Post-processing system, control program for post-processing system, and control method for post-processing system

Abstract

To provide a post-processing device, an image forming system, and a control program for the post-processing device that can present whether or not a user's desired post-processing can be executed.SOLUTION: A post-processing device 300 performs predetermined post-processing corresponding to functions of one or more replaceable function units 501-504 on conveyed sheets with the function units. The post-processing device 300 includes a plurality of slots 321-324, loading detection units 325-328, 360, and a condition output unit 360. The plurality of slots 321-324 can have function units loaded at respective loading positions along a conveyance path. The loading detection units 325-328, 360 detect that the function unit has been loaded into a slot. The condition output unit 360 outputs conditions under which post-processing can be performed, according to the loading positions of the slots 321-324 into which the function units 501-504 have been loaded.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a post-processing device, an image forming system, and a control program for the post-processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Post-processing devices are known that can perform multiple post-processing operations in a single device by switching between multiple functional units that perform post-processing operations such as cutting paper, forming creases, and perforations.

[0003] The following Patent Document 1 discloses that a paper processing device that processes paper while transporting the paper has, as a functional unit, an optional processing device section that performs processing of arbitrarily selected content, and that the optional processing device section is detachably attached to the device main body. Also, the following Patent Document 2 discloses that a paper processing device has, as functional units, a cutting device section and a fold forming device section, and that these cutting device section and fold forming device section are detachably attached to the device main body.

[0004] In the paper processing device of Patent Document 2, a cutting device section and a folding device section are arranged in series along the conveying path, and these processes can be performed sequentially. In this way, by increasing the number of functional units loaded into the post-processing device and combining them, more complex post-processing functions can be realized.

[0005] However, as the number of functional units increases and the combinations become more complex, post-processing may not be possible depending on the paper size, even when the same post-processing is required. In such cases, post-processing device users deal with the problem by replacing the functional units.

[0006] In particular, post-processing in the direction perpendicular to the paper transport direction (hereinafter referred to as the "CD (Cross Direction) direction") requires paper transport to be stopped temporarily, which can result in restrictions such as the paper being pulled by the post-processing device connected downstream. As a result, post-processing may not be performed accurately. To avoid such restrictions, users replace the functional units. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-239308 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-239312 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] However, at the time of replacing the functional units, it is difficult for the user to confirm whether the desired post-processing can be performed with the current combination of functional units.

[0009] Furthermore, even for the same functional units, the post-processing function restrictions and prohibitions vary depending on the loading position, which makes it difficult for the user to keep track of all of these restrictions and prohibitions.

[0010] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a post-processing system, a control method for a post-processing system, and a control program for a post-processing device that indicate that the post-processing desired by the user will be performed appropriately on paper. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The above object of the present invention can be achieved by the following means.

[0012] (1) A post-processing system that uses one or more interchangeable functional units to perform a predetermined post-processing on transported paper in accordance with the function of the functional unit, the post-processing system having: a plurality of slots into which the functional units can be loaded at respective loading positions along a paper transport path; a type detection unit that detects the type of function of the functional unit loaded in the slot; an identification unit that identifies the position of the slot in which the functional unit is loaded; and an output unit that outputs information about the output product in which the predetermined post-processing has been performed on the paper in accordance with the type of function of the functional unit detected by the type detection unit and the position of the slot in which the functional unit is loaded.

[0013] (2) A post-processing system as described in (1) above, wherein the type detection unit detects the type of a plurality of functional units loaded in each of a plurality of slots, the identification unit identifies the position of the slot in which each of the plurality of functional units is loaded, and the output unit outputs information about the output object based on the detection result by the type detection unit and the identification result by the identification unit.

[0014] (3) A post-processing system according to either (1) or (2) above, wherein the information about the output includes information indicating the state of the paper when post-processing is performed by the functional unit.

[0015] (4) The post-processing system according to (3) above, wherein the information indicating the state of the paper includes information regarding the position of post-processing performed by the functional unit.

[0016] (5) The post-processing system according to (3) or (4) above, wherein the information indicating the state of the paper includes information regarding the type of post-processing performed by the functional unit.

[0017] (6) The post-processing system according to any one of (1) to (5) above, wherein the information relating to the output product includes information relating to the type of the output product.

[0018] (7) The post-processing system according to any one of (1) to (6) above, wherein the output unit includes a display unit that displays information about the output object.

[0019] (8) The post-processing system according to any one of (1) to (7) above, wherein the output unit includes an image forming unit that prints information about the output product.

[0020] (9) A method for controlling a post-processing system having a plurality of slots into which functional units can be loaded at respective loading positions along a paper transport path, and which performs a predetermined post-processing on transported paper according to the function of the functional unit using one or more interchangeable functional units, the method comprising the steps of: (a) detecting the type of function of the functional unit loaded in the slot; (b) identifying the position of the slot into which the functional unit is loaded; and (c) outputting information regarding the output product on which the predetermined post-processing has been performed on the paper, according to the type of function of the functional unit detected in step (a) and the position of the slot into which the functional unit is loaded identified in step (b).

[0021] (10) A control program for a post-processing device having a plurality of slots into which functional units can be loaded at respective loading positions along a paper transport path, and using one or more interchangeable functional units to perform a predetermined post-processing on transported paper in accordance with the function of the functional unit, the control program for the post-processing device causing a computer to execute the following steps: (a) detecting the type of function of the functional unit loaded in the slot; (b) identifying the position of the slot into which the functional unit is loaded; and (c) outputting information about the output product for which the predetermined post-processing has been performed on the paper in accordance with the type of function of the functional unit detected in (a) and the position of the slot into which the functional unit is loaded identified in (b). [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present invention, information regarding the output product on which a specified post-processing is performed on the paper is output depending on the position where a specified type of functional unit identified by an identification unit in the post-processing system is loaded, so that it is possible to show the user that the post-processing desired by the user will be performed appropriately on the paper. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the image forming system shown in FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a first post-processing device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4A] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of a control method for an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4B] 4B is a subroutine flowchart illustrating the processing of step S104 in FIG. 4A. [Figure 5A] 10 is a table showing an example of positions of functional units in a first post-processing device and conditions under which post-processing can be performed. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram showing a representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the combination of functional units shown in FIG. 5A. [Figure 6A] 10 is a table showing another example of the positions of the functional units in the first post-processing device and the conditions under which post-processing can be performed. [Figure 6B] 6B is a schematic diagram showing forbidden conditions in the combination of functional units shown in FIG. 6A. FIG. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram showing a representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the combination of functional units shown in FIG. 6A. [Figure 6D] FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram showing another representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the combination of functional units shown in FIG. 6A. [Figure 7A] 10 is a table showing another example of the positions of the functional units in the first post-processing device and the conditions under which post-processing can be performed. [Figure 7B]7B is a schematic diagram showing forbidden conditions in the combination of functional units shown in FIG. 7A. FIG. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram showing a representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the combination of functional units shown in FIG. 7A. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram showing another representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the combination of functional units shown in FIG. 7A. [Figure 8A] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an initial state of an arrangement of functional units in the first post-processing device. [Figure 8B] 8B is a schematic diagram illustrating a case where the order is changed to relax the prohibition conditions from the initial state of FIG. 8A. FIG. [Figure 8C] 8B is a schematic diagram illustrating a case where the order is changed to relax the prohibition conditions from the initial state of FIG. 8A. FIG. [Figure 8D] 8B is a schematic diagram illustrating a case where the order is changed to relax the prohibition conditions from the initial state of FIG. 8A. FIG. [Figure 9A] 10 is a table listing representative post-processing operations realized by combinations of functional units in the first post-processing device, conditions under which the post-processing operations can be performed, and the like. [Figure 9B] This is a table following FIG. 9A. [Figure 10A] 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an output of paper that has been post-processed by the first post-processing device. FIG. [Figure 10B] 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an output of paper that has been post-processed by the first post-processing device. FIG. [Figure 10C] 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an output of paper that has been post-processed by the first post-processing device. FIG. [Figure 10D] 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an output of paper that has been post-processed by the first post-processing device. FIG. [Figure 10E] 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an output of paper that has been post-processed by the first post-processing device. FIG. [Figure 11A] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining Modification 1. [Figure 11B] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining Modification 1. [Figure 11C] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining Modification 1. [Figure 11D] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining Modification 1. [Figure 12A] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining Modification 2. [Figure 12B] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining Modification 2. [Figure 12C] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining Modification 2. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a first post-processing device of a third modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations will be omitted. Furthermore, the dimensional proportions in the drawings are exaggerated for the convenience of explanation and may differ from the actual proportions.

[0025] <Image forming system 100> Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an image forming system 100 according to an embodiment, and Fig. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the image forming system 100 shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a first post-processing device shown in Fig. 1.

[0026] As shown in Fig. 1, image forming system 100 of this embodiment has image forming apparatus 200, first post-processing apparatus 300, and second post-processing apparatus 400 connected in series along the X direction (paper transport direction). Note that the configuration of image forming system 100 shown in Fig. 1 is an example, and the types and number of apparatuses included in image forming system 100 are not limited to the example shown in Fig. 1. Image forming system 100 may also have a paper feeder upstream of image forming apparatus 200 in the X direction.

[0027] <Image forming apparatus 200> Image forming apparatus 200 reads an image from an original and forms (prints) the read image on paper. Image forming apparatus 200 also receives a print job including print data and print setting data in PDL (Page Description Language) format from an external client terminal via a network, and forms an image on paper based on this. The client terminal may be, for example, a personal computer, a tablet terminal, or a smartphone.

[0028] 2, image forming apparatus 200 has an image reading unit 210, an image processing unit 220, an image forming unit 230, a paper feeding unit 240, a paper conveying unit 250, a fixing unit 260, a communication unit 270, an operation display unit 280, and a control unit 290. These components are connected to each other via an internal bus 201 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0029] The image reading unit 210 includes an optical system including mirrors, lenses, etc., and a reading sensor. The image reading unit 210 reads a document placed on a reading surface or a document conveyed by an ADF (Auto Document Feeder), and outputs an image signal.

[0030] Image processing unit 220 performs various image processes on the image signal received from image reading unit 210 to generate print image data. Image processing unit 220 also generates print image data based on print setting information and print data included in the print job received by communication unit 270. The generated print image data is sent to image forming unit 230.

[0031] The image forming unit 230 forms an image on a sheet based on print image data using a known image creation process such as electrophotography, which includes the steps of charging, exposing, developing, and transferring.

[0032] The image forming unit 230 is configured to include a photosensitive drum as an image carrier, and a charging unit, an optical writing unit, a developing device, and a transfer unit arranged around the photosensitive drum.

[0033] The photosensitive drum is rotated at a predetermined speed by a drum motor (not shown). The charging unit has a corona discharge electrode arranged around the photosensitive drum and charges the surface of the photosensitive drum with the ions generated. The optical writing unit incorporates a scanning optical device and exposes the charged photosensitive drum based on input print image data, thereby reducing the potential of the exposed area and forming a charge pattern (electrostatic latent image) corresponding to the print image data. The developing device develops the formed electrostatic latent image and visualizes it with toner to form a toner image. The transfer unit transfers the toner image on the photosensitive drum to paper.

[0034] Paper feed unit 240 supplies paper as recording material to image forming unit 230. Paper feed unit 240 has an upper tray 241 and a lower tray 242, and each tray can store paper of different sizes, such as A4 size and A3 size.

[0035] Paper transport section 250 transports paper within image forming apparatus 200. Paper transport section 250 has a transport path and multiple pairs of transport rollers. Paper transport section 250 also includes a paper reversing section and a circulating transport section, and can reverse and discharge paper after fixing, or form images on both sides of paper.

[0036] Paper supplied from paper feed unit 240 is transported along a transport path toward image forming unit 230. The paper is synchronized with the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum by registration roller pair 251, and the timing at which the paper is transported to the transfer unit is controlled. The paper onto which the toner image has been transferred by the transfer unit is transported to fixing unit 260.

[0037] The fixing unit 260 fixes the toner image formed on the paper. The fixing unit 260 includes a hollow heating roller with a heater inside, and a pressure roller facing the heating roller. The heating roller and pressure roller are controlled to a predetermined temperature (for example, 100°C or higher) by the heater, and apply heat and pressure to the paper to fix the toner image.

[0038] The paper on which the image has been fixed is supplied to the first post-processing device 300 through a paper discharge unit (not shown).

[0039] The communication unit 270 has a network I / F 271 and a post-processing device I / F 272. The network I / F 271 connects to a client terminal such as a personal computer via a network, and transmits and receives data such as print jobs.

[0040] The post-processing device I / F 272 is communicably connected to the first post-processing device 300 and the second post-processing device 400 via a communication line 202 to transmit and receive data.

[0041] The operation display unit 280 has an input unit and an output unit. The input unit includes, for example, a keyboard and a touch panel, and is used by the user to input characters, various settings, start instructions, and other instructions (inputs). The output unit includes a display, and is used to present the user with the device configuration, the status of print jobs, post-processing conditions, output image images, and the occurrence of paper transport errors (jams).

[0042] The control unit 290 controls the image reading unit 210, the image processing unit 220, the image forming unit 230, the paper feeding unit 240, the paper conveying unit 250, the fixing unit 260, the communication unit 270, and the operation display unit 280. The control unit 290 has a CPU 291, an auxiliary storage device 292, a RAM 293, and a ROM 294.

[0043] The CPU 291 executes a control program for the image forming apparatus. The control program is stored in an auxiliary storage device 292 and loaded into a RAM 293 when executed by the CPU 291. The auxiliary storage device 292 includes a large-capacity storage device such as a hard disk drive or flash memory. The RAM 293 stores the results of calculations performed by the CPU 291, the positions and types of functional units installed in the first post-processing device 300, prohibition condition information (described later), and the like. The ROM 294 stores various parameters, various programs, and the like. The CPU 291 executes the control program to realize various functions.

[0044] <First post-processing device 300> The first post-processing device 300 conveys or post-processes the paper supplied from the image forming device 200 in accordance with instructions from the image forming device 200 , and supplies the paper to the second post-processing device 400 or ejects it onto the purge tray 340 .

[0045] The first post-processing device 300 is disposed between the image forming device 200 and the second post-processing device 400 in the image forming system 100, and includes a paper transport unit 310, a post-processing unit 320, a wastebasket 330, a purge tray 340, a communication I / F unit 350, and a control unit 360. These components are connected to each other via an internal bus 301 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 3, paper transport section 310 includes transport paths 311, 312, and 313 and a plurality of transport roller pairs 314, and transports paper supplied from first post-processing device 300 along transport path 311, 312, or 313.

[0047] Furthermore, paper transport unit 310 has long paper transport unit 315 and purge transport unit 316. Long paper transport unit 315 aligns long paper supplied from image forming apparatus 200 while transporting it. More specifically, long paper transport unit 315 temporarily holds the long paper supplied from image forming apparatus 200 in transport path 312 and aligns (corrects the orientation of) the paper relative to the transport direction before transporting it to post-processing unit 320. Furthermore, purge transport unit 316 transports paper from post-processing unit 320 to purge tray 340. Although the illustration is simplified, purge transport unit 316 may be provided with multiple transport roller pairs 314 along transport path 313 to ensure reliable transport of paper cut to card or business card size in post-processing unit 320.

[0048] The post-processing unit 320 performs post-processing on paper using one or more functional units. The post-processing unit 320 has multiple slots 321 to 324 for loading functional units. The slots 321 to 324 each have a slot number (#1 to #4), and the functional units are loaded at their respective loading positions along the transport path. The loading positions are defined by their positions on the transport path (positions in the X direction). FIG. 1 shows a case where no functional units are loaded in any of the slots 321 to 324. On the other hand, FIG. 3 shows a case where functional units 501 to 504 are loaded in the slots 321 to 324, respectively. Although there are prohibitions as described below, the functional units 501 to 504 can be loaded in any of the slots 321 to 324 and are mutually interchangeable. Furthermore, the functional units 501 to 504 do not have to be loaded in all of the slots 321 to 324, and may be loaded in only one of the slots 321 to 324. If the slots 321 to 324 are empty, a dummy unit is loaded in such a manner that paper transport is not hindered.

[0049] Furthermore, detection sensors 325-328 are installed in slots 321-324, respectively. In cooperation with control unit 360, detection sensors 325-328 determine whether or not functional units 501-504 are loaded, and if a functional unit is loaded in slot 321-324, obtain information on the type of functional unit and whether or not it is loaded, i.e., the loaded position. Detection sensors 325-328 and control unit 360 function as a load detection unit and a type detection unit.

[0050] The detection sensors 325-328 may be of any type as long as they can detect whether or not a functional unit is loaded and the type of functional unit, and may be, for example, optical sensors, actuators, etc. Furthermore, the control unit 290 may detect whether or not a functional unit is loaded by fitting a connector on the main body of the first post-processing device 300 with a connector of the functional unit and electrically connecting them, and may also detect (determine) the type of functional unit by reading an identification number stored in the control board of the functional unit after connection.

[0051] The functional units 501 to 504 may be, for example, any one of a CD cutting unit, a top and bottom slitting (FD cutting) unit, a gutter cutting slitting unit, a crease unit, a CD perforation unit, an FD perforation unit, and a business card slitting unit.

[0052] The CD cutting unit is a unit that cuts paper in the CD direction. The top and bottom slits are units that cut paper in the paper transport direction, and are also called FD (Feed Direction) cutting units. Hereinafter, the paper transport direction will also be referred to as the "FD direction."

[0053] The ditch cut slitting unit is a unit that forms slits in the FD direction. For example, in the ditch cut slitting process, cutting is performed along two parallel cutting lines, and a slit (groove) is formed between the two cutting lines. The crease unit is a unit that forms creases in a specified direction, for example, the CD direction.

[0054] The CD perforation unit is a unit that creates perforations in the CD direction, and the FD perforation unit is a unit that creates perforations in the FD direction. The business card slit unit is a unit that creates multiple slits in the FD direction to cut paper to business card size.

[0055] Note that other functional units may also be used in the post-processing unit 320. Furthermore, cutting waste generated by a functional unit that involves cutting paper falls under its own weight and accumulates in the waste box 330. The user periodically discards the cutting waste in the waste box.

[0056] The communication I / F unit 350 is communicably connected to the post-processing device I / F 272 of the image forming apparatus 200 via the communication line 202 to transmit and receive data.

[0057] The control unit 360 controls the paper transport unit 310, the post-processing unit 320, and the communication I / F unit 350. The control unit 360 includes a CPU 361, a RAM 362, and a ROM 363.

[0058] The CPU 361 executes a control program for the first post-processing device to realize various functions. The RAM 362 stores the calculation results and processing results of the CPU 361, the positions and types of functional units installed in the post-processing device 320, prohibition condition information (described later), etc. The ROM 363 stores the control program and various parameters including the installation position (position on the transport path) corresponding to the slot (or slot number).

[0059] The control unit 360 acquires the type and loaded position of the functional unit based on the detection results of the detection sensors 325 to 328. For example, a unique unit number may be assigned in advance to each type of functional unit that can be loaded into the slots 321 to 324, and the control unit 360 may acquire the unit number as information related to the type of loaded functional unit. The correspondence between the unit number and the type of functional unit may be stored as a table in the RAM 362.

[0060] If the correspondence is expressed as "functional unit name (unit number)", the unit numbers are assigned as follows: CD cutting (1), top and bottom slitting (2), welt trimming slitting (3), crease (4), CD perforation (5), FD perforation (6), business card slitting (7), dummy (8).

[0061] Alternatively, a unique identification number may be assigned in advance to each functional unit that can be loaded into slots 321 to 324, and the identification number may be acquired as information about the type of the loaded functional unit. The correspondence between the identification number and the type of functional unit may be stored as a table in RAM 362.

[0062] Furthermore, slots #1 to #4, for example, can be used as information regarding the loading position. Slots #1 to #4 correspond to slots 321 to 324, respectively. Slots 321 to 324 are arranged in the order of slots 321, 322, 323, and 324 from the side closest to image forming apparatus 200, and the distance from a predetermined reference position of the transport path to each of slots 321 to 324 is specified in advance and stored in ROM 363. Therefore, by specifying slots #1 to #4, the loading position can be uniquely determined.

[0063] The control unit 360 also functions as a condition output unit, and derives conditions under which the post-processing unit 320 can perform post-processing in accordance with the loading positions of the functional units detected by the detection sensors 325 to 328. The conditions under which post-processing can be performed will be described in detail later.

[0064] <Second post-processing device 400> The second post-processing device 400 conveys or post-processes the paper sheets supplied from the first post-processing device 300 in accordance with instructions from the image forming device 200, and discharges the paper sheets outside the image forming system 100. The second post-processing device 400 is disposed at the most downstream position in the image forming system 100, and includes an insertion feed unit 410, a paper conveyance unit 420, a side stitching unit 430, a main tray 440, a purge tray 450, a communication I / F unit 460, and a control unit 470. These components are connected to each other via an internal bus 401 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0065] The insertion paper feed unit 410 has one or more paper feed trays. The paper feed trays of the insertion paper feed unit 410 are loaded with, for example, pre-printed paper, colored paper, etc., which are used as insert sheets for, for example, the cover of a printed stack or for dividing chapters. The paper placed in the paper feed trays is fed at a predetermined timing based on the print setting information.

[0066] Paper transport unit 420 includes a transport path 421 and a plurality of transport roller pairs 422, and transports paper supplied from first post-processing device 300 along transport path 421. Paper transport unit 420 also transports paper supplied from first post-processing device 300 or insertion paper feed unit 410 along transport path 421. It also transports booklets that have been side-stitched in side-stitching unit 430 to main tray 440.

[0067] The side stitching unit 430 includes a stacker unit that accumulates paper sheets and a staple unit that staples the stack of paper sheets. The side stitching unit 430 staples the edges of the stack of paper sheets to side stitch the stack of paper sheets to create a booklet.

[0068] Main tray 440 discharges valid sheets from among the sheets transported by sheet transport section 420. Purge tray 450 discharges invalid sheets from among the sheets transported by sheet transport section 420.

[0069] The communication I / F unit 460 is communicably connected to the post-processing device I / F 272 of the image forming apparatus 200 via the communication line 202 to transmit and receive data.

[0070] The control unit 470 controls the insertion feed unit 410, the paper transport unit 420, the side stitching unit 430, the main tray 440, the purge tray 450, and the communication I / F unit 460. The control unit 470 includes a CPU 471, a RAM 472, and a ROM 473.

[0071] The CPU 471 executes a control program for the second post-processing device to realize various functions. The RAM 472 stores the calculation results and processing results of the CPU 471. The ROM 473 stores the control program, various parameters, and the like.

[0072] <Control method of image forming system 100> A control method for image forming system 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4A and 4B. Figure 4A is a flowchart illustrating the processing procedure of the control method for image forming system 100 of this embodiment, and Figure 4B is a subroutine flowchart illustrating the processing of step S104 in Figure 4A. The processing shown in Figures 4A and 4B is realized by cooperation between control unit 290 and control unit 360.

[0073] 4A, it is determined whether or not a functional unit is loaded (step S101). Based on the detection results of the detection sensors 325-328, the control unit 360 determines whether or not a functional unit is loaded in each of the slots 321-324.

[0074] If it is determined that no functional unit is loaded in any of the slots 321 to 324 (step S101: NO), the process waits until it is determined that a functional unit is loaded in any of the slots 321 to 324 (step S101: NO).

[0075] On the other hand, if it is determined that a functional unit is loaded in any of the slots 321 to 324 (step S101: YES), information regarding the loading position of the functional unit is acquired (step S102). In the example shown in Fig. 3, functional units 501 to 504 are loaded in the slots 321 to 324, respectively. Based on the detection results of the detection sensors 325 to 328, the control unit 360 acquires slots #1 to #4 as information regarding the loading position of the functional unit in the post-processing unit 320.

[0076] Next, information regarding the type of functional unit is acquired (step S103). The control unit 360 acquires information regarding the type of functional units 501-504 based on the detection results of the detection sensors 325-328. For example, the control unit 360 acquires unit numbers 1, 2, 8, and 8 as information regarding the type of functional units 501-504, respectively. That is, the functional units 501-504 correspond to CD cutting (1), top and bottom slitting (2), dummy (8), and dummy (8), respectively.

[0077] Subsequently, the control unit 360 outputs the conditions under which post-processing is possible (step S104). The control unit 360 outputs the conditions under which post-processing by the post-processing unit 320 is possible, depending on the types and mounting positions of the functional units 501 to 504. More specifically, the conditions are as follows.

[0078] <Output of post-processing possible conditions (step S104)> As shown in Fig. 4B, it is determined whether or not a restriction occurs due to the loading position of the functional unit (step S201). Since post-processing in the CD direction requires that the sheet transport be temporarily stopped, depending on the position on the sheet where post-processing is performed, restrictions such as the sheet being pulled by the second post-processing device 400 connected downstream may occur while post-processing is being performed. In this embodiment, taking into consideration the complexity of control and compatibility, the control of the second post-processing device 400 does not change the control of the sheet transport timing, etc., in response to changes in the configuration of the functional units of the first post-processing device 300.

[0079] 3, the distance between the loading position of slot 321 and the pair of transport rollers 422 of second post-processing device 400 is defined as D1, and the distance between the loading position of slot 324 and the pair of transport rollers 422 is defined as D4. Although not shown, the distance between the loading position of slot 322 and the pair of transport rollers 422 and the distance between the loading position of slot 323 and the pair of transport rollers 422 are also similarly defined as D2 and D3, respectively.

[0080] When functional unit 501 in slot 321 performs post-processing, if the position where post-processing is performed is within distance D1 from the front of the paper, the paper will not be pulled by second post-processing device 400 while functional unit 501 is performing post-processing. Also, when functional unit 504 in slot 324 performs post-processing, if the position where post-processing is performed is within distance D4 from the front of the paper, the paper will not be pulled by second post-processing device 400 while functional unit 504 is performing post-processing.

[0081] For convenience, the following description will exemplify a case where distances D1 to D4 are set to 500, 370, 240, and 110 mm, respectively. The functional unit of slot 321 will also exemplify a case where it can post-process paper sheets up to 490 mm in length. However, the values ​​of distances D1 to D4 and the paper sizes that can be post-processed are not limited to these cases.

[0082] The control unit 360 determines whether or not a restriction occurs due to the loading position of the functional units. More specifically, the control unit 360 determines whether or not a restriction occurs based on the types and loading positions of the functional units 501-504 loaded in the slots 321-324.

[0083] FIG. 5A is a table showing an example of the positions of functional units and the conditions under which post-processing can be performed at those positions, and FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram showing a representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the combination of the functional units in FIG. 5A.

[0084] In the example shown in FIG. 5A, the functional units are a CD cutting unit, a top and bottom slitting unit, a dummy unit, and a dummy unit, which are arranged in this order in slots #1 to #4, respectively. Of these, the CD cutting unit is the only functional unit that performs post-processing in the CD direction. The CD cutting unit is installed in slot #1, and can perform CD cutting processing at any position in the FD direction as long as the paper length is within 490 mm. Furthermore, the paper is not pulled by the second post-processing device 400 while the CD cutting unit is performing the cutting process. Therefore, with the arrangement of the functional units described above, no post-processing restrictions occur.

[0085] If no constraints arise due to the loading positions of the functional units (step S201: NO), the control unit 360 outputs the post-processing possible conditions (step S202). As shown in FIG. 5A, the control unit 360 displays the post-processing possible conditions on the display of the operation and display unit 280 or prints them on paper based on the types and positions of the CD cutting, top and bottom slitting, dummy, and dummy functional units loaded in slots #1 to #4. Specifically, as described in the "Destination" and "Remarks" columns, the maximum paper length is 490 mm, and to eject paper up to 490 mm in length downstream, the CD cutting unit must be placed in slot #1. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, displaying on the display of the operation and display unit 280 or printing on paper is referred to as "outputting."

[0086] 5B, the control unit 360 outputs, as an output image, a representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the above-mentioned arrangement of functional units. In the above-mentioned arrangement of functional units, if only the CD cutting unit is operated and the top and bottom slitting unit is not operated, cutting processing in the CD direction can be performed. Also, if the top and bottom slitting unit is operated and the CD cutting unit is not operated, cutting processing in the FD direction can be performed. Furthermore, if both the CD cutting unit and the top and bottom slitting unit are operated, four-side cutting processing can be performed.

[0087] 5B shows a schematic representation of an output image when four-side cutting is performed. Reference numeral 601 denotes a sheet of paper after cutting, with the four edges removed by the four-side cutting process, and reference numeral 602 denotes the removed four edges (so-called "waste portions"). Of these, only the cut sheet of paper 601 is output and actually presented to the user; the removed four edges 602 are not presented to the user.

[0088] Furthermore, the paper 601 after cutting can be transported to the second post-processing device 400 or transported to the purge tray 340 and discharged. Then, the control unit 360 ends the process of outputting the conditions under which post-processing is possible (return).

[0089] Next, we will explain the case where restrictions arise due to the loading positions of the functional units. Fig. 6A is a table showing the positions of the functional units in the first post-processing device and other examples of conditions under which post-processing can be performed at those positions, and Fig. 6B is a schematic diagram showing prohibited conditions for the combination of functional units in Fig. 6A. Fig. 6C is a schematic diagram showing a typical example of post-processing that can be performed by the combination of functional units in Fig. 6A, and Fig. 6D is a schematic diagram showing another typical example of post-processing that can be performed by the combination of functional units in Fig. 6A.

[0090] 4B, if there are restrictions due to the loading positions of the functional units (step S201: YES), the control unit 360 calculates the post-processing range on the paper based on the types and loading positions of the functional units 501-504 loaded in the slots 321-324.

[0091] For example, it is assumed that a CD cutting unit, a crease unit, a top and bottom slit unit, and a dummy unit are loaded in this order in slots 321 to 324 as functional units.

[0092] The crease unit creases the paper in the CD direction, so there is a possibility that it may be subject to restrictions depending on the position where the crease unit performs the process. In the arrangement of the functional units described above, the crease unit is installed in slot 322, so in this embodiment, for example, it can perform crease processing within a range of up to 360 mm from the front of the paper. In other words, when the crease unit is installed in slot 322, the range in which it can perform post-processing is restricted to a position of up to 360 mm from the front of the paper.

[0093] Next, the control unit 360 outputs the post-processing conditions and prohibition information (step S204). As shown in Fig. 6A, the control unit 360 outputs the post-processing conditions based on the loading positions of the CD cutting, crease, top and bottom slit, and dummy functional units loaded in slots #1 to #4, respectively.

[0094] Furthermore, the control unit 360 sets 360 mm as the prohibition condition due to the constraints imposed on the crease unit. Then, as shown in Fig. 6B, the control unit 360 outputs prohibition information 700 as an image based on the prohibition condition. Fig. 6B illustrates that the maximum position at which the crease unit can form crease 701 is 360 mm from the top of the paper.

[0095] Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D, the control unit 360 outputs, as an output image, a representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the arrangement of the above-mentioned functional units.

[0096] Figure 6C illustrates an example where four-side cutting is performed with the CD cutting unit and top and bottom slitting unit operating and the crease unit paused. Figure 6D illustrates an example where four-side cutting and crease are performed with the CD cutting unit, top and bottom slitting unit, and crease unit all operating. Reference numeral 601 denotes the paper after cutting, with the four edges removed by the four-side cutting, and reference numeral 602 denotes the removed four edges. Reference numeral 603 denotes the streaks formed by the crease.

[0097] <Another example of constraints caused by the loading position of functional units> Fig. 7A is a table showing other examples of the positions of functional units and the conditions under which post-processing can be performed at those positions, Fig. 7B is a schematic diagram showing the prohibition conditions for the combination of functional units in Fig. 7A, Fig. 7C is a schematic diagram showing one representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the combination of functional units in Fig. 7A, and Fig. 7D is a schematic diagram showing another representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the combination of functional units in Fig. 7A.

[0098] For example, it is assumed that a top and bottom slitting unit, a dummy unit, a gutter cutting slitting unit, and a CD cutting unit are loaded in this order in the slots 321 to 324, respectively, as functional units.

[0099] Of these, the only functional unit that performs post-processing in the CD direction is the CD cutting unit. The CD cutting unit is loaded in slot 324, and can perform CD cutting at any position in the FD direction within a range of 100 mm from the front of the paper. However, if the position is more than 100 mm from the front of the paper, there is a possibility that the paper will be pulled by the second post-processing device 400 while the CD cutting unit is performing the cutting process. Therefore, when the CD cutting unit is loaded in slot 324, the range in which it can perform post-processing is limited to a position 100 mm from the front of the paper.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 7A, the control unit 360 outputs post-processing conditions based on the loading positions of the top and bottom slitting, dummy, gutter break slitting, and CD cutting functional units loaded in slots #1 to #4, respectively.

[0101] Furthermore, the control unit 360 sets 100 mm as a prohibition condition due to restrictions on the CD cutting unit. Then, as shown in Fig. 7B, the control unit 360 outputs prohibition information 700 as an image based on the prohibition condition. Fig. 7B illustrates an example in which the maximum cutting position 702 by the CD cutting unit is 100 mm from the top of the paper.

[0102] Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D, the control unit 360 outputs, as an output image, a representative example of post-processing that can be performed by the arrangement of the above-mentioned functional units.

[0103] Figure 7C illustrates an example where three-side cutting is performed with the CD cutting unit and top and bottom slitting unit operating and the gutter trimming slitting unit paused. Note that the CD cutting unit is limited to cutting up to 100 mm from the top of the paper, so the trailing edge of the paper beyond 100 mm is not cut. Figure 7D illustrates an example where three-side cutting and gutter trimming are performed with the CD cutting unit, top and bottom slitting unit, and gutter trimming slitting unit all operating.

[0104] <Relaxation of prohibition conditions by replacing functional units> Fig. 8A is a schematic diagram illustrating an initial state of the arrangement of functional units, and Figs. 8B to 8D are schematic diagrams illustrating cases where the arrangement order has been changed to relax the prohibition conditions from the initial state of Fig. 8A.

[0105] Returning to FIG. 4B, it is determined whether the prohibition condition is alleviated by replacing the functional units (step 205). For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, assume that a top and bottom slit unit, a dummy unit, a dummy unit, and a CD cutting unit are respectively installed in slots #1 to #4. In this case, the executable range for CD cutting processing is 100 mm from the top of the paper. In other words, the prohibition condition is 100 mm.

[0106] If the prohibition is not alleviated by replacing the functional units (step S205: NO), the control unit 360 ends the process (returns).

[0107] On the other hand, if the prohibition condition is alleviated by swapping the functional units (step S205: YES), the control unit 360 outputs the conditions under which post-processing is possible when the prohibition condition is alleviated (step S206). More specifically, if the prohibition condition is alleviated by swapping the positions of the top and bottom slitting units, dummy units, dummy units, and CD cutting units installed in slots #1 to #4, the control unit 360 recommends to the user an arrangement order that alleviates the prohibition condition. For example, the control unit 360 presents the user with an arrangement order of the functional units as shown in Figures 8B to 8D and ends the process (return).

[0108] As shown in FIG. 8B, the control unit 360 may recommend to the user that the functional units be rearranged so that the CD cutting unit is located in slot #3. To change the functional unit order from FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B, the user can achieve this by, for example, rearranging the dummy unit in slot #3 and the CD cutting unit in slot #4. After the rearrangement, the executable range for CD cutting processing becomes, for example, 230 mm from the top of the paper. In other words, the prohibition condition becomes 230 mm, which is more lenient than the case shown in FIG. 8A.

[0109] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 8C, the control unit 360 may recommend to the user that the functional units be rearranged so that the CD cutting unit is located in slot #2. To change the functional unit order from FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C, the user can achieve this by, for example, rearranging the dummy unit in slot #2 and the CD cutting unit in slot #4. In this case, the executable range for CD cutting processing is, for example, 360 mm from the top of the paper. In other words, the prohibition condition is 360 mm, which is more relaxed than the case shown in FIG. 8A.

[0110] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 8D, the control unit 360 may recommend to the user that the functional units be rearranged so that the CD cutting unit is located in slot #1. To change the functional unit order from FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C, the user can achieve this by, for example, rearranging the dummy unit in slot #2 with the CD cutting unit in slot #4, and then rearranging the CD cutting unit in slot #2 with the top and bottom slit unit in slot #1. In this case, the executable range for CD cutting processing is, for example, 490 mm from the top of the paper. In other words, the prohibition condition is eliminated, and the prohibition condition is relaxed compared to the case shown in FIG. 8A.

[0111] In this manner, in this embodiment, the control unit 360 can present the user with better conditions with looser prohibition conditions even for the same combination of functional units (for example, top and bottom slitting unit, dummy unit, dummy unit, CD cutting unit).

[0112] <List of functional unit combinations> Combinations of functional units will be described with reference to Figures 9A and 9B. Figure 9A is a table listing representative post-processing operations realized by combinations of functional units and conditions under which the post-processing operations can be performed, and Figure 9B is a table following Figure 9A. Control unit 360 can output the tables shown in Figures 9A and 9B in response to a user instruction.

[0113] In Figure 9A, the combination of functional units shown as "No. 1" is the same as the combination of functional units shown in Figure 5A. As mentioned above, a typical example of post-processing is four-sided cutting. In the "Post-processing" column in the table, the dashed dotted lines indicate cutting by top and bottom slitting or CD cutting.

[0114] Examples of post-processing include FS main tray (discharged to the main tray after processing by a post-processing device), LS main tray (discharged to the main tray after processing by a large stacker), SD bookbinding (saddle stitch binding), PB bookbinding (case binding), etc. Examples of output products include sheets, flyers, leaflets, banners, etc.

[0115] As shown in "No. 2," by combining the same functional units as in "No. 1" above, the CD cutting unit can perform the process of cutting paper multiple times in the CD direction. The table shows an example of an A3 size paper being divided into two A4 size sheets.

[0116] Post-processes include TU (Trimer Unit) purge (discharge to purge tray 340), FS main tray, LS main tray, PB main body, etc. Also, output products include sheets, flyers, leaflets, banners, etc., just like "No. 1."

[0117] The combination of functional units shown in "No. 3" is the same as the combination of functional units shown in Figure 6A. As mentioned above, typical examples of post-processing include four-sided cutting and creasing. In the "Post-processing" column in the table, the dashed lines indicate cutting by top and bottom slitting or CD cutting, and the thick lines indicate streaks caused by creasing.

[0118] Post-processing includes PB cover (creating a cover using perfect binding), SD cover (creating a cover using saddle stitch binding), SD folding (folding using saddle stitch binding), long creasing (for folding), etc. Output products include banners, book covers, leaflets, catalogs, pamphlets, photo albums, booklets, etc.

[0119] As shown in "No. 4," when slots #1 to #4 are each equipped with functional units for top and bottom slitting, crease, gutter cutting slitting, and CD cutting, typical examples of post-processing include four-sided cutting and crease processing.

[0120] The post-process includes TU purging (discharge to the purge tray 340). In addition, the output products include bifold cards (shopping cards, greeting cards, stamp cards, invitations, etc.).

[0121] As for the discharge destination, the sheet can be purged to the purge tray 340, but cannot be conveyed to the downstream second post-processing device 400 because the sheet is divided into a plurality of pieces in the FD direction by the drain cutting and slitting process.

[0122] Next, in Figure 9B, the combination of functional units shown as "No. 5" is the same as the combination of functional units shown in Figure 7A. As mentioned above, a typical example of post-processing is multiple cutting processing (cards). Examples of post-processing include TU purging, and examples of output products include cards (shopping cards, greeting cards, stamp cards, invitations, etc.).

[0123] The functional unit combination shown in "No. 6" replaces the gutter break slitting unit in "No. 5" with a business card slitting unit. The post-process is a TU purge or dedicated stacker, and the output is business cards and cards.

[0124] In "No. 7" and "No. 8," slots #1 to #4 are equipped with functional units for top and bottom slitting, CD perforation, FD perforation, and CD cutting, respectively. In the case of "No. 7," typical examples of post-processing include four-side cutting and perforation. In the case of "No. 8," typical examples of post-processing include multiple cutting and perforation. In "No. 7" and "No. 8," the dashed lines indicate perforation by the CD perforation or FD perforation. Examples of post-processing include TU purging, and examples of output include tickets, coupons, etc.

[0125] In order to help the user visualize the output, the lists in FIGS. 9A and 9B may include samples such as photographs of the output.

[0126] <Example of post-processed paper output> Next, an example of output of paper that has been post-processed by the first post-processing device 300 will be described. Figs. 10A to 10E are schematic diagrams showing an example of output of paper that has been post-processed by the first post-processing device 300. In Figs. 10A to 10E, "display (print) pattern" schematically indicates a post-processing image displayed on the display of the operation display unit 280 or a post-processing image printed on paper. Furthermore, "output paper" schematically indicates the form of paper that is output when post-processing is performed.

[0127] Figure 10A shows the case where four-side cutting processing is performed. In the "display (print) pattern," the positions to be cut by the top and bottom slit unit or the CD cutting unit are shown, for example, by dashed lines. When four-side cutting processing is performed, paper is output with the four edges cut, as shown in "output paper."

[0128] 10B shows a case where a crease process is performed by a crease unit in addition to four-sided cutting. In this case, the edges on all four sides are cut and the paper is output with creases in the CD direction.

[0129] 10C shows a case where, in addition to four-side cutting and creasing, the edge of the sheet is cut and slit by the edge cutting and slitting unit. In this case, the edges of the sheet are cut, the sheet is divided into two sheets in the FD direction, and the sheet is output with a crease in the CD direction.

[0130] 10D shows a case where top and bottom slitting and multiple cutting for business cards are performed. In this case, the edges of the top and bottom are cut and multiple pieces of paper the size of business cards are output.

[0131] 10E shows a case where four-side cutting, CD perforation, and FD perforation are performed. In this case, the edges of all four sides are cut and the paper is output with perforations formed in the CD and FD directions.

[0132] <Variation 1> 11A to 11D are schematic diagrams for explaining Modification 1 of this embodiment. In Modification 1, not only is post-processed paper 601 presented to the user, but also a message is displayed to the user that post-processing will be performed appropriately on the paper in accordance with the arrangement of the functional units.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 11A, the control unit 360 outputs text 604, such as letters and numbers, at the cutting positions of the paper 600 during the four-side cutting process. In the example shown in FIG. 11A, "(1) Leading Edge" and "(1) Trailing Edge" indicate the cutting positions of the leading edge and trailing edge of the paper, respectively, where the CD cutting process is performed. Also, "(3) Top Surface" and "(3) Ground Surface" indicate the cutting positions of the top edge and ground edge, respectively, where the top and bottom slitting process is performed. As described above, the paper 601 with its four edges cut is presented to the user, but the removed four edges 602 are not presented to the user.

[0134] 11B, when the control unit 360 performs crease processing in addition to the four-sided cutting processing of FIG. 11A, it outputs text 604 such as letters and numbers at the positions where the creases will be formed. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 11B, "(2) Crease" indicates the positions where the creases will be formed.

[0135] 11C and 11D, instead of adding text 604 to the cutting positions of the paper 600, colored frames 605 may be added to the cutting positions. For example, the cutting positions in the CD direction and the cutting positions in the FD direction may be distinguished by adding different colors. Alternatively, the cutting positions in the CD direction and the cutting positions in the FD direction may be distinguished by adding different patterns, marks, designs, etc.

[0136] In this way, in variant 1, an output image is printed that includes an identifier (text 604 or color frame 605) indicating the location where the functional unit will perform post-processing, so that the user can easily confirm that post-processing will be performed appropriately on the paper that is actually output.

[0137] <Variation 2> 12A to 12C are schematic diagrams illustrating Modification 2 of this embodiment. In Modification 2, an image is formed not on the paper whose edge has been cut, but on the edge of the paper that has been removed by the cutting process, thereby indicating to the user that the cutting process will be performed appropriately on the paper in accordance with the arrangement of the functional units.

[0138] As shown in FIGS. 12A to 12C, the control unit 360 forms a solid image on a paper edge 802 that is removed by the cutting process of the paper 800. The paper edge 802 is the portion excluding the output image, and is the peripheral portion adjacent to the output image. It is not necessary to form a solid image on the entire paper edge 802; a frame line several millimeters wide that surrounds the output image may be used. In the second modification, not only the paper 801 with the edge cut off, but also the paper edge 802 is presented to the user. The user confirms that no solid portion remains on the paper 801.

[0139] In this way, in variant example 2, an image is printed in the adjacent area surrounding the output image of the paper after the post-processing unit 320 has performed the cutting process, so that the user can easily confirm that the cutting process has been performed appropriately on the paper that is actually output.

[0140] The first post-processing device 300 and the image forming system 100 of the present embodiment described above have the following advantages.

[0141] Since the first post-processing device 300 outputs the conditions under which post-processing is possible according to the mounting positions of the functional units in the first post-processing device 300, the user can easily determine whether the desired post-processing is possible.

[0142] <Variation 3> 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of first post-processing device 300 of Modification 3. In this modification, a case will be described in which display unit 329 of first post-processing device 300 displays the post-processing conditions and output image of post-processing unit 320 instead of operation display unit 280 or image forming unit 230 of image forming apparatus 200.

[0143] The first post-processing device 300 further includes a display unit 329. The display unit 329 functions as a condition output unit together with the control unit 360, and displays the conditions under which the post-processing device 320 can perform post-processing, depending on the mounting positions of the functional units of the post-processing device 320.

[0144] The embodiments have been described above. However, it goes without saying that those skilled in the art can make appropriate additions, modifications, and omissions to the present invention within the scope of the technical concept thereof.

[0145] For example, in the above embodiment, the control unit 360 of the first post-processing device 300 derives the conditions under which the post-processing unit 320 can perform post-processing in accordance with the loading positions of the functional units detected by the detection sensors 325 to 328. However, the present invention is not limited to this case, and the control unit 290 of the image forming device 200 may be configured to derive the conditions under which the post-processing unit 320 can perform post-processing in accordance with the loading positions of the functional units detected by the detection sensors 325 to 328.

[0146] In the above embodiment, the constraint is described as an example in which the paper being post-processed in the first post-processing device 300 is pulled by the second post-processing device 400 connected downstream, but the present invention can also be applied to other constraints. Also, the present invention can be applied to constraints not only in the CD direction but also in the FD direction.

[0147] The control programs for the image forming apparatus and the first and second post-processing devices may be provided on a computer-readable recording medium such as a USB memory, flexible disk, or CD-ROM, or may be provided online via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the programs recorded on the computer-readable recording medium are typically transferred to and stored in a storage unit or storage device. The control programs may be provided as standalone application software, or may be incorporated into the software of each image forming apparatus as a function of that apparatus. [Explanation of symbols]

[0148] 100 Image forming system, 200 Image forming device, 210 image reading unit, 220 Image processing unit, 230 Image forming unit, 240 Paper feed section, 250 Paper transport unit, 260 Fixing section, 270 Communications Department, 271 Network I / F, 271 Post-processing device I / F, 280 Operation display section, 290 control section, 300 first post-processing device, 310 Paper transport unit, 311-313 Conveyor path, 314 conveying roller pair, 315 Long paper transport section, 316 Purge conveying section, 320 post-processing section; 321~324 slots, 325~328 Detection sensor, 330 Trash box, 340 purge tray, 350 Communication I / F section, 360 control section, 400 second post-treatment device, 410 Insertion feeder, 420 Paper transport unit, 430 flat binding section, 440 Main tray, 450 purge tray, 460 communication I / F section, 470 control section, 501~504 Functional units.

Claims

1. A post-processing system that performs predetermined post-processing on conveyed paper sheets by one or more replaceable functional units according to the functions of the functional units, a plurality of slots, each slot being capable of receiving a functional unit at a respective loading position along the paper path; a type detection unit that detects the type of function of the functional unit loaded in the slot; an identification unit for identifying the position of a slot into which the functional unit is loaded; and an output unit that outputs information about an output product that has undergone a specified post-processing on the paper, depending on the type of function of the functional unit detected by the type detection unit and the position of the slot in which the functional unit is loaded.

2. the type detection unit detects the types of the plurality of functional units loaded in each of the plurality of slots; the identification unit identifies the position of a slot into which each of the plurality of functional units is loaded; The post-processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the output unit outputs information about the output object based on a result of detection by the type detection unit and a result of identification by the identification unit.

3. 3. The post-processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information about the output includes information indicating the state of the paper when post-processing is performed by the functional unit.

4. 4. The post-processing system according to claim 3, wherein the information indicating the state of the paper includes information regarding the position of the post-processing performed by the functional unit.

5. 5. The post-processing system according to claim 3, wherein the information indicating the state of the paper includes information regarding the type of post-processing performed by the functional unit.

6. 6. The post-processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information relating to the output product includes information relating to the type of the output product.

7. 7. The post-processing system according to claim 1, wherein the output unit includes a display unit that displays information about the output object.

8. 8. The post-processing system according to claim 1, wherein the output unit includes an image forming unit that prints information about the output product.

9. A method for controlling a post-processing system having a plurality of slots into which functional units can be loaded at respective loading positions along a paper transport path, the system performing predetermined post-processing on transported paper sheets by one or more interchangeable functional units in accordance with the functions of the functional units, the method comprising: (a) detecting a type of function of the functional unit installed in the slot; (b) identifying the location of the slot into which said functional unit is installed; A method for controlling a post-processing system, comprising: a step (c) of outputting information regarding an output product in which a predetermined post-processing has been performed on the paper, depending on the type of function of the functional unit detected in step (a) and the position of the slot in which the functional unit identified in step (b) is loaded.

10. A control program for a post-processing device having a plurality of slots into which functional units can be loaded at respective loading positions along a paper transport path, the control program performing predetermined post-processing on transported paper in accordance with the functions of the functional units by one or more interchangeable functional units, the program comprising: a step (a) of detecting the type of function of the functional unit loaded in the slot; (b) identifying the location of the slot into which the functional unit is installed; A control program for a post-processing device that causes a computer to execute the following steps: a step (c) of outputting information about an output product that has undergone a specified post-processing on the paper, depending on the type of function of the functional unit detected in the step (a) and the position of the slot in which the functional unit identified in the step (b) is loaded.

Images