Sheet conveyance device, image forming system, and program

Abstract

To improve work efficiency for dealing with failure such as a jam.SOLUTION: A sheet conveyance device includes: a first conveyance section that conveys a sheet in a first conveyance direction; a detection section that detects the sheet at a junction where a plurality of conveyance paths along which the sheet is conveyed joins together; an acquisition section that acquires information on the sheet; a determination section that is disposed at the junction and determines a selected path along which the sheet is to be conveyed from among the plurality of conveyance paths; a second conveyance section that conveys the sheet in a second conveyance direction different from the first conveyance direction based on the information; and a control section that controls the determination section when the sheet is conveyed in the second conveyance direction based on a detection result by the detection section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 39

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a sheet conveying device, an image forming system, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Techniques for dealing with a jam occurring in a sheet conveying device that conveys a sheet such as paper, and in a peripheral device, are known.

[0003] Specifically, the image forming device feeds paper from a paper feed tray. If a jam occurs, the image forming device returns the paper conveyed from the paper feed tray to the paper feed tray. In this way, a technique is known for returning the paper to the paper feed tray without damaging the paper, making it reusable (for example, see Patent Document 1, etc.). Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Conventional technology does not assume that there is a junction where multiple transport paths join on the path to return the paper to the paper feed tray. Therefore, even if you try to return the paper, it may be transported to a transport path different from the transport path that it came from, and it may not return to the point where it started, which causes the user to have to return the paper, resulting in a problem of poor work efficiency.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to improve the efficiency of operations for dealing with problems such as jams. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems and achieve the object, a sheet conveying device includes: a first conveying unit that conveys the sheet in a first conveying direction; a detection unit that detects the sheet at a junction where a plurality of conveyance paths along which the sheet is conveyed join; An acquisition unit that acquires information about the sheet; a determining unit that is disposed at the junction and determines a selected path along which the sheet is to be transported from among the plurality of transport paths; a second conveying unit that conveys the sheet in a second conveying direction different from the first conveying direction based on the information; a control unit that controls the determination unit when the sheet is transported in the second transport direction based on a detection result by the detection unit; Equipped with. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the efficiency of operations for dealing with problems such as jams. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an image forming system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a branching mechanism at a junction. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a first example of conveyance in a first conveyance direction. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second example of conveyance in the first conveyance direction. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a first example (part 1) of conveying in a second conveying direction. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a first example (part 2) of conveying in a second conveying direction. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a first example (part 3) of conveying in a second conveying direction. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a second example (part 1) of conveying in a second conveying direction. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second example (part 2) of conveying in a second conveying direction. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second example (part 3) of conveying in a second conveying direction. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of paper information. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of generating a plurality of pieces of paper information. [Figure 13]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example in which a conveying route is divided into sections. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a transportation example (part 1). [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second example of transportation. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a third example of transportation. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a measurement example (part 1) of a conveying distance. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second measurement example of the transport distance. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a third measurement example of the transport distance. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a fourth measurement example of the transport distance. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a fifth measurement example of the transport distance. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a sixth measurement example of the transport distance. [Figure 23] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a correspondence relationship between sensors. [Figure 24] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of sensor arrangement. [Diagram 25] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a correspondence relationship between conveying motors. [Figure 26] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the arrangement of a conveying motor. [Figure 27] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating an example of a paper detection process. [Figure 28] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating a modified example of the paper detection process. [Figure 29] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating an example of a control process for conveying in a second conveying direction. [Diagram 30] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating an example of transport in a second transport direction including a process for securing a space. [Diagram 31] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating an example of a notification of the occurrence of a jam. [Diagram 32] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a setting screen example (part 1). [Diagram 33] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second example of a setting screen. [Diagram 34] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification. [Diagram 35]FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a polling process. [Diagram 36] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of generating tip position information. [Figure 37] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating an example of generation of rear end position information. [Figure 38] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a hardware configuration. [Figure 39] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, specific examples will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the embodiment is not limited to the specific examples described below.

[0010] [Example of an image forming system] In the following, an example will be described in which the sheet is "paper." In addition, in the following example, the predetermined process is "image formation." Therefore, in the following example, the sheet conveying device is an "image forming device" that performs image formation on paper.

[0011] 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image forming system. For example, image forming system 100 is a system having image forming apparatus 101, first sheet feeding apparatus 102, and second sheet feeding apparatus 103. Specifically, image forming system 100 is configured such that image forming apparatus 101, first sheet feeding apparatus 102, and second sheet feeding apparatus 103 are connected in this order from downstream to upstream.

[0012] The image forming system 100 may further include an auxiliary device, a pre-processing device, a post-processing device, or an information processing device.

[0013] Hereinafter, the transport direction will be referred to as the "Y-axis direction." Therefore, when the paper P is transported in the Y-axis direction, the paper P is transported from upstream to downstream. The direction perpendicular to the transport direction will be referred to as the "X-axis direction." Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to the XY plane will be referred to as the "Z-axis direction." The Z-axis direction is also the vertical direction and the direction of gravity.

[0014] The image forming apparatus 101 is, for example, a copy machine or a multifunction peripheral (MFP).

[0015] The first sheet feeding device 102 and the second sheet feeding device 103 are devices that transport the paper P to the image forming device 101. Note that the first sheet feeding device 102 and the second sheet feeding device 103 may perform pre-processing.

[0016] Hereinafter, the conveying direction in which the paper P is conveyed if no obstacles such as jams occur, i.e., the conveying direction in a normal state, is referred to as the "first conveying direction 111." On the other hand, the conveying direction opposite to the first conveying direction 111 is referred to as the "second conveying direction 112." However, conveying in the first conveying direction and the second conveying direction may include conveying in the Z-axis direction or a detour (such as temporarily conveying in the opposite direction).

[0017] The first paper feeder 102 and the second paper feeder 103 accumulate a plurality of sheets of paper P. The user prepares the paper P in advance in the tray 1. Then, the paper feed roller 2 starts to transport the paper P in the first transport direction 111, i.e., toward the image forming device 101. It is preferable to have a plurality of trays 1. For example, different trays 1 may contain different paper types of paper P, such as size, material, type, or thickness. However, the same type of paper P may be divided into multiple trays 1.

[0018] The downstream image forming apparatus 101 forms an image in an electrophotographic image forming section including a transfer roller 3 etc. The image forming section may be one that forms an image by an inkjet method.

[0019] When the feed rollers 2 and the transport rollers 4 rotate forward, the paper P is transported in a first transport direction 111. On the other hand, when the feed rollers 2 and the transport rollers 4 rotate reversely, the paper P is transported in a second transport direction 112.

[0020] The paper feed roller 2 and the transport roller 4 are rotated by the driving force of an actuator such as a transport motor 5. Therefore, by controlling the rotation direction (forward or reverse) of the transport motor 5, it is determined whether the paper feed roller 2 and the transport roller 4 rotate forward or reverse.

[0021] The paper P is transported via a transport path 6 in a first transport direction 111 or a second transport direction 112 .

[0022] The transport path 6 and the device configuration are not limited to the above configuration, and other transport paths or devices may be present.

[0023] When there are a plurality of transport paths 6, there is a point where the plurality of transport paths 6 join together (hereinafter referred to as a "junction 7").

[0024] The presence or absence of the paper P at the junction 7 is detected by a sensor 8 (also referred to as a "junction sensor"). As will be described later, the sensor 8 also includes a sensor that detects the paper P entering or exiting each transport path 6 (transport section).

[0025] [Example of branching mechanism at confluence] 2 is a diagram showing an example of a branching mechanism at a junction 7. Hereinafter, the junction 7 is an example where two transport paths from upstream, a "first transport path 61" and a "second transport path 62", join together to form a "third transport path 63".

[0026] A diverter claw 71 is provided at the junction 7. The diverter claw 71 is a mechanism that rotates around the X-axis by an actuator. When the diverter claw 71 is rotated, the transport path for transporting the paper P is switched.

[0027] When the paper P is transported in the second transport direction 112, the branch claw 71 determines whether the paper P transported from the third transport path 63 is to be transported to the first transport path 61 or the second transport path 62.

[0028] The presence or absence of the paper P at the junction 7 is detected by a sensor 8. The sensor 8 is, for example, an optical sensor.

[0029] [Example of conveyance in the first conveyance direction] 3 is a diagram showing a first example of conveying in the first conveying direction. For example, when the paper P is conveyed from the first conveying path 61 to the junction 7 shown in FIG. 2, the branch claw 71 rotates to ensure a conveying path so that the paper P is conveyed from the first conveying path 61 to the third conveying path 63.

[0030] 4 is a diagram showing a second example of conveying in the first conveying direction. For example, when the paper P is conveyed from the second conveying path 62 to the junction 7 shown in FIG. 2, the branch claw 71 rotates to ensure a conveying path so that the paper P is conveyed from the second conveying path 62 to the third conveying path 63.

[0031] [Example of conveying in the second conveying direction] 5 is a diagram showing a first example (part 1) of conveying in the second conveying direction. For example, when conveying the paper P from the third conveying path 63 to the first conveying path 61 to the junction 7 shown in FIG. 2, the branch claw 71 is rotated.

[0032] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a first example (part 2) of conveying in the second conveying direction. Compared to Fig. 5, Fig. 6 differs in that it shows a state after the branch claw 71 has rotated. Then, after it reaches the state shown in Fig. 6, the paper P is conveyed in the second conveying direction 112.

[0033] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a first example (part 3) of conveying in the second conveying direction. Fig. 7 shows a state in which the paper P is conveyed in the state shown in Fig. 6. In this way, the branch claw 71 forms a conveying path in which the paper P is conveyed from the third conveying path 63 to the first conveying path 61.

[0034] 8 is a diagram showing a second example (part 1) of conveying in the second conveying direction. As in the first example, when the paper P is conveyed from the third conveying path 63 to the second conveying path 62 at the junction 7 shown in FIG. 2, the branch claw 71 is rotated.

[0035] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a second example (part 2) of conveying in the second conveying direction. Compared to Fig. 8, Fig. 9 differs in that it shows a state after the branch claw 71 has rotated. Then, after it reaches the state shown in Fig. 9, the paper P is conveyed in the second conveying direction 112.

[0036] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a second example (part 3) of conveying in the second conveying direction. Fig. 10 shows a state in which the paper P is conveyed in the state shown in Fig. 9. In this way, the branch claw 71 forms a conveying path in which the paper P is conveyed from the third conveying path 63 to the second conveying path 62.

[0037] [Example of paper information] 11 is a diagram showing an example of paper information as sheet information. For example, the paper information PI includes information such as identification information PI01, leading edge position information PI02, trailing edge position information PI03, and paper feed tray information PI04. That is, in this embodiment, the paper information PI includes information that can be used to individually identify the paper P, as listed above. The paper information PI is stored and managed in a storage unit (memory) provided in the sheet conveying device.

[0038] The identification information PI01 is an ID (identification) that can identify the paper P. For example, it is the count number of the paper P that is transported after receiving a command to start transport (for example, a job for image formation). In other words, it is information that indicates the number of the paper P since the command was received.

[0039] The leading edge position information PI02 is information that indicates where the leading edge of the paper P in the first transport direction is located on the transport path 6. For example, the leading edge position information PI02 is calculated from the driving amount of the motor or the detection result by the sensor 8. Also, the leading edge position information PI02 is updated as needed depending on the transport situation.

[0040] The rear end position information PI03 is information that indicates where the rear end of the paper P in the first transport direction is located on the transport path 6. For example, the rear end position information PI03 is calculated from the drive amount of the motor or the detection result by the sensor 8. In addition, the rear end position information PI03 is updated as needed depending on the transport situation.

[0041] The paper feed tray information PI04 is information indicating from which tray 1 the paper was conveyed, that is, the conveyance start point. When a conveyance destination in the second conveying direction 112 is set, the paper feed tray information PI04 may be updated to the set conveyance destination. Alternatively, when a conveyance destination in the second conveying direction 112 is set, conveyance destination information may be added in addition to the paper feed tray information PI04.

[0042] For example, the paper information PI is information linked to the paper P that has received a command to start conveying. Therefore, the paper information PI does not need to be generated when the paper P is stored in the tray 1 (i.e., before conveying). Also, the paper information PI is updated when a change in the detection result by the sensor 8 or the transmission and reception of a communication command is used as a trigger.

[0043] 12 is a diagram showing an example of generating multiple pieces of paper information. For example, when the first sheet of paper P is conveyed, a first piece of paper information PI1 is generated for the first sheet of paper P. Similarly, when the second, third, ..., sheets of paper P are conveyed, a second piece of paper information PI2, a third piece of paper information PI3, ... are generated.

[0044] For example, even if the leading edge position information PI02 in the first sheet information PI1 changes, the leading edge position information PI02 in the second sheet information PI2 or the third sheet information PI3 is not affected.

[0045] [Example of using paper information] Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example in which the transport path is divided into sections. Below, an example is taken of a configuration with four paper feed trays, namely, first tray 11, second tray 12, third tray 13, and fourth tray 14. That is, Fig. 13 shows an example in which any one of the first tray 11, second tray 12, third tray 13, and fourth tray 14 is the transport starting point.

[0046] Hereinafter, it is assumed that the transport path 6 is divided into a first section A1, a second section A2, a third section A3, a fourth section A4, a fifth section A5, a sixth section A6, a seventh section A7, and an eighth section A8. That is, the sensor 8 detects that the paper P is located in any of the first section A1, the second section A2, the third section A3, the fourth section A4, the fifth section A5, the sixth section A6, the seventh section A7, and the eighth section A8.

[0047] In this way, a section in the conveying path 6 is a section separated by a sensor 8 (installed at a position upstream of the section) and another sensor 8 (installed at a position downstream of the section). For example, the conveying path 6 starting from the first tray 11 is composed of, from the upstream side, a first section A1 (a section between the eleventh sensor 81A and the twelfth sensor 81B), a second section A2 (a section between the twelfth sensor 81B and the thirteenth sensor 81C), and a third section A3 (a section between the thirteenth sensor 81C and the exit sensor 8EN).

[0048] The transport path 6, which starts from the second tray 12, is composed of, from upstream, a first section A1 (the section between the 21st sensor 82A and the 22nd sensor 82B), a second section A2 (the section between the 22nd sensor 82B and the 23rd sensor 82C), and an eighth section A8 (the section between the 23rd sensor 82C and the exit sensor 8EN).

[0049] The transport path 6, which starts from the third tray 13, is composed of, from upstream, the first section A1 (the section between the 31st sensor 83A and the 32nd sensor 83B), the second section A2 (the section between the 32nd sensor 83B and the 33rd sensor 83C), the third section A3 (the section between the 33rd sensor 83C and the 40th sensor 8D), the fourth section A4 (the section between the 40th sensor 8D and the 50th sensor 8E), the fifth section A5 (the section between the 50th sensor 8E and the 60th sensor 8F), the sixth section A6 (the section between the 60th sensor 8F and the 70th sensor 8G), the seventh section A7 (the section between the 70th sensor 8G and the 23rd sensor 82C), and the eighth section A8 (the section between the 23rd sensor 82C and the exit sensor 8EN).

[0050] The conveying path 6, which starts from the fourth tray 14, is composed of, from upstream, the first section A1 (the section between the 41st sensor 84A and the 42nd sensor 84B), the second section A2 (the section between the 42nd sensor 84B and the 43rd sensor 84C), the third section A3 (the section between the 43rd sensor 84C and the 40th sensor 8D), the fourth section A4 (the section between the 40th sensor 8D and the 50th sensor 8E), the fifth section A5 (the section between the 50th sensor 8E and the 60th sensor 8F), the sixth section A6 (the section between the 60th sensor 8F and the 70th sensor 8G), the seventh section A7 (the section between the 70th sensor 8G and the 23rd sensor 82C), and the eighth section A8 (the section between the 23rd sensor 82C and the exit sensor 8EN).

[0051] For example, if the sensor 8 is installed at the most downstream position of each section and at the most upstream position of each section, the sensor 8 detects the paper P being transported to each section.

[0052] The conveyance is performed, for example, from the conveyance starting point of the fourth tray 14, the third tray 13, the second tray 12, the first tray 11, the fourth tray 14, the third tray 13, . . . in that order.

[0053] 14 is a diagram showing a transport example (part 1). For example, when transport starts, a first sheet of paper information PI1 to a fourth sheet of paper information PI4 are generated for the first sheets of paper P in each tray (i.e., the first to fourth sheets of paper P overall).

[0054] The first paper information PI1 to the fourth paper information PI4 are given "paper IDs" of "00" to "03" in the order in which they are conveyed.

[0055] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a transport example (part 2). The following mainly describes the differences from Fig. 14.

[0056] 15 differs from FIG. 14 in that the first sheet of paper P (hereinafter referred to as "first sheet of paper P1") fed from the fourth tray 14 is transported in the first transport direction 111, and the second sheet of paper (hereinafter referred to as "second sheet of paper P2") fed from the third tray 13 is also transported in the first transport direction 111. Also, FIG. 15 shows a state in which fifth sheet information PI5 has been assigned to the fifth sheet stored in the fourth tray 14.

[0057] In Fig. 15, the first paper information PI1 has been updated from Fig. 14. Specifically, the leading edge position information PI02 and the trailing edge position information PI03 in the first paper information PI1 have been updated.

[0058] The leading edge position information PI02 of the first sheet P1 is updated to information indicating that the sheet is located in the fourth section A4 based on the detection result of the sensor 8. Similarly, the trailing edge position information PI03 of the first sheet P1 is updated to information indicating that the sheet is located in the third section A3 based on the detection result of the sensor 8.

[0059] In Fig. 15, the second paper information PI2 has been updated from Fig. 14. Specifically, the leading edge position information PI02 in the second paper information PI2 has been updated.

[0060] Based on the detection result of the sensor 8, the leading edge position information PI02 of the second paper P2 is updated to information indicating that the paper P2 is located in the first section A1.

[0061] Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a third example of the transport process. The following will mainly explain the differences from Fig. 15.

[0062] Fig. 16 differs from Fig. 15 in that the first sheet P1 has been transported downstream, i.e., to the image forming apparatus 101. Fig. 16 also shows the state in which the second sheet P2, the third sheet (hereinafter referred to as the "third sheet P3"), the fourth sheet (hereinafter referred to as the "fourth sheet P4"), the fifth sheet (hereinafter referred to as the "fifth sheet P5"), and the sixth sheet (hereinafter referred to as the "sixth sheet P6") have been transported.

[0063] When the first sheet P1 is transported to the image forming apparatus 101, the first sheet information PI1 is discarded.

[0064] The second paper information PI2, the third paper information PI3, the fourth paper information PI4, the fifth paper information PI5, and the sixth paper information PI6 have leading edge position information PI02 and trailing edge position information PI03 updated depending on the position of each paper P.

[0065] For example, when the leading edge of the fourth sheet P4 is located in the first section A1, the leading edge is detected by the sensor 8. Then, based on the detection result of the sensor 8, the leading edge position information PI02 of the fourth sheet information PI4 becomes the first section A1.

[0066] [Example of conveying distance measurement] The transport distance of the paper P may be measured as follows.

[0067] 17 is a diagram showing a measurement example (part 1) of the conveying distance. An example in which the first sheet P1 is conveyed from the fourth tray 14 will be described below.

[0068] 17 shows the state in which the transport of the first sheet P1 has started. If the leading edge and trailing edge of the first sheet P1 are not transported to the position where the sensor 8 is installed, there is no leading edge position information PI02 and trailing edge position information PI03, and the transport distance is 0 mm.

[0069] The conveying distance is the distance the paper P is conveyed in each section. For example, the conveying distance is measured based on the sensor 8 installed at the most upstream position of each section. Therefore, the conveying distance is the distance how far downstream the paper P is conveyed from the most upstream position of each section. In addition, the conveying distance may be reset, for example, when the leading edge or trailing edge of the paper P leaves the section.

[0070] Fig. 18 is a diagram showing a second example of measuring the transport distance. Fig. 18 differs from Fig. 17 in that the first sheet P1 is transported to the first section A1. Then, when the sensor 8 detects the leading edge of the first sheet P1, the first sheet information PI1 is updated and the leading edge position information PI02 becomes the first section A1. Next, the transport distance of the leading edge is measured.

[0071] Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a third measurement example of the conveying distance. Fig. 19 is different from Fig. 18 in that the first paper information PI1 has been updated and the conveying distance is now "65 mm".

[0072] For example, the transport distance is measured based on the number of pulses input to the transport motor 5 used for transport in the first section A1. The transport distance per pulse is set in advance.

[0073] Fig. 20 is a diagram showing a fourth measurement example of the conveying distance. Fig. 20 is different from Fig. 19 in that the first sheet P1 is conveyed so that its leading edge is located in the second section A2 and its trailing edge is located in the first section A1.

[0074] As with the leading edge, the transport distance of the trailing edge is measured by the sensor 8. Based on the detection result by the sensor 8, the first paper information PI1 is updated.

[0075] Fig. 21 is a diagram showing a fifth example of measurement of the conveying distance. Fig. 21 is different from Fig. 20 in that the first sheet P1 is conveyed so that its leading edge is located in the third section A3 and its trailing edge is located in the first section A1. The first sheet information PI1 is updated based on the detection result by the sensor 8.

[0076] Fig. 22 is a diagram showing a sixth measurement example of the conveying distance. Fig. 22 is different from Fig. 21 in that the first sheet P1 is conveyed so that its leading edge is located in the third section A3 and its trailing edge is located in the second section A2. The first sheet information PI1 is updated based on the detection result by the sensor 8.

[0077] As described above, when the transport distance of the paper P is measured by the sensor 8, the positions of the leading edge and trailing edge of the paper P on the transport path 6 are managed.

[0078] [Example of location information detection] For example, the position of the paper P is detected by information from the sensor 8 and an encoder provided in the transport motor 5.

[0079] 23 is a diagram showing an example of a correspondence relationship between sensors. For example, sensor 8 is associated with each section.

[0080] Fig. 24 is a diagram showing an example of sensor arrangement. "Sensor 1A" in Fig. 23 becomes sensor 8 arranged at "1A" in Fig. 24.

[0081] The section is a range of the transport path 6 from any one of the first tray 11 to the fourth tray 14 to the exit (i.e., until the paper is discharged), which is allocated to each sensor 8. For example, in each section, a sensor 8 is installed at the section start position. Then, when the paper P is transported, the sensor 8 detects the paper P.

[0082] Since the sensor 8 is associated with a section, it is possible to determine which section the paper P has been transported to. In addition, by counting the number of encoder pulses from the point in time when the sensor 8 detects that the paper P has been transported to a section, the transport distance in each section is measured.

[0083] 25 is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence relationship of the carry motors. For example, the carry motor 5 is associated with each section.

[0084] Fig. 26 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of the transport motors. Like the sensors 8, the transport motors 5 are also arranged in association with each section. "Transport motor 1A" in Fig. 25 is the transport motor 5 arranged in "1AM" in Fig. 26. The transport motor 5 drives the transport rollers 4 included in the corresponding section.

[0085] [Example of paper detection process] 27 is a diagram showing an example of the paper detection process. At each junction 7, a sensor 8 (junction sensor) arranged at the junction 7 detects whether or not a paper P is present as follows. Hereinafter, the number of the paper P, that is, the number of the paper P, is assumed to be "n". Meanwhile, it is assumed that there are "N" sheets of paper P in total.

[0086] In step S2701, the image forming system 100 sets "n=0".

[0087] In step S2702, the image forming system 100 determines whether or not the leading edge has been detected. That is, the image forming system 100 determines whether or not the leading edge has been transported to the junction 7.

[0088] Next, if it is determined that the leading edge has been detected (YES in step S2702), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2703. On the other hand, if it is determined that the leading edge has not been detected (NO in step S2702), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2705.

[0089] In step S2703, the image forming system 100 determines whether or not the trailing end has been detected. That is, the image forming system 100 determines whether or not the trailing end has passed the junction 7.

[0090] Next, if it is determined that the trailing end has been detected (YES in step S2703), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2704. On the other hand, if it is determined that the trailing end has not been detected (NO in step S2703), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2705.

[0091] In step S2704, the image forming system 100 sets the junction flag to "SET." That is, the junction flag is set to "SET" when the leading edge is transported to the junction 7 and the trailing edge has not yet left the junction 7. The junction flag is included in the paper information PI.

[0092] In step S2705, the image forming system 100 sets the junction flag to “RESET.” That is, the junction flag is set to “RESET” when the leading end is not transported to the junction 7 or the trailing end has left the junction 7.

[0093] In step S2706, the image forming system 100 determines whether or not "n≧N." That is, the image forming system 100 determines whether or not the detection process has been performed for all the papers P.

[0094] Next, if "n ≧ N" holds (YES in step S2706), the image forming system 100 ends the detection process. On the other hand, if "n ≧ N" does not hold (NO in step S2706), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2707.

[0095] In step S2707, the image forming system 100 sets “n=n+1.” That is, the image forming system 100 performs the detection process for the next sheet P.

[0096] When the detection process is performed as described above, if a sheet P is present at the junction 7, the junction flag is set to "SET." On the other hand, if a sheet P is not present at the junction 7, the junction flag is set to "RESET."

[0097] Based on the junction flag, it is determined whether or not the branch claw 71 is rotated.

[0098] 28 is a diagram showing a modified example of the paper detection process. The detection process may be the following process: Paper information PI is used in the detection process.

[0099] In step S2801, the image forming system 100 determines whether the junction sensor detects a sheet.

[0100] Next, if the junction sensor detects a sheet (YES in step S2801), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2802. On the other hand, if the junction sensor does not detect a sheet (NO in step S2801), the image forming system 100 ends the detection process.

[0101] In step S2802, the image forming system 100 determines whether or not the sheet P is present at the junction 7. Specifically, the image forming system 100 determines that the sheet P is present at the junction 7 when the rear end position information PI03 and the detection result of the sensor 8 match based on the sheet information PI. Alternatively, the image forming system 100 determines that the sheet P is present at the junction 7 when the rear end position information PI03 is upstream from the installation position of the sensor 8 and the leading end position information PI02 is downstream from the installation position of the sensor 8.

[0102] Next, if the sheet P is present at the junction 7 (YES in step S2802), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2803. On the other hand, if the sheet P is not present at the junction 7 (NO in step S2802), the image forming system 100 ends the detection process.

[0103] In step S2803, the image forming system 100 determines whether the transport path 6 is secured. Specifically, the image forming system 100 determines whether the transport path 6 for transporting the paper P to the destination is secured based on the state of the branch claw 71. Hereinafter, the state of the branch claw 71 is managed by a "state bit." For example, the state bit is "0" when the paper is transported to the first transport path 61, that is, when the branch claw 71 is in the state shown in FIG. 7. On the other hand, the state bit is "1" when the paper is transported to the second transport path 62, that is, when the branch claw 71 is in the state shown in FIG. 10.

[0104] Next, if the transport path 6 is not secured (NO in step S2803), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2804. On the other hand, if the transport path 6 is secured (YES in step S2803), the image forming system 100 ends the detection process.

[0105] In step S2804, the image forming system 100 rotates the branching claw 71.

[0106] In step S2805, the image forming system 100 updates the status bit.

[0107] When the sensor 8 detects the paper P and the position indicated by the trailing end position information PI03 is within the sensor installation section, the image forming system 100 determines that the trailing end is being transported to the junction 7.

[0108] When the sensor 8 detects the paper P, the position indicated by the rear end position information PI03 is located upstream of the sensor installation section, and the position indicated by the leading end position information PI02 is located downstream of the sensor installation section, the image forming system 100 determines that the paper P is straddling the junction 7.

[0109] When the paper P is present at the junction 7, the image forming system 100 determines the state of the diverter claw 71. Then, the image forming system 100 rotates the diverter claw 71 depending on the conveyance destination.

[0110] [Example of conveying in the second conveying direction] 29 is a diagram showing an example of a control process for conveying the sheet in the second conveying direction. For example, when a jam occurs, the following control process is started.

[0111] In step S2901, the image forming system 100 rotates the conveying motor 5 in the reverse direction.

[0112] In step S2902, the image forming system 100 determines whether the junction flag is "SET". Next, if the junction flag is "SET" (YES in step S2902), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2903. On the other hand, if the junction flag is not "SET" (NO in step S2902), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2904.

[0113] In step S2903, the image forming system 100 rotates the diverter claw 71. That is, in order to ensure a transport path 6 in which the paper P present at the junction 7 returns to the transport start point, the image forming system 100 rotates the diverter claw 71.

[0114] In step S2904, the image forming system 100 determines whether the transport is completed.

[0115] Next, if the conveyance is completed (YES in step S2904), the image forming system 100 ends the control process. On the other hand, if the conveyance is not completed (NO in step S2904), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S2902. That is, the image forming system 100 conveys the paper P so as to return repeatedly until all the paper P has returned to the conveyance starting point.

[0116] By carrying out the control process as described above, a return operation for returning the paper P to the transport starting point can be realized.

[0117] [Example of processing to secure space] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of transport in the second transport direction including a process for securing a space.

[0118] In step S3001, the image forming system 100 determines whether or not a mode in which the paper P is transported in the second transport direction 112 is enabled. Next, if transport in the second transport direction 112 is enabled (YES in step S3001), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S3002. On the other hand, if transport in the second transport direction 112 is not enabled (NO in step S3001), the image forming system 100 ends the process of transporting in the second transport direction 112.

[0119] In step S3002, the image forming system 100 determines whether or not a transport destination has been set.

[0120] 1 etc., in a configuration with multiple trays 1, i.e., multiple supply units, it is desirable to be able to set the destination for transport in the second transport direction 112. In other words, it is desirable to have a configuration that allows the setting so that there is only one tray 1 to which the paper P returns in the return operation. When making this setting, the user sets the destination before transport in the second transport direction 112 begins.

[0121] On the other hand, if the transport destination is not set, for example, the paper P is transported to tray 1, which is the transport start point.

[0122] Next, if a transport destination is set (YES in step S3002), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S3004. On the other hand, if a transport destination is not set (NO in step S3002), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S3003.

[0123] In step S3003, the image forming system 100 secures space in all supply units. Specifically, the image forming system 100 lowers all trays 1 used to transport the paper P.

[0124] In step S3004, the image forming system 100 secures a space in the supply unit set as the transport destination. Specifically, the image forming system 100 lowers the tray 1 set as the transport destination.

[0125] In step S3005, the image forming system 100 performs a process of transporting the paper P in the second transport direction. For example, step S3005 is the process shown in Fig. 29. Note that the paper information PI of the paper P returned to the tray 1 is preferably discarded.

[0126] It is desirable that, by step S3003 or step S3004, space is secured to store the paper P in the process of transporting the paper P in the second transport direction 112. When the transport start point or the transport destination is set, the paper P returns to tray 1. Therefore, if space is secured to store the paper P, it is possible to prevent the paper P from getting jammed when it returns to tray 1 due to lack of space.

[0127] [Settings and notification examples] Fig. 31 is a diagram showing an example of notification of the occurrence of a jam. For example, when a jam occurs, a screen indicating the jam and a Graphical User Interface (GUI) such as buttons are displayed on the operation panel 200. For example, when the user presses the "return operation" button, the display switches to start processing to transport the paper P in the second transport direction 112 shown in Fig. 29.

[0128] 32 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen (part 1). For example, the process of transporting the paper P in the second transport direction 112 may be set on the setting screen shown in FIG.

[0129] Specifically, when "Implementation setting" is pressed, three options become available: "Implement (including jammed paper)", "Implement (other than jammed paper)", and "Do not implement". When "Do not implement" is selected, the process of transporting paper P in the second transport direction 112 will not be initiated even if a jam occurs. On the other hand, when "Implement (including jammed paper)" or "Implement (other than jammed paper)" is selected, the process of transporting paper P in the second transport direction 112 will be initiated if a jam occurs. Also, the paper P that is the target of transport differs depending on whether "Implement (including jammed paper)" or "Implement (other than jammed paper)" is selected.

[0130] As described above, if the user can operate to switch whether or not to transport the paper P in the second transport direction 112, the user's response capability can be improved. In addition, the user can select how to deal with a problem such as a jam.

[0131] 33 is a diagram showing a setting screen example (part 2) For example, in the process of transporting the paper P in the second transport direction 112, the transport destination may be set on the setting screen shown in FIG.

[0132] Specifically, when "Set destination" is pressed, the destinations that can be set are displayed. When "Auto" is set, the destination is set to tray 1, which is the starting point of transport for each sheet P. On the other hand, when a specific tray 1 such as "1st tray," "2nd tray," etc. is set, all sheets P are transported to the set tray 1.

[0133] In this way, if the transport destination can be set, a specific tray 1 can be used as a dedicated tray 1 to which the paper P is returned.

[0134] The settings may be made for each type of paper (for example, thickness, size, or paper type).

[0135] Fig. 34 is a diagram showing an example of a notification. For example, when the process of transporting the paper P in the second transport direction 112 is completely completed, it is desirable to display a notification screen as shown in Fig. 34.

[0136] As shown in FIG. 34, it is desirable to display information such as the completion of the process, where the paper P has been transported (that is, where the transport destination is), and an explanation of the operation to be performed by the user.

[0137] In this way, when the completion of the process is notified, the user can know that the process has been completed.

[0138] [Polling processing example] 35 is a diagram showing an example of polling processing. The polling processing is processing that is executed at regular intervals. For example, the regular intervals are set in advance. Therefore, the image forming system 100 performs the following processing at regular intervals.

[0139] In step S3501, the image forming system 100 updates the leading edge position information PI02.

[0140] In step S3502, the image forming system 100 updates the trailing edge position information PI03.

[0141] In step S3503, the image forming system 100 detects whether the sheet P is present at the junction 7.

[0142] As described above, each piece of information and the detection result by the sensor 8 are updated as needed to reflect the information in real time. Note that steps S3501 to S3503 may be executed in an order other than the above, or in parallel.

[0143] In step S3504, the image forming system 100 performs a process of transporting the paper P in the second transport direction. For example, step S3504 is the process shown in FIG.

[0144] [Example of tip position information generation] FIG. 36 is a diagram showing an example of generating tip position information.

[0145] In step S3601, the image forming system 100 determines whether the sensor 8 installed in the section next to the section in which the leading edge of the paper P is currently located has detected the paper P.

[0146] Next, if the sensor 8 installed in the next section has detected something (YES in step S3601), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S3602. On the other hand, if the sensor 8 installed in the next section has not detected something (NO in step S3601), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S3603.

[0147] In step S3602, the image forming system 100 determines that the paper P has been transported to the next section.

[0148] In step S3603, the image forming system 100 measures the transport distance in the current section. For example, the transport distance is measured by a calculation such as "transport distance = number of pulses x transport amount per pulse".

[0149] In step S3604, the image forming system 100 clears the transport distance of the leading edge. That is, since it has been determined that the paper P has been transported to the next section, the encoder used to measure the transport distance is changed.

[0150] In step S3605, the image forming system 100 updates the leading edge position information PI02. Specifically, the information on the section and the transport distance is updated as shown in FIGS.

[0151] [Example of generating rear end position information] FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of generating rear end position information.

[0152] In step S3701, image forming system 100 determines whether or not sensor 8 installed in the section next to the section in which the rear end of paper P is currently located has detected paper P.

[0153] Next, if the sensor 8 installed in the next section has detected something (YES in step S3701), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S3702. On the other hand, if the sensor 8 installed in the next section has not detected something (NO in step S3701), the image forming system 100 proceeds to step S3703.

[0154] In step S3702, the image forming system 100 determines that the paper P has left the current section.

[0155] In step S3703, the image forming system 100 measures the transport distance in the current section. As with the leading edge position information, the transport distance is measured by a calculation such as "transport distance = number of pulses x transport amount per pulse".

[0156] In step S3704, the image forming system 100 clears the transport distance of the rear end. That is, since it has been determined that the paper P has left the current section, the encoder used to measure the transport distance is changed.

[0157] In step S3705, the image forming system 100 updates the trailing edge position information PI03. Specifically, the information on the section and the conveying distance is updated as shown in FIGS.

[0158] [Hardware configuration example] 38 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration. For example, the image forming apparatus 101 has a hardware configuration including a Central Processing Unit (hereinafter referred to as "CPU102H1"), a Read Only Memory (hereinafter referred to as "ROM102H2"), a Random Access Memory (hereinafter referred to as "RAM102H3"), an actuator 102H4, a sensor 8, and an input / output device 102H5.

[0159] The CPU 102H1 is an example of a calculation device and a control device.

[0160] The ROM 102H2 and the RAM 102H3 are examples of storage devices.

[0161] The actuator 102H4 is a drive device that rotates the conveying motor 5 and the diverter claw 71. The actuator 102H4 may include a control device such as a driver, and mechanical components such as a reducer.

[0162] The sensor 8 is a detection device that detects the paper P and the like.

[0163] The input / output device 102H5 receives input from a user and outputs to the user a processing result, etc. For example, the input / output device 102H5 is an operation panel 200 or the like.

[0164] With the above configuration, the arithmetic device, the control device, and the storage device cooperate with each other based on the program to execute various processes. Note that there may be another information processing device that executes the processes. Furthermore, the hardware configuration may further include an external or internal arithmetic device, a control device, a storage device, an input device, an output device, a communication device, or an auxiliary device.

[0165] Furthermore, the above hardware may be implemented, for example, in a concentrated manner in the image forming apparatus 101, or may be implemented in a peripheral device or the like.

[0166] [Example of functional configuration] 39 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration. For example, the image forming apparatus 101 includes a first conveying unit 101F1, a detecting unit 101F2, an acquiring unit 101F3, a deciding unit 101F4, a second conveying unit 101F5, and a control unit 101F6. The image forming apparatus 101 preferably further includes a predetermined processing unit 101F7, a supply unit 101F8, a notifying unit 101F9, a switching unit 101F10, and a setting unit 101F11.

[0167] The first transport section 101F1 performs a first transport procedure for transporting the paper P in a first transport direction 111. For example, the first transport section 101F1 is realized by an actuator 102H4, transport rollers 4, and the like.

[0168] The detection unit 101F2 performs a detection procedure to detect the sheet P at the junction 7. For example, the detection unit 101F2 is realized by a sensor 8.

[0169] The acquisition unit 101F3 performs an acquisition procedure for acquiring information about the paper P. For example, the acquisition unit 101F3 is realized by the sensor 8.

[0170] The determination unit 101F4 performs a determination procedure for performing an operation of determining a selected path for conveying the sheet P. In other words, the determination unit 101F4 is a conveyance path switching mechanism that switches the conveyance destination of the sheet P at a junction. For example, the determination unit 101F4 is realized by the branch claw 71.

[0171] Based on the information, the second transport section 101F5 performs a second transport procedure to transport the paper P in the second transport direction 112. For example, the second transport section 101F5 is realized by an actuator 102H4, transport rollers 4, and the like.

[0172] Based on the detection result, the control unit 101F6 performs a control procedure for controlling the determination unit 101F4 when conveying in the second conveying direction 112. For example, the control unit 101F6 is realized by the CPU 102H1 or the like.

[0173] The predetermined processing section 101F7 performs a predetermined processing procedure for performing a predetermined process such as image formation on the paper P. For example, the predetermined processing section 101F7 is realized by the transfer roller 3 or the like.

[0174] The supply unit 101F8 performs a supply procedure for supplying the paper P. For example, the supply unit 101F8 is realized by a tray 1 or the like.

[0175] The notification section 101F9 performs a notification procedure for notifying the supply section 101F8 that the paper P has been transported by the second transport section 101F5. For example, the notification section 101F9 is realized by the input / output device 102H5 or the like.

[0176] The switching unit 101F10 performs a switching procedure for switching whether to transport the paper P in the second transport direction 112. For example, the switching unit 101F10 is realized by the input / output device 102H5 or the like.

[0177] The setting unit 101F11 performs a setting procedure for setting a destination to be conveyed by the second conveying unit 101F5 in a configuration having a plurality of supply units 101F8. For example, the setting unit 101F11 is realized by the input / output device 102H5 or the like.

[0178] As described above, when the second conveying section 101F5 conveys the sheet P in the second conveying direction 112 based on the information, the efficiency of the work to deal with a jam or other problem can be improved.

[0179] For example, if a jam occurs and an attempt is made to return the paper P, it may end up being transported along a different transport path from the one it was transported along, and may not return to the transport starting point. In addition, if a paper P of a different size has been transported, an attempt to return the paper P may result in it being returned to a tray 1 of a different size. If there is a junction 7 on the transport path, depending on the selected path, the above-mentioned cases are expected and may cause trouble. When such trouble occurs, work efficiency is likely to deteriorate as the trouble is dealt with.

[0180] Therefore, by using information such as the paper information PI, an appropriate transport path can be determined even when transporting by the second transport section 101F5, and the above-mentioned troubles can be prevented.

[0181] [Example of a sheet] The sheet means a medium to which paint or liquid can adhere at least temporarily, and which adheres and sticks, or which adheres and penetrates, etc. For example, the sheet is a recording medium such as paper, recording paper, film, or cloth, an electronic board, an electronic component such as a piezoelectric element, a powder layer, an organ model, or an examination cell, and unless otherwise specified, includes all objects to which paint or liquid can adhere.

[0182] The material of the sheet is not limited as long as it can be coated with paint or liquid, for example, paper, thread, fiber, cloth, leather, metal, plastic, glass, wood, ceramics, etc., even if only temporarily.

[0183] [Other embodiments] The predetermined process may be a process other than image formation. For example, the predetermined process may be a surface treatment, formation of an electronic circuit resist pattern, or three-dimensional modeling. Specifically, the media processing device may be a three-dimensional modeling device (also called a "three-dimensional modeling device") that ejects modeling liquid onto a powder layer formed by forming a layer of powder in order to form a three-dimensional object (also called a "three-dimensional object").

[0184] The image forming apparatus and the pre-processing apparatus may be integrated together, that is, the image forming apparatus may perform the pre-processing.

[0185] There may be a plurality of image forming apparatuses, preprocessing apparatuses, or information processing apparatuses, that is, each process may be performed in a distributed, parallel, or redundant manner by a plurality of apparatuses.

[0186] The fault is not limited to a jam. For example, the fault may be a power outage, an error, etc. In other words, the fault may be an event in which the conveyance or the execution of a predetermined process is interrupted for some reason.

[0187] The above-described processing method is performed by a media processing device having a calculation device, a control device, and a storage device, etc. Note that the processing method may be realized by a program or the like.

[0188] For example, aspects of the present invention are as follows.

[0189] <1> a first conveying unit that conveys the sheet in a first conveying direction; a detection unit that detects the sheet at a junction where a plurality of conveyance paths along which the sheet is conveyed join; An acquisition unit that acquires information about the sheet; a determining unit that is disposed at the junction and determines a selected path along which the sheet is to be transported from among the plurality of transport paths; a second conveying unit that conveys the sheet in a second conveying direction different from the first conveying direction based on the information; a control unit that controls the determination unit when the sheet is transported in the second transport direction based on a detection result by the detection unit; The sheet conveying device includes:

[0190] <2> The first conveying section is conveying the sheet from a supply unit in the first conveying direction toward a predetermined processing unit that performs a predetermined process on the sheet via at least one of the plurality of conveying paths; The second conveying section is The sheet is transported in a second transport direction opposite to the first transport direction; When conveying in the second conveying direction, The supply unit secures a space for storing the sheets. the above <1> 2 is a sheet conveying apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0191] <3> a notification unit that notifies the supply unit that the sheet has been transported by the second transport unit. the above <1> or <2> 2 is a sheet conveying apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0192] <4> a switching unit that switches whether or not the sheet is transported in the second transport direction, the above <1> ~ <3> 1 is a schematic diagram of a sheet conveying apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0193] <5> A plurality of supply units are provided, A setting unit that sets a destination of the second transport unit among the plurality of supply units. the above <1> ~ <4> 1 is a schematic diagram of a sheet conveying apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0194] <6> The sheet is It is paper, When an image is formed on the paper, the paper is transported from a paper feed tray in the first transport direction, When a fault occurs in the process related to the image formation, the paper is transported in the second transport direction toward the paper feed tray, which is a direction opposite to the first transport direction, and When the paper is transported in the second transport direction, the paper is transported to the paper feed tray. the above <1> ~ <5> 1 is a schematic diagram of a sheet conveying apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0195] <7> The information is indicates a transport start point of the first transport unit, The second conveying section is The sheet is transported in the second transport direction so that the transport start point becomes the transport destination. the above <1> ~ <6> 1 is a schematic diagram of a sheet conveying apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0196] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. Therefore, the present invention can be modified or modified without departing from the technical gist of the invention. Therefore, all technical matters included in the technical ideas described in the claims are the subject of the present invention. The above-mentioned embodiments are preferred examples. Those skilled in the art can realize various modifications from the disclosed contents, and such modifications are included in the technical scope described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0197] 1: Tray 2: Paper feed roller 3: Transfer roller 4: Transport roller 5: Transport motor 6: Transport route 7: Confluence 8: Sensor 11: First tray 12: Second tray 13:Third tray 14: 4th tray 61: First transport route 62: Second transport route 63: Third transport route 71: Branch claw 100: Image forming system 101: Image forming apparatus 101F1: First conveyor section 101F10: Switching section 101F11: Setting section 101F2: Detection unit 101F3: Acquisition section 101F4: Decision section 101F5: Second conveyor section 101F6: Control unit 101F7: Predetermined processing section 101F8: Supply section 101F9:Notification section 102: First paper feeder 103: Second paper feeder 111: First conveying direction 112: Second conveying direction 200: Operation panel A1: First section A2: Second section A3: Section 3 A4: Section 4 A5: Section 5 A6: Section 6 A7: Section 7 A8: Section 8 P:Paper P1: First page P2: Second sheet P3: Third sheet P4: Fourth sheet P5: 5th sheet P6: 6th page PI : Paper Information PI01: Identification information PI02: Tip position information PI03: Rear end position information PI04: Paper tray information PI1: First paper information PI2: Second paper information PI3: Third paper information PI4: 4th paper information PI5: 5th paper information PI6: 6th paper information [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0198] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6098353

Claims

1. a first conveying unit that conveys the sheet in a first conveying direction; a detection unit that detects the sheet at a junction where a plurality of conveyance paths along which the sheet is conveyed join; An acquisition unit that acquires information about the sheet; a determining unit that is disposed at the junction and determines a selected path along which the sheet is to be transported from among the plurality of transport paths; a second conveying unit that conveys the sheet in a second conveying direction different from the first conveying direction based on the information; a control unit that controls the determination unit when the sheet is transported in the second transport direction based on a detection result by the detection unit; A sheet conveying device comprising:

2. The first transport unit is The sheet is transported in the first transport direction from a supply unit to a predetermined processing unit that performs a predetermined process on the sheet via at least one of the plurality of transport paths; The second conveying unit is The sheet is transported in a second transport direction opposite to the first transport direction; When conveying in the second conveying direction, The supply unit secures a space for storing the sheets. The sheet transport device according to claim 1 .

3. a notification unit that notifies the supply unit that the sheet has been transported by the second transport unit. The sheet transport device according to claim 2 .

4. a switching unit that switches whether or not the sheet is transported in the second transport direction, The sheet transport device according to claim 1 .

5. A plurality of supply units are provided, A setting unit that sets a destination of the second transport unit among the plurality of supply units. The sheet transport device according to claim 1 .

6. The sheet is It is paper, When an image is formed on the paper, the paper is transported from a paper feed tray in the first transport direction, When a fault occurs in the process related to the image formation, the paper is transported in the second transport direction toward the paper feed tray, which is a direction opposite to the first transport direction, When the paper is transported in the second transport direction, the paper is transported to the paper feed tray. The sheet transport device according to claim 1 .

7. The information is indicating a transport start point of the first transport unit, The second conveying unit is The sheet is transported in the second transport direction so that the transport start point becomes the transport destination. The sheet transport device according to claim 1 .

8. An image forming system including an image forming apparatus including an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, and a sheet feeding device that supplies the sheet to the image forming apparatus, a first conveying section that conveys the sheet in a first conveying direction; a detection unit that detects the sheet at a junction where a plurality of conveyance paths along which the sheet is conveyed join; An acquisition unit that acquires information about the sheet; a determining unit that is disposed at the junction and determines a selected path along which the sheet is to be transported from among the plurality of transport paths; a second conveying unit that conveys the sheet in a second conveying direction different from the first conveying direction based on the information; a control unit that controls the determination unit when the sheet is transported in the second transport direction based on a detection result by the detection unit; An image forming system comprising:

9. A program for causing a sheet conveying device to execute a processing method, a first transport step of transporting the sheet in a first transport direction; a detection step of detecting the sheet at a junction where a plurality of conveying paths along which the sheet is conveyed join; An acquisition step for acquiring information on the sheet; a determining step of determining a selected path along which the sheet is to be transported from among the plurality of transport paths at the junction; a second transport step of transporting the sheet in a second transport direction different from the first transport direction based on the information; a control procedure for controlling the determination procedure when the sheet is transported in the second transport direction based on a detection result obtained by the detection procedure; A program for executing a processing method including the steps of:

Images