Sheet processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, and post-processing apparatus

Abstract

The invention discloses a paper sheet processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and a post-processing apparatus. The paper sheet processing apparatus includes: a stacking portion configured to load and stack a plurality of paper sheets; a plurality of lower end abutting parts which abut against the lower end of the downstream side of the paper in the carrying-in direction; a binding device that performs a different binding process on a portion of an end portion including a lower end of a paper bundle composed of a plurality of sheets of paper; and a moving support unit that supports the binding device so as to move around the edge of the sheet bundle and to stop at a plurality of stop positions, one of the plurality of lower end abutting units being provided on a moving member that is movable in a width direction intersecting the loading direction, and a linkage moving mechanism being provided. When the binding device moves in a constant direction toward a predetermined binding position, the linkage movement mechanism moves the one lower end abutting portion from a normal position by a predetermined distance in a direction opposite to the constant direction in conjunction with the movement of the binding device, and when the movement exceeds the predetermined distance, the linkage movement mechanism moves the one lower end abutting portion from the normal position by a predetermined distance in conjunction with the movement of the binding device. It is moved back to the normal position.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a paper processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and a post-processing apparatus BACKGROUND

[0002] In Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-179064 (paragraph Nos. 0031-0033, 0038, Figure 1 , 2 , 5), a post-processing apparatus is described in which a needle stapling member and a needleless stapling member are supported by a moving body support member.

[0003] In addition, in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-179064, it is also described that the moving body support member includes a support body and a guide rail formed on the support body.

[0004] Furthermore, in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-179064, it is also described that the guide rail has a standby position of the needle stapling member and a standby position of the needleless stapling member. SUMMARY

[0005] The present application relates to a paper processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and a post-processing apparatus

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present application, there is provided a paper processing apparatus, including: a stacking section that stacks a plurality of sheets of paper; a plurality of lower end abutting sections that abut lower ends of the sheets of paper stacked in the stacking section on a downstream side in a direction of conveyance of the sheets of paper; a stapling device that performs a different type of stapling process on a portion of an end of a bundle of paper composed of the plurality of sheets of paper stacked in the stacking section, the portion including the lower ends; and a movement support section that supports the stapling device so as to move around the end of the bundle of paper and stop at a plurality of stop positions including a plurality of predetermined stapling positions, one of the plurality of lower end abutting sections is provided to a moving member that is movable in a width direction that intersects the direction of conveyance, a link movement mechanism is provided for the one lower end abutting section, the link movement mechanism moves the one lower end abutting section a predetermined distance from a normal position in a direction opposite to a constant direction in which the stapling device moves when the stapling device moves in the constant direction toward the predetermined stapling position in conjunction with movement of the stapling device, and on the other hand, when the stapling device moves beyond the predetermined distance, the one lower end abutting section is moved so as to return to the normal position.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to the first aspect, the linkage moving mechanism does not move the one lower end abutting portion when the binding device moves through the one lower end abutting portion from a direction opposite to the constant direction.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to the first or second aspect, the plurality of lower end abutting portions are three lower end abutting portions, and the three lower end abutting portions are arranged at three normal positions different from each other at positions where the lower end of the minimum width paper is touched when the paper is the minimum width paper.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, the prescribed distance is a distance from the normal position of the one lower end abutting portion to an avoidance position where an obstacle does not occur when the binding device is stopped at the prescribed binding position and performs the binding process.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the binding device includes two binding devices, and the linkage moving mechanism operates when at least one of the two binding devices moves in the constant direction to the prescribed binding position.

[0011] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the two binding devices are a needle binding device and a needleless binding device, the needle binding device binds a part of the end portion of the paper bundle with a binding needle, and the needleless binding device binds a part of the end portion of the paper bundle without a binding needle.

[0012] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to the sixth aspect, the moving support portion supports the needle binding device and the needleless binding device so as to move in a depth direction from a front side to a rear side when the paper processing apparatus is installed, and the needle binding device is arranged so as to exist at a position closer to the front side than the needleless binding device.

[0013] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the plurality of lower end abutting portions are three lower end abutting portions, and the three lower end abutting portions are arranged at three normal positions different from each other at positions where the lower end of the minimum width paper is touched when the paper is the minimum width paper, the one lower end abutting portion is a rear side lower end abutting portion among the three lower end abutting portions, and the rear side lower end abutting portion is arranged at a position on a rear side when the paper processing apparatus is installed.

[0014] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to the first aspect, the linkage moving mechanism includes a rotating lever, a swinging lever, a rotating biasing member, and a moving biasing member. The rotating lever is a lever having a first bearing portion, a first contact portion, and a second contact portion. The first bearing portion is rotatably attached to a first shaft. The first contact portion extends from the first bearing portion to one side and contacts a portion of the moving binding apparatus. The second contact portion extends from the first bearing portion to the other side opposite the first contact portion and contacts the swinging lever. The swinging lever is a lever having a second bearing portion, a cam portion, and a pressing portion. The second bearing portion is rotatably attached to a second shaft disposed on the other side of the second contact portion of the rotating lever at a position away from the first shaft. The cam portion is a portion extending from the second bearing portion toward the first shaft and contacts the second contact portion. The pressing portion extends from the cam portion toward the opposite side of the second bearing portion and contacts the moving member with a front end thereof and presses the moving member in the opposite direction. The rotating biasing member is a member that imparts a force to the rotating lever in a direction opposite the direction of rotation of the rotating lever. The moving biasing member is a member that imparts a force to the moving member to move the one lower abutment portion to return to the normal position.

[0015] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to the ninth aspect, the cam portion of the swinging lever has a cam surface composed of a curved surface extending from the second bearing portion to a position near the first shaft. The second contact portion of the rotating lever contacts a portion of the moving binding apparatus and the first contact portion in conjunction with the operation and contacts a portion of the cam surface of the cam portion of the swinging lever near the second shaft to swing the swinging lever.

[0016] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to the ninth or tenth aspect, the second contact portion and the cam portion are configured such that the amount of swinging of the swinging lever caused by the rotation of the rotating lever due to the contact of the portion of the moving binding apparatus with the first contact portion is greater in the first half of the swinging than in the second half of the swinging.

[0017] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to any one of the ninth to eleventh aspects, the first contact portion and the pressing portion are shaped such that a gap is formed therebetween that widens away from the first shaft when the portion of the moving binding apparatus does not contact the first contact portion.

[0018] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the paper processing apparatus according to any one of the ninth to twelfth aspects, the movement support portion decelerates the movement speed of the binding device in a position in the vicinity of a portion of the binding device that comes into contact with the first contact portion of the rotating lever when the binding device is moved.

[0019] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus including: a frame; an image forming portion configured to form an image on a sheet, the image forming portion being disposed inside the frame; and the paper processing apparatus according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, the paper processing apparatus being disposed inside the frame and performing a binding process on a sheet discharged from the image forming portion.

[0020] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fourteenth aspect, the plurality of lower end contact portions are three lower end contact portions, the binding device includes the two binding devices, the movement support portion supports the two binding devices to move in a depth direction from a front side to a rear side when the image forming apparatus is disposed, and the one lower end contact portion is a rear lower end contact portion disposed on a rear side of a position on the last side among the three lower end contact portions.

[0021] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fourteenth or fifteenth aspect, the paper processing apparatus includes a cover body separate from the frame, and an upper surface portion of the cover body is formed as a storage portion that discharges and stores a sheet that has passed through the image forming portion.

[0022] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a post-processing apparatus including the paper processing apparatus according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, the post-processing apparatus being connected as a separate apparatus to an outside of an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a sheet, and guiding a sheet discharged from the image forming apparatus to the paper processing apparatus and performing a binding process.

[0023] (EFFECTS)

[0024] According to the first aspect, even when one of the plurality of lower end contact portions that abuts against a lower end of a sheet stacked in a stacking portion is disposed in a position that can become an obstacle when the binding device is moved to a prescribed binding position to perform a binding process, the binding process at the prescribed binding position can be performed.

[0025] According to the second aspect, the linked movement mechanism can move one lower end contact portion without being moved in vain when the binding process at the prescribed binding position based on the binding device is not performed.

[0026] According to the third aspect, even when performing the binding process at the prescribed binding position of the binding apparatus for a paper bundle composed of paper sheets of the minimum width at the time of carrying-in, the binding process can be performed without the one lower end abutting portion becoming an obstacle.

[0027] According to the fourth aspect, the one lower end abutting portion can be prevented from becoming an obstacle when the binding apparatus performs the binding process at the prescribed binding position.

[0028] According to the fifth aspect, when at least one of the two binding apparatuses moves to the prescribed binding position to perform the binding process, the binding process can be performed without the one lower end abutting portion becoming an obstacle.

[0029] According to the sixth aspect, the binding process at the prescribed binding position based on at least one of the needle binding apparatus and the needleless binding apparatus can be performed without the one lower end abutting portion becoming an obstacle.

[0030] According to the seventh aspect, compared to a case where the needle binding apparatus is disposed at a position on the rear side than the needleless binding apparatus, it is easy to perform the replenishment work of the binding needle of the needle binding apparatus from the front side.

[0031] According to the eighth aspect, at least one of the two binding apparatuses can perform the binding process between the central lower end abutting portion disposed in the center of the three lower end abutting portions and the one lower end abutting portion without the lower end abutting portion on the rear side becoming an obstacle.

[0032] According to the ninth aspect, the one lower end abutting portion can be moved in conjunction with the movement of the binding apparatus to the prescribed binding position and moved to return to the normal position after the binding process at the binding position is completed without using the power of a dedicated power source.

[0033] According to the tenth aspect, compared to a case where the second contact portion of the rotating lever and the cam surface of the cam portion of the swing lever contact the portion on the first axis to swing the swing lever, the linkage movement mechanism can smoothly move the one lower end abutting portion.

[0034] According to the eleventh aspect, compared to a case where the swing lever is configured to have the same or less swing amount in the first half of the swing and the second half of the swing, particularly when the normal position of the one lower end abutting portion is a position of the end portion on the downstream side of the movement direction of the binding apparatus, the one lower end abutting portion can be moved more in the direction opposite to the movement direction of the binding apparatus at an earlier stage.

[0035] According to the twelfth aspect, when the binding apparatus moves through the prescribed binding position from a direction opposite to the constant direction without performing the binding process at the prescribed binding position, the link movement mechanism can move one lower end abutting portion without futility without the swing lever acting on the rotating lever.

[0036] According to the thirteenth aspect, compared to a case where the movement support portion does not decelerate the movement speed of the binding apparatus in a position in front of the contact with the first contact portion, the impact sound generated when a portion of the binding apparatus contacts the first contact portion of the rotating lever can be reduced.

[0037] According to the fourteenth aspect, even though the paper processing device is provided inside the frame of the image forming apparatus, the binding process at the prescribed binding position can be performed even in a case where one of the plurality of lower end abutting portions that abut against the lower end of the paper stacked in the stacking portion is disposed at a position that can become an obstacle when the binding apparatus moves to the prescribed binding position to perform the binding process.

[0038] According to the fifteenth aspect, even though the paper processing device is provided inside the frame of the image forming apparatus, at least one of the two binding apparatuses can perform the binding process of the central lower end abutting portion disposed between the central lower end abutting portion and the rear lower end abutting portion among the three lower end abutting portions without the rear lower end abutting portion becoming an obstacle.

[0039] According to the sixteenth aspect, the paper on which an image is formed can be discharged and stored without being introduced into the paper processing device.

[0040] According to the seventeenth aspect, the binding process at the prescribed binding position can be performed even in a case where one of the plurality of lower end abutting portions that abut against the lower end of the paper stacked in the stacking portion is disposed at a position that can become an obstacle when the binding apparatus moves to the prescribed binding position to perform the binding process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0041] Figure 1 is a schematic view of an image forming apparatus provided with the paper processing device of Embodiment 1, as viewed from the front side;

[0042] Figure 2 is a schematic view of the image forming apparatus of Figure 1 , as viewed from the side;

[0043] Figure 3 is a schematic view of the paper processing device of Embodiment 1, as viewed from the front side;

[0044] Figure 4 is a schematic view of the paper processing device of Figure 3A schematic diagram of a part of the paper handling apparatus as viewed from the top surface side;

[0045] Figure 5 (A) is a schematic diagram of the needle-binding device and the movable support, etc., viewed from the front side. Figure 5 (B) is a schematic diagram of the needleless binding device and the movable support, etc., viewed from the front side.

[0046] Figure 6 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the standby positions of the needle-binding equipment and the needleless binding equipment. Figure 6 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing a part of the movable support section;

[0047] Figure 7 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the double-stitched positions of needle-stitched and needleless stitching equipment. Figure 7 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the oblique binding positions of the needle-binding equipment and the needleless binding equipment;

[0048] Figure 8 It is a schematic side view of the stacking section, the lower abutment section, the first linkage moving mechanism, the second linkage moving mechanism, etc.

[0049] Figure 9 It is a schematic three-dimensional view of the lower abutment part, the first linkage moving mechanism, the second linkage moving mechanism, etc.

[0050] Figure 10 This is a schematic 3D view of the first linkage moving mechanism;

[0051] Figure 11 (A) is a schematic perspective view of the lower abutment part, moving parts, moving force-applying parts, etc. Figure 11 (B) is a schematic perspective view of the rotating rod and the rotating force-applying component. Figure 11 (C) is a schematic perspective view of the rotation control component;

[0052] Figure 12 (A) is a schematic side view showing the normal state of the first linkage moving mechanism. Figure 12 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the first linkage moving mechanism and the binding device;

[0053] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the first linkage moving mechanism when the binding equipment moves to the specified binding position;

[0054] Figure 14 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the first linkage moving mechanism when the binding equipment has exceeded the specified binding position and is in the middle of moving towards the standby position. Figure 14 (B) means Figure 14Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a state of the first linkage movement mechanism when the binding apparatus of (A) is released from contact with the rotating lever;

[0055] Figure 15 (A) of Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a state of the first linkage movement mechanism when the one lower end abutment is moved to an avoidance position by the first linkage movement mechanism, Figure 15 (B) of Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a state when the one lower end abutment is returned from the avoidance position to the normal position by the first linkage movement mechanism;

[0056] Figure 16 (A) of Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a state of the first linkage movement mechanism before the binding apparatus moves further through the one lower end abutment, Figure 16 (B) of Fig. 8 is a diagram showing Figure 16 (A) of Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a state of the first linkage movement mechanism when the binding apparatus moves further;

[0057] Figure 17 Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an outline of the second linkage movement mechanism and the like as viewed from below;

[0058] Figure 18 (A) of Fig. 11 is an outline of the second linkage movement mechanism as viewed from the upper side, Figure 18 (B) of Fig. 11 is a coordinate diagram illustrating a state when the one lower end abutment is moved by the second linkage movement mechanism;

[0059] Figure 19 Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a state of the second linkage movement mechanism in the normal time;

[0060] Figure 20 (A) of Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a state of the second linkage movement mechanism when the binding apparatus moves and the rotating lever starts to rotate, Figure 20 (B) of Fig. 13 is a diagram showing Figure 20 (A) of Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a state of the second linkage movement mechanism when the rotating lever rotates further;

[0061] Figure 21 (A) of Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a state of the second linkage movement mechanism when the binding apparatus is in a position close to a prescribed binding position, Figure 21 (B) of Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a state of the second linkage movement mechanism when the binding apparatus reaches the prescribed binding position and stops;

[0062] Figure 22 (A) of Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a state of the second linkage movement mechanism when the one lower end abutment is moved to an avoidance position by the second linkage movement mechanism, Figure 22 (B) of Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a state when the one lower end abutment is returned from the avoidance position to the normal position by the second linkage movement mechanism;

[0063] Figure 23 (A) of FIG. 8 is an explanatory view of a state of the second link movement mechanism when the binding apparatus moves from the prescribed binding position toward the standby position, Figure 23 Figure 23 (A) of FIG. 8 is an explanatory view of a state of the second link movement mechanism when the binding apparatus is in a position near reaching the standby position;

[0064] Figure 24 (A) of FIG. 8 is an explanatory view of a state of the second link movement mechanism when the binding apparatus reaches the standby position, Figure 24 Figure 24 (A) of FIG. 8 is an explanatory view of a state of the second link movement mechanism when the binding apparatus starts moving toward the other position;

[0065] Figure 25 (A) of FIG. 8 is an explanatory view of a state of the second link movement mechanism when the binding apparatus is in a position near reaching the other position, Figure 25 Figure 25 (A) of FIG. 8 is an explanatory view of a state of the second link movement mechanism when the binding apparatus reaches the other position;

[0066] Figure 26 (A) of FIG. 8 is a coordinate graph showing a moving speed of the binding apparatus before and after passing through the first link movement mechanism, Figure 26 (B) of FIG. 8 is a coordinate graph showing a moving speed of the binding apparatus before and after passing through the second link movement mechanism;

[0067] Figure 27 is a schematic view of the post-processing device of Embodiment 2 as viewed from the front side. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] A mode for carrying out the present application will be described below.

[0069] Embodiment 1.

[0070] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a schematic view of the image forming apparatus 10A provided with the paper processing device 2A of Embodiment 1 of the present application. Figure 3 and Figure 4 is a schematic view of the paper processing device 2A.

[0071] In the present specification and the drawings, the same symbols are attached to substantially the same constituent elements. In the present specification, the repeated explanation of the same constituent elements is omitted.

[0072] Figure 1 ​​​The symbol +X in the drawing indicates the right direction of the image forming apparatus 10A as viewed from the front side, and the symbol -X indicates the left direction at that time. In addition, the symbol +Y indicates the upward direction of the image forming apparatus 10A and the like, and the symbol -Y indicates the downward direction thereof. Furthermore, the symbol +Z indicates the depth direction of the image forming apparatus 10A and the like as viewed from the front side, and the symbol -Z indicates the front direction at that time.

[0073] In addition, in the "O" in the drawing, the symbol in which "X" is written indicates the direction from the front side toward the inside of the paper of the drawing. In addition, in the "O", the symbol in which "·" is written indicates the direction from the inside of the paper toward the front of the drawing. Figure 1

[0074] (1) Image forming apparatus

[0075] As shown in the drawing, the image forming apparatus 10A is provided with a frame body 11, an image forming section 12, a paper supply section 13, a paper processing apparatus 2A, and the like. Figure 1

[0076] Figure 1 The symbol 16 indicated by a double-dotted line in the drawing is a document reading apparatus that reads information of a document. The image forming apparatus 10A becomes a multifunction peripheral in which a plurality of functions such as copying, scanning, and the like are added to a printing function in a case where the document reading apparatus 16 is provided.

[0077] Figure 1 The symbol 100 in the drawing is a setting surface on which the image forming apparatus 10A is set.

[0078] The frame body 11 is a structure that is formed into a prescribed external shape and internal structure using a frame, a plate, an exterior material, and the like.

[0079] The frame body 11 is configured with a paper conveying path 14 and the like in addition to the image forming section 12 and the paper supply section 13 on the inside thereof. A control section, a drive section, a power supply section, and the like that are not shown are also configured on the inside of the frame body 11.

[0080] In addition, the frame body 11 becomes an external shape in which the discharge housing section 15 is formed as a part of the external shape thereof.

[0081] The discharge housing section 15 is formed into a space portion that is recessed from the front side toward the depth direction in the upper portion of the image forming apparatus 10A in the frame body 11. The discharge housing section 15 has a side portion 15a that faces from the front side toward the depth direction and a back portion 15b that is disposed on the inside (refer to Figure 1 Figure 2 ).

[0082] Furthermore, the frame body 11 is configured with an operation display section and the like that are not shown on the outside thereof.

[0083] ​​​The image forming section 12 is a section configured to form an image on the paper 19 in a predetermined image forming manner.

[0084] The image forming section 12 in Embodiment 1 is configured as an image forming apparatus that adopts an image forming manner such as an electrophotographic method.

[0085] The image forming apparatus at this time is provided with a photosensitive body, a charging apparatus, an image exposure apparatus, a developing apparatus, a transfer apparatus, a fixing apparatus, and the like, which are not illustrated. In addition, the image forming apparatus is not limited to an apparatus that forms a monochrome image, and can be configured as an apparatus that forms a multicolor image.

[0086] The image exposure apparatus forms an electrostatic latent image by irradiating the charged photosensitive body with light corresponding to image information. The image information is input from an external device connected to the image forming apparatus 10A or the above-described original reading apparatus 16, or the like.

[0087] The image information is information that is visually recognizable such as characters, graphics, photographs, and the like, and is information that can be reproduced and formed in the image forming section 12.

[0088] The paper supply section 13 is a section configured to store desired paper 19 and supply it toward the image forming section 12.

[0089] The paper supply section 13 is configured by a storage body, a carrying-out apparatus, and the like. The storage body is a structure that stores the paper 19 in a stacked state. The carrying-out apparatus is an apparatus that carries out the paper 19 stored in the storage body one sheet at a time toward the paper conveying path 14.

[0090] The paper supply section 13 in Embodiment 1 is configured as two groups of paper supply sections 13A, 13B. In addition, in the storage bodies of the two groups of paper supply sections 13A, 13B, it is possible to store paper 19 that differs in size, kind, and storage direction.

[0091] As the paper 19, a sheet-shaped medium that is capable of conveying based on the paper conveying path 14 and forming an image is used, which is composed of a predetermined size.

[0092] The paper conveying path 14 is a section configured to convey the paper 19 toward a desired position inside the frame body 11.

[0093] The paper conveying path 14 is configured using a desired number of conveying roller pairs, a paper guide member, and the like.

[0094] The paper conveying path 14 adopts a center positioning conveying manner (central reference conveying manner). In this conveying manner, the paper 19 is guided and conveyed in a manner in which the central position in the width direction at the time of conveying passes through the central position in the width direction of the paper conveying passage.

[0095] The paper conveying path 14 in Embodiment 1 is provided between the paper supply portion 13 and the discharge portion of the paper via the image forming portion 12.

[0096] As the discharge portion of the paper, there are a portion to be discharged to the paper handling device 2A and a general discharge port 17. The discharge port 17 is provided at a prescribed position of the side portion 15a of the discharge housing portion 15.

[0097] Further, the paper conveying path 14 in Embodiment 1 is branched into two discharge paths 14b, 14c at a position near the general discharge port 17. At the branching position of the discharge paths 14b, 14c, a branching claw 14e is provided which changes the paper conveying destination to either of the discharge paths 14b, 14c.

[0098] The discharge path 14b is connected at its terminal to a guide inlet 23 of the paper handling device 2A (refer to Figure 3 ) to be described later.

[0099] The discharge path 14c is connected at its terminal to the discharge port 17 (refer to Figure 1 , 3 ).

[0100] (2) Paper Handling Device

[0101] The paper handling device 2A is a device which performs post-processing such as stapling processing on the paper 19.

[0102] The paper handling device 2A in Embodiment 1 is a device which performs at least stapling processing on the paper 19 discharged from the image forming portion 12.

[0103] Further, the paper handling device 2A is provided in the lower space of the discharge housing portion 15 of the image forming device 10A (refer to Figure 1 and the like).

[0104] In particular, the paper handling device 2A has a depth dimension Lz2 which is larger than the depth dimension Lzl of the image forming device 10A (refer to Figure 2 ). The depth dimension Lz2 is substantially the same as the depth dimension of the discharge housing portion 15. Therefore, the paper handling device 2A is a small device which is substantially converged within the discharge housing portion 15.

[0105] The paper handling device 2A has a frame 20, a stacking portion 3, a lower end abutting portion 4, a stapling apparatus 5, a moving support portion 6, and the like (refer to Figure 3 and the like).

[0106] The frame 20 is a structure which is formed into a prescribed external shape and internal structure using a frame, a plate, an exterior member, and the like.

[0107] The frame 20 in Embodiment 1 has a base portion 21 and a cover portion 22.

[0108] The base portion 21 is a portion that forms the basis of the structure of the frame 20. As for the base portion 21, its appearance is formed in a shape and size that enables attachment to the discharge housing portion 15 of the frame 11.

[0109] The base portion 21 in Embodiment 1 is in a shape in which the bottom surface extends obliquely upward from the left end toward the right side and then extends substantially horizontally.

[0110] In addition, a guide inlet 23 that guides the paper 19 is provided at the left end of the base portion 21 (see FIG. 2). Figure 3 The guide inlet 23 is connected to the discharge path 14b described above.

[0111] The cover portion 22 is a member that covers at least the upper surface and the like of the base portion 21.

[0112] As for the cover portion 22 in Embodiment 1, its upper surface portion is a housing portion 22a of the paper. The housing portion 22a is a portion that houses the paper 19 that is discharged from the discharge outlet 17 via the discharge path 14c from the image forming portion 12.

[0113] In addition, an extension support member 28 that supports a portion of the paper 19 housed in the housing portion 22a is arranged on the cover portion 22.

[0114] In this way, the cover portion 22 can house the paper 19 on which an image is formed without guiding it to the paper processing device 2A.

[0115] In addition, the frame 20 has the stacking portion 3, the lower end abutting portion 4, the stapling device 5, the movement support portion 6, and the like arranged inside thereof.

[0116] Furthermore, the paper guide path 24, a drive portion, a control portion, and the like that are not shown are also arranged inside the frame 20.

[0117] The paper guide path 24 is a portion that is configured to convey the paper 19 guided from the guide inlet 23 to the stacking portion 3.

[0118] The paper guide path 24 in Embodiment 1 is a conveyance path that reaches the stacking portion 3 from the guide inlet 23 through the upper portion of the frame 20.

[0119] The paper guide path 24 is composed of a necessary number of pairs of conveyance rollers 24a, 24b, 24c, paper guide members 24e, 24f, and the like.

[0120] The pairs of conveyance rollers 24a, 24b, 24c are composed of a drive roller that is rotationally driven and a driven roller that is rotationally driven in conjunction with the drive roller.

[0121] The paper guiding member 24e guides the paper 19 in such a manner that the paper 19 is sequentially guided from the guide inlet 23 through the pairs of conveying rollers 24a, 24b, 24c. The paper guiding member 24f guides the paper 19 in such a manner that the paper 19 guided by the final pair of conveying rollers 24c is guided downward.

[0122] Further, the frame 20 is provided with a storage tray 25 inside thereof.

[0123] The storage tray 25 is a member that stores a paper bundle composed of a plurality of papers 19 after the stapling process. The storage tray 25 has a storage surface 25a that is inclined upward from the left side to the right side.

[0124] The storage tray 25 in Embodiment 1 is a tray that is moved up and down by a lifting movement mechanism 26. That is, the storage tray 25 is a tray that is displaced by being moved up and down in accordance with the amount of the paper bundle stored. The tray that is moved up and down in this way is also called a so-called stacker.

[0125] Further, the storage tray 25 is provided with an extension tray 27 that is drawn from a part of the main body thereof and that can extend the storage surface. The extension tray 27 can be stored in the main body of the storage tray 25 when not needed.

[0126] The stacking section 3 is a section that is configured to carry in and stack the plurality of papers 19 introduced from the paper introduction path 24.

[0127] The stacking section 3 in Embodiment 1 is configured by a carrying plate 31, a side end alignment section 32, a first paddle 33, a second paddle 34, a carrying-out roller 35, and the like. The stacking section 3 is actually also a section that includes the lower end abutting section 4.

[0128] The carrying plate 31 is a plate-shaped member that has a carrying surface 31a that stacks the plurality of papers 19 in a stacked state.

[0129] The carrying plate 31 is disposed on the lower side of the terminal section of the paper introduction path 24 and becomes a position between the storage tray 25 and the stapling apparatus 5. As the carrying plate 31, a substantially rectangular plate-shaped member that extends long in the depth direction +Z is used (see FIG. 2). Figure 4 ).

[0130] Further, the carrying plate 31 is disposed in a state of being inclined in such a manner that the end 31c on the stapling apparatus 5 side of the carrying surface 31a is located on the lower side. Due to this, the carrying plate 31 causes the paper 19 introduced from the paper introduction path 24 to easily move on the inclined carrying surface 31a due to the weight.

[0131] Further, the carrying plate 31 is provided with notch sections 31d, 31e on the side of the end 31c thereof (see FIG. 2). Figure 7). The notch portions 31d, 31e are portions in which corner portions on both end sides in the length direction of the end portion 31c of the carrying plate 31 are cut away. Further, the notch portions 31d, 31e are used as work spaces when the inclined corner stapling described later is performed by the stapling apparatus 5.

[0132] In Embodiment 1, a portion of the storage tray 25 adjacent to the carrying plate 31 is used as a portion of the stacking portion 3. Thus, a portion of the storage tray 25 is used as a portion that stacks a portion of the paper 19 whose length cannot be accommodated on the carrying plate 31.

[0133] The side end alignment portion 32 is a portion configured to align the side ends 19c, 19d of the paper 19 when the paper 19 is carried in on the carrying plate 31.

[0134] The side end alignment portion 32 in Embodiment 1 is configured of a pair of alignment plates 32F, 32R (refer to FIG. 2). Figure 4 ) The alignment plate 32F is disposed on the front side (front side) of the image forming apparatus 10A and the paper handling apparatus 2A. The alignment plate 32R is disposed on the rear side (back side) of the image forming apparatus 10A and the paper handling apparatus 2A.

[0135] The alignment plates 32F, 32R move by a distance required along the width directions E1, E2 that cross in a manner orthogonal to the direction C of the carrying-in of the paper 19.

[0136] The alignment plates 32F, 32R are members having a side wall portion 322 that stands up substantially perpendicularly from one end of a base plate portion 321 (refer to FIG. 2). Figure 8 ) The base plate portion 321 is guided to move by slide grooves 324, 325 provided on the carrying plate 31 along the width directions E1, E2, respectively.

[0137] The alignment plates 32F, 32R are movable by a not-shown drive mechanism disposed on the lower surface (back surface) of the carrying plate 31. The alignment plates 32F, 32R move in a manner of approaching and separating from each other along the width directions E1, E2.

[0138] The alignment plates 32F, 32R move in a manner of sandwiching the paper 19 on the carrying plate 31 from both side ends when the alignment operation is performed. Thus, the positions of the side ends 19c, 19d of the paper 19 in the width directions E1, E2 on the carrying plate 31 are adjusted to be aligned.

[0139] The first paddle 33 is a rotating paddle that carries in and falls toward the abutting portion 4 side of the carrying plate 31 and is introduced onto the paper 19 on the carrying plate 31.

[0140] The first paddle 33 is arranged in a gap between the upper side of the carrying plate 31 and the paper guide member 24f and the cover 22. In addition, the first paddle 33 is composed of a moving paddle portion 33a and a driving support portion 33b.

[0141] The moving paddle portion 33a is a rotating body in which a plurality of elastic plates are arranged at intervals. The moving paddle portion 33a rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow and moves up and down with the driving support portion 33b as a fulcrum.

[0142] The driving support portion 33b becomes a moving fulcrum of the moving paddle portion 33a and transmits a rotating power to the moving paddle portion 33a by a belt or the like.

[0143] During a period in which the first paddle 33 does not perform the carrying-in of the paper 19, the moving paddle portion 33a stands by at a position above the paper guide member 24f. Thus, the moving paddle portion 33a of the first paddle 33 does not hinder the introduction of the paper 19 onto the carrying plate 31.

[0144] In the case of the first paddle 33, when the paper 19 is introduced onto the carrying plate 31, the moving paddle portion 33a moves downward to approach the paper 19. Thus, the first paddle 33 becomes a state in which the rotating elastic plate of the moving paddle portion 33a touches the paper 19 on the carrying plate 31.

[0145] As a result, the first paddle 33 carries in the paper 19 on the carrying plate 31 in a manner of being sent toward the lower end abutting portion 4.

[0146] The second paddle 34 is a rotating paddle that further carries in the paper 19 on the carrying plate 31 carried in by the first paddle 33 toward the abutting portion 4 side.

[0147] The second paddle 34 is arranged on the upper side of the end portion (end portion 31c, i.e., the left end) of the lower side of the carrying plate 31. In addition, the second paddle 34 is a rotating body in which a plurality of elastic plates are arranged at intervals and rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow.

[0148] The second paddle 34 becomes a state in which the rotating elastic plate touches the paper 19 on the carrying plate 31.

[0149] Thus, the second paddle 34 carries in the paper 19 in a manner of being further sent toward the lower end abutting portion 4.

[0150] The carrying-out roller 35 is a roller that carries out the paper bundle composed of the paper 19 after the completion of the binding process from the carrying plate 31 to the storage tray 25.

[0151] The carrying-out roller 35 is arranged in a state in which a part thereof slightly protrudes upward from the carrying surface at the end portion (right end) of the upper side of the carrying plate 31.

[0152] The carry-out roller 35 rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow for a prescribed time at the time of discharge of the paper bundle. Thus, the carry-out roller 35 feeds out the paper bundle on the carrying plate 31 in a manner of carrying out and storing in the storage tray 25.

[0153] The lower end abutting portion 4 is a portion configured to abut against the lower end 19u of the plurality of sheets 19 stacked in the stacking portion 3.

[0154] The lower end 19u of the sheet 19 is an end edge on the downstream side in the direction C of carry-in.

[0155] The lower end abutting portion 4 in Embodiment 1 is configured of three lower end abutting portions 41, 42, 43 (refer to Figure 4 , 6 ).

[0156] The lower end abutting portions 41, 42, 43 are separately provided at three normal positions at which the lower end 19u of the sheet 19S comes into contact. The sheet 19S refers to the sheet 19 of the smallest width Ws. The smallest width Ws refers to the width of the sheet 19 that is the smallest in the direction of carry-in. The three normal positions at this time are set as normal positions J1, J2, J3 (refer to Figure 4 ).

[0157] The lower end abutting portions 41, 42, 43 are provided to the main body portion 40 (refer to Figure 9 ).

[0158] In addition, the lower end abutting portion 4 is provided in a state in which the lower end abutting portions 41, 42, 43 face the end portion of the lower side of the carrying plate 31 (refer to Figure 3 , 4 ).

[0159] The main body portion 40 is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped member extending along the above-described width direction E (refer to Figure 9 ). The main body portion 40 is provided with a plurality of mounting portions 402 for fixedly mounting to the lower surface side of the carrying plate 31.

[0160] A hole 402a for allowing an unillustrated support shaft provided on the lower surface side of the carrying plate 31 to be inserted in a rotatable manner is provided on each of the plurality of mounting portions 402. Thus, the lower end abutting portion 4 can be provided in a state of being swung downward with the above-described support shaft as a fulcrum and, if necessary, moved to a retracted position.

[0161] The lower end abutting portion 41 is an abutting portion against which the substantially central portion of the lower end 19u of the sheet 19S of the smallest width Ws collides. Hereinafter, the lower end abutting portion 41 will also be referred to as the central lower end abutting portion 41.

[0162] The central lower end abutting portion 41 is a structure having the shape of an abutting wall surface portion 410, a bottom surface portion 411, and an upper surface portion 412. The bottom surface portion 411 and the upper surface portion 412 are formed by surfaces extending in a substantially facing state from the upper and lower ends of the abutting wall surface portion 410.

[0163] The central lower end abutting portion 41 has a storage space S1 (refer to Figure 9 ) surrounded by the abutting wall surface portion 410, the bottom surface portion 411, and the upper surface portion 412. The storage space S1 is a space that stores and holds the lower portion including the lower end 19u of the plurality of sheets 19S. This is the same for the storage spaces S2 and S3 described later.

[0164] In addition, the central lower end abutting portion 41 is fixedly provided to the main body portion 40.

[0165] The lower end abutting portion 42 is an abutting portion for the front side of the substantially end portion of the lower end 19u of the sheet 19S of the minimum width Ws to collide. Hereinafter, the lower end abutting portion 42 will also be referred to as the front side lower end abutting portion 42.

[0166] The front side lower end abutting portion 42 is a structure having the shape of an abutting wall surface portion 420, a bottom surface portion 421, and an upper surface portion 422. The front side lower end abutting portion 42 has a storage space S2 (refer to Figure 9 ) surrounded by the abutting wall surface portion 420, the bottom surface portion 421, and the upper surface portion 422.

[0167] The lower end abutting portion 43 is an abutting portion for the rear side of the substantially end portion of the lower end 19u of the sheet 19S of the minimum width Ws to collide. Hereinafter, the lower end abutting portion 43 will also be referred to as the rear side lower end abutting portion 43.

[0168] The rear side lower end abutting portion 43 is a structure having the shape of an abutting wall surface portion 430, a bottom surface portion 431, and an upper surface portion 432. The rear side lower end abutting portion 43 has a storage space S3 (refer to Figure 9 ) surrounded by the abutting wall surface portion 430, the bottom surface portion 431, and the upper surface portion 432.

[0169] The binding apparatus 5 is an apparatus that binds a portion of the end portion 19e of the stack of sheets 19 stacked in the stacking portion 3.

[0170] The end portion 19e of the stack of sheets 19 refers to an end portion on the downstream side of the direction C of conveyance of the sheet 19 (refer to (A) of Figure 7 ). In addition, the end portion 19e is a portion that reaches a position slightly inside from the lower end 19u of the sheet 19.

[0171] In Embodiment 1, as the binding apparatus 5, two binding apparatuses (5A, 5B) are equipped. As described later, the two binding apparatuses (5A, 5B) are different kinds of binding apparatuses in which the kinds of binding processes are different.

[0172] One binding apparatus 5 is a needle binding apparatus 5A in which a binding process is performed using a binding needle.

[0173] The needle binding apparatus 5A has a main body 51 and a pair of needle binding portions 52, 53.

[0174] The main body 51 is a structure surrounded by an outer material. The main body 51 is provided with a binding needle supply portion 54, a driving portion, and the like on the inner side thereof.

[0175] The pair of needle binding portions 52, 53 are portions configured to perform a binding process using a binding needle. The pair of needle binding portions 52, 53 are structured so as to be separated by a gap T1 through which the lower end abutting portions 41, 42, 43 can pass (refer to (A) of FIG. 2). Figure 5

[0176] The needle binding portion 52 is a portion that is movable in a manner to eject a binding needle. When a binding process is performed, the needle binding portion 52 moves downward in a manner to approach the needle binding portion 53, and works in a manner to insert the binding needle into a portion of the paper bundle.

[0177] The needle binding portion 53 is a portion that is fixed in a manner to receive a binding needle and bend it. When a binding process is performed, the needle binding portion 53 performs an action of receiving an end portion of the binding needle that is ejected from the needle binding portion 52 and penetrates a portion of the paper bundle, and bending it.

[0178] The other binding apparatus 5 is a needleless binding apparatus 5B in which a binding process is performed in a manner without a binding needle. Performing a binding in a manner without a binding needle means performing a binding without using a binding needle.

[0179] The needleless binding apparatus 5B has a main body 55 and a pair of needleless binding portions 56, 57.

[0180] The main body 55 is a structure surrounded by an outer material. The main body 55 is provided with a driving portion and the like on the inner side thereof.

[0181] The pair of needleless binding portions 56, 57 are portions configured to perform a binding process in which a paper bundle is held between an upper binding tooth and a lower binding tooth and deformed. The pair of needleless binding portions 56, 57 are structured so as to be separated by a gap T2 through which the lower end abutting portions 41, 42, 43 can pass (refer to (B) of FIG. 2). Figure 5

[0182] The needleless binding portion 56 is a portion that is movable and has an upper binding tooth having a concave-convex shape.

[0183] ​​When becoming the binding process, the needleless binding section 56 moves in a manner to approach the needleless binding section 57. Then, the upper binding tooth of the needleless binding section 56 is brought into contact with a part of the end portion 19e of the paper bundle and is directed toward the needleless binding section 57.

[0184] The needleless binding section 57 is a portion having a lower binding tooth with a concave-convex shape and is fixed.

[0185] When becoming the binding process, the needleless binding section 57 receives and holds a part of the end portion 19e of the paper bundle pressed by the upper binding tooth with the lower binding tooth.

[0186] The pair of the needleless binding sections 56, 57 performs binding by deforming a part of the end portion 19e of the paper bundle with high pressure held between the upper binding tooth and the lower binding tooth.

[0187] The movement support section 6 is a portion configured to support the binding apparatus 5 to move around the end portion 19e of the paper bundle.

[0188] The movement support section 6 in the embodiment 1 movably supports the needle binding apparatus 5A and the needleless binding apparatus 5B.

[0189] In addition, the movement support section 6 moves the needle binding apparatus 5A and the needleless binding apparatus 5B along a depth direction from the front side toward the rear side.

[0190] Furthermore, the movement support section 6 is configured to cause the needle binding apparatus 5A to exist at the front side and the needleless binding apparatus 5B to exist at the rear side.

[0191] The movement support section 6 moves the needle binding apparatus 5A and the needleless binding apparatus 5B in a manner not to touch the lower end abutting section 4.

[0192] The binding apparatuses 5A, 5B are moved to pass through at least one or more of the lower end abutting section 41, the lower end abutting section 42, and the lower end abutting section 43 in the lower end abutting section 4, respectively.

[0193] The passing is performed by causing the lower end abutting section 4 to pass through the gap T1 of the needle binding apparatus 5A and the gap T2 of the needleless binding apparatus 5B (refer to Figure 5 ).

[0194] In addition, the movement support section 6 supports the binding apparatus 5 to be able to stop at a plurality of stop positions including a plurality of binding positions.

[0195] The movement support section 6 in the embodiment 1 supports the needle binding apparatus 5A and the needleless binding apparatus 5B to be able to stop at each stop position.

[0196] As the stop positions, there are the standby position Pa1 of the needle binding apparatus 5A and the standby position Pb1 of the needleless binding apparatus 5B (refer to Figure 4, 6 ).

[0197] The standby position refers to the position where the binding process is not performed or is completed.

[0198] Additionally, as stopping positions, there are double-stitched positions Pa2 and Pa3 of the needle-stitching device 5A (refer to...). Figure 7 (A)). As a stop position, there are also double flat stitching positions Pb2 and Pb3 of the needleless stitching device 5B (refer to...). Figure 7 (A)).

[0199] Double-stitching is a method of binding the two ends 19e of the paper stack so that their bound portions are parallel to the edge of the lower end 19u.

[0200] The first double-stitched positions Pa2 and Pb2 are, in principle, set between the rear lower end abutment 43 and the central lower end abutment 41. The second double-stitched positions Pa3 and Pb3 are, in principle, set between the central lower end abutment 41 and the front lower end abutment 42.

[0201] Furthermore, as a stopping position, there is an angled binding position Pa4 of the needle binding device 5A (see reference). Figure 7 (B)). Additionally, as a stop position, there is also an angled binding position Pb4 of the needleless binding device 5B (see reference). Figure 7 (B)

[0202] Angled binding is a binding method in which the corner portion of the end 19e of the bound paper stack is angled relative to the edge of the lower end 19u.

[0203] In the angled binding position Pa4, the needle-stitching device 5A is positioned to face the corner of the end portion 19e located on the front side of the lower end abutment portion 42. In the angled binding position Pb4, the needleless binding device 5B is positioned to face the corner of the end portion 19e located on the rear side of the lower end abutment portion 43.

[0204] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, the movable support 6 includes trolleys 61 and 62, guide plate 63, and movable drive devices 65 and 66.

[0205] Carts 61 and 62 are mobile platforms that move by carrying a stapled binding device 5A and a stapleless binding device 5B, respectively.

[0206] Both trolleys 61 and 62 are composed of a plate-shaped main body 601 and wheels (rollers) 602 provided on the lower surface of the main body 601. Trolleys 61 and 62 travel by rotating along the width direction E on the travel surface, which is part of the base 21 of the frame 20, via the wheels 602.

[0207] Furthermore, both trolleys 61 and 62 are configured to move under the guidance of a movable guide rod 603. Trolleys 61 and 62 are provided with portions 604 having through holes through which the movable guide rod 603 passes and receives.

[0208] The movable guide rod 603 is a rod that extends in a straight line along the width direction E, with both ends fixed to the base portion 21 of the frame 20. As a result, the trolleys 61 and 62 move in straight lines along the width directions E1 and E2, respectively.

[0209] In addition, the trolleys 61 and 62 have the stapled binding device 5A and the stapleless binding device 5B mounted on the main body 601 in a rotatable manner.

[0210] Furthermore, the trolleys 61 and 62 rotatably mount the needle-binding device 5A and the needleless binding device 5B onto the support shaft 605. Thus, the needle-binding device 5A and the needleless binding device 5B can rotate on the trolleys 61 and 62 with the support shaft 605 as the fulcrum.

[0211] The guide plate 63 is a plate-shaped component that guides the needle-binding device 5A and the needleless binding device 5B by changing their orientation.

[0212] The aforementioned directions refer to the orientations (postures) of the needle-binding device 5A and the needleless binding device 5B relative to the support plate 31.

[0213] In other words, the aforementioned direction refers to the direction of the needle-binding sections 52 and 53 of the needle-binding device 5A relative to the support plate 31 and the end 19e of the paper stack. Furthermore, the aforementioned direction refers to the direction of the needle-binding sections 56 and 57 of the needleless binding device 5B relative to the support plate 31 and the end 19e of the paper stack.

[0214] The guide plate 63 is configured as a support plate 631 with a guide groove 64 (see reference). Figure 5 , Figure 6 (B)

[0215] The support plate 631 is a generally rectangular plate extending along the width direction E. The support plate 631 is fixed to the bottom surface of the base portion 21 of the frame 20.

[0216] The guide groove 64 has a straight guide portion 641, a first curved guide portion 642, a second curved guide portion 643 and a third curved guide portion 644.

[0217] On the other hand, the needle stapling apparatus 5A and the needleless stapling apparatus 5B are guided with the guide shaft 606 embedded in the guide groove 64 (refer to Figure 5 , 6 ).

[0218] The guide shaft 606 is provided so as to protrude from the lower surface of the needle stapling apparatus 5A and the needleless stapling apparatus 5B toward the guide groove 64. In addition, the guide shaft 606 is provided at a position close to the corner portion of the approach carriages 61, 62 at a position closer to the carrying plate 31 than the support shaft 605.

[0219] The linear guide portion 641 is a guide groove extending in a straight line parallel to the end portion 31c of the carrying plate 31 or in the width direction E. The linear guide portion 641 is provided at a central region in the length direction of the support plate 631.

[0220] The linear guide portion 641 guides the needle stapling apparatus 5A to the double flat stapling positions Pa2, Pa3, respectively, and determines the direction at the positions. In addition, the linear guide portion 641 guides the needle stapling apparatus 5A to the standby position Pa1 and determines the direction at the position. Furthermore, the linear guide portion 641 guides the needleless stapling apparatus 5B to the double flat stapling positions Pb2, Pb3, respectively, and determines the direction at the positions.

[0221] The direction at the linear guide portion 641 becomes a direction in which the needle stapling apparatus 5A and the needleless stapling apparatus 5B face the lower end 19u of the paper 19 on the carrying plate 31 substantially in parallel. The direction at this time is determined and maintained by the positional relationship of the support shaft 605 and the guide shaft 606.

[0222] The first curved guide portion 642 is a curved guide groove that curves in a manner approaching the carrying plate 31 from the end portion of the front side of the linear guide portion 641.

[0223] The first curved guide portion 642 is provided at a region of the end portion of the front side in the length direction of the support plate 631.

[0224] The first curved guide portion 642 guides the needle stapling apparatus 5A to the bevel stapling position Pa4 and determines the direction at the position. The first curved guide portion 642 can also perform guidance of the needle stapling apparatus 5A to a replenishment work position of the stapling needle beyond the bevel stapling position Pa4.

[0225] The direction at the first curved guide portion 642 becomes a direction in which the needle stapling apparatus 5A faces the corner portion of the end portion 19e of the paper bundle on the carrying plate 31 obliquely. The corner portion of the end portion 19e of the paper bundle at this time becomes the corner portion of the front side. In addition, the direction at this time is determined and maintained by the positional relationship of the support shaft 605 and the guide shaft 606.

[0226] The second curved guide portion 643 is a curved guide groove that is curved so as to approach the carrying plate 31 from the vicinity of the end portion on the rear side of the straight guide portion 641.

[0227] The second curved guide portion 643 is provided in the region of the end portion on the rear side in the length direction of the support plate 631. In addition, the second curved guide portion 643 is formed as a groove that branches from the vicinity of the end portion on the rear side of the straight guide portion 641 and extends.

[0228] The second curved guide portion 643 guides the needleless binding apparatus 5B to the bevel binding position Pb4 and determines the direction at this position.

[0229] The direction at the second curved guide portion 643 becomes a direction in which the needleless binding apparatus 5B is obliquely opposed to the corner portion of the end portion 19e of the paper bundle on the carrying plate 31. The corner portion of the end portion 19e of the paper bundle at this time becomes the corner portion on the rear side. In addition, the direction at this time is determined and maintained by the positional relationship of the support shaft 605 and the guided shaft 606.

[0230] The third curved guide portion 644 is a curved guide groove that is curved so as to return from the terminal end of the second curved guide portion 643 to the straight guide portion 641.

[0231] The third curved guide portion 644 is continuously provided from the terminal end of the second curved guide portion 643 in the region of the end portion on the rear side in the length direction of the support plate 631. In addition, the second curved guide portion 643 is formed as a groove that branches from the vicinity of the end portion on the rear side of the straight guide portion 641 and extends.

[0232] The third curved guide portion 644 guides the needleless binding apparatus 5B to the standby position Pb1 and determines the direction at this position.

[0233] The direction at the third curved guide portion 644 becomes a direction in which the needleless binding apparatus 5B is substantially parallelly faced to the lower end 19u of the paper 19 on the carrying plate 31. The direction at this time is determined and maintained by the positional relationship of the support shaft 605 and the guided shaft 606.

[0234] In the guide groove 64 in Embodiment 1, there are Figure 19 the illustrated displacement guide 645.

[0235] The displacement guide 645 is a member that is displaced in the portion surrounded by the straight guide portion 641, the second curved guide portion 643, and the third curved guide portion 644. The displacement guide 645 in Embodiment 1 is a member that has a planar shape that becomes approximately a triangle with three sides composed of curves.

[0236] The displacement guide 645 is normally elastically urged by a spring or the like toward the normal position in which the guide grooves 64 of the second curved guide portion 643 and the third curved guide portion 644 are present. The displacement guide 645 at this time is elastically urged by the urging member toward the normal position.

[0237] In addition, the displacement guide 645 is displaced when the needleless stapling apparatus 5B is moved from the standby position Pb1 to the double flat stapling position Pb2. The displacement at this time is displacement that causes the straight guide portion 641 to be present on the +X side of the second curved guide portion 643 and the third curved guide portion 644.

[0238] The displacement guide 645 is displaced from the normal position in conjunction with the movement of the needleless stapling apparatus 5B (refer to Figure 24 (B)). The displacement guide 645 is displaced by the guided shaft 606 of the needleless stapling apparatus 5B entering the space on the +X side thereof and being contacted and pressed.

[0239] The movement drive device 65, 66 is a drive device that moves and stops the carriages 61, 62 and the needle stapling apparatus 5A and the needleless stapling apparatus 5B.

[0240] The movement drive device 65 is constituted by a drive source 651 and a rack 67 (refer to Figure 5 (A)). The movement drive device 65 is constituted by a mechanism similar to a rack and pinion mechanism.

[0241] The drive source 651 is provided with a motor, a drive gear 652, a secondary gear 653, and the like. The drive gear 652 is attached to the output shaft of the motor. The secondary gear 653 has a large-diameter gear and a small-diameter gear, and is rotated by the large-diameter gear being engaged with the drive gear 652. The drive source 651 is loaded on the carriage 61.

[0242] The rack 67 is a gear portion provided with a gear on the upper surface portion and extending in a straight line along the width direction E. The small-diameter gear of the secondary gear 653 is engaged with the rack 67. The rack 67 is fixedly disposed on the base portion 21 of the frame 20.

[0243] In the case of the movement drive device 65, when the drive source 651 is driven, the small-diameter gear of the secondary gear 653 is engaged with the rack 67 and is rotated.

[0244] Thus, the movement drive device 65 moves the carriage 61 on which the drive source 651 is loaded in a prescribed direction along the movement guide rod 603.

[0245] The movement drive device 66 is constituted by a drive source 661 and the rack 67 (refer to Figure 5 (B)). The movement drive device 66, like the movement drive device 65, is also constituted by a mechanism similar to a rack and pinion mechanism.

[0246] The drive source 661 has a motor, a drive gear 662, a secondary gear 663, and the like. The motor, the drive gear 662, and the secondary gear 663 are the same as those in the drive source 651. The drive source 661 is loaded on the cart 62.

[0247] The rack 67 is used in common with the movement drive device 65.

[0248] In the case of the movement drive device 66, when the drive source 661 is driven, the pinion of the secondary gear 663 engages with the rack 67 and rotates.

[0249] Thus, the movement drive device 66 moves the cart 62 loaded with the drive source 661 in a prescribed direction along the movement guide rod 603.

[0250] (3) Basic operation of the paper processing device

[0251] The paper processing device 2A basically operates as follows.

[0252] The paper processing device 2A, when it becomes an operation period, guides the post-image-formed paper 19 discharged from the image forming device 10A through the guide inlet 23.

[0253] At this time, in the paper processing device 2A, the paper guide path 24 conveys the guided paper 19 inside the frame 20 toward the stacking section 3.

[0254] Thus, the paper 19 is fed out from the paper guide path 24 and falls to be placed on the inclined load surface 31a of the load plate 31. In the case where the paper 19 is of a length that cannot be accommodated on the load plate 31, the paper 19 is placed in a state of straddling the load plate 31 and a part of the accommodation tray 25.

[0255] Next, the paper processing device 2A moves down while the moving paddle section 33a of the first paddle 33 rotates with the drive support section 33b as a fulcrum.

[0256] At this time, the second paddle 34 also rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow.

[0257] Thus, the paper 19 placed on the load plate 31 or the like is carried toward the lower end abutting section 4 by the conveying force of the first paddle 33 and the second paddle 34. In addition, the paper 19 stops because its lower end 19u hits the three lower end abutting sections 41, 42, 43 of the lower end abutting section 4.

[0258] When the lower end 19u of the paper 19 hits the lower end abutting section 4, the moving paddle section 33a of the first paddle 33 moves up and stands by. In addition, the alignment plates 32F, 32R of the side end alignment section 32 operate each time a paper 19 is stacked on the load plate 31.

[0259] The stacking operation of the paper 19 above is repeated the same number of times as the number of the papers 19 to be stapled.

[0260] As a result, on the carrying plate 31, the paper stack in which a plurality of the papers 19 are stacked is carried.

[0261] The lower ends 19u of the papers 19 of the paper stack at this time are aligned by the lower end abutting portion 4. Also, the side ends 19c, 19d of the papers 19 of the paper stack at this time are aligned by the side end alignment portion 32.

[0262] Next, the paper processing device 2A performs the following operation in the case where the double flat stapling by the needle stapling device 5A is performed.

[0263] In this case, the moving support portion 6 operates to move the needle stapling device 5A to the first double flat stapling position Pa2 (refer to (A) of FIG. 6). The needle stapling device 5A at this time is moved to the rear side from the standby position Pa1 toward the double flat stapling position Pa2. The movement at this time is performed by the movement drive device 65 of the moving support portion 6 to drive a prescribed amount. Figure 7

[0264] The needle stapling device 5A after the movement becomes a direction in which the length direction of the needle stapling portions 52, 53 is substantially parallel to the end portion 19e of the paper stack. The direction of the needle stapling device 5A moved to the double flat stapling position Pa2 is the same as the direction when it is in the standby position Pa1.

[0265] After that, the needle stapling device 5A performs the stapling processing at the double flat stapling position Pa2.

[0266] As a result, with respect to the paper stack, one portion of the end portion 19e thereof is flat-stapled by the staple.

[0267] Next, the moving support portion 6 operates to move the needle stapling device 5A to the second double flat stapling position Pa3 (refer to (A) of FIG. 6). The needle stapling device 5A at this time is moved to the front side from the double flat stapling position Pa2 toward the double flat stapling position Pa3. The movement at this time is also performed by the movement drive device 65 of the moving support portion 6 to drive a prescribed amount. Figure 7

[0268] After that, the needle stapling device 5A performs the stapling processing at the double flat stapling position Pa3.

[0269] In the case where this stapling processing is performed, the paper stack is predetermined to have the second portion of the end portion 19e thereof flat-stapled by the staple.

[0270] However, in the paper processing device 2A, the stapling processing at the second double flat stapling position Pa3 can be accompanied by the following undesirable situation 1. ​​

[0271] Next, the paper processing device 2A operates as follows in the case where the corner stapling is performed by the needle-equipped stapling device 5A.

[0272] In this case, the moving support portion 6 operates to move the needle-equipped stapling device 5A to the corner stapling position Pa4 (refer to (B) of FIG. 6). The needle-equipped stapling device 5A at this time moves while changing the direction from the standby position Pa1 toward the corner stapling position Pa4. The movement at this time is also performed by the movement drive device 65 of the moving support portion 6 driving a prescribed amount. Figure 7

[0273] The needle-equipped stapling device 5A after the movement becomes in a direction in which the corner of the front side of the end portion 19e of the paper bundle opposes in an inclined state.

[0274] After that, the needle-equipped stapling device 5A performs the stapling process at the corner stapling position Pa4.

[0275] Thus, in the case of the paper bundle, the corner of the end portion 19e is stapled obliquely with the staple.

[0276] When this stapling process ends, the moving support portion 6 operates to move the needle-equipped stapling device 5A to the standby position Pa1 (refer to (A) of FIG. 6). The movement at this time is also performed by the movement drive device 65 of the moving support portion 6 driving a prescribed amount. Figure 6

[0277] Next, the paper processing device 2A operates as follows in the case where the double flat stapling is performed by the needleless stapling device 5B.

[0278] In this case, the moving support portion 6 operates to move the needleless stapling device 5B to the first double flat stapling position Pb2 (refer to (A) of FIG. 7). The needleless stapling device 5B at this time moves to the front side from the standby position Pb1 toward the double flat stapling position Pb2. The movement at this time is performed by the movement drive device 66 of the moving support portion 6 driving a prescribed amount. Figure 7

[0279] The needleless stapling device 5B after the movement becomes in a direction in which the length direction of the needleless stapling portions 56, 57 opposes the end portion 19e of the paper bundle approximately in parallel. The direction of the needleless stapling device 5B moved to the double flat stapling position Pb2 is the same as the direction when in the standby position Pb1.

[0280] After that, the needleless stapling device 5B performs the stapling process at the double flat stapling position Pb2.

[0281] Thus, in the case of the paper bundle, one portion of the end portion 19e is flat stapled without the staple.

[0282] ​​​Next, the movable support 6 operates, moving the needleless binding device 5B to the second double-stitched position Pb3 (see reference). Figure 7 (A)). At this time, the needleless binding device 5B moves forward from the double-stitch position Pb2 toward the double-stitch position Pb3.

[0283] Afterwards, the needleless binding device 5B performs binding at the double flat binding position Pb3.

[0284] When this binding process is performed, the second portion of the paper stack at its end 19e is flat-stitched without binding pins.

[0285] However, in the paper handling apparatus 2A, when binding is performed at the second double-stitch position Pb3, the same adverse condition 1 described later may also occur.

[0286] Next, the paper handling device 2A operates as follows while the paper is being obliquely bound by the needleless binding device 5B.

[0287] In this case, the movable support 6 operates, causing the needleless binding device 5B to move to the angled binding position Pb4 (see reference). Figure 7 (B)). At this time, the needleless binding device 5B moves while changing direction from the double flat binding position Pb2 to the angled binding position Pb4. This movement is also performed by a predetermined amount driven by the movement drive device 66 of the moving support 6.

[0288] The needleless binding device 5B that has made this movement is positioned opposite the rear corner of the end 19e of the paper stack in an inclined state.

[0289] Subsequently, the needleless binding device 5B performs binding at the oblique binding position Pb4.

[0290] Thus, the rear corner of the stack of paper at its end 19e is obliquely bound without a binding pin.

[0291] However, in the paper handling apparatus 2A, when binding is performed at the angled binding position Pb4, the following adverse condition 2 may occur.

[0292] When the angled binding is finished, the movable support 6 operates, moving the needleless binding device 5B to the standby position Pb1 (see reference). Figure 6 (A)). The movement at this time is also driven by a predetermined amount by the movement drive device 66 of the movement support 6. In addition, the needleless binding device 5B at the end of the bevel binding can also be moved to return to the binding position Pb2.

[0293] In the paper handling device 2A, when the double flat binding and each angled binding process is completed, the paper stack is discharged into the storage tray 25.

[0294] At this time, the bound paper bundle is carried out from the carrying plate 31 to the storage tray 25 by the carrying force of the carrying-out roller 35. In addition, in the case of the paper bundle at this time, the upper end 19t of the paper sheet 19 on the side opposite to the lower end 19u moves to the front.

[0295] (4) Malfunctions 1, 2

[0296] Here, in the paper sheet processing device 2A, the following malfunctions 1, 2 can occur due to the configuration of the three lower end abutting portions 41, 42, 43.

[0297] The lower end abutting portions 41, 42, 43 are respectively arranged at the above-mentioned three normal positions J1, J2, J3 (refer to FIG. 2). Figure 4 ).

[0298] The malfunction 1 is related to the case where the second double flat binding is performed by the needle-equipped binding device 5A and the needleless binding device 5B.

[0299] In this case, when the needle-equipped binding device 5A and the needleless binding device 5B are moved to the double flat binding positions Pa3, Pb3 to perform the binding processing, one of the lower end abutting portions can become an obstacle.

[0300] In the embodiment 1, the one lower end abutting portion at this time corresponds to the front-side lower end abutting portion 42. Also, in the case of the lower end abutting portion 42 at this time, a part 42x, which is exemplified with the diagonal line in (A) of FIG. 4, can become an obstacle. Figure 7

[0301] The obstacle at this time means the case where a part 42x of the lower end abutting portion 42 can become an obstacle when the binding device 5 (5A, 5B) is moved to the binding position. As the obstacle at this time, there are also cases where a part 42x of the lower end abutting portion 42 can become an obstacle when the binding device 5 performs the binding operation at the binding position.

[0302] As a result, the second double flat binding by the needle-equipped binding device 5A and the needleless binding device 5B cannot be performed due to the possibility that the front-side lower end abutting portion 42 can become an obstacle. This is the malfunction 1.

[0303] Further, the description of the binding device 5 (5A, 5B) indicates the case where the binding device 5 is two binding devices (5A, 5B). The two binding devices (5A, 5B) are the needle-equipped binding device 5A and the needleless binding device 5B.

[0304] The malfunction 2 is related to the case where the bevel binding is performed by the needleless binding device 5B.

[0305] In this case, when the needleless binding device 5B is moved from the double flat binding position Pb2 to the bevel binding position Pb4 to perform the binding processing, one of the lower end abutting portions can become an obstacle.​

[0306] In Embodiment 1, one of the lower end abutting portions at this time corresponds to the rear lower end abutting portion 43. Also, in terms of the lower end abutting portion 43 at this time, a portion 43x illustrated with a diagonal line in (B) of FIG. 43 can become an obstacle. Figure 7

[0307] The obstacle at this time refers to a case where a portion 43x of the lower end abutting portion 43 becomes an obstacle when the binding apparatus 5 (5B) moves to the binding position. As the obstacle at this time, there are also cases where a portion 43x of the lower end abutting portion 43 can become an obstacle when the binding apparatus 5 performs a binding operation at the binding position.

[0308] As a result, the clinch binding based on the needleless binding apparatus 5B cannot be performed due to the possibility that the rear lower end abutting portion 43 becomes an obstacle. This is a defective condition 2.

[0309] The description of the binding apparatus 5 (5B) indicates a case where the binding apparatus 5 is the needleless binding apparatus 5B.

[0310] Such defective conditions 1 and 2 are likely to occur in the presence of the following.

[0311] That is, in the paper handling device 2A, defective conditions 1 and 2 are likely to occur in a case where the size in the width direction E thereof is narrowed. In this case, the arrangement positions of the lower end abutting portions 41, 42, and 43 are limited. Thus, the arrangement positions of the lower end abutting portions 41, 42, and 43 are likely to interfere with the binding position of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B).

[0312] The normal positions J1, J2, and J3 of the lower end abutting portions 41, 42, and 43 are set to positions at which the lower end 19u of the sheet 19S of the minimum width Ws is touched.

[0313] (5) First and second linkage moving mechanisms

[0314] The paper handling device 2A is provided with a first linkage moving mechanism 7 and a second linkage moving mechanism 8 (refer to FIG. 44) that eliminate the defective conditions 1 and 2. Figure 8

[0315] (6-1) Structure of the first linkage moving mechanism

[0316] The first linkage moving mechanism 7 is a mechanism that moves the front lower end abutting portion 42 in linkage with the movement of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B).

[0317] The lower end abutting portion 42 that becomes the moving object of the first linkage moving mechanism 7 is provided so as to be movable with respect to the width direction E that intersects the direction C in which the sheets are carried in.

[0318] ​​The lower end abutting portion 42 is provided to a moving member 425 (refer to Figure 8 , Figure 9 etc.) that is movable in the width direction E.

[0319] The moving member 425 is a plate-shaped member guided to move by the first guide rod 401 provided to the main body portion 40 of the lower end abutting portion 42. The moving member 425 is formed in a shape that exists on the lower side of the lower end abutting portion 42 and supports the rotation rod 71 so as to be rotatable.

[0320] A guide rod receiving hole 425a through which the first guide rod 401 passes is provided to a face portion of the moving member 425 in the direction of conveyance C.

[0321] The first guide rod 401 is fixed at both end portions thereof to a mounting portion 402 and a holding portion 403 provided to the main body portion 40 in a state along the width direction E.

[0322] Thus, the moving member 425 is movable with respect to the main body portion 40 in the directions E1, E2 (refer to Figure 8 etc.). In addition, thus, the lower end abutting portion 42 is also movable in the directions E1, E2.

[0323] Further, the first link moving mechanism 7 is provided with the rotation rod 71, a rotation control member 73, a rotation biasing member 75, a moving biasing member 77, etc. (refer to Figure 10 etc.).

[0324] The rotation rod 71 is a rod having a bearing portion 711, a first contact portion 712, and a second contact portion 713.

[0325] The bearing portion 711 is a portion of the rotation rod 71 that is rotatably mounted to a shaft 426. The shaft 426 is provided to a side face portion of the moving member 425 in a manner projecting in the direction of conveyance C. A shaft hole 711a through which the shaft 426 rotatably passes is provided to the bearing portion 711.

[0326] The first contact portion 712 is a portion that is contactable with a portion of the moving binding apparatus 5 in a position away from the bearing portion 711 in one direction.

[0327] The first contact portion 712 is a portion formed in a shape extending toward the lower side from the bearing portion 711. The first contact portion 712 has a first contact surface 712a toward the front side and a second contact surface 712b toward the rear side.

[0328] The second contact portion 713 is a portion that is contactable with the rotation control member 73 in a position away from the bearing portion 711 in a direction different from the first contact portion 712.

[0329] The second contact portion 713 is formed in a shape extending obliquely upward from the bearing portion 711. The second contact portion 713 has a contact portion 713a constituted by a shape that gradually tapers toward the upper side.

[0330] The above-described portion of the stapling apparatus 5 becomes the contact members 608, 609 (see FIG. 6) provided to the carriages 61, 62 of the moving support portions 6, respectively. Figure 5

[0331] The contact members 608, 609 are members of a shape standing up from each end portion of the carriages 61, 62 along the side surface of the stapling apparatus 5 (5A, 5B). The contact members 608, 609 have a portion that is bent toward the carrying plate 31 at the upper end of the standing up. The contact members 608, 609 use the bent portion as a contact portion 608a, 609a that contacts the first contact portion 712.

[0332] The rotation control member 73 is a member configured in a state of being fixed to a position of the rotation lever 71 opposite the second contact portion 713.

[0333] The entire rotation control member 73 is a plate-shaped member, and a first control surface 731 and a second control surface 732 are provided to a portion of one surface thereof.

[0334] The first control surface 731 is a surface that controls in such a manner that the second contact portion 713 of the rotation lever 71 contacts to stop the rotation of the rotation lever 71 in one direction Ml.

[0335] The first control surface 731 is formed by a flat surface extending in parallel with the width direction E. The first control surface 731 is a surface that becomes a length capable of moving the lower end abutting portion 42 in the width direction E by at least a prescribed distance La.

[0336] The prescribed distance La is a distance from the normal position J2 to the avoidance position J5 (see FIG. 6) at least of the lower end abutting portion 42. Figure 15

[0337] The avoidance position J5 is a position in which the lower end abutting portion 42 can be avoided from becoming an obstacle when the stapling apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) performs the stapling process in the double flat stapling positions Pa3, Pb3.

[0338] Figure 12 The symbol Ps of (A) is a position in which the second contact portion 713 contacts the first control surface 731 when the lower end abutting portion 42 is in the normal position J2. This position is set as the contact position Ps at the time of normality. The contact position Ps at the time of normality is also a position that stops the rotation of the rotation lever 71 at the time of normality.

[0339] In addition, Figure 12 ​​The symbol Pz in (A) represents the position where the second contact portion 713 contacts the first control surface 731 when the lower end abutment portion 42 is in the avoidance position J5. This position is designated as the avoidance contact position Pz. The avoidance contact position Pz is also the position where the rotation of the rotating rod 71 stops when the lower end abutment portion 42 is in the avoidance position J5.

[0340] The second control surface 732 is the surface that controls the rotating rod 71 to rotate in the aforementioned direction M1.

[0341] The second control surface 732 is composed of a curved surface that curves gradually away from the first control surface 731. The second control surface 732 is formed continuously starting from the end 731e of the first control surface 731.

[0342] The aforementioned separation direction is an upward offset from the first control surface 731 (near the other side of the rotation control member 73). In other words, the aforementioned separation direction is also a direction that starts from the first control surface 731 and moves closer to the other side of the rotation control member 73.

[0343] The second control surface 732 becomes an arc or curved shape.

[0344] Rotation control component 73 is mounted on the lower surface of the main body 40 of the lower end abutment portion 4 (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0345] Furthermore, the rotation control component 73 is configured such that the first control surface 731 and the second contact portion 713 of the rotation rod 71 are in face-to-face contact. At this time, the second contact portion 713 of the rotation rod 71 contacts the first control surface 731 at its normal contact position Ps (see reference). Figure 12 (A)).

[0346] The rotating force-applying component 75 is a component that applies a force Fa to the rotating rod 71, causing it to rotate in the aforementioned direction M1.

[0347] As a rotational force-applying component 75, for example, a torsion spring (see reference) is used. Figure 12 (A)).

[0348] Regarding the torsion spring, which serves as the rotational force-applying component 75, its coil portion is embedded in the shaft 426. Furthermore, one arm 75b of the torsion spring is mounted on a portion of the moving component 425. Additionally, the torsion spring is mounted such that its other arm 75c applies a force Fa to the first contact portion 712 of the rotating rod 71.

[0349] The rotating force-applying component 75 continuously generates a force Fa (refer to) that causes the rotating rod 71 to rotate in the aforementioned direction M1. Figure 12 (A)).

[0350] Thus, the rotating lever 71 is maintained in a state in which the second contact portion 713 is in continuous contact with the first control surface 731 of the rotating control member 73.

[0351] The moving force applying member 77 is a member that applies a force Fb for moving the lower end abutting portion 42 to return to the normal position J1 to the moving member 425.

[0352] As the moving force applying member 77, for example, a tension spring (refer to Figure 12 (A)) is applied.

[0353] The tension spring of the moving force applying member 77 has a hook portion 77b at one end of a coil portion thereof attached to a hanging portion 425d of the moving member 425. In addition, the tension spring has a hook portion 77c at the other end of the coil portion attached to a hanging portion 404d of the holding member 404 in a state in which a force Fb is applied.

[0354] The moving force applying member 77 generates a force Fb for restoring the moving member 425 when the moving force applying member 77 is mainly elongated by the movement of the moving member 425 (refer to Figure 13 ). The force Fb is also generated when the moving member 425 is stopped at the normal position.

[0355] Thus, the moving member 425 is in a state in which the moving member 425 is stopped in contact with the holding member 403 at the normal time in which the moving member 425 is not moved. In addition, the lower end abutting portion 42 is in a state in which the lower end abutting portion 42 returns to the original position together with the moving member 425 when the moving member 425 is moved in the direction E1.

[0356] (6-2) Configuration state of the first linkage moving mechanism

[0357] The first linkage moving mechanism 7 is configured at a position at which the rotating lever 71 can be brought into contact with a portion of the moving binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B).

[0358] The above movement is when the binding apparatus 5 is moved in a manner of being moved from the rear side and the front side toward the double flat binding positions Pa3, Pb3.

[0359] In addition, the first linkage moving mechanism 7 is configured on the lower surface side of the main body portion 40 of the lower end abutting portion 4 (refer to Figure 9 ).

[0360] The first linkage moving mechanism 7 is installed in a state in which the lower end abutting portion 42 is stopped at the normal position J2 (refer to Figure 8 , Figure 12 ).

[0361] The first linkage moving mechanism 7 is in a state as shown in Figure 12 , and the like at the normal time. The normal time at this time is when a portion of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) is not in contact with the rotating lever 71.

[0362] First, the first linkage movement mechanism 7 is in a state where the second contact portion 713 of the rotation lever 71 is in contact with the first control surface 731 of the rotation control member 73.

[0363] At this time, the rotation lever 71 is imparted with an action force Fa that can rotate it in the direction Ml from the rotation force applying member 75. However, the rotation of the rotation lever 71 in the direction Ml at this time is stopped by the first control surface 731 and is stationary.

[0364] In addition, in the above-described configuration of the first linkage movement mechanism 7, the lower end abutting portion 42 is in a state of being stopped at the normal position J2 by the movement member 425.

[0365] The movement member 425 at this time is stopped by being imparted with an action force Fb from the movement force applying member 77, in contact with the holding portion 403 of the main body portion 40. Thus, the movement member 425 is stopped, and the lower end abutting portion 42 is positioned at the normal position J2.

[0366] Furthermore, in the above-described configuration of the first linkage movement mechanism 7, the first contact portion 712 of the rotation lever 71 is in a state of being inclined downward from the bearing portion 711.

[0367] Thus, the first contact portion 712 of the rotation lever 71 becomes a state where a part of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) is contactable. The part of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) at this time is the above-described contact member 608, 609 (refer to (B) of FIG. 8). Figure 12

[0368] In addition, the rotation lever 71 at this time has the following two modes in the contact of the first contact portion 712 with the part of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B).

[0369] The first contact mode is a case where the part of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) is in contact with the first contact surface 712a of the first contact portion 712. This contact mode is exemplified in (A) of FIG. 8. Figure 12

[0370] In this contact mode, the binding apparatus 5 makes contact when moving from the rear side to the double flat binding positions Pa3, Pb3.

[0371] The movement at this time is called movement of the binding apparatus 5 in a first constant direction E la toward a prescribed binding position.

[0372] The prescribed binding position becomes the double flat binding positions Pa3, Pb3. The first constant direction E la becomes a direction of moving from the rear side to approach the double flat binding positions Pa3, Pb3 (refer to (B) of FIG. 8). Figure 12

[0373] ​​​The second contact mode is a case where a part of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) is in contact with the second contact surface 712b of the first contact portion 712. This contact mode is exemplified in (A) of FIG. 12. Figure 16

[0374] In this contact mode, the binding apparatus 5 makes contact when moving from the front side toward the double flat binding positions Pa3, Pb3.

[0375] This movement is referred to as movement of the binding apparatus 5 toward the prescribed binding positions in the direction E2a opposite to the above-described first constant direction E1a. The opposite direction E2a becomes a direction in which the double flat binding positions Pa2, Pb2 are approached from the front side (refer to (A) of FIG. 12). Figure 16

[0376] (6-3) Action of the First Linkage Movement Mechanism

[0377] Next, the action of the first linkage movement mechanism 7 will be described.

[0378] (a) A case where the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) moves toward the double flat binding positions Pa3, Pb3 in the first constant direction E1a.

[0379] In this case, in the first linkage movement mechanism 7, a part of the moving binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) is in contact with the first contact portion 712 of the rotating lever 71. Specifically, the contact members 608, 609 of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) are in contact with the first contact surface 712a of the first contact portion 712.

[0380] At this time, the first contact portion 712 of the rotating lever 71 is pressed from the first constant direction E1a and attempts to rotate in the direction M1. However, the rotating lever 71 does not rotate because the second contact portion 713 is in contact with the first control surface 731 of the rotation control member 73.

[0381] Thus, the rotating lever 71 is pressed and moved in the first constant direction E1a in a state where the second contact portion 713 is in contact with the first control surface 731.

[0382] In addition, the rotating lever 71 stops moving by the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) stopping at the double flat binding positions Pa3, Pb3.

[0383] At this time, the second contact portion 713 of the rotating lever 71 moves the first control surface 731 from the contact position Ps at normal times by the prescribed distance La.

[0384] In addition, the rotating lever 71 stops at the contact position Pz at avoidance times in a state where the second contact portion 713 is in contact with the first control surface 731.

[0385] ​​Further, by the movement of the rotating lever 71, the moving member 425 also becomes integral and moves likewise.

[0386] The moving member 425 at this time moves in the first constant direction E1a (direction E1) while being guided by the first guide lever 401.

[0387] Further, at this time, the moving force applying member 77 becomes a state of being elongated with the movement of the moving member 425, and the force Fb increases.

[0388] As a result, the first linkage moving mechanism 7 moves the lower end abutting portion 42 likewise in the first constant direction E1a by the movement of the moving member 425.

[0389] The lower end abutting portion 42 at this time moves from the normal position J2 by a prescribed distance La (refer to (A) of FIG. 9). Figure 12 By this, the lower end abutting portion 42 can move to the avoidance position J5 and stop (refer to (B) of FIG. 9). Figure 13

[0390] Therefore, in the paper processing device 2A, when the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) moves from the rear side to the double flat binding position Pa3, Pb3, the lower end abutting portion 42 moves to the avoidance position J5.

[0391] That is, at this time, the lower end abutting portion 42 in the normal position J2 moves to the avoidance position J5 in linkage with the movement of the binding apparatus 5.

[0392] By this, when the binding apparatus 5 moves to the double flat binding position Pa3, Pb3 to perform the binding processing, the lower end abutting portion 42 does not become an obstacle.

[0393] Further, in the binding processing of the binding apparatus 5 at the double flat binding position Pa3, Pb3 of the paper 19S of the minimum width Ws, the lower end abutting portion 42 also does not become an obstacle.

[0394] The state at this time is exemplified as (A) of FIG. 9. Figure 15

[0395] Specifically, the needle binding apparatus 5A can perform the binding processing at the double flat binding position Pa3 without the lower end abutting portion 42 becoming an obstacle. Further, the needleless binding apparatus 5B can perform the binding processing at the double flat binding position Pb3 without the lower end abutting portion 42 becoming an obstacle.

[0396] In other words, in the paper processing device 2A, by the operation of the first linkage moving mechanism 7, the above-described undesirable situation 1 can be eliminated.

[0397] (b) the case where the binding apparatus 5 (5A) further moves in the first constant direction E1a from the double flat binding position Pa3. ​​

[0398] This occurs when the binding device 5 (5A) moves to the standby position Pa1 after the binding process at the double-stitched position Pa3 is completed. In other words, it occurs when the binding device 5 (5A) moves more than a predetermined distance La in the first predetermined direction E1a.

[0399] In this case, a portion of the binding device 5 (5A) is further pressed in the first constant direction E1a while in contact with the first contact portion 712 of the rotating rod 71.

[0400] As a result, the second contact portion 713 of the rotating rod 71 moves from the first control surface 731 to the second control surface 732. When the second contact portion 713 passes the end 731e of the first control surface 731, it transfers to the second control surface 732.

[0401] At this time, the rotating rod 71 contacts and moves through the second contact part 713 to the second control surface 732, and begins to rotate in one direction M1. The state at this time is as follows: Figure 14 exemplified by (A).

[0402] Furthermore, at this time, by rotating the rotating rod 71 in one direction M1, the rotating force-applying component 75 becomes in a state where its force Fa is weakened.

[0403] Furthermore, as the binding device 5 (5A) moves further in the first constant direction E1a, a portion of the binding device 5 (5A) detaches from the contact with the first contact portion 712. The state at this time is as follows: Figure 14 exemplified by (B). exist Figure 14 In (B), the state of the first contact portion 712 of the rotating rod 71 at the moment of detachment from contact with the contact member 608 is shown.

[0404] Therefore, the moving part 425 can be moved back to its original position by the force Fb applied by the moving force application part 77.

[0405] At this time, the moving part 425 is guided by the first guide rod 401 and moves in the direction E2.

[0406] Furthermore, at this moment, the rotating rod 71 is in a state of rotating in the opposite direction M2 to direction M1. The intermediate state of the rotating rod 71 at this moment is as follows: Figure 14 The state shown in (A) (excluding binding device 5).

[0407] Moreover, at this time, by rotating the rotating rod 71 in the opposite direction M2, the force Fa of the rotating force-applying component 75 begins to recover.

[0408] As a result, the rotating rod 71 moves from the state where the second contact portion 713 is in contact with the first control surface 731 from the state where the second control surface 732 is in contact with the first control surface 731.

[0409] The rotating lever 71 changes in a manner from the state shown in (A) of FIG. 10 via the state shown in (B) of FIG. 10 to the state shown in (C) of FIG. 10. Figure 14 Figure 13 The rotating lever 71 changes in a manner from the state shown in (A) of FIG. 10 via the state shown in (B) of FIG. 10 to the state shown in (C) of FIG. 10. Figure 12

[0410] As a result, the first linkage moving mechanism 7 moves in linkage with further movement of the stapling device 5 (5A) to restore the lower end abutting portion 42.

[0411] Specifically, in linkage with the movement of the needle stapling device 5A from the double flat stapling position Pa3 to the standby position Pa1, the lower end abutting portion 42 is returned.

[0412] That is, as shown in (B) of FIG. 10, the lower end abutting portion 42 is returned from the avoidance position J5 to the normal position J2. Figure 15

[0413] Thus, the lower end abutting portion 42 becomes a state in which abutting and holding of the lower end 19u of the paper 19S of the minimum width Ws is possible.

[0414] The movement of the above-described needle stapling device 5A to the standby position Pa1 can be set to return to the standby position Pa1 again after temporarily passing the standby position Pa1. Thus, it is possible to reliably release the contact state of the contact member 608 of the needle stapling device 5A and the first contact portion 712 of the rotating lever 71.

[0415] On the other hand, the stapling device 5 (5B) moves to the standby position Pb1 if there is no stapling processing at the stapling position other than the double flat stapling position Pb3.

[0416] In this case, the stapling device 5 (5B) moves to the direction E2a opposite to the first constant direction E1a from the double flat stapling position Pb3.

[0417] At this time, in the first linkage moving mechanism 7, the rotating lever 71 moves to the opposite direction E2a in a state in which the first contact portion 712 is in contact with a portion of the stapling device 5 (5B).

[0418] Thus, the moving member 425 moves to the opposite direction E2a together with the movement of the rotating lever 71 to return to the original position. In addition, the moving member 425 is stopped with a portion thereof in contact with the holding portion 403 of the main body portion 40 of the lower end abutting portion 4.

[0419] In this case, the first linkage moving mechanism 7 moves the lower end abutting portion 42 in linkage with the movement of the stapling device 5 (5B) to restore it.

[0420] ​​​Specifically, the lower end abutment portion 42 is returned in conjunction with the movement of the needleless binding apparatus 5B from the double flat binding position Pb3 to the standby position Pb1.

[0421] That is, in this case, the lower end abutment portion 42 moves and returns to the normal position J2 (refer to Figure 15 (B) of FIG. 9).

[0422] (c) the case where the binding apparatus 5 (5A) moves from the standby position Pa1 to the direction E2a opposite to the first constant direction E1a.

[0423] This case is when the binding apparatus 5 (5A) moves from the standby position Pa1 through the lower end abutment portion 42. The movement through the lower end abutment portion 42 is also movement through the double flat binding position Pa3.

[0424] In this case, a part of the moving binding apparatus 5 (5A) comes into contact with the second contact surface 712b of the first contact portion 712 of the rotation lever 71. The part of the binding apparatus 5 (5A) at this time becomes the contact member 608.

[0425] As for the rotation lever 71 at this time, the first contact portion 712 is pressed toward the opposite direction E2a, and starts to rotate in the direction M2 opposite to the one direction M1. By this, the second contact portion 713 of the rotation lever 71 is separated from the first control surface 731 of the rotation control member 73. The state of the rotation lever 71 at this time is exemplified as Figure 16 (B) of FIG. 9.

[0426] In addition, the acting force Fa of the rotation biasing member 75 increases as the rotation lever 71 rotates in the opposite direction M2.

[0427] Next, when the binding apparatus 5 (5A) passes through the lower end abutment portion 42, a part of the binding apparatus 5 (5A) comes off from the contact with the first contact portion 712 of the rotation lever 71.

[0428] At this time, the rotation lever 71 rotates in the one direction M1 by the acting force Fa of the rotation biasing member 75, and returns to the state at the normal time. By this, the second contact portion 713 of the rotation lever 71 comes into contact with the first control surface 731 of the rotation control member 73 again. The state of the rotation lever 71 at this time is exemplified as Figure 12 (A) of FIG. 9.

[0429] According to the above, the rotation lever 71 does not move in the opposite direction E2a in conjunction with the movement of the binding apparatus 5 (5A) in the opposite direction E2a, but stays at the original position.

[0430] In addition, by this, the moving member 425 and the lower end abutment portion 42 also do not move and remain in the stopped state.

[0431] That is, the lower end abutment portion 42 at this time stays in the normal position J2.

[0432] As a result, the first linkage moving mechanism 7 does not move the lower end abutment portion 42 when the bookbinding apparatus 5 (5A) passes from the front side through the lower end abutment portion 42.

[0433] Therefore, the first linkage moving mechanism 7 does not move the lower end abutment portion 42 wastefully when the bookbinding apparatus 5 (5A) passes in the double flat binding position Pa3 without performing the bookbinding process.

[0434] (d) Other contents of the first linkage moving mechanism

[0435] The first linkage moving mechanism 7 that performs the above-described operation operates in conjunction with the operation of the bookbinding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B).

[0436] Therefore, the first linkage moving mechanism 7 can operate without using the power of a dedicated power source.

[0437] (6-4) Other structures related to the first linkage moving mechanism

[0438] The first linkage moving mechanism 7 sets the first minimum length LI and the second minimum length L2 of the rotating lever 71 to the size relationship of LI < L2.

[0439] The first minimum length LI is a length between the first contact point Pt closest to the shaft 426 and the shaft center gc of the shaft 426 in a portion in which the first contact portion 712 contacts a portion of the bookbinding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B).

[0440] The second minimum length L2 is a length between the second contact point Pd closest to the shaft 426 and the shaft center gc in a portion in which the second contact portion 713 contacts the first control surface 731. The second contact point Pd is included in the contact position Ps.

[0441] The first minimum length LI and the second minimum length L2 are as exemplified in (B) of FIG. 10. Figure 12

[0442] The first linkage moving mechanism 7 suppresses the contact resistance of the second contact portion 713 of the rotating lever 71 and the first control surface 731 of the rotating control member 73 compared to the case in which the size relationship is set to LI ≥ L2. Thus, the rotating lever 71 is smoothly moved in the constant direction E1a by the second contact portion 713 contacting the first control surface 731.

[0443] Therefore, in the first linkage moving mechanism 7, the lower end abutment portion 42 is smoothly moved from the normal position J2 toward the avoidance position J5.

[0444] ​The first shortest length L1 and the second shortest length L2 are preferably set to a relationship of (L1 / L2)≥1.3.

[0445] Setting this relation to (L1 / L2) < 1.3 has the following advantages compared to setting it to (L1 / L2) < 1.3.

[0446] First, under the latter relationship described above, the load on the second contact portion 713 of the rotating rod 71 when it contacts the first control surface 731 increases. As a result, the contact resistance between the second contact portion 713 of the rotating rod 71 and the first control surface 731 increases, and the contact movement of the second contact portion 713 becomes unsmooth. In addition, due to the continuous contact state between the second contact portion 713 of the rotating rod 71 and the first control surface 731, deformation or wear is possible.

[0447] In this respect, setting the relationship as the former makes it easier to avoid the adverse effects of setting it as the latter.

[0448] The paper handling device 2A adjusts the moving speed of the binding equipment 5 (5A, 5B) as it moves from the rear to the double-stitched positions Pa3, Pb3.

[0449] That is, the movable support 6 slows down the moving speed of the binding devices 5 (5A, 5B) at a position near the front where a part of the binding devices 5 contacts the first contact portion 712 of the rotating rod 71. The moving speed is adjusted by slowing down the driving speeds of the drive sources 651, 661 in the movable support 6 just before contact.

[0450] The degree of adjustment of the movement speed is as follows: Figure 26 exemplified by (A).

[0451] Figure 26 The symbol Pta in (A) represents the position near the front of the binding device 5 (5A, 5B) that contacts the first contact portion 712. Figure 26 (A) illustrates the situation where the movement speed is reduced at the position Pta near the anterior side. Figure 26 In the example illustrated in (A), the movement speed is changed from a high speed to a low speed at the position Pta near the front.

[0452] Compared to the case where the paper handling device 2A and the moving support 6 do not decelerate the moving speed of the binding equipment 5 (5A, 5B) at the aforementioned contact near position Pta, the situation is as follows.

[0453] That is, the impact sound generated when a part of the binding device 5 comes into contact with the first contact portion 712 of the rotating rod 71 is reduced.

[0454] In other words, in the paper processing device 2A, it is possible to realize quietness during work without reducing the productivity when performing the second perfect binding.

[0455] In the paper processing device 2A, the moving support portion 6 is configured to move the needle binding apparatus 5A to the needle replenishment work position.

[0456] The needle replenishment work position is a position that exceeds the diagonal binding position Pa4 toward the front side. The needle binding apparatus 5A is moved to the replenishment work position by the guidance until the terminal 642e of the first curved guide portion 642 of the guide groove 64 of the guide plate 63. Further, in the frame 20, a not-illustrated switch door is provided at the position that becomes the replenishment work position.

[0457] Further, in the embodiment 1, the needle binding apparatus 5A is disposed at a position that is more forward than the needleless binding apparatus 5B.

[0458] Therefore, compared to the case where the needle binding apparatus 5A is disposed at a position that is more rearward than the needleless binding apparatus 5B, it is easy to perform the needle replenishment work of the needle binding apparatus 5A from the front side.

[0459] Incidentally, the paper processing device 2A is provided inside the frame 11 (the discharge storage portion 15) of the image forming apparatus 10A. That is, the paper processing device 2A is easily limited by the size of the frame 11 and is disposed in a relatively narrow space.

[0460] On the other hand, the paper processing device 2A has the first linkage moving mechanism 7 that performs the above-described operation.

[0461] Therefore, the paper processing device 2A, although being disposed inside the frame 11 of the image forming apparatus 10A, can perform the following binding operation.

[0462] That is, in the paper processing device 2A, both of the binding apparatuses 5A, 5B can perform the binding processing at the perfect binding positions Pa3, Pb3 without the front side lower end abutting portion 42 becoming an obstacle.

[0463] (7-1) Structure of the second linkage moving mechanism

[0464] The second linkage moving mechanism 8 is a mechanism that moves the rear side lower end abutting portion 43 in linkage with the operation of moving the binding apparatus 5 (5B).

[0465] In the embodiment 1, a case where the second linkage moving mechanism 8 operates when one binding apparatus 5 (5B) moves is exemplified. Further, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 can also operate when the other binding apparatus 5 (5A) moves to the prescribed binding position.

[0466] The lower end abutting portion 43, which is a moving object of the second linkage moving mechanism 8, is provided so as to be movable with respect to a width direction E intersecting the direction C of the carry-in.

[0467] The lower end abutting portion 43 is provided to a moving member 435 (refer to Figure 8 , Figure 9 and the like) that is movable in the width direction E.

[0468] The moving member 435 is a plate-shaped member that is guided to move by the second guide rod 405 provided to the main body portion 40 of the lower end abutting portion 4. The moving member 435 has a main body that is bent into an L shape. A guide rod receiving portion 435a through which the second guide rod 405 is inserted is provided to the moving member 435.

[0469] The second guide rod 405 is fixed at both end portions thereof in a state along the width direction E to holding portions 406, 407 provided to the main body portion 40.

[0470] Thus, the moving member 435 is movable with respect to the main body portion 40 in directions E1, E2 (refer to Figure 8 and the like). In addition, thus, the lower end abutting portion 43 is also movable in the directions E1, E2.

[0471] Further, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 is provided with a rotation rod 81, a swing rod 83, a rotation biasing member 85, a moving biasing member 87, and the like (refer to Figure 17 and the like).

[0472] The rotation rod 81 is a rod having a first bearing portion 811, a first contact portion 812, and a second contact portion 813.

[0473] The first bearing portion 811 is a portion of the rotation rod 81 that is rotatably attached to the first shaft 316.

[0474] The first shaft 316 is protrudingly provided to a position close to the lower end abutting portion 43 on a lower surface of the load bearing plate 31 of the stacking portion 3. An unillustrated shaft hole through which the first shaft 316 is rotatably inserted is provided to the first bearing portion 811.

[0475] The first contact portion 812 is a portion that contacts a portion of the moving binding apparatus 5 (5B) on an end side extending from the first bearing portion 811.

[0476] The first contact portion 812 is formed as a portion of a shape that gradually thins in one direction from the first bearing portion 811. The first contact portion 812 is in a state of protruding from the moving member 435 in a manner of intruding into a position through which the portion of the binding apparatus 5 (5B) passes.

[0477] The first contact portion 812 has a first contact surface 812a and a second contact surface 812b. The first contact surface 812a is a contact surface toward the front side that contacts a portion of the binding apparatus 5 (5B). The second contact surface 812b is another contact surface toward the rear side.

[0478] The above-mentioned portion of the binding apparatus 5 (5B) refers to a portion of the main body 51. Details regarding the portion of the main body 51 are described later.

[0479] The second contact portion 813 is a portion that contacts the swing lever 83 on the other end side that is distal from the first bearing portion 811 in a direction different from the first contact portion 812.

[0480] The second contact portion 813 is formed as a portion that extends in another direction from the first bearing portion 811 and gradually thins.

[0481] In addition, the second contact portion 813 has a contact surface 831a toward the front side that contacts a cam portion 832 of the swing lever 83 described later.

[0482] Furthermore, the second contact portion 813 has a cutout-shaped hanging portion 813d that hangs an end portion of the rotation biasing member 85 on the front end side thereof.

[0483] The swing lever 83 is a lever that has a second bearing portion 831, a cam portion 832, and a pressing portion 833.

[0484] The second bearing portion 831 is a portion of the swing lever 83 that is rotatably attached to the second shaft 317.

[0485] The second shaft 317 is protrusively provided on the lower surface of the load plate 31 of the stacking portion 3 at a position distal from the first shaft 316. The second shaft 317 is disposed at a position that is distal from the lower end abutting portion 43 compared to the first shaft 316 and is offset to the front side.

[0486] An unillustrated shaft hole through which the second shaft 317 is rotatably inserted is provided in the second bearing portion 831.

[0487] The cam portion 832 is a portion that extends close to the first shaft 316 from the second bearing portion 831 and is a portion that is contacted by the second contact portion 813.

[0488] The cam portion 832 is formed in a shape that extends from the second bearing portion 831 to a position close to the first shaft 316 of the rotation lever 81.

[0489] In addition, the cam portion 832 has a cam surface 832a in a portion opposite the second contact portion 813 of the rotation lever 81.

[0490] The cam surface 832a is formed as a defined curved surface from the second bearing portion 831 to a position close to the first shaft 316. The second contact portion 813 of the rotating rod 81 contacts the cam surface 832a.

[0491] The pressing part 833 is the part that contacts the moving part 435 and presses in a direction E1c opposite to the second constant direction E2c described later.

[0492] The pressing part 833 is formed by bending and extending from the cam part 832 toward the side opposite to the second bearing part 831. The pressing part 833 contacts the moving part 435 at its extended end.

[0493] The pressing part 833 has a contact surface 833a that contacts the moving part 435. The contact surface 833a is formed by a curved surface to ensure smooth contact while moving towards the moving part 435.

[0494] The pressing part 833 has an inclined surface 833b on the side opposite to the contact surface 833a. The inclined surface 833b is formed by a surface that is inclined in a manner that gradually separates from the first contact surface 812a of the rotating rod 81.

[0495] The rotating force-applying component 85 is a component that applies a force to the rotating rod 81 in the opposite direction to the direction in which the rotating rod 81 rotates.

[0496] The direction of rotation of the rotating rod 81 is the same as the direction of rotation when it rotates around the first axis 316 as the fulcrum, N1 and N2 (refer to...). Figure 17 ).

[0497] The aforementioned forces include a force Fc rotating in the direction N2 and a force Fd rotating in the direction N1.

[0498] As a rotational force-applying component 85, for example, a tension spring is used (see reference). Figure 18 (A)).

[0499] The tension spring, which serves as the rotational force-applying component 85, attaches the hook 85c at one end of the coil portion to the hanging portion 319 on the lower surface of the support plate 31. Additionally, the tension spring attaches the hook 85b at the other end of the coil portion to the hanging portion 813d of the rotating rod 81.

[0500] As an example, the hanging part 319 is arranged on an imaginary straight line Vc extending from the axis g1 of the first shaft 316 of the rotating rod 81. The imaginary straight line Vc is an imaginary straight line extending from the axis g1 of the first shaft 316 along the direction of insertion C and upstream of the direction C.

[0501] Thus, the rotation force applying member 85 generates the force Fc that rotates in the opposite direction when the rotation lever 81 rotates in the direction Nl. Also, the rotation force applying member 85 generates the force Fd that rotates in the opposite direction when the rotation lever 81 rotates in the direction N2.

[0502] Further, the position of the hook portion 319 can be set to a position that is offset to the rear side from the above-mentioned virtual straight line Vc.

[0503] The movement force applying member 87 is a member that applies the force Fe that moves the lower end abutting portion 43 to return to the normal position J3 to the movement member 435.

[0504] As the movement force applying member 87, for example, a tension spring (refer to Figure 18 (A)) is applied.

[0505] The tension spring that is the movement force applying member 87 has the hook portion 87b of one end of the coil portion installed to a portion of the movement member 435. Also, the tension spring has the hook portion 87c of the other end of the coil portion installed to a portion of the holding portion 407 in a state of applying the force Fe.

[0506] The movement force applying member 87 generates the force Fe that restores the movement member 435 when the movement force applying member 87 is mainly elongated by the movement of the movement member 435 (refer to Figure 18 ). The force Fe is also generated when the movement member 435 stops at the normal position.

[0507] Thus, the movement member 435 is in a state of being stopped in contact with the holding portion 407 when not moving normally. Also, the lower end abutting portion 43 becomes a state of returning to the original position together with the movement member 435 when the movement member 435 moves in the direction El.

[0508] (7-2) Configuration state of the second link movement mechanism

[0509] The second link movement mechanism 8 is configured at a position that can make the rotation lever 81 contact a portion of the moved binding apparatus 5 (5B).

[0510] The above-mentioned movement is when the binding apparatus 5 (5B) moves in a manner of facing the oblique angle binding position Pb4 from the front side. Also, the above-mentioned movement includes when the binding apparatus 5 (5B) moves in a manner of facing the double flat binding position Pb2 from the standby position Pb1.

[0511] Also, the second link movement mechanism 8 is configured at the lower surface side of the main body portion 40 of the lower end abutting portion 4 (refer to Figure 8 , Figure 9 ).

[0512] The second link movement mechanism 8 is installed so that the lower end abutment portion 43 stops in a state in which the normal position J3 is reached (refer to Figure 8 , Figure 17 ).

[0513] Furthermore, the second link movement mechanism 8 becomes in a state as shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B at the normal time. Figure 17 , Figure 19 and the like.

[0514] The normal time at this time is when a part of the binding apparatus 5 (5B) is not in contact with the rotating lever 81 or before it is about to come into contact.

[0515] In addition, the part of the binding apparatus 5 (5B) at this time is a part of the main body 51. In Embodiment 1, the corner portion 55r of the rear side of the outer wall surface of the main body 51 and the side surface portion 55a from there to the corner portion 55f of the front side (refer to Figure 19 ).

[0516] At the normal time, the first contact portion 812 of the rotating lever 81 is configured to be in a state in which it can come into contact with the part of the binding apparatus 5 (5B) that moves in the second constant direction E2c. This state is exemplified in FIGS. 12A and 12B. Figure 19 .

[0517] The second constant direction E2c is the direction in which the needleless binding apparatus 5B moves from the front side toward the bevel binding position Pb4. Specifically, the needleless binding apparatus 5B is in the direction in which it moves from the double flat binding position Pb2 toward the bevel binding position Pb4.

[0518] In addition, the second link movement mechanism 8 is in a state in which the second contact portion 813 of the rotating lever 81 is in contact with the cam portion 832 of the swing lever 83. Specifically, a part of the contact surface 813a of the second contact portion 813 is in contact with a part of the cam surface 832a of the cam portion 832.

[0519] Incidentally, the second contact portion 813 of the rotating lever 81 can also be configured so as not to be in contact with the cam portion 832 of the swing lever 83 at the non-working time. In this case, the rotating lever 81 starts to be in contact with the cam portion 832 of the swing lever 83 in accordance with the contact with the part of the binding apparatus 5 (5B).

[0520] As described later, the rotating lever 81 and the swing lever 83 act in conjunction with the movement of the part of the binding apparatus 5 that comes into contact with the first contact portion 812 of the rotating lever 81. That is, the rotating lever 81 acts in such a manner that the second contact portion 813 comes into contact with the cam portion 832 of the swing lever 83 in conjunction with the above-mentioned contact movement. At this time, as described later, the second contact portion 813 of the rotating lever 81 comes into contact with and presses the swing lever 83 at the part of the cam surface 832a of the cam portion 832 that is closer to the second shaft 317. Thus, the swing lever 83 acts in a swinging manner.

[0521] Further, the second link movement mechanism 8 is configured to rotate the lever 81 and the swing lever 83 to the following state at the time of normality.

[0522] This state is a state in which the front end 813b of the second contact portion 813 contacts the portion of the cam surface 832a of the cam portion 832 that is closer to the second shaft 317. The state at this time is as illustrated in FIG. 8B. Figure 19 Closer to the second shaft 317 means deviating from the middle point of the line connecting the shaft center g1 of the first shaft 316 and the shaft center g2 of the second shaft 317 to the shaft center g2.

[0523] Further, the second link movement mechanism 8 is configured to rotate the lever 81 and the swing lever 83 to the following state at the time of normality.

[0524] This state is a state in which the front end 813b of the second contact portion 813 contacts the portion of the cam surface 832a of the cam portion 832 that is closer to the second shaft 317. The state at this time is as illustrated in FIG. 8B.

[0525] The swing amount of the front half is the amount by which the swing lever 83 swings during the period of the front half when the lever 81 rotates in the direction N1. The rotation of the lever 81 is when a part of the binding apparatus 5 (5B) touches the first contact portion 812 and rotates. At this time, the swing lever 83 swings in the direction Q1 with the second shaft 317 as a fulcrum.

[0526] The swing amount of the rear half is the amount by which the swing lever 83 swings during the period of the rear half when the lever 81 rotates in the direction N1.

[0527] The swing amount of the swing lever 83 becomes the swing amplitude (central angle) with the second shaft 317 at the time of swinging as a reference.

[0528] The cam surface 832a has a first face portion that extends from the second bearing portion 831 to a position near the first shaft 316 in a substantially flat surface in order to achieve the above-described action.

[0529] Further, the cam surface 832a has a second face portion that curves and extends from the terminal end of the first face portion thereof in a direction away from the first shaft 316.

[0530] Further, in the case of the second link movement mechanism 8, the first contact portion 812 of the lever 81 and the pressing portion 833 of the swing lever 83 are configured as follows.

[0531] That is, the first contact portion 812 and the pressing portion 833 are in a shape in which a gap Sg that widens away from the first shaft 316 is formed therebetween at the time of normality. The gap Sg is a V-shaped space surrounded by the first contact surface 812a of the first contact portion 812 and the inclined surface 833b of the pressing portion 833 (see FIG. 8B). Figure 19

[0532] ​(7-3) Action of the second linkage movement mechanism

[0533] Next, the action of the second linkage movement mechanism 8 will be described.

[0534] (a) A case where the binding apparatus 5 (5B) is moved in the second constant direction E2c toward the oblique corner binding position Pb4.

[0535] This movement actually becomes movement of the needleless binding apparatus 5B from the double flat binding position Pb2 toward the oblique corner binding position Pb4.

[0536] In this case, in the second linkage movement mechanism 8, a part of the moving binding apparatus 5 (5B) comes into contact with the first contact portion 812 of the rotation lever 81.

[0537] Specifically, the corner 55r of the rear side of the main body 55 of the needleless binding apparatus 5B comes into contact with the first contact surface 812a of the first contact portion 812 (see FIG. 19). Figure 19 ).

[0538] Thus, the first contact portion 812 of the rotation lever 81 is pressed in the second constant direction E2c and starts to rotate in the direction N1. In addition, the swing lever 83 starts to swing in the direction Q1 with the rotation of the rotation lever 81.

[0539] This action is performed by the front end 813b of the second contact portion 813 of the rotation lever 81 pressing the cam surface 832a of the cam portion 832 of the swing lever 83.

[0540] This action is performed in linkage with the action of the movement of the binding apparatus 5 (5B) in the second constant direction E2c.

[0541] At this time, the rotation lever 81 and the swing lever 83 act in such a manner that the first contact portion 812 and the pressing portion 833 are separated from each other.

[0542] The first contact portion 812 of the rotation lever 81 moves in the direction E2 toward the rear side in the width direction E. The pressing portion 833 of the swing lever 83 moves in the direction E1 toward the front side in the width direction E.

[0543] The state of the above action is illustrated in FIG. 20. Figure 20

[0544] In addition, in the second linkage movement mechanism 8, the swing lever 83 presses the moving member 435 by swinging in the direction Q1.

[0545] The pressing action of the swing lever 83 is performed by the contact surface 833a of the pressing portion 833 coming into contact with a part of the moving member 435 in a sliding friction manner.

[0546] ​As a result, the moving part 435 is guided by the second guide rod 405 and moves in the opposite direction to the second constant direction E2c, E1c.

[0547] Furthermore, at this time, the movable force-applying component 87 becomes elongated as the movable component 435 moves, and the force Fe gradually increases.

[0548] At this time, the binding device 5 (5B) moves in direction E2 and toward the angled binding position Pb4. This movement is achieved by the operation of the moving support 6 and the guidance of the second curved guide 643 of the guide groove 64 of the guide plate 63.

[0549] Binding device 5 (5B) stops when it reaches the oblique binding position Pb4 (see reference). Figure 21 (B) is bound diagonally.

[0550] Furthermore, the operation of the second linkage moving mechanism 8 up to the above point stops in conjunction with the stopping of the binding device 5 (5B) (see reference). Figure 21 (B)

[0551] At this time, the rotating rod 81 is pressed by the corner 55r of the main body of the binding device 5 (5B) and rotates approximately to its maximum extent in the direction N1 before stopping. In addition, the swing rod 83 is pressed by the rotating rod 81 and swings approximately to its maximum extent in the direction Q1 before stopping.

[0552] Furthermore, the rotating force-applying component 85 extends by swinging forward in the width direction E1 with the hanging part 319 as the fulcrum, generating a force Fc. As a result, the rotating rod 81 is subjected to a force Fc that causes it to rotate in the direction N2.

[0553] Furthermore, the movable force-applying component 87 moves and extends to its maximum extent through the movement of the movable component 435, and the applied force Fe becomes its maximum. Consequently, the movable component 435 is subjected to a returning force Fe along the direction E2.

[0554] As a result, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 moves the lower end abutment part 43 by moving the moving part 435.

[0555] At this time, the lower abutment part 43 moves in the opposite direction to the second constant direction E2c, E1c (refer to...). Figure 20 , Figure 21 ).

[0556] Additionally, at this time, the lower abutment portion 43 moves a predetermined distance Lb from its normal position J3 (refer to...). Figure 21 (B)

[0557] Therefore, the lower abutment part 43 can be moved to the avoidance position J6 and stop (see reference). Figure 21 (A)).

[0558] The avoidance position J6 is a position that prevents the lower end abutment 43 from becoming an obstacle when the binding device 5 (5B) performs binding processing at the oblique binding position Pb4.

[0559] Therefore, in the paper handling apparatus 2A, when the binding device 5 (5B) moves to the angled binding position Pb4, the lower end abutment part 43 moves to the avoidance position J6.

[0560] That is, at this time, the lower end abutment part 43, which is in the normal position J3, is linked to the movement of the binding device 5 (5B) and can move to the avoidance position J6. The state at this time is as follows: Figure 22 exemplified by (A).

[0561] Therefore, when the binding device 5 (5B) moves to the angled binding position Pb4 and performs the binding process, the lower end abutment 43 will not become an obstacle.

[0562] Specifically, the needleless binding device 5B can perform binding at the angled binding position Pb4 without the lower abutment part 43 becoming an obstacle.

[0563] In other words, the aforementioned problem 2 can be eliminated by operating the second linkage moving mechanism 8 in the paper handling device 2A.

[0564] (b) The binding device 5 (5B) moves from the oblique binding position Pb4 to the standby position Pb1.

[0565] This situation refers to the binding device 5 (5B) moving to the standby position Pb1 after the binding process at the oblique binding position Pb4 is completed. In other words, it is when the binding device 5 (5B) moves further in the second specified direction E2c beyond the specified distance Lb.

[0566] In this case, the state in which a part of the binding device 5 (5B) contacts the first contact portion 812 of the rotating rod 81 changes.

[0567] At this time, the binding device 5 (5B) moves in direction E2 and toward the standby position Pb1 (reference). Figure 23 , Figure 24 (A)). This movement is carried out by the operation of the moving support 6 and the guidance of the third curved guide 644 of the guide groove 64 of the guide plate 63.

[0568] The binding device 5 (5B) moves away from the rotating rod 81 by moving in the direction E2.

[0569] As a result, the first contact portion 812 of the rotating rod 81 moves from the corner portion 55r of the main body 55 of the binding device 5 (5B) to the side portion 55a and comes into contact with it.

[0570] At this time, the binding apparatus 5 (5B) becomes a posture in which the needleless binding portions 56, 57 are inclined to the front side and moves in the direction E2. Therefore, the side surface portion 55a of the main body 55 of the binding apparatus 5 (5B) becomes a portion farther from the first shaft 316 than the corner portion 55r.

[0571] On the other hand, the rotation lever 81 starts to rotate in the direction N2 as the external force to rotate in the direction N1 is lost. At this time, the rotation lever 81 is subjected to the force Fc by the rotation biasing member 85 and desires to rotate in the direction N2.

[0572] In addition, the swing lever 83 starts to swing in the direction Q2 as the rotation lever 81 rotates in the direction N2.

[0573] At this time, the operation is performed by the second contact portion 813 of the rotation lever 81 operating in contact with the cam surface 832a of the cam portion 832 of the swing lever 83.

[0574] The above state is exemplified as (A) of FIG. 10. Figure 23

[0575] In addition, at this time, the rotation lever 81 and the swing lever 83 operate in a manner in which the first contact portion 812 and the pressing portion 833 approach each other.

[0576] The first contact portion 812 of the rotation lever 81 moves in the direction E1 to the front side in the width direction E. The pressing portion 833 of the swing lever 83 moves in the direction E2 to the rear side in the width direction E.

[0577] In the second link movement mechanism 8, the swing lever 83 swings in the direction Q2, and thus the pressing portion 833 does not press the moving member 435.

[0578] Therefore, the moving member 435 also starts to move in the direction E2 in cooperation with the swing of the swing lever 83 in the direction Q2.

[0579] At this time, the movement of the moving member 435 is performed by being subjected to the force Fe of the moving biasing member 87.

[0580] Thus, the moving member 435 moves in the direction E2 in a manner in which it is guided by the second guide rod 405 while returning.

[0581] Further, at this time, the moving biasing member 87 starts to contract as the moving member 435 moves in the direction E2. Thus, the force Fe of the moving biasing member 87 gradually decreases.

[0582] Next, the binding apparatus 5 (5B) stops when reaching the standby position Pb1 (refer to (A) of FIG. 11). Figure 24

[0583] ​​The binding apparatus 5 (5B) releases the contact with the first contact portion 812 of the rotating lever 81 near the approach to the standby position Pb1. At this time, the first contact portion 812 of the rotating lever 81 becomes a state of being separated from the body 55 when passing through the corner portion 55f of the body 55.

[0584] The state at this time is illustrated as in (A) of FIG. 17. Figure 24

[0585] The second linked movement mechanism 8 returns to the state at the time of normality (refer to (A) of FIG. 17) before the binding apparatus 5 (5B) reaches the standby position Pb1. Figure 24

[0586] At this time, the rotating lever 81 becomes a state of stopping the rotation in the direction N2 to return to the position at the time of normality. Thereby, the rotating lever 81 does not press the swinging lever 83.

[0587] In addition, the swinging lever 83 is linked with the movement of the rotating lever 81 and becomes a state of stopping the swing in the direction Q2 to return to the position at the time of normality.

[0588] Further, the movement member 435 stops the movement in the second constant direction E2c to return to the position at the time of normality by contacting with the holding portion 407.

[0589] As a result, the second linked movement mechanism 8 moves the lower end abutting portion 43 by the movement of the movement member 435 to return it.

[0590] At this time, the lower end abutting portion 43 is movable in the second constant direction E2c (refer to (A) of FIG. 18). Figure 23 Figure 24 In addition, at this time, the lower end abutting portion 43 is movable by the prescribed distance Lb from the avoidance position J6 (refer to (B) of FIG. 18).

[0591] Thereby, the lower end abutting portion 43 is movable from the avoidance position J6 to the normal position J3 and stops (refer to (A) of FIG. 18). Figure 21 In addition, in the paper processing device 2A, the binding apparatus 5 (5A) is capable of moving to the double flat binding position Pa2 and performing the binding operation.

[0592] Figure 24 The above flat binding operation of the binding apparatus 5 (5A) is not hindered by the presence of the lower end abutting portion 43 at the avoidance position J6.

[0593] The state at this time is illustrated as in the double dotted line in (B) of FIG. 19.

[0594]

[0595] The state at this time is illustrated as in the double dotted line in (B) of FIG. 19. Figure 22

[0596] ​​​​​​(c) The binding device 5 (5B) moves from the standby position Pb1 to the direction E1c, which is opposite to the second constant direction E2c.

[0597] In this case, the movement refers to the movement of the binding device 5 (5B) from the standby position Pb1 via the lower abutment part 43. The movement via the lower abutment part 43 also refers to the movement toward the double-stitched positions Pb2 and Pb3.

[0598] In this case, a portion of the moving binding device 5 (5B) comes into contact with the second contact surface 812b of the first contact portion 812 of the rotating rod 81. At this time, a portion of the binding device 5 (5B) becomes the corner 55f on the front side of the main body 55.

[0599] At this time, the binding device 5 (5B) moves in the opposite direction E1c and toward the double-stitched position Pb2, etc. This movement is carried out by the operation of the moving support 6 and the guidance of the straight guide 641 of the guide groove 64 of the guide plate 63.

[0600] As a result, the corner 55f of the main body 55 of the movable binding device 5 (5B) contacts and presses against the second contact surface 812b of the rotating rod 81.

[0601] Furthermore, as a result, the rotating rod 81 begins to rotate in the direction N2.

[0602] At this time, the rotating rod 81 is in a state where the second contact part 813 is separated from the cam surface 832a of the swing rod 83.

[0603] On the other hand, the swing lever 83 will not be pressed down due to the rotation of the rotating lever 81 in the direction N2, and will not swing.

[0604] The states of the above actions are as follows Figure 24 exemplified by (B).

[0605] Next, as the binding device 5 (5B) moves further in the opposite direction E1c, the rotating rod 81 rotates further in the direction N2.

[0606] At this time, the rotating rod 81 is in contact with the side portion 55a of the main body 55 of the binding device 5 (5B) at the first contact portion 812.

[0607] Furthermore, at this time, the rotating rod 81 is in a state where the first contact surface 812a is close to or in contact with the inclined surface 833b of the swing rod 83. At this time, the swing rod 83 does not swing, and remains in the state where the pressing part 833 touches the moving part 435.

[0608] Moreover, at this time, the rotating force-applying component 85 is in a state of extending backward and swinging with the hanging part 319 as the fulcrum, generating a force Fd.

[0609] The state of the above action is as illustrated in Figure 25 (A) of FIG. 10.

[0610] Next, the contact of the main body 55 with the rotation lever 81 is released in the vicinity of the double flat binding position Pb2 of the binding apparatus 5 (5B) reaching.

[0611] By this, the rotation lever 81 is rotated in a manner of returning in the direction N1 by the force Fd of the rotation force applying member 85.

[0612] The rotation lever 81 at this time stops in a state of the second contact portion 813 contacting the cam portion 832 of the swing lever 83.

[0613] In addition, the binding apparatus 5 (5B) stops at reaching the double flat binding position Pb2.

[0614] According to the above, the rotation lever 81 rotates in conjunction with the above moving action of the binding apparatus 5 (5B).

[0615] However, the swing lever 83 is not swung and remains in a stationary state regardless of the above moving action of the binding apparatus 5 (5B).

[0616] In addition, by this, the moving member 435 and the lower end abutting portion 43 also remain in a stopped state without moving similarly to the swing lever 83.

[0617] Namely, the lower end abutting portion 43 at this time stays in the normal position J3.

[0618] As a result, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 does not move the lower end abutting portion 43 when the binding apparatus 5 (5B) passes through the lower end abutting portion 43 from the rear side.

[0619] Therefore, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 does not move the lower end abutting portion 43 wastefully when the binding apparatus 5 (5B) passes only for heading toward the double flat binding position Pb2.

[0620] Incidentally, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 performing the above action operates in conjunction with the moving action of the binding apparatus 5 (5B).

[0621] Therefore, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 can operate without using the power of a dedicated power source.

[0622] In addition, in the second linkage moving mechanism 8, the front end 813b of the second contact portion 813 of the rotation lever 81 contacts the portion of the cam face 832a of the cam portion 832 of the swing lever 83 close to the second shaft 317 at normal times.

[0623] Therefore, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 is advantageous in the following aspects compared to the case where the front end 813b of the rotating lever 81 contacts the portion of the cam surface 832a of the swing lever 83 that is close to the first shaft 316 at ordinary times.

[0624] That is, when the rotating lever 81 rotates in the direction N1, the swing lever 83 can efficiently swing in the direction Q1 and the moving member 435 can move.

[0625] Therefore, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 can smoothly move the lower end abutting portion 43.

[0626] (d) Other contents of the second linkage moving mechanism

[0627] The second linkage moving mechanism 8 that performs the above-described operation operates in conjunction with the operation of the binding apparatus 5 (5B).

[0628] Therefore, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 can operate without using the power of a dedicated power source.

[0629] In the second linkage moving mechanism 8, the front end 813b of the rotating lever 81 is configured to contact the portion of the cam surface 832a of the swing lever 83 that is close to the second shaft 317 at ordinary times.

[0630] Therefore, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 is effective in the following aspects compared to the case where the front end 813b of the rotating lever 81 contacts the portion of the cam surface 832a of the swing lever 83 that is close to the first shaft 316.

[0631] That is, when the rotating lever 81 rotates in the direction N1, the swing lever 83 can efficiently swing in the direction Q1 and the moving member 435 can move.

[0632] Therefore, the second linkage moving mechanism 8 can smoothly move the lower end abutting portion 43.

[0633] In the second linkage moving mechanism 8, the swing lever 83 is configured to swing more in the front half than in the rear half when the rotating lever 81 rotates in the direction N1.

[0634] Therefore, in the second linkage moving mechanism 8, the swing lever 83 relatively greatly swings in the direction Q1 in the initial stage when the rotating lever 81 rotates in the direction N1. In addition, the moving member 435 can also relatively greatly move in the direction E1 in the initial stage.

[0635] The second linkage moving mechanism 8 is effective in the following aspects compared to the case where the swing lever 83 is configured to swing the same or less in the front half than in the rear half.

[0636] It is particularly effective when the normal position J3 of the lower abutment part 43 becomes the position of the end on the downstream side of the direction of movement of the binding device 5 (5B).

[0637] At this time, the lower end abutment 43 can move relatively more in the direction E1 opposite to the direction of movement of the binding processing unit (5B) in an earlier stage.

[0638] The current state is as follows: Figure 18 exemplified by (B).

[0639] Figure 18 The symbol Ptb of (B) indicates the position near the front of the part of the binding device 5 (5B) that moves toward the oblique binding position Pb4 and contacts the first contact surface 812a of the rotating rod 81.

[0640] As a result, when the binding device 5 (5B) moves from the front to the oblique binding position Pb4, there is no lower end abutment 43 at its destination and it becomes an obstacle.

[0641] (7-4) Other structures associated with the second linkage mechanism

[0642] The paper handling device 2A adjusts the moving speed of the binding device 5 (5B) as it moves from the front to the oblique binding position Pb4.

[0643] That is, the movable support 6 slows down the moving speed of the binding device 5 (5B) at a position near the front where a part of the binding device 5 contacts the first contact portion 812 of the rotating rod 81. The adjustment of the moving speed is achieved by slowing down the driving speed of the drive source 661 in the movable support 6 just before contact.

[0644] The degree of adjustment of the movement speed is as follows: Figure 26 exemplified by (B).

[0645] Figure 26 The symbol Ptb in (B) represents the position near the front of a portion of the binding device 5 (5B) that contacts the first contact surface 812a of the first contact portion 812. Figure 26 (B) illustrates the situation where Ptb at the near-forward position causes the movement speed to decrease. Figure 26 In the example shown in (B), Ptb at the near-forward position changes its moving speed from a low speed to a further decelerated speed.

[0646] Compared to the case where the moving support 6 does not decelerate the moving speed of the binding device 5 (5B) at the aforementioned contact near position Ptb, the paper handling device 2A becomes as follows.

[0647] That is, the impact sound generated when a portion of the stapling apparatus 5 comes into contact with the first contact portion 812 of the rotating lever 81 is reduced.

[0648] In other words, in the paper processing apparatus 2A, it is possible to realize the quietization during work without reducing the productivity when the rear-side miter stapling by the stapling apparatus 5 (5B) is performed.

[0649] The paper processing apparatus 2A also adjusts the moving speed when the stapling apparatus 5 (5B) moves from the standby position Pb1 to the double flat stapling position Pb2 or the like.

[0650] That is, the moving support portion 6 decelerates the moving speed of the stapling apparatus 5 (5B) in the vicinity of the position where a portion of the stapling apparatus 5 comes into contact with the first contact portion 812 of the rotating lever 81. The contact with the first contact portion 812 at this time becomes the contact with the second contact surface 812b.

[0651] Incidentally, the paper processing apparatus 2A is provided inside the frame 11 (the discharge storage portion 15) of the image forming apparatus 10A as described above.

[0652] On the other hand, the paper processing apparatus 2A has the second linked moving mechanism 8 that performs the above-described operation.

[0653] Therefore, the paper processing apparatus 2A, although being disposed inside the frame 11 of the image forming apparatus 10A, can perform the following stapling operation.

[0654] That is, in the paper processing apparatus 2A, it is possible to perform the stapling processing at the miter stapling position Pb4 without the rear-side lower end abutting portion 43 becoming an obstacle by one of the two stapling apparatuses 5A, 5B.

[0655] Embodiment 2.

[0656] Figure 27 is a schematic view of a post-processing apparatus 90 of a paper processing apparatus 2B that has Embodiment 2 of the present application.

[0657] The post-processing apparatus 90 is used as a separate apparatus connected to the outside of the image forming apparatus 10B.

[0658] In this case, the image forming apparatus 10B does not have the paper processing apparatus 2A disposed on the frame 11B. Other than this, the image forming apparatus 10B becomes substantially the same structure as the image forming apparatus 10A of Embodiment 1.

[0659] Therefore, the image forming apparatus 10B has the frame 11B, the image forming portion 12, the paper supply portion 13, and the like. Among these, the frame 11B omits the discharge storage portion 15 in Embodiment 1 and has the discharge tray 18 that protrudes to the outside.

[0660] Further, the post-processing device 90 has a frame 91 constituted by a prescribed external shape or internal structure. The post-processing device 90 is provided with the paper processing device 2B inside or on the upper portion of the frame 91.

[0661] The paper processing device 2B becomes substantially the same structure as the paper processing device 2A of Embodiment 1 (also refer to Figures 2 to 25 and the like).

[0662] Therefore, the paper processing device 2B is provided with the first link movement mechanism 7 and the second link movement mechanism 8. Further, the paper processing device 2B operates substantially the same as the paper processing device 2A of Embodiment 1.

[0663] The image forming device 10B is provided with the paper conveyance path 14B inside the frame 1 IB. The paper conveyance path 14B becomes substantially the same structure as the paper conveyance path 14 in Embodiment 1 except for the following aspects.

[0664] The paper conveyance path 14B has two discharge paths 14Bb, 14Bc. The discharge path 14Bb is a conveyance path that conveys and discharges the paper 19 discharged from the image forming section 12 toward the paper processing device 2B. The discharge path 14Bc is a conveyance path that conveys and discharges the paper 19 discharged from the image forming section 12 toward the discharge tray 18.

[0665] The post-processing device 90 introduces the paper 19 discharged from the image forming device 10B into the paper processing device 2B and performs at least the binding process.

[0666] The post-processing device 90 can also be provided with a device that performs a process other than the binding process.

[0667] In the post-processing device 90, the same effects as those obtained by the paper processing device 2A of Embodiment 1 are substantially obtained in the paper processing device 2B.

[0668] In particular, in the paper processing device 2B, when the binding device 5 (5A, 5B) is moved to the prescribed binding position to perform the binding process, the binding process can be performed without the lower end abutment portions 42, 43 becoming an obstacle.

[0669] The post-processing device 90 can substantially reduce the depth dimension of the paper processing device 2B as in the case of the paper processing device 2A. Therefore, the post-processing device 90 that adopts the paper processing device 2B is effective in achieving miniaturization by reducing the depth dimension thereof.

[0670] Modified examples.

[0671] The present application is not limited to the structures exemplified as the above-described Embodiment 1, 2. That is, the present application can be variously modified within the scope of the gist of the application disclosed in the specification, drawings, etc.

[0672] Therefore, the present application, for example, also includes the following modification.

[0673] The binding apparatus 5 in the paper processing apparatus 2A, 2B can also be one.

[0674] In this case, as a precondition, one lower end abutting portion is arranged at a position that can become an obstacle when one binding apparatus 5 performs a binding process at a prescribed binding position. One lower end abutting portion is, for example, the lower end abutting portions 42, 43.

[0675] In addition, in the case where two binding apparatuses 5 are provided, the two binding apparatuses 5 can also be binding apparatuses of the same binding type.

[0676] Further, the structures related to the binding position, standby position, order of movement, movement address, etc. of the binding apparatus 5 are not limited to the examples of Embodiment 1, etc., and can be modified.

[0677] The lower end abutting portion 4 in the paper processing apparatus 2A, 2B can also be constituted by two or more lower end abutting portions. In addition, the normal position of the lower end abutting portion can also be set at a position other than the position exemplified in Embodiment 1, etc.

[0678] In this case, as a precondition, one lower end abutting portion is arranged at a position that can become an obstacle when one binding apparatus 5 performs a binding process at a prescribed binding position.

[0679] The first linkage movement mechanism 7 and the second linkage movement mechanism 8 can also be configured to provide only either one. In this case, it is sufficient to select and correspond according to the position of one lower end abutting portion that is in a normal position that can become an obstacle when a binding operation is performed.

[0680] In addition, it is also acceptable for the first linkage movement mechanism 7 and the second linkage movement mechanism 8 to be arranged in plural. In this case, it becomes a corresponding example in the case where there are plural lower end abutting portions that are in a normal position that can become an obstacle when a binding operation is performed.

[0681] The second linkage movement mechanism 8 also operates in the case where the other binding apparatus 5A is able to move to the rear-side diagonal binding position Pb4. In this case, one binding apparatus 5B moves to the standby position Pb1 to stand by.

[0682] The prescribed binding position of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) with respect to the first linkage moving mechanism 7 can be changed by the arrangement of the lower end abutting portion. For example, the prescribed binding position in this case can also be set to the double flat binding position Pa2, Pb2 on the rear side. One lower end abutting portion in this case is, for example, the rear lower end abutting portion 43.

[0683] In addition, the prescribed binding position of the binding apparatus 5 (5A, 5B) with respect to the second linkage moving mechanism 8 can also be changed by the arrangement of the lower end abutting portion. For example, the prescribed binding position in this case can also be set to the double flat binding position Pa4 on the front side. One lower end abutting portion in this case is, for example, the front lower end abutting portion 42.

[0684] The paper processing device 2A is not limited to a structure that is mounted to a part of the image forming apparatus 10A and used, and can be configured as an independent paper processing device.

[0685] In this case, for example, a supply portion that supplies the paper 19 that is the binding object can be attached. The paper processing device of this structure example can be configured as a small device with a narrow depth dimension.

[0686] The image forming apparatuses 10A, 10B can also be devices that have an image forming portion 12 of another image forming method other than the electrophotographic method. As the other image forming method, for example, an image forming method such as an inkjet method, a printing method, or the like can be cited.

[0687] (Postscript) (((1)))

[0689] A paper processing device, wherein:

[0690] a stacking portion that stacks a plurality of papers that are stacked in the stacking portion;

[0691] a plurality of lower end abutting portions that abut lower ends of the papers on a downstream side of the stacking portion in a direction of conveyance of the papers;

[0692] a binding apparatus that performs a different binding process on a part of an end portion including the lower end of a paper bundle composed of the plurality of papers that are stacked in the stacking portion; and

[0693] a moving support portion that supports the binding apparatus so as to move around the end portion of the paper bundle and stop at a plurality of stop positions including a plurality of binding positions,

[0694] one of the plurality of lower end abutting portions is provided to a moving member that is movable in a width direction that intersects the direction of conveyance,

[0695] A linkage movement mechanism is provided for the one lower end abutting portion, and the linkage movement mechanism moves the one lower end abutting portion by a prescribed distance from a normal position in a direction opposite to a constant direction when the binding apparatus moves in the constant direction toward the prescribed binding position, and on the other hand, moves the one lower end abutting portion to return to the normal position when the binding apparatus moves beyond the prescribed distance. (((2)))

[0697] The paper sheet processing apparatus according to ((1)), wherein

[0698] The linkage movement mechanism does not move the one lower end abutting portion when the binding apparatus moves in a manner passing through the one lower end abutting portion from the direction opposite to the constant direction. (((3)))

[0700] The paper sheet processing apparatus according to ((1)) or ((2)), wherein

[0701] The plurality of lower end abutting portions are three lower end abutting portions, and the three lower end abutting portions are respectively arranged at three normal positions at different positions of the lower end of the sheet of the minimum width when the sheet of the minimum width is conveyed. (((4)))

[0703] The paper sheet processing apparatus according to any one of ((1)) to ((3)), wherein

[0704] The prescribed distance is a distance from the normal position of the one lower end abutting portion to an avoidance position that does not become an obstacle when the binding apparatus stops at the prescribed binding position and performs a binding process. (((5)))

[0706] The paper sheet processing apparatus according to any one of ((1)) to ((4)), wherein

[0707] The binding apparatus includes two binding apparatuses,

[0708] The linkage movement mechanism operates when at least one of the two binding apparatuses moves in the constant direction toward the prescribed binding position. (((6)))

[0710] The paper sheet processing apparatus according to ((5)), wherein

[0711] The two binding devices are a needle binding device that binds a part of the end portion of the paper bundle with a binding needle and a needleless binding device that binds a part of the end portion of the paper bundle without a binding needle. (((7)))

[0713] The paper processing device according to ((6)), in which

[0714] The moving support portion supports the needle binding device and the needleless binding device so as to move in a depth direction from a front side to a rear side at the time of installation of the paper processing device,

[0715] and the needle binding device is disposed so as to exist at a position closer to the front side than the needleless binding device. (((8)))

[0717] The paper processing device according to ((5)), in which

[0718] The plurality of lower end abutting portions are three lower end abutting portions that are disposed at three general positions of different three portions that come into contact with the lower end of the minimum width paper at the time of conveyance of the paper of the minimum width,

[0719] The one lower end abutting portion is a rear side lower end abutting portion among the three lower end abutting portions, and the rear side lower end abutting portion is disposed at a position of a rear side at the time of installation of the paper processing device. (((9)))

[0721] The paper processing device according to ((1)), in which

[0722] The link moving mechanism includes a rotating lever, a swing lever, a rotating biasing member, and a moving biasing member,

[0723] The rotating lever is a lever having a first bearing portion, a first contact portion, and a second contact portion, the first bearing portion is rotatably installed on a first shaft, the first contact portion extends from the first bearing portion to one side and comes into contact with a part of the moving binding device, and the second contact portion extends from the first bearing portion to the other side opposite to the first contact portion and comes into contact with the swing lever,

[0724] The swing lever is a lever having a second bearing portion rotatably attached to a second shaft provided on the other side of the second contact portion of the rotation lever extending from the first shaft, a cam portion extending from the second bearing portion toward the first shaft, and a pressing portion extending from the cam portion toward the opposite side of the second bearing portion and contacting the moving member with the front end thereof and pressing the moving member toward the opposite side,

[0725] The rotation force applying member is a member that applies a force to rotate the rotation lever in the direction opposite to the direction when the rotation lever is rotated,

[0726] The moving force applying member is a member that applies a force to move the one lower end abutting portion to return to the normal position. (((10)))

[0728] The paper processing apparatus according to ((9)), wherein

[0729] The cam portion of the swing lever has a cam surface composed of a curved surface extending from the second bearing portion to a position close to the first shaft,

[0730] The second contact portion of the rotation lever contacts a part of the moving binding apparatus and the first contact portion in conjunction with the operation, and contacts a part of the cam surface of the cam portion of the swing lever close to the second shaft to swing the swing lever. (((11)))

[0732] The paper processing apparatus according to ((9)) or ((10)), wherein

[0733] The second contact portion and the cam portion are configured such that the swing amount of the swing lever generated by the rotation of the rotation lever caused by the contact of a part of the moving binding apparatus with the first contact portion is larger in the first half of the swing than in the second half of the swing. (((12)))

[0735] The paper processing apparatus according to any one of ((9)) to ((11)), wherein

[0736] The first contact portion and the pressing portion are configured to form a gap therebetween that widens as it moves away from the first shaft when a part of the moving binding apparatus does not contact the first contact portion. (((13)))

[0738] The paper processing device according to any one of ((9)) to ((12)), wherein

[0739] The movement support portion decelerates the movement speed of the binding apparatus at a position in the vicinity of the portion of the binding apparatus that is in contact with the first contact portion of the rotating lever when moving the binding apparatus. (((14)))

[0741] An image forming apparatus, wherein:

[0742] a frame;

[0743] an image forming portion configured on an inner side of the frame to form an image on a sheet; and

[0744] The paper processing device according to any one of ((1)) to ((13)) is provided on an inner side of the frame to perform a binding process on a sheet discharged from the image forming portion. (((15)))

[0746] The image forming apparatus according to ((14)), wherein:

[0747] The plurality of lower end abutment portions are three lower end abutment portions,

[0748] The binding apparatus includes the two binding apparatuses,

[0749] The movement support portion supports the two binding apparatuses to move along a depth direction from a front side to a rear side when the image forming apparatus is disposed,

[0750] The one lower end abutment portion is a rear lower end abutment portion disposed on a rear side of a position on the last side among the three lower end abutment portions. (((16)))

[0752] The image forming apparatus according to ((14)) or ((15)), wherein:

[0753] The paper processing device includes a cover body that is independent of the frame,

[0754] The cover body has an upper surface portion that is formed as a storage portion that discharges and stores a sheet that has passed through the image forming portion. (((17)))

[0756] A post-processing apparatus, wherein:

[0757] The post-processing apparatus includes the paper processing device according to any one of ((1)) to ((13)),

[0758] The post-processing device is connected as a separate device to the outside of an image forming device that forms an image on paper, and introduces paper discharged from the image forming device into the paper processing device and performs a binding process.

[0759] The paper processing device according to ((1)) can perform binding processing at the prescribed binding position even when one of the lower end abutting portions that abuts against the lower ends of the plurality of paper stacks stacked in the stacking portion is positioned at a position that can become an obstacle to the binding processing at the prescribed binding position by the binding apparatus moving to the prescribed binding position.

[0760] The paper processing device according to ((2)) can move one lower end abutting portion without wasteful movement when binding processing at the prescribed binding position by the binding apparatus is not performed.

[0761] The paper processing device according to ((3)) can perform binding processing at the prescribed binding position by the binding apparatus even when the binding processing is performed on a paper stack composed of paper of the minimum width at the time of carrying-in, without one lower end abutting portion becoming an obstacle.

[0762] The paper processing device according to ((4)) can avoid one lower end abutting portion from becoming an obstacle when binding processing at the prescribed binding position by the binding apparatus is performed.

[0763] The paper processing device according to ((5)) can perform binding processing at the prescribed binding position by at least one of the two binding apparatuses without one lower end abutting portion becoming an obstacle when the binding processing is performed by the at least one of the two binding apparatuses moving to the prescribed binding position.

[0764] The paper processing device according to ((6)) can perform binding processing at the prescribed binding position by at least one of a needle binding apparatus and a needleless binding apparatus without one lower end abutting portion becoming an obstacle.

[0765] The paper processing device according to ((7)) makes it easy to perform a replenishment work of a binding needle of a needle binding apparatus from the front side, compared to a case where the needle binding apparatus is disposed at a position on the rear side than a needleless binding apparatus.

[0766] The paper processing device according to ((8)) can perform binding processing between a central lower end abutting portion disposed in the center of the three lower end abutting portions and one lower end abutting portion without the rear side lower end abutting portion becoming an obstacle, by at least one of the two binding apparatuses.

[0767] According to the paper processing device of ((9)), one lower end abutting portion can be moved in conjunction with movement of the binding apparatus to the prescribed binding position and moved to return to the normal position after the binding process at the binding position is completed without using power of a dedicated power source.

[0768] According to the paper processing device of ((10)), the linkage movement mechanism can move one lower end abutting portion smoothly in comparison with a case where the cam surface of the cam portion of the swing lever is contacted by the second contact portion of the rotating lever and the swing lever is swung.

[0769] According to the paper processing device of ((11)), one lower end abutting portion can be moved more in the direction opposite to the direction in which the binding apparatus moves at an earlier stage particularly when the normal position of the one lower end abutting portion is a position of an end portion on the downstream side of the bias movement direction in the binding apparatus in comparison with a case where the swing lever is configured to have the same or less swing amount in the first half of the swing range and the second half of the swing range.

[0770] According to the paper processing device of ((12)), the linkage movement mechanism can not move one lower end abutting portion wastefully when the binding apparatus moves through the prescribed binding position in the direction opposite to the constant direction without performing the binding process at the prescribed binding position in comparison with a case where the rotating lever does not actuate the swing lever.

[0771] According to the paper processing device of ((13)), impact sound generated when a portion of the binding apparatus contacts the first contact portion of the rotating lever can be reduced in comparison with a case where the movement support portion does not decelerate the moving speed of the binding apparatus in the vicinity of the position where the first contact portion is contacted.

[0772] According to the image forming apparatus of ((14)), the binding process at the prescribed binding position can be performed even when one of a plurality of lower end abutting portions that abut lower ends of paper sheets stacked in a stacking portion in the paper processing device is disposed at a position that can become an obstacle when the binding apparatus moves to the prescribed binding position to perform the binding process in comparison with a case where the paper processing device is disposed inside a frame of the image forming apparatus.

[0773] According to the image forming apparatus of ((15)), at least one of two binding apparatuses can perform a binding process between a central lower end abutting portion disposed in the center of three lower end abutting portions and a rear lower end abutting portion without the rear lower end abutting portion becoming an obstacle in comparison with a case where the paper processing device is disposed inside a frame of the image forming apparatus.

[0774] The image forming apparatus according to ((16)) can have a function of discharging and storing a paper on which an image is formed without being introduced into a paper processing apparatus.

[0775] The post-processing apparatus according to ((17)) can perform the binding process at the prescribed binding position even in a case where one of the plurality of lower end abutting portions that abut against the lower end of the paper stacked in the stacking portion is disposed at a position that can become an obstacle when the binding device moves to the prescribed binding position to perform the binding process.

Claims

1. A paper handling apparatus, characterized in that, have: The stacking section is where multiple sheets of paper are moved in and stacked. Multiple lower end abutments abut against the lower end of the paper stacked in the stacking section in the direction of being moved in; A binding device that performs a different binding process on a portion of the end of a stack of papers, including the lower end, formed by the plurality of papers stacked in the stacking section. as well as A movable support portion supports the binding device for movement around the periphery of the end of the paper stack and for stopping at multiple stop positions, including multiple binding positions. One of the plurality of lower end abutments is disposed on a movable component capable of moving in a width direction intersecting the direction of loading. A linkage moving mechanism is provided for the lower end abutment portion. When the binding device moves toward the predetermined binding position in a constant direction, the linkage moving mechanism is linked with the movement of the binding device to move the lower end abutment portion a predetermined distance from its normal position in a direction opposite to the constant direction. On the other hand, when the binding device moves beyond the predetermined distance, the lower end abutment portion moves to return to its normal position.

2. The paper handling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The linkage mechanism prevents the lower end abutment from moving when the binding device moves through the lower end abutment in a direction opposite to the constant direction.

3. The paper handling apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The plurality of lower end abutments are three lower end abutments, which are separately arranged at three normal positions on three different parts of the lower end of the paper when the paper is the minimum width paper at the time of loading.

4. The paper handling apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The specified distance is the distance from the normal position of the lower abutment to at least the avoidance position where the binding device stops at the specified binding position and performs binding processing without becoming an obstacle.

5. The paper handling apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The binding equipment includes two binding devices. The linkage mechanism operates when at least one of the two binding devices moves toward the specified binding position along the constant direction.

6. The paper handling apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The two binding devices are a pin-binding device and a pinless binding device. The pin-binding device uses binding pins to bind a portion of the end of the paper stack, and the pinless binding device binds a portion of the end of the paper stack without binding pins.

7. The paper handling apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The movable support supports the stapled binding device and the needleless binding device for moving along a depth direction from the front side to the rear side when the paper handling device is set, and configures the stapled binding device to be located at a position closer to the front side than the needleless binding device.

8. The paper handling apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The plurality of lower end abutments are three lower end abutments, which are separately arranged at three normal positions on three different parts of the lower end of the paper when the paper is the minimum width paper at the time of loading. The lower end abutment is the rear lower end abutment among the three lower end abutments, and the rear lower end abutment is positioned at the rearmost side when the paper handling device is installed.

9. The paper handling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The linkage and movement mechanism includes a rotating rod, a swing rod, a rotating force-applying component, and a moving force-applying component. The rotating rod is a rod having a first bearing portion, a first contact portion, and a second contact portion. The first bearing portion is rotatably mounted on a first shaft. The first contact portion extends from the first bearing portion to one side and contacts a portion of the movable binding device. The second contact portion extends from the first bearing portion to the opposite side of the first contact portion, i.e., the other side, and contacts the swing rod. The swing arm is a rod having a second bearing portion, a cam portion, and a pressing portion. The second bearing portion is rotatably mounted on a second shaft located away from the first shaft on the other side extending from the second contact portion of the swing arm. The cam portion is a portion that extends from the second bearing portion close to the first shaft and is contacted by the second contact portion. The pressing portion extends from the cam portion to the side opposite to the second shaft portion, and its front end contacts the moving member and presses it in the opposite direction. The rotating force-applying component is a component that applies a rotational force to the rotating rod in the opposite direction to the direction in which the rotating rod rotates. The movable force-applying component is a component that applies a force to the movable component to move the lower end abutment portion back to the normal position.

10. The paper handling apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The cam portion of the swing arm has a cam surface formed by a curved surface extending from the second bearing portion to a position close to the first shaft. The second contact portion of the rotating rod is linked to the movement of a part of the binding device and the first contact portion, and contacts the portion of the cam surface of the cam portion of the swing rod near the second axis to cause the swing rod to swing.

11. The paper handling apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The second contact portion and the cam portion are configured as part of the movable binding device. When they contact the first contact portion, the oscillation of the oscillating rod caused by the rotation of the rotating rod is greater in the first half of the oscillation than in the second half.

12. The paper handling apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein, The first contact portion and the pressing portion are shaped such that when a part of the moving binding device does not touch the first contact portion, a gap is formed between them that widens as it moves away from the first axis.

13. The paper handling apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein, When the binding device is moved, the movable support reduces its moving speed at a position near the front of the binding device where a portion of the binding device contacts the first contact portion of the rotating rod.

14. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that, have: Frame; An image forming unit, disposed inside the frame, forms an image on paper; and The paper handling apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the paper handling apparatus is disposed inside the frame and performs binding processing on the paper discharged from the image forming unit.

15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein, The plurality of lower end abutments are three lower end abutments. The binding equipment includes the two binding devices. The movable support supports the two binding devices for movement along a depth direction from the front to the rear when the image forming apparatus is installed. The lower abutment is the rear lower abutment located at the rearmost position among the three lower abutments.

16. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The paper handling device has a cover that is independent of the frame. The upper surface of the cover is formed as a receiving portion for discharging and receiving paper that has passed through the image forming portion.

17. A post-processing apparatus, characterized in that, Equipped with any one of claims 1 to 13, The post-processing device is connected as a separate device to the outside of the image forming device that forms an image on paper. It guides the paper discharged from the image forming device into the paper processing device and performs binding processing.

Images