WO2008010550A1

WO2008010550A1 - Paper sheet handling device and paper sheet handling method

Info

Publication number: WO2008010550A1
Application number: PCT/JP2007/064258
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kiichi Haramiishi
Original assignee: Max Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2006-07-21
Filing date: 2007-07-19
Publication date: 2008-01-24

Abstract

A paper sheet handling device as shown in Fig. 6A, producing a brochure by setting a binding fastener (43) into a fastened position in holes formed at predetermined positions of paper sheets. The device has control means for controlling a binding mechanism (41) based on the result of comparison between a handling time period for handling the binding fastener (43) and a preset target time period. When the handling time period exceeds the target time period, the control means controls the binding mechanism (41) to set a stroke from a binding start position (P) up to a binding completion position (Q) to substantially zero to thereby stop the binding operation. When a binding failure occurs, the construction enables a process in which the binding fastener is set to a fastened position to be stopped and also enables the binding means for setting the binding fastener into a fastened position to be set to a process in which the means is set for standby at a home position. These prevent the device from being locked up.

Description

Specification

Paper processing apparatus and paper processing method

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for performing a punching process on recording paper output from a black-and-white and color copying machine, a printing apparatus, or the like, and binding a binding component onto the recording paper after the punching process. The present invention relates to an applicable paper processing apparatus and paper processing method.

[0002] Specifically, the processing time for binding the binding parts and the set target time are compared by the control means, and when the processing time exceeds the target time, the binding from the binding start position to the binding completion position is performed. By setting the stroke to almost zero (no-load mode), the binding process can be stopped while the no-load mode is set, and the process can be shifted to a process for waiting the binding means to the home position. Thus, the present invention relates to a paper processing apparatus or the like that can prevent the apparatus from falling into a locked state.

Background art

[0003] In recent years, a paper processing apparatus that performs punching and binding processing is often used in combination with a black-and-white and color copiers and printing apparatuses. According to this type of paper processing apparatus, the recording paper after image formation is received, and the paper is punched on the downstream side of the paper by using a punch function. The plurality of sheets after punching are aligned again. The binding components are automatically inserted and fitted into the holes in the aligned sheets.

[0004] For example, when a binding component is automatically fitted into a hole in which a plurality of sheets are perforated, a holding portion that holds and fixes the binding component and the binding component that is held and fixed are inserted into the perforated hole. And a fitting portion for fitting. The holding unit receives a binding component of a predetermined size developed from the binding component storage unit, and holds and fixes the binding component in a developed state. The fitting portion inserts and fits the binding component held and fixed in a state of being developed by the holding portion into a hole in which a plurality of sheets are perforated.

[0005] In relation to such a paper processing apparatus, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-59396 (page 5, FIG. 13) discloses a bind processing apparatus that binds paper having punch holes formed therein with a binder (binding component). Is disclosed. According to this binding processing device, the central 1/3 ring part ( The front of the back (corresponding to the spine) abuts against the stopper provided on the binder cartridge to prevent forward movement, so that the binder does not move forward while the upper and lower 1/3 rings are bound. The operation is stable. Further, when the binding is completed, the binder is allowed to move laterally with respect to the binder cartridge. As a result, the engagement with the stopper portion is released and the cartridge can be released from the front opening of the cartridge. Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0006] However, according to the bind processing apparatus according to the conventional method and Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-59396 (page 5 Fig. 13), the front surface of the central 1/3 ring part (corresponding to the spine part) of the binder The abutting against the stopper part is prevented from advancing and the binding is completed, and the binder is allowed to move in the lateral direction with respect to the binder cartridge, and can be released. For this reason, when the nodding mechanism binds a portion other than the punched hole of the paper, the binding mechanism cannot complete the binding process and may be locked. At this time, the upper and lower 1/3 rings cannot move laterally with respect to the binding cartridge in the binding state even if the operation of the nodding mechanism is reversed to try to release the lock. Therefore, the central 1/3 ring part is not released from the engagement with the stopper part, so that it cannot be removed from the binder cartridge when the paper is sandwiched, and it is difficult to unlock the apparatus. is there. Means for solving the problem

In order to solve the above-described problem, the sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1 of the present invention creates a booklet by binding a binding component into a hole punched in a predetermined position of each of a plurality of sheets. In relation to the process of binding the unfolded binding part into an annular binding part, the process from the binding start position to the binding completion position is defined as a binding stroke, and the binding completion time from the binding start time to the binding completion time When the operation time for setting the binding stroke to substantially zero and setting the operation for waiting for the binding process to be in the no-load mode is set to the target time of the binding process, the binding part is bound to the hole in which the sheet is perforated. A binding unit; and a control unit that measures a processing time of the binding component in the binding unit, compares the measured processing time with the set target time, and controls the binding unit based on a comparison result. Prepared, Serial control unit, when the processing time exceeds the target time, the no-load mode to said binding means Set the password.

[0008] According to the sheet processing apparatus of the present invention, a booklet is created by binding a binding component into a hole punched in a predetermined position of each of a plurality of sheets, and the binding means is formed in the hole of the sheet. Bind the binding parts. The control means measures the processing time of the binding part in the binding means, compares the measured processing time with the set target time, and sets the no-load mode to the binding means when the processing time exceeds the target time. Set. As a result, since the no-load mode is set, the binding process of the binding means can be stopped for a while, so that the process can be shifted to the process for making the binding means stand by at the home position. Therefore, the apparatus can be prevented from falling into a locked state.

[0009] In order to solve the above-described problem, the sheet processing method according to claim 6 of the present invention creates a booklet by binding a binding component into a hole punched in a predetermined position of each of a plurality of sheets. In this paper processing method, the process from the binding start position to the binding completion position is defined as the binding stroke in relation to the step of binding the unfolded binding part into the annular binding part, and the binding completion time from the binding start time to the binding completion time. When the operation time for setting the binding stroke to be substantially zero and waiting for the binding process is set to the no-load mode, the target time is set in the binding processing system. A step of measuring a processing time relating to a binding process of a binding component bound by the binding processing system, a step of comparing the measured processing time with the set target time, and as a result of comparison, If the sense time has exceeded the targets time, and has a step of setting the processing system binding the no-load mode.

[0010] According to the paper processing method of the present invention, a booklet is created by binding a binding component into a hole punched in a predetermined position of each of a plurality of papers, and the no-load mode is set. Since the saddle stitching process can be stopped, it is possible to shift from the binding process to the subsequent process. As a result, the apparatus can be prevented from falling into a locked state.

The invention's effect

[0011] According to the paper processing apparatus and the paper processing method of the present invention, a booklet is created by binding a binding component into a hole punched in a predetermined position of each of a plurality of papers, and the measurement is performed. The binding hand is based on the result of comparing the binding part processing time and the set target time. Control means for controlling the stage is provided, and this control means sets the no-load mode in the binding means when the processing time exceeds the target time.

[0012] With this configuration, the binding process of the binding means can be stopped while the no-load mode is set, so that when the binding process failure occurs, the process can be shifted to a process for causing the binding means to wait at the home position. It becomes like this. As a result, the device can be prevented from falling into a locked state. Therefore, the user can easily remove a binding component or booklet with a binding failure from the apparatus using the period in which the no-load mode is set.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1A is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration example (door closing) of a binding device 100 as an embodiment according to the present invention.

FIG. 1B is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration example (door open) of a binding device 100 as an embodiment according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a process diagram showing an example of functions of the binding device 100.

[Fig. 3] Arrangement example of binder paper alignment mute 30, binding mechanism 41 and binder cassette 42

It is the schematic which shows 1).

[Fig. 4] Example of arrangement of binder paper alignment mute 30, binding mechanism 41 and binder cassette 42

It is the schematic which shows 2).

5A is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the binding mechanism 41. FIG.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the upper end portion of the binding component gripping portion 41b.

6A is a cross-sectional view showing an internal configuration example (No. 1) of the binding mechanism 41. FIG.

FIG. 6B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the second binding claw link 41m.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an internal configuration example (No. 2) of the binding mechanism 41.

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view showing an internal configuration example (lowermost position) of the binding mechanism 41.

FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view showing an internal configuration example (uppermost position) of the binding mechanism 41.

FIG. 9A is a partially broken top view showing a configuration example of the binding component 43.

FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the binding component 43 is viewed from the arrow B.

FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view of the binding component 43 as seen from the CC arrow. FIG. 9D] is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a plurality of binding components 43 are stacked as seen from an arrow B.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system of the bind processing unit 40.

FIG. 11A] is a diagram showing an example of the state of the binding component gripping portion 41b located at the bottom.

FIG. 11B] A diagram showing an example of a state in which the binding component 43 is gripped by the binding component gripping claws 41h. FIG. 11C] A diagram illustrating an example of a state in which the binding component 43 is in contact with the binding claw 41z.

FIG. 11D is a diagram showing an example of downward movement of the binding component gripping portion 41b.

FIG. 12A is a diagram showing an example of moving the binding mechanism 41 to the paper binding position.

FIG. 12B] A diagram showing an example in which the sheet bundle 3 ″ is moved toward the binding component 43 of the binding mechanism 41 and moved.

FIG. 12C is a diagram showing an example of binding the binding component 43 to the sheet bundle 3 ”.

Fig. 12D is a diagram showing an example in which the binding pawl cam 41p idles when the no-load mode is set.

13 is a perspective view showing an example of attachment of the binding mechanism 41z in the binding mechanism 41. FIG.

FIG. 14A is a partially broken perspective view showing a configuration example of a binding claw 41z.

14B] An enlarged perspective view of a partially crushed example of the configuration of the binding claw 41z.

15] It is a partially broken perspective view showing an operation example (half-bound state) of the binding claw 41z.

FIG. 16A is a top view of partial crushing showing an operation example (half-bound state) of the binding claw 41z.

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line XX showing an operation example of the binding claw 41z.

FIG. 16C is a front view of the binding claw 41z as viewed from the direction of the arrow Y.

FIG. 17A is a top view of partial crushing showing an operation example (ring state) of the binding claw 41z.

FIG. 17B] is a cross-sectional view taken along the line ZZ showing an operation example of the binding claw 41z.

FIG. 17C is a front view of the binding claw 41z as viewed from the direction of the arrow V.

18A] is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a state in which the binding component 43 is acquired.

18B] A cross-sectional view showing an example of a state in which the outer peripheral surface of the binding component 43 is in contact with the binding claw 41z. FIG. 18C is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a half-binding state of the binding component 43 by the binding claw 41z.

FIG. 18D is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a ring state of the binding component 43 by the binding claw 41z.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

In the present invention, when a binding process failure occurs, the binding process of the binding component can be stopped and the process can be shifted to a process for waiting the binding means to the home position. A paper processing device that can avoid falling into The purpose is to provide.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of a sheet processing apparatus and a sheet processing method according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

A binding apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1A constitutes an example of a sheet processing apparatus that creates a booklet by binding a binding component (consumable) in a hole punched at a predetermined position of each of a plurality of sheets. This is a device that punches recording paper (hereinafter simply referred to as paper) that is output from a printing machine or printing device, and then performs binding processing with a predetermined binding component and discharges it. The binding device 100 has the same height as a copying machine, a printing machine, or the like that is preferably used side by side with a copying machine, a printing apparatus (image forming apparatus), or the like.

A binding device 100 shown in FIG. 1A has a device main body (housing) 101. A right door 70 and a left door 71 are provided on the front side of the apparatus main body 101. The right door 70 and the left door 71 are attached to the apparatus main body 101 so as to be openable and closable by hinges (not shown). The binding device 100 includes a stat force 63 below the left door 71. The stat force 63 is provided with a stat force tray 73. The stacker tray 73 receives a booklet in which a binding component is bound in a sheet bundle and is discharged, and adjusts the height according to the thickness of the booklet and the number of booklets and accumulates the booklet. Further, the stat force 63 is provided with a stat force window 72 for confirming the number of accumulated booklets on the front side of the apparatus main body 101.

[0018] The binding device 100 shown in FIG. 1B is in a state where the right door 70 and the left door 71 of the binding device 100 shown in FIG. 1A are opened. In the apparatus main body 101, a paper transport unit 10 is provided. The paper transport unit 10 includes a first transport path 11 and a second transport path 12. The transport path 11 transports the paper 3 output from the copier or the like toward the transport path 12.

The transport path 12 has a switchback function that can switch the transport path from the transport path 11. Here, the switchback function decelerates and stops the conveyance of the paper at a predetermined position on the conveyance path 11, and then switches the conveyance path of the paper from the conveyance path 11 to the conveyance path 12, and moves the paper in the reverse direction. The function to send out.

A punch processing unit 20 is disposed on the downstream side of the transport path 12. The punching unit 20 switches back from the conveyance path 11 and punches two or more binding holes at one end of the sheet conveyed by the conveyance path 12. Below the punch processing body, A storage unit 26 is provided to store punch scraps cut off by the punch processing unit 20.

A binder paper aligning unit 30 is disposed downstream of the punch processing unit 20 so that the positions of the holes of a plurality of sheets discharged from the punch processing unit 20 are aligned and temporarily held (accumulated). To be made.

[0022] When the paper enters, the node paper alignment unit 30 guides the paper to a predetermined position and prepares the rear end of the paper. Further, the binder paper aligning unit 30 guides the leading edge and the lateral edge of the sheet to an appropriate position by a multi-purpose rotating member for aligning the leading edge and the lateral edge of the sheet to the reference position.

A bind processing unit 40 is disposed on the downstream side of the binder paper alignment unit 30. The bind processing unit 40 creates a booklet by binding a plurality of sheet bundles aligned by the unit 30 with binding components. The binding processing unit 40 includes a binding mechanism 41 and a binder (binding component) force set 42. The binder cassette 42 is set with a plurality of binding parts 43 (see FIGS. 9A to 9D) of a predetermined size that are unfolded before processing and become annular after processing. For example, the binding component 43 is formed by injection molding, and a plurality of types of diameters are prepared according to the thickness of the sheet bundle. The binding mechanism 41 constitutes an example of a binding means, receives a binding component of a predetermined size from the binder cassette 42 in which the unfolded binding component 43 is stored, and binds it into a hole punched at a predetermined position of the paper. Bind part 43.

In this example, the binding mechanism 41 moves so as to reciprocate between the paper conveyance direction of the binder paper alignment unit 30 and the binding component provision direction of the binder cassette 42. First, the binding mechanism 41 pulls out and holds one binding component 43 from the binder cassette 42 at a position orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the conveyance path 11, and in this state, the sheet conveyance direction of the binder paper alignment unit 30 is changed. Rotates to a visible position. Next, at this position, the binding mechanism 41 receives the sheet bundle in which the punch holes are positioned from the binder paper aligning unit 30, and inserts the binding component 43 into the punch holes and fits them. After the fitting, the binding mechanism 41 releases the binding component 43. When the binding component 43 is bound to the sheet bundle and the booklet is created, the binder paper alignment unit 30 delivers the created booklet to the discharge unit 60.

A discharge unit 60 is disposed on the downstream side of the bind processing unit 40. This discharge unit 6 For 0, the booklet created by the bind processing unit 40 is received and discharged. The discharge unit 60 includes, for example, a first benoret unit 61, a second belt unit 62, and a stat force 63.

[0026] The belt unit 61 receives a booklet falling from the binder paper alignment unit 30 and switches the booklet sending direction. For example, after receiving the booklet, the belt unit 61 turns from a position where the binder paper alignment unit 30 can see the paper conveyance direction to a position where the stat force 63 can be seen.

A belt unit 62 is disposed at a position where the stat force 63 can be seen. The belt unit 62 receives the booklet whose delivery direction has been switched by the belt unit 61 and relays it, and delivers the booklet to the stat force 63. The stat force 63 accumulates the booklet conveyed by the belt units 61 and 62. In this way, the booklet 90 shown in Fig. 2 is created.

[0028] Next, a paper processing method according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The sheet 3 shown in FIG. 2 is fed from the upstream side (such as a copying machine) of the binding device 100 and has no punched holes. The sheet 3 is transported toward a predetermined position on the transport path 11 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, and is decelerated and stopped at a predetermined position on the transport path 11. Thereafter, the conveyance path of the sheet 3 is switched from the conveyance path 11 to the conveyance path 12 by the switchback function, and the sheet 3 is sent in the reverse direction and conveyed to the punch processing unit 20.

In the punch processing unit 20, as shown in FIG. 2, a predetermined number of binding holes are punched at one end of the paper 3. The sheet 3 ′ with the binding holes punched is conveyed to the nodding paper alignment unit 30. In the bind sheet aligning unit 30, when the preset number of sheets is reached, for example, the position of the binding hole is aligned like the sheet 3 "shown in FIG. 2, and the bind processing unit 40 cooperates with the bind processing unit 40. The binding component 43 is inserted into the hole and fitted into the hole, thereby obtaining the booklet 90 shown in Fig. 2 in which the binding component 43 is fitted, and the booklet 90 is discharged by the discharge unit 60. And accumulated in the stat force 63.

Next, an arrangement example (part 1) of the binder paper alignment unit 30, the binding mechanism 41, and the binder cassette 42 will be described with reference to FIG. The nodding device 100 has a binding mechanism 41 disposed downstream of the binder paper alignment unit 30 and the binder cassette 42 shown in FIG. The binder mechanism 41 has a substantially V-shaped arrangement structure in which the binder paper alignment unit 30 and the binder cassette 42 are arranged radially on the upstream side with respect to the binding mechanism 41.

The binding mechanism 41 has a binding mechanism rotating shaft 4 Id. The binding mechanism rotation axis 4 Id is near the area where the direction I ejects the stack of paper 3 "downstream from the binder paper alignment unit 30 and the direction II where the binder cassette 42 force also ejects the binding component 43 downstream. Placed in.

[0032] The noinder paper alignment unit 30 and the binder cassette 42 are arranged on the left side and the right side in an arc shape (radially) on the upstream side with respect to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d. The binding mechanism 41 operates to reciprocate between the binder paper alignment unit 30 and the binder cassette 42. Further, the binding mechanism 41 has an opening 41c in the upper part of the main body. The binding component take-out position (direction II) is a position where the opening 41c of the binding mechanism 41 takes a posture facing the binder cassette 42 side.

An arrow Y 1 shown in FIG. 3 is the rotation direction of the binding mechanism 41. In this example, the binding mechanism rotation axis

With reference to 41d, if the above-mentioned binding component take-out position (direction Π) is the home position, the sheet is rotated counterclockwise from this home position to the paper binding position (direction I). Conversely, it rotates from the paper binding position to the home position in the clockwise direction.

[0034] For example, in the binding processing unit 40, the binding mechanism 41 moves to the downstream side of the binder cassette 42, receives a binding component 43 of a predetermined size (see FIG. 9A to FIG. 9D), and receives from the binder cassette 42. The received binding component 43 is held, rotated counterclockwise with respect to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d, and moved downstream of the paper sheet aligning unit 30. The illustrated sheet bundle 3 "is bound. Thus, the booklet 90 shown in FIG. 2 is created by moving the binding component 43 received from the binder cassette 42 to the downstream side of the binder paper alignment unit 30 and performing the binding process. can do.

In this example, the binding mechanism 41 is configured to receive the binding component 43 from the binder cassette 42 when the binder paper alignment unit 30 aligns the paper 3 ′. In this way, the sheet alignment process and the binding part 43 receiving process can be performed in parallel, so that the binding process can be speeded up and the throughput of the binding device 100 can be improved.

Next, referring to FIG. 4, the binder paper alignment unit 30, the binding mechanism 41, and the binder cover An arrangement example (2) of set 42 will be described. The binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 4 has the binding mechanism 41 in the binding part take-out position (direction II) shown in FIG. 3 for the process of binding the binding part 43 to the paper aligned by the binder paper alignment unit 30. Rotating counterclockwise as indicated by arrow Y1 with reference to the binding mechanism rotating shaft 41d, and moving to the paper binding position (direction I). Here, the paper binding position is a position in which the opening 41c of the binding mechanism 41 takes a posture in which the binder paper alignment unit 30 faces the paper conveyance direction. According to the binding processing unit 40 shown in FIG. 4, the binding mechanism 41 creates the booklet 90 by binding the binding component 43 to the paper 3 ”provided from the binder paper alignment unit 30 at the paper binding position (direction I). Then, return to the binding part removal position (direction Π).

Next, a configuration example of the binding mechanism 41 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B. FIG. 5B shows a configuration example of the upper end portion of the binding component gripping portion 41b of FIG. 5A. The binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 5A includes a main body 41a and a binding component gripping portion 41b inside the main body 41a. The binding component gripping part 41b constitutes an example of a holding part, and can move up and down so that it passes through the opening 41c at the top of the main body 41a and the tip is located inside and outside the main body 41a. It holds the binding part 43.

Further, according to the enlarged configuration example of the upper end portion of the binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 5B, a plurality of binding component gripping claws 41h, a gripping claw holder 41v, A holder fixing frame 41w is provided. In this example, the grip claw holder 41v is fixed to the holder fixing frame 41w. The binding component gripping claws 41h are located inside the gripping claw holder 41v so that the upper end portion protrudes above the gripping claw holder 4lv. In this manner, the binding component gripping portion 41b for binding the binding component 43 is configured.

Next, an internal configuration example (part 1) of the binding mechanism 41 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B. The binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 6A shows an example of the configuration of the related members on the XX cross section of the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B.

In this example, the binding mechanism 41 has a binding claw opening / closing function for binding the binding component 43.

In order to operate this function, the binding mechanism 41 includes a fitting portion 41x. The fitting portion 41x includes a binding claw 41z, a first binding claw link 411, a second binding claw link 41m, a third binding claw link 41n, a panel 41o, a binding claw cam 41p, and a binding mechanism drive motor 45a ( (See Figure 10) Composed. The fitting portion 41x fits both ends of the binding component 43 held by the binding component gripping portion 41b by inserting them into the paper holes.

[0041] The binding claw 41z is provided on both sides of the opening 41c along the longitudinal direction of the opening 41c. Further, the binding claw 41z has a closing portion 41q, and the closing portion 41q contacts the binding component 43 when binding the binding component 43. Each binding claw 41z is rotatably connected to the upper end portion of the first binding claw link 411 having an L shape by a binding claw rotation shaft 47b. Each first binding claw link 411 is rotatably attached to the main body 41a on a rotation shaft 41r of the first binding claw link 411 positioned substantially at the center of each first binding claw link 411.

[0042] Also, the two first binding claw links 411 are rotatably connected at the first link coupling portion 4¾ located at the end opposite to the end to which the binding claw 41z is connected. Further, the upper ends of the second binding claw links 41m having a predetermined length in the vertical direction are rotatably connected to the two first binding claw links 411 at the first link coupling portion 4¾.

[0043] The second binding claw link 41m constitutes an example of a link member, and has a second binding claw link coupling hole 4 Is having a long hole shape at the lower end. The second binding claw link coupling hole 4 Is constitutes an example of a switching hole for switching the binding stroke. The second binding claw link coupling hole 41 s is fitted with the projecting second link coupling portion 46 k of the third binding claw link 41 η, so that the second binding claw link 41 m and the third binding claw link 41 s are fitted. The claw link 41η is rotatably connected. The second binding claw link 41m is attached to the main body 41a via a spring 41ο at the center. With this spring 41ο, an upward force is applied to the second binding claw link 41m.

[0044] The third binding claw link 41η is attached to the main body 41a in a self-rotating manner on the rotation shaft 41t of the third binding claw link 41η. Further, when the binding claw cam 41p rotates as indicated by an arrow F, the third binding claw link 41η rotates about the rotation axis 41t of the third binding claw link 41η.

[0045] With the configuration as described above, the opening and closing operation of the binding claw 41z is performed. In this example, the binding claw cam 41p rotates in the clockwise direction of FIG. 6A indicated by the arrow F, and the third binding claw link 41η rotates counterclockwise and faces downward to the second binding claw link 41m. The power of is added. As a result, the first binding claw link 411 shown on the right side of FIG. A clockwise force is applied to each of the first binding claw links 411 shown on the left side, and each binding claw 41z moves in the direction indicated by arrow E to close the binding claw 41z. The binding claw 41z shown in FIG. 6A is in a substantially closed state.

Further, the binding mechanism 41 has a function of adjusting a range in which the binding claw 41z is bound in accordance with the size of the diameter of the binding component 43. In order to operate this adjustment function, the binding mechanism 41 includes a stroke switching unit 41y. The stroke switching unit 41y includes a binding component adjusting cam 41u, a binding component adjusting unit 461, and a binding component adjusting motor 45b (see FIG. 10), and switches the binding stroke in the fitting unit 41x. Here, the binding stroke refers to a process from the binding start position P to the binding completion position Q shown in FIG. 6A. In this example, the binding start position P is a position where the second binding claw link 41m starts to move downward by the rotation of the binding claw cam 41p, and the binding completion position Q is the position after the rotation of the cam 41p. This is the position when the second binding claw link 4 lm has moved to the bottom.

The binding component adjusting cam 41u constitutes an example of a switching cam and is connected to the binding component adjusting unit 461. The binding component adjusting section 461 is attached so as to be movable to the left and right, and is coupled to the second binding claw link 41m. Further, the binding component adjusting unit 461 is moved left and right by the cam 41u, and switches the second binding claw link coupling hole 41s of the second binding claw link 41m. For example, the second binding claw link 41m coupled to the binding component adjustment unit 461 is rotated left and right around the first link coupling unit 4 as an axis. The position of the second binding claw link coupling hole 41s of the second binding claw link 41m is changed by the rotation of the second binding claw link 41m. By changing the position of the binding hole 41s, the coupling position of the projecting second link coupling portion 46k is switched, and the binding stroke for binding the binding claw 41z described above is adjusted.

Here, in the second binding claw link coupling hole 41 s, a binding mechanism 41 is provided in addition to an adjustment hole for adjusting a binding stroke for binding the binding claw 41z according to the size of the diameter of the binding component 43. An avoidance hole R4 shown in FIG. 6B is provided to avoid falling into a locked state. For example, if the operation of binding the front end of the binding component 43 to a location other than the punch hole of the paper 3 "by mistake and binding the binding claw 41z is interrupted, the projection-like second link connecting portion is inserted into the avoidance hole R4. Position 46k.

[0049] The second binding claw link coupling hole 41s of the second binding claw link 41m shown in FIG. 6B is an adjustment hole R1. ~ R3 and avoidance hole R4. The distance between each of the adjustment holes R1 to R3 and the first link coupling portion 4¾ is such that the adjustment hole R1 is the shortest, the adjustment hole R3 is the longest, and the adjustment hole R2 is an intermediate length between the adjustment holes R1 and R3. It has become.

[0050] Thereby, the interval at which the left and right binding claws 41z approach in the E direction can be adjusted. Therefore, adjustment hole R1 is used when the left and right binding claws 41z are closest to each other in the E direction, so it is used when using small-diameter binding parts.Adjustment hole R2 is used when using medium-diameter binding parts. Used, the adjustment hole R3 is used when a large-diameter binding component is used.

[0051] In addition, the distance H2 between the avoidance hole R4 and the first link coupling portion 4¾ is set to be extremely longer than any of the adjustment holes R1 to R3 (distance HI in the figure). Represents the distance of the adjustment hole R3). This is to make the process from the binding start position to the binding completion position substantially zero. That is, even if the binding claw cam 41p shown in FIG. 6A rotates, the second link coupling portion 46k of the third binding claw link 41η is set to the avoidance hole R4. The cam 41p idles and no downward force is applied to the second binding claw link 41m. Accordingly, no force is transmitted to the left and right first binding claw links 411, and the left and right binding claws 41z are not closed in the direction indicated by the arrow E. As a result, when the no-load mode is set, the binding claw 41z can be stopped, so that the binding component 43 bound by the binding claw 41z can be released halfway and the binding mechanism 41 can be used as a home. It becomes possible to shift to a process for waiting for a position. Here, the no-load mode is an operation that sets the binding stroke in a state where the binding claw 41z is not moved in the E direction to substantially zero and waits for the binding process.

Next, an internal configuration example (part 2) of the binding mechanism 41 will be described with reference to FIG. The binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 7 has the same configuration as the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 6A, and is a transition from the state of FIG. 6A to the state of no load mode.

In this example, the binding component adjusting unit 461 is moved from the position shown in FIG. 6A to the rightward position shown in FIG. 7 by the rotated binding component adjusting cam 41u, and the adjusting unit 461 The second binding claw link 41m connected to the right side also moves to the right. At this time, the second binding claw link coupling hole 41s of the second binding claw link 41m moves in the same manner, and as a result, the avoidance hole R4 of the coupling hole 41s that sets the binding stroke to substantially zero (FIG. 6B). (See 2) is set to the projecting second link joint 46k. [0054] In this way, the second link coupling portion 46k is set in the avoidance hole R4. After the setting, the distance between the avoidance hole R4 and the first link coupling portion 4¾ becomes the distance H2 shown in FIG. 6B. As described above, the binding pawl cam 41p idles and the left and right binding pawls 41z become arrows E. Cannot close in the direction shown. As a result, the process of binding the binding claw 41z can be stopped, and the process can be shifted to the subsequent process.

Next, referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, an example of the internal configuration of the binding mechanism 41 will be described, and an example of the configuration of related members in the binding component gripping portion 41b and an example of its operation (when moving up and down) explain.

[0056] Since the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 8A moves the binding part gripping part 41b up and down, for example, the gripping part link 41f, the gripping part cam 41g, the gripping part link rotating shaft 41j, and the binding mechanism driving motor 45a (See Fig. 10). In this example, the binding component gripping portion 41b is shown at the lowest position.

[0057] The binding component gripping portion 41b has a predetermined height, and the width in the horizontal and vertical directions is slightly smaller than that of the opening 41c. In addition, a plurality of binding component gripping claws 41h for gripping the binding component are provided at the upper end of the binding component gripping portion 41b.

[0058] Further, the binding component gripping portion 41b has a protruding gripping portion link coupling portion 41e on the side surface. The binding part gripping part 41b and the gripping part link 41f are in a state where the gripping part link coupling part 41e is fitted and coupled to the long gripping part coupling part 41i of the gripping part link 41f. The grip portion link 41f is connected to the grip portion cam 41g, and the grip portion link rotation shaft 4lj is rotatable by rotating the grip portion cam 41g.

[0059] The binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 8B shows a case where the binding component gripping portion 41b is moved from the state positioned at the lowermost position shown in FIG. 8A to the state positioned at the uppermost position. In this case, the gripping part link 41f rotates as the gripping part cam 41g rotates. As a result, the position and posture of the grip part coupling hole 41i change, and as a result, the binding part grip part 41b can be moved upward as indicated by an arrow D via the grip part link joint part 41e. The

In this way, the binding component gripping portion 41b is configured to be movable from the lowermost portion shown in FIG. 8A to the uppermost portion shown in FIG. 8B. Further, in the state where the binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 8A is positioned at the lowermost portion, the binding component gripping claw 41h is positioned inside the main body portion 41a. Further, as shown in FIG. 8B, in a state where the binding component gripping portion 41b is positioned at the uppermost position, the binding component gripping claw 41h is positioned outside the main body portion 41a.

Next, a configuration example of the binding component 43 will be described with reference to FIG. The binding component 43 shown in FIG. 9A is a plan view showing a part of the binding component 43. The binding component 43 includes a spine 43a, a first split ring 43d, a second split ring 43c, a third split ring 43e, a pin 43f, a first joint 43g, and a second joint 43h. Have. The binding component 43 is a resin injection molded product in which ring portions 43b are arranged at regular intervals on a spine portion 43a having a length corresponding to the size of the shaped paper.

[0062] The binding component 43 shown in FIG. 9B is in a state viewed from the arrow B in FIG. 9A. As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the ring portion 43b includes a split ring portion 43c coupled to the spine portion 43a and a left and right foldable connection! /, A split ring portion 43d and a split ring portion 43e. It is divided into three parts.

[0063] A connecting portion 43g is provided at the tip of the split ring portion 43d, and a connecting portion 43h is provided at the tip of the split ring portion 43e. The coupling portion 43g and the coupling portion 43h are coupled to form the ring portion 43b in a ring shape.

[0064] The binding component 43 shown in FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view taken along the CC line in FIG. 9A. Binding component shown in Fig. 9C

The shape of the cross section of the spine 43a of the 43 is a convex shape, and this convex shape is a shape for making it easy to grip the binding component 43 with the binding part gripping claws 41h having an inverted L-shape.

A binding component 43 shown in FIG. 9D is a state in which a plurality of binding components 43 are stacked as viewed from an arrow B in FIG. 9A. Further, as shown in FIGS. 9A to 9C, the split ring portion 43c of the ring portion 43b has a projecting pin 43f. A pin 43f is provided! /, And on the opposite side of the split ring portion 43c, a not-shown insertion hole corresponding to the pin 43f is provided. Thus, the plurality of binding parts 43 are stacked by inserting the pins 43f into the insertion holes in a state where both ends of the division ring portion 43d, the division ring portion 43c, and the division ring portion 43e are aligned. Can do.

[0066] It should be noted that a plurality of types of binding parts 43 having different sizes and the like of the ring portion 43b depending on the thickness of the sheet bundle 3 "shown in FIG. 2 are used. Is divided into three parts: a split ring part 43d, a split ring part 43c, and a split ring part 43e. The power ring part 43b may be divided into n (n is a natural number) locations!

Next, a configuration example of the control system of the bind processing unit 40 will be described with reference to FIG. The control system shown in FIG. 10 includes a control unit 50, a motor drive unit 44a, and a signal processing unit 44b.

[0068] The control unit 50 has a system bus 55. The system bus 55 includes an I / O port.

54, EEPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) 5 RAM (Random Access Memory) 52 and CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51 power S connection. In EEPROM 53, the binding mechanism 41 acquires the binding part 43 and controls the operation of binding the binding part 43 onto the paper (binding part acquisition control program), and the binding mechanism 41 processes the binding part 43. The elapsed time (target time) from the binding start time to the binding completion time is stored. The RAM 52 is used as a work memory when acquiring and controlling the binding component 43 based on the binding component acquisition control program.

[0069] The I / O port 54 is connected to a motor drive unit 44a and a signal processing unit 44b. A binding component size sensor 45f and an external terminal 45h are connected to the signal processing unit 44b. For example, a reflective optical sensor is used for the binding component size sensor 45f. The binding component size sensor 45f detects the size of the lowermost binding component 43 stored in the binder cassette 42, and outputs a binding component size signal S45f to the signal processing unit 44b. The signal processing unit 44b receives the output binding component size signal S45f, digitizes the binding component size signal S45f, and outputs, for example, 3-bit detection data to the CPU 51. The detection method of the size of the binding component 43 is, for example, to detect that a difference occurs in a position where the binding component 43 contacts the binder cassette 42 due to a difference in size of the binding component 43.

Yes

In addition, a copy machine (not shown) is connected to the external terminal 45h. For example, information on the number of sheets for one booklet printed by a copier combined with the binding device 100 is output from the external terminal 45h to the signal processing unit 44b as the specified sheet number signal S45g, and the signal processing unit 44b The specified number signal S45g is binarized and the detection data Dp is output to the CPU 51.

The CPU 51 constitutes an example of a control means, inputs detection data Dp, and detects the detection data D Based on p, if it is determined that the paper 3 'for one booklet will be stored in the paper aligning unit 30 shown in FIG. 2 in a short time, the motor control data Dm is output to the motor drive unit 44a and the binding mechanism 41 is bound. Control to perform processing.

[0072] The motor drive unit 44a is connected to the CPU 51 via the I / O port 54, and further includes a binding mechanism.

It is connected to a binding mechanism drive motor 45a and a binding component adjustment motor 45b disposed in 41.

[0073] The motor drive unit 44a receives the motor control data Dm output from the CPU 51, and outputs a binding mechanism drive signal S45a obtained by decoding the motor control data Dm to the binding mechanism drive motor 45a. The motor 45a is driven to move the binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B upward to a position where the lowermost binding component 43 stacked on the binder cassette 42 can be obtained.

[0074] After the binding component gripping portion 41b moves upward to a position where the binding component 43 can be acquired, the binding component gripping claw 41h is opened and closed to acquire the binding component 43. After acquiring the binding part 43, the binding part article gripping part 41b is moved downward.

After moving downward, the CPU 51 inputs the size information of the binding component 43 from a sensor (not shown) installed in the binder cassette 42 shown in FIG. The CPU 51 outputs motor control data Dm to the motor drive unit 44a based on the input size information. The motor drive unit 44a inputs the output motor control data Dm, and outputs a binding component adjustment signal S45b decoded from the motor control data Dm to the binding component adjustment motor 45b. The binding component adjustment motor 45b constitutes an example of a drive unit, inputs a binding component adjustment signal S45b, and drives the binding component adjustment cam 41u shown in FIG. 6A to the size of the binding component 43 diameter. Adjust the binding stroke of the corresponding binding claw 41 z.

[0076] After adjusting the binding stroke, the motor 45a moves the binding mechanism 41 from the direction II shown in FIG.

Rotate to position I shown in 4. After the rotation, by driving the motor 45a, the paper 3 "shown in FIG. 2 is provided from the binder paper alignment unit 30 to the binding mechanism 41, and the binding claw cam 41p shown in FIG. 6A is rotated and bound. The nail 41z is bound and the binding component 43 is bound to the punch hole of the paper 3 ". Thereafter, the binding mechanism 41 releases the binding component 43 and moves to the home position shown in FIG. In this way, the binding device 100 is A booklet 90 is created by binding the binding component 43 to the paper 3 "provided from the paper alignment unit 30.

[0077] Further, the CPU 51 measures the processing time of the binding component 43 in the binding mechanism 41, compares the measured processing time with the set target time, and when the processing time exceeds the target time, the binding is performed. Set no-load mode for mechanism 41. The processing time of the binding component 43 actually means an elapsed time from the binding start time when the binding mechanism 41 processes the binding component 43 to the binding completion time. The binding start time is determined by, for example, the CPU 51 determining that one sheet of paper 3 'is accumulated in the paper alignment unit 30 shown in FIG. This is the time to start the binding process. The binding completion time is the time when the binding component 43 is bound to the paper 3 "and returned to the home position.

When the no-load mode is set, the CPU 51 outputs the motor control data Dm for setting the no-load mode to the motor drive unit 44a. The motor drive unit 44a receives the output motor control data Dm, and outputs a binding component adjustment signal S45b to the binding component adjustment motor 45b. The binding component adjusting motor 45b inputs the signal S45b and rotates the binding component adjusting cam 41u shown in FIG. 6A. The binding component adjusting portion 461 is moved to the right in FIG. 6A by the rotated binding component adjusting cam 41u, and the second binding claw link 41m connected to the adjusting portion 461 is moved to the right. Moved in the direction. At this time, the second binding claw link coupling hole 41s of the second binding claw link 41m is simultaneously moved rightward, and the avoidance hole shown in FIG. 6B of the coupling hole 41s that sets the binding stroke to substantially zero. A projecting second link coupling portion 46k is set in R4. As a result, the binding claw cam 41p for binding the binding claw 41z shown in FIG. 6A idles.

Accordingly, since the binding process can be stopped while the no-load mode is set, the process can be shifted to a process for making the binding mechanism 41 stand by at the home position. Accordingly, the binding device 100 can be prevented from falling into a locked state. As a result, the user can easily remove the binding component 43 or booklet with a binding failure from the apparatus 100 using the period in which the no-load mode is set.

[0080] Note that, after returning to the home position, the binding mechanism 41 returns the second link coupling portion 46k set in the avoidance hole R4 to the adjustment hole that was originally set. For example, the CPU 51 outputs the motor control data Dm for releasing the no-load mode to the motor driving unit 44a. Motor drive The unit 44a inputs the output motor control data Dm, and outputs a binding component adjustment signal S45b to the binding component adjustment motor 45b. The binding component adjusting motor 45b inputs the signal S45b and rotates the binding component adjusting cam 41u shown in FIG. The rotated binding component adjusting cam 41u moves the binding component adjusting portion 461 to the left in FIG. 7, and the second binding claw link 41m connected to the adjusting portion 461 is moved to the left. Moved in the direction. At this time, the second binding claw link coupling hole 41s of the second binding claw link 41m is simultaneously moved leftward, and any one of the adjustment holes R1 to R3 shown in FIG. 6B of the coupling hole 41s. The projecting second link coupling portion 46k is set in As a result, the no-load mode can be performed with a square cut.

Next, an example of taking out the binding component 43 by the binding mechanism 41 will be described with reference to FIG. In this example, an operation example of the related member on the cut surface of the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B will be described. While the binding mechanism 41 is in the binding part take-out position under the binder cassette 42, one binding part 43 is separated from the inside of the noinder cassette 42, and then removed until the binding part 43 is in a half-binding state. Assuming In this process, the rotation to the binder paper alignment unit 30 is not performed.

[0082] The binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 11A is in a state of being located at the lowermost portion. A binding component 43 is set in the binder cassette 42. 8A, the motor 45a shown in FIG. 10 rotates the gripping part cam 41g, and the gripping part link 41f rotates by the rotation of the gripping part cam 41g. As a result, the position and posture of the grip part coupling hole 41i change, and as a result, the binding part grip part 41b moves upward via the grip part link joint part 41e.

[0083] After moving upward, when the binding part gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 11B reaches the binding part 43, the binding part gripping claw 41h is closed and the spine part 43a of the binding part 43 is gripped. At this time, the binding component gripping claw 41h is in a state where only one binding component 43 is gripped. In this state, the motor 45a rotates the gripping part cam 41g, and the gripping part cam 41g rotates to move the binding part gripping part 41b that grips the binding part 43 downward. The

[0084] After the binding component 43 is taken out from the binder cassette 42, when the binding component gripping portion 41b is moved downward, the binding component 43 comes into contact with the binding claw 41z as shown in FIG. 11C. . At this time, the binding claw 41z is in an open state. Thereafter, the binding part gripping portion 41b is moved further downward with the binding claw 41z opened. At this time, as shown in FIG. 11D, the split ring portions 43d and 43e (see FIGS. 9A to 9D) of the binding component 43 are pushed by the binding claws 41z, so that the binding component 43 is bent by a predetermined amount and half-cut. The binding state is reached (this operation is referred to as first forming of the binding component 43).

[0085] Next, after the first forming, the binding component 43 is bound by the binding mechanism 41 on the paper 3 "provided from the binder paper alignment unit 30, and the leading end of the binding component 43 is erroneously placed on the paper. An example in which a part other than the 3 "punch hole 3a is inserted and fitted will be described. Possibility of inserting into a place other than the punch hole 3a may be a case where the punch hole 3a of the paper 3 "is not prepared or a defect occurs during the first forming of the binding component 43.

Next, referring to FIG. 12, an example of operation when the no-load mode is set will be described. In this example, an operation example of the related member on the cut surface of the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 6A will be described.

[0087] For example, when the binding mechanism 41 binds the binding component 43 to the punch hole 3a of the booklet 3 "to create the booklet 90, the component gripping claw 41h has the binding component 43 shown in Figs. 9A to 9D. It is assumed that the spine 43a is not properly held and that the first forming is defective, and the processing time for processing the binding component 43 is normally about 1.5 seconds. The target time is set to 4 seconds for the binding mechanism 41, and this target time is stored in the EEPROM 53. In this example, the binding mechanism 41 is in the state shown in Fig. 11D for the processing time (1.5 seconds). The (first forming) force is also the time until the binding component 43 is bound to the sheet bundle 3 "and returned to the home position (direction 3) shown in FIG.

[0088] As a condition for controlling the binding failure of the binding mechanism 41, first, the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 11D is rotated and moved to the paper binding position (direction I) of the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 12A. At this time, the CPU 51 starts measuring the processing time from the first forming until the binding component 43 is bound to the sheet bundle 3 ″ and returned to the home position.

The binder paper alignment unit 30 (not shown) lowers the sheet bundle 3 ″ and directs the sheet bundle 3 ″ toward the center of the binding component 43 in the half-bound state provided by the binding processing unit 40 as shown in FIG. 12B. Move. Thereafter, when the punch hole (hole 3a) of the sheet bundle 3 "reaches the fitting position of the leading end portion of the binding component 43 in the half-binding state, the binding mechanism 41 causes the binding claw 41 to move as shown in FIG. 12C. By closing z, the joint portions 43g and 43h of the binding component 43 shown in FIG. 9B are loosened in the respective hole portions 3a of the sheet bundle 3 ".

[0090] At this time, as described above, since the first forming was defective, the coupling portions 43g and 43h of the binding component 43 did not fit into the respective holes 3a of the sheet bundle 3 ", and the binding nail In this case, the binding mechanism driving motor 45a shown in Fig. 10 is not able to completely bind the binding claw 41z because the cam 41p cannot rotate first from a predetermined position. Rotate p to continue the operation of binding the binding claw 41z.

[0091] At this time, the CPU 51 compares the processing time from the start of measurement with the target time (= 4 seconds), and outputs the motor control data Dm to the motor drive unit 44a when the processing time exceeds 4 seconds. To do. The motor driving unit 44a outputs a binding mechanism driving signal S45a to the binding mechanism driving motor 45a. The motor 45a rotates the binding claw cam 41p in the reverse direction to return to the state before the binding claw 41z starts to move, thereby releasing the load and making it easy to take out the jammed binding component 43.

Subsequently, the CPU 51 outputs the motor control data Dm for setting the no-load mode to the motor drive unit 44a. The motor drive unit 44a receives the motor control data Dm and outputs a binding component adjustment signal S45b to the binding component adjustment motor 45b.

The binding component adjusting motor 45b receives the binding component adjusting signal S45b and rotates the binding component adjusting cam 41u as shown in FIG. 12D. The binding component adjusting portion 461 moves to the right in FIG. 12D by the rotated binding component adjusting cam 41u, and the second binding claw link 41m connected to the adjusting portion 461 also moves to the right. Move to. At this time, the second binding claw link coupling hole 41s of the second binding claw link 41m moves in the same manner, and as a result, the avoidance hole R4 of the coupling hole 41s that sets the binding stroke to substantially zero (FIG. 6B). Projection-like second link coupling part 46k is set.

[0094] After setting the second link coupling portion 46k in the avoidance hole R4, the motor drive portion 44a outputs the binding mechanism drive signal S45a to the binding mechanism drive motor 45a. The motor 45a rotates the binding claw cam 41p in the forward direction. At this time, since the second link coupling portion 46k is set in the avoidance hole R4 that sets the binding stroke to substantially zero, the binding pawl cam 41p is idled. As a result, the process of binding the binding claw 41z can be stopped and the binding part gripping claw 41 shown in FIG. By opening h, the spine 43a of the binding part 43 can be released. After the release, the binding mechanism 41 rotates with reference to the binding mechanism rotation shaft 41d shown in FIG. 3 and returns to the home position (direction Π). After returning to the home position, the binding mechanism 41 sets the second link coupling portion 46k to the adjustment hole originally set from the avoidance hole R4! /.

The binder paper aligning unit 30 pulls up the booklet 90 ′ with the binding component 43 bound halfway as shown in FIG. 12D to the upstream side, and drops the booklet 90 ′ onto the belt unit 61. The belt unit 61 receives the booklet 90 'that has been dropped and ends the process. At this time, the message “Please remove the defective booklet on the discharge path” is displayed on the monitor of a copier (not shown) used side by side with the apparatus 100. The user who confirms this display removes the booklet 90 'dropped on the belt unit 61. This makes it possible to easily remove the binding component 43 and booklet 90 ′ that are poorly bound from the apparatus 100.

As described above, according to the binding device 100 and the sheet processing method as the embodiment, a booklet is created by binding the binding component 43 into a hole punched at a predetermined position of each of a plurality of sheets. The CPU 51 controls the binding mechanism 41 based on the result of comparing the measured processing time of the binding component 43 and the set target time. When the processing time exceeds the target time, the CPU 51 A no-load mode is set for the binding mechanism 41.

Accordingly, since the process of binding the binding claw 41z of the binding mechanism 41 can be stopped while the no-load mode is set, even if a binding process failure occurs, the binding mechanism 41 waits for the home position. It becomes possible to shift to processing for making it happen. As a result, the apparatus 100 1S can be prevented from falling into a locked state, so that the user can easily remove the binding component 42 and the booklet 90 ′ that are poorly bound from the apparatus 100.

[0098] A lever that forcibly releases the binding component 43 may be provided. When the user releases the lever, the binding part gripping claws 41h and the binding claws 41z are forcibly opened. Further, the binding part gripping claws 41h and the binding claws 41z are configured to operate by separate driving sources, and the control part 50 controls the binding part gripping claws 41h and the binding claws 41z to be opened in the no-load mode. Also good. In this way, the binding component 43 can be released from the binding mechanism 41.

[0099] Next, an example of attaching the binding mechanism 41z in the binding mechanism 41 will be described with reference to FIG. To do. An opening 41c provided in the upper part of the main body 41a of the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 13 has a rectangular shape with the long side in the longitudinal direction of the upper part of the main body 41a. On both sides of the long side of the rectangular shape of the opening portion 41c, the binding claws 41z are movably attached to the main body portion 41a in the direction of binding the binding component 43 together with the sheet metal 47f. The sheet metal 47f has holes 47g at three locations! The projections 47d of the binding claws 41z are fitted into the holes 47g. As a result, the sheet metal 47f and the binding claw 41z can be securely fixed, and the binding claw 41z can be prevented from being pinched. The binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG. 13 is in a state in which the binding component 43 is fitted by the binding claws 41z on both sides, and the binding component 43 is annular.

Next, a configuration example of the binding claw 41z will be described with reference to FIGS. 14A and 14B. 14A is an enlarged view of the binding claw 41z and the binding component 43 in the broken line circle of the binding mechanism 41 shown in FIG.

[0101] The binding claw 41z is a resin injection molded product having a length comparable to the long side of the rectangle of the opening 41c shown in FIG. The binding claw 41z includes a plurality of guide portions 47h at positions where the binding claw 41z comes into contact with the binding component 43. The guide part 47h is prepared for at least the number of ring parts 43b of the binding component 43 (for example, about 2;! To about 23), and is arranged at a position where the ring part 43b contacts. The guide portion 47h constitutes an example of a guide member, and guides both leading ends of the ring portions 43b of the binding component 43 to the paper holes.

[0102] The guide portion 47h constitutes an example of a guide groove and a guide protrusion, or a guide groove or a guide protrusion. In this example, as shown in FIG. 14B, the first guide protrusion 47j and the second guide protrusion 47k have a guide portion 47h force. The guide protrusions 47j and 47k are arranged at an interval substantially equal to the width H of the ring part 43b of the binding component 43. Further, the receiving side Q of the ring portion 43b of the guide protrusions 47j and 47k is set slightly wider than the width H of the ring portion 43b. For example, an inclined portion is provided to stabilize the seating posture when the binding component 43 is set, and the inclined portion is set so that the opening is wide and the depth is narrow. As a result, the ring portion 43b can be securely held.

[0103] A contact portion 471 with which the outer peripheral surface of the ring portion 43b contacts is provided between the guide protrusions 47j and 47k. The contact portion 471 has a semicircular shape. The substantially upper half of the contact part 471 is a 180 ° -folded binding part 43 until it is a half-stitched binding part 43 shown in FIG. Used for. The semicircular substantially lower part of the contact portion 471 is used until the binding component 43 in the half-binding state is changed to the annular binding component 43 shown in FIG. 14A. As a result, the ring part 43 b of the binding part 43 does not have a corner, and therefore the binding force S can be applied to the binding part 43 with a sliding force. The binding claw 41z includes a shaft engaging portion 47e and a screw hole 47c. This screw hole 47c is used to fix the sheet metal 47f shown in FIG. The binding claw rotating shaft 47b shown in FIG. 6A is inserted into the shaft engaging portion 47e.

[0104] In this example, the binding claw 41z is attached by first attaching the sheet metal 47f shown in Fig. 13 on the side (upper surface side) having the projection 47d of the binding claw 41z, and disposing the binding claw 41z on the lower surface side of the binding claw 41z. The reinforcing steel bar shown is installed. After mounting, the screw hole 47c is fixed with a screw or the like with the binding claw 41z sandwiched between the sheet metal 47f and the reinforcing iron bar. At this time, the projection 47d of the binding claw 41z is fitted into each hole 47g of the sheet metal 47f. After fixing with the screw, the binding claw rotation shaft 47b is inserted into the shaft engaging portion 47e of the binding claw 41z. The binding claw rotation shaft 47b is attached to the upper end portion of the first binding claw link 411 shown in FIG. 6A.

Next, an operation example of the binding claw 41z will be described with reference to FIG. The binding claw 41z shown in FIG. 15 is a state in which the ring portion 43b of the binding component 43 in the half-binding state is guided by the guide portion 47h. In this way, the binding claw 41z forms a half-binding state of the binding component 43.

Next, an operation example of the binding claw 41z will be described with reference to FIGS. 16A and 16B. The two binding claws 41z shown in FIG. 16A are in a state of guiding the binding component 43 in the half binding state, like the binding claws 41z shown in FIG. According to the binding claw 41z shown in FIG. 16A, the guide part 47h arranged at a position where the ring part 43b of the binding part 43 comes into contact guides the ring part 43b of the binding part 43.

16B is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the ring portion 43b of the binding component 43. The contact portion 471 shown in FIG.

At this time, the guide protrusion 47k guides one side surface of the ring portion 43b. Further, the guide protrusion 47j shown in FIG. 16C guides the other side surface of the ring portion 43b. As a result, since both side surfaces of the ring portion 43b are guided, it is possible to prevent the postures of both ends of each ring portion 43b from shifting from side to side with respect to the fitting direction when the binding component 43 is fitted. It becomes.

[0108] Fig. 17A is a top view of partially fractured showing an operation example (ring state) of the binding claw 41z. Figure 17A A binding claw 41z shown in FIG. 16 is formed by binding from the state of the binding claw 41z shown in FIG. 16A until the binding component 43 becomes annular. At this time, the guide portion 47h guides the link portion 43b of the binding component 43.

[0109] The contact portion 471 shown in FIG. 17B is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the ring portion 43b of the binding component 43.

At this time, the guide protrusion 47k guides one side surface of the ring portion 43b. Further, the guide protrusion 47j shown in FIG. 17C guides the other side surface of the ring portion 43b. As a result, when the binding component 43 is fitted from the half-stitched state shown in FIGS. 16A to 16C, both side surfaces of the ring portion 43b are guided! /, So both ends of each ring portion 43b are guided. This makes it possible to maintain an upright posture without the right and left positions being shifted from side to side with respect to the fitting direction. As a result, both ends of the binding component 43 can be reliably fitted.

[0110] Next, an example of binding the binding component 43 after the binding component 43 is taken out will be described with reference to FIGS. 18A to 18D. In this example, an example in which the binding component 43 is bound by the binding claws 41z will be described in time series using the cut surfaces shown in FIGS. 16B, 16C, 17B, and 17C.

[0111] The binding component gripping portion 41b shown in FIG. 18A is in a state in which the binding component 43 is acquired from the binder cassette 42 shown in FIG. In this state, the mechanism driving motor 45a shown in FIG. 10 rotates the gripping portion cam 41g shown in FIG. By rotating the gripping part cam 41g, the binding part gripping part 41b is moved downward.

[0112] When the binding part gripping part 41b is moved downward, the outer peripheral surfaces of the split ring parts 43d and 43e of the binding part 43 are in contact with the contact part 471 of the binding claw 41z as shown in FIG. 18B. At this time, the binding claw 41z is in an open state. Thereafter, the binding part gripping portion 41b is moved further downward with the binding claw 41z opened. In this case, as shown in FIG. 18C, the outer peripheral surfaces of the split ring portions 43d and 43e of the binding component 43 are pushed by the contact portion 471, so that the binding component 43 is bent by a predetermined amount and is in a half-bound state (pre-forming) ). At this time, the guide protrusion 47k guides one side surface of the split ring portions 43d and 43e. Further, the guide protrusion 47j shown in FIG. 16C guides the other side surface of the split ring portions 43d and 43e. This ensures reliable pre-forming.

[0113] The binding claw 41z is closed from the pre-forming state shown in FIG. 18C and shown in FIG. 18D. An annular binding component 43 is obtained. In this example, the binding claw cam (not shown) rotates the third binding claw link 41η of the fitting portion 41x shown in FIG. 6A counterclockwise and applies a downward force to the second binding claw link 41m. . By this downward force, the left and right first binding claw links 411 are rotated, the respective binding claws 41z are moved in the direction of the binding component 43, and the binding claws 41z are closed. At this time, the guide protrusion 47k guides one side surface of the split ring portions 43d and 43e, and the guide protrusion 47j shown in FIG. 17C guides the other side surface of the split ring portions 43d and 43e. Yes. Accordingly, the connecting portions 43g and 43h of the binding component 43 shown in FIG. 9B can be reliably fitted in the punch holes of the paper 3 ”.

As described above, according to the binding device 100 according to the present invention, a booklet is created by binding the binding component 43 into a predetermined number of holes punched in each of the plurality of sheets 3 ′. The fitting part 41x for fitting the part 43 includes a guide part 47h for guiding both ends of each ring part 43b of the binding part 43 to the hole of the sheet 3 ". In this example, the guide part 47h Guide protrusions 47j and 47k are provided so that the guide protrusion 47k guides one side of the ring part 43b, and the guide protrusion 47j guides the other side of the ring part 43b.

[0115] With this configuration, when the binding component 43 is fitted, the postures of both ends of the ring portions 43b of the binding component 43 are not shifted left and right with respect to the fitting direction. The two ends of the binding component 43 can be reliably fitted without being abutted against each other. Therefore, the binding processing performance of the device 100 can be improved.

[0116] In the binder paper aligning unit 30, the above-mentioned guide part 47h is provided in the clamp member for clamping the paper, and when binding the binding part 43, the outer peripheral surface of the binding part 43 is attached to the guide part 47h of the clamp member. It is also conceivable to bind the binding component 43 while making contact. It is also conceivable to increase the fitting accuracy of the binding component 43 by engraving grooves on the outer peripheral surfaces of the split ring portions 43d and 43e of the binding component 43 and providing the binding claw 41z with projections that enter the groove. Industrial applicability

[0117] The present invention is applied to an apparatus that performs a punching process on recording paper output from a black-and-white and color copiers, a printing apparatus, and the like, and binds binding components to the recording paper after the punching process. Therefore, it is suitable.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] A paper processing apparatus that creates a booklet by binding a binding component into a hole perforated at a predetermined position of each of a plurality of papers,

In relation to the process of binding the unfolded binding part into an annular binding part, the process from the binding start time to the binding completion time is set as the binding stroke, and the process from the binding start position to the binding completion position is set as the binding stroke. When the target time for processing is set to the no-load mode when the binding stroke is set to substantially zero and the operation for waiting for the binding processing is set to the no-load mode,

Binding means for binding the binding component in the hole formed in the paper;

A control means for measuring the processing time of the binding component in the binding means, comparing the measured processing time with the set target time, and controlling the binding means based on the comparison result;

The control means includes

The sheet processing apparatus, wherein when the processing time exceeds the target time, the no-load mode is set in the binding unit.

[2] The binding means includes:

A holding unit for holding the binding component;

2. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a fitting unit that fits both ends of the binding component held by the holding unit into the holes of the sheet.

[3] A stroke switching unit that switches the binding stroke in the fitting unit, the fitting unit includes a link member with a switching hole for switching the binding stroke,

The stroke switching unit

A switching cam for switching the switching hole of the link member;

A drive unit for driving the switching cam;

When the no-load mode is set by the control unit,

3. The sheet processing according to claim 2, wherein the driving unit is driven to rotate the switching cam, and the switching hole of the link member is switched to the switching hole that sets the binding stroke to substantially zero. apparatus.

[4] The fitting portion includes:

The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a guide member having a predetermined shape for guiding both ends of the binding component to the hole of the sheet.

[5] The guide member is

5. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a guide groove and a guide protrusion, or a guide groove or a guide protrusion at a position where the binding component contacts.

[6] A paper processing method for creating a booklet by binding a binding component into a hole punched at a predetermined position of each of a plurality of papers,

Setting the target time in a binding processing system;

Measuring a processing time related to a binding process of a binding component bound by the binding processing system; comparing the measured processing time with the set target time; and, as a result of the comparison, the processing time is set to the target time. If not, the step of setting the no-load mode to the binding processing system;

A paper processing method characterized by comprising: