Post-processing device, image forming device, post-processing control method, and post-processing control program

Abstract

To position a recording medium with a simple configuration.SOLUTION: There is provided a post-processing device including: placement sections 111L, 111R that have a placement surface on which a recording medium is placed; first restriction members 121L, 121R that are movable in a width direction intersecting an entering direction in which the recording medium enters the placement sections 111L, 111R, and restrict a position of the recording medium on the placement surface at a tip end in the entering direction; second restriction members 112L, 121R that are movable in the width direction, and restrict a position of the recording medium on the placement surface in the width direction; and a drive control section that moves the second restriction members 112L, 121R in a first direction parallel to the width direction until the first restriction members 121L, 121R move to a processing position before the recording medium enters the placement sections 111L, 111R, and then moves the second restriction members 112L, 121R in a second direction opposite to the first direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a post-processing device, an image forming device, a post-processing control method, and a post-processing control program, and more particularly to a post-processing device that performs predetermined processing on a recording medium, an image forming device equipped with the post-processing device, a post-processing control method executed by the post-processing device, and a post-processing control program that causes a computer to execute the post-processing control method. [Background technology]

[0002] Image forming devices, such as MFPs (Multi Function Peripherals), are sometimes equipped with post-processing devices. Post-processing devices perform processes such as stapling a stack of multiple sheets of paper. To align multiple sheets of paper to be stapled, the post-processing device aligns the sheets from three directions. Specifically, an edge regulating member contacts the leading edge of the paper in the transport direction, and two side regulating members contact the two opposite edges of the paper in the width direction perpendicular to the transport direction.

[0003] For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-263026 describes a sheet processing device comprising a processing tray for accumulating sheets, a sheet edge regulating means arranged on the processing tray for positioning and regulating the edge of the sheet, and a side alignment means arranged on the processing tray for positioning and aligning the side edge of the sheet, wherein the side alignment means and the sheet edge regulating means are each supported so that they can be moved in position in the width direction of the sheet brought into the processing tray, and the side alignment means and the sheet edge regulating means are configured to move in position in conjunction with each other in the width direction of the sheet on the processing tray.

[0004] However, different types of paper have different sizes. Therefore, the position of the edge regulating member in the post-processing device must be determined according to the paper size. Furthermore, in stapling, the position at which the staples are driven is determined according to the paper size, and the position of the edge regulating member must be determined so as not to interfere with the stapler. The sheet processing device described in JP 2009-263026 A has a problem in that the position of the sheet edge regulating means is predetermined, and therefore the position of the sheet edge regulating means cannot be determined according to the paper size. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-263026 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a post-processing device that is capable of positioning a recording medium with a simple configuration.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that allows positioning of a recording medium in a post-processing device with a simple configuration.

[0008] A further object of the present invention is to provide a post-processing control method that is capable of positioning a recording medium with a simple configuration.

[0009] A further object of the present invention is to provide a post-processing control program that is capable of positioning a recording medium with a simple configuration. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a post-processing device includes a loading section having a loading surface on which a recording medium is placed, a first regulating member movable in a width direction intersecting the entry direction of the recording medium into the loading section and regulating the position on the loading surface of the leading edge of the recording medium in the entry direction, a second regulating member movable in the width direction and regulating the position on the loading surface in the width direction of the recording medium, and a drive control section that moves the second regulating member in a first direction parallel to the width direction until the first regulating member moves to a processing position before the recording medium enters the loading section, and then moves the second regulating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus includes the above-described post-processing device.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present invention, a post-processing control method is a post-processing control method executed by a post-processing device, the post-processing device comprising: a loading section having a loading surface on which a recording medium is placed; a first regulating member movable in a width direction intersecting the entry direction of the recording medium into the loading section and regulating the position on the loading surface of the leading edge of the recording medium in the entry direction; and a second regulating member movable in the width direction and regulating the position on the loading surface in the width direction of the recording medium, the method including: a first step of moving the second regulating member in a first direction parallel to the width direction until the first regulating member moves to a processing position before the recording medium enters the loading section; and a second step of moving the second regulating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction after the first regulating member has been moved to the processing position and before the recording medium enters the loading section.

[0013] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a post-processing control program is a post-processing control program executed by a computer that controls the post-processing device, and the post-processing device comprises a loading section having a loading surface on which a recording medium is placed, a first regulating member that is movable in a width direction that intersects the entry direction of the recording medium into the loading section and regulates the position on the loading surface of the leading edge of the recording medium in the entry direction, and a second regulating member that is movable in the width direction and regulates the position on the loading surface in the width direction of the recording medium, and includes a first step of moving the second regulating member in a first direction parallel to the width direction until the first regulating member moves to a processing position before the recording medium enters the loading section, and a second step of moving the second regulating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction after the first regulating member has been moved to the processing position and before the recording medium enters the loading section. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a first perspective view showing the appearance of an MFP according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an example of the internal configuration of an MFP. [Figure 3] 1 is a perspective view of a post-processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an internal configuration of a post-processing device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a first plan view showing an example of the structure of an alignment unit of the post-processing device. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of a first alignment section. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view showing a ratchet portion and its surrounding members. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing an example of engagement between a rack and a ratchet gear. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining the operation of the first end restriction portion. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 9. [Figure 12]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of an outline of a hardware configuration of a post-processing device. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of functions of a CPU included in the post-processing device. [Figure 14] 10 is a first diagram showing the positional relationship between a side regulating portion, a first end regulating portion, and a second end regulating portion. FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a second diagram showing the positional relationship between the side regulating portion, the first end regulating portion, and the second end regulating portion. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of post-processing control processing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals. The names and functions of these components are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a first perspective view showing the appearance of an MFP according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) 1 is an example of an image forming apparatus. Here, an X direction, a Y direction, and a Z direction are defined, which intersect perpendicularly with each other. The X direction and the Y direction are parallel to the horizontal plane. Within the Y direction, the direction from the rear to the front of MFP 1 (the direction from the positive side to the negative side in the Y direction) is referred to as the front direction, and the horizontal direction from the front to the rear (the direction from the negative side to the positive side in the Y direction) is referred to as the rear direction.

[0017] 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the internal configuration of an MFP. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, MFP 1 includes a document reading unit 2 that reads a document, an image forming unit 3 that forms an image on a sheet based on image data, a paper feed unit 4 that supplies paper to image forming unit 3, and a post-processing device 100 that performs post-processing on the paper on which the image has been formed.

[0018] The document reading unit 2 exposes the image of a document set on a document glass 11 with an exposure lamp 13 attached to a slider 12 that moves below the document glass. Light reflected from the document is guided to a lens 16 by a mirror 14 and two reflecting mirrors 15 and 15A, and forms an image on a CCD (Charge Coupled Devices) sensor 18.

[0019] The reflected light that forms an image on the CCD sensor 18 is converted into image data as an electrical signal within the CCD sensor 18. The image data is converted into printing data in cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K) and output to the image forming unit 3.

[0020] The image forming unit 3 includes image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K for yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, respectively. Here, "Y," "M," "C," and "K" represent yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, respectively. An image is formed by driving at least one of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K. A full-color image is formed by driving all of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K. Printing data for yellow, magenta, cyan, and black are input to the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K, respectively. The image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K differ only in the color of the toner they handle. Therefore, the image forming unit 20Y for forming a yellow image will be described here.

[0021] The image forming unit 20Y includes an exposure device 21Y, a photosensitive drum 23Y, a charging roller 22Y, a developing unit 24Y, and a primary transfer roller 25Y. Around the photosensitive drum 23Y, the charging roller 22Y, the exposure device 21Y, the developing unit 24Y, the primary transfer roller 25Y, and the drum cleaning blade 27Y are arranged in this order along the rotational direction of the photosensitive drum 23Y. Yellow printing data is input to the exposure device 21Y. The photosensitive drum 23Y is an image carrier. The charging roller 22Y uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 23Y. The primary transfer roller 25Y transfers the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 23Y onto an intermediate transfer belt 30, which is also an image carrier, by the action of an electric field.

[0022] After being charged by the charging roller 22Y, the photoreceptor drum 23Y is irradiated with laser light emitted by the exposure device 21Y. The exposure device 21Y exposes the image-corresponding portion of the surface of the photoreceptor drum 23Y. This forms an electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor drum 23Y. Next, the developing device 24Y develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum 23Y with charged toner. Specifically, toner is placed on the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum 23Y by the action of electric field force, thereby forming a toner image on the photoreceptor drum 23Y. The toner image formed on the photoreceptor drum 23Y is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 30, which is an image carrier, by the action of electric field force using the primary transfer roller 25Y. Any toner remaining on the photoreceptor drum 23Y that has not been transferred is removed from the photoreceptor drum 23Y by the drum cleaning blade 27Y.

[0023] The intermediate transfer belt 30 is suspended tightly by a drive roller 33 and a driven roller 34. When the drive roller 33 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 2, the intermediate transfer belt 30 rotates counterclockwise in the drawing at a predetermined speed. As the intermediate transfer belt 30 rotates, the driven roller 34 rotates counterclockwise.

[0024] As a result, the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K sequentially transfer toner images onto the intermediate transfer belt 30. The timing at which each of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K transfers a toner image onto the intermediate transfer belt 30 is adjusted based on the detection of the reference marks on the intermediate transfer belt 30. As a result, yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toner images are superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt 30.

[0025] The toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 30 is transferred to paper by the action of electric field force by the secondary transfer roller 26, which is a transfer member. The paper is transported by timing roller 31 to a nip portion where the intermediate transfer belt 30 and secondary transfer roller 26 come into contact. The paper with the transferred toner image is transported to fixing roller 32, where it is heated and pressed. This melts the toner and fixes it to the paper. The paper is then transported to post-processing device 100.

[0026] Paper feed cassettes 35 and 35A are loaded with paper sheets of different sizes. The paper sheets stored in paper feed cassettes 35 and 35A are supplied to conveyance path 39 by take-out rollers 36 and 36A attached to paper feed cassettes 35 and 35A, respectively, and sent to timing rollers 31 by paper feed rollers 37. Detector 200 is disposed upstream of timing rollers 31 in the conveyance direction. Detector 200 detects the position of the paper sheets in the width direction, which is perpendicular to the conveyance direction of the paper sheets.

[0027] Image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K adjust the position of the toner image formed on intermediate transfer belt 30 based on the widthwise position of the paper detected by detection unit 200. As a result, the toner image is formed at a position corresponding to the widthwise position of the paper, so that even if the paper being transported along transport path 39 shifts widthwise within transport path 39, the toner image is transferred to the appropriate position on the paper at the nip portion.

[0028] When forming a full-color image, the MFP 1 drives all of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K. When forming a monochrome image, the MFP 1 drives only one of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K. It is also possible to form an image by combining two or more of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K. Here, we will explain an example in which the MFP 1 employs a tandem system equipped with image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K that form four color toners on paper. However, the MFP 1 may also form images using a four-cycle system in which four color toners are transferred sequentially onto paper using a single photosensitive drum.

[0029] The post-processing device 100 is disposed in the storage space between the image forming unit 3 and the document reading unit 2 of the MFP 1. The post-processing device 100 is disposed on a slide surface 40, which is the upper surface of the top plate of a housing that houses the image forming unit 3, in a state where it can slide in the X direction.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a post-processing device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the internal configuration of a post-processing device according to the present embodiment. With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, post-processing device 100 has main body housing 101. Main body housing 101 has main body rear section 140 that protrudes toward the positive side in the X direction. Main body rear section 140 is a part of main body housing 101 and includes a part of bottom surface 142 of main body housing 101. Main body rear section 140 has operation surface 141 that faces upward, opposite bottom surface 142. Guide groove 144A extending in the X direction is formed in operation surface 141. Operation unit 144 is slidably attached to guide groove 144A. Operation unit 144 is attached to operation surface 141 in a state where it is guided by guide groove 144A and is slidable in the X direction.

[0031] The post-processing device 100 has a paper output tray 109 connected to the main body housing 101 above the main body rear section 140. The post-processing device 100 has a transport path 108, receiving rollers 105, transport rollers 106, discharge rollers 107, an alignment unit 110, a paddle 147, and a stapler 145 inside the main body housing 101. The transport path 108 connects the receiving opening 103 and the discharge opening 104. The receiving opening 103 is an opening formed on the side of the main body housing 101 opposite to the side to which the paper output tray 109 is connected. The receiving opening 103 is connected to the transport path 39 of the MFP 1. The direction from the receiving opening 103 toward the discharge opening 104 is the transport direction in which paper is transported. The receiving rollers 105, transport rollers 106, and discharge rollers 107 are arranged in this order along the transport direction on the transport path 108 between the receiving opening 103 and the discharge opening 104. The paper on which an image is formed by the MFP 1 passes through the transport path 39 of the MFP 1 and is received at the receiving port 103 of the post-processing device 100. The paper received at the receiving port 103 is transported by the receiving rollers 105 toward the transport rollers 106. The paper transported by the transport rollers 106 is transported toward the discharge rollers 107.

[0032] A paddle 147 is disposed in the space downstream of the discharge port 104 in the paper transport direction. The paddle 147 is movable in the vertical direction. While the paper is transported along the transport path 108, the paddle 147 is positioned at an upper position, forming a space downstream of the discharge port 104. As a result, the leading edge of the paper transported by the discharge rollers 107 is transported toward the paper output tray 109, and the paper is discharged into the space downstream of the discharge port 104. When the trailing edge of the paper transported by the discharge rollers 107 passes through the discharge port 104, the paddle 147 moves downward. As the paddle 147 descends, the paper descends toward the alignment unit 110. The paddle 147 is driven by a belt and rotates counterclockwise in the figure. As a result, the paper sandwiched between the paddle 147 and the alignment unit 110 is transported in the opposite direction to the transport direction. The paper receives a force from the paddle 147 in a direction toward the negative X-direction on the alignment unit 110.

[0033] An insertion slot 102 is formed in the front direction (negative side in the Y direction) of the paper discharge tray 109 of the main body housing 101. When a user inserts a first stack of multiple sheets of paper into the insertion slot 102, staples are driven into the first stack.

[0034] FIG. 5 is a first plan view showing an example of the structure of an alignment unit of a post-processing device. Referring to FIG. 5, the alignment unit 110 includes a first alignment unit 110L and a second alignment unit 110R arranged side by side at a predetermined distance in the Y direction. The first alignment unit 110L and the second alignment unit 110R have a symmetrical configuration in the XZ plane. Corresponding components of the first alignment unit 110L and the second alignment unit 110R are assigned the same numbers. To distinguish between the components of the first alignment unit 110L and the second alignment unit 110R, the alphabet L is added to the components of the first alignment unit 110L, and the alphabet R is added to the components of the second alignment unit 110R.

[0035] The first alignment section 110L includes a mounting plate 111L, a side regulating section 112L, a drive motor 113L, a first end regulating section 121L, and a second end regulating section 122L.

[0036] The first and second end restriction portions 121L and 122L are arranged side by side in the Y direction at the end of the loading plate 111L on the negative side in the X direction. The second end restriction portion 122L is fixed to the loading plate 111L, and the first end restriction portion 121L is movable in the Y direction relative to the loading plate 111L. The first and second end restriction portions 121L and 122L each have a restriction surface facing the positive side in the X direction and perpendicular to the upper surface of the loading plate 111L. A plurality of sheets of paper stacked on the loading plate 111L are subjected to a force in the negative side in the X direction by the paddle 147. Because the plurality of sheets of paper stacked on the loading plate 111L abut against the restriction surfaces of the first and second end restriction portions 121L and 122L, the second stack of sheets of paper is aligned on the negative side in the X direction.

[0037] The side regulating portion 112L is disposed on the loading plate 111L, and the side regulating portion 112R is disposed on the loading plate 111R. The side regulating portions 112L and 112R have alignment surfaces that face each other. The alignment surfaces are parallel to the X and Z directions. The side regulating portion 112L moves in the Y direction when driven by the drive motor 113L. The side regulating portion 112R moves in the Y direction when driven by the drive motor 113R. By adjusting the distance between the side regulating portions 112L and 112R, the positions in the Y direction of one or more sheets of paper placed on the loading plate 111L and the loading plate 111R are determined.

[0038] Therefore, the second stack of one or more sheets placed on the placing plates 111L and 111R has its position in the Y direction determined on the placing plates 111L and 111R by the second end restriction portions 122L and 122R.

[0039] The second stack, whose positions in the X and Y directions have been determined on the placement plates 111L and 111R, is stapled by the stapler 145.

[0040] Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing an example of the first alignment unit. Note that the mounting plate 111L is not shown in Fig. 6. Referring to Fig. 6, the first alignment unit 110L has a drive screw 115L, a drive nut 117L attached to the drive screw 115L, a guide shaft 129L, and a ratchet mechanism 130L.

[0041] The drive screw 115L is a rod-shaped member extending in the Y direction, with a screw thread formed on its side. The drive screw 115L is rotatably supported by the main body housing 101. The drive screw 115L is connected to the rotating shaft of the drive motor 113L by a belt. When the drive motor 113L is driven, the drive screw 115L rotates forward or backward. A side regulating portion 112L is attached to the drive nut 117L. A portion of the side regulating portion 112L abuts against the mounting plate 111L, regulating the rotation of the drive screw 115L around its axis. Therefore, when the drive screw 115L rotates forward or backward, the side regulating portion 112L moves in the Y direction together with the drive nut 117L.

[0042] The drive nut 117L has an engagement protrusion 119L that extends radially outward from the drive screw 115L. As the drive nut 117L moves in the Y direction, the engagement protrusion 119L moves in the Y direction. The engagement protrusion 119L abuts against a release portion 123L or an abutment portion 124L, which will be described later.

[0043] The guide shaft 129L is a rod-shaped member extending in the Y direction. The guide shaft 129L is supported by the main body housing 101 at a position spaced a predetermined distance from the drive screw 115L. The first end restriction portion 121L, the release portion 123L, the abutment portion 124L, the ratchet mechanism 130L, and the support portion 125L are attached to the guide shaft 129L in a state where they can move along the guide shaft 129L.

[0044] The distance between the release portion 123L and the support portion 125L is constant. The abutment portion 124L and the ratchet mechanism 130L are disposed between the release portion 123L and the support portion 125L. The distances between the release portion 123L, the abutment portion 124L, the ratchet mechanism 130L, and the support portion 125L are kept constant by disposing spacers or the like.

[0045] The first end restriction portion 121L is fixed to the support portion 125L. A portion of the support portion 125L abuts against the mounting plate 111L, restricting rotation of the guide shaft 129L around its axis. One end of a spring 127L is attached to a hook 126L of the support portion 125L. The other end of the spring 127L is attached to the main body housing 101 of the post-processing device 100. The spring 127L biases the support portion 125L in the negative Y direction.

[0046] The release portion 123L and the ratchet mechanism 130L are connected by a connecting member. The connecting member is disposed below the guide shaft 129L. As the release portion 123L rotates, a rotational force generated in the release portion 123L is transmitted to the ratchet mechanism 130L.

[0047] Fig. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the ratchet portion and its surrounding members. Referring to Fig. 7, the ratchet mechanism 130L includes a ratchet portion 131L, a ratchet base 133L, a ratchet rotation shaft 135L, and a ratchet spring 137L.

[0048] The rack 139L is a plate-shaped member extending in the Y direction, and is fixed to the main body housing 101. A plurality of teeth made up of projections and recesses are formed on the surface of the rack 139L on the negative side in the X direction.

[0049] The ratchet base 133L is attached to the guide shaft 129L in a state where it can move along the guide shaft 129L. A ratchet rotation shaft 135L is provided on the ratchet rotation shaft 135L, protruding from its upper surface toward the positive side in the Z direction. The ratchet rotation shaft 135L is attached to the upper end of the ratchet rotation shaft 135L in a state where the ratchet portion 131L can rotate around the axis of the ratchet rotation shaft 135L. The ratchet portion 131L has an engagement surface facing the positive side in the X direction, located a predetermined distance radially from the axis of the ratchet rotation shaft 135L. A ratchet gear 132L that corresponds to the teeth formed on the rack 139L is formed on the engagement surface.

[0050] A ratchet spring 137L is provided on the ratchet rotation shaft 135L. The ratchet spring 137L is a coil spring, one end of which is fixed to the ratchet base 133L and the other end of which is connected to the ratchet portion 131L. The ratchet spring 137L biases the ratchet portion 131L, which is rotatable around the axis of the ratchet rotation shaft 135L, in the direction in which the ratchet gear 132L moves toward the rack 139L. As a result, the ratchet gear 132L engages with the teeth of the rack 139L.

[0051] Fig. 8 is a plan view showing an example of engagement between the rack and the ratchet gear. Referring to Fig. 8, each of the multiple teeth formed on rack 139L has a first restriction surface parallel to the X and Z directions and a second sliding surface parallel to the Z direction and intersecting the X and Y directions. The sliding surface is inclined toward the positive side of the Y direction and toward the negative side of the X direction.

[0052] The ratchet gear 132L of the ratchet portion 131L has a second restriction surface facing the first restriction surface and a second sliding surface connected to the second restriction surface. The second restriction surface and the first restriction surface face away from each other. The second sliding surface is parallel to the Z direction and inclined toward the positive side of the Y direction and the negative side of the X direction.

[0053] When the ratchet portion 131L is positioned relative to the rack 139L, the first and second restriction surfaces face each other, and the first and second sliding surfaces face each other. Because the first and second restriction surfaces face each other, even if the ratchet portion 131L receives an external force in the negative Y direction, the ratchet portion 131L remains positioned relative to the rack 139L and does not move in the negative Y direction.

[0054] Because the first sliding surface and the second sliding surface face each other, when the ratchet portion 131L receives an external force in the positive Y direction, the portion of the ratchet portion 131L on which the ratchet gear 132L is formed receives a force in a direction away from the rack 139L. The force that the ratchet portion 131L receives from the rack 139L overcomes the biasing force of the ratchet spring 137L, and the ratchet portion 131L rotates counterclockwise in the figure around the axis of the ratchet rotation shaft 135L. The ratchet gear 132L rides over multiple teeth formed on the rack 139L, and the ratchet portion 131L moves in the positive Y direction.

[0055] 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the first end restriction portion. Referring to FIG. 9, when the drive screw 115L is rotated forward by the drive motor 113L, the drive nut 117L moves toward the positive side in the Y direction. As the drive nut 117L moves, the engagement protrusion 119L formed on the drive nut 117L abuts against the abutment portion 124L. The abutment portion 124L is coupled with the engagement protrusion 119L as the engagement protrusion 119L moves toward the positive side in the Y direction. In other words, when the engagement protrusion 119L moving toward the positive side in the Y direction abuts against the abutment portion 124L, the side restriction portion 112L and the first end restriction portion 121L are coupled together. Furthermore, when the drive motor 113L rotates the drive screw 115L in the forward direction, the engagement protrusion 119L moves in the positive Y direction, so that the abutment portion 124L receives a force in the positive Y direction, and the ratchet base 133L and the first end restriction portion 121L move in the positive Y direction. In other words, the first end restriction portion 121L moves in the positive Y direction in conjunction with the side restriction portion 112L moving in the positive Y direction. When the first end restriction portion 121L has moved to a predetermined position (processing position), the drive motor 113L stops, and the position of the first end restriction portion 121L is determined. At this stage, the ratchet portion 131L is engaged with the rack 139L.

[0056] Thereafter, when the drive motor 113L rotates in the reverse direction and the drive screw 115L rotates in the reverse direction by the drive motor 113L, the drive nut 117L moves to the negative side in the Y direction. At this stage, the ratchet portion 131L is engaged with the rack 139L.

[0057] Thereafter, when the drive nut 117L moves further toward the negative side in the Y direction, the engagement protrusion 119L formed on the drive nut 117L comes into contact with the release portion 123L as the drive nut 117L moves. The release portion 123L rotates about the axis of the guide shaft 129L due to the force received from the engagement protrusion 119L. As the release portion 123L rotates, the ratchet base 133L rotates about the axis of the guide shaft 129L. As a result, the ratchet portion 131L no longer engages with the rack 139L. The hook 126L provided on the support portion 125L receives a force in the negative side in the Y direction from the spring 127L, and the first end restriction portion 121L moves toward the negative side in the Y direction.

[0058] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 9. FIG. 10 shows a state in which the engagement protrusion 119L is positioned along line AA. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 9. FIG. 10 shows a state in which the engagement protrusion 119L is positioned along line BB. With reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, the release portion 123L is rotatable around the axis of the guide shaft 129L. The lower surface of the release portion 123L, which abuts against the engagement protrusion 119L, has an inclined surface that intersects with the Y direction. When the engagement protrusion 119L moves from the position along line AA to the position along line BB, the inclined surface of the release portion 123L is pushed upward by the engagement protrusion 119L. Accordingly, the release portion 123L rotates clockwise in the figure.

[0059] As the release portion 123L rotates, the ratchet base 133L, ratchet rotation shaft 135L, and ratchet portion 131L rotate around the axis of the guide shaft 129L, causing the ratchet gear 132L of the ratchet portion 131L to disengage from the rack 139L.

[0060] Fig. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of an outline of the hardware configuration of a post-processing device. Referring to Fig. 12, post-processing device 100 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 51, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 53, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 55, a communication unit 57, an SSD (Solid State Drive) 59, and an external storage device 61. CPU 51 controls the entire post-processing device 100. ROM 53 stores programs to be executed by CPU 51. RAM 55 is a volatile storage device and is used as a work area for CPU 51. SSD 59 is a storage device that stores data in a non-volatile manner. Communication unit 57 connects CPU 51 to MFP 1 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0061] The external storage device 61 includes a storage device such as a CD drive, a USB memory, etc. A CD-ROM 65 is detachably attached to the CD drive. The CPU 51 loads a program recorded on the CD-ROM 65 attached to the external storage device 61 into the RAM 55 and executes it.

[0062] The medium for storing the program executed by CPU 51 is not limited to CD-ROM 65, but may be an optical disc, an optical card, a mask ROM, an EPROM, or other semiconductor memory. Optical discs include MO (Magnetic Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), and DVD (Digital Versatile Disc). When a semiconductor memory is used as the medium for storing the program executed by CPU 51, for example, a USB memory is attached to external storage device 61. The USB memory includes a semiconductor memory such as an EPROM and a serial communication circuit. CPU 51 loads the program recorded in the semiconductor memory into RAM 55 and executes it. The program here includes not only a program that can be directly executed by CPU 51, but also a source program, a compressed program, an encrypted program, and the like.

[0063] The CPU 51 may also be connected to the Internet via the communication unit 57. In this case, the CPU 51 can download a program from a computer connected to the Internet and store it in the SSD 59. In addition, a program may be written to the SSD 59 by a computer connected to the Internet. The CPU 51 loads the program stored in the SSD 59 into the RAM 55 and executes it.

[0064] Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of functions of a CPU included in post-processing device 100. The functions shown in Fig. 13 are realized by CPU 51 included in post-processing device 100 as CPU 51 executes a post-processing control program stored in ROM 53, SSD 59, or CD-ROM 65. Referring to Fig. 13, CPU 51 includes post-processing condition acquisition unit 71, drive control unit 73, and stapler control unit 75.

[0065] The post-processing condition acquisition unit 71 acquires the post-processing conditions from the MFP 1. The post-processing conditions include paper size information and staple position information. The paper size information is information indicating the size of the paper to be post-processed. The staple position information is information indicating the position on the paper where staples will be driven in as part of the post-processing. The post-processing condition acquisition unit 71 controls the communication unit 57 to communicate with the MFP 1 and acquire the post-processing conditions from the MFP 1. The post-processing condition acquisition unit 71 outputs the acquired post-processing conditions to the drive control unit 73 and stapler control unit 75.

[0066] The drive control unit 73 controls the drive motors 113L, R. The drive control unit 73 determines the positions of the first end restriction units 121L, R and the side restriction units 112L, R based on the paper size information included in the post-processing conditions. The positions of the first end restriction units 121L, R and the side restriction units 112L, R are determined in advance according to the paper size and stored in the SSD 59.

[0067] The drive control unit 73 moves the side regulating units 112L,R to a predetermined home position. The home position is a position where the distance between the side regulating units 112L,R is maximum. The drive control unit 73 rotates the drive motors 113L,R in the reverse direction until the side regulating units 112L,R move to the home position, and then stops the drive motors 113L,R. In this case, as the side regulating units 112L,R move, the first end regulating units 121L,R also move to a position where the distance between them is maximum.

[0068] Next, the drive control unit 73 rotates the drive motors 113L, R in the forward direction until the first end restriction units 121L, R move to the determined positions, and then stops the drive motors 113L, R. The drive control unit 73 rotates the drive motors 113L, R in the forward direction until the first end restriction units 121L, R move to the determined positions, and then stops the drive motors 113L, R.

[0069] FIG. 14 is a first diagram showing the positional relationship between the side regulating units, the first edge regulating unit, and the second edge regulating unit. In FIG. 14, the side regulating units 112L, R and the first edge regulating units 121L, R at their home positions are indicated by dotted lines. Furthermore, the first edge regulating units 121L, R at positions determined for the size of the paper P indicated by the dotted lines are indicated by solid lines. Furthermore, the side regulating units 112L, R at positions determined for the size of the paper P after being moved to positions determined for the size of the paper P are indicated by solid lines. When the side regulating units 112L, R indicated by dotted lines are positioned at their home positions, the first edge regulating units 121L, R are positioned at the positions indicated by dotted lines. Furthermore, as the side regulating units 112L, R move toward each other from the home positions indicated by dotted lines, the first edge regulating units 121L, R move to positions determined for the size of the paper P.

[0070] Returning to FIG. 13 , after positioning the first end-blocking portions 121L, R, the drive control portion 73 reversely rotates the drive motors 113L, R. This causes the side blockers 112L, R to move away from each other. The drive control portion 73 stops the drive motors 113L, R when the side blockers 112L, R move to positions where the distance between the side blockers 112L, R is longer than the determined position. While the drive motors 113L, R are rotating in the reverse direction, the ratchet gears 132L, R of the ratchet portions 131L, R are engaged with the racks 139L, R, respectively, so the first end-blocking portions 121L, R do not move. In addition, the distance between the release portion 123L and the abutment portion 124L is adjusted to be longer than the distance the engagement protrusion 119L moves while the drive motors 113L, R are rotating in the reverse direction. When the drive motors 113L, R are stopped after rotating in the reverse direction, the distance between the side regulating portions 112L, R becomes larger than the width of the paper sheets placed on the loading plates 111L, R. This prevents the paper sheets from coming into contact with the side regulating portions 112L, R and becoming jammed.

[0071] The drive control unit 73 then rotates the drive motors 113L, R in the forward direction. This causes the side regulating units 112L, R to move closer to each other. The drive control unit 73 stops the drive motors 113L, R when the side regulating units 112L, R have reached the determined positions. At this stage, the distance between the side regulating units 112L, R corresponds to the width of the paper sheets placed on the loading plates 111L, R. This determines the position of the paper sheets in the Y direction on the loading plates 111L, R.

[0072] After moving the first end restriction units 121L,R to the determined positions, the drive control unit 73 rotates the drive motors 113L,R in the reverse direction and then in the forward direction a predetermined number of times. The predetermined number of times is a number that is determined in advance. The predetermined number of times may be a value that varies depending on the number of sheets of paper placed on the loading plates 111L,R. For example, the predetermined number of times may be a larger value as the number of sheets of paper increases. The predetermined number of times may vary depending on whether the number of sheets of paper is greater than or less than a predetermined threshold value.

[0073] Fig. 15 is a second diagram showing the positional relationship between the side regulating units, the first end regulating unit, and the second end regulating unit. In Fig. 15, the side regulating units 112L, R that are at positions determined relative to the paper sheet P are indicated by solid lines, and the side regulating units 112L, R that are spaced apart from the paper sheet P are indicated by dotted lines. As the side regulating units 112L, R move from the positions indicated by dotted lines to the positions indicated by solid lines, the multiple sheets P placed on the loading plates 111L, R are aligned, and their positions in the Y direction are determined.

[0074] 13, the stapler control unit 75 controls the stapler 145 to staple the plurality of sheets placed on the placement plates 111L, R. The stapler control unit 75 determines the position of the stapler 145 based on the staple position information included in the post-processing conditions. After moving the stapler 145 to the determined position, the stapler control unit 75 causes the stapler 145 to drive staples into the stack of sheets.

[0075] 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of post-processing control processing. The post-processing control processing is processing carried out by CPU 51 included in post-processing device 100 as CPU 51 executes a post-processing control program stored in ROM 53, SSD 59, or CD-ROM 65. Referring to FIG. 16, CPU 51 acquires post-processing conditions (step S01), and the process proceeds to step S02. CPU 51 controls communication unit 57 to communicate with MFP 1 and acquires the post-processing conditions from MFP 1.

[0076] In step S02, the positions of first end restriction portions 121L, R are determined, and the process proceeds to step S03. The positions of first end restriction portions 121L, R are determined based on the paper size information included in the post-processing conditions. In step S03, the positions of side restriction portions 112L, R are determined, and the process proceeds to step S04. The positions of side restriction portions 112L, R are determined based on the paper size information included in the post-processing conditions.

[0077] In step S04, the CPU 51 moves the side regulating units 112L, R to their home positions. The CPU 51 controls the drive motors 113L, R to move the side regulating units 112L, R to their home positions. The home positions of the side regulating units 112L, R are predetermined positions relative to the side regulating units 112L, R. In this embodiment, the home positions are determined at positions where the distance between the side regulating units 112L, R is greatest. As the side regulating units 112L, R move in directions that increase the distance between them, the first end regulating units 121L, R also move in directions that increase the distance between them.

[0078] In step S05, the CPU 51 moves the side regulating portions 112L and 112R in directions approaching each other. The CPU 51 controls the drive motor 113L to move the side regulating portion 112L in the negative Y direction, and controls the drive motor 113R to move the side regulating portion 112R in the positive Y direction. When the side regulating portions 112L and 112R move in directions approaching each other, the first end regulating portion 121L also moves in directions approaching each other. In step S05, the CPU 51 moves the side regulating portions 112L and 112R in directions approaching each other until the first end regulating portion 121L reaches the position determined in step S02.

[0079] In step S06, the CPU 51 moves the side regulation portions 112L and 112R in directions away from each other. The CPU 51 controls the drive motor 113L to move the side regulation portion 112L in the positive Y direction, and controls the drive motor 113R to move the side regulation portion 112R in the negative Y direction. The distance between the side regulation portions 112L and 112R at the positions after the side regulation portions 112L and 112R have moved is greater than the distance between the side regulation portions 112L and 112R at the positions determined in step S03.

[0080] The distance by which the side regulation portions 112L, 112R move away from each other is a distance at which the engagement protrusions 119L, 119R do not come into contact with the release portions 123L, 123R, respectively. Therefore, the ratchet gear 132L of the ratchet portion 131L remains engaged with the rack 139L, and the ratchet gear 132R of the ratchet portion 131R remains engaged with the rack 139R. Therefore, the first end regulation portions 121L, 121R remain at the positions determined in step S05.

[0081] In step S07, it is determined whether or not paper has been placed on the placement plates 111L, R. The process waits until paper is placed on the placement plates 111L, R. If paper is placed on the placement plates 111L, R, the process proceeds to step S08. Before paper is placed on the placement plates 111L, R, the distance between the side regulating portions 112L, R is greater than the distance between the side regulating portions 112L, R at the position determined in step S03. This prevents paper entering the placement plates 111L, R from contacting the side regulating portions 112L, R. Furthermore, in step S05, before paper enters the placement plates 111L, R, the first edge regulating portions 121L, R are positioned at positions determined for the paper size. This causes the leading edge of the paper entering the placement plates 111L, R to contact the first edge regulating portions 121L, R. Therefore, the position of the paper in the X direction is determined on the placement plates 111L and 111R.

[0082] In step S08, the CPU 51 moves the side regulating portions 112L and 112R toward each other. The CPU 51 controls the drive motor 113L to move the side regulating portion 112L toward the negative side in the Y direction, and controls the drive motor 113R to move the side regulating portion 112R toward the positive side in the Y direction. The CPU 51 moves the side regulating portions 112L and 112R toward each other until they reach the positions determined in step S03. This determines the position in the Y direction of the paper between the first end regulating portions 121L and 121R on the sheet loading plate 111L and R. The distance by which the side regulating portions 112L and 112R move toward each other is a distance that prevents the engagement protrusions 119L and 119R from contacting the contact portions 124L and 124R, respectively. Therefore, the ratchet gear 132L of the ratchet portion 131L is maintained in engagement with the rack 139L, and the ratchet gear 132R of the ratchet portion 131R is maintained in engagement with the rack 139R. Therefore, the first end restriction portions 121L,R remain at the positions determined in step S05.

[0083] In step S09, it is determined whether the process of positioning the paper in the X direction by the side regulating units 112L,R has been repeated a predetermined number of times. The predetermined number of times is an integer greater than or equal to 1. If the process has been repeated the predetermined number of times, the process proceeds to step S12; if not, the process proceeds to step S10.

[0084] In step S10, the CPU 51 moves the side regulating portions 112L, R in directions away from each other, and proceeds to step S11. The distance by which the side regulating portions 112L, R move in directions away from each other is a distance by which the engaging protrusions 119L, R do not come into contact with the release portions 123L, R, respectively. Therefore, the ratchet gear 132L of the ratchet portion 131L remains engaged with the rack 139L, and the ratchet gear 132R of the ratchet portion 131R remains engaged with the rack 139R. Therefore, the first end regulating portions 121L, R remain at the positions determined in step S05.

[0085] In step S11, the CPU 51 moves the side regulating portions 112L and 112R toward each other and returns the process to step S09. The CPU 51 moves the side regulating portions 112L and 112R toward each other until they reach the position determined in step S03. This determines the position in the Y direction of the paper between the first end regulating portions 121L and 121R on the sheet loading plate 111L and R. The distance by which the side regulating portions 112L and 112R move toward each other is a distance at which the engaging protrusions 119L and 119R do not abut against the abutting portions 124L and 124R, respectively. Therefore, the ratchet gear 132L of the ratchet portion 131L remains engaged with the rack 139L, and the ratchet gear 132R of the ratchet portion 131R remains engaged with the rack 139R. Therefore, the first end restriction portions 121L, 121R remain at the positions determined in step S05.

[0086] In step S12, it is determined whether the planned number of sheets has been placed on the placement plates 111L, R. The planned number of sheets is included in the post-processing conditions acquired in step S01. If the planned number of sheets has been placed, the process proceeds to step S13; if not, the process returns to step S06. In step S13, the CPU 51 executes stapling, and the process proceeds to step S14. The CPU 51 controls the stapler 145 to drive staples into the sheets at positions determined by the staple position information included in the post-processing conditions.

[0087] In step S14, the stack of sheets with staples inserted is discharged onto discharge tray 109, and the process proceeds to step S15. In step S15, it is determined whether or not there is a sheet to be processed next. If there is a sheet to be processed, CPU 51 returns the process to step S06; if not, the process ends.

[0088] <Modification> In the above-described embodiment, an MFP 1 has been described as an example of an image forming apparatus, but the present invention is not limited to this. The image forming apparatus may be a printer. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus may be an inkjet printer that forms images using ink.

[0089] In the above-described embodiment, ratchet mechanism 130L has been described as an example of a ratchet mechanism, but the present invention is not limited to this. Any other configuration may be adopted as long as it is a mechanism that allows first end restriction portion 121L to move in one direction and prevents it from moving in the opposite direction.

[0090] In addition, in the present embodiment, an example has been shown in which post-processing device 100 includes CPU 51, but the present invention is not limited to this. CPU 51 may be provided in MFP 1, or in a computer separate from MFP 1.

[0091] <Summary of implementation form> (Item 1) A mounting section having a mounting surface on which a recording medium is placed; a first restricting member that is movable in a width direction intersecting an approach direction in which the recording medium enters the placement portion and that restricts the position of a leading end of the recording medium in the approach direction on the placement surface; a second regulating member that is movable in the width direction and that regulates the position of the recording medium on the placement surface in the width direction; a drive control unit that moves the second regulating member in a first direction parallel to the width direction until the first regulating member moves to a processing position before the recording medium enters the mounting unit, and then moves the second regulating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0092] According to this aspect, the second regulating member is moved in the first direction to position the first regulating member at a predetermined processing position, and then the second regulating member is moved in the second direction. Therefore, the first regulating member and the second regulating member are each positioned, so that the recording medium can be positioned at a predetermined position on the loading surface. As a result, a post-processing device capable of positioning the recording medium with a simple configuration can be provided.

[0093] (Item 2) The post-processing device according to item 1, wherein the drive control unit moves the first regulating member in conjunction with movement of the second regulating member in the first direction, and stops the first regulating member at the processing position.

[0094] According to this aspect, the first restricting member moves in conjunction with the movement of the second restricting member in the first direction, so that the first restricting member can be moved in the first direction simply by moving the second restricting member.

[0095] (Item 3) The post-processing device according to item 1 or 2, further comprising a connecting portion that connects the first restricting member and the second restricting member.

[0096] According to this aspect, the first restricting member and the second restricting member are coupled together, so that the first restricting member can be moved in the first direction in conjunction with movement of the second restricting member in the first direction.

[0097] (Item 4) The post-processing device according to any one of items 1 to 3, further comprising a ratchet mechanism that allows movement of the first restricting member in the first direction and restricts movement of the first restricting member in the second direction.

[0098] According to this aspect, since the first restricting member is movable in the first direction, the first restricting member can be moved in the first direction to move the first restricting member to the processing position. Furthermore, since the movement of the first restricting member in the second direction is restricted, the first restricting member can be prevented from moving in the second direction after moving to the processing position. Therefore, the first restricting member can be easily positioned at the processing position.

[0099] (Item 5) The post-processing device described in Item 4 further includes a release unit that releases the restriction by the ratchet mechanism when the second regulating member moves in the second direction and the distance between the first regulating member and the second regulating member becomes equal to or greater than the first distance.

[0100] According to this aspect, when the second restricting member moves in the second direction and the distance between the first and second restricting members becomes equal to or greater than the first distance, the restriction by the ratchet mechanism is released, and the first restricting member becomes movable in the second direction. Therefore, the first restricting member can be moved in the second direction simply by moving the second restricting member.

[0101] (Item 6) The post-processing device according to item 5, further comprising a biasing portion that biases the second restricting member in the second direction.

[0102] According to this aspect, the second restricting member can be moved in the second direction in a state where the restriction by the first mechanism is released.

[0103] (Item 7) The post-processing device described in item 5 or 6, further comprising a connecting portion that connects the first regulating member and the second regulating member at a second distance that is shorter than the first distance between the first regulating member and the second regulating member.

[0104] According to this aspect, the distance between the first regulating member and the second regulating member is the second distance and the first regulating member and the second regulating member are connected, so that the first regulating member can be moved in the first direction simply by moving the second regulating member in the first direction.

[0105] (Item 8) A post-processing device described in any one of Items 1 to 7, wherein the drive control unit performs an alignment operation at least once, in which the second regulating member is moved in the second direction and then moved in the first direction while the first regulating member is positioned at the processing position.

[0106] According to this aspect, the second restricting member is reciprocated in the width direction while the first restricting member is positioned at the processing position, so that the recording medium placed on the placement section can be positioned in the width direction.

[0107] (Item 9) An image forming apparatus equipped with the post-processing device according to any one of items 1 to 8.

[0108] According to this aspect, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that allows positioning of a recording medium in a post-processing apparatus with a simple configuration.

[0109] (Item 10) A post-processing control method executed in a post-processing device, comprising: The post-processing device includes a mounting section having a mounting surface on which a recording medium is placed; a first restricting member that is movable in a width direction intersecting an approach direction in which the recording medium enters the placement portion and that restricts the position of a leading end of the recording medium in the approach direction on the placement surface; a second regulating member that is movable in the width direction and that regulates the position of the recording medium on the placement surface in the width direction, a first step of moving the second regulating member in a first direction parallel to the width direction until the first regulating member moves to a processing position before the recording medium enters the mounting portion; a second step of moving the second regulating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction after the first regulating member has been moved to the processing position and before the recording medium enters the loading section.

[0110] According to this aspect, it is possible to provide a post-processing control method that is capable of positioning a recording medium with a simple configuration.

[0111] (Item 11) A post-processing control program executed by a computer that controls a post-processing device, The post-processing device includes a mounting section having a mounting surface on which a recording medium is placed; a first restricting member that is movable in a width direction intersecting an approach direction in which the recording medium enters the placement portion and that restricts the position of a leading end of the recording medium in the approach direction on the placement surface; a second regulating member that is movable in the width direction and that regulates the position of the recording medium on the placement surface in the width direction, a first step of moving the second regulating member in a first direction parallel to the width direction until the first regulating member moves to a processing position before the recording medium enters the mounting portion; a second step of moving the second regulating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction after the first regulating member has been moved to the processing position and before the recording medium enters the loading section.

[0112] According to this aspect, it is possible to provide a post-processing control method that is capable of positioning a recording medium with a simple configuration.

[0113] <Correspondence between the embodiments and the claims> The mounting plates 111L,R correspond to the mounting portion. The first end regulating portions 121L,R correspond to the first regulating members. The side regulating portions 112L,R correspond to the second regulating members. The width direction corresponds to the Y direction. The drive motors 113L,R, drive screw 115L, and drive nut 117L correspond to the drive portion. The CPU 51 corresponds to the drive control portion.

[0114] The position determined by the paper size information included in the post-processing conditions corresponds to the processing position. The direction in which the side regulating units 112L,R approach each other corresponds to the first direction, and the direction in which the side regulating units 112L,R move away from each other corresponds to the second direction. The process of positioning the paper in the X direction by the side regulating units 112L,R corresponds to the alignment operation. The ratchet mechanisms 130L,R correspond to the ratchet mechanisms.

[0115] The distance between the side regulating portion 112L and the first end regulating portion 121L at the stage when the engaging protrusions 119L,R abut against the releasing portion 123L corresponds to the first distance. The releasing portion 123L corresponds to the releasing portion. The rack 139L corresponds to the urging portion. The distance between the side regulating portion 112L and the first end regulating portion 121L at the stage when the engaging protrusions 119L,R abut against the abutting portion 124L corresponds to the second distance. The abutting portion 124L corresponds to the connecting portion. The MFP1 corresponds to an image forming apparatus equipped with the post-processing device 100.

[0116] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 1 MFP, 2 document reading section, 3 image forming section, 4 paper feeding section, 20Y, 20M, 20C, 20K image forming units, 51 CPU, 53 ROM, 55 RAM, 57 communication section, 61 external storage device, 65 CD-ROM, 71 post-processing condition acquisition section, 73 drive control section, 75 stapler control section, 100 post-processing device, 101 main body housing, 102 insertion slot, 103 receiving slot, 104 discharge slot, 105 receiving roller, 106 transport roller, 107 discharge roller, 108 transport path, 109 paper output tray, 110 alignment section, 110L first alignment section, 110R second alignment section, 111L, 111R loading plate, 112L, 112R side regulation section, 113L, 113R drive motor, 115L, 115R Drive screw, 117L, 117R Drive nut, 119L, 119R Engagement protrusion, 121L, 121R First end restriction portion, 122L, 122R Second end restriction portion, 123L, 123R Release portion, 124L, 124R Abutment portion, 125L, 125R Support portion, 126L, 126R Hook, 127L, 127R Spring, 129L, 129R Guide shaft, 130L, 130R Ratchet mechanism, 131L, 131R Ratchet portion, 132L, 132R Ratchet gear, 133L, 133R Ratchet base, 135L, 135R Ratchet rotation shaft, 137L, 137R Ratchet spring, 139L, 139R Rack, 145 Stapler, 147 Paddle.

Claims

1. a mounting section having a mounting surface on which a recording medium is placed; a first regulating member that is movable in a width direction intersecting a direction in which the recording medium enters the placement portion and that regulates the position of a leading end of the recording medium in the entry direction on the placement surface; a second regulating member that is movable in the width direction and that regulates the position of the recording medium on the placement surface in the width direction; a drive control unit that moves the second regulating member in a first direction parallel to the width direction until the first regulating member moves to a processing position before the recording medium enters the loading section, and then moves the second regulating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

2. The post-processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the drive control section moves the first regulating member in conjunction with the movement of the second regulating member in the first direction, and stops the first regulating member at the processing position.

3. The post-processing device according to claim 2 , further comprising a connecting portion that connects the first restricting member and the second restricting member.

4. The post-processing device according to claim 1 , further comprising a ratchet mechanism that allows movement of the first restricting member in the first direction and restricts movement of the first restricting member in the second direction.

5. 5. The post-processing device according to claim 4, further comprising a release unit that releases the restriction by the ratchet mechanism when the second restricting member moves in the second direction and the distance between the first restricting member and the second restricting member becomes a first distance.

6. The post-processing device according to claim 5 , further comprising a biasing portion that biases the second restricting member in the second direction.

7. The post-processing device according to claim 5 , further comprising a connecting portion that connects the first regulating member and the second regulating member at a second distance that is shorter than the first distance.

8. The post-processing device described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the drive control unit performs an alignment operation at least once, moving the second regulating member in the second direction and then in the first direction while maintaining the first regulating member in the processing position.

9. An image forming apparatus comprising the post-processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. A post-processing control method executed in a post-processing device, comprising: The post-processing device includes a mounting section having a mounting surface on which a recording medium is placed; a first regulating member that is movable in a width direction intersecting a direction in which the recording medium enters the placement portion and that regulates the position of a leading end of the recording medium in the entry direction on the placement surface; a second regulating member that is movable in the width direction and that regulates the position of the recording medium on the placement surface in the width direction, a first step of moving the second regulating member in a first direction parallel to the width direction until the first regulating member moves to a processing position before the recording medium enters the mounting portion; a second step of moving the second regulating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction after moving the first regulating member to the processing position and before the recording medium enters the loading section.

11. A post-processing control program executed by a computer that controls a post-processing device, The post-processing device includes a mounting section having a mounting surface on which a recording medium is placed; a first regulating member that is movable in a width direction intersecting a direction in which the recording medium enters the placement portion and that regulates the position of a leading end of the recording medium in the entry direction on the placement surface; a second regulating member that is movable in the width direction and that regulates the position of the recording medium on the placement surface in the width direction, a first step of moving the second regulating member in a first direction parallel to the width direction until the first regulating member moves to a processing position before the recording medium enters the mounting portion; a second step of moving the second regulating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction after the first regulating member has been moved to the processing position and before the recording medium enters the loading section.

Images