Post-processing apparatus and image forming apparatus

Abstract

In a post-processing device in which a stapleless stapling device and a stapled stapling device can move along a guide means, the post-processing device can be made smaller compared to a configuration in which the frame of the post-processing device is positioned outside the position where the stapleless stapling device has moved to one end of the guide means. [Solution] A post-processing device (U4) comprising: a guide means (22) for guiding a stapled stapling device (9A) and a stapleless stapling device (9B) along the width direction of a medium (S); and a frame (63) positioned at one end of the guide means (22) in the width direction, wherein the frame (63) is positioned inward from the outer end of the stapleless stapling device (9B) in the width direction when the stapleless stapling device (9B) moves to one end of the guide means (22).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a post-processing device and an image forming apparatus having the post-processing device.

Background Art

[0002] Regarding a binding device that binds a bundle of media on which an image is recorded by an image recording device, that is, a so-called stapler device, the techniques described in the following Patent Documents 1 to 3 are conventionally known.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2024-91446 describes a sheet processing device (B) in which a stapler unit (17) is movable back and forth. In Patent Document 1, a stitchless binding unit (27) is installed at the front end of the sheet processing device (B). In Patent Document 1, the discharged sheets can be aligned and automatically bound with needles in the stapler unit (17). Also, it is possible to manually bind without needles by operating the stitchless binding unit (27) with the user inserting the position where the bundle of sheets is to be bound into the stitchless binding unit (27) manually. In Patent Document 1, the stapler unit (17) can be replenished with needles in a state where it has moved to the cartridge replacement position. At the cartridge replacement position, the stapler unit (17) protrudes to the front side of the front side panel (30f) through the front opening (31f).

[0004] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2024-105569 describes a sheet processing device in which a stapler unit (17) binds the rear corner and a stitchless binding unit (27) binds the front corner. The stapler unit (17) and the stitchless binding unit (27) are arranged between the front side panel (30f) and the rear side panel (30r). The stapler unit (17) is replenished with needles in a state where it has moved to the rear side of the rear side panel (30r) through the rear opening (31r).

[0005] Patent Document 3: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2022-125834 describes a configuration in which a stapled stapling device (500) and a stapleless stapling device (600) move along a common guide rail (450). In Patent Document 3, the stapled stapling device (500) and the stapleless stapling device (660) are configured to retract at separate positions at the same end. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-91446 ("0043"-"0051", Figures 2-7) [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-105569 ("0025", "0037", "0039", "0045"-"0065", Figure 3, Figures 15-17) [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-125834 (Figures 2, 4-7, 13) [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The present invention aims to miniaturize a post-processing device in which a stapleless stapling device and a stapled stapling device can move along a guide means, compared to a configuration in which the frame of the post-processing device is positioned outside the position where the stapleless stapling device has moved to one end of the guide means. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, the post-processing apparatus of the invention described in claim 1 is: A stapler that binds media together with staples, A stapleless binding device that binds media without using the aforementioned staples, A guide means for guiding the stapled stapling device and the stapleless stapling device along the width direction of the medium, A frame body positioned at one end of the guide means in the width direction, wherein when the stapleless stapling device moves to one end of the guide means, the frame body is positioned inward from the outer end in the width direction of the stapleless stapling device, It is characterized by having the following features.

[0009] The invention described in claim 2 is a post-processing apparatus described in claim 1, The frame body having a passing means formed through which the stapleless stapling device can pass, It is characterized by having the following features.

[0010] The invention described in claim 3 is a post-processing apparatus described in claim 2, When the stapleless stapling device moves to one end of the guide means, the stapleless stapling device straddles the passage means. It is characterized by the following:

[0011] The invention described in claim 4 is a post-processing apparatus described in claim 1, Exterior means arranged on the outside of the frame, A circuit board for controlling the post-processing device is placed in the space between the frame and the exterior means, It is characterized by having the following features.

[0012] The invention described in claim 5 is a post-processing apparatus described in claim 1, The stapleless binding device that can be detachably fastened to the frame via fastening means, It is characterized by having the following features.

[0013] The invention described in claim 6 is a post-processing apparatus described in claim 5, A frame having a fastened portion to which the stapleless stapling device is fastened by the fastening means, wherein the fastened portion has higher rigidity than other parts of the frame. It is characterized by having the following features.

[0014] The invention described in claim 7 is a post-processing apparatus described in claim 6, The fastened part is formed of a member different from the main body part of the frame body and is supported by the main body part, and is formed of a material having higher rigidity than the main body part and is characterized by this.

[0015] The invention according to claim 8 is the post-treatment device according to claim 6, wherein the fastened part is formed thicker than other parts than the fastened part and is characterized by this.

[0016] In order to solve the above technical problem, the image forming apparatus of the invention according to claim 9 includes an image recording device that records an image on a medium, and a post-treatment device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 that performs post-treatment on the medium on which an image is recorded by the image recording device and is characterized by including these.

Advantage of the Invention

[0017] According to the inventions described in claims 1 and 9, in a post-treatment device in which a stitcher without a needle and a stitcher with a needle can move on a guiding means, compared with a configuration in which the frame of the post-treatment device is disposed outside the position where the stitcher without a needle has moved to one end of the guiding means, the post-treatment device can be miniaturized. According to the invention described in claim 2, the outer end in the width direction of the stitcher without a needle can move outside the frame through the passing means. According to the invention described in claim 3, compared with the case where the passing means is not straddled by the stitcher without a needle when the stitcher without a needle moves to one end of the guiding means, the post-treatment device can be miniaturized. According to the invention described in claim 4, compared with the case where a circuit board is not disposed in the space between the frame inside the stitcher without a needle and the exterior means, the space can be effectively utilized.

[0018] According to the invention described in claim 5, compared with the case where the stitcher without a needle is not fastened to the frame via the fastening means, a breakage accident of the stitcher without a needle can be suppressed. According to the invention described in claim 6, compared to cases where the rigidity of the fastened portion is not made higher than that of other parts, it is possible to suppress accidents involving damage to the stapleless stapling device. According to the invention described in claim 7, the rigidity of the part to which the stapleless stapling device is fastened can be easily increased compared to a case where the fastened part is not made of a material with high rigidity and is a separate component from the main body of the frame. According to the invention described in claim 8, the fastened portion can be made thicker than other parts, thereby increasing the rigidity of the fastened portion. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0019] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an overall explanatory diagram of the image forming apparatus of Example 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram of the main parts of the image recording unit of Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side view of the main part of the post-treatment device of Example 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a plan view of the main parts of the post-treatment device of Example 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the binding device of Example 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of the position of the binding device in Example 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an external view of the post-treatment device of Example 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the frame portion of the post-processing device of Example 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram of the rear frame of Embodiment 1, where Figure 9A is a perspective view, Figure 9B is an explanatory diagram of the first rear frame, and Figure 9B is an explanatory diagram of the second rear frame. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] Next, with reference to the drawings, examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described, but the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. For the sake of easier understanding of the following explanation, in the drawings, the front-to-back direction is the X-axis direction, the left-to-right direction is the Y-axis direction, and the up-to-down direction is the Z-axis direction. The directions or sides indicated by the arrows X, -X, Y, -Y, Z, and -Z are defined as front, rear, right, left, up, down, or front side, rear side, right side, left side, up side, and down side, respectively. Furthermore, in the diagram, a circle with a "·" inside represents an arrow pointing from the back to the front of the paper, and a circle with an "×" inside represents an arrow pointing from the front to the back of the paper. In the following explanation using diagrams, for the sake of ease of understanding, components other than those necessary for the explanation may be omitted. The diagrams have been omitted where appropriate. [Examples]

[0021] Figure 1 is an overall explanatory diagram of the image forming apparatus of Example 1. In Figure 1, the copier U, as an example of an image forming apparatus in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, has a printer unit U1, which is an example of an image recording means and an example of an image recording device. A scanner unit U2, which is an example of a reading means and an example of an image reading device, is supported above the printer unit U1. An auto feeder U3, which is an example of a document transport device, is supported above the scanner unit U2.

[0022] At the top of the auto feeder U3 is a document tray TG1, which is an example of a means for storing media. Multiple documents Gi to be copied can be stacked and stored in the document tray TG1. Below the document tray TG1 is a document output tray TG2, which is an example of a document discharge section. Between the document tray TG1 and the document output tray TG2, a document transport roller U3b is positioned along the document transport path U3a.

[0023] A platen glass PG, an example of a transparent document tray, is positioned on the upper surface of the scanner unit U2. Below the platen glass PG in the scanner unit U2 of Embodiment 1, a reading unit U2a, an example of a reading unit, is positioned. The reading unit U2a of Embodiment 1 is supported so as to be movable in the left-right direction, an example of a sub-scanning direction, along the lower surface of the platen glass PG. The reading unit U2a is electrically connected to the image processing unit GS.

[0024] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram of the main parts of the image recording unit of Embodiment 1. The image processing unit GS is electrically connected to the writing circuit DL of the printer unit U1. The writing circuit DL is electrically connected to the exposure devices LHy, LHm, LHc, and LHk, which are examples of latent image formation means. The exposure apparatus LHy~LHk of Example 1 is, as an example, composed of an LED head in which multiple LEDs are arranged in the main scanning direction. The exposure apparatus LHy~LHk is configured to output writing light corresponding to yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) in response to signals input from the writing circuit DL. The writing circuit DL and the power supply circuit E are controlled according to control signals from the control unit C, which is an example of a control means, to control the writing timing and power supply timing. In Figure 1, above the exposure apparatus LHy~LHk, photoreceptors PRy, PRm, PRc, and PRk are arranged as an example of an image holding means. In Figures 1 and 2, the writing areas Q1y, Q1m, Q1c, and Q1k are formed by the regions on each photoreceptor PRy~PRk that are irradiated with writing light.

[0025] With respect to the rotation direction of each photoreceptor PRy to PRk, charging rollers Cry, CRm, CRc, and CRK, as an example of a charging means, are arranged on the upstream side of the writing area Q1y to Q1k. In Example 1, the charging rollers Cry to CRK are supported in contact with the photoreceptors PRy to PRk so as to be able to rotate by them. With respect to the rotational direction of the photoreceptors PRy to PRk, developing devices Gy, Gm, Gc, and Gk, as an example of a developing means, are arranged downstream of the writing areas Q1y to Q1k. The developing areas Q2y, Q2m, Q2c, and Q2k are formed by the regions where each photoreceptor PRy to PRk and each developing device Gy to Gk face each other.

[0026] With respect to the rotation direction of the photoreceptors PRy to PRk, primary transfer rollers T1y, T1m, T1c, and T1k, as an example of a primary transfer means, are positioned downstream of the developing apparatus Gy to Gk. The regions where each photoreceptor PRy to PRk and each primary transfer roller T1y to T1k face each other constitute primary transfer regions Q3y, Q3m, Q3c, and Q3k. Downstream of the primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k, relative to the rotation direction of the photoreceptors PRy to PRk, photoreceptor cleaners CLy, CLm, CLc, and CLk are positioned as an example of cleaning means. Downstream of the photoreceptor cleaners CLy to CLk, in relation to the rotational direction of the photoreceptors PRy to PRk, static eliminators Jy, Jm, Jc, and Jk, which are examples of static elimination means and examples of static elimination devices, are arranged.

[0027] The image-forming unit Uy of the Y color is configured as an example of a means for forming a visible image of the Y color in Example 1, which forms a Y color toner image using the Y color photoreceptor PRy, charging roller CRy, exposure device LHy, developing device Gy, primary transfer roller T1y, photoreceptor cleaner CLy, and static eliminator Jy. Similarly, the image-forming units Um, Uc, Uk of the M, C, K colors are configured using the respective photoreceptors PRm, PRc, PRk, charging rollers CRm, CRc, Crk, exposure devices LHm, LHc, LHk, developing devices Gm, Gc, Gk, primary transfer rollers T1m, T1c, T1k, photoreceptor cleaners CLm, CLc, CLk, and static eliminators Jm, Jc, Jk.

[0028] Above the photoreceptors PRy~PRk, a belt module BM is positioned as an example of an intermediate transfer device. The belt module BM is an example of an image holding means and has an intermediate transfer belt B as an example of an intermediate transfer means. The intermediate transfer belt B is composed of an endless strip-shaped member. In Example 1, the intermediate transfer belt B is rotatably supported by a tension roller Rt as an example of a tensioning means, a walking roller Rw as an example of a bias correction means, an idler roller Rf as an example of a driven means, a backup roller T2a as an example of a counter means for the secondary transfer region, primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k, and a drive roller Rd as an example of a drive member. In Example 1, the intermediate transfer belt B rotates when drive is transmitted to the drive roller Rd.

[0029] A secondary transfer roller T2b, as an example of a secondary transfer means, is positioned opposite the backup roller T2a across the intermediate transfer belt B. The backup roller T2a and the secondary transfer roller T2b, etc., constitute the secondary transfer unit T2 of Embodiment 1, which is an example of a transfer device. Furthermore, the area where the secondary transfer roller T2b and the intermediate transfer belt B come into contact constitutes the secondary transfer area Q4. A belt cleaner CLb is positioned downstream of the secondary transfer region Q4 with respect to the rotation direction of the intermediate transfer belt B, as an example of a cleaning device for the intermediate transfer body. The primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k, the intermediate transfer belt B, and the secondary transfer unit T2, etc. constitute the transfer apparatus T1+T2+B of Example 1, which is an example of a transfer means. Furthermore, the image recording unit Uy to Uk and the transfer apparatus T1+T2+B constitute the image recording unit Uy to Uk+T1+T2+B of Example 1.

[0030] In Figure 1, below the image-making section Uy~Uk, four pairs of left and right guide rails GR are provided as an example of a guide mechanism. Each guide rail GR supports paper feed trays TR1, TR2, TR3, and TR4, which are an example of a medium storage mechanism, so that they can move in and out in the front-to-back direction. Recording paper S, an example of a medium, is stored in the paper feed trays TR1~TR4. A pickup roller Rp, as an example of an ejection mechanism, is positioned in the upper left of the paper feed trays TR1 to TR4. Downstream of the pickup roller Rp, with respect to the transport direction of the recording paper S, a paper handling roller Rs, as an example of a paper handling mechanism, is positioned. Downstream of the paper handling roller Rs, with respect to the transport direction of the recording paper S, a paper feed path SH1 extending upward is formed, as an example of a medium transport path. Multiple transport rollers Ra, as an example of a transport mechanism, are positioned in the paper feed path SH1.

[0031] A manual feed tray TR0, an example of a means of storing media, is located in the lower left of the copier U. The manual feed tray TR0 has a pickup roller Rp0 located in its upper right corner, from which the manual feed path SH0 extends. The manual feed path SH0 merges with the feed path SH1. In the paper feed path SH1, a register roller Rr is positioned upstream of the secondary transfer area Q4 as an example of a means for adjusting the transport timing. The transport path SH2 extends from the register roller Rr towards the secondary transfer area Q4.

[0032] A fixing device F, as an example of a fixing means, is positioned downstream of the secondary transfer region Q4 with respect to the transport direction of the recording paper S. The fixing device F includes a heating roller Fh as an example of a fixing member for heating, and a pressure roller Fp as an example of a fixing member for pressurizing. The fixing region Q5 is formed by the contact area between the heating roller Fh and the pressure roller Fp. A lower paper output tray TRh, which is an example of a media output section, is formed on the upper surface of the printer unit U1. In Embodiment 1, a finisher U4, which is an example of a post-processing device, is installed on the lower paper output tray TRh. Above the fuser unit F, a paper output path SH3, which is an example of a transport path, extends toward the lower paper output tray TRh. A paper output roller Rh, which is an example of a media transport means, is positioned at the downstream end of the paper output path SH3.

[0033] Above the lower output tray TRh, the upper output tray TRh2 is positioned as an example of a media discharge section. Above the fuser unit F, an upper transport path SH4 is formed, branching off from the output path SH3 and extending toward the upper output tray TRh2. The upper transport path SH4 is equipped with a reversible roller Rb that can rotate in both forward and reverse directions, as an example of a media transport means. Above the branching point between the paper discharge path SH3 and the upper transport path SH4, a reversal path SH6, as another example of a media transport path, branches off to the lower left from the upper transport path SH4.

[0034] A gate GT1, as an example of a switching mechanism, is positioned across the branching point between the paper output path SH3 and the upper transport path SH4, and the branching point between the upper transport path SH4 and the reversal path SH6. The gate GT1 guides the recording paper S from the fuser unit F toward the lower paper output tray TRh and is supported so as to be switchable between a first guiding position (second position) that guides the recording paper S from the upper transport path SH4 to the reversal path SH6, and a second guiding position (first position) that guides the recording paper S from the fuser unit F toward the upper transport path SH4. The reversing path SH6 is equipped with multiple transport rollers Ra, which serve as an example of a means for transporting the media. The downstream end of the reversing path SH6 merges with the paper feed path SH1 upstream of the register roller Rr.

[0035] (Explanation of image formation process) In the copier U of Embodiment 1, which has the above configuration, when an operator manually places the original document Gi on the platen glass PG to perform copying, the reading unit U2a moves from its initial position to the left and right, and the original document Gi on the platen glass PG is scanned while being exposed. Also, when the original document Gi is automatically transported and copied using the auto feeder U3, multiple original documents Gi placed in the original tray TG1 are sequentially transported and passed through the reading positions of the originals on the platen glass PG and discharged into the original output tray TG2. Each original document Gi passing sequentially through the reading positions on the platen glass PG is exposed and scanned by the reading unit U2a. The reflected light from the original document Gi is received by the reading unit U2a. The reading unit U2a converts the received reflected light from the original document Gi into an electrical signal. When double-sided reading of the original document Gi is performed, the original document Gi is also read by the reading sensor.

[0036] The image processing unit GS receives electrical signals output from the reading unit U2a. The image processing unit GS converts the R, G, and B color electrical signals read by the reading unit U2a into image information for latent image formation using yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). The image processing unit GS outputs the converted image information to the writing circuit DL of the printer unit U1. Note that if the image is a monochrome image, the image processing unit GS outputs only black (K). The image information is output to the DL programming circuit. The writing circuit DL outputs control signals corresponding to the input image information to the exposure devices LHy~LHk. The exposure devices LHy~LHk output writing light corresponding to the control signals.

[0037] Each photoreceptor PRy~PRk is driven to rotate when image formation begins. A charging voltage is applied to the charging rollers CRy~CRk from the power supply circuit E. Therefore, the surface of the photoreceptors PRy~PRk is charged by the charging rollers CRy~CRk. In the writing area Q1y~Q1k, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the charged photoreceptors PRy~PRk by the exposure unit LHy~LHk. The electrostatic latent image of the photoreceptors PRy~PRk is developed into a toner image, an example of a visible image, by the developing unit Gy~Gk in the developing area Q2y~Q2k.

[0038] The developed toner image is transported to the primary transfer region Q3y~Q3k, which is in contact with the intermediate transfer belt B, an example of an intermediate transfer medium. In the primary transfer region Q3y~Q3k, a primary transfer voltage with the opposite polarity to the toner's charge polarity is applied from the power supply circuit E to the primary transfer rollers T1y~T1k. Therefore, the toner image on each photoreceptor PRy~PRk is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt B by the primary transfer rollers T1y~T1k. In the case of a multi-color toner image, the downstream toner image is transferred on top of the toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt B in the upstream primary transfer region. After primary transfer, any residue or deposits on the photoreceptor PRy~PRk are cleaned with photoreceptor cleaner CLy~CLk. After cleaning, the surface of the photoreceptor PRy~PRk is destaticized with static eliminator Jy~Jk. After destaticization, the surface of the photoreceptor PRy~PRk is recharged with charging roller CRy~CRk. The monochromatic or multicolor toner images transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt B by the primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k in the primary transfer region Q3y to Q3k are then transported to the secondary transfer region Q4.

[0039] The recording paper S on which images are recorded is picked up by the pickup roller Rp of the paper feed tray TR1 to TR4 used. If multiple sheets of recording paper S are picked up together by the pickup roller Rp, they are separated one by one by the separator roller Rs. The recording paper S separated by the separator roller Rs is transported along the paper feed path SH1 by the transport roller Ra. The recording paper S transported along the paper feed path SH1 is sent to the register roller Rr. Recording paper S loaded in the manual feed tray TR0 is also sent to the paper feed path SH1 via the manual feed path SH0 by the pickup roller Rp0. The register roller Rr transports the recording paper S to the secondary transfer area Q4 at the same time that the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt B is transported to the secondary transfer area Q4. The secondary transfer roller T2b is supplied with a secondary transfer voltage opposite to the charge polarity of the toner by the power supply circuit E. Therefore, the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt B is transferred from the intermediate transfer belt B to the recording paper S.

[0040] After secondary transfer, the intermediate transfer belt B is cleaned of any deposits adhering to its surface using belt cleaner CLb. The secondary transfer roller T2b is also cleaned using secondary transfer cleaner CLt, which is an example of a secondary transfer cleaning device. The recording paper S on which the toner image has been secondarily transferred is heated and fixed as it passes through the fixing area Q5. If post-processing is required, the image-fixed recording paper S is transported to a finisher U4, which is an example of a post-processing device installed in the lower output tray TRh. If no post-processing is required for the recording paper S, it is transported to the upper output tray TRh2. When the recording paper S is transported to the lower output tray TRh, the gate GT1 moves to the first guide position. Therefore, the recording paper S sent out from the fuser F is transported along the output path SH3. The recording paper S transported along the output path SH3 is then transported by the output roller Rh towards the finisher U4 and the lower output tray TRh. The finisher U4 performs a binding process on the recording paper S as an example of post-processing, and then ejects the recording paper S into the lower output tray TRh.

[0041] When the recording paper S is to be ejected to the upper output tray TRh2, the gate GT1 moves to the second guide position. The recording paper S is ejected from the upper output opening Rhb to the upper output tray TRh2 by the second output roller Rh2. When the recording paper S is to be printed on both sides, gate GT1 moves to the second guide position. Then, when the trailing edge of the recording paper S passes through gate GT1, gate GT1 moves to the first guide position and the reversing roller Rb rotates in the reverse direction. As a result, the recording paper S is guided by gate GT1 and sent to the reversing path SH6. The recording paper S that has been transported along the reversing path SH6 is sent to the register roller Rr with its front and back sides reversed.

[0042] (Description of Finisher U4) Figure 3 is a side view of the main part of the post-treatment device of Example 1. Figure 4 is a plan view of the main parts of the post-treatment device of Example 1. In Figure 3, the finisher U4 of Embodiment 1 has a connecting path 1 connected to the paper output path SH3. A transport roller 2, as an example of a transport means, is arranged in the connecting path 1. Below the downstream end of the connecting path 1, a compile tray 3, as an example of a first storage means, is arranged. The compile tray 3 is inclined downwards as it moves to the left.

[0043] An end wall 4, representing an example of an alignment mechanism, is positioned at the left end of the compile tray 3. The end of the recording paper S in the direction of transport is brought against the end wall 4 for alignment. Above the compile tray 3, on the right side of the end wall 4, is a retraction paddle 6, which is an example of a first retraction means. The retraction paddle 6 contacts the recording paper S loaded on the compile tray 3 and transports it towards the end wall 4. An elevating paddle 7, an example of a second retraction mechanism, is positioned above the right end of the compile tray 3. The elevating paddle 7 is configured to move up and down around a rotation axis 7a. When recording paper S is discharged from the connection path 1 to the compile tray 3, the elevating paddle 7 descends to transport the recording paper S towards the end wall 4. The elevating paddle 7 rises before the next sheet of recording paper S is discharged from the connection path 1. In other words, the elevating paddle 7 is controlled to move up and down while drawing in the incoming recording paper S into the end wall 4, without obstructing the incoming of subsequent sheets of recording paper S.

[0044] In Figure 4, a tamper 8, as an example of an alignment member, is positioned on the upper surface of the compile tray 3. The tamper 8 is arranged in a front-to-back pair and is supported so as to be movable in the front-to-back direction on the compile tray 3. When the tamper 8 moves back and forth, the recording paper S contained in the compile tray 3 is pressed by the tamper 8 in the front-to-back direction, i.e., in the paper width direction. Therefore, the width direction of the recording paper S is aligned. A binding device 9 is located to the left of the end wall 4. The binding device 9 is capable of binding stacks of recording paper S. At the right end of the compile tray 3, a stacker discharge roll 11 is positioned as an example of an ejection mechanism. Above the stacker discharge roll 11, a lifting roll (not shown) is positioned offset in the front-to-back direction from the lifting paddle 7. When a stack of recording paper S is to be ejected from the compile tray 3, the lifting roll descends, and the stack of paper is sandwiched between the lifting roll and the stacker discharge roll 11 for ejection.

[0045] To the right of the compile tray 3 is a stacker tray 12, which is an example of a second storage means. The stacker tray 12 discharges bundles of recording paper S that have undergone post-processing such as alignment and binding in the compile tray 3. The stacker tray 12 is supported so as to be movable in the vertical direction by a lifting device 13. The lifting device 13 is controlled to lower according to the amount of paper bundles loaded in the stacker tray 12. The stacker tray 12 is supported by a tray extension 12a, which is an example of an extension means, so as to be extendable and retractable along the paper transport direction. The tray extension 12a can be manually extended or retracted when large recording paper S is used.

[0046] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the binding device of Example 1. In Figures 3 and 4, a support plate 21, as an example of a support means for the binding device, is positioned in the lower left of the compile tray 3. A guide groove 22, as an example of a guide means, is formed at the right end of the support plate 21. The guide groove 22 has an edge-binding guide portion 23 that extends along the width direction of the recording paper S. A stapled corner-binding guide portion 24, as an example of a first corner-binding guide means, is connected to the front end of the edge-binding guide portion 23. The stapled corner-binding guide portion 24 is formed in a shape that curves in an arc to the right as it extends forward. The rear end of the edge-stitching guide section 23 is connected to a stapleless corner-stitching guide section 25, which is an example of a second corner-stitching guide means, and a stapleless retraction guide section 26, which is an example of a retraction guide means. Regarding the configuration for switching the guide destination of the stapleless corner-stitching guide section 25, various conventionally known configurations can be used, including the configuration described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-101907, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0047] A guide shaft 31 extending in the front-rear direction is supported above the left side of the support plate 21, as an example of a trolley guiding means. A rack 32 extending in the front-rear direction is supported at the left end of the support plate 21 as an example of a gear mechanism. Gear teeth are formed on the upper surface of the rack 32.

[0048] In Figure 4, the binding device 9 of Example 1 includes a stapler binding device 9A and a stapler binding device 9B. In Figures 4 and 5, the stapler 9A has a first carriage section 41 and a stapler body 42. The first carriage section 41 is supported so as to be movable in the front-rear direction on a support plate 21. The first carriage section 41 has a first guided section 43 through which a guide shaft 31 passes. A first travel motor 44, as an example of a first drive source, is supported at the left end of the first carriage section 41. An output gear 46, as an example of a gear, is supported on the output shaft of the first travel motor 44. The rotation of the output gear 46 is transmitted to a pinion gear 47 via a plurality of gears. The pinion gear 47 meshes with a rack 32. Therefore, the first carriage section 41 can be moved in the front-rear direction by forward rotation / reverse rotation / stopping of the first travel motor 44.

[0049] The stapler body 42 can staple a stack of recording paper S by driving staples into it by operating a motor (not shown). The stapler body 42 is rotatably supported on the first carriage 41 around a rotation axis 42a. The stapler body 42 is provided with a guide projection 42b as an example of a guided means. The guide projection 42b extends downward from the end of the stapler body 42 and is fitted into a guide groove 22. As the first trolley section 41 moves in the front-rear direction, the guide projection 42b moves along the guide groove 22. While the guide projection 42b is guided by the edge-stitching guide section 23, the stapled stapling device body 42 can staple the recording paper S with staples parallel to the width direction (edge-stitched stapling). When the guide projection 42b approaches the corner-stitching guide section 24, the stapled stapling device body 42 rotates around the pivot axis 42a relative to the first trolley section 41. Therefore, it becomes possible to staple the corners of the recording paper S by driving staples diagonally (corner-stitched stapling).

[0050] Note that the stapleless binding device 9B differs from the stapled binding device 9A only in that it uses a stapleless binding device body 42B that binds without using staples instead of the stapled binding device body 42; the rest of the device is configured the same as the stapled binding device 9A. Therefore, the reference numeral "B" is added to the numerals 41 to 47 of the stapled binding device 9A, and a detailed explanation is omitted. In Embodiment 1, the method for binding the recording paper S without staples is to bind the recording paper S by sandwiching it from the thickness direction with an uneven contact part, but this is not the only method. The stapleless binding method can also be a method that tears a part of the paper, or a method that applies pressure in the thickness direction of the paper to entangle the fibers or deform the paper, or any other conventionally known method can be adopted.

[0051] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of the position of the binding device in Example 1. In Figure 6, the stapled stapling device 9A moves to the first end-stapling position Pa1, the second end-stapling position Pa2, and the stapled corner-stapling position Pa3 according to the stapling position selected by the user, and performs the stapling process. The stapleless stapling device 9B also moves to the first end-stapling position Pb1, the second end-stapling position Pb2, and the stapleless corner-stapling position Pb3 according to the stapling position selected by the user, and performs the stapling process. In Example 1, the first end-stapling positions Pa1, Pb1 and the second end-stapling positions Pa2, Pb2 are set to the same position whether stapled or stapleless. It is also possible to set different end-stapling positions for stapled and stapleless stapling. In Example 1, the stapled corner-stapling position Pa3 is set in front of the finisher U4, and the stapleless corner-stapling position Pb3 is set behind the finisher U4.

[0052] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the stapled stapling device 9A is movable to a staple replenishment position Pa4, which is further forward than the stapled corner stapling position Pa3. The stapled stapling device 9A moves to the staple replenishment position Pa4 when staples are to be replenished. In Embodiment 1, when the stapleless edge stapling process is performed, the stapled stapling device 9A is set to retract to the staple replenishment position Pa4 to avoid interference with the stapleless stapling device 9B. It is also possible to retract at the stapled corner stapling position Pa3 instead of the staple replenishment position Pa4, or to retract at a position between the stapled corner stapling position Pa3 and the staple replenishment position Pa4. Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the stapleless stapling device 9B is configured to move to and retract to the stapleless retraction position Pb4 on the rear end when stapled edge stapling is performed, so as not to interfere with the stapled stapling device 9A.

[0053] Figure 7 is an external view of the post-treatment device of Example 1. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the frame portion of the post-processing device of Example 1. Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram of the rear frame of Embodiment 1, where Figure 9A is a perspective view, Figure 9B is an explanatory diagram of the first rear frame, and Figure 9B is an explanatory diagram of the second rear frame. In Figure 7, in the finisher U4 of Embodiment 1, the upper, front, and rear parts of the connection path 1 and the compile tray 3 are covered by an exterior cover 61, which is an example of an exterior means. The top surface of the exterior cover 61 can also be used as the upper paper output tray TRh2. In addition, the front part 61a of the exterior cover 61 is configured to be openable and closable. When replenishing staples in the stapler 9A, the front part 61a can be opened to access the stapler 9A which has moved to the stapler replenishment position Pa4.

[0054] In Figures 7 and 8, a front frame 62 and a rear frame 63, which are examples of a frame structure, are arranged inside the outer cover 61. The compile tray 3, end wall 4, tamper 8, etc., are arranged inside the front frame 62 and rear frame 63. The front frame 62 is positioned at the front of the finisher U4. The lower part of the front frame 62 is supported by the support plate 21. The front frame 62 has a front opening 62a formed therein as an example of a first passage means. The front opening 62a is formed so that the stapler body 42 can pass through it. That is, when the stapler 9A moves to the stapled corner stapling position Pa3 or the staple replenishment position Pa4 and the stapler body 42 rotates, a part (left side) of the stapler body 42 passes through the front opening 62a and protrudes forward of the front opening 62a.

[0055] In Figures 8 and 9, the rear frame 63 is positioned at the rear of the finisher U4. The lower part of the rear frame 63 is supported by the support plate 21. The rear frame 63 has a rear frame body 64 as an example of the main body of the frame and a fastening plate 65 as an example of the fastened part. The rear frame body 64 has a rear opening 64a, which is an example of a second passage means. The rear opening 64a is formed so that the stapleless stapling device 9B can pass through it. When the stapleless stapling device 9B moves to the stapleless corner stapling position Pb3 or the stapleless retraction position Pb4, a part (rear part) of the stapleless stapling device 9B can pass through the rear opening 64a.

[0056] Therefore, in Embodiment 1, when the stapleless stapling device 9B moves to the stapleless retracted position Pb4, which is one end of the guide groove 22, the inner end of the rear frame body 64 is positioned inward from the outer end 66 in the width direction of the stapleless stapling device 9B. In other words, when the stapleless stapling device 9B moves to the stapleless retracted position Pb4 at the rear end of the guide groove 22, the stapleless stapling device 9B straddles the rear opening 64a. In Figures 8 and 9, the circuit board 70 is supported on the rear surface of the right side of the rear frame body 64. That is, a space is formed between the right side of the rear frame body 64 and the outer cover 61, and the circuit board 70 can be housed and positioned in this space.

[0057] The fastening plate 65 has a horizontal plate portion 65a extending to the rear and a vertical plate portion 65b extending downward from the horizontal plate portion 65a. The front end of the horizontal plate portion 65a is supported by the rear frame body 64. The fastening plate 65 in Example 1 is made of a separate component from the rear frame body 64. Furthermore, the fastening plate 65 is made of a different material from the rear frame body 64, and is made of a high-rigidity material. The fastening plate 65 has higher rigidity than the rear frame body 64.

[0058] The vertical plate portion 65b has fastening holes 65c formed therein, which are an example of fastening means. In the stapleless stapling device 9B of Embodiment 1, a fastening flange 71 is provided on the stapleless stapling device body 42B, and a fastening screw hole 71a is formed in the fastening flange 71. When the stapleless stapling device 9B is moved to the stapleless retracted position Pb4, the fastening flange 71 and the vertical plate portion 65b face each other. The fastening screw hole 71a and the fastening hole 65c are then arranged coaxially. Therefore, a thumb screw 72, as an example of a fastening means, can be used to fasten through the fastening hole 65c to the fastening screw hole 71a. Thus, the stapleless stapling device body 42B can be screwed and fixed to the fastening flange 71 with the thumb screw 72.

[0059] (Effect of Example 1) In the finisher U4 of Embodiment 1, which has the above configuration, the stapler 9A and the stapler 9B are guided by the guide groove 22 to perform edge stapling and corner stapling. In the conventional configuration of Patent Document 1, the stapleless stapling device was positioned outside the frame so that it could be used from outside the post-processing device. In the conventional configuration of Patent Document 2, it was positioned inside the frame, but since there was no need to replenish staples, it was configured not to pass through the frame. Therefore, in the conventional configuration, the frame was positioned outside the stapleless stapling device, and the outer cover, electronic circuits, etc. were positioned further outside of that. Consequently, the length of the post-processing device in the front-to-back direction was large. In this embodiment, the stapleless stapling device 9B is configured to pass through the rear opening 64a. Therefore, in a finisher U4 in which the stapleless stapling device 9B and the stapled stapling device 9A can move along the guide groove 22, it is possible to miniaturize the finisher U4 compared to a configuration in which the rear frame 63 of the finisher U4 is positioned outside the stapleless retracted position Pb4, which is the stapleless stapling device 9B that has moved to one end of the guide groove 22. In particular, in the stapleless retracted position Pb4, the stapleless stapling device 9B straddles the rear opening 64a. Therefore, the stapleless stapling device 9B does not bite into the rear opening 64a, but protrudes completely to the rear. Thus, it is possible to further miniaturize the finisher U4 compared to a configuration in which it does not straddle the opening.

[0060] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the circuit board 70 is installed in the space between the rear frame body 64 and the outer cover 61. The circuit board 70 controls various parts of the finisher U4 and transmits and receives signals with the control unit of the copier U. Therefore, even in the finisher U4, which is smaller than conventional models, the circuit board 70 is efficiently arranged. Thus, the space is effectively utilized. Furthermore, in Example 1, the stapleless stapling device 9B can be fastened to the fastening plate 65 with thumb screws 72. The stapleless stapling device 9B generally requires more force to fasten than the stapled stapling device 9A. Therefore, the stapleless stapling device 9B often uses a larger capacity motor than the stapled stapling device 9A. Consequently, the stapleless stapling device 9B is often heavier than the stapled stapling device 9A. During the transportation of the finisher U4 for product shipment, etc., there is a risk of accidents occurring where the heavy stapleless stapling device 9B comes into contact with surrounding materials and is damaged. In contrast, in Example 1, the stapleless stapling device 9B is fastened to the fastening plate 65. Therefore, compared to the case where the stapleless stapling device 9B is not fixed, accidents where the stapleless stapling device 9B comes into contact with surrounding materials during transportation are suppressed. In addition, at the installation site of the finisher U4, the thumb screws 72 can be tightened and loosened by the operator by hand. Therefore, the fastening can be released with a simple operation, making it possible to use the stapleless stapling device 9B.

[0061] In Example 1, the fastening plate 65 has higher rigidity than the rear frame body 64. Therefore, even if there are external vibrations during transportation, the stapleless stapling device 9B is less likely to detach from the fastening plate 65. Consequently, the fixing of the stapleless stapling device 9B is more stable. Therefore, compared to the case with low rigidity, accidents involving damage to the stapleless stapling device 9B are more likely to be suppressed. In particular, in Example 1, the fastening plate 65 is constructed separately from the rear frame body 64. Therefore, it is easy to increase the rigidity only in the portion to which the stapleless stapling device 9B is fastened. In Example 1, the fastening plate 65 is shown as a separate component from the rear frame body 64, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the fastening plate 65 can be made integrally with the rear frame body 64, and its rigidity can be increased by making the thickness of only the fastening plate 65 thicker. Alternatively, a fastening plate 65 made of a different material can be welded to the rear frame body 64 to form an integral shape. Furthermore, depending on the material, the fastening plate 65 made of a different material and the rear frame body 64 can be formed by two-color molding or the like.

[0062] (Example of change) Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the gist of the present invention as described in the claims. Examples of modifications to the present invention (H01) to (H06) are shown below. (H01) In the above embodiment, a copier U was given as an example of an image forming apparatus, but the invention is not limited to this, and can be configured with, for example, a printer, a fax machine, or a multifunction device having multiple or all of these functions. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, but can be applied to any image forming apparatus such as an inkjet or thermal transfer type.

[0063] (H02) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which four-color developer is used as the copier U was illustrated, but the invention is not limited to this, and can also be applied to, for example, a single-color image forming apparatus or a multi-color image forming apparatus with three or fewer colors or five or more colors. (H03) In the above embodiment, an endless band-shaped intermediate transfer belt B was exemplified as an example of an image holding means, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, it can also be applied to a cylindrical intermediate transfer drum, a photoreceptor drum, or a photoreceptor belt. Furthermore, it can also be applied to a configuration in which there is no intermediate transfer body and the image is recorded directly from the photoreceptor onto the recording paper S.

[0064] (H04) In the above embodiment, a configuration having a stapleless stapling device 9B and a stapled stapling device 9A as a post-processing unit was illustrated, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, it can also be applied to a configuration in which only one stapling device is arranged on the guide groove 22. It can also be applied to a configuration having three or more stapling devices. Furthermore, it is not limited to stapling devices, but can also be applied to a punching unit that forms punch holes, a unit that forms fold lines, a unit that forms perforations, and so on.

[0065] (H05) In the above embodiment, the finisher U4 is shown installed on the lower paper output tray TRh as an example, but the invention is not limited to this configuration. It can also be used as an external post-processing device attached to the side of the copier U. (H06) In the above embodiment, the binding device body 42, 42B is shown to rotate relative to the trolley section 41, 41B, but is not limited to this. For example, it can be applied to any configuration, such as a configuration in which it slides relative to the trolley section 41, 41B, or a configuration in which rotation and sliding are combined.

[0066] (Note) (((1))) A stapler that binds media together with staples, A stapleless binding device that binds media without using the aforementioned staples, A guide means for guiding the stapled stapling device and the stapleless stapling device along the width direction of the medium, A frame body positioned at one end of the guide means in the width direction, wherein when the stapleless stapling device moves to one end of the guide means, the frame body is positioned inward from the outer end in the width direction of the stapleless stapling device, A post-processing apparatus characterized by comprising: (((2))) The frame body having a passing means formed through which the stapleless stapling device can pass, The post-processing apparatus according to (((1))), characterized by comprising: (((3))) When the stapleless stapling device moves to one end of the guide means, the stapleless stapling device straddles the passage means. The post-processing apparatus according to (((2))), characterized in that (((4))) Exterior means arranged on the outside of the frame, A circuit board for controlling the post-processing device is placed in the space between the frame and the exterior means, A post-processing apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((3))), characterized by comprising: (((5))) The stapleless binding device that can be detachably fastened to the frame via fastening means, A post-processing apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((4))), characterized by comprising: (((6))) A frame having a fastened portion to which the stapleless stapling device is fastened by the fastening means, wherein the fastened portion has higher rigidity than other parts of the frame. The post-processing apparatus according to (((5))), characterized by comprising: (((7))) The fastened portion is made of a separate component from the main body of the frame and is supported by the main body, and is made of a material with higher rigidity than the main body. The post-processing apparatus according to (((6))), characterized in that (((8))) The fastened portion is made thicker than other parts. The post-processing apparatus according to (((6))), characterized in that (((9))) An image recording device that records images on a medium, A post-processing device according to any one of (((1))) to (((8))) that performs post-processing on a medium on which an image has been recorded by the image recording device, An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising the following:

[0067] According to the post-processing device described in (((1))), in a post-processing device in which a stapleless stapling device and a stapled stapling device can move along a guide means, the post-processing device can be made smaller compared to a configuration in which the frame of the post-processing device is positioned outside the position where the stapleless stapling device has moved to one end of the guide means. According to the post-processing device of (((2))), the stapleless stapling device can pass through the passing means, and the outer end of the stapleless stapling device in the width direction can move to the outside of the frame. According to the post-processing device described in (((3))), the post-processing device can be made smaller compared to the case where the stapleless stapling device does not straddle the passage means when the stapleless stapling device moves to one end of the guide means. According to the post-processing device described in (((4))), the space can be used more effectively than when the circuit board is not placed in the space between the inner frame and the outer casing means compared to a stapleless stapling device. According to the post-processing device described in (((5))), compared to the case in which the stapleless stapling device is not fastened to the frame via fastening means, accidents involving damage to the stapleless stapling device can be suppressed. According to the post-processing device described in (((6))), the rigidity of the fastened part can be reduced compared to cases where the rigidity of the fastened part is not made higher than that of other parts, thereby suppressing accidents involving damage to the stapleless stapling device. According to the post-processing device described in (((7))), the rigidity of the part to which the stapleless stapling device is fastened can be easily increased compared to the case in which the fastened part is not made of a material with high rigidity from the main body of the frame and is not made of a separate component. According to the post-processing device described in (((8))), the fastened portion can be made thicker than other parts, thereby increasing the rigidity of the fastened portion. According to the image forming apparatus described in (((9))), in a post-processing device in which a stapleless stapling device and a stapled stapling device can move along a guide means, the post-processing device can be made smaller compared to a configuration in which the frame of the post-processing device is positioned outside the position where the stapleless stapling device has moved to one end of the guide means. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 9A... Staple-type stapling device, 9B... Stapleless stapling device, 22... Means of guidance, 61...exterior means, 63...frame body, 64...Main body of the frame, 64a...means of passage, 65...part to be fastened, 70... Circuit board, 72... fastening means, S...media, U...Image forming apparatus, U1...Image recording device, U4... Post-treatment device.

Claims

1. A stapler that binds media together with staples, A stapleless binding device that binds media without using the aforementioned staples, A guide means for guiding the stapled stapling device and the stapleless stapling device along the width direction of the medium, A frame body positioned at one end of the guide means in the width direction, wherein when the stapleless stapling device moves to one end of the guide means, the frame body is positioned inward from the outer end in the width direction of the stapleless stapling device, A post-processing apparatus characterized by comprising:

2. The frame body having a passing means formed through which the stapleless stapling device can pass, The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by comprising:

3. When the stapleless stapling device moves to one end of the guide means, the stapleless stapling device straddles the passage means. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. Exterior means arranged on the outside of the frame, A circuit board for controlling the post-processing device is placed in the space between the frame and the exterior means, The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by comprising:

5. The stapleless binding device that can be detachably fastened to the frame via fastening means, The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by comprising:

6. A frame having a fastened portion to which the stapleless stapling device is fastened by the fastening means, wherein the fastened portion has higher rigidity than other parts of the frame. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized by comprising:

7. The fastened portion is made of a separate component from the main body of the frame and is supported by the main body, and is made of a material with higher rigidity than the main body. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 6.

8. The fastened portion is made thicker than other parts. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 6.

9. An image recording device that records images on a medium, A post-processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which performs post-processing on a medium on which an image has been recorded by the image recording device, An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising the following:

Images