Sheet processing apparatus, image forming system, and program product

Abstract

The present invention relates to a sheet processing apparatus, an image forming system, and a program product, in a medium processing apparatus capable of inserting a bundle of sheets from a discharge port to perform manual stapling, the easiness of inserting the bundle of sheets from the discharge port is improved. The sheet processing apparatus includes: a temporary stack loading unit that temporarily stacks a plurality of sheets; a sheet processing unit that performs a prescribed processing on a bundle of sheets constituted by the plurality of sheets stacked on the temporary stack loading unit; a discharge unit constituted by a pair of rotating bodies that discharge the bundle of sheets; and a guide member that is movable between a first position that is a position higher than an upper surface of a lower rotating body among the rotating bodies and a second position that is a position lower than the upper surface of the lower rotating body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to sheet processing apparatus, image forming system, and program products. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, sheet handling devices are known to perform a process of inserting and binding paper bundles through an opening, known as "manual binding (manual stitching) processing." For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method in which the paper feed tray is positioned higher than the processing tray when inserting the paper. When the paper bundle inserted from the paper feed opening for manual binding is made of thin paper or other low-rigidity paper, there is a problem that the paper bundle inserted from the paper feed opening droops before reaching the binding processing section and enters the gap between the paper feed roller and the paper feed tray.

[0003] In the structure of Patent Document 1, if the paper bundle manually inserted from the paper outlet is made of paper with low rigidity, the paper bundle inserted from the paper outlet will droop before reaching the binding processing section and may enter the gap between the paper outlet roller and the paper outlet tray.

[0004] The present invention provides a media processing apparatus that improves the ease of inserting a paper bundle from the discharge port for manual binding in a media processing apparatus that can insert a paper bundle from the discharge port.

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-018943 Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the aforementioned technical problems, one aspect of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a temporary stacking unit that temporarily stacks a plurality of sheets; a sheet processing unit that performs a prescribed processing on a sheet bundle consisting of the plurality of sheets stacked on the temporary stacking unit; a discharge unit consisting of a pair of rotating bodies that discharge the sheet bundle; and a guide member movable between a first position and a second position, the first position being a position higher than the upper surface of the lower rotating body, and the second position being a position lower than the upper surface of the lower rotating body.

[0007] According to the present invention, in a media handling apparatus capable of manually binding by inserting a bundle of paper from the discharge port, the ease of inserting the bundle of paper from the discharge port is improved. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of an image forming system according to the present invention.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating another example of the internal structure of an image forming system according to the present invention.

[0010] Figure 3This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of an image forming system according to the present invention.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating another example of the hardware structure of the image forming system according to the present invention.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of a sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0013] Figure 6 (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating the steps of operation of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0014] Figure 7 (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating the steps of operation of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the steps of operation of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0016] Figure 9 (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating the steps of operation of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0017] Figure 10 (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating the steps of operation of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a diagram used to illustrate a conventional problem as a comparative example of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a diagram used to illustrate a conventional problem as a comparative example of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0020] Figure 13 Figures (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating a first embodiment of a guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0021] Figure 14 Figures (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating a first embodiment of a guide member in an embodiment of a sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating a first embodiment of a guide member in an embodiment of a sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0023] Figure 16 Figures (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating a second embodiment of the guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0024] Figure 17This is a diagram illustrating a second embodiment of the guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0025] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating the lifting mechanism of the aforementioned guide component.

[0026] Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating the lifting mechanism of the aforementioned guide component.

[0027] Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating the lifting mechanism of the aforementioned guide component.

[0028] Figure 21 This is a diagram illustrating the lifting mechanism of the aforementioned guide component.

[0029] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating the lifting and lowering action of the aforementioned guide component.

[0030] Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating the lifting and lowering action of the aforementioned guide component.

[0031] Figure 24 (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating the lifting and lowering action of the aforementioned guide components.

[0032] Figure 25 (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating the manual binding process in the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0033] Figure 26 This is a diagram illustrating the manual binding process in the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0034] Figure 27 Figures (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating a third embodiment of the guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0035] Figure 28 Figures (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating a fourth embodiment of the guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0036] Figure 29 Figures (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating a fourth embodiment of the guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0037] Figure 30 This is a diagram illustrating a fifth embodiment of the guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0038] Figure 31 This is a diagram illustrating a fifth embodiment of the guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0039] Figure 32 This is a diagram illustrating a fifth embodiment of the guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0040] Figure 33 This is a figure illustrating a sixth embodiment of the guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0041] Figure 34 This is a figure illustrating a sixth embodiment of the guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0042] Figure 35 Figures (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating a seventh embodiment of a guide member in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0043] Figure 36 The diagram shown is an example of the processing of an executable program in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0044] Figure 37 The diagram shown is an example of the processing of an executable program in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0045] Figure 38 The diagram shown is another example of the processing of an executable program in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0046] Figure 39 The diagram shown is another example of the processing of an executable program in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0047] Figure 40 The diagram shown is another example of the processing of an executable program in an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Hereinafter, embodiments of the sheet processing apparatus, image forming system, and program of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] [First Embodiment of the Image Forming System]

[0050] Figure 1 This is an illustrative diagram of the internal structure of an image forming system 300, which is an embodiment of the image forming system according to the present invention. Figure 1 As shown, the image forming system 300 of this embodiment has a post-processing device 30 detachably mounted in the internal space W of the image forming apparatus 100. The post-processing device 30 corresponds to an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus of the present invention. As a sheet processing apparatus, the post-processing device 30 is an example of a device that has functions such as binding processing functions, which are performed after the image forming function, as described later.

[0051] The internal space W is the space provided between the original document reading device 102 and the image forming unit 115, and it is the space where the sheet P (printed sheet P) discharged from the image forming device 100 can be discharged. In addition, the internal space W is also the space where the discharged sheet P can be removed. That is, in the state where the post-processing device 30 is not provided, the internal space W functions as a space (discharge section) for stacking the sheet P discharged from the image forming device 100.

[0052] In the image forming system 300, the image forming apparatus 100 is the part other than the post-processing apparatus 30. The image forming apparatus 100 mainly consists of an image forming unit 115, a main body supply tray 112, a fixing unit 120, a document transport device 110, and a document loading device 102. An operation display panel 149 (operation display unit) for displaying various information in the image forming system 300 or inputting various commands is provided in the outer casing of the image forming apparatus 100 (image forming system 300).

[0053] The post-processing unit 30, which serves as a sheet processing apparatus, includes a crimping unit 42 with needleless binding function, a needle binding unit 43 with needle binding function, an internal tray 37 as a sheet stacking means, a striking roller 38, a second discharge tray 32 as a sheet bundle stacking means for stacking sheet bundles PT and as one of the discharge trays, and multiple transport roller pairs 33-36. Here, the post-processing unit 30 is positioned downstream of the image forming apparatus 100 in the transport direction (the transport direction of the sheet P). The post-processing unit 30 is capable of performing binding processing on multiple printed sheets P discharged from the image forming apparatus 100.

[0054] Furthermore, in the structure provided in the post-processing device 30, the crimping and binding section 42 and the pin binding section 43 are equivalent to sheet processing means that perform binding processing as a prescribed process on a sheet bundle PT composed of multiple sheets P stacked on the inner tray 37. The inner tray 37 is equivalent to a temporary stacking means for temporarily stacking multiple sheets P. The conveyor roller pair 36 is equivalent to a discharge means that discharges the sheet bundle PT stacked on the inner tray 37 and whose ends have been bound.

[0055] Below, in Figure 1 The image forming operation (printing operation) in the image forming apparatus 100 of the image forming system 300 will be described below. In the image forming apparatus 100, the original document D is transported (supplied) from the original document table in the direction of the arrow in the figure by the transport roller of the original document transport device 110, and passes above the original document reading device 102. At this time, the image information of the original document D passing above it is optically read in the original document reading device 102.

[0056] Then, the optical image information read by the original document reading device 102 is converted into electrical signals and sent to the writing device 103. Then, starting from the writing device 103, lasers based on the image information of its electrical signals are emitted to the photosensitive drums 105Y, 105M, 105C, and 105K corresponding to the colors Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black) to perform the exposure process.

[0057] Then, charging, exposure, and development processes are performed on the photosensitive drums 105Y, 105M, 105C, and 105K of each imaging unit 104Y, 104M, 104C, and 104K, thereby forming the desired images on the photosensitive drums 105Y, 105M, 105C, and 105K respectively.

[0058] Then, the images formed on the photosensitive drums 105Y, 105M, 105C, and 105K are overlaid as color images onto the intermediate transfer belt 178. Furthermore, the color images formed on the intermediate transfer belt 178 are transferred at a position opposite to the secondary transfer rollers 189 onto the sheet P supplied and conveyed from the main supply tray 112 (second supply section) by the feed roller 197.

[0059] Then, the sheet P with the transferred color image is conveyed to the fixing unit 120. The color image transferred onto the surface is then fixed onto the sheet P.

[0060] Subsequently, based on the user's selection of the printing mode, the sheet P is discharged from the image forming apparatus 100 via the first discharge conveyor roller pair 131 and sent to the post-processing apparatus 30, or discharged from the image forming apparatus 100 via the second discharge conveyor roller pair 132 and stacked on the discharge tray 135. In the case of double-sided printing, after the sheet P is discharged from the image forming apparatus 100 to the discharge tray 135 via the second discharge conveyor roller pair 132, it is rotated back to the flipping path 136 by the reverse rotation of the second discharge conveyor roller pair 132 and conveyed. Then, the sheet P, after being flipped, is conveyed to the position opposite to the secondary transfer roller 189 and the intermediate transfer belt 178, and an image is formed on the back side.

[0061] In the following description, this embodiment assumes that a post-processing device 30 is connected (installed) within the internal space W of the image forming apparatus 100. Furthermore, the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 in the image forming system 300 of this embodiment is pre-selected by the user to transport the sheet P discharged from the image forming apparatus 100 to the post-processing device 30 and perform post-processing on the transported sheet P.

[0062] When "Classification Mode (Classification Processing Mode)" is selected, sheet P is configured to be able to operate in the width direction ( Figure 1 The conveyor rollers 36, which move vertically on the paper surface, are conveyed while each sheet P is shifted a predetermined amount in the width direction and stacked sequentially on the second discharge tray 32.

[0063] When the "binding processing mode (binding mode)" is selected, the sheet P conveyed by the conveyor roller pairs 33, 34, and 35 is not discharged through the conveyor roller pair 36, but is instead stacked sequentially on the inner tray 37. At this time, whenever sheet P is placed on the inner tray 37, the striking roller 38 and return roller 39 positioned above it move from their standby positions to positions abutting against sheet P (the uppermost sheet P in the sheet bundle PT), and are respectively... Figure 1 The drive rotates counterclockwise. This action causes the top sheet P, placed on the inner tray 37, to move towards the bottom baffles 40L and 40R (see reference). Figure 5 During conveying (movement), the rear ends (rear ends in the conveying direction) of multiple sheets P (sheet bundle PT) abut against the bottom baffles 40L and 40R. As a result, the multiple sheets P placed on the internal tray 37 are aligned in the conveying direction.

[0064] At this time, the side baffles 41L and 41R (refer to) located at both ends of the inner tray 37 in the width direction, which serve as paper stacking baffles, are... Figure 5 Each time sheet P is placed on the inner tray 37, or after a desired number of sheets P are stacked, the sheet P (sheet bundle PT) is moved in the width direction in a clamping manner. Through this action, the width direction of the sheet bundle PT stacked on the inner tray 37 is aligned. Then, the rear end of the sheet bundle PT, which is aligned in the conveying direction and the width direction respectively, is subjected to the binding process performed by the crimping binding part 42 and the pin binding part 43.

[0065] Then, the sheet bundle PT, which has undergone binding, is rotated in the reverse direction by the return roller 39. Figure 1 (rotating clockwise), moving obliquely upward along the tray surface of the inner tray 37, and being discharged onto the second discharge tray 32 via the conveyor rollers 36.

[0066] [Second Embodiment of the Image Forming System]

[0067] Next, refer to Figure 2 A second embodiment of the image forming system 300 will be described. For example... Figure 2As shown, the image forming system 300 of this embodiment also has a post-processing device 30 with binding processing function detachably provided in the internal space W of the image forming apparatus 100. The main difference between the first embodiment and the second embodiment is that, in the post-processing device 30, in addition to the "sorting mode (sorting processing mode)" and "binding processing mode (binding mode)" in the prescribed processing performed on the sheet P discharged from the image forming apparatus 100, a "punching processing mode" can also be selected based on the user's selection.

[0068] The "classification mode (classification processing mode)" and "binding processing mode (binding mode)" in the image forming system 300 of the second embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, so detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0069] In the image forming system 300 of this embodiment, when the "punching processing mode" is selected, the sheet P conveyed by the first discharge conveyor roller pair 131 is detected by the lateral alignment detection device 211, which detects the end face of the conveyed sheet P, thereby detecting the position of the sheet in the width direction. Based on the detection result, the punching and piercing device 212 is moved along the width direction to align with the end face position of the sheet P. The conveying of the sheet P is stopped at the punching and piercing position, and a hole is punched by the punching pin 213 in the punching and piercing device 212. Punching debris from the punching and piercing process falls into the punching debris hopper 214 and is accumulated. After piercing, the sheet P is conveyed back to the first discharge conveyor roller pair 11.

[0070] In addition, the sheet P that has undergone punching can be further subjected to "classification mode (classification processing mode)" and "binding processing mode (binding mode)".

[0071] Additionally, in the following description, the image forming system 300, as... Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the description is based on an image forming system of electrophotography, but the image forming apparatus 100 may also be an inkjet image forming apparatus.

[0072] [Hardware structure of the image forming system 300]

[0073] Figure 3 This is an example of the hardware structure diagram of an image forming system 300. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the image forming system 300 includes, for example, an image forming controller 150 (image forming control unit) that controls the operation of the main body of the image forming apparatus 100 and a post-processing controller 160 (post-processing control unit) that controls the operation of the post-processing apparatus 30. The image forming controller 150 and the post-processing controller 160 cooperate to control the operation of the image forming system 300.

[0074] The image forming controller 150 and the post-processing controller 160 include, for example, CPUs (Central Processing Units) 151 and 161 and memories 152 and 162. Memories 152 and 162 are, for example, composed of ROM (Read-Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or combinations thereof. The image forming controller 150 and the post-processing controller 160 implement the processing described later by the CPUs 151 and 161 reading and executing program code stored in memories 152 and 162. The program code stored in memories 152 and 162, or the program code stored in memory 162, corresponds to the program involved in this invention. Embodiments of the program of this invention will be described later.

[0075] The specific configuration of the image forming controller 150 and the post-processing controller 160 is not limited to this, and they can also be implemented by hardware such as ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array).

[0076] The image forming controller 150 controls the operation of the main components of the image forming apparatus 100 (e.g., feed roller 197, image forming unit 115, fixing unit 120, first discharge conveyor roller pair 131, second discharge conveyor roller pair 132, operation display panel 149) via an internal IF 153.

[0077] The post-processing controller 160 controls the components of the post-processing unit 30 via its internal IF163, such as the conveyor roller pairs 33-36, the striking roller 38, the return roller 9, the bottom baffles 40L and 40R, the side baffles 41L and 41R, the crimping and binding unit 42, the needle binding unit 43, the position sensors 53, 54, 60L, 60R, and 79, the rotation sensor 71, the rotary encoders 47a, 50a, 56a, 58a, 59La, 59Ra, 69a, and 73a, and the pallet lifting motor 641. It also controls the operation of the sheet surface detection sensor 646 and the manual binding detection sensor 649 for the paper tray. Furthermore, in... Figure 13 The diagram only shows the main motor and sensor of the present invention, but each component is driven by the motor (drive source) and the state of motion (position, posture) is detected by the sensor.

[0078] The operation display panel 149 includes an input unit for receiving input from the user and a display (notification unit) for notifying the user of information. The input unit may include, for example, hard keys or a touch panel superimposed on the display. Furthermore, the operation display panel 149 obtains information from the operator through the input unit and provides the information to the operator through the display. Additionally, the specific example of the notification unit is not limited to a display; it may also be an LED light or a speaker.

[0079] Rotary encoders 47a, 50a, 56a, 58a, 59La, 59Ra, 69a, and 73a detect the drive amount (rotation amount) of the main scanning motors 47 and 50, rotary motors 56 and 58, baffle motors 59L and 59R, rotary motor 69, and sliding motor 73. More specifically, as the main scanning motors 47 and 50, rotary motors 56 and 58, baffle motors 59L and 59R, rotary motor 69, and sliding motor 73 rotate, the rotary encoders 47a, 50a, 56a, 58a, 59La, 59Ra, 69a, and 73a output pulse signals to the post-processing controller 160. Then, the post-processing controller 160 counts the pulse signals output from the rotary encoders 47a, 50a, 56a, 58a, 59La, 59Ra, 69a, and 73a, and is able to control the driving quantity of the main scanning motors 47 and 50, the rotary motors 56 and 58, the baffle motors 59L and 59R, the rotary motor 69, and the sliding motor 73.

[0080] The post-processing controller 160 can determine the current position of the crimping and binding part 42 in the main scanning direction by combining the detection results of the position sensor 53 and the rotary encoder 47a. That is, the position sensor 53 and the rotary encoder 47a can also be combined as a position sensor to detect the position of the crimping and binding part 42 in the main scanning direction. Similarly, the post-processing controller 160 can determine the current position of the needle binding part 43 in the main scanning direction by combining the detection results of the position sensor 54 and the rotary encoder 50a. That is, the position sensor 54 and the rotary encoder 50a can also be combined as a position sensor to detect the position of the needle binding part 43 in the main scanning direction.

[0081] The post-processing controller 160 can determine the current position of the side baffles 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction by combining the detection results of position sensors 60L and 60R and rotary encoders 59La and 59Ra. That is, the position sensors 60L and 60R and the rotary encoders 59La and 59Ra can also be combined as position sensors to detect the position of the side baffles 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction.

[0082] The post-processing controller 160 can determine the amount of rotation of the conveyor roller pair 35 in the circumferential direction by combining the detection results of the rotary sensor 71 and the rotary encoder 69a. That is, the rotary sensor 71 and the rotary encoder 69a can also be combined as a rotary sensor to detect the amount of rotation of the conveyor roller pair 35 in the circumferential direction.

[0083] The post-processing controller 160 can determine the current position of the conveyor roller pair 35 in the main scanning direction by combining the detection results of the position sensor 79 and the rotary encoder 73a. That is, the position sensor 79 and the rotary encoder 73a can also be combined as a position sensor to detect the position of the conveyor roller pair 35 in the main scanning direction.

[0084] The post-processing controller 160 uses the detection results of the sheet surface detection sensor 646 and the paper tray manual binding detection sensor 649 to drive the tray lifting motor 641 and control the lifting action of the second discharge tray 32. In addition, the post-processing controller 160 combines the detection results of the sheet surface detection sensor 646 and the paper tray manual binding detection sensor 649 to change the position of the post-processing guide 60 and the sliding guide 602.

[0085] Furthermore, the image forming controller 150 and the post-processing controller 160 are communicatively connected to each other via external IF 154 and 164. Based on the information transmitted and received via the external IF 154 and 164, the image forming controller 150 and the post-processing controller 160 collaboratively control the operation of each component.

[0086] Figure 4 This is another example of the hardware structure diagram of the image forming system 300. Figure 4 and Figure 3 The difference lies in the omission of the post-processing controller 160 of the post-processing unit 30; other aspects are the same. Figure 13 same. Figure 4 The image forming controller 150 shown controls the operation of the constituent elements of the main body of the image forming apparatus 100 via an internal IF 153, and controls the operation of the constituent elements of the post-processing apparatus 30 via external IFs 154 and 164 and an internal IF 163. That is, Figure 4 The post-processing device 30 shown operates under the control of the image forming controller 150 mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0087] [Structure of post-processing device 30]

[0088] Figure 5 The diagram shown is a top view of the internal structure of the post-processing apparatus 30 according to the first embodiment. The post-processing apparatus 30 performs a binding process (post-processing) that bundles and binds multiple sheets P (sheet bundles PT) on which images are formed by the image forming unit 115. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the post-processing device 30 includes a device housing 31, a second discharge tray 32, multiple conveyor roller pairs 33, 34, 35, 36 (conveying sections), an inner tray 37 (stacked section), a striking roller 38, a return roller 39 (second conveying section), bottom baffles 40L, 40R (conveyor direction alignment sections), side baffles 41L, 41R (main scanning direction alignment sections), a crimping and binding section 42, and a needle binding section 43.

[0089] In this specification, the direction along the conveying path Ph1 toward the second discharge tray 32 is designated as the "first conveying direction," and the direction along the upper surface of the inner tray 37 toward the bottom baffles 40L and 40R is designated as the "second conveying direction." That is, the first conveying direction and the second conveying direction are different directions. More specifically, the first conveying direction and the second conveying direction are different directions on the same plane (a plane orthogonal to the width direction of the sheet P). Furthermore, the direction orthogonal to the first conveying direction, the second conveying direction, and the thickness direction of the sheet P supported on the inner tray 37 (i.e., the width direction of the sheet P) is designated as the "main scanning direction."

[0090] The device housing 31 is box-shaped, forming an internal space for housing the components of the post-processing device 30. Furthermore, a transport path Ph1 is formed within the internal space of the device housing 31 for the sheet P to pass through. A second discharge tray 32 is supported on the outer side of the device housing 31. The second discharge tray 32 stacks the sheet P or sheet bundle PT conveyed by the transport rollers 33-36.

[0091] Conveyor roller pairs 33-36 are arranged at predetermined intervals along the conveyor path Ph1. Conveyor roller pairs 33-36 convey sheet P along the conveyor path Ph1. Conveyor roller pair 33 consists of a drive roller 33a and a driven roller 33b arranged facing each other, sandwiching the conveyor path Ph1. The drive roller 33a and driven roller 33b are rotatably supported by the device housing 31. The rotational driving force of the conveyor motor is transmitted to the drive roller 33a to move sheet P in the conveying direction (…). Figure 2 The driven roller 33b, which clamps the conveying path Ph1, is configured to face the drive roller 33a and is driven by the rotation of the drive roller 33a. Then, with the drive roller 33a and the driven roller 33b clamping the sheet P, the sheet P is conveyed along the conveying path Ph1 by driving the conveying motor.

[0092] The basic configuration of conveyor roller pairs 34 to 36 is the same as that of conveyor roller pair 33. However, the conveyor roller pair 36, which is a conveyor roller, consists of a discharge drive roller 36a constituting the paper discharge section and a discharge driven roller 36b that can contact and separate from the discharge drive roller 36a. In addition, the conveyor roller pair 35 (first conveyor section) is a so-called "shifting roller" that is configured to slide in the width direction in order to realize the sorting process of discharging the sheet P staggered in the width direction to the discharge tray 32.

[0093] The inner tray 37 temporarily supports (stacks) multiple sheets P conveyed by the conveyor roller pair 36. A striking roller 38 is supported above the inner tray 37 at the front end of a rotating arm. The striking roller 38 feeds the sheets P to the inner tray 37 by rotating the rotating arm. The return roller 39 guides the sheets P towards the conveyor roller pair 36 by abutting against and rotating the upper surface of the sheets P supported by the inner tray 37.

[0094] Bottom baffles 40L and 40R abut against the downstream ends of the sheet P supported by the inner tray 37 in the first conveying direction, aligning the sheet P in the conveying direction. Side baffles 41L and 41R abut against both ends of the sheet P supported by the inner tray 37, aligning the sheet P in the main scanning direction. More specifically, the side baffles 41L and 41R are connected to baffle motors 59L and 59R (see reference). Figure 3 Driven by the force of the main scanning direction, it can move independently.

[0095] In addition, the post-processing unit 30 is equipped with position sensors 60L and 60R (see reference). Figure 3 Position sensors 60L and 60R detect the standby positions of side baffles 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction. The standby position is, for example, the position furthest from the main scanning direction (in other words, larger than the maximum width of the sheet P that can be stacked on the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction). Position sensors 60L and 60R output position signals to the post-processing controller 160 when the side baffles 41L and 41R are in the standby position, and stop outputting position signals when the side baffles 41L and 41R are in a position different from the standby position. The specific configuration of position sensors 53 and 54 is not particularly limited; for example, mechanical sensors, optical sensors, magnetic sensors, etc., can be used. The same applies to other sensors.

[0096] The crimping and binding section 42 and the needle binding section 43 (binding section) are disposed at the downstream end of the sheet bundle PT supported by the inner tray 37 in the second transport direction. Furthermore, the crimping and binding section 42 and the needle binding section 43 are configured to move independently in the main scanning direction along the sheet bundle PT supported by the inner tray 37. Additionally, the crimping and binding section 42 and the needle binding section 43 are configured to rotate independently about rotation axes 55 and 57 extending along the thickness direction of the sheet P supported by the inner tray 37. The crimping and binding section 42 is, for example, a crimping and binding section that binds the sheet bundle PT by pressing and deforming it. The needle binding section 43 is, for example, a needle binding section that binds the sheet bundle PT by passing a binding needle through it. However, the post-processing apparatus 30 may have only one of the crimping and binding sections 42 and 43, or it may have both.

[0097] The crimping and binding unit 42 is configured to move in the main scanning direction via the main scanning motor 47, drive pulley 48a, driven pulley 48b, and seamless annular belts 49a and 49b. The main scanning motor 47 generates a driving force for moving the crimping and binding unit 42 in the main scanning direction. The drive pulley 48a and driven pulley 48b are supported by the device housing 31 at their separated positions in the main scanning direction, allowing them to rotate. The seamless annular belt 49a is mounted on the output shaft of the main scanning motor 47 and the drive pulley 48a. The seamless annular belt 49b is mounted on the drive pulley 48a and the driven pulley 48b. Furthermore, the crimping and binding unit 42 is mounted on the seamless annular belt 49b.

[0098] The driving force of the main scanning motor 47 is transmitted to the drive pulley 48a via the seamless annular belt 49a. The seamless annular belt 49b rotates around the drive pulley 48a and the driven pulley 48b as the drive pulley 48a rotates. As a result, the crimping and binding part 42 mounted on the seamless annular belt 49b moves in the main scanning direction. The drive pulley 48a, the driven pulley 48b, and the seamless annular belts 49a and 49b are an example of a driving force transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force of the main scanning motor 47 to the crimping and binding part 42. However, the specific configuration of the driving force transmission mechanism is not limited to the example described above.

[0099] The needle-attachment unit 43 is configured to move in the main scanning direction via the main scanning motor 50, drive pulley 51a, driven pulley 51b, and seamless annular belts 52a and 52b. The main scanning motor 50 generates a driving force for moving the needle-attachment unit 43 in the main scanning direction. The drive pulley 51a and driven pulley 51b are rotatably supported on the device housing 31 at positions separated in the main scanning direction. The seamless annular belt 52a is mounted on the output shaft of the main scanning motor 50 and the drive pulley 51a. The seamless annular belt 52b is mounted on the drive pulley 51a and the driven pulley 51b. Furthermore, the needle-attachment unit 43 is mounted on the seamless annular belt 52b.

[0100] The driving force of the main scanning motor 50 is transmitted to the drive pulley 51a via a seamless annular belt 52a. The seamless annular belt 52b rotates around the drive pulley 51a and the driven pulley 51b as the drive pulley 51a rotates. Consequently, the needle attachment part 43 mounted on the seamless annular belt 52b moves in the main scanning direction. The drive pulley 51a, the driven pulley 51b, and the seamless annular belts 52a and 52b are an example of a driving force transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force of the main scanning motor 50 to the needle attachment part 43. However, the specific configuration of the driving force transmission mechanism is not limited to the example described above.

[0101] The post-processing apparatus 30 includes position sensors 53 and 54. Position sensors 53 and 54 detect the positions of the crimping and binding units 42 and 43 in the main scanning direction. For example, when the crimping and binding units 42 and 43, which are sheet processing units, are arranged in a predetermined position (original position) in the main scanning direction, the position sensors 53 and 54 output position signals to the post-processing controller 160, and stop outputting position signals when the crimping and binding units 42 and 43 are arranged in a position different from the original position.

[0102] The crimping and binding part 42 is supported on the device housing 31 in a manner that allows it to rotate about a rotation axis 55, which extends along the thickness direction of the sheet P supported on the inner tray 37. Furthermore, the crimping and binding part 42 is connected by a rotation motor 56 (see reference 56). Figure 3 The driving force transmitted from the motor rotates between parallel binding and tilted binding positions. Similarly, by rotating motor 58 (see reference...) Figure 13 The driving force is transmitted, and the needle-binding part 43 rotates about the rotating shaft 57, which extends in the thickness direction of the sheet P supported on the inner tray 37.

[0103] [Basic Operation of Post-processing Unit 30]

[0104] Next, refer to Figures 6-9 The binding process involved in this embodiment will be described. Figure 6 The diagram shows the state of the post-processing unit 30 up to the point where sheet P reaches the conveyor roller pair 36. Figure 7 The diagram shows the state of the post-processing device 30 that performs the binding process. Figure 8 This is observed from the thickness direction of sheet P. Figure 7 The diagram of the post-processing device 30 in (B) is shown. Figure 9 The diagram shows the state of the binding processing apparatus 30 when the post-processed sheet PT is discharged into the second discharge tray 32.

[0105] like Figure 6 (A) Figure 6As shown in (B), the binding processing apparatus 30 transports the sheet P supplied from the image forming unit 115 along the transport path Ph1 by rotating the transport roller pair 33-35 clockwise. At this time, the transport roller pair 36 is in a state where the discharge drive roller 36a and the discharge driven roller 36b are separated. In addition, the transport roller pair 36 is composed of a pair of rotating bodies (rollers). That is, the transport roller pair 36 is composed of the discharge drive roller 36a that constitutes the paper discharge unit (discharge mechanism) and the discharge driven roller 36b that can contact and separate from the discharge drive roller 36a. The discharge drive roller 36a, as a rotating body, is arranged opposite to the lower part, and therefore corresponds to the lower rotating body. In addition, the discharge driven roller 36b, as another rotating body, is arranged opposite to the upper part, and therefore corresponds to the upper rotating body.

[0106] Next, as Figure 7 As shown in (A), the post-processing unit 30 causes the sheet P, after passing through the conveyor roller pair 35, to fall onto the inner tray 37. Then, as... Figure 7 As shown in (B), the sheet P is contained in the inner tray 37 by abutting and rotating the tapping roller 38 against the sheet P on the inner tray 37.

[0107] Next, as Figure 8 As shown, the sheet P collected on the inner tray 37 is conveyed by the tapping roller 38 until its downstream end in the second conveying direction abuts against the bottom baffles 40L and 40R, and the position in the conveying direction (the end of the sheet P) is aligned by the bottom baffles 40L and 40R. Furthermore, the post-processing unit 30 aligns the position of the sheet P housed in the inner tray 37 in the main scanning direction (so-called alignment) by moving the side baffles 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction. Moreover, the post-processing unit 30 repeats this process... Figures 6-8 The process shown forms a sheet bundle PT on the inner tray 37.

[0108] Next, as Figure 9 As shown in (A), the post-processing device 30, based on the condition that a predetermined number of sheets P are stacked on the inner tray 37, aligns the crimping and binding section 42 or the pin-binding section 43 with the binding position of the sheet bundle PT. Furthermore, the post-processing device 30 crimps and binds the sheet bundle PT supported on the inner tray 37 by driving the crimping and binding section 42 or the pin-binding section 43. Furthermore, as... Figure 9 As shown in (B), the post-processing device 30 reverses the conveyor motor, causing the conveyor roller pair 36 to discharge the sheet bundle PT into the second discharge tray 32, which serves as a means of stacking the sheet bundle.

[0109] The following describes the "manual binding process" that can be performed in the post-processing device 30. Figure 10(A) is a diagram showing the situation when the user manually inserts the sheet bundle PT from the discharge port of the post-processing device 30, which is equipped with a pair of conveying rollers 36 as a discharge means, from the side view of the post-processing device 30. Figure 10 Figure (B) shows the situation when the user manually inserts the sheet bundle PT from the discharge port of the post-processing unit 30, viewed from the top surface. Through manual feeding, any number of sheet bundles PT can be manually placed into the internal tray 37 from the discharge port of the post-processing unit 30 in the direction of arrow S. During this manual feeding, the discharge driven roller 36b, which constitutes the conveyor roller pair 36, is in the raised position. Therefore, the user inserts the sheet bundle PT into the gap (discharge port) between the discharge driven roller 36b and the discharge drive roller 36a.

[0110] After placing the sheet bundle PT into the inner tray 37, that is, after the sheet bundle PT has entered from the outlet and been placed on the sheet placement surface of the inner tray 37, the user removes their hand from the sheet bundle PT and operates (presses) the manual binding mode button 23, or presses the button displayed on the operation display panel 149 (see reference). Figure 1 , Figure 2 The manual binding start screen is displayed. Through these operations, the sheet bundle PT can be automatically bound by the crimp binding section 42 or the pin binding section 43.

[0111] Figure 11 This is an example of an embodiment of the sheet processing apparatus of the present invention described later, excluding the characteristic structure and operation of the post-processing apparatus 30; that is, it is an example equivalent to a conventional example. Figure 11 This illustrates the topic of existing examples.

[0112] Figure 11 An example is shown where the second discharge tray 32 is moved to a raised position within the post-processing unit 30 located in the internal space W of the image forming apparatus 100. In this example, the opening 31a of the post-processing unit 30, corresponding to the discharge port of the sheet P or sheet bundle PT, is formed at a position downstream in the discharge direction from the conveyor roller pair 36. According to this structure, if the position of the conveyor roller pair 36 (discharge drive roller 36a) is too high, the opening 31a between the second discharge tray 32 for inserting the sheet bundle PT and the device housing 31 of the post-processing unit 30 (the inner surface of the aforementioned opening) becomes narrow, making it difficult to insert the sheet bundle PT manually.

[0113] Suppose that when a bundle of sheets PT consisting of thin sheets (so-called "thin paper") or other sheets with low rigidity is inserted into the opening 31a, such as... Figure 12 As shown, when the second discharge tray 32 is in the raised position, the vertical gap G between it and the conveyor roller pair 36 (discharge drive roller 36a) is (refer to) Figure 11The sheet bundle PT is relatively large, and its insertion front end is bent downwards under the influence of gravity. In this state, it enters from the sheet placement surface of the second discharge tray 32 onto the sheet placement surface of the inner tray 37. This state not only becomes an obstacle to entry, but also may be damaged if the sheet bundle PT enters the inner side of the inner tray 37.

[0114] Compared to the conventional structures described above, the post-processing apparatus 30 of this embodiment includes a guide member 60, which facilitates the entry of the sheet bundle PT during manual binding as illustrated above through the opening 31a, and also prevents damage to the sheet bundle PT. Hereinafter, an embodiment of the post-processing apparatus 30 equipped with the guide member 60 will be described.

[0115] [First Embodiment]

[0116] Next, refer to Figures 13 to 16 A first embodiment of the post-processing apparatus 30 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 13 (A) illustrates the construction of the guide member 60 for protecting the conveyor roller pair 36 (discharge drive roller 36a). Figure 13 (B) is an enlarged view of a portion of the guide component 60. For example... Figure 13 As shown in (B), the guide member 60 is held in a predetermined position with the guide member shaft portion 60a rotatably held in the shaft fitting portion 371 of the inner tray 37. The guide member 60 is a component that covers the outer peripheral surface of the discharge drive roller 36a in order to suppress the collision or friction between the sheet bundle PT and the discharge drive roller 36a when the sheet bundle PT is inserted from the opening portion 31a.

[0117] Figure 14 The fixed position of the guide member 60 in the post-processing device 30 is illustrated. For example... Figure 14 As illustrated in (A), the guide member 60 is a structure designed to prevent the discharge drive roller 36a from contacting the sheet bundle PT when the sheet bundle PT is fed into the inner tray 37 and stacked. A guide member shaft portion 60a is provided at the front and rear of the guide member 60 (in the direction through the surface of the sheet P), and the guide member shaft portion 60a is rotatably fixed to the shaft fitting portion 67a of the inner tray 37.

[0118] Figure 14 (B) shows the "guide position" and "retreat position" of the guide member 60. When the sheet bundle PT is fed into the inner tray 37 and stacked, the upper surface of the guide member 60 is positioned relative to the upper surface of the discharge drive roller 36a. Figure 14The position of the dotted line B shown in (B) is above the position of the guide position. This position of the dotted line B is set as the first position as the guide position. On the other hand, except when the sheet bundle PT is inserted into the inner tray 37 and stacked, the upper surface of the guide member 60 is located below the upper surface of the discharge drive roller 36a (as the second position as the retraction position). Figure 14 (A) is a perspective view when the guide component 60 is in the second position.

[0119] Additionally, the front end of the guide member 60 in the second position is aligned with the side of the frame wall 31b of the discharge drive roller 36a. Figure 14 The position is maintained in such a way that it is on the same line as the position of the dotted line A shown in (B), or is located further inside (inside the post-processing device 30) than the extension line. That is, the front end of the guide member 60 in the second position is located further inside than the frame wall 31b, which corresponds to the downstream end of the sheet material discharge direction.

[0120] When in the second position, the front end of the guide member 60 abuts against the upper surface of the frame wall 31b, which contacts the rear end of the sheet P discharged to the second discharge tray 32, and the front end of the guide member 60 is housed within the roller diameter of the discharge drive roller 36a. In other words, when in the second position, the front end of the guide member 60 is housed within the width of the discharge drive roller 36a in the paper discharge direction. Thus, by moving the upper surface of the guide member 60 further upward than the upper surface of the discharge drive roller 36a (moving towards the first position), contact between the sheet and the discharge drive roller 36a can be suppressed. Furthermore, by moving the guide member 60 to the second position, interference between the guide member 60 and the sheet can be suppressed when the discharge drive roller 36a contacts the discharge driven roller 36b to discharge the sheet.

[0121] Furthermore, when the guide member 60 is in the second position, its front end is positioned at the same level as the side of the frame wall 31b of the discharge drive roller 36a, or at a position further inside the device than the discharge drive roller 36a. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the sheet placement surface of the second discharge tray 32 (the sheet stacking surface of the stacked sheet P and sheet bundle PT) from contacting the front end of the guide member 60 when the second discharge tray 32 is raised above the discharge drive roller 36a. Additionally, when the second discharge tray 32 is raised with the sheet P stacked, it is possible to prevent the upper surface of the sheet P from contacting the front end of the guide member 60.

[0122] On the other hand, when the guide member 60 is raised, when the user inserts the sheet bundle PT, even if the front end of the sheet bundle PT droops, it becomes a state in which the sheet bundle PT is guided to enter along the upper surface of the guide member 60, thus improving the manual operability of the sheet bundle PT.

[0123] [Second Embodiment]

[0124] Next, a second embodiment of the post-processing apparatus 30 of this embodiment will be described. For example... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, in the second embodiment, a Mylar (plastic sheet) 61 made of flexible sheet is provided at the downstream end of the sheet P in the discharge direction in the inner tray 37. The Mylar 61 is configured to contact the sheet P when the sheet P discharged from the image forming apparatus 100 is conveyed to the inner tray 37 via a pair of conveyor rollers 35, which serve as shift conveyor rollers. Figure 16 As shown in (A), the front end of the Myra 61 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the inner tray 37 (the placement surface where the sheet P is placed). With the Myra 61, the contact resistance of the sheet P to the discharge drive roller 36a when the sheet P conveyed to the inner tray 37 is turned back by the tapping roller 38 and the return roller 39 can be reduced, thus reducing the conveying load during the turnaround conveying.

[0125] When the operation of the post-processing device 30 is set to "binding processing mode (binding mode)", the front end of the Myra 61 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the inner tray 37, and the guide member 60 is in the same retracted position as in the first embodiment.

[0126] like Figure 17 As shown, a guide member groove 60b is formed on the upper surface of the guide member 60, which serves as a recess for the Myra 61 to enter. Since the front end of the Myra 61 is housed in the guide member groove 60b when the guide member 60 rises, the front end of the Myra 61 does not protrude from the upper surface of the guide member 60 when the guide member 60 rises.

[0127] When the guide member 60 is raised and the sheet bundle PT is inserted from the opening 31a side, the front end of the sheet bundle PT can enter while contacting the upper surface of the guide member 60 and the upper surface of the Mylar 61, without contacting the discharge drive roller 36a. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the front end of the sheet bundle PT from being difficult to insert due to the impact of the front end of the Mylar 61.

[0128] In the second embodiment, while Mylar 61 functions as a rotating conveyor, Mylar 61 enters the groove of guide member 60 (guide member groove 60b) when guide member 60 rises via the recess of guide member 60, thereby eliminating steps and allowing sheet P to be easily manually inserted from opening 31a.

[0129] Figures 18 to 26 This is a diagram illustrating the method and structure of moving the guide component 60 in the first and second embodiments. Figure 18The diagram shows the drive unit that moves the second discharge tray 32. The second discharge tray 32 is moved by... Figure 18 The drive unit shown rises or falls. (Example) Figure 18 As shown, the second discharge tray 32 is connected to the tray lifting belt 642 via the tray lifting belt connecting component 644. In order to raise the second discharge tray 32, the tray lifting motor 641 is moved along... Figure 18 The pallet lifting belt 642 and pallet lifting pulley 643 rotate clockwise, causing the second discharge pallet 32 ​​to rise. Additionally, to lower the second discharge pallet 32, the pallet lifting motor 641 rotates clockwise. Figure 18 As the trays rotate counterclockwise, the pallet lifting belt 642 and the pallet lifting pulley 643 also rotate counterclockwise, causing the second discharge pallet 32 ​​to descend.

[0130] Figure 19 The diagram shows the initial position of the second discharge tray 32. The tray lifting detection component 645 is supported so that it can rotate about the detection component rotation axis 647 and is always pressed against the frame wall surface 31b by the tray pressing component 648. The tray lifting detection component 645 detects the position of the second discharge tray 32 by detecting the position of the second discharge tray 32 or the contact with the topmost sheet P stacked on the second discharge tray 32 by the sheet surface detection sensor 646.

[0131] Figure 20 This example illustrates a state where the sheet surface detection sensor 646 does not detect the position of the second discharge tray 32 or the topmost sheet P stacked on the second discharge tray 32. When the sheet surface detection sensor 646 does not detect the sheet, the tray lifting detection component 645 contacts the frame wall 31b. The second discharge tray 32 is raised to the position detected by the sheet surface detection sensor 646, or, if the sheet surface detection sensor 646 has already detected it, the second discharge tray 32 is lowered to a position where it is not detected by the sheet surface detection sensor 646, and then raised back to the position detected by the sheet surface detection sensor 646, thereby performing the initial action of returning the second discharge tray 32 to its initial position.

[0132] Figure 21 This is a diagram illustrating the manual binding detection sensor 649 for the paper tray. Figure 22This diagram illustrates the manual binding standby position of the second discharge tray 32. During manual binding, the manual binding mode is initiated by operating the manual binding mode button 23. After initiating the manual binding mode, the post-processing controller 160 rotates the tray lifting motor 641 and raises the tray lifting belt connecting member 644, which connects the tray lifting belt 642 and the second discharge tray 32. The tray lifting belt connecting member 644 has a protrusion, which raises the second discharge tray 32 until the manual binding detection sensor 649 detects the position of the protrusion. This tray stop position becomes the standby position before manual binding.

[0133] Figure 23 The diagram shows the position of the detection component when the second discharge tray 32 rises. When the second discharge tray 32 rises, the tray lifting detection component 645... Figure 23 As illustrated, it recedes to the inside of the frame wall 31b and abuts against the upstream surface of the tray.

[0134] Figure 24 The diagram shows the position of the guide member 60 when the second discharge tray 32 is raised by the stacking lifting drive. When the second discharge tray 32 is raised, the upper surface of the guide member 60 stops at a position higher than the downstream position of the inner tray 37. Similarly, the second discharge tray 32 also stops at a position higher than the downstream position of the inner tray 37.

[0135] Near the upstream end of the second discharge tray 32, where the guide member 60 contacts the second discharge tray 32, a step 32a is provided at a position lower than the sheet placement surface of the second discharge tray 32. As the second discharge tray 32 rises, the front end of the guide member 60 contacts the step 32a, thereby causing the guide member 60 to rotate upwards. Furthermore, the uppermost portion of the upper surface of the guide member 60, corresponding to the uppermost part when the guide member 60 is in the first position, is curved, creating a structure that prevents jamming when inserting the sheet.

[0136] Based on the structure described above, sheet P can be inserted along the second discharge tray 32 during manual binding. Furthermore, sheet P can be inserted along the curved surface of the guide member 60 without contacting the discharge drive roller 36a, making insertion easier.

[0137] Figure 25 (A) is a diagram of the post-processing device 30 viewed from the side when the sheet bundle PT is inserted. Figure 25 (B) is a view of the post-processing device 30 when the sheet bundle PT is inserted, viewed from above. After the second discharge tray 32 moves to a position higher than the conveyor roller pair 36 (discharge drive roller 36a), the operation display panel 149 (see reference) Figure 1The screen displays the guide for inserting sheet P.

[0138] Next, the user inserts a bundle of sheets PT of any number into the inner tray 37 through the opening 31a. At this time, the second discharge tray 32 is positioned higher than the discharge drive roller 36a, allowing the sheet bundle PT to be inserted along the second discharge tray 32. The leading edge of the sheet bundle PT is guided by the guide component, making insertion easy. After insertion, by pressing the manual binding mode button 23 or pressing the manual binding mode screen displayed on the operation display panel 149, the sheet P can be automatically bound using the crimp binding part 42 or the needle binding part 43.

[0139] Figure 26 The descent of the second discharge tray 32 after binding is illustrated. After the binding process, by pressing the manual binding mode button 23, or by pressing the manual binding mode button displayed on the operation display panel 149, the second discharge tray 32 descends via the tray lifting motor 641 until the sheet surface detection sensor 646 is OFF, and then rises to the detection position, as shown. Figure 19 The device returns to its initial position as shown. Alternatively, it can automatically descend after binding is complete without pressing the manual binding mode button 23. This automatic / manual switching can be set from the operation display panel 149. By lowering the second discharge tray 32, a space is created in the opening 31a, allowing the user to easily remove the sheet P.

[0140] [Third Embodiment]

[0141] Next, a third embodiment of the post-processing apparatus 30 of this embodiment will be described. For example... Figure 27 As shown, in this embodiment, a second guide member 601 is provided on the upstream side of the second discharge tray 32 to retract and extend in a manner that covers the upper surface of the discharge drive roller 36a. The second guide member 601 has a curved surface that guides the sheet bundle PT, one end of which is rotatably mounted on the second discharge tray 32, and the other end abuts against the upper surface of the inner tray 37. Alternatively, the other end may also have a recess formed in the inner tray 37 and be received within the recess. In the retracted position, similar to the embodiment described above, the second guide member 601 does not protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor roller pair 36.

[0142] As the second discharge tray 32 rises, it rotates around the second guide member rotation axis 72 of the second guide member 601, moving above the upper surface of the discharge drive roller 36a. This allows the sheet bundle PT to be inserted along the second guide member.

[0143] [Fourth Embodiment]

[0144] Next, a fourth embodiment of the post-processing apparatus 30 of this embodiment will be described. For example... Figure 28 As shown in (A), this can also be achieved using a guide lifting mechanism cam mechanism capable of lifting the guide member 60. Additionally, as... Figure 28 As shown in (B), the lifting and lowering of the guide component 60 can also be achieved through a gear mechanism driven by a motor. Figure 28 As shown in (A), another example of a lifting drive with an abutment portion 60c provided on the guide member 60 is illustrated. The guide member lifting motor 65, gear 68, cam 66, and L-shaped lifting member 67 are provided. Rotating the guide member lifting motor 65 rotates the cam 66, which in turn lifts the L-shaped lifting member 67. The L-shaped lifting member 67 abuts against the abutment portion 60c of the guide member, enabling it to rise and fall.

[0145] In addition, such as Figure 28 As shown in (B), a lifting component may not be used. For example, the guide component shaft 60a may be configured as a gear, and a guide component lifting motor 65 and a gear 68 may be provided, allowing the guide component to rotate directly. In this case, the lifting amount can be easily adjusted by the amount of rotation.

[0146] In addition, such as Figure 29 As shown, it can also be a mechanism that causes the sliding guide 602 to fly out from below the second discharge tray 32. The upper surface of the sliding guide 602 has a gear shape on the upstream side, and the sliding guide 602 can be moved in and out by rotating it using the guide member lifting motor 65. Figure 29 (A) indicates the retracted position of the sliding guide 602. Figure 29 The lower section (B) indicates the position of the sliding guide 602 when the sheet bundle PT is manually inserted.

[0147] In this embodiment, when in the retracted position, the sliding guide 602 does not protrude outward from the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor roller pair 36. This prevents collisions when the sheet bundle PT is discharged from the conveyor roller pair 36. On the other hand, when manually inserting the sheet bundle PT, since the sliding guide 602 is located above the outer peripheral surface of the conveyor roller pair 36, the sheet bundle PT can enter along the sliding guide 602 during insertion.

[0148] [Fifth Embodiment]

[0149] Next, a fifth embodiment of the post-processing apparatus 30 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 30 The diagram shows an example configuration of the guide member 60 when the number of discharge drive rollers 36a is four. Figure 30 In the middle, a guide component 60 is arranged between each discharge drive roller 36a. Figure 31This refers to the case where there are four discharge drive rollers 36a. It shows an example where the guide member 60 is not arranged in all the gaps between each discharge drive roller 36a, but rather the guide member 60 is arranged sparsely between the central discharge drive roller 36a and the discharge drive roller 36a. Figure 32 The example shown is in which guide members 60 are also arranged on the outer side of each discharge drive roller 36a on both outer sides that intersect with the discharge direction.

[0150] exist Figure 30 , Figure 31 , Figure 32 In any of the examples shown, the guide member 60 can be positioned between the rollers of the discharge drive roller 36a, thereby saving space in the post-processing device 30.

[0151] [Sixth Embodiment]

[0152] Next, a sixth embodiment of the guide member 60 that can be applied to the post-processing apparatus 30 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 33 The diagram shows an example of the configuration of the guide member 60 when there are two discharge drive rollers 36a. Figure 33 As shown, when there are two discharge drive rollers 36a, the guide member 60 can be disposed between the discharge drive rollers 36a, similar to the case with four. Furthermore, as... Figure 34 As shown, a guide component 60 can also be configured on the outside of the roller.

[0153] [Seventh Embodiment]

[0154] Next, a seventh embodiment of the post-processing apparatus 30 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 35 This diagram illustrates the operation of the second discharge tray 32 when sheet P is stacked on it. In this embodiment, a reflective paper tray paper detection sensor 62 is provided on the sheet placement surface of the second discharge tray 32.

[0155] The presence or absence of paper on the paper tray is detected by the paper tray presence / absence detection sensor 62. In the program executed in the post-processing controller 160, it is determined that sheet P or sheet bundle PT is stacked on the second discharge tray 32. At this time, the top sheet P of the sheet bundle PT stacked on the second discharge tray 32 is brought into contact with the tray lifting detection component 645, and the second discharge tray 32 is stopped at the detection position of the sheet surface detection sensor 646.

[0156] When the manual binding mode button 23 is pressed while sheet P (sheet bundle PT) is stacked and being discharged to the second discharge tray 32, the operation display panel 149 displays a message urging the user to remove the sheet bundle PT stacked on the second discharge tray 32. After the user removes the sheet bundle PT stacked on the second discharge tray 32 and the paper tray paper presence / absence detection sensor 62 no longer detects sheet P (sheet bundle PT), the post-processing controller 160 raises the second discharge tray 32 to the tray initial position.

[0157] [First example of an executable program in post-processing device 30]

[0158] Next, use Figure 36 The flowchart illustrates an example of manual binding processing that can be performed in the post-processing device 30. The manual binding processing in the post-processing device 30 described below is an example of processing implemented by using the hardware resources of the post-processing device 30 to execute software that can be executed in the post-processing controller 160.

[0159] First, such as Figure 36 As shown, the post-processing controller 160 determines whether the manual binding mode button 23 has been pressed (S3601). The process continues to loop until the manual binding mode button 23 is pressed (S3601: No). When the manual binding mode button 23 is detected to be pressed (S3601: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 then determines whether the paper tray paper presence / absence detection sensor 62 detects whether sheet P or sheet bundle PT is placed on the sheet placement surface of the second discharge tray 32 (S3602). In step S3602, when the paper tray paper presence / absence detection sensor 62 detects sheet P or sheet bundle PT (S3602: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 displays an instruction to the operation display panel 149 via the image forming controller 150 to notify the user of the "removal of sheet P or sheet bundle PT" stacked on the second discharge tray 32 (S3609). Continue the cycle of steps S3602 and S3609 until the paper tray does not detect sheet P or sheet bundle PT.

[0160] In step S3602, when the paper discharge tray does not detect sheet P or sheet bundle PT by the paper discharge sensor 62 (S3602: No), the post-processing controller 160 raises the second discharge tray 32 to the tray initial position (S3603).

[0161] Next, the sheet bundle PT, which is the object to be manually bound, is inserted through the opening 31a and set (S3604). Then, the post-processing controller 160 determines whether the manual binding mode button 23 has been pressed (S3605). The process loops until the manual binding mode button 23 is pressed (S3605: No). When the manual binding mode button 23 is detected to be pressed (S3605: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 then performs binding processing corresponding to the preset binding type (S3606). Furthermore, the binding processing that can be performed in step S3606 can be, for example, compression binding (needleless binding) or needle binding (with needle binding).

[0162] After the binding process is performed in step S3607, the post-processing controller 160 lowers the second discharge tray 32 to the position where the sheet surface detection sensor 646 is closed, and then raises it to the detection position (S3607, S3608).

[0163] [A second example of control processing that can be performed in the post-processing unit 30]

[0164] Next, use Figure 37 The flowchart illustrates other examples of manual binding processes that can be performed in the post-processing unit 30. Figure 37 The flowchart shown is the same as the flowchart of the first example already explained. Figure 36 In contrast, the processing involved in step S3702 is different. The following explanation mainly describes the differences, while the explanations of other parts are brief.

[0165] The post-processing controller 160 determines whether the manual binding mode button 23 has been pressed (S3701), and processes the loop until the manual binding mode button 23 is pressed (S3701: No). When the manual binding mode button 23 is detected to be pressed (S3701: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 determines whether an instruction to perform an image forming operation has been notified from the image forming apparatus 100 (which is a host device) to the post-processing device 30 via the image forming controller 150 (S3702). In step S3702, when it is determined that an instruction has been notified, the image forming apparatus 100 is forming an image. That is, when it is determined in step S3702 that the image forming apparatus 100 is forming an image (S3702: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 displays a notification on the operation display panel 149 via the image forming controller 150 that the manual binding process cannot be performed because "an image is being formed" (S3709). Then, the cycle of steps S3702 and S3709 continues until the image forming process is completed.

[0166] In step S3702, if no image forming process is performed (S3702: No), the post-processing controller 160 raises the second discharge tray 32 to the tray initial position (S3703). Subsequent processing is the same as steps S3603 to S3608 (S3703 to S3708).

[0167] [A third example of control processing that can be performed in the post-processing unit 30]

[0168] Next, use Figure 38 The flowchart illustrates other examples of manual binding processes that can be performed in the post-processing unit 30. Figure 39 The flowchart shown is the same as the flowchart involved in the first example already described. Figure 36 The same processing is included in one part, so the main difference will be explained, while the explanations of other parts will be brief.

[0169] like Figure 38 As shown, the post-processing controller 160 determines whether the manual binding mode button has been pressed (S3801). The process continues to loop until the manual binding mode button 23 is pressed (S3801: No). When the manual binding mode button 23 is detected to be pressed (S3801: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 then determines whether the paper tray paper presence / absence detection sensor 62 detects whether sheet P or sheet bundle PT is placed on the sheet placement surface of the second discharge tray 32 (S3802). In step S3802, when the paper tray paper presence / absence detection sensor 62 detects sheet P or sheet bundle PT (S3802: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 displays an instruction to the operation display panel 149 via the image forming controller 150 to notify the user of the "removal of sheet P or sheet bundle PT" stacked on the second discharge tray 32 (S3811). The processing of steps S3802 and S3811 is repeated until the paper tray does not detect sheet P or sheet bundle PT.

[0170] In step S3802, when the paper discharge tray does not detect sheet P or sheet bundle PT by the paper discharge sensor 62 (S3802: No), the post-processing controller 160 raises the second discharge tray 32 to the tray initial position (S3803).

[0171] Subsequently, the post-processing controller 160 raises the guide member lifting motor 65, the guide member 60, and the sliding guide 602 to the discharge drive roller 36a (S3804). Next, a bundle of sheet material PT, intended for manual binding, is inserted through the opening 31a and set (S3805). Then, the post-processing controller 160 determines whether the manual binding mode button 23 has been pressed (S3806). The process continues until the manual binding mode button 23 is pressed (S3806: No). When the manual binding mode button 23 is detected to be pressed (S3806: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 then performs binding processing corresponding to a preset binding type (S3807). Furthermore, the binding processing that can be performed in step S3807 can be, for example, compression binding (needleless binding) or needle binding (needle-stitched binding).

[0172] After the binding process is performed in step S3807, the post-processing controller 160 lowers the second discharge tray 32 (S3808). Alternatively, pressing the manual binding mode button 23 can trigger the lowering of the second discharge tray 32 in step S3807 (S3808).

[0173] Subsequently, the post-processing controller 160 activates the tray lifting motor 641, causing the second discharge tray 32 to descend to the position where the sheet surface detection sensor 646 is closed, and then rise to the detection position (S3809).

[0174] Subsequently, the post-processing controller 160 actuates the guide member lifting motor 65 and lowers the guide member 60 and the sliding guide 602 below the discharge drive roller 36a (S3810).

[0175] [A fourth example of control processing that can be performed in the post-processing device 30]

[0176] Next, use Figure 39 The flowchart illustrates other examples of manual binding processes that can be performed in the post-processing unit 30. Figure 39 The flowchart shown is the same as the flowchart of the third example already explained. Figure 38 In contrast, the processing involved in step S3902 is different. The following explanation mainly describes the differences, while the explanations of other parts are brief.

[0177] The post-processing controller 160 determines whether the manual binding mode button 23 has been pressed (S3901), and processes the loop until the manual binding mode button 23 is pressed (S3901: No). When the manual binding mode button 23 is detected to be pressed (S3901: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 determines whether an instruction to perform an image forming operation has been notified from the image forming apparatus 100 (which is a host device) to the post-processing device 30 via the image forming controller 150 (S3902). In step S3902, when it is determined that an instruction has been notified, the image forming apparatus 100 is forming an image. That is, when it is determined in step S3702 that the image forming apparatus 100 is forming an image (S3902: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 displays a notification on the operation display panel 149 via the image forming controller 150 that the manual binding process cannot be performed because "an image is being formed" (S3911). Then, the cycle of steps S3902 and S3911 continues until the image forming process is completed.

[0178] In step S3902, if no image forming process is performed (S3902: No), the post-processing controller 160 raises the second discharge tray 32 to the tray initial position (S3903). Subsequent processing is the same as steps S3803 to S3611 (S3903 to S3911).

[0179] Furthermore, in any embodiment of the control process, if no operation is performed for any set time after the sheet P is placed, control can be applied to automatically end the manual binding mode. In this case, any set time can be set via the operation display panel 149 of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0180] [Fifth example of control processing that can be performed in post-processing device 30]

[0181] Next, use Figure 40 The flowchart illustrates other examples of manual binding processes that can be performed in the post-processing device 30. The post-processing device 30 is based on the action of performing binding processing on and discharging a bundle of sheets PT formed by bundling sheets P supplied from an external device (image forming device 100), and the binding processing can be performed even if the user manually inserts the bundle of sheets PT from the opening 31a.

[0182] Therefore, when a printing task is received (S4001), the post-processing controller 160 first determines whether the user is performing manual binding, that is, whether the position of the guide member 60 is the first position (S4002). As already explained, when the position of the guide member 60 is the first position, it means that manual binding is being performed in the post-processing device 30.

[0183] When the guide component 60 is in the first position (S4002: Yes), the post-processing controller 160 sends an instruction to the image forming controller 150 to stop the feeding of the sheet P (S4003). Alternatively, in step S4003, the post-processing controller 160 may send an instruction to the image forming controller 150 to stop the image forming operation, or it may send an instruction to perform the image forming operation but stop the feeding to the post-processing device 30.

[0184] Subsequently, the post-processing controller 160 executes a display on the operation display panel 149 via the image forming controller 150 to notify the user of the message "prioritize manual binding processing" (S4004).

[0185] In step S4002, if the guide member 60 is not in the first position, an image forming operation is performed, and the sheet P is conveyed to the post-processing device (S4005).

[0186] According to the post-processing apparatus 30 described above, when binding a sheet bundle PT on which the conveyed sheet P is stacked, the guide member 60 retracts to a position lower than the upper surface of the conveyor roller pair 36, which serves as the paper discharge roller, thus ensuring that the sheet P is not obstructed from being discharged. Furthermore, when manually inserting the sheet bundle PT through the opening 31a for binding, the guide member 60 rises from the upper surface of the discharge drive roller 36a, which constitutes the conveyor roller pair 36, making it difficult for the manually inserted sheet bundle PT to contact the discharge drive roller 36a. Therefore, the ease of inserting the sheet bundle PT through the opening 31a is improved.

[0187] <Note>

[0188] The examples of manual binding processes described above are also applicable to the console-type finishing unit installed next to the image forming apparatus 100, where binding can be performed by inserting the sheet bundle PT from the opening 31a and pressing the manual binding mode button 23.

[0189] Furthermore, the post-processing device 30 described above is equivalent to Figure 4 In the embodiment of the image forming system 300 described above, the manual binding process is implemented by executing software that can be executed in the image forming controller 150 provided in the image forming apparatus 100. That is, the control of the manual binding process using the hardware resources provided in the post-processing apparatus 30 described above is implemented in the image forming controller 150 by executable software.

[0190] Furthermore, this invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications can be made without departing from its technical essence, and all technical matters encompassed in the technical concept described in the claims are subject to this invention. Although the above embodiments show preferred examples, those skilled in the art can implement various modifications based on the disclosed content. These modifications are also included within the technical scope described in the claims.

[0191] Furthermore, the aforementioned processes can also be implemented using programs, for example. That is, the aforementioned processes can be implemented by executing programs stored in memory 152 or memory 162 using CPU 151 or CPU 161. Additionally, the program is not limited to a single program, but can be a collection of multiple programs. Moreover, the program is not limited to being executed by either CPU 151 or 161; it can be executed by both CPU 151 and 161. Furthermore, the program can be written to a storage device or storage medium for distribution, or distributed via electrical communication lines, etc.

[0192] The contents of this invention are described below, for example.

[0193] <1>

[0194] A sheet processing apparatus, characterized in that it comprises: a temporary stacking unit for temporarily stacking a plurality of sheets; a sheet processing unit for performing a prescribed processing on a sheet bundle consisting of the plurality of sheets stacked on the temporary stacking unit; a discharge unit consisting of a pair of rotating bodies for discharging the sheet bundle; and a guide member movable between a first position and a second position, the first position being a position higher than the upper surface of the lower rotating body, and the second position being a position lower than the upper surface of the lower rotating body.

[0195] <2>

[0196] according to <1> The sheet processing apparatus is characterized in that: the first position is the position above the temporary stacking unit.

[0197] <3>

[0198] according to <1> or <2> The sheet processing apparatus is characterized in that: the second position is a position further inward than the downstream end of the sheet discharge direction in the rotating body below.

[0199] <4>

[0200] according to <1> to <3> The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of the following is characterized in that: when the sheet bundle is inserted from the discharge unit toward the temporary stacking unit, the guide member is located in the first position.

[0201] <5>

[0202] according to <1> to <4> The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of the following is characterized in that it further comprises: a sheet bundle stacking unit that stacks the sheet bundle discharged by the discharge unit, and a stacking lifting drive unit that raises or lowers the position of the sheet bundle stacking unit, wherein the guide member switches to the first position or the second position by raising or lowering the sheet bundle stacking unit.

[0203] <6>

[0204] according to <5> The sheet processing apparatus is characterized in that: the upper limit of movement of the sheet bundle stacking unit driven by the stacking lifting drive unit is located above the sheet stacking surface of the temporary stacking unit.

[0205] <7>

[0206] according to <5> or <6> The sheet processing apparatus is characterized in that it further comprises a guide lifting unit for raising or lowering the guide member, wherein the position of the guide member is switched to the first position or the second position by the guide lifting unit.

[0207] <8>

[0208] according to <5> to <7> The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of the following is characterized in that: the surface in contact between the guiding member and the sheet bundle stacking unit is located below the sheet stacking surface of the sheet bundle stacking unit.

[0209] <9>

[0210] according to <1> to <8> The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of the following is characterized in that: the uppermost surface of the guide member when it is in the first position is a curved surface.

[0211] <10>

[0212] according to <1> to <9> The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of the following is characterized in that: the guide member is disposed at a position different from that of the rotating body below.

[0213] <11>

[0214] An image forming system is characterized by comprising: an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a sheet, and a means of performing a prescribed process on the sheet. <1> to <10> The sheet processing apparatus described in any one of the following.

[0215] <12>

[0216] An image forming system is characterized by comprising: an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet; a sheet processing unit that stacks the sheet passing through the image forming unit and performs a predetermined processing on the stacked sheet; a paper discharge unit having a pair of rotating bodies that discharge the sheet processed by the sheet processing unit, and a guide member that is displaced to a first position above the upper surface of the lower rotating body and a second position below the upper surface of the lower rotating body, wherein, when an instruction to perform an image forming operation of the image forming unit is input when the guide member is in the first position, control is performed to stop the image forming operation or to transport the sheet to the sheet processing unit.

[0217] <13>

[0218] A program product characterized in that: when a processor of a sheet processing apparatus receives instruction information for executing an image forming operation of an image forming unit while a guide member is in a first position, it controls the image forming operation to stop or the sheet to be conveyed to the sheet processing unit. The sheet processing apparatus includes: the image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet; the sheet processing unit that stacks the sheet passing through the image forming unit and performs a predetermined processing on the stacked sheet; a paper discharge unit having a pair of rotating bodies that discharge the sheet processed by the sheet processing unit; and the guide member that is displaced to a first position higher than the upper surface of the lower rotating body and a second position lower than the upper surface of the lower rotating body.

Claims

1. A sheet processing apparatus, characterized in that... include: Temporary stacking unit, which temporarily stacks multiple sheets; A sheet processing unit performs a prescribed process on a bundle of sheets consisting of multiple sheets stacked on the temporary stacking unit; The discharge unit comprises a pair of rotating bodies that discharge the sheet bundle, and A guide component that is movable between a first position and a second position, the first position being a position higher than the upper surface of the lower rotating body in the rotating body, and the second position being a position lower than the upper surface of the lower rotating body.

2. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first position is the position above the temporary stacking unit.

3. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second position is a position that is more inward than the downstream end of the sheet discharge direction in the rotating body below.

4. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that... : When the sheet bundle is inserted from the discharge unit toward the temporary stacking unit, the guide member is in the first position.

5. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that... Further includes: A sheet bundle stacking unit, which stacks the sheet bundles discharged by the discharge unit, and A stacking lifting drive unit that raises or lowers the position of the sheet bundle stacking unit. The guiding component switches to the first position or the second position by raising and lowering the sheet bundle stacking unit.

6. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that: The upper limit of movement of the sheet bundle stacking unit driven by the stacking lifting drive unit is located above the sheet stacking surface of the temporary stacking unit.

7. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that: It also includes a guide lifting unit that raises or lowers the guide component. The position of the guide component is switched to the first position or the second position by the guide lifting unit.

8. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that: The surface in contact between the guide component and the sheet bundle stacking unit is located below the sheet stacking surface of the sheet bundle stacking unit.

9. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The uppermost surface of the guide component when it is in the first position is curved.

10. The sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The guide component is positioned differently from the rotating body below it.

11. An image forming system, characterized in that... include: An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a sheet, and The sheet processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10 for performing the prescribed processing on the sheet.

12. An image forming system, characterized in that... include: An image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet; The sheet processing unit stacks the sheet that has passed through the image forming unit and performs a prescribed process on the stacked sheet; The paper discharge section has a pair of rotating bodies for discharging the sheet processed by the sheet handling section, and The guiding component is displaced to a first position higher than the upper surface of the lower rotating body and a second position lower than the upper surface of the lower rotating body. When an instruction is input to perform an image forming operation of the image forming unit while the guide member is in the first position, control is performed to stop the image forming operation or to transport the material to the sheet processing unit.

13. A program product, characterized in that: When the processor of the sheet processing apparatus receives instruction information to execute the image forming operation of the image forming unit while the guide member is in the first position, it controls the operation to stop the image forming operation or to transport the sheet to the sheet processing unit. The sheet processing apparatus includes: The image forming unit forms an image on the sheet; The sheet processing unit stacks the sheet that has passed through the image forming unit and performs a prescribed process on the stacked sheet; The paper discharge section has a pair of rotating bodies for discharging the sheet processed by the sheet handling section, and The guide member is displaced to a first position higher than the upper surface of the lower rotating body and a second position lower than the upper surface of the lower rotating body.

Images