specific configuration may vary depending on the specific configuration of the image copying unit described above. 6. If the image copying means that can employ 6-image copying means has an illumination exposure scanning system that exposes and scans the original using a lamp, lens, mirror, etc., the copied image is reduced by changing the lens position and scanning distance, etc. be able to.

The reduced copy display means allows the operator to visually confirm that reduced copying is being performed. Similar to the image movement display means, display means such as LEDs can be used.

When the post-processing selection means instructs to perform post-processing and the post-processing means performs the post-processing based on the instruction, the position of the copy image on the sheet is shifted by the one-image moving means. The margin at the edge of the sheet becomes wider by the amount of deviation. The post-processing means performs post-processing within this widened margin area.

In order to secure an area for post-processing, instead of shifting the position of the copied image, it is also possible to reduce the size of the copied image using a reduction copying means. Further, the post-processing area can be secured by simultaneously shifting the position of the copied image and reducing the size of the copied image.

[11] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings.

First, an example of the overall configuration of a copying apparatus to which the present invention is applied will be described based on the side view shown in FIG.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes the fourth mirror of the exposure optical system;
3 is a dustproof glass to prevent toner stains on lenses, mirrors, etc., 3 is ADF (automatic document feeder f),
4 is a contact glass, 5 is an eraser (erase lamp), and 6 is a charger.

7 is a photosensitive drum using a selenium photoconductor, 8 is a drum thermistor that detects the surface temperature of the photosensitive drum 7, 9 is a static elimination lamp, 10 is a lens, 11 is a quenching charger (charger after cleaning), and 12 is a A cleaning unit, 13 is a bias roller, 25 is an FCC (
14 is an exposure illumination unit consisting of a halogen lamp, etc.; 15 is an illumination unit 14;
a first scanning mirror 1 which integrally forms a first carriage with etc.
6.17 is the second mirror forming the second carriage, the third
Mirror 18 is a fixing unit that fixes the toner image transferred to the transfer paper, 19 is a reversing unit that controls the discharge direction and discharge surface of the transfer paper after fixing in the fixing unit 18, and 20 is a mirror of the transfer paper of the paper discharge machine. Sorter for sorting etc. (with post-processing function), 2
Reference numeral 6 indicates a separation claw, and reference numeral 21 indicates a conveyor belt.The post-processing function refers to processing such as binding with staples and perforation with a punch.

Further, 22, 23, 24, and 33 are trays for stocking and supplying transfer paper, 22 is a double-sided paper feeding tray, and 23 is a tray for stocking and supplying transfer paper.
is the first paper feed tray, 24 is the second paper feed tray, and 33 is the third paper feed tray.
Paper feed tray, 29 is a paper feed roller unit, 30 is a vertical paper transport unit, 32 is a horizontal paper transport unit, 31 is a paper dust removal roller for removing paper dust from transfer paper, 27 is a separation charger, 28 is a transfer unit charger, 35 is a registration roller, 34 is a developer collection container for collecting old developer when replacing developer, 36 is P
TC (pre-transfer charger) 38 is a drum heater for increasing the temperature of the photosensitive drum 7.

37 is a developing unit, 39 is a toner cartridge for replenishing consumed toner, and 40 is a drum shaft that rotatably supports the photosensitive drum 7.

Next, the operation of the copying apparatus having the above configuration will be briefly described. The photosensitive drum 7 is rotatably supported by a drum shaft 40 and rotates counterclockwise in response to a copy command or the like. At the same time as this photosensitive drum 7 rotates.

A static elimination lamp 9. PTC36, separate charger 2
7, transfer charger 28, eraser 5, cleaning unit 12. The bias roller 13, PCC 25, and quenching charger 11 are driven. After passing through the cleaning unit 12 and the static elimination lamp 9, the surface potential of the photosensitive drum 7 becomes zero.

The photosensitive drum 7 is driven by a main motor (not shown). At this time, the leading edge of one image is determined by the control section to be the part after the position passing the cleaning unit 12.

When the photosensitive drum 7 has rotated to the fixed position, the ADF 3
The original placed on the contact glass 4 by
Scanning mirror 15. The zero-reflection light image scanned by the first carriage integrated with the illumination unit 14 etc. is transmitted to the first scanning mirror 15, the second mirror 16, the third mirror 17, the lens 10. An image is formed on the photosensitive drum 7 via the fourth mirror 1 and the dustproof glass 2.

After the photoconductor drum 7 is charged by the charger 6, an eraser, that is, an erase lamp 5, illuminates unnecessary areas to create an image frame suitable for the transfer paper or the projected image, and then the photoconductor drum is A latent image is formed on 7. At this time.

In order to obtain a same-sized image, the photosensitive drum 7 and the first carriage are driven at the same speed.

The latent image on the photosensitive drum 7 is visualized as a toner image by the developing unit 37. In this case, the developing unit 37
A dark or light image can be obtained by applying a potential to.

On the other hand, the double-sided paper feed tray 22 and the first paper feed tray 2
3. The transfer paper stocked in the second paper feed tray 24 or the third paper feed tray 33 is fed by the paper feed roller unit 29 until a paper detection (not shown) is activated.

Next, the paper feed roller unit 29 is operated again at the paper feeding timing, and the transfer paper is sent through the vertical paper transport section 30 or the horizontal paper transport section 32 to the registration rollers 35 that have been stopped in advance, and the toner image on the photoreceptor drum 7 is The registration roller 35 is driven at the timing when the leading edge of the transfer paper matches the leading edge of the transfer paper.

The toner image on the photosensitive drum 7 is transferred to a transfer paper by a transfer charger 28. At this time, the surface of the photoreceptor 7 is very smooth, and therefore the adhesion between the photoreceptor drum 7 and the transfer paper is large. Decreases adhesion to transfer paper. Next, the transfer paper is separated from the photoreceptor drum 7 by the separation claw 26, and the transfer paper thus separated is transferred to the fixing section 1 by the conveyor belt 21.
Send to 8. Heat and pressure are applied to the toner on the transfer paper sent to the fixing section 18, thereby fixing the toner image on the transfer paper to the transfer paper.

Thereafter, the transfer paper is discharged to a sorter 20 via a reversing section 19. When performing six-sided copying or the like, the transfer paper is discharged to a double-sided paper feed tray 22 via a reversing section 19.

Since a small amount of toner image remains on the surface of the photoreceptor drum 7 after transfer, the PCC 25 is activated and the surface is cleaned with the cleaning brush and cleaning blade in the cleaning unit 12, and the next quenching charger 11 and static electricity removal are performed. The lamp 9 makes the surface potential constant.

These control timings are obtained mainly from pulses generated in synchronization with the rotation of the photoreceptor drum 7 or reference pulses for driving the photoreceptor drum 7.

Next, the configuration of the sorter 20 of this embodiment will be explained based on FIGS. 2 to 8.

As shown in FIG. 2, an entrance guide plate 43 is provided at the receiving opening for copies discharged from the copying machine, followed by upper and lower conveyor belts 44, 42 for conveying the copies upward.
．． A switching claw 46 and switching guide plates 45 and 47 are provided. A pair of paper ejection rollers 48 are provided in the upper path by the switching claw 46.
．． 49 and a paper output tray 54 are provided, and the lower path by the switching claw 46 is along the copy insertion side of a bin 55 that holds a plurality of sheets (20 sheets in the example shown) provided vertically parallel to the bottom. Continuing with the copy vertical feed path.

A pair of rollers including a deflection claw 64, a conveyance roller 62, and a discharge roller 63 are provided at a position corresponding to each bin on the vertical feed path, and a plurality of roller pairs provided at appropriate intervals of the conveyance roller 62 are used for copying. Driven roller 65 across the vertical feed path
are in pressure contact. The above conveyor belts 44, 42. Paper ejection roller 48°49, conveyance roller 62. The discharge roller 63 is driven by the drive motor 41.

Shafts provided with two pulleys 53 and 69, respectively, at the upper and lower sides of the bin group are supported by the machine frame, and the lower shaft is connected to a motor 68 for moving the post-processing unit. A post-processing unit moving belt 66 is passed between the upper and lower two pairs of pulleys, and a chuck unit 60 and a post-processing unit 61 are attached to these belts via a guide unit 51. In order to guide the guide unit 51, a guide rail 67 is provided on the side of the bin group in the vertical direction over the entire height of the sorter.

A copy discharged from the copying machine is inserted through the entrance guide plate 43, sandwiched between a pair of conveyor belts 42 and 44, and conveyed to the upper part.

Now 1, assuming that the paper is in the normal wandering mode (the mode in which the paper is ejected to the paper ejection tray 54), the switching claw 46 is lowered and the copying is performed along the switching guide plate: upper 47, the paper ejection roller pair 48.
．． 49, the paper is discharged onto the paper discharge tray 54.

Also, now, sort mode (mode to sort into pages)
In the stack mode (a mode in which pages are sorted), the switching claw 46 is raised and the copies are conveyed downward along the lower switching guide plate 45. The copy conveyed by the conveyance roller 62 and the driven roller 65 is discharged to the bin 55 at the location where the deflection claw 64 is activated. The deflection claw 64 performs a movement appropriate to the mode (sort or stack).

In the sorting mode, the deflection claw 64 of the first bin operates and the second copy of the first page is ejected to the first bin 55, and the deflection claw of the second bin operates and the second copy of the first page is ejected to the second bin 55. to be discharged. Further, the first page of the second page is discharged to the first bin 55, and the second page is discharged to the second bin 55. In this way,
When in sort mode, 1, 2, 3, etc. are stored in one bin.・
...is output to pages like this.

When in stack mode, all copies of the first page are
The deflection pawl 64 operates to cause the copy of the second page to be ejected into the second bin.

In this way, in the stack mode, copies of the same page are ejected into one bin and sorted by page.

Also, during sort mode or stack mode, the deflection claw 6
If a copy jams near 4, there is a function to eject the copies in front of the switching claw 46 from the sorter after the jammed copy. In this case, the switching claw 46 is switched in the event of a jam, and the subsequent copy is ejected onto the paper ejection tray 54 without causing a jam. The copies discharged to the paper discharge tray 54 can be placed into a predetermined bin by the manual feed roller 50 from the manual feed table 52 after the jam is removed.

In addition, even in cases other than jams, when copies are inserted from the manual feed table 52, the copies can be ejected to each bin and sorted according to the mode. Regarding the post-processing function that performs post-processing on copies sorted in this way,
This will be explained below.

The post-processing unit 61 means a stapler, puncher, etc. In order to move the post-processing unit to a position corresponding to each bin, the post-processing unit motor 68 is rotated, and the post-processing unit moving belt 66 is moved up and down via pulleys: lower 69 and upper 53, and the guide The unit 51 is moved up and down. The guide unit 51 has a car and is adapted to move along a guide rail 67.

The chuck unit 60 is a device that transports the copy bundle to the position of the post-processing unit 61 and returns it to its original position after performing post-processing.

In FIG. 2, the home sensor 5 is detected by the home detection piece 57.
6 is turned on, and post-processing can be performed on the copy of the first bin.

When post-processing is executed from this state, the post-processing unit movement motor 68 is turned ON after the post-processing unit 61 is lowered, and the bin position sensor 58 is turned ON by the second bin position detection piece 59, and the post-processing unit Turn off the moving motor 68.

The post-processing unit 61 is stopped. Then, post-processing for the second bin is performed. When the execution of post-processing for copies of a predetermined bin is completed, the post-processing ring unit 61 is moved to the home position.In this way, post-processing of a plurality of copy bundles can be executed.

FIG. 3 is a view from the opposite side of FIG.

In FIG. 3, things that could not be expressed in FIG. 2 will be explained.

The sorter of this embodiment is a 20-bin sorter, divided into two blocks of 10 bins each, and the upper block has a bin sensor 76.79.

There are paper discharge sensors 77 and 78, and in the lower block there are bin sensors 81 and 84 and paper discharge sensors 80 and 83. Further, the paper ejection tray 54 also has paper ejection sensors 98 and 99.

These sensors are transmissive optical detection sensors consisting of LEDs and phototransistors. Paper ejection sensors 77, 78, 8 detect whether a copy has been ejected or not.
0°83.98.99, and the bin sensor determines whether there is a copy in the bin or not.76.79°81.8
It is 4. Such a bin sensor makes it possible to use the lower block if there is a copy on the upper block.

In order to post-process the copies, the copies must be aligned, so the sorter of the present invention is equipped with a jogger as described below.

A jogger drive belt 86 is rotated by the jogger moving motor 82 via a pulley 85, and a drive shaft 96 is rotated. Thereby the jogger moves belt via pulley 74.87: upper 73. : The lower part 88 moves and the shaft fixing unit 72 and alignment shaft drive unit 95 are fixed thereto.
moves.

Then, the size detection sensor 93 detects the minus of the predetermined size detection piece 92, and the jogger drive motor 82 stops. Then, when the copy is ejected to the bin, the paper ejection sensor 77.
78 or 80 and 83 is detected, the alignment shaft drive unit 95 is activated, and the alignment plate 70 is moved by the alignment shaft 71 to align the copies. After finishing the post-processing, the jogger moving motor rotates in reverse and stops at the position where the home sensor 91 is turned on by the home detection piece 94. This position is
This is the position for maximum size. In this way, each copy is aligned as it is ejected and is ready for post-processing operations.

FIG. 4 is a view from above of FIG.

The bin 55 has a notch so that the alignment shaft 71 can be moved to a position where minimum size copy alignment is possible. Also,
The alignment plate 70 rotates as shown by the arrow to align the copies.

At this time, an end face presser plate 97 is provided to hold the other end of the copy in a fixed position.

This end face presser plate 97 is adapted to move in accordance with the movement of the chuck unit 60.

FIG. 5 is a view from the right side of FIG. 2.

The alignment shaft drive unit 9 is moved by the jogger moving belt 88.
5 moves like the arrow and adjusts to each copy size,
It can be stopped at the size detection piece 92. Further, the movement in the right direction is to the position where the home sensor 91 corresponding to the maximum copy size is activated by the home detection piece 94.

FIG. 6 is a detailed view of the chuck unit 60.

The chuck unit 60 has the role of grasping the bundle of copies on the bin 55, moving it to the post-processing unit 61, and returning it to the same state as when it was discharged onto the bin 55 after finishing the post-processing.

First, when the motor 107 rotates in the H direction, the worm gear 100 rotates and the gear 101 moves in the mechanical direction.Then, the spiral shaft 106 rotates and the moving rod (which has a spiral hole) 105 Through the moving plate 1
13 and chuck: upper 109,: lower 110 and push plate 1
12 moves in direction B. When moving in the B direction, the first home sensor 102a or the second home sensor 102b is ONL and the motor 107 is stopped by the position detection piece 103.

Conversely, when the motor 107 rotates in the G direction, gear 1
01 in the J direction, moving rod 105, moving plate 113
．． Chat'7: upper 109, lower 110 and push plate 112
moves in direction A. When moving in the A direction, the position detection piece 103 turns on the tip position sensor 104, and the motor 1
Stop 07.

Then, when the solenoid 114 is turned on, the chuck upper 1
09 is lowered in the direction D by the pull rod 108 and grabs a stack of copies (not shown).

At this time, the end face pressing plate 97 is pressed by the pressing plate 112.

It is lowered in the F direction so that it does not get in the way of moving the copy stack.

Then, when the motor 107 rotates in the H direction, the copy bundle is brought in the B direction. When the push plate 112 returns to the B direction, the end face press plate 97 attempts to return to its original position by the spring 111, but since the copy stack is already on top, it stops at the copy stack. When the moving board reaches the home position, the motor 10
7 is stopped, then the post-processing unit 61 is activated, and after the post-processing is completed, the motor is rotated in the G direction again.
When the copy bundle is returned to the input direction, the position detection piece 103 turns on the tip position detection sensor 104 again, the motor 107 stops, the solenoid 114 goes to ○FFL, and the upper chuck 109 is raised by the coil spring 115.
The copy bundle returns to its original position, and the end press plate 97 also returns to its original position. Then, the motor 107 rotates in the H direction, returns the moving plate 113 to the home position, and stops. In this way, the chuck unit 60 carries the copy bundle discharged onto the bin 55 to the post-processing device and returns it to its original position.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the post-processing unit 61.

A stapler will be illustrated and explained as an example.

When the motor 116 is turned on by an electric signal, this stapler staples the staples 11 in the cartridge 117.
9 can be pressed and bent.

The staples 119 are tied together in a strip with thin tape and rolled into the cartridge 117. Also,
When the end of the staple passes a near-end sensor (reflective sensor that reads optically) 118, a near-end signal is output.

FIG. 8 is a detailed view of the alignment shaft drive unit 95 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. FIG.

When the motor 120 rotates once, the alignment plate 7o rotates the cam 12.
1. It rotates in a fan shape in the force direction of arrow AB via the lever 122 and alignment shaft 71. In this manner, motor 120 rotates once each time a copy is ejected into a bin to align the copies.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the control system in the present invention.

This control is centered around the CPU 300, ROM 301, RA
M302. IN port 303. OUT boat 304. I
This is a microcomputer system composed of 10 ports 305. By using the ROM 301 in which the program is written, the IN port 301 can be used while using the RAM 302 at any time.
The copying machine and the sorter are controlled by receiving various input signals from the copying machine 304 and outputting controlled signals to the OUT port 304. The control of the sorter also includes post-processing operations (such as stapling operations) after sorting copies. Further, the control section of the ADF 3 is connected to the I/○ port 305, and exchanges signals with the CPU 300. The ADF 3 feeds the document onto the contact glass according to a signal from the CPU, and discharges the document after exposure is completed. In addition, in double-sided original mode (double-sided single-sided mode, double-sided duplex mode), after the exposure of the first side is completed, the original is reversed and fed onto the contact glass again, and when the exposure of the second side is completed, it is reversed. Paper is now ejected. Also, R.A.
A backup battery 306 is connected to M302 and serves as a non-volatile memory.

FIG. 9 shows a part of the operation section of the above-mentioned copying machine.

Reference numeral 201 is a start key for instructing to start copying.
202 is a numeric keypad for inputting the number of copies, etc.;
203 is a clear/stop key for instructing to clear the set number and stop copying; 204 is a set number display for displaying the number of copies set; 205 is a set number display for displaying the set number;
206 is a copy number display that displays the number of copies, 206 is an original number display that displays the number of originals, 207 is a paper size display that displays the copy paper size set in each tray, and 208 is a copy paper size display that is set in each tray. A paper remaining amount indicator 209 displays the amount of copy paper remaining in the copy paper, and indicates that a mode (automatic paper selection mode) is set to automatically select the most suitable copy paper based on document size information, etc. , automatic paper selection mode display, 210 is a paper key for selecting copy paper, 211 is a paper size selection display that displays which copy paper size is selected, 212 indicates that the copying machine is preparing, Please wait indicator, 213 indicates that the copier is ready, copy ready indicator, 214 is a sort key for instructing the sort mode, 215 indicates that the sort mode is set Sort mode indicator, 21
6 is a stack key for instructing stack mode 21
7 is a stack mode display that shows that the stack mode is set, and 218 is an automatic document feeder (AD).
F) The DF key 219 for instructing the mode is a DF mode indicator that indicates that the automatic document feeder (ADF) mode is set.

220 is a staple key for instructing the stapling mode; 221 is a staple mode display indicating that the stapling mode is set; 222 is an instruction to make one double-sided copy from two single-sided originals; 223 is a single-sided/duplex mode indicator to indicate that the single-sided/duplex mode is set; 224 is a duplex key to instruct to make two single-sided copies from one double-sided original. Single-sided mode key 225 is a double-sided single-sided mode indicator that indicates that the double-sided single-sided mode is set; 226 is a double-sided duplex mode key that instructs to make one double-sided copy from one double-sided original;
27 is a duplex duplex mode indicator that indicates that duplex duplex mode is set, 228 is a sorter turbine paper forgotten indicator that warns that copy paper remains in the sorter, and 229 is a jam in the sorter. 230 is a jam indicator that warns of a jam in the copier body, etc. 231 is a paper supply indicator that warns that the selected copy paper is out, 232 is a staple ( 233 is a staple supply indicator that warns that staples are missing; 233 is a staple impossible indicator that warns that stapling is not possible; 234 is a staple limit indicator that warns of staple limits; 250 is a copy on the sorter bin; A manual stapling mode key 251 is used to instruct the start of stapling of paper. 251 is a manual stapling mode indicator indicating that the manual stapling mode is in progress. 235 is a back paper ejection mode key that instructs the back paper ejection mode. 236 is a This is a back side paper ejection mode indicator indicating that the back side paper ejection mode is in progress.

Furthermore, 237, 239, and 241 are normal stapling process displays that indicate stable processing as post-processing, especially stapling when neither image shift nor image reduction is performed; in particular, 239 and 241 each display different stapling positions. Staple position indicator, 238,240
, 242 are image shift indicators indicating stable processing when image shift processing is performed, especially 240 and 242
243 is a staple position indicator that displays different staple positions, and 243 is an image reduction display that indicates that image reduction processing is being performed (in the case of the example, 93% reduction has been particularly performed). It is a vessel. Also, 24
4 is a staple position change key that instructs to change the staple position.

Using the apparatus described above, the copies made by the copying machine are discharged into the bin 55 of the sorter 20 and stacked,
The operation of binding with a stapler as a post-processing unit provided in the sorter will be described in detail.

The staple mode is the staple mode key 22 in Fig. 9.
Can be selected by 0. Also, if you press it again at the time of selection, it will be canceled. When the staple mode is selected, the staple mode indicator 221 lights up.

Depending on the state of the DipSW 145 (provided in the control board 150 in FIG. 1), automatic setting of image shift, automatic setting of reduced image shift, or no automatic setting is performed.

Furthermore, the back side ejection mode is automatically set. In addition, staple processing indicators 237 to 243 are displayed depending on these conditions.
, the back side ejection mode indicator 236 is displayed.

Copying in staple mode is basically done using ADF in sort mode. That is, the set number of copies is treated as the number of copies, and when there are no originals left on the ADF, the job is deemed to have ended, and the sorted sheets are automatically stapled one copy at a time.

When copying without using the ADF in staple mode or sort mode, the end of the document, that is, the end of the job, cannot be automatically determined, so the stapling operation does not start automatically.In this case, the operator determines that the job has ended. At this point, the manual staple key 250 is used to instruct the start of the stapling operation. This operation instruction can be thought of in various ways, such as pressing the staple mode key 220 again or pressing the clear/stop key 203.

In the stapling mode, in the stack mode, the set number of copies for each document is regarded as one copy regardless of whether the ADF is used or not, and the start of the stapling operation can be automatically determined. That is, the copy of the 0th order original for which the stapling operation is started when the copying of the set number of copies is completed is stored in the next bin, and stapling is similarly performed when the copying of the set number of copies is completed.

When in staple mode, neither sort mode nor stack mode, the following operations occur regardless of whether the ADF is used or not.

Normally, when not in staple mode, sort mode, or stack mode, all copied paper is ejected to the paper ejection tray 54 shown in Figure 2, but this is a paper storage section in which stapling cannot be performed. Therefore, the paper storage section that can perform the stapling operation, which must not be ejected here during the stapling mode, is limited to the bin 55 shown in FIG. Therefore, this multiple bins (here 20
It is necessary to discharge into one of the bins (there are bins).

Therefore, in this mode, instead of ejecting the paper to the paper ejection tray 54, an empty bin with no remaining paper is searched for and the paper is ejected there. Here, bins 1 to 10 are divided into the first block, bins 11 to 20 are divided into the second block, and if there is no paper left in the first block, the first bottle is removed, and there is paper left in the first block. If there is no paper in the second block, each of the 11 bins is used as a paper output tray in preparation for the stapling operation. If paper remains in either block, processing such as copying or stapling may be prohibited.

Further, in this mode, the start of the stapling operation is completely left to the operator's manual instruction, and the stapling operation is executed by the aforementioned stapling instruction operation.

As mentioned above, the staple processing display is 37 to 43 in Figure 9.
It is composed of First, in the simple stapling mode, as shown in FIG. 14A, 37 is lit and 39 is blinked. If image shift is automatically selected during stapling, <37.38 is lit as shown in Figure 14B, and 39
．． 40 flashes. This shows how the image has been shifted. Also, if the reduction mode and image shift are automatically selected during stapling, the 14th C
As shown in the figure, 37.38.43 is turned on and 39.40 is blinking. This shows how the image is reduced to 93% and shifted at the same time.

In any of the above cases, the staple position key 2
44, when the staple position is changed, 239 or 239 and 240 go out, and 241 or 241
and 242 flash. This shows how the staple position has been changed. Figures 14D, 14E, and 14F are Figures 14A, 14B, and 14C, respectively.
Corresponds to the diagram.

Staple, In this embodiment, there are two staple positions, and one can be selected.

For example, when stapling is performed in staple mode, but the staple is bent and a stapling error occurs, stapling cannot be performed at the same location again.In such a case, the stapling position is changed and the stapling is performed again using the manual stapling key 250. be able to. Furthermore, it would be effective to provide a mechanism for detecting staple errors, as it would be possible to automatically change the position upon detection of a staple error and restart the operation.

In an embodiment, pressing the staple position key 44 of FIG. 9 alternates the staple position between two different positions. The operation for changing the staple position will be explained based on FIGS. 12A to 12C. First, the 12th A
In the figure, a chuck 109 for moving the paper is opened and the chuck 109 is moved in the direction of the transfer paper P until the sensor 104 is covered by the shielding plate 103. When the sensor 104 is blocked, the movement of the chuck is stopped, and then the chuck is closed and the transfer paper P is grasped.

When the staple position is the initial position (normal position), as shown in FIG. 12B, the chuck 109 is first moved in the direction of the stapler 61, and when the shield plate 103 shields the first home sensor 102a, the chuck is stopped, and the stapler 61 to perform the stapling operation.

If the staple position is changed to a position other than the initial position, as shown in FIG. 12C, the first home sensor 102a is ignored and the second home sensor 102b performs the same operation as in FIG. 12B. .

By selecting either the operation of FIG. 12B or FIG. 12C, two different staple positions are selected.

11jζ1Up≦U[2] During normal copying, the transfer paper is fed by a register roller at a timing such that the leading edge of the image on the photoreceptor 7 and the leading edge of the transfer paper coincide. If this timing is shifted, the leading edge of the transfer paper and the leading edge of the image will no longer match. Image shift actively utilizes this. In this image shift,
Image movement in the transfer paper feeding direction can be realized. This is the first
This will be explained using the time chart in Figure 5.

In this example, in normal copying, which illustrates a case where the paper feed timing is used as the reference for the sequence, the paper feed roller is driven only at a predetermined timing at the paper feed timing. Thereafter, the exposure system is caused to scan at timing Ts, and the register rollers are driven at TR.

This timing is the timing at which the leading edge of the transfer paper and the leading edge of the image match.

Next, in image shift a where the image precedes the transfer paper, the scan timing of the exposure system is advanced and (Ts-tl)
This is achieved by

When the transfer paper reaches the transfer point on the photoreceptor 7 by the register roller, the leading edge of the image on the photoreceptor 7 has already passed the transfer point. Therefore, the image at the leading edge is transferred.

Next, in image shift b in which the transfer paper precedes one image, the scan timing of the exposure system is delayed.

This is realized by setting (Ts + tz).

When the transfer paper reaches the transfer point on the photoreceptor 7 by the register roller, the leading edge of the image on the photoreceptor 7 has not yet reached the transfer point, so the leading edge of the image will be in the middle of the transfer paper.

For both image shifts a and b, if the charge is removed by the eraser from the area where the image is no longer printed due to the shift, a margin can be created at the trailing edge or leading edge of the transfer paper.In the case of 1 image shift ro, side lamps are turned on by the eraser. In image shift b, on the other hand, the timing from all lamps on to side lamps in the eraser may be delayed by t2.

The copying apparatus shown in FIG. 1 can produce variable size copies using a variable size mode selection means (not shown).

That is, the rotational speed of the photoreceptor is constant, and the document scanning speed and lens position change depending on the magnification ratio.

The variable size copy is variable in size using the document setting reference position Q as an unchanging origin. In stable mode, if an image is shifted so that the image does not come to the staple position, the image may be missing due to the shift. In such a case, image loss can be prevented by reducing the size. That is, by transferring the reduced image to the effective image area on the transfer paper, which has been reduced by securing the staple position, it is possible to prevent one image from being missing.

In this way, it is possible to secure the staple position by combining one image shift and image reduction, but if the staple position can be secured by only one image reduction, it is also possible to perform only image reduction without performing image shift. can.

Mode by Di switch 145 A control unit printed circuit board 150 (the internal structure of which is shown in FIG. 10) is housed on the lower left side of the copying machine in FIG.
(Fig. 10) is installed. Two of these bits are used to select the mode that is automatically set when the staple mode is selected. This is mainly operated by service personnel according to the user's requests.

First, the 1st bit of DipSW145 is turned ON.

When the 2nd bit is OFF, the image shift mode is automatically set (1st mode). When the 1st bit of DipSW 145 is OFF and the 2nd bit is ON, the 93% reduction mode and image shift mode are set. Automatically set (second mode) 1st bit of primary Dip SW 145, 2
When both bits are OFF, neither of the above modes is automatically set (third mode).

Depending on the document used by the user, the image may end up at the stapling position. The first or second mode is set for such users who produce many documents. In this way, when staple≠-pull occurs, the image is automatically shifted, and the stapling position becomes the margin, thereby preventing mistakes such as stabilization on the image. However, when there is an image on the entire surface of the document, if you use image shift alone (in the first mode), the staple position will be a margin, but the trailing edge of the image will be cut off by the shift amount. Set the second mode. This will shrink the image and then shift the image, so
All original information is copied onto the paper without loss. Furthermore, the third mode may be set for users who often write general manuscripts with margins left at the edges.

If the optimum mode is set in advance so that it is automatically set according to the user's request in this way, copy mistakes and misstaples can be prevented.

The copying device of the m-good paper embodiment has two modes: a front-side paper ejection mode in which copied paper is ejected into the paper storage section (paper ejection tray 54, bin 55) with the image side facing up, and a front-side paper ejection mode in which the copied paper is ejected with the image side facing down. It has two paper delivery modes: back paper delivery mode.

As shown in Fig. 13, the ADF3 is a type in which the original tray is set with the image side facing down, and the original is fed from the bottom of the stack of set originals, so the ADF 3 is shown in (a) of Fig. 13. If you copy in the normal paper ejection mode, the pages will be ejected with the image side facing up, starting with the first page, so the pages will be reversed. ), the sheets are ejected with the image side facing down, starting with the first page, so if you turn the stack of sheets over after copying, the pages will not roll up.

Pages are particularly important items when a binding function such as stable is provided.

It is not easy to correct misaligned pages after they have been bound. Therefore, when stable mode is selected, the back side ejection mode is automatically set, regardless of other modes such as sorter or ADF. Prevents copy mistakes and staples and improves operability.

Normal paper discharge or reverse paper discharge is selected by the paper reversing section 19 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 11, the paper reversing unit 19 includes a main reversing roller 400 that rotates in the paper conveyance direction.
and two reversing rollers 401 and 402 that press against the main reversing roller 400 across the paper path.
When discharging the paper without reversing it, the reversing rollers 401 and 402 are partially overlapped as shown by the solid line in the figure, and the paper is ejected from between the main reversing roller 400 and the front reversing roller 401 to the main reversing roller 400 and the rear reversing roller 401. 6. When reversing the front and back, pass the paper sequentially between the reversing rollers 402 and eject it.

Front and rear reversal rollers 401°40 using a reversing solenoid (not shown)
2 is opened as shown by the broken line in the figure, and the main reversing roller 400
The paper conveyed between the front and front reversing rollers 401 is guided from between the front and rear reversing rollers 401 and 402 to the reversing section 403 formed between a pair of guide plates, so that the rear end of the paper is connected to the main reversing roller 400 and the front reversing roller 401. At the timing when the sheet escapes from the reversing roller 401, the return solenoid 406 presses the rattling roller 405 against the reversing return roller 404 provided in the reversing section 403 to send the sheet in the opposite direction, so that the sheet is turned with the rear end forward. By discharging the paper from between the main reversing roller 400 and the rear reversing roller 402, the front and back sides of the paper are reversed.

An example of operation control when performing stapling processing will be described below based on a flowchart.

The staple mode set routine shown in FIG. 19 is executed while the copying machine is on standby, and represents the function of selecting a staple mode by pressing the staple key 220.

If the staple mode is already in place when the staple key 220 is pressed and changed from OFF to ON, a staple mode reset routine (not shown) is executed. On the other hand, if you are not already in staple mode,
Set the staple mode. At the same time, set the back paper ejection mode. After that, the DipSW 145 is checked, and depending on the combination of on/off of the first and second bits, the above-mentioned first mode (image shift mode), second mode (mode in which image shifting and image reduction are performed simultaneously), Then, one of the third modes (a mode in which neither image shifting nor image reduction is performed) is executed. At that time, the corresponding display (first
(see Figure 4) is performed. In this case, the staple position is set to the initial position.

The staple position selection routine shown in FIG. 20 is executed while the copying machine is on standby, and when the staple position key 244 is pressed, the staple position is changed to the first position (
Initial position M determined by the first home sensor 102a
) and the second position (shift position M determined by the second home sensor 102b).

When the staple position key 244 is pressed during the staple mode and changes from OFF to ON, if the staple position is in the first position mode, the mode is set to the second position mode, and if the staple position is in the second position mode, the mode is set to the first position mode. At the same time, the staple position display (239°, 241, 240, 242) is changed.

The timing calculation routine for scan etc. shown in FIG.
This function is executed when the button is pressed and determines scan start timing, register timing, site erase timing, and entry erase timing.

At the time of copy start and normal copy, the scan timing is Ts, the register timing is TR, the site erase timing is T08, and the en-erase timing is T8°.On the other hand, when image shift is automatically selected when staple mode is selected, If the shift amount is expressed as a timing value and is t□, then the scan timing is Ts+t1. Register timing is TR (no change).

The site erase timing is T, 8+t, and the en erase timing is TEE (no change). During copying, each load is controlled by the drum drive pulse count value and this timing value.

This timing relationship is as shown in FIG.

Incidentally, the site erase timing is the timing at which the eraser is switched from being completely turned on to being turned on outside the effective image area determined by the transfer paper size and the magnification ratio. En-erase timing refers to the timing when switching from sight erase to full lighting.

The sequence control routine shown in FIG. 22 performs sequence control in synchronization with a drive pulse for driving the photoreceptor drum, that is, in synchronization with the photoreceptor. This flow is part of the processing executed by an interrupt by the reference clock for generating drive pulses. Here, it is shown that the reference clock is counted during copying, and when a predetermined count value is reached, a predetermined process is executed. The predetermined count value is, for example, a value corresponding to the timing determined by the timing calculation routine (FIG. 21).

The bin switching routine shown in FIG. 23 is executed at the start of copying, and is used to transfer copy paper to the paper output tray.
It has a function to switch between discharging to bin 4 or bin 55. In the normal mode in which no stapling is performed, the sheets are discharged to the bin 55 in the sort mode and the stack mode, and on the other hand, in the normal mode in which no sorting or the like is performed, the sheets are discharged to the paper discharge tray 54. However, in the staple mode, one sheet is ejected to the bin 55 even when the mode is not the sort mode or the stack mode.

This is because the paper discharge tray 54 does not have a stenible function. Switching of the paper ejection direction is performed by a switching claw 46.

The reversal preparation routine shown in FIG. 24 is executed at the start of copying, and guides the copy paper to the reversing unit 403 in the back side discharge mode.

The post-reversal ejection routine shown in FIG. 25 is constantly checked during copying, and in the back-side ejection mode, the copy paper guided to the reversing section 403 is guided to the paper ejection port.

The stapling processing routine shown in FIG. 26 is executed at the timing of stapling the bundle of sheets stored in the bin 55, and represents the control of the chuck unit 60 and the stapler 61.

First, the chuck unit 60 is at an initial position where the first home sensor 102a is turned on. When this flow is executed, the solenoid 114 is turned off and the chuck 109 is opened to prepare for the operation of pinching the stack of sheets.

Next, the motor 107 is operated until the tip position sensor 104 is turned on.
is rotated in the G direction, and the chuck 109 is moved toward the paper side. When the leading edge position sensor 104 is turned on, the motor 107 is turned off and the solenoid 114 is turned on. The chuck 109 is now closed and the stack of paper is sandwiched between the chuck 1
After a delay sufficient for the paper stack 09 to securely sandwich the paper stack, the chuck 109 is then moved to bring the paper stack to the stapling position.

If the first position mode is selected as the stapling position, the motor 107 is rotated in the H direction until the first home sensor 102a is turned on, and if the second position mode is selected, the motor 107 is rotated in the H direction until the second home sensor 1,02b is turned on. let When each home sensor turns on, the motor 107 is turned off. The paper stack is now at the stapling position (17th 2nd)
Move up to. When the motor 116 is turned on, the stapler 61 performs one stapling operation. After a delay until the stapling operation is completed, the motor 116
is off. After that, the process exits the delay and returns the stapled paper stack to the bin.

That is, the motor 107 is rotated in the G direction until the leading edge position sensor 104 is turned on to move the chuck and the paper stack in the bin direction. When the leading edge position sensor 104 is turned on, the motor 107 is turned off, the solenoid 114 is turned off, the chuck 109 is ovend, and the stack of sheets is returned to the original bin. After a delay until the chuck 109 is reliably opened, the chuck is opened. The motor 107 is rotated in the H direction until the first home sensor 102a is turned on, and then the motor 107 is turned off. The chuck will now return to its initial position and stop.

According to the inventions of claims 1 and 3.5, a blank area for post-processing is secured on the sheet.

Copied images are not damaged by post-processing.

According to the invention of claims 2 and 4, an operator can easily confirm in what state one image forming apparatus is operating.

The invention of claim 6 is advantageous for users who mainly handle documents in which the area of the document image itself is sufficiently small relative to the entire document area.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

Fig. 1 is an overall side sectional view of one embodiment, Fig. 2 is a detailed view of the post-processing section of the embodiment, and Fig. 3 is the same post-processing section as Fig. 2, seen from the back side of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a plan view of Figs. 2 and 3, Fig. 5 is a front view taken along the arrow ① of Figs. 2 and 3, and Figs. 6 and 7 are of the post-processing means. A perspective view of an example, FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the main part of FIG. 3, FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a part of the operation panel, FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the control device, and FIG. Side view of the main parts of, Figures 12A to 12C
The figure is a plan view showing the state of post-processing over time, Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between how documents are placed and how sheets are ejected, and Figs. 14A to 14F are display methods regarding the post-processing state. FIG. 15 is a timing chart of an example of an operation for image shifting, and FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing a state of variable-magnification copying (reduced copying and enlarged copying). FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the document placement and the sheet ejection position, and FIGS. 18 to 25 are flowcharts of examples of control operations. D... Original P... Transfer paper (sheet) 55... Bin (sheet storage means) 61... Stapler (post-processing means) 220... Staple key (post-processing selection means) 237.238 ...
Image movement display means 243...reduced copy display means Fig. 7 - I#7&e color register star roller 4 axes 4; 3 erase' 1 & shift α Figure 23 Figure 24

Claims (6)

[Claims] (1) An image copying means for copying an original image onto a sheet and then ejecting the sheet; a sheet storage means for storing the sheet ejected from the image copying means; and a sheet storage means stored in the sheet storage means. In an image forming apparatus having a post-processing means for applying post-processing to a sheet, and a post-processing selection means for selecting a post-processing by the post-processing means, the image copying means comprises:
It has an image moving means for copying the image onto the sheet by shifting the image position, and when the post-processing selection means selects to perform post-processing, the image moving means performs the post-processing. An image forming apparatus characterized in that an image copying position on a sheet is shifted by a certain amount. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising image movement display means for displaying when the image is shifted and copied onto the sheet by the image movement means. (3) an image copying means for copying an original image onto a sheet and then ejecting the sheet; a sheet storage means for storing the sheet ejected from the image copying means; and a sheet storage means stored in the sheet storage means. In an image forming apparatus having a post-processing means for applying post-processing to a sheet, and a post-processing selection means for selecting a post-processing by the post-processing means, the image copying means comprises:
It has a reduction copying means for reducing the original image and copying it onto a sheet, and when the post-processing selection means selects to perform post-processing, the reduction copying means reduces the amount of post-processing to be performed. An image forming apparatus characterized by reducing an image and copying it onto a sheet. (4) The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising reduced copy display means for displaying a message to that effect when the reduced copying means performs reduced copying. (5) an image copying means for copying an original image onto a sheet and then ejecting the sheet; a sheet storage means for storing the sheet ejected from the image copying means; and a sheet storage means stored in the sheet storage means. In an image forming apparatus having a post-processing means for applying post-processing to a sheet, and a post-processing selection means for selecting a post-processing by the post-processing means, the image copying means comprises:
It has an image moving means for copying the image onto the sheet by shifting the image position, and a reduction copying means for reducing the original image and copying it onto the sheet, and the post-processing selection means can perform post-processing. When selected, the image moving means and the reduction copying means shift the image copying position on the sheet by the amount that post-processing is performed, and at the same time reduce the image and copy it on the sheet. Forming device. (6) When post-processing is selected by the post-processing selection means, neither the image position movement by the image moving means nor the reduction copying by the reduction copying means is performed, but normal copying is performed by the image copying means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the image forming apparatus is capable of performing the following operations.