Medium conveying device, medium placing device, and medium processing device

Abstract

The invention provides a medium conveying device, a medium loading device, and a medium processing device. In the prior art, after a conveying force applying part is assembled on a holding part, the conveying force applying part and a fixing component need to be pressed by one hand and are fixed by the other hand in a threaded mode in order to be fixed by the fixing component, and replacement work of the conveying force applying part is difficult to carry out. The medium conveying device includes: a rotating shaft that rotates; and a paddle section that is detachably attached to the rotating shaft and conveys the medium, the paddle section having: a blade section that has a contact section that comes into contact with the medium; and a housing part which has a main body part that holds the blade part and a cover part that can be opened and closed with respect to the main body part, and which is attached to the rotating shaft by the main body part engaging with the cover part and closing the cover part, the main body part being provided with an insertion hole through which the contact part is inserted in an intersecting direction that intersects the axial direction of the rotating shaft.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a media conveying apparatus for transporting media. Furthermore, this invention relates to a media loading apparatus for placing media. Additionally, this invention relates to a media processing apparatus for processing media. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, processing apparatuses for binding, punching, and other processes of media such as sheets are known, and Patent Document 1 shows an example of such an apparatus. The processing apparatus described in Patent Document 1 includes: a processing tray on which the media to be post-processed is loaded; an alignment section for aligning one end of the media loaded on the processing tray; and a rotating unit for applying a conveying force toward the alignment section to the media. The rotating unit includes a rotating shaft, a holding section disposed on the rotating shaft, a conveying force applying section disposed on the holding section, and a fixing unit for fixing the conveying force applying section to the rotating shaft. The conveying force applying section integrally includes a base and a plurality of contact portions protruding from the base in a radial direction. The contact portions contact the media with elastic deformation and apply a conveying force to the media.

[0003] An opening is formed at the base of the force-applying part. By enlarging the opening, the base can be assembled relative to the retaining part in a direction intersecting the axial direction. Furthermore, it can be disassembled. That is, when replacing the force-applying part, the force-applying part can be detached from the retaining part. After assembling the force-applying part to the retaining part, the force-applying part is fixed to the retaining part using a fixing member. The fixing member is fixed to the rotating shaft by screws.

[0004] In the structure described in Patent Document 1 above, there are the following problems with replacing the conveying force application part. After assembling the conveying force application part into the retaining part, in order to use the fixing component for threaded fixation, one hand needs to press down the conveying force application part and the fixing component, and the other hand needs to thread it. Therefore, if the area around the rotating unit is narrow, it is difficult to replace the conveying force application part. In addition, the fixing component and screw are small in size, so if they fall during operation, they may end up in a position that cannot be retrieved.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-015865 Summary of the Invention The media conveying device of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is characterized by comprising: a rotating shaft that rotates; a paddle portion that is detachably mounted on the rotating shaft and conveys a medium, the paddle portion having: a blade portion having a contact portion that contacts the medium; and a housing portion having a main body portion that holds the blade portion and a cover portion that can be opened and closed relative to the main body portion, and being mounted on the rotating shaft by engaging the main body portion with the cover portion and closing the cover portion, wherein the main body portion is provided with an insertion hole for the contact portion to be inserted in an intersecting direction that intersects the axial direction of the rotating shaft.

[0006] Furthermore, the medium placement device of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a placement section for placing a medium; an alignment section for aligning the medium placed on the placement section by contacting a first edge of the medium; and the aforementioned medium delivery device for delivering the medium in the placement section toward the alignment section.

[0007] Furthermore, the medium processing apparatus of the present invention is characterized by comprising: the aforementioned medium placement device; and a processing unit that processes the medium placed on the placement unit. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is the main view of the recording system.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of the media processing device, and also a diagram showing the state in which the discharge driven roller retracts from the discharge drive roller.

[0010] Figure 3 This diagram shows the internal structure of the media handling device and the state in which the media can be clamped by the discharge driven roller and the discharge drive roller.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the media processing device from the discharge direction, and also a diagram illustrating the changes in the movement of the low-friction sheet.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view of the side cursor.

[0013] Figure 6 An exploded perspective view of the low-friction sheet and the mounting section.

[0014] Figure 7 A perspective view showing the state of the low-friction sheet being disassembled and assembled relative to the side vernier.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a sectional view with a side cursor.

[0016] Figure 9 for Figure 8 Enlarged view of part A.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a sectional view with a side cursor.

[0018] Figure 11 for Figure 10 Enlarged view of part B.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the mounting portion and low-friction sheet involved in other embodiments.

[0020] Figure 13 This is an exploded perspective view of the mounting portion and low-friction sheet involved in other embodiments.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting portion and low-friction sheet involved in other embodiments.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting portion and low-friction sheet involved in other embodiments.

[0023] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of the rotating shaft and the second propeller section.

[0024] Figure 17 This is a three-dimensional view of the axis of rotation.

[0025] Figure 18 This is a perspective view of the rotating shaft and the second propeller, and also a view showing the second propeller mounted midway on the rotating shaft.

[0026] Figure 19 This is a three-dimensional view of the second propeller section.

[0027] Figure 20 A perspective view of the second paddle section with the cover open.

[0028] Figure 21 A perspective view of the second paddle section with the cover open.

[0029] Figure 22 A perspective view of the housing section with the cover open.

[0030] Figure 23 This is a three-dimensional view of the blade section.

[0031] Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional view of the second propeller section and the rotation axis cut by a plane orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0032] Figure 25 A cross-sectional view of the second paddle section of the cover, cut open with a plane orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0033] Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional view of the second propeller section and the rotation axis cut with a plane parallel to the axial direction.

[0034] Figure 27 This is a cross-sectional view showing the second propeller portion of another embodiment, cut with a plane orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0035] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view showing the second propeller portion of another embodiment, cut with a plane orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0036] Figure 29 This is a diagram illustrating the second propeller portion in other embodiments, and is a cross-sectional view showing the second propeller portion and the rotation axis cut along a plane orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0037] Figure 30 The diagram shows the second propeller portion according to other embodiments, and also shows the state in which the contact member is inserted into the housing portion in the wrong direction.

[0038] Figure 31 This is a three-dimensional view of the contact components. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The present invention will now be described in summary.

[0040] The medium conveying device according to the first method is characterized by comprising: a rotating shaft that rotates; a paddle portion that is detachably mounted on the rotating shaft and conveys the medium, the paddle portion having: a blade portion having a contact portion that contacts the medium; and a housing portion having a main body portion that holds the blade portion and a cover portion that can be opened and closed relative to the main body portion, and being mounted on the rotating shaft by the main body portion engaging with the cover portion and closing the cover portion, wherein the main body portion is provided with an insertion hole for the contact portion to be inserted in a cross direction that intersects the axial direction of the rotating shaft.

[0041] According to this method, since the housing is configured to be mounted on the rotating shaft by engaging the main body with the cover to close the cover, no tools are required during the assembly of the propeller, and the replacement of the propeller becomes easy.

[0042] Furthermore, since the main body is provided with an insertion hole for the contact part to be inserted in a cross direction that intersects the axis of rotation, it is possible to prevent the contact part from falling off in the axial direction.

[0043] The second method is subordinate to the first method, characterized in that the blade portion is clamped and held by the rotating shaft and the housing portion by closing the cover portion relative to the main body portion.

[0044] According to this method, since the blade portion is clamped and held by the rotating shaft and the housing portion by closing the cover portion relative to the main body portion, it is possible to prevent the blade portion from falling off the housing portion.

[0045] The third method is subordinate to the first method, characterized in that the cover has a locking part that engages with the main body, and by closing the cover relative to the main body, the blade is clamped and held by the locking part and the rotating shaft.

[0046] According to this method, since the blade portion is clamped and held by the engaging portion and the rotating shaft by closing the cover portion relative to the main body portion, it is possible to prevent the blade portion from falling off the housing portion.

[0047] The fourth method is a method subordinate to the second method, characterized in that the blade portion has a clamping portion for clamping the rotating shaft.

[0048] According to this method, since the blade portion has a clamping portion that clamps the rotating shaft, positional displacement of the blade portion relative to the rotating shaft can be suppressed. Furthermore, during temporary fixing before closing the cover, the blade portion is less likely to detach from the rotating shaft, improving ease of assembly and disassembly.

[0049] In addition, this method is not limited to the second method mentioned above, and may also be subordinate to the third method mentioned above.

[0050] The fifth method is a method subordinate to the first method, characterized in that the direction from the center of the rotation axis toward the outside in the intersecting direction is set as the first direction, and the main body has a limiting part that restricts the displacement of the contact part in the first direction.

[0051] According to this method, since the main body has a limiting portion that restricts the displacement of the blade portion in the first direction, it is possible to suppress the contact portion from falling off the main body in the first direction.

[0052] In addition, this method is not limited to the first method mentioned above, and may also belong to any of the second to fourth methods mentioned above.

[0053] The sixth method is characterized in that the blade portion has: a plurality of contact portions; a base end portion connected to the plurality of contact portions, a plurality of insertion holes corresponding to the plurality of contact portions, and the base end portion being held on the main body portion.

[0054] According to this method, since multiple insertion holes are provided corresponding to the multiple contact portions, and the base end portion is a structure held on the main body portion, the blade portion is more reliably held on the housing portion.

[0055] In addition, this method is not limited to the first method mentioned above, and may also belong to any of the second to fifth methods mentioned above.

[0056] The seventh method is subordinate to the sixth method, characterized in that, if the contact portion is inserted into the insertion hole in the wrong orientation, the blade portion interferes with the engagement between the cover portion and the main body portion.

[0057] According to this method, since the blade portion interferes with the engagement of the cover portion and the main body portion when the contact portion is inserted into the insertion hole in the wrong orientation, it is possible to prevent the contact portion from being inserted into the insertion hole in the wrong orientation and being assembled.

[0058] The eighth method is a method subordinate to the first method, characterized in that the blade portion has a plurality of contact portions, and each of the plurality of contact portions constitutes an independent component.

[0059] According to this method, since the blade portion has multiple contact portions, and each of the multiple contact portions is configured as an independent component, the insertion operation of the contact portion into the insertion hole becomes easy.

[0060] In addition, this method is not limited to the first method mentioned above, and may also belong to any of the second to seventh methods mentioned above.

[0061] The ninth method is a method subordinate to the eighth method, characterized in that the contact portion has a base end portion held by the main body portion, the base end portion has a protruding portion, the protruding portion being a portion that is clamped between the adjacent other base ends portion and the rotation axis while the base end portion is held by the main body portion.

[0062] According to this method, since the contact portion has a base end portion held by the main body portion, and the base end portion has a protruding portion, which is a portion that is clamped by the adjacent other base ends portion and the rotation axis when the base end portion is held by the main body portion, the contact portion is more reliably held on the main body portion.

[0063] The tenth method is a subordinate method to the ninth method, characterized in that the protruding portion protrudes in a manner that blocks the insertion hole through which adjacent other contact portions enter.

[0064] According to this method, since the protruding portion protrudes in a way that blocks the insertion hole through which adjacent other contact portions enter, it is possible to suppress the situation where the insertion order of the contact portions into the insertion hole is mistaken.

[0065] The eleventh method is a method subordinate to the eighth method, characterized in that, if the contact portion is inserted into the insertion hole in the wrong orientation, the contact portion interferes with the engagement between the cover portion and the main body portion.

[0066] According to this method, since the contact portion interferes with the engagement of the cover portion and the main body portion when it is inserted into the insertion hole in the wrong orientation, it is possible to prevent the contact portion from being inserted into the insertion hole in the wrong orientation and being assembled.

[0067] In addition, this method is not limited to the eighth method mentioned above, but may also belong to the ninth or tenth method mentioned above.

[0068] The twelfth method is a subordinate method to the first method, characterized in that the cover is connected to the rotating shaft and receives torque from the rotating shaft, and the torque applied to the main body by the reaction force received from the medium by the contact portion and the torque received by the cover from the rotating shaft work together to enhance the engagement between the main body and the cover.

[0069] According to this method, since the torque applied to the main body by the reaction force received from the medium through the contact portion and the torque received by the cover portion from the rotating shaft work to strengthen the engagement between the main body portion and the cover portion, it is possible to prevent the housing portion from falling off the rotating shaft.

[0070] In addition, this method is not limited to the first method mentioned above, and may also belong to any of the second to eleventh methods mentioned above.

[0071] The thirteenth method is a method subordinate to the first method, characterized in that the rotating shaft has a positioning part, which determines the axial position of the housing part.

[0072] According to this method, since the rotating shaft has a positioning part that determines the position of the housing part in the axial direction, the positioning operation of the housing part relative to the rotating shaft is not required, and the assembly operation becomes easy.

[0073] In addition, this method is not limited to the first method mentioned above, and may also belong to any of the second to twelfth methods mentioned above.

[0074] The media placement device of the fourteenth embodiment is characterized by comprising: a placement section for placing a medium; an alignment section for aligning the medium placed on the placement section by contacting a first edge of the medium; and a media conveying device of any one of the first to thirteenth embodiments for conveying the medium toward the alignment section in the placement section. According to this method, the effect of any of the first to thirteenth methods described above can be obtained in the medium placement device.

[0075] The fifteenth method is subordinate to the fourteenth method, characterized in that it further comprises: a low-friction sheet capable of switching between an entry state from outside the medium-carrying area of ​​the mounting portion into the medium-carrying area and a retraction state after elastic deformation retracting outside the medium-carrying area; a mounting shaft extending along a direction intersecting the first side and mounting the low-friction sheet thereon, the low-friction sheet being mounted on the mounting shaft via a mounting portion, the mounting portion being elastically deformable and having an opening for engaging with the mounting shaft, and the mounting shaft having an engaging portion for engaging with the mounting portion.

[0076] According to this method, since the low-friction sheet is mounted on the mounting shaft via a mounting part, the mounting part is elastically deformable and has an opening for engaging with the mounting shaft, and the mounting shaft has a fitting part for engaging with the mounting part, no tools are required for assembling or disassembling the mounting part, and the replacement of the low-friction sheet becomes easy.

[0077] The sixteenth method is a subordinate method to the fifteenth method, characterized in that, along with the elastic deformation of the low-friction sheet, the mounting portion deforms by receiving force from the low-friction sheet in a manner that reduces the curvature of the low-friction sheet.

[0078] According to this method, due to the elastic deformation of the low-friction sheet, the mounting portion deforms by receiving force from the low-friction sheet in a way that reduces the curvature of the low-friction sheet. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the application of unreasonable forces to the low-friction sheet and to suppress damage to the low-friction sheet. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress the load applied to the motor that rotates the mounting shaft.

[0079] The medium processing apparatus of the seventeenth embodiment is characterized by comprising: a medium placement device of the fourteenth embodiment; and a processing unit that processes the medium placed on the placement unit.

[0080] According to this method, the effects of the fourteenth method described above can be obtained in the media processing apparatus.

[0081] In addition, this method is not limited to the fourteenth method mentioned above, but may also be subordinate to the fifteenth or sixteenth method mentioned above.

[0082] The present invention will now be described in detail.

[0083] In each figure, the X-axis direction represents the depth direction of each device constituting the recording system 1. The arrows in the X-axis direction point in the direction from the back of the device to the front surface of the device (+X direction) and from the front surface of the device to the back of the device (-X direction). Additionally, the X-axis direction is an example of the width direction of the medium.

[0084] The Y-axis direction is the width direction of each device constituting the recording system 1. From the user's perspective facing the front surface of the device, the direction in which the arrow mark in the Y-axis direction points, i.e., the +Y direction, becomes the left and the -Y direction becomes the right.

[0085] The Z-axis direction represents the height of each device constituting the recording system 1, and it is a vertical direction. The direction indicated by the arrows, i.e., the +Z direction, is vertically upward, and the -Z direction is vertically downward. In the following description, the +Z direction will sometimes be simply referred to as upward, and the -Z direction as downward.

[0086] like Figure 1 As shown, the recording system 1 includes a recording device 10 and a media processing device 30. The recording device 10 in this embodiment is an inkjet printer that records by ejecting ink, an example of a liquid, onto a medium represented by recording paper, and includes a line printhead 18 as an example of a recording unit. Furthermore, the recording device 10 is a so-called multifunction printer that includes a scanner unit 12 on its upper part.

[0087] The recording device 10 includes a main body 14, a media storage section 16 for storing media, a media conveying section (not shown) for conveying media, a recording head 18 for recording media, an internal discharge section 22 for discharging media, and a relay unit 24 for conveying media to the media processing device 30. A media conveying path TA is provided inside the main body 14.

[0088] The line print head 18 has a plurality of ink ejection nozzles (not shown) arranged corresponding to the entire area of ​​the medium in the X-axis direction. The line print head 18 performs recording on the medium by ejecting ink supplied from an ink tank (not shown) from the plurality of ink ejection nozzles toward the medium.

[0089] The medium recorded by the recording device 10 is conveyed to the medium processing device 30 via the relay unit 24. The medium processing device 30 includes a device body 32, a processing tray 42 and a binder 34 disposed inside the device body 32, and a main tray 33 disposed outside the device body 32. The processing tray 42 is an example of a medium-carrying unit, and the binder 34 is an example of a processing unit that processes the medium placed on the processing tray 42.

[0090] The medium transferred from the relay unit 24 to the main body 32 is transported on the transport path TB inside the main body 32 and sent to the processing tray 42.

[0091] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of conveying the medium, the medium handling apparatus 30 can also be referred to as the medium conveying apparatus 26. The medium conveying apparatus 26 is an apparatus that includes at least the second paddle portion 60, which will be described later. Additionally, from the viewpoint of placing the medium on the handling tray 42, the medium handling apparatus 30 can also be referred to as the medium placing apparatus 28. As an example, the medium placing apparatus 28 is an apparatus that includes at least the handling tray 42, the rear end alignment portion 39, which will be described later, and the second paddle portion 60.

[0092] The following is for reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 The structure of the media processing apparatus 30 will be further explained below. Hereinafter, the media marking symbol P will be referred to as media P. Furthermore, the stack marking symbol Pt of a medium composed of multiple media P will be referred to as media stack Pt.

[0093] In addition, Figure 2 , Figure 3 In this embodiment, the A-axis direction is along the support surface 42a of the processing tray 42, the -A direction is the direction in which the medium P on the processing tray 42 is pulled back towards the rear alignment part 39, and the +A direction is the direction in which the medium P is discharged from the processing tray 42. In this embodiment, the A-axis direction includes both the Z-axis and Y-axis components. Furthermore, the direction orthogonal to the A-axis direction when viewed from the X-axis direction is defined as the B-axis direction. The B-axis direction is orthogonal to the support surface 42a of the processing tray 42.

[0094] The guide member 35 forms part of the aforementioned conveying path TB and extends toward the processing tray 42. The medium P conveyed along the guide member 35 in the -Y direction is fed into the processing tray 42 by a feed roller 46 driven by a motor (not shown) and a clamping roller 47 that clamps the medium P between the feed roller 46 and the feed roller 46.

[0095] The medium P fed into the processing tray 42 is pulled back in the -A direction by the first paddle 48 and the second paddle 60 exerting a conveying force toward the rear alignment section 39.

[0096] The first propeller section 48 has multiple contact portions 48a made of an elastic material such as rubber along the rotation direction. These contact portions 48a are configured to rotate about a rotation axis 49 extending in the X-axis direction. In this embodiment, three contact portions 48a are provided, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The first propeller section 48 is driven by a motor (not shown)... Figure 2 Driven in a clockwise direction, it applies a feed force in the -A direction to the medium P fed into the processing tray 42.

[0097] The second propeller section 60 will be explained separately later.

[0098] A rear end alignment section 39 is provided in the -A direction relative to the processing tray 42. The rear end alignment section 39 has an alignment surface 39a parallel to the B-axis direction. The rear end Pe of the medium P on the processing tray 42 is aligned by touching the alignment surface 39a. The rear end Pe is an example of the first side of the medium P, and is an side extending in the X-axis direction.

[0099] A first guide 55 and a second guide 56 are provided on the upper part of the processing tray 42. The first guide 55 and the second guide 56 guide the rear end Pe of the medium P, which is pulled back in the -A direction by the second paddle 60, toward the rear end alignment part 39. Thus, the rear end Pe of the medium P can be properly contacted with the rear end alignment part 39. The first guide 55 is formed of a metal sheet as an example, and the second guide 56 is formed of a flexible sheet as an example.

[0100] The side vernier 52, serving as the width-direction alignment part, is configured to move in the X-axis direction, i.e., the media width direction, via a drive source not shown. It aligns with the width-direction end of the media P supported on the processing tray 42 by abutting against that end. Furthermore, the side vernier 52 is arranged at intervals along the X-axis direction (see reference). Figure 4 The two side verniers 52 are set in a manner that allows them to be close to or separate from each other. Figure 2 The image shows one of the two side verniers 52, which is positioned in the -X direction.

[0101] The side vernier 52 will be explained separately later.

[0102] The baffle 37 is arranged side by side with the rear alignment portion 39 along the X-axis direction and is configured to swing about the shaft portion 37a extending along the X-axis direction. The baffle 37 presses the media stack Pt on the processing tray 42 downward near the rear alignment portion 39.

[0103] Above the processing tray 42, a pressing member 36 is provided. The pressing member 36 is configured to swing about a shaft 36a extending in the X-axis direction. The pressing member 36 is configured to rotate by a motor (not shown), and by rotating, the medium P fed towards the processing tray 42 by the feed roller 46 is knocked off the processing tray 42. As a result, the -A direction end of the medium P fed towards the processing tray 42 is properly guided to the rear alignment section 39.

[0104] A discharge drive roller 38, driven by a motor (not shown), is provided in the +A direction relative to the processing tray 42. Furthermore, a discharge driven roller 40 is provided above the discharge drive roller 38. The media stack Pt, after being bound by the binder 34, is held by the discharge drive roller 38 and the discharge driven roller 40 and fed toward the lower support tray 54.

[0105] The driven roller 40 can discharge as Figure 3 The state shown is that the medium P or medium stack Pt is in contact with the discharge drive roller 38, i.e., the state in which the medium P or medium stack Pt is clamped between the discharge drive roller 38 and the discharge drive roller 38. Figure 2 The state of leaving medium P or medium stack Pt is switched as shown.

[0106] The discharge driven roller 40 and the pressing member 36 are disposed together in the movable unit 43. The movable unit 43 is configured to rotate about the rotation axis 46a of the feed roller 46. The movable unit 43 is rotated by a motor (not shown) under the control of a control unit (not shown). By rotating the movable unit 43, the discharge driven roller 40 is moved forward and backward relative to the discharge drive roller 38.

[0107] Furthermore, the movable unit 43 can be manually operated to a fully open state, as indicated by the double-dotted line in the symbol 43-1. This allows access to the second propeller section 60, which will be described later.

[0108] Next, although the illustration is omitted, two lower support trays 54 are provided spaced apart in the X-axis direction, i.e., the direction of the medium width, and are configured to move towards or away from each other using power from a drive source (not shown). The lower support trays 54 open by moving away from each other and close by moving towards each other. Figure 2 The image shows one of two lower support trays 54 arranged at intervals in the width direction of the medium, with the lower support tray 54 located in the -X direction.

[0109] The media stack Pt discharged by the discharge drive roller 38 is temporarily supported by the closed lower support tray 54. Then, by opening the lower support tray 54, the media stack Pt supported on the lower support tray 54 falls onto the main tray 33. By having such a lower support tray 54, the uniformity of the media stack Pt on the main tray 33 can be improved. Alternatively, of course, the lower support tray 54 can be omitted, and the media stack Pt can be discharged directly from the processing tray 42 to the main tray 33.

[0110] The main tray 33 is configured to be displaced in the Z-axis direction, i.e. the loading direction, by a motor (not shown).

[0111] In addition, in this embodiment, the processing of the media stack Pt is a binding process performed using the binder 34. However, the processing of the media stack Pt is not limited to this. It can also be a punching process to make punches in the media stack Pt, a saddle binding process to perform saddle binding on the media stack Pt, or an offset discharge process to discharge the media stack Pt by alternately staggering the discharge positions in the media width direction. Furthermore, the media stack Pt may be discharged without post-processing, or the media stack Pt may be stacked on the main tray 33 in a so-called unidirectional alignment.

[0112] Next, refer to Figures 4 to 15 The low-friction sheet 151 set on the side vernier 52 will be described.

[0113] First, refer to Figure 4 The function of the low-friction sheet 151 will be explained. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, a summary diagram is shown. Figure 4 The structures shown. Furthermore, in Figure 4 The ABX coordinate system will be shown appropriately later.

[0114] exist Figure 4 In the diagram, the area indicated by the symbol Ak is the medium-carrying area, and the symbol Am is the first area within the medium-carrying area Ak, including the contact position where the second propeller 60 contacts the medium P. The low-friction sheet 151 is configured to switch between an entry state (states ST2, ST3) where it enters the first area Am from outside the medium-carrying area Ak of ​​the processing tray 42, and a retreat state (state ST1) where it retreats from the first area Am to outside the medium-carrying area Ak.

[0115] A low-friction sheet 151 is disposed on a side vernier 52. The side vernier 52 and the low-friction sheet 151 are arranged in a line symmetrical manner with respect to a straight line CL at the center position in the width direction of the medium.

[0116] The coefficient of friction between the medium P and the low-friction sheet 151 is lower than the coefficient of friction between the mediums P and each other. "Low friction" in low-friction sheet 151 means this. In this embodiment, as an example, the low-friction sheet 151 can be made from a sheet of a flexible resin such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate).

[0117] The low-friction sheet 151 is fixed to a mounting shaft 150 disposed outside the media placement area Ak in the side vernier 52. The mounting shaft 150 is a shaft extending along the A-axis direction and is driven by a motor (not shown). Since the mounting shaft 150 is mounted on the side vernier 52, the low-friction sheet 151 is disposed at the end of the media P in the width direction as the side vernier 52 moves.

[0118] The mounting shaft 150 is driven only in a fixed rotational direction R1. Moreover, by rotating the mounting shaft 150, the low-friction sheet 151 is switched between an advancing state (states ST2, ST3) and a retreating state (state ST1).

[0119] exist Figure 4 In the diagram, symbol F1 represents the fixed end of the low-friction sheet 151, and symbol F2 represents the free end of the low-friction sheet 151. The length from the fixed end F1 to the free end F2 is longer than the shortest distance from the mounting shaft 150 to the support surface 42a of the processing tray 42. Therefore, when the mounting shaft 150 rotates from its retracted state, the low-friction sheet 151 presses against the support surface 42a of the processing tray 42 or the medium P supported on the processing tray 42, and deforms in a bending manner. Then, when the mounting shaft 150 rotates further, the free end F2 of the low-friction sheet 151 disengages outward from between the mounting shaft 150 and the processing tray 42, and the deformed state is eliminated.

[0120] State ST3 is a state in which the rotation of the mounting shaft 150 is more advanced compared to state ST2, and the curvature of the low-friction sheet 151 is greater than that in state ST2. By changing the phase of the rotation of the mounting shaft 150 in this state, the pressing force applied by the low-friction sheet 151 to the first region Am can be changed.

[0121] After aligning the rear end Pe and both ends in the width direction of the medium P on the processing tray 42, the low-friction sheet 151 switches from the retracted state to the entering state. The uppermost medium P on the processing tray 42 at this time is referred to as the preceding medium P. The preceding medium P is pressed towards the processing tray 42 by the low-friction sheet 151 in the entering state.

[0122] Then, when the subsequent medium P is discharged onto the processing tray 42, the subsequent medium P is discharged onto the low-friction sheet 151, which has entered the state above the preceding medium P. Thus, when the subsequent medium P is moved towards the rear alignment section 39 by the second propeller 60, the low-friction sheet 151 is positioned between the preceding medium P and the subsequent medium P.

[0123] By using a low-friction sheet 151 between the preceding medium P and the following medium P, the frictional resistance between the preceding medium P and the following medium P is reduced when the following medium P is moved toward the rear alignment portion 39 using the second propeller portion 60, making the following medium P easier to move. Therefore, the rear end Pe of the following medium P can more reliably contact the rear alignment portion 39, and the rear end Pe of the medium P can be properly aligned.

[0124] Furthermore, after the movement of the subsequent medium P by the second propeller 60, the low-friction sheet 151 temporarily switches from the entering state to the yielding state, and then switches to the entering state positioned on the subsequent medium P. In this embodiment, after the movement of the subsequent medium P by the second propeller 60 and before the alignment operation of the subsequent medium P by the side vernier 52, the low-friction sheet 151 temporarily switches from the entering state to the yielding state, and then switches to the entering state positioned on the subsequent medium P.

[0125] After the rear end Pe of the subsequent medium P is aligned, the low-friction sheet 151 is disposed on the subsequent medium P, thus suppressing the curling or warping of the subsequent medium P.

[0126] In particular, if the end of the medium P in the width direction curls during the alignment operation of the side vernier 52, the alignment of the medium P in the width direction may be insufficient. In this embodiment, before the alignment operation of the subsequent medium P by the side vernier 52, the low-friction sheet 151 is switched to an entry state located on the subsequent medium P. Therefore, during the alignment operation of the side vernier 52, curling of the subsequent medium P can be suppressed, and proper alignment in the width direction can be performed.

[0127] Furthermore, it is preferable to adjust the phase of the rotation of the mounting shaft 150 in the entry state of the low-friction sheet 151 according to the number of media P loaded in the processing tray 42. This prevents the curvature of the low-friction sheet 151 from being larger than an appropriate range.

[0128] In addition, Figure 2 In this context, the symbol An represents the configuration area of ​​the low-friction sheet 151 in the A-axis direction. The configuration area An includes the position where the tip of the medium P fed into the processing tray 42 by the feed roller 46 initially contacts the medium. As a result, it is possible to prevent the tip of the subsequent medium P from being stuck by the preceding medium P and hindering its movement in the discharge direction, and the subsequent medium P is properly placed on the processing tray 42.

[0129] Next, the mounting structure of the low-friction sheet 151 will be described in detail. Additionally, the side vernier 52 described below refers to the position relative to the straight line CL in the X-axis direction, i.e., the direction of the medium width (refer to...). Figure 4 The side vernier 52 is set in the +X direction and the side vernier 52 is set in the -X direction. Since the above two side verniers are relative to the line CL as described above (refer to...), Figure 4 The structure is symmetrical about the line, therefore, the following explanation is given relative to the line CL (refer to...). Figure 4 The side cursor 52 is set in the -X direction, and the description of the side cursor 52 set in the +X direction is omitted.

[0130] like Figure 5As shown, the side vernier 52 has a base component 53. The base component 53 has an alignment surface 53a for aligning the end of the medium P and a support surface 53b for supporting the lowermost medium P. The aforementioned mounting shaft 150 is provided on the base component 53.

[0131] The low-friction sheet 151 is mounted on the mounting shaft 150 via the mounting part 153.

[0132] The mounting part 153 in this embodiment is composed of a single component, such as... Figure 6 As shown, it has a first plate portion 153a and a second plate portion 153b parallel to the first plate portion 153a. The first plate portion 153a and the second plate portion 153b are connected by a connecting portion 153c (see reference). Figures 8-11 A connection is formed between the first plate portion 153a and the second plate portion 153b, on the side opposite to the connecting portion 153c, with an opening 153p (see reference). Figures 8-11 ).

[0133] In addition, the top end of the first plate portion 153a and the top end of the second plate portion 153b can also extend in a similar manner.

[0134] The mounting portion 153 is formed of a material capable of elastic deformation. As an example, it is formed of a sheet metal and is configured to expand the opening 153p through elastic deformation.

[0135] At the end of the first plate portion 153a, a finger-like portion 153j is formed. The finger-like portion 153j is formed to be thicker than the first plate portion 153a, thereby improving workability when the opening portion 153p is enlarged.

[0136] like Figure 6 As shown, two holes 151a are formed on the low-friction sheet 151, and a positioning protrusion 153h is formed on the second plate portion 153b at a position corresponding to the holes 151a. Furthermore, by engaging the positioning protrusion 153h with the holes 151a, the low-friction sheet 151 is positioned relative to the second plate portion 153b and held in an orientation that is not tilted relative to the axial direction of the mounting shaft 150. The low-friction sheet 151 is fixed to the second plate portion 153b by double-sided adhesive tape 155.

[0137] A protrusion 153e is formed on the first plate portion 153a in such a way that it protrudes toward the second plate portion 153b.

[0138] Next, as Figure 7 As shown, a fitting portion 150a is formed in the mounting shaft 150. The fitting portion 150a includes a first flat surface 150c and a second flat surface 150d parallel to the first flat surface 150c (see reference). Figure 9), and a fitting hole 150b passing through the first flat surface 150c and the second flat surface 150d. The mounting portion 153, on which the low-friction sheet 151 is mounted, can fit into such a fitting portion 150a.

[0139] Specifically, the fitting hole 150b is a hole into which the protrusion 153e can fit. The operator assembling the mounting portion 153 to which the low-friction sheet 151 is mounted can enlarge the opening 153p of the mounting portion 153 (see reference). Figures 8-11 The distance between the first plate portion 153a and the second plate portion 153b is widened, and the fitting portion 150a is inserted between the first plate portion 153a and the second plate portion 153b. At this time, the protrusion 153e is fitted into the fitting hole 150b. Arrow mark J1 indicates the assembly direction of the mounting portion 153 relative to the fitting portion 150a. The assembly direction J1 is the direction intersecting the axial direction of the mounting shaft 150.

[0140] The mounting portion 153 can be assembled onto the fitting portion 150a in the above manner. By fitting the protrusion 153e into the fitting hole 150b, the phase shift of the rotation of the mounting portion 153, i.e., the low-friction sheet 151, relative to the mounting shaft 150 is suppressed, and the low-friction sheet 151 rotates following the rotation of the mounting shaft 150.

[0141] When the mounting part 153 is assembled onto the fitting part 150a, as Figure 9 As shown, the first plate portion 153a is in close contact with the first flat surface 150c. In addition, the second plate portion 153b is in close contact with the second flat surface 150d through the low-friction sheet 151.

[0142] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, in the axial direction of the mounting shaft 150, abutment portions 153f are formed at both ends of the connecting portion 153c, protruding toward the mounting shaft 150. Furthermore, when the mounting portion 153 is assembled onto the fitting portion 150a, the abutment portions 153f abut against the outer peripheral surface of the mounting shaft 150. Thus, the mounting portion 153, i.e., the low-friction sheet 151, maintains its orientation without tilting relative to the axial direction of the mounting shaft 150 when assembled onto the mounting shaft 150.

[0143] Furthermore, when removing the mounting part 153 from the fitting part 150a, the operator makes the opening 153p of the mounting part 153 (see reference) Figures 8-11 Enlarge the portion, remove the protrusion 153e from the fitting hole 150b, and remove the mounting portion 153 from the fitting portion 150a. Figure 7 In the diagram, arrow J2 indicates the disassembly direction of the mounting part 153 from the fitting part 150a. The disassembly direction J2 intersects the axial direction of the mounting shaft 150. The disassembly direction J2 is opposite to the assembly direction J1.

[0144] As described above, in this embodiment, the low-friction sheet 151 is mounted on the mounting shaft 150 via the mounting portion 153. The mounting portion 153 is elastically deformable and has an opening 153p for engaging with the mounting shaft 150. The mounting shaft 150 has a fitting portion 150a for engaging with the mounting portion 153. Therefore, no tools are required for assembling or disassembling the mounting portion 153, making the replacement of the low-friction sheet 151 easy.

[0145] Here, Figure 8 , Figure 9 This indicates the state of the first flat surface 150c and the second flat surface 150d of the mounting shaft 150 along the vertical direction. Since this state corresponds to the insertion state of the low-friction sheet 151, a bend is formed on the low-friction sheet 151. Figure 9 In the diagram, arrow Fh1-1 represents the restoring force generated by the bending of the low-friction sheet 151, i.e., the force that aims to return it to a straight state. The restoring force Fh1-1 acts on the mounting portion 153. However, in this state, the restoring force Fh1-1 is the size that prevents the opening 153p from expanding, and the low-friction sheet 151 is sandwiched between the second flat surface 150d of the mounting shaft 150 and the second plate portion 153b of the mounting portion 153, and is in close contact with both.

[0146] If the mounting shaft 150 is rotated counterclockwise from this position, then as shown in the diagram... Figure 8 Towards Figure 10 As shown in the change, the curvature of the bend formed in the low-friction sheet 151 increases. The restoring force Fh1-2 at this time (refer to...) Figure 11 )Compare Figure 9 The restoring force Fh1-1 shown is large.

[0147] Therefore, the opening 153p of the mounting part 153 is slightly enlarged, and the low-friction sheet 151 is as follows: Figure 11 The low-friction sheet 151 is shown to be slightly separated from the second flat surface 150d rather than in close contact with it. As a result, the curvature of the low-friction sheet 151 is smaller compared to the case where the low-friction sheet 151 is in close contact with the second flat surface 150d.

[0148] As shown above, with the elastic deformation of the low-friction sheet 151, the mounting portion 153 deforms by receiving force from the low-friction sheet 151 in a manner that reduces the curvature of the low-friction sheet 151. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the application of unreasonable forces to the low-friction sheet 151 and to suppress damage to the low-friction sheet 151. In addition, it is possible to suppress the load applied to the motor (not shown) that rotates the mounting shaft 150.

[0149] Next, refer to Figures 12-15 Other embodiments of the installation section will be described. Figure 12The mounting portion 153A shown differs from the mounting portion 153 described above, and is composed of multiple components. For example... Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 As shown, the mounting part 153A includes a base component 157, a swing component 158, and a shaft 159.

[0150] The base component 157 has a first plate portion 157a and a second plate portion 157b parallel to the first plate portion 157a. The first plate portion 157a and the second plate portion 157b are connected by a connecting portion 157c. An opening 157p is formed between the first plate portion 157a and the second plate portion 157b on the opposite side of the connecting portion 157c (see reference). Figure 14 , Figure 15 The base component 157 is formed of a material capable of elastic deformation, for example, a sheet metal, and is configured to expand the opening 157p through elastic deformation. Therefore, the mounting part 153A is mounted and dismounted from the mounting shaft 150 in the same way as the mounting part 153 described above.

[0151] At the end of the first plate portion 157a, a finger-attaching portion 157j is formed. The finger-attaching portion 157j corresponds to the aforementioned finger-attaching portion 153j. Furthermore, a protrusion 157e is formed in the first plate portion 157a. The protrusion 157e corresponds to the aforementioned protrusion 153e.

[0152] Furthermore, an abutment portion 157f is formed on the connecting portion 157c. The abutment portion 157f corresponds to the abutment portion 153f described above.

[0153] Two bearing portions 157k are formed on the second plate portion 157b. The shaft 159 can be inserted into the bearing portion 157k.

[0154] A shaft insertion hole 158c is formed on the swing component 158, which allows the shaft 159 to be inserted into the shaft insertion hole 158c.

[0155] An E-ring 160 can be installed at the end of the shaft 159, thereby fixing the shaft 159 relative to the second plate portion 157b in a manner that prevents axial movement.

[0156] With the above structure, the swinging member 158 can be swingably mounted on the second plate 157b via the shaft 159.

[0157] On the swing member 158, a positioning protrusion 158a is formed at a position corresponding to the hole 151a of the low-friction sheet 151. Furthermore, by engaging the positioning protrusion 158a with the hole 151a, the low-friction sheet 151 is positioned relative to the swing member 158 and maintained in an attitude that is not tilted relative to the axial direction of the mounting shaft 150. The low-friction sheet 151 is fixed relative to the swing member 158 by double-sided adhesive tape 155.

[0158] Two leaf spring portions 158b are formed in the oscillating member 158. For example... Figure 12 As shown, a hole 157n is formed on the base component 157 for the leaf spring portion 158b to pass through. The leaf spring portion 158b can enter between the first plate portion 157a and the second plate portion 157b through the hole 157n, and as shown... Figure 14 As shown, it is pressed against the connecting part 157c from the inside. The force of the leaf spring part 158b pressing against the connecting part 157c acts in the direction in which the swing member 158 and the second plate part 157b are in close contact.

[0159] Furthermore, the structure that applies force in the direction in which the swing member 158 and the second plate 157b are in close contact is not limited to a leaf spring, but can also be a wire spring or a coil spring.

[0160] exist Figure 14 In this state, the restoring force Fh1-1 of the low-friction sheet 151 is less than the force required by the swing member 158 to press against the second plate portion 157b, i.e., the spring force of the leaf spring portion 158b. Therefore, in this state, the low-friction sheet 151 is sandwiched between the second plate portion 157b and the swing member 158, and is in close contact with both.

[0161] If the mounting shaft 150 is moved from this state... Figure 14 When rotated counterclockwise, the curvature of the bend formed in the low-friction sheet 151 increases, and the restoring force Fh1-2 (refer to...) becomes larger. Figure 15 )Compare Figure 14 The restoring force Fh1-1 shown is large.

[0162] Therefore, as Figure 14 Towards Figure 15 As shown in the change, the swinging member 158 swings against the spring force of the leaf spring portion 158b. As a result, the low-friction sheet 151 separates from the second plate portion 157b instead of being in close contact with it. Therefore, compared with the case where the low-friction sheet 151 is in close contact with the second plate portion 157b, the curvature of the bending of the low-friction sheet 151 is smaller.

[0163] In this embodiment, the mounting portion 153A, along with the elastic deformation of the low-friction sheet 151, deforms by reducing the curvature of the low-friction sheet 151 through the force received from it. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the application of unreasonable forces to the low-friction sheet 151 and to suppress damage to the low-friction sheet 151. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress the load applied to the motor (not shown) that rotates the mounting shaft 150.

[0164] In the above embodiment, the low-friction sheet 151 is fixed relative to the second plate portion 153b, but the low-friction sheet 151 can also be fixed relative to the first plate portion 153a. In this case, a positioning protrusion 153h can also be formed on the first plate portion 153a at a position corresponding to the hole portion 151a. That is, the low-friction sheet 151 can also be located between the mounting shaft 150 and the first plate portion 153a when mounted on the mounting shaft 150.

[0165] However, as in the above embodiment, the structure between the mounting shaft 150 and the second plate portion 153b, with the low-friction sheet 151 mounted on the mounting shaft 150, allows the curvature of the low-friction sheet 151 to be reduced by the length of the diameter of the mounting shaft 150. Furthermore, in the structure between the mounting shaft 150 and the second plate portion 153b, with the low-friction sheet 151 mounted on the mounting shaft 150 as described above, the reaction force of the low-friction sheet 151 is applied in the direction that increases the distance between the first plate portion 153a and the second plate portion 153b. Therefore, the curvature of the low-friction sheet 151 can be reduced more effectively due to the elasticity of the mounting portion 153.

[0166] Next, the structure of the second propeller section 60 will be described in detail.

[0167] like Figure 16 As shown, in this embodiment, two second propeller portions 60 are provided at intervals along the width of the medium, relative to the rotation axis 61 with the X-axis direction (i.e., the medium width direction) as the axis. Of course, the number of second propeller portions 60 is not limited to this; it can be one or more. In this embodiment, the second propeller portions 60 are arranged relative to a straight line CL passing through the center position in the medium width direction (see reference). Figure 14 And in a position that is linearly symmetrical.

[0168] The second propeller 60 propels towards... via a motor (not shown). Figure 2 The clockwise rotation of the shaft 61 applies a feed force in the -A direction to the medium P fed into the processing tray 42.

[0169] The outer periphery of the rotating shaft 61 has a circumferential portion 61a and a flat portion 61b, and is D-CUT shaped when viewed from the axial direction (see reference). Figure 24 On the outer periphery of the rotation shaft 61, the circumferential portion 61a is formed by a smooth curved surface, and the flat portion 61b is formed by a smooth plane. Furthermore, hereinafter, when referred to simply as "axial," it refers to the axial direction of the rotation shaft 61; when referred to as "radial," it refers to the radial direction of the rotation shaft 61. The axial direction is the direction along the X-axis. Additionally, hereinafter, when referred to as "the direction intersecting the axial direction," it refers to the direction intersecting the axial direction of the rotation shaft 61.

[0170] like Figure 17 , Figure 18 , Figure 26 As shown, a radially penetrating fitting hole 61c is formed on the rotating shaft 61. A protrusion 63a is formed on the housing portion 62 that constitutes the second propeller portion 60.

[0171] like Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, the second propeller section 60 includes a blade section 70 and a housing section 62. The blade section 70 has a contact section 70b that contacts the medium P. The housing section 62 has a main body section 63 that holds the blade section 70 and a cover section 64 that can be opened and closed relative to the main body section 63.

[0172] In this embodiment, the main body 63 and the cover 64 of the housing portion 62 are integrally formed of resin material. For example... Figure 22 As shown, the main body 63 and the cover 64 are connected by a connecting part 63b. The connecting part 63b is elastically deformable and functions as a hinge when the cover 64 is opened and closed relative to the main body 63.

[0173] The main body 63 is provided with an insertion hole 63e through which the contact portion 70b of the blade portion 70 is inserted. The insertion direction of the contact portion 70b into the insertion hole 63e is a cross direction that intersects the axial direction.

[0174] A shaft fitting portion 63d is formed on the main body 63 to fit into the circumferential portion 61a of the rotating shaft 61. A fitting hole 61c for fitting into the rotating shaft 61 is formed on the shaft fitting portion 63d (see reference). Figure 17 , Figure 18 ) The fitting protrusion 63a.

[0175] A recess 63c is formed on the main body 63 in such a way that it is recessed along the rotation axis 61. The protrusion 70c of the blade portion 70 can be fitted into the recess 63c (see reference). Figure 20 , Figure 23 The fitting of the concave portion 63c and the convex portion 70c will be explained separately later.

[0176] like Figure 21 , Figure 24 As shown, a locking portion 63f is formed on the main body 63. A hook-shaped locking portion 64b is formed on the cover 64. When the cover 64 is closed, the locking portion 64b engages with the locking portion 63f, thereby enabling the cover 64 to be closed in a snap-fit ​​manner. Figure 19 , Figure 20 , Figure 24 As shown, a release operation portion 64a is formed on the cover portion 64. When along... Figure 24When the release operation part 64a is pressed in the direction of the arrow mark Rj1, the engaging part 64b moves in the direction of the arrow mark Rj2, which can release the engagement between the engaging part 64b and the engaged part 63f, and thus open the cover part 64.

[0177] like Figures 20-22 , Figure 24 , Figure 25 As shown, two shaft retaining portions 64c are provided on the cover portion 64. In this embodiment, the shaft retaining portions 64c are rib-shaped and are formed to extend axially.

[0178] When the cover 64 is closed, as Figure 24 As shown, the two shaft retaining portions 64c, viewed axially, function to retain the flat portion 61b of the rotating shaft 61 from both sides. When the cover 64 is closed, the flat portion 61b of the rotating shaft 61 faces the inner surface of the cover 64 between the two shaft retaining portions 64c, while the circumferential portion 61a of the rotating shaft 61 is in close contact with the shaft fitting portion 63d. By closing the cover 64 in this way, the cover 64 functions as an anti-rotation element of the housing portion 62 relative to the rotating shaft 61. Thus, when the rotating shaft 61 rotates, the cover 64 receives torque from the rotating shaft 61.

[0179] Furthermore, even if the housing part 62 is installed with the flat part 61b facing the shaft fitting part 63d as an incorrect installation, the incorrect installation described above can be prevented because the cover part 64 is not closed.

[0180] like Figure 23 As shown, the blade portion 70 has a base end portion 70a and a contact portion 70b. The contact portion 70b extends from the base end portion 70a at an angle relative to the radial direction.

[0181] In this embodiment, three contact portions 70b are formed at equal intervals along the rotation direction. However, the location and number of contact portions 70b are not limited to this. The contact portions 70b come into contact with the medium P through elastic deformation, and apply a conveying force to the medium P.

[0182] The blade portion 70 can be formed from a material capable of elastic deformation, such as rubber or an elastomer. In this embodiment, the base end portion 70a and the plurality of contact portions 70b are integrally formed. However, for example, the base end portion 70a and the contact portions 70b can also be formed by composite molding of different materials. Furthermore, the blade portion 70 and the main body portion 63 can also be integrally formed by two-color molding.

[0183] Furthermore, in this embodiment, three contact portions 70b are provided, but there may also be one or two, or even four or more.

[0184] like Figure 24As shown, the base end 70a has a shape that clamps the circumferential portion 61a of the rotating shaft 61.

[0185] As a step of mounting the second propeller portion 60 having the above structure onto the rotating shaft 61, the housing portion 62, with the cover portion 64 open, is fitted into the rotating shaft 61. At this time, as... Figure 18 As shown, the protrusion 63a is engaged with the fitting hole 61c. In this state, the base end 70a of the blade portion 70 clamps the rotating shaft 61, thus making it difficult for the second propeller portion 60 to fall even if the hand is released.

[0186] Furthermore, when the cover 64 is closed relative to the main body 63, the cover 64 is secured by a snap-fit ​​mechanism. Therefore, the second propeller 60 can be assembled relative to the rotation shaft 61 without the use of tools. When removing the second propeller 60 from the rotation shaft 61, the snap-fit ​​can be released by pressing the release operation part 64a as described above, and the second propeller 60 can be removed by opening the cover 64. In other words, the second propeller 60 can be removed from the rotation shaft 61 without the use of tools.

[0187] As described above, the main body 63 is provided with an insertion hole 63e for the contact part 70b to pass through in a cross direction intersecting with the axial direction. Furthermore, the housing part 62 is mounted on the rotating shaft 61 by engaging the main body 63 with the cover part 64 to close the cover part 64.

[0188] Therefore, no tools are required during the assembly of the second propeller section 60, making the replacement of the second propeller section 60 easier.

[0189] For example, when performing the disassembly and assembly of the second propeller 60, even if the area around the second propeller 60 is narrow, the disassembly and assembly of the second propeller 60 can be performed easily. In addition, the disassembly and assembly of the second propeller 60 can also be performed with one hand.

[0190] Furthermore, in this embodiment, such as Figure 16 As shown, during the assembly and disassembly of the second propeller section 60, the connecting portion 63b, which functions as a hinge, appears to be closer to the front when viewed from the operator's perspective. Therefore, compared to a structure where the connecting portion 63b appears to be closer to the depth when viewed from the operator's perspective, the assembly and disassembly of the second propeller section 60 becomes easier.

[0191] Furthermore, an insertion hole 63e is provided on the main body 63 for the blade portion 70 (contact portion 70b) to be inserted in the cross direction intersecting with the axial direction, thus preventing the contact portion 70b from falling off the housing portion 62 along the axial direction.

[0192] Furthermore, since the housing portion 62 is fixed relative to the rotation shaft 61 based on the axial insertion of the blade portion 70 (contact portion 70b) relative to the insertion hole 63e, even if the blade portion 70 (contact portion 70b) is not fully inserted relative to the insertion hole 63e, by mounting the housing portion 62 on which the blade portion 70 is mounted to the rotation shaft 61, the blade portion 70 (contact portion 70b) can be properly inserted relative to the insertion hole 63e.

[0193] Furthermore, even when the rigidity of the contact portion 70b is low, by pulling the top of the contact portion 70b that has disengaged from the insertion hole 63e, the contact portion 70b can be properly inserted into the insertion hole 63e.

[0194] In addition, in this embodiment, such as Figure 24 As shown, by closing the cover relative to the main body 63, the base end 70a of the blade portion 70 is clamped and held by the rotating shaft 61 and the housing portion 62. This prevents the blade portion 70 from detaching from the housing portion 62.

[0195] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cover portion 64 has an engaging portion 64b that engages with the main body portion 63. Moreover, as... Figure 24 As shown, by closing the cover portion 64 relative to the main body portion 63, the portion Mp, which is part of the blade portion 70, is clamped and held by the engaging portion 64b and the rotating shaft 61. This prevents the blade portion 70 from detaching from the housing portion 62.

[0196] Furthermore, in this embodiment, such as Figure 24 As shown, the base end portion 70a of the blade portion 70 clamps the rotating shaft 61. That is, the base end portion 70a functions as a clamping portion for the rotating shaft 61. This suppresses positional displacement of the blade portion 70 relative to the rotating shaft 61. Furthermore, as... Figure 18 As shown, during the temporary fixation before closing the cover 64, the second propeller 60 is difficult to detach from the rotating shaft 61, improving the ease of disassembly and assembly.

[0197] In addition, the base end portion 70a may be formed to be larger relative to the storage area of ​​the main body portion 63 in such a way that it is pressed and deformed by the cover portion 64 when the cover portion 64 is closed, or it may be formed to be smaller.

[0198] In addition, such as Figure 26 As shown, the direction from the center of the rotation axis 61 outward in the direction intersecting with the axial direction is designated as the first direction Q1, such as... Figure 26 As shown, the main body 63 has a limiting part 63g that restricts the displacement of the contact part 70b in the first direction Q1.

[0199] A recess 70e is formed on the blade portion 70 in such a way that the axial width of the contact portion 70g is reduced (see also...). Figure 23 The limiting part 63g enters the recess 70e, thereby restricting the displacement of the contact part 70b in the first direction Q1. This prevents the contact part 70b from detaching from the main body 63 in the first direction Q1.

[0200] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the blade portion 70 has multiple contact portions 70b and a base end portion 70a connecting the multiple contact portions 70b. Multiple insertion holes 63e are provided corresponding to the multiple contact portions 70b, and the base end portion 70a is structured to be held on the main body portion 63. With this structure, the blade portion 70 is more reliably held on the housing portion 62.

[0201] Next, regarding Figure 20 The fitting of the recess 63c of the main body 63 and the protrusion 70c of the blade 70 will be explained.

[0202] The contact portion 70b extends at an angle relative to the radial direction. If the contact portion 70b is inserted into the insertion hole 63e in the wrong orientation, that is, if the blade portion 70 is assembled on the main body portion 63 in the wrong orientation, the medium P may not be able to be properly conveyed.

[0203] Here, when the blade portion 70 is assembled onto the main body portion 63 with the correct orientation, the recess 63c of the main body portion 63 engages with the protrusion 70c of the blade portion 70, as shown below. Figure 20 As shown, the base end portion 70a does not protrude from the main body portion 63, and the base end portion 70a is properly housed in the main body portion 63.

[0204] However, when the blade portion 70 is assembled into the main body portion 63 with an incorrect orientation, the base end portion 70a cannot be properly housed within the main body portion 63, and protrudes from the main body portion 63, preventing the cover portion 64 from closing correctly. That is, if the contact portion 70b is inserted into the insertion hole 63e with an incorrect orientation, the blade portion 70 will interfere with the engagement between the cover portion 64 and the main body portion 63. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the contact portion 70b from being inserted into the insertion hole 63e with an incorrect orientation and being assembled.

[0205] When the second propeller 60 pulls the medium P back in the -A direction, the second propeller 60 moves towards... Figure 24 The rotation direction Mr2 rotates. When the second propeller 60 pulls the medium P back in the -A direction, the rotation shaft 61 rotates in the direction of Mr2. Figure 24 The rotation direction is Mr2 rotation. (Refer to...) Figure 24 As explained, the cover 64 receives torque from the rotating shaft 61, and the direction of this torque is... Figure 24The rotation direction is Mr2. This torque is the torque in the direction in which the cover 64 rotates towards the engaging part 64b and approaches the engaged part 63f. Furthermore, a torque in the rotation direction Mr1 is applied to the main body 63 by receiving a reaction force from the medium P through the contact part 70b. This torque is the torque in the direction in which the main body 63 rotates towards the engaging part 64b and approaches the engaged part 63f. That is, the torque received by the cover 64 from the rotation shaft 61 is opposite in direction to the torque applied to the main body 63 by receiving a reaction force from the medium P through the contact part 70b. Thus, by strengthening the engagement between the engaging part 64b and the engaged part 63f, the possibility of the housing part 62 detaching from the rotation shaft 61 is suppressed.

[0206] Furthermore, as a positioning part for determining the axial position of the housing part 62, the rotating shaft 61 has a fitting hole 61c ( Figure 17 Therefore, positioning of the housing part 62 relative to the rotating shaft 61 is not required, making the assembly process easier.

[0207] Additionally, the protrusion 63a that engages with the fitting hole 61c is located in the main body 63 as follows: Figure 20 As shown, the fitting hole 61c is positioned at an axially offset location, corresponding to the protrusion 63a. If it is to be... Figure 18 If the second propeller section 60 in the +X direction is installed in the opposite direction, it will interfere with the E-ring 65. Furthermore, if it is to be... Figure 18 If the second propeller 60 in the -X direction is installed in the opposite direction, it will interfere with the feed roller 46. Thus, by using a structure that would cause interference with other structural elements if the second propeller 60 were installed in the opposite direction, the possibility of installing the second propeller 60 in the wrong direction is prevented.

[0208] Next, refer to Figure 27 The following figures will describe other embodiments of the second propeller. Furthermore, in other embodiments, structures identical to those already described will be marked with the same symbols, thus avoiding repetition in subsequent descriptions.

[0209] In the second propeller section 60 described above, a locking portion 63f is formed on the main body section 63, and a locking portion 64b is formed on the cover section 64. The locking portion refers to a part that moves relative to the locking portion through the operator's operation. Furthermore, Figure 27 The second propeller section 60A shown and Figure 28 The second propeller portion 60B shown is the opposite of the second propeller portion 60 described above, with an engaging portion formed on the main body and a locked portion formed on the cover.

[0210] Figure 27The second propeller portion 60A shown includes a housing portion 62A composed of a main body portion 63A and a cover portion 64A. A release operation portion 63m and an engagement portion 63k are formed on the main body portion 63A. A engaged portion 64k is formed on the cover portion 64A.

[0211] When the cover 64A is closed, the engaging part 63k engages with the engaged part 64k, thereby closing the cover 64A. Furthermore, when... Figure 27 When the release operation part 63m is pressed in the direction of the arrow mark Rj2, the engaging part 63k moves in the direction of the arrow mark Rj2, which can release the engagement between the engaging part 63k and the engaged part 64k, and open the cover part 64A.

[0212] also, Figure 28 The second propeller portion 60B shown includes a housing portion 62B composed of a main body portion 63B and a cover portion 64B. A release operation portion 63m and an engagement portion 63k are formed on the main body portion 63B. A engaged portion 64k is formed on the cover portion 64B.

[0213] When the cover 64B is closed, the engaging part 63k engages with the engaged part 64k, thereby closing the cover 64B. Furthermore, when... Figure 28 When the release operation part 63m is pressed in the direction of the arrow mark Rj2, the engaging part 63k moves in the direction of the arrow mark Rj2, which can release the engagement between the engaging part 63k and the engaged part 64k, and open the cover part 64B.

[0214] Next, refer to Figure 29 , Figure 30 , Figure 31 Further implementation methods will be described. Figure 29 The blade portion 70A of the second propeller portion 60C shown has multiple contact portions 70b11. Moreover, each of the multiple contact portions 70b1 is configured as an independent component. The symbol 71 represents an independent component and is a contact component that forms the contact portion 70b1.

[0215] like Figure 31 As shown, the contact member 71 has a contact portion 70b1 and a base end portion 70a1. The base end portion 70a1 is held on the main body portion 63 of the housing portion 62.

[0216] In this way, the multiple contact portions 70b1 are each configured as independent components, thus making it easier to insert the contact portions 70b1 into the insertion hole 63e.

[0217] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the base end portion 70a1 has a protruding portion 70d, which is a portion that is clamped between the adjacent other base end portions 70a1 and the rotation shaft 61 when held on the main body portion 63. As a result, the contact portion 70b1, i.e., the contact member 71, is held more reliably on the main body portion 63.

[0218] In addition, such as Figure 30 As shown, the protruding portion 70d protrudes in a manner that blocks the insertion hole 63e through which other adjacent contact portions 70b1 enter. This prevents the incorrect insertion sequence of the contact portions 70b1 into the insertion hole 63e.

[0219] In this embodiment, the correct insertion order is: the first insertion... Figure 29 The rightmost contact portion 70b1 (contact member 71) of the three contact portions 70b1 shown is inserted first, then the central contact portion 70b1 (contact member 71) is inserted, and finally the leftmost contact portion 70b1 (contact member 71) is inserted. In contrast, in... Figure 30 In the example, the contact portion 70b1 is first inserted into the leftmost insertion hole 63e. In this state, even if the contact portion 70b1 is then inserted into the central insertion hole 63e, the protruding portion 70d of the first inserted contact member 71 protrudes in a way that blocks the central insertion hole 63e, preventing the contact portion 70b1 from being inserted into the central insertion hole 63e.

[0220] Furthermore, the protruding portion 70d only needs to block at least a portion of the insertion hole 63e; it does not necessarily need to block the entire insertion hole 63e, but it can block the entire insertion hole 63e. Additionally, as... Figure 30 As shown, the protruding part 70d can also block the insertion hole 63e while separated from it.

[0221] Furthermore, if the contact portion 70b1 is inserted into the insertion hole 63e with the wrong orientation, the contact portion 70b1 will interfere with the engagement between the cover portion 64 and the main body portion 63. Figure 30 In the diagram, the double-dotted line of the symbol 70b1-1 represents a contact portion inserted into the insertion hole 63e with an incorrect orientation. This contact portion 70b1-1 would interfere with the engagement between the cover portion 64 and the main body portion 63. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the contact portion 70b from being inserted into the insertion hole 63e with an incorrect orientation and being assembled.

[0222] In addition, the structure of the second propeller section 60 described above can also be applied to the first propeller section 48.

[0223] Alternatively, the blade portion 70A of the second propeller portion 60C can be combined with the housing portion of the second propeller portion 60A and the second propeller portion 60B.

[0224] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications can be made within the scope of the invention as described in the technical solution, and these modifications are also included within the scope of this invention.

[0225] Symbol Explanation 1…Recording system; 10…Recording device; 12…Scanning unit; 14…Main body; 16…Media receiving unit; 18…Linear head; 22…Inner body discharge unit; 24…Relay unit; 26…Media conveying device; 28…Media loading device; 30…Media processing device; 32…Main body of device; 33…Main tray; 34…Binding device; 35…Guiding component; 36…Pressing component; 36a…Shaft; 37…Baffle; 37a…Shaft; 38…Discharge drive roller; 39…Rear end alignment unit; 40…Discharge driven roller; 42…Processing tray; 42a…Support surface; 44…Paddle; 46…Feed roller; 47…Clamping roller; 48…First paddle; 48a …Contact part; 49…Rotating shaft; 52…Side vernier; 53…Base component; 53a…Alignment surface; 53b…Support surface; 54…Lower support tray; 55…First guide; 56…Second guide; 60, 60A…Second paddle part; 61…Rotating shaft; 61a…Circumferential part; 61b…Flat part; 61c…Matching hole; 62…Housing part; 63…Main body part; 63a…Protrusion; 63b…Connecting part; 63c…Recess; 63d…Shaft mating part; 63e…Through hole; 63f…Snap-in part; 63g…Restricting part; 63k…Snap-in part; 63m…Release operation part; 64…Cover part; 64a…Release operation part; 64b…Snap-in part; 6 4c…Shaft retaining part; 64k…E-ring; 65…E-ring; 70, 70A…Blade part; 70a, 70a1…Base end; 70b, 70b1…Contact part; 70c…Protrusion; 70d…Protruding part; 70e…Recess; 71…Contact component; 150…Mounting shaft; 150a…Matching part; 150b…Matching hole; 150c…First flat surface; 150d…Second flat surface; 151…Low friction sheet; 151a…Hole; 153, 153A…Mounting part; 153a…First plate part; 153b…Second plate part; 153c…Connecting part; 153e…Protrusion; 153f…Abutting part; 153g…Hole; 1 53h…positioning protrusion; 153j…finger rest; 153p…opening; 155…double-sided tape; 157…base component; 157a…first plate; 157b…second plate; 157c…connecting part; 157e…protrusion; 157f…abutment; 157g…hole; 157j…finger rest; 157k…bearing part; 157m…opening; 157n…hole; 157p…opening; 158…swinging component; 158a…positioning protrusion; 158b…leaf spring; 158c…shaft insertion hole; 159…shaft; 160…E ring; F1…fixed end; F2…free end; P…medium; Pt…medium stack; Pe…rear end.

Claims

1. A medium conveying device, characterized in that, have: A rotating axis, which rotates; The propeller, which is detachably mounted on the rotating shaft, transports the medium. The propeller section has: The blade section has a contact portion that comes into contact with the medium; The housing portion has a main body portion that holds the blade portion and a cover portion that can be opened and closed relative to the main body portion, and is mounted on the rotating shaft by the main body portion engaging with the cover portion to close the cover portion. The main body is provided with an insertion hole for the contact part to be inserted in a cross direction that intersects the axis of rotation.

2. The medium conveying device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, By closing the cover relative to the main body, the blade portion is clamped and held by the rotating shaft and the housing portion.

3. The medium conveying device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cover has a locking portion that engages with the main body. By closing the cover relative to the main body, the blade portion is clamped and held by the engaging portion and the rotating shaft.

4. The medium conveying device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The blade portion has a clamping portion for clamping the rotating shaft.

5. The medium conveying device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The direction from the center of the rotation axis toward the outside in the intersecting direction is designated as the first direction, and the main body has a limiting part that restricts the displacement of the contact part in the first direction.

6. The medium conveying device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The blade portion has: Multiple contact portions; The base end, which connects to the plurality of contact portions, The insertion holes are provided in multiple ways, corresponding to the plurality of contact portions. The base end portion remains on the main body portion.

7. The medium conveying device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, If the contact portion is inserted into the insertion hole with the wrong orientation, the blade portion interferes with the engagement between the cover portion and the main body portion.

8. The medium conveying device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The blade portion has a plurality of the aforementioned contact portions. Each of the multiple contact portions constitutes an independent component.

9. The medium conveying device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The contact portion has a base end portion that is held by the main body portion. The base end has a protruding portion, which is a portion that is clamped between the adjacent other base ends and the rotation axis while the base end is held by the main body.

10. The medium conveying device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The protruding portion protrudes in a manner that blocks the insertion hole through which adjacent other contact portions can enter.

11. The medium conveying device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, If the contact portion is inserted into the insertion hole with the wrong orientation, the contact portion will interfere with the engagement between the cover portion and the main body portion.

12. The medium conveying device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cover is connected to the rotating shaft and receives torque from the rotating shaft. The torque applied to the main body by the reaction force received from the medium by the contact portion and the torque received by the cover portion from the rotating shaft work together to enhance the engagement between the main body portion and the cover portion.

13. The medium conveying device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating shaft has a positioning part that determines the axial position of the housing part.

14. A medium placement device, characterized in that, have: The mounting section, which holds the mounting medium; The alignment part aligns the medium by contacting the first edge of the medium placed on the mounting part. The medium delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the medium is delivered in the mounting portion toward the alignment portion.

15. The medium placement device as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, It also has: The low-friction sheet is capable of switching between an entry state, in which it enters the medium-carrying area from outside the medium-carrying area of ​​the mounting portion, and a retraction state, in which it retracts to the outside of the medium-carrying area after elastic deformation. A mounting shaft, which extends along a direction intersecting the first side, is used to mount the low-friction sheet. The low-friction sheet is mounted on the mounting shaft via the mounting part. The mounting portion is elastically deformable and has an opening for engaging with the mounting shaft. The mounting shaft has a fitting portion for the mounting part to engage.

16. The medium placement device as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, As the low-friction sheet undergoes elastic deformation, the mounting portion deforms by receiving force from the low-friction sheet in a manner that reduces the curvature of the low-friction sheet.

17. A media processing apparatus, characterized in that, have: The medium carrier device according to claim 14; The processing unit processes the medium placed on the mounting unit.

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