Electric stapler and paper handling device

Abstract

Provided are an electric stapler and a paper processing apparatus that can perform stapling processing on a paper bundle in a state in which end faces of the paper bundle are aligned. An electric stapler (100A) includes a stapling section (120) that performs stapling processing on a paper bundle by sequentially performing a clamping process of clamping the paper bundle, a penetration process of causing a staple to penetrate the clamped paper bundle, and a clinching process of pressing a leg portion of the staple that has penetrated the paper bundle; a drive motor (154) that drives the stapling section (120); and a control section (150) that controls the drive motor (154). The control section (150) controls the drive motor (154) in such a manner that clamping of the paper bundle is performed multiple times in the clamping process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to electric staplers and paper handling devices. Background Technology

[0002] An electric stapler has been known to automatically perform the binding process by inserting staples into a paper bundle via an inserting tool mechanism and bending the feet of the staples that penetrate the paper bundle via a bending tool. Electric staplers are used as desktop models, or are installed in image forming devices that print images on paper, or in post-processing devices that perform post-processing.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an electric stapler that performs paper bundle binding by executing a workbench travel step, a staple cutting step, a through step, a bending step, and a workbench retraction step in accordance with the rotation state of the electric motor.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-264557

[0007] An expected function of an electric stapler is to maintain a neat binding posture when binding a predetermined number of sheets of paper (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a "bundle of paper") (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a "booklet"). A neat binding posture means that the ends of the paper are aligned without shifting after binding, the corners and ends of the paper are not bent (in reverse fold), and the staple portion of the booklet is relatively thin.

[0008] The text describes the offset of the paper ends, the corners of the paper, and the bending of the ends after the paper bundles are bound.

[0009] When printing text on paper using an image forming apparatus, a curved drum performs printing and fixing processes on the paper. However, sometimes the paper deforms and curls due to the shape of the drum, the heat during printing, or fixing. For example... Figure 11 When inserting curled paper into the binding section of an electric stapler as shown, sometimes the curled portion of the paper collides with the insertion slot, blocking it and preventing the next sheet from being inserted in the correct position. When binding in this state, the booklet's ends are misaligned and offset. Furthermore, when directly binding curled paper, it sometimes results in the paper being bound at the corners or ends.

[0010] The following issues arise when the thickness of the stapled portion of the booklet increases.

[0011] The stapled portion of the booklet is thicker than the other parts. If the stapled portion is thick, it will enlarge and bend further when multiple booklets are stacked together. Therefore, in situations such as... Figure 12 When multiple booklets are stacked and stored as shown, the staples become thicker, thus taking up storage space or making it impossible to stack them stably.

[0012] Therefore, this disclosure provides an electric stapler and a paper handling device that can make the binding posture of the paper bundle neat by suppressing the offset of the end face of the booklet, the bending of the corners, etc., or by reducing the thickness of the staple portion of the booklet. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The first electric stapler disclosed herein comprises: a stapler that sequentially performs a clamping process of clamping a paper bundle, a passing process of passing staples through the clamped paper bundle, and a bending process of pressing the feet of the staples through the paper bundle to staple the paper bundle; an electric motor that drives the stapler; and a control unit that controls the electric motor. The control unit controls the electric motor by performing the clamping (holding) of the paper bundle multiple times in the clamping process. Therefore, even if the inserted paper is curled, the curl can be corrected by clamping the paper multiple times, and the paper can be made flatter. The paper bundle is stapled after the curl has been corrected, thus suppressing end face deviation or corner bending of the booklet, and making the stapled posture neat.

[0014] Furthermore, the second electric stapler disclosed herein comprises: a binding unit that sequentially performs a clamping process of clamping a paper bundle, a passing process of passing a staple through the clamped paper bundle, and a bending process of pressing the feet of the staples that have passed through the paper bundle to bind the paper bundle; an electric motor that drives the binding unit; and a control unit that controls the electric motor. The control unit controls the electric motor by repeatedly pressing the feet during the bending process. By repeatedly pressing the feet, the staple portion of the book becomes flatter, and the thickness of the staple portion can be reduced (enabling a neat binding posture).

[0015] Furthermore, the first paper handling apparatus of this disclosure can be equipped with an electric stapler having a binding section and an electric motor that drives the binding section. The binding section sequentially performs a clamping step of clamping a paper bundle, a passing step of passing staples through the clamped paper bundle, and a bending step of pressing the feet of the staples that have passed through the paper bundle to bind the paper bundle. The paper handling apparatus includes a control unit that controls the electric motor when the electric stapler is installed. The control unit controls the electric motor by performing the clamping of the paper bundle multiple times in the clamping step. Therefore, even if the inserted paper is curled, the curl can be corrected by clamping the paper multiple times, making the paper flatter. The paper bundle is bound after the curl has been corrected, thus suppressing end face deviation or corner bending of the booklet and making the binding posture neat.

[0016] Furthermore, the second paper handling apparatus disclosed herein can be equipped with an electric stapler having a binding section and an electric motor driving the binding section. The binding section sequentially performs a clamping process of clamping a paper bundle, a passing process of passing staples through the clamped paper bundle, and a bending process of pressing the feet of the staples that have passed through the paper bundle to bind the paper bundle. The paper handling apparatus includes a control unit that controls the electric motor when the electric stapler is installed. The control unit controls the electric motor by repeatedly pressing the feet during the bending process. By repeatedly pressing the feet, the staple portion of the book becomes flatter, and the thickness of the staple portion can be reduced (enabling a neat binding posture).

[0017] Invention Effects

[0018] As explained above, the first electric stapler, the second electric stapler, the first paper handling device, and the second paper handling device of this disclosure can suppress the offset of the end face of the booklet, the bending of the corners, or reduce the thickness of the staple portion of the booklet, thereby enabling the binding posture of the bound paper bundle to be neat. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of the electric stapler of the first embodiment, viewed from the front.

[0020] Figure 1B This is a perspective view of the interior of the electric stapler of the first embodiment, viewed from the rear side.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a paper handling device equipped with the electric stapler of the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a sequence diagram of the first control mode in the first implementation method.

[0023] Figure 4A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the electric stapler when the first control mode of the first embodiment is executed.

[0024] Figure 4B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the electric stapler when the first control mode of the first embodiment is executed.

[0025] Figure 4C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the electric stapler when the first control mode of the first embodiment is executed.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a sequence diagram of the second control mode in the first implementation method.

[0027] Figure 6A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the electric stapler when the second control mode of the first embodiment is executed.

[0028] Figure 6B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the electric stapler when the second control mode of the first embodiment is executed.

[0029] Figure 6C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the electric stapler when the second control mode of the first embodiment is executed.

[0030] Figure 6D This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the electric stapler when the second control mode of the first embodiment is executed.

[0031] Figure 6E This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the electric stapler when the second control mode of the first embodiment is executed.

[0032] Figure 7A This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the electric stapler when the first control mode of the first embodiment is executed.

[0033] Figure 7B This is a flowchart representing a subroutine of the clamping process.

[0034] Figure 8A This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the electric stapler when the second control mode of the first embodiment is executed.

[0035] Figure 8B This is a flowchart representing a subroutine of the bending process.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a block diagram of a paper handling apparatus equipped with the electric stapler of the second embodiment.

[0037] Figure 10This is a block diagram of a paper handling apparatus equipped with the electric stapler of the third embodiment.

[0038] Figure 11 This diagram illustrates the problems that arise when paper curls in conventional electric staplers.

[0039] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates the problems arising from the thickness of the staple portion in booklets bound using conventional electric staplers. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] <First Implementation Method>

[0042] [Structure example of electric stapler 100A]

[0043] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of the electric stapler 100A according to the first embodiment, viewed from the front side. Figure 1B This is a perspective view of the interior of the electric stapler 100A according to the first embodiment, viewed from the rear side. It should be noted that... Figure 1A and Figure 1B In this design, the side where the inserting tool mechanism 130 is located is designated as the front side of the electric stapler 100A, and the opposite side is designated as the rear side of the electric stapler 100A. Furthermore, the side where the gears 140 and 142 are located is designated as the left side of the electric stapler 100A, and the opposite side is designated as the right side of the electric stapler 100A. Additionally, the side where the drive motor 154 is located (the bottom wall side of the main body 110) is designated as the lower side of the electric stapler 100A, and the opposite side is designated as the upper side of the electric stapler 100A.

[0044] The electric stapler 100A is assembled in a paper handling device, which functions as a post-processing device and is connected downstream of, for example, an image forming apparatus, to perform stapleing processing on a bundle of papers consisting of multiple sheets of paper for which a predetermined image has been formed by the paper handling device. The electric stapler 100A, as... Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the device includes a binding unit 120, a drive motor 154, and a control unit 150. The binding unit 120 sequentially performs a clamping process of clamping (holding) a paper bundle, a passing process of passing staples through the clamped paper bundle, and a bending process of pressing the feet of the staples that have passed through the paper bundle to bind the paper bundle. The drive motor 154 drives the binding unit 120, and the control unit 150 controls the drive motor 154.

[0045] The binding section 120 includes an insertion tool mechanism 130 that ejects staples toward the paper bundle, a bending tool arm 132 that is rotatable relative to the insertion tool mechanism 130, and a bending tool section 134 that is mounted on the bending tool arm 132 and bends the feet of the staples ejected by the insertion tool mechanism 130 and passing through the paper. A paper placement table 136 is provided above the insertion tool mechanism 130 and opposite to the bending tool section 134.

[0046] The insertion tool mechanism 130 is disposed inside the front side of the main body 110 and is configured to move up and down relative to the placement stage 136 based on the drive motor 154. The insertion tool mechanism 130 bends the two ends of the staple into a roughly U-shape by a forming plate (not shown) and inserts the U-shaped staple toward the paper bundle by an insertion tool (not shown).

[0047] A bending tool arm 132 is disposed opposite to the inserting tool mechanism 130 on the upper side. The bending tool arm 132 is configured to rotate with its rear end as a fulcrum, and its front end is configured to move relative to the inserting tool mechanism 130 in both the approach and separation directions. A bending tool section 134 is provided at the front end of the bending tool arm 132, and, in cooperation with the inserting tool mechanism 130, presses down on the feet of the staples through which the paper bundle passes and bends the feet inward, thereby staples the paper bundle.

[0048] Including the bending tool arm 132 and the bending tool section 134, the portion on the side opposite to the placement table 136 functions as a clamping part 138. This clamping part 138 clamps the paper bundle between itself and the placement table 136 and corrects the curling of the paper placed on the placement table 136. The clamping part 138 is configured to move between a first position with the paper bundle clamped and a second position without clamping the paper bundle.

[0049] The material box 190 is detachably installed in the main body 110. The material box 190 contains a supplement consisting of stacked sheet-like connecting staples. The connecting staples in the supplement are transported to the forming position by a delivery mechanism (not shown) of the insertion tool mechanism 130.

[0050] The control unit 150 and the drive motor 154 are located inside the rear side of the main body 110 and below the material box 190. Gears 140 and 142, which rotate in conjunction with the drive motor 154, are mounted on the left side wall 112 of the main body 110. The rotating shaft 155 of the drive motor 154 and the gear 142 are respectively meshed on the gear 140. A swing arm (not shown) is directly or indirectly connected between the gear 142 and the binding part 120, which includes the inserting tool mechanism 130 and the bending tool part 134, etc., so as to drive the inserting tool mechanism 130 and the bending tool part 134, etc., in conjunction with the rotation of the gear 142, etc.

[0051] In this embodiment, during the period until the gear 142 and the like rotate 1 (360°), the following steps are performed in sequence: a clamping process in which the bending tool 134 moves downward and clamps the paper bundle between the clamping part 138 and the placement table 136; a passing process in which the foot of the staple passes through the paper bundle by moving upward through the inserting tool mechanism 130; a bending process in which the foot of the staple that has passed through the paper bundle is bent by the bending tool 134; and a returning process in which the bending tool 134 and the inserting tool mechanism 130 return to their original positions.

[0052] [Block diagram of paper handling unit 200A]

[0053] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a paper handling device 200A equipped with the electric stapler 100A of the first embodiment.

[0054] Paper handling device 200A, etc. Figure 2 As shown, the device is equipped with an electric stapler 100A and includes a control unit 250 for controlling the overall operation of the device, an operation panel 270 for inputting various parameters such as image forming conditions and binding processing conditions, a storage unit 260 for storing various parameters input from the operation panel 270, a transfer unit 280 for forming a predetermined image on paper, and a paper detection unit 290.

[0055] First, the electric stapler 100A will be described. The electric stapler 100A includes a control unit 150, a drive circuit 152, a drive motor 154, a position detection unit 160, and an HP detection unit 170.

[0056] The control unit 150 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 152 that executes predetermined binding processes by running various programs. The control unit 150 is connected to the control unit 250 on the paper handling device 200A side via a wired or wireless interface, and executes binding processes including a first control mode, a second control mode, and a control mode for normal binding processes based on control signals related to binding processes supplied from the control unit 250. Here, the first control mode is a mode in which clamping operations are performed multiple times during binding processes. The second control mode is a mode in which bending operations are performed multiple times during binding processes. Furthermore, the control unit 150 generates drive signals based on position signals from the position detection unit 160 to the drive motor 154 and set command values, and supplies them to the drive circuit 152, adjusting the duty cycle of the PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signal in the drive circuit 152.

[0057] The drive circuit 152 controls the switching of the switching element (PWM control) based on the drive signal supplied from the control unit 150, and adjusts the power supplied by the power supply unit (not shown) to control the rotational speed of the drive motor 154. The switching element can be, for example, a MOSFET (field-effect transistor). It should be noted that the drive circuit 152 can also be integrated into the drive motor 154.

[0058] The drive motor 154 is, for example, a brushless motor, which rotates at a predetermined speed based on the power supplied from the drive circuit 152. The binding unit 120 performs a clamping process, a through process, a bending process, and a return process in sequence to bind the paper bundle by being driven by the rotation of the drive motor 154.

[0059] The position detection unit 160 detects, for example, the polarity of the magnets constituting the rotor of the drive motor 154, and outputs a pulse-shaped encoder signal (rotation information of the drive motor 154) indicating the position of the gear 142 and the drive motor 154 to the control unit 150.

[0060] HP detection unit 170 detects the rotational position of gear 142, which indicates the original position, and outputs the detection signal to control unit 150.

[0061] The paper detection unit 290 is composed of, for example, a reflective or transmissive photoelectric sensor, which detects the paper being transported from the transfer unit 280 to the placement table 136 of the electric stapler 100A and outputs the detection signal to the control unit 150. The paper detection unit 290 is provided on the transport path between the transfer unit 280 of the paper handling device 200A and the electric stapler 100A, and can output the paper detection result to the control unit 150 via the control unit 250 or directly to the control unit 150.

[0062] Next, the paper handling apparatus 200A will be described. The control unit 250 of the paper handling apparatus 200A has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 252 that performs predetermined image forming processes by executing various programs. The control unit 250 is connected to the control unit 150 of the electric stapler 100A and outputs control signals based on parameter information such as binding processing input via the operation panel 270 to the control unit 150.

[0063] The operation panel 270 includes, for example, a display with touch panel functionality and multiple operation keys. The operation panel 270 accepts input information for various parameters related to binding processing, such as the validity or invalidation of a first control mode and a second control mode, the number of sheets of paper clamped and the number of clamping operations in the first control mode (specifying the number of clamping operations), and the number of times the staple feet are pressed in the second control mode (specifying the number of bends), and outputs this information to the control unit 250. It should be noted that the operation panel 270 may include devices such as personal terminals or portable information terminals that are connected to the paper handling device 200A via a wired or wireless network.

[0064] The storage unit 260 is composed of a storage device such as a semiconductor memory element, a hard disk, a solid-state drive, or an optical disk, and stores parameter information related to image forming conditions and binding conditions input via the operation panel 270, etc. Furthermore, it may also store programs for implementing predetermined functions of the control unit 150 and each component.

[0065] The transfer unit 280 forms a predetermined image on paper using electronic photography, inkjet, or dot-matrix printing, and then supplies the paper with the image to the electric stapler 100A.

[0066] [Example of the sequence for the first control mode]

[0067] Next, the first control mode will be explained. Figure 3 This is a diagram representing the sequence of the first control modes. In Figure 3 In the diagram, the horizontal axis represents the rotation angle of gear 142. Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4CThis is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the electric stapler 100A when the first control mode is executed. It should be noted that the following describes the case where the binding process is performed on a bundle of three sheets of paper, and each sheet is clamped during the clamping process.

[0068] like Figure 3 As shown, when the first sheet of paper is transferred to the placement table 136 of the electric stapler 100A, the first clamping process begins in sequence 1. In sequence 1, the gear 142 rotates from the starting angle A0 to the clamping process ending angle A1 by the forward rotation of the drive motor 154, as... Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the clamping part 138 moves from the first position L1 where the paper P is not clamped to the second position L2 where the paper P is clamped. Thus, the paper P is pressed down by the clamping part 138, and the curling of the paper P is corrected.

[0069] In sequence 2, the gear 142 rotates back from the clamping process end angle A1 to the start angle A0 by the reverse rotation of the drive motor 154, as shown below. Figure 4C As shown, the clamping part 138 returns from the second position L2 where the paper P is clamped to the first position L1 where the paper P is not clamped. Thus, the first clamping ends, and the paper is in a state where it can be placed on the placement table 136.

[0070] Next, when the second sheet of paper is transferred to the placement table 136 of the electric stapler 100A, the second clamping process begins in sequence 3. In sequence 3, the gear 142 rotates from the starting angle A0 to the clamping process ending angle A1 by the forward rotation of the drive motor 154, and the clamping part 138 moves from the first position L1 of the unclamped paper P to the second position L2 of the clamped paper P (see reference). Figure 4A and Figure 4B ).

[0071] In sequence 4, the gear 142 returns from the clamping process end angle A1 to the start angle A0 by the reverse rotation of the drive motor 154, and the clamping part 138 returns from the second position L2 where the paper P is clamped to the first position L1 where the paper P is not clamped (see reference). Figure 4C Thus, the second clamping is completed, and the paper is ready to be placed on the placement table 136.

[0072] Next, when the third sheet of paper is transferred to the placement table 136 of the electric stapler 100A, the clamping process, the through process, the bending process, and the return process are executed sequentially in sequence 5. Specifically, by driving the forward rotation of the drive motor 154, the gear 142 rotates from the starting angle A0 to the clamping process ending angle A1, and the clamping part 138 clamps the bundle of paper placed on the placement table 136.

[0073] Next, the through-process is performed by rotating gear 142 from the clamping process end angle A1 to the through-process end angle A2. In the through-process, the tooling mechanism 130 rises, and the feet of the staples, bent into a U-shape, penetrate along the thickness direction of the paper bundle.

[0074] Next, the bending process is performed by rotating gear 142 from the end angle A2 of the through-process to the end angle A3 of the bending process. In the bending process, the bending tool 134 is driven to move toward the foot of the staple that has penetrated the paper bundle and presses the foot, thereby bending the foot of the staple inward.

[0075] Next, the return process is performed by rotating gear 142 from the end angle A3 of the bending process to the end angle A4 (start angle A0). In the return process, clamping part 138 moves upward and returns to its original position, and tooling mechanism 130 moves downward and returns to its original position.

[0076] It should be noted that in the example above, control is achieved by performing a total of 3 clamping operations, but this is not a limitation. For example, 2 clamping operations can be performed, or even 4 or more.

[0077] [Example of the second control mode sequence]

[0078] Next, the second control mode will be explained. Figure 5 This is a diagram representing the sequence of the second control mode. Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6C , Figure 6D and Figure 6E This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the electric stapler 100A when the second control mode is executed. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the case of performing three bending operations is described.

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown, when a bundle of paper consisting of a predetermined number of sheets is placed on the placement table 136 of the electric stapler 100A, a clamping process, a passing process, and a bending process are continuously executed in sequence 1 by the forward rotation of the drive motor 154. Specifically, the clamping process is performed by rotating the gear 142 from the starting angle A0 to the clamping process ending angle A1. In the clamping process, the clamping part 138 moves downward and clamps the paper bundle.

[0080] Next, the through-process is performed by rotating gear 142 from the clamping process end angle A1 to the through-process end angle A2. During the through-process, as... Figure 6AAs shown, the inserting tool mechanism 130 moves upward, and the foot Sb of the U-shaped staple S penetrates along the thickness direction of the paper bundle Pb.

[0081] Next, the bending process is performed by rotating gear 142 from the end angle A2 of the through-process to the end angle A3 of the bending process. During the bending process, as... Figure 6B and Figure 6C As shown, the bending tool 134 moves from the third position L3 of the unpressed foot Sb of the staple S to the fourth position L4 of the pressing foot Sb. By bending based on the bending tool 134, the foot Sb of the staple S that passes through the paper bundle Pb is pressed and bent inward.

[0082] In sequence 2, the gear 142 rotates back from the bending process end angle A3 to the through process end angle A2 by the reverse rotation of the drive motor 154. Figure 6D As shown, the bending tool 134 moves away from the foot Sb of the staple S, returning to the third position L3. This releases the bending tool 134 from pressing the foot Sb.

[0083] In sequence 3, the gear 142 rotates from the end angle A2 of the through-process to the end angle A3 of the bending process by the forward rotation of the drive motor 154, as follows: Figure 6E As shown, the bending tool 134 moves in a direction closer to the foot Sb of the staple S, moving to the fourth position L4. Thereby, the bending tool 134 presses down on the foot Sb of the staple S again, thereby reducing the amount of the foot Sb of the staple S floating relative to the paper bundle Pb, resulting in a flatter shape.

[0084] In sequence 4, the gear 142 rotates back from the bending process end angle A3 to the through process end angle A2 by the reverse rotation of the drive motor 154. The bending tool 134 moves away from the foot Sb of the staple S, returning to the third position L3 (see reference). Figure 6D This releases the pressure on the foot Sb from the bending tool 134.

[0085] In sequence 5, the gear 142 rotates from the end angle A2 of the through-process to the end angle A4 (start angle A0) by the forward rotation of the drive motor 154, thereby performing the return process. In the bending process, the bending tool 134 moves towards the foot Sb of the staple S, moving to the fourth position L4. Thereby, the foot Sb of the staple S is pressed again, and the foot Sb is shaped more flat (see reference). Figure 6E During the return process, the clamping part 138 moves upward and returns to its original position, and the tooling mechanism 130 also moves downward and returns to its original position.

[0086] It should be noted that in the example above, control is performed by executing three bending processes, but this is not a limitation. For example, two bending processes can be performed, or even four or more. Furthermore, in sequence 2 and sequence 4, in order to reliably execute the pressing of the foot Sb, control can also be performed by returning to the rotation angle between the clamping process end angle A1 and the through process end angle A2.

[0087] [Example of operation of electric stapler 100A in the first control mode]

[0088] Figure 7A This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the electric stapler 100A when executing the first control mode. Figure 7B It is a subroutine of the clamping process in the first control mode.

[0089] Upon receiving a control signal containing parameter information of a first control mode from the control unit 250 of the paper handling unit 200A, the control unit 150 of the electric stapler 100A begins the binding process based on the first control mode. Firstly, as... Figure 7A As shown, in step S1, the control unit 150 performs a clamping operation. In the clamping operation of the first control mode, the control unit 150... Figure 7B The subroutine transfer is shown.

[0090] like Figure 7B As shown, in step S10, the control unit 150 determines, based on the paper detection information supplied from the paper detection unit 290, whether a predetermined number of sheets of paper P (i.e., one sheet or a predetermined number of sheets) for clamping has been placed on the placement table 136. Here, the predetermined number of sheets is two or more but less than the number of sheets to be bound. If a predetermined number of sheets of paper P (i.e., one sheet or a predetermined number of sheets) has been placed on the placement table 136, the process proceeds to step S20.

[0091] In step S20, the control unit 150 controls the drive circuit 152 to make the drive motor 154 rotate forward. When the drive motor 154 rotates forward, the gear 142 rotates forward from the starting angle A0, thereby initiating the clamping action in the clamping process, and the clamping part 138 moves towards the placement table 136. As a result, the clamping part 138 presses down on the curl of the paper P, thereby correcting the curl of the paper P.

[0092] In step S30, the control unit 150 determines whether the gear 142 has rotated to the clamping process end angle A1. For example, the control unit 150 determines whether the gear 142 has rotated to the clamping process end angle A1 by counting encoder signals indicating the rotation angle of the gear 142, etc., supplied from the position detection unit 160. If the gear 142 has not rotated to the clamping process end angle A1, the process returns to step S20, and the gear 142 continues to rotate forward.

[0093] On the other hand, if in step S30 the control unit 150 determines that the gear 142 has rotated to the clamping process end angle A1, i.e., the clamping action is over, then proceed to step S40. In step S40, the drive motor 154 is stopped, and then in step S50 the drive circuit 152 is controlled, thereby causing the drive motor 154 to rotate in reverse. Because of the reverse rotation of the drive motor 154, the gear 142 rotates in reverse, thereby causing the clamping part 138 to move away from the placement table 136.

[0094] In step S60, the control unit 150 determines whether the gear 142 has returned to the starting angle A0. For example, the control unit 150 determines whether the gear 142 has returned to the starting angle A0 by counting the encoder signals supplied from the position detection unit 160. If the gear 142 has not returned to the starting angle A0, the process returns to step S50, and the drive motor 154 continues to rotate in reverse.

[0095] On the other hand, when gear 142 returns to the starting angle A0, step S70 is entered, and drive motor 154 is stopped. As a result, clamping part 138 returns to the first position L1 of its original position.

[0096] Next, in step S80, the control unit 150 determines whether the number of sheets of paper P transported to the placement table 136 has reached the preset number of sheets for binding paper bundle Pb. If the control unit 150 determines that the preset number of sheets for binding paper bundle Pb has not been reached, it returns to step S10 and repeats the processing of steps S10 to S80. Thus, even if paper P curls, the curl can be corrected by repeatedly clamping it based on the clamping unit 138, making paper P flatter.

[0097] On the other hand, if the control unit 150 determines that the number of sheets of paper P transported to the placement table 136 has reached the preset number of sheets for binding paper bundle Pb, it enters... Figure 7A The through-process of step S2.

[0098] It should be noted that the paper P can also be placed on the placement table 136 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the paper detection unit 180 detects the paper P on the transport path and the paper P has been transported to the placement table 136.

[0099] Furthermore, in order to detect that a predetermined number of sheets of paper have been placed on the placement table 136, the predetermined number of sheets of paper P can be placed on the placement table 136 based on the number of times the paper detection signal supplied from the paper detection unit 290 is received, and clamping is performed each time a predetermined number of sheets of paper P are placed on the placement table 136.

[0100] Furthermore, the control signal for transferring to the next process can also be generated based on, for example, the number of sheets in the paper bundle being bound, or the unit of the number of sheets being clamped. Additionally, the transfer to the next process can also be based on, for example, a determination of whether a predetermined number of clamping operations has been completed.

[0101] like Figure 7A As shown, in step S2, the control unit 150 performs a penetration process, driving the insertion tool mechanism 130 to make the foot Sb of the staple S penetrate the paper bundle Pb. Next, in step S3, the control unit 150 performs a bending process, bending the foot Sb of the staple S that has penetrated the paper bundle Pb inward by the bending tool 134. Finally, in step S4, the control unit 150 performs a return process, returning the insertion tool mechanism 130 and the bending tool 134 to their original positions. In this way, a series of binding processes based on the first control mode of multiple clamping operations are performed.

[0102] [Example of operation of electric stapler 100A in the second control mode]

[0103] Figure 8A This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the electric stapler 100A when the second control mode is executed. Figure 8B It is a subroutine of the bending process in the second control mode.

[0104] Upon receiving a control signal containing parameter information of the second control mode from the control unit 250 of the paper handling unit 200A, the control unit 150 of the electric stapler 100A begins the binding process based on the second control mode. It should be noted that a bundle of paper Pb is placed on the placement table 136 of the electric stapler 100A.

[0105] First, such as Figure 8AAs shown, in step S1, the control unit 150 performs a clamping process, clamping the paper bundle Pb placed on the placement table 136 by the clamping part 138. Next, in step S2, the control unit 150 performs a penetration process, driving the foot Sb of the staple S through the paper bundle Pb by the drive of the driving tool mechanism 130. Next, in step S3, the control unit 150 performs a bending process. In the bending process of the second control mode, the staple S is driven through the paper bundle Pb by the driving tool mechanism 130. Figure 8B The subroutine transfer is shown.

[0106] like Figure 8B As shown, in step S100, the control unit 150 controls the drive circuit 152 to make the drive motor 154 rotate forward. As a result, the foot Sb of the staple S is pressed by the bending tool 134 as it moves toward the foot Sb.

[0107] In step S110, the control unit 150 determines whether the gear 142 has rotated to the bending process end angle A3. For example, the control unit 150 determines whether the gear 142 has rotated to the bending process end angle A3 by counting the encoder signals supplied from the position detection unit 160. If the gear 142 has not rotated to the bending process end angle A3, the process returns to step S100, and the drive motor 154 continues to rotate forward.

[0108] On the other hand, if in step S110 the control unit 150 determines that the gear 142 has rotated to the bending process end angle A3, meaning the bending action in the bending process has ended, then proceed to step S120. In step S120, the drive motor 154 is stopped, and then in step S130, the drive motor 154 is reverse-rotated by controlling the drive circuit 152. Due to the reverse rotation of the drive motor 154, the gear 142 also rotates in reverse, thereby moving the bending tool 134 away from the foot Sb of the staple S.

[0109] In step S140, the control unit 150 determines whether the gear 142 has returned to the end angle A2 of the through-process. For example, the control unit 150 determines whether the gear 142 has returned to the end angle A2 of the through-process by counting the encoder signals supplied from the position detection unit 160. If the gear 142 has not returned to the end angle A2 of the through-process, the process returns to step S130, and the drive motor 154 continues to rotate in reverse.

[0110] On the other hand, when gear 142 returns to the end angle A2 of the through-process, step S150 is entered, and drive motor 154 is stopped. As a result, bending tool 134 returns to the third position L3 of its original position.

[0111] Next, in step S160, the control unit 150 determines, for example, whether a preset number of bends has been completed. If the control unit 150 determines that the preset number of bends has not been completed, it returns to step S100 and repeats the process of steps S100 to S160. Thus, by performing bends based on the bending tool unit 134 multiple times, the foot Sb of the staple S can be made flatter.

[0112] On the other hand, if the control unit 150 determines that, for example, a pre-set number of bends has been completed, it enters... Figure 8A The return process of step S4. For example... Figure 8A As shown, in step S4, the control unit 150 performs a return process, causing the insertion tool mechanism 130 and the bending tool unit 134 to return to their original positions. Thus, a series of binding processes based on the second control mode of multiple bending operations are performed.

[0113] It should be noted that the above embodiments illustrate an example where the electric stapler 100A executes the first control mode and the second control mode independently, but this is not a limitation; the first control mode and the second control mode can also be combined. Specifically, in a series of binding processes, clamping can be performed multiple times followed by bending, or vice versa. Furthermore, the clamping process to the bending process can be configured as a sequence, and this sequence can be executed multiple times. It should be noted that the determination of whether the number of bound sheets has been reached can be achieved using the determination method described in the first control mode above.

[0114] According to the first embodiment, the paper bundle Pb is clamped multiple times in the clamping process of the first control mode, so the curl of the paper P can be held down by pressing and clamping based on the clamping part 138. This corrects the curl of the paper P, making it flatter. As a result, the paper bundle Pb is bound after the curl has been corrected, thus preventing misalignment or bending of the end faces of the paper bundle Pb during binding, resulting in a neat final binding posture. Furthermore, since the structure on the electric stapler 100A side can be used to correct the curl of the paper P, there is no need to separately provide a mechanism for correcting the curl of the paper P in the paper handling device 200A, achieving cost reduction.

[0115] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the bending tool 134 presses the foot Sb multiple times during the bending process in the second control mode. This reduces the amount of the foot Sb of the bent staple S floating relative to the paper bundle Pb and makes the foot Sb portion flatter, resulting in a neat binding posture. Consequently, even when multiple paper bundles Pb that have undergone binding are overlapped, the overall thickness of the paper bundles can be reduced. As a result, the load capacity for overlapping and storing paper bundles Pb can be increased, and space-saving storage of paper bundles Pb can also be achieved.

[0116] <Second Implementation Method>

[0117] The electric stapler 100B of the second embodiment does not have a control unit 150 and a drive circuit 152. The stapler process is performed based on the instructions and control of the control unit 250 on the paper handling device 200B side. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those in the electric stapler 100A and paper handling device 200A of the first embodiment, thereby omitting repeated descriptions.

[0118] Figure 9 This is a block diagram of a paper handling apparatus 200B equipped with the electric stapler 100B of the second embodiment. The paper handling apparatus 200B is as follows... Figure 9 The electric stapler 100B, as shown, is equipped with a control unit 250, a drive circuit 152, an operation panel 270, a storage unit 260, a transfer unit 280, and a paper detection unit 290.

[0119] The electric stapler 100B has a drive motor 154, a binding section 120, a position detection section 160, an HP detection section 170, and a paper detection section 290.

[0120] The drive motor 154 is connected to the drive circuit 152 on the paper handling device 200B side via a wired or wireless interface, and performs rotational drive based on a predetermined power supplied from the drive circuit 152.

[0121] The binding unit 120 performs the following steps in sequence based on the rotational drive of the drive motor 154: clamping the paper bundle Pb, passing the staple S through the clamped paper bundle Pb, pressing the foot Sb of the staple S that has passed through the paper bundle Pb, and returning each part to its original position to bind the paper bundle.

[0122] The position detection unit 160 is connected to the control unit 250 and outputs a pulse-shaped encoder signal indicating the rotation angle of the gear 142 and the drive motor 154 to the control unit 250. The HP detection unit 170 is connected to the control unit 250 and outputs a position signal indicating the original position of the gear 142 to the control unit 250. The paper detection unit 290 is located between the transfer unit 280 of the paper handling device 200B and the electric stapler 100B and is connected to the control unit 250. It detects the paper P transported from the transfer unit 280 to the placement table 136 of the electric stapler 100B and outputs the detection signal to the control unit 250.

[0123] The control unit 250, located on the paper handling unit 200B side, controls the drive motor 154 based on various parameters related to the binding process input via the operation panel 270, etc., and encoder signals supplied from the position detection unit 160. Specifically, the control unit 250 controls the drive motor 154 in at least one of two control modes: a first control mode that repeatedly clamps the paper bundle Pb during the clamping process, and a second control mode that repeatedly presses the feet Sb of the staples S during the bending process.

[0124] In the first control mode, after the drive motor 154 is rotated forward to the position of clamping the paper bundle Pb during the clamping process, the drive motor 154 is reversed to the position of releasing the paper bundle Pb from clamping. Furthermore, in the clamping process of the first control mode, the drive motor 154 can also be controlled to perform the clamping of the paper bundle Pb each time a sheet of paper P is transported or a predetermined number of sheets of paper P are transported onto the placement table 136 of the electric stapler 100B.

[0125] According to the second embodiment, the same effects as the first embodiment described above can be achieved. Specifically, in the clamping process of the first control mode, the paper bundle Pb is clamped multiple times, thus correcting the curling of the paper P and making the paper P flatter. As a result, the paper bundle Pb is bound after the curling is corrected, thus preventing the binding process from being performed in a state where the end face of the paper bundle Pb is misaligned or bent, and ensuring a neat final binding posture. Furthermore, in the bending process of the second control mode, the bending tool 134 presses the foot Sb multiple times, thus reducing the amount of the foot Sb of the bent staple S floating relative to the paper bundle Pb and making the foot Sb portion flatter, resulting in a neat binding posture.

[0126] <Third Implementation Method>

[0127] The electric stapler 100C of the third embodiment does not have a control unit 150, and the stapled process is performed based on the control unit 250 on the paper handling device 200C side. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those in the electric stapler 100A and paper handling device 200A of the first embodiment, thereby omitting repeated descriptions.

[0128] Figure 10 This is a block diagram of a paper handling apparatus 200C equipped with the electric stapler 100C of the third embodiment. The paper handling apparatus 200C is equipped with the electric stapler 100C for binding paper bundles and includes a control unit 250, an operation panel 270, a storage unit 260, and a transfer unit 280.

[0129] The electric stapler 100C has a drive circuit 152, a drive motor 154, a binding part 120, a position detection part 160, and an HP detection part 170.

[0130] The drive circuit 152 is connected to the control unit 250 on the paper handling device 200C side via a wired or wireless interface. Based on the control signals related to the binding process supplied from the control unit 250, it performs switching control and supplies predetermined power to the drive motor 154. The drive motor 154 is driven to rotate based on the predetermined power supplied from the drive circuit 152.

[0131] The binding unit 120 performs the following steps in sequence based on the rotational drive of the drive motor 154: clamping the paper bundle Pb, passing the staple S through the clamped paper bundle Pb, pressing the foot Sb of the staple S that has passed through the paper Pb, and returning each part to its original position to bind the paper bundle Pb.

[0132] The position detection unit 160 is connected to the control unit 250 and outputs a pulse-shaped encoder signal indicating the rotation angle of the drive motor 154 to the control unit 250. The HP detection unit 170 is connected to the control unit 250 and outputs a position signal indicating the original position of the gear 142 to the control unit 250. The paper detection unit 290 is located between the transfer unit 280 of the paper handling device 200B and the electric stapler 100B, and is connected to the control unit 250. It detects the paper P transported from the transfer unit 280 to the placement table 136 of the electric stapler 100C and outputs the detection signal to the control unit 250.

[0133] The control unit 250, located on the paper handling unit 200C side, controls the drive motor 154 based on various parameters related to the binding process input via the operation panel 270 and encoder signals supplied from the position detection unit 160. Specifically, the control unit 250 sets (selects) at least one of a first control mode that repeatedly clamps the paper bundle Pb during the clamping process and a second control mode that repeatedly presses the feet Sb of the staples S during the bending process, and controls the drive motor 154 by executing the set control mode.

[0134] In the first control mode, after the drive motor 154 is rotated forward to the position of clamping the paper bundle Pb during the clamping process, the drive motor 154 is reversed to the position of releasing the paper bundle from clamping. Furthermore, in the clamping process of the first control mode, the drive motor 154 can also be controlled to perform the clamping of the paper bundle Pb each time a sheet of paper P is transported onto the placement table 136 of the electric stapler 100C.

[0135] According to the third embodiment, the same effects as the first embodiment described above can be achieved. Specifically, in the clamping process of the first control mode, the paper bundle Pb is clamped multiple times, thus correcting the curling of the paper P and making the paper P flatter. As a result, the paper bundle is bound after the curling is corrected, thus preventing the binding process from being performed in a state where the end face of the paper bundle Pb is misaligned or bent, and ensuring a neat final binding posture. Furthermore, in the bending process of the second control mode, the bending tool 134 presses the foot Sb multiple times, thus reducing the amount of the foot Sb of the bent staple S floating relative to the paper bundle Pb and making the foot Sb portion flatter, resulting in a neat binding posture.

[0136] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structure is not limited to these embodiments, and also includes designs that do not depart from the spirit of this disclosure. Furthermore, the effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting; other effects may also be possible.

[0137] In the above embodiments, an example of assembling an electric stapler 100A or the like inside a paper handling device 200A or the like has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the electric stapler 100A or the like may also be a desktop type capable of performing binding processing independently.

[0138] Furthermore, the above-described embodiment illustrates an example of assembling an electric stapler 100A or the like inside a paper handling apparatus 200A or the like that which functions as an image forming apparatus; however, this structure is not limited to this. For example, the electric staplers 100A, 100B, and 100C described above may also be assembled inside a post-processing apparatus (paper handling device) connected downstream of the paper handling apparatus 200A. In this case, the electric stapler 100A or the like can perform the stapler process based on instructions from the control unit 250 of the paper handling apparatus 200A, or based on instructions supplied from the control unit 250 of the paper handling apparatus 200A via the control unit provided in the post-processing apparatus.

[0139] Furthermore, the selection of the first control mode, the second control mode, the normal binding processing mode, etc., can also be automatically determined by the control unit 250 of the paper handling device 200A or the control unit 150 of the electric stapler 100A based on at least one of the following: paper type, number of sheets to be bound, current value of the drive motor 154, binding processing time, and temperature of the operating environment.

[0140] Furthermore, the values ​​of the parameters associated with the first control mode and the second control mode can also be calculated based on the input information from the operation panel 270 and the detection information from other sensors, and rewritten to perform the optimal binding process.

[0141] Furthermore, regarding the second control mode, the number of bends can be automatically calculated based on the current value of the drive motor 154 during bends. Additionally, the control unit 150 of the electric stapler 100A can calculate the number of bends in the second control mode based on at least one of the number of sheets supplied from the paper handling unit 200A, the post-processing unit, and paper information.

[0142] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0143] 100A, 100B, 100C Electric Staplers, 120 Binding Unit, 134 Bending Tool Unit, 138 Clamping Unit, 150 Control Unit, 154 Drive Motor (Electric Motor), 200A, 200B, 200C Paper Handling Unit, 250 Control Unit, P Paper, Pb Paper Bundle, S Staples, Sb Foot.

Claims

1. An electric stapler, comprising: The binding section sequentially performs a clamping process to clamp the paper bundle, a threading process to pass the staple through the clamped paper bundle, and a bending process to press the feet of the staples that have passed through the paper bundle to bind the paper bundle. An electric motor drives the binding section; and The control unit controls the electric motor. The control unit controls the motor to perform the clamping of the paper bundle multiple times during the clamping process. The control unit controls the motor to perform the clamping of the paper bundle every time a predetermined number of sheets of paper are transported during the clamping process.

2. The electric stapler according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit controls the motor by repeatedly pressing the foot during the bending process.

3. The electric stapler according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The binding unit is configured to have a clamping part that clamps the paper bundle during the clamping process, and the clamping process, the through-process, and the bending process are executed sequentially by the forward rotation of the motor. The clamping part is configured to move between a first position where the paper bundle is not clamped and a second position where the paper bundle is clamped. During the clamping process, the clamping part moves from the first position to the second position by forward rotation of the motor, and moves from the second position to the first position by reverse rotation of the motor. The control unit controls the motor by repeatedly rotating it forward and backward during the clamping process.

4. The electric stapler according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control unit controls the motor in such a way that the paper bundle is clamped every time a sheet of paper is handled in the clamping process.

5. An electric stapler, comprising: The binding section sequentially performs a clamping process to clamp the paper bundle, a threading process to pass the staple through the clamped paper bundle, and a bending process to press the feet of the staples that have passed through the paper bundle to bind the paper bundle. An electric motor drives the binding section; and The control unit controls the electric motor. The control unit controls the motor by repeatedly pressing the foot during the bending process. The control unit controls the motor to perform the clamping of the paper bundle every time a predetermined number of sheets of paper are transported during the clamping process.

6. The electric stapler according to claim 2 or 5, wherein, The binding part is configured to have a bending tool part that presses the feet of the staples during the bending process, and the clamping process, the through process, and the bending process are executed sequentially by the forward rotation of the electric motor. The bending tool is configured to move between a third position where the foot is not pressed and a fourth position where the foot is pressed. During the bending process, the bending tool moves from the third position to the fourth position by forward rotation of the motor, and from the fourth position to the third position by reverse rotation of the motor. The control unit controls the motor by repeatedly rotating it forward and backward during the bending process.

7. A paper handling apparatus capable of assembling an electric stapler having a binding section and an electric motor driving the binding section, wherein the binding section sequentially performs a clamping step of clamping a paper bundle, a passing step of passing staples through the clamped paper bundle, and a bending step of pressing the feet of the staples passing through the paper bundle to bind the paper bundle. The paper handling apparatus includes a control unit that controls the electric motor when the electric stapler is installed. The control unit controls the motor to perform the clamping of the paper bundle multiple times during the clamping process. The control unit controls the motor to perform the clamping of the paper bundle every time a predetermined number of sheets of paper are transported during the clamping process.

8. The paper handling apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The control unit controls the motor by repeatedly pressing the foot during the bending process.

9. The paper handling apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, When assembling the electric stapler in a manner that clamps the paper bundle when the motor rotates forward during the clamping process and does not clamp the paper bundle when the motor rotates in reverse, The control unit controls the motor by repeatedly rotating it forward and backward during the clamping process.

10. The paper handling apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein, The control unit controls the motor in such a way that the paper bundle is clamped every time a sheet of paper is handled in the clamping process.

11. A paper handling apparatus capable of assembling an electric stapler having a binding section and an electric motor driving the binding section, wherein the binding section sequentially performs a clamping step of clamping a paper bundle, a passing step of passing staples through the clamped paper bundle, and a bending step of pressing the feet of the staples passing through the paper bundle to bind the paper bundle. The paper handling apparatus includes a control unit that controls the electric motor when the electric stapler is installed. The control unit controls the motor by repeatedly pressing the foot during the bending process. The control unit controls the motor to perform the clamping of the paper bundle every time a predetermined number of sheets of paper are transported during the clamping process.

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