Liquid discharge head and liquid discharge apparatus

Abstract

A medium processing device includes a liquid applicator, a post-processing device, a first liquid storage unit, a liquid supply unit, and a first liquid level detector. The liquid applicator includes a liquid applying member that applies a liquid to a medium. The liquid supply section includes: a tip section connected to the liquid applying member; and a base end part immersed in the liquid stored in the first liquid storage part. The first liquid level detector detects the liquid level of the liquid stored in the first liquid storage part. The first liquid level detector includes: a first liquid level detection member; a second liquid level detection member; and a third liquid level detection means. The lower end of the second liquid level detection member and the lower end of the third liquid level detection member are disposed in a substantially same range including the position of the base end portion of the liquid supply portion in the vertical direction. The lower end of the first liquid level detection member is disposed above substantially the same range.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a media processing apparatus and an image forming system having the media processing apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, media processing apparatuses are known for binding sheet-like media into media bundles after an image is formed by an image forming apparatus. Since paper is a well-known example of a sheet-like medium, in the following description, a "sheet bundle" of paper is used as an example of a stack of sheet-like media. From the viewpoint of saving resources and reducing environmental impact, some media processing apparatuses include a crimper capable of performing so-called "crimping" without metal binding pins. Specifically, the crimper clamps the sheet bundle with serrated binding teeth, causing the sheet bundle to deform under pressure.

[0003] As the number of sheets in the paper bundle increases, the binding teeth struggle to engage with the bundle, and sometimes the paper peels off after binding. Therefore, crimping presents some difficulties in maintaining a proper binding state for the sheet bundle. Consequently, in media handling apparatuses for crimping, a liquid application treatment unit is sometimes provided to facilitate the engagement of the binding teeth with the sheet bundle. This liquid application treatment unit applies an amount of liquid corresponding to the number of sheets being bound at the position where the binding teeth contact the sheet bundle (hereinafter referred to as the "binding position") (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0004] In the media processing apparatus of Patent Document 1, a liquid level sensor is provided to control the liquid level by detecting the liquid volume in the storage container, thereby ensuring a constant supply of processing liquid. The liquid level sensor detects the liquid level by measuring the current flowing when a voltage is applied to the electrode pin.

[0005] List of cited references Patent documents [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-8264 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues However, since the liquid level sensor in Patent Document 1 detects the amount of liquid in a container that is different from the storage container that holds the liquid supply roller, it is difficult to say that the liquid level sensor can accurately detect whether the liquid supply roller is immersed in the liquid in the storage container.

[0007] The present invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a technique for appropriately detecting whether the base end of the liquid supply unit is immersed in liquid in a medium processing apparatus that supplies liquid to a medium by a liquid supply mechanism having a liquid supply member that supplies liquid via a liquid supply unit.

[0008] Solution to the problem To address the aforementioned issues, one aspect of this disclosure provides a media processing apparatus, comprising a liquid applicator, a post-processing device, a first liquid storage unit, a liquid supply unit, and a first liquid level detector. The liquid applicator includes a liquid applicator component for applicating liquid to a medium. The post-processing device processes multiple media, including the medium to which the liquid has been applicated by the liquid applicator. The first liquid storage unit stores the liquid applicated to the medium by the liquid applicator. The liquid supply unit includes a front end connected to the liquid applicator component and a base end immersed in the liquid stored in the first liquid storage unit. The first liquid level detector detects the liquid level stored in the first liquid storage unit. The first liquid level detector includes a first liquid level detection component, a second liquid level detection component, and a third liquid level detection component. The lower ends of the second and third liquid level detection components are vertically disposed within a substantially equal range of the position of the base end of the liquid supply unit. The lower end of the first liquid level detection component is disposed above the substantially equal range.

[0009] Effects of the present invention According to this disclosure, in a media processing apparatus that supplies liquid to a medium via a liquid supply mechanism having a liquid supply member that supplies liquid via a liquid supply section, it is possible to appropriately detect whether the base end of the liquid supply section is immersed in liquid. Attached Figure Description

[0010] A more complete understanding of the embodiments of this disclosure and its many accompanying advantages and features can be readily obtained and understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0011] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the image forming system.

[0012] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of the post-processing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0013] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the end binding device viewed from the upstream side of the conveying direction.

[0014] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the end capping device viewed from the side of the liquid applicator.

[0015] [Figure 5] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a schematic diagram showing the construction of the crimping device for the end binding.

[0016] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the needle stapler viewed from the upstream side of the conveying direction.

[0017] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a modified needle binder viewed from the upstream side of the conveying direction.

[0018] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 It is a block diagram representing the hardware configuration used to perform control processes executed in the post-processing unit.

[0019] [ Figure 9 ] Figure 9 This is a flowchart representing the binding process performed by the end-binding device.

[0020] [Figure 10] Figure 10A , Figure 10B and Figure 10C This is a diagram showing the positions of the liquid applicator and the crimper during the binding process by the end-stitcher.

[0021] [Figure 11] Figure 11A and Figure 11B These are diagrams showing the location and structure of the second liquid storage tank in the post-processing unit.

[0022] [ Figure 12 ] Figure 12 The diagram shows the structure in which the second liquid storage tank in the post-processing device is detachably installed to the second liquid storage tank fixing part, and the structure for replenishing liquid to the second liquid storage tank.

[0023] [ Figure 13 ] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the structure of the liquid applicator.

[0024] [Figure 14] Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C and Figure 14D This is a diagram showing the liquid level changes and level detection in the first liquid storage section.

[0025] [Figure 15] Figure 15A and Figure 15B This diagram shows the configuration of the liquid level detection component in the first liquid storage section.

[0026] [Figure 16] Figure 16A , Figure 16B , Figure 16C and Figure 16D This diagram shows whether there is absorbed liquid in the first liquid supply section and the structure of the liquid level detection component.

[0027] [Figure 17] Figure 17A and Figure 17B It is a flowchart for filling supply control.

[0028] [ Figure 18 ] Figure 18 This is a flowchart for additional supply control.

[0029] [ Figure 19 ] Figure 19 This is a flowchart of the liquid supply action selection.

[0030] [ Figure 20 ] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of the steps to confirm a malfunction in the liquid level detection component.

[0031] [Figure 21] Figure 21A and Figure 21B This is a diagram showing the structure of the liquid level detector of the fixed part of the second liquid storage tank.

[0032] [ Figure 22 ] Figure 22 This is a flowchart of the liquid supply control from the second liquid storage tank to the first liquid storage tank.

[0033] [ Figure 23 ] Figure 23 This diagram illustrates the methods for determining whether a liquid is usable and the methods for setting thresholds used for determination.

[0034] [ Figure 24 ] Figure 24 This is a flowchart of the liquid replenishment notification control.

[0035] [ Figure 25 ] Figure 25 This is a flowchart confirming the liquid supply action.

[0036] [Figure 26] Figure 26A and Figure 26B This is a diagram that shows a summary of the liquid discharge action as one of the liquid supply and discharge modes.

[0037] [ Figure 27 ] Figure 27 It is a flowchart representing the control process for liquid discharge.

[0038] [ Figure 28 ] Figure 28 This is a detailed flowchart illustrating the control of liquid discharge.

[0039] [ Figure 29 ] Figure 29 This is an example of an input screen showing the selection of liquid supply mode.

[0040] [ Figure 30 ] Figure 30 This is a schematic diagram of an end-stitcher according to another embodiment.

[0041] [ Figure 31 ] Figure 31 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the liquid applicator pivot assembly.

[0042] [ Figure 32 ] Figure 32 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the liquid applicator pivot assembly.

[0043] [Figure 33] Figure 33A and Figure 33B This is a diagram showing the structure of the posture-changing component.

[0044] [Figure 34] Figure 34A , Figure 34B , Figure 34C , Figure 34D , Figure 34E and Figure 34F This diagram illustrates the action of the posture change component on the posture change lever.

[0045] [Figure 35] Figure 35A , Figure 35B , Figure 35C , Figure 35D , Figure 35E , Figure 35F , Figure 35G and Figure 35HThis diagram illustrates the actions of changing the crimper and liquid applicator to "tilted binding posture" and "tilted applicator posture," respectively.

[0046] [Figure 36] Figure 36A , 36B Figures 36C and 36D represent the actions of changing the crimper and liquid applicator to "parallel binding posture" and "parallel applicator posture," respectively.

[0047] [Figure 37] Figure 37A , Figure 37B , Figure 37C , Figure 37D and Figure 37E This diagram illustrates the action of parallel binding via a crimping device and a liquid applicator.

[0048] [ Figure 38 ] Figure 38 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of the post-processing device in the second embodiment.

[0049] [Figure 39] Figure 39A , 39B 39C is a schematic diagram of the internal tray according to the second embodiment, viewed from the thickness direction of the sheet.

[0050] [ Figure 40 ] Figure 40 This is a schematic diagram of the crimper of the second embodiment viewed from the upstream side of the conveying direction.

[0051] [Figure 41] Figure 41A and Figure 41B This is a schematic diagram of the liquid applicator of the second embodiment viewed from the thickness direction of the sheet.

[0052] [Figure 42] Figure 42A , Figure 42B and Figure 42C It is along Figure 41A A cross-sectional view of the liquid delivery device taken from line XXV-XXV.

[0053] [Figure 43] Figure 43A , Figure 43B and Figure 43C It is along Figure 41A A cross-sectional view of the liquid applicator taken from line XXVI-XXVI.

[0054] [ Figure 44 ] Figure 44This is a block diagram illustrating the hardware structure of the control block of the post-processing device according to the second embodiment.

[0055] [ Figure 45 ] Figure 45 This is a flowchart of the post-processing process of the post-processing apparatus in the second embodiment.

[0056] [ Figure 46 ] Figure 46 It is a diagram showing the overall structure of the image forming system of the variant example.

[0057] [Figure 47] Figure 47A and Figure 47B It is a schematic diagram of a post-processing device including the controller according to the first variant.

[0058] [Figure 48] Figure 48A and Figure 48B This is a schematic diagram of a post-processing device including the controller according to the second variation.

[0059] The accompanying drawings are intended to illustrate embodiments of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting its scope. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the drawings should not be considered to be drawn to scale. Furthermore, throughout several views, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar parts. Detailed Implementation

[0060] In describing the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, specific terminology has been used for clarity. However, the disclosure of this specification is not intended to be limited to the chosen specific terminology, and it should be understood that each particular component includes all technical equivalents that have similar functionality, operate in a similar manner, and achieve similar results. Embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to also include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0061] Hereinafter, a liquid discharge head according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is included in a liquid discharge device, will be described.

[0062] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below, but may include other embodiments besides those described below. To the extent readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the following embodiments may be modified by, for example, adding, altering, or omitting elements. Any aspect having the functionality and effects according to this disclosure is included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0063] Hereinafter, an image forming system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1This is a diagram showing the overall structure of the image forming system 1. The image forming system 1, for example, has the function of forming an image on paper P, which is a sheet medium, and the function of performing post-processing on the paper P with the formed image as image forming post-processing. Figure 1 As shown, the image forming system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 2 and a post-processing apparatus 3, which is a media processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the image forming system 1, the image forming apparatus 2 and the post-processing apparatus 3 operate in conjunction with each other.

[0064] In this embodiment, the medium that is processed in the image forming system 1 is described as "paper". However, the processing medium is not limited to paper. Any medium can be used as long as it is a medium that can form an image by a known image forming process and is the object of folding or binding processing.

[0065] Image forming apparatus 2 forms an image on paper P and discharges the paper P with the formed image to post-processing apparatus 3. Image forming apparatus 2 includes: a receiving tray 211 for receiving paper P; a conveying unit 212 for conveying the paper P received in the receiving tray 211; and an image forming unit 213 for forming an image on the paper P conveyed by the conveying unit 212. Image forming unit 213 can be an inkjet type that forms an image using ink, or an electrophotographic type that forms an image using toner. Image forming apparatus 2 includes a controller 100a that controls various operations of the conveying unit 212 and the image forming unit 213. Image forming apparatus 2 has a general structure; therefore, detailed descriptions of the structure and function of image forming apparatus 2 are omitted.

[0066] Paper is widely known as an example of a sheet-like medium. Furthermore, in the following description, the sheet-like medium being processed will be referred to as "paper P," and a bundle of paper as multiple media will be referred to as "paper bundle Pb."

[0067] The post-processing apparatus 3 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0068] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the internal configuration of the post-processing apparatus 3 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The post-processing apparatus 3 has the function of post-processing paper P on which an image has been formed by the image forming apparatus 2. One example of post-processing in this embodiment is a binding process as a "crimping binding process," which is a process of binding multiple sheets of paper P on which an image has been formed into a paper bundle without using binding pins. Another example of post-processing in this embodiment is a binding process as a "binding process," which uses binding pins to bind multiple sheets of paper P on which an image has been formed into a bundle of paper P (paper bundle). In the following description, the bundle of paper P is sometimes referred to as "paper bundle Pb," which is a medium bundle.

[0069] In this embodiment, the liquid application process in the crimping binding process will be described. However, the liquid application process related to the binding process is similar to the liquid application process in the crimping binding process. In the following description, "binding process" refers to both "crimping binding process" and "needle binding process", and is not limited to the binding method (the method of using a binding needle or the method of performing a pressing deformation process).

[0070] More specifically, the "crimping and binding process" in this embodiment is a process in which pressure is applied to the binding position corresponding to a portion of the paper P in the paper bundle Pb, causing the binding position to deform (pressure deformation), so that the fibers of the overlapping paper P intertwine and bind the paper P together. Through this crimping and binding process, a portion of the overlapping portion of the paper P is bound together, forming a paper bundle Pb. This crimping and binding process will be referred to as "crimping and binding" below. Binding processes (including both crimping and binding and staple binding) that can be performed by the post-processing device 3 include, for example, end binding and saddle binding. End binding is a process of binding the ends of the paper bundle Pb. Saddle binding is a process of binding the center of the paper bundle Pb.

[0071] The post-processing apparatus 3 includes conveyor roller pairs 10-19 (an example of a conveyor), a switching unit 20, and a controller 100b (an example of a control device). The controller 100b controls, for example, the operation of the conveyor roller pairs 10-19 (an example of a conveyor) and the switching unit 20. Details of the controller 100b will be described below. The conveyor roller pairs 10-19 convey paper P supplied from the image forming apparatus 2 within the post-processing apparatus 3. Specifically, the conveyor roller pairs 10-13 convey paper P along a first conveying path Ph1. The conveyor roller pairs 14 and 15 convey paper P along a second conveying path Ph2. The conveyor roller pairs 16-19 convey paper P along a third conveying path Ph3. A perforator 132 is disposed between the conveyor roller pairs 10 and 11. The perforator 132 punches holes in the paper P conveyed by the conveyor roller pairs 10 and 11.

[0072] The first transport path Ph1 is the path from the feed port of the paper P in the image forming apparatus 2 to the first discharge tray 21. The second transport path Ph2 is the path that branches off from the first transport path Ph1 between the transport roller pairs 11 and 14 in the transport direction and extends to the second discharge tray 26 via the inner tray 22. The third transport path Ph3 is the path that branches off from the first transport path Ph1 between the transport roller pairs 11 and 14 in the transport direction and extends to the third discharge tray 30.

[0073] A switching unit 20 is arranged at the branch position of the first conveying path Ph1 and the second conveying path Ph2. The switching unit 20 can switch between the first position and the second position. In the first position, the switching unit 20 guides the paper P through the first conveying path Ph1 to be discharged into the first discharge tray 21. In the second position, the switching unit 20 guides the paper P conveyed in the first conveying path Ph1 to the second conveying path Ph2. When the rear end of the paper P entering the second conveying path Ph2 passes the conveyor roller pair 14, the conveyor roller pair 14 reverses, guiding the paper P to the third conveying path Ph3. The post-processing device 3 also includes multiple sensors for detecting the position of the paper P in the first conveying path Ph1, the second conveying path Ph2, and the third conveying path Ph3. Each of the multiple sensors... Figure 2 The middle part is indicated by a black triangle.

[0074] The post-processing device 3 includes a first discharge tray 21. Paper P discharged from the first transport path Ph1 is placed in the first discharge tray 21. Unbound paper P from the paper P supplied by the image forming device 2 is discharged into the first discharge tray 21.

[0075] The post-processing apparatus 3 also includes an inner tray 22 serving as a carrier tray, end baffles 23, side baffles 24L and 24R, an end-stitcher 25, a needle-stitcher 155, and a second discharge tray 26. The inner tray 22, end baffles 23, side baffles 24L and 24R, end-stitcher 25, and needle-stitcher 155 end-stitch a bundle Pb of multiple sheets of paper P conveyed from the second transport path Ph2 to the inner tray 22. The end-stitched bundle Pb is discharged from the paper P supplied from the image forming apparatus 2 to the second discharge tray 26.

[0076] The term "end-binding process" as used herein refers to the binding process performed by the end-binding device 25 and the needle-binding device 155. "End-binding process" includes, but is not limited to, "parallel binding process," "oblique binding process," and "longitudinal binding process." "Parallel binding process" is the process of binding the paper bundle Pb along one side parallel to the main scanning direction. "Oblique binding process" is the process of binding the corner of the paper bundle Pb. "Longitudinal binding process" is the process of binding the paper bundle Pb along one side parallel to the transport direction.

[0077] In the following description, the direction in which paper P is conveyed from the conveyor roller pair 15 to the end baffle 23 is defined as the "conveyor direction". In other words, the "conveyor direction" here corresponds to the direction in which paper P output from the image forming apparatus 2 moves towards the second discharge tray 26 via, for example, the conveyor roller pair 10 in a direction different from the direction described above. The direction orthogonal to the conveyor direction and the thickness direction of paper P is defined as the "main scanning direction" or the "width direction of paper P".

[0078] Paper P, conveyed sequentially in the second conveying path Ph2, is temporarily placed on the inner tray 22, which serves as a placement tray. End baffles 23 align the position of the paper P or paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 in the conveying direction. Side baffles 24L and 24R align the position of the paper P or paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 in the main scanning direction. End staplers 25 and needle staplers 155 staple the ends of the paper bundle Pb aligned by the end baffles 23 and side baffles 24L and 24R. Then, the conveyor roller pair 15 discharges the end-stapled paper bundle Pb to the second discharge tray 26.

[0079] The post-processing unit 3 further includes: a saddle-shaped binding end baffle 27, a saddle-shaped binder 28, a folding plate 29, and a third discharge tray 30. The saddle-shaped binding end baffle 27, the saddle-shaped binder 28, and the folding plate 29 perform saddle-shaped binding on the paper bundle Pb of the paper P conveyed in the third conveying path Ph3. The paper bundle Pb, after being saddle-shaped bound, is discharged from the paper P supplied by the image forming apparatus 2 to the third discharge tray 30.

[0080] The saddle-shaped binding end baffle 27 aligns the paper bundles P, which are sequentially conveyed in the third conveying path Ph3, in the direction of their conveying. The saddle-shaped binding end baffle 27 can move between a binding position where the center of the paper bundle Pb faces the saddle-shaped binder 28 and a folding position where the center of the paper bundle Pb faces the folding board 29. At the binding position, the saddle-shaped binder 28 binds the center of the paper bundle Pb aligned by the saddle-shaped binding end baffle 27. At the folding position, the folding board 29 folds the paper bundle Pb placed on the saddle-shaped binding end baffle 27, causing the conveyor roller pair 18 to clamp the paper bundle Pb. The conveyor roller pairs 18 and 19 discharge the saddle-bound paper bundle Pb into the third discharge tray 30.

[0081] Additionally, the post-processing device 3 includes a liquid supply component 501 (part of the liquid supply unit), a liquid supply component 50 (part of the liquid supply unit), and a first liquid storage tank 44 (first liquid storage section) at the end binding unit 25. Figure 3 The first liquid storage tank 44 and the liquid supply component 50 are omitted in the original text. The post-processing device 3, as a structure for replenishing liquid to the first liquid storage tank 44, includes a liquid supply path 45 (part of a liquid supply unit), a liquid supply pump 46 (part of a liquid supply unit), a second liquid storage tank 47 (part of a second liquid storage section), and a second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (part of the second liquid storage section). Liquid stored in the second liquid storage tank 47 is supplied to the first liquid storage tank 44 via the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61, the liquid supply pump 46, and the liquid supply path 45.

[0082] The end binding device 25 will now be described in detail.

[0083] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the upstream side of the conveying direction of the end-stitcher 25. The end-stitcher 25 performs... Figure 2 The liquid imparting treatment and crimping treatment shown are illustrated. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the end-capsulator 25 viewed from the side of the liquid applicator 31 in the main scanning direction. (See diagram below.) Figure 3 As shown, the end-binding device 25 includes a liquid applicator 31 and a crimper 32. The liquid applicator 31 performs a liquid applicator on the paper P. The crimper 32 functions as a post-processing device, performing a crimping process. The liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32 are positioned downstream of the inner tray 22 in the transport direction and are adjacent to each other in the main scanning direction.

[0084] like Figure 4 As shown, the liquid applicator 31 applies liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44 to the paper P or paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22. Hereinafter, the action of the liquid applicator 31 applying liquid to the paper P or paper bundle Pb, and the action of the liquid applicator 31 applying liquid, are referred to as "liquid application". The liquid application action of the liquid applicator 31 accompanied by control processing is referred to as "liquid application processing".

[0085] More specifically, the liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44 for "liquid endowment" is primarily composed of a liquid hydroxide compound with the chemical formula H₂O. The liquid hydroxide compound is at any temperature. For example, the liquid hydroxide compound can be so-called warm or hot water. The liquid hydroxide compound is not limited to pure water. The liquid hydroxide compound can be purified water or may contain ionized salts. The metal ion content ranges from so-called soft water to very hard water. In other words, the liquid hydroxide compound is at any hardness.

[0086] The liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44 may include additives in addition to the main components. The liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44 may include residual chlorine used as tap water. Preferably, for example, the liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44 may include colorants, penetrants, pH adjusters, preservatives such as phenoxyethanol, drying inhibitors such as glycerin, or combinations thereof as additives. Since water is used as a component in inkjet printer inks or water-based pen inks, this water or ink can be used as a "liquid imparter".

[0087] Water is not limited to the specific examples mentioned above. Water can be water in a broad sense, such as hypochlorous acid solution or diluted ethanol solution used for disinfection. However, since tap water is readily available and manageable, it can be simply used for crimping binding purposes. The liquids with water as the main component, as exemplified above, improve the binding strength of the paper bundle Pb compared to liquids without water as the main component.

[0088] The structure of the liquid applicator 31 will be described.

[0089] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the liquid applicator 31 can move together with the crimper 32 in the main scanning direction by the driving force transmitted from the first binding processing unit moving motor 55. The liquid applicator 31 includes a lower pressure plate 33, an upper pressure plate 34, which serves as a mounting stage for paper P or paper bundle Pb, and a liquid applicator moving mechanism 35. The various components of the liquid applicator 31 (lower pressure plate 33, upper pressure plate 34, liquid applicator moving mechanism 35, and liquid applicator moving motor 42) are held by the liquid applicator frame 31a and the base 48.

[0090] A liquid supply shaft 562 equipped with a drive transmission gear 562a is fixed to the bottom surface of a liquid supply frame 31a that holds the various components of the liquid supply device 31. The liquid supply shaft 562 and the drive transmission gear 562a are held in a manner that allows them to rotate in both directions on a base 48 on which the liquid supply frame 31a is disposed. The drive transmission gear 562a meshes with the output gear 563a of the liquid supply device pivot motor 563. By the driving force transmitted from the liquid supply device pivot motor 563 to the liquid supply shaft 562 via the output gear 563a and the drive transmission gear 562a, the liquid supply device 31 can rotate in both directions on the base 48 about the liquid supply shaft 562.

[0091] The lower pressure plate 33 and the upper pressure plate 34 are disposed downstream of the inner tray 22 in the conveying direction. The lower pressure plate 33 supports the paper P or paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 from below. The lower pressure plate 33 is disposed on the lower pressure plate bracket 331. The upper pressure plate 34 is movable in the thickness direction of the paper P or paper bundle Pb at a position opposite to the paper P or paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22. In other words, when the paper P or paper bundle Pb is placed on the inner tray 22 and sandwiched between the lower pressure plate 33 and the upper pressure plate 34, the lower pressure plate 33 and the upper pressure plate 34 are arranged opposite each other in the thickness direction of the paper P or paper bundle Pb. In the following description, the thickness direction of the paper P or paper bundle Pb is sometimes simply referred to as the "thickness direction". Additionally, on the upper pressure plate 34, at the position facing the liquid supply member 501, there is a through hole 34a extending in the thickness direction. The liquid supply member 501 is held by a holder 37 mounted on the substrate 40. The liquid supply member 501 is one end of the liquid supply member 50 (liquid absorber) described later, corresponding to the front end.

[0092] The liquid applicator moving mechanism 35 moves the upper pressure plate 34, the base plate 40, the holder 37, the liquid applicator 501, the liquid supply member 50, and the first liquid storage tank 44 in the thickness direction of the paper P or the paper bundle Pb. According to this embodiment, the liquid applicator moving mechanism 35 utilizes a single liquid applicator moving motor 42 to move the upper pressure plate 34, the base plate 40, the holder 37, the liquid applicator 501, the liquid supply member 50, and the first liquid storage tank 44 in a mutually linked manner. The liquid applicator moving mechanism 35 includes, for example, the liquid applicator moving motor 42, a trapezoidal screw 38, a nut 39, a base plate 40, columnar members 41a and 41b, and helical springs 42a and 42b.

[0093] The liquid applicator moving motor 42 generates driving force to move the upper pressure plate 34, base plate 40, retainer 37, liquid applicator component 501, liquid supply component 50, and first liquid storage tank 44. A trapezoidal screw 38 extends along the thickness direction of the paper P or paper bundle Pb and is mounted to the liquid applicator frame 31a in a forward and reverse rotatable manner. The trapezoidal screw 38 is connected to the output shaft of the liquid applicator moving motor 42 via, for example, pulleys and a belt. A nut 39 engages with the trapezoidal screw 38. The trapezoidal screw 38 rotates forward and reverse by the driving force transmitted from the liquid applicator moving motor 42. The rotation of the trapezoidal screw 38 causes the nut 39 to reciprocate on the trapezoidal thread 38.

[0094] The substrate 40 is positioned relative to the upper pressure plate 34. The substrate 40 holds the liquid supply component 501 in a state where its front end protrudes from the upper pressure plate 34. The substrate 40 is connected to the trapezoidal screw 38 via a nut 39, allowing the substrate 40 to reciprocate along the trapezoidal screw 38 as it rotates in both the forward and reverse directions. The vertical position of the substrate 40 is determined by a motion sensor 40a (see reference). Figure 8 ) detection.

[0095] Columnar members 41a and 41b protrude from the substrate 40 to the upper pressure plate 34 around the front end of the liquid supply member 501. Columnar members 41a and 41b are movable relative to the substrate 40 in the thickness direction. Columnar members 41a and 41b hold the upper pressure plate 34 at their respective ends, which are closer to the lower pressure plate 33 than the other ends of columnar members 41a and 41b. Stops are provided at the opposite ends of columnar members 41a and 41b on the opposite side closer to the lower pressure plate 33 to prevent columnar members 41a and 41b from detaching from the substrate 40. Helical springs 42a and 42b are respectively mounted around columnar members 41a and 41b between the substrate 40 and the upper pressure plate 34. Helical springs 42a and 42b push downwards relative to the substrate 40 against the upper pressure plate 34 and columnar members 41a and 41b.

[0096] The liquid applicator 31 applies liquid to the paper P or paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22. Specifically, the liquid applicator 31 contacts the liquid applicator 501 with the paper P or paper bundle Pb, applying liquid to at least one sheet of paper P in the paper bundle Pb.

[0097] The liquid applicator 31 includes a first liquid level sensor 43 (as a first liquid detector), a first liquid storage tank 44, a liquid applicator 501, a liquid supply unit 50, and a holder 37. The first liquid storage tank 44 stores liquid for applicating to paper P or paper bundle Pb. The amount of liquid in the first liquid storage tank 44 is detected by the first liquid level sensor 43. The first liquid storage tank 44 is connected to the substrate 40 via the holder 37.

[0098] The liquid delivery component 501 delivers liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44 to the paper P or paper bundle Pb. The liquid delivery component 501, the liquid supply component 50 (liquid absorber) disposed in close contact with the liquid delivery component 501, and the first liquid storage tank 44 are held in a retainer 37. The retainer 37 is held on the substrate 40. One end of the liquid supply component 50 is connected to the liquid delivery component 501, and the other end is immersed in the liquid in the first liquid storage tank 44. In other words, the other end of the liquid supply component 50 is equivalent to drawing liquid and supplying it to the base end portion 502 of the liquid delivery component 501. The liquid delivery component 501 and the liquid supply component 50 are made of a material with high liquid absorption (sponge, fiber, etc.), such as an elastic resin composed of continuous bubbles. However, there is no particular limitation on the type of liquid-giving component 501 and liquid-supplying component 50, as long as at least one of them is made of a material that can absorb and retain liquid, and has the property of being able to collapse under the pressure when at least one of them comes into contact with the paper P. In other words, any material that can absorb or draw liquid through capillary action is acceptable.

[0099] Therefore, when the other end (base end 502) of the liquid supply component 50 is immersed in the liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44, the liquid supply component 50 draws in the liquid through capillary action. In other words, the liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44 is drawn from the base end 502 of the liquid supply component 50, and the drawn liquid is supplied to the liquid delivery component 501 connected to the front end via the liquid supply component 50. As a result, the liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44 is drawn into the liquid delivery component 501, which is in close contact with one end of the liquid supply component 50, and therefore, the liquid level (the amount of stored liquid) in the first liquid storage tank 44 detected by the first liquid level sensor 43 decreases. As a result, liquid is supplied from the second liquid storage tank 47 to the first liquid storage tank 44 by the liquid supply pump 46.

[0100] In the above description, the liquid supply component 50 and the liquid application component 510 were explained as separate units. Therefore, the liquid application component 501 can be installed on the liquid supply component 50. Thus, for example, if the liquid application component 501 deforms due to repeated liquid application operations and becomes unable to apply an appropriate amount of liquid to the paper P or paper bundle Pb, only the liquid application component 501 can be replaced. This configuration helps reduce the user's operating costs.

[0101] In the above description, the liquid supply component 50 and the liquid dispensing component 501 were described as separate units. However, the liquid supply component 50 and the liquid dispensing component 501 can also be integrally formed from a material with the same properties (e.g., a material with high liquid absorption rate). In other words, the liquid dispensing component 501 can be part of the liquid supply component 50. In this case, liquid can be supplied more smoothly from the liquid supply component 50 to the liquid dispensing component 501 through capillary action, thereby reducing costs.

[0102] At this time, the liquid supply component 501 draws liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44. As a result, the liquid level in the first liquid storage tank 44 temporarily decreases to a level below the reference level described later. In response to this reduction in liquid in the first liquid storage tank 44, a series of liquid supply actions are performed to supply liquid from the second liquid storage tank 47 to the first liquid storage tank 44. This series of liquid supply actions mainly occurs when the post-processing device 3 is started, or when the binding process accompanying the liquid supply in the post-processing device 3 begins, and is equivalent to the liquid supply action that makes the liquid supply of the liquid supply component 501 executable. In the following description, this liquid supply action is referred to as the "filling supply action." Details of the filling supply action will be described later.

[0103] A second liquid storage tank 47 is provided in the end-stitcher 25 or the post-processing device 3. The second liquid storage tank 47 is detachably mounted to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (part of the second liquid storage part) provided in the end-stitcher 25 or the post-processing device 3 (see reference). Figure 12 The second liquid storage tank 47 is fixed (set) in a predetermined posture to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (a part of the second liquid storage part). As a result, the liquid stored in the second liquid storage tank 47 can be supplied to the first liquid storage tank 44.

[0104] The operation of supplying liquid from the second liquid storage tank 47 to the first liquid storage tank 44 via the liquid supply pump 46 is performed based on the decrease in the amount (level) of liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44. Liquid is consumed through liquid supply performed by the liquid supply device 31, thereby reducing the amount (level) of liquid stored in the first liquid storage tank 44. In other words, the operation of supplying liquid from the second liquid storage tank 47 to the first liquid storage tank 44 is equivalent to a liquid supply operation accompanied by the execution of the liquid supply operation performed by the liquid supply device 31.

[0105] This liquid supply action is equivalent to supplying liquid to the first liquid storage tank 44 to replenish the liquid whenever the liquid level (liquid level) of the first liquid storage tank 44 is lower than the reference level described later. In the following description, this liquid supply action will be referred to as the "additional supply action". Details about the additional supply action will be described later.

[0106] When the second liquid storage tank 47 is installed in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61, a certain amount of liquid from the second liquid storage tank 47 is filled into the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61. An installation detection sensor 51 (as an installation detector) is provided in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (see reference). Figure 12 When the detection sensor 51 detects the setting state of the second liquid storage tank 47 relative to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (refer to...), Figure 12 The signal indicating the setting state is sent to the controller 100b, which will be described later. Therefore, the following will describe how the controller 100b detects whether the second liquid storage tank 47 is installed in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61.

[0107] The first liquid storage tank 44 and the second liquid storage tank 47 are connected via a liquid supply path 45. A liquid supply pump 46 is disposed near the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61. By driving the liquid supply pump 46, the liquid stored in the second liquid storage tank 47 is supplied (replenished) from the second liquid storage tank 47 to the first liquid storage tank 44 via the liquid supply path 45. Therefore, the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is a component of the liquid supply device that performs the liquid supply operation of supplying liquid from the second liquid storage tank 47 to the first liquid storage tank 44. The liquid supply path 45 is made of flexible material. With this structure, even if the first liquid storage tank 44 is moved by the liquid supply moving mechanism 35, liquid can still be supplied from the second liquid storage tank 47 to the first liquid storage tank 44.

[0108] Based on the detection result of the first liquid level sensor 43, the controller 100b can control the liquid supply from the second liquid storage tank 47 to the first liquid storage tank 44. In other words, the controller 100b, described later, determines whether the liquid level (liquid volume) of the first liquid storage tank 44 is sufficient based on the detection result of the first liquid level sensor 43. The controller 100b then controls the operating speed and timing of the liquid supply pump 46 according to the determined liquid level (liquid volume) of the first liquid storage tank 44. Thus, the controller 100b can adjust the amount of liquid supplied to the first liquid storage tank 44, maintaining the liquid level (liquid volume) of the first liquid storage tank 44 at a certain level.

[0109] The structure of the crimper 32 will be described below.

[0110] like Figure 3As shown, the crimping device 32, as a post-processing unit, applies pressure and deforms at least a portion (liquid application position) of the paper bundle Pb, which has been supplied with liquid by the liquid applicator 31, using serrated upper crimping teeth 32a and lower crimping teeth 32b, thereby crimping and binding the paper bundle Pb together. In other words, the crimping device 32 can bind the paper bundle Pb without using binding pins. Components of the crimping device 32, such as the upper crimping teeth 32a and lower crimping teeth 32b, are provided on the crimping frame 32c. In the following description, this method of binding the paper bundle Pb by deforming it by pressing it at a predetermined position is sometimes referred to as "crimping binding". In other words, the crimping device 32 applies pressure and binds the paper bundle Pb, or performs crimping binding on the paper bundle Pb. The crimping binding operation of the crimping device 32 accompanied by control processing is referred to as "crimping binding processing".

[0111] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a schematic diagram showing the construction of the crimper 32. For example... Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the crimping device 32 includes an upper crimping tooth 32a and a lower crimping tooth 32b. The upper crimping tooth 32a and the lower crimping tooth 32b are arranged opposite to each other in the thickness direction of the paper bundle Pb, clamping the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22. The upper crimping tooth 32a and the lower crimping tooth 32b have corresponding serrated surfaces facing each other. The serrated surfaces of the upper crimping tooth 32a and the lower crimping tooth 32b are composed of alternating concave and convex portions. The concave and convex portions of the upper crimping tooth 32a are offset from the concave and convex portions of the lower crimping tooth 32b, such that the upper crimping tooth 32a engages with the lower crimping tooth 32b. The upper crimping tooth 32a and the lower crimping tooth 32b are connected by... Figure 8 The contact-separation motors 32d are shown to come into contact / separate with each other due to the driving force.

[0112] During the process of feeding paper P of paper bundle Pb to inner tray 22, such as Figure 5A As shown, the upper pressure tooth 32a and the lower pressure tooth 32b separate. When all the paper P of the paper bundle Pb is placed on the inner tray 22, the driving force of the contact-separation motor 32d, as shown... Figure 5B As shown, the upper pressing tooth 32a and the lower pressing tooth 32b engage, and the paper bundle Pb is deformed by pressure in the thickness direction. Thus, the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 is pressed. The pressed paper bundle Pb is then discharged to the second discharge tray 26 via the conveyor roller pair 15.

[0113] The structure of the crimping device 32, which serves as the crimping mechanism, is not limited to the structure of the moving mechanism illustrated in this embodiment. It can be any structure where the upper crimping tooth 32a and the lower crimping tooth 32b mesh. For example, the upper crimping tooth 32a and the lower crimping tooth 32b can be brought into contact or separated by a linkage mechanism and a drive source that rotates only forward or in both directions (e.g., the crimping mechanism disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6057167). Alternatively, a linear motion method can be used: by converting the forward and reverse rotational motion of the drive source into a linear reciprocating motion using a screw assembly, the upper crimping tooth 32a and the lower crimping tooth 32b can be brought into contact and separated in a linear manner.

[0114] like Figure 3 As shown, the end-stitcher 25 includes an end-stitcher moving mechanism 57. The end-stitcher moving mechanism 57 moves the end-stitcher 25 (i.e., the liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32) in the main scanning direction along the downstream end of the paper P placed on the inner tray 22 in the transport direction. The end-stitcher moving mechanism 57 includes, for example, a base 48, a guide shaft 49, an end-stitcher moving motor 55, a drive force transmission mechanism 551 that transmits the driving force of the end-stitcher moving motor 55 to the base 48, and a standby position sensor 540 (see reference). Figure 8 ).

[0115] The liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32 are mounted adjacent to each other in the main scanning direction on the base 48. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the guide shaft 49 is held upstream of the binding mechanism base 116 in the transport direction by a plurality of guide shaft seats 49a and 49b located at both ends in the main scanning direction. The guide shaft 49 extends along the main scanning direction on the binding mechanism base 116 and movably holds the base 48 in the main scanning direction. Figure 4 As shown, the guide rail 115 is disposed on the downstream side of the binding mechanism base 116 in the transport direction and extends along the main scanning direction. The guide rail 115 includes a mating portion 115a that engages with the mating portion 48a of the base 48 in the main scanning direction. In other words, the base 48 is movably held on the binding mechanism base 116 in the main scanning direction by the guide shaft 49 and the guide rail 115.

[0116] The end-stitcher moving motor 55 generates a driving force that moves the end-stitcher 25. The driving force transmission mechanism 551 transmits the driving force of the end-stitcher moving motor 55 to the base 48 via pulleys 551a and 551b, a timing belt 551c, and a fastening part 48b that secures the base 48 and the timing belt 551c. As a result, the liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32, integrated via the base 48, move along the guide shaft 49 in the main scanning direction.

[0117] In this embodiment, the end-stitching device moving motor 55 is, for example, a servo motor. Whenever the end-stitching device 25 moves, it can stop at the target position (for example, the first binding position B1 or the second binding position B2 described later) without returning the end-stitching device 25 to the origin position (e.g., the standby position HP described later).

[0118] The post-processing unit 3 also includes a standby position sensor 540 and an encoder sensor 541. The standby position sensor 540 is, for example, a light-shielding optical sensor (see reference). Figure 8 The end-capsulator 25 is detected to have reached the standby position HP (refer to...). Figure 10A An encoder sensor 541 is mounted on the output shaft of the end-stitcher moving motor 55 (see reference). Figure 8 The controller 100b, described later, detects that the end-stitcher 25 has reached the standby position HP based on the detection result of the standby position sensor 540. In addition, the controller 100b counts the pulse signals output from the encoder sensor 541 to determine the current position of the end-stitcher 25 as it moves from the standby position HP.

[0119] However, the specific method of preventing the end-stitcher 25 from returning to the standby position HP and stopping it at the target position is not limited to the examples described above. As another example, the post-processing device 3 may also be equipped with a sensor that detects when the end-stitcher 25 reaches a preset target position.

[0120] like Figure 3 As shown, a crimping shaft 54 ​​is fixed to the bottom surface of a crimping frame 32c that holds the various components of the crimping device 32. This crimping shaft 54 ​​includes a drive transmission gear 54a. The crimping shaft 54 ​​and the drive transmission gear 54a are held by a base 48 provided on the crimping frame 32c, allowing them to rotate in both forward and reverse directions. The drive transmission gear 54a meshes with the output gear 56a of a crimping rotary motor 56. The crimping device 32 can rotate about the crimping shaft 54 ​​in both forward and reverse directions on the base 48 by the driving force transmitted from the crimping rotary motor 56 to the crimping shaft 54 ​​via the output gear 56a and the drive transmission gear 54a.

[0121] In the above description, the end-attachment 25 is a structure in which the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 are integrated and move along the guide shaft 49. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above structure. For example, the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 may also be structures in which they move independently.

[0122] The needle stapler 155 is described below.

[0123] Specifically, the details of a needle binder 155 having the function of performing binding processing are described below. Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of the needle binder 155 as viewed from the upstream side in the transport direction. The needle binder 155 includes a needle binder 62 for binding the paper bundle Pb with needles. The needle binder 62 is disposed downstream in the transport direction of the inner tray 22 and is spaced apart from the end binder 25 in the main scanning direction.

[0124] The needle binder 62, as a post-processing device, has a structure for performing a so-called "needle binding" (i.e., needle binding processing) using needle-bound paper bundles Pb. Specifically, the needle binder 62 has Figure 8 The needle binder drive motor 62d is shown. The needle binder drive motor 62d drives the needle binder 62a. Driven by the force of the needle binder drive motor 62d, the needles loaded in the needle binder 62a pass through the paper bundle Pb, and the needle binder 62a binds the paper bundle Pb. Since the needle binder 62 has a known construction, its detailed description will be omitted unless otherwise required.

[0125] like Figure 6 As shown, the needle binder 155 includes a needle binder moving mechanism 77. The needle binder moving mechanism 77 moves the needle binder 155 in the main scanning direction along the downstream end of the paper P or paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 in the transport direction. The needle binder moving mechanism 77 includes, for example, a base 78, a guide shaft 49, a needle binder moving motor 80, and a drive force transmission mechanism 81. The drive force transmission mechanism 81 transmits the driving force of the needle binder moving motor 80 to the base 78 via pulleys 81a and 81b, a timing belt 81c, and a fastening part 78a that fastens the base 78 and the timing belt 81c. A needle binder shaft 83 with a drive transmission gear 83a is fixed to the bottom surface of the needle binder frame 62b that holds the various parts of the needle binder 62.

[0126] The needle binder shaft 83 and drive transmission gear 83a are held by a base 78 equipped with a needle binder frame 62b, allowing rotation in both forward and reverse directions. The drive transmission gear 83a meshes with the output gear 82a of the needle binder rotary motor 82. The needle binder 62 is able to rotate about the needle binder shaft 83 on the base 78 in both forward and reverse directions by the driving force transmitted from the needle binder rotary motor 82 via the output gear 82a and drive transmission gear 83a.

[0127] The end-stitcher 25 and the needle-stitcher 155 are supported by a common guide shaft 49. That is, the end-stitcher moving mechanism 57 and the needle-stitcher moving mechanism 77 move the end-stitcher 25 and the needle-stitcher 155 along the common guide shaft 49 in the main scanning direction. The end-stitcher moving mechanism 57 and the needle-stitcher moving mechanism 77 enable the end-stitcher 25 and the needle-stitcher 155 to move independently.

[0128] A variation of the needle stapler 155 will be described.

[0129] Figure 7 This refers to a needle binder 155', which is a variant of the needle binder 155. More specifically, Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the needle binder 155' viewed from the upstream side in the conveying direction. The difference between needle binder 155' and needle binder 155 is that, in addition to the needle binder 62, it also includes a second liquid applicator 612. (As shown...) Figure 7 As shown, the needle stapler 155' includes a second liquid applicator 612 and a needle stapler 62. The second liquid applicator 612 and the needle stapler 62 are disposed downstream of the inner tray 22 in the transport direction and are adjacent to each other in the main scanning direction.

[0130] The second liquid applicator 612 performs "liquid applicator" by applicating liquid stored in the third liquid storage tank 73 to the paper P or paper bundle Pb supported on the inner tray 22. A defined area containing the location where liquid is applicated by the second liquid applicator 612 corresponds to a predetermined binding position where the needle stapler 62 performs needle staples. Figure 7 As shown, the second liquid applicator 612 includes a second lower pressure plate 63, a second upper pressure plate 64, a second liquid applicator moving mechanism 65, and a second liquid applicator mechanism 66. The second liquid applicator moving mechanism 65 includes, for example, a second liquid applicator moving motor 67, a second trapezoidal screw 68, a second nut 69, a second base plate 70, second columnar components 711a and 711b, and second helical springs 721a and 721b.

[0131] The second liquid supply mechanism 66 includes a third liquid storage tank 73, a second liquid supply component 75, a second liquid supply component 74, and a second connector 76. Furthermore, the second liquid supply mechanism 66 is related to... Figure 3 , Figure 4 The liquid supply mechanism (first liquid storage tank 44, liquid supply component 50, liquid supply component 501, and retainer 37) of the liquid supply device 31 shown has the same structure, so repeated descriptions are omitted unless there is a special need. Figure 7 The structure of the needle binder 62 shown is similar to Figure 6 The structure of the needle stapler 62 shown is the same, therefore, detailed descriptions will be omitted below unless otherwise specified.

[0132] In addition, due to Figure 3 The second liquid applicator 612 and the liquid applicator 31 shown share a common rotation mechanism; therefore, repeated descriptions are omitted unless specifically required. The rotation mechanism of the second liquid applicator 612 includes a liquid applicator rotary motor 563, an output gear 563a, a drive transmission gear 562a, and a liquid applicator shaft 562.

[0133] In needle binding process Figure 7 The needle binder 155' shown applies a liquid coating to paper P, loosening and softening the binding position of paper P, making it easier for the needle to pass through the paper bundle Pb. Therefore, compared to binding without applying liquid, the number of sheets bound per paper bundle Pb can be increased.

[0134] The control block of the post-processing device 3 will be described below.

[0135] The following is for reference Figure 8 The control block of the post-processing device 3 will be described. Figure 8 This indicates the hardware configuration used to perform the control processing executed in post-processing unit 3. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the post-processing device 3 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 101, random access memory (RAM) 102, read-only memory (ROM) 103, hard disk drive (HDD) 104, and interface (I / F) 105. The CPU 101, RAM 102, ROM 103, HDD 104, and I / F 105 are interconnected via a common bus 109.

[0136] CPU 101 is the arithmetic unit that controls the overall operation of post-processing device 3. RAM 102 is a volatile storage medium that allows for high-speed data reading and writing. CPU 101 uses RAM 102 as its working area for data processing. ROM 103 is a read-only non-volatile storage medium that stores programs such as firmware. HDD 104 is a non-volatile storage medium that allows for data reading and writing and has a relatively large storage capacity. HDD 104 stores, for example, the operating system (OS), various control programs, and application programs.

[0137] Through the computing functions of the CPU 101, the post-processing device 3 processes, for example, control programs stored in the ROM 103 and information processing programs (application programs) loaded from storage media such as the HDD 104 into the RAM 102. This processing constitutes a software controller comprising various functional modules of the post-processing device 3. This configured software controller collaborates with the hardware resources of the post-processing device 3 to construct functional blocks that implement the functions of the post-processing device 3. That is, the CPU 101, RAM 102, ROM 103, HDD 104, and I / F 105 constitute at least a part of the controller 100b, which is a control device for controlling the operation of the post-processing device 3.

[0138] I / F 105 is an interface that connects the conveyor roller pairs 10, 11, 14, 15, switching component 20, side baffles 24L, 24R, contact-separation motor 32d, crimper rotary motor 56, liquid applicator moving motor 42, liquid applicator rotary motor 563, end-stitcher moving motor 55, needle-stitcher drive motor 62d, needle-stitcher rotary motor 82, needle-stitcher moving motor 80, liquid supply pump 46, movement sensor 40a, first liquid level sensor 43, second liquid level detector 58 as a second liquid volume detector, setting detection sensor 51, standby position sensor 540, encoder sensor 541, and operation panel 110 to the common bus 109.

[0139] The controller 100b controls the operation of the conveyor rollers 10, 11, 14, and 15, the switching unit 20, the side baffles 24L and 24R, the contact-separation motor 32d, the crimper rotary motor 56, the liquid applicator moving motor 42, the liquid applicator rotary motor 563, the end-stitching device moving motor 55, the needle-stitching device drive motor 62d, the needle-stitching device rotary motor 82, the needle-stitching device moving motor 80, and the liquid supply pump 46 via the I / F 105. The controller 100b acquires detection results from the motion sensor 40a, the first liquid level sensor 43, the second liquid level detector 58, the setting detection sensor 51, the standby position sensor 540, and the encoder sensor 541. Figure 8 The diagram only shows the structures related to the end-stitching device 25 and the needle-stitching device 155, but the structures related to the saddle-stitching device 28 are also controlled by the controller 100b.

[0140] like Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus 2 includes an operation panel 110. The operation panel 110 includes an operating device for receiving instructions from a user and a display used as a notification device to inform the user. The operating device includes, for example, hard keys and a touchscreen overlaid on the display. The operation panel 110 obtains information from the user through the operating device and provides information to the user through the display. Specific examples of the notification device are not limited to a display; they could be, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED) lamp or a speaker. The post-processing apparatus 3 may also have the same operation panel 110 as the operation panel 110 of the image forming apparatus 2 described above.

[0141] As described above, the post-processing device 3 utilizes hardware resources included in the controller 100b to perform operation control functions related to liquid imparting through software (control program) executed by the CPU 101.

[0142] Alternatively, the liquid application performed in the post-processing device 3 can be performed by using only the needle stapler 62 to form the needle stapler 155, and then using the liquid applicator 31 of the end stapler 25 for liquid application. Conversely, the end stapler 25 can be equipped only with the crimper 32, and the second liquid applicator 612 can be used for liquid application. That is, the post-processing device 3 can also be configured such that, regardless of the type of binding process, liquid application is performed solely by either the liquid applicator 31 or the second liquid applicator 612.

[0143] Furthermore, in the above description, the needle stapler 155' is a structure in which the needle stapler 62 and the second liquid applicator 612 are integrated and move along the guide shaft 49. However, the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the above configuration. For example, the needle stapler 62 and the second liquid applicator 612 may also be structures that move independently.

[0144] The following is an explanation of the binding process.

[0145] Specifically, the following is a description of the binding process performed by the end-stitcher 25 included in the post-processing device 3. Figure 9 This is a flowchart of a single binding process performed by the end-binding device 25. Figure 10A , Figure 10B as well as Figure 10C This diagram shows the position of the end-stitching device 25 (liquid applicator 31, crimper 32) during point-binding. Figure 10A , Figure 10B as well as Figure 10C The changes in the posture of the liquid applicator 31 and the crimping device 32 are omitted in the following description. The liquid application position of the liquid applicator 31 to the paper P or paper bundle Pb corresponds to the binding position of the paper bundle Pb crimped by the crimping device 32. Therefore, in the following description, the liquid application position and the binding position are marked with the same reference numerals (B1 or B2).

[0146] For example, when the controller 100b receives an instruction from the image forming apparatus 2 to perform binding processing, the controller 100b begins... Figure 9 The binding process is shown below. In the following description, the instructions that perform the binding process are sometimes referred to as "binding commands".

[0147] The binding instructions include, for example, the type of paper P (i.e., information such as material and thickness that affect the diffusion of the liquid), the number of sheets of paper P in the paper bundle Pb, the number of paper bundles Pb to be bound, the binding position on the paper bundle Pb, and the binding posture of the end binder 25. In the following description, the number of sheets of paper P in the paper bundle Pb is sometimes referred to as the "specified number of sheets N", and the number of paper bundles Pb to be bound is referred to as the "required number of copies M". The liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32 are in a parallel binding posture, and at the start of the binding process, they are in the standby position HP ( Figure 10A The standby position HP is a position offset in the width direction relative to the paper P placed on the inner tray 22.

[0148] When the binding instruction indicates a "tilted binding posture," the controller 100b drives the liquid applicator rotary motor 563 and the crimper rotary motor 56, causing the liquid applicator 31 and crimper 32 of the end binder 25 to rotate to the tilted binding posture (step S901). Alternatively, when the binding instruction indicates a "tilted binding posture," only the crimper 32 can be rotated to the tilted binding posture without rotating the liquid applicator 31. As a result, compared to the case where both the liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32 rotate in the forward and reverse directions, the drive mechanism can be simplified, thus achieving the effects of cost reduction, equipment miniaturization, and reduced equipment failure.

[0149] On the other hand, when the binding instruction indicates a "parallel binding posture", the controller 100b omits the aforementioned action of rotating the liquid applicator 31 and crimper 32 of the end binder 25 to an inclined binding posture.

[0150] The controller 100b drives the end-stitcher moving motor 55 to move the end-stitcher 25 in the main scanning direction so that the liquid applicator 31 is opposite to the first liquid applicator position B1 indicated by the binding command (step S901). The controller 100b performs the action of step S901 before the first sheet of paper P is conveyed to the inner tray 22 by the conveyor roller pair 10, 11, 14, 15.

[0151] In step S902, controller 100b rotates the transport rollers 10, 11, 14, and 15 to collect the paper P, whose image has been formed by the image forming apparatus 2, into the inner tray 22. Controller 100b moves the side baffles 24L and 24R to align the paper P or paper bundle Pb placed in the inner tray 22 in the main scanning direction (step S902). This alignment of the paper bundle is also known as "slow push".

[0152] In step S903, the controller 100b, based on pre-adjusted liquid application control data, applies liquid to the first liquid application position B1 of the paper P placed on the inner tray 22 in the previous step S902 via the liquid applicator 31, which is opposite to the first liquid application position B1. That is, the controller 100b drives the liquid applicator moving motor 42, causing the liquid application component 501 to contact the first liquid application position B1 of the paper P placed on the inner tray 22 (see reference). Figure 10B In the liquid application process of step S903, the controller 100b adjusts the position of the liquid application component 501 relative to the paper P for liquid application based on the type and binding position of the paper P included in the binding instruction. That is, the controller 100b controls the drive of the liquid application device moving motor 42 based on the adjusted control data, and adjusts the amount of movement of the liquid application component 501 relative to the first liquid application position B1 of the paper P placed on the inner tray 22 (see reference). Figure 10B ).

[0153] The controller 100b determines whether the number of sheets of paper P on the inner tray 22 has reached the specified number N indicated by the binding processing command (step S904). If the controller 100b determines that the number of sheets of paper P on the inner tray 22 has not reached the specified number N (step S904: No), it repeats steps S902 to S904 until the number of sheets of paper P on the inner tray 22 reaches the specified number N (step S904: Yes). That is, the controller 100b performs the processing of steps S902 to S904 each time paper P is conveyed to the inner tray 22 by the conveyor rollers 10, 11, 14, and 15. In addition, the liquid applicator 31 can apply liquid to all the sheets of paper P constituting the paper bundle Pb, or only to a portion of the sheets of paper P constituting the paper bundle Pb.

[0154] When the controller 100b determines that the number of sheets P placed on the inner tray 22 has reached the specified number N (step S904: Yes), in step S905, the controller 100b drives the end-stitching device moving motor 55 to move the end-stitching device 25 in the main scanning direction, so that the crimping device 32 faces the first binding position B1, as shown. Figure 10C As shown.

[0155] In step S906, controller 100b causes crimper 32 to crimp and bind the paper bundle Pb placed on inner tray 22. Controller 100b then causes conveyor roller pair 15 to discharge the crimped and bound paper bundle Pb to second output tray 26 (step S907). Specifically, controller 100b drives contact-separation motor 32d to clamp the paper bundle Pb placed on inner tray 22 at a first binding position B1 via upper crimping teeth 32a and lower crimping teeth 32b. The paper bundle Pb is deformed by pressure between the upper and lower crimping teeth 32a and 32b. Then, controller 100b rotates conveyor roller pair 15 to discharge the crimped and bound paper bundle Pb to second output tray 26.

[0156] In step S906, the crimping area of ​​the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 (corresponding to the first binding position B1) is clamped by the upper crimping teeth 32a and the lower crimping teeth 32b. The crimping area overlaps with the liquid application area (corresponding to the first liquid application position B1) that is in contact with the front end of the liquid application member 501 in step S903. In other words, the crimper 32 crimps the area of ​​the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 that is supplied with liquid by the liquid application member 31. The crimping area clamped by the upper crimping teeth 32a and the lower crimping teeth 32b overlaps part or all of the liquid application area that is in contact with the front end of the liquid application member 501, thereby obtaining sufficient crimping strength.

[0157] The controller 100b determines whether the number of paper bundles Pb discharged to the second discharge tray 26 meets the required number of copies M of the binding processing instruction (step S908). If the controller 100b determines that the number of paper bundles Pb discharged does not meet the required number of copies M (step S908: No), it executes the actions after step S902 again. That is, if the controller 100b determines that the number of paper bundles Pb discharged does not meet the required number of copies M (step S908: No), it repeats the actions of steps S902 to S908 until the number of paper bundles Pb discharged to the second discharge tray 26 meets the required number of copies M.

[0158] On the other hand, when the controller 100b determines that the number of paper bundles Pb discharged to the second discharge tray 26 has reached the required number of copies M (step S908: Yes), in step S909, the end-binding device moving motor 55 is driven, as follows: Figure 10AAs shown, the end-stitching device 25 (liquid applicator 31 and crimper 32) is moved to the standby position HP. When the posture indicated by the stitching command is "tilted stitching posture," the controller 100b drives the liquid applicator rotation motor 563 and the crimper rotation motor 56, causing the liquid applicator 31 and crimper 32 to rotate to a parallel stitching posture (step S909). On the other hand, when the posture indicated by the stitching command is "parallel stitching posture," the controller 100b omits the aforementioned action of rotating the liquid applicator 31 and crimper 32 to the parallel stitching posture. Thus, the end-stitching device 25 (liquid applicator 31 and crimper 32) returns to... Figure 10A The standby position HP is shown. In steps S901 and S909, the execution order of the movement in the main scanning direction and the rotation in the forward and reverse directions of the liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32 is not limited to the above order, and can also be reversed.

[0159] The second liquid storage tank 47 will be described in detail below.

[0160] Next, refer to Figure 11A , Figure 11B as well as Figure 12 The configuration structure of the second liquid storage tank 47 in the post-processing device 3 will be described. Figure 11A and Figure 11B The exemplary location and construction of the second liquid storage tank 47, which serves as the main tank, are shown. Figure 11A The post-processing device 3 indicates that the cover 71 is open. Figure 11B This is a side cross-sectional view of the post-processing device 3, showing the post-processing device 3 with the cover 71 closed. (Example) Figure 11A and Figure 11B As shown, the second liquid storage tank 47 is located in a position accessible when the cover 71 of the post-processing device 3 is open. Figure 11B In this assembly, the second liquid storage tank 47 and the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 are located on the front side of the post-processing device 3 in the depth direction (X direction). The first liquid storage tank 44 is located on the inner side of the post-processing device 3 in the depth direction (X direction). The housing side plate 72 of the post-processing device 3 is located between the positions of the second liquid storage tank 47 and the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 and the position of the first liquid storage tank 44. The second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is mounted on the housing side plate 72 of the post-processing device 3.

[0161] Figure 12 This indicates the state in which the second liquid storage tank 47 can be attached to and detached from the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61, and the state in which liquid is replenished to the second liquid storage tank 47. For example... Figure 12 As shown in part (A), the second liquid storage tank 47 is detachably mounted to the first liquid storage tank 44, such that the second liquid storage tank 47 can replenish liquid to the first liquid storage tank 44. Figure 12As shown in (B), a setting detection sensor 51, which serves as a setting detector, is provided in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61. The setting detection sensor 51 detects that the second liquid storage tank 47 is set in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61.

[0162] When the detection sensor 51 detects the setting state of the second liquid storage tank 47 relative to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (refer to...) Figure 12 The signal indicating the setting state (C) is sent to the controller 100b. The controller 100b then detects whether the second liquid storage tank 47 is installed on the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61.

[0163] A second liquid level detector 58 (as a second liquid detector) is provided in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 to detect the amount of liquid L stored in the second liquid storage tank 47. The output value (voltage) of the second liquid level detector 58 is notified to the controller 100b. The controller 100b determines the output value (voltage) of the second liquid level detector 58 to determine whether the amount of liquid stored in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is the required amount of liquid. When the controller 100b determines that the second liquid storage tank 47 is set in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (i.e., in the set state) based on the output signal of the setting detection sensor 51, the controller 100b activates the second liquid level detector 58 so that the remaining amount of liquid (the amount of stored liquid) in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 can be detected.

[0164] When the second liquid storage tank 47 is not installed in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (i.e., in the uninstalled state), the outlet of the second liquid storage tank 47 is closed by the liquid supply valve 471, preventing liquid leakage. Figure 12 As shown in (C), when the second liquid storage tank 47 is installed in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61, the liquid supply valve 471 is pushed up, and the liquid outlet 471a of the second liquid storage tank 47 opens. As a result, liquid flows from the second liquid storage tank 47 to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61. The liquid stored in the second liquid storage tank 47 flows out to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61. The liquid flowing out of the second liquid storage tank 47 is temporarily stored in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61.

[0165] As a measure to prevent liquid W from freezing during maintenance of the post-processing unit 3, a liquid draining process can be performed to drain liquid W from the post-processing unit 3. During the liquid draining process, liquid W remaining in the first liquid storage tank 44 and the liquid supply path 45 is supplied in the opposite direction via the liquid supply path 45 to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 by the liquid supply pump 46. To address this situation, the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is configured to adequately retain the amount of liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 and the liquid supply path 45. The second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 has a drain plug 611. After the liquid W remaining in the first liquid storage tank 44 and the liquid supply path 45 is supplied in the opposite direction via the liquid supply pump 46 to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61, the drain plug 611 is opened, and the liquid W stored in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is drained from inside the post-processing unit 3.

[0166] The structure of the liquid applicator 31 will be described.

[0167] Next, refer to Figure 13 The structure of the liquid applicator 31 will be described. Figure 13 This diagram illustrates the structure of the liquid applicator 31. Liquid supplied to the second liquid storage tank 47 is delivered to the first liquid storage tank 44 via a liquid supply path 45 through a liquid supply pump 46, which is an example of a liquid supply mechanism. A liquid supply component 50 (liquid supply section) is disposed within the first liquid storage tank 44. A liquid applicator 501 is disposed at the front end of the liquid supply component 50. The base end 502 of the liquid supply component 50 is immersed in the liquid W within the first liquid storage tank 44. The liquid W within the first liquid storage tank 44 is drawn from the base end 502 of the liquid supply component 50 through capillary action and delivered to the liquid applicator 501.

[0168] A first liquid level detector 43 (an example of a first liquid level detector) for detecting the liquid level W is disposed in the first liquid storage tank 44. The controller 100b controls the start and stop of the operation of the liquid supply pump 46 based on the signal detected by the first liquid level detector 43. The first liquid level detector 43 has multiple first to third liquid level detection sensors 431, 432, and 433. As the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431, 432, and 433, sensors capable of detecting the presence of liquid W, such as electrode sensors, float sensors, and electrostatic capacitance sensors, are used. In recent years, due to the requirement for miniaturization of the device size of media processing apparatus and image forming system 1, an embodiment employing an electrode sensor capable of detecting liquid level in a space-saving manner will be described below.

[0169] Electrode sensors are used to read changes in electrical signals caused by energizing a pair of electrodes. When a pair of electrodes are in contact with and energized with liquid W, the presence of liquid W is detected based on whether the electrical signal (e.g., resistance, voltage, or current) reaches a predetermined threshold. To detect the presence of liquid W, a pair of electrodes needs to be in contact with liquid W while the electrodes are energized and current flows between the electrodes. Therefore, at least one pair of electrodes is required to detect the liquid level. Thus, at least three electrodes are required to detect both a full liquid state (full capacity) and an empty liquid state (depleted state) of liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44. A depleted state of liquid W can be detected when one electrode is positioned at the height at which the full capacity state is to be detected and the remaining two electrodes are close to the bottom surface of the first liquid storage tank 44. As described above, the case of using three electrodes to detect the full capacity and depleted state of liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 has been explained. However, for example, the number of electrodes can be increased to three or more, and the lower ends of the three or more electrodes can be configured to be offset from each other in the vertical direction. With this structure, it is also possible to detect whether the amount of liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is between full and depleted, for example, whether the amount of liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is 50% or 30%.

[0170] The first to third liquid level detection sensors 431, 432, and 433 are composed of long rod-shaped electrodes. The first to third liquid level detection sensors 431, 432, and 433 extend vertically. The lower ends of the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431, 432, and 433 are disposed within the first liquid storage tank 44. The first to third liquid level detection sensors 431, 432, and 433 are electrically connected to the controller 100b, described later. The first liquid level detection sensor 431 is an example of a first liquid level detection component, the second liquid level detection sensor 432 is an example of a second liquid level detection component, and the third liquid level detection sensor 433 is an example of a third liquid level detection component.

[0171] The lower end of the first liquid level detection sensor 431 is positioned at least above the lower ends of the second liquid level detection sensor 432 and the third liquid level detection sensor 433. As an example, such as... Figure 13 As shown, the lower ends of the second liquid level detection sensor 432 and the third liquid level detection sensor 433 are positioned within approximately the same range. Conversely, the lower end of the first liquid level detection sensor 431 is positioned above within approximately the same range. "Approximately the same range" refers to a defined range in the vertical direction, including the position of the base end portion 502 of the liquid supply component 50. More specifically, "approximately the same range" refers to a small range within which the base end portion 502 of the liquid supply component 50 can be evaluated as being in approximately the same position in the vertical direction as the lower ends of the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431, 432, and 433.

[0172] As another example, such as Figure 14D As shown, the lower end of the second liquid level sensor 432 can be positioned within approximately the same range. The lower end of the first liquid level sensor 431 can be positioned above approximately the same range. The lower end of the third liquid level sensor 433 can be positioned below approximately the same range.

[0173] The changes in liquid level and the detection of liquid level in the first liquid storage tank 44 are explained.

[0174] The following is for reference Figures 14A to 14D The liquid level detection based on the liquid level change of the first liquid storage tank 44 is explained. Figures 14A to 14D This is a diagram showing the liquid level changes and liquid level detection in the first liquid storage tank 44.

[0175] Figure 14A This indicates that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is at full capacity. Specifically, the first liquid level sensor 431, the second liquid level sensor 432, and the third liquid level sensor 433 are all in contact with the liquid W. Therefore, when energized, the liquid level can be detected among these sensors. In other words, with all three sensors in contact with the liquid W, all three sensors, positioned above the lower ends of the second and third liquid level sensors, are energized. Therefore, when current flows between the first and third liquid level sensors 431 and 433, it is detected that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is at full capacity.

[0176] Figure 14B This indicates that liquid W exists in the first liquid storage tank 44 but is not at full capacity. In other words, only the first liquid level sensor 431 is not in contact with liquid W, while the second liquid level sensor 432 and the third liquid level sensor 433 are in contact with liquid W. When energized, the first liquid level sensor 431 is not in contact with liquid W, so no current flows through it and therefore, a full capacity is not detected. However, current flows between the second liquid level sensor 432 and the third liquid level sensor 433. Therefore, the controller 100b determines that there is liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 that is not at full capacity.

[0177] Figure 14CThis indicates that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is depleted. In this case, since there is no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44, the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431 to 433 are not in contact with the liquid W. Therefore, even if energized, the current does not flow between the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431 to 433, and the liquid level of the first liquid storage tank 44 cannot be detected. The controller 100b determines that there is no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44.

[0178] Figure 14D and Figure 14C Similarly, this indicates that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is depleted. Although the third liquid level sensor 433 is in contact with the liquid W, the other first liquid level sensors 431 and the second liquid level sensor 432 are not in contact with the liquid W. Even when energized, there is no current flow between the first liquid level sensor 431 and the third liquid level sensor 433. Therefore, the controller 100b determines that there is no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44.

[0179] The configuration of the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431 to 433 is described.

[0180] The following is for reference Figure 15A and Figure 15B The configuration of the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431 to 433 of the first liquid storage tank 44 is described. Figure 15A and Figure 15B This diagram illustrates the configuration of the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431 to 433 in the first liquid storage tank 44. As an example, such as... Figure 15A As shown, the first liquid level detector 43 may include a first liquid level detection sensor 431 to a third liquid level detection sensor 433 with different lengths. Other examples include... Figure 15B As shown, the first liquid level detector 43 can also have the first liquid level detection sensor 431 to the third liquid level detection sensor 433 of the same length arranged in positions that are staggered in the vertical direction.

[0181] exist Figure 15A In this configuration, the first liquid level detection sensor 431 is shorter than each of the second liquid level detection sensor 432 and the third liquid level detection sensor 433. The length of the second liquid level detection sensor 432 is either shorter than the length of the third liquid level detection sensor 433 or equal to the length of the third liquid level detection sensor 433. Thus, by adjusting the lengths of the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431 to 433, the range of liquid level detection can be adjusted.

[0182] exist Figure 15BIn this configuration, the first liquid level sensor 431 is positioned higher than the second liquid level sensor 432 and the third liquid level sensor 433. The second liquid level sensor 432 is positioned higher than the third liquid level sensor 433 or at the same height. By changing the installation height of the first to third liquid level sensors 431-433, which have the same length in the vertical direction, the components of the first to third liquid level sensors 431-433 can be made identical, thus reducing costs.

[0183] The method for determining whether the liquid supply component 50 has absorbed liquid is explained.

[0184] Reference Figures 16A to 16D Describes a method for determining whether the liquid supply component 50 absorbs liquid. Figures 16A to 16D This is a diagram showing the structure of the liquid supply component 50, including whether it absorbs liquid and the liquid level detection component.

[0185] exist Figure 16A and Figure 16C In this scenario, the first liquid storage tank 44 contains liquid W but is not at full capacity. The liquid supply component 50 contacts and absorbs the liquid W. At this time, the first liquid level sensor 431 is not in contact with the liquid W, while the second liquid level sensor 432 and the third liquid level sensor 433 are in contact with the liquid W. Even when energized in this state, no current flows between the first liquid level sensor 431 and the third liquid level sensor 433. Therefore, the controller 100b determines that liquid W is present in the first liquid storage tank 44.

[0186] Figure 16B This indicates that there is almost no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44, and the liquid supply component 50 does not absorb liquid W. The lower ends of the second liquid level detection sensor 432 and the third liquid level detection sensor 433 are positioned at approximately the same height as the base end 502 of the liquid supply component 50. Therefore, none of the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431 to 433 are in contact with the liquid W, and even when energized in this state, no current flows between the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431 to 433. As a result, the controller 100b can determine that there is no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44, and can also detect that liquid is not supplied to the liquid supply component 50. The phrase "approximately the same height" here includes the lower ends of the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431 to 433 being located at a height slightly above or slightly below the base end 502 of the liquid supply component 50.

[0187] Figure 16DThis indicates a state where there is almost no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44, and the liquid supply component 50 does not absorb liquid W. The lower end of the second liquid level sensor 432 is positioned at approximately the same height as the base end 502 of the liquid supply component 50, and the lower end of the third liquid level sensor 433 is positioned below the base end 502 of the liquid supply component 50. Therefore, the first liquid level sensor 431 and the second liquid level sensor 432 do not contact the liquid W, and only the third liquid level sensor 433 contacts the liquid W. Even when energized in this state, no current flows between the first liquid level sensor 431 and the third liquid level sensor 433. As a result, the controller 100b can determine that there is no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44, and can also detect that liquid is not supplied to the liquid supply component 50.

[0188] The filling supply control is explained.

[0189] Specifically, the control of the filling supply operation (hereinafter referred to as "filling supply control") that replenishes the first liquid storage tank 44 with an amount of liquid W corresponding to the amount of liquid W absorbed by the liquid supply component 50 will be described. Figure 17 is a flowchart of the filling supply control. In the flowchart of the filling supply control shown in Figure 17, the first liquid level detection sensor 431, the second liquid level detection sensor 432, and the third liquid level detection sensor 433 are referred to as "liquid level sensor 1", "liquid level sensor 2", and "liquid level sensor 3", respectively. For example, the filling supply control shown in Figure 17 is executed when the post-processing device 3 is started or when a stapleless binding operation is started. The filling supply control is as follows: after liquid supply is carried out until an output voltage is detected between liquid level sensor 1 and liquid level sensor 2, the liquid level drops due to the absorption of liquid W by the liquid supply component 50, and when liquid W is no longer detected by the output voltage detected between liquid level sensor 1 and liquid level sensor 2, liquid W is supplied to the first liquid storage tank 44 again.

[0190] When the post-processing device 3 requests confirmation of the presence or absence of liquid (step S1501), the controller 100b supplies power to the level sensors 1 to 3 (hereinafter referred to as "energizing") (step S1502) to confirm the presence of liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 (step S1503). If the output voltage detected between level sensors 2 and 3 is above the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that liquid W is present in the first liquid storage tank 44 (step S1503: Yes). Furthermore, if the output voltage detected between level sensor 1 and level sensor 2 is above the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is full (step S1504: Yes). At this time, the controller 100b stops energizing the level sensors 1 to 3 (hereinafter referred to as "energizing de-energizing") (step S1505), notifies that preparation for filling with liquid is complete (step S1506), and ends the filling supply control.

[0191] On the other hand, if the output voltage detected between level sensor 2 and level sensor 3 is above the threshold Vs (step S1503: Yes) and the output voltage detected between level sensor 1 and level sensor 2 is below the threshold Vs (step S1504: No), controller 100b determines that liquid W exists in the first liquid storage tank 44, but is not at full capacity. At this time, controller 100b drives liquid supply pump 46 to supply liquid W from second liquid storage tank 47 to first liquid storage tank 44 (step S1507). Controller 100b continues to drive liquid supply pump 46 until controller 100b determines that liquid W in first liquid storage tank 44 is at full capacity based on the output voltage detected between level sensor 1 and level sensor 2 (step S1508: "No").

[0192] If the controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is full based on the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensors 1 and 2 (step S1508: Yes), it stops the liquid supply pump 46 (step S1509) and disconnects the power supply to the liquid level sensors 1 to 3 (step S1510). The controller 100b stops the liquid supply operation until a supply waiting time T1 seconds (sec) has elapsed after the liquid supply to the liquid supply component 50 ends (step S1511). After the supply waiting time T1 has elapsed, the power supply to the liquid level sensors 1 to 3 is reconnected (step S1512). Based on the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensor 1 and the liquid level sensor 2, it confirms whether the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is full (step S1513).

[0193] When the controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is full (step S1513: Yes), the controller 100b disconnects the power supply to the liquid level sensors 1 to 3 (step S1505), notifies that the liquid filling preparation is complete (step S1506), and ends the filling supply control.

[0194] Even after the supply waiting time T1 (step S1511), when the liquid level sensors 1-3 are powered on again (step S1512), and in step S1514 the controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is not full (step S1513: No), it drives the liquid supply pump 46 again to perform the liquid supply operation. When the controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is full (step S1515: Yes), the controller 100b stops the liquid supply pump 46 (step S1516), disconnects the power supply to the liquid level sensors 1-3 (step S1505), notifies that the liquid filling preparation is complete (step S1506), and ends the filling supply control.

[0195] If the output voltage detected between level sensor 2 and level sensor 3 is less than the threshold Vs, controller 100b determines that there is no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 (step S1503: No), and executes the processing from step S1507. However, in this case, the supply waiting time in step 1511 is set to T2 seconds, which is different from T1 (T2 > T1).

[0196] In other words, controller 100b is based on liquid W, which exists in Figure 16A and Figure 16C The first liquid storage tank 44 shown still does not contain... Figure 16B and Figure 16D Within the first liquid storage tank 44 shown, it is determined whether the liquid supply component 50 is in a liquid absorption state or a dry state. When liquid W is present in the first liquid storage tank 44 (e.g., when the controller 100b determines that the liquid supply component 50 is in a liquid absorption state), the supply waiting time is set to T1 seconds. When liquid W is not present in the first liquid storage tank 44 (e.g., when the controller 100b determines that the liquid supply component 50 is in a dry state), the supply waiting time is set to T2 seconds. In other words, the controller 100b changes the supply waiting times T1 and T2 based on whether liquid W is detected between the liquid level sensors 2 and 3.

[0197] When liquid W is detected by the output voltage detected between level sensors 2 and 3, the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is not full; instead, liquid W remains, and the liquid supply component 50 draws in and maintains a certain amount of liquid W. Therefore, the supply waiting time T1 (seconds) can be set shorter than the supply waiting time T2 (seconds) when liquid W is not detected by the output voltage detected between level sensors 2 and 3 (e.g., when almost no liquid W remains in the first liquid storage tank 44). For example, T1 = 10 seconds, T2 = 30 seconds.

[0198] Additionally, in step S1507 or S1514, if the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is not full after a supply time T0 (sec) has elapsed since the start of driving the liquid supply pump 46 (if step S1508 is "No" and step S1518 is "Yes", or if step S1515 is "No" and step S1517 is "Yes"), the controller 100b determines that the first liquid level detector 43 has malfunctioned, executes error stop processing (step S1519), stops the liquid supply pump 46 and disconnects the power supply to the liquid level sensors 1 to 3, displays an abnormal notification indicating that the first liquid level detector 43 has malfunctioned on the operation panel 110 (step S1520), and ends the filling supply control.

[0199] Explain the control of additional supply.

[0200] Specifically, refer to Figure 18 The control of additional supply actions (referred to as additional supply control) is explained. Figure 18 This is a flowchart for additional supply control. Figure 18 In the flowchart of the supplemental supply control shown, the first liquid level detection sensor 431, the second liquid level detection sensor 432, and the third liquid level detection sensor 433 are referred to as "liquid level sensor 1", "liquid level sensor 2", and "liquid level sensor 3", respectively. Supplemental supply control is performed when supplemental supply control is required, for example, when the post-processing device 3 is started, when stapleless binding operation begins, or during operation (e.g., when liquid application to X sheets has been performed).

[0201] When the post-processing device 3 requests confirmation of the presence or absence of liquid (step S1601), the controller 100b energizes the level sensors 1 to 3 (step S1602) to confirm the remaining amount of liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 (step S1603). When the controller 100b determines that liquid W exists in the first liquid storage tank 44 based on the output voltage detected between the level sensors 2 and 3 (step S1603: Yes), and determines that liquid W is full based on the output voltage detected between the level sensors 1 and 2 (step S1604: Yes), the controller 100b de-energizes the level sensors 1 to 3 (step S1605), notifies that liquid supply preparation is complete (step S1606), and ends the supplementary supply control.

[0202] If the controller 100b determines that liquid W is present in the first liquid storage tank 44 based on the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensor 2 and the liquid level sensor 3 (step S1603: Yes), and determines that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is not full based on the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensor 1 and the liquid level sensor 2 (step S1604: No), it drives the liquid supply pump 46 to perform a liquid supply operation (step S1607). The controller 100b continues to drive the liquid supply pump 46 until the controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is full based on the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensor 1 and the liquid level sensor 2 (step S1608: No).

[0203] When controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is full based on the output voltage detected between liquid level sensor 1 and liquid level sensor 2 (step S1608: Yes), controller 100b stops liquid supply pump 46 (step S1609), disconnects power to liquid level sensors 1 to 3 (step S1605), notifies that liquid supply preparation is complete (step S1606), and ends the supplementary supply control. Similarly, if controller 100b determines that there is no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 based on the output voltage detected between liquid level sensors 2 and 3 (step S1603: No), it executes the processing from step 1607 onwards.

[0204] Additionally, in step S1607, if the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is not full after a supply time T0 (sec) has elapsed since the start of the liquid supply pump 46 (step S1608: No, step S1610: Yes), the controller 100b determines that the first liquid level detector 43 has malfunctioned, executes error stop processing (step S1611), stops the liquid supply pump 46 and disconnects the power supply to the liquid level sensors 1 to 3, displays an abnormal notification on the operation panel 110 to indicate that the first liquid level detector 43 has malfunctioned (step S1612), and ends the additional supply control.

[0205] The selection of liquid supply actions is explained.

[0206] Reference Figure 19 The method for selecting liquid supply actions is explained. Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating the selection of the liquid supply action. For example, the selection of the liquid supply action is performed when the post-processing unit 3 is started or when a stapleless binding operation begins. Figure 19 In the flowchart showing the selection of liquid supply action, the first liquid level detection sensor 431, the second liquid level detection sensor 432, and the third liquid level detection sensor 433 are referred to as "liquid level sensor 1", "liquid level sensor 2", and "liquid level sensor 3", respectively.

[0207] First, when the post-processing device 3 requests confirmation of the presence or absence of liquid (step S1701), the controller 100b energizes the liquid level sensors 1 to 3 (step S1702) and confirms the liquid supply status of the liquid supply component 50 (step S1703).

[0208] When controller 100b determines that liquid W is present in the first liquid storage tank 44 based on the output voltage detected between liquid level sensors 2 and 3, controller 100b determines that the base end 502 of liquid supply component 50 is immersed in liquid W (S1703: Yes), selects additional supply control (step S1704), disconnects the power supply to liquid level sensors 1 to 3 (step S1706), notifies the operation panel 110 that the selection of liquid supply action is complete (step S1707), and ends the selection of liquid supply action. In other words, controller 100b sets the operation mode of the specified liquid supply action to additional supply action. Thus, execution... Figure 18 The processing steps S1607 to S1612.

[0209] On the other hand, if the controller 100b determines, based on the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensors 2 and 3, that there is no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44, it determines that the base end 502 of the liquid supply component 50 is not immersed in the liquid W (step S1703: No), selects filling supply control (step S1705), disconnects the power supply to the liquid level sensors 1 to 3 (step S1706), and notifies via the operation panel 110 that the selection of the liquid supply operation is complete (step S1707), thus ending the selection of the liquid supply operation. In other words, the controller 100b sets the operating mode of the specified liquid supply operation to filling supply operation. Therefore, the processing steps S1507 to S1520 of FIG. 17 are executed.

[0210] The following describes the steps to confirm a malfunction in the liquid level detection component.

[0211] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps involved in confirming a malfunction in the liquid level detection component. These steps are primarily performed during liquid supply. Figure 20 In the flowchart showing the action to confirm the failure of the liquid level detection component, the first liquid level detection sensor 431, the second liquid level detection sensor 432, and the third liquid level detection sensor 433 are referred to as "liquid level sensor 1", "liquid level sensor 2", and "liquid level sensor 3", respectively.

[0212] The controller 100b enters standby mode after the liquid supply pump 46 starts operating. After a standby time T5 (sec) (step S1801), it connects power to the level sensors 1-3 (step S1802) and determines whether the liquid detection of the level sensors 1-3 is normal (step S1803). The standby time T5 is set to the time when the volume of liquid W stored in the first liquid storage tank 44 is such that the output voltage detected between the level sensors 2 and 3 is above the threshold Vs. If the output voltage between the level sensors 2 and 3 is above the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that the liquid detection of the first level detector 43 is normal (step S1803: Yes), disconnects power to the level sensors 1-3 (step S1805), and ends the fault confirmation operation of the level detection component.

[0213] On the other hand, if the output voltage between level sensors 2 and 3 is less than the threshold Vs, that is, under normal conditions, although the first liquid storage tank 44 contains an amount of liquid W in the first liquid level detector 43 such that the output voltage detected between level sensors 2 and 3 is greater than the threshold Vs, but no liquid W is stored in the first liquid storage tank 44, if the liquid supply continues, liquid W may overflow from the first liquid storage tank 44. Therefore, the controller 100b determines that the liquid detection of the first liquid level detector 43 is abnormal (step S1803: No). In this case, the controller 100b determines that some or all of the first to third liquid level detection sensors 431 to 433 have failed, executes the abnormal stop process to stop the liquid supply pump 46 (step S1804), disconnects the power supply to the liquid level sensors 1 to 3 (step S1805), and ends the fault confirmation operation of the liquid level detection component.

[0214] The structure of the second liquid level detector 58 will be described.

[0215] Reference Figure 21A and Figure 21B The structure of the second liquid level detector 58 (second liquid level detector) of the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 will be described. Figure 21A and Figure 21B This diagram illustrates the structure of the second liquid level detector 58 in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61. The second liquid level detector 58 is a sensor that detects the amount of liquid W stored in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61. The specific structure and configuration of the second liquid level detector 58 are the same as those of the first liquid level detector 43 in the first liquid storage tank 44. The second liquid level detector 58 may include, for example, fourth to sixth liquid level detection sensors 581, 582, and 583. The fourth liquid level detection sensor 581 is an example of a fourth liquid level detection component, the fifth liquid level detection sensor 582 is an example of a fifth liquid level detection component, and the sixth liquid level detection sensor 583 is an example of a sixth liquid level detection component.

[0216] The fourth liquid level sensor 581 is positioned above the fifth liquid level sensor 582 and the sixth liquid level sensor 583. The fifth liquid level sensor 582 is positioned above or at the same height as the sixth liquid level sensor 583. Therefore, when the output voltage detected between the fourth liquid level sensor 581 and the fifth liquid level sensor 582 is above the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is full. When the output voltage detected between the fifth liquid level sensor 582 and the sixth liquid level sensor 583 is equal to or greater than the threshold Vs, it is determined that liquid W exists in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61.

[0217] As an example, such as Figure 21A As shown, the second liquid level detector 58 may also include a fourth liquid level detection sensor 581 to a sixth liquid level detection sensor 583 of different lengths. Figure 21A In this configuration, the length of the fourth liquid level detection sensor 581 is shorter than the lengths of the fifth liquid level detection sensor 582 and the sixth liquid level detection sensor 583. The length of the fifth liquid level detection sensor 582 is less than or equal to the length of the sixth liquid level detection sensor 583. By adjusting the lengths of the fourth to sixth liquid level detection sensors 581 to 583 in this way, the range of liquid level W detected by the second liquid level detector 58 within the fixed part 61 of the second liquid storage tank can be adjusted.

[0218] As other examples, such as Figure 21B As shown, the second liquid level detector 58 can also have the fourth liquid level detection sensor 581 to the sixth liquid level detection sensor 583 of the same length staggered in the vertical direction. Figure 21B In this configuration, the fourth liquid level sensor 581 is positioned higher than the fifth liquid level sensor 582 and the sixth liquid level sensor 583. The fifth liquid level sensor 582 is positioned higher than or at the same height as the sixth liquid level sensor 583. By changing the installation height of the fourth to sixth liquid level sensors 581 to 583, which are of equal length in the vertical direction, the components of the fourth to sixth liquid level sensors 581 to 583 can be made identical, thus reducing costs.

[0219] The liquid supply control from the second liquid storage tank to the first liquid storage tank 44 is described.

[0220] The following describes the control of the liquid supply operation from the second liquid storage tank to the first liquid storage tank 44 (referred to as liquid supply control). Figure 22 This is a flowchart of the liquid supply control process. In the liquid supply control, when the second liquid storage tank 47 is installed at the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61, the controller 100b determines whether liquid W is usable. After the controller 100b determines that liquid W is usable, the controller 100b executes the liquid supply to the first liquid storage tank 44. Figure 22 In the flowchart of the liquid supply control shown, the fourth liquid level detection sensor 581, the fifth liquid level detection sensor 582 and the sixth liquid level detection sensor 583 are referred to as liquid level sensor 4, liquid level sensor 5 and liquid level sensor 6, respectively.

[0221] When the detection sensor 51 detects that the second liquid storage tank 47 is installed in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61, a threshold setting requirement is executed (step S2201). Therefore, the controller 100b energizes the level sensors 4 to 6 (step S2202) and determines whether the liquid W supplied from the second liquid storage tank 47 to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is available (step S2203). The reason the controller 100b determines whether the liquid W is available is that if the conductivity of the liquid W is too low when the level sensors 4 to 6 are energized, the difference in output voltage detected between the level sensors 4 to 6 before and after contact with the liquid W is small. As a result, the liquid level of the liquid W in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 cannot be accurately detected. Next, refer to... Figure 23 ,right Figure 22 The method for determining whether the liquid can be used in step 2203 will be explained.

[0222] like Figure 23 As shown, when the level sensors 4-6 are energized (step S2202), only air exists between them before they come into contact with the liquid W. Therefore, the output voltage detected between level sensors 5 and 6 becomes an output voltage V1 that is very close to zero. For example, when using a liquid W with conductivity A, when level sensors 5 and 6 come into contact with the liquid W supplied to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61, the output voltage detected between level sensors 5 and 6 changes from V1 to V2, as... Figure 23 As shown. Therefore, a threshold Va is set between the output voltages V1 and V2 as the output voltage used to determine the presence of liquid. The controller 100b determines that only liquid W with a conductivity exceeding the threshold Va can be used. That is, as Figure 23 As shown, for example, when using liquid W with conductivity B (B < A), the output voltage detected between level sensor 5 and level sensor 6 is V3, which does not exceed the threshold Va. Therefore, when the conductivity of liquid W is B, controller 100b determines that liquid W is unusable. Considering the detection accuracy (detection deviation), noise, etc., of level sensors 5 and 6, it is preferable to set the threshold Va between the output voltages V1 and V2.

[0223] When the output voltage detected between level sensor 5 and level sensor 6 exceeds the threshold Va, controller 100b determines that liquid W is available (step S2203: Yes), and sets the output voltage (threshold Va) corresponding to the conductivity of liquid W at this time to the threshold Vs (step S2204). Controller 100b disconnects the power supply to level sensors 4 to 6 (step S2205). After a standby time T4 (seconds) until the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is filled with liquid (step S2206), controller 100b executes the liquid supply operation (filling supply operation) shown in FIG17 (step S2207).

[0224] The following will refer to Figure 23 This describes a method for setting a threshold Vs when the type (conductivity) of the liquid supplied to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is changed by replacing the second liquid storage tank 47. For example, assume that the conductivity of the liquid W stored in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is A, and the liquid W in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is depleted by supplying liquid W from the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 to the first liquid storage tank 44. In this case, the second liquid storage tank 47 provided in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is replaced with a new second liquid storage tank, and liquid W is supplied. When the conductivity of the newly supplied liquid W is B (B < A), the output voltage detected between the level sensors 5 and 6 is V3, which does not exceed the threshold Va. Therefore, if the threshold Vs remains at the threshold Va, the presence or absence of liquid W is not detected. Therefore, as... Figure 23 As shown, when the conductivity of liquid W changes to B, controller 100b sets the threshold Vb to the output voltage between output voltages V1 and V3 used to determine the presence or absence of liquid, and sets the output voltage (threshold Vb) corresponding to the conductivity of the newly supplied liquid W to the threshold Vs.

[0225] On the other hand, after the standby time T3 (sec) has elapsed, if the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensor 5 and the liquid level sensor 6 is also below the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that the liquid W cannot be used (in the case of "No" in step S2203 and "Yes" in step S2208), and notifies the operation panel 110 of the state that the liquid cannot be used (step S2209), disconnects the power supply to the liquid level sensors 4 to 6 (step S2210), does not perform the liquid supply operation in step S2207, and ends the liquid supply control.

[0226] Explanation of the liquid replenishment notice.

[0227] Specifically, the control of liquid replenishment notification when the second liquid level detector 58 of the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 does not detect liquid W will be explained. Figure 24 This is a flowchart of the liquid replenishment notification control. Liquid replenishment notification control occurs, for example, at the end of an operation, after liquid has been supplied to the first liquid storage tank 44, etc. Figure 24 In the flowchart of the liquid replenishment notification control shown, the fourth liquid level detection sensor 581, the fifth liquid level detection sensor 582 and the sixth liquid level detection sensor 583 are referred to as liquid level sensor 4, liquid level sensor 5 and liquid level sensor 6, respectively.

[0228] The controller 100b connects the power supply to the level sensors 4 to 6 (step S2401) and confirms the output voltage detected between the level sensors 5 and 6 (step S2402). When the output voltage detected between the level sensors 5 and 6 is equal to or greater than the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that there is liquid W in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (step S2402: Yes), disconnects the power supply to the level sensors 4 to 6 (step S2404), and ends the liquid replenishment notification control.

[0229] On the other hand, when the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensor 5 and the liquid level sensor 6 is less than the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that there is no liquid W in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (step S2402: no), notifies through the operation panel 110 that liquid W needs to be added to the second liquid storage tank 47 (step S2403), disconnects the power supply to the liquid level sensors 4 to 6 (step S2404), and ends the liquid replenishment notification control.

[0230] The confirmation of liquid supply operation is explained.

[0231] Specifically, the following is a description of the confirmation of the liquid supply operation of the first liquid storage tank 44, which is performed when the second liquid storage tank 47 is installed in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61. Figure 25 This is a flowchart confirming the liquid supply operation. Figure 25 In the flowchart showing the liquid supply action confirmation, the first liquid level detection sensor 431, the second liquid level detection sensor 432, and the third liquid level detection sensor 433 are referred to as liquid level sensor 1, liquid level sensor 2, and liquid level sensor 3, respectively.

[0232] When the detection sensor 51 detects that the second liquid storage tank 47 is installed in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (step S2501: Yes), the controller 100b turns on the liquid level sensors 1 to 3 (step S2502) and determines whether there is liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 (step S2503). If the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensor 2 and the liquid level sensor 3 is less than the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that there is no liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 (step S2503: No) and starts driving the liquid supply pump 46 (step S2504). The controller 100b continues to drive the liquid supply pump 46 (step S2505: No) until the controller 100b determines that the liquid W is full based on the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensor 1 and the liquid level sensor 2.

[0233] If the output voltage detected between liquid level sensor 1 and liquid level sensor 2 is above the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that the first liquid storage tank 44 is full (step S2505: Yes), stops the liquid supply pump 46 (step S2506), disconnects the power supply to liquid level sensors 1 to 3 (step S2507), and ends the liquid supply operation confirmation.

[0234] In step S2504, if the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is not full after a supply time T0 (sec) has elapsed since the start of driving the liquid supply pump 46 (step S2505: No, step S2508: Yes), the controller 100b determines that the first liquid level detector 43 has malfunctioned, executes the error stop process that stops the liquid supply pump 46 (step S2509), disconnects the power supply to the liquid level sensors 1 to 3 (step S2507), and ends the liquid supply operation confirmation.

[0235] In addition, if the detection sensor 51 does not detect that the second liquid storage tank 47 is installed on the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (step S2501: No), the controller 100b executes the setting requirement of the second liquid storage tank 47 via the operation panel 110 (step S2510) and ends the liquid supply operation confirmation.

[0236] A summary of the liquid discharge action and the control process for the liquid discharge action is provided.

[0237] Specifically, the liquid discharge control during the liquid discharge operation that can be performed in the post-processing unit 3 will be described below. Figure 26 is a diagram showing an overview of the liquid discharge operation. Figure 27This is a flowchart illustrating the process of controlling the liquid discharge operation (referred to as "liquid discharge control"). Here, "liquid discharge operation" refers to the process of transferring liquid W stored in the first liquid storage tank 44 to the second liquid storage tank 47 via the liquid supply pump 46. In other words, the liquid discharge operation is the supply of liquid W in the opposite direction to the supply direction of liquid W in the liquid supply operation described above.

[0238] The first liquid storage tank 44 and the liquid supply component 50 are filled with liquid W during use. In order to prevent liquid leakage when the liquid supply component 50 is removed for maintenance, or to prevent contamination of the liquid W when the liquid supply component 50 is not used for a long period of time, it is sometimes necessary to perform liquid drainage.

[0239] When the liquid discharge mode is selected, the liquid supply pump 46 rotates in reverse to draw liquid W from the first liquid storage tank 44. Figure 26A As a result, liquid W is sent to the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61. Liquid W is discharged from the first liquid storage tank 44, and the first liquid storage tank 44 becomes empty. Figure 26B The operating time Tr of the liquid supply pump 46 is set to the time required to fully discharge the liquid W inside the first liquid storage tank 44 and the liquid supply component 50 (step S2701).

[0240] Liquid discharge control can be achieved by the user in settings such as... Figure 29 The user can select any option on the operation screen of the operation panel 110 shown. The user can also optionally issue an execution command for filling supply control through the operation panel 110.

[0241] The control process for the liquid discharge action will be explained in detail below.

[0242] Below, refer to Figure 28 The control of the liquid discharge action (referred to as "liquid discharge control") is described. Figure 28 This is a detailed flowchart of liquid discharge control. Figure 28 In the flowchart of liquid discharge control shown, the first liquid level detection sensor 431, the second liquid level detection sensor 432, the third liquid level detection sensor 433, the fourth liquid level detection sensor 581, the fifth liquid level detection sensor 582 and the sixth liquid level detection sensor 583 are respectively referred to as liquid level sensor 1, liquid level sensor 2, liquid level sensor 3, liquid level sensor 4, liquid level sensor 5 and liquid level sensor 6.

[0243] When a liquid discharge confirmation is requested (step S2801), the controller 100b energizes the liquid level sensors 1 to 6 (step S2802) and determines whether the liquid W in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is full (step S2803). When the output voltage detected between the liquid level sensor 4 and the liquid level sensor 5 is equal to or greater than the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is full (step S2803: Yes), disconnects the energizer of the liquid level sensors 1 to 6 (step S2804), notifies the operator panel 110 that liquid discharge is not permitted (step S2805), and ends the liquid discharge control.

[0244] When the output voltage detected between level sensor 4 and level sensor 5 is less than the threshold Vs, controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is not full (step S2803: No), and starts the reverse rotation drive of liquid supply pump 46 (step S2806). Controller 100b continues the reverse rotation drive of liquid supply pump 46 (liquid discharge operation) (step S2807: No) until controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is full based on the output voltage detected between level sensor 4 and level sensor 5.

[0245] When the output voltage detected between liquid level sensor 4 and liquid level sensor 5 is equal to or greater than the threshold Vs, controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is full (step S2807: Yes), stops liquid supply pump 46 (step S2808), disconnects the power supply to liquid level sensors 1 to 6 (step S2804), notifies via operation panel 110 that liquid discharge is not allowed (step S2805), and ends liquid discharge control.

[0246] Before the output voltage detected between level sensor 4 and level sensor 5 becomes above the threshold Vs, if the output voltage detected between level sensor 2 and level sensor 3 is less than the threshold Vs, the controller 100b determines that the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 does not exist (if it is "No" in step S2807 and "Yes" in step S2811), stops the liquid supply pump 46 (step S2815), disconnects the power supply to level sensors 1 to 6 (step S2816), notifies the operation panel 110 that the liquid discharge is complete (step S2817), and ends the liquid discharge control.

[0247] Additionally, in step S2806, if the liquid W in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 is not full, and even after a supply time T0 (sec) has elapsed since the start of the liquid supply pump 46, the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is also absent (step S2807: No, step S2812: Yes), the controller 100b determines that one or both of the first liquid level detector 43 and the second liquid level detector 58 have malfunctioned, and executes the process of stopping the liquid supply pump 46 and disconnecting the power supply to the liquid level sensors 1 to 6, i.e., error stop processing (step S2813), and notifies of the abnormality via the operation panel 110 (step S2814), and ends the liquid discharge control.

[0248] According to the above embodiments, the following effects can be achieved, for example.

[0249] According to the above embodiment, a first liquid level (e.g., full capacity) can be detected between the first liquid level detection sensor 431 and the second liquid level detection sensor 432, and a second liquid level lower than the first liquid level can be detected between the second liquid level detection sensor 432 and the third liquid level detection sensor 433. Furthermore, since the lower ends of the second liquid level detection sensor 432 and the third liquid level detection sensor 433 are disposed within approximately the same range as the base end portion 502 of the liquid supply component 50, it is possible to appropriately detect whether the base end portion 502 of the liquid supply component 50 is immersed in the liquid W.

[0250] In addition, by positioning the lower end of the second liquid level detection sensor 432 within approximately the same range and the lower end of the third liquid level detection sensor 433 below approximately the same range, it is also possible to detect whether the base end 502 of the liquid supply component 50 is immersed in the liquid W.

[0251] According to the above embodiment, based on the determination result of whether liquid W exists in the first liquid storage tank 44 in step S1503, it is determined whether the liquid supply component 50 is in a liquid absorption state or a drying state. By changing the supply waiting time T1 or T2 in step S1511, the downtime can be shortened, and liquid W can be supplied to the liquid supply component 501.

[0252] According to the above embodiment, by selecting the filling supply operation and the additional supply operation based on the determination result of step S1703, which determines whether the base end 502 of the liquid supply component 50 is immersed in the liquid W, the downtime can be shortened and the liquid W can be supplied to the liquid supply component 501.

[0253] According to the above embodiment, if the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 is not full even after the supply time T0 (sec) has elapsed (if "No" in step S1508 and "Yes" in step S1518), the controller 100b determines that the first liquid level detector 43 has malfunctioned and stops the liquid supply pump 46. Therefore, it is possible to prevent liquid W from overflowing from the first liquid storage tank 44.

[0254] According to the above embodiment, a second liquid level detector 58 is also provided on the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61. This allows for the appropriate determination of the time for supplying liquid W to the second liquid storage tank 47. Furthermore, the structure and arrangement of the fourth to sixth liquid level detection sensors 581 to 583 are the same as those of the first liquid level detector 43. Therefore, the detection capability of the second liquid level detector 58 for changes in the liquid level of the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 can be increased.

[0255] According to the above embodiment, when the second liquid storage tank 47 is provided in the second liquid storage tank fixing part 61 (step S2501: Yes), after determining the liquid level of the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 (step S2503: No), a liquid supply operation is performed (S2504). As a result, it is possible to prevent excessive supply of liquid W to the first liquid storage tank 44.

[0256] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, by performing liquid discharge control, for example during maintenance, the liquid W in the first liquid storage tank 44 can be discharged and emptied.

[0257] In the above description, such as Figure 1 As shown, the controller 100b of the post-processing apparatus 3 is separately disposed from the controller 100a of the image forming apparatus 2. However, this disclosure is not limited to the above configuration. For example, as Figure 47A As shown, the controller 100b of the post-processing unit 3 can be located in the image forming apparatus 2. Furthermore, as... Figure 47B As shown, the controller 100b of the post-processing device 3 can be integrated with the controller 100a of the image forming device 2.

[0258] like Figure 48A As shown, the controller 100b of the post-processing device 3 can be functionally divided into a controller 100b1 (e.g., a drive system for a motor) and a controller 100b2 (e.g., a detector system for a sensor), and only the controller 100b2 of the post-processing device 3 can be located in the image forming apparatus 2. Furthermore, as... Figure 48B As shown, the controller 100b2 of the post-processing device 3 located in the image forming apparatus 2 can be integrally formed with the controller 100a of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0259] Another embodiment of the end-binding device 25 will be described.

[0260] Figure 30 yes Figure 3 An overall view of another embodiment of the end-stitcher 25 shown. Figure 30 As shown, the crimper 32 includes a crimper rotation mechanism 52. The crimper rotation mechanism 52 causes the crimper 32, which has upper crimping teeth 32a and lower crimping teeth 32b, to rotate in both directions around a crimper shaft 54 ​​extending along the thickness direction of the paper P or paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22. The crimper rotation mechanism 52 includes a crimper shaft 54 ​​and a crimper rotation motor 56. Additionally, the liquid applicator 31 is capable of rotating in both directions around a liquid applicator shaft 53 extending along the thickness direction of the paper P or paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22. An attitude switching lever 111, which is a component of the liquid applicator rotation mechanism 126 described later, is integrally mounted on the liquid applicator shaft 53.

[0261] In other words, the liquid applicator shaft 53 and the crimper shaft 54 ​​extend parallel to each other at positions separated from each other in the main scanning direction. The liquid applicator shaft 53 supports the liquid applicator frame 31a and the liquid applicator base 122 so that they can rotate relative to the base 48 in both forward and reverse directions. The crimper shaft 54 ​​rotatably supports the crimping frame 32c relative to the base 48 in both forward and reverse directions.

[0262] The crimping motor 56 generates a driving force that causes the crimping machine 32 to rotate in both directions. The driving force of the crimping motor 56 is transmitted to the crimping shaft 54 ​​via pulleys and a timing belt. As a result, the crimping frame 32c, together with the upper crimping tooth 32a and the lower crimping tooth 32b, rotates in both directions around the crimping shaft 54.

[0263] Figure 31 and Figure 32 This diagram illustrates the liquid applicator rotation mechanism 126 that causes the liquid applicator 31 to rotate in both directions. The liquid applicator rotation mechanism 126 has a liquid applicator shaft 53 and a posture switching lever 111 that rotates integrally with the liquid applicator shaft 53. The crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 are supported by a base 48. This base 48 is driven by an end-stitcher movement motor 55 and moves along a guide shaft 49 on a binding mechanism base 116 in the main scanning direction. The binding mechanism base 116 includes a posture switching component 114 and a guide rail 115. The posture switching component 114 is rotatably mounted to the binding mechanism base 116 at an applicator posture switching position D in the main scanning direction. The liquid applicator 31 is driven by the end-stitcher movement motor 55 and moves via the base 48 in the main scanning direction, thereby rotating the posture switching lever 111.

[0264] The posture switching lever 111, posture switching component 114, and guide rail 115 constitute a liquid applicator rotation mechanism 126 that switches the posture of the liquid applicator 31 as it moves along the main scanning direction. The posture switching lever 111 is an example of a posture switching component that rotates integrally with the liquid applicator 31. The posture switching component 114 and guide rail 115 are examples of posture switching components that contact the posture switching lever 111 as the liquid applicator 31 moves along the main scanning direction, thereby switching the posture of the posture switching lever 111.

[0265] Figure 33A and Figure 33B This is a diagram showing the structure of the posture switching component 114 installed on the base 116 of the binding mechanism. Figure 34A , Figure 34B , Figure 34C , Figure 34D , Figure 34E and Figure 34F This diagram illustrates a series of actions performed on the posture switching lever 111 by the posture switching component 114.

[0266] The posture switching component 114 is held rotatably by a posture switching component shaft 119 provided on the binding mechanism base 116. On the other hand, one end of the posture switching component 114 is mounted on the binding mechanism base 116, and the other end of the posture switching component 114 is directed in one direction by a force-applying spring 117 mounted on the posture switching component 114. Figure 33A , Figure 33B The force is applied clockwise to the posture switching component shaft 119. A posture switching component stop 118 is provided on the binding mechanism base 116. (For example...) Figure 33A As shown, the posture switching component 114 is configured to restrict clockwise rotation and allow counterclockwise rotation. Figure 33A Rotation of the direction of arrow A in the diagram.

[0267] The liquid applicator 31 can be rotated via the liquid applicator rotation mechanism 126. Figure 35A , Figure 35B , Figure 35C , Figure 35D , Figure 35H The "parallel imparted posture" shown is related to Figure 35E , Figure 35F , Figure 35G The switch between the shown "tilt application posture" and the "parallel application posture" refers to the posture of the liquid applicator 31 when the short direction (long direction of the liquid application component 501) is along the main scanning direction. The "tilt application posture" is the posture of the liquid applicator 31 when the short direction is tilted relative to the main scanning direction.

[0268] The crimper 32 can be rotated by the crimper rotation mechanism 52. Figure 35A , 35B The "parallel binding posture" shown in 35C is similar to Figure 35D , 35E Switching or pivoting between the "tilted binding postures" shown in 35F, 35G, and 35H. "Parallel binding posture" refers to the posture of the crimper 32 when the short direction of the crimper 32 (the long direction of the upper crimping tooth 32a and the lower crimping tooth 32b) is the main scanning direction. "Tilted binding posture" is the posture of the crimper 32 when the short direction of the crimper 32 is tilted relative to the main scanning direction.

[0269] The liquid application position of the liquid applicator 31 in the parallel application posture is aligned in the same longitudinal direction as the binding position of the crimper 32 in the parallel binding posture. Similarly, the liquid application position of the liquid applicator 31 in the inclined application posture is aligned in the same longitudinal direction as the binding position of the crimper 32 in the inclined binding posture. In other words, the liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32 rotate at the same rotation angle between the two postures. The liquid application position of the liquid applicator 31 in the parallel application posture overlaps with the binding position of the crimper 32 in the parallel binding posture. Similarly, the liquid application position of the liquid applicator 31 in the inclined application posture overlaps with the binding position of the crimper 32 in the inclined binding posture.

[0270] Figure 35A , Figure 35B , Figure 35C , Figure 35D , Figure 35E , Figure 35F , Figure 35G , Figure 35H This diagram shows the sequence of actions for switching the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 to "tilted binding posture" and "tilted applicator posture," respectively.

[0271] like Figure 35A As shown, the crimper 32 and liquid applicator 31 are located in the standby position HP outside the paper width area. The posture switching lever 111 is positioned above the guide rail 115. Then, as... Figure 35B As shown, the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 push open the posture switching component 114 while moving along the left side ( Figure 35B Move in the direction of the arrow shown.

[0272] When the liquid applicator 31 is in an inclined applicator position, the drive end-attachment moving motor 55 moves the base 48 holding the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 to the left. Since the counter-clockwise rotation of the posture switching member 114 is unrestricted, the posture switching lever 111 presses down and passes over the posture switching member 114 (see reference). Figure 34A , Figure 34B ).

[0273] Then, as Figure 35C As shown, after the posture switching lever 111 passes the posture switching component 114, the drive of the end-stitcher moving motor 55 is stopped, temporarily halting the movement of the base 48 to the left in the main scanning direction. At this time, the posture switching component 114 is restored to the rotation-limited posture by the force applied by the force spring 117 (see reference). Figure 34C ).

[0274] Then, as Figure 35D As shown, the crimping machine rotary motor 56 generates a driving force to cause the crimping machine 32 to rotate in both forward and reverse directions. The driving force of the crimping machine rotary motor 56 is transmitted to the crimping machine shaft 54 ​​via pulleys and a timing belt. Consequently, the crimping frame 32c, together with the upper crimping tooth 32a and the lower crimping tooth 32b, rotates in both directions around the crimping machine shaft 54. This causes the crimping machine 32 to change its orientation towards a tilting binding position.

[0275] Then, as Figure 35E As shown, the base 48 of the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 is positioned to the right in the main scanning direction. Figure 35E (In the direction indicated by the middle arrow) movement. Even if the posture switching lever 111 contacts the posture switching component 114, the posture switching component 114 is restricted from rotating clockwise. Due to this configuration, even if the base 48 moves to the right, the posture switching lever 111 is not allowed to move to the right, and begins to rotate to the tilt posture (see...). Figure 34D and Figure 34E ).

[0276] Then, as Figure 35F As shown, the base 48 holding the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 moves to the right in the main scanning direction. The posture switching lever 111 rotates while moving downwards towards the guide rail 115. The posture switching lever 111 moves towards the lower side of the guide rail 115 (below the posture switching member axis 119 of the posture switching lever 111), thereby moving in the main scanning direction. As a result, the posture switching member 114 rotates counterclockwise against the force of the force spring 117. Furthermore, as the base 48 moves to the right, the posture switching lever 111 moves to the right, while simultaneously passing the posture switching member 114 (see...). Figure 34E and Figure 34F Thus, the rotation of the liquid applicator 31 toward the tilting position is completed.

[0277] That is, when the posture switching lever 111 passes through the posture switching member 114 from one end (left) to the other end (right) in the main scanning direction, the liquid applicator 31 rotates from the parallel applicator posture to the tilted applicator posture. In addition, when the liquid applicator 31 rotates from the parallel applicator posture to the tilted applicator posture, the crimper 32 first rotates to the tilted binding posture, and then the liquid applicator 31 rotates to the tilted applicator posture.

[0278] Then, as Figure 35G As shown, the base 48 holding the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 is moved to the right. When the liquid applicator 31, which is in an inclined applicating position, is moved to the liquid applicating position, the liquid applicator 501 contacts or separates from the paper P, thereby performing liquid applicating.

[0279] Then, as Figure 35H As shown, after the paper bundle Pb comprising a specified number of papers P is placed, the base 48 of the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 is moved to the left. After the crimper 32, which is in an inclined binding posture, is moved to the binding position, the upper crimping teeth 32a and the lower crimping teeth 32b are brought into contact with or separated from the paper bundle Pb, thereby performing crimp binding.

[0280] Figure 36A , Figure 36B , Figure 36C , Figure 36D This diagram illustrates the sequence of actions that change the crimper 32 and liquid applicator 31 to "parallel binding posture" and "parallel applicator posture" (which is also the posture of the standby position HP). For example... Figure 36A As shown, firstly, the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 are in the inclined binding position and the parallel applicator posture.

[0281] Then, as Figure 36B As shown, the base 48 of the retainer 32 and the liquid applicator 31 is positioned to the left. Figure 36B (In the direction of the arrow in the image) moves. Even if the posture switching lever 111 contacts the posture switching component 114, the posture switching component 114 is restricted from rotating clockwise. Due to this configuration, even if the base 48 moves to the left, the posture switching lever 111 is not allowed to move to the left, but instead begins to move clockwise. Figure 36B Rotate clockwise within.

[0282] Then, as Figure 36C As shown, the base 48 moves further to the left. The posture switching lever 111 rotates while moving to the upper side of the guide rail 115. When the posture switching lever 111 moves to the upper side of the guide rail 115, before the posture switching lever 111 passes the posture switching component 114, the base 48 moves to the right, and the rotation of the liquid applicator 31 to the parallel applicator posture is completed.

[0283] That is, when the posture switching lever 111 passes through the posture switching member 114 from one end (right side) to one end (left side) of the main scanning direction, the liquid applicator 31 rotates from the tilted applicator posture to the parallel applicator posture. In addition, when rotating the liquid applicator 31 from the tilted applicator posture to the parallel applicator posture, the liquid applicator 31 is rotated to the parallel applicator posture first, and then the crimper 32 is rotated to the parallel binding posture.

[0284] With the above structure, rotation to the parallel binding posture (parallel application posture) and the tilt binding posture (tilt application posture) can be achieved via the posture switching lever 111 and the posture switching component 114. Furthermore, by staggering the rotation timing of the liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32, simpler control can be achieved compared to rotating the liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32 together. Additionally, when rotating the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 to the tilt binding posture and the tilt application posture, the liquid applicator 31 rotates after the crimper 32. When rotating the crimper 32 and the liquid applicator 31 to the parallel binding posture and the parallel application posture, the crimper 32 rotates after the liquid applicator 31. This avoids interference between the liquid applicator 31 and the crimper 32.

[0285] Then, as Figure 36D As shown, by driving the crimping machine rotation motor 56, the crimping machine 32 is in... Figure 36D Rotate clockwise to complete the movement of the crimper 32 to the parallel binding position.

[0286] In the above embodiment, the liquid applicator shaft 53 has a structure that rotates together with the posture switching lever 111. However, the liquid applicator shaft 53 may also be configured to rotate in conjunction with the part that is separated from the posture switching lever 111 via a gear train and a timing belt.

[0287] Figure 37A , Figure 37B , Figure 37C , Figure 37D , Figure 37E This indicates a "parallel binding posture" (first binding posture) in which the long side direction of the front end of the upper crimping tooth 32a, lower crimping tooth 32b, and liquid dispensing component 501 is aligned with the main scanning direction, and multiple positions of the paper bundle Pb are bound in parallel.

[0288] First, before feeding the paper P to the inner tray 22, the end-loading device 25 is moved from... Figure 30 HP is moved to the standby position shown in A. Figure 30 The first liquid application position B1 shown in B is such that the liquid applicator 31 is located at the first liquid application position B1.

[0289] Then, when the alignment of the paper P supported on the inner tray 22 in the main scanning direction and the transport direction is completed, as follows: Figure 37C As shown, the liquid applicator 31, located at the first liquid applicator position B1, applies liquid to the paper P. Then, when the alignment of the paper P supported on the inner tray 22 in the main scanning direction and the transport direction is completed, as... Figure 37CAs shown, the liquid applicator 31, located at the first liquid applicator position B1, applies liquid to the paper P. When the movement ends, the liquid applicator 31 applies liquid to the paper P at the second liquid applicator position B2.

[0290] Repeat the above steps Figure 37B and Figure 37C The liquid is applied until the number of sheets of paper P placed on the inner tray 22 reaches the specified number (the number of sheets constituting the paper bundle Pb).

[0291] When the number of sheets of paper P placed on the inner tray 22 reaches the specified number, such as Figure 37D As shown, the end-binding device 25 is moved in the main scanning direction so that the crimper 32 is positioned at the second binding position B2. When the movement ends, the crimper 32 crimps the paper bundle Pb at the second binding position B2. When the crimping at the second binding position B2 is complete, as... Figure 37E As shown, the end-binding device 25 is moved in the main scanning direction so that the crimping device 32 is in the first binding position B1. When the movement ends, the crimping device 32 crimps and binds the paper bundle Pb in the first binding position B1.

[0292] When the crimping process at the first binding position B1 is completed, the end binding device 25 moves to... Figure 37A HP is in standby position, and the binding process is complete.

[0293] In the above embodiment, an example of one liquid applicator 31 and one crimper 32 was described, but the number of liquid applicators 31 and crimpers 32 is not limited to the above example. In another example, two liquid applicators 31L and 31R and two crimpers 32L and 32R may also be provided.

[0294] According to the above embodiment, since the liquid supply is controlled based on the state of the liquid storage section within the post-processing device 3, the liquid can be appropriately maintained in the liquid storage section. That is, the operation of supplying liquid to the liquid storage section is controlled according to the operating status of the post-processing device 3. As a result, liquid can be stably supplied to the liquid supply section, improving binding quality. Furthermore, since the time required for the crimping binding operation can be shortened, the user's waiting time can be optimized, improving user convenience.

[0295] The post-processing apparatus 3 according to the second embodiment will be described below.

[0296] Reference Figures 38-46 The post-processing apparatus 3A of the second embodiment will be described below. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same structures as those in the post-processing apparatus 3 of the first embodiment, and repeated descriptions are sometimes omitted.

[0297] The post-processing apparatus 3A of the second embodiment includes an end-stitcher 251. The end-stitcher 251 differs from the end-stitcher 25 of the post-processing apparatus 3 of the first embodiment, which has a liquid applicator 31 and a crimper 32 arranged side-by-side, in that the end-stitcher 251 has a crimper 32', and the liquid applicator 131 is disposed upstream of the paper P in the transport direction. With this structure, the liquid-applied paper P can be conveyed in a predetermined number of overlapping sheets to the crimper 32' of the end-stitcher 251, which is disposed downstream of the paper P in the transport direction of the transport path. Therefore, the productivity of the binding process performed by the crimper 32' is improved.

[0298] Since the direction in which the conveyor rollers convey paper P to 10, 11, and 14 is opposite to the "conveyor direction" defined above, in the following description, the direction in which the conveyor rollers convey paper P to 10, 11, and 14 is defined as the "opposite conveyor direction". The direction orthogonal to this opposite conveyor direction and the thickness direction of paper P is defined as the "main scanning direction" or the "width direction of paper P". The liquid application position where liquid is applied to paper P or paper bundle Pb by liquid applicator 131 corresponds to the binding position of paper bundle Pb pressed by crimper 32'. Therefore, in the following description, the same reference numeral B1 is used to refer to the liquid application position and the binding position.

[0299] Figure 38 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of the post-processing apparatus 3A according to the second embodiment of the present invention. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 39A , Figure 39B and Figure 39C As shown, the end-binding device 251 includes only the crimper 32'. (As...) Figure 38 A, Figure 38 B and Figure 38 As shown in Figure C, the crimper 32' and the stapler 156 are positioned downstream of the inner tray 22 in the transport direction. Furthermore, the crimper 32' and the stapler 156 are configured opposite to the downstream end of the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 in the transport direction and move along the main scanning direction.

[0300] Furthermore, the crimper 32' and the stapler 156 rotate in opposite directions around the crimper axis 340 and the stapler axis 84, which extend in the thickness direction of the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22. That is, the crimper 32' and the stapler 156 staple the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 to the desired position in the main scanning direction at a desired angle, for example, by corner tilting, parallel one-point stitching, or parallel two-point stitching.

[0301] The crimper 32' presses and deforms the paper bundle Pb by means of the serrated upper crimping teeth 32a and the serrated lower crimping teeth 32b, thereby binding the paper bundle Pb. In other words, the crimper 32' crimps and binds the paper bundle Pb or performs crimping on the paper bundle Pb. On the other hand, the needle binder 156 binds the paper bundle Pb by passing a needle through the binding position of the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22.

[0302] Figure 39A , Figure 39B , Figure 39C This is a schematic diagram of the internal tray 22 viewed from the thickness direction of the paper bundle Pb. Figure 40 This is a schematic diagram of the crimper 32' as viewed from the conveying direction. (As shown...) Figure 39A , Figure 39B and Figure 39C As shown, the crimper 32' and the stapler 156 are positioned downstream of the inner tray 22 in the transport direction. The crimper 32' is movable in the main scanning direction along the surface of the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22. In addition, the crimper 32' can also rotate in both directions about a crimper shaft 340 extending in the thickness direction of the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22.

[0303] Similarly, the needle binder 156 is movable along the main scanning direction of the paper bundle Pb and can rotate in both directions about the needle binder axis 84 extending along the thickness direction of the paper bundle Pb. The other structures of the needle binder 156 are similar to those of the needle binder 155 of the post-processing apparatus 3 in the first embodiment (see reference). Figure 6 It is the same. Therefore, its detailed description is omitted.

[0304] like Figure 40 As shown, the crimper 32' includes a guide rail 337 extending in the main scanning direction at a position downstream of the inner tray 22 in the transport direction. The crimper 32' includes a crimper moving motor 238 as a drive source. The base 48 supporting the crimping frame 32c has a fastening part 48b for fastening a timing belt 240c at the bottom of the base 48. The driving force of the crimper moving motor 238 is transmitted to the base 48 through a drive transmission mechanism 240 including pulleys 240a, 240b, timing belt 240c, and fastening part 48b. As a result, the crimper 32' moves along the surface of the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22, i.e., along the guide rail 337 in the main scanning direction. A crimper shaft 340 having a drive transmission gear 340a is fixed to the bottom surface of the crimping frame 32c, which holds the various components of the crimper 32.

[0305] The crimping shaft 340 and the drive transmission gear 340a are held by a base 48 on which the crimping frame 32c is disposed, thereby enabling rotation in both forward and reverse directions. The drive transmission gear 340a meshes with the output gear 239a of the crimping pivot motor 239. When the driving force of the crimping pivot motor 239 is transmitted to the crimping shaft 340 via the output gear 239a and the drive transmission gear 340a, the crimping 32' rotates forward and reverse on the base 48 about the crimping shaft 340, which extends along the thickness direction of the paper P placed on the inner tray 22. The guide rail 337, the crimping moving motor 238, the crimping pivot motor 239, the crimping shaft 340, and the drive transmission mechanism 240 constitute at least a part of the drive mechanism of the crimping 32' according to this embodiment.

[0306] Crimp 32ʹ is capable of Figure 39A The standby position HP2 shown is opposite to the crimper 32ʹ. Figure 39B and 39C The device moves between the positions shown in the first binding position B1. The standby position HP2 is a position away from the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 in the main scanning direction. For example, in... Figure 39A , Figure 39B and Figure 39C In the standby position HP, the right side of the paper bundle Pb is away from the main scanning direction. The first binding position B1 is the position on the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22. However, the specific position of the first binding position B1 is not limited to... Figure 39B and 39C The position shown. The first binding position B1 can be one or more positions along the main scanning direction at the downstream end of the paper P in the transport direction.

[0307] The posture of crimper 32ʹ is in Figure 39B The parallel binding posture shown and Figure 39C The shown angled binding posture can be changed or rotated. In other words, the crimper 32' can rotate about the crimper axis 340 in both forward and reverse directions. The parallel binding posture is the posture of the crimper 32' with the length direction of the upper crimping teeth 32a and the lower crimping teeth 32b (in other words, the rectangular crimping binding marks) facing the main scanning direction. The angled binding posture is the posture of the crimper 32' with the length direction of the upper crimping teeth 32a and the lower crimping teeth 32b (in other words, the rectangular crimping binding marks) tilted relative to the main scanning direction.

[0308] In the tilted binding posture, the pivot angle, which is the angle of the upper pressure tooth 32a and the lower pressure tooth 32b relative to the main scanning direction, is not limited to... Figure 39C As shown, the pivot angle in the tilt binding posture can be any angle, as long as the upper pressure tooth 32a and the lower pressure tooth 32b face the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22.

[0309] The post-processing unit 3A includes a liquid applicator 131 and a punch 132 that acts as a processor. The liquid applicator 131 and the punch 132 are arranged on the upstream side of the inner tray 22 in opposite conveying directions. In addition, the liquid applicator 131 and the punch 132 are arranged at different positions in opposite conveying directions so as to simultaneously face a sheet of paper P conveyed by the conveyor rollers 10 to 19.

[0310] In this embodiment, the liquid applicator 131 and the punch 132 are disposed between the conveyor roller pairs 10 and 11. However, the configuration of the liquid applicator 131 and the punch 132 is not limited to... Figure 38 The embodiments shown. For example, such as Figure 46 As shown, when an inserter 6 is arranged between the image forming apparatus 2 and the post-processing apparatus 3A, the liquid applicator 131 can also be arranged inside the inserter 6 located upstream of the post-processing apparatus 3A. As an inserter 6, for example, a device capable of supplying pre-printing media, which is conveyed to the post-processing apparatus 3A along with the paper P conveyed from the image forming apparatus 2, as a cover sheet, insert sheet, or separator sheet without passing through the image forming apparatus 2.

[0311] like Figure 41A As shown, liquid is supplied to the first liquid supply position B1 of the paper P via the liquid supply head 146 of the liquid supply device 131. The conveyor roller pair 11 is positioned in the main scanning direction without overlapping with the liquid supply position B1 on the paper P. This is to prevent the amount of liquid at the first liquid supply position B1 from decreasing due to the compression of the first liquid supply position B1 by multiple roller pairs when the paper P is conveyed by the conveyor roller pair 11. As a result, when the paper P reaches the crimper 32' located downstream of the liquid supply device 131 in the opposite conveying direction, the amount of liquid at the first liquid supply position B1 is sufficient to maintain the binding strength. Therefore, the binding strength of the paper bundle Pb is prevented from decreasing due to the reduction of the amount of liquid at the first liquid supply position B1 (corresponding to the first binding position B1) during the conveying of the paper P.

[0312] In addition, the multiple roller pairs of the conveying roller pair 11 are arranged in a position that does not overlap with the first liquid application position B1 on the paper P in the main scanning direction, to prevent the conveying performance of the paper P from deteriorating due to liquid adhering to the multiple roller pairs, and further to prevent conveying blockage caused by the deteriorated conveying performance of the paper P.

[0313] Furthermore, in the above description, only the transport roller pair 11 was described, but the multiple roller pairs of transport roller pairs 14 and 15 are preferably arranged in the same way as the multiple roller pairs of transport roller pair 11 in the main scanning direction at a position that does not overlap with the first liquid application position B1 of paper P.

[0314] Liquid applicator 131 applies liquid to the paper P conveyed by the conveyor rollers 10 and 11. In the following description, the application of liquid is sometimes referred to as "liquid application". Puncher 132 forms a perforation in the paper P conveyed by the conveyor rollers 10 and 11, penetrating the paper P in the thickness direction. The processor disposed near the liquid applicator 131 is not limited to puncher 132. Alternatively, the processor may be a tilt corrector that corrects the tilt (skew) of the paper P conveyed by the conveyor rollers 10 and 11.

[0315] Figure 41 is a view of the liquid applicator 131 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the thickness direction of paper P. Figure 42A , Figure 42B , Figure 42C It is along Figure 41A A cross-sectional view of the liquid applicator 131 taken from line XXV-XXV. Figure 43A , Figure 43B , Figure 43C It is along Figure 41A The cross-sectional view of the liquid applicator 131 taken from line XXVI-XXVI is shown in Figures 41-43. As shown, the liquid applicator 131 includes a pair of guide shafts 133a and 133b, a pair of pulleys 134a and 134b, an annular belts 135 and 136, a liquid applicator moving motor 137, and a standby position sensor 138 (see reference). Figure 44 ) and liquid imparting unit 140.

[0316] Guide shafts 133a and 133b, extending in the main scanning direction, are arranged separately in opposite transport directions. A pair of side plates 4a and 4b of the post-processing unit 3A support the pair of guide shafts 133a and 133b. The pair of guide shafts 133a and 133b support the liquid application unit 140, enabling the liquid application unit 140 to move in the main scanning direction.

[0317] Pulleys 134a and 134b are arranged between guide shafts 133a and 133b in opposite conveying directions. Pulleys 134a and 134b are arranged separately from each other in the main scanning direction. Pulleys 134a and 134b are supported on the frame of the post-processing unit 3A and are capable of rotating about an axis extending along the thickness direction of paper P.

[0318] An annular belt 135 is wound around pulleys 134a and 134b. The annular belt 135 is connected to the liquid application unit 140 via a connector 135a. An annular belt 136 is wound around pulley 134a and the output shaft 137a of the liquid application unit moving motor 137. The liquid application unit moving motor 137 generates driving force, causing the liquid application unit 140 to move in the main scanning direction.

[0319] When the liquid applicator moving motor 137 rotates, the annular belt 136 circulates around the pulley 134a and the output shaft 137a to rotate the pulley 134a. When the pulley 134a rotates, the annular belt 135 circulates around the pulleys 134a and 134b. As a result, the liquid applicator unit 140 moves along the guide shafts 133a and 133b in the main scanning direction. The liquid applicator unit 140 reciprocates in the main scanning direction in response to the switching of the rotation direction of the liquid applicator moving motor 137.

[0320] Standby position sensor 138 detects that liquid delivery unit 140 has reached standby position HP1 in the main scanning direction (refer to...). Figure 41A and Figure 41B Next, the standby position sensor 138 outputs a standby position signal indicating the detection result to the controller 100b, which will be referred to below. Figure 44 The standby position sensor 138 is, for example, an optical sensor including a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit. A liquid-applying unit 140 reaching the standby position HP blocks the light path between the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit. Then, the light emitted from the light-emitting unit is not received by the light-receiving unit, and in response, the standby position sensor 138 outputs a standby position signal. The specific structure of the standby position sensor 138 is not limited to the example described above.

[0321] like Figure 42A , Figure 42B and Figure 42C As shown, the conveying path within the post-processing unit 3A is defined by an upper guide plate 5a and a lower guide plate 5b arranged separately in the thickness direction of the paper P. The liquid application unit 140 is configured to face the opening of the upper guide plate 5a. That is, the liquid application unit 140 faces the conveying path through the opening of the upper guide plate 5a in a manner opposite to the paper P conveyed along the conveying path.

[0322] like Figures 41A to 43C As shown, the liquid supply unit 140 includes a base component 141, a rotating bracket 142, a liquid storage tank 143, a supply head mover 144, a holding component 145, a liquid supply head 146, columnar components 147a and 147b, a pressure plate 148, helical springs 149a and 149b, a supply head pivot motor 150, and a supply head moving motor 151 (see...). Figure 44 ) and standby angle sensor 152 (see also Figure 44 ).

[0323] The base component 141 is supported by a pair of guide shafts 133a and 133b so that it can slide in the main scanning direction. The base component 141 is connected to the annular belt 135 via a connector 135a. The base component 141 supports the aforementioned components of the liquid application unit 140, namely, the rotating bracket 142, the liquid storage tank 143, the application head mover 144, the holding component 145, the liquid application head 146, the columnar components 147a and 147b, the pressure plate 148, the helical springs 149a and 149b, the application head pivot motor 150, the application head movement motor 151, and the standby angle sensor 152.

[0324] The rotating bracket 142 is supported by the lower surface of the base member 141 and is capable of rotating in both directions about an axis extending in the thickness direction of the paper P. The rotating bracket 142 rotates relative to the base member 141 by a driving force transmitted from the feeding head pivot motor 150. The rotating bracket 142 supports the liquid storage tank 143, the feeding head mover 144, the holding member 145, the liquid feeding head 146, the columnar members 147a and 147b, the pressure plate 148, and the helical springs 149a and 149b.

[0325] Also there Figure 44 The standby angle sensor 152, as shown in the diagram, detects that the rotating bracket 142 has reached the standby angle. Then, the standby angle sensor 152 outputs a standby angle signal indicating the detection result to the controller 100b. The standby angle refers to, for example, the angle of parallel binding. The standby angle sensor 152 is, for example, an optical sensor having a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit. The rotating bracket 142, at the standby angle, blocks the light path between the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit. Then, the light output from the light-emitting unit is not received by the light-receiving unit, and in response, the standby angle sensor 152 outputs a standby angle signal. The specific structure of the standby angle sensor 152 is not limited to the example described above.

[0326] Figure 41A The rotating bracket 142 is positioned for parallel binding using the crimper 32' located downstream of the liquid applicator 131. Figure 41B The rotating bracket 142 is positioned for tilting (i.e., angled binding) using the crimper 32' located downstream of the liquid applicator 131.

[0327] Liquid reservoir 143 stores the liquid to be applied to paper P. Applying head mover 144 is supported by liquid reservoir 143 to allow movement in the thickness direction of paper P. Applying head mover 144 is moved relative to liquid reservoir 143 by a driving force transmitted from applying head mover motor 151. Holding member 145 is connected to the lower end of applying head mover 144. Liquid applying head 146 protrudes from holding member 145 into the transport path (below in this embodiment). Liquid stored in liquid reservoir 143 is supplied to liquid applying head 146. Liquid applying head 146 is made of a material with relatively high liquid absorbency (e.g., sponge or fiber).

[0328] Columnar components 147a and 147b protrude downward from a retaining member 145 surrounding a liquid supply head 146. Columnar components 147a and 147b are movable relative to the thickness of the retaining member 145. Columnar components 147a and 147b have respective lower ends that support or support a pressure plate 148. The pressure plate 148 has a through hole 148a at a position facing the liquid supply head 146. Coil springs 149a and 149b are respectively mounted around columnar components 147a and 147b between the retaining member 145 and the pressure plate 148. Coil springs 149a and 149b apply downward pressure to columnar components 147a and 147b and the pressure plate 148 relative to the retaining member 145.

[0329] like Figure 42A and 43A As shown, before the paper P is conveyed to the position where the paper P faces the opening of the upward guide plate 5a, the pressure plate 148 is located at or above the opening. Next, when the paper P conveyed by the conveyor rollers 10 and 11 stops at the first liquid application position B1 of the paper P facing the opening, the application head movement motor 151 rotates in the first direction. As a result, the application head mover 144, the holding member 145, the liquid application head 146, the columnar members 147a and 147b, the pressure plate 148, and the helical springs 149a and 149b descend together, and the pressure plate 148 contacts the paper P. The first liquid application position B1 corresponds to the first binding position B1 where the end binding device 251, specifically the crimping device 32', crimps the paper.

[0330] While the feed head moving motor 151 continues to rotate in the first direction, after the pressure plate 148 contacts the paper P, the helical springs 149a and 149b are compressed to further move the feed head mover 144, the holding member 145, the liquid feed head 146, and the columnar members 147a and 147b downward. As a result, Figure 42B and Figure 43B As shown, the lower surface of the liquid supply head 146 contacts the paper P through the through hole 148a. Then, the liquid contained in the liquid supply head 146 is supplied to the paper P.

[0331] The further rotation of the liquid-imparting head motor 151 along the first direction further presses the liquid-imparting head 146 forcefully against the paper P, as... Figure 42C and Figure 43C As shown. Accordingly, the amount of liquid applied to paper P increases. In short, the liquid applicator 131 changes the pressure of the liquid applicator head 146 on paper P to adjust the amount of liquid applied to paper P.

[0332] On the other hand, by causing the applicator head moving motor 151 to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the applicator head mover 144, the holding member 145, the liquid applicator head 146, the columnar members 147a and 147b, the pressure plate 148, and the helical springs 149a and 149b move upward together. As a result, Figure 42A and Figure 43A As shown, the liquid application head 146 and the pressure plate 148 are separated from the paper P. In other words, the liquid applicator 131 includes a liquid application head 146 that is separable from the paper P.

[0333] Figure 44 This is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the post-processing device 3A for controlling the operation of the post-processing device 3A according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. (See diagram for example.) Figure 44 As shown, the post-processing device 3A includes a central processing unit (CPU) 101, random access memory (RAM) 102, read-only memory (ROM) 103, hard disk drive (HDD) 104, and interface (I / F) 105. The CPU 101, RAM 102, ROM 103, HDD 104, and I / F 105 are interconnected via a common bus 109.

[0334] CPU 101 is the arithmetic unit that controls the overall operation of post-processing unit 3A. RAM 102 is a volatile storage medium that allows for high-speed data reading and writing. CPU 101 uses RAM 102 as its working area for data processing. ROM 103 is a read-only non-volatile storage medium that stores programs such as firmware. HDD 104 is a non-volatile storage medium that allows data to be read and written and has a relatively large storage capacity. HDD 104 stores, for example, the operating system (OS), various control programs, and application programs.

[0335] Through the computing functions of CPU 101, post-processing device 3A processes, for example, control programs stored in ROM 103 and information processing programs (application programs) loaded from storage media such as HDD 104 into RAM 102. This processing constitutes a software controller comprising various functional modules of post-processing device 3A. This configured software controller collaborates with the hardware resources of post-processing device 3A to construct functional blocks that implement the functions of post-processing device 3A. In other words, CPU 101, RAM 102, ROM 103, HDD 104, and I / F 105 constitute at least a part of controller 100b, which is a control device for controlling the operation of post-processing device 3A.

[0336] I / F 105 is an interface that connects the conveyor roller pairs 10, 11, 14, 15, switching component 20, side baffles 24L, 24R, presser moving motor 238, presser rotating motor 239, contact-separation motor 32d, liquid applicator moving motor 137, applicator pivot motor 150, applicator moving motor 151, standby position sensor 138, standby angle sensor 152, punch 132, and operation panel 110 to the common bus 109.

[0337] The controller 100b controls the operation of the conveyor rollers 10, 11, 14, and 15, the switching unit 20, the side baffles 24L and 24R, the presser moving motor 238, the presser rotating motor 239, the contact-separation motor 32d, the liquid applicator moving motor 137, the applicator head pivoting motor 150, the applicator head moving motor 151, and the punch 132 via the I / F 105. The controller 100b obtains detection results from the standby position sensor 138 and the standby angle sensor 152 via the I / F 105.

[0338] exist Figure 44 The diagram shows the components of the liquid applicator 131 and the end-stitcher 251 (crimper 32') that performs the end-stitching process, but the components that perform the saddle-shaped stitching process are controlled by the controller 100b in the same way as the components of the liquid applicator 131 and the end-stitcher 251 (crimper 32') that perform the end-stitching process.

[0339] like Figure 46 As shown, the image forming apparatus 2 includes an operation panel 110. The operation panel 110 includes an operating device for receiving instructions input by an operator, and a display serving as a notification device for informing the operator. The operating device includes, for example, physical input buttons and a touchscreen overlaid on the display. The operation panel 110 obtains information from the user through the operating device and provides information to the user through the display. The post-processing apparatus 3A may also have the same operation panel 110 as the image forming apparatus 2 described above.

[0340] Figure 45 This is a flowchart of the post-processing performed by the post-processing apparatus 3A in the second embodiment. Specifically, Figure 45 Is execution Figure 39A , Figure 39B and Figure 39C The flowchart shown illustrates the process of single-point binding.

[0341] For example, when the controller 100b receives a post-processing instruction from the image forming apparatus 2, it executes... Figure 45 The post-processing is shown below. In the following description, the instruction to perform post-processing is sometimes referred to as a "post-processing instruction". The post-processing instruction includes, for example, the number of sheets P of paper bundle Pb (hereinafter referred to as "specified number of sheets Np"), the number of paper bundles Pb to be bound, the first binding position B1 (corresponding to the first liquid application position B1), the angle of the first binding position B1 (corresponding to the angle of the first liquid application position B1), the type of binding process (parallel binding process or inclined binding process), and the process to be performed in parallel with the liquid application process (punching in this embodiment). In the following description, the number of sheets P of paper bundle Pb is sometimes referred to as "specified number of sheets Np", and the number of paper bundles Pb to be bound is referred to as "required number of copies Mp". At the start of post-processing, the liquid application unit 140 is in Figure 41A and Figure 41B The standby position HP1 is shown, while the rotating bracket 142 is held at the standby angle (corresponding to the parallel binding posture) in the standby position HP1.

[0342] First, the controller 100b drives the liquid applicator moving motor 137, causing the liquid applicator 140 (equivalent to the liquid applicator) to move in the main scanning direction, so that the liquid applicator head 146 moves from the standby position HP1 to a position where the liquid applicator head 146 can engage with the liquid applicator head 146. Figure 39B , Figure 39C The first binding position B1 shown corresponds to the first liquid application position B1 (refer to...). Figure 41BThe relative position. If the binding process type indicated by the post-processing instruction is "tilt binding process", then in step S4401, the controller 100b drives the application head pivot motor 150 to rotate the rotating carriage 142. As a result, the liquid application head 146 rotates from the standby angle to the liquid application angle corresponding to the "tilt binding posture". The rotary encoder of the liquid application mover motor 137 outputs a pulse signal, and based on the pulse signal, it is confirmed that the liquid application head 146 has reached the position where the liquid application head 146 can be relative to the first liquid application position B1. Similarly, based on the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder of the application head pivot motor 150, it is confirmed that the liquid application head 146 has reached the liquid application angle. If the binding process type indicated by the post-processing instruction is "parallel binding process", then the controller 100b omits the above-mentioned action of rotating the rotating carriage 142. In other words, the liquid application unit 140 moves in the main scanning direction while holding the rotating carriage 142 at the standby angle.

[0343] Furthermore, in step S4401, the controller 100b drives the crimping device movement motor 238 to move the crimping device 32' from the standby position HP2 to a position where the crimping device 32' can face the first binding position B1, such as... Figure 39A and Figure 39B As shown. Alternatively, if the binding process type indicated by the post-processing instruction is "tilt binding process", then in step S4401, the controller 100b drives the crimper rotation motor 239 to rotate the crimper 32' from the standby angle to the crimping angle corresponding to the "tilt binding posture". Based on the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder of the crimper movement motor 238, it is determined that the crimper 32' has reached the position where the crimper 32' can face the first binding position B1. Similarly, based on the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder of the crimper rotation motor 239, it is determined that the crimper 32' has reached the crimping angle. If the binding process type indicated by the post-processing instruction is "parallel binding process", then the controller 100b omits the above-described operation of rotating the crimper 32'. In other words, the crimper 32' moves in the main scanning direction while maintaining the standby angle.

[0344] Next, in step S4402, controller 100b drives the transport roller pair 10 and 11 to begin transporting the paper P on which the image forming apparatus 2 forms an image. In step S4403, controller 100b determines whether the first liquid application position B1 of the paper P is opposite to the liquid applicator 140 (more specifically, the liquid application head 146). That is, controller 100b determines whether the liquid applicator 140 is opposite to the first liquid application position B1 of the paper P. If the first liquid application position B1 of the paper P is not opposite to the liquid application head 146 (step S4403: No), the determination in step S4403 is repeated. In other words, controller 100b continues to drive the transport roller pair 10 and 11 until the first liquid application position B1 on the paper P faces the liquid application head 146 (step S4403: Yes). On the other hand, when the liquid application position B1 of the paper P is opposite to the liquid application head 146 (step S4403: Yes), in step S4404, the controller 100b stops the conveyor rollers 10 and 11. Based on the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder of the motor driving the conveyor rollers 10 and 11, it is confirmed that the first liquid application position B1 on the paper P faces the liquid application head 146.

[0345] In step S4405, controller 100b causes liquid applicator 131 to perform the process of applicating liquid to the first liquid applicating position B1 of paper P. Specifically, controller 100b causes applicator head moving motor 151 to rotate in a first direction, so that liquid applicator head 146 abuts against the first liquid applicating position B1 of paper P. Controller 100b varies the pressing force of applicator head 146 (i.e., the amount of rotation or rotational speed of applicator head moving motor 151) according to the amount of liquid applied to paper P.

[0346] The amount of liquid applied to paper P can be the same across all paper Ps constituting the paper bundle Pb, or it can vary for each paper P. For example, controller 100b can also reduce the amount of liquid applied to subsequent paper Ps. The amount of rotation of the application head moving motor 151 can be determined based on the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder of the application head moving motor 151.

[0347] In step S4406, controller 100b drives conveyor rollers 10, 11, 14, and 15 to place paper P onto the inner tray 22. In step S4406, controller 100b moves side baffles 24L and 24R to align the position of the paper bundle Pb placed on the inner tray 22 in the main scanning direction. That is, controller 100b performs a so-called "slow push".

[0348] In step S4407, the controller 100b determines whether the number of sheets of paper P loaded on the internal tray 22 has reached the specified number of sheets Np indicated by the post-processing instruction. If the controller 100b determines that the number of sheets of paper P loaded on the internal tray 22 has not reached the specified number of sheets Np (step S4407: No), the controller 100b executes the actions of steps S4402 to S4407 again until the number of sheets of paper P loaded on the internal tray 22 reaches the specified number of sheets Np (step S4407: Yes).

[0349] On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of sheets of paper P on the inner tray 22 has reached the specified number Np (step S4407: Yes), in step S4408, the controller 100b crimps the first binding position B1 (corresponding to the first liquid application position B1) of the paper bundle Pb, which has been supplied with liquid by the liquid applicator 140, using the crimper 32'. Additionally, in step S4408, the controller 100b rotates the conveyor roller pair 15 to discharge the crimped paper bundle Pb to the second discharge tray 26.

[0350] The controller 100b determines whether the number of paper bundles Pb discharged to the second discharge tray 26 reaches the required number of copies Mp indicated in the post-processing instruction (step S4409). If the controller 100b determines that the number of paper bundles Pb discharged to the second discharge tray 26 does not reach the required number of copies Mp (step S4409: No), it repeats the processing steps S4402 to S4409 until the number of paper bundles Pb discharged to the second discharge tray 26 reaches the required number of copies Mp (step S4409: Yes).

[0351] When controller 100b determines that the number of paper bundles Pb discharged to the second discharge tray 26 has reached the required number of copies Mp (step S4409: Yes), it drives the liquid applicator moving motor 137, causing the liquid applicator 140 to move to the standby position HP1 (refer to...). Figure 41B The presser moves and drives the presser movement motor 238, causing the presser 32ʹ to move to the standby position HP2 (see reference). Figure 39A Movement (step S4410). When the posture indicated by the post-processing operation is "tilted binding posture", the controller 100b drives the application head pivot motor 150 and the crimper rotation motor 239 to rotate the liquid application unit 140 and the crimper 32' to a parallel binding posture (standby angle) (step S4410). On the other hand, when the posture indicated by the post-processing command is "parallel binding posture", the controller 100b skips the above-mentioned action of rotating the liquid application unit 140 and the crimper 32' to a parallel binding posture (standby angle). In steps S4401 and S4410, the execution order of the movement of the liquid application unit 140 and the crimper 32' in the main scanning direction and the forward and reverse rotation is not limited to the above order and can be reversed.

[0352] The embodiments of this disclosure are applied to an end-stitcher 25 that performs end-stitching as described above. However, the embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to a saddle-stitcher 28 that performs saddle-stitching.

[0353] Figure 38 The controller 100b of the post-processing apparatus 3A shown in the second embodiment and Figure 1 Similarly, its structure is separate from the controller 100a of the image forming apparatus 2. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the above configuration. For example, as Figure 47A As shown, the controller 100b of the post-processing device 3A can be installed in the image forming device 2. Furthermore, as... Figure 47B In the configuration described above, the controller 100b of the post-processing device 3A can be integrated with the controller 100a of the image forming device 2.

[0354] like Figure 48A In a similar structure, the controller 100b of the post-processing device 3A can be divided into controller 100b1 (e.g., a drive system such as a motor) and controller 100b2 (a detector such as a sensor) according to their functions, and the controller 100b2 of the post-processing device 3A can be disposed in the image forming apparatus 2. Furthermore, as... Figure 48B In a similar structure, the controller 100b2 of the post-processing device 3A of the image forming apparatus 2 can be integrated with the controller 100a of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0355] As described above, the control method of the controller 100b is implemented through the collaboration between the computer's hardware resources and the program, which is computer software. That is, the control method can also be executed by coordinating the operation of the arithmetic device, storage device, input device, output device, and control device based on the program. The program can be written to a storage device or storage medium and distributed by the storage device or storage medium, or it can be distributed via electrical communication lines, etc.

[0356] The embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and many additional modifications and variations can be made based on the teachings. All technical content encompassed by the technical concepts recited in the claims is included within the scope of protection of this invention. Therefore, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can practice the above-described embodiments of this disclosure in ways different from those specifically described herein. Such modifications and variations are included within the technical scope recited in the claims.

[0357] The aspects of this disclosure are as follows: First aspect A media processing apparatus includes: a liquid applicator including a liquid applicator component for applicating liquid to a medium; a post-processing apparatus for processing a plurality of media, including the medium to which the liquid has been applicated by the liquid applicator; a first liquid storage unit for storing the liquid applicated to the medium by the liquid applicator; a liquid supply unit including: a front end portion connected to the liquid applicator component; and a base end portion immersed in the liquid stored in the first liquid storage unit; and a first liquid level detector for detecting the liquid level stored in the first liquid storage unit, the first liquid level detector including: a first liquid level detection component; a second liquid level detection component; and a third liquid level detection component. The lower ends of the second liquid level detection component and the lower ends of the third liquid level detection component are vertically disposed within a substantially the same range as the base end portion including the liquid supply unit. The lower end of the first liquid level detection component is disposed above the substantially the same range.

[0358] Second aspect A media processing apparatus includes: a liquid applicator including a liquid applicator component for applicating liquid to a medium; a post-processing apparatus for processing a plurality of media, including the medium to which the liquid has been applicated by the liquid applicator; a first liquid storage unit for storing the liquid applicated to the medium by the liquid applicator; a liquid supply unit including: a front end portion connected to the liquid applicator component; and a base end portion immersed in the liquid stored in the first liquid storage unit; and a first liquid level detector for detecting the liquid level stored in the first liquid storage unit, the first liquid level detector including: a first liquid level detection component; a second liquid level detection component; and a third liquid level detection component. The lower end of the second liquid level detection component is vertically disposed within a substantially equal range of the position of the base end portion including the liquid supply unit. The lower end of the first liquid level detection component is disposed above the substantially equal range. The lower end of the third liquid level detection component is disposed below the substantially equal range.

[0359] Third aspect The media processing apparatus according to the first or second aspect further includes: a second liquid storage unit for storing the liquid supplied to the first liquid storage unit; a liquid supply unit for performing a liquid supply operation of supplying the liquid from the second liquid storage unit to the first liquid storage unit; and a controller for causing the liquid supply unit to perform the liquid supply operation based on a predetermined operating mode of the liquid supply operation. When the operating mode is a filling supply operation, the controller continues the liquid supply operation until the liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection unit and the second liquid level detection unit. From the time the liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection unit and the second liquid level detection unit, the liquid supply operation stops until a supply waiting time has elapsed for supplying the liquid to the liquid supply unit via the liquid supply unit. After the supply waiting time has elapsed, if no liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection unit and the second liquid level detection unit, the liquid supply unit is caused to perform the liquid supply operation again.

[0360] Fourth aspect In the media processing apparatus according to the third aspect, when the operating mode is an additional supply operation, the controller continues the liquid supply operation until liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection unit and the second liquid level detection unit, and stops the liquid supply operation when liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection unit and the second liquid level detection unit.

[0361] Fifth aspect In the media processing apparatus according to the third or fourth aspect, the controller changes the supply waiting time based on whether the liquid is detected between the second liquid level detection component and the third liquid level detection component.

[0362] Sixth aspect In the media processing apparatus according to the fourth aspect, the controller sets the operation mode to the filling supply operation when no liquid is detected between the second liquid level detection component and the third liquid level detection component, and sets the operation mode to the additional supply operation when the liquid is detected between the second liquid level detection component and the third liquid level detection component.

[0363] Seventh aspect In a media processing apparatus according to any of the third to sixth aspects, if no liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection component and the second liquid level detection component after a supply time has elapsed since the start of the liquid supply operation, the controller determines that the first liquid level detection component is abnormal and stops the liquid supply operation.

[0364] Eighth aspect The media processing apparatus according to any one of the third to seventh aspects further includes: a liquid storage unit fixing part connected to the first liquid storage unit via the liquid supply unit, the second liquid storage unit being detachably mounted to the liquid storage unit fixing part; and a second liquid level detector for detecting the liquid level stored in the liquid storage unit fixing part. The second liquid level detector includes at least three liquid level detection components.

[0365] Ninth aspect In the media processing apparatus according to the eighth aspect, the second liquid level detector further includes a fourth liquid level detection component, a fifth liquid level detection component, and a sixth liquid level detection component as liquid level detection components. The lower end of the fourth liquid level detection component is disposed above the lower ends of the fifth liquid level detection component and the lower ends of the sixth liquid level detection component. The lower end of the fifth liquid level detection component is disposed above or at the same height as the lower end of the sixth liquid level detection component.

[0366] Tenth aspect In the media processing apparatus according to the ninth aspect, the fourth liquid level detection component is shorter than the fifth and sixth liquid level detection components. The length of the fifth liquid level detection component is shorter than or equal to the length of the sixth liquid level detection component.

[0367] Eleventh aspect The media processing apparatus according to the ninth aspect further includes a notifier for notifying information. If no liquid is detected between the fifth and sixth liquid level detection components, the controller causes the notifier to notify the replenishment of liquid to the second liquid storage unit.

[0368] Twelfth aspect The media processing apparatus according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects further includes a detector for detecting that the second liquid storage unit is disposed on the liquid storage unit fixing portion. When the detector detects that the second liquid storage unit is disposed on the liquid storage unit fixing portion, if the first liquid level detector does not detect liquid in the first liquid storage unit, the controller causes the liquid supply device to perform the liquid supply operation; if the first liquid level detector detects liquid in the first liquid storage unit, the controller does not cause the liquid supply device to perform the liquid supply operation.

[0369] Thirteenth aspect In a media processing apparatus according to any of the ninth to eleventh aspects, if no liquid is detected between the fourth liquid level detection component and the fifth liquid level detection component, the controller causes the liquid supply to perform a liquid discharge operation to discharge the liquid from the first liquid storage unit to the liquid storage unit fixing unit.

[0370] Fourteenth aspect An image forming system includes: a medium processing apparatus according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects; and an image forming apparatus for forming an image on the medium.

[0371] Therefore, it is possible to properly detect whether the base of the liquid supply section is immersed in liquid. The above embodiments are illustrative and do not limit the invention. Therefore, many additional modifications and variations are possible based on the above teachings. For example, within the scope of the invention, elements and / or features of different illustrative embodiments can be combined with and / or substituted for each other.

[0372] The functionality of the components disclosed herein can be implemented using circuitry or processing circuitry, including general-purpose processors, special-purpose processors, integrated circuits, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), conventional circuitry, and / or combinations thereof configured or programmed to perform the disclosed functions. A processor is considered a processing circuit or circuit because it includes transistors and other circuitry. In this disclosure, a circuit, unit, or device is hardware that performs or is programmed to perform the stated functions. The hardware can be any hardware known in this disclosure or otherwise, programmed or configured to perform the stated functions. When the hardware can be considered a circuit-type processor, the circuit, device, or unit is a combination of hardware and software used to configure the hardware and / or processor.

[0373] Any of the above operations can be performed in various other ways, for example, in a different order than that described above.

[0374] Each function of the described embodiments can be implemented by one or more processing circuits or circuit systems. Processing circuits include programmable processors, as processors comprise circuitry. Processing circuits also include means such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and conventional circuitry configured to perform the described functions.

[0375] This patent application is based on and claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-090506 filed with the Japan Patent Office on May 31, 2023, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-060765 filed with the Japan Patent Office on April 4, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0376] List of reference numerals 1: Image Forming System 2: Image forming apparatus 3: Post-processing device 10-19: Conveyor roller pairs 21: First row of trays 26: Second discharge tray 30: Third row tray 22: Internal tray 25: End binding device 31: Liquid feeder 32: Crimping device 43: First liquid level detector 58: Second liquid level detector 44: First liquid storage tank 46: Liquid supply pump 47: Second liquid storage tank 50: Liquid supply components 51: Set up the detection sensor 61: Fixing part of the second liquid storage tank 100: Controller 110: Control Panel 431: First liquid level detection sensor 432: Second liquid level detection sensor 433: Third liquid level detection sensor 581: Fourth liquid level detection sensor 582: Fifth Liquid Level Detection Sensor 583: Sixth Liquid Level Detection Sensor

Claims

1. A media processing apparatus, comprising: A liquid applicator includes a liquid applicator component for applicating liquid to a medium; The post-processing apparatus processes multiple media, including the medium to which the liquid has been supplied by the liquid applicator; A first liquid storage unit stores the liquid supplied to the medium by the liquid applicator; Liquid supply unit, including: The front end connected to the liquid-conducting component; and The base end is immersed in the liquid stored in the first liquid storage section; and A first liquid level detector detects the liquid level stored in the first liquid storage section. The first liquid level detector includes: First liquid level detection component; Second liquid level detection component; and Third liquid level detection component in, The lower ends of the second and third liquid level detection components are vertically positioned within approximately the same range as the base end portion containing the liquid supply section. The lower end of the first liquid level detection component is positioned above the approximately the same range.

2. A media processing apparatus, comprising: A liquid applicator includes a liquid applicator component for applicating liquid to a medium; The post-processing apparatus processes multiple media, including the medium to which the liquid has been supplied by the liquid applicator; A first liquid storage unit stores the liquid supplied to the medium by the liquid applicator; Liquid supply unit, including: The front end connected to the liquid-conducting component; and The base end is immersed in the liquid stored in the first liquid storage section; and A first liquid level detector detects the liquid level stored in the first liquid storage section. The first liquid level detector includes: First liquid level detection component; Second liquid level detection component; and Third liquid level detection component in, The lower end of the second liquid level detection component is vertically positioned within approximately the same range as the base end portion containing the liquid supply portion. The lower end of the first liquid level detection component is positioned above the approximately the same range, and The lower end of the third liquid level detection component is positioned below the generally same range.

3. The media processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A second liquid storage unit stores the liquid supplied to the first liquid storage unit; The liquid supply device performs a liquid supply operation, supplying liquid from the second liquid storage unit to the first liquid storage unit; and The controller, based on the specified operating mode of the liquid supply action, causes the liquid supplier to perform the liquid supply action. in, When the operating mode is a filling and supply operation, the controller continues the liquid supply operation until liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection component and the second liquid level detection component. The liquid supply operation stops when liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection component and the second liquid level detection component, and continues until the supply waiting time for supplying liquid to the liquid supply component via the liquid supply unit has elapsed. After the supply waiting time has elapsed, if no liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection component and the second liquid level detection component, the liquid supply device shall perform the liquid supply operation again.

4. The media processing apparatus according to claim 3, in, When the operating mode is an additional supply operation, the controller continues the liquid supply operation until the liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection component and the second liquid level detection component. When the liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection component and the second liquid level detection component, the liquid supply operation is stopped.

5. The media processing apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, in, The controller changes the supply waiting time based on whether liquid is detected between the second liquid level detection component and the third liquid level detection component.

6. The media processing apparatus according to claim 4, in, When the controller does not detect the liquid between the second liquid level detection component and the third liquid level detection component, it sets the operation mode to the filling supply operation; when the liquid is detected between the second liquid level detection component and the third liquid level detection component, it sets the operation mode to the additional supply operation.

7. The media processing apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 6, in, If, after a supply time has elapsed since the start of the liquid supply operation, no liquid is detected between the first liquid level detection component and the second liquid level detection component, the controller determines that the first liquid level detection component is malfunctioning and stops the liquid supply operation.

8. The media processing apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 7, further comprising: A liquid storage unit fixing part is connected to the first liquid storage unit via the liquid supply device, and the second liquid storage unit is detachably mounted on the liquid storage unit fixing part; and The second liquid level detector detects the liquid level stored in the fixed part of the liquid storage section. in, The second liquid level detector includes at least three liquid level detection components.

9. The media processing apparatus according to claim 8, in, The second liquid level detector further includes a fourth liquid level detection component, a fifth liquid level detection component, and a sixth liquid level detection component as liquid level detection components, and The lower end of the fourth liquid level detection component is positioned above the lower ends of the fifth liquid level detection component and the sixth liquid level detection component. The lower end of the fifth liquid level detection component is positioned above or at the same height as the lower end of the sixth liquid level detection component.

10. The media processing apparatus according to claim 9, in, The fourth liquid level detection component is shorter than the fifth and sixth liquid level detection components, and The length of the fifth liquid level detection component is shorter than or equal to the length of the sixth liquid level detection component.

11. The media processing apparatus according to claim 9, It further includes a notifier for notifying information. in, If no liquid is detected between the fifth liquid level detection component and the sixth liquid level detection component, the controller causes the notifier to notify the replenishment of liquid to the second liquid storage unit.

12. The media processing apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 11, The method further includes providing a detector to detect that the second liquid storage unit is disposed on the liquid storage unit fixing part; in, When the detector detects that the second liquid storage unit is disposed on the liquid storage unit fixing part, When the first liquid level detector does not detect liquid in the first liquid storage section, the controller causes the liquid supplier to perform the liquid supply operation; and When the first liquid level detector detects liquid in the first liquid storage section, the liquid supply device is not caused to perform the liquid supply operation.

13. The media processing apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 11, in, If no liquid is detected between the fourth liquid level detection component and the fifth liquid level detection component, the controller causes the liquid supply to perform a liquid discharge operation, discharging the liquid from the first liquid storage section to the liquid storage section fixing section.

14. An image forming system, comprising: The media processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11; and An image forming apparatus that forms an image on the medium.

Images