Recording device, loading device, and method of controlling recording device

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that prevents lowering of sheet aligning performance even when a large number of paper sheets are discharged from an upper sheet discharge port.SOLUTION: A recording device includes: a recording section that performs recording on a medium; a first discharge section that discharges the medium on which recording has been performed at the recording section; a first mounting section to / from which a first loading section is attachable and detachable; a second discharge section that is arranged below the first discharge section and discharges the medium on which recording has been performed at the recording section; and a second mounting section to / from which a second loading section arranged below the first loading section is attachable and detachable. When the second loading section is mounted in the second mounting section and the first loading section is not mounted in the first mounting section, the medium is discharged from the first discharge section and the second discharge section to the second loading section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a recording device, a loading device, and a control method for a recording device. [Background technology]

[0002] Image forming devices equipped with multiple paper output outlets are known. The image forming device described in Patent Document 1 is a copier, printer, facsimile machine, etc., which are examples of recording devices. The image forming device described in Patent Document 1, for example, is equipped with an upper paper output outlet, a lower paper output outlet, an upper tray, and a lower tray. The upper tray is supported by a lifting mechanism so that it can move up and down. When the upper tray is stored in the uppermost position, the image forming device outputs paper from the upper or lower paper output outlet to the lower tray. When the bulk paper output mode is set, the image forming device outputs paper from the upper paper output outlet. When the bulk paper output mode is not set, the image forming device outputs paper from the lower paper output outlet. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-217150 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When an image forming apparatus discharges a large amount of paper from the upper paper discharge port, the alignment of the paper sheets deteriorates. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The recording device disclosed herein comprises a recording unit that records on a medium, a first discharge unit that discharges the medium recorded by the recording unit, a first mounting unit to which a first stacking unit can be attached and detached, a second discharge unit that is positioned below the first discharge unit and discharges the medium recorded by the recording unit, and a second mounting unit to which the second stacking unit that is positioned below the first stacking unit can be attached and detached, and when the second stacking unit is attached to the second mounting unit and the first stacking unit is not attached to the first mounting unit, the recording device discharges the medium from the first discharge unit and the second discharge unit to the second stacking unit.

[0006] The recording device of the present disclosure comprises a recording unit that records on a medium, a first discharge unit that discharges the medium recorded by the recording unit, a first mounting unit to which a first stacking unit can be attached, a second discharge unit that is positioned below the first discharge unit and discharges the medium recorded by the recording unit, and a second stacking unit that is positioned below the first stacking unit, and when the first stacking unit is not attached to the first mounting unit, the medium is discharged from the first discharge unit and the second discharge unit to the second stacking unit.

[0007] The loading device disclosed herein is a loading device that can be attached to and detached from the second mounting section of a device housing that includes a recording section that records on a medium, a first ejection section that ejects the medium recorded by the recording section, a first mounting section to which the first loading section can be attached and detached, a second ejection section that is positioned below the first ejection section and ejects the medium, and the loading device has a position regulating section that regulates the edge position of the medium, and the position regulating section includes a first regulating member that regulates the edge position of the medium that is loaded below the second ejection section, and a second regulating member that regulates the edge position of the medium that is loaded above the second ejection section.

[0008] The control method for a recording device disclosed herein is a control method for a recording device that includes a recording unit that records on a medium, a first discharge unit that discharges the medium recorded by the recording unit, a first mounting unit to which a first stacking unit can be attached or detached, a second discharge unit that is positioned below the first discharge unit and discharges the medium, and a second mounting unit to which the second stacking unit that is positioned below the first stacking unit can be attached or detached, and when the second stacking unit is attached to the second mounting unit and the first stacking unit is not attached to the first mounting unit, the medium is discharged from the first discharge unit and the second discharge unit to the second stacking unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a control flow executed by the multifunction peripheral. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display example on a display screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display example on a display screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display example on a display screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a control flow executed by the multifunction peripheral. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display example on a display screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 19] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a control flow executed by the multifunction peripheral. [Figure 20] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display example on a display screen. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a multifunction device 10. The multifunction device 10 corresponds to an example of a recording device. FIG. 1 shows a first multifunction device 10a, which is an example of the multifunction device 10. FIG. 1 shows an XZ cross section of the first multifunction device 10a. The first multifunction device 10a includes a reading unit 20, a first printer unit 30a, a first paper discharge unit 70, and a second paper discharge unit 80.

[0011] Several figures, including FIG. 1, show an XYZ coordinate system. The Z axis is an axis perpendicular to the installation surface of the multifunction device 10. The +Z direction is a direction pointing upward from the installation surface. The -Z direction is a direction pointing from above toward the installation surface. The X axis is an axis perpendicular to the Z axis. The X axis is an axis parallel to the direction in which a paper transport mechanism 39, described below, transports paper. The +X direction is a direction from right to left of the multifunction device 10 shown in FIG. 1, etc. The -X direction is a direction from left to right of the multifunction device 10 shown in FIG. 1, etc. The Y axis is an axis perpendicular to the X axis and Z axis. The +Y direction is a direction from the back to the front of the multifunction device 10 shown in FIG. 1, etc. The -Y direction is a direction from the front to the back of the multifunction device 10 shown in FIG. 1, etc.

[0012] The reading unit 20 reads an original document and generates read data. The reading unit 20 transmits the read data to the first printer unit 30a, causing the first printer unit 30a to print the read data. The reading unit 20 may transmit the read data to an external device that is communicatively connected to the first multifunction peripheral 10a. The reading unit 20 includes an original transport mechanism, an original reading sensor, and the like, which are not shown.

[0013] The first printer unit 30a is an example of a printer unit 30. The first printer unit 30a prints on paper P. The paper P corresponds to an example of a medium. The first printer unit 30a ejects the printed paper P to the first paper ejection unit 70, the second paper ejection unit 80, or the like. The first printer unit 30a is positioned below the reading unit 20 in the -Z direction. The first printer unit 30a supports the reading unit 20. The first printer unit 30a includes a printer housing 31, a paper feed cassette 33, a paper transport path 35, a print head 37, a stacker paper ejection roller pair 41, a first side paper ejection roller pair 43, a second side paper ejection roller pair 45, and a stacker 60. The first printer unit 30a may also include a stacker paper sensor 47, a first side paper sensor 49, a second side paper sensor 51, a first unit sensor 53, and a second unit sensor 55.

[0014] The printer housing 31 houses the print head 37, paper transport mechanism 39, stacker paper discharge roller pair 41, first side paper discharge roller pair 43, and second side paper discharge roller pair 45. The printer housing 31 may also house a stacker paper sensor 47, first side paper sensor 49, second side paper sensor 51, first unit sensor 53, and second unit sensor 55. The printer housing 31 corresponds to an example of a device housing. The printer housing 31 has a left side surface 31a that faces the first paper discharge unit 70 and the second paper discharge unit 80. The left side surface 31a is the surface of the printer housing 31 in the +X direction. The left side surface 31a corresponds to an example of an outer surface.

[0015] 1 houses a paper feed cassette 33, but is not limited to this. The printer housing 31 may be configured integrally with the paper feed cassette 33 or a paper feed unit including the paper feed cassette 33, or may be configured separately.

[0016] The paper feed cassette 33 stores paper P. The paper P stored in the paper feed cassette 33 is sent to a paper transport path 35 and printed by a print head 37. The first multifunction device 10a shown in FIG. 1 has four paper feed cassettes 33. The four paper feed cassettes 33 are a first paper feed cassette 33a, a second paper feed cassette 33b, a third paper feed cassette 33c, and a fourth paper feed cassette 33d. The first multifunction device 10a shown in FIG. 1 has four paper feed cassettes 33, but is not limited to this. The first multifunction device 10a has one or more paper feed cassettes 33.

[0017] The four paper feed cassettes 33 are arranged in the following order from top to bottom of the first multifunction device 10a: first paper feed cassette 33a, second paper feed cassette 33b, third paper feed cassette 33c, and fourth paper feed cassette 33d. The four paper feed cassettes 33 may each store paper P of the same size, or may store paper P of different sizes.

[0018] The paper transport path 35 is a path along which the paper P stored in the paper feed cassette 33 is transported. Rollers, guides, and the like (not shown) are arranged along the paper transport path 35. The paper P is transported within the printer housing 31 along the paper transport path 35.

[0019] The print head 37 prints on the paper P. One example of the print head 37 is an inkjet head. The inkjet head prints an image on the paper P by ejecting ink onto the paper P. The print head 37 prints on the paper P based on print data such as read data. The print head 37 corresponds to an example of a recording unit. Printing corresponds to an example of recording.

[0020] The paper transport mechanism 39 transports the paper P. The paper transport mechanism 39 is disposed in a position facing the print head 37. The paper transport mechanism 39 is composed of, for example, a transport belt 39a, a first tension roller 39b, and a second tension roller 39c.

[0021] The conveyor belt 39a holds the paper P and conveys the paper P. The conveyor belt 39a rotates in a predetermined direction. By rotating, the conveyor belt 39a conveys the paper P to a position facing the print head 37. The paper P conveyed to the position facing the print head 37 is printed by the print head 37.

[0022] The first tension roller 39b and the second tension roller 39c support the conveyor belt 39a while applying tension to it. The first tension roller 39b and the second tension roller 39c are arranged along the X-axis. At least one of the first tension roller 39b and the second tension roller 39c transmits a driving force to the conveyor belt 39a to rotate the conveyor belt 39a.

[0023] The stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 discharges the paper P printed by the print head 37 into the stacker 60. The stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 discharges the paper P from the first paper discharge outlet 41a to the stacker 60. The first paper discharge outlet 41a is an opening provided in the printer housing 31. The stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 and the first paper discharge outlet 41a are provided above the stacker 60.

[0024] The stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 is composed of two rollers. Each of the two rollers rotates around a rotation axis to transport paper P. As an example, the two rollers are composed of multiple roller members arranged along the rotation axis. At least one of the two rollers rotates around the rotation axis by a driving force from a driving source (not shown).

[0025] The first side ejection roller pair 43 ejects paper P printed by the print head 37 to the outside of the printer housing 31. The first side ejection roller pair 43 is positioned opposite the left side 31a. The first side ejection roller pair 43 ejects paper P from a first side ejection outlet 43a. The first side ejection outlet 43a is an opening provided in the left side 31a of the printer housing 31. The height along the Z axis of the first side ejection outlet 43a is the same as or approximately the same as the height position at which the first side ejection roller pair 43 ejects paper P. The first side ejection roller pair 43 can eject paper P from the first side ejection outlet 43a to the first ejection unit 70 or the second ejection unit 80. The first side ejection roller pair 43 corresponds to an example of a first ejection section.

[0026] The first side discharge roller pair 43 is made up of two rollers. Each of the two rollers rotates around a rotation axis to transport the paper P. As an example, the two rollers are made up of multiple roller members arranged along the rotation axis. At least one of the two rollers rotates around the rotation axis by a driving force from a driving source (not shown).

[0027] The second side ejection roller pair 45 ejects paper P printed by the print head 37 to the outside of the printer housing 31. The second side ejection roller pair 45 is positioned opposite the left side 31a. The second side ejection roller pair 45 is positioned below the first side ejection roller pair 43. The second side ejection roller pair 45 ejects paper P from the second side ejection outlet 45a. The second side ejection outlet 45a is an opening provided in the left side 31a of the printer housing 31. The height of the second side ejection outlet 45a along the Z axis is the same as or approximately the same as the height position at which the second side ejection roller pair 45 ejects paper P. The second side ejection outlet 45a is positioned below the first side ejection outlet 43a. The second side ejection roller pair 45 can eject paper P from the second side ejection outlet 45a to the second ejection unit 80. The second side discharge roller pair 45 corresponds to an example of a second discharge section.

[0028] The second side discharge roller pair 45 is made up of two rollers. Each of the two rollers rotates around a rotation axis to transport the paper P. As an example, the two rollers are made up of multiple roller members arranged along the rotation axis. At least one of the two rollers rotates around the rotation axis by a driving force from a driving source (not shown).

[0029] The stacker 60 stacks the paper sheets P discharged by the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41. The stacker 60 stacks the paper sheets P printed by the print head 37. The first multifunction device 10a has a hollow portion. The stacker 60 shown in FIG. 1 is made up of a part of the printer housing 31 that forms the hollow portion. The stacker 60 shown in FIG. 1 is made up of a part of the printer housing 31, but is not limited to this. The stacker 60 may also be made up of a separate member from the printer housing 31.

[0030] The stacker paper sensor 47 detects when the stacker 60 is full of paper P. The stacker paper sensor 47 detects paper P stacked at a first paper detection position along the Z axis. The first paper detection position is above the stacker 60 and below the position where the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 discharges paper P. When the stacker paper sensor 47 detects paper P stacked at the first paper detection position, it detects that the stacker 60 is full of paper P. When the stacker paper sensor 47 detects that the stacker 60 is full of paper P, it outputs a stacker full signal. The stacker full signal is a signal indicating that paper P on the stacker 60 has been stacked at the first paper detection position. The stacker paper sensor 47 is, for example, an optical sensor. The optical sensor may be a transmissive or reflective type. The first multifunction peripheral 10a shown in FIG. 1 includes the stacker paper sensor 47, but it is not required to include it. The first multifunction device 10a preferably includes a stacker paper sensor 47.

[0031] The first side paper sensor 49 detects that the first paper discharge unit 70 or the second paper discharge unit 80 without the first paper discharge unit 70 is fully loaded with paper P. The first side paper sensor 49 detects paper P stacked at a first paper height position along the Z axis. The first paper height position is a position above the bottom surfaces of the first paper discharge unit 70 and the second paper discharge unit 80 and below the first side paper discharge opening 43a. When the first side paper sensor 49 detects paper P stacked at the first paper height position, it detects that the first paper discharge unit 70 or the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded with paper P. When the first side paper sensor 49 detects that the first paper discharge unit 70 or the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded with paper P, it outputs a first full load signal. The first full load signal is a signal indicating that the first paper discharge unit 70 or the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded with paper P. The first side paper sensor 49 is, for example, an optical sensor. The optical sensor may be a transmissive type or a reflective type. The first multifunction device 10a shown in FIG. 1 includes the first side paper sensor 49, but it does not have to be. It is preferable that the first multifunction device 10a includes the first side paper sensor 49. The first side paper sensor 49 corresponds to an example of a first full-load detection unit.

[0032] The second side paper sensor 51 detects that the second paper discharge unit 80, with the first paper discharge unit 70 attached, is fully loaded with paper sheets P. The second side paper sensor 51 detects paper sheets P stacked at a second paper height position along the Z axis. The second paper height position is above the bottom surface of the second paper discharge unit 80 and below the second side paper discharge opening 45a. The second paper height position is below the first paper height position. When the second side paper sensor 51 detects paper sheets P stacked at the second paper height position, it detects that the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded with paper sheets P. When the second side paper sensor 51 detects that the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded with paper sheets P, it outputs a second full-load signal. The second full-load signal is a signal indicating that the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded with paper sheets P. The second side paper sensor 51 is, for example, an optical sensor. The optical sensor may be a transmissive or reflective type. 1 includes a second side paper sensor 51, but this is not essential. It is preferable that the first multifunction device 10a includes a second side paper sensor 51. The second side paper sensor 51 corresponds to an example of a second full-load detector.

[0033] The first unit sensor 53 detects whether the first paper discharge unit 70 is attached to the first printer unit 30a. The first paper discharge unit 70 is configured to be detachable from the first printer unit 30a. The first unit sensor 53 detects whether the first paper discharge unit 70 is attached to the first detachable member 57 of the first printer unit 30a.

[0034] The first detachable member 57 is provided on the left side surface 31a of the printer housing 31. The first detachable member 57 is an engaging member that engages with a first mounting member 71 provided on the first paper output unit 70. The first detachable member 57 detachably supports the first paper output unit 70. The first detachable member 57 mounts the first paper output unit 70 in a state where it protrudes from the left side surface 31a. The first detachable member 57 is configured with an engaging hole, a hook, etc. The configuration of the first detachable member 57 is not limited as long as it is configured to detachably support the first paper output unit 70. The first detachable member 57 corresponds to an example of a first mounting portion.

[0035] The first unit sensor 53 outputs a first attachment detection signal. The first attachment detection signal is a signal indicating that the first paper discharge unit 70 is attached to the first removable member 57 of the first printer unit 30a. The first attachment detection signal may also be a signal indicating that the first paper discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57 of the first printer unit 30a. The first unit sensor 53 is composed of an optical sensor, a mechanical sensor, or the like. As an example, the first unit sensor 53 is an optical sensor that detects the presence or absence of the first attachment member 71 of the first paper discharge unit 70. The first unit sensor 53 corresponds to an example of an attachment detection section.

[0036] The second unit sensor 55 detects whether the second paper discharge unit 80 is attached to the first printer unit 30a. The second paper discharge unit 80 is configured to be detachable from the first printer unit 30a. The second unit sensor 55 detects whether the second paper discharge unit 80 is attached to the second detachable member 59 of the first printer unit 30a.

[0037] The second detachable member 59 is provided on the left side surface 31a of the printer housing 31. The second detachable member 59 is an engaging member that engages with the second mounting member 81 provided on the second paper output unit 80. The second detachable member 59 detachably supports the second paper output unit 80. The second detachable member 59 mounts the second paper output unit 80 in a state where it protrudes from the left side surface 31a. The second detachable member 59 is configured with an engaging hole, a hook, etc. The configuration of the second detachable member 59 is not limited as long as it is configured to detachably support the second paper output unit 80. The second detachable member 59 corresponds to an example of a second mounting portion.

[0038] The second unit sensor 55 outputs a second attachment detection signal. The second attachment detection signal is a signal indicating that the second paper output unit 80 is attached to the second removable member 59 of the first printer unit 30a. The second attachment detection signal may also be a signal indicating that the second paper output unit 80 is not attached to the second removable member 59 of the first printer unit 30a. The second unit sensor 55 is composed of an optical sensor, a mechanical sensor, or the like. As an example, the second unit sensor 55 is an optical sensor that detects the presence or absence of the second attachment member 81 of the second paper output unit 80.

[0039] The first paper discharge unit 70 stacks paper sheets P that have been printed by the print head 37. The first paper discharge unit 70 is configured to be detachable from the first printer unit 30a. The first paper discharge unit 70 is attached to a position facing the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 across the left side surface 31a of the printer housing 31. The first paper discharge unit 70 is attached to a position where paper sheets P discharged by the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 can be placed on it. The first paper discharge unit 70 has a first mounting member 71. The first paper discharge unit 70 may also have a paper width regulating member, a paper edge regulating member, etc., not shown. The first paper discharge unit 70 corresponds to an example of a first stacking section.

[0040] The first mounting member 71 is an engaged member that engages with the first detachable member 57. When the first mounting member 71 engages with the first detachable member 57, the first paper output unit 70 is supported on the first printer unit 30a. When the engagement between the first mounting member 71 and the first detachable member 57 is released, the first paper output unit 70 moves away from the first printer unit 30a. The configuration of the first mounting member 71 is not limited as long as it is configured to be engageable with the first detachable member 57.

[0041] The second paper discharge unit 80 stacks paper sheets P that have been printed by the print head 37. The second paper discharge unit 80 is configured to be detachable from the first printer unit 30a. By configuring the second paper discharge unit 80 to be detachable, it becomes easier to remove paper sheets P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80. The second paper discharge unit 80 is attached to a position facing the second side paper discharge roller pair 45 across the left side 31a of the printer housing 31. The second paper discharge unit 80 is attached to a position where it can place paper sheets P discharged by the second side paper discharge roller pair 45. The second paper discharge unit 80 is positioned below the first paper discharge unit 70. The second paper discharge unit 80 is positioned where it can place paper sheets P discharged by the first side paper discharge roller pair 43. The second paper discharge unit 80 can place paper sheets P discharged by the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 and paper sheets P discharged by the second side paper discharge roller pair 45. The second paper ejection unit 80 has a second mounting member 81, a paper width guide 83, a width guide sensor 85, a stopper 91, and a stopper sensor 93. The second paper ejection unit 80 corresponds to an example of a second stacking section and a stacking device.

[0042] The second mounting member 81 is an engaged member that engages with the second mounting member 59. When the second mounting member 81 engages with the second mounting member 59, the second paper output unit 80 is supported on the first printer unit 30a. When the engagement between the second mounting member 81 and the second mounting member 59 is released, the second paper output unit 80 moves away from the first printer unit 30a. The configuration of the second mounting member 81 is not limited as long as it is configured to be engageable with the second mounting member 59.

[0043] The paper width guide 83 regulates the position of the edge of the paper P loaded in the second paper discharge unit 80. The paper width guide 83 is placed at a position in the +Y direction and a position in the -Y direction of the paper P loaded in the second paper discharge unit 80. The paper width guide 83 may be placed at a position in the +Y direction or a position in the -Y direction of the paper P loaded in the second paper discharge unit 80. The +Y direction edge and the -Y direction edge of the paper P are parallel or approximately parallel to the X axis. The paper width guide 83 includes a first width guide member 83a and a second width guide member 83b. The paper width guide 83 corresponds to an example of a position regulation section.

[0044] The first width guide member 83a regulates the position of the edge of the paper sheet P that is loaded at a position below the second side paper discharge roller pair 45. The first width guide member 83a regulates the position of either the edge of the paper sheet P in the +Y direction or the edge of the paper sheet P in the -Y direction. The first width guide member 83a is disposed on the underside of the second paper discharge unit 80. The first width guide member 83a corresponds to an example of a first regulating member.

[0045] The second width guide member 83b regulates the position of the edge of paper P loaded at a position above the second side discharge roller pair 45. The second width guide member 83b is provided in a manner to assist the first width guide member 83a. The second width guide member 83b regulates the position of the edge of paper P loaded at a position higher than the height of the first width guide member 83a in the +Z direction. The second width guide member 83b regulates the position of either the edge of paper P in the +Y direction or the edge of paper P in the -Y direction. The second width guide member 83b corresponds to an example of a second regulation member.

[0046] The second width guide member 83b shown in FIG. 1 is attached to the first width guide member 83a. The second width guide member 83b is configured to be able to slide upward and downward along the Z axis. The second width guide member 83b may also be configured to be able to rotate about a rotation axis along the X axis. The second width guide member 83b is pressed upward by an elastic member such as a spring, for example. The elastic member is not shown. When the first paper ejection unit 70 is attached to the first printer unit 30a, the first paper ejection unit 70 prevents the second width guide member 83b from moving upward. When the first paper ejection unit 70 moves away from the first printer unit 30a, the second width guide member 83b moves upward due to the pressing force of the elastic member.

[0047] The second width guide member 83b may be configured to be movable upward and downward by a guide drive mechanism 99. The guide drive mechanism 99 will be described later. The second width guide member 83b slides upward and downward by the drive force of the guide drive mechanism 99. The second width guide member 83b may also rotate by the drive force of the guide drive mechanism 99. One end of the second width guide member 83b moves upward and downward as the second width guide member 83b rotates.

[0048] The second width guide member 83b may be configured as an additional member that is detachable from the first width guide member 83a. The additional member is attached to and detached from the first width guide member 83a by the user of the first multifunction printer 10a.

[0049] The width guide sensor 85 detects the position of the second width guide member 83b. The width guide sensor 85 detects that the second width guide member 83b is positioned so that it can regulate the edge position of paper P loaded above the second side discharge roller pair 45. The width guide sensor 85 is composed of an optical sensor, a mechanical sensor, an encoder, etc. The width guide sensor 85 corresponds to an example of a regulation member detection unit.

[0050] The width guide sensor 85 shown in FIG. 1 detects the presence or absence of the second width guide member 83b. The width guide sensor 85 is disposed in a position where it detects the second width guide member 83b when the second width guide member 83b is in a lower position, and does not detect the second width guide member 83b when the second width guide member 83b is in an upper position. The width guide sensor 85 detects the position of the second width guide member 83b by detecting the presence or absence of the second width guide member 83b. The width guide sensor 85 outputs a guide detection output signal when it detects the second width guide member 83b or when it does not detect the second width guide member 83b.

[0051] When the second width guide member 83b is configured with an additional member, the width guide sensor 85 detects whether the additional member is attached or not. The width guide sensor 85 outputs a guide detection output signal when the additional member is attached to the first width guide member 83a or when it is not attached.

[0052] The stopper 91 regulates the position of the edge of the paper sheet P loaded in the second paper discharge unit 80. The stopper 91 is disposed at a position in the +X direction of the paper sheet P loaded in the second paper discharge unit 80. The stopper 91 regulates the position of the edge of the +X direction of the paper sheet P. The edge of the paper sheet P in the +X direction is a side that is parallel or approximately parallel to the Y axis. The stopper 91 includes a first stopper member 91a and a second stopper member 91b. The stopper 91 corresponds to an example of a position regulation portion.

[0053] The first stopper member 91a regulates the edge position of the paper sheet P loaded at a position below the second side paper discharge roller pair 45. The first stopper member 91a is disposed on the lower surface of the second paper discharge unit 80. The first stopper member 91a corresponds to an example of a first regulating member.

[0054] The second stopper member 91b regulates the position of the edge of the paper sheet P that is loaded at a position above the second side discharge roller pair 45. The second stopper member 91b is provided in a manner that assists the first stopper member 91a. The second stopper member 91b regulates the position of the edge of the paper sheet P that is loaded at a position higher than the height of the first stopper member 91a in the +Z direction. The second stopper member 91b regulates the position of the edge of the paper sheet P in the +X direction. The second stopper member 91b corresponds to an example of a second regulating member.

[0055] The second stopper member 91b shown in FIG. 1 is attached to the first stopper member 91a. The second stopper member 91b is configured to be slidable upward and downward along the Z axis. The second width guide member 83b may be configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis along the Y axis. The second stopper member 91b is pressed upward by a pressing member such as a spring, for example. The pressing member is not shown. When the first paper ejection unit 70 is attached to the first printer unit 30a, the first paper ejection unit 70 prevents the second stopper member 91b from moving upward. When the first paper ejection unit 70 moves away from the first printer unit 30a, the second stopper member 91b moves upward due to the pressing force of the pressing member.

[0056] The second stopper member 91b may be configured to be movable upward and downward by the guide drive mechanism 99. The second stopper member 91b slides upward and downward by the drive force of the guide drive mechanism 99. The second stopper member 91b may rotate by the drive force of the guide drive mechanism 99. One end of the second stopper member 91b moves upward and downward as the second stopper member 91b rotates.

[0057] The second stopper member 91b may be configured as an attachment member that is detachable from the first stopper member 91a. The attachment member is attached to and detached from the first stopper member 91a by the user of the first multifunction peripheral 10a.

[0058] The stopper sensor 93 detects the position of the second stopper member 91b. The stopper sensor 93 detects that the second stopper member 91b is positioned at a position where it can regulate the edge position of the paper sheet P loaded above the second side discharge roller pair 45. The stopper sensor 93 is composed of an optical sensor, a mechanical sensor, an encoder, etc. The stopper sensor 93 corresponds to an example of a regulation member detection unit.

[0059] The stopper sensor 93 shown in FIG. 1 detects the presence or absence of the second stopper member 91b. The stopper sensor 93 is disposed in a position where it detects the second stopper member 91b when the second stopper member 91b is in a lower position, and does not detect the second stopper member 91b when the second stopper member 91b is in an upper position. The stopper sensor 93 detects the position of the second stopper member 91b by detecting the presence or absence of the second stopper member 91b. The stopper sensor 93 outputs a stopper detection output signal when it detects the second stopper member 91b or when it does not detect the second stopper member 91b.

[0060] When the second stopper member 91b is configured as an attachment member, the stopper sensor 93 detects the presence or absence of the attachment member. The stopper sensor 93 outputs a stopper detection output signal when the attachment member is attached to the first stopper member 91a or when it is not attached.

[0061] FIG. 2 shows a block configuration of the multifunction device 10. FIG. 2 shows a block configuration of a first multifunction device 10a, which is an example of the multifunction device 10. FIG. 2 shows a block configuration of the first multifunction device 10a to which a first paper discharge unit 70 and a second paper discharge unit 80 are attached. FIG. 2 shows a block configuration of the first multifunction device 10a equipped with a guide drive mechanism 99. The guide drive mechanism 99 may not be provided if the second width guide member 83b, etc. is configured to be movable by an elastic member. The guide drive mechanism 99 may not be provided if the second width guide member 83b, etc. is configured to be detachable.

[0062] The first multifunction device 10a includes a first side paper sensor 49, a second side paper sensor 51, a first unit sensor 53, a second unit sensor 55, an operation panel 101, a control unit 111, a storage unit 121, and a communication interface 131. I / F in Fig. 2 indicates an interface.

[0063] The first side paper sensor 49 generates a first full load signal. The first side paper sensor 49 outputs the first full load signal to the control unit 111. The first side paper sensor 49 may generate a first stack amount signal indicating the amount of paper P stacked in the first paper discharge unit 70 or the second paper discharge unit 80, and output the first stack amount signal to the control unit 111.

[0064] The second side paper sensor 51 generates a second full-load signal. The second side paper sensor 51 outputs the second full-load signal to the control unit 111. The second side paper sensor 51 may generate a second stack amount signal indicating the amount of paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 and output the second stack amount signal to the control unit 111.

[0065] The first unit sensor 53 generates a first attachment detection signal in accordance with the attachment / detachment state of the first paper discharge unit 70. The first unit sensor 53 outputs the first attachment detection signal to the control unit 111.

[0066] The second unit sensor 55 generates a second attachment detection signal in accordance with the attachment / detachment state of the second paper discharge unit 80. The second unit sensor 55 outputs the second attachment detection signal to the control unit 111.

[0067] The operation panel 101 accepts operation inputs from the user. The operation panel 101 accepts various settings and instructions related to the first multifunction device 10a. The operation panel 101 accepts print instructions to cause the first multifunction device 10a to execute printing. As an example, the operation panel 101 accepts paper discharge settings that instruct the paper discharge position and paper discharge operation for multiple printed sheets of paper P. The operation panel 101 sets a paper discharge operation mode based on the paper discharge settings. The operation panel 101 corresponds to an example of a setting unit.

[0068] The paper discharge operation mode indicates the paper discharge position and paper discharge operation of multiple printed sheets of paper P. Paper discharge operation modes include distributed paper discharge mode, bulk paper discharge mode, etc. Distributed paper discharge mode is a mode in which multiple sheets of paper P printed by the print head 37 are discharged to the first paper discharge unit 70 and the second paper discharge unit 80. Paper sheets P discharged by the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 are stacked in the first paper discharge unit 70. Paper sheets P discharged by the second side paper discharge roller pair 45 are stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80. Bulk paper discharge mode is a mode in which paper sheets P discharged by the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 and the second side paper discharge roller pair 45 are stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80. Bulk paper discharge mode corresponds to an example of an operation mode.

[0069] The operation panel 101 outputs setting data including the paper discharge operation mode, printing instructions, etc. to the control unit 111. The operation panel 101 is composed of input buttons (not shown) and a display screen 103. If the display screen 103 has a touch input function, the input buttons may not be provided.

[0070] The display screen 103 displays various types of information. The display screen 103 displays various types of information such as various icons and various messages 151. The messages 151 will be described later. The display screen 103 displays various types of information based on the control of the control unit 111. The display screen 103 is configured with a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like. The display screen 103 corresponds to an example of a notification unit.

[0071] The control unit 111 is a controller that controls the first multifunction peripheral 10a. As an example, the control unit 111 is a processor having a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 111 is composed of one or more processors. The control unit 111 corresponds to an example of a control unit. The control unit 111 may have semiconductor memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). The semiconductor memory functions as a work area for the control unit 111. The control unit 111 functions as a display control unit 113 and a print control unit 115 by executing the control program PG. The control unit 111 may also function as a functional unit other than the display control unit 113 and the print control unit 115 by executing the control program PG.

[0072] The display control unit 113 controls the display on the display screen 103. The display control unit 113 acquires setting data output from the operation panel 101 and various signals output from various sensors such as the first unit sensor 53. The display control unit 113 generates display data based on the setting data and the like, and transmits the display data to the display screen 103. The display data is data for displaying various messages 151 on the display screen 103. The display control unit 113 displays the messages 151 on the display screen 103 based on the display data. The display of the messages 151 corresponds to an example of a notification.

[0073] The print control unit 115 controls printing executed by the first multifunction peripheral 10a. The print control unit 115 acquires setting data output from the operation panel 101, print instructions output from the operation panel 101, and various signals output from various sensors such as the first unit sensor 53. Based on the signals output from the various sensors, the print control unit 115 stops printing, changes the paper discharge position, resumes printing, and the like. As an example, the print control unit 115 controls the paper discharge operation based on the paper discharge operation mode included in the setting data.

[0074] The storage unit 121 stores various programs and various data. The storage unit 121 stores the control program PG and setting data. The storage unit 121 may store the number of sheets of paper P discharged to the first paper discharge unit 70, etc. The storage unit 121 is composed of RAM, ROM, etc.

[0075] The control program PG is firmware that causes the control unit 111 to function as various functional units. The control program PG causes the control unit 111 to function as a display control unit 113 and a print control unit 115. The control program PG may also cause the control unit 111 to function as a functional unit other than the display control unit 113 and the print control unit 115.

[0076] The communication interface 131 is an interface circuit that is communicatively connected to the second paper discharge unit 80. The communication interface 131 is connected to the second paper discharge unit 80 via a wired or wireless connection in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. The communication interface 131 includes a wired connector, a wireless communication port, etc. The wired connector is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector, etc. The wireless communication port is a Bluetooth communication port, etc. Bluetooth is a registered trademark. The communication interface 131 receives a guide detection output signal, a stopper detection output signal, etc. from the second paper discharge unit 80. The communication interface 131 transmits a drive signal, etc. that operates the guide drive mechanism 99, to the second paper discharge unit 80. The communication interface 131 may be communicatively connected to an external device.

[0077] The first side paper sensor 49 detects whether the first paper ejection unit 70 is fully loaded with paper P. The first unit sensor 53 detects whether the first paper ejection unit 70 is attached to or detached from the first printer unit 30a.

[0078] The second paper ejection unit 80 detects whether it is fully loaded with paper P by a second side paper sensor 51. The second paper ejection unit 80 detects attachment / detachment to / from the first printer unit 30a by a second unit sensor 55. The second paper ejection unit 80 includes a width guide sensor 85, a stopper sensor 93, a unit communication interface 97, and a guide drive mechanism 99.

[0079] The width guide sensor 85 generates a guide detection output signal. The width guide sensor 85 outputs the guide detection output signal to the unit communication interface 97. The width guide sensor 85 transmits the guide detection output signal to the communication interface 131 via the unit communication interface 97.

[0080] The stopper sensor 93 generates a stopper detection output signal. The stopper sensor 93 outputs the stopper detection output signal to the unit communication interface 97. The stopper sensor 93 transmits the stopper detection output signal to the communication interface 131 via the unit communication interface 97.

[0081] The unit communication interface 97 acquires the guide detection output signal output from the width guide sensor 85 and the stopper detection output signal output from the stopper sensor 93. The unit communication interface 97 transmits the guide detection output signal and the stopper detection output signal to the communication interface 131.

[0082] The guide drive mechanism 99 moves at least one of the second width guide member 83b and the second stopper member 91b upward and downward. The guide drive mechanism 99 moves at least one of the second width guide member 83b and the second stopper member 91b upward and downward based on the control of the print control unit 115 of the control unit 111. The guide drive mechanism 99 has a drive source such as a motor and a drive transmission mechanism. The drive force output by the drive source is transmitted to at least one of the second width guide member 83b and the second stopper member 91b via the drive transmission mechanism. At least one of the second width guide member 83b and the second stopper member 91b moves upward and downward by the drive force. The second paper ejection unit 80 may include multiple guide drive mechanisms 99. The multiple guide drive mechanisms 99 move the second width guide member 83b and the second stopper member 91b upward and downward, respectively. The guide drive mechanism 99 corresponds to an example of a drive mechanism.

[0083] FIG. 3 shows an example of a control flow executed by the multifunction device 10. FIG. 3 shows the control flow in the form of a flowchart. The control flow corresponds to an example of a control method. FIG. 3 shows the control flow of the first multifunction device 10a equipped with a second width guide member 83b that moves upward by an elastic member. FIG. 3 shows the control flow of the first multifunction device 10a that does not include a width guide sensor 85. The second paper discharge unit 80 included in the first multifunction device 10a may or may not include a second stopper member 91b. When the second paper discharge unit 80 includes the second stopper member 91b, the second stopper member 91b moves upward by a pressing member, similar to the second width guide member 83b. When the second paper discharge unit 80 includes the second stopper member 91b, the second paper discharge unit 80 does not include a stopper sensor 93.

[0084] In step S101, the first multifunction peripheral 10a acquires setting data including the combined paper discharge mode and a print instruction. The print control unit 115 of the control unit 111 acquires the setting data and the print instruction output from the operation panel 101. The print control unit 115 determines the paper discharge operation mode included in the setting data. The print control unit 115 determines that the paper discharge operation mode is the combined paper discharge mode based on the setting data.

[0085] After acquiring the setting data including the combined paper discharge mode and the print instruction, the first multifunction device 10a determines whether the second paper discharge unit 80 is attached in step S103. The print control unit 115 determines whether the second paper discharge unit 80 is attached to the second removable member 59 based on the second attachment detection signal output from the second unit sensor 55. If the second unit sensor 55 detects that the second paper discharge unit 80 is not attached to the second removable member 59, the first multifunction device 10a proceeds to step S105 (step S103: NO). If the second unit sensor 55 detects that the second paper discharge unit 80 is attached to the second removable member 59, the first multifunction device 10a proceeds to step S107 (step S103: YES).

[0086] In step S105, the first multifunction peripheral 10a issues an instruction to install the second paper discharge unit 80. The display control unit 113 of the control unit 111 generates display data for displaying a first message 151a based on the second installation detection signal. The first message 151a includes content that prompts the user to install the second paper discharge unit 80. The display control unit 113 transmits the display data to the display screen 103, and causes the display screen 103 to display the first message 151a.

[0087] Fig. 4 shows an example of a display on the display screen 103. Fig. 4 shows the display screen 103 displaying a first message 151a, which is an example of the message 151. The first message 151a is displayed based on the control of the display control unit 113.

[0088] The first message 151a displays a message urging the user to install the second paper discharge unit 80. The first message 151a shown in FIG. 4 indicates the second paper discharge unit 80 as the lower paper discharge unit. The display format of the first message 151a is not limited as long as the message urges the user to install the second paper discharge unit 80. By visually recognizing the first message 151a, the user is urged to install the second paper discharge unit 80. After the display screen 103 displays the first message 151a for a predetermined time, the first multifunction peripheral 10a returns to step S103. When the user performs a predetermined operation input on the operation panel 101, the first multifunction peripheral 10a may return to step S103.

[0089] 3, the first multifunction device 10a determines whether the first paper discharge unit 70 is attached. The print control unit 115 determines whether the first paper discharge unit 70 is attached based on the first attachment detection signal output from the first unit sensor 53. When the first unit sensor 53 detects that the first paper discharge unit 70 is attached to the first removable member 57, the first multifunction device 10a proceeds to step S109 (step S107: YES). When the first unit sensor 53 detects that the first paper discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57, the first multifunction device 10a proceeds to step S111 (step S107: NO).

[0090] In step S109, the first multifunction peripheral 10a issues an instruction to remove the first paper discharge unit 70. The display control unit 113 of the control unit 111 generates display data for displaying a second message 151b based on the first attachment detection signal. The second message 151b includes content urging the user to remove the first paper discharge unit 70. The display control unit 113 transmits the display data to the display screen 103, and causes the display screen 103 to display the second message 151b.

[0091] Fig. 5 shows an example of a display on display screen 103. Fig. 5 shows display screen 103 displaying second message 151b, which is an example of message 151. Second message 151b is displayed based on the control of display control unit 113.

[0092] The second message 151b displays a message urging the user to remove the first paper discharge unit 70. The second message 151b shown in FIG. 5 indicates the first paper discharge unit 70 as the upper paper discharge unit. The display format of the second message 151b is not limited as long as the message urges the user to remove the first paper discharge unit 70. The user is urged to remove the first paper discharge unit 70 by visually recognizing the second message 151b. After the display screen 103 displays the second message 151b for a predetermined time, the first multifunction peripheral 10a returns to step S107. When the user performs a predetermined operation input on the operation panel 101, the first multifunction peripheral 10a may return to step S107.

[0093] In step S111 shown in FIG. 3, the first multifunction device 10a discharges paper from the second side discharge roller pair 45. After the first discharge unit 70 is removed and the second discharge unit 80 is installed, the first multifunction device 10a performs printing in the combined discharge mode. The second width guide member 83b moves upward with the first discharge unit 70 removed. The print control unit 115 causes the print head 37 to print based on the print instruction. The print head 37 sequentially prints on multiple sheets of paper P transported from the paper feed cassette 33. The paper transport mechanism 39 transports the printed sheets of paper P to the second side discharge roller pair 45. The second side discharge roller pair 45 discharges the sheets of paper P to the second discharge unit 80.

[0094] After discharging the paper from the second side paper discharge roller pair 45, the first multifunction device 10a detects whether the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded in step S113. The print control unit 115 determines whether the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 is at the second paper height position based on the second full load detection signal output from the second side paper sensor 51. If the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 is at the second paper height position, the next paper P discharged will come into contact with the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80, causing a paper jam, paper crease, or the like. If the print control unit 115 determines that the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 is at the second paper height position, the first multifunction device 10a proceeds to step S115 (step S113: YES). If the print control unit 115 determines that the sheets P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 are not at the second paper height position, the first multifunction device 10a proceeds to step S117 (step S113: NO).

[0095] After the first multifunction device 10a detects a full load with the second side paper sensor 51, in step S115, the first multifunction device 10a discharges the paper from the first side paper discharge roller pair 43. The height along the Z axis of the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 is higher than the height along the Z axis of the second side paper discharge roller pair 45. The paper P discharged from the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 is stacked on top of the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80. The second width guide member 83b functions as a width guide when moved upward. The edge position of the paper P discharged from the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 is regulated by the second width guide member 83b.

[0096] When the second side paper sensor 51 does not detect a full stack, the first multifunction device 10a determines whether printing has ended in step S117. If the print control unit 115 determines that printing has ended based on the print data, it ends printing (step S117: YES). If the print control unit 115 determines that printing has not ended based on the print data, the first multifunction device 10a returns to step S111 (step S117: NO). The first multifunction device 10a discharges the printed paper P from the second side paper discharge roller pair 45.

[0097] After discharging the paper from the first side paper discharge roller pair 43, the first multifunction device 10a detects whether the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded in step S119. The print control unit 115 determines whether the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 is at the first paper height position based on the first full load detection signal output from the first side paper sensor 49. If the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 is at the first paper height position, the next paper P discharged will come into contact with the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80, causing a paper jam, paper crease, or the like. If the print control unit 115 determines that the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 is at the first paper height position, the first multifunction device 10a proceeds to step S121 (step S119: YES). If the print control unit 115 determines that the paper sheets P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 are not at the first paper height position, the first multifunction device 10a proceeds to step S123 (step S119: NO).

[0098] In step S121, the first multifunction peripheral 10a issues an instruction to remove the paper sheets P. The display control unit 113 of the control unit 111 generates display data for displaying a third message 151c based on the first full stack detection signal. The third message 151c includes content that prompts the user to remove the paper sheets P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80. The display control unit 113 transmits the display data to the display screen 103, and causes the display screen 103 to display the third message 151c.

[0099] Fig. 6 shows an example of a display on the display screen 103. Fig. 6 shows the display screen 103 displaying a third message 151c, which is an example of the message 151. The third message 151c is displayed based on the control of the display control unit 113.

[0100] The third message 151c displays a message urging the user to remove the sheets P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80. The third message 151c shown in FIG. 6 indicates that the second paper discharge unit 80 is the lower paper discharge unit. The display format of the third message 151c is not limited as long as the message urges the user to remove the sheets P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80. By visually checking the third message 151c, the user is urged to remove the sheets P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80. After the display screen 103 displays the third message 151c for a predetermined time, the first multifunction peripheral 10a returns to step S103. When the user performs a predetermined operation input on the operation panel 101, the first multifunction peripheral 10a may return to step S103.

[0101] 3, the first multifunction device 10a determines whether printing has ended. If the print control unit 115 determines that printing has ended based on the print data, it ends printing (step S123: YES). If the print control unit 115 determines that printing has not ended based on the print data, the first multifunction device 10a returns to step S115 (step S123: NO). The first multifunction device 10a continues printing, and ejects the printed paper P from the first side paper ejection roller pair 43. The paper P ejected from the first side paper ejection roller pair 43 is stacked on top of the paper P stacked in the second paper ejection unit 80.

[0102] FIG. 7 shows an example of a control flow executed by the multifunction device 10. FIG. 7 shows the control flow in the form of a flowchart. FIG. 7 shows the control flow of the first multifunction device 10a equipped with a second width guide member 83b that moves upward and downward by a guide drive mechanism 99. FIG. 7 shows the control flow of the first multifunction device 10a equipped with a width guide sensor 85. The second paper discharge unit 80 equipped in the first multifunction device 10a may or may not include a second stopper member 91b. When the second paper discharge unit 80 includes the second stopper member 91b, the second stopper member 91b moves upward and downward by the guide drive mechanism 99 in the same way as the second width guide member 83b. When the second paper discharge unit 80 includes the second stopper member 91b, the second paper discharge unit 80 includes a stopper sensor 93.

[0103] The control flow shown in Fig. 7 is the same as the control flow shown in Fig. 3 except for steps S114 and S116. The control flow shown in Fig. 7 includes the operation control of the second width guide member 83b.

[0104] After the second side paper sensor 51 detects a full stack state, the first multifunction device 10a determines in step S114 whether the second width guide member 83b has moved upward. The print control unit 115 determines whether the second width guide member 83b has moved upward based on the guide detection output signal output from the width guide sensor 85. The guide drive mechanism 99 moves the second width guide member 83b upward when the first multifunction device 10a starts printing. The guide drive mechanism 99 may also move the second width guide member 83b upward while the first multifunction device 10a is printing. The guide drive mechanism 99 may also move the second width guide member 83b upward when the second side paper sensor 51 outputs a second full stack signal. If the print control unit 115 determines that the second width guide member 83b has moved upward, the first multifunction device 10a proceeds to step S115 (step S114: YES). If the print control unit 115 determines that the second width guide member 83b has not moved upward, the first multifunction device 10a proceeds to step S116 (step S114: NO).

[0105] In step S116, the first multifunction device 10a stops printing and displays a width guide error. The print control unit 115 stops the transport of the paper P and stops the discharge of the printed paper P. If the second width guide member 83b does not move upward, the alignment of the paper P discharged from the first side discharge roller pair 43 to the second discharge unit 80 will deteriorate. The display control unit 113 generates display data for displaying a fourth message 151d based on the guide detection output signal output from the width guide sensor 85. The fourth message 151d includes content indicating a width guide error. The display control unit 113 sends the display data to the display screen 103, and causes the fourth message 151d to be displayed on the display screen 103.

[0106] Fig. 8 shows an example of a display on display screen 103. Fig. 8 shows display screen 103 displaying fourth message 151d, which is an example of message 151. Fourth message 151d is displayed based on the control of display control unit 113.

[0107] The fourth message 151d displays content indicating a malfunction of the second width guide member 83b. The fourth message 151d shown in FIG. 8 represents the second width guide member 83b as an extension guide. The display format of the fourth message 151d is not limited as long as it indicates a malfunction of the second width guide member 83b. By visually checking the fourth message 151d, the user can understand the reason why the first multifunction peripheral 10a stopped printing. After the display screen 103 displays the fourth message 151d for a predetermined time, the first multifunction peripheral 10a returns to step S114. When the user performs a predetermined operation input on the operation panel 101, the first multifunction peripheral 10a may return to step S114.

[0108] 7 may also be applied to a first multifunction peripheral 10a that does not have a guide drive mechanism 99. In that case, the first multifunction peripheral 10a may stop printing in step S116 and display a message 151 urging the user to move the second width guide member 83b upward. The print control unit 115 stops the transport of the paper P and stops the discharge of the printed paper P. The display control unit 113 may generate display data for displaying the message 151 urging the user to move the second width guide member 83b upward, based on a guide detection output signal output from the width guide sensor 85.

[0109] 7, when printing is finished (step S123: YES), the first multifunction device 10a may move the second width guide member 83b downward. After the paper P has been discharged from the first side discharge roller pair 43, the print control unit 115 moves the second width guide member 83b downward. The second width guide member 83b moves downward by the guide drive mechanism 99. By moving the second width guide member 83b downward, the user can more easily remove the paper P from the second discharge unit 80.

[0110] FIG. 9 shows a schematic configuration of the multifunction device 10. FIG. 9 shows a first multifunction device 10a, which is an example of the multifunction device 10. FIG. 9 shows an XZ cross section of the first multifunction device 10a. FIG. 9 shows the first multifunction device 10a with the first paper discharge unit 70 removed. The first multifunction device 10a shown in FIG. 9 is equipped with a second width guide member 83b that moves by an elastic member, and a second stopper member 91b that moves by a pressing member. The first multifunction device 10a shown in FIG. 9 is equipped with a width guide sensor 85 and a stopper sensor 93.

[0111] When the first paper discharge unit 70 is removed, the second width guide member 83b and the second stopper member 91b move upward. The upper end of the second width guide member 83b in the +Z direction and the upper end of the second stopper member 91b in the +Z direction move above the position of the first side paper discharge opening 43a. The second width guide member 83b and the second stopper member 91b can regulate the edge position of the paper P discharged by the first side paper discharge roller pair 43.

[0112] FIGS. 10, 11, 12, and 13 show a schematic configuration of the multifunction device 10. FIGS. 10, 11, 12, and 13 show a first multifunction device 10a, which is an example of the multifunction device 10. FIGS. 10, 11, 12, and 13 show an XZ cross section of the first multifunction device 10a. FIGS. 10, 11, 12, and 13 show the first multifunction device 10a with the first paper ejection unit 70 removed. The first multifunction device 10a shown in FIGS. 10, 11, 12, and 13 includes a second width guide member 83b that moves by an elastic member and a second stopper member 91b that moves by a pressing member. The first multifunction device 10a shown in FIGS. 10, 11, 12, and 13 includes a width guide sensor 85 and a stopper sensor 93.

[0113] FIG. 10 shows the first multifunction device 10a in a state in which paper P is being discharged from the second side paper discharge roller pair 45. The print control unit 115 determines that the second paper discharge unit 80 is installed based on the second installation detection signal output from the second unit sensor 55. The print control unit 115 determines that the first paper discharge unit 70 is not installed based on the first installation detection signal output from the first unit sensor 53. The print control unit 115 determines that the second paper discharge unit 80 is not fully loaded based on the second full-load signal output from the second side paper sensor 51. The print control unit 115 causes the print head 37 to start printing and discharges the printed paper P from the second side paper discharge roller pair 45. The paper P discharged from the second side paper discharge roller pair 45 is stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80.

[0114] The distance along the Z axis between the position of the second side discharge roller pair 45 and the underside of the second discharge unit 80 is shorter than the distance along the Z axis between the position of the first side discharge roller pair 43 and the underside of the second discharge unit 80. The fall distance of the paper P discharged from the second side discharge roller pair 45 is shorter than the fall distance of the paper P discharged from the first side discharge roller pair 43. By discharging the paper P from the second side discharge roller pair 45 when stacking the paper P on the underside of the second discharge unit 80, deterioration of the alignment of the paper P due to the paper P falling is suppressed.

[0115] FIG. 11 shows the state of the first multifunction peripheral 10a when the second side paper sensor 51 detects a full load. The height along the Z axis of the top surface of the multiple sheets of paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 is slightly lower than the height along the Z axis of the second side paper discharge outlet 45a. If paper discharge from the second side paper discharge roller pair 45 continues while the second side paper sensor 51 detects a full load, the paper P discharged from the second side paper discharge roller pair 45 will interfere with the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80. This can cause paper jams, creases, or other problems with the paper P discharged from the second side paper discharge roller pair 45. The print control unit 115 switches the discharge of the paper P from the second side paper discharge roller pair 45 to the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 based on the second full load signal.

[0116] FIG. 12 shows the first multifunction device 10a in a state in which paper P is being discharged from the first side ejection roller pair 43. After the second side paper sensor 51 detects a full load, the print control unit 115 determines that the first side paper sensor 49 is not outputting a first full load signal. Based on the guide detection output signal output from the width guide sensor 85, the print control unit 115 determines that the second width guide member 83b is moving upward. Based on the stopper detection output signal output from the stopper sensor 93, the print control unit 115 determines that the second stopper member 91b is moving upward. After determining the detection results of the first side paper sensor 49, the width guide sensor 85, and the stopper sensor 93, the print control unit 115 discharges paper P from the first side ejection roller pair 43. The paper P discharged from the first side ejection roller pair 43 is stacked on top of the paper P stacked in the second ejection unit 80. The edge position of the paper sheet P discharged from the first side discharge roller pair 43 is regulated by the second width guide member 83b and the second stopper member 91b. The height along the Z axis of the uppermost surface of the multiple paper sheets P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 is higher than the position of the lower surface of the second paper discharge unit 80. This prevents the paper sheets P discharged from the first side discharge roller pair 43 from falling and thereby reducing the loss of alignment.

[0117] FIG. 13 shows the state of the first multifunction peripheral 10a when the first side paper sensor 49 detects a full load. The height along the Z axis of the top surface of the multiple sheets of paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80 is slightly lower than the height along the Z axis of the first side paper discharge outlet 43a. If paper discharge from the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 continues while the first side paper sensor 49 detects a full load, the paper P discharged from the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 will interfere with the paper P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80. This will cause the paper P discharged from the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 to jam, crease, or otherwise become jammed. The print control unit 115 stops the discharge of paper P from the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 based on the first full load signal.

[0118] The first multifunction device 10a includes a print head 37 that prints on paper P, a first side discharge roller pair 43 that discharges paper P printed by the print head 37, a first removable member 57 to which a first discharge unit 70 can be attached / detached, a second side discharge roller pair 45 that is positioned below the first side discharge roller pair 43 and discharges paper P printed by the print head 37, and a second removable member 59 to which a second discharge unit 80 that is positioned below the first discharge unit 70 can be attached / detached. When the second discharge unit 80 is attached to the second removable member 59 and the first discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57, paper P is discharged from the first side discharge roller pair 43 and the second side discharge roller pair 45 to the second discharge unit 80. By discharging the sheets P to the second sheet discharging unit 80 from the first side sheet discharging roller pair 43 and the second side sheet discharging roller pair 45, the alignment of the sheets P stacked in the second sheet discharging unit 80 is improved.

[0119] The first multifunction device 10a includes a second paper ejection unit 80 attached to the second detachable member 59. By configuring the second paper discharge unit 80 to be detachable, the paper sheets P stacked on the second paper discharge unit 80 can be easily removed.

[0120] The first multifunction device 10a includes a control unit 111 that controls the first side discharge roller pair 43 and the second side discharge roller pair 45, and a first unit sensor 53 that detects whether the first discharge unit 70 is attached to the first removable member 57. When the first unit sensor 53 detects that the first discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57, the control unit 111 ejects the paper P from the first side discharge roller pair 43 and the second side discharge roller pair 45 to the second discharge unit 80. By detecting that the first paper discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57, paper discharge different from the setting of the paper discharge operation mode is prevented.

[0121] The first multifunction peripheral 10a includes a first side paper sensor 49 that detects that the first paper discharge unit 70 is fully loaded with paper sheets P, and a second side paper sensor 51 that detects that the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded with paper sheets P. When the first unit sensor 53 detects that the first paper discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57 and the second side paper sensor 51 does not detect that the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded with paper sheets P, the control unit 111 causes the second side paper discharge roller pair 45 to discharge paper sheets P. When the first unit sensor 53 detects that the first paper discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57 and the second side paper sensor 51 detects that the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded with paper sheets P, the control unit 111 causes the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 to discharge paper sheets P. By having the first side paper ejection roller pair 43 eject the paper P based on the detection result of the second side paper sensor 51, paper jams and the like caused by the paper P ejected by the second side paper ejection roller pair 45 are prevented.

[0122] When the first unit sensor 53 detects that the first paper discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first detachable member 57 and the first side paper sensor 49 detects that the second paper discharge unit 80 is fully loaded with paper P, the control unit 111 stops the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 from discharging paper P. By stopping the first side discharge roller pair 43 based on the detection result of the first side paper sensor 49, paper jams of the paper P discharged by the first side discharge roller pair 43 can be prevented.

[0123] The second paper discharge unit 80 has a paper width guide 83 that regulates the edge position of the paper sheet P. The paper width guide 83 includes a first width guide member 83a that regulates the edge position of the paper sheet P that is loaded below the second side paper discharge roller pair 45, and a second width guide member 83b that regulates the edge position of the paper sheet P that is loaded above the second side paper discharge roller pair 45. The paper width guide 83 can regulate the position of the edge of the paper P loaded above the second side paper discharge roller pair 45.

[0124] The first multifunction device 10a includes a width guide sensor 85 that detects that the second width guide member 83b is positioned to regulate the edge position of the paper P loaded above the second side paper ejection roller pair 45. When the first unit sensor 53 detects that the first paper ejection unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57 and the width guide sensor 85 detects the second width guide member 83b, the control unit 111 causes the first side paper ejection roller pair 43 to eject the paper P. The first multifunction device 10a can reliably regulate the position of the edge of the paper P discharged from the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 using the second width guide member 83b.

[0125] The second width guide member 83b is preferably attached to the first width guide member 83a and moves higher than the first width guide member 83a. The second width guide member 83b is provided in the second paper discharge unit 80.

[0126] The first multifunction device 10a has a guide drive mechanism 99 that moves the second width guide member 83b upward and downward. When the first unit sensor 53 detects that the first paper discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57, the control unit 111 preferably causes the guide drive mechanism 99 to move the second width guide member 83b upward, and when the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 has finished discharging the paper P, causes the guide drive mechanism 99 to move the second width guide member 83b downward. After printing is completed, the second width guide member 83b moves downward, making it easier to remove the paper sheets P stacked in the second paper discharge unit 80.

[0127] The first multifunction device 10a includes an operation panel 101 for setting a combined paper discharge mode in which paper P is discharged by the first side paper discharge roller pair 43 and the second side paper discharge roller pair 45, and a display screen 103 for displaying a message 151. When the combined paper discharge mode is set on the operation panel 101, the control unit 111 causes the display screen 103 to display a second message 151b instructing the user to remove the first paper discharge unit 70. The first multifunction peripheral 10a can prompt the user who has set the combined paper discharge mode to remove the first paper discharge unit .

[0128] The first multifunction device 10a has a printer housing 31 that houses the print head 37. The first removable member 57 mounts a first paper output unit 70 protruding from the left side surface 31a of the printer housing 31. The second removable member 59 mounts a second paper output unit 80 protruding from the left side surface 31a of the printer housing 31. By providing the first paper discharge unit 70 and the second paper discharge unit 80 outside the printer housing 31, a larger amount of paper P can be stacked.

[0129] The second paper discharge unit 80 is detachably attached to a second detachable member 59 of the printer housing 31, and includes a print head 37 that prints on the paper P, a first side discharge roller pair 43 that discharges the paper P printed by the print head 37, a first detachable member 57 to which the first paper discharge unit 70 can be attached, a second side discharge roller pair 45 that is positioned below the first side discharge roller pair 43 and discharges the paper P, and a second detachable member 59. The second paper discharge unit 80 has a paper width guide 83 that regulates the position of the edge of the paper P. The paper width guide 83 includes a first width guide member 83a that regulates the position of the edge of the paper P that is loaded below the second side discharge roller pair 45, and a second width guide member 83b that regulates the position of the edge of the paper P that is loaded above the second side discharge roller pair 45. The paper width guide 83 provided in the second paper discharge unit 80 can regulate the position of the edge of the paper P loaded above the second side paper discharge roller pair 45.

[0130] The second width guide member 83b is attached to the first width guide member 83a, and is movable above the second side discharge roller pair 45. When the first discharge unit 70 is attached to the first removable member 57, the second width guide member 83b moves below the first discharge unit 70, and when the first discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57, the second width guide member 83b moves above the second side discharge roller pair 45. The second width guide member 83b can be moved in accordance with the attachment and detachment of the first paper ejection unit .

[0131] The control flow is executed in a first multifunction peripheral 10a that includes a print head 37 that prints on paper P, a first side discharge roller pair 43 that discharges paper P printed by the print head 37, a first removable member 57 to which a first discharge unit 70 can be attached, a second side discharge roller pair 45 that is positioned below the first side discharge roller pair 43 and discharges paper P, and a second removable member 59 to which a second discharge unit 80 that is positioned below the first discharge unit 70 can be attached. The control flow discharges paper P from the first side discharge roller pair 43 and the second side discharge roller pair 45 to the second discharge unit 80 when the second discharge unit 80 is attached to the second removable member 59 and the first discharge unit 70 is not attached to the first removable member 57. By discharging the sheets P to the second sheet discharging unit 80 from the first side sheet discharging roller pair 43 and the second side sheet discharging roller pair 45, the alignment of the sheets P stacked in the second sheet discharging unit 80 is improved.

[0132] Fig. 14 shows a schematic configuration of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 14 shows a second multifunction device 10b, which is an example of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 14 shows a plan view of the second multifunction device 10b from the +Y direction. Fig. 14 shows the external configuration of the second multifunction device 10b. Unlike the first multifunction device 10a shown in Fig. 1 etc., the second multifunction device 10b shown in Fig. 14 does not include a first paper discharge unit 70 and a second paper discharge unit 80.

[0133] The second multifunction peripheral 10b shown in Figure 14 includes a reading unit 20 and a second printer unit 30b. The second printer unit 30b is an example of a printer unit 30. The second printer unit 30b has a printer housing 31. A tray 75 is attached to the second printer unit 30b shown in Figure 14.

[0134] A stacker 60 is provided in the printer housing 31. The stacker 60 shown in Figure 14 has the same configuration as the stacker 60 provided in the first multifunction device 10a shown in Figure 1 etc. The stacker 60 corresponds to an example of a second stacker.

[0135] The tray 75 is detachably supported by a tray attachment / detachment member 56 provided in the printer unit 30. The tray attachment / detachment member 56 will be described later. The tray 75 is attached to a position above the stacker 60. The tray 75 holds printed paper P. The tray 75 corresponds to an example of a first stacking section. The second multifunction device 10b shown in FIG. 14 includes one tray 75, but is not limited to this. The second multifunction device 10b may also include two or more trays 75. The two or more trays 75 are arranged above the stacker 60 along the Z axis.

[0136] Fig. 15 shows a schematic configuration of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 15 shows a part of a second multifunction device 10b, which is an example of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 15 shows a plan view of the second multifunction device 10b from the -X direction. Fig. 15 shows the external configuration of the second multifunction device 10b near the stacker 60.

[0137] 15 shows the second multifunction device 10b with the tray 75 attached. The second printer unit 30b of the second multifunction device 10b includes a stacker paper discharge roller pair 41, a tray paper discharge roller pair 42, a tray attaching / detaching member 56, and a paper stopper 61. The tray 75 includes a tray attachment portion 76.

[0138] The stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 discharges printed paper P to the stacker 60. The stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 provided in the second multifunction device 10b has the same configuration as the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 provided in the first multifunction device 10a. The stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 is disposed below the tray paper discharge roller pair 42. The stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 corresponds to an example of a second discharge section.

[0139] The tray discharge roller pair 42 discharges the printed paper P. The tray discharge roller pair 42 discharges the paper P to the tray 75 attached to the tray attachment / detachment member 56. When the tray 75 is detached from the tray attachment / detachment member 56, the tray discharge roller pair 42 discharges the paper P to the stacker 60. The tray discharge roller pair 42 corresponds to an example of a first discharge section.

[0140] The tray discharge roller pair 42 is made up of two rollers. Each of the two rollers rotates around a rotation axis to transport the paper P. As an example, the two rollers are made up of multiple roller members arranged along the rotation axis. At least one of the two rollers rotates around the rotation axis by a driving force from a driving source (not shown).

[0141] The tray attachment / detachment members 56 are provided at the end positions in the +Y direction and the -Y direction of the printer housing 31. The tray attachment / detachment members 56 may be provided at the end positions in the +Y direction or the -Y direction of the printer housing 31. The tray attachment / detachment members 56 are engaging members that engage with tray mounting portions 76 provided on the tray 75. The tray 75 can be attached to the tray attachment / detachment members 56. The tray attachment / detachment members 56 detachably support the tray 75. The tray attachment / detachment members 56 are composed of engaging holes, hooks, protrusions, etc. The configuration of the tray attachment / detachment members 56 is not limited as long as it is configured to detachably support the tray 75. The tray attachment / detachment members 56 correspond to an example of a first mounting portion. The second multifunction device 10b may be provided with multiple tray attachment / detachment members 56 arranged along the Z axis. The tray 75 is supported at different heights by being supported by any of the multiple tray attachment / detachment members 56 arranged along the Z axis.

[0142] The paper stopper 61 regulates the position of the edge of the paper P loaded on the stacker 60. The paper stopper 61 is rotatably supported on the printer housing 31. The paper stopper 61 is positioned in the -X direction of the paper P loaded on the stacker 60. The paper stopper 61 regulates the position of the edge of the -X direction of the paper P. The edge of the -X direction of the paper P is a side that is parallel or approximately parallel to the Y axis. The paper stopper 61 corresponds to an example of a position regulation unit.

[0143] The tray mounting part 76 is an engaged member that engages with the tray mounting / detaching member 56. When the tray mounting part 76 engages with the tray mounting / detaching member 56, the tray 75 is supported by the second printer unit 30b. When the engagement between the tray mounting part 76 and the tray mounting / detaching member 56 is released, the tray 75 moves away from the printer unit 30. The configuration of the tray mounting part 76 is not limited as long as it is a configuration that can engage with the tray mounting / detaching member 56.

[0144] Fig. 16 shows a schematic configuration of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 16 shows a second multifunction device 10b, which is an example of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 16 shows a plan view of the second multifunction device 10b from the +Y direction. Fig. 16 shows the second multifunction device 10b with a tray 75 installed.

[0145] Figure 16 shows the second multifunction device 10b with one end of the paper stopper 61 rotated upward. Figure 16 shows an example of the configuration of the paper stopper 61. The paper stopper 61 rotates around a rotation axis (not shown), with one end rotating upward. By rotating one end of the paper stopper 61 upward, the paper stopper 61 regulates the edge position of the paper P stacked on the stacker 60.

[0146] The height position along the Z axis of the top end of the paper stopper 61 shown in Figure 16 is higher than the height position along the Z axis of the tray 75. The paper stopper 61 can regulate the edge position of the paper P loaded on the tray 75. If the height position along the Z axis of the top end of the paper stopper 61 is higher than the height position along the Z axis of the tray 75, the tray 75 is provided with a notch to prevent interference with the paper stopper 61. The configuration of the paper stopper 61 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 16. As an example, the paper stopper 61 is made up of two members.

[0147] Fig. 17 shows a schematic configuration of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 17 shows a second multifunction device 10b, which is an example of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 17 shows an XZ cross section of the second multifunction device 10b. The second multifunction device 10b includes a reading unit 20 and a second printer unit 30b. A tray 75 is attached to the second multifunction device 10b shown in Fig. 17.

[0148] The second printer unit 30b prints on paper P. The second printer unit 30b ejects the printed paper P to a stacker 60 or a tray 75. The second printer unit 30b is positioned below the reading unit 20 in the -Z direction. The second printer unit 30b supports the reading unit 20. The second printer unit 30b includes a printer housing 31, a paper feed cassette 33, a paper transport path 35, a print head 37, a paper transport mechanism 39, a stacker paper discharge roller pair 41, a tray paper discharge roller pair 42, and a paper stopper 61. The second printer unit 30b may also include a stacker paper sensor 47, a tray paper sensor 48, and a tray sensor 58.

[0149] The paper feed cassette 33, print head 37, paper transport mechanism 39, and stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 provided in the second printer unit 30b have the same configuration as the paper feed cassette 33, print head 37, paper transport mechanism 39, and stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 provided in the first printer unit 30a. The stacker paper sensor 47 provided in the second printer unit 30b has the same configuration as the stacker paper sensor 47 provided in the first printer unit 30a.

[0150] The paper transport path 35 is a path along which the paper P stored in the paper feed cassette 33 is transported to the stacker 60 or the tray 75. Rollers, guides, etc. (not shown) are arranged along the paper transport path 35. The paper P is transported within the printer housing 31 along the paper transport path 35 and is ejected into the stacker 60 or the tray 75.

[0151] The tray paper discharge roller pair 42 discharges the paper P from the second paper discharge outlet 42a to the stacker 60 or the tray 75. The second paper discharge outlet 42a is an opening provided in the printer housing 31. The tray paper discharge roller pair 42 is provided above the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41. The second paper discharge outlet 42a is provided above the first paper discharge outlet 41a.

[0152] The stacker paper sensor 47 detects that the stacker 60 with the tray 75 attached is fully loaded with paper P. The stacker paper sensor 47 is located near the first paper discharge outlet 41a. The stacker paper sensor 47 is located below the tray paper sensor 48. The stacker paper sensor 47 corresponds to an example of a second full-load detector.

[0153] The tray paper sensor 48 detects that the stacker 60 or the tray 75 is fully loaded with paper P when the tray 75 is not attached. The tray paper sensor 48 detects paper P stacked at a second paper detection position along the Z axis. The second paper detection position is above the stacker 60 and the tray 75 and below the second paper exit 42a. When the tray paper sensor 48 detects paper P stacked at the second paper detection position, it detects that the stacker 60 or the tray 75 is fully loaded with paper P. When the tray paper sensor 48 detects that the stacker 60 or the tray 75 is fully loaded with paper P, it outputs a paper full signal. The paper full signal indicates that the stacker 60 or the tray 75 is fully loaded with paper P. The tray paper sensor 48 is, for example, an optical sensor. The optical sensor may be a transmissive or reflective sensor. The second multifunction peripheral 10b shown in FIG. 17 includes the tray paper sensor 48, but may not include it. The second multifunction device 10b preferably includes a tray paper sensor 48. The tray paper sensor 48 corresponds to an example of a first full-load detector.

[0154] The tray sensor 58 outputs a tray detection signal. The tray detection signal is a signal indicating that the tray 75 is attached to the tray attachment / detachment member 56 of the second printer unit 30b. The tray detection signal may also be a signal indicating that the tray 75 is not attached to the tray attachment / detachment member 56. The tray sensor 58 is configured with an optical sensor, a mechanical sensor, or the like. As an example, the tray sensor 58 is an optical sensor that detects the presence or absence of the tray attachment portion 76 of the tray 75. The tray sensor 58 corresponds to an example of an attachment detection unit.

[0155] The paper stopper 61 shown in FIG. 17 is composed of two members: a rotating member 61a and an extension member 61b. The rotating member 61a regulates the edge position of paper sheets P loaded below the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41. The rotating member 61a is disposed on the stacker 60. The rotating member 61a is configured to be rotatable. The rotating member 61a corresponds to an example of a first regulation member. The extension member 61b regulates the edge position of paper sheets P loaded above the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41. The extension member 61b is provided in a manner that assists the rotating member 61a. The extension member 61b regulates the edge position of paper sheets P loaded at a position higher than the height of the rotating member 61a in the +Z direction. The extension member 61b regulates the edge position of paper sheets P in the -X direction. The extension member 61b corresponds to an example of a second regulation member.

[0156] Fig. 18 shows the block configuration of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 18 shows the block configuration of a second multifunction device 10b, which is an example of the multifunction device 10. Fig. 18 shows the block configuration of the second multifunction device 10b to which a tray 75 is attached. The second multifunction device 10b does not have the first side paper sensor 49, the second side paper sensor 51, the first unit sensor 53, or the second unit sensor 55. The second multifunction device 10b is equipped with a stacker paper sensor 47, a tray paper sensor 48, and a tray sensor 58.

[0157] The operation panel 101, control unit 111, storage unit 121, and communication interface 131 provided in the second multifunction device 10b have the same functions as the operation panel 101, control unit 111, storage unit 121, and communication interface 131 provided in the first multifunction device 10a. The control unit 111 acquires various signals output from the stacker paper sensor 47, the tray paper sensor 48, and the tray sensor 58. The control unit 111 performs control based on the various signals.

[0158] Fig. 19 shows an example of a control flow executed by the multifunction device 10. Fig. 19 shows the control flow in a flowchart. Fig. 19 shows a control flow executed by the second multifunction device 10b.

[0159] In step S201, the second multifunction peripheral 10b acquires setting data including the combined paper discharge mode and a print instruction. The print control unit 115 of the control unit 111 acquires the setting data and the print instruction output from the operation panel 101. The print control unit 115 determines the paper discharge operation mode included in the setting data. The print control unit 115 determines that the paper discharge operation mode is the combined paper discharge mode based on the setting data.

[0160] After acquiring the setting data including the combined paper ejection mode and the print instruction, the second multifunction device 10b determines whether or not the tray 75 is attached in step S203. The print control unit 115 determines whether or not the tray 75 is attached to the tray attachment / detachment member 56 based on the tray detection signal output from the tray sensor 58. If the tray sensor 58 detects that the tray 75 is attached to the tray attachment / detachment member 56, the second multifunction device 10b proceeds to step S205 (step S203: YES). If the tray sensor 58 detects that the tray 75 is not attached to the tray attachment / detachment member 56, the second multifunction device 10b proceeds to step S207 (step S203: NO).

[0161] In step S205, the second multifunction peripheral 10b issues an instruction to remove the tray 75. The display control unit 113 of the control unit 111 generates display data for displaying a message 151 prompting the user to remove the tray 75 based on the tray detection signal. The display control unit 113 transmits the display data to the display screen 103, and causes the message 151 to be displayed on the display screen 103. After the display screen 103 displays the message 151 for a predetermined time, the second multifunction peripheral 10b returns to step S203. When the user performs a predetermined operation input on the operation panel 101, the second multifunction peripheral 10b may return to step S203.

[0162] In step S207, the second multifunction device 10b discharges the paper from the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41. After the tray 75 is removed, the second multifunction device 10b executes printing in the combined paper discharge mode. The print control unit 115 causes the print head 37 to execute printing based on the print instruction. The print head 37 sequentially prints on the multiple sheets of paper P transported from the paper feed cassette 33. The paper transport mechanism 39 transports the sheets of paper P printed by the print head 37 to the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41. The stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 discharges the printed sheets of paper P to the stacker 60.

[0163] After discharging the paper from the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41, the second multifunction device 10b detects whether the stacker 60 is fully loaded in step S209. The print control unit 115 determines whether the paper P loaded in the stacker 60 is at the first paper detection position based on the stacker full signal output from the stacker paper sensor 47. If the paper P loaded in the stacker 60 is at the first paper detection position, the next paper P discharged will come into contact with the paper P loaded in the stacker 60, causing a paper jam, paper crease, or the like. If the print control unit 115 determines that the paper P loaded in the stacker 60 is at the first paper detection position, the second multifunction device 10b proceeds to step S211 (step S209: YES). If the print control unit 115 determines that the paper P loaded in the stacker 60 is not at the first paper detection position, the second multifunction device 10b proceeds to step S210 (step S209: NO).

[0164] When the stacker paper sensor 47 does not detect a full stack, the second multifunction device 10b determines whether printing has ended in step S210. If the print control unit 115 determines that printing has ended based on the print data, it ends printing (step S210: YES). If the print control unit 115 determines that printing has not ended based on the print data, the first multifunction device 10a returns to step S207 (step S117: NO). The second multifunction device 10b discharges the printed paper P from the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 to the stacker 60.

[0165] After the second multifunction peripheral 10b detects full stack status with the stacker paper sensor 47, in step S211 it issues an instruction to operate the extension member 61b. The display control unit 113 of the control unit 111 generates display data for displaying a fifth message 151e based on the stacker full stack signal. The fifth message 151e includes content that prompts the user to extend the extension member 61b. The display control unit 113 transmits the display data to the display screen 103, and causes the display screen 103 to display the fifth message 151e.

[0166] Fig. 20 shows an example of a display on the display screen 103. Fig. 20 shows the display screen 103 displaying a fifth message 151e, which is an example of the message 151. The fifth message 151e is displayed based on the control of the display control unit 113.

[0167] The fifth message 151e displays content that prompts the user to rotate the extension member 61b. The fifth message 151e shown in FIG. 20 refers to the paper stopper 61 as a stacker stopper. The fifth message 151e shown in FIG. 20 refers to the extension member 61b as an extension stopper. The display format of the fifth message 151e is not limited as long as it prompts the user to rotate the extension member 61b. By visually recognizing the fifth message 151e, the user is prompted to rotate the extension member 61b. After the display screen 103 displays the fifth message 151e for a predetermined period of time, the second multifunction peripheral 10b proceeds to step S213. When the user performs a predetermined operation input on the operation panel 101, the second multifunction peripheral 10b may proceed to step S213.

[0168] After issuing an instruction to operate the extension member 61b, the second multifunction printer 10b discharges the paper from the tray paper discharge roller pair 42 in step S213. The height of the tray paper discharge roller pair 42 along the Z axis is higher than the height of the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 along the Z axis. The paper P discharged from the tray paper discharge roller pair 42 is stacked on top of the paper P stacked in the stacker 60. The extension member 61b functions as a paper stopper 61 with its end moved upward. The end position of the paper P discharged from the tray paper discharge roller pair 42 is regulated by the extension member 61b.

[0169] After discharging the paper from the tray paper discharge roller pair 42, the second multifunction device 10b detects whether the stacker 60 is full in step S215. The print control unit 115 determines whether the paper P loaded in the stacker 60 is at the second paper detection position based on the paper full signal output from the tray paper sensor 48. If the paper P loaded in the stacker 60 is at the second paper detection position, the next paper P discharged will interfere with the paper P loaded in the stacker 60, causing a paper jam, paper crease, or the like. If the print control unit 115 determines that the paper P loaded in the stacker 60 is at the second paper detection position, the second multifunction device 10b proceeds to step S217 (step S215: YES). If the print control unit 115 determines that the paper P loaded in the stacker 60 is not at the second paper detection position, the second multifunction device 10b proceeds to step S219 (step S215: NO).

[0170] In step S217, the second multifunction device 10b issues an instruction to remove the paper P. The display control section 113 of the control unit 111 generates display data for displaying a message 151 prompting the user to remove the paper P stacked in the stacker 60 based on the paper full signal. The display control section 113 transmits the display data to the display screen 103, and causes the message 151 to be displayed on the display screen 103. After the display screen 103 displays the message 151 for a predetermined time, the second multifunction device 10b returns to step S209. When the user performs a predetermined operation input on the operation panel 101, the second multifunction device 10b may return to step S209.

[0171] In step S219, the second multifunction device 10b determines whether printing has ended. If the print control unit 115 determines that printing has ended based on the print data, it ends printing (step S219: YES). If the print control unit 115 determines that printing has not ended based on the print data, the second multifunction device 10b returns to step S213 (step S219: NO). The second multifunction device 10b continues printing, and ejects the printed paper P from the tray paper ejection roller pair 42 into the stacker 60. The paper P ejected from the tray paper ejection roller pair 42 is stacked on top of the paper P stacked in the stacker 60.

[0172] Figures 21, 22, 23, and 24 show a schematic configuration of the multifunction device 10. Figures 21, 22, 23, and 24 show a second multifunction device 10b, which is an example of the multifunction device 10. Figures 21, 22, 23, and 24 show an XZ cross section of the second multifunction device 10b. Figures 21, 22, 23, and 24 show the second multifunction device 10b with the tray 75 removed. The second multifunction device 10b shown in Figures 21, 22, 23, and 24 includes an extension member 61b that can be rotated manually.

[0173] 21 shows the second multifunction device 10b in a state in which paper P is being discharged from the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41. The print control unit 115 determines that the tray 75 is not installed based on the tray detection signal output from the tray sensor 58. The print control unit 115 determines that the stacker 60 is not fully loaded based on the stacker full load signal output from the stacker paper sensor 47. The print control unit 115 causes the print head 37 to start printing, and causes the printed paper P to be discharged from the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41. The paper P discharged from the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 is stacked in the stacker 60.

[0174] The distance along the Z axis between the position of the stacker discharge roller pair 41 and the stacker 60 is shorter than the distance along the Z axis between the position of the tray discharge roller pair 42 and the stacker 60. The fall distance of the paper P discharged from the stacker discharge roller pair 41 to the stacker 60 is shorter than the fall distance of the paper P discharged from the tray discharge roller pair 42 to the stacker 60. By discharging the paper P from the stacker discharge roller pair 41 when loading the paper P into the stacker 60, deterioration of alignment due to the paper P falling is suppressed.

[0175] FIG. 22 shows the state of the second multifunction peripheral 10b when the stacker paper sensor 47 detects that the stacker 60 is fully loaded. The height along the Z axis of the top surface of the multiple sheets P stacked in the stacker 60 is slightly lower than the height along the Z axis of the first paper discharge port 41a. If paper discharge from the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 continues while the stacker paper sensor 47 detects that the stacker is fully loaded, the paper P discharged from the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 will interfere with the paper P stacked in the stacker 60. This will cause the paper P discharged from the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 to jam, fold, or the like. The print control unit 115 switches the discharge of the paper P from the stacker paper discharge roller pair 41 to the tray paper discharge roller pair 42 based on the stacker full load signal.

[0176] FIG. 23 shows the second multifunction peripheral 10b in a state in which a sheet P is being discharged from the tray discharge roller pair 42. After the stacker paper sensor 47 detects that the stacker is fully loaded, the print control unit 115 determines that the tray paper sensor 48 is not outputting a full-sheet signal. The display control unit 113 displays a fifth message 151e on the display screen 103. After the display control unit 113 displays the fifth message 151e on the display screen 103, the print control unit 115 discharges the sheet P from the tray discharge roller pair 42. The sheet P discharged from the tray discharge roller pair 42 is stacked on top of the sheets P stacked in the stacker 60. The edge position of the sheet P discharged from the tray discharge roller pair 42 is restricted by the extension member 61b. The height along the Z axis of the top surface of the multiple sheets P stacked in the stacker 60 is higher than the position of the stacker 60. This prevents the sheet P from falling as it is discharged from the tray discharge roller pair 42.

[0177] FIG. 24 shows the state of the second multifunction peripheral 10b when the tray paper sensor 48 detects that the stacker 60 is fully loaded. The height along the Z axis of the top surface of the multiple sheets of paper P stacked in the stacker 60 is slightly lower than the height along the Z axis of the second paper discharge outlet 42a. If paper discharge from the tray paper discharge roller pair 42 continues while the tray paper sensor 48 detects that the stacker 60 is fully loaded, the paper P discharged from the tray paper discharge roller pair 42 will interfere with the paper P stacked in the stacker 60. This will cause the paper P to jam or fold when discharged from the tray paper discharge roller pair 42. The print control unit 115 stops the discharge of the paper P from the tray paper discharge roller pair 42 based on the paper full signal.

[0178] The second multifunction printer 10b includes a print head 37 that prints on paper P, a tray discharge roller pair 42 that discharges paper P printed by the print head 37, a tray attachment / detachment member 56 to which a tray 75 can be attached, a stacker discharge roller pair 41 that is positioned below the tray discharge roller pair 42 and discharges paper P printed by the print head 37, and a stacker 60 that is positioned below the tray 75. When the tray 75 is not attached to the tray attachment / detachment member 56, the paper P is discharged from the tray discharge roller pair 42 and the stacker discharge roller pair 41 to the stacker 60. By discharging the sheets P to the stacker 60 from the tray discharge roller pair 42 and the stacker discharge roller pair 41, the alignment of the sheets P stacked on the stacker 60 is improved.

[0179] The second multifunction device 10b includes a printer housing 31 that houses a print head 37. The stacker 60 is a part of the printer housing 31. The second multifunction device 10b is configured with a small number of parts.

[0180] The first multifunction printer 10a and the second multifunction printer 10b may be equipped with an audio output unit, a light-emitting unit, etc. (not shown). The audio output unit outputs the content displayed in the various messages 151 by audio. The light-emitting unit emits light in a light-emitting pattern corresponding to the content displayed in the various messages 151. The audio output unit, the light-emitting unit, etc. correspond to an example of a notification unit. The first multifunction printer 10a and the second multifunction printer 10b are equipped with at least one of a display screen 103, an audio output unit, and a light-emitting unit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0181] 10...multifunction device, 10a...first multifunction device, 10b...second multifunction device, 20...reading unit, 30...printer unit, 30a...first printer unit, 30b...second printer unit, 31...printer housing, 31a...left side, 33...paper feed cassette, 33a...first paper feed cassette, 33b...second paper feed cassette, 33c...third paper feed cassette, 33d...fourth paper feed cassette, 35...paper transport path, 37...print head, 39...paper transport mechanism, 39a...transport belt, 39b...first tension rope roller, 39c...second tension roller, 41...stacker paper discharge roller pair, 41a...first paper discharge outlet, 42...tray paper discharge roller pair, 42a...second paper discharge outlet, 43...first side paper discharge roller pair, 43a...first side paper discharge outlet, 45...second side paper discharge roller pair, 45a...second side paper discharge outlet, 47...stacker paper sensor, 48...tray paper sensor, 49...first side paper sensor, 51...second side paper sensor, 53...first unit sensor, 55...second unit sensor, 56...tray attachment / detachment section member, 57...first removable member, 58...tray sensor, 59...second removable member, 60...stacker, 61...paper stopper, 61a...rotating member, 61b...extension member, 70...first paper discharge unit, 71...first mounting member, 75...tray, 76...tray mounting section, 80...second paper discharge unit, 81...second mounting member, 83...paper width guide, 83a...first width guide member, 83b...second width guide member, 85...width guide sensor, 91...stopper, 91a...first stopper member, 91b...second stopper - component, 93... stopper sensor, 97... unit communication interface, 99... guide drive mechanism, 101... operation panel, 103... display screen, 111... control unit, 113... display control unit, 115... print control unit, 121... memory unit, 131... communication interface, 151... message, 151a... first message, 151b... second message, 151c... third message, 151d... fourth message, 151e... fifth message, P... paper, PG... control program.

Claims

1. a recording unit that records on the medium; a first ejection unit that ejects the medium recorded by the recording unit; a first mounting portion to which the first loading portion can be detachably attached; a second ejection unit disposed below the first ejection unit and configured to eject the medium recorded by the recording unit; a second mounting portion to which a second loading portion can be detachably attached, the second loading portion being disposed below the first loading portion; When the second stacking unit is attached to the second mounting unit and the first stacking unit is not attached to the first mounting unit, the medium is discharged from the first discharge unit and the second discharge unit to the second stacking unit. Recording device.

2. The second loading section is attached to the second mounting section. The recording device according to claim 1 .

3. a recording unit that records on the medium; a first ejection unit that ejects the medium recorded by the recording unit; a first mounting portion to which the first loading portion can be mounted; a second ejection unit disposed below the first ejection unit and configured to eject the medium recorded by the recording unit; a second stacking section disposed below the first stacking section, When the first stacking unit is not attached to the first attachment unit, the medium is discharged from the first discharge unit and the second discharge unit to the second stacking unit. Recording device.

4. a control unit that controls the first discharge unit and the second discharge unit; an attachment detection unit that detects whether the first stacking unit is attached to the first attachment unit; Equipped with the control unit discharges the medium from the first discharge unit and the second discharge unit to the second stacking unit when the mounting detection unit detects that the first stacking unit is not mounted to the first mounting unit.

4. The recording apparatus according to claim 2 or 3.

5. a first full load detection unit that detects that the first stacking unit is fully loaded with the media; a second full-load detection unit that detects that the second stacking unit is fully loaded with the media when the first stacking unit is attached to the first mounting unit, The control unit when the mounting detection unit detects that the first stacking unit is not mounted to the first mounting unit and the second full-load detection unit does not detect that the second stacking unit is fully loaded with the media, the second discharge unit is caused to discharge the media; When the mounting detection unit detects that the first stacking unit is not mounted to the first mounting unit and the second full-load detection unit detects that the second stacking unit is fully loaded with the media, the media are discharged to the first discharge unit.

5. The recording apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The control unit When the mounting detection unit detects that the first stacking unit is not mounted to the first mounting unit and the first full-load detection unit detects that the second stacking unit is fully loaded with the media, the first discharge unit is stopped from discharging the media.

6. The recording apparatus according to claim 5.

7. the second stacking section has a position regulation section that regulates the position of an edge of the medium, The position restriction portion is a first restricting member that restricts the edge position of the medium stacked below the second discharge portion; a second regulating member that regulates the edge position of the medium stacked above the second discharge portion; Including, 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 4.

8. a regulation member detection unit that detects that the second regulation member is positioned at a position where it regulates the edge position of the medium loaded above the second discharge unit, The control unit when the mounting detection unit detects that the first stacking unit is not mounted to the first mounting unit and the regulating member detection unit detects the second regulating member, the medium is discharged to the first discharge unit.

8. The recording apparatus according to claim 7.

9. the second restricting member is attached to the first restricting member and moves higher than the first restricting member; 9. The recording apparatus according to claim 8.

10. a drive mechanism for moving the second restricting member upward and downward; The control unit When the mounting detection unit detects that the first stacking unit is not mounted on the first mounting unit, the second restricting member is moved upward by the drive mechanism; When the first discharge unit has finished discharging the medium, the second regulating member is moved downward by the drive mechanism. The recording device according to claim 9.

11. a setting unit that sets an operation mode in which the medium is discharged by the first discharge unit and the second discharge unit; a notification unit that issues a notification, The control unit when the operation mode is set by the setting unit and the first stacker is attached to the first attachment unit, the notification unit is caused to issue the notification instructing the user to remove the first stacker; 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 4.

12. an apparatus housing that houses the recording unit; the first mounting portion is configured to mount the first stacking portion so as to protrude from an outer surface of the device housing; the second mounting portion is configured to mount the second loading portion so as to protrude from the outer surface of the device housing; The recording device according to claim 2 .

13. an apparatus housing that houses the recording unit; the second loading section is a part of the device housing; The recording apparatus according to claim 3 .

14. a recording unit that records on a medium; a first discharge unit that discharges the medium recorded by the recording unit; a first mounting unit to which a first stacking unit can be detachably attached; a second discharge unit that is disposed below the first discharge unit and discharges the medium; and a loading device that is detachable from the second mounting unit of a device housing, the loading device comprising: a position regulating section for regulating the edge position of the medium; The position restriction portion is a first restricting member that restricts the edge position of the medium stacked below the second discharge portion; a second regulating member that regulates the edge position of the medium stacked above the second discharge portion; Including, Loading device.

15. The second restricting member is The first restricting member is attached to the second restricting member and is movable above the second discharge portion. When the first loading section is attached to the first attachment section, the first loading section moves downward relative to the first loading section, When the first stacking unit is not attached to the first attachment unit, the first stacking unit moves above the second ejection unit.

15. The loading device of claim 14.

16. A control method for a recording device including a recording unit that records on a medium, a first discharge unit that discharges the medium recorded by the recording unit, a first mounting unit to which a first stacking unit can be attached / detached, a second discharge unit that is disposed below the first discharge unit and discharges the medium, and a second mounting unit to which the second stacking unit that is disposed below the first stacking unit can be attached / detached, When the second stacking unit is attached to the second mounting unit and the first stacking unit is not attached to the first mounting unit, the medium is discharged from the first discharge unit and the second discharge unit to the second stacking unit. A method for controlling a recording device.

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