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

Abstract

This invention provides a sheet processing apparatus, a lamination processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and an image forming system, which control the insertion of a sheet-like medium into the two overlapping sheets based on the dimensions (length in the transport direction) of the two overlapping sheets (laminated sheets), the dimensions of a sheet-like medium (insertion), and the number of sheets of the sheet-like medium inserted. It relates to a sheet processing apparatus for inserting a sheet-like medium between two overlapping sheets that are partially joined. The sheet processing apparatus of this invention controls the insertion of the sheet-like medium into the two overlapping sheets based on the length in the transport direction of the two overlapping sheets, the length in the transport direction of the sheet-like medium, and the number of sheets of the sheet-like medium inserted. Therefore, one or more inserts can be automatically inserted into the two overlapping sheets, flexibly meeting user requirements.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 202110477544.7, filed on April 29, 2021, entitled “Sheet processing device, laminating processing device, image forming device, and image forming system”. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application relates to a sheet processing device, a laminating processing device, an image forming device, and an image forming system. BACKGROUND

[0003] Known laminating processing technology is to insert an insert sheet (paper, photo, etc.) into two overlapped sheets (laminated sheet or laminated film) in which two sheets are overlapped and one side is joined (connected), and to apply heat and pressure to bond the two overlapped sheets.

[0004] For example, the laminating device disclosed in Patent Document 1 is to separate the laminated film whose front end is connected by a separation release mechanism (upper and lower vacuum devices), and then insert a protective sheet.

[0005] In addition, the image forming device disclosed in Patent Document 2 is to control the operation of a fixing unit portion according to the thickness of the laminated sheet, and can perform desired laminating processing.

[0006] However, depending on the size of the laminated sheet and the insert sheet, one to several insert sheets can also be inserted into the laminated sheet. However, the above prior art does not disclose a structure for inserting multiple insert sheets. Therefore, there is a problem that the use is limited and the user’s requirements cannot be met.

[0007] In addition, for the laminated sheet, since the insertion position of the inserted insert sheet cannot be adjusted, there is a problem that the use is limited and the user’s requirements cannot be met.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present application is to provide a sheet processing device that controls the insertion processing of a sheet-shaped medium (insert sheet) into two overlapped sheets (laminated sheet) according to the size (length in the conveying direction) of the two overlapped sheets, the size of the sheet-shaped medium, and the number of sheet-shaped media to be inserted.

[0009] In addition, an object of the present application is to provide a sheet processing device that can insert at least one sheet-shaped medium (insert sheet) into two overlapped sheets (laminated sheet) and can adjust the relative position of the sheet-shaped medium to the two overlapped sheets.

[0010]

Patent Document 1

[0011]

Patent Document 2

[0012] The solution to the above problem is a sheet processing device that inserts a sheet-like medium into two overlapping sheets in which two sheets overlap and a part is joined, characterized by controlling an insertion process of the sheet-like medium into the two overlapping sheets in accordance with a length in a conveying direction of the two overlapping sheets, a length in the conveying direction of the sheet-like medium, and a number of the sheet-like medium inserted into the two overlapping sheets.

[0013] Another solution to the above problem is a sheet processing device that inserts a sheet-like medium into two overlapping sheets in which two sheets overlap and a part is joined, characterized by including a first conveying mechanism that conveys the sheet-like medium, and a second conveying mechanism that conveys the two overlapping sheets, capable of inserting at least one of the sheet-like medium into the two overlapping sheets, and having a single-page insertion mode in which one of the sheet-like medium is inserted into the two overlapping sheets, and a multi-page insertion mode in which a plurality of the sheet-like medium are inserted into the two overlapping sheets in the conveying direction, and capable of arbitrarily adjusting a relative position of the sheet-like medium with respect to the two overlapping sheets, respectively.

[0014] The sheet processing device of the present application is capable of automatically inserting one to a plurality of inserts into two overlapping sheets, and is capable of arbitrarily adjusting a relative position of a sheet-like medium with respect to the two overlapping sheets, respectively. Therefore, it is possible to flexibly respond to a user's request. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 An overall configuration of a sheet processing device according to an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0016] Figure 2 A configuration of a main part of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 1). Figure 1

[0017] Figure 3 A configuration of a main part of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 2).

[0018] Figure 4 A configuration of a main part of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 3).

[0019] Figure 5 A configuration of a main part of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 4).

[0020] Figure 6 A configuration of a main part of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 5).

[0021] Figure 7 ​A configuration view of a main part of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 6).

[0022] Figure 8 A configuration view of a main part of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 7).

[0023] Figure 9 A configuration view of a main part of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 8).

[0024] Figures 10(a)-10(c) A modification example of a guide path for a two-page sheet peeled is shown.

[0025] Figure 11 A configuration view of a single-page insertion mode of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 1).

[0026] Figure 12 A configuration view of a single-page insertion mode of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 2).

[0027] Figure 13 A configuration view of a single-page insertion mode of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 3).

[0028] Figure 14 A configuration view of a multi-page insertion mode of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 1).

[0029] Figure 15 A configuration view of a multi-page insertion mode of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 2).

[0030] Figure 16 A configuration view of a multi-page insertion mode of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 3).

[0031] Figure 17 A configuration view of a multi-page insertion mode of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 4).

[0032] Figure 18 A configuration view of a main part of the sheet processing device is shown (Fig. 9).

[0033] Figure 19 A schematic view of a peeling claw provided to the sheet processing device is shown.

[0034] Figures 20(a)-20(b) A schematic view of a drive configuration example of the peeling claw is shown.

[0035] Figure 21 A perspective view of a state in which the peeling claw is inserted into the sheet S is shown.

[0036] Figure 22 A perspective view of a state of the peeling claw and the sheet S in Figure 8 is shown.

[0037] Figure 23 Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the state of the peeling claw and the sheet S in Fig. 1. Figure 8

[0038] Figure 24 (a)- Figure 24 (b) shows an example of an operation screen displayed on the operation panel to set the size and the number of sheets to be inserted.

[0039] Figure 25 Fig. 1 shows an example of the overall configuration of a laminating apparatus including the sheet processing apparatus according to the present application.

[0040] Figure 26 Fig. 2 shows an example of the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus including the laminating apparatus according to the present application.

[0041] Figure 27 Fig. 3 shows an example of the overall configuration of a modification of the image forming apparatus including the laminating apparatus according to the present application.

[0042] Figure 28 Fig. 4 shows a flowchart illustrating a series of actions from the start of sheet feeding to the end of the laminating process.

[0043] Figure 29 Fig. 5 shows a flowchart illustrating a series of actions from the start of sheet feeding to the end of the laminating process (2).

[0044] Figure 30 Fig. 6 shows a configuration diagram for adjusting the relative position of the insert P to the sheet S (1).

[0045] Figure 31 Fig. 7 shows a configuration diagram for adjusting the relative position of the insert P to the sheet S (2).

[0046] Figures 32(a)-32(b) Fig. 8 shows a configuration diagram for adjusting the relative position of the insert P to the sheet S (3).

[0047] Figures 33(a)-33(b) Fig. 9 shows a configuration diagram for adjusting the relative position of the insert P to the sheet S (4).

[0048] Figure 34 Fig. 10 shows a configuration diagram for adjusting the relative position of the insert P to the sheet S (5).

[0049] Figures 35(a)-35(b) Fig. 11 shows a configuration diagram for adjusting the relative position of the insert P to the sheet S (6).

[0050] Figures 36(a)-36(b) Fig. 12 shows a configuration diagram for adjusting the relative position of the insert P to the sheet S (7).

[0051] ​Figure 37 The diagram shown is a composition diagram (8) of adjusting the relative position of insert P to sheet S.

[0052] Figures 38(a)-38(b) The image shown is an example of an operation screen displaying the setting of the relative position of an insert page on the operation panel.

[0053] Figure 39 The diagram shown is a flowchart (2) illustrating a series of actions from the insertion of inserts into the sheet feed until the lamination process is completed. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Figure 1 The diagram shown is an overall configuration diagram of a sheet processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. The sheet processing apparatus 100 of this embodiment peels two overlapping sheets (hereinafter referred to as sheets S) from each other and inserts a sheet-like medium (hereinafter referred to as insert P) into the peeled sheet S and clamps it in place.

[0055] Here, sheet S refers to two overlapping sheets, with a portion (or one side) of each sheet joined together. The two overlapping sheets can be, for example, a translucent sheet with one side being a transparent polyester sheet and the opposite side being a transparent or opaque sheet, joined together with one side of each sheet. Additionally, laminated film materials are also included in the two overlapping sheets.

[0056] Insert P is an example of sheet-like media inserted between two overlapping sheets. Sheet-like media include not only plain paper, but also thick paper, postcards, envelopes, thin paper, coated paper (such as coated paper or art paper), tracing paper, OHP sheets, etc.

[0057] like Figure 1 As shown, the sheet processing apparatus 100 includes a sheet tray 102 as a first loading mechanism for loading sheet S, a pick-up roller 105 for supplying sheet S from the sheet tray 102, and a pair of conveying rollers 107. Additionally, the sheet processing apparatus 100 includes a paper feed tray 103 as a second loading mechanism for loading insert P, and a pick-up roller 106 for supplying insert P from the paper feed tray 103.

[0058] A size sensor C6 is provided in the sheet tray 102 as a sheet size detection mechanism for detecting the size (length in the conveying direction) of the sheet S, and a size sensor C7 is provided in the paper feed tray 103 as a media size detection mechanism for detecting the size (length in the conveying direction) of the insert P.

[0059] These size sensors C6 and C7 each have multiple sensors arranged side-by-side in the conveying direction. Since the sensor detection results vary depending on the size of the loaded sheet S (or insert P), the conveying length of the sheet S (or insert P) can be detected.

[0060] Downstream of the conveying direction of the conveying roller pair 107, a conveying sensor C1 that detects the conveying position of the sheet S is provided, and downstream of the conveying direction of the pickup roller 106, a conveying sensor C2 that detects the conveying position of the insert P is provided.

[0061] In addition, these conveying sensors C1, C2 can also be used to detect the conveying direction length of the sheet S (or the insert P).

[0062] In addition, the sheet processing device 100 is provided with, downstream of the conveying roller pair 107 and the pickup roller 106, 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, a paper discharge tray 104, and the like. Between the winding roller 109 and the outlet roller pair 113, there is provided a peeling claw 116 that is configured to be movable in the width direction of the sheet S.

[0063] Downstream of the conveying direction of the inlet roller pair 108, a conveying sensor C3 that detects the conveying position of the sheet S and the insert P is provided, and downstream of the conveying direction of the winding roller 109, an abnormal state detection sensor C4 that detects the state of the sheet S is provided. Then, downstream of the conveying direction of the outlet roller pair 113, a conveying sensor C5 that detects the conveying position of the sheet S is provided.

[0064] In addition, the pickup roller 105, the conveying roller pair 107, the inlet roller pair 108, and the winding roller 109 are examples of the first conveying mechanism, and the pickup roller 106, the inlet roller pair 108, and the winding roller 109 are examples of the second conveying mechanism.

[0065] In the outer member of the sheet processing device 100, there is provided an operation panel 10 as a display operation mechanism that performs information display and operation input acceptance in the sheet processing device 100. In addition, the operation panel 10 also functions as a notification mechanism that issues a sensory signal to the user. Also, as an alternative, a configuration in which a notification mechanism other than the operation panel 10 is provided separately on the sheet processing device 100 can also be used. In addition, a controller 500 for control is also provided.

[0066] The sheet processing device 100 of the present embodiment loads the sheet S and the insert P on different trays, and peels and opens two sheets of the sheet S while conveying the sheet S, and inserts the insert P in the opening thereof. Then, the sheet S into which the insert P is inserted is discharged and stacked on the paper discharge tray 104.

[0067] Figure 2 The sheet processing device of the present embodiment is shown in a configuration view of the main part thereof (Fig. 1). As shown in Fig. 1, the sheet processing device 100 is provided with a pickup roller 105, a conveying roller pair 107, a pickup roller 106, an inlet roller pair 108, a winding roller 109, an outlet roller pair 113, a paper discharge tray 104, and the like. Figure 1 Figure 2 ​As shown, the pair of inlet rollers 108 and the pair of outlet rollers 113 are, for example, each a pair of two rollers, and are rotationally driven by a driving mechanism (a motor or the like). The pair of outlet rollers 113 is rotationally driven in both the forward and reverse directions by the rotational driving of the pair of inlet rollers 108 in one direction, and the sheet S and the insert P are gripped and conveyed thereby.

[0068] The pair of inlet rollers 108 conveys the sheet S and the insert P toward the pair of outlet rollers 113. The direction of this conveyance is referred to as the forward conveyance direction (arrow A direction).

[0069] On the other hand, the pair of outlet rollers 113 is capable of switching the rotation thereof to both the forward and reverse directions. While being capable of conveying the gripped sheet S toward the paper discharge tray 104 (refer to Figure 1 ) as the forward conveyance direction, it is also capable of conveying the sheet S toward the winding roller 109 as the reverse direction (pullback direction) thereof. The direction of conveyance toward the winding roller 109 (the reverse direction with respect to the forward conveyance direction) is referred to as the reverse conveyance direction (arrow B direction).

[0070] In addition, the sheet processing device 100 is provided with the winding roller 109 and the peeling claw 116 as rotational members between the pair of inlet rollers 108 and the pair of outlet rollers 113. The winding roller 109 is rotationally driven in both the forward and reverse directions by a driving mechanism (a motor or the like), and is capable of switching the rotation in both directions (clockwise direction / counterclockwise direction).

[0071] The winding roller 109 has a roller member 111 and a movable gripping mechanism 110 provided on the roller member 111 that grips the sheet S. The movable gripping mechanism 110 is characterized by gripping the leading end of the sheet S together with the roller member 111. The gripping mechanism 110 can be integrally formed on the outer periphery of the roller member 111, or can be configured as another part.

[0072] Next, the series of actions of the sheet processing device 100, that is, the actions from the peeling of the sheet S to the insertion of the insert P will be described using Figures 1-18 . In addition, in Figures 3-18 , the same parts as Figure 1 , 2 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0073] In Figure 1 , the sheet S on the sheet tray 102 is stacked in such a manner that the joined portion of the two-page sheet is located on the downstream side of the feeding direction (conveyance direction) of the pickup roller 105. Then, the sheet processing device 100 picks up the sheet S on the sheet tray 102 by the pickup roller 105, and conveys it toward the pair of inlet rollers 108 by the pair of conveyance rollers 107.

[0074] Next, as shown in Figure 2As shown, the sheet S is transported toward the winding roller 109 by the entry roller pair 108. Here, the sheet processing device 100 transports the sheet S with the end of one of the four edges of the sheet S, which is joined, as the downstream in the forward transport direction (arrow A direction).

[0075] Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the sheet processing device 100 temporarily stops the transport of the sheet S at the time point when the trailing end of the sheet S in the forward transport direction passes through the winding roller 109. In addition, these actions are implemented by transporting a specified amount from the transport sensor C3, with detection of the leading end of the sheet S by the transport sensor C3 as the trigger. Figure 3

[0076] Next, as shown in FIG. 7, the sheet processing device 100 reverses the rotation direction of the exit roller pair 113 while opening the holding mechanism 110, and transports the sheet S in the reverse transport direction (arrow B direction) toward the opening of the holding mechanism 110. Figure 4

[0077] Next, as shown in FIG. 8, the sheet processing device 100 stops the transport and closes the holding mechanism 110 to hold the end of the sheet S at the time point when the end of the sheet S is inserted into the opened holding mechanism 110. In addition, these actions are implemented by transporting a specified amount from the sheet S. Figure 5

[0078] Next, as shown in FIG. 9, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the winding roller 109 in the counterclockwise direction, and winds the sheet S onto the winding roller 109. Here, the sheet S is wound onto the winding roller 109 starting from the side of the two-page sheet that is not joined. Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 10, the sheet S is wound onto the winding roller 109, and the inner circumferential side sheet is in excess due to the difference in winding circumference (difference in winding amount) of the two sheets that are overlapped, and slack is generated toward the joined end of the sheet S. As a result, a space is generated between the two-page sheets. By inserting the release claws 116 into this generated space from both sides of the sheet S, the space between the two-page sheets can be reliably maintained. In addition, these actions are implemented by transporting a specified amount from the transport sensor C5, with detection of the leading end of the sheet S by the transport sensor C5 as the trigger.

[0079] Figure 7 Here, the release claws 116 will be described in further detail.

[0080] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a release claw provided in the sheet processing device,

[0081] FIG. 12 is a schematic view of an example of the drive configuration of the release claw. In addition, Figure 19 FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the state in which the release claw is inserted into the sheet S. Figures 20(a)-20(b) Figure 21 ​​​​​

[0082] As Figure 19 shown, the size of the peeling claw 116 in the height direction from the upstream side in the conveying direction is gradually increased toward the rear end from the center in the width direction. Also, the size in the conveying direction from the front end toward the center is gradually increased in the height direction. Then, the peeling claw 116 is in a cross shape in the width direction.

[0083] Also, as Figures 20(a)-20(b) shown, in the configuration of the present embodiment, the two peeling claws 116 are disposed so as to face each other, and are approached / detached by (a) belt driving or (b) a rack and pinion, or the like, respectively.

[0084] Since the peeling claw 116 of the present embodiment has the above-described shape, and is configured to be movable in the width direction of the sheet S, as Figure 21 shown, it is possible to smoothly insert into the space generated in the sheet S.

[0085] Returning to the series of actions of the sheet processing device 100. In a state in which the peeling claw 116 is inserted into the space generated in the sheet S (refer to Figure 7 ), the sheet processing device 100 rotates the winding roller 109 in the clockwise direction, and moves the peeled space of the sheet S to the rear end portion in the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction) of the sheet S as Figure 8 shown. Then, at a time point at which the specified amount is moved, the holding mechanism 110 is opened, and the rear end of the sheet S becomes in a state in which it is separated upward and downward.

[0086] In this state, the sheet processing device 100 temporarily stops the conveying of the sheet S, and then peels the entire area of the rear end of the sheet S by further moving the peeling claw 116 in the sheet width direction. Also, these actions are implemented by conveying the specified amount from the conveying sensor C5, with the detection of the front end of the sheet S by the conveying sensor C5 as a trigger.

[0087] Figure 22 shown is Figure 8 a perspective view of the state of the peeling claw 116 and the sheet S in Figure 19 . Since the peeling claw 116 also has a shape (function) of guiding the peeled sheet S in different directions, respectively (refer to ), the two pages of the sheet S become in a posture in which they can be conveyed in different paths, respectively.

[0088] Also, since the peeling claw 116 is configured to be movable in the width direction (refer to Figures 20(a)-20(b) ), as Figure 23As shown, it can be configured in a position that appropriately supports the posture of the sheet S. Therefore, even if the size or stiffness of the sheet S changes, the sheet S can be guided in the desired branching direction. Since this eliminates the need for sheet branching components and branching claws that cover the entire width of the conveyor path, costs can be reduced compared to the past.

[0089] Next, as Figure 9 As shown, starting from the state where the entire rear end area of ​​sheet S has been peeled off, the sheet processing device 100 now rotates the exit roller pair 113 counterclockwise and conveys sheet S in the reverse conveying direction (arrow B direction). That is, the two peeled sheets of sheet S are guided upward and downward by the peeling claws 116 respectively, so that the two sheets are peeled off from each other as a whole.

[0090] Then, the sheet handling device 100 temporarily stops the conveying of the sheet S and enters a state where the joint of the sheet S is held (clamped) by the exit roller pair 113. As a result, the sheet S is opened up to a greater extent, with the joined side as the end.

[0091] In addition, these actions are triggered by the detection of the front end of the sheet S by the conveying sensor C5, and are implemented by conveying a specified amount from the conveying sensor C5.

[0092] (Modified Example)

[0093] Figures 10(a)-10(c) The diagram shows a variation of the guide path for the peeled two sheets. (Previously...) Figure 9 The diagram shows the path in Figure 10(a) where the upper and lower sheets are guided in the same direction starting from the joint of sheet S. Alternatively, the upper and lower sheets can be guided in opposite directions, such as the path shown in Figure 10(b) along a reverse S-shape or the path shown in Figure 10(c) along an S-shape.

[0094] Next, the features of the present invention will be described.

[0095] The sheet processing apparatus 100 of this embodiment is characterized by inserting one or more inserts 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 P. First, a single-page insertion mode in which one insert P is inserted into the sheet S will be described. Next, a multi-page insertion mode in which multiple inserts P are inserted into the sheet S along the conveying direction will be described.

[0096] (Single-page insertion mode)

[0097] like Figure 11 As shown, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the inlet roller pair 108 to feed the paper tray 10 (refer to...) Figure 1The interleaf P conveyed toward the outlet roller pair 113 is conveyed from the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction).

[0098] Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the outlet roller pair 113 to merge the sheet S and the interleaf P, and inserts the interleaf P into the opened sheet S. Figure 12

[0099] Next, as shown in FIG. 7, the sheet processing device 100 conveys the sheet S with the interleaf P inserted by the outlet roller pair 113 in the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction), overlaps the two pages of the sheet S again, and closes the opening. Then, the sheet S with the interleaf P sandwiched is discharged by the outlet roller pair 113 or a roller or the like (not shown) disposed after it, and is stacked on the paper discharge tray 104 (refer to FIG. 1). Figure 13 Figure 1

[0100] Next, the multi-page insertion mode will be described. The multi-page insertion mode is a mode in which a plurality of interleafs P (two in the following embodiments) can be inserted in the sheet conveying direction.

[0101] (Multi-page insertion mode)

[0102] As shown in FIG. 8, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the inlet roller pair 108 to convey the first interleaf P (hereinafter referred to as the 1st interleaf PI) conveyed from the paper feed tray 103 (refer to FIG. 1) toward the outlet roller pair 113 in the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction). Figure 14 Figure 1 Next, as shown in FIG. 9, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the outlet roller pair 113 to merge the sheet S and the 1st interleaf PI, and inserts the 1st interleaf PI into the opened sheet S. At this time, the second interleaf P (hereinafter referred to as the 2nd interleaf P2) conveyed from the paper feed tray 103 (refer to FIG. 1) is conveyed toward the outlet roller pair 113 in the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction).

[0103] Next, as shown in FIG. 10, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the inlet roller pair 108 to merge the sheet S and the 2nd interleaf P2, and further inserts the 2nd interleaf P2 into the opened sheet S. Figure 15 Figure 1 Then, as shown in FIG. 11, the sheet processing device 100 conveys the sheet S with the 1st interleaf PI and the 2nd interleaf P2 inserted by the outlet roller pair 113 in the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction), overlaps the two pages of the sheet S again, and closes the opening.

[0104] Figure 16

[0105] Then, as shown in FIG. 11, the sheet processing device 100 conveys the sheet S with the 1st interleaf PI and the 2nd interleaf P2 inserted by the outlet roller pair 113 in the forward conveying direction (arrow A direction), overlaps the two pages of the sheet S again, and closes the opening. Figure 17

[0106] ​​​​​​​​In addition, even if the insert is three or more, it is possible to insert with substantially the same operation.

[0107] As an alternative, when the sheet processing device has a heat press device capable of heating and pressing the sheet S, it is also possible to switch the path by the branch claw 118 to deliver to the heat press device as shown in Figure 18 This is not only for the multi-page insertion mode, but also for the single-page insertion mode.

[0108] Thus, the sheet processing device 100 of the present embodiment can control the insertion processing of the insert P to the sheet S.

[0109] Next, the configuration of the sheet processing device 100 to acquire the size (transport direction length) of the sheet S and the insert P and the number of sheets of the inserted insert P will be described.

[0110] As described above Figure 1 The sheet processing device 100 of the present 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 transport direction length of the insert P is below a threshold value, the sheet processing device 100 automatically switches to the multi-page insertion mode to perform the insertion processing. On the other hand, when the transport direction length of the insert P is above the threshold value, it automatically switches to the single-page insertion mode to perform the insertion processing.

[0111] In particular, when the transport direction length of the insert P is half or less of the transport direction length of the sheet S, it is also possible to automatically switch to the multi-page insertion mode to perform the insertion processing. In addition, in the case of the multi-page insertion mode, the number of sheets of the insert P inserted into the sheet S is calculated from the quotient of the size of the sheet S and the size of the insert P.

[0112] In addition, the transport sensors C1 and C2 can be used instead of or in addition to the above-described size sensor C6 and size sensor C7.

[0113] Thus, the sheet processing device 100 of the present embodiment can automatically control the insertion processing according to the size of the sheet S and the insert P.

[0114] Next, the configuration in which the user can select the insertion processing will be described. Figure 24 (a)- Figure 24 (b) is an example of an operation screen for setting the size and the number of sheets inserted, which is displayed on the operation panel.

[0115] As Figure 24 (a) shows, in the sheet processing device 100 of the present embodiment, by the user touching the screen of the operation panel 10, it is possible to select and input the size of the laminated film material (sheet S) and the size of the inserted insert P, and the number of sheets of the inserted insert P.

[0116] When the sum of the conveyance direction lengths of the inserts P is greater than the conveyance direction length of the sheet S, the sheet processing apparatus 100 determines that there is an abnormality. As shown in (b), an error prompt is displayed on the operation panel 10, and the user is prompted to select and input again. Figure 24 (b) shown, an error prompt is displayed on the operation panel 10, and the user is prompted to select and input again.

[0117] More specifically, as the size condition,

[0118] The conveyance direction length of the sheet S is set as LI, and the conveyance direction length of the insert P is set as L2

[0119] The number of the inserts P sandwiching the sheet S is set as n,

[0120] When LI ≥ L2 x n, the operation panel 10 receives the input of the user. Then, the sheet processing apparatus 100 implements the insertion process of inserting the insert P into the sheet S.

[0121] On the other hand, when LI < L2 x n, an error prompt is displayed on the operation panel 10, and the user is prompted to select and input / adjust again.

[0122] In this way, the user can select, through the operation panel 10, either the single-page insertion mode of inserting one insert P or the multi-page insertion mode of inserting multiple inserts P.

[0123] In addition, the sheet processing apparatus 100 can also automatically control the insertion process using the above-described size condition.

[0124] In this way, the sheet processing apparatus 100 of the present embodiment controls the insertion process of the insert P into the sheet S according to the conveyance direction length of the sheet S, the conveyance direction length of the insert P, and the number of the inserts P sandwiching the sheet S. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately and automatically insert one to multiple inserts P into the sheet S.

[0125] In addition, compared with the laminating apparatus of Patent Document 1 using a vacuum device, for example, it has a simple configuration, and can simplify and miniaturize the entire apparatus.

[0126] Further, as shown in Figure 1 the sheet processing apparatus 100 of the present embodiment loads the sheet S and the insert P onto different trays, and can be conveyed separately. Therefore, it is possible to improve convenience without loading the sheet S and the insert P in a predetermined order. In the present 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 thereto. It is also possible to load the insert P on the tray 102 and the sheet S on the tray 103.

[0127] Next, a laminating apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and an image forming system each provided with the sheet processing apparatus according to the present application will be described.

[0128] Figure 25 Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the entire configuration of an example of a laminating apparatus provided with the sheet processing apparatus according to the present application. The laminating apparatus 200 has the sheet processing apparatus 100 described above, a branch claw 118 that switches the transport path of the sheet S, a heat press roller 120 that is a heat press member capable of heating and pressing the sheet S, and a discharge roller 121 provided downstream of the heat press roller 120.

[0129] The laminating apparatus 200 is configured to be able to perform a series of actions of sheet S feeding, peeling, interleaf P insertion, and laminating processing by heat press in one machine. The series of actions can be performed automatically without human intervention, and thus the convenience can be improved compared to the prior art.

[0130] Figure 26 Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the entire configuration of an example of an image forming apparatus provided with the laminating apparatus according to the present application. The image forming apparatus 300 has, as a laminating apparatus section, the laminating apparatus 200a inside.

[0131] Here, the laminating apparatus 200a is configured to be able to supply the sheet S and / or the interleaf P from the image forming apparatus 300 while having the sheet tray 102 that loads the sheet S or the interleaf P. Therefore, by the image forming apparatus 300 (e.g., a printer, a copier, or the like), it is possible to insert an image into the sheet S or the interleaf P in a inline manner.

[0132] The configuration of the image forming apparatus main body 300 will be described in detail. As shown in Fig. 3, the image forming apparatus main body 300 has a main body 302, a sheet feeding section 304, a sheet discharge section 306, and a sheet processing section 308. Figure 26 As shown in Fig. 3, the intermediate transfer apparatus 150 is provided inside the image forming apparatus main body 300. The intermediate transfer apparatus 150 is hung on a plurality of rollers to stretch the annular intermediate transfer belt 152 substantially horizontally and travel in the counterclockwise direction.

[0133] Below the intermediate transfer apparatus 150, cyan, magenta, yellow, and black image forming apparatuses 154c, 154m, 154y, 154k are arranged in 4-serial manner along the stretching direction of the intermediate transfer belt 152. The configuration of each image forming apparatus 154 is that a drum-shaped image carrier rotating clockwise in the drawing is provided with a charging device, a developing device, a transfer device, a cleaning device, and the like around the periphery thereof. Below each image forming apparatus 154, an exposure device 156 is provided.

[0134] A paper feeding device 158 is provided below the exposure device 156. The paper feeding device 158 has a first paper feeding cassette 160 that stores the sheet S, and a second paper feeding cassette 162 that stores the insert P. Also, the first paper feeding cassette 160 is an example of a third loading mechanism that loads two sheets in superposition, and the second paper feeding cassette 162 is an example of a fourth loading mechanism that loads a sheet-like medium.

[0135] A first paper feeding roller 166 that sequentially feeds the sheets S in the first paper feeding cassette 160 one by one into a paper conveying path 164 is provided above the right side of the first paper feeding cassette 160. Also, a second paper feeding roller 168 that sequentially feeds the inserts P in the second paper feeding cassette 162 one by one into the paper conveying path 164 is provided above the right side of the second paper feeding cassette 162.

[0136] The paper conveying path 164 is formed in the right side of the image forming apparatus main body 300 from the bottom to the top, and leads to the laminating processing device 200a in the image forming apparatus main body 300. A conveying roller 170, a secondary transfer device 174 that faces the intermediate transfer belt 152, a fixing device 176, a paper ejecting device 178 that is composed of a pair of paper ejecting rollers, and the like are provided in the paper conveying path 164 in this order.

[0137] Also, the first paper feeding roller 166, the conveying roller 170, and the paper conveying path 164 are an example of a third paper feeding mechanism that feeds two sheets in superposition from the first paper feeding cassette 160 (third loading mechanism). Also, the second paper feeding roller 168, the conveying roller 170, and the paper conveying path 164 are an example of a fourth paper feeding mechanism that feeds a sheet-like medium from the second paper feeding cassette 162 (fourth loading mechanism). Further, the intermediate transfer device 150 and the fixing device 176 are examples of image forming sections that form an image on two sheets in superposition or a sheet-like medium.

[0138] Next, the operation of performing the laminating processing after the image is formed on the sheet S in the image forming apparatus 300 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0139] When the image is formed on the sheet S, first, the original image is read by the image reading device 188, and writing is performed by the exposure device 156. Next, the respective color toner images are formed on the respective image bearers of the respective image forming devices 154c, 154m, 154y, 154k, and the toner images are sequentially transferred to the primary transfer devices 180c, 180m, 180y, 180k, thereby forming a color image on the intermediate transfer belt 152.

[0140] On the other hand, the image forming apparatus 300 rotates the first paper feed roller 166 to successively feed the sheet S into the paper conveying path 164. Then, the sheet S is conveyed through the paper conveying path 164 by the conveying roller 170 and is timely fed 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.

[0141] The sheet S after the image transfer is image-fixed in the fixing device 176 and is fed to the laminating processing apparatus 200a by the paper discharge device 178.

[0142] In addition, the image forming apparatus 300 rotates the second paper feed roller 168 to successively feed the insert P into the paper conveying path 164 and is conveyed to the laminating processing apparatus 200a by the paper discharge device 178.

[0143] In this way, the laminating processing is performed by conveying the sheet S after the image formation and the insert P to the laminating processing apparatus 200a. Since the details of the laminating processing have been described above, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0144] Since the image forming apparatus 300 of the present embodiment is configured as described above, the laminating processing can be performed by the laminating processing apparatus 200a even after the image formation in the insert P. In addition, the laminating processing can be performed after the image formation on the insert P and the sheet S.

[0145] Next, a modification of the image forming apparatus provided with the sheet processing apparatus according to the present application and an image forming system will be described.

[0146] Figure 27 The drawing is a whole configuration view of a modification of the image forming apparatus provided with the laminating processing apparatus according to the present application. The image forming apparatus 400 is different from the image forming apparatus 300 of Figures 20(a)-20(b) The image forming apparatus 400 is different from the image forming apparatus 300 of

[0147] The image forming apparatus 400 can use the main body discharge roller 122 to discharge the recording medium after the image formation to the main body paper discharge tray 123 in a case where the laminating processing is not performed. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 400 does not reduce the output speed of the image formation in a case where the laminating processing is not performed.

[0148] In addition, the image forming apparatus 400 can be configured such that the laminating processing apparatus 200a is detachably provided inside. That is, the laminating processing apparatus 200a can be detached from the image forming apparatus 400 when the laminating processing is not needed.

[0149] Alternatively, a paper feed tray 103 for loading insert P and a pickup roller 106 for supplying insert P from the paper feed tray 103 can be installed in the removed laminating processing apparatus 200a, thereby enabling it to function as a... Figure 25 The image shows a single unit of the same lamination process.

[0150] Figure 26 The image forming apparatus 300 shown and Figure 27 The image forming apparatus 400 shown can also be configured with a sheet processing device instead of a laminating machine. Furthermore, in Figure 27 In the image forming apparatus 400 shown, the sheet processing apparatus can also be configured to be detachable.

[0151] Alternatively, the image forming system may be configured as including an image forming apparatus, a sheet processing apparatus 100 detachably connected to the image forming apparatus, or a system having a lamination processing apparatus 200. Furthermore, it may be configured as a system including a paper feeding device (stacker) and / or a cover binding device. Additionally, when the sheet S passes through the fixing device 176, the sheet S does not bond at the fixing temperature, but will bond by applying heat at a higher temperature.

[0152] Furthermore, the image forming apparatuses 300 and 400 use electrophotography to form images on the sheet S and insert P, but are not limited to this; they can also use known image forming methods such as inkjet printing or stencil printing.

[0153] Figure 28 The diagram shows a flowchart illustrating the series of actions from the initial insertion of inserts into the sheet feed until the lamination process is completed. The corresponding figures are shown and labeled with their numbers.

[0154] First, in step S01, the sheet processing device 100 determines whether the user has selected the multi-page insertion mode. If the multi-page insertion mode is selected, the number of pages to be inserted is selected in step S02.

[0155] That is, through the operation panel 10, the user can set the lamination film size setting value, the insert size setting value, and the number of sheets to be inserted (refer to...). Figure 24 (a)).

[0156] On the other hand, if the multi-page insertion mode is not selected, the process proceeds to step S03, and the sheet processing device 100 determines that the single-page insertion mode has been selected.

[0157] Next, in step S11, the sheet processing apparatus 100 begins feeding the sheet S (see reference). Figure 1 Next, in step S12, it is determined whether the front end of the sheet S has reached the conveying sensor C3 (refer to...).Figure 2 ). In step S13, when the sheet processing device 100 determines that the sheet S has been transported by a specified amount from the conveyance sensor C3, it temporarily stops the conveyance (refer to Figure 3 ). Next, in step S14, while the holding mechanism 110 is opened, the sheet S is conveyed in the reverse conveyance direction in step S15 (refer to Figure 4 ).

[0158] In step S16, when the sheet processing device 100 determines that the sheet S has been transported by a specified amount, it temporarily stops the conveyance of the sheet S in step S17. Then, in step S18, the holding mechanism 110 is closed and the end portion of the sheet S is held (refer to Figure 5 ).

[0159] Next, in step S19, the sheet processing device 100 rotates the winding roller 109 in the counterclockwise direction and winds the sheet S onto the winding roller 109 (refer to Figure 6 ). Next, in step S20, it is determined whether the leading end of the sheet S reaches the conveyance sensor C5. In step S21, when the sheet processing device 100 determines that the sheet S has been transported by a specified amount from the conveyance sensor C5, it detects the state of the sheet S using the abnormal state detection sensor C4 in step S22.

[0160] The abnormal state detection sensor C4 is an abnormality detection mechanism that detects whether the size of the space generated between the two pages of the sheet S exceeds a prescribed threshold value. In step S23, the sheet processing device 100 transitions to step S24a when it determines that the state of the sheet S is normal (the size of the space is equal to or greater than the prescribed threshold value) based on the detection result of the abnormal state detection sensor C4.

[0161] On the other hand, in step S23, when it determines that the state of the sheet S is abnormal (the size of the space is less than the prescribed threshold value), it transitions to step S24b, and the sheet processing device 100 notifies of the abnormality and stops the sheet processing.

[0162] When it transitions to step S24a, the sheet processing device 100 inserts the peeling claw 116 into the generated space from both sides of the sheet S (refer to Figure 7 ). Next, in step S25, the sheet processing device 100 conveys the sheet S in the forward conveyance direction while the peeling claw 116 is inserted from both sides of the sheet S, this time rotating the winding roller 109 in the clockwise direction.

[0163] 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 device 100 determines that the sheet S has been transported by a specified amount from the conveyance sensor C5, it opens the holding mechanism 110 in step S28.

[0164] Next, in step S29, the sheet processing device 100 temporarily stops the conveyance of the sheet S, and in step S30, moves the peeling claw 116 further in the sheet width direction (refer to FIG. 9B). Thereby, the rear end of the sheet S becomes in a state of being separated upward and downward. Figure 8

[0165] In step S31, the sheet processing device 100 conveys the sheet S in the reverse conveyance direction. Next, in step S32, it is determined whether the front end of the sheet S reaches the conveyance sensor C5. In step S33, when the sheet processing device 100 determines that the sheet S is conveyed by a specified amount from the conveyance sensor C5, it temporarily stops the conveyance in step S34 (refer to FIG. 9C). Thereby, the peeling of the sheet S is completed. Figure 9

[0166] Next, in step S35, the sheet processing device 100 determines whether to perform (in-line) image formation on the insert sheet P inserted into the sheet S. In the case of in-line, it shifts to step S36, and the sheet processing device 100 causes the image forming device to start a print job, and forms an image on the insert sheet P. Next, it shifts to step S37.

[0167] On the other hand, in step S35, in the case of not being in-line, it shifts to step S37.

[0168] In step S37, the sheet processing device 100 conveys the insert sheet P in the forward conveyance direction, and inserts the insert sheet P into the sheet S which is opened. Here, in the case of the single-page insertion mode, it is the operation shown in the foregoing Figures 11-13 , and in the case of the multi-page insertion mode, it is the operation shown in the foregoing Figures 14-17 .

[0169] Next, in step S38, the sheet processing device 100 determines whether the selected number of insert sheets P is inserted into the sheet S. In the case of being inserted, it shifts to step S39.

[0170] Next, in step S39, it switches the path by the branch claw 118. In step S40, it conveys the sheet S which holds the insert sheet P to the heat press device (fixing Md), and completes the lamination process by applying heat and pressure (refer to FIG. 10B). Figure 18

[0171] ​​​Additionally, in the case of inline processing (when "Yes" is selected in step S35), the image forming apparatus is notified to begin printing JOB immediately after the sheet is peeled off, and the printing and transport of insert P are performed. At this time, the printed insert P is transported, and the sheet processing device remains in a waiting state until it reaches the transport sensor C1. Therefore, considering the transport time of the printed insert P, for example, it is also possible to... Figure 7 After the peeling claw 116 completes its operation, it notifies the image forming apparatus to begin printing. This improves productivity.

[0172] Figure 29 The diagram shown is a flowchart (2) illustrating a series of actions from the insertion of inserts into the sheet feed until the lamination process is completed. The corresponding figures are shown and labeled with their numbers.

[0173] First, in step S01a, the sheet processing apparatus 100 detects the conveying direction lengths of the sheet S and the insert P using a sheet size detection mechanism and a media size detection mechanism. Then, it determines whether the conveying direction length of the insert P is less than half the conveying direction length of the sheet S.

[0174] When less than half (in the "yes" case), proceed to step S02a, where the sheet processing apparatus 100 switches to multi-page insertion mode. Next, in step S03a, the number of pages P is calculated based on the quotient of the size of the sheet S and the size of the insert P.

[0175] On the other hand, in step S01a, when the conveying direction length of the insert P is greater than half the conveying direction length of the sheet S ("No"), the sheet processing device 100 switches to single-page insertion mode.

[0176] The next step, S11, is a conversion similar to the previous one. Figure 28 The process is the same, so the explanation is omitted.

[0177] Next, another feature of the present invention will be described.

[0178] The sheet processing apparatus 100 of this embodiment is characterized by its ability to adjust the relative position of the insert P to the sheet S.

[0179] Specifically, it is characterized by performing the following four positional alignments when inserting the first insert into sheet S.

[0180] (1) Collision of the S-direction joint of the sheet ( Figure 30 ),

[0181] (2) Adjustment of the protrusion amount of sheet S Figure 31 ),

[0182] (3) Adjustment of linear velocity difference Figures 32(a)-32(b)),

[0183] (4) Control of the timing of the meeting Figures 33(a)-33(b) )

[0184] The following will explain in sequence.

[0185] (The contact at the S-axis joint of the sheet)

[0186] like Figure 30 As shown, when the sheet processing apparatus 100 brings the insert P1 together with the sheet S, it grips (clamps) the joint of the sheet S by the exit roller pair 113 and opens the conveying direction of the insert P1. Then, the insert P1 is aligned by abutting against the joint of the sheet S.

[0187] (Adjustment of the protrusion amount of sheet S)

[0188] like Figure 31 As shown, the sheet processing apparatus 100 adjusts the protrusion amount L of the front end of the sheet S in the conveying direction from the clamping portion of the exit roller pair 113. Then, in this state, the sheet S and the insert P1 are aligned by abutting against the clamping portion of the exit roller pair 113. Furthermore, this protrusion amount L is detected by the conveying sensor C5.

[0189] Thus, by arbitrarily adjusting the distance between the front end of the sheet S and the front end of the insert P1 in the conveying direction, the relative position of the sheet S and the insert P1 can be adjusted. In addition, by making the insert P1 abut against the clamping part of the exit roller pair 113, the tilt of the insert P1 can be corrected.

[0190] (Adjustment of linear velocity difference)

[0191] As shown in Figure 32(a), after the sheet S is peeled off, the sheet processing apparatus 100 ensures that the linear velocity V1 of the exit roller pair 113 that holds and transports the peeled sheet S is less than the linear velocity V2 (V1 < V2) of the inlet roller pair 108 that transports the insert P1. Then, as shown in Figure 32(b), taking into account the timing of alignment with the joint position of the sheet S, the sheet S and the insert P1 are aligned by abutting against the clamping portion of the exit roller pair 113.

[0192] Therefore, the relative positions of sheet S and insert P1 can be adjusted, and since both the exit roller pair 113 and the inlet roller pair 108 do not stop, productivity can be improved.

[0193] (Controlling the timing of the meeting)

[0194] like Figures 33(a)-33(b)As shown, after the sheet S is peeled off, the sheet processing device 100 controls the timing of the start of the conveying of the exit roller pair 113 that holds the peeled sheet S, so that the insert P1 can meet the sheet S at the desired relative position.

[0195] That is, as shown in Figure 33(a), the exit roller pair 113 begins to convey the sheet S before the insert P1 reaches the clamping part of the exit roller pair 113. Then, as shown in Figure 33(b), the insert P1 and the sheet S are brought together at the point in time when the insert P1 becomes the desired relative position with respect to the sheet S.

[0196] Therefore, the relative positions of the sheet S and the insert P can be adjusted without causing the insert P to collide with the sheet S or the clamping part of the exit roller pair 113.

[0197] When inserting a second or subsequent page, the following three alignment methods can be used.

[0198] (1) The contact between the clamping part of the exit roller pair and the rollers. Figure 34 ),

[0199] (2) Adjustment of linear velocity difference Figures 35(a)-35(b) ),

[0200] (3) Control of the timing of the meeting Figures 36(a)-36(b) ).

[0201] (The contact between the clamping parts of the exit roller pair)

[0202] like Figure 34 As shown, the sheet processing apparatus 100 adjusts the protrusion amount L2 (the distance between the rear end of the first insert P1 and the front end of the second insert P2) of the sheet S protruding from the clamping portion of the exit roller pair 113 in the conveying direction. Then, the sheet S and the insert P2 are aligned by abutting the insert P2 against the clamping portion of the exit roller pair 113. This protrusion amount L2 is detected by the conveying sensor C5.

[0203] (Adjustment of linear velocity difference)

[0204] As shown in Figure 35(a), after the sheet S is peeled off, the sheet processing apparatus 100 ensures that the linear velocity V1 of the exit roller pair 113 that holds and transports the peeled sheet S is less than the linear velocity V2 (V1 < V2) of the inlet roller pair 108 that transports the second insert P2. Then, as shown in Figure 35(b), taking into account the timing of alignment with the rear end of the insert P1, the subsequent second insert P2 is brought into contact with the sheet S to achieve position alignment between the sheet S and the insert P.

[0205] (Controlling the timing of the meeting)

[0206] As shown in Figure 36(a), before the second insert P2 reaches the clamping part of the exit roller pair 113, the exit roller pair 113 conveys the sheet S, which clamps the insert P1, to the paper discharge side. Then, as shown in Figure 36(b), the insert P2 is brought together with the sheet S, taking into account the alignment with the rear end of the insert P1. This allows the relative positions of the sheet S and the insert P2 to be adjusted without the insert P2 colliding with the sheet S or the clamping part of the exit roller pair 113.

[0207] Then, as Figure 37 As shown, at the exit roller pair 113, multiple inserts are inserted by conveying the sheet S and insert P2 in a gripping (clamping) manner. The relative position of the inserts can be adjusted within a range where the rear end of the final insert P does not protrude from the rear end of the sheet S.

[0208] Figures 38(a)-38(b) The image shown is an example of an operation screen displaying the setting of the relative positions of inserts on the operation panel. As shown in Figure 38(a), the distance between the end of the sheet and the front end of the insert (length a) and the relative distance between each insert (length b) can be set. Adjustments can be made when the sum of the conveying length of insert P, the distance between the end of the sheet and the front end of the insert, and the sum of the relative distances between each insert are less than the conveying length of sheet S.

[0209] When the length of sheet S exceeds the length in the conveying direction, the sheet handling device 100 determines it to be abnormal. As shown in Figure 38(b), an error message is displayed on the operation panel 10, prompting the user to select and input again.

[0210] Thus, the sheet processing apparatus 100 of this embodiment controls the insertion of inserts P into the sheet S based on the conveying direction length of the sheet S, the conveying direction length of the inserts P, and the number of inserts P clamped in the sheet S. Therefore, it is possible to automatically insert one or more inserts P into the sheet S while adjusting the relative positions of the sheet S and the inserts P2.

[0211] Next, use Figure 39 The flowchart illustrates the feature portion of the present invention. Figure 28 (As shown in parts A and B).

[0212] (Explanation of Part A)

[0213] In step S01, the sheet processing device 100 determines whether the user has selected the multi-page insertion mode. If the multi-page insertion mode is selected, the number of pages to be inserted is selected in step S02.

[0214] Next, in step S04, the user sets the distance (length a) from the sheet end to the leading end of the insert, and the relative distance (length b) of each insert by operating the operation panel 10 (see Fig. 38(a)).

[0215] Next, in step S05, the sheet processing device 100 determines whether the sum of the transport direction length of the inserts P, the distance from the sheet end to the leading end of the insert, and the sum of the relative distance of each insert is below the transport direction length of the sheet S. In the case of "Yes", the process proceeds to step Sll, and the paper feeding of the sheet S is started. On the other hand, in the case of "No", the process returns to step S04, and the sheet processing device 100 displays an error prompt on the operation panel 10, prompting the user to select and input again (see Fig. 38(b)).

[0216] In addition, in step S01, in the case where the multi-page insertion mode is not selected, the process proceeds to step S03, and the sheet processing device 100 determines that the single-page insertion mode is selected. Next, in step S06, the user sets the distance (length a) from the sheet end to the leading end of the insert by operating the operation panel 10. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step Sll, and the paper feeding of the sheet S is started.

[0217] (B. Explanation of Part)

[0218] In step S31, the sheet processing device 100 transports the sheet S in the reverse transport direction. Next, in step S31a, it is determined whether the leading end of the sheet S reaches the sensor C4. Next, in step S31b, the sheet processing device 100 determines whether to stop after transporting the joint of the sheet S to the nip of the exit roller pair 113.

[0219] In the case of not stopping ("No"), in step S32, the sheet processing device 100 determines whether the leading end of the sheet S reaches the transport sensor C5. In step S33, when the sheet processing device 100 determines that the sheet S is transported by a specified amount from the transport sensor C5, the transport is temporarily stopped in step S34.

[0220] On the other hand, in the case of determining to stop in step S31b ("Yes"), the transport is temporarily stopped in step S34, and the peeling of the sheet S is completed. In addition, step S31b is set as the branch condition A.

[0221] Next, in step S37, the sheet processing device 100 transports the insert P in the forward transport direction, and inserts the insert P into the sheet S opened. In step S37a, when it is determined that the insert P is transported by a specified amount from the transport sensor C3, the sheet processing device 100 determines whether to start the transport of the exit roller pair 113 in step S37b.

[0222] In the affirmative case ("Yes"), the process shifts to step S37c, and the sheet processing device 100 determines whether to make the linear velocity (VI) of the outlet roller pair 113 and the linear velocity (V2) of the inlet roller pair 108 equal. In the case of equality ("Yes"), the process shifts to step S37d, and at the point in time when the sheet S has been transported by a specified amount, the two converge because the insert P reaches the outlet roller pair 113 (control of the timing of convergence, refer to Figures 33(a)-33(b) ).

[0223] On the other hand, in step S37c, in the case where the linear velocities are not made equal ("No"), the process shifts to step S37e, and the linear velocity (VI) of the outlet roller pair 113 is made less than the linear velocity (V2) of the inlet roller pair 108, to position-align the sheet S and the insert P (adjustment of the difference in linear velocity, refer to Figures 32(a)-32(b) ).

[0224] Here, returning to the previous step S37b, in the case where the sheet processing device 100 determines not to start the transport of the outlet roller pair 113 ("No"), the process shifts to step S37f. Here, the sheet processing device 100 determines whether the joint of the sheet S is positioned at the nip of the outlet roller pair 113. This is determined by the aforementioned branch condition A.

[0225] In step S37f, when the joint of the sheet S is positioned at the nip ("Yes"), the process shifts to step S37g. The sheet processing device 100 makes the insert P abut against the joint of the sheet S, and thereafter, starts the transport of the outlet roller pair 113 (abutment against the joint of the sheet S, refer to Figure 30 ).

[0226] On the other hand, in step S37f, when the joint of the sheet S is not positioned at the nip ("No"), the process shifts to step S37h, and the sheet processing device 100 transports the sheet S from the nip by a specified amount. Then, the process shifts to step S37g, and the sheet processing device 100 makes the insert P abut against the nip of the outlet roller pair 113, and thereafter, starts the transport of the outlet roller pair 113 (adjustment of the amount of protrusion of the sheet S, refer to Figure 31 ).

[0227] Next, the process shifts to step S38, and the sheet processing device 100 determines whether the selected number of inserts P has been inserted into the sheet S. In the case of insertion ("Yes"), the process shifts to step S39. On the other hand, in the case where there is a subsequent insert P ("No"), in step S38a, the sheet processing device 100 transports the sheet S by a specified amount, and shifts to step S37.

[0228] Thereafter, since the same as explained previously in the flowchart of Figure 28 , the explanation is omitted.

[0229] The present application has been described in detail above by way of embodiments. The embodiments are merely examples, and various modifications can be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the present application. For example, the embodiments and the modified examples can be combined separately.

Claims

1. A sheet processing apparatus that sandwiches a sheet-like medium in a two-page overlapped sheet in which two sheets are overlapped and a part of which is joined, characterized by: adjusting a relative position of the sheet-like medium with respect to the two-page overlapped sheet by adjustment of a linear velocity difference between a first conveying mechanism and a second conveying mechanism or control of a timing of merging of the two-page overlapped sheet and the sheet-like medium, wherein the first conveying mechanism conveys the sheet-like medium, and the second conveying mechanism conveys the two-page overlapped sheet.

2. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by: enabling a user to arbitrarily adjust the relative position of the sheet-like medium with respect to the two-page overlapped sheet by adjusting an amount of protrusion of the two-page overlapped sheet, 3. The sheet handling device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that including: a single-page insertion mode in which one page of the sheet-like medium is inserted into the two-page overlapped sheet, and a multiple-page insertion mode in which a plurality of pages of the sheet-like medium is inserted into the two-page overlapped sheet in a conveying direction.

4. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized by: enabling the single-page insertion mode and the multiple-page insertion mode to be arbitrarily selected.

5. The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized by: enabling a distance from a leading end of the two-page overlapped sheet to a leading end of the sheet-like medium in a conveying direction of the sheet-like medium to be arbitrarily adjusted by adjusting an amount of protrusion of the two-page overlapped sheet.

6. The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized by: enabling relative positions of the sheet-like media to be arbitrarily adjusted by adjustment of a linear velocity difference between the first conveying mechanism and the second conveying mechanism or control of a timing of merging of the two-page overlapped sheet and the sheet-like media when at least two pages of the sheet-like medium is inserted into the two-page overlapped sheet.

7. The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized by: enabling the relative positions of the sheet-like media to be arbitrarily adjusted in a range in which a trailing end of the sheet-like medium does not protrude from a trailing end of the two-page overlapped sheet by control of a timing of merging of the two-page overlapped sheet and the sheet-like media.

8. The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized by: having a detection mechanism that detects a position of the leading end of the two-page overlapped sheet in the conveying direction of the sheet-like medium, and adjusting the relative positions of the sheet-like media with respect to the two-page overlapped sheet in accordance with a detection result of the detection mechanism.

9. The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized by: the two-page overlapped sheet is conveyed with an end to be joined as a downstream side, and the second conveying mechanism stops and holds the two-page overlapped sheet at a timing at which the end to be joined of the two-page overlapped sheet reaches an arbitrary position downstream of a nip portion of the second conveying mechanism that conveys the two-page overlapped sheet, The first conveying mechanism that conveys the sheet-like medium adjusts the relative position of the sheet-like medium with respect to the two pages of the overlapped sheets by abutting at least one page of the sheet-like medium against the nip portion of the second conveying mechanism.

10. The sheet processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The linear velocity of the first conveying mechanism that conveys the sheet-like medium is greater than the linear velocity of the second conveying mechanism that conveys the two pages of the overlapped sheets, The first conveying mechanism that conveys the sheet-like medium adjusts the relative position of the sheet-like medium with respect to the two pages of the overlapped sheets by abutting at least one page of the sheet-like medium against the nip portion of the second conveying mechanism with the difference in the linear velocities of the first conveying mechanism and the second conveying mechanism.

11. The sheet processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The second conveying mechanism that conveys the two pages of the overlapped sheets controls the timing of the start of the conveyance of the two pages of the overlapped sheets in such a manner that at least one page of the sheet-like medium is held in the nip portion of the second conveying mechanism in a desired relative position of the sheet-like medium with respect to the two pages of the overlapped sheets.

12. The sheet processing device according to claim 3, wherein: When the length of the conveyance direction of the sheet-like medium is below a threshold value, the mode is automatically switched to the multi-page insertion mode.

13. The sheet processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: a rotating member, and a conveying mechanism that conveys the two pages of the overlapped sheets to the rotating member, The rotating member winds the two pages of the overlapped sheets to generate a difference in winding length between the sheets of the two pages of the overlapped sheets and form a space between the two pages of the overlapped sheets.

14. The sheet processing device according to claim 13, wherein: the rotating member has a holding mechanism that holds the two pages of the overlapped sheets, the rotating member winds the two pages of the overlapped sheets held by the holding mechanism and forms a space between the two pages of the overlapped sheets.

15. The sheet processing device according to claim 13, wherein: the rotating member has a holding mechanism that holds the two pages of the overlapped sheets in opposition to the rotating member and sandwiches the two pages of the overlapped sheets between the holding mechanism and the rotating member, the rotating member winds the two pages of the overlapped sheets held by the holding mechanism and forms a space between the two pages of the overlapped sheets.

16. The sheet processing device according to claim 13, wherein: a peeling member is inserted into the space formed between the two pages of the overlapped sheets in the width direction of the two pages of the overlapped sheets, the two pages of the overlapped sheets are peeled by moving the two pages of the overlapped sheets and the peeling member relative to each other in a state where the peeling member is inserted into the space.

17. A lamination handling apparatus characterized by comprising: the sheet processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, and a heat and pressure applying member that can apply heat and pressure to the two pages of the overlapped sheets.

18. An image forming apparatus, characterized by comprising: an image forming portion that forms an image, and the sheet processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

19. An image forming apparatus, characterized by comprising: An image forming section that performs image formation, and The laminating apparatus according to claim 17.

20. An image forming system characterized by Comprising: An image forming apparatus, and The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

21. The image forming system of claim 20, wherein: The sheet processing apparatus is detachably attached to the image forming apparatus.

22. An image forming system, characterized by Comprising: An image forming apparatus, and The laminating apparatus according to claim 17.

23. The image forming system of claim 22, wherein: The laminating apparatus is detachably attached to the image forming apparatus.

Images