Sheet processing apparatus, lamination processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, and system

Abstract

The name of the present invention is a sheet processing device, a laminating processing device, an image forming device and a system. The present invention provides a sheet processing device, a laminating processing device, an image forming device and a system that form a slack space at a specified position and can stably insert a peeling component into the space. It relates to a sheet processing device that sandwiches a sheet-like medium between two overlapping sheets that are overlapped and partially joined. The sheet processing device includes a conveying mechanism for conveying two overlapping sheets, a rotating component for winding the two overlapping sheets, and a movable peeling component. The two overlapping sheets are conveyed in a winding direction and wound on the rotating component to generate a slack space between the two overlapping sheets, and the peeling component is inserted into the space to peel the two overlapping sheets. Before the peeling component is inserted into the generated slack space, the two overlapping sheets are conveyed in the opposite direction of the winding direction. Therefore, a slack space can be formed at a specified position instead of a sticking area, and the peeling component can be stably inserted into the slack space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sheet material processing device, a lamination processing device, an image forming device and an image forming system. Background Art

[0002] A known lamination process is to insert an insert (paper, photo, etc.) between two overlapping sheets (laminated sheet or laminated film) in which the two sheets are overlapped and one side is joined (connected), and apply heat and pressure to bond the two overlapping sheets.

[0003] For example, the laminating device disclosed in Patent Document 1 separates the laminating films connected at the front ends by a separation release mechanism (upper and lower vacuum devices) and then inserts a protective paper sheet.

[0004] In addition, the image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 2 can perform a desired lamination process by controlling the operation of a fixing unit according to the thickness of the laminated sheets.

[0005] Furthermore, the sheet peeling device disclosed in Patent Document 3 winds two overlapping sheets on a rotating member, and creates a winding circumference difference between an inner peripheral side sheet and an outer peripheral side sheet by a geometric relationship, thereby peeling off the two overlapping sheets.

[0006] The sheet peeling device disclosed in Patent Document 3 is characterized in that a gap (slack space) is forcibly generated between two sheets by the difference in winding circumference between the sheets. However, when a sticking area is generated between the sheets, the slack space is close to the rotating member for winding, and the position of the slack space is sometimes unstable. Therefore, it is required to provide a mechanism for tracking the slack position in the peeling member inserted into the slack space, which leads to the problem of large-scale device and increased cost.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a sheet processing apparatus in which a slack space is formed at a predetermined position and a peeling member can be stably inserted into the space.

[0008] [Patent Document 1] (Japanese) Patent Publication No. 2006-160429

[0009] [Patent Document 2] (Japanese) Patent Publication No. 09-164593

[0010] [Patent Document 3] (Japan) Patent Publication No. 2020-121868 Summary of the invention

[0011] The above-mentioned problem is solved by a sheet processing device, which sandwiches a sheet-like medium between two overlapping sheets that are overlapped and partially joined. The sheet processing device is characterized in that it includes: a conveying mechanism for conveying the two overlapping sheets; a rotating component that winds up the two overlapping sheets, and a peeling component. The two overlapping sheets are conveyed along a winding direction and wound onto the rotating component to generate a slack space between the two overlapping sheets, and the peeling component is inserted into the slack space to peel the two overlapping sheets. Before the peeling component is inserted into the slack space, the two overlapping sheets are conveyed in the opposite direction of the winding direction.

[0012] The sheet material processing device of the present invention conveys the two overlapping sheets in a direction opposite to the winding direction before inserting the peeling member into the slack space formed between the two overlapping sheets. Therefore, the slack space can be formed at a predetermined position instead of the pasting area, and the peeling member can be stably inserted into the slack space. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a sheet processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 Shown is Figure 1 A structural diagram of the main parts of the sheet processing device (part 1).

[0015] Figure 3 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the structure of the main parts of the sheet processing device.

[0016] Figure 4 Shown is a diagram showing the structure of the main parts of the sheet processing device (part 3).

[0017] Figure 5 FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the structure of the main parts of the sheet material processing device.

[0018] Figure 6 Shown is a diagram showing the structure of the main parts of the sheet processing device (part 5).

[0019] Figure 7 Shown is a diagram showing the structure of the main parts of the sheet processing device (part 6).

[0020] Figure 8 FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the structure of the main parts of the sheet material processing device.

[0021] Fig. 9 Shown is a diagram showing the structure of the main parts of the sheet processing device (part 8).

[0022] FIG. 10 (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams showing a slack space formed near the winding roller.

[0023] Fig.11 (a) is a schematic diagram showing that the peeling claw cannot be inserted into the slack space, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing the parallel movement of the peeling claw along the sheet conveying direction.

[0024] Fig.12 (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams showing the operation of forming a slack space at a predetermined position of the sheet processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Fig.13 The figure shows an example of an operation screen displayed on the operation panel for setting the conveying amount after winding.

[0026] Fig.14 1 and 2 are diagrams showing the structure of a sheet material processing apparatus having a detection mechanism (sensor), wherein (a) is a sensor for detecting the height of a slack space, and (b) is a sensor for detecting the position of the slack space in the conveying direction.

[0027] Fig.15 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a single-page insertion mode of a sheet processing apparatus (part 1).

[0028] Fig.16 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the structure of the single-page insertion mode of the sheet processing apparatus (part 2).

[0029] Fig.17 FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the structure of the single-page insertion mode of the sheet processing apparatus.

[0030] Fig.18 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a multi-page insertion mode of a sheet processing apparatus (part 1).

[0031] Fig.19 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a multi-page insertion mode of a sheet processing apparatus (part 2).

[0032] Fig. 20 FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the multi-page insertion mode of the sheet processing apparatus.

[0033] Fig.21 FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of a multi-page insertion mode of a sheet processing apparatus.

[0034] Fig. 22 The figure shows the structure of the main parts of the sheet processing device (part 9).

[0035] Fig.23 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a peeling claw provided in the sheet processing apparatus.

[0036] Fig.24(a) and (b) are schematic diagrams showing examples of the driving structure of the peeling claw.

[0037] Fig.25 FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a state where the peeling claw is inserted into the sheet S. FIG.

[0038] Fig.26 Shown is Figure 8 A perspective view of the state of the peeling claw and the sheet S in FIG.

[0039] Fig. 27 Shown is Figure 8 A three-dimensional diagram of the state of the peeling claw and the sheet S in FIG. 2 (part 2).

[0040] Fig.28 (a) to (c) show variations of the guide path for two sheets to be peeled.

[0041] Fig.29 FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an example of a laminating processing apparatus including a sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0042] Fig.30 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an example of an image forming apparatus including a laminating processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0043] Fig.31 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a modified example of an image forming apparatus including a laminating processing device according to the present invention.

[0044] Fig.32 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall structure of an image forming apparatus externally provided with a laminating processing device according to the present invention (part 1).

[0045] Fig.33 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the overall structure of an image forming apparatus externally provided with a laminating processing device according to the present invention (part 2).

[0046] Figure 34A-Figure 34C 1 is a flowchart illustrating a series of operations from the start of sheet feeding and the insertion of inserts to the end of the laminating process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Figure 1 The sheet processing apparatus 100 of this embodiment separates two overlapping sheets (hereinafter referred to as sheets S) from each other, and inserts a sheet-like medium (hereinafter referred to as an insert P) into the separated sheets S and clamps them.

[0048] Here, the sheet material S is two sheets overlapped and part (or one side) of the two sheets are joined. The two overlapping sheets include, for example, a transparent sheet such as a transparent polyester sheet on one side and a transparent or opaque sheet on the opposite side, and the two sheets are joined at one side. In addition, the two overlapping sheets also include laminated film materials.

[0049] The insert P is an example of a sheet-like medium inserted between the two overlapping sheets. Sheet-like media include thick paper, postcards, envelopes, thin paper, coated paper (coated paper or coated paper, etc.), tracing paper, OHP sheets, etc. in addition to plain paper.

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown, the sheet processing device 100 has a sheet tray 102 as a first loading mechanism for loading sheets S, a pickup roller 105 for supplying sheets S from the sheet tray 102, and a conveying roller pair 107. In addition, the sheet processing device 100 has a paper supply tray 103 as a second loading mechanism for loading inserts P, and a pickup roller 106 for supplying inserts P from the paper supply tray 103.

[0051] The sheet tray 102 is provided with a size sensor C6 as a sheet size detection mechanism for detecting the size (conveying direction length) of the sheet S, and the paper feed tray 103 is provided with a size sensor C7 as a medium size detection mechanism for detecting the size (conveying direction length) of the insert P.

[0052] The size sensors C6 and C7 each include a plurality of sensors arranged in parallel in the conveying direction. Since the detection results of the sensors vary according to the size of the loaded sheet S (or insert P), the conveying direction length of the sheet S (or insert P) can be detected.

[0053] A conveyance sensor C1 for detecting the conveyance position of the sheet S is provided downstream of the conveyance roller pair 107 in the conveyance direction, and a conveyance sensor C2 for detecting the conveyance position of the insert P is provided downstream of the pickup roller 106 in the conveyance direction.

[0054] Furthermore, the conveyance direction length of the sheet S (or the interleaf P) may be detected using these conveyance sensors C1 and C2.

[0055] In addition, the sheet processing device 100 is provided with an inlet roller pair 108 as a first conveying mechanism, a winding roller 109 as a rotating member, an outlet roller pair 113 as a second conveying mechanism, and a paper discharge tray 104, etc., downstream of the conveying roller pair 107 and the pickup roller 106. Between the winding roller 109 and the outlet roller pair 113, there is a peeling claw 116 as a peeling member that is provided to be movable in the width direction of the sheet S.

[0056] A conveyance sensor C3 for detecting the conveyance position of the sheet S and the insert P is provided downstream in the conveyance direction of the inlet roller pair 108, and an abnormal state detection sensor C4 for detecting the state of the sheet S is provided downstream in the conveyance direction of the winding roller 109. A conveyance sensor C5 for detecting the conveyance position of the sheet S is provided downstream in the conveyance direction of the outlet roller pair 113.

[0057] The pickup roller 105 , the transport roller pair 107 , the inlet roller pair 108 , and the winding roller 109 are examples of a first transport mechanism, and the pickup roller 106 , the inlet roller pair 108 , and the winding roller 109 are examples of a second transport mechanism.

[0058] An operation panel 10 as a display operation mechanism is provided in the exterior of the sheet processing apparatus 100. The operation panel 10 performs information display and accepts operation input in the sheet processing apparatus 100. In addition, the operation panel 10 also functions as a notification mechanism for sending a perception signal to the user. Alternatively, a configuration in which a notification mechanism other than the operation panel 10 is provided on the sheet processing apparatus 100 is also possible.

[0059] The sheet processing apparatus 100 of this embodiment loads the sheet S and the insert P on different trays, and separates and opens the two sheets while conveying the sheet S, and inserts the insert P into the opening. Then, the sheet S with the insert P inserted is discharged and stacked on the discharge tray 104.

[0060] Figure 2 Shown is Figure 1 The main part of the sheet material processing device is shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, the inlet roller pair 108 and the outlet roller pair 113 are, for example, two rollers in pairs, and are driven to rotate by a driving mechanism (motor, etc.). The sheet S and the insert P are clamped and conveyed by the inlet roller pair 108 rotating in one direction and the outlet roller pair 113 rotating in the forward and reverse directions.

[0061] The entry roller pair 108 conveys the sheet S and the interleaf P toward the exit roller pair 113. This conveying direction is referred to as a forward conveying direction (arrow A direction).

[0062] On the other hand, the exit roller pair 113 can switch its rotation to the forward and reverse directions. Figure 1 ) while being conveyed, the sheet S can be conveyed toward the winding roller 109 in the opposite direction (pulling direction). The direction of conveyance toward the winding roller 109 (the opposite direction to the forward conveyance direction) is called the reverse conveyance direction (arrow B direction).

[0063] In addition, the sheet processing device 100 is further provided with a winding roller 109 and a peeling claw 116 as rotating members between the inlet roller pair 108 and the outlet roller pair 113. The winding roller 109 is driven to rotate in the forward and reverse directions by a driving mechanism (motor, etc.), and the rotation can be switched in two directions (clockwise / counterclockwise).

[0064] The winding roller 109 includes a roller member 111 and a movable gripping mechanism 110 provided on the roller member 111 and gripping the sheet S. The movable gripping mechanism 110 is characterized in that it grips the leading end of the sheet S together with the roller member 111. The gripping mechanism 110 may be integrally formed on the outer periphery of the roller member 111 or may be configured as another component.

[0065] Next, use Figure 1 to Figure 22 A series of operations of the sheet processing apparatus 100, that is, operations from the peeling of the sheet S to the insertion of the interleaf P, will be described. Figure 3 to Figure 22 In, with Figure 1 , 2 The same components are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0066] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the sheets S on the sheet tray 102 are stacked in such a manner that a joined portion of the two sheets is located downstream in the feeding direction (conveying direction) of the pickup roller 105. Then, the sheet processing apparatus 100 picks up the sheet S on the sheet tray 102 by the pickup roller 105 and conveys it toward the inlet roller pair 108 by the conveying roller pair 107.

[0067] Then, if Figure 2 As shown, the sheet S is conveyed toward the winding roller 109 by the inlet roller pair 108. Here, the sheet processing apparatus 100 conveys the sheet S with the side where the end of one of the four sides of the sheet S is joined as the downstream in the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction).

[0068] Then, if Figure 3 As shown, the sheet processing apparatus 100 temporarily stops conveying the sheet S when the rear end of the sheet S in the forward conveying direction passes through the winding roller 109. In addition, these actions are triggered by the conveying sensor C3 detecting the front end of the sheet S and conveying a specified amount from the conveying sensor C3.

[0069] Then, if Figure 4 As shown, the sheet processing apparatus 100 opens the gripping mechanism 110 and reverses the rotation direction of the exit roller pair 113 to convey the sheet S in the reverse conveying direction (arrow B direction) toward the opening of the gripping mechanism 110 .

[0070] Then, if Figure 5 As shown, when the end of the sheet S is inserted into the opened gripping mechanism 110, the sheet processing apparatus 100 stops conveying and closes the gripping mechanism 110 to grip the end of the sheet S. Note that these operations are performed when the sheet S is conveyed by a specified amount.

[0071] Then, if Figure 6 As shown, the sheet processing apparatus 100 rotates the winding roller 109 counterclockwise to wind the sheet S around the winding roller 109. Here, the sheet S is wound around the winding roller 109 starting from the side of the two sheets that are not joined.

[0072] like Figure 7 As shown, when the sheet S is wound around the winding roller 109, due to the difference in the winding circumferences (difference in the winding amount) between the two overlapping sheets, the sheet on the inner circumference is excessive, and slack is generated toward the joined end of the sheet S. As a result, a space (slack space) is generated between the two sheets. By inserting the peeling claws 116 into the generated space from both sides of the sheet S, the space between the two sheets can be reliably maintained. In addition, these actions are implemented by using the detection of the leading end of the sheet S by the conveying sensor C5 as a trigger, and by conveying a specified amount from the conveying sensor C5.

[0073] Here, the peeling claw 116 will be supplementally described.

[0074] Fig.23 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a peeling claw provided in a sheet material processing device. Fig.24 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a driving structure of the peeling claw. Fig.25 FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a state where the peeling claw is inserted into the sheet S. FIG.

[0075] like Fig.23 As shown in the figure, when viewed from the upstream side in the conveying direction, the height dimension of the stripping claw 116 gradually increases from the center in the width direction toward the rear end. In addition, when viewed from the height direction, the dimension in the conveying direction gradually increases from the front end toward the center. Then, when viewed from the width direction, the stripping claw 116 is in a cross shape.

[0076] In addition, if Fig.24 As shown, in the configuration of this embodiment, two peeling claws 116 are arranged to face each other and are moved toward and away from each other by (a) belt drive or (b) rack and pinion gears.

[0077] Specifically, in the belt drive of (a), a belt 32 is stretched between a driving pulley 30a and a driven pulley 30b, and two peeling claws 116a, b are mounted opposite to each other on the belt 32. Here, the peeling claw 116a on one side is connected to the lower belt 32, and the peeling claw 116b on the other side is connected to the upper belt 32.

[0078] The driving pulley 30a is provided with a driving transmission gear 34, and the rotation output of the driving motor 36 is transmitted to the driving transmission gear 34 via the motor output gear 35. That is, the rotation output of the driving motor 36 is transmitted to the belt 32.

[0079] Therefore, if the drive motor 36 is rotated clockwise (as viewed from the front of the figure), the peeling claws 116a and b can approach each other, and if the drive motor 36 is rotated counterclockwise, the peeling claws 116a and b can be separated from each other.

[0080] In the rack & pinion of (b), two racks 42a, b meshing with a pinion 40 are extended in opposite directions, and two peeling claws 116a, b are mounted on each rack 42a, b opposite to each other. A drive transmission gear 44 is provided on the pinion 40, and the rotation output of the drive motor 46 is transmitted to the drive transmission gear 44 via the motor output gear 45. That is, the rotation output of the drive motor 46 is transmitted to the racks 42a, b.

[0081] Therefore, if the drive motor 46 is rotated clockwise (as viewed from the front of the figure), the peeling claws 116a and b can approach each other, and if the drive motor 46 is rotated counterclockwise, the peeling claws 116a and b can be separated from each other.

[0082] Thus, the peeling claw 116 of this embodiment has the above-mentioned shape and is configured to be movable in the width direction of the sheet S. Fig.25 As shown, it can be smoothly inserted into the space created in the sheet S.

[0083] Returning to the description of a series of operations of the sheet processing apparatus 100, in a state where the peeling claw 116 is inserted into the space created by the sheet S (see Figure 7 ), the sheet processing device 100 rotates the winding roller 109 in the clockwise direction, and Figure 8 As shown, the peeling space of the sheet S is moved to the rear end in the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction) of the sheet S. Then, the gripping mechanism 110 is opened at the time point of moving a specified amount, so that the rear end of the sheet S is separated up and down.

[0084] In this state, the sheet processing apparatus 100 temporarily stops conveying the sheet S, and then further moves the peeling claw 116 in the sheet width direction to peel off the entire area of ​​the rear end of the sheet S. In addition, these actions are triggered by the detection of the front end of the sheet S by the conveying sensor C5 and are performed by conveying a specified amount from the conveying sensor C5.

[0085] Fig.26 Shown is Figure 8 The peeling claw 116 and the sheet S in the three-dimensional diagram are shown in FIG. Since the peeling claw 116 also has the shape (function) of a branch claw that guides the peeled sheet S in different directions (see FIG. Fig.23 ), so the two sheets of sheet S are in a posture where they can be conveyed on different paths respectively.

[0086] In addition, since the peeling claw 116 is configured to be movable in the width direction (see Fig.24 ), so Fig. 27 As shown, it can be arranged in a position that appropriately supports the posture of the sheet S. Therefore, even if the size or hardness of the sheet S changes, the sheet S can be guided to the desired branching direction. Since this does not require a sheet branching member and a driving device for the branching claw that covers the entire area of ​​the conveying path width, it is possible to reduce costs compared to the past.

[0087] Then, if Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , starting from the state where the entire area of ​​the rear end of the sheet S is peeled off, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the exit roller pair 113 in the counterclockwise direction this time and conveys the sheet S in the reverse conveying direction (the direction of arrow B). That is, the two peeled sheets of the sheet S are guided upward and downward by the peeling claws 116, respectively, and the two sheets are completely peeled off from each other.

[0088] Then, the sheet processing apparatus 100 temporarily stops conveying the sheet S, and enters a state where the exit roller pair 113 grips (grips) the joined portion of the sheet S. Therefore, the sheet S is opened widely with the joined side as an end.

[0089] These operations are performed by using the detection of the leading end of the sheet S by the conveyance sensor C5 as a trigger and by conveying a designated amount from the conveyance sensor C5 .

[0090] Next, the subject of the present invention will be described.

[0091] FIG10 is a schematic diagram showing a slack space formed near the winding roller. Even when a sticking region r is formed between the sheets S in (a), the sticking is forcibly peeled off by winding the sheets S on the winding roller 109 in (b). However, sometimes a sticking region r remains at a position far from the winding roller 109. Therefore, a slack space g is formed near the winding roller 109.

[0092] At this time, if Fig.11 As shown in (a), the insertion position of the peeling claw 116 does not coincide with the slack space g, and the peeling claw 116 cannot be inserted into the slack space. Fig.11 As shown in (b), it is desirable to provide a moving mechanism for parallel moving the peeling claw 116 in the sheet conveying direction or a position detection mechanism for the slack space g, but this causes a problem of increasing the size of the device and / or the cost.

[0093] Therefore, in this embodiment, if Fig.12 As shown in (a), after the sheet S is wound around the winding roller 109 to form the slack space g, the sheet S is conveyed in the direction opposite to the winding direction (the direction of arrow A) as shown in (b), and the sticking area r is conveyed downstream of the exit roller pair 113. As a result, the sticking area r between the exit roller pair 113 and the winding roller 109 is reduced, so that the slack space g can be formed at the same position as the sheet without the sticking area r.

[0094] That is, since the slack space g can be formed at a position corresponding to the insertion position of the separation claw 116 , the separation claw 116 can be stably inserted into the slack space g.

[0095] The operation of moving the slack space after winding the sheet S on the winding roller 109 is referred to as a post-winding conveying operation. This conveying operation can also be performed on the sheet S without the sticking region r. In this case, since there is no sticking between the winding roller 109 and the exit roller pair 113, the change in the position of the slack space is so small that it has no effect on the peeling operation.

[0096] Next, advantageous configurations of the present invention will be described.

[0097] (Setting of the conveying amount after winding 1)

[0098] It is preferable to pre-set the distance (hereinafter referred to as "the conveying amount after winding") of the sheet S in the direction opposite to the winding direction (forward conveying direction: direction of arrow A) before performing sheet processing (peeling). By pre-setting the conveying amount after winding before the sheet processing, a slack space can be formed in a stable position.

[0099] The conveying amount after winding is preferably less than the distance between the centers of the winding roller 109 and the exit roller pair 113. This is effective as long as no sticking region r is generated between the winding roller 109 and the exit roller pair 113, so that the sheet S is not conveyed extra.

[0100] Furthermore, the conveyance amount after winding is preferably automatically changed according to the size and / or thickness of the sheet S, or is preferably changeable arbitrarily by the user.

[0101] Fig.13 The following is an example of an operation screen displayed on the operation panel for setting the conveying amount after winding. Fig.13 As shown, the user can adjust and input the conveying amount after winding (indicated as the conveying amount before peeling in the figure) by touching the screen of the operation panel 10. Thus, the user can pre-set the conveying amount after winding. At this time, since the optimal conveying amount after winding can be set according to the sheet S used by the user, stable sheet processing (peeling) can be performed.

[0102] Alternatively, sheet information (size, thickness, material, etc.) of the sheet S may be input from the operation panel 10 and the conveyance amount after winding may be set based on the information. In this case, the sheet S is not conveyed extra, which is effective.

[0103] (Second relaxation space detection mechanism)

[0104] Fig.14 1 and 2 are diagrams showing the structure of a sheet material processing apparatus having a detection mechanism (sensor), wherein (a) is a sensor for detecting the height of a slack space, and (b) is a sensor for detecting the position of the slack space in the conveying direction.

[0105] like Fig.14 As shown in (a), a sensor Sh for detecting the height of the slack space may be further provided to detect the height h of the slack space at the position where the peeling claw 116 can be inserted. If the detected height h is below a threshold, the sheet S is conveyed in the direction opposite to the winding direction. On the other hand, if the height h is greater than the threshold, the peeling claw 116 is inserted in this state.

[0106] This is effective because the height of the slack space is detected and the sheet S is conveyed in the direction opposite to the winding direction only when necessary, so that the sheet S is not conveyed redundantly.

[0107] In addition, if Fig.14As shown in (b), a sensor Sp for detecting the vertex position of the slack space may be further provided. If the detected vertex position is not at a position where the peeling claw 116 can be inserted, the sheet S is conveyed in the direction opposite to the winding direction. On the other hand, if it is at a position where it can be inserted, the peeling claw 116 is inserted in this state. In addition, the sheet S may be continuously conveyed in the direction opposite to the winding direction until the vertex position of the slack space is detected at a position where the peeling claw 116 can be inserted.

[0108] This is because the sheet can be conveyed until a slack space is formed at a desired position, so that stable sheet processing (peeling) can be performed.

[0109] (Insertion of the 3 peeling claws)

[0110] In the above-mentioned embodiment (including the advantageous configuration), when the sheet S is conveyed in the direction opposite to the winding direction, it is preferable to insert the peeling claw 116 in a state where the sheet S is stopped after conveyance, that is, in a state where the slack space is also stopped. It is advantageous that the peeling claw 116 can be stably inserted into the slack space. Alternatively, the peeling claw 116 may be inserted during sheet conveyance.

[0111] Next, the operation of inserting the insert into the peeled sheet S will be described.

[0112] The sheet processing apparatus 100 of the present embodiment can insert one or more insert pages P into the sheet S according to the size (length in the conveying direction) of the sheet S and the size (length in the conveying direction) of the insert page P. First, a single-page insertion mode for inserting one insert page P into the sheet S is described, and then a multi-page insertion mode for inserting a plurality of insert pages P into the sheet S along the conveying direction is described.

[0113] (Single page insertion mode)

[0114] like Fig.15 As shown, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the inlet roller pair 108 to feed the paper tray 10 (see Figure 1 ) is transported in the forward transport direction (direction of arrow A) toward the exit roller pair 113.

[0115] Then, if Fig.16 As shown, the sheet processing apparatus 100 rotates the exit roller pair 113 to merge the sheet S and the interleaf P, and inserts the interleaf P into the opened sheet S.

[0116] Then, if Fig.17As shown, the sheet processing device 100 conveys the sheet S with the inserted pages P in the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction) by the exit roller pair 113, overlaps the two sheets of the sheet S again, and closes the opening. Then, the sheet S with the inserted pages P is discharged by the exit roller pair 113 or rollers (not shown) arranged thereafter and is stacked on the paper discharge tray 104 (see FIG. Figure 1 ).

[0117] Next, the multi-page insertion mode will be described. The multi-page insertion mode is a mode in which a plurality of insertion pages P (two pages in the following embodiment) can be inserted in the sheet conveyance direction.

[0118] (Multi-page insert mode)

[0119] like Fig.18 As shown, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the inlet roller pair 108 to move the paper feed tray 103 (see Figure 1 ) is conveyed in the forward conveying direction (direction of arrow A) toward the exit roller pair 113.

[0120] Then, if Fig.19 As shown, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the exit roller pair 113 to merge the sheet S and the first insert sheet P1, and inserts the first insert sheet P1 into the opened sheet S. At this time, the paper feed tray 103 (see Figure 1 ) is transported in the forward transport direction (direction of arrow A) toward the exit roller pair 113.

[0121] Then, if Fig. 20 As shown, the sheet processing apparatus 100 rotates the inlet roller pair 108 to merge the sheet S and the second interleaf P2, and further inserts the second interleaf P2 into the opened sheet S.

[0122] Then, if Fig.21 As shown, the sheet processing apparatus 100 conveys the sheet S with the first insert page P1 and the second insert page P2 inserted therein in the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction) by the exit roller pair 113, overlaps the two sheets of the sheet S again, and closes the opening.

[0123] Furthermore, even if there are three or more insert pages, they can be inserted by basically the same operation.

[0124] As an alternative example, when the sheet processing device has a heat press device capable of heating and pressurizing the sheet S, Fig. 22 As shown, the paper can be fed to the heat and pressure device by switching the path by the branch claw 118. This is not only the case in the multi-page insertion mode, but also in the single-page insertion mode.

[0125] In this manner, the sheet processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment can control the insertion process of the interleaf P into the sheet S.

[0126] Next, a configuration in which the sheet processing apparatus 100 acquires the sizes (conveying direction lengths) of the sheets S and the interleaf pages P and the number of interleaf pages P to be sandwiched will be described.

[0127] As before Figure 1 As shown, the sheet processing device 100 of this embodiment has a size sensor C6 as a sheet size detection mechanism, and a size sensor C7 as a medium size detection mechanism. According to the detection results of these sensors, when the length of the interleaf P in the conveying direction is below a threshold value, the sheet processing device 100 automatically switches to a multi-page insertion mode for insertion processing. On the other hand, when the length of the interleaf P in the conveying direction is above the threshold value, it automatically switches to a single-page insertion mode for insertion processing.

[0128] In particular, when the length of the insert page P in the conveying direction is less than half of the length of the sheet S in the conveying direction, the mode may be automatically switched to the multi-page insertion mode for insertion processing. In addition, in the case of the multi-page insertion mode, the number of insert pages P sandwiched between the sheet S is calculated from the quotient of the size of the sheet S and the size of the insert page P.

[0129] In addition, the conveying sensors C1 and C2 may be used instead of or in addition to the size sensors C6 and C7.

[0130] In this way, the sheet processing apparatus 100 of the present embodiment can automatically control the insertion process according to the sizes of the sheet S and the insert page P.

[0131] Furthermore, if Figure 1 As shown, the sheet processing device 100 of this embodiment loads the sheet S and the insert P onto different trays, and can transport them separately. Therefore, it is not necessary to load the sheet S and the insert P in a predetermined order, which can improve convenience. In addition, in this embodiment, the sheet S is loaded on the tray 102 and the insert P is loaded on the tray 103, but it is not limited to this. The insert P can also be loaded on the tray 102 and the sheet S can be loaded on the tray 103.

[0132] (Variation Example)

[0133] Fig.28 The figure shows a modified example of the guide path of the two peeled sheets. Fig. 9 1 shows (a) a path for guiding both the upper and lower sheets in the same direction starting from the joint of the sheet S. In addition, it can also be (b) a path for guiding along an inverse S-shape, or (c) a path for guiding along an S-shape, etc., for guiding the upper and lower sheets in opposite directions.

[0134] Next, a lamination processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and an image forming system including the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described.

[0135] Fig.29 The figure shows an overall structure diagram of an example of a laminating processing device having a sheet processing device according to the present invention. The laminating processing device 200 includes the sheet processing device 100 described above, a branch claw 118 for switching the conveying path of the sheet S, a heat press roller 120 as a heat press member capable of heating and pressurizing the sheet S, and a discharge roller 121 provided downstream of the heat press roller 120.

[0136] The laminating device 200 is configured to perform a series of operations including feeding, peeling, inserting, and laminating of sheets S by heat and pressure. This series of operations can be automatically performed without manual work, which can improve convenience compared to the prior art.

[0137] Fig.30 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an example of an image forming apparatus including a laminating processing apparatus according to the present invention. The image forming apparatus 300 includes a laminating processing apparatus 200a as a laminating processing apparatus portion.

[0138] Here, the laminating processing device 200a is configured to have a sheet tray 102 loaded with sheets S or interleafs P, and to be able to supply sheets S and / or interleafs P from the image forming device 300. Therefore, an image can be inserted into the sheets S or interleafs P inline by the image forming device 300 (e.g., a printer, a copier, etc.).

[0139] The structure of the image forming apparatus main body 300 will be described in detail. Fig.30 As shown, an intermediate transfer device 150 is provided in the image forming apparatus main body 300. The intermediate transfer device 150 is wound around a plurality of rollers so that an endless intermediate transfer belt 152 is stretched substantially horizontally and travels in a counterclockwise direction.

[0140] Below the intermediate transfer device 150, cyan, magenta, yellow, and black image forming devices 154c, 154m, 154y, and 154k are arranged in four series along the tension direction of the intermediate transfer belt 152. Each image forming device 154 is configured such that a charging device, a developing device, a transfer device, a cleaning device, etc. are arranged around a drum-shaped image carrier that rotates clockwise in the figure. An exposure device 156 is arranged below each image forming device 154.

[0141] A paper feed device 158 is provided below the exposure device 156. The paper feed device 158 includes a first paper feed cassette 160 for storing sheets S, and a second paper feed cassette 162 for storing inserts P. The first paper feed cassette 160 is an example of a third loading mechanism for loading two overlapping sheets, and the second paper feed cassette 162 is an example of a fourth loading mechanism for loading sheet-like media.

[0142] At the upper right of the first paper feed cassette 160, a first paper feed roller 166 is provided for successively discharging the sheets S in the first paper feed cassette 160 one by one into the paper conveying path 164. Also, at the upper right of the second paper feed cassette 162, a second paper feed roller 168 is provided for successively discharging the insert sheets P in the paper feed cassette one by one into the paper conveying path 164.

[0143] The paper conveying path 164 is formed from bottom to top on the right side in the image forming apparatus main body 300, and leads to the laminating processing device 200a in the image forming apparatus main body 300. The paper conveying path 164 is provided with a conveying roller 170, a secondary transfer device 174 facing the intermediate transfer belt 152, a fixing device 176, a paper discharge device 178 composed of a pair of paper discharge rollers, and the like in sequence.

[0144] The first paper feed roller 166, the conveying roller 170, and the paper conveying path 164 are an example of a third paper feed mechanism for feeding two overlapping sheets from the first paper feed cassette 160 (third loading mechanism). The second paper feed roller 168, the conveying roller 170, and the paper conveying path 164 are an example of a fourth paper feed mechanism for feeding a sheet-like medium from the second paper feed cassette 162 (fourth loading mechanism). Furthermore, the intermediate transfer device 150 and the fixing device 176 are an example of an image forming unit for forming an image on two overlapping sheets or sheet-like mediums.

[0145] Next, in the image forming apparatus 300 of the present embodiment, the operation of performing a lamination process after forming an image on the sheet S will be described.

[0146] When forming an image on the sheet S, first, the original image is read by the image reading device 188 and written by the exposure device 156. Then, the toner images of each color are formed on the image carriers of the image forming devices 154c, 154m, 154y, and 154k, and the toner images are sequentially transferred to the primary transfer devices 180c, 180m, 180y, and 180k, so that a color image is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 152.

[0147] On the other hand, the image forming device 300 rotates the first paper feed roller 166 to successively feed the sheets S and enter the paper conveying path 164. Then, the sheets S are conveyed by the conveying roller 170 through the paper conveying path 164 and are timely conveyed to the secondary transfer position, and the color image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 152 is transferred to the sheet S by the secondary transfer device 174 as described above.

[0148] The sheet S to which the image has been transferred is fixed by the fixing device 176 and then sent to the laminating device 200 a by the paper discharge device 178 .

[0149] In addition, the image forming apparatus 300 rotates the second paper feed roller 168 to successively feed the insert pages P into the paper transport path 164 , and the insert pages P are transported to the laminating processing apparatus 200 a by the paper discharge apparatus 178 .

[0150] In this way, the image-formed sheets S and the interleaf P are conveyed to the lamination processing device 200a, and the lamination processing is performed. Since the details of the lamination processing have been described above, they are omitted here.

[0151] Since the image forming apparatus 300 of the present embodiment has the above-mentioned structure, the lamination process can be performed by the lamination process apparatus 200a after the image is formed on the interleaf P. Alternatively, the interleaf P and the sheet S may be laminated after the image is formed.

[0152] Next, a modification of the image forming apparatus and the image forming system including the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described.

[0153] Fig.31 FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the overall structure of a modified example of an image forming apparatus including a laminating processing apparatus according to the present invention. Fig.30 The image forming apparatus 300 is different from the image forming apparatus 300 in that a main body discharge roller 122 and a main body discharge tray 123 are provided on the main body side of the image forming apparatus.

[0154] When the image forming apparatus 400 does not perform the lamination process, it can discharge the recording medium after image formation to the main paper discharge tray 123 using the main discharge roller 122. Therefore, when the image forming apparatus 400 does not perform the lamination process, the output speed of image formation is not reduced.

[0155] The image forming apparatus 400 may also be configured to have the laminating processing device 200a detachably provided therein. That is, the laminating processing device 200a may be removed from the image forming apparatus 400 when the laminating processing is not required.

[0156] In addition, the unloaded laminating processing device 200a may be equipped with a paper feed tray 103 for loading the insert pages P and a pickup roller 106 for supplying the insert pages P from the paper feed tray 103, so that it can be used as a Fig.29 Shown is a single unit of the same lamination processing machine to be utilized.

[0157] Fig.30 The image forming apparatus 300 shown in FIG. Fig.31 The image forming apparatus 400 shown in the figure may also be configured to include a sheet material processing device instead of a laminating machine. Fig.31 In the image forming apparatus 400 shown in the figure, the sheet processing device may be configured to be detachable.

[0158] In addition, the image forming system may be configured as a system including an image forming apparatus, a sheet processing apparatus 100 detachably connected to the image forming apparatus, or a laminating processing apparatus 200. Furthermore, a system including a paper feeding apparatus (stacker) and / or a case binding apparatus may be configured. In addition, when the sheet S passes through the fixing device 176, the sheet S is not bonded at the fixing temperature, but is bonded by applying heat at a higher temperature than the fixing temperature.

[0159] Furthermore, the image forming apparatuses 300 and 400 use electrophotography as a method for forming images on the sheets S and the interleaf P, but are not limited thereto, and known image forming methods such as inkjet and stencil printing may also be used.

[0160] Fig.32 , 33 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the overall structure of an image forming apparatus having a laminating processing device according to the present invention externally. Fig.32 , Fig.33 In, with Fig.30 , Fig.31 The same components are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0161] Fig.32 The image forming apparatus 500 and Fig.30 The image forming apparatus 300, Fig.31 The image forming apparatus 400 is different in that a laminating processing device 200b is provided outside the main body of the image forming apparatus.

[0162] The lamination processing device 200b has a sheet tray 102 for stacking sheets S, and is configured to feed the interleaf P from the image forming device 500 via the relay R. Therefore, any image can be inserted into the interleaf P inline using a copy machine or printer (image forming device 500).

[0163] Fig.33 The image forming apparatus 500 is configured such that another post-processing apparatus 250 (e.g., a paper feeder (stacker) and / or a case binding apparatus) is disposed further downstream of the laminating apparatus 200b. According to user requirements, operations that require laminating and operations that do not require laminating can be performed in parallel, thereby improving operation efficiency.

[0164] Figure 34A-Figure 34C The figure is a flow chart showing a series of operations from the start of sheet feeding to the insertion of the insert until the end of the lamination process. Figure 34A-Figure 34C The flowchart of the present invention is shown and described with reference to the corresponding figures.

[0165] First, in step S01, the sheet processing apparatus 100 determines whether the user has selected the multi-page insertion mode. If the multi-page insertion mode is selected, the number of insertion sheets is selected in step S02. This can be set using the operation panel 10 or the like, for example.

[0166] On the other hand, if the multi-page insertion mode is not selected, the process shifts to step S03 , and the sheet processing apparatus 100 determines that the single-page insertion mode is selected.

[0167] Next, in step S11, the sheet processing apparatus 100 starts feeding the sheet S (see Figure 1 Then, in step S12, it is determined whether the leading end of the sheet S has reached the conveying sensor C3 (see Figure 2 In step S13, when the sheet processing apparatus 100 determines that the sheet S has been conveyed by a specified amount from the conveyance sensor C3, the conveyance is temporarily stopped (see Figure 3 Then, in step S14, the gripping mechanism 110 is opened, and at step S15, the sheet S is conveyed in the reverse conveying direction (see Figure 4 ).

[0168] In step S16, when the sheet processing apparatus 100 determines that the sheet S has been conveyed by a specified amount, the conveyance of the sheet S is temporarily stopped in step S17. Then, in step S18, the gripping mechanism 110 is closed and the end of the sheet S is gripped (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 5 ).

[0169] Next, in step S19, the sheet processing apparatus 100 rotates the winding roller 109 counterclockwise and winds the sheet S around the winding roller 109 (see FIG. 11 ). Figure 6 ). Next, in step S20, it is determined whether the leading end of the sheet S reaches the conveying sensor C5. In step S21, when the sheet processing apparatus 100 determines that the sheet S has been conveyed by a specified amount from the conveying sensor C5, in step S22, the abnormal state detection sensor C4 is used to detect the state of the sheet S.

[0170] The abnormal state detection sensor C4 is an abnormality detection mechanism that detects whether the size of the space generated between two sheets of the sheet S exceeds a predetermined threshold value. In step S23, the sheet processing device 100 switches to step S24a when it is determined that the state of the sheet S is normal (the size of the space is above the predetermined threshold value) based on the detection result of the abnormal state detection sensor C4.

[0171] On the other hand, when it is determined in step S23 that the state of the sheet S is abnormal (the size of the space is below the predetermined threshold), the process shifts to step S24b, and the sheet processing apparatus 100 notifies the abnormality and stops the sheet processing.

[0172] When the process proceeds to step S24a, the sheet processing apparatus 100 conveys the sheet S in the direction opposite to the winding direction (arrow A direction) and conveys the sticking region r downstream of the exit roller pair 113. Thus, a slack space g is formed at a position corresponding to the insertion position of the peeling claw 116.

[0173] Next, the process proceeds to step S24c, where the sheet processing apparatus 100 inserts the peeling claws 116 into the generated space from both sides of the sheet S (see FIG. 14 ). Figure 7 ). Next, in step S25, the sheet processing apparatus 100 rotates the winding roller 109 clockwise this time while the peeling claws 116 are inserted from both sides of the sheet S, and conveys the sheet S in the forward conveying direction.

[0174] Next, in step S26, it is determined whether the leading end of the sheet S reaches the conveyance sensor C5. In step S21, when the sheet processing apparatus 100 determines that the sheet S has been conveyed by a specified amount from the conveyance sensor C5, the gripping mechanism 110 is opened in step S28.

[0175] Next, in step S29, the sheet processing apparatus 100 temporarily stops conveying the sheet S, and in step S30, moves the peeling claw 116 further in the sheet width direction (see FIG. 14 ). Figure 8 ). Thus, the rear end of the sheet S is separated into the upper and lower parts.

[0176] In step S31, the sheet processing apparatus 100 conveys the sheet S in the reverse conveying direction. Next, in step S32, it is determined whether the leading end of the sheet S reaches the conveying sensor C5. In step S33, when the sheet processing apparatus 100 determines that the sheet S has been conveyed a specified amount from the conveying sensor C5, the conveying is temporarily stopped in step S34 (refer to FIG. Fig. 9 ). Thus, the peeling of the sheet S is completed.

[0177] Next, in step S35, the sheet processing apparatus 100 determines whether to perform image formation (inline) on the inserted page P of the sheet S. If inline, the process proceeds to step S36, and the sheet processing apparatus 100 causes the image forming apparatus to start a print job and form an image on the inserted page P. Next, the process proceeds to step S37.

[0178] On the other hand, in step S35, if it is not inline, the process switches to step S37.

[0179] In step S37, the sheet processing apparatus 100 conveys the insert page P in the forward conveying direction and inserts the insert page P into the opened sheet S. Here, in the case of the single-page insertion mode, that is, the front Figures 15 to 17 The action shown is the same as the previous one in the case of multi-page insert mode. Figures 18 to 21 Action shown.

[0180] Next, in step S38 , the sheet processing apparatus 100 determines whether the selected number of insertion pages P have been inserted into the sheet S. If inserted, the process proceeds to step S39 .

[0181] Next, in step S39, the path is switched by the branch claw 118. In step S40, the sheet S sandwiching the interleaf P is conveyed to the heat and pressure device (fixing Md), and the lamination process is completed by applying heat and pressure (refer to Fig. 22 ).

[0182] In the case of inline (if "yes" in step S35), the image forming device is notified of the start of the printing job after the sheet peeling is completed, and the printing and conveying of the insert sheet P are carried out. At this time, the printed insert sheet P is conveyed, and the sheet processing device is in a waiting state until it reaches the conveying sensor C1. Therefore, considering the conveying time of the printed insert sheet P, for example, Figure 7 After the operation of the peeling claw 116 is completed, the image forming apparatus is notified of the start of the print job. This can improve productivity.

[0183] The present invention has been described in detail above using the embodiments. The embodiments are merely examples and can be used with various modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the embodiments and the modified examples can be combined.

Claims

1. A sheet processing device for sandwiching a sheet-like medium between two overlapping sheets in which the two sheets are overlapped and partially joined, Features include: a conveying mechanism for conveying the two overlapping sheets; a rotating member for winding the two overlapping sheets, and Stripping parts, The two overlapping sheets are conveyed in a winding direction and wound onto the rotating member, a slack space is generated between the two overlapping sheets, and the peeling member is inserted into the slack space to peel the two overlapping sheets. Before the peeling member is inserted into the slack space, the two overlapped sheets are conveyed in a direction opposite to the winding direction.

2. The sheet material processing device according to claim 1, Features: The distance by which the two overlapping sheets are conveyed in the direction opposite to the winding direction is preset before the sheet processing.

3. The sheet material processing device according to claim 1 or 2, Features: The distance by which the two overlapped sheets are conveyed in the direction opposite to the winding direction is equal to or less than the distance between the rotating member and the conveying mechanism.

4. The sheet material processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Features: A distance by which the two overlapped sheets are conveyed in a direction opposite to the winding direction is changed according to sheet information of the two overlapped sheets.

5. The sheet material processing device according to claim 4, Features: The sheet material information is the size, thickness and / or material of the two overlapping sheets.

6. The sheet material processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, Features: The distance by which the two overlapping sheets are conveyed in the direction opposite to the winding direction is variable by a user.

7. The sheet material processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Features: having a detection mechanism for detecting the height of the slack space generated in the two overlapping sheets at the position where the peeling member is inserted, When the height is below a threshold, the two overlapping sheets are conveyed in a direction opposite to the winding direction.

8. The sheet material processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Features: A detection mechanism is provided to detect the vertex position of the slack space generated in the two overlapping sheets in the conveying direction of the two overlapping sheets, When the apex position of the slack space is not at a position where the peeling member can be inserted, the two overlapped sheets are conveyed in a direction opposite to the winding direction.

9. The sheet material processing device according to claim 8, Features: The two overlapped sheets are conveyed in the direction opposite to the winding direction until the vertex position of the slack space is detected at a position where the peeling member can be inserted.

10. The sheet material processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, Features: The two overlapping sheets are conveyed in a direction opposite to the winding direction and then stopped, and the peeling member is inserted into the slack space of the stopped two overlapping sheets.

11. A lamination processing device, Features include: The sheet material processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, and A heat and pressure member that can heat and pressurize two overlapping sheets.

12. An image forming device, Features include: an image forming section for performing image formation, and The sheet material processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, or the lamination processing device according to claim 11.

13. An image forming system, Features include: an image forming device, and The sheet material processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, or the lamination processing device according to claim 11.

14. An image forming system, Features: The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or the lamination processing apparatus according to claim 11 is attachable to and detachable from the image forming apparatus.

Images