Conveying device, image forming system, and control method for a conveying device

Abstract

The present invention provides a conveying device, an image forming system, and a control method of the conveying device, which can avoid rework of a job due to a misfeed in a print job in which ring binding processing is performed on bound paper to form a booklet. The conveying device according to the present invention includes a control unit that determines the suitability of a bound paper in conveyance based on the arrangement or shape of a hole in the bound paper determined from a read image, and performs abnormal-time conveying processing on the bound paper in conveyance when it is detected that the bound paper in conveyance is unsuitable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a conveying device, an image forming system, and a method for controlling the conveying device. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, an image forming system has been developed that can connect a post-processing device to an image forming apparatus to perform loop binding on paper printed by the image forming apparatus, thereby producing booklets, etc. For example, see Patent Document 1.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-152314

[0004] In this image forming system, depending on the user, and sometimes in printing, pre-formed perforated binding paper (also known as pre-punched paper) is used.

[0005] In binding paper, there are various standards with different perforation configurations or shapes. Therefore, when using such binding paper, for example, the perforation configuration or shape is preset in the system, and control corresponding to each perforation configuration or shape is executed (i.e., loop binding). However, if the perforation configuration or shape of the binding paper being fed is different from the preset type, optimal control corresponding to each paper cannot be executed. That is, if binding papers with different perforation configurations or shapes are mixed, a failure to perform normal loop binding will occur. Furthermore, such paper will be referred to below as "incorrect paper" or "unsuitable paper."

[0006] In typical ring binding processes, multiple binding sheets are printed consecutively, and the ring binding unit combines the printed sheets to form a booklet. Therefore, even a single sheet of incorrectly bound paper can cause malfunctions or paper jams, leading to a redo of the process. In such cases, it's necessary to start from the printing stage of the first page. Therefore, from a production efficiency perspective, this situation needs to be avoided.

[0007] In particular, recent image forming systems are configured with multiple paper trays, each capable of holding the same or different types of paper. During printing, paper is selectively supplied from these trays according to the job settings. Alternatively, sometimes the paper trays are automatically switched during printing based on the job settings. Therefore, errors in job settings or incorrect paper placement on the trays can easily lead to a situation where different types of paper are mixed during printing. Furthermore, this can also occur when the binding paper loaded on the trays is facing a different orientation than specified. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present invention was made in view of the aforementioned problems. Specifically, the object of the present invention is to provide a conveying device that, in a printing operation where binding paper is loop-bound to form a booklet, avoids the need to rework the operation due to incorrect paper. Furthermore, another object is to provide an image forming system having the conveying device. Yet another object is to provide a control method for the conveying device.

[0009] The main solution to the above-mentioned problems is a conveying device, wherein:

[0010] The paper supply department continuously supplies binding paper;

[0011] The conveying unit transports the aforementioned binding paper along the conveying path;

[0012] A reading unit, disposed in the aforementioned transport path, reads the aforementioned binding paper; and

[0013] The control unit determines whether the binding paper being transported is suitable or unsuitable based on the configuration or shape of the perforations in the binding paper determined from the read image, and performs abnormal transport processing on the binding paper being transported if unsuitable is detected.

[0014] In another aspect, there is an image forming system that possesses:

[0015] The aforementioned conveying device;

[0016] An image forming apparatus forms an image on the aforementioned binding paper; and

[0017] A post-processing device is provided downstream of the image forming apparatus to perform ring binding processing on the binding paper.

[0018] In another aspect, there is a method for controlling a conveying device, which includes:

[0019] Continuous supply of binding paper;

[0020] The supplied binding paper is conveyed along the conveying path;

[0021] Read the aforementioned binding paper being transported; and

[0022] Based on the configuration or shape of the perforations in the binding paper determined from the read image, the suitability / unsuitability of the binding paper being transported is determined, and if the binding paper being transported is found to be unsuitable, abnormal transport processing is performed on the binding paper being transported.

[0023] According to the image forming system of the present invention, in the printing operation of forming a booklet by performing a ring binding process on binding paper, it is possible to avoid the situation where the operation has to be redone due to incorrect paper. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of an image forming system.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of paper binding.

[0026] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a ring-shaped order unit.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of a ring-binding component.

[0028] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates an example of a ring-binding process that uses ring-binding components.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a diagram representing an example of a functional block in an image forming system.

[0030] Figure 7 This is an example diagram showing the operation screen involved in setting up a task.

[0031] Figure 8 This is an example diagram showing the operation screen involved in setting up a task.

[0032] Figure 9 This is an example diagram showing the operation screen involved in setting up a task.

[0033] Figure 10 This is an example diagram showing the operation screen involved in setting up a task.

[0034] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a flowchart showing the production operation information of the control unit of an image forming apparatus.

[0035] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the main program processing performed by the control unit during printing.

[0036] Figure 13 It means Figure 12 The flowchart of the error paper judgment and processing (S22) in the main program.

[0037] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the error paper identification process (S22).

[0038] Figure 15This is an example of a warning displayed when an error paper is detected.

[0039] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the method of error paper judgment processing (S22) involved in Modified Example 1.

[0040] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the error paper determination process (S22) involved in Modified Example 1.

[0041] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the structure of the image forming system involved in Variation Example 2.

[0042] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating the main program processing performed by the control unit involved in Modified Example 2.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1…Image forming system; 1m…Conveying section; 2…Paper feeding device; 3…Image forming device; 5…Ring binding unit; 6…Stapling unit; F1…Paper discharge tray; F2…Pattern removal; FN…Post-processing device. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in this specification and the accompanying drawings, constituent elements having substantially the same function are labeled with the same reference numerals, thereby omitting redundant descriptions.

[0045] (First Implementation)

[0046] First, the following refers to Figures 1-5 An example of the structure of an image forming system (hereinafter referred to as "image forming system 1") according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. Furthermore, the image forming system 1 according to this embodiment is configured to apply pre-perforated binding paper and to perform ring binding processing on the binding paper.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of image forming system 1.

[0048] The image forming system 1 includes a paper feeding device 2, an image forming device 3, a paper insertion device 4, and a post-processing device FN, and has a transport section 1m that connects them to transport paper. Furthermore, the transport section 1m sequentially connects the paper feeding device 2, the image forming device 3, the paper insertion device 4, and the post-processing device FN from the upstream side. Figure 1 In the diagram, the arrows indicate the direction of paper transport. Furthermore, in this invention, the transport-related structure of the image forming system 1 is also referred to as a "transport device".

[0049] The paper feeding device 2 supplies paper to the image forming apparatus 3. The paper feeding device 2 has multiple paper feeding trays T1 to T3, and selectively supplies paper to the image forming apparatus 3 from any one of the paper feeding trays T1 to T3. Additionally, pre-perforated binding paper may be loaded into any one of the paper feeding trays T1 to T3. The binding paper loaded into the paper feeding trays T1, T2, and T3 may be of the same type or different types.

[0050] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of binding paper. The binding paper has a ring-binding component B (see reference) for use during ring-binding. Figure 3 The perforation Sh passed through. Figure 2 The image shows how six circular perforations (Sh) are formed on the left side of the paper.

[0051] Furthermore, in the image forming system 1 according to this embodiment, when using binding paper, the configuration (and / or shape) of the perforations in the binding paper is preset on the system through user operation, etc. (see reference). Figure 10 However, the configuration (and / or shape) of the perforations in the binding paper can also be set based on the image of the first sheet of paper read during the printing job (see Variation 1).

[0052] The image forming apparatus 3 includes an automatic original feeding device 371, a scanner 372, paper trays T4 and T5, a touch panel 321, and a printing unit 36, etc., and prints on paper. The paper printed by the printing unit 36 ​​is sequentially fed to the paper insertion device 4 and then sent to the post-processing device FN. In addition, in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 3 is configured to perform printing in the form of an electronic photograph, but the image forming apparatus 3 can also perform printing on paper in the form of an inkjet printer.

[0053] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 3 has a reading unit 38 upstream of the printing unit 36 ​​in the transport direction, which takes a picture of the paper being transported to the transport unit 1m from the upper surface side. Moreover, based on the image obtained by the reading unit 38, the image forming apparatus 3 determines whether the paper being transported is faulty and controls subsequent transport operations (e.g., discharge to the clearing tray F2) (see reference). Figure 13 (And will be described later).

[0054] The paper insertion device 4 includes upper and lower paper supply trays T6 and T7. The paper supply trays T6 and T7 can supply paper for binding covers, back covers, and their binding. In this embodiment, the paper loaded in the paper supply trays T6 and T7 is also binding paper (hereinafter also referred to as "additional binding paper"). The paper insertion device 4 supplies paper from the upper paper supply tray T6 and the lower paper supply tray T7 to the post-processing device FN according to instructions input from the image forming apparatus 3. That is, the paper insertion device 4 delivers both the paper printed by the image forming apparatus 3 and the paper inserted from the paper supply trays T6 and T7 to the post-processing device FN.

[0055] The post-processing device FN includes a ring-binding unit 5 and a stapler unit 6, and performs post-processing on the paper on which the image has been formed by the image forming device 3 (and the paper inserted by the paper inserting device 4).

[0056] The transport unit 1m transports paper supplied from the paper feeding device 2. Specifically, the transport unit 1m first transports paper from the paper feeding trays T1 to T3 to the printing unit 36. Next, the transport unit 1m transports the paper from the printing unit 36 ​​to the paper insertion device 4. Then, the transport unit 1m transports the paper from the paper insertion device 4 to the post-processing device FN. Next, the transport unit 1m discharges the post-processed paper to the paper discharge tray F1. On the other hand, the transport unit 1m discharges erroneous paper to the clearing tray F2.

[0057] In addition, the conveying section 1m consists of, for example, multiple conveying rollers and motors that drive these conveying rollers.

[0058] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a ring-shaped order unit 5.

[0059] The ring binding unit 5 has two transport paths, X and Y, and a ring binding processing unit 54 is provided on transport path Y. When ring binding is not performed, the ring binding unit 5 supplies paper from the paper insertion device 4 to the binding unit 6 via transport path X. On the other hand, when ring binding is performed, the ring binding unit 5 transports paper from the paper insertion device 4 to transport path Y.

[0060] The ring binding processing unit 54 includes a stacking unit 542 and a binding unit 543.

[0061] If the paper is conveyed to the conveyor path Y, it is conveyed and loaded into the stacking section 542. The binding section 543 binds the paper stacked in the stacking section 542 to the binding member B. The bound booklet is stored in the paper tray 55.

[0062] Furthermore, although not shown here, in order to perform ring binding on ordinary paper, the ring binding processing unit 54 may also have a perforation section before the stacking unit 542 for perforating the paper and setting multiple holes for ring binding.

[0063] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of the ring binding component B. Figure 5 This diagram illustrates an example of a ring-binding process using ring-binding component B.

[0064] The ring binding component B is formed in the shape of a flat plate, and a plurality of ring forming portions B2 are provided in a comb-like manner on the support portion B1. As the material for the ring binding component B, for example, polyester or cellulose ester resins can be used.

[0065] like Figure 5 As shown, the binding part 543 passes the front end of the ring forming part B2 through a perforation in the paper, and after bending the ring forming part B2 into a cylindrical shape, it adheres the portion that overlaps with the support part B1. Thus, a ring for binding the paper bundle is formed.

[0066] In addition, during the ring binding process, paper is fed and stacked from the paper insertion device 4 or the paper supply device 2 in the following order: (1) back cover, (2) binding for the back cover, (3) binding for the front cover, (4) front cover, and (5) book body.

[0067] The stapler unit 6 includes a stapler processing unit 64. Similar to the ring-binding unit 5, the stapler unit 6 switches between two transport paths. That is, paper to be stapled is supplied to the transport path where the stapler processing unit 64 is located, while unsuitable paper is transported to the other transport path and discharged to the paper output tray. The stapler processing unit 64 loads the supplied paper and staples it. The stapled paper is then discharged to the paper output tray.

[0068] Figure 6 This is a diagram representing an example of a functional block of image forming system 1.

[0069] The image forming apparatus 3 includes a control unit 31, an operation unit 32, a display unit 33, a communication unit 34, a storage unit 35, a printing unit 36, an image input unit 37, and a reading unit 38.

[0070] The control unit 31 consists of a CPU, RAM, and ROM. The control unit 31 performs various calculations in cooperation with various processing programs stored in the ROM, etc., and centrally controls the various parts of the image forming apparatus 3.

[0071] The control unit 31 provides unified control over the operation of each part of the image forming apparatus 3, and also provides unified control over the operation of the image forming system 1 (i.e., the transport unit 1m, the paper feeding device 2, the paper insertion device 4, and the post-processing device FN). Specifically, the control unit 31 supplies the desired paper from the paper feeding device 2 according to the job settings, transports the paper using the transport unit 1m, performs printing on the paper, and performs binding processing using the post-processing device FN.

[0072] Furthermore, the control unit 31 in this embodiment has the function of determining whether the paper fed from the paper feeding device 2 is suitable or unsuitable (i.e., incorrect paper) (see reference). Figure 12 , Figure 13 (And will be described later).

[0073] The operation unit 32 includes a touch panel 321 and operation keys. The operation unit 32 generates operation signals corresponding to the user's input operations and outputs them to the control unit 31.

[0074] The display unit 33 displays the operation screen and processing results on the touch panel 321 under the control of the control unit 31.

[0075] The communication unit 34 has a communication interface for communicating with external devices. For example, the communication unit 34 sends and receives control information with the paper feeding device 2, the paper insertion device 4, and the post-processing device FN. In addition, the communication unit 34 receives image data of the printed object from an external server or computer and outputs it to the storage unit 35.

[0076] In addition to storing various processing programs, the storage unit 35 also stores parameters and setting data required for processing. Furthermore, the storage unit 35 stores image data of the object to be printed. The storage unit 35 can be a hard disk or DRAM (Dynamic RAM).

[0077] The printing unit 36 ​​performs electrophotographic printing, and is composed of, for example, an exposure unit, a developing unit, a transfer unit, and a fixing unit. During printing, based on the PWM signal obtained by converting image data using PWM (Pulse Width Modulation), the exposure unit irradiates a laser onto the photosensitive drum to form an electrostatic latent image. If the developing unit uses toner to develop the image and forms a toner image on the photosensitive drum, the transfer unit transfers the toner image onto the paper, and the fixing unit fixes the toner image.

[0078] The image input unit 37 performs optical scanning on the original document delivered by the automatic original document supply device 371 via the scanner 372 to generate image data.

[0079] The reading unit 38 is configured to include, for example, an image sensor, an optical system, and a light source. The reading unit 38, for example, captures images of the paper being conveyed to the transport unit 1m from its upper surface side. The reading unit 38 is arranged linearly along the width direction of the paper. For example, when the paper is conveyed from the upstream side to the downstream side, the reading unit 38 captures images of the paper at various positions to obtain an overall image of the paper (hereinafter referred to as a "reading image"). Furthermore, the images captured by the reading unit 38 at each position overlap, thereby generating a reading image of the entire paper (hereinafter referred to as a "reading image").

[0080] The reading section 38 has a length exceeding the width of the paper and is capable of capturing perforations formed in the paper (i.e., binding paper).

[0081] The paper feeding device 2 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a communication unit 23.

[0082] The control unit 21 has the same structure as the control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3, and controls various parts of the paper feeding device 2. For example, the control unit 21 controls the feeding of papers placed on the paper feeding trays T1, T2, and T3 based on control information received from the image forming apparatus 3. The storage unit 22 stores various processing programs, as well as parameters and setting data required for processing. The communication unit 23 has the same structure as the communication unit 34 of the image forming apparatus 3, and communicates with the image forming apparatus 3.

[0083] The paper insertion device 4 includes a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, and a communication unit 43.

[0084] The control unit 41 has the same structure as the control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3, and controls various parts of the paper insertion device 4. For example, the control unit 41 controls the feeding of paper placed on the paper supply tray T6 or T7 based on control information received from the image forming apparatus 3. The storage unit 42 stores various processing programs, as well as parameters and setting data required for processing. The communication unit 43 has the same structure as the communication unit 34 of the image forming apparatus 3, and communicates with the image forming apparatus 3 and the post-processing device FN.

[0085] The ring-binding unit 5 has a control unit 51, a storage unit 52, a communication unit 53, and a ring-binding processing unit 54.

[0086] The control unit 51 has the same structure as the control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3, and controls each part of the ring binding unit 5. For example, based on control information received from the image forming apparatus 3, the control unit 51 causes the ring binding processing unit 54 to perform ring binding processing on the paper supplied to the ring binding unit 5. The storage unit 52 stores various processing programs, as well as parameters and setting data required for processing. The communication unit 53 has the same structure as the communication unit 34 of the image forming apparatus 3, and communicates with the image forming apparatus 3 and the like.

[0087] The ring binding processing unit 54 performs the above-mentioned ring binding process.

[0088] The stapler unit 6 includes a control unit 61, a storage unit 62, a communication unit 63, and a stapler processing unit 64.

[0089] The control unit 61 has the same structure as the control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3, and controls each part of the stapler unit 6. For example, based on control information received from the image forming apparatus 3, the control unit 61 causes the stapler processing unit 64 to perform stapler processing on the paper supplied to the stapler unit 6. The storage unit 62 stores various processing programs, as well as parameters and setting data required for processing. The communication unit 63 has the same structure as the communication unit 34 of the image forming apparatus 3, and communicates with the image forming apparatus 3, etc. The stapler processing unit 64 performs the aforementioned stapler processing.

[0090] [Action of Image Forming System 1]

[0091] "Assignment Information Creation Action"

[0092] Next, the operation of the image forming system 1 described above when performing operations including ring binding processing will be explained. First, the operation of creating work information before performing the operation will be explained.

[0093] Figures 7-10 This is an example diagram showing the operation screen involved in setting up a task.

[0094] In standby mode, display unit 33 displays Figure 7 The main menu operation screen d1 is shown. If the user selects an application setting item via the operation unit 32 in operation screen d1, the display unit 33 will display... Figure 8 The application settings operation screen d2 is shown. When making settings related to ring binding, the user can select the item to operate the ring binding settings.

[0095] If the user selects the item for the binding setting on the operation screen d2, the display unit 33 will display... Figure 9 The operation screen d3 for ring binding settings is shown. Operation screen d3 displays keys k11-k14, which are used to select whether to use cover, back cover, cover binding paper, and back cover binding paper for binding the booklet during ring binding. Each time keys k11-k14 are pressed, their displays are toggled between active and inactive. Pressing the key k11-k14 corresponding to the paper needed for binding activates the display, while pressing the key k11-k14 for paper not needed for binding deactivates the display.

[0096] Below keys k11-k14 are keys k21-k24, which are used to select the paper supply source for the cover, back cover, cover binding, and back cover binding, respectively. Each time keys k21-k24 are operated, the display on them sequentially switches between main, manual (upper), and manual (lower). Here, the paper supply source displayed as main refers to the paper supply trays T1-T5 of the paper feeding device 2 or the image forming device 3, which are set with the paper size. The paper supply source displayed as manual (upper) refers to the paper supply tray T6 of the paper insertion device 4, and the paper supply source displayed as manual (lower) refers to the paper supply tray T7 of the paper insertion device 4.

[0097] For example, when only the cover is used in the booklet binding and the paper is supplied from the paper supply device 2, the user can activate the cover key k13 and deactivate the other keys k11, k12, and k14. The user can then activate the main body key k23. When all the paper for the cover, back cover, and their binding is used for binding, the user can activate keys k11-k14 and activate keys k21-k24 to select the paper supply source for each key.

[0098] Additionally, the binding paper setting key K25 is displayed on the operation screen d3. Pressing the binding paper setting key K25 switches to... Figure 10 The binding paper setting screen d4 allows you to set the type of paper used for binding (i.e., the perforation configuration, etc.). Specifically, the binding paper setting screen d4 displays keys k31 to k33, which allow you to set the paper size, the perforation configuration, and the shape of the perforations.

[0099] The settings described above are stored as print job information. Additionally, information related to the perforation configuration and shape set in the paper binding settings screen d4 is also used as reference data in error paper detection processing.

[0100] If the operation is performed with the binding process set as described above, the control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3 determines the paper feed tray of the paper source and the paper feed sequence and generates operation information before printing begins.

[0101] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a flowchart showing the production operation information of the control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3.

[0102] like Figure 11 As shown, the control unit 31 reads the settings related to the ring binding process input by the user in the operation screen d3 (step S1) and determines the paper supply source for the selected cover (step S2).

[0103] When the selected paper source is the main body (step S2: main body), the control unit 31 determines the paper source for the cover paper as the paper supply device 2 or the image forming device 3 (i.e., paper supply trays T1 to T5) (step S3). When the selected paper source is the manual upper part (step S2: manual upper part), the control unit 31 determines the paper source for the cover paper as the paper supply tray T6 of the paper insertion device 4 (step S4). When the selected paper source is the manual lower part (step S2: manual lower part), the control unit 31 determines the paper source for the cover paper as the paper supply tray T7 of the paper insertion device 4 (step S5).

[0104] Similar to the cover, the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source of the paper selected as the back cover (step S6). If the selected paper supply source is the main body (step S6: main body), the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source for the back cover as either the paper supply device 2 or the image forming device 3 (i.e., paper supply trays T1 to T5) (step S7). If the selected paper supply source is the manual upper part (step S6: manual upper part), the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source for the back cover as the paper supply tray T6 of the paper insertion device 4 (step S8). If the selected paper supply source is the manual lower part (step S6: manual lower part), the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source for the back cover as the paper supply tray T7 of the paper insertion device 4 (step S9).

[0105] Next, the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source selected as the paper supply source for the cover binding (step S10). If the selected paper supply source is the main body (step S10: main body), the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source for the cover binding paper as the paper supply device 2 or the image forming device 3 (i.e., paper supply trays T1 to T5) (step S11). If the selected paper supply source is the manual upper part (step S10: manual upper part), the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source as the paper supply tray T6 of the paper insertion device 4 (step S12). If the selected paper supply source is the manual lower part (step S10: manual lower part), the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source as the paper supply tray T7 of the paper insertion device 4 (step S13).

[0106] Next, the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source selected as the paper supply source for the back cover binding (step S14). If the selected paper supply source is the main body (step S14: main body), the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source for the back cover binding paper as the paper supply device 2 or the image forming device 3 (i.e., paper supply trays T1 to T5) (step S15). If the selected paper supply source is the manual upper part (step S14: manual upper part), the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source as the paper supply tray T6 of the paper insertion device 4 (step S16). If the selected paper supply source is the manual lower part (step S14: manual lower part), the control unit 31 determines the paper supply source as the paper supply tray T7 of the paper insertion device 4 (step S17).

[0107] If the paper supply source is determined as described above, then the control unit 31 will proceed as follows: Figure 5 The paper feeding order is determined as shown in the following sequence 1 to sequence 5. When the main body of the booklet has multiple pages, the control unit 31 determines the order in ascending order of 1 page, 2 pages, etc.

[0108] 1: Back cover

[0109] 2: Binding for the back cover

[0110] 3: For binding the cover

[0111] 4: Cover

[0112] 5: Main body of the booklet

[0113] Actions during printing

[0114] Next, the processing performed by the control unit 31 during printing will be explained. Additionally, the printing operation of forming a booklet by performing ring binding on the binding paper will be explained here.

[0115] In the past, during such printing operations, unsuitable binding papers were sometimes mixed in due to errors in job settings, incorrect paper placement into the paper feed tray, or incorrect orientation of the binding paper loaded onto the paper feed tray. In existing image forming systems, in such cases, there is a risk of operational malfunctions or paper jams, requiring a redo of the job, after reaching the stage where multiple binding papers are gathered using the ring binding component.

[0116] In the image forming system 1 of this embodiment, from the viewpoint of avoiding this situation, during the printing operation, error paper determination is performed for each binding paper that is printed continuously, and if unsuitable paper (i.e., error paper) is detected, abnormal delivery processing is performed.

[0117] "Abnormal transport handling" refers to the process of expelling the paper being transported to the clearing tray F2, or stopping the transport of the paper. This avoids unsuitable paper being used for loop binding.

[0118] Figure 12 This is a flowchart showing the main program processing performed by the control unit 31 when printing is executed.

[0119] The control unit 31 performs the following processing based on the job information set in the print job. Furthermore, in steps S21 to S25, processing is performed sequentially for each page, starting from the first page, based on the job information.

[0120] In step S21, the control unit 31 controls the paper feeding device 2 and / or the paper insertion device 4 to supply the paper set in the job information of the printing job to the transport unit 1m (see reference). Figure 11 ).

[0121] In step S22, the control unit 31 performs an error paper determination on the paper being fed to the conveyor unit 1m. Furthermore, this error paper determination is only performed during printing operations where the binding paper undergoes loop binding to form a booklet. This will be discussed later. Figure 13 Describe the details of the processing in step S22.

[0122] In step S23, the control unit 31 controls the printing unit 36 ​​to form an image of the page to be printed on the paper being transported.

[0123] In step S24, the control unit 31 controls the post-processing device FN to perform post-processing on the paper being transported. This post-processing is the aforementioned ring binding process and bookbinding process.

[0124] In step S25, the control unit 31 determines whether the ongoing processing is for the final page. Then, if it is for the final page (S25: Yes), the control unit 31 terminates the process. Figure 12 The process involves processing a series of flowcharts. On the other hand, if the processing is not for the final page (S25: No), the control unit 31 returns to step S21 and performs processing for the next page.

[0125] Figure 13 It means Figure 12 The flowchart of the error paper judgment and processing (S22) in the main program. Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the error paper identification process (S22). Figure 15 This is an example of a warning displayed when an error paper is detected.

[0126] In step S221, the control unit 31 determines whether there is a setting for the use of binding paper in the job information set in the print job. Furthermore, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the settings for using binding paper include, for example, the settings for using binding paper as the paper to be printed, including information on the configuration and shape of the perforations on the binding paper.

[0127] Here, if there is no setting for the use of binding paper in the work information (S221: No), the control unit 31 does not perform any special processing and ends the process. Figure 13 The processing of a series of flowcharts (i.e., returning to) Figure 12 (The main program). On the other hand, if the work information contains a setting for the use of binding paper (S221: Yes), the control unit 31 causes the processing to proceed to step S222.

[0128] In step S222, the control unit 31 controls the reading unit 38 to photograph the paper being transported.

[0129] In step S223, the control unit 31 detects the arrangement and shape of the perforations in the paper from the read image obtained in step S222. At this time, the control unit 31 uses, for example, known image recognition processing such as pattern matching to detect the arrangement and shape of the perforations in the paper.

[0130] Here, the shape of the perforations detected by the control unit 31 from the read image includes, for example, the size of the perforations in the paper. Furthermore, the arrangement of the perforations detected by the control unit 31 from the read image includes, for example, any one of the number of perforations in the paper, the arrangement of the perforations in the paper transport direction, or the arrangement of the perforations in the paper width direction. The control unit 31 outputs, for example, the detection results of the arrangement and shape of the perforations in the paper as various classification information related to the arrangement and shape.

[0131] In step S224, the control unit 31 determines whether the configuration and shape of the perforations in the paper being transported, detected in step S223, are different from the configuration and shape of the perforations in the paper set as work information (i.e., reference data) (refer to...). Figure 14 Then, if the paper being transported differs from the setting (S224: Yes), the control unit 31 initiates the process in step S225. Conversely, if the paper being transported is the same as the setting (S224: No), the control unit 31 does not perform any special processing and ends the process. Figure 13 The processing of a series of flowcharts.

[0132] In addition, in step S224, the control unit 31 determines whether the perforation configuration and shape classification information in the paper set as work information (i.e., reference data) are consistent or inconsistent by comparing the perforation configuration and shape classification information in the paper obtained by detection from the read image.

[0133] In step S225, the control unit 31 causes the display unit 33 to output a warning display indicating that unsuitable paper has been produced (see reference). Figure 15 At this time, based on the determination result of step S224, the control unit 31 displays the abnormal content regarding whether there is an abnormality in the configuration of the paper perforations or the shape of the paper perforations. Additionally, at this time, the control unit 31 reads from the operation information which paper in the feed was fed from which paper tray and displays the identification information of the paper tray that supplied that paper.

[0134] In addition, Figure 14 The diagram illustrates how paper being transported differs from paper set for job information in terms of the configuration (or number) of perforations. Additionally, in... Figure 15 The warning display indicates that, based on the determination result of step S224, there is an abnormality in the perforation configuration of the paper, indicating that the faulty paper was supplied from the paper supply tray T2.

[0135] In step S226, the control unit 31 discharges the paper being conveyed to the clearing tray F2.

[0136] In step S227, the control unit 31 interrupts the operation. At this time, the control unit 31 retains the page information of the currently executing print object.

[0137] In step S228, the control unit 31 waits until the user issues a restart command (S228: No). Then, if the user issues a restart command (S228: Yes), the process proceeds to step S229.

[0138] In step S229, the control unit 31 resumes printing from the reserved page. That is, the control unit 31 controls the paper feed device 2 again to supply subsequent paper, and then returns to step S23 of the main program to cause the printing unit 36 ​​to print the reserved page on the subsequent paper. Thus, the printing job can be resumed directly from the state before the interruption.

[0139] In the image forming system 1 of this embodiment, this processing can prevent the redoing of the print job even if there are incorrect binding papers mixed in during the printing operation.

[0140] [Effect]

[0141] As described above, in this embodiment, a conveying device is disclosed, comprising:

[0142] The paper supply department continuously supplies binding paper;

[0143] The conveying unit transports the aforementioned binding paper along the conveying path;

[0144] A reading unit, disposed in the aforementioned transport path, reads the aforementioned binding paper; and

[0145] The control unit determines whether the binding paper being transported is suitable or unsuitable based on the configuration or shape of the perforations in the binding paper determined from the read image, and performs abnormal transport processing on the binding paper being transported if unsuitable is detected.

[0146] According to the conveying device of this embodiment, when performing ring binding, it is possible to prevent a series of printed materials from having to be reprinted due to the presence of unsuitable binding paper mixed in a portion.

[0147] <Variation Example 1>

[0148] In the above embodiments, a method was shown where the usage settings for binding paper were performed in advance when binding paper was used in a printing job. However, from the viewpoint of reducing the user's workload, it is desirable to be able to detect erroneous paper mixed in during the printing operation without performing such usage settings.

[0149] Therefore, the control unit 31 of this modification sets up reference data for error paper determination based on the reading image captured by the reading unit 38 during the printing operation. For example, the control unit 31 of this modification creates reference data based on the reading image of the first binding paper delivered at the start of the operation.

[0150] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the method of error paper judgment processing (S22) involved in Modified Example 1. Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the error paper determination process (S22) involved in Modified Example 1.

[0151] In the error paper determination process (S22) involved in Modification Example 1, it is configured such that... Figure 13 Steps S223a and S223b are performed before step S224. Furthermore, in the error paper detection process (S22) involved in Modified Example 1, the following steps are omitted: Figure 13 Step S221 determines whether the binding paper setting process has been performed.

[0152] In step S224a, the control unit 31 determines whether reference data used in paper determination has been set. If reference data has been set (S223a: Yes), the control unit 31 causes the process to proceed to step S224; if reference data has not been set (S223a: No), the process proceeds to step S223b.

[0153] In step S223b, the control unit 31 generates reference data for paper determination based on the information related to the configuration and shape of the perforations in the paper obtained in step S223. Then, using the reference data, the next determination process S224 is executed.

[0154] The image forming system 1 described in this modification, through the above-described process, can detect erroneous paper mixed in during the printing process without setting the binding paper usage during the printing job. The image forming system 1 described in this modification is useful from the viewpoint of reducing the user's workload.

[0155] <Variation Example 2>

[0156] In the above embodiment, a method is shown that only the paper supplied from the paper feeding device 2 is used to determine whether there is any erroneous paper mixed in. However, from the viewpoint of more reliably preventing the mixing of erroneous paper, it is desirable to also determine whether the paper supplied from the paper insertion device 4 is unsuitable.

[0157] Therefore, the control unit 31 involved in this modification adopts a structure that determines whether the paper supplied from the paper supply device 2 and the paper supplied from the paper insertion device 4 are suitable or unsuitable.

[0158] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the structure of the image forming system 1 involved in Modified Example 2. Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating the main program processing performed by the control unit 31 involved in Modified Example 2.

[0159] In addition to a reading unit 38 (referred to as "first reading unit 38") disposed between the paper feeding device 2 and the printing unit 36, the image forming system 1 of this modification also includes a second reading unit 56 disposed downstream of the paper insertion unit from the paper insertion device 4.

[0160] Here, the first reading unit 38 is provided for photographing the paper supplied from the paper feeding device 2, and the second reading unit 56 is provided for photographing the paper supplied from the paper insertion device 4.

[0161] Furthermore, the control unit 31 involved in this modification performs a process (S22a) to determine whether the paper supplied from the paper feeding device 2 is suitable or unsuitable, and a process (S22b) to determine whether the paper supplied from the paper insertion device 4 is suitable or unsuitable (see reference). Figure 19 ).

[0162] The process of determining whether the paper supplied from the paper feeding device 2 is suitable or unsuitable (S22a) is a process of incorrectly determining the paper supplied from the paper feeding device 2 based on the reading image generated by the first reading unit 38. The process of determining whether the paper supplied from the paper insertion device 4 is suitable or unsuitable (S22b) is a process of incorrectly determining the paper supplied from the paper insertion device 4 based on the reading image generated by the second reading unit 56. The series of determination processes S22a and S22b are themselves related to... Figure 13 The processing is the same.

[0163] The image forming system 1 involved in this variation can determine whether the paper supplied from the paper supply device 2 and the paper supplied from the paper insertion device 4 are unsuitable papers through the above-described processing.

[0164] <Other Implementation Methods>

[0165] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be applied to various variations.

[0166] For example, in the error paper determination process described in the above embodiments, there are various methods for comparing the reference data with the read image. For example, the control unit 31 may use the image information of the set binding paper as the reference data. In this case, the arrangement and shape of the perforations in the paper may be represented, for example, by a two-dimensional coordinate system in the paper (e.g., the area of ​​the perforations in the paper may be represented by a two-dimensional coordinate system). Moreover, the control unit 31 may also use known image recognition processes such as pattern matching to compare the image information involved in the reference data with the read image, and determine the error paper based on their consistency.

[0167] The specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail above, but these are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and alterations to the specific examples illustrated above.

[0168] According to the image forming system of the present invention, in the printing operation of forming a booklet by performing a ring binding process on binding paper, it is possible to avoid the situation where the operation has to be redone due to incorrect paper.

Claims

1. A conveying device, wherein, have: The paper supply department continuously supplies binding paper; The conveying unit conveys the binding paper along the conveying path; A reading unit, disposed in the transport path, reads the binding paper; and The control unit determines whether the binding paper being transported is suitable or unsuitable based on the configuration or shape of the perforations in the binding paper determined from the read image, and performs abnormal transport processing on the binding paper being transported if the unsuitable binding paper being transported is detected.

2. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein, The abnormal transport handling is a process of discharging the binding paper in transport to a clearing tray.

3. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein, The abnormal transport process is the process of stopping the transport of the binding paper in progress.

4. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit determines whether the binding paper being transported is suitable or unsuitable based on whether the configuration or shape of the perforations in the binding paper, as determined by the reference data, matches or does not match the configuration or shape of the perforations in the binding paper as determined from the read image.

5. The conveying device according to claim 4, wherein, The reference data is the paper data preset in the printing job.

6. The conveying device according to claim 5, wherein, The reference data is set during the printing job based on the read image read by the read unit.

7. The conveying device according to claim 6, wherein, The control unit creates the reference data based on the reading image read by the reading unit for the first piece of binding paper delivered at the start of the operation.

8. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein, If the control unit detects that the binding paper being transported is unsuitable, it displays and outputs a warning indicating that the paper is unsuitable.

9. The conveying device according to claim 8, wherein, When the warning is displayed, the control unit displays abnormal content regarding whether there is an abnormality in the configuration of the perforations on the paper or whether there is an abnormality in the shape of the perforations on the paper.

10. The conveying device according to claim 8, wherein, When the control unit outputs the warning, it displays which of the multiple paper supply trays from the paper supply unit has unsuitable binding paper.

11. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein, The shape of the perforation verified by the control unit includes the size of the perforation in the binding paper.

12. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein, The configuration of the perforations verified by the control unit includes any one of the number of perforations in the binding paper, the arrangement of the perforations in the paper transport direction, or the arrangement of the perforations in the paper width direction.

13. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein, It also has: A paper insertion section is connected to the downstream side of the transport path to insert additional binding paper, which is different from the binding paper supplied by the paper supply section, into the transport path. as well as The second reading unit is located downstream of the position where the paper insertion unit inserts the additional binding paper in the transport path, and reads the additional binding paper. The control unit determines whether the binding paper supplied from the paper supply unit and the additional binding paper supplied from the paper insertion unit are suitable or unsuitable.

14. An image forming system, wherein, have: The conveying device according to claim 1; An image forming apparatus for forming an image on the binding paper; and A post-processing device, located downstream of the image forming device, performs ring binding processing on the binding paper.

15. The image forming system according to claim 14, wherein, If the control unit detects that the binding paper being transported is unsuitable, it performs the abnormal transport process on the binding paper being transported, retains the printed page, and prints the retained printed page on the next binding paper.

16. A control method for a conveying device, wherein, include: Continuous supply of binding paper; The supplied binding paper is conveyed along the conveying path; Read the binding paper being transported; as well as Based on the configuration or shape of the perforations in the binding paper determined from the read image, the suitability / unsuitability of the binding paper being transported is determined, and if the binding paper being transported is found to be unsuitable, abnormal transport processing is performed on the binding paper being transported.

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