Paper post-processing device, image forming system, and notification method

Abstract

The present invention provides a paper post-processing device, an image forming system, and a notification method. The paper post-processing device of one embodiment includes a control unit. When performing a binding process for binding multiple sheets of paper multiple times, the control unit measures the processing time required for the initial binding process and notifies the image forming device of the post-processing time, including the measured processing time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a paper post-processing device, an image forming system and a notification method. Background Art

[0002] Currently, known paper post-processing devices sequentially receive paper sheets discharged from image forming apparatuses, stack them on a processing tray, and then perform stapling processing on the multiple sheets. Some of these paper post-processing devices include a mechanism that staples the multiple sheets at predetermined binding locations to create a paper bundle. In recent years, as the processing speed of image forming apparatuses has increased, so has the demand for increased processing speed in paper post-processing devices.

[0003] However, the time required for the stapling process can vary. Therefore, conventional paper post-processing devices calculate the post-processing time by setting the time required for the stapling process to a predetermined maximum time, and then notify the image forming device of this post-processing time. Consequently, even if the stapling process completes early, waiting time may still occur before the next post-processing operation can begin. Summary of the Invention

[0004] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a paper post-processing device, which has a control unit. When performing binding processing of multiple sheets of paper multiple times in succession, the control unit measures the processing time required for the binding processing when the binding processing is performed initially, and notifies the image forming device of the post-processing time including the measured processing time.

[0005] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to an image forming system, which includes the above-mentioned paper post-processing device and an image forming device that outputs printed paper to the paper post-processing device and performs post-processing. The paper post-processing device includes a control unit, which measures the processing time required for the initial binding process when performing binding processing of multiple sheets of paper multiple times in succession, and notifies the image forming device of the post-processing time including the measured processing time. The image forming device outputs paper to the paper post-processing device at the moment when the post-processing time notified from the paper post-processing device has passed.

[0006] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a notification method that measures the processing time required for the initial binding process when binding a plurality of sheets of paper is performed multiple times continuously, and notifies an image forming apparatus of a post-processing time including the measured processing time. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image forming system according to the embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the paper post-processing apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a flowchart showing the flow of post-processing performed by the paper post-processing apparatus according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] Hereinafter, a paper post-processing apparatus, an image forming system, and a notification method according to embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0011] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image forming system 1 according to the embodiment.

[0012] The image forming system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 2 and a paper post-processing apparatus 3 .

[0013] The image forming device 2 is a multifunction peripheral (MFP). The image forming device 2 performs image forming processing and image fixing processing. The image forming processing is a processing for forming an image on a sheet. The image formed on the sheet can be a toner image or an image formed by inkjet. The image fixing processing is a processing for fixing the image formed on the sheet to the sheet. The sheet is, for example, a recording medium such as paper on which text or images are formed. The sheet can be any object as long as the image forming device 2 can perform image formation. When an instruction to execute post-processing is issued, the image forming device 2 discharges the sheet to the paper post-processing device 3.

[0014] The paper post-processing device 3 performs post-processing on the sheets conveyed from the image forming device 2. Post-processing includes, for example, alignment processing, binding processing, folding processing, punching processing, stamping processing, and discharge processing. In the following description, alignment processing, binding processing, and discharge processing are taken as examples of post-processing. Alignment processing is a process of aligning the positions of the ends of a plurality of sheets in the width direction and the length direction. Through alignment processing, the positions of the ends of a plurality of sheets in the width direction and the length direction are aligned. In addition, the length direction of the sheet refers to the direction perpendicular to the width direction of the sheet. Binding processing is a process of stacking and aligning a plurality of sheets into a pile, and arranging them into a pile using a binding device such as a stapler. Discharge processing is a process of discharging the sheets that have been post-processed. For example, in the discharge processing, a plurality of sheets arranged into a pile are discharged by binding processing.

[0015] Next, the specific configurations of the image forming apparatus 2 and the paper post-processing apparatus 3 will be described. The image forming apparatus 2 includes a control device 4, a control panel 5, a scanner 6, a printer 7, a paper feeder 8, and a paper discharger 9.

[0016] The control device 4 includes a control unit 401, a memory 402, and a communication unit 403. The control unit 401 is a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The control unit 401 controls the operation of each functional unit of the image forming device 2. The control unit 401 performs various processes by loading programs stored in ROM (Read Only Memory) into RAM (Random Access Memory) and executing the programs. In addition, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) can also assume appropriate functions implemented by the control unit 401. An ASIC is a dedicated circuit for implementing specific functions.

[0017] For example, the control unit 401 controls the sheet to be discharged to the sheet post-processing device 3 when the post-processing time notified by the sheet post-processing device 3 has elapsed. Here, the post-processing time is the time required for the sheet post-processing device 3 to perform post-processing. For example, the post-processing time is the sum of at least the time required for the sheet alignment and stapling process, and the discharge process of the sheet to the discharge tray.

[0018] The memory 402 temporarily stores data used by each functional unit included in the image forming apparatus 2. The memory 402 is, for example, a RAM.

[0019] The communication unit 403 is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from external devices. For example, the communication unit 403 communicates with the paper post-processing device 3. The communication unit 403 transmits information regarding the type of post-processing (hereinafter referred to as "post-processing information") to the paper post-processing device 3. The post-processing information includes the type of post-processing (e.g., stapling), the number of copies, and the number of sheets per copy for which post-processing is performed. The communication unit 403 receives information regarding the post-processing time (hereinafter referred to as "post-processing time information") from the paper post-processing device 3. The communication unit 403 outputs the received post-processing time information to the control unit 401.

[0020] The control panel 5 includes a display unit and an operating unit. The display unit is a display device such as a liquid crystal display and an organic EL (ElectroLuminescence) display. The display unit displays various information related to the image forming device 2 under the control of the control device 4. The operating unit includes a plurality of buttons, etc. The operating unit accepts user operations. For example, the operating unit accepts input of instructions related to the execution of printing and the type of post-processing of the sheet. The operating unit outputs a signal corresponding to the operation performed by the user to the control device 4. In addition, the display unit and the operating unit can also be configured as an integrated touch panel.

[0021] The scanner unit 6 reads the image of the object to be read on the original document using light and dark. For example, the scanner unit 6 reads an image printed on a sheet of the object to be read placed on the document reading table. The scanner unit 6 records the read image information. The recorded image information can also be transmitted to other information processing devices via a network. The recorded image information can also be used as print data to form an image on a sheet by the printer unit 7.

[0022] The printer unit 7 performs image formation and image fixing processes. For example, the printer unit 7 forms an image on a sheet based on image information generated by the scanner unit 6 or received via a communication path. The printer unit 7 applies heat and pressure to the image formed on the sheet to fix the image on the sheet.

[0023] The paper feed unit 8 feeds sheets one by one to the printer unit 7 in coordination with the timing of image formation by the printer unit 7. The paper discharge unit 9 discharges the sheets discharged from the printer unit 7 to the paper discharge unit or the paper post-processing device 3. For example, when a post-processing execution instruction is input to the image forming device 2, the paper discharge unit 9 discharges the sheets to the paper post-processing device 3. On the other hand, when no post-processing execution instruction is input to the image forming device 2, the paper discharge unit 9 discharges the sheets to the paper discharge unit.

[0024] Next, the structure of the paper post-processing device 3 will be described.

[0025] like Figure 1 As shown, the paper post-processing device 3 is located adjacent to the image forming apparatus 2. The paper post-processing device 3 performs post-processing designated by the control panel 5 on the sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus 2.

[0026] The paper post-processing apparatus 3 includes a standby unit 12 , a processing unit 13 , a discharge unit 14 , and a control device 15 .

[0027] The standby section 12 temporarily holds (buffers) the sheets conveyed from the image forming apparatus 2. The standby section 12 includes a standby tray 17. For example, the standby section 12 holds subsequent sheets on standby tray 17 while the processing section 13 performs post-processing on the preceding sheets. The standby section 12 holds the sheets on standby tray 17 by stacking the sheets. The standby section 12 is located above the processing section 13. When the processing section 13 completes post-processing, the standby section 12 drops the retained sheets toward the processing section 13. More specifically, the standby section 12 drops the retained sheets toward a processing tray 18 included in the processing section 13. The processing tray 18 carries a plurality of sheets to be post-processed.

[0028] The processing unit 13 performs post-processing on the plurality of sheets loaded on the processing tray 18 in accordance with instructions from the control unit 151. More specifically, the processing unit 13 first aligns the plurality of sheets. This aligns the plurality of sheets. The processing unit 13 then performs post-processing on the aligned plurality of sheets. For example, the processing unit 13 performs binding processing using a stapler. The processing unit 13 then discharges the post-processed plurality of sheets to the discharge unit 14.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the movable tray 14a is located on the side of the paper post-processing device 3. The movable tray 14a can move vertically along the side of the paper post-processing device 3. Sheets are discharged from the standby unit 12 and the processing unit 13 to the movable tray 14a.

[0030] The control device 15 includes a control unit 151, a memory 152 (storage unit), and a communication unit 153. The control unit 151 is a processor such as a CPU or GPU. The control unit 151 controls the operation of each functional unit of the paper post-processing device 3. The control unit 151 performs various processes by loading programs stored in ROM into RAM and executing the programs. Alternatively, an ASIC may be used to perform appropriate functions implemented by the control unit 151.

[0031] The memory 152 temporarily stores data used by each functional unit of the paper post-processing apparatus 3. The memory 152 stores, for example, measured processing time and post-processing information. The memory 152 is, for example, a RAM.

[0032] Communication unit 153 is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from external devices. For example, communication unit 153 communicates with image forming device 2. Communication unit 153 receives post-processing information from image forming device 2. Communication unit 153 transmits post-processing time information to image forming device 2. Communication unit 153 outputs the received post-processing time information to control unit 151.

[0033] Next, the processing performed by the control unit 151 will be described in detail.

[0034] When performing multiple consecutive stapling operations, the control unit 151 measures the processing time during the initial stapling operation. This "continuous multiple times" refers to the situation where multiple copies are post-processed within a single job. For example, when post-processing three copies, the control unit 151 measures the processing time during the first copy. The control unit 151 notifies the image forming apparatus 2 of the post-processing time, including the measured processing time.

[0035] The control unit 151 does not measure the processing time for the second and subsequent binding processes in a continuous binding process, but instead performs the binding process of a stapler capable of binding multiple sheets of paper. If the processing time has not been measured, the control unit 151 notifies the image forming apparatus of the post-processing time, which includes a pre-set time as the processing time. The pre-set time is assumed to be the maximum time required for the stapler to perform the binding process. The processing time required for the stapler to perform the binding process is different immediately after the stapler is manufactured and after the stapler has been used for a specified period of time. This is because the paper post-processing device 3 does not perform the binding process smoothly immediately after manufacture, but becomes smooth after the prescribed period of use. In other words, it is assumed that the binding process takes longer immediately after manufacture than after the prescribed period of use. Therefore, the time required for the stapler to perform the binding process immediately after manufacture is assumed to be the maximum time.

[0036] The control unit 151 measures the processing time before the processing time is fully measured and after the image forming apparatus 2 is notified of the post-processing time, which includes the maximum processing time. The control unit 151 begins measuring the processing time when the stapler is instructed to perform the stapling process and ends measuring the processing time when the stapling process is complete. After the consecutive stapling processes are completed, the control unit 151 deletes the processing time stored in the memory 152. The control unit 151 calculates the post-processing time by taking into account at least the time required for paper alignment, stapling, and paper discharge to the paper discharge tray.

[0037] The control device 15 controls, for example, the standby unit 12 and the processing unit 13. The control device 15 controls the operation of the entrance rollers 20a and 20b and the exit rollers 21a and 21b to convey the sheet to the standby tray 17. The control device 15 controls the operation of the processing unit 13.

[0038] Next, the structure of each component of the paper post-processing device 3 will be described in more detail.

[0039] In this embodiment, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the upstream side (the image forming apparatus 2 side) and the downstream side in the sheet conveyance direction. The terms "front end" and "rear end" refer to the "downstream end" and "upstream end," respectively, in the sheet conveyance direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the direction that is substantially parallel to the plane of the sheet (sheet surface direction) and substantially perpendicular to the sheet conveyance direction is referred to as the sheet width direction W.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the paper post-processing apparatus 3 according to the embodiment.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, the paper post-processing device 3 includes a standby unit 12, a processing unit 13, a pinch roller drive mechanism 25, and a conveying path 26. The conveying path 26 is provided inside the paper post-processing device 3. The conveying path 26 has a sheet supply port 26a provided with inlet rollers 20a and 20b, and a sheet discharge port 26b provided with outlet rollers 21a and 21b. The sheet supply port 26a faces the paper discharge unit 9 of the image forming device 2. Sheets are supplied from the image forming device 2 to the sheet supply port 26a. The sheet discharge port 26b faces the standby unit 12. After passing through the conveying path 26, the sheet is conveyed from the sheet discharge port 26b to the standby unit 12.

[0042] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the conveying path 26 guides the sheet to the standby section 12. The conveying path 26 extends toward the longitudinal registration rollers 40 (conveying rollers) in the processing section 13 on the downstream side of the standby section 12 in the conveying direction.

[0043] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the embodiment, entry rollers 20a and 20b are positioned near the sheet supply port 26a. Entry rollers 20a and 20b are radially opposed and parallel to each other. Entry roller 20a is a driving roller located on the upper side of conveyance path 26. Entry roller 20b is a driven roller located on the lower side of conveyance path 26. Entry rollers 20a and 20b hold the sheet in a gap between them. Entry rollers 20a and 20b convey the held sheet downstream in the conveyance direction.

[0044] Exit rollers 21a and 21b are located near sheet discharge port 26b. Exit rollers 21a and 21b are radially opposed and parallel to each other. Exit roller 21a is a driven roller located on the upper side of conveyor path 26. Exit roller 21b is a driving roller located on the lower side of conveyor path 26. Exit rollers 21a and 21b hold the sheet in a gap between them. Exit rollers 21a and 21b convey the held sheet downstream in the conveyance direction.

[0045] The standby section 12 includes a standby tray 17 and an auxiliary guide 22. The rear end of the standby tray 17 is located near the exit rollers 21a and 21b. The rear end of the standby tray 17 is located below the sheet discharge port 26b in the conveyance path 26. The standby tray 17 is inclined relative to the horizontal direction, gradually increasing in height as it approaches the downstream side in the sheet conveyance direction. While post-processing is being performed by the processing section 13, the standby tray 17 holds multiple sheets in a stacked state.

[0046] The standby tray 17 includes a pair of tray members that can move toward or away from each other in the sheet width direction W. When sheets are waiting on the standby tray 17, the pair of tray members can move toward each other and support the sheets. When the sheets are moved from the standby tray 17 to the processing tray 18, the pair of tray members move away from each other, causing the supported sheets to fall toward the processing tray 18.

[0047] A blade portion 30 is provided between the upstream side of the standby tray 17 and the upstream side of the processing tray 18. The blade portion 30 rotates about an axis extending along the sheet width direction W to press the sheet toward the processing tray 18. As the sheet moves from the standby tray 17 toward the processing tray 18, the blade portion 30 presses the rear end of the sheet toward the processing tray 18. The blade portion 30 includes a blade 30a formed of an elastic material such as rubber, and the blade 30a presses the rear end of the sheet toward the processing tray 18.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, the processing section 13 has a processing tray 18, a rear end stopper 32, a lateral alignment plate 33, a stapler 35, an ejector 36, a bracket 36a, a stacking claw (pushing component), a stacking claw belt 39, a longitudinal alignment roller 40 (conveying roller) and pulleys 43a and 43b.

[0049] The processing tray 18 is provided below the standby tray 17. The processing tray 18 is inclined relative to the horizontal direction so as to gradually increase in height as it approaches the downstream side in the sheet conveying direction. The processing tray 18 is inclined, for example, approximately parallel to the standby tray 17. The processing tray 18 has a conveying surface 18a for supporting (loading) sheets.

[0050] A pair of lateral alignment plates 33 are provided on opposite sides of the conveying surface 18a of the processing tray 18 in the sheet width direction W. The pair of lateral alignment plates 33 are spaced apart from each other in the sheet width direction W. The lateral alignment plates 33 are movable in directions toward and away from each other in the sheet width direction W. The lateral alignment plates 33 constitute lateral alignment means for aligning the sheets in the sheet width direction W (so-called lateral alignment).

[0051] A rear end stopper 32 is provided at the upstream end of the processing tray 18. Sheets placed on the processing tray 18 are conveyed toward the rear end stopper 32 by the longitudinal alignment rollers 40, which are driven counterclockwise in the figure. The longitudinal alignment rollers 40 cooperate with the blades 30 to bring the upstream end of the sheet into contact with the rear end stopper 32, thereby aligning the sheet longitudinally. By driving the longitudinal alignment rollers 40 counterclockwise in the figure, the blades 30 press against the rear end of the sheet, allowing thin, lightweight sheets or curved sheets to be unfolded.

[0052] The stapler 35 is located behind the processing tray 18. The stapler 35 includes a staple 351. The stapler 35 can bind the ends of sheets aligned and abutting against the rear end stopper 32. The stapler 35 uses the staple 351 to bind the ends of multiple sheets aligned and abutting against the rear end stopper 32. The stapler 35 can be moved to bind at a position on the multiple sheets indicated by the user via the control panel 5 of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0053] The ejector 36 is positioned at an initial position at the upstream end of the processing tray 18. The ejector 36 is positioned so as to overlap the rear end stopper 32 when viewed from the side. The ejector 36 is capable of moving the sheets downstream in the conveying direction. As the ejector 36 moves downstream in the conveying direction, it advances multiple sheets that have undergone post-processing. The ejector 36 is positioned so that the ends of the multiple sheets can be delivered to the stacking claw. A force is applied to the ejector 36 toward its initial position before movement.

[0054] The claw belt 39 and pulleys 43a and 43b constitute the claw drive mechanism 23 that drives the claw. The claw drive mechanism 23 includes a claw drive motor 45 as a shared drive source for the claw (pulley 43a), the ejector 36, and the bracket 36a. The claw drive motor 45 is constantly connected to the pulley 43a. Furthermore, the claw drive motor 45 is connected to the ejector 36 and the bracket 36a in a manner that allows for disconnection and connection via an electromagnetic clutch 46.

[0055] If the pulley 43a is driven in the counterclockwise direction in the figure, the stacking claw, the ejector 36, and the bracket 36a move from the upstream side to the downstream side in the conveying direction on the conveying surface 18a. If the pulley 43a is driven in the clockwise direction in the figure, the stacking claw, the ejector 36, and the bracket 36a move to the upstream side in the conveying direction on the conveying surface 18a. The upstream side in the conveying direction is Figure 2 on the right side of the .

[0056] The longitudinal registration roller 40 is driven to rotate counterclockwise in the figure, and conveys the sheet placed on the processing tray 18 toward the movable tray 14a of the discharge unit 14. The longitudinal registration roller 40 contacts the sheet placed on the processing tray 18 from below, thereby applying a driving force to the sheet. Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the sheet on the processing tray 18 is bent and separated from the longitudinal registration rollers 40, the driving force of the longitudinal registration rollers 40 cannot be applied to the sheet. Therefore, a pinch roller 47 is provided above the processing tray 18 (in the embodiment, above the standby tray 17) as a pressing roller to sandwich the sheet between the longitudinal registration rollers 40 and the sheet.

[0057] The pinch roller 47 is a driven roller having no driving source and is movable between a standby position located above the standby tray 17 and a rotation position facing the longitudinal registration roller 40 .

[0058] Figure 3 This is a flowchart showing the flow of post-processing performed by the paper post-processing apparatus 3 according to the embodiment.

[0059] The paper post-processing device 3 receives sheets to be post-processed from the image forming device 2 (ACT 101). The received sheets are stacked on the standby tray 17. The paper post-processing device 3 determines whether there is a binding processing request in the processing request of the received sheets (ACT 102). In the case where there is no binding processing request (ACT 102: No), the paper post-processing device 3 aligns the multiple sheets (ACT 103). Specifically, first, the standby section 12 of the paper post-processing device 3 drops the multiple sheets that are retained toward the processing section 13 according to the instruction of the control section 151. As a result, the multiple sheets stacked on the standby tray 17 are stacked on the processing tray 18. In addition, the processing section 13 aligns the multiple sheets by performing an alignment process on the multiple sheets placed on the processing tray 18.

[0060] The control unit 151 determines whether the last sheet stacked on the standby tray 17 is the final page (ACT 104). The determination of whether it is the final page is made based on the post-processing information notified from the image forming apparatus 2. If it is not the final page (ACT 104: No), the paper post-processing apparatus 3 executes the processes from ACT 101 onwards.

[0061] On the other hand, if the page is the final page (ACT 104: YES), the control unit 151 determines whether a stapling request has been issued (ACT 105). If a stapling request has been issued (ACT 105: YES), the control unit 151 determines whether the processing time has been measured (ACT 106). For example, if the processing time is stored in the memory 152, the control unit 151 determines that the measurement is complete. On the other hand, if the processing time is not stored in the memory 152, the control unit 151 determines that the measurement is not complete. If the processing time measurement is complete (ACT 106: YES), the control unit 151 controls the stapler 35 to execute the stapling process (ACT 107).

[0062] The control unit 151 controls the processing unit 13 to perform the discharge process (ACT 108). Specifically, the control unit 151 discharges the sheets that have been bound to the discharge unit 14. Thereafter, the control unit 151 determines whether the end condition is satisfied (ACT 109). The end condition is a condition for ending the post-processing of the paper post-processing device 3. For example, the end condition may be that the number of post-processings included in the post-processing information has been completed, or it may be an instruction to end from the outside. If the end condition is satisfied (ACT 109: Yes), the paper post-processing device 3 ends the post-processing. After the post-processing is completed, the control unit 151 deletes the processing time stored in the memory 152.

[0063] On the other hand, when the end condition is not satisfied (ACT 109 : NO), the paper post-processing apparatus 3 executes the processes in and after ACT 101 .

[0064] If the processing time measurement is not completed during ACT 106 (ACT 106: No), the control unit 151 begins measuring the processing time (ACT 110). Specifically, the control unit 151 begins measuring the processing time when the stapler 35 is instructed to perform the stapling process. The control unit 151 controls the stapler 35 to perform the stapling process (ACT 111). The control unit 151 ends measuring the processing time when the stapling process is completed (ACT 112). The control unit 151 stores the measured processing time information in the memory 152. The sheet post-processing device 3 then executes ACT 108 and subsequent processes.

[0065] If there is no stapling request in the process of ACT 105 (ACT 105 : NO), the sheet post-processing apparatus 3 executes the processes in and after ACT 109 .

[0066] If no stapling processing request is received during the processing of ACT 102 (ACT 102: No), the control unit 151 determines whether the processing time has been measured (ACT 113). If the processing time has not been measured (ACT 113: No), the control unit 151 determines to use the maximum time as the processing time (ACT 114). The communication unit 153 notifies the image forming device 2 of the post-processing time including the processing time (ACT 115). For example, the control unit 151 adds together the time required for the alignment of the sheets, the stapling process, and the discharge process of the sheets to the paper discharge tray. The time required for the alignment of the sheets and the discharge process of the sheets to the paper discharge tray is determined in advance. If the maximum time is determined to be used as the processing time, the control unit 151 adds together the time required for the alignment of the sheets, the maximum time, and the discharge process of the sheets to the paper discharge tray. Thus, the control unit 151 calculates the post-processing time. Then, the control unit 151 controls the communication unit 153 to notify the image forming device 2 of the calculated post-processing time.

[0067] Thus, the post-processing time is notified to the image forming apparatus 2. The communication unit 403 of the image forming apparatus 2 receives the post-processing time information notified from the paper post-processing apparatus 3. Then, the control unit 401 discharges the sheet to be post-processed to the paper post-processing apparatus 3 when the post-processing time included in the received post-processing time information has elapsed. Thus, the sheet to be post-processed can be discharged to the paper post-processing apparatus 3 when post-processing by the paper post-processing apparatus 3 is completed. Thereafter, the paper post-processing apparatus 3 executes ACT 103 and subsequent processes.

[0068] On the other hand, if the processing time measurement is completed (ACT 113: Yes), the control unit 151 determines to use the measured time as the processing time (ACT 116). In this case, the control unit 151 reads the measured time from the memory 152. Then, the communication unit 153 notifies the image forming device 2 of the post-processing time including the processing time (ACT 115). If it is determined to use the measured time as the processing time, the control unit 151 adds the time required for the paper alignment, the measured time, and the time required for the paper discharge process to the paper discharge tray. In this way, the control unit 151 calculates the post-processing time. Then, the control unit 151 controls the communication unit 153 to notify the image forming device 2 of the calculated post-processing time. Thereafter, the paper post-processing device 3 executes the processes in and after ACT 103.

[0069] According to the paper post-processing device 3 constructed as described above, the waiting time until the next post-processing can be shortened. Specifically, when the paper post-processing device 3 performs multiple binding processes in succession, it first measures the processing time required for the binding process when the initial binding process is performed. In addition, the paper post-processing device 3 notifies the image forming device 2 of the post-processing time including the measured processing time. That is, when the paper post-processing device 3 performs paper ejection of multiple copies of the same job, it measures the binding processing time performed for the first copy and reflects it on the binding processing time performed for the next job. As a result, the processing time is not a fixed time as in the past, but can be changed according to the number of sheets of paper to be bound, the type of paper, etc. Therefore, when the binding process is completed earlier than the maximum time, the next post-processing can be processed earlier accordingly. Therefore, the waiting time can be shortened. As a result, the time required for the ejection action can be shortened.

[0070] The paper post-processing device 3 performs the stapling process by the stapler 35 without measuring the processing time during the second and subsequent stapling processes in a continuous stapling process. This allows post-processing to be performed on the same job with a single measurement. Consequently, the paper post-processing device 3 can efficiently perform post-processing on the same job.

[0071] If the processing time has not been measured, the sheet post-processing device 3 notifies the image forming device of the post-processing time, which includes the pre-set time as the processing time. Thus, even if the processing time has not been measured, the image forming device 2 can be notified of the post-processing time. Therefore, the next post-processing can be continued.

[0072] The paper post-processing device 3 begins measuring the processing time when the stapler 35 is instructed to perform the stapling process and ends measuring the processing time when the stapling process is completed. This allows the accurate measurement of the time required for the stapling process. Consequently, the paper post-processing device 3 can calculate a more accurate stapling time.

[0073] After the continuous stapling process is completed, the paper post-processing device 3 deletes the processing time stored in the memory 152. Thus, when a new job is input, only the processing time of the input job can be stored in the memory 152. Therefore, the processing time of other jobs is not mistakenly used. Therefore, the processing time corresponding to the job can be used.

[0074] The paper post-processing device 3 calculates the post-processing time by taking into account at least the time required for paper alignment, stapling, and discharge to the paper discharge tray. In other words, the paper post-processing device 3 calculates the post-processing time by taking into account not only the stapling process but also the total time required for post-processing. This allows for more accurate calculation of the time at which one copy of post-processing is completed by the paper post-processing device 3. Consequently, the image forming apparatus 2 can deliver the next sheet to be processed at the moment one copy of post-processing is completed by the paper post-processing device 3.

[0075] Part of the functions of the image forming device 2 and paper post-processing device 3 in the above-described embodiment can also be implemented by a computer. In this case, the program for implementing the function is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Alternatively, the function can be implemented by having a computer system read and execute the program recorded on the recording medium containing the program. The "computer system" referred to here includes hardware such as an operating system and peripheral devices. Furthermore, the term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to removable media or storage devices. Examples of removable media include floppy disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, CD-ROMs, etc. A storage device includes a hard disk built into the computer system, etc. Furthermore, the term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to a recording medium that dynamically stores the program for a short period of time, such as when a program is transmitted via a communication line. Examples of communication lines include networks such as the Internet or telephone lines. Alternatively, the term "computer-readable recording medium" may be volatile memory within a computer system that serves as a server or client. Volatile memory stores the program for a certain period of time. Alternatively, the program described above may be a program for implementing part of the above-described functions. Furthermore, the above-mentioned program may be a program that realizes the above-mentioned functions by combining it with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0076] Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. In fact, these embodiments can be implemented in various other ways and can be omitted, replaced, or modified without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention and are also included in the invention described in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A paper post-processing device, characterized in that: have: The control unit measures a processing time required for the binding process when the binding process of the plurality of sheets is performed a plurality of times in succession, and notifies the image forming apparatus of a post-processing time including the measured processing time. If the processing time has not been measured, the control unit notifies the image forming apparatus of a post-processing time including a preset time as the processing time.

2. The paper post-processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit executes the binding process of the stapler capable of binding a plurality of sheets without measuring the processing time in the second and subsequent binding processes in the continuous binding process.

3. The paper post-processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control section measures the processing time required for the binding process when the processing time is not measured and a post-processing time including a preset time as the processing time is notified to the image forming apparatus.

4. The paper post-processing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The control portion starts measuring the processing time required for the binding process when the execution of the binding process is instructed to the stapler, and ends measuring the processing time required for the binding process when the binding process is completed.

5. The paper post-processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The paper post-processing device further includes a storage unit for storing the measured processing time required for the binding process. After the continuous binding process is completed, the control unit deletes the processing time required for the binding process stored in the storage unit.

6. The paper post-processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit calculates the post-processing time by taking into consideration at least the time required for alignment of the sheets, the stapling process, and the discharge process of the sheets to the paper discharge tray.

7. The paper post-processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit uses, as the preset time, a maximum time required for a stapler that is assumed to be capable of stapling a plurality of sheets of paper to perform stapling processing.

8. An image forming system comprising the paper post-processing device according to claim 1 and an image forming device for performing post-processing on the printed paper output from the paper post-processing device. The paper post-processing device includes a control unit that measures a processing time required for the binding process when the binding process of a plurality of sheets is performed multiple times in succession, and notifies the image forming device of a post-processing time including the measured processing time. The image forming apparatus outputs the paper to the paper post-processing apparatus when a post-processing time notified from the paper post-processing apparatus has elapsed.

9. A notification method comprising: measuring a processing time required for the initial binding process when a binding process for binding a plurality of sheets of paper is performed a plurality of times continuously; and notifying an image forming apparatus of a post-processing time including the measured processing time; If the processing time has not been measured, the post-processing time including a preset time as the processing time is notified to the image forming apparatus.

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